Test and evaluation of load converter topologies used in the Space Station Freedom power management and distribution dc test bed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lebron, Ramon C.; Oliver, Angela C.; Bodi, Robert F.

1991-01-01

Power components hardware in support of the Space Station freedom dc Electric Power System were tested. One type of breadboard hardware tested is the dc Load Converter Unit, which constitutes the power interface between the electric power system and the actual load. These units are dc to dc converters that provide the final system regulation before power is delivered to the load. Three load converters were tested: a series resonant converter, a series inductor switch-mode converter, and a switching full-bridge forward converter. The topology, operation principles, and test results are described, in general. A comparative analysis of the three units is given with respect to efficiency, regulation, short circuit behavior (protection), and transient characteristics.

Description of a MIL-STD-1553B Data Bus Ada Driver for the LeRC EPS Testbed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mackin, Michael A.

1995-01-01

This document describes the software designed to provide communication between control computers in the NASA Lewis Research Center Electrical Power System Testbed using MIL-STD-1553B. The software drivers are coded in the Ada programming language and were developed on a MSDOS-based computer workstation. The Electrical Power System (EPS) Testbed is a reduced-scale prototype space station electrical power system. The power system manages and distributes electrical power from the sources (batteries or photovoltaic arrays) to the end-user loads. The electrical system primary operates at 120 volts DC, and the secondary system operates at 28 volts DC. The devices which direct the flow of electrical power are controlled by a network of six control computers. Data and control messages are passed between the computers using the MIL-STD-1553B network. One of the computers, the Power Management Controller (PMC), controls the primary power distribution and another, the Load Management Controller (LMC), controls the secondary power distribution. Each of these computers communicates with two other computers which act as subsidiary controllers. These subsidiary controllers are, in turn, connected to the devices which directly control the flow of electrical power.

Design of a pulsatile DC electromagnetic blood pump for ECMO.

PubMed

Liu, Jingjing; Ge, Bin; Lu, Tong

2017-08-09

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has developed rapidly and becomes a significant treatment for emergency. Current blood pumps for ECMO have different disadvantages. To design a pulsatile DC electromagnetic blood pump for ECMO. The design is presented with a driving principle which the rectilinear reciprocation of a magnet inside energized solenoids is implemented, and with a structure of solenoids with compensation coils. Furthermore, a prototype was constructed and the performance indexes of it were measured with the experimental evaluations, where the acceleration experiment was performed without any loads, and the flows were measured in the ranges of preload and afterload are 5 to 30 mmHg and 50 to 80 mmHg respectively when the frequency of the motion is 80 beats per minute. The electromagnetic force is greater than 1.4 N when the DC reaches 2.7 A and the flow of the prototype is greater than 3.0 L/min except the differences between the preload and the afterload are greater than or equal to 70 mmHg. The design of the blood pump for ECMO meets the theoretical and clinical requirements.

A pancreatic tumor-specific biomarker characterized in humans and mice as an immunogenic onco-glycoprotein is efficient in dendritic cell vaccination

PubMed Central

Collignon, Aurélie; Perles-Barbacaru, Adriana Teodora; Robert, Stéphane; Silvy, Françoise; Martinez, Emmanuelle; Crenon, Isabelle; Germain, Sébastien; Garcia, Stéphane; Viola, Angèle; Lombardo, Dominique

2015-01-01

Oncofetal fucose-rich glycovariants of the pathological bile salt-dependent lipase (pBSDL) appear during human pancreatic oncogenesis and are detected by themonoclonal antibody J28 (mAbJ28). We aimed to identify murine counterparts onpancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells and tissue and investigate the potential of dendritic cells (DC) loaded with this unique pancreatic tumor antigen to promote immunotherapy in preclinical trials. Pathological BSDLs purified from pancreatic juices of patients with PDAC were cleaved to generate glycosylated C-terminal moieties (C-ter) containing mAbJ28-reactive glycoepitopes. Immunoreactivity of the murine PDAC line Panc02 and tumor tissue to mAbJ28 was detected by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. C-ter-J28+ immunization promoted Th1-dominated immune responses. In vitro C-ter-J28+-loaded DCskewed CD3+ T-cells toward Th1 polarization. C-ter-J28+-DC-vaccinations selectively enhanced cell immunoreactivity to Panc02, as demonstrated by CD4+- and CD8+-T-cell activation, increased percentages of CD4+- and CD8+-T-cells and NK1.1+ cells expressing granzyme B, and T-cell cytotoxicity. Prophylactic and therapeutic C-ter-J28+-DC-vaccinations reduced ectopic Panc02-tumor growth, provided long-lasting protection from Panc02-tumor development in 100% of micebut not from melanoma, and attenuated progression of orthotopic tumors as revealed by MRI. Thusmurine DC loaded with pancreatic tumor-specific glycoepitope C-ter-J28+ induce efficient anticancer adaptive immunity and represent a potential adjuvant therapy for patients afflicted with PDAC. PMID:26405163

An Attempt to Shorten Loading Time of Epirubicin into DC Beads® Using Vibration and a Sieve.

PubMed

Sonoda, Akinaga; Nitta, Norihisa; Yamamoto, Takefumi; Tomozawa, Yuki; Ohta, Shinichi; Watanabe, Shobu; Murata, Kiyoshi

2017-04-01

We investigated the possibility of shortening the time required for loading epirubicin into calibrated polyvinyl alcohol-based hydrogel beads (DC Beads ® ) to be used for transarterial chemoembolization. After separating the beads suspended in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution by the use of a sieve (clearance 75 µm), epirubicin hydrochloride (EH) was loaded for 20, 30, or 60 s under vibration into DC beads. The EH loading rate into conventionally prepared (control) beads, i.e., beads loaded for 30 min without vibration, and vibration-loaded beads were calculated from the residual EH concentration in the bead-depleted EH solution. The amount of EH eluted from conventionally and vibration-loaded samples into a PBS solution (pH 7.0) was measured at 15 and 30 min and 1, 2, 6, 12, and 24 h. We also recorded the inhibitory effect of the PBS solution on the loading time. Using frozen sections, the EH load in the beads was evaluated visually under a fluorescence microscope. Spectrophotometry (495 nm) showed that the loading rate was 98.98 ± 0.34, 99.02 ± 0.32, and 99.50 ± 0.11 % with 20-, 30-, and 60-s vibration, respectively. The eluted rate was statistically similar between vibration- and statically loaded (control) beads. The PBS solution hampered EH loading into the beads. Visually, the distribution of EH in conventionally and vibration-loaded DC beads was similar. The use of vibration and the removal of PBS solution when epirubicin hydrochloride was loaded into DC beads dramatically shortened the loading time of epirubicin hydrochloride into DC beads.

Load converter interactions with the secondary system in the Space Station Freedom power management and distribution DC test bed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lebron, Ramon C.

1992-01-01

The NASA LeRC in Cleveland, Ohio, is responsible for the design, development, and assembly of the Space Station Freedom (SSF) Electrical Power System (EPS). In order to identify and understand system level issues during the SSF Program design and development phases, a system Power Management and Distribution (PMAD) DC test bed was assembled. Some of the objectives of this test bed facility are the evaluation of, system efficiency, power quality, system stability, and system protection and reconfiguration schemes. In order to provide a realistic operating scenario, dc Load Converter Units are used in the PMAD dc test bed to characterize the user interface with the power system. These units are dc to dc converters that provide the final system regulation before power is delivered to the load. This final regulation is required on the actual space station because the majority of user loads will require voltage levels different from the secondary bus voltage. This paper describes the testing of load converters in an end to end system environment (from solar array to loads) where their interactions and compatibility with other system components are considered. Some of the system effects of interest that are presented include load converters transient behavior interactions with protective current limiting switchgear, load converters ripple effects, and the effects of load converter constant power behavior with protective features such as foldback.

Load converter interactions with the secondary system in the Space Station Freedom power management and distribution dc test bed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lebron, Ramon C.

1992-01-01

The NASA LeRC in Cleveland, Ohio, is responsible for the design, development, and assembly of the Space Station Freedom (SSF) Electrical Power System (EPS). In order to identify and understand system level issues during the SSF program design and development phases, a system Power Management and Distribution (PMAD) dc test bed was assembled. Some of the objectives of this test bed facility are the evaluation of, system efficiency, power quality, system stability, and system protection and reconfiguration schemes. In order to provide a realistic operating scenario, dc Load Converter Units are used in the PMAD dc test bed to characterize the user interface with the power system. These units are dc to dc converters that provide the final system regulation before power is delivered to the load. This final regulation is required on the actual space station because the majority of user loads will require voltage levels different from the secondary bus voltage. This paper describes the testing of load converters in an end to end system environment (from solar array to loads) where their interactions and compatibility with other system components are considered. Some of the system effects of interest that are presented include load converters transient behavior interactions with protective current limiting switchgear, load converters ripple effects, and the effects of load converter constant power behavior with protective features such as foldback.

Optimal Power Scheduling for a Medium Voltage AC/DC Hybrid Distribution Network

DOE PAGES

Zhu, Zhenshan; Liu, Dichen; Liao, Qingfen; ...

2018-01-26

With the great increase of renewable generation as well as the DC loads in the distribution network; DC distribution technology is receiving more attention; since the DC distribution network can improve operating efficiency and power quality by reducing the energy conversion stages. This paper presents a new architecture for the medium voltage AC/DC hybrid distribution network; where the AC and DC subgrids are looped by normally closed AC soft open point (ACSOP) and DC soft open point (DCSOP); respectively. The proposed AC/DC hybrid distribution systems contain renewable generation (i.e., wind power and photovoltaic (PV) generation); energy storage systems (ESSs); softmore » open points (SOPs); and both AC and DC flexible demands. An energy management strategy for the hybrid system is presented based on the dynamic optimal power flow (DOPF) method. The main objective of the proposed power scheduling strategy is to minimize the operating cost and reduce the curtailment of renewable generation while meeting operational and technical constraints. The proposed approach is verified in five scenarios. The five scenarios are classified as pure AC system; hybrid AC/DC system; hybrid system with interlinking converter; hybrid system with DC flexible demand; and hybrid system with SOPs. Results show that the proposed scheduling method can successfully dispatch the controllable elements; and that the presented architecture for the AC/DC hybrid distribution system is beneficial for reducing operating cost and renewable generation curtailment.« less

Optimal Power Scheduling for a Medium Voltage AC/DC Hybrid Distribution Network

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhu, Zhenshan; Liu, Dichen; Liao, Qingfen

With the great increase of renewable generation as well as the DC loads in the distribution network; DC distribution technology is receiving more attention; since the DC distribution network can improve operating efficiency and power quality by reducing the energy conversion stages. This paper presents a new architecture for the medium voltage AC/DC hybrid distribution network; where the AC and DC subgrids are looped by normally closed AC soft open point (ACSOP) and DC soft open point (DCSOP); respectively. The proposed AC/DC hybrid distribution systems contain renewable generation (i.e., wind power and photovoltaic (PV) generation); energy storage systems (ESSs); softmore » open points (SOPs); and both AC and DC flexible demands. An energy management strategy for the hybrid system is presented based on the dynamic optimal power flow (DOPF) method. The main objective of the proposed power scheduling strategy is to minimize the operating cost and reduce the curtailment of renewable generation while meeting operational and technical constraints. The proposed approach is verified in five scenarios. The five scenarios are classified as pure AC system; hybrid AC/DC system; hybrid system with interlinking converter; hybrid system with DC flexible demand; and hybrid system with SOPs. Results show that the proposed scheduling method can successfully dispatch the controllable elements; and that the presented architecture for the AC/DC hybrid distribution system is beneficial for reducing operating cost and renewable generation curtailment.« less

Enhancement of Voltage Stability of DC Smart Grid During Islanded Mode by Load Shedding Scheme

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nassor, Thabit Salim; Senjyu, Tomonobu; Yona, Atsushi

2015-10-01

This paper presents the voltage stability of a DC smart grid based on renewable energy resources during grid connected and isolated modes. During the islanded mode the load shedding, based on the state of charge of the battery and distribution line voltage, was proposed for voltage stability and reservation of critical load power. The analyzed power system comprises a wind turbine, a photovoltaic generator, storage battery as controllable load, DC loads, and power converters. A fuzzy logic control strategy was applied for power consumption control of controllable loads and the grid-connected dual active bridge series resonant converters. The proposed DC Smart Grid operation has been verified by simulation using MATLAB® and PLECS® Blockset. The obtained results show the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Control of DC gas flow in a single-stage double-inlet pulse tube cooler

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, C.; Thummes, G.; Heiden, C.

The use of double-inlet mode in the pulse tube cooler opens up a possibility of DC gas flow circulating around the regenerator and pulse tube. Numerical analysis shows that effects of DC flow in a single-stage pulse tube cooler are different in some aspects from that in a 4 K pulse tube cooler. For highest cooler efficiency, DC flow should be compensated to a small value, i.e. DC flow over average AC flow at regenerator inlet should be in the range -0.0013 to +0.00016. Dual valves with reversed asymmetric geometries were used for the double-inlet bypass to control the DC flow in this paper. The experiment, performed in a single-stage double-inlet pulse tube cooler, verified that the cooler performance can be significantly improved by precisely controlling the DC flow.

Wake-Induced Aerodynamics on a Trailing Aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mendenhall, Michael R.; Lesieutre, Daniel J.; Kelly, Michael J.

2016-01-01

NASA conducted flight tests to measure the exhaust products from alternative fuels using a DC-8 transport aircraft and a Falcon business jet. An independent analysis of the maximum vortex-induced loads on the Falcon in the DC-8 wake was conducted for pre-flight safety analysis and to define safe trail distances for the flight tests. Static and dynamic vortex-induced aerodynamic loads on the Falcon were predicted at a matrix of locations aft of the DC-8 under flight-test conditions, and the maximum loads were compared with design limit loads to assess aircraft safety. Trajectory simulations for the Falcon during close encounters with the DC-8 wake were made to study the vortex-induced loads during traverses of the DC-8 primary trailing vortex. A parametric study of flight traverses through the trailing vortex was conducted to assess Falcon flight behavior and motion characteristics.

Power electronic interface circuits for batteries and ultracapacitors in electric vehicles and battery storage systems

DOEpatents

King, Robert Dean; DeDoncker, Rik Wivina Anna Adelson

1998-01-01

A method and apparatus for load leveling of a battery in an electrical power system includes a power regulator coupled to transfer power between a load and a DC link, a battery coupled to the DC link through a first DC-to-DC converter and an auxiliary passive energy storage device coupled to the DC link through a second DC-to-DC converter. The battery is coupled to the passive energy storage device through a unidirectional conducting device whereby the battery can supply power to the DC link through each of the first and second converters when battery voltage exceeds voltage on the passive storage device. When the load comprises a motor capable of operating in a regenerative mode, the converters are adapted for transferring power to the battery and passive storage device. In this form, resistance can be coupled in circuit with the second DC-to-DC converter to dissipate excess regenerative power.

Power electronic interface circuits for batteries and ultracapacitors in electric vehicles and battery storage systems

DOEpatents

King, R.D.; DeDoncker, R.W.A.A.

1998-01-20

A method and apparatus for load leveling of a battery in an electrical power system includes a power regulator coupled to transfer power between a load and a DC link, a battery coupled to the DC link through a first DC-to-DC converter and an auxiliary passive energy storage device coupled to the DC link through a second DC-to-DC converter. The battery is coupled to the passive energy storage device through a unidirectional conducting device whereby the battery can supply power to the DC link through each of the first and second converters when battery voltage exceeds voltage on the passive storage device. When the load comprises a motor capable of operating in a regenerative mode, the converters are adapted for transferring power to the battery and passive storage device. In this form, resistance can be coupled in circuit with the second DC-to-DC converter to dissipate excess regenerative power. 8 figs.

Hybrid power source

DOEpatents

Singh, Harmohan N.

2012-06-05

A hybrid power system is comprised of a high energy density element such as a fuel-cell and high power density elements such as a supercapacitor banks. A DC/DC converter electrically connected to the fuel cell and converting the energy level of the energy supplied by the fuel cell. A first switch is electrically connected to the DC/DC converter. First and second supercapacitors are electrically connected to the first switch and a second switch. A controller is connected to the first switch and the second switch, monitoring charge levels of the supercapacitors and controls the switching in response to the charge levels. A load is electrically connected to the second switch. The first switch connects the DC/DC converter to the first supercapacitor when the second switch connects the second supercapacitor to the load. The first switch connects the DC/DC converter to the second supercapacitor when the second switch connects the first supercapacitor to the load.

A fully integrated, wide-load-range, high-power-conversion-efficiency switched capacitor DC-DC converter with adaptive bias comparator for ultra-low-power power management integrated circuit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asano, Hiroki; Hirose, Tetsuya; Kojima, Yuta; Kuroki, Nobutaka; Numa, Masahiro

2018-04-01

In this paper, we present a wide-load-range switched-capacitor DC-DC buck converter with an adaptive bias comparator for ultra-low-power power management integrated circuit. The proposed converter is based on a conventional one and modified to operate in a wide load range by developing a load current monitor used in an adaptive bias comparator. Measurement results demonstrated that our proposed converter generates a 1.0 V output voltage from a 3.0 V input voltage at a load of up to 100 µA, which is 20 times higher than that of the conventional one. The power conversion efficiency was higher than 60% in the load range from 0.8 to 100 µA.

SEE Transient Response of Crane Interpoint Single Output Point of Load DC-DC Converters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sanders, Anthony B.; Chen, Dakai; Kim, Hak S.; Phan, Anthony M.

2011-01-01

This study was undertaken to determine the single event effect and transient susceptibility of the Crane Interpoint Maximum Flexible Power (MFP) Single Output Point of Load DC/DC Converters for transient interruptions in the output signal and for destructive and non destructive events induced by exposing it to a heavy ion beam..

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Garbesi, Karina; Vossos, Vagelis; Sanstad, Alan

An increasing number of energy efficient appliances operate on direct current (DC) internally, offering the potential to use DC from renewable energy systems directly and avoiding the losses inherent in converting power to alternating current (AC) and back. This paper investigates that potential for net-metered residences with on-site photovoltaics (PV) by modeling the net power draw of the ‘direct-DC house’ with respect to today’s typical configuration, assuming identical DC-internal loads. Power draws were modeled for houses in 14 U.S. cities, using hourly, simulated PV-system output and residential loads. The latter were adjusted to reflect a 33% load reduction, representative ofmore » the most efficient DC-internal technology, based on an analysis of 32 electricity end-uses. The model tested the effect of climate, electric vehicle (EV) loads, electricity storage, and load shifting on electricity savings; a sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine how future changes in the efficiencies of power system components might affect savings potential. Based on this work, we estimate that net-metered PV residences could save 5% of their total electricity load for houses without storage and 14% for houses with storage. Based on residential PV penetration projections for year 2035 obtained from the National Energy Modeling System (2.7% for the reference case and 11.2% for the extended policy case), direct-DC could save the nation 10 trillion Btu (without storage) or 40 trillion Btu (with storage). Shifting the cooling load by two hours earlier in the day (pre-cooling) has negligible benefits for energy savings. Direct-DC provides no energy savings benefits for EV charging, to the extent that charging occurs at night. However, if charging occurred during the day, for example with employees charging while at work, the benefits would be large. Direct-DC energy savings are sensitive to power system and appliance conversion efficiencies but are not significantly influenced by climate. While direct-DC for residential applications will most likely arise as a spin-off of developments in the commercial sector—because of lower barriers to market entry and larger energy benefits resulting from the higher coincidence between load and insolation—this paper demonstrates that there are substantial benefits in the residential sector as well. Among residential applications, space cooling derives the largest energy savings from being delivered by a direct-DC system. It is the largest load for the average residence on a national basis and is particularly so in high-load regions. It is also the load with highest solar coincidence.« less

Frequency tuning allows flow direction control in microfluidic networks with passive features.

PubMed

Jain, Rahil; Lutz, Barry

2017-05-02

Frequency tuning has emerged as an attractive alternative to conventional pumping techniques in microfluidics. Oscillating (AC) flow driven through a passive valve can be rectified to create steady (DC) flow, and tuning the excitation frequency to the characteristic (resonance) frequency of the underlying microfluidic network allows control of flow magnitude using simple hardware, such as an on-chip piezo buzzer. In this paper, we report that frequency tuning can also be used to control the direction (forward or backward) of the rectified DC flow in a single device. Initially, we observed that certain devices provided DC flow in the "forward" direction expected from previous work with a similar valve geometry, and the maximum DC flow occurred at the same frequency as a prominent peak in the AC flow magnitude, as expected. However, devices of a slightly different geometry provided the DC flow in the opposite direction and at a frequency well below the peak AC flow. Using an equivalent electrical circuit model, we found that the "forward" DC flow occurred at the series resonance frequency (with large AC flow peak), while the "backward" DC flow occurred at a less obvious parallel resonance (a valley in AC flow magnitude). We also observed that the DC flow occurred only when there was a measurable differential in the AC flow magnitude across the valve, and the DC flow direction was from the channel with large AC flow magnitude to that with small AC flow magnitude. Using these observations and the AC flow predictions from the equivalent circuit model, we designed a device with an AC flowrate frequency profile that was expected to allow the DC flow in opposite directions at two distinct frequencies. The fabricated device showed the expected flow reversal at the expected frequencies. This approach expands the flow control toolkit to include both magnitude and direction control in frequency-tuned microfluidic pumps. The work also raises interesting questions about the origin of flow reversal behavior that may be addressed by the further study of the circuit model behavior or dynamic modeling of the fluid-solid mechanics of the valve under the AC flow.

Optimal Scheduling Method of Controllable Loads in DC Smart Apartment Building

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimoji, Tsubasa; Tahara, Hayato; Matayoshi, Hidehito; Yona, Atsushi; Senjyu, Tomonobu

2015-12-01

From the perspective of global warming suppression and the depletion of energy resources, renewable energies, such as the solar collector (SC) and photovoltaic generation (PV), have been gaining attention in worldwide. Houses or buildings with PV and heat pumps (HPs) are recently being used in residential areas widely due to the time of use (TOU) electricity pricing scheme which is essentially inexpensive during middle-night and expensive during day-time. If fixed batteries and electric vehicles (EVs) can be introduced in the premises, the electricity cost would be even more reduced. While, if the occupants arbitrarily use these controllable loads respectively, power demand in residential buildings may fluctuate in the future. Thus, an optimal operation of controllable loads such as HPs, batteries and EV should be scheduled in the buildings in order to prevent power flow from fluctuating rapidly. This paper proposes an optimal scheduling method of controllable loads, and the purpose is not only the minimization of electricity cost for the consumers, but also suppression of fluctuation of power flow on the power supply side. Furthermore, a novel electricity pricing scheme is also suggested in this paper.

High voltage dc--dc converter with dynamic voltage regulation and decoupling during load-generated arcs

DOEpatents

Shimer, D.W.; Lange, A.C.

1995-05-23

A high-power power supply produces a controllable, constant high voltage output under varying and arcing loads. The power supply includes a voltage regulator, an inductor, an inverter for producing a high frequency square wave current of alternating polarity, an improved inverter voltage clamping circuit, a step up transformer, an output rectifier for producing a dc voltage at the output of each module, and a current sensor for sensing output current. The power supply also provides dynamic response to varying loads by controlling the voltage regulator duty cycle and circuitry is provided for sensing incipient arc currents at the output of the power supply to simultaneously decouple the power supply circuitry from the arcing load. The power supply includes a plurality of discrete switching type dc--dc converter modules. 5 Figs.

High voltage dc-dc converter with dynamic voltage regulation and decoupling during load-generated arcs

DOEpatents

Shimer, Daniel W.; Lange, Arnold C.

1995-01-01

A high-power power supply produces a controllable, constant high voltage output under varying and arcing loads. The power supply includes a voltage regulator, an inductor, an inverter for producing a high frequency square wave current of alternating polarity, an improved inverter voltage clamping circuit, a step up transformer, an output rectifier for producing a dc voltage at the output of each module, and a current sensor for sensing output current. The power supply also provides dynamic response to varying loads by controlling the voltage regulator duty cycle and circuitry is provided for sensing incipient arc currents at the output of the power supply to simultaneously decouple the power supply circuitry from the arcing load. The power supply includes a plurality of discrete switching type dc--dc converter modules.

Testing of Lightweight Fuel Cell Vehicles System at Low Speeds with Energy Efficiency Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mustaffa, Muhammad Rizuwan B.; Mohamed, Wan Ahmad Najmi B. Wan

2013-12-01

A fuel cell vehicle power train mini test bench was developed which consists of a 1 kW open cathode hydrogen fuel cell, electric motor, wheel, gearing system, DC/DC converter and vehicle control system (VCS). Energy efficiency identification and energy flow evaluation is a useful tool in identifying a detail performance of each component and sub-systems in a fuel cell vehicle system configuration. Three artificial traction loads was simulated at 30 kg, 40 kg and 50 kg force on a single wheel drive configuration. The wheel speed range reported here covers from idle to 16 km/h (low speed range) as a preliminary input in the research work frame. The test result shows that the system efficiency is 84.5 percent when the energy flow is considered from the fuel cell to the wheel and 279 watts of electrical power was produced by the fuel cell during that time. Dynamic system responses was also identified as the load increases beyond the motor traction capabilities where the losses at the converter and motor controller increased significantly as it tries to meet the motor traction power demands. This work is currently being further expanded within the work frame of developing a road-worthy fuel cell vehicle.

Arcjet load characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hamley, John A.

1990-01-01

Experiments were conducted to define the interface characteristics and constraints of 1 kW class arcjets run on simulated decomposition products of hydrazine and power processors. The impacts of power supply output current ripple on arcjet performance were assessed by variation of the ripple frequency from 100 Hz to 100 kHz with 10 percent peak-to-peak ripple amplitude at 1.2 kW. Ripple had no significant effects on thrust, specific impulse or efficiency. The impact of output ripple on thruster lifetime was not assessed. The static and dynamic impedances of the arcjet were quantified with two thrusters of nearly identical configuration. Superposition of an AC component on the DC arc current was used to characterize the dynamic impedance as a function of flow rate and DC current level. A mathematical model was formulated from these data. Both the static and dynamic impedance magnitude were found to be dependent on mass flow rate. The amplitude of the AC component was found to have little effect on the dynamic impedance. Reducing the DC level from 10 to 8 amps led to a large change in the magnitude of the dynamic impedance with no observable phase change. The impedance data compared favorably between the two thrusters.

Discharge stabilization studies of CO laser gas mixtures in quasi-steady supersonic flow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Srinivasan, G.; Smith, J. A.

1976-01-01

Experiments were conducted to study the applicability of a double discharge stabilization scheme in conditions appropriate for high energy CO lasers in supersonic flows. A Ludwieg tube impulse flow facility and a ballasted capacitor bank provided essentially steady flow and discharge conditions (d.c.) for times longer than ten electrode length-flow transit times. Steady, arc-free, volume discharges were produced in a Mach 3 test cavity using an auxiliary discharge to stabilize the main discharge in N2 and He/CO mixture. A signigicant result is the lack of observed plasma E/N changes in response to auxiliary discharge current changes. Also, where glow discharges were obtained, the energy loading achieved was very much less than the threshold level required for laser operation.

Grid tied PV/battery system architecture and power management for fast electric vehicle charging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Badawy, Mohamed O.

The prospective spread of Electric vehicles (EV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) arises the need for fast charging rates. Higher charging rates requirements lead to high power demands, which cant be always supported by the grid. Thus, the use of on-site sources alongside the electrical grid for EVs charging is a rising area of interest. In this dissertation, a photovoltaic (PV) source is used to support the high power EVs charging. However, the PV output power has an intermittent nature that is dependable on the weather conditions. Thus, battery storage are combined with the PV in a grid tied system, providing a steady source for on-site EVs use in a renewable energy based fast charging station. Verily, renewable energy based fast charging stations should be cost effective, efficient, and reliable to increase the penetration of EVs in the automotive market. Thus, this Dissertation proposes a novel power flow management topology that aims on decreasing the running cost along with innovative hardware solutions and control structures for the developed architecture. The developed power flow management topology operates the hybrid system at the minimum operating cost while extending the battery lifetime. An optimization problem is formulated and two stages of optimization, i.e online and offline stages, are adopted to optimize the batteries state of charge (SOC) scheduling and continuously compensate for the forecasting errors. The proposed power flow management topology is validated and tested with two metering systems, i.e unified and dual metering systems. The results suggested that minimal power flow is anticipated from the battery storage to the grid in the dual metering system. Thus, the power electronic interfacing system is designed accordingly. Interconnecting bi-directional DC/DC converters are analyzed, and a cascaded buck boost (CBB) converter is chosen and tested under 80 kW power flow rates. The need to perform power factor correction (PFC) on the grid power while supplying the battery storage and the DC loads inspired a novel dual switch control structure for the CBB AC/DC converter used in this dissertation. Thus, The CBB operates at a discontinuous capacitor voltage mode (DCVM) and the control structure enables for a non-distorted input current at overlapping output voltage levels. The PFC concept is validated and tested for a single phase rectifier and a 3 phase extension of the proposed concept is presented. Lastly, the PV source used in this study is required to supply power to both, the grid system, and to the DC loads, i.e the battery storage and the EVs. Thus, the PV panels used are connected in series to reach a desirable high voltage on the DC bus output of the PV system. Consequently, a novel differential power processing architecture is proposed in this dissertation. The proposed architecture enables each PV element to operate at its local maximum power point (MPP) while processing only a small portion of its total generated power through the distributed integrated converters. This leads to higher energy capture at an increased conversion efficiency while overcoming the difficulties associated with unmatched MPPs of the PV elements.

Phase I dendritic cell p53 peptide vaccine for head and neck cancer.

PubMed

Schuler, Patrick J; Harasymczuk, Malgorzata; Visus, Carmen; Deleo, Albert; Trivedi, Sumita; Lei, Yu; Argiris, Athanassios; Gooding, William; Butterfield, Lisa H; Whiteside, Theresa L; Ferris, Robert L

2014-05-01

p53 accumulation in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells creates a targetable tumor antigen. Adjuvant dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccination against p53 was tested in a phase I clinical trial. Monocyte-derived DC from 16 patients were loaded with two modified HLA-class I p53 peptides (Arm 1), additional Th tetanus toxoid peptide (Arm 2), or additional Th wild-type (wt) p53-specific peptide (Arm 3). Vaccine DCs (vDC) were delivered to inguinal lymph nodes at three time points. vDC phenotype, circulating p53-specific T cells, and regulatory T cells (Treg) were serially monitored by flow cytometry and cytokine production by Luminex. vDC properties were compared with those of DC1 generated with an alternative maturation regimen. No grade II-IV adverse events were observed. Two-year disease-free survival of 88% was favorable. p53-specific T-cell frequencies were increased postvaccination in 11 of 16 patients (69%), with IFN-γ secretion detected in four of 16 patients. Treg frequencies were consistently decreased (P = 0.006) relative to prevaccination values. The phenotype and function of DC1 were improved relative to vDC. Adjuvant p53-specific vaccination of patients with HNSCC was safe and associated with promising clinical outcome, decreased Treg levels, and modest vaccine-specific immunity. HNSCC patients' DC required stronger maturation stimuli to reverse immune suppression and improve vaccine efficacy. ©2014 AACR.

Automatic generation and analysis of solar cell IV curves

DOEpatents

Kraft, Steven M.; Jones, Jason C.

2014-06-03

A photovoltaic system includes multiple strings of solar panels and a device presenting a DC load to the strings of solar panels. Output currents of the strings of solar panels may be sensed and provided to a computer that generates current-voltage (IV) curves of the strings of solar panels. Output voltages of the string of solar panels may be sensed at the string or at the device presenting the DC load. The DC load may be varied. Output currents of the strings of solar panels responsive to the variation of the DC load are sensed to generate IV curves of the strings of solar panels. IV curves may be compared and analyzed to evaluate performance of and detect problems with a string of solar panels.

Generation of a Sediment Rating and Load Curve Demonstrated at the Mackinaw River Confluence

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-12-01

Illinois. The Mackinaw River produces a shoal in the Illinois River that impinges on the navigation channel . The sediment deposition forms a natural...delta that would encroach on the channel if not removed via dredging. However, the sediment has the potential for beneficial use. The Streamside...function for sediment transportation in open channel flows. Technical Bulletin No. 1026. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture. ERDC/CHL

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sonoda, Akinaga, E-mail: akinagasonoda@yahoo.co.jp; Nitta, Norihisa; Yamamoto, Takefumi

PurposeWe investigated the possibility of shortening the time required for loading epirubicin into calibrated polyvinyl alcohol-based hydrogel beads (DC Beads{sup ®}) to be used for transarterial chemoembolization.MethodAfter separating the beads suspended in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution by the use of a sieve (clearance 75 µm), epirubicin hydrochloride (EH) was loaded for 20, 30, or 60 s under vibration into DC beads. The EH loading rate into conventionally prepared (control) beads, i.e., beads loaded for 30 min without vibration, and vibration-loaded beads were calculated from the residual EH concentration in the bead-depleted EH solution. The amount of EH eluted from conventionally and vibration-loadedmore » samples into a PBS solution (pH 7.0) was measured at 15 and 30 min and 1, 2, 6, 12, and 24 h. We also recorded the inhibitory effect of the PBS solution on the loading time. Using frozen sections, the EH load in the beads was evaluated visually under a fluorescence microscope.ResultsSpectrophotometry (495 nm) showed that the loading rate was 98.98 ± 0.34, 99.02 ± 0.32, and 99.50 ± 0.11 % with 20-, 30-, and 60-s vibration, respectively. The eluted rate was statistically similar between vibration- and statically loaded (control) beads. The PBS solution hampered EH loading into the beads. Visually, the distribution of EH in conventionally and vibration-loaded DC beads was similar.DiscussionThe use of vibration and the removal of PBS solution when epirubicin hydrochloride was loaded into DC beads dramatically shortened the loading time of epirubicin hydrochloride into DC beads.« less

Method for exciting inductive-resistive loads with high and controllable direct current

DOEpatents

Hill, Jr., Homer M.

1976-01-01

Apparatus and method for transmitting dc power to a load circuit by applying a dc voltage from a standard waveform synthesizer to duration modulate a bipolar rectangular wave generator. As the amplitude of the dc voltage increases, the widths of the rectangular wave generator output pulses increase, and as the amplitude of the dc voltage decreases, the widths of the rectangular wave generator output pulses decrease. Thus, the waveform synthesizer selectively changes the durations of the rectangular wave generator bipolar output pulses so as to produce a rectangular wave ac carrier that is duration modulated in accordance with and in direct proportion to the voltage amplitude from the synthesizer. Thereupon, by transferring the carrier to the load circuit through an amplifier and a rectifier, the load current also corresponds directly to the voltage amplitude from the synthesizer. To this end, the rectified wave at less than 100% duty factor, amounts to a doubled frequency direct voltage pulse train for applying a direct current to the load, while the current ripple is minimized by a high L/R in the load circuit. In one embodiment, a power transmitting power amplifier means having a dc power supply is matched to the load circuit through a transformer for current magnification without sacrificing load current duration capability, while negative voltage and current feedback are provided in order to insure good output fidelity.

Experimental investigation of a thermoacoustic-Stirling refrigerator driven by a thermoacoustic-Stirling heat engine.

PubMed

Luo, E C; Dai, W; Zhang, Y; Ling, H

2006-12-22

In this paper, a thermally-driven thermoacoustic refrigerator system without any moving part is reported. This refrigeration system consists of a thermoacoustic-Stirling heat engine and a thermoacoustic-Stirling refrigerator; that is, the former is the driving source for the latter. Both the subsystems are designed to operate on traveling-wave mode. In the experiment, it was found that the DC-flows had significant negative effect on the heat engine and the refrigerator. To suppress these DC-flows, two flexible membranes were inserted into the two subsystems and worked very well. Then extensive experiments were made to test the influence of different parameters on refrigeration performance of the whole system. The system has so far achieved a no-load temperature of -65 degrees C, a cooling capacity of about 270 W at -20 degrees C and 405 W at 0 degrees C; in fact, the result showed a good prospect of the refrigeration system in room-temperature cooling such as food refrigeration and air-conditioning.

Bifurcation Analysis of a DC-DC Bidirectional Power Converter Operating with Constant Power Loads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cristiano, Rony; Pagano, Daniel J.; Benadero, Luis; Ponce, Enrique

Direct current (DC) microgrids (MGs) are an emergent option to satisfy new demands for power quality and integration of renewable resources in electrical distribution systems. This work addresses the large-signal stability analysis of a DC-DC bidirectional converter (DBC) connected to a storage device in an islanding MG. This converter is responsible for controlling the balance of power (load demand and generation) under constant power loads (CPLs). In order to control the DC bus voltage through a DBC, we propose a robust sliding mode control (SMC) based on a washout filter. Dynamical systems techniques are exploited to assess the quality of this switching control strategy. In this sense, a bifurcation analysis is performed to study the nonlinear stability of a reduced model of this system. The appearance of different bifurcations when load parameters and control gains are changed is studied in detail. In the specific case of Teixeira Singularity (TS) bifurcation, some experimental results are provided, confirming the mathematical predictions. Both a deeper insight in the dynamic behavior of the controlled system and valuable design criteria are obtained.

On the modelling of linear-assisted DC-DC voltage regulators for photovoltaic solar energy systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez-García, Herminio; García-Vílchez, Encarna

2017-11-01

This paper shows the modelling of linear-assisted or hybrid (linear & switching) DC/DC voltage regulators. In this kind of regulators, an auxiliary linear regulator is used, which objective is to cancel the ripple at the output voltage and provide fast responses for load variations. On the other hand, a switching DC/DC converter, connected in parallel with the linear regulator, allows to supply almost the whole output current demanded by the load. The objective of this topology is to take advantage of the suitable regulation characteristics that series linear voltage regulators have, but almost achieving the high efficiency that switching DC/DC converters provide. Linear-assisted DC/DC regulators are feedback systems with potential instability. Therefore, their modelling is mandatory in order to obtain design guidelines and assure stability of the implemented power supply system.

Sensorless Load Torque Estimation and Passivity Based Control of Buck Converter Fed DC Motor

PubMed Central

Kumar, S. Ganesh; Thilagar, S. Hosimin

2015-01-01

Passivity based control of DC motor in sensorless configuration is proposed in this paper. Exact tracking error dynamics passive output feedback control is used for stabilizing the speed of Buck converter fed DC motor under various load torques such as constant type, fan type, propeller type, and unknown load torques. Under load conditions, sensorless online algebraic approach is proposed, and it is compared with sensorless reduced order observer approach. The former produces better response in estimating the load torque. Sensitivity analysis is also performed to select the appropriate control variables. Simulation and experimental results fully confirm the superiority of the proposed approach suggested in this paper. PMID:25893208

Adhesion strength of sputtered TiAlN-coated WC insert tool

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Budi, Esmar; Razali, M. Mohd.; Nizam, A. R. Md.

2013-09-09

The adhesion strength of TiAlN coating that deposited by using DC magnetron sputtering on WC insert tool are studied. TiAlN coating are deposited on Tungsten Carbide (WC) insert tool by varying negatively substrate bias from 79 to 221 volt and nitrogen flow rate from 30 to 72 sccm. The adhesion strength are obtained by using Rockwell indentation test method with a Brale diamond at applied load of 60,100 and 150 kgf. The lateral diameter of indentation is plotted on three different applied loads and the adhesion strength of TiAlN coating was obtained from the curved slopes at 100 and 150more » kgf. The lower curve slop indicated better adhesion strength. The results shows that the adhesion strength of sputterred TiAlN coating tend to increase as the negatively substrate bias and nitrogen flow rate are increased.« less

AC/DC Power Systems with Applications for future Lunar/Mars base and Crew Exploration Vehicle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chowdhury, Badrul H.

2005-01-01

ABSTRACT The Power Systems branch at JSC faces a number of complex issues as it readies itself for the President's initiative on future space exploration beyond low earth orbit. Some of these preliminary issues - those dealing with electric power generation and distribution on board Mars-bound vehicle and that on Lunar and Martian surface may be summarized as follows: Type of prime mover - Because solar power may not be readily available on parts of the Lunar/Mars surface and also during the long duration flight to Mars, the primary source of power will most likely be nuclear power (Uranium fuel rods) with a secondary source of fuel cell (Hydrogen supply). The electric power generation source - With nuclear power being the main prime mover, the electric power generation source will most likely be an ac generator at a yet to be determined frequency. Thus, a critical issue is whether the generator should generate at constant or variable frequency. This will decide what type of generator to use - whether it is a synchronous machine, an asynchronous induction machine or a switched reluctance machine. The type of power distribution system - the distribution frequency, number of wires (3- wire, 4-wire or higher), and ac/dc hybridization. Building redundancy and fault tolerance in the generation and distribution sub-systems so that the system is safe; provides 100% availability to critical loads; continues to operate even with faulted sub-systems; and requires minimal maintenance. This report descril_es results of a summer faculty fellowship spent in the Power Systems Branch with the specific aim of investigating some of the lessons learned in electric power generation and usage from the terrestrial power systems industry, the aerospace industry as well as NASA's on-going missions so as to recommend novel surface and vehicle-based power systems architectures in support of future space exploration initiatives. A hybrid ac/dc architecture with source side and load side redundancies and including emergency generators on both ac and dc sides is proposed. The generation frequency is 400 Hz mostly because of the technology maturity at this frequency in the aerospace industry. Power will be distributed to several ac load distribution buses through solid state variable speed, constant frequency converters on the ac side. A segmented dc ring bus supplied from ac/dc converters and with the capability of connecting/disconnecting the segments will supply power to multiple de load distribution buses. The system will have the capability of reverse flow from dc to ac side in the case of an extreme emergency on the main ac generation side.

Emulating DC constant power load: a robust sliding mode control approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Suresh; Fulwani, Deepak; Kumar, Vinod

2017-09-01

This article presents emulation of a programmable power electronic, constant power load (CPL) using a dc/dc step-up (boost) converter. The converter is controlled by a robust sliding mode controller (SMC). A novel switching surface is proposed to ensure a required power sunk by the converter. The proposed dc CPL is simple in design, has fast dynamic response and high accuracy, and offers an inexpensive alternative to study converters for cascaded dc distribution power system applications. Furthermore, the proposed CPL is sufficiently robust against the input voltage variations. A laboratory prototype of the proposed dc CPL has been developed and validated with SMC realised through OPAL-RT platform. The capability of the proposed dc CPL is confirmed via experimentations in varied scenarios.

Chemokine (C-C Motif) Receptor 2 Mediates Dendritic Cell Recruitment to the Human Colon but Is Not Responsible for Differences Observed in Dendritic Cell Subsets, Phenotype, and Function Between the Proximal and Distal Colon.

PubMed

Bernardo, David; Durant, Lydia; Mann, Elizabeth R; Bassity, Elizabeth; Montalvillo, Enrique; Man, Ripple; Vora, Rakesh; Reddi, Durga; Bayiroglu, Fahri; Fernández-Salazar, Luis; English, Nick R; Peake, Simon T C; Landy, Jon; Lee, Gui H; Malietzis, George; Siaw, Yi Harn; Murugananthan, Aravinth U; Hendy, Phil; Sánchez-Recio, Eva; Phillips, Robin K S; Garrote, Jose A; Scott, Paul; Parkhill, Julian; Paulsen, Malte; Hart, Ailsa L; Al-Hassi, Hafid O; Arranz, Eduardo; Walker, Alan W; Carding, Simon R; Knight, Stella C

2016-01-01

Most knowledge about gastrointestinal (GI)-tract dendritic cells (DC) relies on murine studies where CD103 + DC specialize in generating immune tolerance with the functionality of CD11b +/- subsets being unclear. Information about human GI-DC is scarce, especially regarding regional specifications. Here, we characterized human DC properties throughout the human colon. Paired proximal (right/ascending) and distal (left/descending) human colonic biopsies from 95 healthy subjects were taken; DC were assessed by flow cytometry and microbiota composition assessed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Colonic DC identified were myeloid (mDC, CD11c + CD123 - ) and further divided based on CD103 and SIRPα (human analog of murine CD11b) expression. CD103 - SIRPα + DC were the major population and with CD103 + SIRPα + DC were CD1c + ILT3 + CCR2 + (although CCR2 was not expressed on all CD103 + SIRPα + DC). CD103 + SIRPα - DC constituted a minor subset that were CD141 + ILT3 - CCR2 - . Proximal colon samples had higher total DC counts and fewer CD103 + SIRPα + cells. Proximal colon DC were more mature than distal DC with higher stimulatory capacity for CD4 + CD45RA + T-cells. However, DC and DC-invoked T-cell expression of mucosal homing markers (β7, CCR9) was lower for proximal DC. CCR2 was expressed on circulating CD1c + , but not CD141 + mDC, and mediated DC recruitment by colonic culture supernatants in transwell assays. Proximal colon DC produced higher levels of cytokines. Mucosal microbiota profiling showed a lower microbiota load in the proximal colon, but with no differences in microbiota composition between compartments. Proximal colonic DC subsets differ from those in distal colon and are more mature. Targeted immunotherapy using DC in T-cell mediated GI tract inflammation may therefore need to reflect this immune compartmentalization.

Direct current uninterruptible power supply method and system

DOEpatents

Sinha, Gautam

2003-12-02

A method and system are described for providing a direct current (DC) uninterruptible power supply with the method including, for example: continuously supplying fuel to a turbine; converting mechanical power from the turbine into alternating current (AC) electrical power; converting the AC electrical power to DC power within a predetermined voltage level range; supplying the DC power to a load; and maintaining a DC load voltage within the predetermined voltage level range by adjusting the amount of fuel supplied to the turbine.

l-Tyrosine-loaded nanoparticles increase the antitumoral activity of direct electric current in a metastatic melanoma cell model

PubMed Central

de Campos, Vânia Emerich Bucco; Teixeira, Cesar Augusto Antunes; da Veiga, Venicio Feo; Júnior, Eduardo Ricci; Holandino, Carla

2010-01-01

Inhibition of tumor growth induced by treatment with direct electric current (DC) has been reported in several models. One of the mechanisms responsible for the antitumoral activity of DC is the generation of oxidative species, known as chloramines. With the aim of increasing chloramine production in the electrolytic medium and optimizing the antitumoral effects of DC, poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) nanoparticles (NPs) loaded with the amino acid tyrosine were obtained. The physical–chemical characterization showed that the NPs presented size in nanometric range and monomodal distribution. A slightly negative electrokinetic potential was also found in both blank NPs and l-tyrosine-loaded PCL NPs. The yield of the loading process was approximately 50%. Within 3 h of dissolution assay, a burst release of about 80% l-tyrosine was obtained. The in vitro cytotoxicity of DC was significantly increased when associated with l-tyrosine-loaded NPs, using a murine multidrug-resistant melanoma cell line model. This study showed that the use of the combination of nanotechnology and DC has a promising antineoplastic potential and opens a new perspective in cancer therapy. PMID:21187948

Determination of appropriate DC voltage for switched mode power supply (SMPS) loads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Setiawan, Eko Adhi; Setiawan, Aiman; Purnomo, Andri; Djamal, Muchlishah Hadi

2017-03-01

Nowadays, most of modern and efficient household electronic devices operated based on Switched Mode Power Supply (SMPS) technology which convert AC voltage from the grid to DC voltage. Based on theory and experiment, SMPS loads could be supplied by DC voltage. However, the DC voltage rating to energize electronic home appliances is not standardized yet. This paper proposed certain method to determine appropriate DC voltage, and investigated comparison of SMPS power consumption which is supplied from AC and DC voltage. To determine the appropriate DC voltage, lux value of several lamps which have same specification energized by using AC voltage and the results is using as reference. Then, the lamps were supplied by various DC voltage to obtain the trends of the lux value to the applied DC voltage. After that, by using the trends and the reference lux value, the appropriate DC voltage can be determined. Furthermore, the power consumption on home appliances such as mobile phone, laptop and personal computer by using AC voltage and the appropriate DC voltage were conducted. The results show that the total power consumption of AC system is higher than DC system. The total power (apparent power) consumed by the lamp, mobile phone and personal computer which operated in 220 VAC were 6.93 VA, 34.31 VA and 105.85 VA respectively. On the other hand, under 277 VDC the load consumption were 5.83 W, 19.11 W and 74.46 W respectively.

Triple Hybrid Energy Harvesting Interface Electronics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uluşan, H.; Chamanian, S.; Pathirana, W. M. P. R.; Zorlu, Ö.; Muhtaroğlu, A.; Külah, H.

2016-11-01

This study presents a novel triple hybrid system that combines simultaneously generated power from thermoelectric (TE), vibration-based electromagnetic (EM) and piezoelectric (PZT) harvesters for a relatively high power supply capability. In the proposed solution each harvesting source utilizes a distinct power management circuit that generates a DC voltage suitable for combining the three parallel supplies. The circuits are designed and implemented in 180 nm standard CMOS technology, and are terminated with a schottky diode to avoid reverse current flow. The harvested AC signal from the EM harvester is rectified with a self-powered AC-DC doubler, which utilizes active diode structures to minimize the forward- bias voltage drop. The PZT interface electronics utilizes a negative voltage converter as the first stage, followed by synchronous power extraction and DC-to-DC conversion through internal switches, and an external inductor. The ultra-low voltage DC power harvested by the TE generator is stepped up through a charge-pump driven by an LC oscillator with fully- integrated center-tapped differential inductors. Test results indicate that hybrid energy harvesting circuit provides more than 1 V output for load resistances higher than 100 kΩ (10 μW) where the stand-alone harvesting circuits are not able to reach 1 V output. This is the first hybrid harvester circuit that simultaneously extracts energy from three independent sources, and delivers a single DC output.

Epstein-Barr Virus Promotes Interferon-α Production by Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells

PubMed Central

Quan, Timothy E.; Roman, Robert M.; Rudenga, Benjamin J.; Holers, V. Michael; Craft, Joe

2010-01-01

Objective Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection has been linked to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) as demonstrated by the presence of increased seroprevalence and elevated viral loads, but the mechanism of this linkage has not been elucidated. Increased IFN-α levels and signatures, associated with innate immune responses, have been found in patients with SLE. Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are innate immune cells that mediate viral immunity by producing large quantities of interferon alpha (IFN-α), but the role they play during infection with EBV remains unclear. To address this issue, we investigated the ability of EBV to promote IFN-α production by pDC in healthy subjects. Methods Human pDC were sorted and cultured in the presence of EBV, EBV small RNA (EBER), and EBV double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). IFN-α production by pDC was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), with activation of these cells measured by flow cytometry. Results We demonstrate that EBV DNA and RNA promote IFN-α production by human pDC through engagement of Toll-like receptor (TLR) 9 and TLR7, respectively, with initial viral recognition by pDC mediated by binding to major histocompatibility (MHC) class II molecules. Conclusion These data demonstrate that MHC class II-specific engagement by virus and subsequent viral nucleic acid recognition mediates IFN-α production by pDC. Our results suggest that elevated levels of IFN-α found in lupus patients may be a result of aberrantly controlled chronic viral infection. PMID:20178121

Gas tube-switched high voltage DC power converter

DOEpatents

She, Xu; Bray, James William; Sommerer, Timothy John; Chokhawala, Rahul

2018-05-15

A direct current (DC)-DC converter includes a transformer and a gas tube-switched inverter circuit. The transformer includes a primary winding and a secondary winding. The gas tube-switched inverter circuit includes first and second inverter load terminals and first and second inverter input terminals. The first and second inverter load terminals are coupled to the primary winding. The first and second inverter input terminals are couplable to a DC node. The gas tube-switched inverter circuit further includes a plurality of gas tube switches respectively coupled between the first and second inverter load terminals and the first and second inverter input terminals. The plurality of gas tube switches is configured to operate to generate an alternating current (AC) voltage at the primary winding.

Distributed control system for parallel-connected DC boost converters

DOEpatents

Goldsmith, Steven

2017-08-15

The disclosed invention is a distributed control system for operating a DC bus fed by disparate DC power sources that service a known or unknown load. The voltage sources vary in v-i characteristics and have time-varying, maximum supply capacities. Each source is connected to the bus via a boost converter, which may have different dynamic characteristics and power transfer capacities, but are controlled through PWM. The invention tracks the time-varying power sources and apportions their power contribution while maintaining the DC bus voltage within the specifications. A central digital controller solves the steady-state system for the optimal duty cycle settings that achieve a desired power supply apportionment scheme for a known or predictable DC load. A distributed networked control system is derived from the central system that utilizes communications among controllers to compute a shared estimate of the unknown time-varying load through shared bus current measurements and bus voltage measurements.

CANISTER TRANSFER SYSTEM DESCRIPTION DOCUMENT

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

B. Gorpani

2000-06-23

The Canister Transfer System receives transportation casks containing large and small disposable canisters, unloads the canisters from the casks, stores the canisters as required, loads them into disposal containers (DCs), and prepares the empty casks for re-shipment. Cask unloading begins with cask inspection, sampling, and lid bolt removal operations. The cask lids are removed and the canisters are unloaded. Small canisters are loaded directly into a DC, or are stored until enough canisters are available to fill a DC. Large canisters are loaded directly into a DC. Transportation casks and related components are decontaminated as required, and empty casks aremore » prepared for re-shipment. One independent, remotely operated canister transfer line is provided in the Waste Handling Building System. The canister transfer line consists of a Cask Transport System, Cask Preparation System, Canister Handling System, Disposal Container Transport System, an off-normal canister handling cell with a transfer tunnel connecting the two cells, and Control and Tracking System. The Canister Transfer System operating sequence begins with moving transportation casks to the cask preparation area with the Cask Transport System. The Cask Preparation System prepares the cask for unloading and consists of cask preparation manipulator, cask inspection and sampling equipment, and decontamination equipment. The Canister Handling System unloads the canister(s) and places them into a DC. Handling equipment consists of a bridge crane hoist, DC loading manipulator, lifting fixtures, and small canister staging racks. Once the cask has been unloaded, the Cask Preparation System decontaminates the cask exterior and returns it to the Carrier/Cask Handling System via the Cask Transport System. After the DC is fully loaded, the Disposal Container Transport System moves the DC to the Disposal Container Handling System for welding. To handle off-normal canisters, a separate off-normal canister handling cell is located adjacent to the canister transfer cell and is interconnected to the transfer cell by means of the off-normal canister transfer tunnel. All canister transfer operations are controlled by the Control and Tracking System. The system interfaces with the Carrier/Cask Handling System for incoming and outgoing transportation casks. The system also interfaces with the Disposal Container Handling System, which prepares the DC for loading and subsequently seals the loaded DC. The system support interfaces are the Waste Handling Building System and other internal Waste Handling Building (WHB) support systems.« less

Modeling and control of fuel cell based distributed generation systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung, Jin Woo

This dissertation presents circuit models and control algorithms of fuel cell based distributed generation systems (DGS) for two DGS topologies. In the first topology, each DGS unit utilizes a battery in parallel to the fuel cell in a standalone AC power plant and a grid-interconnection. In the second topology, a Z-source converter, which employs both the L and C passive components and shoot-through zero vectors instead of the conventional DC/DC boost power converter in order to step up the DC-link voltage, is adopted for a standalone AC power supply. In Topology 1, two applications are studied: a standalone power generation (Single DGS Unit and Two DGS Units) and a grid-interconnection. First, dynamic model of the fuel cell is given based on electrochemical process. Second, two full-bridge DC to DC converters are adopted and their controllers are designed: an unidirectional full-bridge DC to DC boost converter for the fuel cell and a bidirectional full-bridge DC to DC buck/boost converter for the battery. Third, for a three-phase DC to AC inverter without or with a Delta/Y transformer, a discrete-time state space circuit model is given and two discrete-time feedback controllers are designed: voltage controller in the outer loop and current controller in the inner loop. And last, for load sharing of two DGS units and power flow control of two DGS units or the DGS connected to the grid, real and reactive power controllers are proposed. Particularly, for the grid-connected DGS application, a synchronization issue between an islanding mode and a paralleling mode to the grid is investigated, and two case studies are performed. To demonstrate the proposed circuit models and control strategies, simulation test-beds using Matlab/Simulink are constructed for each configuration of the fuel cell based DGS with a three-phase AC 120 V (L-N)/60 Hz/50 kVA and various simulation results are presented. In Topology 2, this dissertation presents system modeling, modified space vector PWM implementation (MSVPWM) and design of a closed-loop controller of the Z-source converter which utilizes L and C components and shoot-through zero vectors for the standalone AC power generation. The fuel cell system is modeled by an electrical R-C circuit in order to include slow dynamics of the fuel cells and a voltage-current characteristic of a cell is also considered. A discrete-time state space model is derived to implement digital control and a space vector pulse-width modulation (SVPWM) technique is modified to realize the shoot-through zero vectors that boost the DC-link voltage. Also, three discrete-time feedback controllers are designed: a discrete-time optimal voltage controller, a discrete-time sliding mode current controller, and a discrete-time PI DC-link voltage controller. Furthermore, an asymptotic observer is used to reduce the number of sensors and enhance the reliability of the system. To demonstrate the analyzed circuit model and proposed control strategy, various simulation results using Matlab/Simulink are presented under both light/heavy loads and linear/nonlinear loads for a three-phase AC 208 V (L-L)/60 Hz/10 kVA.

Dendritic cell vaccination with a toll-like receptor agonist derived from mycobacteria enhances anti-tumor immunity.

PubMed

Vo, Manh-Cuong; Lee, Hyun-Ju; Kim, Jong-Seok; Hoang, My-Dung; Choi, Nu-Ri; Rhee, Joon Haeng; Lakshmanan, Vinoth-Kumar; Shin, Sung-Jae; Lee, Je-Jung

2015-10-20

Dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines are considered useful in cancer immunotherapy, and the interaction of DC and adjuvants is important in the design of the next generation vaccines. In this study, whether DC combined with Rv2299c derived from mycobacteria could improve anti-tumor immune responses in a colon cancer mouse model was evaluated. MC38 cell lines were injected subcutaneously to establish colon-cancer-bearing mice and the following four groups were evaluated: PBS control, tumor antigen (TA) loaded-DC, Rv2299c, and a combination of TA-loaded-DC and Rv2299c. The combination treatment with TA-loaded-DC and Rv2299c exhibited greater inhibition of tumor growth compared to other groups. These effects were associated with the reduction of suppressor cells, such as myeloid-derived suppressor cells and regulatory T cells, and the induction of effector cells, such as CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells, in spleen, and with the activation of cytotoxic T Lymphocytes and NK cells. These results suggest that TA-loaded-DC vaccination with Rv2299c derived from mycobacteria enhanced anti-tumor immunity in a mouse colon cancer model by inhibiting the generation of immune-suppressive cells and recovering numbers of effector cells, and demonstrated superior polarization of the Th1/Th2 balance in favor of the Th1 immune response.

Novel Concepts for Conformal Load-Bearing Antenna Structure

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-02-01

through the entire cross-section of a conductor as visualised in the classical “water- through-a-garden- hose ” explanation of DC current flow. Rather, RF...these fabrics were 6k T650 carbon fibre tows braided into unidirectional fabrics. The 6k tows in these fabrics were oriented in the 0° direction and...90]s lay-up 0.050 DSF0302 Standard aerospace prepreg tape [±45]s lay-up 0.061 DSF0601 Braided standard carbon fibres/Standard resin 6k T650

Deep River Velocity and Sediment Profiles and the Suspended Sand Load,

DTIC Science & Technology

1963-02-01

sippi / ( I D DC 11 Prepared for Federal Interagency Sedimentation Conference of the Subcommittee on Sedimentation, ICWR Jackson, Mississippi 28 January-i...in the Atchaf- a]. aya River at Simmesport and in the Mississippi River at Vicksburg to de- fine the vertical velocity distribution. Examination of...l.l5~~(~~) (1) in which y is distance above the bed, d is the depth of a mean-depth A 14 -- - - section, i~ is the average velocity of flow in the

Low CD1c + myeloid dendritic cell counts correlated with a high risk of rapid disease progression during early HIV-1 infection.

PubMed

Diao, Yingying; Geng, Wenqing; Fan, Xuejie; Cui, Hualu; Sun, Hong; Jiang, Yongjun; Wang, Yanan; Sun, Amy; Shang, Hong

2015-08-19

During early HIV-1 infection (EHI), the interaction between the immune response and the virus determines disease progression. Although CD1c + myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs) can trigger the immune response, the relationship between CD1c + mDC alteration and disease progression has not yet been defined. EHI changes in CD1c + mDC counts, surface marker (CD40, CD86, CD83) expression, and IL-12 secretion were assessed by flow cytometry in 29 patients. When compared with the normal controls, patients with EHI displayed significantly lower CD1c + mDC counts and IL-12 secretion and increased surface markers. CD1c + mDC counts were positively correlated with CD4+ T cell counts and inversely associated with viral loads. IL-12 secretion was only positively associated with CD4+ T cell counts. Rapid progressors had lower counts, CD86 expression, and IL-12 secretion of CD1c + mDCs comparing with typical progressors. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression models suggested patients with low CD1c + mDC counts (<10 cells/μL) had a 4-fold higher risk of rapid disease progression than those with high CD1c + mDC counts. However, no relationship was found between surface markers or IL-12 secretion and disease progression. During EHI, patients with low CD1c + mDC counts were more likely to experience rapid disease progression than those with high CD1c + mDC counts.

Compatibility of epirubicin-loaded DC bead™ with different non-ionic contrast media.

PubMed

Sarakbi, Iman; Krämer, Irene

2016-12-01

The aim of this study was to determine the compatibility of epirubicin-loaded DC bead™ with different non-ionic contrast media over a period of seven days when stored light protected under refrigerated conditions. DC bead™ (2 ml) (Biocompatibles UK Ltd) of the bead size 70-150 µm ( = DC bead M1) or bead size 100-300 µm were loaded with 75 mg epirubicin powder formulation (Farmorubicin® dissolved in 3 ml water for injection to a concentration of 25 mg/ml) or 76 mg epirubicin injection solution (Epimedac® 2 mg/ml) within 2 h or 6 h, respectively. After removal of the excess solution, the epirubicin-loaded beads were mixed in polypropylene syringes with an equal volume (∼1.5 ml) of contrast media, i.e. Accupaque™ 300 (Nycomed Inc.), Imeron® 300 (Bracco S.p.A), Ultravist® 300 (Bayer Pharma AG), Visipaque™ 320 (GE Healthcare) and agitated in a controlled manner to get a homogenous suspension. Syringes with loaded beads in contrast media were stored protected from light under refrigeration (2-8℃). Compatibility was determined by measuring epirubicin concentrations in the suspensions in triplicate on day 0, 1, and 7. A reversed phase high-performance liquid chromatography assay with ultraviolet detection was utilized to analyze the concentration and purity of epirubicin. Mixing of epirubicin-loaded beads with different non-ionic contrast media released 0.1-0.5% of epirubicin over a period of 24 h, irrespectively, of the DC bead™ size or type of contrast media. No further elution or degradation was observed after seven days when the admixtures were stored protected from light under refrigeration. Compatibility of epirubicin-loaded DC bead™ with an equal volume of different contrast media in polypropylene syringes is given over a period of seven days. Due to a maximum elution of 0.1-0.5% of epirubicin from loaded DC bead™, admixtures with contrast media can be prepared in advance in centralized cytotoxic preparation units. Microbiological aspects have to be considered when determining the expiration date of the product. © The Author(s) 2015.

Cryogenic Evaluation of an Advanced DC/DC Converter Module for Deep Space Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elbuluk, Malik E.; Hammoud, Ahmad; Gerber, Scott S.; Patterson, Richard

2003-01-01

DC/DC converters are widely used in power management, conditioning, and control of space power systems. Deep space applications require electronics that withstand cryogenic temperature and meet a stringent radiation tolerance. In this work, the performance of an advanced, radiation-hardened (rad-hard) commercial DC/DC converter module was investigated at cryogenic temperatures. The converter was investigated in terms of its steady state and dynamic operations. The output voltage regulation, efficiency, terminal current ripple characteristics, and output voltage response to load changes were determined in the temperature range of 20 to -140 C. These parameters were obtained at various load levels and at different input voltages. The experimental procedures along with the results obtained on the investigated converter are presented and discussed.

Piezometer completion report for borehole cluster sites DC-19, DC-20, and DC-22

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jackson, R.L.; Diediker, L.D.; Ledgerwood, R.K.

1984-07-01

This report describes the design and installation of multi-level piezometers at borehole cluster sites DC-19, DC-20 and DC-22. The network of borehole cluster sites will provide facilities for multi-level water-level monitoring across the RRL for piezometer baseline monitoring and for large-scale hydraulic stress testing. These groundwater-monitoring facilities were installed between August 1983 and March 1984. Three series of piezometer nests (A-, C- and D-series) were installed in nine hydrogeologic units (monitoring horizons) within the Columbia River Basalt Group at each borehole cluster site. In addition to the piezometer facilities, a B-series pumping well was installed at borehole cluster sites DC-20more » and DC-22. The A-series piezometer nest monitors the basal Ringold sediments and the Rattlesnake Ridge interbed. The C-series piezometer nests monitors the six deepest horizons, which are in increasing depth, the Priest Rapids interflow, Sentinel Gap flow top, Ginkgo flow top, Rocky Coulee flow top, Cohassett flow top and Umtanum flow top. The D-series piezometer monitors the Mabton interbed. The B-series pumping well was completed in the Priest Rapids interflow. 21 refs., 6 figs., 6 tabs.« less

ASSEMBLY TRANSFER SYSTEM DESCRIPTION DOCUMENT

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

B. Gorpani

2000-06-26

The Assembly Transfer System (ATS) receives, cools, and opens rail and truck transportation casks from the Carrier/Cask Handling System (CCHS). The system unloads transportation casks consisting of bare Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF) assemblies, single element canisters, and Dual Purpose Canisters (DPCs). For casks containing DPCs, the system opens the DPCs and unloads the SNF. The system stages the assemblies, transfer assemblies to and from fuel-blending inventory pools, loads them into Disposal Containers (DCs), temporarily seals and inerts the DC, decontaminates the DC and transfers it to the Disposal Container Handling System. The system also prepares empty casks and DPCs formore » off-site shipment. Two identical Assembly Transfer System lines are provided in the Waste Handling Building (WHB). Each line operates independently to handle the waste transfer throughput and to support maintenance operations. Each system line primarily consists of wet and dry handling areas. The wet handling area includes a cask transport system, cask and DPC preparation system, and a wet assembly handling system. The basket transport system forms the transition between the wet and dry handling areas. The dry handling area includes the dry assembly handling system, assembly drying system, DC preparation system, and DC transport system. Both the wet and dry handling areas are controlled by the control and tracking system. The system operating sequence begins with moving transportation casks to the cask preparation area. The cask preparation operations consist of cask cavity gas sampling, cask venting, cask cool-down, outer lid removal, and inner shield plug lifting fixture attachment. Casks containing bare SNF (no DPC) are filled with water and placed in the cask unloading pool. The inner shield plugs are removed underwater. For casks containing a DPC, the cask lid(s) is removed, and the DPC is penetrated, sampled, vented, and cooled. A DPC lifting fixture is attached and the cask is placed into the cask unloading pool. In the cask unloading pool the DPC is removed from the cask and placed in an overpack and the DPC lid is severed and removed. Assemblies are removed from either an open cask or DPC and loaded into assembly baskets positioned in the basket staging rack in the assembly unloading pool. A method called ''blending'' is utilized to load DCs with a heat output of less than 11.8 kW. This involves combining hotter and cooler assemblies from different baskets. Blending requires storing some of the hotter fuel assemblies in fuel-blending inventory pools until cooler assemblies are available. The assembly baskets are then transferred from the basket staging rack to the assembly handling cell and loaded into the assembly drying vessels. After drying, the assemblies are removed from the assembly drying vessels and loaded into a DC positioned below the DC load port. After installation of a DC inner lid and temporary sealing device, the DC is transferred to the DC decontamination cell where the top area of the DC, the DC lifting collar, and the DC inner lid and temporary sealing device are decontaminated, and the DC is evacuated and backfilled with inert gas to prevent prolonged clad exposure to air. The DC is then transferred to the Disposal Container Handling System for lid welding. In another cask preparation and decontamination area, lids are replaced on the empty transportation casks and DPC overpacks, the casks and DPC overpacks are decontaminated, inspected, and transferred to the Carrier/Cask Handling System for shipment off-site. All system equipment is designed to facilitate manual or remote operation, decontamination, and maintenance. The system interfaces with the Carrier/Cask Handling System for incoming and outgoing transportation casks and DPCs. The system also interfaces with the Disposal Container Handling System, which prepares the DC for loading and subsequently seals the loaded DC. The system support interfaces are the Waste Handling Building System and other internal WHB support systems.« less

Design Flexibility of Redox Flow Systems. [for energy storage applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hagedorn, N. H.; Thaller, L. H.

1982-01-01

The characteristics inherent in Redox flow systems permit considerable latitude in designing systems for specific storage applications. The first of these characteristics is the absence of plating/deplating reactions with their attendant morphology changes at the electrodes. This permits a given Redox system to operate over a wide range of depths of discharge and charge/discharge rates. The second characteristic is the separation of power generating components (stacks) from the energy storage components (tanks). This results in cost effective system design, ease of system growth via modularization, and freedom from sizing restraints so that the whole spectrum of applications, from utilities down to single residence can be considered. The final characteristic is the commonality of the reactant fluids which assures that all cells at all times are receiving reactants at the same state of charge. Since no cell can be out of balance with respect to any other cell, it is possible for some cells to be charged while others are discharging, in effect creating a DC to DC transformer. It is also possible for various groups of cells to be connected to separate loads, thus supplying a range of output voltages. Also, trim cells can be used to maintain constant bus voltage as the load is changed or as the depth of discharge increases. The commonality of reactant fluids also permits any corrective measures such as rebalancing to occur at the system level instead of at the single cell level.

Sector Growth Demonstration in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

EPA continues to work with the Bay states and DC to adress areas of concern identified in the final reports. EPA has asked each state and DC to prepare a Sector Load Growth Demonstration using the Sector Load Growth techical memorandum as a guide.

Disulfide-crosslinked nanomicelles confer cancer-specific drug delivery and improve efficacy of paclitaxel in bladder cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Amy; Zhang, Hongyong; Li, Yuanpei; Lin, Tzu-yin; Wang, Fuli; Lee, Joyce; Cheng, Mingshan; Dall'Era, Marc; Li, Tianhong; deVere White, Ralph; Pan, Chong-Xian; Lam, Kit S.

2016-10-01

Chemotherapy commonly used in the treatment of advanced bladder cancer is only moderately effective and associated with significant toxicity. There has been no appreciable improvement in overall survival over the last three decades. The goal of this project is to develop and characterize bladder cancer-specific nanometer-scale micelles loaded with the chemotherapeutic drug paclitaxel (PTX) and determine the anti-tumor activity and toxicity. Micelle-building-material telodendrimers were synthesized through the stepwise conjugation of eight cholic acid units at one terminus of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and a bladder cancer-specific targeting peptide named PLZ4 at the other terminus. To synthesize disulfide-crosslinked PLZ4 nanomicelles (DC-PNM), cysteine was introduced between the cholic acid and PEG. DC-PNM-PTX was synthesized through the evaporation method by loading PTX in the core. The loading capacity of PTX in DC-PNM was 25% (W/W). The loading efficiency was over 99%. DC-PNM-PTX was spherical with the median size of 25 nm. The stability of DC-PNM-PTX was determined in a solution containing sodium docecyl sulfate (SDS). It was stable in a SDS solution, but dissolved within 5 min after the addition of glutathione at the physiological intracellular concentration of 10 mM. In vivo targeting and anti-tumor activity were determined in immunodeficient mice carrying patient-derived bladder cancer xenografts (PDXs). After intravenous administration, DC-PNM specifically targeted the bladder cancer PDXs, but very little to the lung cancer xenografts in the same mice (p < 0.001). DC-PNM loaded with PTX overcame cisplatin resistance, and improved the median survival from 55 d with free PTX to 69.5 d (p = 0.03) of mice carrying PDXs. In conclusion, DC-PNM remained stable in the SDS solution, specifically targeted the bladder cancer xenografts in vivo, and improved the anti-cancer efficacy of PTX.

Reduction of Secondary Flow in Inclined Orifice Pulse Tubes by Addition of DC Flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shiraishi, M.; Fujisawa, Y.; Murakami, M.; Nanako, A.

2004-06-01

The effect of using a second orifice valve to reduce convective losses caused by gravity-driven convective secondary flow in inclined orifice pulse tube refrigerators was investigated. The second orifice valve was installed between a reservoir and a low-pressure line of a compressor. When the valve was open, an additional DC flow directed to the hot end of the refrigerator was generated to counterbalance the convective secondary flow in the core region by opening the valve. Experimental results indicated that with increasing additional DC flow to an optimum level, the convective secondary flow decreased and the cooling performance improved, although further increase of the DC flow over the level caused the cooling performance to degrade. In summary, the second orifice valve was effective in reducing both the convective losses without affecting the cooling performance at an inclination angle < 70° where convective losses were negligibly small.

Autologous aldrithiol-2-inactivated HIV-1 combined with polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid-poly-L-lysine carboxymethylcellulose as a vaccine platform for therapeutic dendritic cell immunotherapy.

PubMed

Miller, Elizabeth; Spadaccia, Meredith; Sabado, Rachel; Chertova, Elena; Bess, Julian; Trubey, Charles Mac; Holman, Rose Marie; Salazar, Andres; Lifson, Jeffrey; Bhardwaj, Nina

2015-01-03

Therapeutic interventions for HIV-1 that successfully augment adaptive immunity to promote killing of infected cells may be a requisite component of strategies to reduce latent cellular reservoirs. Adoptive immunotherapies utilizing autologous monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) that have been activated and antigen loaded ex vivo may serve to circumvent defects in DC function that are present during HIV infection in order to enhance adaptive immune responses. Here we detail the clinical preparation of DCs loaded with autologous aldrithiol-2 (AT-2)-inactivated HIV that have been potently activated with the viral mimic, Polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid-poly-l-lysine carboxymethylcellulose (Poly-ICLC). HIV is first propagated from CD4+ T cells from HIV-infected donors and then rendered non-replicative by chemical inactivation with aldrithiol-2 (AT-2), purified, and quantified. Viral inactivation is confirmed through measurement of Tat-regulated β-galactosidase reporter gene expression following infection of TZM-bl cells. In-process testing for sterility, mycoplasma, LPS, adventitious agents, and removal of AT-2 is performed on viral preparations. Autologous DCs are generated and pulsed with autologous AT-2-inactivated virus and simultaneously stimulated with Poly-ICLC to constitute the final DC vaccine product. Phenotypic identity, maturation, and induction of HIV-specific adaptive immune responses are confirmed via flow cytometric analysis of DCs and cocultured autologous CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Lot release criteria for the DC vaccine have been defined in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines. The demonstrated feasibility of this approach has resulted in approval by the FDA for investigational use in antiretroviral (ART) suppressed individuals. We discuss how this optimized DC formulation may enhance the quality of anti-HIV adaptive responses beyond what has been previously observed during DC immunotherapy trials for HIV infection. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Performance analysis of a diesel engine driven brushless alternator with combined AC and thyristor fed DC loads through PSPICE

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Narayanan, S.S.Y.; Ananthakrishnan, P.; Hangari, V.U.

1995-12-31

A brushless alternator with damper windings in the main alternator and with combined ac and thyristor fed dc loads has been handled ab initio as a total modeling and simulation problem for which a complete steady state performance prediction algorithm has been developed through proper application of Park`s equivalent circuit approach individually to the main and exciter alternator units of the brushless alternator. Details of the problems faced during implementation of this algorithm through PSPICE for the case of a specific 125 kVA brushless alternator as well as methods adopted for successfully overcoming the same have then been presented. Finallymore » a comparison of the predicted performance with those obtained experimentally for this 125 kVA unit has also been provided for the cases of both thyristor fed dc load alone as well as combined ac and thyristor fed dc loads. To enable proper calculation of derating factors to be used in the design of such brushless alternators, the simulation results then include harmonic analysis of the alternator output voltage and current waveforms at the point of common connection of the ac and thyristor fed dc load, damper winding currents, main alternator field winding current, exciter alternator armature voltage and the alternator developed torque and torque angle pulsations.« less

Simultaneous DC and three phase output using hybrid converter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Surenderanath, S.; Rathnavel, P.; Prakash, G.; Rayavel, P.

2018-04-01

This Paper introduces new hybrid converter topologies which can supply simultaneously three phase AC as well as DC from a single DC source. The new Hybrid Converter is derived from the single switch controlled Boost converter by replacing the controlled switch with voltage source inverter (VSI). This new hybrid converter has the advantages like reduced number of switches as compared with conventional design having separate converter for supplying three phase AC and DC loads, provide DC and three AC outputs with an increased reliability, resulting from the inherent shoot through protection in the inverter stage. The proposed converter, studied in this paper, is called Boost-Derived Hybrid Converter (BDHC) as it is obtained from the conventional boost topology. A DSPIC based feedback controller is designed to regulate the DC as well as AC outputs. The proposed Converter can supply DC and AC loads at 95 V and 35 V (line to ground) respectively from a 48 V DC source.

Flexible Power Distribution Based on Point of Load Converters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhallewin, G.; Galiana, D.; Mollard, J. M.; Schaper, W.; Strixner, E.; Tonicello, F.; Triggianese, M.

2014-08-01

Present digital electronic loads require low voltages and suffer from high currents. In addition, they need several different voltage levels to supply the different parts of digital devices like the core, the input/output I/F, etc. Distributed Power Architectures (DPA) with point-of- load (POL) converters (synchronous buck type) offer excellent performance in term of efficiency and load step behaviour. They occupy little PCB area and are well suited for very low voltage (VLV) DC conversion (1V to 3.3V). The paper presents approaches to architectural design of POL based supplies including redundancy and protection as well as the requirements on a European hardware implementation. The main driver of the analysis is the flexibility of each element (DC/DC converter, protection, POL core) to cover a wide range of space applications.

Transport of dissolved and suspended material by the Potomac River at Chain Bridge, at Washington, D.C., water years 1978-81

USGS Publications Warehouse

Blanchard, Stephen F.; Hahl, D.C.

1987-01-01

The measuring station Potomac River at Chain Bridge at Washington, D.C., is located at the upstream end of the tidal Potomac River. Water-quality data were collected intensively at this site from December 1977 through September 1981 as part of a study of the tidal Potomac River and Estuary. Analysis of water-discharge data from the long-term gage at Little Falls, just up stream from Chain Bridge, shows that streamflow for the 1979-81 water years had characteristics similar to the 51-year average discharge (1931-81). Loads were computed for various forms of phosphorus and nitrogen, major cations and anions, silica, biochemical oxygen demand, chlorophyll a and pheophytin, and suspended sediment. Load duration curves for the 1979-81 water years show that 50 percent of the time, water passing Chain Bridge carried at least 28 metric tons per day of total nitrogen, 1.0 metric tons per day of total phosphorus, 70 metric tons per day of silica, and 270 metric tons per day of suspended sediment. No consistent seasonal change in constituent concentrations was observed; however, a seasonal trend in loads due to seasonal changes in runoff was noted. Some storm runoff events transported as much dissolved and suspended material as is transported during an entire low-flow year.

Distributed photovoltaic architecture powering a DC bus: Impact of duty cycle and load variations on the efficiency of the generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allouache, Hadj; Zegaoui, Abdallah; Boutoubat, Mohamed; Bokhtache, Aicha Aissa; Kessaissia, Fatma Zohra; Charles, Jean-Pierre; Aillerie, Michel

2018-05-01

This paper focuses on a photovoltaic generator feeding a load via a boost converter in a distributed PV architecture. The principal target is the evaluation of the efficiency of a distributed photovoltaic architecture powering a direct current (DC) PV bus. This task is achieved by outlining an original way for tracking the Maximum Power Point (MPP) taking into account load variations and duty cycle on the electrical quantities of the boost converter and on the PV generator output apparent impedance. Thereafter, in a given sized PV system, we analyze the influence of the load variations on the behavior of the boost converter and we deduce the limits imposed by the load on the DC PV bus. The simultaneous influences of 1- the variation of the duty cycle of the boost converter and 2- the load power on the parameters of the various components of the photovoltaic chain and on the boost performances are clearly presented as deduced by simulation.

Bidirectional DC-DC conversion device use at system of urban electric transport

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vilberger, M. E.; Vislogusov, D. P.; Kotin, D. A.; Kulekina, A. V.

2017-10-01

The paper considers questions of energy storage devices used in electric transport, especially in the electric traction drive of a trolley bus, in order to provide an autonomous motion, overhead system’s load leveling and energy recovering. For efficiency of the proposed system, a bidirectional DC-DC converter is used. During the simulation, regulation characteristics of the bidirectional DC-DC converters were obtained.

Powerplexer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woods, J. M. (Inventor)

1973-01-01

An electrical power distribution system is described for use in providing different dc voltage levels. A circuit is supplied with DC voltage levels and commutates pulses for timed intervals onto a pair of distribution wires. The circuit is driven by a command generator which places pulses on the wires in a timed sequence. The pair of wires extend to voltage strippers connected to the various loads. The voltage strippers each respond to the pulse dc levels on the pair of wires and form different output voltages communicated to each load.

Magnetic Enrichment of Dendritic Cell Vaccine in Lymph Node with Fluorescent-Magnetic Nanoparticles Enhanced Cancer Immunotherapy

PubMed Central

Jin, Honglin; Qian, Yuan; Dai, Yanfeng; Qiao, Sha; Huang, Chuan; Lu, Lisen; Luo, Qingming; Chen, Jing; Zhang, Zhihong

2016-01-01

Dendritic cell (DC) migration to the lymph node is a key component of DC-based immunotherapy. However, the DC homing rate to the lymphoid tissues is poor, thus hindering the DC-mediated activation of antigen-specific T cells. Here, we developed a system using fluorescent magnetic nanoparticles (α-AP-fmNPs; loaded with antigen peptide, iron oxide nanoparticles, and indocyanine green) in combination with magnetic pull force (MPF) to successfully manipulate DC migration in vitro and in vivo. α-AP-fmNPs endowed DCs with MPF-responsiveness, antigen presentation, and simultaneous optical and magnetic resonance imaging detectability. We showed for the first time that α-AP-fmNP-loaded DCs were sensitive to MPF, and their migration efficiency could be dramatically improved both in vitro and in vivo through MPF treatment. Due to the enhanced migration of DCs, MPF treatment significantly augmented antitumor efficacy of the nanoparticle-loaded DCs. Therefore, we have developed a biocompatible approach with which to improve the homing efficiency of DCs and subsequent anti-tumor efficacy, and track their migration by multi-modality imaging, with great potential applications for DC-based cancer immunotherapy. PMID:27698936

Dendritic cells loaded with HeLa-derived exosomes simulate an antitumor immune response.

PubMed

Ren, Guoping; Wang, Yanhong; Yuan, Shexia; Wang, Baolian

2018-05-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of loading dendritic cells (DCs) with HeLa-derived exosomes on cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) responses, and the cytotoxic effects of CTL responses on the HeLa cell line. Ultrafiltration centrifugation combined with sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation was applied to isolate exosomes (HeLa-exo) from the supernatant of HeLa cells. Morphological features of HeLa-exo were identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and the expression of cluster of differentiation (CD)63 was detected by western blotting. Next, monocytes were isolated from peripheral blood and cultured with the removal of adherent cells to induce DC proliferation. DCs were then phenotypically characterized by flow cytometry. Finally, MTT assays were performed to analyze the effects of DCs loaded with HeLa-exo on T cell proliferation and cytotoxicity assays to evaluate the effect of CTL responses on HeLa cells. TEM revealed that HeLa-exo exhibit typical cup-shaped morphology with a diameter range of 30-100 nm. It was also identified that the CD63 surface antigen is expressed on HeLa-exo. Furthermore, monocyte-derived DCs were able to express CD1a, suggesting that DC induction was a success. DCs exhibited hair-like protrusions and other typical dendritic cell morphology. Furthermore, DCs loaded with HeLa-exo could enhance CTL proliferation and the cytotoxic activity of CTLs compared with DCs without HeLa-exo (P<0.05). In conclusion, DCs loaded with HeLa-exo may promote T cell proliferation and induce CTL responses to inhibit the growth of cervical cancer cells in vitro .

Immunostimulatory activities of dendritic cells loaded with adenovirus vector carrying HBcAg/HBsAg

PubMed Central

Jia, Hongyu; Li, Chunling; Zhang, Yimin; Yu, Liang; Xiang, Dairong; Liu, Jun; Chen, Fengzhe; Han, Xiaochun

2015-01-01

Objective: This study is to investigate the immunostimulatory activities of dendritic cells (DCs) transfected with HBcAg and/or HBsAg recombinant adenovirus (rAd). Methods: DCs were transfected with rAd (DC/Ad-C+Ad-S, DC/Ad-C, and DC/Ad-S), or pulsed with HBcAg antigen (DC/HBcAg). Flow cytometry was used to detect the phenotype of DCs and the cytokine production of T lymphocytes. Mice were vaccinated with DCs transfected with rAd or pulsed with antigen, and DNA vaccine. Mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) was used to evaluate the T-cell stimulatory capacity, and HBcAg-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity was assessed. Results: Phenotypic analysis showed that DCs transfected with rAd or pulsed with HBcAg antigen exhibited mature phenotypes. MLR indicated no significant differences in stimulating T-cell proliferation between the DC/rAd and DC/HBcAg groups. When mixed with DCs, Th and Tc cells mainly secreted IFN-γ, indicating type I immune responses. In vaccinated mice, DCs transduced with rAd and pulsed with HBcAg induced significantly more IFN-γ secretion from Th cells, compared with DNA vaccine, indicating stronger Th1 response. Moreover, DCs transduced with rAd stimulated Tc cells to produce more IFN-γ, indicating stronger Tc1 response. In vaccinated mice, HBcAg-specific CTL activities were decreased in the following order: the DC/Ad-C+Ad-S, DC/Ad-C, DC/Ad-S, DC/HBcAg, and DNA vaccine groups. Conclusion: DCs transfected with rAd induce stronger Th1/Tc1 (type I) cell immune responses and specific CTL response than HBcAg-pulsed DCs or DNA vaccine. Our findings suggest that DCs transfected with rAd-C/rAd-S might provide an effective approach in the treatment of persistent hepatitis B virus infection. PMID:26064236

AC/DC Smart Control And Power Sharing of DC Distribution Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-02-10

system losses will decrease since the semiconductor losses due to switching in converter are reduced. The use of DC power systems to supply...cells yield variable DC voltage. In stand-alone systems , in order to be able to make full use of the generated power and to feed the loads, a controlled...alternate sources connected to the DC Distribution System

ac electroosmotic pumping induced by noncontact external electrodes.

PubMed

Wang, Shau-Chun; Chen, Hsiao-Ping; Chang, Hsueh-Chia

2007-09-21

Electroosmotic (EO) pumps based on dc electroosmosis is plagued by bubble generation and other electrochemical reactions at the electrodes at voltages beyond 1 V for electrolytes. These disadvantages limit their throughput and offset their portability advantage over mechanical syringe or pneumatic pumps. ac electroosmotic pumps at high frequency (>100 kHz) circumvent the bubble problem by inducing polarization and slip velocity on embedded electrodes,1 but they require complex electrode designs to produce a net flow. We report a new high-throughput ac EO pump design based on induced-polarization on the entire channel surface instead of just on the electrodes. Like dc EO pumps, our pump electrodes are outside of the load section and form a cm-long pump unit consisting of three circular reservoirs (3 mm in diameter) connected by a 1x1 mm channel. The field-induced polarization can produce an effective Zeta potential exceeding 1 V and an ac slip velocity estimated as 1 mmsec or higher, both one order of magnitude higher than earlier dc and ac pumps, giving rise to a maximum throughput of 1 mulsec. Polarization over the entire channel surface, quadratic scaling with respect to the field and high voltage at high frequency without electrode bubble generation are the reasons why the current pump is superior to earlier dc and ac EO pumps.

Analysis of transient state in HTS tapes under ripple DC load current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stepien, M.; Grzesik, B.

2014-05-01

The paper concerns the analysis of transient state (quench transition) in HTS tapes loaded with the current having DC component together with a ripple component. Two shapes of the ripple were taken into account: sinusoidal and triangular. Very often HTS tape connected to a power electronic current supply (i.e. superconducting coil for SMES) that delivers DC current with ripples and it needs to be examined under such conditions. Additionally, measurements of electrical (and thermal) parameters under such ripple excitation is useful to tape characterization in broad range of load currents. The results presented in the paper were obtained using test bench which contains programmable DC supply and National Instruments data acquisition system. Voltage drops and load currents were measured vs. time. Analysis of measured parameters as a function of the current was used to tape description with quench dynamics taken into account. Results of measurements were also used to comparison with the results of numerical modelling based on FEM. Presented provisional results show possibility to use results of measurements in transient state to prepare inverse models of superconductors and their detailed numerical modelling.

Stability testing and analysis of a PMAD dc test bed for the Space Station Freedom

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Button, Robert M.; Brush, Andrew S.

1992-01-01

The Power Management and Distribution (PMAD) dc Test Bed at the NASA Lewis Research Center is introduced. Its usefulness to the Space Station Freedom Electrical Power (EPS) development and design are discussed in context of verifying system stability. Stability criteria developed by Middlebrook and Cuk are discussed as they apply to constant power dc to dc converters exhibiting negative input impedance at low frequencies. The utility-type Secondary Subsystem is presented and each component is described. The instrumentation used to measure input and output impedance under load is defined. Test results obtained from input and output impedance measurements of test bed components are presented. It is shown that the PMAD dc Test Bed Secondary Subsystem meets the Middlebrook stability criterion for certain loading conditions.

Stability Testing and Analysis of a PMAD DC Test Bed for the Space Station Freedom

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Button, Robert M.; Brush, Andrew S.

1992-01-01

The Power Management and Distribution (PMAD) DC Test Bed at the NASA Lewis Research Center is introduced. Its usefulness to the Space Station Freedom Electrical Power (EPS) development and design are discussed in context of verifying system stability. Stability criteria developed by Middlebrook and Cuk are discussed as they apply to constant power DC to DC converters exhibiting negative input impedance at low frequencies. The utility-type Secondary Subsystem is presented and each component is described. The instrumentation used to measure input and output impedance under load is defined. Test results obtained from input and output impedance measurements of test bed components are presented. It is shown that the PMAD DC Test Bed Secondary Subsystem meets the Middlebrook stability criterion for certain loading conditions.

A novel wireless power and data transmission AC to DC converter for an implantable device.

PubMed

Liu, Jhao-Yan; Tang, Kea-Tiong

2013-01-01

This article presents a novel AC to DC converter implemented by standard CMOS technology, applied for wireless power transmission. This circuit combines the functions of the rectifier and DC to DC converter, rather than using the rectifier to convert AC to DC and then supplying the required voltage with regulator as in the transitional method. This modification can reduce the power consumption and the area of the circuit. This circuit also transfers the loading condition back to the external circuit by the load shift keying(LSK), determining if the input power is not enough or excessive, which increases the efficiency of the total system. The AC to DC converter is fabricated with the TSMC 90nm CMOS process. The circuit area is 0.071mm(2). The circuit can produce a 1V DC voltage with maximum output current of 10mA from an AC input ranging from 1.5V to 2V, at 1MHz to 10MHz.

UHF front-end feeding RFID-based body sensor networks by exploiting the reader signal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pasca, M.; Colella, R.; Catarinucci, L.; Tarricone, L.; D'Amico, S.; Baschirotto, A.

2016-05-01

This paper presents an integrated, high-sensitivity UHF radio frequency identification (RFID) power management circuit for body sensor network applications. The circuit consists of a two-stage RF-DC Dickson's rectifier followed by an integrated five-stage DC-DC Pelliconi's charge pump driven by an ultralow start-up voltage LC oscillator. The DC-DC charge pump interposed between the RF-DC rectifier and the output load provides the RF to load isolation avoiding losses due to the diodes reverse saturation current. The RF-DC rectifier has been realized on FR4 substrate, while the charge pump and the oscillator have been realized in 180 nm complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology. Outdoor measurements demonstrate the ability of the power management circuit to provide 400 mV output voltage at 14 m distance from the UHF reader, in correspondence of -25 dBm input signal power. As demonstrated in the literature, such output voltage level is suitable to supply body sensor network nodes.

Model predictive direct power control for active power decoupled single-phase quasi- Z -source inverter

DOE PAGES

Liu, Yushan; Ge, Baoming; Abu-Rub, Haitham; ...

2016-06-14

In this study, the active power filter (APF) that consists of a half-bridge leg and an ac capacitor is integrated in the single-phase quasi-Z-source inverter (qZSI) in this paper to avoid the second harmonic power flowing into the dc side. The capacitor of APF buffers the second harmonic power of the load, and the ac capacitor allows highly pulsating ac voltage, so that the capacitances of both dc and ac sides can be small. A model predictive direct power control (DPC) is further proposed to achieve the purpose of this newtopology through predicting the capacitor voltage of APF at eachmore » sampling period and ensuring the APF power to track the second harmonic power of single-phase qZSI. Simulation and experimental results verify the model predictive DPC for the APF-integrated single-phase qZSI.« less

Model predictive direct power control for active power decoupled single-phase quasi- Z -source inverter

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Yushan; Ge, Baoming; Abu-Rub, Haitham

In this study, the active power filter (APF) that consists of a half-bridge leg and an ac capacitor is integrated in the single-phase quasi-Z-source inverter (qZSI) in this paper to avoid the second harmonic power flowing into the dc side. The capacitor of APF buffers the second harmonic power of the load, and the ac capacitor allows highly pulsating ac voltage, so that the capacitances of both dc and ac sides can be small. A model predictive direct power control (DPC) is further proposed to achieve the purpose of this newtopology through predicting the capacitor voltage of APF at eachmore » sampling period and ensuring the APF power to track the second harmonic power of single-phase qZSI. Simulation and experimental results verify the model predictive DPC for the APF-integrated single-phase qZSI.« less

New approaches to provide ride-through for critical loads in electric power distribution systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montero-Hernandez, Oscar C.

2001-07-01

The extensive use of electronic circuits has enabled modernization, automation, miniaturization, high quality, low cost, and other achievements regarding electric loads in the last decades. However, modern electronic circuits and systems are extremely sensitive to disturbances from the electric power supply. In fact, the rate at which these disturbances happen is considerable as has been documented in recent years. In response to the power quality concerns presented previously, this dissertation is proposing new approaches to provide ride-through for critical loads during voltage disturbances with emphasis on voltage sags. In this dissertation, a new approach based on an AC-DC-AC system is proposed to provide ride-through for critical loads connected in buildings and/or an industrial system. In this approach, a three-phase IGBT inverter with a built in Dc-link voltage regulator is suitably controlled along with static by-pass switches to provide continuous power to critical loads. During a disturbance, the input utility source is disconnected and the power from the inverter is connected to the load. The remaining voltage in the AC supply is converted to DC and compensated before being applied to the inverter and the load. After detecting normal utility conditions, power from the utility is restored to the critical load. In order to achieve an extended ride-through capability a second approach is introduced. In this case, the Dc-link voltage regulator is performed by a DC-DC Buck-Boost converter. This new approach has the capability to mitigate voltage variations below and above the nominal value. In the third approach presented in this dissertation, a three-phase AC to AC boost converter is investigated. This converter provides a boosting action for the utility input voltages, right before they are applied to the load. The proposed Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control strategy ensures independent control of each phase and compensates for both single-phase or poly-phase voltage sags. Algorithms capable of detecting voltage disturbances such as voltage sags, voltage swells, flicker, frequency change, and harmonics in a fast and reliable way are investigated and developed in this dissertation as an essential part of the approaches previously described. Simulation and experimental work has been done to validate the feasibility of all approaches under the most common voltage disturbances such as single-phase voltage sags and three-phase voltage sags.

Specific Dioscorea Phytoextracts Enhance Potency of TCL-Loaded DC-Based Cancer Vaccines

PubMed Central

Chang, Wei-Ting; Chen, Hui-Ming; Yin, Shu-Yi; Chen, Yung-Hsiang; Wen, Chih-Chun; Wei, Wen-Chi; Lai, Phoency; Wang, Cheng-Hsin; Yang, Ning-Sun

2013-01-01

Dioscorea tuber phytoextracts can confer immunomodulatory activities ex vivo and improve regeneration of bone marrow cells in vivo. In present study, we evaluated specific Dioscorea phytoextracts for use ex vivo as a bone-marrow-derived dendritic cell- (DC-) based vaccine adjuvant for cancer immunotherapy. Fractionated Dioscorea extracts (DsII) were assayed for their effect on maturation and functions of DC ex vivo and antimelanoma activity of DC-based vaccine in vivo. The phytoextract from 50–75% ethanol-precipitated fraction of Dioscorea alata var. purpurea Tainung no. 5 tuber, designated as DsII-TN5, showed a strong augmentation of tumor cell lysate- (TCL-) loaded DC-mediated activation of T-cell proliferation. DsII-TN5 stimulated the expression of CD40, CD80, CD86, and IL-1β in TCL-loaded DCs and downregulated the expression of TGF-β1. DC vaccines prepared by a specific schema (TCL (2 h) + LPS (22 h)) showed the strongest antitumor activity. DsII-TN5 as a DC vaccine adjuvant showed strong antimelanoma activity and reduced myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) population in tested mice. DsII-TN5 can also activate DCs to enhance Th1- and Th17-related cytokine expressions. Biochemical analysis showed that DsII-TN5 consists mainly of polysaccharides containing a high level (53%) of mannose residues. We suggest that DsII-TN5 may have potential for future application as a potent, cost-effective adjuvant for DC-based cancer vaccines. PMID:23935688

Impact of constrained dual-screw anchorage on holding strength and the resistance to cyclic loading in anterior spinal deformity surgery: a comparative biomechanical study.

PubMed

Koller, Heiko; Fierlbeck, Johann; Auffarth, Alexander; Niederberger, Alfred; Stephan, Daniel; Hitzl, Wolfgang; Augat, Peter; Zenner, Juliane; Blocher, Martina; Blocher, Martina; Resch, Herbert; Mayer, Michael

2014-03-15

Biomechanical in vitro laboratory study. To compare the biomechanical performance of 3 fixation concepts used for anterior instrumented scoliosis correction and fusion (AISF). AISF is an ideal estimate for selective fusion in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Correction is mediated using rods and screws anchored in the vertebral bodies. Application of large correction forces can promote early weakening of the implant-vertebra interfaces, with potential postoperative loss of correction, implant dislodgment, and nonunion. Therefore, improvement of screw-rod anchorage characteristics with AISF is valuable. A total of 111 thoracolumbar vertebrae harvested from 7 human spines completed a testing protocol. Age of specimens was 62.9 ± 8.2 years. Vertebrae were potted in polymethylmethacrylate and instrumented using 3 different devices with identical screw length and unicortical fixation: single constrained screw fixation (SC fixation), nonconstrained dual-screw fixation (DNS fixation), and constrained dual-screw fixation (DC fixation) resembling a novel implant type. Mechanical testing of each implant-vertebra unit using cyclic loading and pullout tests were performed after stress tests were applied mimicking surgical maneuvers during AISF. Test order was as follows: (1) preload test 1 simulating screw-rod locking and cantilever forces; (2) preload test 2 simulating compression/distraction maneuver; (3) cyclic loading tests with implant-vertebra unit subjected to stepwise increased cyclic loading (maximum: 200 N) protocol with 1000 cycles at 2 Hz, tests were aborted if displacement greater than 2 mm occurred before reaching 1000 cycles; and (4) coaxial pullout tests at a pullout rate of 5 mm/min. With each test, the mode of failure, that is, shear versus fracture, was noted as well as the ultimate load to failure (N), number of implant-vertebra units surpassing 1000 cycles, and number of cycles and related loads applied. Thirty-three percent of vertebrae surpassed 1000 cycles, 38% in the SC group, 19% in the DNS group, and 43% in the DC group. The difference between the DC group and the DNS group yielded significance (P = 0.04). For vertebrae not surpassing 1000 cycles, the number of cycles at implant displacement greater than 2 mm in the SC group was 648.7 ± 280.2 cycles, in the DNS group was 478.8 ± 219.0 cycles, and in the DC group was 699.5 ± 150.6 cycles. Differences between the SC group and the DNS group were significant (P = 0.008) as between the DC group and the DNS group (P = 0.0009). Load to failure in the SC group was 444.3 ± 302 N, in the DNS group was 527.7 ± 273 N, and in the DC group was 664.4 ± 371.5 N. The DC group outperformed the other constructs. The difference between the SC group and the DNS group failed significance (P = 0.25), whereas there was a significant difference between the SC group and the DC group (P = 0.003). The DC group showed a strong trend toward increased load to failure compared with the DNS group but without significance (P = 0.067). Surpassing 1000 cycles had a significant impact on the maximum load to failure in the SC group (P = 0.0001) and in the DNS group (P = 0.01) but not in the DC group (P = 0.2), which had the highest number of vertebrae surpassing 1000 cycles. Constrained dual-screw fixation characteristics in modern AISF implants can improve resistance to cyclic loading and pullout forces. DC constructs bear the potential to reduce the mechanical shortcomings of AISF.

A simulation-based efficiency comparison of AC and DC power distribution networks in commercial buildings

DOE PAGES

Gerber, Daniel L.; Vossos, Vagelis; Feng, Wei; ...

2017-06-12

Direct current (DC) power distribution has recently gained traction in buildings research due to the proliferation of on-site electricity generation and battery storage, and an increasing prevalence of internal DC loads. The research discussed in this paper uses Modelica-based simulation to compare the efficiency of DC building power distribution with an equivalent alternating current (AC) distribution. The buildings are all modeled with solar generation, battery storage, and loads that are representative of the most efficient building technology. A variety of paramet ric simulations determine how and when DC distribution proves advantageous. These simulations also validate previous studies that use simplermore » approaches and arithmetic efficiency models. This work shows that using DC distribution can be considerably more efficient: a medium sized office building using DC distribution has an expected baseline of 12% savings, but may also save up to 18%. In these results, the baseline simulation parameters are for a zero net energy (ZNE) building that can island as a microgrid. DC is most advantageous in buildings with large solar capacity, large battery capacity, and high voltage distribution.« less

Modified Perfect Harmonics Cancellation Control of a Grid Interfaced SPV Power Generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, B.; Shahani, D. T.; Verma, A. K.

2015-03-01

This paper deals with a grid interfaced solar photo voltaic (SPV) power generating system with modified perfect harmonic cancellation (MPHC) control for power quality improvement in terms of mitigation of the current harmonics, power factor correction, control of point of common coupling (PCC) voltage with reactive power compensation and load balancing in a three phase distribution system. The proposed grid interfaced SPV system consists of a SPV array, a dc-dc boost converter and a voltage source converter (VSC) used for the compensation of other connected linear and nonlinear loads at PCC. The reference grid currents are estimated using MPHC method and control signals are derived by using pulse width modulation (PWM) current controller of VSC. The SPV power is fed to the common dc bus of VSC and dc-dc boost converter using maximum power point tracking (MPPT). The dc link voltage of VSC is regulated by using dc voltage proportional integral (PI) controller. The analysis of the proposed SPV power generating system is carried out under dc/ac short circuit and severe SPV-SX and SPV-TX intrusion.

A simulation-based efficiency comparison of AC and DC power distribution networks in commercial buildings

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gerber, Daniel L.; Vossos, Vagelis; Feng, Wei

Direct current (DC) power distribution has recently gained traction in buildings research due to the proliferation of on-site electricity generation and battery storage, and an increasing prevalence of internal DC loads. The research discussed in this paper uses Modelica-based simulation to compare the efficiency of DC building power distribution with an equivalent alternating current (AC) distribution. The buildings are all modeled with solar generation, battery storage, and loads that are representative of the most efficient building technology. A variety of paramet ric simulations determine how and when DC distribution proves advantageous. These simulations also validate previous studies that use simplermore » approaches and arithmetic efficiency models. This work shows that using DC distribution can be considerably more efficient: a medium sized office building using DC distribution has an expected baseline of 12% savings, but may also save up to 18%. In these results, the baseline simulation parameters are for a zero net energy (ZNE) building that can island as a microgrid. DC is most advantageous in buildings with large solar capacity, large battery capacity, and high voltage distribution.« less

Multi-port power router and its impact on resilient power grid systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kado, Yuichi; Iwatsuki, Katsumi; Wada, Keiji

2016-02-01

We propose a Y-configuration power router as a unit cell to easily construct a power delivery system that can meet many types of user requirements. The Y-configuration power router controls the direction and magnitude of power flow among three ports regardless of DC and AC. We constructed a prototype three-way isolated DC/DC converter that is the core unit of the Y-configuration power router and tested the power flow control operation. Experimental results revealed that our methodology based on the governing equation was appropriate for the power flow control of the three-way DC/DC converter. In addition, the hexagonal distribution network composed of the power routers has the ability to easily interchange electric power between autonomous microgrid cells. We also explored the requirements for communication between energy routers to achieve dynamic adjustments of energy flow in a coordinated manner and its impact on resilient power grid systems.

Comparative methods to assess harmonic response of nonlinear piezoelectric energy harvesters interfaced with AC and DC circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lan, Chunbo; Tang, Lihua; Harne, Ryan L.

2018-05-01

Nonlinear piezoelectric energy harvester (PEH) has been widely investigated during the past few years. Among the majority of these researches, a pure resistive load is used to evaluate power output. To power conventional electronics in practical application, the alternating current (AC) generated by nonlinear PEH needs to be transformed into a direct current (DC) and rectifying circuits are required to interface the device and electronic load. This paper aims at exploring the critical influences of AC and DC interface circuits on nonlinear PEH. As a representative nonlinear PEH, we fabricate and evaluate a monostable PEH in terms of generated power and useful operating bandwidth when it is connected to AC and DC interface circuits. Firstly, the harmonic balance analysis and equivalent circuit representation method are utilized to tackle the modeling of nonlinear energy harvesters connected to AC and DC interface circuits. The performances of the monostable PEH connected to these interface circuits are then analyzed and compared, focusing on the influences of the varying load, excitation and electromechanical coupling strength on the nonlinear dynamics, bandwidth and harvested power. Subsequently, the behaviors of the monostable PEH with AC and DC interface circuits are verified by experiment. Results indicate that both AC and DC interface circuits have a peculiar influence on the power peak shifting and operational bandwidth of the monostable PEH, which is quite different from that on the linear PEH.

A triple hybrid micropower generator with simultaneous multi-mode energy harvesting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uluşan, H.; Chamanian, S.; Pathirana, W. P. M. R.; Zorlu, Ö.; Muhtaroğlu, A.; Külah, H.

2018-01-01

This study presents a triple hybrid energy harvesting system that combines harvested power from thermoelectric (TE), vibration-based electromagnetic (EM) and piezoelectric (PZT) harvesters into a single DC supply. A power management circuit is designed and implemented in 180 nm standard CMOS technology based on the distinct requirements of each harvester, and is terminated with a Schottky diode to avoid reverse current flow. The system topology hence supports simultaneous power generation and delivery from low and high frequency vibrations as well as temperature differences in the environment. The ultra-low DC voltage harvested from TE generator is boosted with a cross-coupled charge-pump driven by an LC oscillator with fully-integrated center-tapped differential inductors. The EM harvester output was rectified with a self-powered and low drop-out AC/DC doubler circuit. The PZT interface electronics benefits from peak-to-peak cycle of the harvested voltage through a negative voltage converter followed by synchronous power extraction and DC-to-DC conversion through internal switches, and an external inductor. The hybrid system was tested with a wearable in-house EM energy harvester placed wrist of a jogger, a commercial low volume PZT harvester, and DC supply as the TE generator output. The system generates more than 1.2 V output for load resistances higher than 50 kΩ, which corresponds to 24 μW to power wearable sensors. Simultaneous multi-mode operation achieves higher voltage and power compared to stand-alone harvesting circuits, and generates up to 110 μW of output power. This is the first hybrid harvester circuit that simultaneously extracts energy from three independent sources, and delivers a single DC output.

Lithologic Coring in the Lower Anacostia Tidal Watershed, Washington, D.C., July 2002

USGS Publications Warehouse

Tenbus, Frederick J.

2003-01-01

Little is known about the volumetric flux of ground water to the lower tidal Anacostia River, or whether ground-water flow is an important component of the contaminant load in this part of the Anacostia River. The watershed is in the eastern part of Washington, D.C., and has been subjected to over 200 years of urbanization and modifications of the river channel and nearby land areas. These anthropogenic factors, along with tidal fluctuations in the river, make ground-water data collection and interpretations difficult. The U.S. Geological Survey is cooperating with the District of Columbia Department of Health, Environmental Health Administration, Bureau of Environmental Quality, Water Quality Division, in a study to assess nonpoint-source pollution from ground water into the lower tidal Anacostia River. Lithologic cores from drilling activities conducted during July 2002 in the study area have been interpreted in the context of geologic and hydrogeologic information from previous studies in the lower Anacostia tidal watershed. These interpretations can help achieve the overall project goals of characterizing ground-water flow and contaminant load in the study area. Hydrostratigraphic units encountered during drilling generally consisted of late Pleistocene to Holocene fluvial deposits overlying Cretaceous fluvial/deltaic deposits. Cores collected in Beaverdam Creek and the Anacostia River indicated high- and low-energy environments of deposition, respectively. Two cores collected near the river showed different types of anthropogenic fill underlain by low-energy deposits, which were in turn underlain by sand and gravel. A third core collected near the river consisted primarily of sand and gravel with no artificial fill.

Research on key technology of planning and design for AC/DC hybrid distribution network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shen, Yu; Wu, Guilian; Zheng, Huan; Deng, Junpeng; Shi, Pengjia

2018-04-01

With the increasing demand of DC generation and DC load, the development of DC technology, AC and DC distribution network integrating will become an important form of future distribution network. In this paper, the key technology of planning and design for AC/DC hybrid distribution network is proposed, including the selection of AC and DC voltage series, the design of typical grid structure and the comprehensive evaluation method of planning scheme. The research results provide some ideas and directions for the future development of AC/DC hybrid distribution network.

Controllable Bidirectional dc Power Sources For Large Loads

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tripp, John S.; Daniels, Taumi S.

1995-01-01

System redesigned for greater efficiency, durability, and controllability. Modern electronically controlled dc power sources proposed to supply currents to six electromagnets used to position aerodynamic test model in wind tunnel. Six-phase bridge rectifier supplies load with large current at voltage of commanded magnitude and polarity. Current-feedback circuit includes current-limiting feature giving some protection against overload.

Advancement of In-Flight Alumina Powder Spheroidization Process with Water Droplet Injection Using a Small Power DC-RF Hybrid Plasma Flow System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jang, Juyong; Takana, Hidemasa; Park, Sangkyu; Nishiyama, Hideya

2012-09-01

The correlation between plasma thermofluid characteristics and alumina powder spheroidization processes with water droplet injection using a small power DC-RF hybrid plasma flow system was experimentally clarified. Micro-sized water droplets with a low water flow rate were injected into the tail of thermal plasma flow so as not to disturb the plasma flow directly. Injected water droplets were vaporized in the thermal plasma flow and were transported upstream in the plasma flow to the torch by the backflow. After dissociation of water, the production of hydrogen was detected by the optical emission spectroscopy in the downstream RF plasma flow. The emission area of the DC plasma jet expanded and elongated in the vicinity of the RF coils. Additionally, the emission area of RF plasma flow enlarged and was visible as red emission in the downstream RF plasma flow in the vicinity below the RF coils due to hydrogen production. Therefore, the plasma flow mixed with produced hydrogen increased the plasma enthalpy and the highest spheroidization rate of 97% was obtained at a water flow rate of 15 Sm l/min and an atomizing gas flow rate of 8 S l/min using a small power DC-RF hybrid plasma flow system.

Power Quality Control and Design of Power Converter for Variable-Speed Wind Energy Conversion System with Permanent-Magnet Synchronous Generator

PubMed Central

Oğuz, Yüksel; Güney, İrfan; Çalık, Hüseyin

2013-01-01

The control strategy and design of an AC/DC/AC IGBT-PMW power converter for PMSG-based variable-speed wind energy conversion systems (VSWECS) operation in grid/load-connected mode are presented. VSWECS consists of a PMSG connected to a AC-DC IGBT-based PWM rectifier and a DC/AC IGBT-based PWM inverter with LCL filter. In VSWECS, AC/DC/AC power converter is employed to convert the variable frequency variable speed generator output to the fixed frequency fixed voltage grid. The DC/AC power conversion has been managed out using adaptive neurofuzzy controlled inverter located at the output of controlled AC/DC IGBT-based PWM rectifier. In this study, the dynamic performance and power quality of the proposed power converter connected to the grid/load by output LCL filter is focused on. Dynamic modeling and control of the VSWECS with the proposed power converter is performed by using MATLAB/Simulink. Simulation results show that the output voltage, power, and frequency of VSWECS reach to desirable operation values in a very short time. In addition, when PMSG based VSWECS works continuously with the 4.5 kHz switching frequency, the THD rate of voltage in the load terminal is 0.00672%. PMID:24453905

Power quality control and design of power converter for variable-speed wind energy conversion system with permanent-magnet synchronous generator.

PubMed

Oğuz, Yüksel; Güney, İrfan; Çalık, Hüseyin

2013-01-01

The control strategy and design of an AC/DC/AC IGBT-PMW power converter for PMSG-based variable-speed wind energy conversion systems (VSWECS) operation in grid/load-connected mode are presented. VSWECS consists of a PMSG connected to a AC-DC IGBT-based PWM rectifier and a DC/AC IGBT-based PWM inverter with LCL filter. In VSWECS, AC/DC/AC power converter is employed to convert the variable frequency variable speed generator output to the fixed frequency fixed voltage grid. The DC/AC power conversion has been managed out using adaptive neurofuzzy controlled inverter located at the output of controlled AC/DC IGBT-based PWM rectifier. In this study, the dynamic performance and power quality of the proposed power converter connected to the grid/load by output LCL filter is focused on. Dynamic modeling and control of the VSWECS with the proposed power converter is performed by using MATLAB/Simulink. Simulation results show that the output voltage, power, and frequency of VSWECS reach to desirable operation values in a very short time. In addition, when PMSG based VSWECS works continuously with the 4.5 kHz switching frequency, the THD rate of voltage in the load terminal is 0.00672%.

Hybrid power system intelligent operation and protection involving distributed architectures and pulsed loads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohamed, Ahmed

Efficient and reliable techniques for power delivery and utilization are needed to account for the increased penetration of renewable energy sources in electric power systems. Such methods are also required for current and future demands of plug-in electric vehicles and high-power electronic loads. Distributed control and optimal power network architectures will lead to viable solutions to the energy management issue with high level of reliability and security. This dissertation is aimed at developing and verifying new techniques for distributed control by deploying DC microgrids, involving distributed renewable generation and energy storage, through the operating AC power system. To achieve the findings of this dissertation, an energy system architecture was developed involving AC and DC networks, both with distributed generations and demands. The various components of the DC microgrid were designed and built including DC-DC converters, voltage source inverters (VSI) and AC-DC rectifiers featuring novel designs developed by the candidate. New control techniques were developed and implemented to maximize the operating range of the power conditioning units used for integrating renewable energy into the DC bus. The control and operation of the DC microgrids in the hybrid AC/DC system involve intelligent energy management. Real-time energy management algorithms were developed and experimentally verified. These algorithms are based on intelligent decision-making elements along with an optimization process. This was aimed at enhancing the overall performance of the power system and mitigating the effect of heavy non-linear loads with variable intensity and duration. The developed algorithms were also used for managing the charging/discharging process of plug-in electric vehicle emulators. The protection of the proposed hybrid AC/DC power system was studied. Fault analysis and protection scheme and coordination, in addition to ideas on how to retrofit currently available protection concepts and devices for AC systems in a DC network, were presented. A study was also conducted on the effect of changing the distribution architecture and distributing the storage assets on the various zones of the network on the system's dynamic security and stability. A practical shipboard power system was studied as an example of a hybrid AC/DC power system involving pulsed loads. Generally, the proposed hybrid AC/DC power system, besides most of the ideas, controls and algorithms presented in this dissertation, were experimentally verified at the Smart Grid Testbed, Energy Systems Research Laboratory. All the developments in this dissertation were experimentally verified at the Smart Grid Testbed.

Design of piezoelectric transformer for DC/DC converter with stochastic optimization method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasic, Dejan; Vido, Lionel

2016-04-01

Piezoelectric transformers were adopted in recent year due to their many inherent advantages such as safety, no EMI problem, low housing profile, and high power density, etc. The characteristics of the piezoelectric transformers are well known when the load impedance is a pure resistor. However, when piezoelectric transformers are used in AC/DC or DC/DC converters, there are non-linear electronic circuits connected before and after the transformer. Consequently, the output load is variable and due to the output capacitance of the transformer the optimal working point change. This paper starts from modeling a piezoelectric transformer connected to a full wave rectifier in order to discuss the design constraints and configuration of the transformer. The optimization method adopted here use the MOPSO algorithm (Multiple Objective Particle Swarm Optimization). We start with the formulation of the objective function and constraints; then the results give different sizes of the transformer and the characteristics. In other word, this method is looking for a best size of the transformer for optimal efficiency condition that is suitable for variable load. Furthermore, the size and the efficiency are found to be a trade-off. This paper proposes the completed design procedure to find the minimum size of PT in need. The completed design procedure is discussed by a given specification. The PT derived from the proposed design procedure can guarantee both good efficiency and enough range for load variation.

Flow and compaction properties of hypromellose: new directly compressible versus the established grades.

PubMed

Grdešič, Peter; Vrečer, Franc; Ilić, Ilija

2016-11-01

Information about flow and compaction properties of hypromellose (HPMC) polymers is essential for the technologists who are facing challenges regarding poor flow and compaction while developing new controlled release matrix tablets. There is a profound lack of studies in this field and none of the published ones deal with the compaction of the newly introduced HPMC grades specifically designed for direct compression (DC). The objective behind this study was the evaluation of flow and compaction properties of six different grades of HPMC substitution type 2208 polymers, including two second generation directly compressible grades from Dow Chemical Company (K100LV, K15M, K4M CR, K4M DC, K100M CR and K100M DC). Flow properties were determined using flow time and Carr index. Compaction properties were quantified using "out-of-die" Heckel and modified Walker models as well as tensile strength profile and elastic recovery. We used statistical approach to analyze the results. Due to larger, rounder and smoother particles both DC grades showed distinctly better flow properties compared to their non-DC counterparts. Overall, K15M showed the best compaction properties, closely followed by K100LV. K100M grades showed superior compaction properties over K4M grades. The new, second generation DC grades had poorer compaction properties, however, they exhibited better flow properties on the other hand. Considering all compaction results, the Heckel model gave better description of compressibility compared to the Walker model, so it may be preferred in case of studying HPMC polymers and other similar materials.

Electric-field-induced flow-aligning state in a nematic liquid crystal.

PubMed

Fatriansyah, Jaka Fajar; Orihara, Hiroshi

2015-04-01

The response of shear stress to a weak ac electric field as a probe is measured in a nematic liquid crystal under shear flow and dc electric fields. Two states with different responses are clearly observed when the dc electric field is changed at a constant shear rate: the flow aligning and non-flow aligning states. The director lies in the shear plane in the flow aligning state and out of the plane in the non-flow aligning state. Through application of dc electric field, the non-flow aligning state can be changed to the flow aligning state. In the transition from the flow aligning state to the non-flow aligning state, it is found that the response increases and the relaxation time becomes longer. Here, the experimental results in the flow aligning state are discussed on the basis of the Ericksen-Leslie theory.

Precision cancer immunotherapy: optimizing dendritic cell-based strategies to induce tumor antigen-specific T-cell responses against individual patient tumors.

PubMed

Osada, Takuya; Nagaoka, Koji; Takahara, Masashi; Yang, Xiao Yi; Liu, Cong-Xiao; Guo, Hongtao; Roy Choudhury, Kingshuk; Hobeika, Amy; Hartman, Zachary; Morse, Michael A; Lyerly, H Kim

2015-05-01

Most dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines have loaded the DC with defined antigens, but loading with autologos tumor-derived antigens would generate DCs that activate personalized tumor-specific T-cell responses. We hypothesized that DC matured with an optimized combination of reagents and loaded with tumor-derived antigens using a clinically feasible electroporation strategy would induce potent antitumor immunity. We first studied the effects on DC maturation and antigen presentation of the addition of picibanil (OK432) to a combination of zoledronic acid, tumor necrosis factor-α, and prostaglandin E2. Using DC matured with the optimized combination, we tested 2 clinically feasible sources of autologous antigen for electroloading, total tumor mRNA or total tumor lysate, to determine which stimulated more potent antigen-specific T cells in vitro and activated more potent antitumor immunity in vivo. The combination of tumor necrosis factor-α/prostaglandin E2/zoledronic acid/OK432 generated DC with high expression of maturation markers and antigen-specific T-cell stimulatory function in vitro. Mature DC electroloaded with tumor-derived mRNA [mRNA electroporated dendritic cell (EPDC)] induced greater expansion of antigen-specific T cells in vitro than DC electroloaded with tumor lysate (lysate EPDC). In a therapeutic model of MC38-carcinoembryonic antigen colon cancer-bearing mice, vaccination with mRNA EPDC induced the most efficient anti-carcinoembryonic antigen cellular immune response, which significantly suppressed tumor growth. In conclusion, mature DC electroloaded with tumor-derived mRNA are a potent cancer vaccine, especially useful when specific tumor antigens for vaccination have not been identified, allowing autologous tumor, and if unavailable, allogeneic cell lines to be used as an unbiased source of antigen. Our data support clinical testing of this strategy.

DC switching regulated power supply for driving an inductive load

DOEpatents

Dyer, G.R.

1983-11-29

A dc switching regulated power supply for driving an inductive load is provided. The regulator basic circuit is a bridge arrangement of diodes and transistors. First and second opposite legs of the bridge are formed by first and second parallel-connected transistor arrays, respectively, while the third and fourth legs of the bridge are formed by appropriately connected first and second parallel connected diode arrays, respectively. A dc power supply is connected to the input of the bridge and the output is connected to the load. A servo controller is provided to control the switching rate of the transistors to maintain a desired current to the load. The regulator may be operated in three stages or modes: (1) for current runup in the load, both first and second transistor switch arrays are turned on and current is supplied to the load through both transistor arrays. (2) When load current reaches the desired level, the first switch is turned off, and load current flywheels through the second switch array and the fourth leg diode array connecting the second switch array in series with the load. Current is maintained by alternating between modes 1 and 2 at a suitable duty cycle and switching rate set by the controller. (3) Rapid current rundown is accomplished by turning both switch arrays off, allowing load current to be dumped back into the source through the third and fourth diode arrays connecting the source in series opposition with the load to recover energy from the inductive load.

High static gain single-phase PFC based on a hybrid boost converter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flores Cortez, Daniel; Maccarini, Marcello C.; Mussa, Samir A.; Barbi, Ivo

2017-05-01

In this paper, a single-phase unity power factor rectifier, based on a hybrid boost converter, resulting from the integration of a conventional dc-dc boost converter and a switched-capacitor voltage doubler is proposed, analysed, designed and tested. The high-power rectifier is controlled by two feedback loops with the same control strategy employed in the conventional boost-based rectifier. The main feature of the proposed rectifier is its ability to output a dc voltage larger than the double of the peak value of the input line voltage, while subjecting the power switches to half of the dc-link voltage, which contributes to reducing the cost and increasing the efficiency. Experimental data were obtained from a laboratory prototype with an input voltage of 220 Vrms, line frequency of 60 Hz, output voltage of 800 Vdc, load power of 1000 W and switching frequency of 50 kHz. The efficiency of the prototype, measured in the laboratory, was 96.5% for full load and 97% for half load.

DC vaccination with anti-CD25 treatment leads to long-term immunity against experimental glioma

PubMed Central

Maes, Wim; Rosas, Georgina Galicia; Verbinnen, Bert; Boon, Louis; De Vleeschouwer, Steven; Ceuppens, Jan L.; Van Gool, Stefaan W.

2009-01-01

We studied the feasibility, efficacy, and mechanisms of dendritic cell (DC) immunotherapy against murine malignant glioma in the experimental GL261 intracranial (IC) tumor model. When administered prophylactically, mature DCs (DCm) ex vivo loaded with GL261 RNA (DCm-GL261-RNA) protected half of the vaccinated mice against IC glioma, whereas treatment with mock-loaded DCm or DCm loaded with irrelevant antigens did not result in tumor protection. In DCm-GL261-RNA–vaccinated mice, a tumor-specific cellular immune response was observed ex vivo in the spleen and tumor-draining lymph node cells. Specificity was also shown in vivo on the level of tumor challenge. Depletion of CD8+ T-cells by anti-CD8 treatment at the time of tumor challenge demonstrated their essential role in vaccine- mediated antitumor immunity. Depletion of CD25+ regulatory T-cells (Tregs) by anti-CD25 (aCD25) treatment strongly enhanced the efficacy of DC vaccination and was itself also protective, independently of DC vaccination. However, DC vaccination was essential to protect the animals from IC tumor rechallenge. No long-term protection was observed in animals that initially received aCD25 treatment only. In mice that received DC and/or aCD25 treatment, we retrieved tumor-specific brain-infiltrating cytotoxic T-lymphocytes. These data clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of DC vaccination for the induction of long-lasting immunological protection against IC glioma. They also show the beneficial effect of Treg depletion in this kind of glioma immunotherapy, even combined with DC vaccination. PMID:19336528

Variable-frequency inverter controls torque, speed, and braking in ac induction motors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nola, F. J.

1974-01-01

Dc to ac inverter provides optimum frequency and voltage to ac induction motor, in response to different motor-load and speed requirements. Inverter varies slip frequency of motor in proportion to required torque. Inverter protects motor from high current surges, controls negative slip to apply braking, and returns energy stored in momentum of load to dc power source.

A novel dual motor drive system for three wheel electric vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panmuang, Piyapat; Thongsan, Taweesak; Suwapaet, Nuchida; Laohavanich, Juckamass; Photong, Chonlatee

2018-03-01

This paper presents a novel dual motor drive system used for three wheel electric vehicles that have one free wheel at the front and two wheels with a drive system at the end of the vehicles. A novel dual motor drive system consists of two identical DC motors that are independently controlled by its speed-torque controller. Under light load conditions, only one of the DC motors will operate around it rated whilst under hard load conditions both of the DC motors will operate. With this drive system, the motors will operate only at its high performance at rated or else no operate to retain longer lifetime. The simulated results for the Skylab three wheel electric vehicle prototype with 8kW at full load (high torque, low speed) and around 4kW at light/normal operating loads (regular speed-torque) showed that the proposed system provides better dynamic responses with faster overshoot current/voltage recovery time, has lower investment costs, has longer lifetime of the motors and allows the motors to always operate at their high performance and thus achieve more cost effective system compared to a single motor drive system with 8kW DC motors.

DC grid for home applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elangovan, D.; Archana, R.; Jayadeep, V. J.; Nithin, M.; Arunkumar, G.

2017-11-01

More than fifty percent Indian population do not have access to electricity in daily lives. The distance between the power generating stations and the distribution centers forms one of the main reasons for lack of electrification in rural and remote areas. Here lies the importance of decentralization of power generation through renewable energy resources. In the present world, electricity is predominantly powered by alternating current, but most day to day devices like LED lamps, computers and electrical vehicles, all run on DC power. By directly supplying DC to these loads, the number of power conversion stages was reduced, and overall system efficiency increases. Replacing existing AC network with DC is a humongous task, but with power electronic techniques, this project intends to implement DC grid at a household level in remote and rural areas. Proposed work was designed and simulated successfully for various loads amounting to 250 W through appropriate power electronic convertors. Maximum utilization of the renewable sources for domestic and commercial application was achieved with the proposed DC topology.

Electrochromic and optical properties of tungsten oxide films deposited with DC sputtering by introducing hydrogen.

PubMed

Chen, Hsi-Chao; Jan, Der-Jun; Luo, Yu-Siang; Huang, Kuo-Ting

2014-02-01

Research was undertaken to investigate the electrochromic and optical properties of tungsten oxide (WO3) films deposited by introducing hydrogen with a direct current (DC) and pulsed DC sputtering. The results show that WO3 films have optimum electrochromic properties at a hydrogen flow of 4 and 3 sccm for DC and pulsed DC, respectively. In the Raman spectra, the peak intensity increased with the increase of hydrogen flow at both 770  cm1 and 950  cm(-1) peaks, which resulted in bonds of W(6+)-O and W(6+)=O, respectively. Simultaneously, the transmittance (ΔT550  nm) variations were 65.6% and 64.4%, and the average transmittance (ΔT400-500  nm) variations were 56.7% and 56.4% for DC and pulsed DC, respectively. The bleached/colored ability of the cyclic voltammograms (CVs) was DC>pulsed DC, and the resistances of AC impedance were pulsed DC>DC.

Wind Tunnel Results from a Nozzle Afterbody Test of a 0.2-Scale Fighter Aircraft in the Mach Number Regime of 0.6 to 1.5. Volume 1. Test Technique Evaluation

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-04-01

edge up. The influence of the aircraft on the static pressure reading from the pitot boom was determined with a scaled version of the pltot probe...stabilization before advancing to the next port. Jet exhaust simulation flow was monitored by internal duct pressure and temperature rakes . Standard...Mach numbers 0.6 and 1.2, Figs. 24 and 25. 13 AE DC-TR-79-10 At supersonic speeds, changes in the afterbody and nozzle axial loads (Fig. 22b) are

A wind-tunnel investigation of wind-turbine wakes in different yawed and loading conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bastankhah, Majid; Porté-Agel, Fernando

2015-04-01

Wind-turbine wakes have negative effects on wind-farm performance. They are associated with: (a) the velocity deficit, which reduces the generated power of downwind turbines; and (b) the turbulence level, which increases the fatigue loads on downwind turbines. Controlling the yaw angle of turbines can potentially improve the performance of wind farms by deflecting the wake away from downwind turbines. However, except for few studies, wakes of yawed turbines still suffer from the lack of systematic research. To fill this research gap, we performed wind-tunnel experiments in the recirculating boundary-layer wind tunnel at the WIRE Laboratory of EPFL to better understand the wakes of yawed turbines. High-resolution stereoscopic particle image-velocimetry (S-PIV) was used to measure three velocity components in a horizontal plane located downwind of a horizontal-axis, three-blade model turbine. A servo-controller was connected to the DC generator of the turbine, which allowed us to apply different loadings. The power and thrust coefficients of the turbine were also measured for each case. These power and thrust measurements together with the highly-resolved flow measurements enabled us to study different wake characteristics such as the energy entrainment from the outer flow into the wake, the wake deflection and the helicoidal tip vortices for yawed turbines.

E-beam high voltage switching power supply

DOEpatents

Shimer, D.W.; Lange, A.C.

1996-10-15

A high-power power supply produces a controllable, constant high voltage output under varying and arcing loads. The power supply includes a voltage regulator, an inductor, an inverter for producing a high frequency square wave current of alternating polarity, an improved inverter voltage clamping circuit, a step up transformer, an output rectifier for producing a dc voltage at the output of each module, and a current sensor for sensing output current. The power supply also provides dynamic response to varying loads by controlling the voltage regulator duty cycle and circuitry is provided for sensing incipient arc currents at the output of the power supply to simultaneously decouple the power supply circuitry from the arcing load. The power supply includes a plurality of discrete switching type dc--dc converter modules. 5 figs.

E-beam high voltage switching power supply

DOEpatents

Shimer, Daniel W.; Lange, Arnold C.

1996-01-01

A high-power power supply produces a controllable, constant high voltage put under varying and arcing loads. The power supply includes a voltage regulator, an inductor, an inverter for producing a high frequency square wave current of alternating polarity, an improved inverter voltage clamping circuit, a step up transformer, an output rectifier for producing a dc voltage at the output of each module, and a current sensor for sensing output current. The power supply also provides dynamic response to varying loads by controlling the voltage regulator duty cycle and circuitry is provided for sensing incipient arc currents at the output of the power supply to simultaneously decouple the power supply circuitry from the arcing load. The power supply includes a plurality of discrete switching type dc--dc converter modules.

Micro-fabricated DC comparison calorimeter for RF power measurement.

PubMed

Neji, Bilel; Xu, Jing; Titus, Albert H; Meltzer, Joel

2014-10-27

Diode detection and bolometric detection have been widely used to measure radio frequency (RF) power. However, flow calorimeters, in particular micro-fabricated flow calorimeters, have been mostly unexplored as power meters. This paper presents the design, micro-fabrication and characterization of a flow calorimeter. This novel device is capable of measuring power from 100 μW to 200 mW. It has a 50-Ohm load that is heated by the RF source, and the heat is transferred to fluid in a microchannel. The temperature change in the fluid is measured by a thermistor that is connected in one leg of a Wheatstone bridge. The output voltage change of the bridge corresponds to the RF power applied to the load. The microfabricated device measures 25.4 mm × 50.8 mm, excluding the power supplies, microcontroller and fluid pump. Experiments demonstrate that the micro-fabricated sensor has a sensitivity up to 22 × 10⁻³ V/W. The typical resolution of this micro-calorimeter is on the order of 50 μW, and the best resolution is around 10 μW. The effective efficiency is 99.9% from 0−1 GHz and more than 97.5% at frequencies up to 4 GHz. The measured reflection coefficient of the 50-Ohm load and coplanar wave guide is less than −25 dB from 0−2 GHz and less than −16 dB at 2−4 GHz.

Experimental Investigation of DC-Bias Related Core Losses in a Boost Inductor (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-08-01

dc bias-flux conditions. These dc bias conditions result in distorted hysteresis loops , increased core losses, and have been shown to be independent...These dc bias conditions result in dis- torted hysteresis loops , increased core losses, and have been shown to be independent of core material. The...controllable converter load currents, this topology is ideal to study dc-related losses. Inductor core hysteresis loop characterization was accomplished

Very low noise AC/DC power supply systems for large detector arrays.

PubMed

Arnaboldi, C; Baù, A; Carniti, P; Cassina, L; Giachero, A; Gotti, C; Maino, M; Passerini, A; Pessina, G

2015-12-01

In this work, we present the first part of the power supply system for the CUORE and LUCIFER arrays of bolometric detectors. For CUORE, it consists of AC/DC commercial power supplies (0-60 V output) followed by custom DC/DC modules (48 V input, ±5 V to ±13.5 V outputs). Each module has 3 floating and independently configurable output voltages. In LUCIFER, the AC/DC + DC/DC stages are combined into a commercial medium-power AC/DC source. At the outputs of both setups, we introduced filters with the aim of lowering the noise and to protect the following stages from high voltage spikes that can be generated by the energy stored in the cables after the release of accidental short circuits. Output noise is very low, as required: in the 100 MHz bandwidth the RMS level is about 37 μV(RMS) (CUORE setup) and 90 μV(RMS) (LUCIFER setup) at a load of 7 A, with a negligible dependence on the load current. Even more importantly, high frequency switching disturbances are almost completely suppressed. The efficiency of both systems is above 85%. Both systems are completely programmable and monitored via CAN bus (optically coupled).

Multiport power router and its impact on future smart grids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kado, Yuichi; Shichijo, Daiki; Wada, Keiji; Iwatsuki, Katsumi

2016-07-01

We propose a Y configuration power router as a unit cell to easily construct a power delivery system that can meet many types of user requirements. The Y configuration power router controls the direction and magnitude of power flows between three ports regardless of DC or AC. We constructed a prototype three-way isolated DC/DC converter that is the core unit of the Y configuration power router. The electrical insulation between three ports assures safety and reliability for power network systems. We then tested the operation of power flow control. The experimental results revealed that our methodology based on a governing equation was appropriate to control the power flow of the three-way DC/DC converter. In addition, a distribution network composed of power routers had the ability to easily enable interchanges of electrical power between autonomous microgrid cells. We also explored the requirements for communication between energy routers to achieve dynamic adjustments of energy flows in a coordinated manner and their impact on resilient power grid systems.

DC bead: in vitro characterization of a drug-delivery device for transarterial chemoembolization.

PubMed

Lewis, Andrew L; Gonzalez, M Victoria; Lloyd, Andrew W; Hall, Brenda; Tang, Yiqing; Willis, Sean L; Leppard, Simon W; Wolfenden, Laura C; Palmer, Rosemary R; Stratford, Peter W

2006-02-01

The purpose of this investigation is to present the in vitro characterization and detailed drug-loading procedure for DC Bead, a microsphere product that can be loaded with chemotherapeutic agents for embolization. DC Bead is an embolic microsphere product that is capable of being loaded with anthracycline drugs such as doxorubicin just before administration in a transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) procedure. Beads can be loaded from solutions prepared from doxorubicin powder or the doxorubicin HCl formulation. In this evaluation, bead sizes were measured by optical microscopy with video imaging. Gravimetric analysis demonstrated the effect of drug loading on bead water content, and its consequent impact on bead compressibility was determined. The subsequent deliverability of the beads was assessed by mixing the beads with contrast medium and saline solution and passing the beads through an appropriately sized microcatheter. A T-cell apparatus was used to monitor the in vitro elution of the drug from the beads over a period of 24 hours in various elution media. DC Bead spheres could be easily loaded with doxorubicin to a recommended level of 25 mg/mL of hydrated beads by immersion of the beads in the drug solution for 10-120 minutes depending on microsphere size. Other commercial embolic microspheres were shown not to load doxorubicin to the same extent or release it in the same fashion and were considered unsuitable for local drug delivery. Maximum theoretic capacity for DC Bead was approximately 45 mg/mL. Increase in doxorubicin loading resulted in a concomitant decrease in water content and consequential increase in bead resistance to compression force. Drug loading also resulted in a decrease in the average size of the beads, which was dependent on bead size and drug dose. This did not impact bead delivery at any drug loading level to a maximum of 37.5 mg/mL. Beads 100-700 microm in size could be delivered through 2.7-F microcatheters, whereas the 700-900-microm range required 3-F catheters. Modeling of the kinetics of drug elution from the beads in vitro at a loading dose of 25 mg/mL yielded calculated half-lives of 150 hours for the 100-300-microm range to a maximum of 1,730 hours for the 700-900-microm size range, which was dependent on the ionic strength of the elution medium. For comparison, there was a rapid loss of drug from an unstable Lipiodol emulsion with a half-life of approximately 1 hour. DC Bead can be loaded with doxorubicin to provide an accurate dosage of drug per unit volume of beads. Drug elution is dependent on ion exchange with the surrounding environment and is controlled and sustained, unlike the rapid separation of the drug from Lipiodol. Drug loading has no impact on the handling and deliverability of the beads, making them suitable for superselective TACE.

Advanced medium-voltage bidirectional dc-dc conversion systems for future electric energy delivery and management systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Haifeng

2011-12-01

The distributed renewable energy generation and utilization are constantly growing, and are expected to be integrated with the conventional grid. The growing pressure for innovative solutions will demand power electronics to take an even larger role in future electric energy delivery and management systems, since power electronics are required for the conversion and control of electric energy by most dispersed generation systems Furthermore, power electronics systems can provide additional intelligent energy management, grid stability and power quality capabilities. Medium-voltage isolated dc-dc converter will become one of the key interfaces for grid components with moderate power ratings. To address the demand of medium voltage (MV) and high power capability for future electric energy delivery and management systems, the power electronics community and industry have been reacting in two different ways: developing semiconductor technology or directly connecting devices in series/parallel to reach higher nominal voltages and currents while maintaining conventional converter topologies; and by developing new converter topologies with traditional semiconductor technology, known as multilevel converters or modular converters. The modular approach uses the well-known, mature, and cheaper power semiconductor devices by adopting new converter topologies. The main advantages of the modular approach include: significant improvement in reliability by introducing desired level of redundancy; standardization of components leading to reduction in manufacturing cost and time; power systems can be easily reconfigured to support varying input-output specifications; and possibly higher efficiency and power density of the overall system. Input-series output-parallel (ISOP) modular configuration is a good choice to realize MV to low voltage (LV) conversion for utility application. However, challenges still remain. First of all, for the high-frequency MV utility application, the low switching loss and conduction loss are must-haves for high efficiency, while bidirectional power flow capability is a must for power management requirement. To address the demand, the phase-shift dual-halfbridge (DHB) is proposed as the constituent module of ISOP configuration for MV application. The proposed ISOP DHB converter employs zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) technique combined with LV MOSFETs to achieve low switching and conduction losses under high frequency operation, and therefore high efficiency and high power density, and bidirectional power flow as well. Secondly, a large load range of high efficiency is desired rather than only a specific load point due to the continuous operation and large load variation range of utility application, which is of high importance because of the rising energy cost. This work proposes a novel DHB converter with an adaptive commutation inductor. By utilizing an adaptive inductor as the main energy transfer element, the output power can be controlled by not only the phase shift but also the commutation inductance, which allows the circulating energy to be optimized for different load conditions to maintain ZVS under light load conditions and minimize additional conduction losses under heavy load conditions as well. As a result, the efficiency at both light and heavy load can be significantly improved compared with the conventional DHB converter, and therefore extended high-efficiency range can be achieved. In addition, current stress of switch devices can be reduced. The theoretical analysis is presented and validated by the experimental results on a 50 kHz, 1 kW dc-dc converter module. Thirdly, input-voltage sharing and output-current sharing are critical to assure the advantages of the ISOP modular configuration. To solve this issue, an identically distributed control scheme is proposed in this work. The proposed control scheme, using only one distributed voltage loop to realize both input-voltage and output-current sharing, provides plug-and-play capability, possible high-level fault tolerance, and easy implementation. Another unique advantage of the proposed ISOP DHB converter is the power rating can be easily extended further by directly connecting multiple ISOP DHB converters in input-parallel-outparallel (IPOP) while no additional control is needed. The proposed control scheme is elaborated using the large-signal average model. Further, the stability of the control schemes is analyzed in terms of the constituent modules' topology as well as the configuration, and then an important fact that the stability of control scheme depends on not only the configuration but also the constituent module topology is first revealed in this work. Finally, the simulation and experimental results of an ISOP DHB converter consisting of three modules are presented to verify the proposed control scheme and the high frequency high efficiency operation.

Advanced Power Conditioning System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, N. L.

1971-01-01

The second portion of the advanced power conditioning system development program is reported. Five 100-watt parallel power stages with majority-vote-logic feedback-regulator were breadboarded and tested to the design goals. The input voltage range was 22.1 to 57.4 volts at loads from zero to 500 watts. The maximum input ripple current was 200 mA pk-pk (not including spikes) at 511 watts load; the output voltage was 56V dc with a maximum change of 0.89 volts for all variations of line, load, and temperature; the maximum output ripple was 320 mV pk-pk at 512 watts load (dependent on filter capacitance value); the maximum efficiency was 93.9% at 212 watts and 50V dc input; the minimum efficiency was 87.2% at 80-watt load and 50V dc input; the efficiency was above 90% from 102 watts to 372 watts; the maximum excursion for an 80-watt load change was 2.1 volts with a recovery time of 7 milliseconds; and the unit performed within regulation limits from -20 C to +85 C. During the test sequence, margin tests and failure mode tests were run with no resulting degradation in performance.

Method to Eliminate Flux Linkage DC Component in Load Transformer for Static Transfer Switch

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Many industrial and commercial sensitive loads are subject to the voltage sags and interruptions. The static transfer switch (STS) based on the thyristors is applied to improve the power quality and reliability. However, the transfer will result in severe inrush current in the load transformer, because of the DC component in the magnetic flux generated in the transfer process. The inrush current which is always 2~30 p.u. can cause the disoperation of relay protective devices and bring potential damage to the transformer. The way to eliminate the DC component is to transfer the related phases when the residual flux linkage of the load transformer and the prospective flux linkage of the alternate source are equal. This paper analyzes how the flux linkage of each winding in the load transformer changes in the transfer process. Based on the residual flux linkage when the preferred source is completely disconnected, the method to calculate the proper time point to close each phase of the alternate source is developed. Simulation and laboratory experiments results are presented to show the effectiveness of the transfer method. PMID:25133255

Method to eliminate flux linkage DC component in load transformer for static transfer switch.

PubMed

He, Yu; Mao, Chengxiong; Lu, Jiming; Wang, Dan; Tian, Bing

2014-01-01

Many industrial and commercial sensitive loads are subject to the voltage sags and interruptions. The static transfer switch (STS) based on the thyristors is applied to improve the power quality and reliability. However, the transfer will result in severe inrush current in the load transformer, because of the DC component in the magnetic flux generated in the transfer process. The inrush current which is always 2 ~ 30 p.u. can cause the disoperation of relay protective devices and bring potential damage to the transformer. The way to eliminate the DC component is to transfer the related phases when the residual flux linkage of the load transformer and the prospective flux linkage of the alternate source are equal. This paper analyzes how the flux linkage of each winding in the load transformer changes in the transfer process. Based on the residual flux linkage when the preferred source is completely disconnected, the method to calculate the proper time point to close each phase of the alternate source is developed. Simulation and laboratory experiments results are presented to show the effectiveness of the transfer method.

ac electroosmotic pumping induced by noncontact external electrodes

PubMed Central

Wang, Shau-Chun; Chen, Hsiao-Ping; Chang, Hsueh-Chia

2007-01-01

Electroosmotic (EO) pumps based on dc electroosmosis is plagued by bubble generation and other electrochemical reactions at the electrodes at voltages beyond 1 V for electrolytes. These disadvantages limit their throughput and offset their portability advantage over mechanical syringe or pneumatic pumps. ac electroosmotic pumps at high frequency (>100 kHz) circumvent the bubble problem by inducing polarization and slip velocity on embedded electrodes,1 but they require complex electrode designs to produce a net flow. We report a new high-throughput ac EO pump design based on induced-polarization on the entire channel surface instead of just on the electrodes. Like dc EO pumps, our pump electrodes are outside of the load section and form a cm-long pump unit consisting of three circular reservoirs (3 mm in diameter) connected by a 1×1 mm channel. The field-induced polarization can produce an effective Zeta potential exceeding 1 V and an ac slip velocity estimated as 1 mm∕sec or higher, both one order of magnitude higher than earlier dc and ac pumps, giving rise to a maximum throughput of 1 μl∕sec. Polarization over the entire channel surface, quadratic scaling with respect to the field and high voltage at high frequency without electrode bubble generation are the reasons why the current pump is superior to earlier dc and ac EO pumps. PMID:19693362

Increased Energy Delivery for Parallel Battery Packs with No Regulated Bus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsu, Chung-Ti

In this dissertation, a new approach to paralleling different battery types is presented. A method for controlling charging/discharging of different battery packs by using low-cost bi-directional switches instead of DC-DC converters is proposed. The proposed system architecture, algorithms, and control techniques allow batteries with different chemistry, voltage, and SOC to be properly charged and discharged in parallel without causing safety problems. The physical design and cost for the energy management system is substantially reduced. Additionally, specific types of failures in the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in a photovoltaic (PV) system when tracking only the load current of a DC-DC converter are analyzed. The periodic nonlinear load current will lead MPPT realized by the conventional perturb and observe (P&O) algorithm to be problematic. A modified MPPT algorithm is proposed and it still only requires typically measured signals, yet is suitable for both linear and periodic nonlinear loads. Moreover, for a modular DC-DC converter using several converters in parallel, the input power from PV panels is processed and distributed at the module level. Methods for properly implementing distributed MPPT are studied. A new approach to efficient MPPT under partial shading conditions is presented. The power stage architecture achieves fast input current change rate by combining a current-adjustable converter with a few converters operating at a constant current.

[Electrophysiological markers of middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity in healthy subjects].

PubMed

Fokin, V F; Ponomareva, N V; Kuntsevich, G I

2013-01-01

to determine electrophysiological markers of middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity (BFV). transcranial Doppler registration of middle cerebral artery BFV and direct current (DC) potentials recording from surface of head were performed in 30 healthy volunteers. Analysis of correlation between the BFV and DC potentials was used. significant correlation between BFV and DC potential characteristics was observed. The highest correlation was found between BFV in middle cerebral artery and the difference of DC potentials between central and temporal areas of head (r = 0,55; p = 0,003). These areas coincide with the location of middle cerebral artery and the correlation observed may be connected with streaming potential generated by the blood flow in middle cerebral artery. If electrode placement did not coincide with blood current, DC potentials and BFV were not correlated. it is assumed that electrical field created BFV in middle cerebral artery may contribute to the generation of DC potentials registered from the head.

Topoisomerase I peptide-loaded dendritic cells induce autoantibody response as well as skin and lung fibrosis.

PubMed

Mehta, Heena; Goulet, Philippe-Olivier; Nguyen, Vinh; Pérez, Gemma; Koenig, Martial; Senécal, Jean-Luc; Sarfati, Marika

2016-12-01

DNA Topoisomerase I (TopoI) is a candidate autoantigen for diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc) associated with fatal lung disease. Dendritic cells (DCs) contribute to bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis. However, the possibility that TopoI-loaded DCs are involved in the initiation and/or perpetuation of dcSSc has not been explored. Here, we show that immunization with TopoI peptide-loaded DCs induces anti-TopoI autoantibody response and long-term fibrosis. Mice were repeatedly immunized with unpulsed DCs or DCs loaded with either TOPOIA or TOPOIB peptides, selected from different regions of TopoI. At week 12 after initial DC immunization, TOPOIA DCs but not TOPOIB DCs immunization induced mixed inflammation and fibrosis in lungs and skin. At a late time point (week 18), both TOPOIA DCs and TOPOIB DCs groups displayed increased alpha-smooth muscle actin expression in lungs and dermis along with skin fibrosis distal from the site of injection when compared with unpulsed DCs. Both TopoI peptide-DC-immunized groups developed IgG2a anti-TopoI autoantibody response. At week 10, signs of perivascular, peribronchial, and parenchymal pulmonary inflammation were already observed in the TOPOIA DCs group, together with transient elevation in bronchoalveolar lavage cell counts, IL-17A expression, and CXCL4 production, a biomarker of early human dcSSc. Collectively, TopoI peptide DCs induce progressive autoantibody response as well as development of protracted skin and lung dcSSc-like disease. Pronounced lung inflammation, transient IL-17A, and CXCL4 expression precede fibrosis development. Our immunization strategy, that uses self immune system and autoantigen, will help to further investigate the pathogenesis of this complex autoimmune disorder with unmet medical needs.

Research of Modulation of Bilateral Frequency Difference Based on Load Mode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Shenghong; Mao, Chizu; Zhu, Jianquan; Lu, Junyu

2017-05-01

Owning to high reliability, simple operation and easy acquirement of signals, modulation of bilateral frequency difference (MBFD) in HVDC is worthy for application in practical engineering. With the example of an AC/DC hybrid network and the software PSD-BPA, this paper analyses the effect of MBFD to DC block. The modulators parameters are setting by means of simulation. Two types of loads modes are considered to research the impact of them on simulation. The results indicate that in cooperation with operation modes adjusting at AC system, MBFD will effectively release the impact from DC block and shortage of reactive power caused by rapid variation of DC power owning to modulation. To achieve the best effect, only modulators of some HVDC systems instead of all of them are opened.

Investigation on Plasma Jet Flow Phenomena During DC Air Arc Motion in Bridge-Type Contacts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhai, Guofu; Bo, Kai; Chen, Mo; Zhou, Xue; Qiao, Xinlei

2016-05-01

Arc plasma jet flow in the air was investigated under a bridge-type contacts in a DC 270 V resistive circuit. We characterized the arc plasma jet flow appearance at different currents by using high-speed photography, and two polished contacts were used to search for the relationship between roughness and plasma jet flow. Then, to make the nature of arc plasma jet flow phenomena clear, a simplified model based on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) theory was established and calculated. The simulated DC arc plasma was presented with the temperature distribution and the current density distribution. Furthermore, the calculated arc flow velocity field showed that the circular vortex was an embodiment of the arc plasma jet flow progress. The combined action of volume force and contact surface was the main reason of the arc jet flow. supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 51307030, 51277038)

Droop Control of Solar PV, Grid and Critical Load using Suppressing DC Current Injection Technique without Battery Storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dama Mr., Jayachandra; (Mrs. , Lini Mathew, Dr.; Srikanth Mr., G.

2017-08-01

This paper presents design of a sustainable solar Photo voltaic system for an Indian cities based residential/community house, integrated with grid, supporting it as supplementary sources, to meet energy demand of domestic loads. The role of renewable energy sources in Distributed Generation (DG) is increasingly being recognized as a supplement and an alternative to large conventional central power supply. Though centralized economic system that solely depends on cities is hampered due to energy deficiency, the use of solar energy in cities is never been tried widely due to technical inconvenience and high installation cost. To mitigate these problems, this paper proposes an optimized design of grid-tied PV system without storage which is suitable for Indian origin as it requires less installallation cost and supplies residential loads when the grid power is unavailable. The energy requirement is mainly fulfilled from PV energy module for critical load of a city located residential house and supplemented by grid/DG for base and peak load. The system has been developed for maximum daily household demand of 50kWp and can be scaled to any higher value as per requirement of individual/community building ranging from 50kWp to 60kWp as per the requirement. A simplified control system model has been developed to optimize and control flow of power from these sources. The simulation work, using MATLAB Simulink software for proposed energy management, has resulted in an optimal yield leading efficient power flow control of proposed system.

Analysis of a dc bus system with a nonlinear constant power load and its delayed feedback control.

PubMed

Konishi, Keiji; Sugitani, Yoshiki; Hara, Naoyuki

2014-02-01

This paper tackles a destabilizing problem of a direct-current (dc) bus system with constant power loads, which can be considered a fundamental problem of dc power grid networks. The present paper clarifies scenarios of the destabilization and applies the well-known delayed-feedback control to the stabilization of the destabilized bus system on the basis of nonlinear science. Further, we propose a systematic procedure for designing the delayed feedback controller. This controller can converge the bus voltage exactly on an unstable operating point without accurate information and can track it using tiny control energy even when a system parameter, such as the power consumption of the load, is slowly varied. These features demonstrate that delayed feedback control can be considered a strong candidate for solving the destabilizing problem.

Effect of thermal stability/complex terrain on wind turbine model(s): a wind tunnel study to address complex atmospheric conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guala, M.; Hu, S. J.; Chamorro, L. P.

2011-12-01

Turbulent boundary layer measurements in both wind tunnel and in the near-neutral atmospheric surface layer revealed in the last decade the significant contribution of the large scales of motions to both turbulent kinetic energy and Reynolds stresses, for a wide range of Reynolds number. These scales are known to grow throughout the logarithmic layer and to extend several boundary layer heights in the streamwise direction. Potentially, they are a source of strong unsteadiness in the power output of wind turbines and in the aerodynamic loads of wind turbine blades. However, the large scales in realistic atmospheric conditions deserves further study, with well controlled boundary conditions. In the atmospheric wind tunnel of the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, with a 16 m long test section and independently controlled incoming flow and floor temperatures, turbulent boundary layers in a range of stability conditions, from the stratified to the convective case, can be reproduced and monitored. Measurements of fluctuating temperature, streamwise and wall normal velocity components are simultaneously obtained by an ad hoc calibrated and customized triple-wire sensor. A wind turbine model with constant loading DC motor, constant tip speed ratio, and a rotor diameter of 0.128m is used to mimic a large full scale turbine in the atmospheric boundary layer. Measurements of the fluctuating voltage generated by the DC motor are compared with measurements of the blade's angular velocity by laser scanning, and eventually related to velocity measurements from the triple-wire sensor. This study preliminary explores the effect of weak stability and complex terrain (through a set of spanwise aligned topographic perturbations) on the large scales of the flow and on the fluctuations in the wind turbine(s) power output.

Analysis of DC control in double-inlet GM type pulse tube refrigerators for detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, B. Y.

2016-10-01

Pulse tube refrigerators have demonstrated many advantages with respect to temperature stability, vibration, reliability and lifetime among cryo-coolers for detectors. Double-inlet type pulse tube refrigerators are popular in GM type pulse tube refrigerators. The single double-inlet valve may introduce DC flow in refrigerator, which deteriorates the performance of pulse tube refrigerator. One new type of DC control mode is introduced in this paper. Two parallel-placed needle valves with opposite direction named double-valve configuration, instead of single double-inlet valve, are used in our experiment to reduce the DC flow. With two double-inlet operating, the lowest cold end temperature of 18.1K and a coolant of 1.2W@20K have been obtained. It has proved that this method is useful for controlling DC flow of the pulse tube refrigerators, which is very important to understand the characters of pulse tube refrigerators for detectors.

Solar Dynamic Power System Stability Analysis and Control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Momoh, James A.; Wang, Yanchun

1996-01-01

The objective of this research is to conduct dynamic analysis, control design, and control performance test of solar power system. Solar power system consists of generation system and distribution network system. A bench mark system is used in this research, which includes a generator with excitation system and governor, an ac/dc converter, six DDCU's and forty-eight loads. A detailed model is used for modeling generator. Excitation system is represented by a third order model. DDCU is represented by a seventh order system. The load is modeled by the combination of constant power and constant impedance. Eigen-analysis and eigen-sensitivity analysis are used for system dynamic analysis. The effects of excitation system, governor, ac/dc converter control, and the type of load on system stability are discussed. In order to improve system transient stability, nonlinear ac/dc converter control is introduced. The direct linearization method is used for control design. The dynamic analysis results show that these controls affect system stability in different ways. The parameter coordination of controllers are recommended based on the dynamic analysis. It is concluded from the present studies that system stability is improved by the coordination of control parameters and the nonlinear ac/dc converter control stabilize system oscillation caused by the load change and system fault efficiently.

Robust backstepping control of an interlink converter in a hybrid AC/DC microgrid based on feedback linearisation method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dehkordi, N. Mahdian; Sadati, N.; Hamzeh, M.

2017-09-01

This paper presents a robust dc-link voltage as well as a current control strategy for a bidirectional interlink converter (BIC) in a hybrid ac/dc microgrid. To enhance the dc-bus voltage control, conventional methods strive to measure and feedforward the load or source power in the dc-bus control scheme. However, the conventional feedforward-based approaches require remote measurement with communications. Moreover, conventional methods suffer from stability and performance issues, mainly due to the use of the small-signal-based control design method. To overcome these issues, in this paper, the power from DG units of the dc subgrid imposed on the BIC is considered an unmeasurable disturbance signal. In the proposed method, in contrast to existing methods, using the nonlinear model of BIC, a robust controller that does not need the remote measurement with communications effectively rejects the impact of the disturbance signal imposed on the BIC's dc-link voltage. To avoid communication links, the robust controller has a plug-and-play feature that makes it possible to add a DG/load to or remove it from the dc subgrid without distorting the hybrid microgrid stability. Finally, Monte Carlo simulations are conducted to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy in MATLAB/SimPowerSystems software environment.

Modeling a constant power load for nickel-hydrogen battery testing using SPICE

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bearden, Douglas B.; Lollar, Louis F.; Nelms, R. M.

1990-01-01

The effort to design and model a constant power load for the HST (Hubble Space Telescope) nickel-hydrogen battery tests is described. The constant power load was designed for three different simulations on the batteries: life cycling, reconditioning, and capacity testing. A dc-dc boost converter was designed to act as this constant power load. A boost converter design was chosen because of the low test battery voltage (4 to 6 VDC) generated and the relatively high power requirement of 60 to 70 W. The SPICE model was shown to consistently predict variations in the actual circuit as various designs were attempted. It is concluded that the confidence established in the SPICE model of the constant power load ensures its extensive utilization in future efforts to improve performance in the actual load circuit.

Wireless power charging using point of load controlled high frequency power converters

DOEpatents

Miller, John M.; Campbell, Steven L.; Chambon, Paul H.; Seiber, Larry E.; White, Clifford P.

2015-10-13

An apparatus for wirelessly charging a battery of an electric vehicle is provided with a point of load control. The apparatus includes a base unit for generating a direct current (DC) voltage. The base unit is regulated by a power level controller. One or more point of load converters can be connected to the base unit by a conductor, with each point of load converter comprising a control signal generator that transmits a signal to the power level controller. The output power level of the DC voltage provided by the base unit is controlled by power level controller such that the power level is sufficient to power all active load converters when commanded to do so by any of the active controllers, without generating excessive power that may be otherwise wasted.

Enhanced cell trapping throughput using DC-biased AC electric field in a dielectrophoresis-based fluidic device with densely packed silica beads.

PubMed

Lewpiriyawong, Nuttawut; Xu, Guolin; Yang, Chun

2018-03-01

This paper presents the use of DC-biased AC electric field for enhancing cell trapping throughput in an insulator-based dielectrophoretic (iDEP) fluidic device with densely packed silica beads. Cell suspension is carried through the iDEP device by a pressure-driven flow. Under an applied DC-biased AC electric field, DEP trapping force is produced as a result of non-uniform electric field induced by the gap of electrically insulating silica beads packed between two mesh electrodes that allow both fluid and cells to pass through. While the AC component is mainly to control the magnitude of DEP trapping force, the DC component generates local electroosmotic (EO) flow in the cavity between the beads and the EO flow can be set to move along or against the main pressure-driven flow. Our experimental and simulation results show that desirable trapping is achieved when the EO flow direction is along (not against) the main flow direction. Using our proposed DC-biased AC field, the device can enhance the trapping throughput (in terms of the flowrate of cell suspension) up to five times while yielding almost the same cell capture rates as compared to the pure AC field case. Additionally, the device was demonstrated to selectively trap dead yeast cells from a mixture of flowing live and dead yeast cells. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Electroluminescence of hot electrons in AlGaN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistors under radio frequency operation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Brazzini, Tommaso, E-mail: tommaso.brazzini@bristol.ac.uk; Sun, Huarui; Uren, Michael J.

2015-05-25

Hot electrons in AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors are studied during radio frequency (RF) and DC operation by means of electroluminescence (EL) microscopy and spectroscopy. The measured EL intensity is decreased under RF operation compared to DC at the same average current, indicating a lower hot electron density. This is explained by averaging the DC EL intensity over the measured load line used in RF measurements, giving reasonable agreement. In addition, the hot electron temperature is lower by up to 15% under RF compared to DC, again at least partially explainable by the weighted averaging along the specific load line.more » However, peak electron temperature under RF occurs at high V{sub DS} and low I{sub DS} where EL is insignificant suggesting that any wear-out differences between RF and DC stress of the devices will depend on the balance between hot-carrier and field driven degradation mechanisms.« less

Electroosmotic Flow Driven by DC and AC Electric Fields in Curved Microchannels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jia-Kun; Luo, Win-Jet; Yang, Ruey-Jen

2006-10-01

The purpose of this study is to investigate electroosmotic flows driven by externally applied DC and AC electric fields in curved microchannels. For the DC electric driving field, the velocity distribution and secondary flow patterns are investigated in microchannels with various curvature ratios. We use the Dean number to describe the curvature effect of the flow field in DC electric field. The result implies that the effect of curvatures and the strength of the secondary flows become get stronger when the curvature ratio of C/A (where C is the radius of curvature of the microchannel and A is the half-height of rectangular curved tube.) is smaller. For the AC electric field, the velocity distribution and secondary flow patterns are investigated for driving frequencies in the range of 2.0 kHz (\\mathit{Wo}=0.71) to 11 kHz (\\mathit{Wo}=1.66). The numerical results reveal that the velocity at the center of the microchannel becomes lower at higher frequencies of the AC electric field and the strength of the secondary flow decreases. When the applied frequency exceeds 3.0 kHz (\\mathit{Wo}=0.87), vortices are no longer observed at the corners of the microchannel. Therefore, it can be concluded that the secondary flow induced at higher AC electric field frequencies has virtually no effect on the axial flow field in the microchannel.

Optimization and performance comparison for galloping-based piezoelectric energy harvesters with alternating-current and direct-current interface circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Ting; Yan, Zhimiao; Lei, Hong

2017-07-01

Galloping-based piezoelectric energy harvesters scavenge small-scale wind energy and convert it into electrical energy. For piezoelectric energy harvesting with the same vibrational source (galloping) but different (alternating-current (AC) and direct-current (DC)) interfaces, general analytical solutions of the electromechanical coupled distributed parameter model are proposed. Galloping is theoretically proven to appear when the linear aerodynamic negative damping overcomes the electrical damping and mechanical damping. The harvested power is demonstrated as being done by the electrical damping force. Via tuning the load resistance to its optimal value for optimal or maximal electrical damping, the harvested power of the given structure with the AC/DC interface is maximized. The optimal load resistances and the corresponding performances of such two systems are compared. The optimal electrical damping are the same but with different optimal load resistances for the systems with the AC and DC interfaces. At small wind speeds where the optimal electrical damping can be realized by only tuning the load resistance, the performances of such two energy harvesting systems, including the minimal onset speeds to galloping, maximal harvested powers and corresponding tip displacements are almost the same. Smaller maximal electrical damping with larger optimal load resistance is found for the harvester with the DC interface when compared to those for the harvester with the AC interface. At large wind speeds when the maximal electrical damping rather than the optimal electrical damping can be reached by tuning the load resistance alone, the harvester with the AC interface circuit is recommended for a higher maximal harvested power with a smaller tip displacement. This study provides a method using the general electrical damping to connect and compare the performances of piezoelectric energy harvesters with same excitation source but different interfaces.

Power connect safety and connection interlock

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rippel, Wally E. (Inventor)

1992-01-01

A power connect safety and connection interlock system is shown for use with inverters and other DC loads (16) which include capacitor filter banks (14) at their DC inputs. A safety circuit (20) operates a spring (26) biased, solenoid (22) driven mechanical connection interference (24) which prevents mating and therefore electrical connection between the power contactor halves (11, 13) of the main power contacts (12) until the capacitor bank is safely precharged through auxiliary contacts (18). When the DC load (16) is shut down, the capacitor bank (14) is automatically discharged through a discharging power resistor (66) by a MOSFET transistor (60) through a discharging power resistor (66) only when both the main power contacts and auxiliary contacts are disconnected.

Enhancement of scutellarin oral delivery efficacy by vitamin B12-modified amphiphilic chitosan derivatives to treat type II diabetes induced-retinopathy.

PubMed

Wang, Jingnan; Tan, Jiayun; Luo, Jiahao; Huang, Peilin; Zhou, Wuyi; Chen, Luming; Long, Lingli; Zhang, Li-Ming; Zhu, Banghao; Yang, Liqun; Deng, David Y B

2017-03-01

Diabetic retinopathy is the most common complication in diabetic patients relates to high expression of VEGF and microaneurysms. Scutellarin (Scu) turned out to be effective against diabetes related vascular endothelial cell dysfunction. However, its clinical applications have been limited by its low bioavailability. In this study, we formulated and characterized a novel intestinal target nanoparticle carrier based on amphiphilic chitosan derivatives (Chit-DC-VB12) loaded with scutellarin to enhance its bioavailability and then evaluated its therapeutic effect in experimental diabetic retinopathy model. Chit-DC-VB12 nanoparticles showed low toxicity toward the human colon adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) cells and zebra fish within concentration of 250 μg/ml, owing to good biocompatibility of chitosan. The scutellarin-loaded Chit-DC-VB12 nanoparticles (Chit-DC-VB12-Scu) were then prepared by self-assembly in aqueous solution. Scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering analysis indicated that the Chit-DC-VB12-Scu nanoparticles were spherical particles in the sizes ranging from 150 to 250 nm. The Chit-DC-VB12-Scu nanoparticles exhibited high permeation in Caco-2 cell, indicated it could be beneficial to be absorbed in humans. We also found that Chit-DC-VB12 nanoparticles had a high cellular uptake. Bioavailability studies were performed in Sprague-Dawley rats, which present the area under the curve of scutellarin of Chit-DC-VB12-Scu was two to threefolds greater than that of free scutellarin alone. Further to assess the therapeutic efficacy of diabetic retinopathy, we showed Chit-DC-VB12-Scu down-regulated central retinal artery resistivity index and the expression of angiogenesis proteins (VEGF, VEGFR2, and vWF) of retinas in type II diabetic rats. Chit-DC-VB12 nanoparticles loaded with scutellarin have better bioavailability and cellular uptake efficiency than Scu, while Chit-DC-VB12-Scu nanoparticles alleviated the structural disorder of intraretinal neovessels in the retina induced by diabetes, and it also inhibited the retinal neovascularization via down-regulated the expression of angiogenesis proteins. In conclusion, the Chit-DC-VB12 nanoparticles enhanced scutellarin oral delivery efficacy and exhibited potential as small intestinal target promising nano-carriers for treatment of type II diabetes induced-retinopathy.

MHD generator with improved network coupling electrodes to a load

DOEpatents

Rosa, Richard J.

1977-01-01

An MHD generator has a plurality of segmented electrodes extending longitudinally of a duct, whereby progressively increasing high DC voltages are derived from a set of cathode electrodes and progressively increasing low DC voltages are derived from a set of anode electrodes. First and second load terminals are respectively connected to the cathode and anode electrodes by separate coupling networks, each of which includes a number of SCR's and a number of diode rectifiers.

Insulation Coordination and Failure Mitigation Concerns for Roust Dc Electrical Power Systems (Preprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-05-01

vulnerable to failure is air. This could be a discharge through an air medium or along an air/surface interface. Achieving robustness in dc power...sputtering” arcs) are discharges that are most commonly located in series with the intended load; the electrical impedance of the load limits the...particularly those used at voltages > 1000 V, is detection and measurement of partial- discharge (PD) activity. The presence of PD in a component typically

A pacemaker powered by an implantable biofuel cell operating under conditions mimicking the human blood circulatory system--battery not included.

PubMed

Southcott, Mark; MacVittie, Kevin; Halámek, Jan; Halámková, Lenka; Jemison, William D; Lobel, Robert; Katz, Evgeny

2013-05-07

Biocatalytic electrodes made of buckypaper were modified with PQQ-dependent glucose dehydrogenase on the anode and with laccase on the cathode and were assembled in a flow biofuel cell filled with serum solution mimicking the human blood circulatory system. The biofuel cell generated an open circuitry voltage, Voc, of ca. 470 mV and a short circuitry current, Isc, of ca. 5 mA (a current density of 0.83 mA cm(-2)). The power generated by the implantable biofuel cell was used to activate a pacemaker connected to the cell via a charge pump and a DC-DC converter interface circuit to adjust the voltage produced by the biofuel cell to the value required by the pacemaker. The voltage-current dependencies were analyzed for the biofuel cell connected to an Ohmic load and to the electronic loads composed of the interface circuit, or the power converter, and the pacemaker to study their operation. The correct pacemaker operation was confirmed using a medical device - an implantable loop recorder. Sustainable operation of the pacemaker was achieved with the system closely mimicking human physiological conditions using a single biofuel cell. This first demonstration of the pacemaker activated by the physiologically produced electrical energy shows promise for future electronic implantable medical devices powered by electricity harvested from the human body.

Sliding mode controller with modified sliding function for DC-DC Buck Converter.

PubMed

Naik, B B; Mehta, A J

2017-09-01

This article presents design of Sliding Mode Controller with proportional integral type sliding function for DC-DC Buck Converter for the controlled power supply. The converter with conventional sliding mode controller results in a steady state error in load voltage. The proposed modified sliding function improves the steady state and dynamic performance of the Convertor and facilitates better choices of controller tuning parameters. The conditions for existence of sliding modes for proposed control scheme are derived. The stability of the closed loop system with proposed sliding mode control is proved and improvement in steady state performance is exemplified. The idea of adaptive tuning for the proposed controller to compensate load variations is outlined. The comparative study of conventional and proposed control strategy is presented. The efficacy of the proposed strategy is endowed by the simulation and experimental results. Copyright © 2017 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Bi-directional flow induced by an AC electroosmotic micropump with DC voltage bias.

PubMed

Islam, Nazmul; Reyna, Jairo

2012-04-01

This paper discusses the principle of biased alternating current electroosmosis (ACEO) and its application to move the bulk fluid in a microchannel, as an alternative to mechanical pumping methods. Previous EO-driven flow research has looked at the effect of electrode asymmetry and transverse traveling wave forms on the performance of electroosmotic pumps. This paper presents an analysis that was conducted to assess the effect of combining an AC signal with a DC (direct current) bias when generating the electric field needed to impart electroosmosis (EO) within a microchannel. The results presented here are numerical and experimental. The numerical results were generated through simulations performed using COMSOL 3.5a. Currently available theoretical models for EO flows were embedded in the software and solved numerically to evaluate the effects of channel geometry, frequency of excitation, electrode array geometry, and AC signal with a DC bias on the flow imparted on an electrically conducting fluid. Simulations of the ACEO flow driven by a constant magnitude of AC voltage over symmetric electrodes did not indicate relevant net flows. However, superimposing a DC signal over the AC signal on the same symmetric electrode array leads to a noticeable net forward flow. Moreover, changing the polarity of electrical signal creates a bi-directional flow on symmetrical electrode array. Experimental flow measurements were performed on several electrode array configurations. The mismatch between the numerical and experimental results revealed the limitations of the currently available models for the biased EO. However, they confirm that using a symmetric electrode array excited by an AC signal with a DC bias leads to a significant improvement in flow rates in comparison to the flow rates obtained in an asymmetric electrode array configuration excited just with an AC signal. © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Repetitively Pulsed Nonequilibrium Plasmas for Plasma-Assisted Combustion, Flow Control, and Molecular Lasers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Adamovich, Igor

2006-10-01

The paper presents results of three experiments using high voltage, short pulse duration, high repetition rate discharge plasmas. High electric field during the pulse (E/N˜500-1000 Td) allows efficient ionization and molecular dissociation. Between the pulses, additional energy can be coupled to the decaying plasma using a DC field set below the breakdown threshold. While the DC sustainer discharge adds 90-95% of all the power to the flow, it does not produce any additional ionization. The pulser and the sustainer discharges are fully overlapped in space. Low duty cycle of the pulsed ionizer, ˜1/1000, allows sustaining diffuse and uniform pulser-sustainer plasmas at high pressures and power loadings. The first experiment using the pulsed discharge is ignition of premixed hydrocarbon-air flows, which occurs at low pulsed discharge powers, ˜100 W, and very low plasma temperatures, 100-200^0 C. The second experiment is Lorentz force acceleration of low-temperature supersonic flows. The pulsed discharge was used to generate electrical conductivity in M=3 nitrogen and air flows, while the sustainer discharge produced transverse current in the presence of magnetic field of B=1.5 T. Retarding Lorentz force applied to the flow produced a static pressure increase of up to 15-20%, while accelerating force of the same magnitude resulted in static pressure rise of up to 7-8%, i.e. a factor of two smaller. The third experiment is singlet delta oxygen (SDO) generation in a high-pressure pulser-sustainer discharge. SDO yield was inferred from the integrated intensity of SDO infrared emission spectra calibrated using a blackbody source. The measured yield exceeds the laser threshold yield by about a factor of three, which makes possible achieving positive gain in the laser cavity. The highest gain measured so far is 0.03%/cm.

Static and Dynamic Characteristics of DC-DC Converter Using a Digital Filter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kurokawa, Fujio; Okamatsu, Masashi

This paper presents the regulation and dynamic characteristics of the dc-dc converter with digital PID control, the minimum phase FIR filter or the IIR filter, and then the design criterion to improve the dynamic characteristics is discussed. As a result, it is clarified that the DC-DC converter using the IIR filter method has superior performance characteristics. The regulation range is within 1.3%, the undershoot against the step change of the load is less than 2% and the transient time is less than 0.4ms with the IIR filter method. In this case, the switching frequency is 100kHz and the step change of the load R is from 50 Ω to 10 Ω. Further, the superior characteristics are obtained when the first gain, the second gain and the second cut-off frequency are relatively large, and the first cut-off frequency and the passing frequency are relatively low. Moreover, it is important that the gain strongly decreases at the second cut-off frequency because the upper band pass frequency range must be always less than half of the sampling frequency based on the sampling theory.

Trailing Vortex-Induced Loads During Close Encounters in Cruise

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mendenhall, Michael R.; Lesieutre, Daniel J; Kelly, Michael J.

2015-01-01

The trailing vortex induced aerodynamic loads on a Falcon 20G business jet flying in the wake of a DC-8 are predicted to provide a preflight estimate of safe trail distances during flight test measurements in the wake. Static and dynamic loads on the airframe flying in the near wake are shown at a matrix of locations, and the dynamic motion of the Falcon 20G during traverses of the DC-8 primary trailing vortex is simulated. Safe trailing distances for the test flights are determined, and optimum vortex traverse schemes are identified to moderate the motion of the trailing aircraft during close encounters with the vortex wake.

Improvement of In-Flight Alumina Spheroidization Process Using a Small Power Argon DC-RF Hybrid Plasma Flow System by Helium Mixture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takana, Hidemasa; Jang, Juyong; Igawa, Junji; Nakajima, Tomoki; Solonenko, Oleg P.; Nishiyama, Hideya

2011-03-01

For the further improvement of in-flight alumina spheroidization process with a low-power direct-current radiofrequency (DC-RF) hybrid plasma flow system, the effect of a small amount of helium gas mixture in argon main gas and also the effect of increasing DC nozzle diameter on powder spheroidization ratio have been experimentally clarified with correlating helium gas mixture percentage, plasma enthalpy, powder in-flight velocity, and temperature. The alumina spheroidization ratio increases by helium gas mixture as a result of enhancement of plasma enthalpy. The highest spheroidization ratio is obtained by 4% mixture of helium in central gas with enlarging nozzle diameter from 3 to 4 mm, even under the constant low input electric power given to a DC-RF hybrid plasma flow system.

Multiple high voltage output DC-to-DC power converter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cronin, Donald L. (Inventor); Farber, Bertrand F. (Inventor); Gehm, Hartmut K. (Inventor); Goldin, Daniel S. (Inventor)

1977-01-01

Disclosed is a multiple output DC-to-DC converter. The DC input power is filtered and passed through a chopper preregulator. The chopper output is then passed through a current source inverter controlled by a squarewave generator. The resultant AC is passed through the primary winding of a transformer, with high voltages induced in a plurality of secondary windings. The high voltage secondary outputs are each solid-state rectified for passage to individual output loads. Multiple feedback loops control the operation of the chopper preregulator, one being responsive to the current through the primary winding and another responsive to the DC voltage level at a selected output.

E-beam high voltage switching power supply

DOEpatents

Shimer, Daniel W.; Lange, Arnold C.

1997-01-01

A high power, solid state power supply is described for producing a controllable, constant high voltage output under varying and arcing loads suitable for powering an electron beam gun or other ion source. The present power supply is most useful for outputs in a range of about 100-400 kW or more. The power supply is comprised of a plurality of discrete switching type dc-dc converter modules, each comprising a voltage regulator, an inductor, an inverter for producing a high frequency square wave current of alternating polarity, an improved inverter voltage clamping circuit, a step up transformer, and an output rectifier for producing a dc voltage at the output of each module. The inputs to the converter modules are fed from a common dc rectifier/filter and are linked together in parallel through decoupling networks to suppress high frequency input interactions. The outputs of the converter modules are linked together in series and connected to the input of the transmission line to the load through a decoupling and line matching network. The dc-dc converter modules are phase activated such that for n modules, each module is activated equally 360.degree./n out of phase with respect to a successive module. The phased activation of the converter modules, combined with the square current waveforms out of the step up transformers, allows the power supply to operate with greatly reduced output capacitance values which minimizes the stored energy available for discharge into an electron beam gun or the like during arcing. The present power supply also provides dynamic response to varying loads by controlling the voltage regulator duty cycle using simulated voltage feedback signals and voltage feedback loops. Circuitry is also provided for sensing incipient arc currents reflected at the output of the power supply and for simultaneously decoupling the power supply circuitry from the arcing load.

E-beam high voltage switching power supply

DOEpatents

Shimer, D.W.; Lange, A.C.

1997-03-11

A high power, solid state power supply is described for producing a controllable, constant high voltage output under varying and arcing loads suitable for powering an electron beam gun or other ion source. The present power supply is most useful for outputs in a range of about 100-400 kW or more. The power supply is comprised of a plurality of discrete switching type dc-dc converter modules, each comprising a voltage regulator, an inductor, an inverter for producing a high frequency square wave current of alternating polarity, an improved inverter voltage clamping circuit, a step up transformer, and an output rectifier for producing a dc voltage at the output of each module. The inputs to the converter modules are fed from a common dc rectifier/filter and are linked together in parallel through decoupling networks to suppress high frequency input interactions. The outputs of the converter modules are linked together in series and connected to the input of the transmission line to the load through a decoupling and line matching network. The dc-dc converter modules are phase activated such that for n modules, each module is activated equally 360{degree}/n out of phase with respect to a successive module. The phased activation of the converter modules, combined with the square current waveforms out of the step up transformers, allows the power supply to operate with greatly reduced output capacitance values which minimizes the stored energy available for discharge into an electron beam gun or the like during arcing. The present power supply also provides dynamic response to varying loads by controlling the voltage regulator duty cycle using simulated voltage feedback signals and voltage feedback loops. Circuitry is also provided for sensing incipient arc currents reflected at the output of the power supply and for simultaneously decoupling the power supply circuitry from the arcing load. 7 figs.

Electronic Circuit Experiments and SPICE Simulation of Double Covering Bifurcation of 2-Torus Quasi-Periodic Flow in Phase-Locked Loop Circuit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kamiyama, Kyohei; Endo, Tetsuro; Imai, Isao; Komuro, Motomasa

2016-06-01

Double covering (DC) bifurcation of a 2-torus quasi-periodic flow in a phase-locked loop circuit was experimentally investigated using an electronic circuit and via SPICE simulation; in the circuit, the input radio-frequency signal was frequency modulated by the sum of two asynchronous sinusoidal baseband signals. We observed both DC and period-doubling bifurcations of a discrete map on two Poincaré sections, which were realized by changing the sample timing from one baseband sinusoidal signal to the other. The results confirm the DC bifurcation of the original flow.

Design and evaluation of a microgrid for PEV charging with flexible distribution of energy sources and storage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pyne, Moinak

This thesis aspires to model and control, the flow of power in a DC microgrid. Specifically, the energy sources are a photovoltaic system and the utility grid, a lead acid battery based energy storage system and twenty PEV charging stations as the loads. Theoretical principles of large scale state space modeling are applied to model the considerable number of power electronic converters needed for controlling voltage and current thresholds. The energy storage system is developed using principles of neural networks to facilitate a stable and uncomplicated model of the lead acid battery. Power flow control is structured as a hierarchical problem with multiple interactions between individual components of the microgrid. The implementation is done using fuzzy logic with scheduling the maximum use of available solar energy and compensating demand or excess power with the energy storage system, and minimizing utility grid use, while providing multiple speeds of charging the PEVs.

Plasma transport in a simulated magnetic-divertor configuration

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Strawitch, C. M.

1981-03-01

The transport properties of plasma on magnetic field lines that intersect a conducting plate are studied experimentally in the Wisconsin internal ring D.C. machine. The magnetic geometry is intended to simulate certain aspects of plasma phenomena that may take place in a tokamak divertor. It is found by a variety of measurements that the cross field transport is non-ambipolar; this may have important implications in heat loading considerations in tokamak divertors. The undesirable effects of nonambipolar flow make it preferable to be able to eliminate it. However, we find that though the non-ambipolarity may be reduced, it is difficult tomore » eliminate entirely. The plasma flow velocity parallel to the magnetic field is found to be near the ion acoustic velocity in all cases. The experimental density and electron temperature profiles are compared to the solutions to a one dimensional transport model that is commonly used in divertor theory.« less

Method and apparatus for controlling current in inductive loads such as large diameter coils

DOEpatents

Riveros, Carlos A.

1981-01-01

A method and apparatus for controlling electric current in loads that are essentially inductive, such that sparking and "ringing" current problems are reduced or eliminated. The circuit apparatus employs a pair of solid state switches (each of which switch may be an array of connected or parallel solid state switching devices such as transistors) and means for controlling those switches such that a power supply supplying two d.c. voltages (e.g. positive 150 volts d.c. and negative 150 volts d.c.) at low resistance may be connected across an essentially inductive load (e.g. a 6 gauge wire loop one hundred meters in diameter) alternatively and such that the first solid state switch is turned off and the second is turned on such that both are not on at the same time but the first turned on and the other on in less time than the inductive time constant (L/R) so that the load is essentially always presented with a low resistance path across its input. In this manner a steady AC current may be delivered to the load at a frequency desired. Shut-off problems are avoided by gradually shortening the period of switching to less than the time constant so that the maximum energy contained in the inductive load is reduced to approximately zero and dissipated in the inherent resistance. The invention circuit may be employed by adjusting the timing of switching to deliver a desired waveform (such as sinusoidal) to the load.

Up-and-down chopper circuit

DOEpatents

Goffeau, Jacques R.

1979-01-01

An improved Up-and-Down Chopper Circuit is provided which is useful for voltage regulation in a bi-directional DC power system. In the down mode, power is switched from a DC power source to a lower voltage energy storing load while in the up mode stored energy in the load is transferred to the higher voltage source. The system uses Darlington transistor switches in a conventional connection. The improvement relates to circuit additions to eliminate the effects of inter-electrode capacitance inherent with this Darlington transistor switching arrangement.

Investigations into the use of energy storage in power system applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leung, Ka Kit

This thesis embodies research work on the design and implementation of novel fast responding battery energy storage systems, which, with sufficient capacity and rating, could remove the uncertainty in forecasting the annual peak demand. They would also benefit the day to day operation by curtailing the fastest demand variations, particularly at the daily peak periods. Energy storage that could curtail peak demands, when the most difficult operational problems occur offers a promising approach. Although AC energy cannot be stored, power electronic developments offer a fast responding interface between the AC network and DC energy stored in batteries. The attractive feature of the use of this energy storage could most effectively be located near the source of load variations, i.e. near consumers in the distribution networks. The proposed, three phase multi-purpose, Battery Energy Storage System will provide active and reactive power independent of the supply voltage with excellent power quality in terms of its waveform. Besides the above important functions applied at the distribution side of the utility, several new topologies have been developed to provide both Dynamic Voltage Regulator (DVR) and Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) functions for line compensation. These new topologies can provide fast and accurate control of power flow along a distribution corridor. The topologies also provide for fast damping of system oscillation due to transient or dynamic disturbances. Having demonstrated the various functions that the proposed Battery Energy Storage System can provide, the final part of the thesis investigates means of improving the performance of the proposed BESS. First, there is a need to reduce the switching losses by using soft switching instead of hard switching. A soft switching inverter using a parallel resonant dc-link (PRDCL) is proposed for use with the proposed BESS. The proposed PRDCL suppresses the dc-link voltage to zero for a very short time to allow zero voltage switching of inverter main switches without imposing excessive voltage and current stresses. Finally, in practice the battery terminal voltage fluctuates significantly as large current is being drawn or absorbed by the battery bank. When a hysteresis controller is used to control the supply line current, the ripple magnitude and frequency of the controlled current is highly dependent on the battery voltage, line inductance and the band limits of the controller. Even when these parameters are constant, the switching frequency can vary over quite a large range. A novel method is proposed to overcome this problem by controlling the dc voltage level by means of a dc-dc converter to provide a controllable voltage at the inverter dc terminal irrespective of the battery voltage variations. By proper control of the magnitude and frequency of the output of the DC-DC converter, the switching frequency can be made close to constant. A mathematical proof has been formulated and results from the simulation confirm that using the proposed technique, the frequency band has been significantly reduced and for the theoretical case, a single switching frequency is observed. The main disadvantage is the need to have an extra dc-dc converter, but this is relatively cheap and easy to obtain.

Electromagnetic Flow Meter Having a Driver Circuit Including a Current Transducer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Patel, Sandeep K. (Inventor); Karon, David M. (Inventor); Cushing, Vincent (Inventor)

2014-01-01

An electromagnetic flow meter (EMFM) accurately measures both the complete flow rate and the dynamically fluctuating flow rate of a fluid by applying a unipolar DC voltage to excitation coils for a predetermined period of time, measuring the electric potential at a pair of electrodes, determining a complete flow rate and independently measuring the dynamic flow rate during the "on" cycle of the DC excitation, and correcting the measurements for errors resulting from galvanic drift and other effects on the electric potential. The EMFM can also correct for effects from the excitation circuit induced during operation of the EMFM.

Mutations in nsP1 and PE2 are critical determinants of Ross River virus-induced musculoskeletal inflammatory disease in a mouse model

PubMed Central

Jupille, Henri J.; Oko, Lauren; Stoermer, Kristina A.; Heise, Mark T.; Mahalingam, Suresh; Gunn, Bronwyn M.; Morrison, Thomas E.

2010-01-01

The viral determinants of Alphavirus-induced rheumatic disease have not been elucidated. We identified an RRV strain (DC5692) which, in contrast to the T48 strain, does not induce musculoskeletal inflammation in a mouse model of RRV disease. Substitution of the RRV T48 strain nonstructural protein 1 (nsP1) coding sequence with that from strain DC5692 generated a virus that was attenuated in vivo despite similar viral loads in tissues. In contrast, substitution of the T48 PE2 coding region with the PE2 coding region from DC5692 resulted in attenuation in vivo and reduced viral loads in tissues. In gain of virulence experiments, substitution of the DC5692 strain nsP1 and PE2 coding regions with those from the T48 strain was sufficient to restore full virulence to the DC5692 strain. These findings indicate that determinants in both nsP1 and PE2 have critical and distinct roles in the pathogenesis of RRV-induced musculoskeletal inflammatory disease in mice. PMID:21131014

Hybrid electric vehicle power management system

DOEpatents

Bissontz, Jay E.

2015-08-25

Level voltage levels/states of charge are maintained among a plurality of high voltage DC electrical storage devices/traction battery packs that are arrayed in series to support operation of a hybrid electric vehicle drive train. Each high voltage DC electrical storage device supports a high voltage power bus, to which at least one controllable load is connected, and at least a first lower voltage level electrical distribution system. The rate of power transfer from the high voltage DC electrical storage devices to the at least first lower voltage electrical distribution system is controlled by DC-DC converters.

The 30-cm ion thruster power processor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herron, B. G.; Hopper, D. J.

1978-01-01

A power processor unit for powering and controlling the 30 cm Mercury Electron-Bombardment Ion Thruster was designed, fabricated, and tested. The unit uses a unique and highly efficient transistor bridge inverter power stage in its implementation. The system operated from a 200 to 400 V dc input power bus, provides 12 independently controllable and closely regulated dc power outputs, and has an overall power conditioning capacity of 3.5 kW. Protective circuitry was incorporated as an integral part of the design to assure failure-free operation during transient and steady-state load faults. The implemented unit demonstrated an electrical efficiency between 91.5 and 91.9 at its nominal rated load over the 200 to 400 V dc input bus range.

Characteristic Analysis of DC Electric Railway Systems with Superconducting Power Cables Connecting Power Substations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohsaki, H.; Matsushita, N.; Koseki, T.; Tomita, M.

2014-05-01

The application of superconducting power cables to DC electric railway systems has been studied. It could leads to an effective use of regenerative brake, improved energy efficiency, effective load sharing among the substations, etc. In this study, an electric circuit model of a DC feeding system is built and numerical simulation is carried out using MATLAB-Simulink software. A modified electric circuit model with an AC power grid connection taken into account is also created to simulate the influence of the grid connection. The analyses have proved that a certain amount of energy can be conserved by introducing superconducting cables, and that electric load distribution and concentration among the substations depend on the substation output voltage distribution.

DC to DC Converter Testing for Space Applications: Use of EMI Filters and Thermal Range of Operation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leon, Rosa

2008-01-01

Several tests were performed on Interpoint and International Rectifier (IR) direct current (DC) to DC converters to evaluate potential performance and reliability issues in space use of DC to DC converters and to determine if the use of electromagnetic interference (EMI) filters mitigates concerns observed during previous tests. Test findings reported here include those done up until September - October 2008. Tests performed include efficiency, regulation, cross-regulation, power consumption with inhibit on, load transient response, synchronization, and turn-on tests. Some of the test results presented here span the thermal range -55 C to 125 C. Lower range was extended to -120 C in some tested converters. Determination of failure root cause in DC/DC converters that failed at thermal extremes is also included.

Measuring the DC electrokinetic coupling coefficient of porous rock samples in the laboratory : a new apparatus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walker, E.; Tardif, E.; Glover, P. W.; Ruel, J.; Hadjigeorgiou, J.

2009-12-01

Electro-kinetic properties of rocks allow the generation of an electric potential by the flow of an aqueous fluid through a porous media. The electrical potential is called the streaming potential, and the streaming potential coupling coefficient Cs is the ratio of the generated electric potential to the pressure difference that causes the fluid flow. The streaming potential coupling coefficient for rocks is described in the steady-state regime by the well known Helmholtz-Smoluchowski equation, and is supported by a relatively small body of experimental data. However, the electrokinetic coupling coefficient measurement is important for the further development of different area of expertise such as reservoir prospection and monitoring, volcano and earthquake monitoring and the underground sequestration of CO2. We have designed, constructed and tested a new experimental cell that is capable of measuring the DC streaming potential of consolidated and unconsolidated porous media. The new cell is made from stainless steel, perspex and other engineering polymers. Cylindrical samples of 25.4 mm can be placed in a deformable rubber sleeve and subjected to a radial confining pressure of compressed nitrogen up to 4.5 MPa. Actively degassed aqueous fluids can be flowed by an Agilent 1200 series binary pump (2 to 10 mL/min). A maximum input fluid pressure of 2.5 MPa can be applied, with a maximum exit pressure of 1 MPa to ensure sample saturation is stable and to reduce gas bubbles. The pressures each side of the sample are measured by high stability pressure transducers (Omega PX302-300GV), previously calibrated by a high precision differential pressure transducer Endress and Hauser Deltabar S PMD75. The streaming potentials are measured with Harvard Apparatus LF-1 and LF-2 Ag/AgCl non-polarising miniature electrodes. An axial pressure is applied (1 to 6.5 MPa) to counteract the radial pressure and provide additional axial load with a hydraulic piston. It is our intention to complete the testing of the cell and to use it to measure the electrokinetic properties of porous rocks in the DC regime in order to provide sufficient data to improve the theories and models of DC streaming potentials.

Measuring the DC electrokinetic coupling coefficient of porous rock samples in the laboratory : A new apparatus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walker, Emilie; Tardif, Eric; Glover, Paul; Ruel, Jean; Lalande, Guillaume; Hadjigeorgiou, John

2010-05-01

Electro-kinetic properties of rocks allow the generation of an electric potential by the flow of an aqueous fluid through a porous media. The electrical potential is called the streaming potential, and the streaming potential coupling coefficient is the ratio of the generated electric potential to the pressure difference that causes the fluid flow. The streaming potential coupling coefficient for rocks is described in the steady-state regime by the well known Helmholtz-Smoluchowski equation, and is supported by a relatively small body of experimental data. However, the electrokinetic coupling coefficient measurement is important for the further development of different area of expertise such as reservoir prospection and monitoring, volcano and earthquake monitoring and the underground sequestration of carbon dioxide. We have designed, constructed and tested a new experimental cell that is capable of measuring the DC streaming potential of consolidated and unconsolidated porous media. The new cell is made from stainless steel, perspex and other engineering polymers. Cylindrical samples of 25.4 mm can be placed in a deformable rubber sleeve and subjected to a radial confining pressure of compressed nitrogen up to 4.5 MPa. Actively degassed aqueous fluids can be flowed by an Agilent 1200 series binary pump (2 to 10 mL/min). A maximum input fluid pressure of 2.5 MPa can be applied, with a maximum exit pressure of 1 MPa to ensure sample saturation is stable and to reduce gas bubbles. The pressures each side of the sample are measured by high stability pressure transducers (Omega PX302-300GV), previously calibrated by a high precision differential pressure transducer Endress and Hauser Deltabar S PMD75. The streaming potentials are measured with Harvard Apparatus LF-1 and LF-2 Ag/AgCl non-polarising miniature electrodes. An axial pressure is applied (1 to 6.5 MPa) to counteract the radial pressure and provide additional axial load with a hydraulic piston. It is our intention to complete the testing of the cell and to use it to measure the electrokinetic properties of porous rocks in the DC regime in order to provide sufficient data to improve the theories and models of DC streaming potentials.

Investigation of load current feed-forward control strategy for wind power grid connected inverter through VSC-HVDC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Hongbo; Liu, Haihan; Liu, Sitong; Peng, Huanhuan

2018-06-01

The VSC-HVDC connection system will be the effective transmission method for the large scale and long distance integrated wind farm. Because of the fluctuating power, the DC voltage will be over-voltage or under-voltage in transmission line which will affect the steady operation of the wind power integrating system. In order to mitigate the DC voltage variation of the grid-connected inverter on the grid side and improve the dynamic response of the system, a load current feed-forward control scheme is put forward. Firstly, this paper analyses stability of a system without additional feed-forward control based on double close loop. Secondly, the load current which can indicate the power changes is introduced to counteract the fluctuation of DC voltage in the improvement control scheme. By simulating the results show that the proposed control strategy can improve the dynamic response performance and mitigate the fluctuation of the active power output of the wind farm.

Targeting Toll-like receptor 7/8 enhances uptake of apoptotic leukemic cells by monocyte-derived dendritic cells but interferes with subsequent cytokine-induced maturation.

PubMed

van den Ancker, Willemijn; van Luijn, Marvin M; Ruben, Jurjen M; Westers, Theresia M; Bontkes, Hetty J; Ossenkoppele, Gert J; de Gruijl, Tanja D; van de Loosdrecht, Arjan A

2011-01-01

Therapeutic vaccination with dendritic cells (DC) is an emerging investigational therapy for eradication of minimal residual disease in acute myeloid leukemia. Various strategies are being explored in manufacturing DC vaccines ex vivo, e.g., monocyte-derived DC (MoDC) loaded with leukemia-associated antigens (LAA). However, the optimal source of LAA and the choice of DC-activating stimuli are still not well defined. Here, loading with leukemic cell preparations (harboring both unknown and known LAA) was explored in combination with a DC maturation-inducing cytokine cocktail (CC; IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and PGE(2)) and Toll-like receptor ligands (TLR-L) to optimize uptake. Since heat shock induced apoptotic blasts were more efficiently taken up than lysates, we focused on uptake of apoptotic leukemic cells. Uptake of apoptotic blast was further enhanced by the TLR7/8-L R848 (20-30%); in contrast, CC-induced maturation inhibited uptake. CC, and to a lesser extent R848, enhanced the ability of MoDC to migrate and stimulate T cells. Furthermore, class II-associated invariant chain peptide expression was down-modulated after R848- or CC-induced maturation, indicating enhanced processing and presentation of antigenic peptides. To improve both uptake and maturation, leukemic cells and MoDC were co-incubated with R848 for 24 h followed by addition of CC. However, this approach interfered with CC-mediated MoDC maturation as indicated by diminished migratory and T cell stimulatory capacity, and the absence of IL-12 production. Taken together, our data demonstrate that even though R848 improved uptake of apoptotic leukemic cells, the sequential use of R848 and CC is counter-indicated due to its adverse effects on MoDC maturation.

Significant Improvements in Pyranometer Nighttime Offsets Using High-Flow DC Ventilation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Michalsky, Joseph J.; Kutchenreiter, Mark; Long, Charles N.

Ventilators are used to keep the domes of pyranometers clean and dry, but they affect the nighttime offset as well. This paper examines different ventilation strategies. For the several commercial single-black-detector pyranometers with ventilators examined here, high flow rate (50 CFM and higher), 12 VDC fans lower the offsets, lower the scatter, and improve the predictability of the offsets during the night compared with lower flow rate 35 CFM, 120 VAC fans operated in the same ventilator housings. Black-and-white pyranometers sometimes show improvement with DC ventilation, but in some cases DC ventilation makes the offsets slightly worse. Since the offsetsmore » for these black-and-white pyranometers are always small, usually no more than 1 Wm -2, whether AC or DC ventilated, changing their ventilation to higher CFM DC ventilation is not imperative. Future work should include all major manufacturers of pyranometers and unventilated, as well as, ventilated pyranometers. Lastly, an important outcome of future research will be to clarify under what circumstances nighttime data can be used to predict daytime offsets.« less

Significant Improvements in Pyranometer Nighttime Offsets Using High-Flow DC Ventilation

DOE PAGES

Michalsky, Joseph J.; Kutchenreiter, Mark; Long, Charles N.

2017-06-20

Ventilators are used to keep the domes of pyranometers clean and dry, but they affect the nighttime offset as well. This paper examines different ventilation strategies. For the several commercial single-black-detector pyranometers with ventilators examined here, high flow rate (50 CFM and higher), 12 VDC fans lower the offsets, lower the scatter, and improve the predictability of the offsets during the night compared with lower flow rate 35 CFM, 120 VAC fans operated in the same ventilator housings. Black-and-white pyranometers sometimes show improvement with DC ventilation, but in some cases DC ventilation makes the offsets slightly worse. Since the offsetsmore » for these black-and-white pyranometers are always small, usually no more than 1 Wm -2, whether AC or DC ventilated, changing their ventilation to higher CFM DC ventilation is not imperative. Future work should include all major manufacturers of pyranometers and unventilated, as well as, ventilated pyranometers. Lastly, an important outcome of future research will be to clarify under what circumstances nighttime data can be used to predict daytime offsets.« less

Degradation of lead-zirconate-titanate ceramics under different dc loads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balke, Nina; Granzow, Torsten; Rödel, Jürgen

2009-05-01

During poling and application in actuators, piezoelectric ceramics like lead-zirconate-titanate are exposed to static or cyclically varying electric fields, often leading to pronounced changes in the electromechanical properties. These fatigue phenomena depend on time, peak electric load, and temperature. Although this process impacts the performance of many actuator materials, its physical understanding remains elusive. This paper proposes a set of key experiments to systematically investigate the changes in the ferroelectric hysteresis, field-dependent relative permittivity, and piezoelectric coefficient after submitting the material to dc loads of varying amplitude and duration. The observed effects are explained based on a model of domain stabilization due to charge accumulation at domain boundaries.

Packaged peristaltic micropump for controlled drug delivery application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vinayakumar, K. B.; Nadiger, Girish; R. Shetty, Vikas; Dinesh, N. S.; Nayak, M. M.; Rajanna, K.

2017-01-01

Micropump technology has evolved significantly in the last two decades and is finding a variety of applications ranging from μTAS (micro Total Analysis System) to drug delivery. However, the application area of the micropump is limited owing to: simple pumping mechanism, ease of handling, controlled (microliter to milliliter) delivery, continuous delivery, and accuracy in flow rate. Here, the author presents the design, development, characterization, and precision flow controlling of a DC-motor driven peristaltic pump for controlled drug delivery application. All the micropump components were fabricated using the conventional fabrication technique. The volume flow variation of the pump has been characterized for different viscous fluids. The change in volume flow due to change in back pressure has been presented in detail. The fail-safe mode operation of the pump has been tested and leak rate was measured (˜0.14% leak for an inlet pressure of 140 kPa) for different inlet pressures. The precision volume flow of the pump has been achieved by measuring the pinch cam position and load current. The accuracy in the volume flow has been measured after 300 rotations. Finally, the complete system has been integrated with the necessary electronics and an android application has been developed for the self-administration of bolus and basal delivery of insulin.

Quasi-Linear Circuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bradley, William; Bird, Ross; Eldred, Dennis; Zook, Jon; Knowles, Gareth

2013-01-01

This work involved developing spacequalifiable switch mode DC/DC power supplies that improve performance with fewer components, and result in elimination of digital components and reduction in magnetics. This design is for missions where systems may be operating under extreme conditions, especially at elevated temperature levels from 200 to 300 degC. Prior art for radiation-tolerant DC/DC converters has been accomplished utilizing classical magnetic-based switch mode converter topologies; however, this requires specific shielding and component de-rating to meet the high-reliability specifications. It requires complex measurement and feedback components, and will not enable automatic re-optimization for larger changes in voltage supply or electrical loading condition. The innovation is a switch mode DC/DC power supply that eliminates the need for processors and most magnetics. It can provide a well-regulated voltage supply with a gain of 1:100 step-up to 8:1 step down, tolerating an up to 30% fluctuation of the voltage supply parameters. The circuit incorporates a ceramic core transformer in a manner that enables it to provide a well-regulated voltage output without use of any processor components or magnetic transformers. The circuit adjusts its internal parameters to re-optimize its performance for changes in supply voltage, environmental conditions, or electrical loading at the output

Connection technology of HPTO type WECs and DC nano grid in island

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Kun-lin; Tian, Lian-fang; You, Ya-ge; Wang, Xiao-hong; Sheng, Song-wei; Zhang, Ya-qun; Ye, Yin

2016-07-01

Wave energy fluctuating a great deal endangers the security of power grid especially micro grid in island. A DC nano grid supported by batteries is proposed to smooth the output power of wave energy converters (WECs). Thus, renewable energy converters connected to DC grid is a new subject. The characteristics of WECs are very important to the connection technology of HPTO type WECs and DC nano grid. Hydraulic power take-off system (HPTO) is the core unit of the largest category of WECs, with the functions of supplying suitable damping for a WEC to absorb wave energy, and converting captured wave energy to electricity. The HPTO is divided into a hydraulic energy storage system (HESS) and a hydraulic power generation system (HPGS). A primary numerical model for the HPGS is established in this paper. Three important basic characteristics of the HPGS are deduced, which reveal how the generator load determines the HPGS rotation rate. Therefore, the connector of HPTO type WEC and DC nano grid would be an uncontrollable rectifier with high reliability, also would be a controllable power converter with high efficiency, such as interleaved boost converter-IBC. The research shows that it is very flexible to connect to DC nano grid for WECs, but bypass resistance loads are indispensable for the security of WECs.

Modelling and Simulation of Grid Connected SPV System with Active Power Filtering Features

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saroha, Jaipal; Pandove, Gitanjali; Singh, Mukhtiar

2017-09-01

In this paper, the detailed simulation studies for a grid connected solar photovoltaic system (SPV) have been presented. The power electronics devices like DC-DC boost converter and grid interfacing inverter are most important components of proposed system. Here, the DC-DC boost converter is controlled to extract maximum power out of SPV under different irradiation levels, while the grid interfacing inverter is utilized to evacuate the active power and feed it into grid at synchronized voltage and frequency. Moreover, the grid interfacing inverter is also controlled to sort out the issues related to power quality by compensating the reactive power and harmonics current component of nearby load at point of common coupling. Besides, detailed modeling of various component utilized in proposed system is also presented. Finally, extensive simulations have been performed under different irradiation levels with various kinds of load to validate the aforementioned claims. The overall system design and simulation have been performed by using Sim Power System toolbox available in the library of MATLAB.

Experimental Analysis of Voltage Drop Compensation in a DC Electrified Railway by Introducing an Energy Storage System Incorporating EDLCs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konishi, Takeshi; Hase, Shin-Ichi; Nakamichi, Yoshinobu; Nara, Hidetaka; Uemura, Tadashi

Interest has been shown in the concept of an energy storage system aimed at leveling load and improving energy efficiency by charging during vehicle regeneration and discharging during running. Such a system represents an efficient countermeasure against pantograph point voltage drop, power load fluctuation and regenerative power loss. We selected an EDLC model as an energy storage medium and a step-up/step-down chopper as a power converter to exchange power between the storage medium and overhead lines. Basic verification was conducted using a mini-model for DC 400V, demonstrating characteristics suitable for its use as an energy storage system. Based on these results, an energy storage system was built for DC 600V and a verification test conducted in conjunction with the Enoshima Electric Railway Co. Ltd. This paper gives its experimental analysis of voltage drop compensation in a DC electrified railway and some discussions based on the test.

Saturating time-delay transformer for overcurrent protection. [Patent application

DOEpatents

Praeg, W.F.

1975-12-18

Electrical loads connected to dc supplies are protected from damage by overcurrent in the case of a load fault by connecting in series with the load a saturating transformer that detects a load fault and limits the fault current to a safe level for a period long enough to correct the fault or else disconnect the power supply.

Saturating time-delay transformer for overcurrent protection

DOEpatents

Praeg, Walter F.

1977-01-01

Electrical loads connected to d-c supplies are protected from damage by overcurrent in the case of a load fault by connecting in series with the load a saturating transformer that detects a load fault and limits the fault current to a safe level for a period long enough to correct the fault or else disconnect the power supply.

Design and implementation of co-operative control strategy for hybrid AC/DC microgrids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahmud, Rasel

This thesis is mainly divided in two major sections: 1) Modeling and control of AC microgrid, DC microgrid, Hybrid AC/DC microgrid using distributed co-operative control, and 2) Development of a four bus laboratory prototype of an AC microgrid system. At first, a distributed cooperative control (DCC) for a DC microgrid considering the state-of-charge (SoC) of the batteries in a typical plug-in-electric-vehicle (PEV) is developed. In DC microgrids, this methodology is developed to assist the load sharing amongst the distributed generation units (DGs), according to their ratings with improved voltage regulation. Subsequently, a DCC based control algorithm for AC microgrid is also investigated to improve the performance of AC microgrid in terms of power sharing among the DGs, voltage regulation and frequency deviation. The results validate the advantages of the proposed methodology as compared to traditional droop control of AC microgrid. The DCC-based control methodology for AC microgrid and DC microgrid are further expanded to develop a DCC-based power management algorithm for hybrid AC/DC microgrid. The developed algorithm for hybrid microgrid controls the power flow through the interfacing converter (IC) between the AC and DC microgrids. This will facilitate the power sharing between the DGs according to their power ratings. Moreover, it enables the fixed scheduled power delivery at different operating conditions, while maintaining good voltage regulation and improved frequency profile. The second section provides a detailed explanation and step-by-step design and development of an AC/DC microgrid testbed. Controllers for the three-phase inverters are designed and tested on different generation units along with their corresponding inductor-capacitor-inductor (LCL) filters to eliminate the switching frequency harmonics. Electric power distribution line models are developed to form the microgrid network topology. Voltage and current sensors are placed in the proper positions to achieve a full visibility over the microgrid. A running average filter (RAF) based enhanced phase-locked-loop (EPLL) is designed and implemented to extract frequency and phase angle information. A PLL-based synchronizing scheme is also developed to synchronize the DGs to the microgrid. The developed laboratory prototype runs on dSpace platform for real time data acquisition, communication and controller implementation.

[Study on the specific immunity induced by dendritic cell vaccine loading allogenic microvascular endothelial cell bEnd.3 antigen against U14 cervical cancer cell in mice].

PubMed

Zhao, Jun; Lu, Jing; Liu, Ya-qin; Yang, Hong-yan; Huang, You-tian; Zhao, Ji-min; Li, Shan; Zhai, Jing-ming; Zhao, Ming-yao; Zhang, Xi; Dong, Zi-ming

2011-01-01

To explore the specific cellular and humoral immunity induced by dendritic cells (DC) vaccine loading allogenic microvascular endothelial cell bEnd.3 antigen against U14 cervical cancer cell of mice. Mouse brain microvascular endothelial cell bEnd.3 was cultured and identified for preparation endothelial cell bEnd.3 antigen. The level of mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGF-R₂) and integrin αV was detected by reverse transcription (RT)-PCR. The BALB/c mice were immuned with DC loading bEnd.3 antigen 4 times in 4 weeks (bEnd.3-DC group), while the mice only were immuned with DC or injected with phosphate buffer saline (PBS group) as control group. One week after last vaccination, U14 cervical cancer cells were injected subcutaneously into the mice. The tumor size, cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response of spleen lymphocytes in vitro, the percentage of CD₃+CD₈+ surface markers of spleen lymphocytes, and the titer of serum antibody were detected. The specific immunity was examined by immunocytochemistry and western blot. The expression of VEGF-R₂ and integrin αV gene in bEnd.3 cells were expressed highly. After the vaccine was injected, the tumors of mice in PBS group grew faster than those in other groups, while the tumors in bEnd.3-DC group grew slowly and disappeared after 2 weeks. The volume of tumors in DC group grew slower than those in PBS group [(0.11 ± 0.13) cm³ versus (3.38 ± 0.34) cm³]. The CTL response of spleen lymphocytes in vitro showed that bEnd.3-DC cells could kill bEnd.3 cells, the special lysis rate was more than 60%. The percentage of CD₃+CD₈+ spleen lymphocytes in bEnd.3-DC group [(38.6 ± 0.7)%] was higher than those in other groups (P < 0.05). The titer of serum antibody of bEnd.3-DC group was 1:3200, while it was 1:800 in DC group and there were not any in PBS group. Immunocytochemistry analysis indicated there were specific antigen-antibody reaction to bEnd.3 cell in bEnd.3-DC group. Western blot analysis revealed that there were specific bands at 220,000 (VEGF-R₂). bEnd.3-DC vaccine can inhibit the tumor growth of U14 cervical cancer cell of mice, which indicates that the special cellular and humoral immunity are induced by bEnd.3-DC antigen which maybe have some antigens in bEnd.3 cells that reacts with endothelial cell proliferation-related antigens.

Parameters of the plasma of a dc pulsating discharge in a supersonic air flow

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shibkov, V. M., E-mail: shibkov@phys.msu.ru; Shibkova, L. V.; Logunov, A. A.

A dc discharge in a cold (T = 200 K) supersonic air flow at a static pressure of 200–400 Torr was studied experimentally. The excited unsteady pulsating discharge has the form of a thin plasma channel with a diameter of ≤1 mm, stretched downstream the flow. Depending on the discharge current, the pulsation frequency varies from 800 to 1600 Hz and the electron temperature varies from 8000 to 15000 K.

Fluidics comparison between dual pneumatic and spring return high-speed vitrectomy systems.

PubMed

Brant Fernandes, Rodrigo A; Diniz, Bruno; Falabella, Paulo; Ribeiro, Ramiro; Teixeira, Anderson G; Magalhães, Octaviano; Moraes, Nilva; Maia, Andre; Farah, Michel E; Maia, Mauricio; Humayun, Mark S

2015-01-01

To compare the water and vitreous flow rates and duty cycle (DC) between two ultrahigh-speed vitrectomy systems: pneumatic with spring return (SR) and dual pneumatic (DP) probes. The flow rate was calculated using a high-sampling precision balance that measured the mass of water and vitreous removed from a vial by a vitreous cutter. Frame-by-frame analysis of a high-speed video of the cutter was used to determine the DC. Three cutters of each gauge (20, 23, and 25 G) were tested with an SR and a DP system using the standard DC setting (biased open) at 0 (water only), 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000, and 5,000 cuts per minute (CPM) with aspiration levels of 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 mm Hg. The DC was slightly higher with the SR system using most parameters and gauges although without statistical significance. The water flow rate was somewhat higher with the SR system, except for 25 G with 4,000 and 5,000 CPM. The vitreous flow rate was similar using most parameters, with the SR system showing higher flows at lower cut rates (1,000-3,000 CPM). SR and DP systems produced similar water and vitreous flow rates. Additional studies in human eyes are necessary to confirm these findings. Copyright 2015, SLACK Incorporated.

A dual-mode highly efficient class-E stimulator controlled by a low-Q class-E power amplifier through duty cycle.

PubMed

Chiu, Hung-Wei; Lu, Chien-Chi; Chuang, Jia-min; Lin, Wei-Tso; Lin, Chii-Wann; Kao, Ming-Chien; Lin, Mu-Lien

2013-06-01

This paper presents the design flow of two high-efficiency class-E amplifiers for the implantable electrical stimulation system. The implantable stimulator is a high-Q class-E driver that delivers a sine-wave pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) stimulation, which was verified to have a superior efficacy in pain relief to a square wave. The proposed duty-cycle-controlled class-E PRF driver designed with a high-Q factor has two operational modes that are able to achieve 100% DC-AC conversion, and involves only one switched series inductor and an unchanged parallel capacitor. The measured output amplitude under low-voltage (LV) mode using a 22% duty cycle was 0.98 V with 91% efficiency, and under high-voltage (HV) mode using a 47% duty cycle was 2.95 V with 92% efficiency. These modes were inductively controlled by a duty-cycle detector, which can detect the duty-cycle modulated signal generated from the external complementary low-Q class-E power amplifier (PA). The design methodology of the low-Q inductive interface for a non-50% duty cycle is presented. The experimental results exhibits that the 1.5-V PA that consumes DC power of 14.21 mW was able to deliver a 2.9-V sine wave to a 500 Ω load. The optimal 60% drain efficiency of the system from the PA to the load was obtained at a 10-mm coupling distance.

A hydrologic network supporting spatially referenced regression modeling in the Chesapeake Bay watershed

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brakebill, J.W.; Preston, S.D.

2003-01-01

The U.S. Geological Survey has developed a methodology for statistically relating nutrient sources and land-surface characteristics to nutrient loads of streams. The methodology is referred to as SPAtially Referenced Regressions On Watershed attributes (SPARROW), and relates measured stream nutrient loads to nutrient sources using nonlinear statistical regression models. A spatially detailed digital hydrologic network of stream reaches, stream-reach characteristics such as mean streamflow, water velocity, reach length, and travel time, and their associated watersheds supports the regression models. This network serves as the primary framework for spatially referencing potential nutrient source information such as atmospheric deposition, septic systems, point-sources, land use, land cover, and agricultural sources and land-surface characteristics such as land use, land cover, average-annual precipitation and temperature, slope, and soil permeability. In the Chesapeake Bay watershed that covers parts of Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington D.C., SPARROW was used to generate models estimating loads of total nitrogen and total phosphorus representing 1987 and 1992 land-surface conditions. The 1987 models used a hydrologic network derived from an enhanced version of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's digital River Reach File, and course resolution Digital Elevation Models (DEMs). A new hydrologic network was created to support the 1992 models by generating stream reaches representing surface-water pathways defined by flow direction and flow accumulation algorithms from higher resolution DEMs. On a reach-by-reach basis, stream reach characteristics essential to the modeling were transferred to the newly generated pathways or reaches from the enhanced River Reach File used to support the 1987 models. To complete the new network, watersheds for each reach were generated using the direction of surface-water flow derived from the DEMs. This network improves upon existing digital stream data by increasing the level of spatial detail and providing consistency between the reach locations and topography. The hydrologic network also aids in illustrating the spatial patterns of predicted nutrient loads and sources contributed locally to each stream, and the percentages of nutrient load that reach Chesapeake Bay.

Experimental study on an S-band near-field microwave magnetron power transmission system on hundred-watt level

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Biao; Jiang, Wan; Yang, Yang; Yu, Chengyang; Huang, Kama; Liu, Changjun

2015-11-01

A multi-magnetron microwave source, a metamaterial transmitting antenna, and a large power rectenna array are presented to build a near-field 2.45 GHz microwave power transmission system. The square 1 m2 rectenna array consists of sixteen rectennas with 2048 Schottky diodes for large power microwave rectifying. It receives microwave power and converts them into DC power. The design, structure, and measured performance of a unit rectenna as well as the entail rectenna array are presented in detail. The multi-magnetron microwave power source switches between half and full output power levels, i.e. the half-wave and full-wave modes. The transmission antenna is formed by a double-layer metallic hole array, which is applied to combine the output power of each magnetron. The rectenna array DC output power reaches 67.3 W on a 1.2 Ω DC load at a distance of 5.5 m from the transmission antenna. DC output power is affected by the distance, DC load, and the mode of microwave power source. It shows that conventional low power Schottky diodes can be applied to a microwave power transmission system with simple magnetrons to realise large power microwave rectifying.

A Review of Microgrid Architectures and Control Strategy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jadav, Krishnarajsinh A.; Karkar, Hitesh M.; Trivedi, I. N.

2017-12-01

In this paper microgrid architecture and various converters control strategies are reviewed. Microgrid is defined as interconnected network of distributed energy resources, loads and energy storage systems. This emerging concept realizes the potential of distributed generators. AC microgrid interconnects various AC distributed generators like wind turbine and DC distributed generators like PV, fuel cell using inverter. While in DC microgrid output of an AC distributed generator must be converted to DC using rectifiers and DC distributed generator can be directly interconnected. Hybrid microgrid is the solution to avoid this multiple reverse conversions AC-DC-AC and DC-AC-DC that occur in the individual AC-DC microgrid. In hybrid microgrid all AC distributed generators will be connected in AC microgrid and DC distributed generators will be connected in DC microgrid. Interlinking converter is used for power balance in both microgrids, which transfer power from one microgrid to other if any microgrid is overloaded. At the end, review of interlinking converter control strategies is presented.

Investigation of the interference effects of mixed flow long duct nacelles on a DC-10 wing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Patel, S. P.; Donelson, J. E.

1982-01-01

Wind tunnel test results utilizing a 4.7 percent scale semispan model in the 11 foot transonic wind tunnel are presented. A low drag long duct nacelle installation for the DC-10 jet transport was developed. A long duct nacelle representative of a CF6-50 mixed flow configuration was investigated on the DC-10-30. The results showed that the long duct nacelle installation located in the same position as the current short duct nacelle and with the current production symmetrical pylon is a relatively low risk installation for the DC-10 aircraft. Tuft observations and analytical boundary layer analysis confirmed that the flow on the nacelle afterbody was attached. A small pylon fairing was evaluated and found to reduce channel peak suction pressures, which resulted in a small drag improvement. The test also confirmed that the optimum nacelle incidence angle is the same as for the short duct nacelle, thus the same engine mount as for the production short duct nacelle can be used for the long duct nacelle installation. Comparison of the inboard wing pylon nacelle channel pressure distributions, with flow through and powered long duct nacelles showed that the power effects did not change the flow mechanism; hence, power effects can be considered negligible.

A novel coupled VM-PT cryocooler operating at liquid helium temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Changzhao; Zhang, Tong; Zhou, Yuan; Wang, Junjie

2016-07-01

This paper presents experimental results on a novel two-stage gas-coupled VM-PT cryocooler, which is a one-stage VM cooler coupled a pulse tube cooler. In order to reach temperatures below the critical point of helium-4, a one-stage coaxial pulse tube cryocooler was gas-coupled on the cold end of the former VM cryocooler. The low temperature inertance tube and room temperature gas reservoir were used as phase shifters. The influence of room temperature double-inlet was first investigated, and the results showed that it added excessive heat loss. Then the inertance tube, regenerator and the length of the pulse tube were researched experimentally. Especially, the DC flow, whose function is similar to the double-orifice, was experimentally studied, and shown to contribute about 0.2 K for the no-load temperature. The minimum no-load temperature of 4.4 K was obtained with a pressure ratio near 1.5, working frequency of 2.2 Hz, and average pressure of 1.73 MPa.

The effect of DC voltage polarity on ionic wind in ambient air for cooling purposes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, She; van den Berg, R. G. W.; Nijdam, S.

2018-05-01

Gas flows can be induced by gas discharges like DC coronas because neutral molecules gain momentum by ion-neutral collisions. This can be used for active cooling and has advantages over mechanical fans. We investigate ionic wind by a DC corona discharge under different conditions with an emphasis on the effects of voltage polarity and the transition between different discharge regimes. We also consider the gas temperature of a DC corona which is important when it is to be used for cooling purposes. Although DC coronas are usually characterized as low temperature plasmas, gas heating can have a significant impact on flow generation, especially at higher operating voltages. In this paper, a 5–20 kV DC voltage of positive and negative polarity is applied to a needle–cylinder electrode. The ionic wind velocity at the exit of the cylinder electrode is measured by hot wire anemometry and the emission spectrum is used to study the gas temperature. It is found that the flow velocity induced by positive coronas is higher than that by negative coronas for voltages above 10–15 kV, which is also demonstrated by a phenomenological EHD force model. Furthermore, a heated column is observed by Schlieren technique for both voltage polarities. An improved self-consistent ionic wind model considering heat transfer is built to study the temperature distribution. The simulation results indicate that the gas flow velocity is lower on the symmetry axis when the temperature gradient is taken into account, something which is usually ignored in ionic wind simulations.

Test Results of Selected Commercial DC/DC Converters under Cryogenic Temperatures - A Digest

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Patterson, Richard; Hammoud, Ahmad

2010-01-01

DC/DC converters are widely used in space power systems in the areas of power management and distribution, signal conditioning, and motor control. Design of DC/DC converters to survive cryogenic temperatures will improve the power system performance, simplify design, and reduce development and launch costs. In this work, the performance of nine COTS modular, low-tomedium power DC/DC converters was investigated under cryogenic temperatures. The converters were evaluated in terms of their output regulation, efficiency, and input and output currents. At a given temperature, these properties were obtained at various input voltages and at different load levels. A summary on the performance of the tested converters was given. More comprehensive testing and in-depth analysis of performance under long-term exposure to extreme temperatures are deemed necessary to establish the suitability of these and other devices for use in the harsh environment of space exploration missions.

On Application of Model Predictive Control to Power Converter with Switching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zanma, Tadanao; Fukuta, Junichi; Doki, Shinji; Ishida, Muneaki; Okuma, Shigeru; Matsumoto, Takashi; Nishimori, Eiji

This paper concerns a DC-DC converter control. In DC-DC converters, there exist both continuous components such as inductance, conductance and resistance and discrete ones, IGBT and MOSFET as semiconductor switching elements. Such a system can be regarded as a hybrid dynamical system. Thus, this paper presents a dc-dc control technique based on the model predictive control. Specifically, a case in which the load of the dc-dc converter changes from active to sleep is considered. In the case, a control method which makes the output voltage follow to the reference quickly in transition, and the switching frequency be constant in steady state. In addition, in applying the model predictive control to power electronics circuits, the switching characteristic of the device and the restriction condition for protection are also considered. The effectiveness of the proposed method is illustrated by comparing a conventional method through some simulation results.

Performance of Power Converters at Cryogenic Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elbuluk, Malik E.; Gerber, Scott; Hammoud, Ahmad; Patterson, Richard L.

2001-01-01

Power converters capable of operation at cryogenic temperatures are anticipated to play an important role in the power system architecture of future NASA deep space missions. Design of such converters to survive cryogenic temperatures will improve the power system performance and reduce development and launch costs. Aerospace power systems are mainly a DC distribution network. Therefore, DC/DC and DC/AC converters provide the outputs needed to different loads at various power levels. Recently, research efforts have been performed at the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) to design and evaluate DC/DC converters that are capable of operating at cryogenic temperatures. This paper presents a summary of the research performed to evaluate the low temperature performance of five DC/DC converters. Various parameters were investigated as a function of temperature in the range of 20 to -196 C. Data pertaining to the output voltage regulation and efficiency of the converters is presented and discussed.

Artificial neural network application for space station power system fault diagnosis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Momoh, James A.; Oliver, Walter E.; Dias, Lakshman G.

1995-01-01

This study presents a methodology for fault diagnosis using a Two-Stage Artificial Neural Network Clustering Algorithm. Previously, SPICE models of a 5-bus DC power distribution system with assumed constant output power during contingencies from the DDCU were used to evaluate the ANN's fault diagnosis capabilities. This on-going study uses EMTP models of the components (distribution lines, SPDU, TPDU, loads) and power sources (DDCU) of Space Station Alpha's electrical Power Distribution System as a basis for the ANN fault diagnostic tool. The results from the two studies are contrasted. In the event of a major fault, ground controllers need the ability to identify the type of fault, isolate the fault to the orbital replaceable unit level and provide the necessary information for the power management expert system to optimally determine a degraded-mode load schedule. To accomplish these goals, the electrical power distribution system's architecture can be subdivided into three major classes: DC-DC converter to loads, DC Switching Unit (DCSU) to Main bus Switching Unit (MBSU), and Power Sources to DCSU. Each class which has its own electrical characteristics and operations, requires a unique fault analysis philosophy. This study identifies these philosophies as Riddles 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The results of the on-going study addresses Riddle-1. It is concluded in this study that the combination of the EMTP models of the DDCU, distribution cables and electrical loads yields a more accurate model of the behavior and in addition yielded more accurate fault diagnosis using ANN versus the results obtained with the SPICE models.

Electrochemical treatment of tannery effluent using a battery integrated DC-DC converter and solar PV power supply--an approach towards environment and energy management.

PubMed

Iyappan, K; Basha, C Ahmed; Saravanathamizhan, R; Vedaraman, N; Tahiyah Nou Shene, C A; Begum, S Nathira

2014-01-01

Electrochemical oxidation of tannery effluent was carried out in batch, batch recirculation and continuous reactor configurations under different conditions using a battery-integrated DC-DC converter and solar PV power supply. The effect of current density, electrolysis time and fluid flow rate on chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal and energy consumption has been evaluated. The results of batch reactor show that a COD reduction of 80.85% to 96.67% could be obtained. The results showed that after 7 h of operation at a current density of 2.5 A dm(-2) and flow rate of 100 L h(-1) in batch recirculation reactor, the removal of COD is 82.14% and the specific energy consumption was found to be 5.871 kWh (kg COD)(-1) for tannery effluent. In addition, the performance of single pass flow reactors (single and multiple reactors) system of various configurations are analyzed.

Significant Improvements in Pyranometer Nighttime Offsets Using High-Flow DC Ventilation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kutchenreiter, Mark; Michalski, J.J.; Long, C.N.

2017-05-22

Accurate solar radiation measurements using pyranometers are required to understand radiative impacts on the Earth's energy budget, solar energy production, and to validate radiative transfer models. Ventilators of pyranometers, which are used to keep the domes clean and dry, also affect instrument thermal offset accuracy. This poster presents a high-level overview of the ventilators for single-black-detector pyranometers and black-and-white pyranometers. For single-black-detector pyranometers with ventilators, high-flow-rate (50-CFM and higher), 12-V DC fans lower the offsets, lower the scatter, and improve the predictability of nighttime offsets compared to lower-flow-rate (35-CFM), 120-V AC fans operated in the same type of environmental setup.more » Black-and-white pyranometers, which are used to measure diffuse horizontal irradiance, sometimes show minor improvement with DC fan ventilation, but their offsets are always small, usually no more than 1 W/m2, whether AC- or DC-ventilated.« less

Hyaluronan-decorated polymer nanoparticles targeting the CD44 receptor for the combined photo/chemo-therapy of cancer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maiolino, Sara; Moret, Francesca; Conte, Claudia; Fraix, Aurore; Tirino, Pasquale; Ungaro, Francesca; Sortino, Salvatore; Reddi, Elena; Quaglia, Fabiana

2015-03-01

In the attempt to develop novel concepts in designing targeted nanoparticles for combination therapy of cancer, we propose here CD44-targeted hyaluronan-decorated double-coated nanoparticles (dcNPs) delivering the lipophilic chemotherapeutic docetaxel (DTX) and an anionic porphyrin (TPPS4). dcNPs are based on electrostatic interactions between a negative DTX-loaded nanoscaffold of poly(lactide-co-glycolide), a polycationic shell of polyethyleneimine entangling negatively-charged TPPS4 and finally decorated with hyaluronan (HA) to promote internalization through CD44 receptor-mediated endocytosis. DTX/TPPS4-dcNPs, prepared through layer-by-layer deposition, showed a hydrodynamic diameter of around 180 nm, negative zeta potential and efficient loading of both DTX and TPPS4. DTX/TPPS4-dcNPs were freeze-dried with trehalose giving a powder that could be easily dispersed in different media. Excellent stability of dcNPs in specific salt- and protein-containing media was found. Spectroscopic behavior of DTX/TPPS4-dcNPs demonstrated a face-to-face arrangement of the TPPS4 units in non-photoresponsive H-type aggregates accounting for an extensive aggregation of the porphyrin embedded in the shell. Experiments in MDA-MB-231 cells overexpressing the CD44 receptor demonstrated a 9.4-fold increase in the intracellular level of TPPS4 delivered from dcNPs as compared to free TPPS4. Light-induced death increased tremendously in cells that had been treated with a combination of TPPS4 and DTX delivered through dcNPs as compared with free drugs, presumably due to efficient uptake and co-localization inside the cells. In perspective, the strategy proposed here to target synergistic drug combinations through HA-decorated nanoparticles seems very attractive to improve the specificity and efficacy of cancer treatment.In the attempt to develop novel concepts in designing targeted nanoparticles for combination therapy of cancer, we propose here CD44-targeted hyaluronan-decorated double-coated nanoparticles (dcNPs) delivering the lipophilic chemotherapeutic docetaxel (DTX) and an anionic porphyrin (TPPS4). dcNPs are based on electrostatic interactions between a negative DTX-loaded nanoscaffold of poly(lactide-co-glycolide), a polycationic shell of polyethyleneimine entangling negatively-charged TPPS4 and finally decorated with hyaluronan (HA) to promote internalization through CD44 receptor-mediated endocytosis. DTX/TPPS4-dcNPs, prepared through layer-by-layer deposition, showed a hydrodynamic diameter of around 180 nm, negative zeta potential and efficient loading of both DTX and TPPS4. DTX/TPPS4-dcNPs were freeze-dried with trehalose giving a powder that could be easily dispersed in different media. Excellent stability of dcNPs in specific salt- and protein-containing media was found. Spectroscopic behavior of DTX/TPPS4-dcNPs demonstrated a face-to-face arrangement of the TPPS4 units in non-photoresponsive H-type aggregates accounting for an extensive aggregation of the porphyrin embedded in the shell. Experiments in MDA-MB-231 cells overexpressing the CD44 receptor demonstrated a 9.4-fold increase in the intracellular level of TPPS4 delivered from dcNPs as compared to free TPPS4. Light-induced death increased tremendously in cells that had been treated with a combination of TPPS4 and DTX delivered through dcNPs as compared with free drugs, presumably due to efficient uptake and co-localization inside the cells. In perspective, the strategy proposed here to target synergistic drug combinations through HA-decorated nanoparticles seems very attractive to improve the specificity and efficacy of cancer treatment. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Synthetic and experimental procedures. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr06910b

An electromyographic and kinematic comparison between an extendable conveyor system and an articulating belt conveyor used for truck loading and unloading tasks.

PubMed

Lavender, Steven A; Nagavarapu, Shasank; Allread, W Gary

2017-01-01

Many retail distribution centers (DCs) manually load and unload boxes into or out of trailers and shipping containers. This study investigated whether an articulating belt conveyor with a height adjustable platform, positioned at the end of an extendable conveyor, significantly reduces shoulder and back muscle loading and the spine kinematics associated with these tasks. Electromyographic and kinematic data were collected from eight volunteer employees as trailers at a shoe DC were unloaded and from nine volunteer employees as trailers at an apparel DC were loaded. Participants in this repeated measures study handled boxes with a conventional powered extendable conveyor system and with the articulating belt conveyor positioned at the end of the extendable conveyor. Bilaterally the normalized activation levels of the erector spinae and anterior deltoid muscles were reduced when loading and unloading boxes with the articulating belt conveyor. Spine movement speeds were also reduced with the articulating conveyor. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electric vehicle system for charging and supplying electrical power

DOEpatents

Su, Gui Jia

2010-06-08

A power system that provides power between an energy storage device, an external charging-source/load, an onboard electrical power generator, and a vehicle drive shaft. The power system has at least one energy storage device electrically connected across a dc bus, at least one filter capacitor leg having at least one filter capacitor electrically connected across the dc bus, at least one power inverter/converter electrically connected across the dc bus, and at least one multiphase motor/generator having stator windings electrically connected at one end to form a neutral point and electrically connected on the other end to one of the power inverter/converters. A charging-sourcing selection socket is electrically connected to the neutral points and the external charging-source/load. At least one electronics controller is electrically connected to the charging-sourcing selection socket and at least one power inverter/converter. The switch legs in each of the inverter/converters selected by the charging-source/load socket collectively function as a single switch leg. The motor/generators function as an inductor.

Compatibility of an Ultraselective Microcatheter and Epirubicin Loaded 300-500-μm DC Bead in Ex Vivo Study.

PubMed

Fukuoka, Yasushi; Tanaka, Toshihiro; Nishiofuku, Hideyuki; Sato, Takeshi; Kichikawa, Kimihiko

2015-10-01

The purpose of this study is to examine whether epirubicin loaded DC Bead 300-500 μm in size can pass through a 1.8-Fr ultraselective microcatheter in ex vivo study. Epirubicin (25 mg/1 mL) loaded 100-300 and 300-500 μm DC Bead were tested. Both sizes were diluted 5, 10, and 30 times using contrast material. Ultraselective microcatheter with the outer diameter of 1.8 Fr and the inner diameter of .017 inch (431.8 μm) was used. The diluted DC Bead was injected at a speed of 1 mL/min, and the pressure was continuously measured. The microspheres' shapes after ejection were observed by a stereomicroscope. The maximum pressure of contrast material alone was 8.40 ± 0.21 psi. The maximum pressure in 5, 10, and 30 times dilution groups of 100-300 μm were 9.67 ± 1.18, 9.25 ± 0.25, and 9.71 ± 0.28 psi, respectively, whereas 21.10 ± 10.2, 10.48 ± 2.14, 10.09 ± 0.37 psi, respectively in 300-500 μm groups. The maximum pressure in 5 times dilution group of 300-500 μm was significantly higher than the other groups (P < 0.05). In 300-500 μm, 4 of 10 measurements showed high pressure over 24 psi (the maximum value was 43.5 psi) in 5 times dilution group, whereas in 10 times and 30 times dilution groups, all measurements showed less than 12 psi. No damages of microspheres were found. Epirubicin loaded DC Bead 300-500 μm in size can pass through a 1.8-Fr ultraselective microcatheter. To avoid high resistance due to microspheres' aggregation, dilution more than 10 times is needed.

Helminth-conditioned dendritic cells prime CD4+ T cells to IL-4 production in vivo.

PubMed

Connor, Lisa M; Tang, Shiau-Choot; Camberis, Mali; Le Gros, Graham; Ronchese, Franca

2014-09-15

Dendritic cells (DC) are critical for the initiation of immune responses; however, their role in priming IL-4-producing Th2 cells in vivo is not fully understood. We used a model of intradermal injection with fluorescent-labeled, nonviable larvae from the helminth parasite nonviable Nippostrongylus brasiliensis L3 larvae (Nb), a strong inducer of Th2 responses, together with IL-4-GFP reporter mice that enable a sensitive detection of IL-4 production to examine the contribution of DC to the priming of IL-4-producing CD4(+) T cells in vivo. We found that parasite material is taken up by two distinct DC populations in draining lymph nodes: a mostly CD11c(int)MHC class II (MHCII)(hi)CD11b(+)Ly6C(-) dermal DC population and a CD11c(hi)MHCII(int)CD11b(+)Ly6C(+) monocyte-derived DC population. After Nb treatment, these two DC populations appeared in the draining lymph nodes in comparable numbers and with similar kinetics; however, treatment with pertussis toxin blocked the migration of dermal DC and the priming of IL-4-producing T cells, but only partially affected monocyte-derived DC numbers. In line with this observation, transfer of OVA-loaded CD11c(int)MHCII(hi) DC from Nb-treated mice into naive hosts could sensitize OVA-specific CD4(+) T cells to IL-4 production, whereas transfer of CD11c(int)MHCII(hi) DC from naive mice, or CD11c(hi)MHCII(int) DC from Nb-treated or naive mice, induced CD4(+) T cell expansion but no IL-4 production. Phenotypic analysis of Nb-loaded CD11c(int)MHCII(hi) DC revealed expression of programmed death ligand 2, CD301b, IFN regulatory factor 4, and moderate upregulation of OX40 ligand. However, thymic stromal lymphopoietin and OX40 ligand were not required for Th2 priming. Thus, our data suggest that appropriate stimuli can induce DC to express the unique signals sufficient to direct CD4(+) T cells to Th2 differentiation. Copyright © 2014 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

The Steady Flow Resistance of Perforated Sheet Materials in High Speed Grazing Flows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Syed, Asif A.; Yu, Jia; Kwan, H. W.; Chien, E.; Jones, Michael G. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

A study was conducted to determine the effects of high speed grazing air flow on the acoustic resistance of perforated sheet materials used in the construction of acoustically absorptive liners placed in commercial aircraft engine nacelles. Since DC flow resistance of porous sheet materials is known to be a major component of the acoustic resistance of sound suppression liners, the DC flow resistance of a set of perforated face-sheets and linear 'wiremesh' face-sheets was measured in a flow duct apparatus (up to Mach 0.8). Samples were fabricated to cover typical variations in perforated face-sheet parameters, such as hole diameter, porosity and sheet thickness, as well as those due to different manufacturing processes. The DC flow resistance data from perforated sheets were found to correlate strongly with the grazing flow Mach number and the face-sheet porosity. The data also show correlation against the boundary layer displacement thickness to hole-diameter ratio. The increase in resistance with grazing flow for punched aluminum sheets is in good agreement with published results up to Mach 0.4, but is significantly larger than expected above Mach 0.4. Finally, the tests demonstrated that there is a significant increase in the resistance of linear 'wiremesh' type face-sheet materials.

Modeling and control of a brushless DC axial flow ventricular assist device.

PubMed

Giridharan, Guruprasad A; Skliar, Mikhail; Olsen, Donald B; Pantalos, George M

2002-01-01

This article presents an integrated model of the human circulatory system that incorporates circulatory support by a brushless DC axial flow ventricular assist device (VAD), and a feedback VAD controller designed to maintain physiologically sufficient perfusion. The developed integrated model combines a network type model of the circulatory system with a nonlinear dynamic model of the brushless DC pump We show that maintaining a reference differential pressure between the left ventricle and aorta leads to adequate perfusion for different pathologic cases, ranging from normal heart to left heart asystole, and widely varying physical activity scenarios from rest to exercise.

Multiple piezo-patch energy harvesters on a thin plate with respective AC-DC conversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aghakhani, Amirreza; Basdogan, Ipek

2018-03-01

Piezoelectric patch energy harvesters can be directly integrated to plate-like structures which are widely used in automotive, marine and aerospace applications, to convert vibrational energy to electrical energy. This paper presents two different AC-DC conversion techniques for multiple patch harvesters, namely single rectifier and respective rectifiers. The first case considers all the piezo-patches are connected in parallel to a single rectifier, whereas in the second case, each harvester is respectively rectified and then connected in parallel to a smoothing capacitor and a resistive load. The latter configuration of AC-DC conversion helps to avoid the electrical charge cancellation which is a problem with the multiple harvesters attached to different locations of the host plate surface. Equivalent circuit model of the multiple piezo-patch harvesters is developed in the SPICE software to simulate the electrical response. The system parameters are obtained from the modal analysis solution of the plate. Simulations of the voltage frequency response functions (FRFs) for the standard AC input - AC output case are conducted and validated by experimental data. Finally, for the AC input - DC output case, numerical simulation and experimental results of the power outputs of multiple piezo-patch harvesters with multiple AC-DC converters are obtained for a wide range of resistive loads and compared with the same array of harvesters connected to a single AC-DC converter.

Trial watch: Dendritic cell-based anticancer immunotherapy.

PubMed

Garg, Abhishek D; Vara Perez, Monica; Schaaf, Marco; Agostinis, Patrizia; Zitvogel, Laurence; Kroemer, Guido; Galluzzi, Lorenzo

2017-01-01

Dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines against cancer have been extensively developed over the past two decades. Typically DC-based cancer immunotherapy entails loading patient-derived DCs with an appropriate source of tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) and efficient DC stimulation through a so-called "maturation cocktail" (typically a combination of pro-inflammatory cytokines and Toll-like receptor agonists), followed by DC reintroduction into patients. DC vaccines have been documented to (re)activate tumor-specific T cells in both preclinical and clinical settings. There is considerable clinical interest in combining DC-based anticancer vaccines with T cell-targeting immunotherapies. This reflects the established capacity of DC-based vaccines to generate a pool of TAA-specific effector T cells and facilitate their infiltration into the tumor bed. In this Trial Watch, we survey the latest trends in the preclinical and clinical development of DC-based anticancer therapeutics. We also highlight how the emergence of immune checkpoint blockers and adoptive T-cell transfer-based approaches has modified the clinical niche for DC-based vaccines within the wide cancer immunotherapy landscape.

Power converter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Black, J. M. (Inventor)

1981-01-01

A dc-to-dc converter employs four transistor switches in a bridge to chop dc power from a source, and a voltage multiplying diode rectifying ladder network to rectify and filter the chopped dc power for delivery to a load. The bridge switches are cross coupled in order for diagonally opposite pairs to turn on and off together using RC networks for the cross coupling to achieve the mode of operation of a free running multivibrator, and the diode rectifying ladder is configured to operate in a push-pull mode driven from opposite sides of the multivibrator outputs of the ridge switches. The four transistor switches provide a square-wave output voltage which as a peak-to-peak amplitude that is twice the input dc voltage, and is thus useful as a dc-to-ac inverter.

Design and Testing of a Breadboard Electrical Power Control Unit for the Fluid Combustion Facility Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kimnach, Greg L.; Lebron, Ramon C.

1999-01-01

The Fluid Combustion Facility (FCF) Project and the Power Technology Division at the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) at Lewis Field in Cleveland, OH along with the Sundstrand Corporation in Rockford, IL are jointly developing an Electrical Power Converter Unit (EPCU) for the Fluid Combustion Facility to be flown on the International Space Station (ISS). The FCF facility experiment contains three racks: A core rack, a combustion rack, and a fluids rack. The EPCU will be used as the power interface to the ISS 120V(sub dc) power distribution system by each FCF experiment rack which requires 28V(sub dc). The EPCU is a modular design which contains three 120V(sub dc)-to-28V(sub dc) full-bridge, power converters rated at 1 kW(sub e) each bus transferring input relays and solid-state, current-limiting input switches, 48 current-limiting, solid-state, output switches; and control and telemetry hardware. The EPCU has all controls required to autonomously share load demand between the power feeds and--if absolutely necessary--shed loads. The EPCU, which maximizes the usage of allocated ISS power and minimizes loss of power to loads, can be paralleled with other EPCUs. This paper overviews the electrical design and operating characteristics of the EPCU and presents test data from the breadboard design.

The 77 K operation of a multi-resonant power converter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, Biswajit; Gerber, Scott S.; Patterson, Richard L.; Myers, Ira T.

1995-01-01

The liquid-nitrogen temperature (77 K) operation of a 55 W, 200 kHz, 48/28 V zero-voltage switching multi-resonant dc/dc converter designed with commercially available components is reported. Upon dipping the complete converter (power and control circuits) into liquid-nitrogen, the converter performance improved as compared to the room-temperature operation. The switching frequency, resonant frequency, and the characteristic impedance did not change significantly. Accordingly, the zero-voltage switching was maintained from no-load to full-load for the specified line variations. Cryoelectronics can provide high density power converters, especially for high power applications.

The impact of hybrid energy storage on power quality, when high power pulsed DC loads are operated on a microgrid testbed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kelley, Jay Paul

As the Navy's demands for high power transient loads evolves, so too does the need for alternative energy sources to back-up the more traditional power generation. Such applications in need of support include electrical grid backup and directed energy weapon systems such as electromagnetic launchers, laser systems, and high power microwave generators, among others. Among the alternative generation sources receiving considerable attention are energy storage devices such as rechargeable electrochemical batteries and capacitors. In such applications as those mentioned above, these energy storage devices offer the ability to serve a dual role as both a power source to the various loads as well high power loads themselves to the continual generation when the high power transient loads are in periods of downtime. With the recent developments in electrochemical energy storage, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) seem like the obvious choice, but previous research has shown that the elevated rates of charging can be detrimental to both the cycle life and the operational life span of the device. In order to preserve the batteries, their charge rate must be limited. One proposed method to accomplish the dual role task mentioned above, while preserving the life of the batteries, is by combining high energy density LIBs with high power density electric double layer capacitors (EDLCs) or lithium-ion capacitors (LICs) using controllable power electronics to adjust the flow of power to and from each device. Such a configuration is typically referred to as hybrid energy storage module (HESM). While shipboard generators start up, the combined high energy density and high power density of the HESM provides the capability to source critical loads for an extended period of time at the high rates they demand. Once the generator is operationally efficient, the HESM can act as a high energy reservoir to harvest the energy from the generator while the loads are in short periods of inactivity. This enables the generator to maintain its operation at levels of high efficiency thereby increasing the power quality of the AC bus. The work discussed here is aimed at evaluating how the use of energy storage impacts the power quality on MicroGrid's AC bus when high rate DC and AC loads are sourced simultaneously. Also HESM has been developed and evaluated as a mean to optimizing both the power and energy density of the energy storage installed.

Dacarbazine (DTIC) versus vaccination with autologous peptide-pulsed dendritic cells (DC) in first-line treatment of patients with metastatic melanoma: a randomized phase III trial of the DC study group of the DeCOG.

PubMed

Schadendorf, D; Ugurel, S; Schuler-Thurner, B; Nestle, F O; Enk, A; Bröcker, E-B; Grabbe, S; Rittgen, W; Edler, L; Sucker, A; Zimpfer-Rechner, C; Berger, T; Kamarashev, J; Burg, G; Jonuleit, H; Tüttenberg, A; Becker, J C; Keikavoussi, P; Kämpgen, E; Schuler, G

2006-04-01

This randomized phase III trial was designed to demonstrate the superiority of autologous peptide-loaded dendritic cell (DC) vaccination over standard dacarbazine (DTIC) chemotherapy in stage IV melanoma patients. DTIC 850 mg/m2 intravenously was applied in 4-week intervals. DC vaccines loaded with MHC class I and II-restricted peptides were applied subcutaneously at 2-week intervals for the first five vaccinations and every 4 weeks thereafter. The primary study end point was objective response (OR); secondary end points were toxicity, overall (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). At the time of the first interim analysis 55 patients had been enrolled into the DTIC and 53 into the DC-arm (ITT). OR was low (DTIC: 5.5%, DC: 3.8%), but not significantly different in the two arms. The Data Safety & Monitoring Board recommended closure of the study. Unscheduled subset analyses revealed that patients with normal serum LDH and/or stage M1a/b survived longer in both arms than those with elevated serum LDH and/or stage M1c. Only in the DC-arm did those patients with (i) an initial unimpaired general health status (Karnofsky = 100) or (ii) an HLA-A2+/HLA-B44- haplotype survive significantly longer than patients with a Karnofsky index <100 (P = 0.007 versus P = 0.057 in the DTIC-arm) or other HLA haplotypes (P = 0.04 versus P = 0.57 in DTIC-treated patients). DC vaccination could not be demonstrated to be more effective than DTIC chemotherapy in stage IV melanoma patients. The observed association of overall performance status and HLA haplotype with overall survival for patients treated by DC vaccination should be tested in future trials employing DC vaccines.

Proposal for conversion of end use equipment and service from AC to DC for enhanced benefits from photovoltaics and fuel cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wicks, F.

1998-07-01

The need to produce electricity either more fuel efficiently or without need for consuming fuel is well recognized. Fuel cells are typically suggested for higher efficiency and photovoltaics can produce electricity directly from the sun. However, both of these devices produce direct current which is not compatible with the existing ac power system. The typical options of installing AC to DC inverters and the dedication of this DC generation to DC loads and storage are costly and inefficient. Thus, the author suggests it would be better in terms of energy conservation and public policy to convert end use service tomore » DC for direct compatibility with this DC generation, as a first step toward conversion to a new and better type of electric power system that can be described as a solid state power electronics based multiple voltage DC power system.« less

Fuzzy control of power converters based on quasilinear modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, C. K.; Lee, W. L.; Chou, Y. W.

1995-03-01

Unlike feedback control by the fuzzy PID method, a new fuzzy control algorithm based on quasilinear modelling of the DC-DC converter is proposed. Investigation is carried out using a buck-boost converter. Simulation results demonstrated that the converter can be regulated with improved performance even when subjected to input disturbance and load variation.

Induction of Protective Immunity against Eimeria tenella Infection using Antigen-loaded Dendritic Cells (DC) and DC-derived Exosomes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Eimeria is a protozoan parasite which causes coccidiosis, a major parasitic disease of poultry that is indigenous to most regions of the world and causes intestinal damage with reduced body weight gain. Conventional disease control methods have relied on prophylactic chemotherapy, but alternative m...

Analysis, Simulation, and Fabrication of Current Mode Controlled DC-DC Power Converters

DTIC Science & Technology

1999-12-01

susceptibility), vou/ vin . 3 . The output impedance including the load. 22 The crossover frequency, coc, appears in all poles and is defined as: oo... VIN - 3 0 VIN - 3 V Delay to Outputs (TJ=25*C, (Note 2) 200 500 200 500 ns ( Current Limit Adjust Section Current Limit Offset

High Temperature Performance of a SiC MESFET Based Oscillator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwartz, Zachary D.; Ponchak, George E.

2005-01-01

A hybrid, UHF-Band differential oscillator based on 10 w SiC RF Power Metal Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor (MESFET) has been designed, fabricated and characterized through 475 C. Circuit is fabricated on an alumina substrate with thin film spiral inductors, chip capacitors, chip resistors, and wire bonds for all crossovers and interconnectors. The oscillator delivers 15.7 dBm at 515 MHz into a 50 Ohm load at 125 C with a DC to RF conversion efficiency of 2,8%. After tuning the load impedance, the oscillator delivers 18.8 dBm at 610 MHz at 200 C with a DC to RF conversion efficiency of 5.8%. Finally, by tuning the load and bias conditions, the oscillator delivers 4.9 dBm at 453 MHz at 475 C.

LONG-TERM PERFORMANCE OF SOLID OXIDE STACKS WITH ELECTRODE-SUPPORTED CELLS OPERATING IN THE STEAM ELECTROLYSIS MODE

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

J. E. O'Brien; R. C. O'Brien; X. Zhang

2011-11-01

Performance characterization and durability testing have been completed on two five-cell high-temperature electrolysis stacks constructed with advanced cell and stack technologies. The solid oxide cells incorporate a negative-electrode-supported multi-layer design with nickel-zirconia cermet negative electrodes, thin-film yttria-stabilized zirconia electrolytes, and multi-layer lanthanum ferrite-based positive electrodes. The per-cell active area is 100 cm2. The stack is internally manifolded with compliant mica-glass seals. Treated metallic interconnects with integral flow channels separate the cells. Stack compression is accomplished by means of a custom spring-loaded test fixture. Initial stack performance characterization was determined through a series of DC potential sweeps in both fuel cellmore » and electrolysis modes of operation. Results of these sweeps indicated very good initial performance, with area-specific resistance values less than 0.5 ?.cm2. Long-term durability testing was performed with A test duration of 1000 hours. Overall performance degradation was less than 10% over the 1000-hour period. Final stack performance characterization was again determined by a series of DC potential sweeps at the same flow conditions as the initial sweeps in both electrolysis and fuel cell modes of operation. A final sweep in the fuel cell mode indicated a power density of 0.356 W/cm2, with average per-cell voltage of 0.71 V at a current of 50 A.« less

Requirements for a transformerless power conditioning system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Klein, J.; Koerner, T.; Rippel, W.; Kalbach, J.

1984-01-01

Requirements for development of a Transformerless Power Conditioning Subsystem (TPCS) that will meet utility, manufacturer, and customer needs are detailed. Issues analyzed include current utility guidelines, safety and grounding issues that appear as local codes, various kinds of TPCS connections that can be developed, dc injection, and a brief survey of TPCS circuit topologies that will meet requirements. The major result is that a finite time exists for control operation before dc injection into the distribution transformer causes customer outage (on the order of seconds). This time permits the control system to sense a dc injection condition and remove the TPCS from the utility system. Requirements for such a control system are specified. A three wire connection will ensure balanced operation for customer loads and two wire connections caused average value dc to be injected into single phase loads. This type of connection also allows for the lowest array voltage. The conclusion is that requirements for a TPCS can be determined and that there are not showstopping issues preventing implementation. The actual design and topology of the TPCS was left for further study.

Microprocessor control of multiple peak power tracking DC/DC converters for use with solar cell arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frederick, Martin E. (Inventor); Jermakian, Joel (Inventor)

1991-01-01

A method and an apparatus is provided for efficiently controlling the power output of a solar cell array string or a plurality of solar cell array strings to achieve a maximum amount of output power from the strings under varying conditions of use. Maximum power output from a solar array string is achieved through control of a pulse width modulated DC/DC buck converter which transfers power from a solar array to a load or battery bus. The input voltage from the solar array to the converter is controlled by a pulse width modulation duty cycle, which in turn is controlled by a differential signal controller. By periodically adjusting the control voltage up or down by a small amount and comparing the power on the load or bus with that generated at different voltage values a maximum power output voltage may be obtained. The system is totally modular and additional solar array strings may be added to the system simply by adding converter boards to the system and changing some constants in the controller's control routines.

Control of plasma-liquid interaction of atmospheric DC glow discharge using liquid electrode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shirai, Naoki; Aoki, Ryuta; Nito, Aihito; Aoki, Takuya; Uchida, Satoshi; Tochikubo, Fumiyoshi

2014-10-01

Atmospheric plasma in contact with liquid have a variety of interesting phenomena and applications. Previously, we investigated the fundamental characteristics of an atmospheric dc glow discharge using a liquid electrode with a miniature helium flow. We tried to control the plasma-liquid interaction by changing the plasma parameter such as gas species, liquid, and applied voltage. Sheath flow system enables another gas (N2, O2, Ar) flow to around the helium core flow. It can control the gas species around the discharge. When liquid (NaCl aq.) cathode DC discharge is generated, Na emission (588 nm) can be observed from liquid surface with increasing discharge current. Na emission strongly depends on the discharge current and liquid temperature. However, when Ar sheath flow is used, the intensity of Na becomes weak. When liquid anode DC discharge is generated, self-organized luminous pattern formation can be observed at the liquid surface. The pattern depends on existence of oxygen gas in gap. By changing the oxygen gas ratio in the gap, variety of pattern formation can be observed. The discharge in contact with liquid also can be used for synthesis of metal nanoparticles at plasma-liquid interface. Size and shape of nanoparticles depend on discharge gases. This work was supported financially in part by a Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research on Innovative Areas (No 21110007) from MEXT, Japan.

Correlation of Leukocyte Telomere Length Measurement Methods in Patients with Dyskeratosis Congenita and in Their Unaffected Relatives.

PubMed

Khincha, Payal P; Dagnall, Casey L; Hicks, Belynda; Jones, Kristine; Aviv, Abraham; Kimura, Masayuki; Katki, Hormuzd; Aubert, Geraldine; Giri, Neelam; Alter, Blanche P; Savage, Sharon A; Gadalla, Shahinaz M

2017-08-13

Several methods have been employed to measure telomere length (TL) in human studies. It has been difficult to directly compare the results from these studies because of differences in the laboratory techniques and output parameters. We compared TL measurements (TLMs) by the three most commonly used methods, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), flow cytometry with fluorescence in situ hybridization (flow FISH) and Southern blot, in a cohort of patients with the telomere biology disorder dyskeratosis congenita (DC) and in their unaffected relatives (controls). We observed a strong correlation between the Southern blot average TL and the flow FISH total lymphocyte TL in both the DC patients and their unaffected relatives ( R ² of 0.68 and 0.73, respectively). The correlation between the qPCR average TL and that of the Southern blot method was modest ( R ² of 0.54 in DC patients and of 0.43 in unaffected relatives). Similar results were noted when comparing the qPCR average TL and the flow FISH total lymphocyte TL ( R ² of 0.49 in DC patients and of 0.42 in unaffected relatives). In conclusion, the strengths of the correlations between the three widely used TL assays (qPCR, flow FISH, and Southern blot) were significantly different. Careful consideration is warranted when selecting the method of TL measurement for research and for clinical studies.

Electrical safety for high voltage arrays

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marshall, N. A.

1983-01-01

A number of key electrical safety requirements for the high voltage arrays of central station photovoltaic power systems are explored. The suitability of representative industrial DC power switchgear for control and fault protection was evaluated. Included were AC/DC circuit breakers, electromechanical contactors and relays, load interruptors, cold disconnect devices, sectionalizing switches, and high voltage DC fuses. As appropriate, steady state and transient characteristics were analyzed. Failure modes impacting upon operation and maintenance safety were also identified, as were the voltage withstand and current interruption levels.

HBV-Derived Synthetic Long Peptide Can Boost CD4+ and CD8+ T-Cell Responses in Chronic HBV Patients Ex Vivo

PubMed Central

Dou, Yingying; van Montfoort, Nadine; van den Bosch, Aniek; de Man, Robert A; Zom, Gijs G; Krebber, Willem-Jan; Melief, Cornelis J M; Buschow, Sonja I; Woltman, Andrea M

2018-01-01

Abstract Background Vaccination with synthetic long peptides (SLP) is a promising new treatment strategy for chronic hepatitis B virus (CHB). SLP can induce broad T-cell responses for all HLA types. Here we investigated the ability of a prototype HBV-core (HBc)-sequence-derived SLP to boost HBV-specific T cells in CHB patients ex vivo. Methods HBc-SLP was used to assess cross-presentation by monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDC) and BDCA1+ blood myeloid DC (mDC) to engineered HBV-specific CD8+ T cells. Autologous SLP-loaded and toll-like receptor (TLR)-stimulated DC were used to activate patient HBc-specific CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Results HBV-SLP was cross-presented by moDC, which was further enhanced by adjuvants. Patient-derived SLP-loaded moDC significantly increased autologous HBcAg18-27-specific CD8+ T cells and CD4+ T cells ex vivo. HBV-specific T cells were functional as they synthesized tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma. In 6/7 of patients blockade of PD-L1 further increased SLP effects. Also, importantly, patient-derived BDCA1+ mDC cross-presented and activated autologous T-cell responses ex vivo. Conclusions As a proof of concept, we showed a prototype HBc-SLP can boost T-cell responses in patients ex vivo. These results pave the way for the development of a therapeutic SLP-based vaccine to induce effective HBV-specific adaptive immune responses in CHB patients. PMID:29220492

Comparison of monocyte-derived dendritic cells from colorectal cancer patients, non-small-cell-lung-cancer patients and healthy donors.

PubMed

Kvistborg, P; Bechmann, C M; Pedersen, A W; Toh, H C; Claesson, M H; Zocca, M B

2009-12-11

Dendritic cells (DCs) are bone marrow-derived professional antigen presenting cells. Due to their role as potent inducers of immune responses, these cells are widely used as adjuvant in experimental clinical settings for cancer immune therapy. We have developed a DC-based vaccine using autologous blood monocytes loaded with allogeneic tumor cell lysate rich in cancer/testis antigens. This vaccine has at present been tested for activity in three phase II clinical trials including two cohorts of patients with advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) and one cohort of patients with advanced non-small-cell-lung-cancer (NSCLC). In the present paper we retrospectively compare the maturation profile based on surface marker expression on DCs generated from the three patient cohorts and between cancer patient cohorts and a cohort of healthy donors. Vaccines were generated under cGMP conditions and phenotypic profiles of DC were analyzed by flow cytometry and the obtained data were used as a basis to set guideline values for our quality control of GMP produced DC vaccines. Each vaccine batch was analyzed for the expression of the surface maturation and differentiation molecules CD14, CD1a, CD83, CD86, MHC class II and CCR7, and the optimal expression pattern is considered as CD14(low), CD1a, CD83(high), CD86(high), MHC class II(high) and CCR7(high). In accordance with data from other studies including other types of cancer patients, especially breast cancer patients, we found that the maturation status of the DC batches depends on cancer type and correlates with clinical status of cancer patients included.

Multidimensional optimal droop control for wind resources in DC microgrids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bunker, Kaitlyn J.

Two important and upcoming technologies, microgrids and electricity generation from wind resources, are increasingly being combined. Various control strategies can be implemented, and droop control provides a simple option without requiring communication between microgrid components. Eliminating the single source of potential failure around the communication system is especially important in remote, islanded microgrids, which are considered in this work. However, traditional droop control does not allow the microgrid to utilize much of the power available from the wind. This dissertation presents a novel droop control strategy, which implements a droop surface in higher dimension than the traditional strategy. The droop control relationship then depends on two variables: the dc microgrid bus voltage, and the wind speed at the current time. An approach for optimizing this droop control surface in order to meet a given objective, for example utilizing all of the power available from a wind resource, is proposed and demonstrated. Various cases are used to test the proposed optimal high dimension droop control method, and demonstrate its function. First, the use of linear multidimensional droop control without optimization is demonstrated through simulation. Next, an optimal high dimension droop control surface is implemented with a simple dc microgrid containing two sources and one load. Various cases for changing load and wind speed are investigated using simulation and hardware-in-the-loop techniques. Optimal multidimensional droop control is demonstrated with a wind resource in a full dc microgrid example, containing an energy storage device as well as multiple sources and loads. Finally, the optimal high dimension droop control method is applied with a solar resource, and using a load model developed for a military patrol base application. The operation of the proposed control is again investigated using simulation and hardware-in-the-loop techniques.

Dendritic cell targeted chitosan nanoparticles for nasal DNA immunization against SARS CoV nucleocapsid protein.

PubMed

Raghuwanshi, Dharmendra; Mishra, Vivek; Das, Dipankar; Kaur, Kamaljit; Suresh, Mavanur R

2012-04-02

This work investigates the formulation and in vivo efficacy of dendritic cell (DC) targeted plasmid DNA loaded biotinylated chitosan nanoparticles for nasal immunization against nucleocapsid (N) protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) as antigen. The induction of antigen-specific mucosal and systemic immune response at the site of virus entry is a major challenge for vaccine design. Here, we designed a strategy for noninvasive receptor mediated gene delivery to nasal resident DCs. The pDNA loaded biotinylated chitosan nanoparticles were prepared using a complex coacervation process and characterized for size, shape, surface charge, plasmid DNA loading and protection against nuclease digestion. The pDNA loaded biotinylated chitosan nanoparticles were targeted with bifunctional fusion protein (bfFp) vector for achieving DC selective targeting. The bfFp is a recombinant fusion protein consisting of truncated core-streptavidin fused with anti-DEC-205 single chain antibody (scFv). The core-streptavidin arm of fusion protein binds with biotinylated nanoparticles, while anti-DEC-205 scFv imparts targeting specificity to DC DEC-205 receptor. We demonstrate that intranasal administration of bfFp targeted formulations along with anti-CD40 DC maturation stimuli enhanced magnitude of mucosal IgA as well as systemic IgG against N protein. The strategy led to the detection of augmented levels of N protein specific systemic IgG and nasal IgA antibodies. However, following intranasal delivery of naked pDNA no mucosal and systemic immune responses were detected. A parallel comparison of targeted formulations using intramuscular and intranasal routes showed that the intramuscular route is superior for induction of systemic IgG responses compared with the intranasal route. Our results suggest that targeted pDNA delivery through a noninvasive intranasal route can be a strategy for designing low-dose vaccines.

Performance of a 14.9-kW laminated-frame dc series motor with chopper controller

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schwab, J. R.

1979-01-01

Traction motor using two types of excitation: ripple free dc from a motor generator set for baseline data and chopped dc as supplied by a battery and chopper controller was tested. For the same average values of input voltage and current, the power output was independent of the type of excitation. At the same speeds, motor efficiency at low power output (corresponding to low duty cycle of the controller) was 5 to 10 percentage points less on chopped dc than on ripple-free dc. This illustrates that for chopped waveforms, it is incorrect to calculate input power as the product of average voltage and average current. Locked-rotor torque, no load losses, and magnetic saturation data were so determined.

Optimization of Dendritic Cell-Mediated Cytotoxic T-Cell Activation by Tracking of Dendritic Cell Migration Using Reporter Gene Imaging.

PubMed

Lee, Hongje; Lee, Ho Won; La Lee, You; Jeon, Yong Hyun; Jeong, Shin Young; Lee, Sang-Woo; Lee, Jaetae; Ahn, Byeong-Cheol

2018-06-01

The aim of this study is to optimize the dendritic cell (DC)-mediated T-cell activation using reporter gene imaging and flow cytometric analysis in living mice. A murine dendritic cell line (DC2.4) co-expressing effluc and Thy1.1 genes were established by transfection with retroviral vectors. Thy1.1 positive cells were sorted by magnetic bead separation system (DC2.4/effluc). Cell proliferation assay and phenotype analysis to determine the effects of gene transduction on the function of dendritic cells between parental DC2.4 and DC2.4/effluc were performed. To optimize the DC-mediated immune response by cell number or frequency, different cell numbers (5 × 10 5 , 1 × 10 6 , and 2 × 10 6  DC2.4/effluc) or different frequencies of DC2.4/effluc (first, second, and third injections) were injected in the right footpad of mice. The migration of the DC2.4/effluc into the draining popliteal lymph node of mice was monitored by bioluminescence imaging (BLI). Flow cytometric analysis was performed with splenocytes to determine the cytotoxic T-cell population after injection of DC2.4/effluc. Parental DC2.4 and DC2.4/effluc exhibit no significant differences in their proliferation and phenotype. BLI signals were observed in the draining popliteal lymph node at day 1 after injection of DC2.4/effluc in 1 × 10 6 and 2 × 10 6 cells-injected groups. The highest BLI signal intensity was detected in 2 × 10 6 cells-injected mice. On day 11, the BLI signal was detected in only 2 × 10 6 cell-injected group but not in other groups. Optimized cell numbers (2 × 10 6 ) were injected in three animal groups with a different frequency (first, second, and third injection groups). The BLI signal was detected at day 1 and maintained until day 7 in the first injection group, but there is low signal intensity in the second and the third injection groups. Although the expression levels of Thy1.1 gene in the first injection group were very high, there reveals no expression of Thy1.1 gene in the second and the third injection groups. The number of tumor-specific CD8 + T-cells in the spleen significantly increased, as the number of DC injections increases. Successful optimization of DC-mediated cytotoxic T-cell activation in living mice using reporter gene imaging and flow cytometric analysis was achieved. The optimization of DC-mediated cytotoxic T-cell activation could be applied for the future DC-based immunotherapy.

Vaccination with vascular progenitor cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells elicits antitumor immunity targeting vascular and tumor cells.

PubMed

Koido, Shigeo; Ito, Masaki; Sagawa, Yukiko; Okamoto, Masato; Hayashi, Kazumi; Nagasaki, Eijiro; Kan, Shin; Komita, Hideo; Kamata, Yuko; Homma, Sadamu

2014-05-01

Vaccination of BALB/c mice with dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with the lysate of induced vascular progenitor (iVP) cells derived from murine-induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells significantly suppressed the tumor of CMS-4 fibrosarcomas and prolonged the survival of CMS-4-inoculated mice. This prophylactic antitumor activity was more potent than that of immunization with DCs loaded with iPS cells or CMS-4 tumor cells. Tumors developed slowly in mice vaccinated with DCs loaded with iVP cells (DC/iVP) and exhibited a limited vascular bed. Immunohistochemistry and a tomato-lectin perfusion study demonstrated that the tumors that developed in the iVP-immunized mice showed a marked decrease in tumor vasculature. Immunization with DC/iVP induced a potent suppressive effect on vascular-rich CMS-4 tumors, a weaker effect on BNL tumors with moderate vasculature, and nearly no effect on C26 tumors with poor vasculature. Treatment of DC/iVP-immunized mice with a monoclonal antibody against CD4 or CD8, but not anti-asialo GM1, inhibited the antitumor activity. CD8(+) T cells from DC/iVP-vaccinated mice showed significant cytotoxic activity against murine endothelial cells and CMS-4 cells, whereas CD8(+) T cells from DC/iPS-vaccinated mice did not. DNA microarray analysis showed that the products of 29 vasculature-associated genes shared between genes upregulated by differentiation from iPS cells into iVP cells and genes shared by iVP cells and isolated Flk-1(+) vascular cells in CMS-4 tumor tissue might be possible targets in the immune response. These results suggest that iVP cells from iPS cells could be used as a cancer vaccine targeting tumor vascular cells and tumor cells.

Application handbook for a Standardized Control Module (SCM) for DC-DC converters, volume 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, F. C.; Mahmoud, M. F.; Yu, Y.

1980-04-01

The standardized control module (SCM) was developed for application in the buck, boost and buck/boost DC-DC converters. The SCM used multiple feedback loops to provide improved input line and output load regulation, stable feedback control system, good dynamic transient response and adaptive compensation of the control loop for changes in open loop gain and output filter time constraints. The necessary modeling and analysis tools to aid the design engineer in the application of the SCM to DC-DC Converters were developed. The SCM functional block diagram and the different analysis techniques were examined. The average time domain analysis technique was chosen as the basic analytical tool. The power stage transfer functions were developed for the buck, boost and buck/boost converters. The analog signal and digital signal processor transfer functions were developed for the three DC-DC Converter types using the constant on time, constant off time and constant frequency control laws.

Application handbook for a Standardized Control Module (SCM) for DC-DC converters, volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, F. C.; Mahmoud, M. F.; Yu, Y.

1980-01-01

The standardized control module (SCM) was developed for application in the buck, boost and buck/boost DC-DC converters. The SCM used multiple feedback loops to provide improved input line and output load regulation, stable feedback control system, good dynamic transient response and adaptive compensation of the control loop for changes in open loop gain and output filter time constraints. The necessary modeling and analysis tools to aid the design engineer in the application of the SCM to DC-DC Converters were developed. The SCM functional block diagram and the different analysis techniques were examined. The average time domain analysis technique was chosen as the basic analytical tool. The power stage transfer functions were developed for the buck, boost and buck/boost converters. The analog signal and digital signal processor transfer functions were developed for the three DC-DC Converter types using the constant on time, constant off time and constant frequency control laws.

Efficiency measurement and uncertainty discussion of an electric engine powered by a ``self-breathing'' and ``self-humidified'' proton exchange membrane fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schiavetti, Pierluigi; Del Prete, Zaccaria

2007-08-01

The efficiency of an automotive engine based on a "self-breathing" and "self-humidified" proton exchange membrane fuel cell stack (PEM FC) connected to a dc brushless electrical motor was measured under variable power load conditions. Experiments have been carried out on a small scale 150W engine model. After determining the fuel cell static polarization curve and the time response to power steps, the system was driven to copy on the test bench a "standard urban load cycle" and its instantaneous efficiencies were measured at an acquisition rate of 5Hz. The integral system efficiency over the entire urban load cycle, comprising the losses of the unavoidable auxiliary components of the engine, was then calculated. The fuel cell stack was operated mainly in "partial" dead-end mode, with a periodic anode flow channel purging, and one test was carried out in "pure" dead-end mode, with no anode channel purging. An uncertainty analysis of the efficiencies was carried out, taking into account either type A and type B evaluation methods, strengthening the discussion about the outcomes obtained for a system based on this novel simplified FC type. For our small scale engine we measured over the standard urban cycle, on the basis of the H2 high heating value (HHV), a tank-to-wheel integral efficiency of (18.2±0.8)%, when the fuel cell was operated with periodic flow channel purging, and of (21.5±1.3)% in complete dead-end operation mode.

Efficiency measurement and uncertainty discussion of an electric engine powered by a "self-breathing" and "self-humidified" proton exchange membrane fuel cell.

PubMed

Schiavetti, Pierluigi; Del Prete, Zaccaria

2007-08-01

The efficiency of an automotive engine based on a "self-breathing" and "self-humidified" proton exchange membrane fuel cell stack (PEM FC) connected to a dc brushless electrical motor was measured under variable power load conditions. Experiments have been carried out on a small scale 150 W engine model. After determining the fuel cell static polarization curve and the time response to power steps, the system was driven to copy on the test bench a "standard urban load cycle" and its instantaneous efficiencies were measured at an acquisition rate of 5 Hz. The integral system efficiency over the entire urban load cycle, comprising the losses of the unavoidable auxiliary components of the engine, was then calculated. The fuel cell stack was operated mainly in "partial" dead-end mode, with a periodic anode flow channel purging, and one test was carried out in "pure" dead-end mode, with no anode channel purging. An uncertainty analysis of the efficiencies was carried out, taking into account either type A and type B evaluation methods, strengthening the discussion about the outcomes obtained for a system based on this novel simplified FC type. For our small scale engine we measured over the standard urban cycle, on the basis of the H(2) high heating value (HHV), a tank-to-wheel integral efficiency of (18.2+/-0.8)%, when the fuel cell was operated with periodic flow channel purging, and of (21.5+/-1.3)% in complete dead-end operation mode.

Magnetic Amplifier-Based Power-Flow Controller

DOE PAGES

Dimitrovski, Aleksandar; Li, Zhi; Ozpineci, Burak

2015-02-05

The concept of the magnetic amplifier, a common electromagnetic device in electronic applications in the past, has seldom been used in power systems. In this paper, we introduce the magnetic amplifier-based power-flow controller (MAPFC), an innovative low-cost device that adopts the idea of the magnetic amplifier for power-flow control applications. The uniqueness of MAPFC is in the use of the magnetization of the ferromagnetic core, shared by an ac and a dc winding, as the medium to control the ac winding reactance inserted in series with the transmission line to be controlled. Large power flow in the line can bemore » regulated by the small dc input to the dc winding. Moreover, a project on the R&D of an MAPFC has been funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and conducted by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and Waukesha Electric Systems, Inc. since early 2012. Findings from the project are presented along with some results obtained in a laboratory environment.« less

Comparison of control structures for a bidirectional high-frequency dc-dc converter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Himmelstoss, Felix A.; Kolar, Johann W.; Zach, Franz C.

1989-08-01

A system for dc-dc power conversion based on a buck-boost converter topology is presented. It makes power flow in both directions possible. The possibility of bidirectional power flow is useful for certain applications, such as uninterruptable power supplies. Starting from a structural diagram the transfer function of the system is derived. The controller for the converter is then designed. It is made up of a simple voltage controller, a voltage controller with an inner loop current controller (cascade control) and with two kinds of state space control. The transfer functions of the different system parts are derived and dimensioning guidelines for the controller sections are presented. The closed loop behavior of the bidirectional converter for the different control structures is analyzed based on simulation using duty cycle averaging. Bodediagrams and step responses are shown.

Stabilization and discontinuity-capturing parameters for space-time flow computations with finite element and isogeometric discretizations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takizawa, Kenji; Tezduyar, Tayfun E.; Otoguro, Yuto

2018-04-01

Stabilized methods, which have been very common in flow computations for many years, typically involve stabilization parameters, and discontinuity-capturing (DC) parameters if the method is supplemented with a DC term. Various well-performing stabilization and DC parameters have been introduced for stabilized space-time (ST) computational methods in the context of the advection-diffusion equation and the Navier-Stokes equations of incompressible and compressible flows. These parameters were all originally intended for finite element discretization but quite often used also for isogeometric discretization. The stabilization and DC parameters we present here for ST computations are in the context of the advection-diffusion equation and the Navier-Stokes equations of incompressible flows, target isogeometric discretization, and are also applicable to finite element discretization. The parameters are based on a direction-dependent element length expression. The expression is outcome of an easy to understand derivation. The key components of the derivation are mapping the direction vector from the physical ST element to the parent ST element, accounting for the discretization spacing along each of the parametric coordinates, and mapping what we have in the parent element back to the physical element. The test computations we present for pure-advection cases show that the parameters proposed result in good solution profiles.

Direct electric current modifies important cellular aspects and ultrastructure features of Candida albicans yeasts: Influence of doses and polarities.

PubMed

Barbosa, Gleyce Moreno; Dos Santos, Eldio Gonçalves; Capella, Francielle Neves Carvalho; Homsani, Fortune; de Pointis Marçal, Carina; Dos Santos Valle, Roberta; de Araújo Abi-Chacra, Érika; Braga-Silva, Lys Adriana; de Oliveira Sales, Marcelo Henrique; da Silva Neto, Inácio Domingos; da Veiga, Venicio Feo; Dos Santos, André Luis Souza; Holandino, Carla

2017-02-01

Available treatments against human fungal pathogens present high levels of resistance, motivating the development of new antifungal therapies. In this context, the present work aimed to analyze direct electric current (DC) antifungal action, using an in vitro apparatus equipped with platinum electrodes. Candida albicans yeast cells were submitted to three distinct conditions of DC treatment (anodic flow-AF; electroionic flow-EIF; and cathodic flow-CF), as well as different charges, ranging from 0.03 to 2.40 C. Our results indicated C. albicans presented distinct sensibility depending on the DC intensity and polarity applied. Both the colony-forming unit assay and the cytometry flow with propidium iodide indicated a drastic reduction on cellular viability after AF treatment with 0.15 C, while CF- and EIF-treated cells stayed alive when DC doses were increased up to 2.40 C. Additionally, transmission electron microscopy revealed important ultrastructural alterations in AF-treated yeasts, including cell structure disorganization, ruptures in plasmatic membrane, and cytoplasmic rarefaction. This work emphasizes the importance of physical parameters (polarity and doses) in cellular damage, and brings new evidence for using electrotherapy to treat C. albicans pathology process. Bioelectromagnetics. 38:95-108, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

DC switching regulated power supply for driving an inductive load

DOEpatents

Dyer, George R.

1986-01-01

A power supply for driving an inductive load current from a dc power supply hrough a regulator circuit including a bridge arrangement of diodes and switching transistors controlled by a servo controller which regulates switching in response to the load current to maintain a selected load current. First and second opposite legs of the bridge are formed by first and second parallel-connected transistor arrays, respectively, while the third and fourth legs of the bridge are formed by appropriately connected first and second parallel connected diode arrays, respectively. The regulator may be operated in three "stages" or modes: (1) For current runup in the load, both first and second transistor switch arrays are turned "on" and current is supplied to the load through both transistor arrays. (2) When load current reaches the desired level, the first switch is turned "off", and load current "flywheels" through the second switch array and the fourth leg diode array connecting the second switch array in series with the load. Current is maintained by alternating between modes 1 and 2 at a suitable duty cycle and switching rate set by the controller. (3) Rapid current rundown is accomplished by turning both switch arrays "off", allowing load current to be dumped back into the source through the third and fourth diode arrays connecting the source in series opposition with the load to recover energy from the inductive load. The three operating states are controlled automatically by the controller.

A Single-Phase Embedded Z-Source DC-AC Inverter

PubMed Central

Kim, Se-Jin; Lim, Young-Cheol

2014-01-01

In the conventional DC-AC inverter consisting of two DC-DC converters with unipolar output capacitors, the output capacitor voltages of the DC-DC converters must be higher than the DC input voltage. To overcome this weakness, this paper proposes a single-phase DC-AC inverter consisting of two embedded Z-source converters with bipolar output capacitors. The proposed inverter is composed of two embedded Z-source converters with a common DC source and output AC load. Though the output capacitor voltages of the converters are relatively low compared to those of a conventional inverter, an equivalent level of AC output voltages can be obtained. Moreover, by controlling the output capacitor voltages asymmetrically, the AC output voltage of the proposed inverter can be higher than the DC input voltage. To verify the validity of the proposed inverter, experiments were performed with a DC source voltage of 38 V. By controlling the output capacitor voltages of the converters symmetrically or asymmetrically, the proposed inverter can produce sinusoidal AC output voltages. The experiments show that efficiencies of up to 95% and 97% can be achieved with the proposed inverter using symmetric and asymmetric control, respectively. PMID:25133241

A single-phase embedded Z-source DC-AC inverter.

PubMed

Kim, Se-Jin; Lim, Young-Cheol

2014-01-01

In the conventional DC-AC inverter consisting of two DC-DC converters with unipolar output capacitors, the output capacitor voltages of the DC-DC converters must be higher than the DC input voltage. To overcome this weakness, this paper proposes a single-phase DC-AC inverter consisting of two embedded Z-source converters with bipolar output capacitors. The proposed inverter is composed of two embedded Z-source converters with a common DC source and output AC load. Though the output capacitor voltages of the converters are relatively low compared to those of a conventional inverter, an equivalent level of AC output voltages can be obtained. Moreover, by controlling the output capacitor voltages asymmetrically, the AC output voltage of the proposed inverter can be higher than the DC input voltage. To verify the validity of the proposed inverter, experiments were performed with a DC source voltage of 38 V. By controlling the output capacitor voltages of the converters symmetrically or asymmetrically, the proposed inverter can produce sinusoidal AC output voltages. The experiments show that efficiencies of up to 95% and 97% can be achieved with the proposed inverter using symmetric and asymmetric control, respectively.

Type-1 polarised dendritic cells are a potent immunogen against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

PubMed

Satake, Y; Nakamura, Y; Kono, M; Hozumi, H; Nagata, T; Tsujimura, K; Enomoto, N; Fujisawa, T; Inui, N; Fujiyama, T; Tokura, Y; Matsui, T; Yokomura, K; Shirai, M; Hayakawa, H; Suda, T

2017-05-01

Application of immunotherapy using dendritic cells (DCs) is considered an effective treatment strategy against persistent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. With the goal of developing improved therapeutic vaccination strategies for patients with tuberculosis (TB), we tested the ability of ex vivo-generated DCs to induce an effective TB antigen-specific type-1 immune response. Monocyte-derived DCs from TB patients were induced to mature using a 'standard' cytokine cocktail (interleukin [IL] 1β, tumour necrosis factor alpha [TNF-α], IL-6 and prostaglandin E2) or a type 1-polarised DC (DC1) cocktail (IL-1β, TNF-α, interferon [IFN] α, IFN-γ and polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid), and were loaded with the established TB antigen 6-kDa early secretory antigenic target protein (ESAT-6). Although DC1s from TB patients expressed the same levels of multiple co-stimulatory molecules (CD83, CD86, CD80 and CD40) as the standard DCs (sDCs), DC1s secreted substantially higher levels of IL-12p70. Furthermore, when DCs pulsed with or without ESAT-6 were cultured with lymphocytes from the same patients, DC1s induced much higher numbers of ESAT-6-specific IFN-γ-producing T-cells than sDCs, as manifested by their superior induction of natural killer cell activation and antigen-independent suppression of regulatory T-cells. TB antigen-loaded DC1s are potent inducers of antigen-specific T-cells, which could be used to develop improved immunotherapies of TB.

Models and methods for assessing the value of HVDC and MVDC technologies in modern power grids

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Makarov, Yuri V.; Elizondo, Marcelo A.; O'Brien, James G.

This report reflects the results of U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Grid Modernization project 0074 “Models and methods for assessing the value of HVDC [high-voltage direct current] and MTDC [multi-terminal direct current] technologies in modern power grids.” The work was done by the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in cooperation with Mid-Continent Independent System Operator (MISO) and Siemens. The main motivation of this study was to show the benefit of using direct current (DC) systems larger than those in existence today as they overlap with the alternating current (AC) systems. Proper use of theirmore » flexibility in terms of active/reactive power control and fast response can provide much-needed services to the grid at the same time as moving large blocks of energy to take advantage of cost diversity. Ultimately, the project’s success will enable decision-makers and investors to make well-informed decisions regarding this use of DC systems. This project showed the technical feasibility of HVDC macrogrid for frequency control and congestion relief in addition to bulk power transfers. Industry-established models for commonly used technologies were employed, along with high-fidelity models for recently developed HVDC converter technologies; like the modular multilevel converters (MMCs), a voltage source converters (VSC). Models for General Electric Positive Sequence Load Flow (GE PSLF) and Siemens Power System Simulator (PSS/E), widely used analysis programs, were for the first time adapted to include at the same time both Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) and Eastern Interconnection (EI), the two largest North American interconnections. The high-fidelity models and their control were developed in detail for MMC system and extended to HVDC systems in point-to-point and in three-node multi-terminal configurations. Using a continental-level mixed AC-DC grid model, and using a HVDC macrogrid power flow and transient stability model, the results showed that the HVDC macrogrid relieved congestion and mitigated loop flows in AC networks, and provided up to 24% improvement in frequency responses. These are realistic studies, based on the 2025 heavy summer and EI multi-regional modeling working group (MMWG) 2026 summer peak cases. This work developed high-fidelity models and simulation algorithms to understand the dynamics of MMC. The developed models and simulation algorithms are up to 25 times faster than the existing algorithms. Models and control algorithms for high-fidelity models were designed and tested for point-to-point and multi-terminal configurations. The multi-terminal configuration was tested connecting simplified models of EI, WI, and Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). The developed models showed up to 45% improvement in frequency response with the connection of all the three asynchronous interconnections in the United States using fast and advanced DC technologies like the multi-terminal MMC-DC system. Future work will look into developing high-fidelity models of other advanced DC technologies, combining high-fidelity models with the continental-level model, incorporating additional services. More scenarios involving large-scale HVDC and MTDC will be evaluated.« less

Avoiding the side effects of electric current pulse application to electroporated cells in disposable small volume cuvettes assures good cell survival.

PubMed

Grys, Maciej; Madeja, Zbigniew; Korohoda, Włodzimierz

2017-01-01

The harmful side effects of electroporation to cells due to local changes in pH, the appearance of toxic electrode products, temperature increase, and the heterogeneity of the electric field acting on cells in the cuvettes used for electroporation were observed and discussed in several laboratories. If cells are subjected to weak electric fields for prolonged periods, for example in experiments on cell electrophoresis or galvanotaxis the same effects are seen. In these experiments investigators managed to reduce or eliminate the harmful side effects of electric current application. For the experiments, disposable 20 μl cuvettes with two walls made of dialysis membranes were constructed and placed in a locally focused electric field at a considerable distance from the electrodes. Cuvettes were mounted into an apparatus for horizontal electrophoresis and the cells were subjected to direct current electric field (dcEF) pulses from a commercial pulse generator of exponentially declining pulses and from a custom-made generator of double and single rectangular pulses. More than 80% of the electroporated cells survived the dcEF pulses in both systems. Side effects related to electrodes were eliminated in both the flow through the dcEF and in the disposable cuvettes placed in the focused dcEFs. With a disposable cuvette system, we also confirmed the sensitization of cells to a dcEF using procaine by observing the loading of AT2 cells with calceine and using a square pulse generator, applying 50 ms single rectangular pulses. We suggest that the same methods of avoiding the side effects of electric current pulse application as in cell electrophoresis and galvanotaxis should also be used for electroporation. This conclusion was confirmed in our electroporation experiments performed in conditions assuring survival of over 80% of the electroporated cells. If the amplitude, duration, and shape of the dcEF pulse are known, then electroporation does not depend on the type of pulse generator. This knowledge of the characteristics of the pulse assures reproducibility of electroporation experiments using different equipment.

Improved hemodynamic parameters in middle cerebral artery infarction after decompressive craniectomy.

PubMed

Amorim, Robson Luis; de Andrade, Almir Ferreira; Gattás, Gabriel S; Paiva, Wellingson Silva; Menezes, Marcos; Teixeira, Manoel Jacobsen; Bor-Seng-Shu, Edson

2014-05-01

Decompressive craniectomy (DC) reduces mortality and improves functional outcome in patients with malignant middle cerebral artery infarction. However, little is known regarding the impact of DC on cerebral hemodynamics. Therefore, our goal was to study the hemodynamic changes that may occur in patients with malignant middle cerebral artery infarction after DC and to assess their relationship with outcomes. Twenty-seven patients with malignant middle cerebral artery infarction who were treated with DC were studied. The perfusion CT hemodynamic parameters, mean transit time, cerebral blood flow, and cerebral blood volume were evaluated preoperatively and within the first 24 hours after DC. There was a global trend toward improved cerebral hemodynamics after DC. Preoperative and postoperative absolute mean transit times were associated with mortality at 6 months, and the ratio of post- and preoperative cerebral blood flow was significantly higher in patients with favorable outcomes than those with unfavorable outcomes. Patients who underwent surgery 48 hours after stroke, those with midline brain shift>10 mm, and those who were >55 years showed no significant improvement in any perfusion CT parameters. DC improves cerebral hemodynamics in patients with malignant middle cerebral artery infarction, and the level of improvement is related to outcome. However, some patients did not seem to experience any additional hemodynamic benefit, suggesting that perfusion CT may play a role as a prognostic tool in patients undergoing DC after ischemic stroke.

Peptide-loaded Langerhans cells, despite increased IL15 secretion and T cell activation in vitro, elicit anti-tumor T cell responses comparable to peptide-loaded monocyte-derived dendritic cells in vivo

PubMed Central

Romano, Emanuela; Rossi, Marco; Ratzinger, Gudrun; de Cos, Maria-Angeles; Chung, David J.; Panageas, Katherine S.; Wolchok, Jedd D.; Houghton, Alan N.; Chapman, Paul B.; Heller, Glenn; Yuan, Jianda; Young, James W.

2013-01-01

Purpose We compared the efficacy of human Langerhans cells (LCs) as tumor immunogens in vivo with monocyte-derived DCs (moDCs) and investigated how IL15 supports optimal DC-stimulated antitumor immunity. Experimental Design AJCC stage III/IV melanoma patients participated in this first clinical trial comparing melanoma peptide-pulsed LC with moDC vaccines (NCT00700167,www.ClinicalTrials.gov). Correlative studies evaluated mechanisms mediating IL15 support of DC-stimulated antitumor immunity. Results Both DC vaccines were safe and immunogenic for melanoma antigens. LC-based vaccines stimulated significantly greater tyrosinase-HLA-A*0201 tetramer reactivity than did moDC-based vaccines. The two DC subtypes were otherwise statistically comparable, in contrast to extensive prior data in vitro demonstrating LC superiority. LCs synthesize much more IL15 than moDCs and stimulate significantly more antigen-specific lymphocytes with a cytolytic IFN-gamma profile even without exogenous IL15. When supplemented by low dose IL15, instead of IL2, moDCs stimulate 5-6 logs more tumor antigen-specific effector memory T-cells (TEMRA) over 3-4 weeks in vitro. IL2 and IL15 can be synergistic in moDC stimulation of cytolytic T-cells. IL15 promotes T-cell expression of the antiapoptotic bcl-2 and inhibits candidate regulatory T-cell (Treg) expansion after DC stimulation, countering two effects of IL2 that do not foster tumor immunity. Conclusions MoDC-based vaccines will require exogenous IL15 to achieve clinical efficacy. Alternatively, LCs can couple the endogenous production of IL15 with potent T-cell stimulatory activity. Optimization of full length tumor antigen expression for processing into multiple immunogenic peptides for presentation by both class I and II MHC therefore merits emphasis to support more effective antitumor immunity stimulated by LCs. PMID:21355077

An assessment of solar hot water heating in the Washington, D.C. area - Implications for local utilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stuart, M. W.

1980-04-01

A survey of residential solar hot water heating in the Washington, D.C. area is presented with estimates of the total solar energy contribution per year. These estimates are examined in relation to a local utility's peak-load curves to determine the impact of a substantial increase in solar domestic hot water use over the next 20 yr in the area of utility management. The results indicate that a 10% market penetration of solar water heaters would have no detrimental effect on the utility's peak-load profile and could save several million dollars in new plant construction costs.

Resonant AC power system proof-of-concept test program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wappes, Loran J.

1986-01-01

Proof-of-concept testing was performed on a 20-kHz, resonant power system breadboard from 1981 through 1985. The testing began with the evaluation of a single, 1.0-kW resonant inverter and progressed to the testing of breadboard systems with higher power levels and more capability. The final breadboard configuration tested was a 25.0-kW breadboard with six inverters providing power to three user-interface modules over a 50-meter, 20-kHz bus. The breadboard demonstrated the ability to synchronize multiple resonant inverters to power a common bus. Single-phase and three-phase 20-kHz power distribution was demonstrated. Simple conversion of 20-kHz to dc and variable-frequency ac was demonstrated as was bidirectional power flow between 20-kHz and dc. Steady state measurements of efficiency, power-factor tolerance, and conducted emissions and conducted susceptibility were made. In addition, transient responses were recorded for such conditions as start up, shut down, load changes. The results showed the 20-kHz resonant system to be a desirable technology for a spacecraft power management and distribution system with multiple users and a utility-type bus.

Tribological Testing, Analysis and Characterization of D.C. Magnetron Sputtered Ti-Nb-N Thin Film Coatings on Stainless Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Joshi, Prathmesh

To enhance the surface properties of stainless steel, the substrate was coated with a 1μm thick coating of Ti-Nb-N by reactive DC magnetron sputtering at different N2 flow rates, substrate biasing and Nb-Ti ratio. The characterization of the coated samples was performed by the following techniques: hardness by Knoop micro-hardness tester, phase analysis by X-ray Diffraction (XRD), compositional analysis by Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and adhesion by scratch test. The tribology testing was performed on linearly reciprocating ball-on-plate wear testing machine and wear depth and wear volume were evaluated by white light interferometer. The micro-hardness test yielded appreciable enhancement in the surface hardness with the highest value being 1450 HK. Presence of three prominent phases namely NbN, Nb2N3 and TiN resulted from the XRD analysis. EDS analysis revealed the presence of Ti, Nb and Nitrogen. Adhesion was evaluated on the basis of critical loads for cohesive (Lc1) and adhesive (Lc2) failures with values varying between 7-12 N and 16-25 N respectively, during scratch test for coatings on SS substrates.

Trial watch: Dendritic cell-based anticancer immunotherapy

PubMed Central

Vara Perez, Monica; Schaaf, Marco; Agostinis, Patrizia; Zitvogel, Laurence; Kroemer, Guido

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines against cancer have been extensively developed over the past two decades. Typically DC-based cancer immunotherapy entails loading patient-derived DCs with an appropriate source of tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) and efficient DC stimulation through a so-called “maturation cocktail” (typically a combination of pro-inflammatory cytokines and Toll-like receptor agonists), followed by DC reintroduction into patients. DC vaccines have been documented to (re)activate tumor-specific T cells in both preclinical and clinical settings. There is considerable clinical interest in combining DC-based anticancer vaccines with T cell-targeting immunotherapies. This reflects the established capacity of DC-based vaccines to generate a pool of TAA-specific effector T cells and facilitate their infiltration into the tumor bed. In this Trial Watch, we survey the latest trends in the preclinical and clinical development of DC-based anticancer therapeutics. We also highlight how the emergence of immune checkpoint blockers and adoptive T-cell transfer-based approaches has modified the clinical niche for DC-based vaccines within the wide cancer immunotherapy landscape. PMID:28811970

The Isolation and Enrichment of Large Numbers of Highly Purified Mouse Spleen Dendritic Cell Populations and Their In Vitro Equivalents.

PubMed

Vremec, David

2016-01-01

Dendritic cells (DCs) form a complex network of cells that initiate and orchestrate immune responses against a vast array of pathogenic challenges. Developmentally and functionally distinct DC subtypes differentially regulate T-cell function. Importantly it is the ability of DC to capture and process antigen, whether from pathogens, vaccines, or self-components, and present it to naive T cells that is the key to their ability to initiate an immune response. Our typical isolation procedure for DC from murine spleen was designed to efficiently extract all DC subtypes, without bias and without alteration to their in vivo phenotype, and involves a short collagenase digestion of the tissue, followed by selection for cells of light density and finally negative selection for DC. The isolation procedure can accommodate DC numbers that have been artificially increased via administration of fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand (Flt3L), either directly through a series of subcutaneous injections or by seeding with an Flt3L secreting murine melanoma. Flt3L may also be added to bone marrow cultures to produce large numbers of in vitro equivalents of the spleen DC subsets. Total DC, or their subsets, may be further purified using immunofluorescent labeling and flow cytometric cell sorting. Cell sorting may be completely bypassed by separating DC subsets using a combination of fluorescent antibody labeling and anti-fluorochrome magnetic beads. Our procedure enables efficient separation of the distinct DC subsets, even in cases where mouse numbers or flow cytometric cell sorting time is limiting.

Exploration of the Chaotic Behaviour in a Buck-Boost Converter Depending on the Converter and Load Elements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demirbaş, Şevki; Fidanboy, Hikmet; Kurt, Erol

2016-08-01

In this paper, detailed analyses of the chaotic behavior observed in a buck-boost converter are presented. Although this basic converter system is already known world-wide for the purpose of dc-dc conversion of the output of renewable energy systems, it indicates certain chaotic regimes where both the output amplitude and frequency change randomly. This chaotic regime can yield an unstable output over the resistive or resistive/inductive electrical loads. This study presents a detailed map for the regular and chaotic regions in terms of material parameters, such as converter capacitance C, resistive load R, and inductive load L. Thus, the stable area of operation for efficient and renewable electricity production will be ascertained for the studied converter system. We emphasize that the material parameters C, R, and L play important roles in generating energy from the solar cell; indeed, the stability increases with higher values of the converter capacitor and load inductance, whereas it decreases according to the resistive load. A number of periodic windows have been observed and the output frequency gives a broad-band spectrum of up to 50 kHz.

Standardized Curriculum for Electrician.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mississippi State Dept. of Education, Jackson. Office of Vocational, Technical and Adult Education.

Standardized curricula are provided for two courses for the secondary vocational education program in Mississippi: electrician I and II. The 11 units in electrician I are as follows: orientation; safety; tools, equipment, materials/supplies; basic principles and theory; DC circuits; AC circuits; blueprints and load calculations; load centers and…

Research study on multi-KW-DC distribution system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berkery, E. A.; Krausz, A.

1975-01-01

A detailed definition of the HVDC test facility and the equipment required to implement the test program are provided. The basic elements of the test facility are illustrated, and consist of: the power source, conventional and digital supervision and control equipment, power distribution harness and simulated loads. The regulated dc power supplies provide steady-state power up to 36 KW at 120 VDC. Power for simulated line faults will be obtained from two banks of 90 ampere-hour lead-acid batteries. The relative merits of conventional and multiplexed power control will be demonstrated by the Supervision and Monitor Unit (SMU) and the Automatically Controlled Electrical Systems (ACES) hardware. The distribution harness is supported by a metal duct which is bonded to all component structures and functions as the system ground plane. The load banks contain passive resistance and reactance loads, solid state power controllers and active pulse width modulated loads. The HVDC test facility is designed to simulate a power distribution system for large aerospace vehicles.

Power converter using near-load output capacitance, direct inductor contact, and/or remote current sense

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Coteus, Paul W.; Ferencz, Andrew; Hall, Shawn A.

An apparatus includes a first circuit board including first components including a load, and a second circuit board including second components including switching power devices and an output inductor. Ground and output voltage contacts between the circuit boards are made through soldered or connectorized interfaces. Certain components on the first circuit board and certain components, including the output inductor, on the second circuit board act as a DC-DC voltage converter for the load. An output capacitance for the conversion is on the first circuit board with no board-to-board interface between the output capacitance and the load. The inductance of themore » board-to-board interface functions as part of the output inductor's inductance and not as a parasitic inductance. Sense components for sensing current through the output inductor are located on the first circuit board. Parasitic inductance of the board-to-board interface has less effect on a sense signal provided to a controller.« less

Smart Grid Integrity Attacks: Characterizations and Countermeasures

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Annarita Giani; Eilyan Bitar; Miles McQueen

2011-10-01

Real power injections at loads and generators, and real power flows on selected lines in a transmission network are monitored, transmitted over a SCADA network to the system operator, and used in state estimation algorithms to make dispatch, re-balance and other energy management system [EMS] decisions. Coordinated cyber attacks of power meter readings can be arranged to be undetectable by any bad data detection algorithm. These unobservable attacks present a serious threat to grid operations. Of particular interest are sparse attacks that involve the compromise of a modest number of meter readings. An efficient algorithm to find all unobservable attacksmore » [under standard DC load flow approximations] involving the compromise of exactly two power injection meters and an arbitrary number of power meters on lines is presented. This requires O(n2m) flops for a power system with n buses and m line meters. If all lines are metered, there exist canonical forms that characterize all 3, 4, and 5-sparse unobservable attacks. These can be quickly detected in power systems using standard graph algorithms. Known secure phase measurement units [PMUs] can be used as countermeasures against an arbitrary collection of cyber attacks. Finding the minimum number of necessary PMUs is NP-hard. It is shown that p + 1 PMUs at carefully chosen buses are sufficient to neutralize a collection of p cyber attacks.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Silva, E.R.C. da; Filho, B.J.C.

This paper presents a PWM current clamping circuit for improving a series resonant DC link converter. This circuit is capable of reducing current peaks to about 1.2--1.4 times the DC bias current. When desired, resonant transition creates notches in the dc link current, allowing the converter`s switches to synchronize with external PWM strategy. A regulated DC current source may be obtained--by using a conventional rectifier source--to feed a DC load or a current source inverter. Phase plane approach makes ease the understanding the operation, control and design procedure of the circuit. Another topology is derived and its features compared tomore » the first circuit. Simulation results for the simplified circuit and for a three-phase induction motor driven by such inverter will be presented. Moreover, the principle is corroborated by experimental results.« less

Some results regarding stability of photovoltaic maximum-power-point tracking dc-dc converters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schaefer, John F.

An analytical investigation of a class of photovoltaic (PV) maximum-power-point tracking dc-dc converters has yielded basic results relative to the stability of such devices. Necessary and sufficient conditions for stable operation are derived, and design tools are given. Specific results have been obtained for arbitrary PV arrays driving converters powering resistive loads and batteries. The analytical techniques are applicable to inverters, also. Portions of the theoretical results have been verified in operational devices: a 1500 watt unit has driven a 1-horsepower, 90-volt dc motor powering a water pump jack for over one year. Prior to modification shortly after initial installation, the unit exhibited instability at low levels of irradiance, as predicted by the theory. Two examples are provided.

Analysis of payload bay magnetic fields due to dc power multipoint and single point ground configurations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lawton, R. M.

1976-01-01

An analysis of magnetic fields in the Orbiter Payload Bay resulting from the present grounding configuration (structure return) was presented and the amount of improvement that would result from installing wire returns for the three dc power buses was determined. Ac and dc magnetic fields at five points in a cross-section of the bay are calculated for both grounding configurations. Y and Z components of the field at each point are derived in terms of a constant coefficient and the current amplitude of each bus. The dc loads assumed are 100 Amperes for each bus. The ac noise current used is a spectrum 6 db higher than the Orbiter equipment limit for narrowband conducted emissions. It was concluded that installing return wiring to provide a single point ground for the dc Buses in the Payload Bay would reduce the ac and dc magnetic field intensity by approximately 30 db.

Low-to-Medium Power Single Chip Digital Controlled DC-DC Regulator for Point-of-Load Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adell, Philippe C. (Inventor); Bakkaloglu, Bertan (Inventor); Vermeire, Bert (Inventor); Liu, Tao (Inventor)

2015-01-01

A DC-DC converter for generating a DC output voltage includes: a digitally controlled pulse width modulator (DPWM) for controlling a switching power stage to supply a varying voltage to an inductor; and a digital voltage feedback circuit for controlling the DPWM in accordance with a feedback voltage corresponding to the DC output voltage, the digital voltage feedback circuit including: a first voltage controlled oscillator for converting the feedback voltage into a first frequency signal and to supply the first frequency signal to a first frequency discriminator; a second voltage controlled oscillator for converting a reference voltage into a second frequency signal and to supply the second frequency signal to a second frequency discriminator; a digital comparator for comparing digital outputs of the first and second frequency discriminators and for outputting a digital feedback signal; and a controller for controlling the DPWM in accordance with the digital feedback signal.

Vortex-slip transitions in superconducting a-NbGe mesoscopic channels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kokubo, N.; Sorop, T. G.; Besseling, R.; Kes, P. H.

2006-06-01

Intriguing and novel physical aspects related to the vortex flow dynamics have been recently observed in mesoscopic channel devices of a-NbGe with NbN channel edges. In this work we have systematically studied the flow properties of vortices confined in such mesoscopic channels as a function of the magnetic field history, using dc-transport and mode-locking (ML) measurements. As opposed to the field-down situation, in the field-up case a kink anomaly in the dc I-V curves is detected. The mode-locking measurements reveal that this anomaly is, in fact, a flow induced vortex slip transition: by increasing the external drive (either dc or ac) a sudden change occurs from n to n+2 moving vortex rows in the channel. The observed features can be explained in terms of an interplay between field focusing due to screening currents and a change in the predominant pinning mechanism.

Effect of inlet geometry on macrosegregation during the direct chill casting of 7050 alloy billets: experiments and computer modelling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, L.; Eskin, D. G.; Miroux, A.; Subroto, T.; Katgerman, L.

2012-07-01

Controlling macrosegregation is one of the major challenges in direct-chill (DC) casting of aluminium alloys. In this paper, the effect of the inlet geometry (which influences the melt distribution) on macrosegregation during the DC casting of 7050 alloy billets was studied experimentally and by using 2D computer modelling. The ALSIM model was used to determine the temperature and flow patterns during DC casting. The results from the computer simulations show that the sump profiles and flow patterns in the billet are strongly influenced by the melt flow distribution determined by the inlet geometry. These observations were correlated to the actual macrosegregation patterns found in the as-cast billets produced by having two different inlet geometries. The macrosegregation analysis presented here may assist in determining the critical parameters to consider for improving the casting of 7XXX aluminium alloys.

Modeling and Implementing a Digitally Embedded Maximum Power Point Tracking Algorithm and a Series-Loaded Resonant DC-DC Converter to Integrate a Photovoltaic Array with a Micro-Grid

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

These renewable energy sources can include solar, wind, geothermal , biomass, hydroelectric, and nuclear. Of these sources, photovoltaic (PV) arrays...renewable energy source [1]. These renewable energy sources can include solar, wind, geothermal , biomass, hydroelectric, and nuclear. Of these sources...26, May 2011. [6] H. G. Xu, J. P. He, Y. Qin, and Y. H. Li, “Energy management and control strategy for DC micro-grid in data center,” China

Compatibility of an Ultraselective Microcatheter and Epirubicin Loaded 300–500-μm DC Bead in Ex Vivo Study

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fukuoka, Yasushi, E-mail: miyano.y.fukuoka@gmail.com; Tanaka, Toshihiro, E-mail: toshihir@bf6.so-net.ne.jp; Nishiofuku, Hideyuki, E-mail: nishiofukuhideyuki@yahoo.co.jp

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine whether epirubicin loaded DC Bead 300–500 μm in size can pass through a 1.8-Fr ultraselective microcatheter in ex vivo study.MethodsEpirubicin (25 mg/1 mL) loaded 100–300 and 300–500 μm DC Bead were tested. Both sizes were diluted 5, 10, and 30 times using contrast material. Ultraselective microcatheter with the outer diameter of 1.8 Fr and the inner diameter of .017 inch (431.8 μm) was used. The diluted DC Bead was injected at a speed of 1 mL/min, and the pressure was continuously measured. The microspheres’ shapes after ejection were observed by a stereomicroscope.ResultsThe maximum pressure of contrast material alone was 8.40 ± 0.21 psi.more » The maximum pressure in 5, 10, and 30 times dilution groups of 100–300 μm were 9.67 ± 1.18, 9.25 ± 0.25, and 9.71 ± 0.28 psi, respectively, whereas 21.10 ± 10.2, 10.48 ± 2.14, 10.09 ± 0.37 psi, respectively in 300–500 μm groups. The maximum pressure in 5 times dilution group of 300–500 μm was significantly higher than the other groups (P < 0.05). In 300–500 μm, 4 of 10 measurements showed high pressure over 24 psi (the maximum value was 43.5 psi) in 5 times dilution group, whereas in 10 times and 30 times dilution groups, all measurements showed less than 12 psi. No damages of microspheres were found.ConclusionsEpirubicin loaded DC Bead 300–500 μm in size can pass through a 1.8-Fr ultraselective microcatheter. To avoid high resistance due to microspheres’ aggregation, dilution more than 10 times is needed.« less

Distributed Optimal Power Flow of AC/DC Interconnected Power Grid Using Synchronous ADMM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Zijun; Lin, Shunjiang; Liu, Mingbo

2017-05-01

Distributed optimal power flow (OPF) is of great importance and challenge to AC/DC interconnected power grid with different dispatching centres, considering the security and privacy of information transmission. In this paper, a fully distributed algorithm for OPF problem of AC/DC interconnected power grid called synchronous ADMM is proposed, and it requires no form of central controller. The algorithm is based on the fundamental alternating direction multiplier method (ADMM), by using the average value of boundary variables of adjacent regions obtained from current iteration as the reference values of both regions for next iteration, which realizes the parallel computation among different regions. The algorithm is tested with the IEEE 11-bus AC/DC interconnected power grid, and by comparing the results with centralized algorithm, we find it nearly no differences, and its correctness and effectiveness can be validated.

Design and wind tunnel tests of winglets on a DC-10 wing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gilkey, R. D.

1979-01-01

Results are presented of a wind tunnel test utilizing a 4.7 percent scale semi-span model in the Langley Research Center 8-foot transonic pressure wind tunnel to establish the cruise drag improvement potential of winglets as applied to the DC-10 wide body transport aircraft. Winglets were investigated on both the DC-10 Series 10 (domestic) and 30/40 (intercontinental) configurations and compared with the Series 30/40 configuration. The results of the investigation confirm that for the DC-10 winglets provide approximately twice the cruise drag reduction of wing-tip extensions for about the same increase in bending moment at the wing fuselage juncture. Furthermore, the winglet configurations achieved drag improvements which were in close agreement to analytical estimates. It was observed that relatively small changes in wing-winglet tailoring effected large improvements in drag and visual flow characteristics. All final winglet configurations exhibited visual flow characteristics on the wing and winglets

Characterization of In-Flight Processing of Alumina Powder Using a DC-RF Hybrid Plasma Flow System at Constant Low Operating Power

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nishiyama, H.; Onodera, M.; Igawa, J.; Nakajima, T.

2009-12-01

The aim of this study is to provide the optimum operating conditions for enhancing in-flight alumina particle heating as much as possible for particle spheroidization and aggregation of melted particles using a DC-RF hybrid plasma flow system even at constant low operating power based on the thermofluid considerations. It is clarified that the swirl flow and higher operating pressure enhance the particle melting and aggregation of melted particles coupled with increasing gas temperature downstream of a plasma uniformly in the radial direction at constant electrical discharge conditions.

Fuzzy energy management for hybrid fuel cell/battery systems for more electric aircraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Corcau, Jenica-Ileana; Dinca, Liviu; Grigorie, Teodor Lucian; Tudosie, Alexandru-Nicolae

2017-06-01

In this paper is presented the simulation and analysis of a Fuzzy Energy Management for Hybrid Fuel cell/Battery Systems used for More Electric Aircraft. The fuel cell hybrid system contains of fuel cell, lithium-ion batteries along with associated dc to dc boost converters. In this configuration the battery has a dc to dc converter, because it is an active in the system. The energy management scheme includes the rule based fuzzy logic strategy. This scheme has a faster response to load change and is more robust to measurement imprecisions. Simulation will be provided using Matlab/Simulink based models. Simulation results are given to show the overall system performance.

Modeling and simulation, and their validation of three-phase transformers with three legs under DC bias

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fuchs, E.F.; You, Y.; Roesler, D.J.

This paper proposes a new model for three-phase transformers with three legs with and without tank under DC bias based on electric and magnetic circuit theory. For the calculation of the nonsinusoidal no-load currents, a combination of time and frequency domains is used. The analysis shows that (1) asymmetric three-phase transformers with three legs generate magnetizing currents with triplen harmonics not being of the zero-sequence type. (2) The wave shapes of the three magnetizing currents of (asymmetric) transformers are dependent on the phase sequence. (3) The magnetic history of transformer magnetization -- due to residual magnetization and hysteresis of themore » tank -- cannot be ignored if a DC bias is present and the magnetic influence of the tank is relatively strong, e.g., for oil-cooled transformers. (4) Symmetric three-phase transformers with three legs generate no-load currents without triplen harmonics. (5) The effects of DC bias currents (e.g., reactive power demand, harmonic distortion) can be suppressed employing symmetric three-phase transformers with three legs including tank. Measurements corroborate computational results; thus this nonlinear model is valid and accurate.« less

Electrical resistivity investigation of fluvial geomorphology to evaluate potential seepage conduits to agricultural lands along the San Joaquin River, Merced County, California, 2012–13

USGS Publications Warehouse

Groover, Krishangi D.; Burgess, Matthew K.; Howle, James F.; Phillips, Steven P.

2017-02-08

Increased flows in the San Joaquin River, part of the San Joaquin River Restoration Program, are designed to help restore fish populations. However, increased seepage losses could result from these higher restoration flows, which could exacerbate existing drainage problems in neighboring agricultural lands and potentially damage crops. Channel deposits of abandoned river meanders that are hydraulically connected to the river could act as seepage conduits, allowing rapid and widespread water-table rise during restoration flows. There is a need to identify the geometry and properties of these channel deposits to assess their role in potential increased seepage effects and to evaluate management alternatives for reducing seepage. Electrical and electromagnetic surface geophysical methods have provided a reliable proxy for lithology in studies of fluvial and hyporheic systems where a sufficient electrical contrast exists between deposits of differing grain size. In this study, direct-current (DC) resistivity was used to measure subsurface resistivity to identify channel deposits and to map their subsurface geometry. The efficacy of this method was assessed by using DC resistivity surveys collected along a reach of the San Joaquin River in Merced County, California, during the summers of 2012 and 2013, in conjunction with borings and associated measurements from a hydraulic profiling tool. Modeled DC resistivity data corresponded with data from cores, hand-auger samples, a hydraulic profiling tool, and aerial photographs, confirming that DC resistivity is effective for differentiating between silt and sand deposits in this setting. Modeled DC resistivity data provided detailed two-dimensional cross-sectional resistivity profiles to a depth of about 20 meters. The distribution of high-resistivity units in these profiles was used as a proxy for identifying areas of high hydraulic conductivity. These data were used subsequently to guide the location and depth of wells installed onsite for monitoring flow in the channel deposits. Estimates of the cross-sectional area of channel deposits from DC resistivity pseudosections can provide critical input for groundwater-flow models designed to simulate river seepage and evaluate seepage-management alternatives.

Multiple piezo-patch energy harvesters integrated to a thin plate with AC-DC conversion: analytical modeling and numerical validation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aghakhani, Amirreza; Basdogan, Ipek; Erturk, Alper

2016-04-01

Plate-like components are widely used in numerous automotive, marine, and aerospace applications where they can be employed as host structures for vibration based energy harvesting. Piezoelectric patch harvesters can be easily attached to these structures to convert the vibrational energy to the electrical energy. Power output investigations of these harvesters require accurate models for energy harvesting performance evaluation and optimization. Equivalent circuit modeling of the cantilever-based vibration energy harvesters for estimation of electrical response has been proposed in recent years. However, equivalent circuit formulation and analytical modeling of multiple piezo-patch energy harvesters integrated to thin plates including nonlinear circuits has not been studied. In this study, equivalent circuit model of multiple parallel piezoelectric patch harvesters together with a resistive load is built in electronic circuit simulation software SPICE and voltage frequency response functions (FRFs) are validated using the analytical distributedparameter model. Analytical formulation of the piezoelectric patches in parallel configuration for the DC voltage output is derived while the patches are connected to a standard AC-DC circuit. The analytic model is based on the equivalent load impedance approach for piezoelectric capacitance and AC-DC circuit elements. The analytic results are validated numerically via SPICE simulations. Finally, DC power outputs of the harvesters are computed and compared with the peak power amplitudes in the AC output case.

Modelling and simulation of fuel cell dynamics for electrical energy usage of Hercules airplanes.

PubMed

Radmanesh, Hamid; Heidari Yazdi, Seyed Saeid; Gharehpetian, G B; Fathi, S H

2014-01-01

Dynamics of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) with hydrogen storage system for generating part of Hercules airplanes electrical energy is presented. Feasibility of using fuel cell (FC) for this airplane is evaluated by means of simulations. Temperature change and dual layer capacity effect are considered in all simulations. Using a three-level 3-phase inverter, FC's output voltage is connected to the essential bus of the airplane. Moreover, it is possible to connect FC's output voltage to airplane DC bus alternatively. PID controller is presented to control flow of hydrogen and oxygen to FC and improve transient and steady state responses of the output voltage to load disturbances. FC's output voltage is regulated via an ultracapacitor. Simulations are carried out via MATLAB/SIMULINK and results show that the load tracking and output voltage regulation are acceptable. The proposed system utilizes an electrolyser to generate hydrogen and a tank for storage. Therefore, there is no need for batteries. Moreover, the generated oxygen could be used in other applications in airplane.

Modelling and Simulation of Fuel Cell Dynamics for Electrical Energy Usage of Hercules Airplanes

PubMed Central

Radmanesh, Hamid; Heidari Yazdi, Seyed Saeid; Gharehpetian, G. B.; Fathi, S. H.

2014-01-01

Dynamics of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) with hydrogen storage system for generating part of Hercules airplanes electrical energy is presented. Feasibility of using fuel cell (FC) for this airplane is evaluated by means of simulations. Temperature change and dual layer capacity effect are considered in all simulations. Using a three-level 3-phase inverter, FC's output voltage is connected to the essential bus of the airplane. Moreover, it is possible to connect FC's output voltage to airplane DC bus alternatively. PID controller is presented to control flow of hydrogen and oxygen to FC and improve transient and steady state responses of the output voltage to load disturbances. FC's output voltage is regulated via an ultracapacitor. Simulations are carried out via MATLAB/SIMULINK and results show that the load tracking and output voltage regulation are acceptable. The proposed system utilizes an electrolyser to generate hydrogen and a tank for storage. Therefore, there is no need for batteries. Moreover, the generated oxygen could be used in other applications in airplane. PMID:24782664

Reliability of hybrid photovoltaic DC micro-grid systems for emergency shelters and other applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dhere, Neelkanth G.; Schleith, Susan

2014-10-01

Improvement of energy efficiency in the SunSmart Schools Emergency Shelters requires new methods for optimizing the energy consumption within the shelters. One major limitation in current systems is the requirement of converting direct current (DC) power generated from the PV array into alternating current (AC) power which is distributed throughout the shelters. Oftentimes, this AC power is then converted back to DC to run certain appliances throughout the shelters resulting in a significant waste of energy due to DC to AC and then again AC to DC conversion. This paper seeks to extract the maximum value out of PV systems by directly powering essential load components within the shelters that already run on DC power without the use of an inverter and above all to make the system reliable and durable. Furthermore, additional DC applications such as LED lighting, televisions, computers and fans operated with DC brushless motors will be installed as replacements to traditional devices in order to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Cost of energy storage technologies continue to decline as new technologies scale up and new incentives are put in place. This will provide a cost effective way to stabilize the energy generation of a PV system as well as to provide continuous energy during night hours. It is planned to develop a pilot program of an integrated system that can provide uninterrupted DC power to essential base load appliances (heating, cooling, lighting, etc.) at the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) command center for disaster management. PV arrays are proposed to be installed on energy efficient test houses at FSEC as well as at private homes having PV arrays where the owners volunteer to participate in the program. It is also planned to monitor the performance of the PV arrays and functioning of the appliances with the aim to improve their reliability and durability. After a successful demonstration of the hybrid DC microgrid based emergency shelter together with the monitoring system, it is planned to replicate it at other schools in Florida and elsewhere to provide continuous power for essential applications, maximizing the value of PV generation systems.

A hydrodynamically suspended, magnetically sealed mechanically noncontact axial flow blood pump: design of a hydrodynamic bearing.

PubMed

Mitamura, Yoshinori; Kido, Kazuyuki; Yano, Tetsuya; Sakota, Daisuke; Yambe, Tomoyuki; Sekine, Kazumitsu; OKamoto, Eiji

2007-03-01

To overcome the drive shaft seal and bearing problem in rotary blood pumps, a hydrodynamic bearing, a magnetic fluid seal, and a brushless direct current (DC) motor were employed in an axial flow pump. This enabled contact-free rotation of the impeller without material wear. The axial flow pump consisted of a brushless DC motor, an impeller, and a guide vane. The motor rotor was directly connected to the impeller by a motor shaft. A hydrodynamic bearing was installed on the motor shaft. The motor and the hydrodynamic bearing were housed in a cylindrical casing and were waterproofed by a magnetic fluid seal, a mechanically noncontact seal. Impeller shaft displacement was measured using a laser sensor. Axial and radial displacements of the shaft were only a few micrometers for motor speed up to 8500 rpm. The shaft did not make contact with the bearing housing. A flow of 5 L/min was obtained at 8000 rpm at a pressure difference of 100 mm Hg. In conclusion, the axial flow blood pump consisting of a hydrodynamic bearing, a magnetic fluid seal, and a brushless DC motor provided contact-free rotation of the impeller without material wear.

Research on DC Micro-grid system of photovoltaic power generation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Yiming; Wang, Xiaohui

2018-01-01

The use of energy has become a topic of concern, the demand of people for power grows in number or quantity with the development of economy. It is necessary to consider using new forms of power supply-microgrid system for distributed power supply. The power supply mode can not only effectively solve the problem of excessive line loss in the large power grid, but also can increase the reliability of the power supply, and is economical and environmental friendly. With the increasing of DC loads, in order to improve the utilization efficiency, the DC microgrid power supply problems are begin to be researched and integrated with the renewable energy sources. This paper researched the development of microgrid, compared AC microgrid with DC microgrid, summarized the distribution of DC bus voltage level, the DC microgrid network form, the control mode and the main power electronics elements of DC microgrid of photovoltaic power generation system. Today, the DC microgrid system is still in the development stage without uniform voltage level standard, however, it will come into service in the future.

Rapid concentration of deoxyribonucleic acid via Joule heating induced temperature gradient focusing in poly-dimethylsiloxane microfluidic channel.

PubMed

Ge, Zhengwei; Wang, Wei; Yang, Chun

2015-02-09

This paper reports rapid microfluidic electrokinetic concentration of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) with the Joule heating induced temperature gradient focusing (TGF) by using our proposed combined AC and DC electric field technique. A peak of 480-fold concentration enhancement of DNA sample is achieved within 40s in a simple poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic channel of a sudden expansion in cross-section. Compared to a sole DC field, the introduction of an AC field can reduce DC field induced back-pressure and produce sufficient Joule heating effects, resulting in higher concentration enhancement. Within such microfluidic channel structure, negative charged DNA analytes can be concentrated at a location where the DNA electrophoretic motion is balanced with the bulk flow driven by DC electroosmosis under an appropriate temperature gradient field. A numerical model accounting for a combined AC and DC field and back-pressure driven flow effects is developed to describe the complex Joule heating induced TGF processes. The experimental observation of DNA concentration phenomena can be explained by the numerical model. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization on performance of micromixer using DC-biased AC electroosmosis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Bi-O.; Song, Simon

2010-11-01

An active micromixer using DC-biased AC-Electroosmosis (ACEO) is investigated to figure out the effects of design parameters on the mixing performance. The mixer consists of a straight microchannel, with a cross section of 60 x 100 μm, and gold electrode pairs fabricated in the microchannel. The design parameters include the number of electrode pairs, flow rate, DC-biased voltage, AC voltage and AC frequency. First, we found that a mixing index became 80% 100 μm downstream of a single electrode pair with a length of 2 mm when applying a 25Vpp, 2.0 VDC, 100 kHz sine signal to the electrodes. With decreasing AC frequency, the mixing index is affected little. But the mixing index significantly increases with increasing either DC-biased voltage or AC voltage. Also, we were able to increase the mixing index up to 90% by introducing alternating vortices with multiple electrode pairs. Finally, we discovered that the mixing index decreases as the flow rate increases in the microchannel, and there is an optimal number of electrode pairs with respect to a flow rate. Detailed quantitative measurement results will be presented at the meeting.

Solid-state power controller

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fox, D. A.; Fullemann, J. S.

1980-01-01

Compact, solid state, electric-power controller switches power on and off at remote load, limits current drawn by load, and shuts off (with 2- to 3- second trip time) in case of short circuit. Lightweight efficient hybrid unit operates at 28 volts dc and at maximum currents of from 3 to 2 amperes.

Computer simulation of a cruise missile using brushless dc motor fin control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Franklin, G. C.

1985-03-01

This thesis describes a computer simulation developed in order to provide a method of establishing the potential of brushless dc motors for applications to tactical cruise missile control surface positioning. In particular, an altitude hold controller has been developed that provides an operational load test condition for the evaluation of the electromechanical actuator. A proportional integral control scheme in conjunction with tachometer feedback provides the position control for the missile tailfin surfaces. The fin control system is further imbedded in a cruise missile model to allow altitude control of the missile. The load on the fin is developed from the dynamic fluid environment that the missile will be operating in and is proportional to such factors as fin size and air density. The program written in CSMP language is suitable for parametric studies including motor and torque load characteristics, and missile and control system parameters.

Design description of the Schuchuli Village photovoltaic power system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ratajczak, A. F.; Vasicek, R. W.; Delombard, R.

1981-01-01

A stand alone photovoltaic (PV) power system for the village of Schuchuli (Gunsight), Arizona, on the Papago Indian Reservation is a limited energy, all 120 V (d.c.) system to which loads cannot be arbitrarily added and consists of a 3.5 kW (peak) PV array, 2380 ampere-hours of battery storage, an electrical equipment building, a 120 V (d.c.) electrical distribution network, and equipment and automatic controls to provide control power for pumping water into an existing water system; operating 15 refrigerators, a clothes washing machine, a sewing machine, and lights for each of the homes and communal buildings. A solar hot water heater supplies hot water for the washing machine and communal laundry. Automatic control systems provide voltage control by limiting the number of PV strings supplying power during system operation and battery charging, and load management for operating high priority at the expense of low priority loads as the main battery becomes depleted.

Fuel cell system

DOEpatents

Early, Jack; Kaufman, Arthur; Stawsky, Alfred

1982-01-01

A fuel cell system is comprised of a fuel cell module including sub-stacks of series-connected fuel cells, the sub-stacks being held together in a stacked arrangement with cold plates of a cooling means located between the sub-stacks to function as electrical terminals. The anode and cathode terminals of the sub-stacks are connected in parallel by means of the coolant manifolds which electrically connect selected cold plates. The system may comprise a plurality of the fuel cell modules connected in series. The sub-stacks are designed to provide a voltage output equivalent to the desired voltage demand of a low voltage, high current DC load such as an electrolytic cell to be driven by the fuel cell system. This arrangement in conjunction with switching means can be used to drive a DC electrical load with a total voltage output selected to match that of the load being driven. This arrangement eliminates the need for expensive voltage regulation equipment.

Power Management Integrated Circuit for Indoor Photovoltaic Energy Harvesting System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, Vipul

In today's world, power dissipation is a main concern for battery operated mobile devices. Key design decisions are being governed by power rather than area/delay because power requirements are growing more stringent every year. Hence, a hybrid power management system is proposed, which uses both a solar panel to harvest energy from indoor lighting and a battery to power the load. The system tracks the maximum power point of the solar panel and regulates the battery and microcontroller output load voltages through the use of an on-chip switched-capacitor DC-DC converter. System performance is verified through simulation at the 180nm technology node and is made to be integrated on-chip with 0.25 second startup time, 79% efficiency, --8/+14% ripple on the load, an average 1micro A of quiescent current (3.7micro W of power) and total on-chip area of 1.8mm2 .

Characterization of polymerized liposomes using a combination of dc and cyclical electrical field-flow fractionation.

PubMed

Sant, Himanshu J; Chakravarty, Siddharth; Merugu, Srinivas; Ferguson, Colin G; Gale, Bruce K

2012-10-02

Characterization of polymerized liposomes (PolyPIPosomes) was carried out using a combination of normal dc electrical field-flow fractionation and cyclical electrical field-flow fractionation (CyElFFF) as an analytical technique. The constant nature of the carrier fluid and channel configuration for this technique eliminates many variables associated with multidimensional analysis. CyElFFF uses an oscillating field to induce separation and is performed in the same channel as standard dc electrical field-flow fractionation separation. Theory and experimental methods to characterize nanoparticles in terms of their sizes and electrophoretic mobilities are discussed in this paper. Polystyrene nanoparticles are used for system calibration and characterization of the separation performance, whereas polymerized liposomes are used to demonstrate the applicability of the system to biomedical samples. This paper is also the first to report separation and a higher effective field when CyElFFF is operated at very low applied voltages. The technique is shown to have the ability to quantify both particle size and electrophoretic mobility distributions for colloidal polystyrene nanoparticles and PolyPIPosomes.

High-Frequency ac Power-Distribution System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hansen, Irving G.; Mildice, James

1987-01-01

Loads managed automatically under cycle-by-cycle control. 440-V rms, 20-kHz ac power system developed. System flexible, versatile, and "transparent" to user equipment, while maintaining high efficiency and low weight. Electrical source, from dc to 2,200-Hz ac converted to 440-V rms, 20-kHz, single-phase ac. Power distributed through low-inductance cables. Output power either dc or variable ac. Energy transferred per cycle reduced by factor of 50. Number of parts reduced by factor of about 5 and power loss reduced by two-thirds. Factors result in increased reliability and reduced costs. Used in any power-distribution system requiring high efficiency, high reliability, low weight, and flexibility to handle variety of sources and loads.

Qualitative comparison of calculated turbulence responses with wind-tunnel measurements for a DC-10 derivative wing with an active control system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perry, B., III

1981-01-01

Comparisons are presented analytically predicted and experimental turbulence responses of a wind tunnel model of a DC-10 derivative wing equipped with an active control system. The active control system was designed for the purpose of flutter suppression, but it had additional benefit of alleviating gust loads (wing bending moment) by about 25%. Comparisions of various wing responses are presented for variations in active control system parameters and tunnel speed. The analytical turbulence responses were obtained using DYLOFLEX, a computer program for dynamic loads analyses of flexible airplanes with active controls. In general, the analytical predictions agreed reasonably well with the experimental data.

Comparison of Deterministic and Probabilistic Radial Distribution Systems Load Flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Atma Ram; Kumar, Ashwani

2017-12-01

Distribution system network today is facing the challenge of meeting increased load demands from the industrial, commercial and residential sectors. The pattern of load is highly dependent on consumer behavior and temporal factors such as season of the year, day of the week or time of the day. For deterministic radial distribution load flow studies load is taken as constant. But, load varies continually with a high degree of uncertainty. So, there is a need to model probable realistic load. Monte-Carlo Simulation is used to model the probable realistic load by generating random values of active and reactive power load from the mean and standard deviation of the load and for solving a Deterministic Radial Load Flow with these values. The probabilistic solution is reconstructed from deterministic data obtained for each simulation. The main contribution of the work is: Finding impact of probable realistic ZIP load modeling on balanced radial distribution load flow. Finding impact of probable realistic ZIP load modeling on unbalanced radial distribution load flow. Compare the voltage profile and losses with probable realistic ZIP load modeling for balanced and unbalanced radial distribution load flow.

Intelligent Energy Management System for PV-Battery-based Microgrids in Future DC Homes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chauhan, R. K.; Rajpurohit, B. S.; Gonzalez-Longatt, F. M.; Singh, S. N.

2016-06-01

This paper presents a novel intelligent energy management system (IEMS) for a DC microgrid connected to the public utility (PU), photovoltaic (PV) and multi-battery bank (BB). The control objectives of the proposed IEMS system are: (i) to ensure the load sharing (according to the source capacity) among sources, (ii) to reduce the power loss (high efficient) in the system, and (iii) to enhance the system reliability and power quality. The proposed IEMS is novel because it follows the ideal characteristics of the battery (with some assumptions) for the power sharing and the selection of the closest source to minimize the power losses. The IEMS allows continuous and accurate monitoring with intelligent control of distribution system operations such as battery bank energy storage (BBES) system, PV system and customer utilization of electric power. The proposed IEMS gives the better operational performance for operating conditions in terms of load sharing, loss minimization, and reliability enhancement of the DC microgrid.

Theory of multiwave mixing within the superconducting kinetic-inductance traveling-wave amplifier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erickson, R. P.; Pappas, D. P.

2017-03-01

We present a theory of parametric mixing within the coplanar waveguide (CPW) of a superconducting nonlinear kinetic-inductance traveling-wave (KIT) amplifier engineered with periodic dispersion loadings. This is done by first developing a metamaterial band theory of the dispersion-engineered KIT using a Floquet-Bloch construction and then applying it to the description of mixing of the nonlinear RF traveling waves. Our theory allows us to calculate signal gain versus signal frequency in the presence of a frequency stop gap, based solely on loading design. We present results for both three-wave mixing (3WM), with applied dc bias, and four-wave mixing (4WM), without dc. Our theory predicts an intrinsic and deterministic origin to undulations of 4WM signal gain with signal frequency, apart from extrinsic sources, such as impedance mismatch, and shows that such undulations are absent from 3WM signal gain achievable with dc. Our theory is extensible to amplifiers based on Josephson junctions in a lumped LC-ladder transmission line (TWPA).

Integrated Inverter And Battery Charger

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rippel, Wally E.

1988-01-01

Circuit combines functions of dc-to-ac inversion (for driving ac motor in battery-powered vehicle) and ac-to-dc conversion (for charging battery from ac line when vehicle not in use). Automatically adapts to either mode. Design of integrated inverter/charger eliminates need for duplicate components, saves space, reduces weight and cost of vehicle. Advantages in other applications : load-leveling systems, standby ac power systems, and uninterruptible power supplies.

Lightweight Battery Charge Regulator Used to Track Solar Array Peak Power

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soeder, James F.; Button, Robert M.

1999-01-01

A battery charge regulator based on the series-connected boost regulator (SCBR) technology has been developed for high-voltage spacecraft applications. The SCBR regulates the solar array power during insolation to prevent battery overcharge or undercharge conditions. It can also be used to provide regulated battery output voltage to spacecraft loads if necessary. This technology uses industry-standard dc-dc converters and a unique interconnection to provide size, weight, efficiency, fault tolerance, and modularity benefits over existing systems. The high-voltage SCBR shown in the photograph has demonstrated power densities of over 1000 watts per kilogram (W/kg). Using four 150-W dc-dc converter modules, it can process 2500 W of power at 120 Vdc with a minimum input voltage of 90 Vdc. Efficiency of the SCBR was 94 to 98 percent over the entire operational range. Internally, the unit is made of two separate SCBR s, each with its own analog control circuitry, to demonstrate the modularity of the technology. The analog controllers regulate the output current and incorporate the output voltage limit with active current sharing between the two units. They also include voltage and current telemetry, on/off control, and baseplate temperature sensors. For peak power tracking, the SCBR was connected to a LabView-based data acquisition system for telemetry and control. A digital control algorithm for tracking the peak power point of a solar array was developed using the principle of matching the source impedance with the load impedance for maximum energy transfer. The algorithm was successfully demonstrated in a simulated spacecraft electrical system at the Boeing PhantomWorks High Voltage Test Facility in Seattle, Washington. The system consists of a 42-string, high-voltage solar array simulator, a 77-cell, 80-ampere-hour (A-hr) nickel-hydrogen battery, and a constant power-load module. The SCBR and the LabView control algorithm successfully tracked the solar array peak power point through various load transients, including sunlight discharge transients when the total load exceeded the maximum solar array output power.

Modeling, control, and simulation of battery storage photovoltaic-wave energy hybrid renewable power generation systems for island electrification in Malaysia.

PubMed

Samrat, Nahidul Hoque; Bin Ahmad, Norhafizan; Choudhury, Imtiaz Ahmed; Bin Taha, Zahari

2014-01-01

Today, the whole world faces a great challenge to overcome the environmental problems related to global energy production. Most of the islands throughout the world depend on fossil fuel importation with respect to energy production. Recent development and research on green energy sources can assure sustainable power supply for the islands. But unpredictable nature and high dependency on weather conditions are the main limitations of renewable energy sources. To overcome this drawback, different renewable sources and converters need to be integrated with each other. This paper proposes a standalone hybrid photovoltaic- (PV-) wave energy conversion system with energy storage. In the proposed hybrid system, control of the bidirectional buck-boost DC-DC converter (BBDC) is used to maintain the constant dc-link voltage. It also accumulates the excess hybrid power in the battery bank and supplies this power to the system load during the shortage of hybrid power. A three-phase complex vector control scheme voltage source inverter (VSI) is used to control the load side voltage in terms of the frequency and voltage amplitude. Based on the simulation results obtained from Matlab/Simulink, it has been found that the overall hybrid framework is capable of working under the variable weather and load conditions.

Modeling, Control, and Simulation of Battery Storage Photovoltaic-Wave Energy Hybrid Renewable Power Generation Systems for Island Electrification in Malaysia

PubMed Central

Samrat, Nahidul Hoque; Ahmad, Norhafizan Bin; Choudhury, Imtiaz Ahmed; Taha, Zahari Bin

2014-01-01

Today, the whole world faces a great challenge to overcome the environmental problems related to global energy production. Most of the islands throughout the world depend on fossil fuel importation with respect to energy production. Recent development and research on green energy sources can assure sustainable power supply for the islands. But unpredictable nature and high dependency on weather conditions are the main limitations of renewable energy sources. To overcome this drawback, different renewable sources and converters need to be integrated with each other. This paper proposes a standalone hybrid photovoltaic- (PV-) wave energy conversion system with energy storage. In the proposed hybrid system, control of the bidirectional buck-boost DC-DC converter (BBDC) is used to maintain the constant dc-link voltage. It also accumulates the excess hybrid power in the battery bank and supplies this power to the system load during the shortage of hybrid power. A three-phase complex vector control scheme voltage source inverter (VSI) is used to control the load side voltage in terms of the frequency and voltage amplitude. Based on the simulation results obtained from Matlab/Simulink, it has been found that the overall hybrid framework is capable of working under the variable weather and load conditions. PMID:24892049

Technical Study of a Standalone Photovoltaic–Wind Energy Based Hybrid Power Supply Systems for Island Electrification in Malaysia

PubMed Central

Samrat, Nahidul Hoque; Ahmad, Norhafizan; Choudhury, Imtiaz Ahmed; Taha, Zahari

2015-01-01

Energy is one of the most important factors in the socioeconomic development of a country. In a developing country like Malaysia, the development of islands is mostly related to the availability of electric power. Power generated by renewable energy sources has recently become one of the most promising solutions for the electrification of islands and remote rural areas. But high dependency on weather conditions and the unpredictable nature of these renewable energy sources are the main drawbacks. To overcome this weakness, different green energy sources and power electronic converters need to be integrated with each other. This study presents a battery storage hybrid standalone photovoltaic-wind energy power supply system. In the proposed standalone hybrid system, a DC-DC buck-boost bidirectional converter controller is used to accumulates the surplus hybrid power in the battery bank and supplies this power to the load during the hybrid power shortage by maintaining the constant dc-link voltage. A three-phase voltage source inverter complex vector control scheme is used to control the load side voltage in terms of the voltage amplitude and frequency. Based on the simulation results obtained from MATLAB/Simulink, it has been found that the overall hybrid framework is capable of working under variable weather and load conditions. PMID:26121032

Technical Study of a Standalone Photovoltaic-Wind Energy Based Hybrid Power Supply Systems for Island Electrification in Malaysia.

PubMed

Samrat, Nahidul Hoque; Ahmad, Norhafizan; Choudhury, Imtiaz Ahmed; Taha, Zahari

2015-01-01

Energy is one of the most important factors in the socioeconomic development of a country. In a developing country like Malaysia, the development of islands is mostly related to the availability of electric power. Power generated by renewable energy sources has recently become one of the most promising solutions for the electrification of islands and remote rural areas. But high dependency on weather conditions and the unpredictable nature of these renewable energy sources are the main drawbacks. To overcome this weakness, different green energy sources and power electronic converters need to be integrated with each other. This study presents a battery storage hybrid standalone photovoltaic-wind energy power supply system. In the proposed standalone hybrid system, a DC-DC buck-boost bidirectional converter controller is used to accumulates the surplus hybrid power in the battery bank and supplies this power to the load during the hybrid power shortage by maintaining the constant dc-link voltage. A three-phase voltage source inverter complex vector control scheme is used to control the load side voltage in terms of the voltage amplitude and frequency. Based on the simulation results obtained from MATLAB/Simulink, it has been found that the overall hybrid framework is capable of working under variable weather and load conditions.

Load-Flow in Multiphase Distribution Networks: Existence, Uniqueness, Non-Singularity, and Linear Models

DOE PAGES

Bernstein, Andrey; Wang, Cong; Dall'Anese, Emiliano; ...

2018-01-01

This paper considers unbalanced multiphase distribution systems with generic topology and different load models, and extends the Z-bus iterative load-flow algorithm based on a fixed-point interpretation of the AC load-flow equations. Explicit conditions for existence and uniqueness of load-flow solutions are presented. These conditions also guarantee convergence of the load-flow algorithm to the unique solution. The proposed methodology is applicable to generic systems featuring (i) wye connections; (ii) ungrounded delta connections; (iii) a combination of wye-connected and delta-connected sources/loads; and, (iv) a combination of line-to-line and line-to-grounded-neutral devices at the secondary of distribution transformers. Further, a sufficient condition for themore » non-singularity of the load-flow Jacobian is proposed. Finally, linear load-flow models are derived, and their approximation accuracy is analyzed. Theoretical results are corroborated through experiments on IEEE test feeders.« less

Load-Flow in Multiphase Distribution Networks: Existence, Uniqueness, Non-Singularity, and Linear Models

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bernstein, Andrey; Wang, Cong; Dall'Anese, Emiliano

This paper considers unbalanced multiphase distribution systems with generic topology and different load models, and extends the Z-bus iterative load-flow algorithm based on a fixed-point interpretation of the AC load-flow equations. Explicit conditions for existence and uniqueness of load-flow solutions are presented. These conditions also guarantee convergence of the load-flow algorithm to the unique solution. The proposed methodology is applicable to generic systems featuring (i) wye connections; (ii) ungrounded delta connections; (iii) a combination of wye-connected and delta-connected sources/loads; and, (iv) a combination of line-to-line and line-to-grounded-neutral devices at the secondary of distribution transformers. Further, a sufficient condition for themore » non-singularity of the load-flow Jacobian is proposed. Finally, linear load-flow models are derived, and their approximation accuracy is analyzed. Theoretical results are corroborated through experiments on IEEE test feeders.« less

60. Photographic copy of historic photo, April 25, 1907 (original ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

60. Photographic copy of historic photo, April 25, 1907 (original print filed in Record Group 115, National Archives, Washington, D.C.). UPPER DEER FLAT EMBANKMENT. STEAM SHOVEL NO. 1 LOADING CARS IN EASTERLY BORROW PIT. CARS IN THIS TRAIN OF 12 NEARLY ALL LOADED. EAIGHT MINUTES REQUIRED TO LOAD 12 CARS EQUAL TO 42 CU YDS. PLACE MEASUREMENT. - Boise Project, Deer Flat Embankments, Lake Lowell, Nampa, Canyon County, ID

Design and power management of an offshore medium voltage DC microgrid realized through high voltage power electronics technologies and control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grainger, Brandon Michael

The growth in the electric power industry's portfolio of Direct Current (DC) based generation and loads have captured the attention of many leading research institutions. Opportunities for using DC based systems have been explored in electric ship design and have been a proven, reliable solution for transmitting bulk power onshore and offshore. To integrate many of the renewable resources into our existing AC grid, a number of power conversions through power electronics are required to condition the equipment for direct connection. Within the power conversion stages, there is always a requirement to convert to or from DC. The AC microgrid is a conceptual solution proposed for integrating various types of renewable generation resources. The fundamental microgrid requirements include the capability of operating in islanding mode and/or grid connected modes. The technical challenges associated with microgrids include (1) operation modes and transitions that comply with IEEE1547 without extensive custom engineering and (2) control architecture and communication. The Medium Voltage DC (MVDC) architecture, explored by the University of Pittsburgh, can be visualized as a special type of DC microgrid. This dissertation is multi-faceted, focused on many design aspects of an offshore DC microgrid. The focal points of the discussion are focused on optimized high power, high frequency magnetic material performance in electric machines, transformers, and DC/DC power converters---all components found within offshore, power system architectures. A new controller design based upon model reference control is proposed and shown to stabilize the electric motor drives (modeled as constant power loads), which serve as the largest power consuming entities in the microgrid. The design and simulation of a state-of-the-art multilevel converter for High Voltage DC (HVDC) is discussed and a component sensitivity analysis on fault current peaks is explored. A power management routine is proposed and evaluated as the DC microgrid is disturbed through various mode transitions. Finally, two communication protocols are described for the microgrid---one to minimize communication overhead inside the microgrid and another to provide robust and scalable intra-grid communication. The work presented is supported by Asea Brown Boveri (ABB) Corporate Research Center within the Active Grid Infrastructure program, the Advanced Research Project Agency - Energy (ARPA-E) through the Solar ADEPT program, and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (MELCO).

Experimental and modeling study of high performance direct carbon solid oxide fuel cell with in situ catalytic steam-carbon gasification reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Haoran; Chen, Bin; Zhang, Houcheng; Tan, Peng; Yang, Guangming; Irvine, John T. S.; Ni, Meng

2018-04-01

In this paper, 2D models for direct carbon solid oxide fuel cells (DC-SOFCs) with in situ catalytic steam-carbon gasification reaction are developed. The simulation results are found to be in good agreement with experimental data. The performance of DC-SOFCs with and without catalyst are compared at different operating potential, anode inlet gas flow rate and operating temperature. It is found that adding suitable catalyst can significantly speed up the in situ steam-carbon gasification reaction and improve the performance of DC-SOFC with H2O as gasification agent. The potential of syngas and electricity co-generation from the fuel cell is also evaluated, where the composition of H2 and CO in syngas can be adjusted by controlling the anode inlet gas flow rate. In addition, the performance DC-SOFCs and the percentage of fuel in the outlet gas are both increased with increasing operating temperature. At a reduced temperature (below 800 °C), good performance of DC-SOFC can still be obtained with in-situ catalytic carbon gasification by steam. The results of this study form a solid foundation to understand the important effect of catalyst and related operating conditions on H2O-assisted DC-SOFCs.

Low-temperature operation of a Buck DC/DC converter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, Biswajit; Gerber, Scott S.; Patterson, Richard L.; Myers, Ira T.

1995-01-01

Low-temperature (77 K) operation of a 42/28 V, 175 W, 50 kHz PWM Buck DC/DC converter designed with commercially available components is reported. Overall, the converter losses decreased at 77 K compared to room temperature operation. A full-load efficiency of 97 percent was recorded at liquid-nitrogen temperature, compared to 95.8 percent at room temperature. Power MOSFET operation improved significantly where as the output rectifier operation deteriorated at low-temperature. The performance of the output filter inductor and capacitor did not change significantly at 77 K compared to room temperature performance. It is possible to achieve high-density and high efficiency power conversion at low-temperatures due to improved electronic, electrical and thermal properties of materials.

Prophylactic Dendritic Cell-Based Vaccines Efficiently Inhibit Metastases in Murine Metastatic Melanoma.

PubMed

Markov, Oleg V; Mironova, Nadezhda L; Sennikov, Sergey V; Vlassov, Valentin V; Zenkova, Marina A

2015-01-01

Recent data on the application of dendritic cells (DCs) as anti-tumor vaccines has shown their great potential in therapy and prophylaxis of cancer. Here we report on a comparison of two treatment schemes with DCs that display the models of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccination using three different experimental tumor models: namely, Krebs-2 adenocarcinoma (primary tumor), melanoma (B16, metastatic tumor without a primary node) and Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC, metastatic tumor with a primary node). Dendritic cells generated from bone marrow-derived DC precursors and loaded with lysate of tumor cells or transfected with the complexes of total tumor RNA with cationic liposomes were used for vaccination. Lipofectamine 2000 and liposomes consisting of helper lipid DOPE (1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine) and cationic lipid 2D3 (1,26-Bis(1,2-de-O-tetradecyl-rac-glycerol)-7,11,16,20-tetraazahexacosan tetrahydrocloride) were used for RNA transfection. It was shown that DCs loaded with tumor lysate were ineffective in contrast to tumor-derived RNA. Therapeutic vaccination with DCs loaded by lipoplexes RNA/Lipofectamine 2000 was the most efficient for treatment of non-metastatic Krebs-2, where a 1.9-fold tumor growth retardation was observed. Single prophylactic vaccination with DCs loaded by lipoplexes RNA/2D3 was the most efficient to treat highly aggressive metastatic tumors LLC and B16, where 4.7- and 10-fold suppression of the number of lung metastases was observed, respectively. Antimetastatic effect of single prophylactic DC vaccination in metastatic melanoma model was accompanied by the reductions in the levels of Th2-specific cytokines however the change of the levels of Th1/Th2/Th17 master regulators was not found. Failure of double prophylactic vaccination is explained by Th17-response polarization associated with autoimmune and pro-inflammatory reactions. In the case of therapeutic DC vaccine the polarization of Th1-response was found nevertheless the antimetastatic effect was less effective in comparison with prophylactic DC vaccine.

Analytical modeling of the dynamics of brushless dc motors for aerospace applications: A conceptual framework

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Demerdash, N. A. O.

1976-01-01

The modes of operation of the brushless d.c. machine and its corresponding characteristics (current flow, torque-position, etc.) are presented. The foundations and basic principles on which the preliminary numerical model is based, are discussed.

Investigation of wing upper surface flow-field disturbance due to NASA DC-8-72 in-flight inboard thrust-reverser deployment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hamid, Hedayat U.; Margason, Richard J.; Hardy, Gordon

1995-01-01

An investigation of the wing upper surface flow-field disturbance due to in-flight inboard thrust reverser deployment on the NASA DC-8-72, which was conducted cooperatively by NASA Ames, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), McDonnell Douglas, and the Aerospace Industry Association (AIA), is outlined and discussed in detail. The purpose of this flight test was to obtain tufted flow visualization data which demonstrates the effect of thrust reverser deployment on the wing upper surface flow field to determine if the disturbed flow regions could be modeled by computational methods. A total of six symmetric thrust reversals of the two inboard engines were performed to monitor tuft and flow cone patterns as well as the character of their movement at the nominal Mach numbers of 0.55, 0.70, and 0.85. The tufts and flow cones were photographed and video-taped to determine the type of flow field that occurs with and without the thrust reversers deployed. In addition, the normal NASA DC-8 onboard Data Acquisition Distribution System (DADS) was used to synchronize the cameras. Results of this flight test will be presented in two parts. First, three distinct flow patterns associated with the above Mach numbers were sketched from the motion videos and discussed in detail. Second, other relevant aircraft parameters, such as aircraft's angular orientation, altitude, Mach number, and vertical descent, are discussed. The flight test participants' comments were recorded on the videos and the interested reader is referred to the video supplement section of this report for that information.

Characterization of blood dendritic and regulatory T cells in asymptomatic adults with sub-microscopic Plasmodium falciparum or Plasmodium vivax infection.

PubMed

Kho, Steven; Marfurt, Jutta; Handayuni, Irene; Pava, Zuleima; Noviyanti, Rintis; Kusuma, Andreas; Piera, Kim A; Burdam, Faustina H; Kenangalem, Enny; Lampah, Daniel A; Engwerda, Christian R; Poespoprodjo, Jeanne R; Price, Ric N; Anstey, Nicholas M; Minigo, Gabriela; Woodberry, Tonia

2016-06-21

Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax infections compromise dendritic cell (DC) function and expand regulatory T (Treg) cells in both clinical disease (malaria) and experimental human sub-microscopic infection. Conversely, in asymptomatic microscopy-positive (patent) P. falciparum or P. vivax infection in endemic areas, blood DC increase or retain HLA-DR expression and Treg cells exhibit reduced activation, suggesting that DC and Treg cells contribute to the control of patent asymptomatic infection. The effect of sub-microscopic (sub-patent) asymptomatic Plasmodium infection on DC and Treg cells in malaria-endemic area residents remains unclear. In a cross-sectional household survey conducted in Papua, Indonesia, 162 asymptomatic adults were prospectively evaluated for DC and Treg cells using field-based flow cytometry. Of these, 161 individuals (99 %) were assessed retrospectively by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), 19 of whom had sub-microscopic infection with P. falciparum and 15 with sub-microscopic P. vivax infection. Flow cytometric data were re-analysed after re-grouping asymptomatic individuals according to PCR results into negative controls, sub-microscopic and microscopic parasitaemia to examine DC and Treg cell phenotype in sub-microscopic infection. Asymptomatic adults with sub-microscopic P. falciparum or P. vivax infection had DC HLA-DR expression and Treg cell activation comparable to PCR-negative controls. Sub-microscopic P. falciparum infection was associated with lower peripheral CD4(+) T cells and lymphocytes, however sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection had no apparent effect on DC sub-set number or Treg cell frequency. In contrast to the impairment of DC maturation/function and the activation of Treg cells seen with sub-microscopic parasitaemia in primary experimental human Plasmodium infection, no phenotypic evidence of dysregulation of DC and Treg cells was observed in asymptomatic sub-microscopic Plasmodium infection in Indonesian adults. This is consistent with DC and Treg cells retaining their functional capacity in sub-microscopic asymptomatic infection with P. falciparum or P. vivax in malaria-endemic areas.

47 CFR 90.631 - Trunked systems loading, construction and authorization requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... authorization requirements. (a) Non-SMR trunked systems will be authorized on the basis of a loading criteria of... minimum of seventy (70) mobiles for each channel authorized will be placed into operation within five (5...; Washington, DC; Dallas-Fort Worth, TX; Miami, FL; Cleveland, OH; St. Louis, MO; Atlanta, GA; Pittsburgh, PA...

47 CFR 90.631 - Trunked systems loading, construction and authorization requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... authorization requirements. (a) Non-SMR trunked systems will be authorized on the basis of a loading criteria of... minimum of seventy (70) mobiles for each channel authorized will be placed into operation within five (5..., TX; Washington, DC; Dallas-Fort Worth, TX; Miami, FL; Cleveland, OH; St. Louis, MO; Atlanta, GA...

47 CFR 90.631 - Trunked systems loading, construction and authorization requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... authorization requirements. (a) Non-SMR trunked systems will be authorized on the basis of a loading criteria of... minimum of seventy (70) mobiles for each channel authorized will be placed into operation within five (5..., TX; Washington, DC; Dallas-Fort Worth, TX; Miami, FL; Cleveland, OH; St. Louis, MO; Atlanta, GA...

An In-Rush Current Suppression Technique for the Solid-State Transfer Switch System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Po-Tai; Chen, Yu-Hsing

More and more utility companies provide dual power feeders as a premier service of high power quality and reliability. To take advantage of this, the solid-state transfer switch (STS) is adopted to protect the sensitive load against the voltage sag. However, the fast transfer process may cause in-rush current on the load-side transformer due to the resulting DC-offset in its magnetic flux as the load-transfer is completed. The in-rush current can reach 2∼6 p.u. and it may trigger the over-current protections on the power feeder. This paper develops a flux estimation scheme and a thyristor gating scheme based on the impulse commutation bridge STS (ICBSTS) to minimize the DC-offset on the magnetic flux. By sensing the line voltages of both feeders, the flux estimator can predict the peak transient flux linkage at the moment of load-transfer and evaluate a suitable moment for the transfer to minimize the in-rush current. Laboratory test results are presented to validate the performance of the proposed system.

Model Based Optimization of Integrated Low Voltage DC-DC Converter for Energy Harvesting Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jayaweera, H. M. P. C.; Muhtaroğlu, Ali

2016-11-01

A novel model based methodology is presented to determine optimal device parameters for the fully integrated ultra low voltage DC-DC converter for energy harvesting applications. The proposed model feasibly contributes to determine the maximum efficient number of charge pump stages to fulfill the voltage requirement of the energy harvester application. The proposed DC-DC converter based power consumption model enables the analytical derivation of the charge pump efficiency when utilized simultaneously with the known LC tank oscillator behavior under resonant conditions, and voltage step up characteristics of the cross-coupled charge pump topology. The verification of the model has been done using a circuit simulator. The optimized system through the established model achieves more than 40% maximum efficiency yielding 0.45 V output with single stage, 0.75 V output with two stages, and 0.9 V with three stages for 2.5 kΩ, 3.5 kΩ and 5 kΩ loads respectively using 0.2 V input.

DC Microgrids Scoping Study. Estimate of Technical and Economic Benefits

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Backhaus, Scott N.; Swift, Gregory William; Chatzivasileiadis, Spyridon

Microgrid demonstrations and deployments are expanding in US power systems and around the world. Although goals are specific to each site, these microgrids have demonstrated the ability to provide higher reliability and higher power quality than utility power systems and improved energy utilization. The vast majority of these microgrids are based on AC power transfer because this has been the traditionally dominant power delivery scheme. Independently, manufacturers, power system designers and researchers are demonstrating and deploying DC power distribution systems for applications where the end-use loads are natively DC, e.g., computers, solid-state lighting, and building networks. These early DC applicationsmore » may provide higher efficiency, added flexibility, reduced capital costs over their AC counterparts. Further, when onsite renewable generation, electric vehicles and storage systems are present, DC-based microgrids may offer additional benefits. Early successes from these efforts raises a question - can a combination of microgrid concepts and DC distribution systems provide added benefits beyond what has been achieved individually?« less

Simian virus 40 inhibits differentiation and maturation of rhesus macaque DC-SIGN(+) dendritic cells.

PubMed

Changyong, C; Sun, M; Li, H; Brockmeyer, N; Wu, Nan Ping

2010-09-24

Dendritic cells (DC) are the initiators and modulators of the immune responses. Some species of pathogenic microorganisms have developed immune evasion strategies by controlling antigen presentation function of DC. Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a DNA tumor virus of rhesus monkey origin. It can induce cell transformation and tumorigenesis in many vertebrate species, but often causes no visible effects and persists as a latent infection in rhesus monkeys under natural conditions. To investigate the interaction between SV40 and rhesus monkey DC, rhesus monkey peripheral blood monocyte-derived DC were induced using recombinant human Interleukin-4 (rhIL-4) and infective SV40, the phenotype and function of DC-specific intracellular adhesion molecule-3 grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN)(+) DC were analyzed by flow cytometry (FCM) and mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). Results showed that SV40 can down-regulate the expression of CD83 and CD86 on DC and impair DC-induced activation of T cell proliferation. These findings suggest that SV40 might also cause immune suppression by influencing differentiation and maturation of DC.

Effect of pneumotach on measurement of vocal function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walters, Gage; McPhail, Michael; Krane, Michael

2017-11-01

Aerodynamic and acoustic measurements of vocal function were performed in a physical model of the human airway with and without a pneumotach (Rothenberg mask), used by clinicians to measure vocal volume flow. The purpose of these experiments was to assess whether the device alters acoustic and aerodynamic conditions sufficiently to change phonation behavior. The airway model, which mimics acoustic behavior of an adult human airway from trachea to mouth, consists of a 31.5cm long straight duct with a 2.54cm square cross section. Model vocal folds comprised of molded silicone rubber were set into vibration by introducing airflow from a compressed air source. Measurements included transglottal pressure difference, mean volume flow, vocal fold vibratory motion, and sound pressure measured at the mouth. The experiments show that while the pneumotach imparted measurable aerodynamic and acoustic loads on the system, measurement of mean glottal resistance was not affected. Acoustic pressure levels were attenuated, however, suggesting clinical acoustic measurements of vocal function need correction when performed in conjunction with a pneumotach Acknowledge support from NIH DC R01005642-11.

Verification of Space Station Secondary Power System Stability Using Design of Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Karimi, Kamiar J.; Booker, Andrew J.; Mong, Alvin C.; Manners, Bruce

1998-01-01

This paper describes analytical methods used in verification of large DC power systems with applications to the International Space Station (ISS). Large DC power systems contain many switching power converters with negative resistor characteristics. The ISS power system presents numerous challenges with respect to system stability such as complex sources and undefined loads. The Space Station program has developed impedance specifications for sources and loads. The overall approach to system stability consists of specific hardware requirements coupled with extensive system analysis and testing. Testing of large complex distributed power systems is not practical due to size and complexity of the system. Computer modeling has been extensively used to develop hardware specifications as well as to identify system configurations for lab testing. The statistical method of Design of Experiments (DoE) is used as an analysis tool for verification of these large systems. DOE reduces the number of computer runs which are necessary to analyze the performance of a complex power system consisting of hundreds of DC/DC converters. DoE also provides valuable information about the effect of changes in system parameters on the performance of the system. DoE provides information about various operating scenarios and identification of the ones with potential for instability. In this paper we will describe how we have used computer modeling to analyze a large DC power system. A brief description of DoE is given. Examples using applications of DoE to analysis and verification of the ISS power system are provided.

The influence of changes in blood flow on the accuracy of pulse oximetry in humans.

PubMed

Vegfors, M; Lindberg, L G; Lennmarken, C

1992-05-01

Oxygen saturation (SpO2) was measured with a pulse oximeter in ten healthy, young men breathing air. A pulse oximeter probe was attached to the second toe and a laser Doppler probe to the first toe of the same foot for measurement of changes in peripheral blood flow. The pulse oximeter and laser Doppler readings were simultaneously compared when the foot was positioned 40 cm (position 1) above heart level, elevated 10 cm (position 2) above heart level and horizontally at heart level (position 3). Using this experimental human model, we achieved various blood flows. The AC and DC optical signals used for determination of oxygen saturation were recorded from the pulse oximeter and analysed. There was a significant increase (P less than 0.05) between position 1 and 3 in blood flow as measured by the laser Doppler flow meter. The corresponding pulse oximeter readings of haemoglobin saturation also increased significantly (P less than 0.05) comparing these two leg positions. Analysing the AC- and DC optical signals, the AC value of infrared light increased considerably, while the AC value of the red light decreased slightly. The DC values of red and infrared light did not change significantly. In summary, when blood flow was decreased, the ratio of red to infrared transmitted light was changed, resulting in a low SpO2 reading.

Experimental Discussion on a 6-kW, 2-kWh Battery Energy Storage System Using a Bidirectional Isolated DC/DC Converter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abe, Takahiro; Tan, Nadia Mei Lin; Akagi, Hirofumi

This paper presents an experimental discussion on a 6-kW, full-bridge, zero-voltage switching bidirectional isolated dc/dc converter for a 53.2-V, 2-kWh Li-ion battery energy storage system. The combination of high-frequency switching devices, 600-V/200-A IGBTs and 100-V/500-A MOSFETs with a high-frequency transformer reduces the weight and physical size of the bidirectional isolated dc/dc converter. The dc voltage on the high-voltage side of the converter is controlled in a range of 300V to 355V as the battery voltage on the low-voltage side varies from 50V to 59V. Experimental verification of bidirectional power flow into (battery charging) or out of (battery discharging) the Li-ion battery bank is also presented. The maximal efficiency of the dc/dc converter is measured to be 98.1% during charging and 98.2% during discharging, excluding the gate drive loss and control circuit loss.

Pulsed-DC DBD Plasma Actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duong, Alan; Corke, Thomas; Thomas, Flint

2017-11-01

A power system for dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma actuators that utilizes a pulsed-DC waveform is presented. The plasma actuator arrangement is identical to most typical AC-DBD designs with staggered electrodes that are separated by a dielectric insulator. A key difference is that the pulsed-DC actuator utilizes a DC voltage source to drive the actuator instead of an AC voltage input. The DC source is supplied to both electrodes. The exposed electrode remains constant in time while the encapsulated electrode is periodically grounded for short instances then is allowed to rise to the source DC level. Further investigation of the pulsed-DC plasma actuator was conducted. Time-resolved velocity measurements were done to characterize the induced velocity field generated by the pulsed-DC plasma actuator. A model of the pulsed-DC plasma actuator is developed in LTspice for further study. The work presented are intended in developing a model to be used in CFD flow control simulations. NASA SBIR NNX14CC12C.

Zener diode controls switching of large direct currents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1965-01-01

High-current zener diode is connected in series with the positive input terminal of a dc supply to block the flow of direct current until a high-frequency control signal is applied across the zener diode. This circuit controls the switching of large dc signals.

[Removal of SO2 from flue gas by water vapor DC corona discharge].

PubMed

Sun, Ming; Wu, Yan

2006-07-01

The influence of several factors on removal rate of SO2 from flue gas in unsaturated water vapor DC corona discharge was researched. Furthermore, the experiments of the removal rate of SO2 in pulsed discharge increased by water vapor DC corona discharge plasma were conducted. The experiment system is supplied with multi-nozzle-plate electrodes and the flow of simulated flue gas is under 70 m3/h. The results show that removal rate of SO2 can be improved by increasing the concentration of water vapor, intensity of electric field or decreasing flow of simulated flue gas. In unsaturated water vapor DC corona discharge, removal rate of SO2 can be improved by 10%, when NH3 is added as NH3 and SO2 is in a mole ratio of two to one, it can reach 60%. The removal rate of SO2 can be increased by 5% in pulsed corona discharge and reach above 90%.

Joule heating effects on electroosmotic flow in insulator-based dielectrophoresis.

PubMed

Sridharan, Sriram; Zhu, Junjie; Hu, Guoqing; Xuan, Xiangchun

2011-09-01

Insulator-based dielectrophoresis (iDEP) is an emerging technology that has been successfully used to manipulate a variety of particles in microfluidic devices. However, due to the locally amplified electric field around the in-channel insulator, Joule heating often becomes an unavoidable issue that may disturb the electroosmotic flow and affect the particle motion. This work presents the first experimental study of Joule heating effects on electroosmotic flow in a typical iDEP device, e.g., a constriction microchannel, under DC-biased AC voltages. A numerical model is also developed to simulate the observed flow pattern by solving the coupled electric, energy, and fluid equations in a simplified two-dimensional geometry. It is observed that depending on the magnitude of the DC voltage, a pair of counter-rotating fluid circulations can occur at either the downstream end alone or each end of the channel constriction. Moreover, the pair at the downstream end appears larger in size than that at the upstream end due to DC electroosmotic flow. These fluid circulations, which are reasonably simulated by the numerical model, form as a result of the action of the electric field on Joule heating-induced fluid inhomogeneities in the constriction region. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Acoustic Emission Monitoring of the DC-XA Composite Liquid Hydrogen Tank During Structural Testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilkerson, C.

1996-01-01

The results of acoustic emission (AE) monitoring of the DC-XA composite liquid hydrogen tank are presented in this report. The tank was subjected to pressurization, tensile, and compressive loads at ambient temperatures and also while full of liquid nitrogen. The tank was also pressurized with liquid hydrogen. AE was used to monitor the tank for signs of structural defects developing during the test.

Stability of large DC power systems using switching converters, with application to the international space station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manners, B.; Gholdston, E. W.; Karimi, K.; Lee, F. C.; Rajagopalan, J.; Panov, Y.

1996-01-01

As space direct current (dc) power systems continue to grow in size, switching power converters are playing an ever larger role in power conditioning and control. When designing a large dc system using power converters of this type, special attention must be placed on the electrical stability of the system and of the individual loads on the system. In the design of the electric power system (EPS) of the International Space Station (ISS), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and its contractor team led by Boeing Defense & Space Group has placed a great deal of emphasis on designing for system and load stability. To achieve this goal, the team has expended considerable effort deriving a dear concept on defining system stability in both a general sense and specifically with respect to the space station. The ISS power system presents numerous challenges with respect to system stability, such as high power, complex sources and undefined loads. To complicate these issues, source and load components have been designed in parallel by three major subcontractors (Boeing, Rocketdyne, and McDonnell Douglas) with interfaces to both sources and loads being designed in different countries (Russia, Japan, Canada, Europe, etc.). These issues, coupled with the program goal of limiting costs, have proven a significant challenge to the program. As a result, the program has derived an impedance specification approach for system stability. This approach is based on the significant relationship between source and load impedances and the effect of this relationship on system stability. This approach is limited in its applicability by the theoretical and practical limits on component designs as presented by each system segment. As a result, the overall approach to system stability implemented by the ISS program consists of specific hardware requirements coupled with extensive system analysis and hardware testing. Following this approach, the ISS program plans to begin construction of the world's largest orbiting power system in 1997.

RaPToRS Sample Delivery System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Henchen, Robert; Shibata, Kye; Krieger, Michael; Pogozelski, Edward; Padalino, Stephen; Glebov, Vladimir; Sangster, Craig

2010-11-01

At various labs (NIF, LLE, NRL), activated material samples are used to measure reaction properties. The Rapid Pneumatic Transport of Radioactive Samples (RaPToRS) system quickly and safely moves these radioactive samples through a closed PVC tube via airflow. The carrier travels from the reaction chamber to the control and analysis station, pneumatically braking at the outlet. A reversible multiplexer routes samples from various locations near the shot chamber to the analysis station. Also, the multiplexer allows users to remotely load unactivated samples without manually approaching the reaction chamber. All elements of the system (pneumatic drivers, flow control valves, optical position sensors, multiplexers, Geiger counters, and release gates at the analysis station) can be controlled manually or automatically using a custom LabVIEW interface. A prototype is currently operating at NRL in Washington DC. Prospective facilities for Raptors systems include LLE and NIF.

Switched-capacitor isolated LED driver

DOEpatents

Sanders, Seth R.; Kline, Mitchell

2016-03-22

A switched-capacitor voltage converter which is particularly well-suited for receiving a line voltage from which to drive current through a series of light emitting diodes (LEDs). Input voltage is rectified in a multi-level rectifier network having switched capacitors in an ascending-bank configuration for passing voltages in uniform steps between zero volts up to full received voltage V.sub.DC. A regulator section, operating on V.sub.DC, comprises switched-capacitor stages of H-bridge switching and flying capacitors. A current controlled oscillator drives the states of the switched-capacitor stages and changes its frequency to maintain a constant current to the load. Embodiments are described for isolating the load from the mains, utilizing an LC tank circuit or a multi-primary-winding transformer.

Gene delivery by microfluidic flow-through electroporation based on constant DC and AC field.

PubMed

Geng, Tao; Zhan, Yihong; Lu, Chang

2012-01-01

Electroporation is one of the most widely used physical methods to deliver exogenous nucleic acids into cells with high efficiency and low toxicity. Conventional electroporation systems typically require expensive pulse generators to provide short electrical pulses at high voltage. In this work, we demonstrate a flow-through electroporation method for continuous transfection of cells based on disposable chips, a syringe pump, and a low-cost power supply that provides a constant voltage. We successfully transfect cells using either DC or AC voltage with high flow rates (ranging from 40 µl/min to 20 ml/min) and high efficiency (up to 75%). We also enable the entire cell membrane to be uniformly permeabilized and dramatically improve gene delivery by inducing complex migrations of cells during the flow.

Geoelectrical Methods and Monitoring for Dam Safety Assessment, Republic of Korea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, S. K.; Oldenburg, D.; Kang, S.; Song, S. H.

2016-12-01

Geoelectrical methods and monitoring to detect the seepage and internal erosion are essential for the safety assessment of earth dams. This work aims to develop improved methodologies to analyze the observed data and to monitor changes in seepage flow using direct current (DC) and self-potential (SP) methods. The seasonal variation of water level at dams causes a change in seepage and water saturation and hence alters the resistivity of the dam material. DC data are sensitive to water saturation and hence changes in saturation can be obtained by repeatedly measuring DC data. However, a more diagnostic parameter for safety assessment is fluid flow, and resistivity is only weakly coupled to that. Fortunately SP signals are directly related to fluid flow, and thus an SP survey has the potential to characterize fluid flow through the earth matrix. In Korea, the safety assessment of earth fill dams has been dealt by Korea Rural Community Corporation (KRC). Most of the dams are relatively old ( >50 years), hence assessing deterioration and corresponding seepage of those dams are crucial. In order to evaluate the engineering geological properties of the soil at earth dams in Korea, two boreholes in each dam were drilled to a bedrock depth that exceeds the height of the dam. A large set of field tests, including standard penetration tests (SPT) and in-situ permeability tests, were carried out along the boreholes. However, seepage paths in the dam is complex hence those limited measurements at a few points is not sufficient to delineate the zone of preferential seepage flow. For this, KRC developed permanent DC monitoring systems at a number of agricultural dams in Korea. The data were automatically collected every 6 hours. During the monitoring, the measurements of the water level at two boreholes were gathered at the same time. In this presentation we select an agricultural dam and delineate an anomalous leakage zone by inverting and interpreting time-lapse DC resistivity data acquired under conditions of variable water level. We use these results to simulate SP signals and investigate their potential in monitoring seepage. Our results lay the foundation for developing an automated analysis of DC and SP data to recognize normal and abnormal conditions and to provide an alert when variations beyond a specified threshold are detected.

Observations of Gas-Liquid Flows Through Contractions in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McQuillen, John

1996-01-01

Tests were conducted for an air-water flow through two sudden contractions aboard the NASA DC-9 low gravity aircraft. Flow rate, residual accelerations, void fraction, film thickness, and pressure drop data were recorded and flow visualization at 250 images per second were recorded. Some preliminary results based on the flow visualization data are presented for bubbly, slug and annular flow.

A study of Schwarz converters for nuclear powered spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stuart, Thomas A.; Schwarze, Gene E.

1987-01-01

High power space systems which use low dc voltage, high current sources such as thermoelectric generators, will most likely require high voltage conversion for transmission purposes. This study considers the use of the Schwarz resonant converter for use as the basic building block to accomplish this low-to-high voltage conversion for either a dc or an ac spacecraft bus. The Schwarz converter has the important assets of both inherent fault tolerance and resonant operation; parallel operation in modular form is possible. A regulated dc spacecraft bus requires only a single stage converter while a constant frequency ac bus requires a cascaded Schwarz converter configuration. If the power system requires constant output power from the dc generator, then a second converter is required to route unneeded power to a ballast load.

Robust control of the DC-DC boost converter based on the uncertainty and disturbance estimator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oucheriah, Said

2017-11-01

In this paper, a robust non-linear controller based on the uncertainty and disturbance estimator (UDE) scheme is successfully developed and implemented for the output voltage regulation of the DC-DC boost converter. System uncertainties, external disturbances and unknown non-linear dynamics are lumped as a signal that is accurately estimated using a low-pass filter and their effects are cancelled by the controller. This methodology forms the basis of the UDE-based controller. A simple procedure is also developed that systematically determines the parameters of the controller to meet certain specifications. Using simulation, the effectiveness of the proposed controller is compared against the sliding-mode control (SMC). Experimental tests also show that the proposed controller is robust to system uncertainties, large input and load perturbations.

Optimization of dendritic cell loading with tumor cell lysates for cancer immunotherapy.

PubMed

Hatfield, Paul; Merrick, Alison E; West, Emma; O'Donnell, Dearbhaile; Selby, Peter; Vile, Richard; Melcher, Alan A

2008-09-01

The immune response to cancer is critically determined by the way in which tumor cells die. As necrotic, stress-associated death can be associated with activation of antitumor immunity, whole tumor cell antigen loading strategies for dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccination have commonly used freeze-thaw "necrotic" lysates as an immunogenic source of tumor-associated antigens. In this study, the effect of such lysates on the ability of DCs to mature in response to well-established maturation stimuli was examined, and methods to enhance lysate-induced DC activation explored. Freeze-thaw lysates were prepared from murine tumor cell lines and their effects on bone marrow-derived DC maturation and function examined. Unmodified freeze-thaw tumor cell lysates inhibited the toll-like receptor-induced maturation and function of bone marrow-derived DCs, preventing up-regulation of CD40, CD86, and major histocompatibility complex class II, and reducing secretion of inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-12 p70, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and IL-6]. Although IL-10 secretion was increased by lysate-pulsed DCs, this was not responsible for the observed suppression of IL-12. Although activation of the nuclear factor-kappaB pathway remained intact, the kinase activity of phosphorylated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase was inhibited in lysate-pulsed DCs. Lysate-induced DC suppression was partially reversed in vitro by induction of tumor cell stress before lysis, and only DCs loaded with stressed lysates afforded protection against tumor challenge in vivo. These data suggest that ex vivo freeze-thaw of tumor cells does not effectively mimic in vivo immunogenic necrosis, and advocates careful characterization and optimization of tumor cell-derived vaccine sources for cancer immunotherapy.

Dynamic characteristics of a 20 kHz resonant power system - Fault identification and fault recovery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wasynczuk, O.

1988-01-01

A detailed simulation of a dc inductor resonant driver and receiver is used to demonstrate the transient characteristics of a 20 kHz resonant power system during fault and overload conditions. The simulated system consists of a dc inductor resonant inverter (driver), a 50-meter transmission cable, and a dc inductor resonant receiver load. Of particular interest are the driver and receiver performance during fault and overload conditions and on the recovery characteristics following removal of the fault. The information gained from these studies sets the stage for further work in fault identification and autonomous power system control.

Development of a photo-voltaic pumping system using a brushless D.C. motor and helical rotor pump

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Langridge, D.; Lawrance, W.; Wichert, B.

1996-12-31

A PV pumping system based on a brushless d.c. motor and helical rotor pump has been designed, simulated and a prototype constructed. The paper describes the operation of the system and the development of component models for the array, the brushless d.c. motor and helical rotor pump. Simulation results and subsequent test results for the complete system are included. Efficiencies of between 30 and 50% for the system (excluding the array) have been achieved over a range of loads and operating conditions for 4 x 1 and 4 x 2 array configurations. 9 refs., 10 figs., 2 tabs.

Studies of Heat Transfer in Complex Internal Flows.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-01-01

D.C. 20362 (Tel 202-692-6874) Mr. Richard S. Carlton Director, Engines Division, Code 523 NC #4 Naval Sea Systems Command Washington, D.C. 20362...Walter Ritz Code 033C Naval Ships Systems Engineering Station Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19112 (Tel. 215-755-3841) Dr. Simion Kuo United Tech. Res

Power Converters Maximize Outputs Of Solar Cell Strings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frederick, Martin E.; Jermakian, Joel B.

1993-01-01

Microprocessor-controlled dc-to-dc power converters devised to maximize power transferred from solar photovoltaic strings to storage batteries and other electrical loads. Converters help in utilizing large solar photovoltaic arrays most effectively with respect to cost, size, and weight. Main points of invention are: single controller used to control and optimize any number of "dumb" tracker units and strings independently; power maximized out of converters; and controller in system is microprocessor.

Simulation and Analysis of Three-Phase Rectifiers for Aerospace Power Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Truong, Long V.; Birchenough, Arthur G.

2004-01-01

Due to the nature of planned planetary missions, fairly large advanced power systems are required for the spacecraft. These future high power spacecrafts are expected to use dynamic power conversion systems incorporating high speed alternators as three-phase AC electrical power source. One of the early design considerations in such systems is the type of rectification to be used with the AC source for DC user loads. This paper address the issues involved with two different rectification methods, namely the conventional six and twelve pulses. Two circuit configurations which involved parallel combinations of the six and twelve-pulse rectifiers were selected for the simulation. The rectifier s input and output power waveforms will be thoroughly examined through simulations. The effects of the parasitic load for power balancing and filter components for reducing the ripple voltage at the DC loads are also included in the analysis. Details of the simulation circuits, simulation results, and design examples for reducing risk from damaging of spacecraft engines will be presented and discussed.

Crane-Load Contact Sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Youngquist, Robert; Mata, Carlos; Cox, Robert

2005-01-01

An electronic instrument has been developed as a prototype of a portable crane-load contact sensor. Such a sensor could be helpful in an application in which the load rests on a base in a horizontal position determined by vertical alignment pins (see Figure 1). If the crane is not positioned to lift the load precisely vertically, then the load can be expected to swing once it has been lifted clear of the pins. If the load is especially heavy, large, and/or fragile, it could hurt workers and/or damage itself and nearby objects. By indicating whether the load remains in contact with the pins when it has been lifted a fraction of the length of the pins, the crane-load contact sensor helps the crane operator determine whether it is safe to lift the load clear of the pins: If there is contact, then the load is resting against the sides of the pins and, hence, it may not be safe to lift; if contact is occasionally broken, then the load is probably not resting against the pins, so it should be safe to lift. It is assumed that the load and base, or at least the pins and the surfaces of the alignment holes in the load, are electrically conductive, so the instrument can use electrical contact to indicate mechanical contact. However, DC resistance cannot be used as an indicator of contact for the following reasons: The load and the base are both electrically grounded through cables (the load is grounded through the lifting cable of the crane) to prevent discharge of static electricity. In other words, the DC resistance between the load and the pins is always low, as though they were always in direct contact. Therefore, instead of DC resistance, the instrument utilizes the AC electrical impedance between the pins and the load. The signal frequency used in the measurement is high enough (.1 MHz) that the impedance contributed by the cables and the electrical ground network of the building in which the crane and the base are situated is significantly greater than the contact impedance between the pins and the load. The instrument includes a signal generator and voltage-measuring circuitry, and is connected to the load and the base as shown in Figure 2. The output of the signal generator (typically having amplitude of the order of a volt) is applied to the load via a 50-resistor, and the voltage between the load and the pins is measured. When the load and the pins are not in contact, the impedance between them is relatively high, causing the measured voltage to exceed a threshold value. When the load and the pins are in contact, the impedance between them falls to a much lower value, causing the voltage to fall below the threshold value. The voltage-measuring circuitry turns on a red light-emitting diode (LED) to indicate the lower-voltage/ contact condition. Whenever the contact has been broken and the non-contact/higher-voltage condition has lasted for more than 2 ms, the voltage-measuring circuitry indicates this condition by blinking a green LED.

An Adaptive, Multi-Rate Linear Quadratic Regulator for a Shipboard MVDC Distribution System with Constant Power Loads

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-09-01

12. xii THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK xiii LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS AC alternating current ATG auxiliary turbine generator...invariant MTG main turbine generator MVDC medium voltage DC NAVSEA U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command PGM power generation module RC resistor-capacitor RL...arrangement because the gas turbines used for prime movers are more efficient when they are fully loaded. By amalgamating loads onto fewer machines

Antigen-specific IL-23/17 pathway activation by murine semi-mature DC-like cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nagasaka, Shinya; Iwasaki, Takumi; Okano, Tomoko

We analyzed the phenotype and function of bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (DCs) induced in vitro without using any serum during the late stage of cultivation. These 'serum-free' DCs (SF-DCs) possessed the ability to induce T cell proliferation as well as antibody responses, indicating that they were functional DCs. Surprisingly, the SF-DCs akin to semi-mature DCs in terms of both phenotypic and functional characteristics. The SF-DCs did not produce IL-12 but produced large amounts of IL-23 following lipopolysaccharide stimulation. The antigen-specific production of IL-17 by CD4{sup +} T cells co-cultured with OVA-loaded SF-DCs was significantly higher than that with OVA-loaded conventionalmore » DCs. These results suggest that SF-DCs tend to produce IL-23 and can consequently induce the IL-17 producing CD4{sup +} T cells. The semi-mature DC-like cells reported here will be useful vehicles for DC immunization and might contribute to studies on the possible involvement of semi-mature DCs in Th17 cell differentiation.« less

Surface LAMP-2 Is an Endocytic Receptor That Diverts Antigen Internalized by Human Dendritic Cells into Highly Immunogenic Exosomes.

PubMed

Leone, Dario Armando; Peschel, Andrea; Brown, Markus; Schachner, Helga; Ball, Miriam J; Gyuraszova, Marianna; Salzer-Muhar, Ulrike; Fukuda, Minoru; Vizzardelli, Caterina; Bohle, Barbara; Rees, Andrew J; Kain, Renate

2017-07-15

The lysosome-associated membrane protein (LAMP) family includes the dendritic cell endocytic receptors DC-LAMP and CD68, as well as LAMP-1 and LAMP-2. In this study we identify LAMP-1 (CD107a) and LAMP-2 (CD107b) on the surface of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDC) and show only LAMP-2 is internalized after ligation by specific Abs, including H4B4, and traffics rapidly but transiently to the MHC class II loading compartment, as does Ag conjugated to H4B4. However, pulsing MoDC with conjugates of primary (keyhole limpet hemocyanin; KLH) and recall (Bet v 1) Ags (H4B4*KLH and H4B4*Bet v 1) induced significantly less CD4 cell proliferation than pulsing with native Ag or Ag conjugated to control mAb (ISO*KLH and ISO*Bet v 1). In H4B4*KLH-pulsed MoDC, the duration of KLH residence in MHC class II loading compartments was significantly reduced, as were surface HLA-DR and DR-bound KLH-derived peptides. Paradoxically, MoDC pulsed with H4B4*KLH, but not the other KLH preparations, induced robust proliferation of CD4 cells separated from them by a transwell membrane, indicating factors in the supernatant were responsible. Furthermore, extracellular vesicles from supernatants of H4B4*KLH-pulsed MoDC contained significantly more HLA-DR and KLH than those purified from control MoDC, and KLH was concentrated specifically in exosomes that were a uniquely effective source of Ag in standard T cell proliferation assays. In summary, we identify LAMP-2 as an endocytic receptor on human MoDC that routes cargo into unusual Ag processing pathways, which reduces surface expression of Ag-derived peptides while selectively enriching Ag within immunogenic exosomes. This novel pathway has implications for the initiation of immune responses both locally and at distant sites. Copyright © 2017 by The American Association of Immunologists, Inc.

Tumour cell lysate-loaded dendritic cell vaccine induces biochemical and memory immune response in castration-resistant prostate cancer patients

PubMed Central

Reyes, D; Salazar, L; Espinoza, E; Pereda, C; Castellón, E; Valdevenito, R; Huidobro, C; Inés Becker, M; Lladser, A; López, M N; Salazar-Onfray, F

2013-01-01

Background: Recently, we produced a tumour antigen-presenting cells (TAPCells) vaccine using a melanoma cell lysate, called TRIMEL, as an antigen source and an activation factor. Tumour antigen-presenting cells induced immunological responses and increased melanoma patient survival. Herein, we investigated the effect of TAPCells loaded with prostate cancer cell lysates (PCCL) as an antigen source, and TRIMEL as a dendritic cell (DC) activation factor; which were co-injected with the Concholepas concholepas haemocyanin (CCH) as an adjuvant on castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) patients. Methods: The lysate mix capacity, for inducing T-cell activation, was analysed by flow cytometry and Elispot. Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction against PCCL, frequency of CD8+ memory T cells (Tm) in blood and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in serum were measured in treated patients. Results: The lysate mix induced functional mature DCs that were capable of activating PCCL-specific T cells. No relevant adverse reactions were observed. Six out of 14 patients showed a significant decrease in levels of PSA. DTH+ patients showed a prolonged PSA doubling-time after treatment. Expansion of functional central and effector CD8+ Tm were detected. Conclusion: Treatment of CRPC patients with lysate-loaded TAPCells and CCH as an adjuvant is safe: generating biochemical and memory immune responses. However, the limited number of cases requires confirmation in a phase II clinical trial. PMID:23989944

Tumour cell lysate-loaded dendritic cell vaccine induces biochemical and memory immune response in castration-resistant prostate cancer patients.

PubMed

Reyes, D; Salazar, L; Espinoza, E; Pereda, C; Castellón, E; Valdevenito, R; Huidobro, C; Inés Becker, M; Lladser, A; López, M N; Salazar-Onfray, F

2013-09-17

Recently, we produced a tumour antigen-presenting cells (TAPCells) vaccine using a melanoma cell lysate, called TRIMEL, as an antigen source and an activation factor. Tumour antigen-presenting cells induced immunological responses and increased melanoma patient survival. Herein, we investigated the effect of TAPCells loaded with prostate cancer cell lysates (PCCL) as an antigen source, and TRIMEL as a dendritic cell (DC) activation factor; which were co-injected with the Concholepas concholepas haemocyanin (CCH) as an adjuvant on castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) patients. The lysate mix capacity, for inducing T-cell activation, was analysed by flow cytometry and Elispot. Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction against PCCL, frequency of CD8(+) memory T cells (Tm) in blood and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in serum were measured in treated patients. The lysate mix induced functional mature DCs that were capable of activating PCCL-specific T cells. No relevant adverse reactions were observed. Six out of 14 patients showed a significant decrease in levels of PSA. DTH(+) patients showed a prolonged PSA doubling-time after treatment. Expansion of functional central and effector CD8(+) Tm were detected. Treatment of CRPC patients with lysate-loaded TAPCells and CCH as an adjuvant is safe: generating biochemical and memory immune responses. However, the limited number of cases requires confirmation in a phase II clinical trial.

Development of a Kevlar/PMR-15 reduced drag DC-9 nacelle fairing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kawai, R. T.; Hrach, F. J.

1980-01-01

The paper describes an advanced composite fairing designed to reduce drag on DC-9 nacelles as a part of the NASA Engine Component Improvement Program. This fairing is the aft enclosure for the thrust reverser actuator system on JT8D engine nacelles and is subjected to a 500 F exhaust flow during the reverse thrust. A reduced-drag configuration was developed by using in-flight tuft surveys for flow visualization in order to identify areas with low-quality flow, and then modifying the aerodynamic lines to improve the flow. A fabrication method for molding the part in an autoclave was developed; this material system is suitable for 500 F. The resultant composite fairing reduces the overall aircraft drag 1% with a weight reduction of 40% when compared with a metal component.

Effect of the load size on the efficiency of microwave heating under stop flow and continuous flow conditions.

PubMed

Patil, Narendra G; Rebrov, Evgeny V; Eränen, Kari; Benaskar, Faysal; Meuldijk, Jan; Mikkola, Jyri-Pekka; Hessel, Volker; Hulshof, Lumbertus A; Murzin, Dmitry Yu; Schouten, Jaap C

2012-01-01

A novel heating efficiency analysis of the microwave heated stop-flow (i.e. stagnant liquid) and continuous-flow reactors has been presented. The thermal losses to the surrounding air by natural convection have been taken into account for heating efficiency calculation of the microwave heating process. The effect of the load diameter in the range of 4-29 mm on the heating efficiency of ethylene glycol was studied in a single mode microwave cavity under continuous flow and stop-flow conditions. The variation of the microwave absorbing properties of the load with temperature was estimated. Under stop-flow conditions, the heating efficiency depends on the load diameter. The highest heating efficiency has been observed at the load diameter close to the half wavelength of the electromagnetic field in the corresponding medium. Under continuous-flow conditions, the heating efficiency increased linearly. However, microwave leakage above the propagation diameter restricted further experimentation at higher load diameters. Contrary to the stop-flow conditions, the load temperature did not raise monotonously from the inlet to outlet under continuous-flow conditions. This was due to the combined effect of lagging convective heat fluxes in comparison to volumetric heating. This severely disturbs the uniformity of the electromagnetic field in the axial direction and creates areas of high and low field intensity along the load Length decreasing the heating efficiency as compared to stop-flow conditions.

Solid State Remote Power Controllers for high voltage DC distribution systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Billings, W. W.; Sundberg, G. R.

1977-01-01

Presently, hybrid Remote Power Controllers (RPC's) are in production and prototype units are available for systems utilizing 28VDC, 120VDC, 115VAC/400 Hz and 230VAC/400 Hz. This paper describes RPC development in a new area of application: HVDC distribution systems utilizing 270/300VDC. Two RPC current ratings, 1 amp and 2 amps, were selected for development as they are adequate to control 90% of projected system loads. The various aspects and trade-offs encountered in circuit development are discussed with special focus placed on the circuits that see the duress of the high dc potentials. The comprehensive evaluation tests are summarized which confirmed the RPC compliance with the specification and with system/load compatibility requirements. In addition, present technology status and new applications are summarized.

dc Arc Fault Effect on Hybrid ac/dc Microgrid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fatima, Zahra

The advent of distributed energy resources (DER) and reliability and stability problems of the conventional grid system has given rise to the wide spread deployment of microgrids. Microgrids provide many advantages by incorporating renewable energy sources and increasing the reliability of the grid by isolating from the main grid in case of an outage. AC microgrids have been installed all over the world, but dc microgrids have been gaining interest due to the advantages they provide over ac microgrids. However the entire power network backbone is still ac and dc microgrids require expensive converters to connect to the ac power network. As a result hybrid ac/dc microgrids are gaining more attention as it combines the advantages of both ac and dc microgrids such as direct integration of ac and dc systems with minimum number of conversions which increases the efficiency by reducing energy losses. Although dc electric systems offer many advantages such as no synchronization and no reactive power, successful implementation of dc systems requires appropriate protection strategies. One unique protection challenge brought by the dc systems is dc arc faults. A dc arc fault is generated when there is a gap in the conductor due to insulation degradation and current is used to bridge the gap, resulting in an arc with very high temperature. Such a fault if it goes undetected and is not extinguished can cause damage to the entire system and cause fires. The purpose of the research is to study the effect of the dc arc fault at different locations in the hybrid ac/dc microgrid and provide insight on the reliability of the grid components when it is impacted by arc faults at various locations in the grid. The impact of dc arc fault at different locations on the performance of the PV array, wind generation, and constant power loads (CPL) interfaced with dc/dc converters is studied. MATLAB/Simulink is used to model the hybrid ac/dc microgrid and arc fault.

Optimized efficiency of all-electric ships by dc hybrid power systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zahedi, Bijan; Norum, Lars E.; Ludvigsen, Kristine B.

2014-06-01

Hybrid power systems with dc distribution are being considered for commercial marine vessels to comply with new stringent environmental regulations, and to achieve higher fuel economy. In this paper, detailed efficiency analysis of a shipboard dc hybrid power system is carried out. An optimization algorithm is proposed to minimize fuel consumption under various loading conditions. The studied system includes diesel engines, synchronous generator-rectifier units, a full-bridge bidirectional converter, and a Li-Ion battery bank as energy storage. In order to evaluate potential fuel saving provided by such a system, an online optimization strategy for fuel consumption is implemented. An Offshore Support Vessel (OSV) is simulated over different operating modes using the online control strategy. The resulted consumed fuel in the simulation is compared to that of a conventional ac power system, and also a dc power system without energy storage. The results show that while the dc system without energy storage provides noticeable fuel saving compared to the conventional ac system, optimal utilization of the energy storage in the dc system results in twice as much fuel saving.

Induction of human dendritic cell maturation using transfection with RNA encoding a dominant positive toll-like receptor 4.

PubMed

Cisco, Robin M; Abdel-Wahab, Zeinab; Dannull, Jens; Nair, Smita; Tyler, Douglas S; Gilboa, Eli; Vieweg, Johannes; Daaka, Yehia; Pruitt, Scott K

2004-06-01

Maturation of dendritic cells (DC) is critical for the induction of Ag-specific immunity. Ag-loaded DC matured with LPS, which mediates its effects by binding to Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), induce Ag-specific CTL in vitro and in vivo in animal models. However, clinical use of LPS is limited due to potential toxicity. Therefore, we sought to mimic the maturation-inducing effects of LPS on DC by stimulating TLR4-mediated signaling in the absence of exogenous LPS. We developed a constitutively active TLR4 (caTLR4) and demonstrated that transfection of human DC with RNA encoding caTLR4 led to IL-12 and TNF-alpha secretion. Transfection with caTLR4 RNA also induced a mature DC phenotype. Functionally, transfection of DC with caTLR4 RNA enhanced allostimulation of CD4(+) T cells. DC transfected with RNA encoding the MART (Melan-A/MART-1) melanoma Ag were then used to stimulate T cells in vitro. Cotransfection of these DC with caTLR4 RNA enhanced the generation of MART-specific CTL. This CTL activity was superior to that seen when DC maturation was induced using either LPS or a standard mixture of cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-1beta, and PGE(2)). We conclude that transfection of DC with RNA encoding a functional signaling protein, such as caTLR4, may provide a new tool for studying TLR signaling in DC and may be a promising approach for the induction of DC maturation for tumor immunotherapy.

Radiation Modeling for the Reentry of the Hayabusa Sample Return Capsule

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Winter, Michael W.; McDaniel, Ryan D.; Chen, Yih-Kang; Liu, Yen; Saunders, David; Jenniskens, Petrus

2011-01-01

Predicted shock-layer emission signatures of the Japanese Hayabusa capsule during its reentry are presented for comparison with flight measurements made during an airborne observation mission using NASA s DC-8 Airborne Laboratory. For each altitude, lines of sight were extracted from flow field solutions computed using an inhouse high-fidelity CFD code, DPLR, at 11 points along the flight trajectory of the capsule. These lines of sight were used as inputs for the line-by-line radiation code NEQAIR, and emission spectra of the air plasma were computed in the wavelength range from 300 nm to 1600 nm, a range which covers all of the different experiments onboard the DC-8. In addition, the computed flow field solutions were post-processed with the material thermal response code FIAT, and the resulting surface temperatures of the heat shield were used to generate thermal emission spectra based on Planck radiation. Both spectra were summed and integrated over the flow field. The resulting emission at each trajectory point was propagated to the DC-8 position and transformed into incident irradiance. Comparisons with experimental data are shown.

The Coupling of Macrosegregation with Grain Nucleation, Growth and Motion in DC Cast Aluminum Alloy Ingots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Založnik, Miha; Kumar, Arvind; Combeau, Hervé; Bedel, Marie; Jarry, Philippe; Waz, Emmanuel

The phenomena responsible for the formation of macrosegregations, and grain structures during solidification are closely intertwined. We present a model study of the formation of macrosegregation and grain structure in an industrial sized (350 mm thick) direct chill (DC) cast aluminum alloy slab. The modeling of these phenomena in DC casting is a challenging problem mainly due to the size of the products, the variety of the phenomena to be accounted for, and the non-linearities involved. We used a volume-averaged multiscale model that describes nucleation on grain refiner particles and grain growth, coupled with macroscopic transport: fluid flow driven by natural convection and shrinkage, transport of free-floating globular equiaxed grains, heat transfer, and solute transport. We analyze the heat and mass transfer in the slurry moving-grain zone that is a result of the coupling of the fluid flow and of the grain nucleation, growth and motion. We discuss the impact of the flow structure in the slurry zone and of the grain packing fraction on the macrosegregation.

Differential Amplifier with Current-Mirror Load: Influence of Current Gain, Early Voltage, and Supply Voltage on the DC Output Voltage

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Paulik, G. F.; Mayer, R. P.

2012-01-01

A differential amplifier composed of an emitter-coupled pair is useful as an example in lecture presentations and laboratory experiments in electronic circuit analysis courses. However, in an active circuit with zero input load V[subscript id], both laboratory measurements and PSPICE and LTspice simulation results for the output voltage…

Dual-channel microreactor for gas-liquid syntheses.

PubMed

Park, Chan Pil; Kim, Dong-Pyo

2010-07-28

A microreactor consisting of two microfluidic channels that are separated by a thin membrane is devised for intimate contact between gas and liquid phases. Gas flowing in one microchannel can diffuse into the liquid flowing in the other microchannel through the thin membrane. An oxidative Heck reaction carried out in the dual-channel (DC) microreactor, in which gaseous oxygen plays a key role in the catalytic reaction, shows the significant improvement that can be made over the traditional batch reactor and the conventional segmental microreactor in terms of yield, selectivity, and reaction time. It also allows independent control of the flow of the gaseous reagent. The proposed DC microreactor should prove to be a powerful tool for fully exploring gas-liquid microchemistry.

Induced-charge electroosmotic trapping of particles.

PubMed

Ren, Yukun; Liu, Weiyu; Jia, Yankai; Tao, Ye; Shao, Jinyou; Ding, Yucheng; Jiang, Hongyuan

2015-05-21

Position-controllable trapping of particles on the surface of a bipolar metal strip by induced-charge electroosmotic (ICEO) flow is presented herein. We demonstrate a nonlinear ICEO slip profile on the electrode surface accounting for stable particle trapping behaviors above the double-layer relaxation frequency, while no trapping occurs in the DC limit as a result of a strong upward fluidic drag induced by a linear ICEO slip profile. By extending an AC-flow field effect transistor from the DC limit to the AC field, we reveal that fixed-potential ICEO exceeding RC charging frequency can adjust the particle trapping position flexibly by generating controllable symmetry breaking in a vortex flow pattern. Our results open up new opportunities to manipulate microscopic objects in modern microfluidic systems by using ICEO.

Solar fed DC-DC single ended primary inductance converter for low power applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Narendranath, K. V.; Viswanath, Y.; Babu, K. Suresh; Arunkumar, G.; Elangovan, D.

2017-11-01

This paper presents 34 to 36 volts. SEPIC converter for solar fed applications. Now days, there has been tremendous increase in the usage of solar energy and this solar energy is most valuable energy source available all around the world. The solar energy system require a Dc-Dc converter in order to modulate and govern the changing output of the panel. In this paper, a system comprising of Single Ended Primary Inductance Converter [SEPIC] integrated with solar panel is proposed. This paper proposes SEPIC power converter design that will secure high performance and cost efficiency while powering up a LAMP load. This power converter designed with low output ripple voltage, higher efficiency and less electrical pressure on the power switching elements. The simulation and prototype hardware results are presented in this paper.

Two-stage single-phase grid-connected photovoltaic system with reduced complexity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

da Silva, Cintia S.; Motta, Filipe R.; Tofoli, Fernando L.

2011-06-01

This article presents a grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system using the classical DC-DC buck converter, which is responsible for stepping down the resulting voltage from several series-connected panels. Besides, the structure provides high power factor operation by injecting a quasi-sinusoidal current into the grid, with near no displacement in relation to the line voltage at the point of common coupling among the PV system and the loads. A CSI employing thyristors is cascaded with the DC-DC stage so that AC voltage results. The inverter output voltage level is adjusted by using a low-frequency transformer, which also provides galvanic isolation. The proposed system is described as mathematical approach and design guidelines are presented, providing an overview of the topology. An experimental prototype is also implemented, and relevant results to validate the proposal are discussed.

Helium process cycle

DOEpatents

Ganni, Venkatarao

2008-08-12

A unique process cycle and apparatus design separates the consumer (cryogenic) load return flow from most of the recycle return flow of a refrigerator and/or liquefier process cycle. The refrigerator and/or liquefier process recycle return flow is recompressed by a multi-stage compressor set and the consumer load return flow is recompressed by an independent consumer load compressor set that maintains a desirable constant suction pressure using a consumer load bypass control valve and the consumer load return pressure control valve that controls the consumer load compressor's suction pressure. The discharge pressure of this consumer load compressor is thereby allowed to float at the intermediate pressure in between the first and second stage recycle compressor sets. Utilizing the unique gas management valve regulation, the unique process cycle and apparatus design in which the consumer load return flow is separate from the recycle return flow, the pressure ratios of each recycle compressor stage and all main pressures associated with the recycle return flow are allowed to vary naturally, thus providing a naturally regulated and balanced floating pressure process cycle that maintains optimal efficiency at design and off-design process cycle capacity and conditions automatically.

Helium process cycle

DOEpatents

Ganni, Venkatarao

2007-10-09

A unique process cycle and apparatus design separates the consumer (cryogenic) load return flow from most of the recycle return flow of a refrigerator and/or liquefier process cycle. The refrigerator and/or liquefier process recycle return flow is recompressed by a multi-stage compressor set and the consumer load return flow is recompressed by an independent consumer load compressor set that maintains a desirable constant suction pressure using a consumer load bypass control valve and the consumer load return pressure control valve that controls the consumer load compressor's suction pressure. The discharge pressure of this consumer load compressor is thereby allowed to float at the intermediate pressure in between the first and second stage recycle compressor sets. Utilizing the unique gas management valve regulation, the unique process cycle and apparatus design in which the consumer load return flow is separate from the recycle return flow, the pressure ratios of each recycle compressor stage and all main pressures associated with the recycle return flow are allowed to vary naturally, thus providing a naturally regulated and balanced floating pressure process cycle that maintains optimal efficiency at design and off-design process cycle capacity and conditions automatically.

Dynamic Rate Dependent Elastoplastic Damage Modeling of Concrete Subject to Blast Loading: Formulation and Computational Aspects

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-10-31

and ZIP Code) Dept. of Civil Fng. & Oper. Research Building 410 Princeton University Bolling AFB, D.C. 20332-6448 ?rinceton, NJ 08544 i. NAME OF FUNDING...Department of Civil Engineering & Operations Research Princeton University Princeton, N.J. 08544 31 October 1990 Final Technical Report Approved for public...release; Distribution is unlimited. I Prepared for Air Force Office of Scientific Research Building 410 Boiling AFB, D.C. 20332-6448 PREFACE This work

An Investigation of DC-DC Converter Power Density Using Si and SiC MOSFETS

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-05-07

submarine or small surface combatant, volumetric constraints quickly become extremely prohibitive. Dedicating generators for high power loads takes...thermal compounds were applied to the MOSFET-heat sink interface. For the Si APT26F120B2, MG Chemicals TC-450ML thermal epoxy was used to connect the... submarines , bus converter modules must be made optimally power dense in order to decrease volumetric requirements of the modules for a rated throughput

Effect of DC magnetic field on atmospheric pressure argon plasma jet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Safari, R.; Sohbatzadeh, F.

2015-05-01

In this work, external DC magnetic field effect on the atmospheric pressure plasma jet has been investigated, experimentally. The magnetic field has been produced using a Helmholtz coil configuration. It has been applied parallel and transverse to the jet flow. The strength of the DC magnetic field is 0-0.28 and 0-0.57 Tesla between the two coils in parallel and transverse applications, respectively. It has been shown that the plasma gas flow plays the main role in magneto-active collision-dominated plasma. The effect of plasma fluid velocity on the jet emission has been discussed, qualitatively. It has been observed that the external DC magnetic field has different trends in parallel and transverse applications. The measurements reveal that the plasma jet irradiance increases in parallel field, while it decreases in transverse field. The former has been attributed to increasing plasma number density and the latter to loss of plasma species that reduces the magneto-plasma jet irradiance and in turn shrinks plasma jet number density. As a result, the plasma fluid velocity is responsible for such trends though the magneto-active plasma remains isotropic.

Application of Multi-Objective Human Learning Optimization Method to Solve AC/DC Multi-Objective Optimal Power Flow Problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, Jia; Yan, Zheng; He, Guangyu

2016-06-01

This paper introduces an efficient algorithm, multi-objective human learning optimization method (MOHLO), to solve AC/DC multi-objective optimal power flow problem (MOPF). Firstly, the model of AC/DC MOPF including wind farms is constructed, where includes three objective functions, operating cost, power loss, and pollutant emission. Combining the non-dominated sorting technique and the crowding distance index, the MOHLO method can be derived, which involves individual learning operator, social learning operator, random exploration learning operator and adaptive strategies. Both the proposed MOHLO method and non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGAII) are tested on an improved IEEE 30-bus AC/DC hybrid system. Simulation results show that MOHLO method has excellent search efficiency and the powerful ability of searching optimal. Above all, MOHLO method can obtain more complete pareto front than that by NSGAII method. However, how to choose the optimal solution from pareto front depends mainly on the decision makers who stand from the economic point of view or from the energy saving and emission reduction point of view.

Optimal MEMS device for mobility and zeta potential measurements using DC electrophoresis.

PubMed

Karam, Pascal R; Dukhin, Andrei; Pennathur, Sumita

2017-05-01

We have developed a novel microchannel geometry that allows us to perform simple DC electrophoresis to measure the electrophoretic mobility and zeta potential of analytes and particles. In standard capillary geometries, mobility measurements using DC fields are difficult to perform. Specifically, measurements in open capillaries require knowledge of the hard to measure and often dynamic wall surface potential. Although measurements in closed capillaries eliminate this requirement, the measurements must be performed at infinitesimally small regions of zero flow where the pressure driven-flow completely cancels the electroosmotic flow (Komagata Planes). Furthermore, applied DC fields lead to electrode polarization, further questioning the reliability and accuracy of the measurement. In contrast, our geometry expands and moves the Komagata planes to where velocity gradients are at a minimum, and thus knowledge of the precise location of a Komagata plane is not necessary. Additionally, our microfluidic device prevents electrode polarization because of fluid recirculation around the electrodes. We fabricated our device using standard MEMS fabrication techniques and performed electrophoretic mobility measurements on 500 nm fluorescently tagged polystyrene particles at various buffer concentrations. Results are comparable to two different commercial dynamic light scattering based particle sizing instruments. We conclude with guidelines to further develop this robust electrophoretic tool that allows for facile and efficient particle characterization. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Wave Propagation and Dynamic Load Transfer due to Explosive Loading in Heterogenous Granular Media with Microstructure

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-09-30

acknowledge the support of the Air Force Office of Scientific Research , Boiling Air Force Base, Washington D.C. under grant No. F49620-89-C-0091 and Major... applied to the present research program by constructing model granular assemblies of birefringent disks which were dynamically loaded by exploding a...Kirtland Air Force Base, on March 26, 1991. He gave us a seminar dealing with his research on micro- geomechanics , and we i presented and discussed several

In-Line Reactions and Ionizations of Vaporized Diphenylchloroarsine and Diphenylcyanoarsine in Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okumura, Akihiko; Takada, Yasuaki; Watanabe, Susumu; Hashimoto, Hiroaki; Ezawa, Naoya; Seto, Yasuo; Takayama, Yasuo; Sekioka, Ryoji; Yamaguchi, Shintaro; Kishi, Shintaro; Satoh, Takafumi; Kondo, Tomohide; Nagashima, Hisayuki; Nagoya, Tomoki

2016-07-01

We propose detecting a fragment ion (Ph2As+) using counter-flow introduction atmospheric pressure chemical ionization ion trap mass spectrometry for sensitive air monitoring of chemical warfare vomiting agents diphenylchloroarsine (DA) and diphenylcyanoarsine (DC). The liquid sample containing of DA, DC, and bis(diphenylarsine)oxide (BDPAO) was heated in a dry air line, and the generated vapor was mixed into the humidified air flowing through the sampling line of a mass spectrometer. Humidity effect on the air monitoring was investigated by varying the humidity of the analyzed air sample. Evidence of the in-line conversion of DA and DC to diphenylarsine hydroxide (DPAH) and then BDPAO was obtained by comparing the chronograms of various ions from the beginning of heating. Multiple-stage mass spectrometry revealed that the protonated molecule (MH+) of DA, DC, DPAH, and BDPAO could produce Ph2As+ through their in-source fragmentation. Among the signals of the ions that were investigated, the Ph2As+ signal was the most intense and increased to reach a plateau with the increased air humidity, whereas the MH+ signal of DA decreased. It was suggested that DA and DC were converted in-line into BDPAO, which was a major source of Ph2As+.

pDC therapy induces recovery from EAE by recruiting endogenous pDC to sites of CNS inflammation

PubMed Central

Duraes, Fernanda V.; Lippens, Carla; Steinbach, Karin; Dubrot, Juan; Brighouse, Dale; Bendriss-Vermare, Nathalie; Issazadeh-Navikas, Shohreh; Merkler, Doron; Hugues, Stephanie

2016-01-01

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) exhibit both innate and adaptive functions. In particular they are the main source of type I IFNs and directly impact T cell responses through antigen presentation. We have previously demonstrated that during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) initiation, myelin-antigen presentation by pDCs is associated with suppressive Treg development and results in attenuated EAE. Here, we show that pDCs transferred during acute disease phase confer recovery from EAE. Clinical improvement is associated with migration of injected pDCs into inflamed CNS and is dependent on the subsequent and selective chemerin-mediated recruitment of endogenous pDCs to the CNS. The protective effect requires pDC pre-loading with myelin antigen, and is associated with the modulation of CNS-infiltrating pDC phenotype and inhibition of CNS encephalitogenic T cells. This study may pave the way for novel pDC-based cell therapies in autoimmune diseases, aiming at specifically modulating pathogenic cells that induce and sustain autoimmune inflammation. PMID:26341385

Control and Analysis for a Self-Excited Induction Generator for Wind Turbine and Electrolyzer Applications

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Muljadi, Eduard; Na, Woonki; Leighty, Bill

Self-Excited Induction Generation(SEIG) is very rugged, simple, lightweight, and it is easy and inexpensive to implement, very simple to control, and requires a very little maintenance. In this variable-speed operation, the SEIG needs a power electronics interface to convert from the variable frequency output voltage of the generator to a DC output voltage for battery or other DC applications. In our study, a SEIG is connected to the power electronics interface such as diode rectifier and DC/DC converter and then an electrolyzer is connected as a final DC load for fuel cell applications. An equivalent circuit model for an electrolyzermore » is utilized for our application. The control and analysis for the proposed system is carried out by using PSCAD and MATLAB software. This study would be useful for designing and control analysis of power interface circuits for SEIG for a variable speed wind turbine generation with fuel cell applications before the actual implementation.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Carpentier, J.L.; Di Bono, P.J.; Tournebise, P.J.

The efficient bounding method for DC contingency analysis is improved using reciprocity properties. Knowing the consequences of the outage of a branch, these properties provide the consequences on that branch of various kinds of outages. This is used in order to reduce computation times and to get rid of some difficulties, such as those occurring when a branch flow is close to its limit before outage. Compensation, sparse vector, sparse inverse and bounding techniques are also used. A program has been implemented for single branch outages and tested on actual French EHV 650 bus network. Computation times are 60% ofmore » the Efficient Bounding method. The relevant algorithm is described in detail in the first part of this paper. In the second part, reciprocity properties and bounding formulas are extended for multiple branch outages and for multiple generator or load outages. An algorithm is proposed in order to handle all these cases simultaneously.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krishnamurthy, Dheepak

This paper is an overview of Power System Simulation Toolbox (psst). psst is an open-source Python application for the simulation and analysis of power system models. psst simulates the wholesale market operation by solving a DC Optimal Power Flow (DCOPF), Security Constrained Unit Commitment (SCUC) and a Security Constrained Economic Dispatch (SCED). psst also includes models for the various entities in a power system such as Generator Companies (GenCos), Load Serving Entities (LSEs) and an Independent System Operator (ISO). psst features an open modular object oriented architecture that will make it useful for researchers to customize, expand, experiment beyond solvingmore » traditional problems. psst also includes a web based Graphical User Interface (GUI) that allows for user friendly interaction and for implementation on remote High Performance Computing (HPCs) clusters for parallelized operations. This paper also provides an illustrative application of psst and benchmarks with standard IEEE test cases to show the advanced features and the performance of toolbox.« less

Application of PSAT to Load Flow Analysis with STATCOM under Load Increase Scenario and Line Contingencies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Telang, Aparna S.; Bedekar, P. P.

2017-09-01

Load flow analysis is the initial and essential step for any power system computation. It is required for choosing better options for power system expansion to meet with ever increasing load demand. Implementation of Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) device like STATCOM, in the load flow, which is having fast and very flexible control, is one of the important tasks for power system researchers. This paper presents a simple and systematic approach for steady state power flow calculations with FACTS controller, static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) using command line usage of MATLAB tool-power system analysis toolbox (PSAT). The complexity of MATLAB language programming increases due to incorporation of STATCOM in an existing Newton-Raphson load flow algorithm. Thus, the main contribution of this paper is to show how command line usage of user friendly MATLAB tool, PSAT, can extensively be used for quicker and wider interpretation of the results of load flow with STATCOM. The novelty of this paper lies in the method of applying the load increase pattern, where the active and reactive loads have been changed simultaneously at all the load buses under consideration for creating stressed conditions for load flow analysis with STATCOM. The performance have been evaluated on many standard IEEE test systems and the results for standard IEEE-30 bus system, IEEE-57 bus system, and IEEE-118 bus system are presented.

Encephalitozoon intestinalis Inhibits Dendritic Cell Differentiation through an IL-6-Dependent Mechanism

PubMed Central

Bernal, Carmen E.; Zorro, Maria M.; Sierra, Jelver; Gilchrist, Katherine; Botero, Jorge H.; Baena, Andres; Ramirez-Pineda, Jose R.

2016-01-01

Microsporidia are a group of intracellular pathogens causing self-limited and severe diseases in immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals, respectively. A cellular type 1 adaptive response, mediated by IL-12, IFNγ, CD4+, and CD8+ T cells has been shown to be essential for host resistance, and dendritic cells (DC) play a key role at eliciting anti-microsporidial immunity. We investigated the in vitro response of DC and DC precursors/progenitors to infection with Encephalitozoon intestinalis (Ei), a common agent of human microsporidosis. Ei-exposed DC cultures up-regulated the surface expression of MHC class II and the costimulatory molecules CD86 and CD40, only when high loads of spores were used. A vigorous secretion of IL-6 but not of IL-1β or IL-12p70 was also observed in these cultures. Ei-exposed DC cultures consisted of immature infected and mature bystander DC, as assessed by MHC class II and costimulatory molecules expression, suggesting that intracellular Ei spores deliver inhibitory signals in DC. Moreover, Ei selectively inhibited the secretion of IL-12p70 in LPS-stimulated DC. Whereas Ei-exposed DC promoted allogeneic naïve T cell proliferation and IL-2 and IFNγ secretion in DC-CD4+ T cell co-cultures, separated co-cultures with bystander or infected DCs showed stimulation or inhibition of IFNγ secretion, respectively. When DC precursors/progenitors were exposed to Ei spores, a significant inhibition of DC differentiation was observed without shifting the development toward cells phenotypically or functionally compatible with myeloid-derived suppressor cells. Neutralization experiments demonstrated that this inhibitory effect is IL-6-dependent. Altogether this investigation reveals a novel potential mechanism of immune escape of microsporidian parasites through the modulation of DC differentiation and maturation. PMID:26870700

Prophylactic Dendritic Cell-Based Vaccines Efficiently Inhibit Metastases in Murine Metastatic Melanoma

PubMed Central

Sennikov, Sergey V.; Vlassov, Valentin V.; Zenkova, Marina A.

2015-01-01

Recent data on the application of dendritic cells (DCs) as anti-tumor vaccines has shown their great potential in therapy and prophylaxis of cancer. Here we report on a comparison of two treatment schemes with DCs that display the models of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccination using three different experimental tumor models: namely, Krebs-2 adenocarcinoma (primary tumor), melanoma (B16, metastatic tumor without a primary node) and Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC, metastatic tumor with a primary node). Dendritic cells generated from bone marrow-derived DC precursors and loaded with lysate of tumor cells or transfected with the complexes of total tumor RNA with cationic liposomes were used for vaccination. Lipofectamine 2000 and liposomes consisting of helper lipid DOPE (1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine) and cationic lipid 2D3 (1,26-Bis(1,2-de-O-tetradecyl-rac-glycerol)-7,11,16,20-tetraazahexacosan tetrahydrocloride) were used for RNA transfection. It was shown that DCs loaded with tumor lysate were ineffective in contrast to tumor-derived RNA. Therapeutic vaccination with DCs loaded by lipoplexes RNA/Lipofectamine 2000 was the most efficient for treatment of non-metastatic Krebs-2, where a 1.9-fold tumor growth retardation was observed. Single prophylactic vaccination with DCs loaded by lipoplexes RNA/2D3 was the most efficient to treat highly aggressive metastatic tumors LLC and B16, where 4.7- and 10-fold suppression of the number of lung metastases was observed, respectively. Antimetastatic effect of single prophylactic DC vaccination in metastatic melanoma model was accompanied by the reductions in the levels of Th2-specific cytokines however the change of the levels of Th1/Th2/Th17 master regulators was not found. Failure of double prophylactic vaccination is explained by Th17-response polarization associated with autoimmune and pro-inflammatory reactions. In the case of therapeutic DC vaccine the polarization of Th1-response was found nevertheless the antimetastatic effect was less effective in comparison with prophylactic DC vaccine. PMID:26325576

Design of a high voltage input - output ratio dc-dc converter dedicated to small power fuel cell systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Béthoux, O.; Cathelin, J.

2010-12-01

Consuming chemical energy, fuel cells produce simultaneously heat, water and useful electrical power [J.M. Andújar, F. Segura, Renew. Sust. Energy Rev. 13, 2309 (2009)], [J. Larminie, A. Dicks, Fuel Cell Systems Explained, 2nd edn. (John Wiley & Sons, 2003)]. As a matter of fact, the voltage generated by a fuel cell strongly depends on both the load power demand and the operating conditions. Besides, as a result of many design aspects, fuel cells are low voltage and high current electric generators. On the contrary, electric loads are commonly designed for small voltage swing and a high V/I ratio in order to minimize Joule losses. Therefore, electric loads supplied by fuel cells are typically fed by means of an intermediate power voltage regulator. The specifications of such a power converter are to be able to step up the input voltage with a high ratio (a ratio of 10 is a classic situation) and also to work with an excellent efficiency (in order to minimize its size, its weight and its losses) [A. Shahin, B. Huang, J.P. Martin, S. Pierfederici, B. Davat, Energy Conv. Manag. 51, 56 (2010)]. This paper deals with the design of this essential ancillary device. It intends to bring out the best structure for fulfilling this function. Several dc-dc converters with large voltage step-up ratios are introduced. A topology based on a coupled inductor or tapped inductor is closely studied. A detailed modelling is performed with the purpose of providing designing rules. This model is validated with both simulation and implementation. The experimental prototype is based on the following specifications: the fuel cell output voltage ranges from a 50 V open-voltage to a 25 V rated voltage while the load requires a constant 250 V voltage. The studied coupled inductor converter is compared with a classic boost converter commonly used in this voltage elevating application. Even though the voltage regulator faces severe FC specifications, the measured efficiency reaches 96% at the rated power whereas conventional boost efficiency barely achieves 91.5% in the same operating conditions.

Dendritic cell based vaccines: progress in immunotherapy studies for prostate cancer.

PubMed

Ragde, Haakon; Cavanagh, William A; Tjoa, Benjamin A

2004-12-01

No effective treatment is currently available for metastatic prostate cancer. Dendritic cell (DC) based cancer vaccine research has emerged from the laboratories to human clinical trials. We describe progress in the development of DC based prostate cancer vaccine. The literature was reviewed for major contributions to a growing number of studies that demonstrate the potential of DC based immunotherapeutics for prostate cancer. Background topics relating to DC based immunotherapy theory and practice are also addressed. DCs have been recognized as the most efficient antigen presenting cells that have the capacity to initiate naive T cell response in vitro and in vivo. During their differentiation and maturation pathways, dendritic cells can efficiently capture, process and present antigens for T cell activation. These characteristics make DC an attractive choice as the cellular adjuvant for cancer vaccines. Advances in DC generation, loading, and maturation methodologies have made it possible to generate clinical grade vaccines for various human trials. More than 100 DC vaccine trials, including 7 studies of patients with advanced prostate cancer have been reported to date. These vaccines were generally well tolerated with no significant adverse toxicity reported. Clinical responders have been identified in these studies. The new prospects opened by DC based vaccines for prostate cancer are fascinating. When compared to conventional treatments, DC vaccinations have few side effects. Improvements in patient selection, vaccine delivery strategies, immune monitoring and vaccine manufacturing will be crucial in moving DC based prostate cancer vaccines closer to the clinics.

Electromagnetic induction pump for pumping liquid metals and other conductive liquids

DOEpatents

Smither, R.K.

1993-05-11

An electromagnetic induction pump is described in which an electrically conductive liquid is made to flow by means of a force created by interaction of a permanent magnetic field and a DC current. The pump achieves high efficiency through combination of: powerful permanent magnet materials which provide a high strength field that is uniform and constant; steel tubing formed into a coil which is constructed to carry conducting liquids with minimal electrical resistance and heat; and application of a voltage to induce a DC current which continuously produces a force in the direction of the desired flow.

Electromagnetic induction pump for pumping liquid metals and other conductive liquids

DOEpatents

Smither, Robert K.

1993-01-01

An electromagnetic induction pump in which an electrically conductive liquid is made to flow by means of a force created by interaction of a permanent magnetic field and a DC current. The pump achieves high efficiency through combination of: powerful permanent magnet materials which provide a high strength field that is uniform and constant; steel tubing formed into a coil which is constructed to carry conducting liquids with minimal electrical resistance and heat; and application of a voltage to induce a DC current which continuously produces a force in the direction of the desired flow.

Effective Size Analysis of the Diametral Compression (Brazil) Test Specimen

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jadaan, Osama M.; Wereszczak, Andrew A

2009-04-01

This study considers the finite element analysis (FEA) simulation and Weibull effective size analysis for the diametral compression (DC) or Brazil specimen loaded with three different push-rod geometries. Those geometries are a flat push-rod, a push-rod whose radius of curvature is larger than that for the DC specimen, and a push-rod whose radius of curvature matches that of the DC specimen. Such established effective size analysis recognizes that the tensile strength of structural ceramics is typically one to two orders of magnitude less than its compressive strength. Therefore, because fracture is much more apt to result from a tensile stressmore » than a compressive one, this traditional analysis only considers the first principal tensile stress field in the mechanically loaded ceramic component for the effective size analysis. The effective areas and effective volumes were computed as function of Weibull modulus using the CARES/Life code. Particular attention was devoted to the effect of mesh sensitivity and localized stress concentration. The effect of specimen width on the stress state was also investigated. The effects of push-rod geometry, the use of steel versus WC push-rods, and considering a frictionless versus no-slip interface between push-rod and specimen on the maximum stresses, where those stresses are located, and the effective area and effective volume results are described. Of the three push-rod geometries, it is concluded that the push-rod (made from WC rather than steel) whose radius of curvature matches that of the DC specimen is the most apt to cause fracture initiation within the specimen's bulk rather than at the loading interface. Therefore, its geometry is the most likely to produce a valid diametral compression strength test. However, the DC specimen remains inefficient in terms of its area and volume efficiencies; namely, the tensile strength of only a few percent of the specimen's entire area or volume is sampled. Given the high probability that a valid (or invalid) test can be proven by ceramic fractographic practices suggests that this test method and specimen is questionable for use with relatively strong structural ceramics.« less

Evaluation of a microwave high-power reception-conversion array for wireless power transmission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dickinson, R. M.

1975-01-01

Initial performance tests of a 24-sq m area array of rectenna elements are presented. The array is used as the receiving portion of a wireless microwave power transmission engineering verification test system. The transmitting antenna was located at a range of 1.54 km. Output dc voltage and power, input RF power, efficiency, and operating temperatures were obtained for a variety of dc load and RF incident power levels at 2388 MHz. Incident peak RF intensities of up to 170 mW/sq cm yielded up to 30.4 kW of dc output power. The highest derived collection-conversion efficiency of the array was greater than 80 percent.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wang, T.; Yang, Z.; Dong, P.

The cold-cathode Penning ion gauge (PIG) type ion source has been used for generation of negative hydrogen (H{sup -}) ions as the internal ion source of a compact cyclotron. A novel method called electrical shielding box dc beam measurement is described in this paper, and the beam intensity was measured under dc extraction inside an electrical shielding box. The results of the trajectory simulation and dc H{sup -} beam extraction measurement were presented. The effect of gas flow rate, magnetic field strength, arc current, and extraction voltage were also discussed. In conclusion, the dc H{sup -} beam current of aboutmore » 4 mA from the PIG ion source with the puller voltage of 40 kV and arc current of 1.31 A was extrapolated from the measurement at low extraction dc voltages.« less

Research on virtual network load balancing based on OpenFlow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Rong; Ding, Lei

2017-08-01

The Network based on OpenFlow technology separate the control module and data forwarding module. Global deployment of load balancing strategy through network view of control plane is fast and of high efficiency. This paper proposes a Weighted Round-Robin Scheduling algorithm for virtual network and a load balancing plan for server load based on OpenFlow. Load of service nodes and load balancing tasks distribution algorithm will be taken into account.

Towards high concentration enhancement of microfluidic temperature gradient focusing of sample solutes using combined AC and DC field induced Joule heating.

PubMed

Ge, Zhengwei; Wang, Wei; Yang, Chun

2011-04-07

It is challenging to continuously concentrate sample solutes in microfluidic channels. We present an improved electrokinetic technique for enhancing microfluidic temperature gradient focusing (TGF) of sample solutes using combined AC and DC field induced Joule heating effects. The introduction of an AC electric field component services dual functions: one is to produce Joule heat for generating temperature gradient; the other is to suppress electroosmotic flow. Consequently the required DC voltages for achieving sample concentration by Joule heating induced TGF are reduced, thereby leading to smaller electroosmotic flow (EOF) and thus backpressure effects. As a demonstration, the proposed technique can lead to concentration enhancement of sample solutes of more than 2500-fold, which is much higher than the existing literature reported microfluidic concentration enhancement by utilizing the Joule heating induced TGF technique.

Voltage balanced multilevel voltage source converter system

DOEpatents

Peng, Fang Zheng; Lai, Jih-Sheng

1997-01-01

A voltage balanced multilevel converter for high power AC applications such as adjustable speed motor drives and back-to-back DC intertie of adjacent power systems. This converter provides a multilevel rectifier, a multilevel inverter, and a DC link between the rectifier and the inverter allowing voltage balancing between each of the voltage levels within the multilevel converter. The rectifier is equipped with at least one phase leg and a source input node for each of the phases. The rectifier is further equipped with a plurality of rectifier DC output nodes. The inverter is equipped with at least one phase leg and a load output node for each of the phases. The inverter is further equipped with a plurality of inverter DC input nodes. The DC link is equipped with a plurality of rectifier charging means and a plurality of inverter discharging means. The plurality of rectifier charging means are connected in series with one of the rectifier charging means disposed between and connected in an operable relationship with each adjacent pair of rectifier DC output nodes. The plurality of inverter discharging means are connected in series with one of the inverter discharging means disposed between and connected in an operable relationship with each adjacent pair of inverter DC input nodes. Each of said rectifier DC output nodes are individually electrically connected to the respective inverter DC input nodes. By this means, each of the rectifier DC output nodes and each of the inverter DC input nodes are voltage balanced by the respective charging and discharging of the rectifier charging means and the inverter discharging means.

Voltage balanced multilevel voltage source converter system

DOEpatents

Peng, F.Z.; Lai, J.S.

1997-07-01

Disclosed is a voltage balanced multilevel converter for high power AC applications such as adjustable speed motor drives and back-to-back DC intertie of adjacent power systems. This converter provides a multilevel rectifier, a multilevel inverter, and a DC link between the rectifier and the inverter allowing voltage balancing between each of the voltage levels within the multilevel converter. The rectifier is equipped with at least one phase leg and a source input node for each of the phases. The rectifier is further equipped with a plurality of rectifier DC output nodes. The inverter is equipped with at least one phase leg and a load output node for each of the phases. The inverter is further equipped with a plurality of inverter DC input nodes. The DC link is equipped with a plurality of rectifier charging means and a plurality of inverter discharging means. The plurality of rectifier charging means are connected in series with one of the rectifier charging means disposed between and connected in an operable relationship with each adjacent pair of rectifier DC output nodes. The plurality of inverter discharging means are connected in series with one of the inverter discharging means disposed between and connected in an operable relationship with each adjacent pair of inverter DC input nodes. Each of said rectifier DC output nodes are individually electrically connected to the respective inverter DC input nodes. By this means, each of the rectifier DC output nodes and each of the inverter DC input nodes are voltage balanced by the respective charging and discharging of the rectifier charging means and the inverter discharging means. 15 figs.

Two-phase flow research using the DC-9/KC-135 apparatus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McQuillen, John B.; Neumann, Eric S.; Shoemaker, J. Michael

1996-01-01

Low-gravity gas-liquid flow research can be conducted aboard the NASA Lewis Research Center DC-9 or the Johnson Space Center KC-135. Air and water solutions serve as the test liquids in cylindrical test sections with constant or variable inner diameters of approximately 2.54 cm and lengths of up to 3.0 m. Superficial velocities range from 0.1 to 1.1 m/sec for liquids and from 0.1 to 25 m/sec for air. Flow rate, differential pressure, void fraction, film thickness, wall shear stress, and acceleration data are measured and recorded at data rates of up to 1000 Hz throughout the 20-sec duration of the experiment. Flow is visualized with a high-speed video system. In addition, the apparatus has a heat-transfer capability whereby sensible heat is transferred between the test-section wall and a subcooled liquid phase so that the heat-transfer characteristics of gas-liquid two-phase flows can be determined.

Measuring flow velocity and flow direction by spatial and temporal analysis of flow fluctuations.

PubMed

Chagnaud, Boris P; Brücker, Christoph; Hofmann, Michael H; Bleckmann, Horst

2008-04-23

If exposed to bulk water flow, fish lateral line afferents respond only to flow fluctuations (AC) and not to the steady (DC) component of the flow. Consequently, a single lateral line afferent can encode neither bulk flow direction nor velocity. It is possible, however, for a fish to obtain bulk flow information using multiple afferents that respond only to flow fluctuations. We show by means of particle image velocimetry that, if a flow contains fluctuations, these fluctuations propagate with the flow. A cross-correlation of water motion measured at an upstream point with that at a downstream point can then provide information about flow velocity and flow direction. In this study, we recorded from pairs of primary lateral line afferents while a fish was exposed to either bulk water flow, or to the water motion caused by a moving object. We confirm that lateral line afferents responded to the flow fluctuations and not to the DC component of the flow, and that responses of many fiber pairs were highly correlated, if they were time-shifted to correct for gross flow velocity and gross flow direction. To prove that a cross-correlation mechanism can be used to retrieve the information about gross flow velocity and direction, we measured the flow-induced bending motions of two flexible micropillars separated in a downstream direction. A cross-correlation of the bending motions of these micropillars did indeed produce an accurate estimate of the velocity vector along the direction of the micropillars.

A complete dc characterization of a constant-frequency, clamped-mode, series-resonant converter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tsai, Fu-Sheng; Lee, Fred C.

1988-01-01

The dc behavior of a clamped-mode series-resonant converter is characterized systematically. Given a circuit operating condition, the converter's mode of operation is determined and various circuit parameters are calculated, such as average inductor current (load current), rms inductor current, peak capacitor voltage, rms switch currents, average diode currents, switch turn-on currents, and switch turn-off currents. Regions of operation are defined, and various circuit characteristics are derived to facilitate the converter design.

DC Cable for Railway

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomita, Masaru

The development of a superconducting cable for railways has commenced, assuming that a DC transmission cable will be used for electric trains. The cable has been fabricated based on the results of current testing of a superconducting wire, and various evaluation tests have been performed to determine the characteristics of the cable. A superconducting transmission cable having zero electrical resistance and suitable for railway use is expected to enhance regeneration efficiency, reduce power losses, achieve load leveling and integration of sub-stations, and reduce rail potential.

Examining the speed-flow-delay paradox in the Washington, DC region : potential impacts of reduced traffic on congestion delay and potential for reductions in discretionary travel during peak periods.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-12-01

Traffic congestion in the Washington, DC area, especially congestion on our freeways, costs our residents every day : in terms of wasted time, fuel, and increased air pollution. Highway studies have determined that once traffic volumes : exceed the c...

Nature of convection-stabilized dc arcs in dual-flow nozzle geometry. I - The cold flow field and dc arc characteristics. II - Optical diagnostics and theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Serbetci, Ilter; Nagamatsu, H. T.

1990-02-01

Steady-state low-current air arcs in a dual-flow nozzle system are studied experimentally. The cold flow field with no arc is investigated using a 12.7-mm diameter dual-flow nozzle in a steady-flow facility. Mach number and mass flux distributions are determined for various nozzle-pressure ratios and nozzle-gap spacing. It is found that the shock waves in the converging-diverging nozzles result in a decrease in overal resistance by about 15 percent. Also, Schlieren and differential interferometry techniques are used to visualize the density gradients within the arc plasma and thermal mantle. Both optical techniques reveal a laminar arc structure for a reservoir pressure of 1 atm at various current levels. Experimentally determined axial static pressure and cold-flow mass flux rate distributions and a channel-flow model with constant arc temperatre are used to solve the energy integral for the arc radius as a function of axial distance. The arc electric field strength, voltage, resistance, and power are determined with Ohm's law and the total heat transfer is related to arc power.

Experimental Verification of a Dynamic Voltage Restorer Capable of Significantly Reducing an Energy-Storage Element

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jimichi, Takushi; Fujita, Hideaki; Akagi, Hirofumi

This paper deals with a dynamic voltage restorer (DVR) characterized by installing the shunt converter at the load side. The DVR can compensate for the load voltage when a voltage sag appears in the supply voltage. An existing DVR requires a large capacitor bank or other energy-storage elements such as double-layer capacitors or batteries. The DVR presented in this paper requires only a small dc capacitor intended for smoothing the dc-link voltage. Moreover, three control methods for the series converter are compared and discussed to reduce the series-converter rating, paying attention to the zero-sequence voltages included in the supply voltage and the compensating voltage. Experimental results obtained from a 200-V, 5-kW laboratory system are shown to verify the viability of the system configuration and the control methods.

Impact analysis of tap switch out of step for converter transformer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hong-yue, ZHANG; Zhen-hua, ZHANG; Zhang-xue, XIONG; Gao-wang, YU

2017-06-01

AC transformer load regulation is mainly used to adjust the load side voltage level, improve the quality of power supply, the voltage range is relatively narrow. In DC system, converter transformer is the core equipment of AC and DC power converter and inverter. converter transformer tap adjustment can maintain the normal operation of the converter in small angle range control, the absorption of reactive power, economic operation, valve less stress, valve damping circuit loss, AC / DC harmonic component is also smaller. In this way, the tap switch action is more frequent, and a large range of the tap switch adjustment is required. Converter transformer with a more load voltage regulation switch, the voltage regulation range of the switch is generally 20~30%, the adjustment of each file is 1%~2%. Recently it is often found that the tap switch of Converter Transformers is out of step in Converter station. In this paper, it is analyzed in detail the impact of tap switch out of step for differential protection, overexcitation protection and zero sequence over current protection. Analysis results show that: the tap switch out of step has no effect on the differential protection and the overexcitation protection including the tap switch. But the tap switch out of step has effect on zero sequence overcurrent protection of out of step star-angle converter transformer. The zero sequence overcurrent protection will trip when the tap switch out of step is greater than 3 for out of step star-angle converter transformer.

A novel microfluidic valve controlledby induced charge electro-osmotic flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Chengfa; Song, Yongxin; Pan, Xinxiang; Li, Dongqing

2016-07-01

In this paper, a novel microfluidic valve by utilizing induced charge electro-osmotic flow (ICEOF) is proposed and analyzed. The key part of the microfluidic valve is a Y-shaped microchannel. A small metal plate is placed at each corner of the junction of the Y-shaped microchannel. When a DC electrical field is applied through the channels, electro-osmotic flows occur in the channels, and two vortices will be formed near each of the metal plates due to the ICEOF. The two vortices behave like virtual ‘blocking columns’ to restrain and direct the flow in the Y-channel. In this paper, effects of the length of the metal plates, the applied voltages, the width of the microchannel, the zeta potential of the non-metal microchannel wall, and the orientation of the branch channels on the flow switching between two outlet channels are numerically investigated. The results show that the flow switching between the two outlet channels can be flexibly achieved by adjusting the applied DC voltages. The critical switching voltage (CSV), under which one outlet channel is closed, decreases with the increase in the metal plate length and the orientation angle of the outlet channels. The CSV, however, increases with the increase in the inlet voltage, the width of the microchannel, and the absolute value of the zeta potential of the non-metal microchannel wall. Compared with other types of micro-valves, the proposed micro-valve is simple in structure without any moving parts. Only a DC power source is needed for its actuation, thus it can operate automatically by controlling the applied voltages.

Continuous-flow multi-pulse electroporation at low DC voltages by microfluidic flipping of the voltage space topology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhattacharjee, N.; Horowitz, L. F.; Folch, A.

2016-10-01

Concerns over biosafety, cost, and carrying capacity of viral vectors have accelerated research into physical techniques for gene delivery such as electroporation and mechanoporation. Advances in microfabrication have made it possible to create high electric fields over microscales, resulting in more efficient DNA delivery and higher cell viability. Continuous-flow microfluidic methods are typically more suitable for cellular therapies where a large number of cells need to be transfected under sterile conditions. However, the existing continuous-flow designs used to generate multiple pulses either require expensive peripherals such as high-voltage (>400 V) sources or function generators, or result in reduced cell viability due to the proximity of the cells to the electrodes. In this paper, we report a continuous-flow microfluidic device whose channel geometry reduces instrumentation demands and minimizes cellular toxicity. Our design can generate multiple pulses of high DC electric field strength using significantly lower voltages (15-60 V) than previous designs. The cells flow along a serpentine channel that repeatedly flips the cells between a cathode and an anode at high throughput. The cells must flow through a constriction each time they pass from an anode to a cathode, exposing them to high electric field strength for short durations of time (the "pulse-width"). A conductive biocompatible poly-aniline hydrogel network formed in situ is used to apply the DC voltage without bringing the metal electrodes close to the cells, further sheltering cells from the already low voltage electrodes. The device was used to electroporate multiple cell lines using electric field strengths between 700 and 800 V/cm with transfection efficiencies superior than previous flow-through designs.

Continuous-flow multi-pulse electroporation at low DC voltages by microfluidic flipping of the voltage space topology.

PubMed

Bhattacharjee, N; Horowitz, L F; Folch, A

2016-10-17

Concerns over biosafety, cost, and carrying capacity of viral vectors have accelerated research into physical techniques for gene delivery such as electroporation and mechanoporation. Advances in microfabrication have made it possible to create high electric fields over microscales, resulting in more efficient DNA delivery and higher cell viability. Continuous-flow microfluidic methods are typically more suitable for cellular therapies where a large number of cells need to be transfected under sterile conditions. However, the existing continuous-flow designs used to generate multiple pulses either require expensive peripherals such as high-voltage (>400 V) sources or function generators, or result in reduced cell viability due to the proximity of the cells to the electrodes. In this paper, we report a continuous-flow microfluidic device whose channel geometry reduces instrumentation demands and minimizes cellular toxicity. Our design can generate multiple pulses of high DC electric field strength using significantly lower voltages (15-60 V) than previous designs. The cells flow along a serpentine channel that repeatedly flips the cells between a cathode and an anode at high throughput. The cells must flow through a constriction each time they pass from an anode to a cathode, exposing them to high electric field strength for short durations of time (the "pulse-width"). A conductive biocompatible poly-aniline hydrogel network formed in situ is used to apply the DC voltage without bringing the metal electrodes close to the cells, further sheltering cells from the already low voltage electrodes. The device was used to electroporate multiple cell lines using electric field strengths between 700 and 800 V/cm with transfection efficiencies superior than previous flow-through designs.

Triple voltage dc-to-dc converter and method

DOEpatents

Su, Gui-Jia

2008-08-05

A circuit and method of providing three dc voltage buses and transforming power between a low voltage dc converter and a high voltage dc converter, by coupling a primary dc power circuit and a secondary dc power circuit through an isolation transformer; providing the gating signals to power semiconductor switches in the primary and secondary circuits to control power flow between the primary and secondary circuits and by controlling a phase shift between the primary voltage and the secondary voltage. The primary dc power circuit and the secondary dc power circuit each further comprising at least two tank capacitances arranged in series as a tank leg, at least two resonant switching devices arranged in series with each other and arranged in parallel with the tank leg, and at least one voltage source arranged in parallel with the tank leg and the resonant switching devices, said resonant switching devices including power semiconductor switches that are operated by gating signals. Additional embodiments having a center-tapped battery on the low voltage side and a plurality of modules on both the low voltage side and the high voltage side are also disclosed for the purpose of reducing ripple current and for reducing the size of the components.

Piezoelectric two-dimensional nanosheets/anionic layer heterojunction for efficient direct current power generation.

PubMed

Kim, Kwon-Ho; Kumar, Brijesh; Lee, Keun Young; Park, Hyun-Kyu; Lee, Ju-Hyuck; Lee, Hyun Hwi; Jun, Hoin; Lee, Dongyun; Kim, Sang-Woo

2013-01-01

Direct current (DC) piezoelectric power generator is promising for the miniaturization of a power package and self-powering of nanorobots and body-implanted devices. Hence, we report the first use of two-dimensional (2D) zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructure and an anionic nanoclay layer to generate piezoelectric DC output power. The device, made from 2D nanosheets and an anionic nanoclay layer heterojunction, has potential to be the smallest size power package, and could be used to charge wireless nano/micro scale systems without the use of rectifier circuits to convert alternating current into DC to store the generated power. The combined effect of buckling behaviour of the ZnO nanosheets, a self-formed anionic nanoclay layer, and coupled semiconducting and piezoelectric properties of ZnO nanosheets contributes to efficient DC power generation. The networked ZnO nanosheets proved to be structurally stable under huge external mechanical loads.

Utilizing zero-sequence switchings for reversible converters

DOEpatents

Hsu, John S.; Su, Gui-Jia; Adams, Donald J.; Nagashima, James M.; Stancu, Constantin; Carlson, Douglas S.; Smith, Gregory S.

2004-12-14

A method for providing additional dc inputs or outputs (49, 59) from a dc-to-ac inverter (10) for controlling motor loads (60) comprises deriving zero-sequence components (V.sub.ao, V.sub.bo, and V.sub.co) from the inverter (10) through additional circuit branches with power switching devices (23, 44, 46), transforming the voltage between a high voltage and a low voltage using a transformer or motor (42, 50), converting the low voltage between ac and dc using a rectifier (41, 51) or an H-bridge (61), and providing at least one low voltage dc input or output (49, 59). The transformation of the ac voltage may be either single phase or three phase. Where less than a 100% duty cycle is acceptable, a two-phase modulation of the switching signals controlling the inverter (10) reduces switching losses in the inverter (10). A plurality of circuits for carrying out the invention are also disclosed.

A Compact, Soft-Switching DC-DC Converter for Electric Propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Button, Robert; Redilla, Jack; Ayyanar, Raja

2003-01-01

A hybrid, soft-switching, DC-DC converter has been developed with superior soft switching characteristics, high efficiency, and low electro-magnetic interference. This hybrid topology is comprised of an uncontrolled bridge operating at full pulse-width, and a controlled section operating as a conventional phase modulated converter. The unique topology is able to maintain zero voltage switching down to no load operating conditions. A breadboard prototype was developed and tested to demonstrate the benefits of the topology. Improvements were then made to reduce the size of passive components and increase efficiency in preparation for packaging. A packaged prototype was then designed and built, and several innovative packaging techniques are presented. Performance test data is presented that reveals deficiencies in the design of the power transformer. A simple redesign of the transformer windings eliminated the deficiency. Future plans to improve the converter and packaging design are presented along with several conclusions.

An Intelligent Control for the Distributed Flexible Network Photovoltaic System using Autonomous Control and Agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Sangsoo; Miura, Yushi; Ise, Toshifumi

This paper proposes an intelligent control for the distributed flexible network photovoltaic system using autonomous control and agent. The distributed flexible network photovoltaic system is composed of a secondary battery bank and a number of subsystems which have a solar array, a dc/dc converter and a load. The control mode of dc/dc converter can be selected based on local information by autonomous control. However, if only autonomous control using local information is applied, there are some problems associated with several cases such as voltage drop on long power lines. To overcome these problems, the authors propose introducing agents to improve control characteristics. The autonomous control with agents is called as intelligent control in this paper. The intelligent control scheme that employs the communication between agents is applied for the model system and proved with simulation using PSCAD/EMTDC.

Electric power processing, distribution and control for advanced aerospace vehicles.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krausz, A.; Felch, J. L.

1972-01-01

The results of a current study program to develop a rational basis for selection of power processing, distribution, and control configurations for future aerospace vehicles including the Space Station, Space Shuttle, and high-performance aircraft are presented. Within the constraints imposed by the characteristics of power generation subsystems and the load utilization equipment requirements, the power processing, distribution and control subsystem can be optimized by selection of the proper distribution voltage, frequency, and overload/fault protection method. It is shown that, for large space vehicles which rely on static energy conversion to provide electric power, high-voltage dc distribution (above 100 V dc) is preferable to conventional 28 V dc and 115 V ac distribution per MIL-STD-704A. High-voltage dc also has advantages over conventional constant frequency ac systems in many aircraft applications due to the elimination of speed control, wave shaping, and synchronization equipment.

Analysis of Discontinuity Induced Bifurcations in a Dual Input DC-DC Converter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giaouris, Damian; Banerjee, Soumitro; Mandal, Kuntal; Al-Hindawi, Mohammed M.; Abusorrah, Abdullah; Al-Turki, Yusuf; El Aroudi, Abdelali

DC-DC power converters with multiple inputs and a single output are used in numerous applications where multiple sources, e.g. two or more renewable energy sources and/or a battery, feed a single load. In this work, a classical boost converter topology with two input branches connected to two different sources is chosen, with each branch independently being controlled by a separate peak current mode controller. We demonstrate for the first time that even though this converter is similar to other well known topologies that have been studied before, it exhibits many complex nonlinear behaviors that are not found in any other standard PWM controlled power converter. The system undergoes period incrementing cascade as a parameter is varied, with discontinuous hard transitions between consecutive periodicities. We show that the system can be described by a discontinuous map, which explains the observed bifurcation phenomena. The results have been experimentally validated.

Performance of unified power quality conditioner (UPQC) based on fuzzy controller for attenuating of voltage and current harmonics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Milood Almelian, Mohamad; Mohd, Izzeldin I.; Asghaiyer Omran, Mohamed; Ullah Sheikh, Usman

2018-04-01

Power quality-related issues such as current and voltage distortions can adversely affect home and industrial appliances. Although several conventional techniques such as the use of passive and active filters have been developed to increase power quality standards, these methods have challenges and are inadequate due to the increasing number of applications. The Unified Power Quality Conditioner (UPQC) is a modern strategy towards correcting the imperfections of voltage and load current supply. A UPQC is a combination of both series and shunt active power filters in a back-to-back manner with a common DC link capacitor. The control of the voltage of the DC link capacitor is important in achieving a desired UPQC performance. In this paper, the UPQC with a Fuzzy logic controller (FLC) was used to precisely eliminate the imperfections of voltage and current harmonics. The results of the simulation studies using MATLAB/Simulink and Simpower system programming for R-L load associated through an uncontrolled bridge rectifier was used to assess the execution process. The UPQC with FLC was simulated for a system with distorted load current and a system with distorted source voltage and load current. The outcome of the comparison of %THD in the load current and source voltage before and after using UPQC for the two cases was presented.

Ion trap device

DOEpatents

Ibrahim, Yehia M.; Smith, Richard D.

2016-01-26

An ion trap device is disclosed. The device includes a series of electrodes that define an ion flow path. A radio frequency (RF) field is applied to the series of electrodes such that each electrode is phase shifted approximately 180 degrees from an adjacent electrode. A DC voltage is superimposed with the RF field to create a DC gradient to drive ions in the direction of the gradient. A second RF field or DC voltage is applied to selectively trap and release the ions from the device. Further, the device may be gridless and utilized at high pressure.

Three-Phase AC Optimal Power Flow Based Distribution Locational Marginal Price: Preprint

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yang, Rui; Zhang, Yingchen

2017-05-17

Designing market mechanisms for electricity distribution systems has been a hot topic due to the increased presence of smart loads and distributed energy resources (DERs) in distribution systems. The distribution locational marginal pricing (DLMP) methodology is one of the real-time pricing methods to enable such market mechanisms and provide economic incentives to active market participants. Determining the DLMP is challenging due to high power losses, the voltage volatility, and the phase imbalance in distribution systems. Existing DC Optimal Power Flow (OPF) approaches are unable to model power losses and the reactive power, while single-phase AC OPF methods cannot capture themore » phase imbalance. To address these challenges, in this paper, a three-phase AC OPF based approach is developed to define and calculate DLMP accurately. The DLMP is modeled as the marginal cost to serve an incremental unit of demand at a specific phase at a certain bus, and is calculated using the Lagrange multipliers in the three-phase AC OPF formulation. Extensive case studies have been conducted to understand the impact of system losses and the phase imbalance on DLMPs as well as the potential benefits of flexible resources.« less

Equivalent circuit modeling of a piezo-patch energy harvester on a thin plate with AC-DC conversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bayik, B.; Aghakhani, A.; Basdogan, I.; Erturk, A.

2016-05-01

As an alternative to beam-like structures, piezoelectric patch-based energy harvesters attached to thin plates can be readily integrated to plate-like structures in automotive, marine, and aerospace applications, in order to directly exploit structural vibration modes of the host system without mass loading and volumetric occupancy of cantilever attachments. In this paper, a multi-mode equivalent circuit model of a piezo-patch energy harvester integrated to a thin plate is developed and coupled with a standard AC-DC conversion circuit. Equivalent circuit parameters are obtained in two different ways: (1) from the modal analysis solution of a distributed-parameter analytical model and (2) from the finite-element numerical model of the harvester by accounting for two-way coupling. After the analytical modeling effort, multi-mode equivalent circuit representation of the harvester is obtained via electronic circuit simulation software SPICE. Using the SPICE software, electromechanical response of the piezoelectric energy harvester connected to linear and nonlinear circuit elements are computed. Simulation results are validated for the standard AC-AC and AC-DC configurations. For the AC input-AC output problem, voltage frequency response functions are calculated for various resistive loads, and they show excellent agreement with modal analysis-based analytical closed-form solution and with the finite-element model. For the standard ideal AC input-DC output case, a full-wave rectifier and a smoothing capacitor are added to the harvester circuit for conversion of the AC voltage to a stable DC voltage, which is also validated against an existing solution by treating the single-mode plate dynamics as a single-degree-of-freedom system.

Plasmacytoid dendritic cell and functional HIV Gag p55-specific T cells before treatment interruption can inform set-point plasma HIV viral load after treatment interruption in chronically suppressed HIV-1(+) patients.

PubMed

Papasavvas, Emmanouil; Foulkes, Andrea; Yin, Xiangfan; Joseph, Jocelin; Ross, Brian; Azzoni, Livio; Kostman, Jay R; Mounzer, Karam; Shull, Jane; Montaner, Luis J

2015-07-01

The identification of immune correlates of HIV control is important for the design of immunotherapies that could support cure or antiretroviral therapy (ART) intensification-related strategies. ART interruptions may facilitate this task through exposure of an ART partially reconstituted immune system to endogenous virus. We investigated the relationship between set-point plasma HIV viral load (VL) during an ART interruption and innate/adaptive parameters before or after interruption. Dendritic cell (DC), natural killer (NK) cell and HIV Gag p55-specific T-cell functional responses were measured in paired cryopreserved peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained at the beginning (on ART) and at set-point of an open-ended interruption from 31 ART-suppressed chronically HIV-1(+) patients. Spearman correlation and linear regression modeling were used. Frequencies of plasmacytoid DC (pDC), and HIV Gag p55-specific CD3(+)  CD4(-)  perforin(+)  IFN-γ(+) cells at the beginning of interruption associated negatively with set-point plasma VL. Inclusion of both variables with interaction into a model resulted in the best fit (adjusted R(2)  = 0·6874). Frequencies of pDC or HIV Gag p55-specific CD3(+)  CD4(-)  CSFE(lo)  CD107a(+) cells at set-point associated negatively with set-point plasma VL. The dual contribution of pDC and anti-HIV T-cell responses to viral control, supported by our models, suggests that these variables may serve as immune correlates of viral control and could be integrated in cure or ART-intensification strategies. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Negative DC corona discharge current characteristics in a flowing two-phase (air + suspended smoke particles) fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berendt, Artur; Domaszka, Magdalena; Mizeraczyk, Jerzy

2017-04-01

The electrical characteristics of a steady-state negative DC corona discharge in a two-phase fluid (air with suspended cigarette smoke particles) flowing along a chamber with a needle-to-plate electrode arrangement were experimentally investigated. The two-phase flow was transverse in respect to the needle-to-plate axis. The velocity of the transverse two-phase flow was limited to 0.8 m/s, typical of the electrostatic precipitators. We found that three discharge current modes of the negative corona exist in the two-phase (air + smoke particles) fluid: the Trichel pulses mode, the "Trichel pulses superimposed on DC component" mode and the DC component mode, similarly as in the corona discharge in air (a single-phase fluid). The shape of Trichel pulses in the air + suspended particles fluid is similar to that in air. However, the Trichel pulse amplitudes are higher than those in "pure" air while their repetition frequency is lower. As a net consequence of that the averaged corona discharge current in the two-phase fluid is lower than in "pure" air. It was also found that the average discharge current decreases with increasing suspended particle concentration. The calculations showed that the dependence of the average negative corona current (which is a macroscopic corona discharge parameter) on the particle concentration can be explained by the particle-concentration dependencies of the electric charge of Trichel pulse and the repetition frequency of Trichel pulses, both giving a microscopic insight into the electrical phenomena in the negative corona discharge. Our investigations showed also that the average corona discharge current in the two-phase fluid is almost unaffected by the transverse fluid flow up to a velocity of 0.8 m/s. Contribution to the topical issue "The 15th International Symposium on High Pressure Low Temperature Plasma Chemistry (HAKONE XV)", edited by Nicolas Gherardi and Tomáš Hoder

A method to approximate a closest loadability limit using multiple load flow solutions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Yorino, Naoto; Harada, Shigemi; Cheng, Haozhong

A new method is proposed to approximate a closest loadability limit (CLL), or closest saddle node bifurcation point, using a pair of multiple load flow solutions. More strictly, the obtainable points by the method are the stationary points including not only CLL but also farthest and saddle points. An operating solution and a low voltage load flow solution are used to efficiently estimate the node injections at a CLL as well as the left and right eigenvectors corresponding to the zero eigenvalue of the load flow Jacobian. They can be used in monitoring loadability margin, in identification of weak spotsmore » in a power system and in the examination of an optimal control against voltage collapse. Most of the computation time of the proposed method is taken in calculating the load flow solution pair. The remaining computation time is less than that of an ordinary load flow.« less

Integration issues of a plasma contactor Power Electronics Unit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pinero, Luis R.; York, Kenneth W.; Bowers, Glen E.

1995-01-01

A hollow cathode-based plasma contactor is baselined on International Space Station Alpha (ISSA) for spacecraft charge control. The plasma contactor system consists of a hollow cathode assembly (HCA), a power electronics unit (PEU), and an expellant management unit (EMU). The plasma contactor has recently been required to operate in a cyclic mode to conserve xenon expellant and extend system life. Originally, a DC cathode heater converter was baselined for a continuous operation mode because only a few ignitions of the hollow cathode were expected. However, for cyclic operation, a DC heater supply can potentially result in hollow cathode heater component failure due to the DC electrostatic field. This can prevent the heater from attaining the proper cathode tip temperature for reliable ignition of the hollow cathode. To mitigate this problem, an AC cathode heater supply was therefore designed, fabricated, and installed into a modified PEU. The PEU was tested using resistive loads and then integrated with an engineering model hollow cathode to demonstrate stable steady-state operation. Integration issues such as the effect of line and load impedance on the output of the AC cathode heater supply and the characterization of the temperature profile of the heater under AC excitation were investigated.

Fatigue and fail-safe design features of the DC-10 airplane

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stone, M. E.

1972-01-01

The philosophy and methods used in the design of the DC-10 aircraft to assure structural reliability against cracks under repeated service loads are described in detail. The approach consists of three complementary parts: (1) the structure is designed to be fatigue resistant for a crack-free life of 60,000 flight hours; (2) inasmuch as small undetected cracks could develop from other sources, such as material flaws and manufacturing preloads, the structure also is designed to arrest and control cracks within a reasonable service-inspection interval; and (3) a meaningful service-inspection program has been defined on the basis of analysis and test experience from the design development program. This service-inspection program closes the loop to assure the structural integrity of the DC-10 airframe. Selected materials, fasteners, and structural arrangements are used to achieve these design features with minimum structural weight and with economy in manufacturing and maintenance. Extensive analyses and testing were performed to develop and verify the design. The basic design considerations for fatigue-resistant structure are illustrated in terms of material selection, design loads spectra, methods for accurate stress and fatigue damage analysis, and proven concepts for efficient detail design.

Phase transformation as the single-mode mechanical deformation of silicon

DOE PAGES

Wong, Sherman; Haberl, Bianca; Williams, James S.; ...

2015-06-25

The mixture of the metastable body-centered cubic (bc8) and rhombohedral (r8) phases of silicon that is formed via nanoindentation of diamond cubic (dc) silicon exhibits properties that are of scientifc and technological interest. This letter demonstrates that large regions of this mixed phase can be formed in crystalline Si via nanoindentation without signifcant damage to the surrounding crystal. Cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy is used to show that volumes 6 μm wide and up to 650 nm deep can be generated in this way using a spherical tip of ~21.5 μm diameter. The phase transformed region is characterised using both Ramanmore » microspectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. It is found that uniform loading using large spherical indenters can favor phase transformation as the sole deformation mechanism as long as the maximum load is below a critical level. We suggest that the sluggish nature of the transformation from the dc-Si phase to the metallic (b-Sn) phase normally results in competing deformation mechanisms such as slip and cracking but these can be suppressed by controlled loading conditions.« less

Electrical shielding box measurement of the negative hydrogen beam from Penning ion gauge ion source.

PubMed

Wang, T; Yang, Z; Dong, P; long, J D; He, X Z; Wang, X; Zhang, K Z; Zhang, L W

2012-06-01

The cold-cathode Penning ion gauge (PIG) type ion source has been used for generation of negative hydrogen (H(-)) ions as the internal ion source of a compact cyclotron. A novel method called electrical shielding box dc beam measurement is described in this paper, and the beam intensity was measured under dc extraction inside an electrical shielding box. The results of the trajectory simulation and dc H(-) beam extraction measurement were presented. The effect of gas flow rate, magnetic field strength, arc current, and extraction voltage were also discussed. In conclusion, the dc H(-) beam current of about 4 mA from the PIG ion source with the puller voltage of 40 kV and arc current of 1.31 A was extrapolated from the measurement at low extraction dc voltages.

Dendritic Cells in the Context of Human Tumors: Biology and Experimental Tools.

PubMed

Volovitz, Ilan; Melzer, Susanne; Amar, Sarah; Bocsi, József; Bloch, Merav; Efroni, Sol; Ram, Zvi; Tárnok, Attila

2016-01-01

Dendritic cells (DC) are the most potent and versatile antigen-presenting cells (APC) in the immune system. DC have an exceptional ability to comprehend the immune context of a captured antigen based on molecular signals identified from its vicinity. The analyzed information is then conveyed to other immune effector cells. Such capability enables DC to play a pivotal role in mediating either an immunogenic response or immune tolerance towards an acquired antigen. This review summarizes current knowledge on DC in the context of human tumors. It covers the basics of human DC biology, elaborating on the different markers, morphology and function of the different subsets of human DC. Human blood-borne DC are comprised of at least three subsets consisting of one plasmacytoid DC (pDC) and two to three myeloid DC (mDC) subsets. Some tissues have unique DC. Each subset has a different phenotype and function and may induce pro-tumoral or anti-tumoral effects. The review also discusses two methods fundamental to the research of DC on the single-cell level: multicolor flow cytometry (FCM) and image-based cytometry (IC). These methods, along with new genomics and proteomics tools, can provide high-resolution information on specific DC subsets and on immune and tumor cells with which they interact. The different layers of collected biological data may then be integrated using Immune-Cytomics modeling approaches. Such novel integrated approaches may help unravel the complex network of cellular interactions that DC carry out within tumors, and may help harness this complex immunological information into the development of more effective treatments for cancer.

PSO Based PI Controller Design for a Solar Charger System

PubMed Central

Yau, Her-Terng; Lin, Chih-Jer; Liang, Qin-Cheng

2013-01-01

Due to global energy crisis and severe environmental pollution, the photovoltaic (PV) system has become one of the most important renewable energy sources. Many previous studies on solar charger integrated system only focus on load charge control or switching Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and charge control modes. This study used two-stage system, which allows the overall portable solar energy charging system to implement MPPT and optimal charge control of Li-ion battery simultaneously. First, this study designs a DC/DC boost converter of solar power generation, which uses variable step size incremental conductance method (VSINC) to enable the solar cell to track the maximum power point at any time. The voltage was exported from the DC/DC boost converter to the DC/DC buck converter, so that the voltage dropped to proper voltage for charging the battery. The charging system uses constant current/constant voltage (CC/CV) method to charge the lithium battery. In order to obtain the optimum PI charge controller parameters, this study used intelligent algorithm to determine the optimum parameters. According to the simulation and experimental results, the control parameters resulted from PSO have better performance than genetic algorithms (GAs). PMID:23766713

PSO based PI controller design for a solar charger system.

PubMed

Yau, Her-Terng; Lin, Chih-Jer; Liang, Qin-Cheng

2013-01-01

Due to global energy crisis and severe environmental pollution, the photovoltaic (PV) system has become one of the most important renewable energy sources. Many previous studies on solar charger integrated system only focus on load charge control or switching Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) and charge control modes. This study used two-stage system, which allows the overall portable solar energy charging system to implement MPPT and optimal charge control of Li-ion battery simultaneously. First, this study designs a DC/DC boost converter of solar power generation, which uses variable step size incremental conductance method (VSINC) to enable the solar cell to track the maximum power point at any time. The voltage was exported from the DC/DC boost converter to the DC/DC buck converter, so that the voltage dropped to proper voltage for charging the battery. The charging system uses constant current/constant voltage (CC/CV) method to charge the lithium battery. In order to obtain the optimum PI charge controller parameters, this study used intelligent algorithm to determine the optimum parameters. According to the simulation and experimental results, the control parameters resulted from PSO have better performance than genetic algorithms (GAs).

Internet traffic load balancing using dynamic hashing with flow volume

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jo, Ju-Yeon; Kim, Yoohwan; Chao, H. Jonathan; Merat, Francis L.

2002-07-01

Sending IP packets over multiple parallel links is in extensive use in today's Internet and its use is growing due to its scalability, reliability and cost-effectiveness. To maximize the efficiency of parallel links, load balancing is necessary among the links, but it may cause the problem of packet reordering. Since packet reordering impairs TCP performance, it is important to reduce the amount of reordering. Hashing offers a simple solution to keep the packet order by sending a flow over a unique link, but static hashing does not guarantee an even distribution of the traffic amount among the links, which could lead to packet loss under heavy load. Dynamic hashing offers some degree of load balancing but suffers from load fluctuations and excessive packet reordering. To overcome these shortcomings, we have enhanced the dynamic hashing algorithm to utilize the flow volume information in order to reassign only the appropriate flows. This new method, called dynamic hashing with flow volume (DHFV), eliminates unnecessary flow reassignments of small flows and achieves load balancing very quickly without load fluctuation by accurately predicting the amount of transferred load between the links. In this paper we provide the general framework of DHFV and address the challenges in implementing DHFV. We then introduce two algorithms of DHFV with different flow selection strategies and show their performances through simulation.

Methods and Apparatus for Pulsed-DC Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma Actuator and Circuit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Corke, Thomas C. (Inventor); Gold, Calman (Inventor); Kaszeta, Richard (Inventor)

2017-01-01

A plasma generating device intended to induce a flow in a fluid via plasma generation includes a dielectric separating two electrodes and a power supply. The first electrode is exposed to a fluid flow while the second electrode is positioned under the dielectric. The power supply is electrically coupled to a switch and the first and second electrodes. When the power supply is energized by repeated action of the switch, it causes a pulsed DC current between the electrodes which causes the fluid to ionize generating a plasma. The generation of the plasma induces a force with a velocity component in the fluid.

Modeling radiation loads in the ILC main linac and a novel approach to treat dark current

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mokhov, Nilolai V.; Rakhno, Igor L.; Tropin, Igor S.

Electromagnetic and hadron showers generated by electrons of dark current (DC) can represent a significant radiation threat to the ILC linac equipment and personnel. In this study, a commissioning scenario is analysed which is considered as the worst-case scenario for the main linac regarding the DC contribution to the radiation environment in the tunnel. A normal operation scenario is analysed as well. An emphasis is made on radiation load to sensitive electronic equipment—cryogenic thermometers inside the cryomodules. Prompt and residual dose rates in the ILC main linac tunnels were also calculated in these new high-statistics runs. A novel approach wasmore » developed—as a part of general purpose Monte Carlo code MARS15—to model generation, acceleration and transport of DC electrons in electromagnetic fields inside SRF cavities. Comparisons were made with a standard approach when a set of pre-calculated DC electron trajectories is used, with a proper normalization, as a source for Monte Carlo modelling. Results of MARS15 Monte Carlo calculations, performed for the current main linac tunnel design, reveal that the peak absorbed dose in the cryogenic thermometers in the main tunnel for 20 years of operation is about 0.8 MGy. The calculated contact residual dose on cryomodules and tunnel walls in the main tunnel for typical irradiation and cooling conditions is 0.1 and 0.01 mSv/hr, respectively.« less

Three-phase Power Flow Calculation of Low Voltage Distribution Network Considering Characteristics of Residents Load

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yaping; Lin, Shunjiang; Yang, Zhibin

2017-05-01

In the traditional three-phase power flow calculation of the low voltage distribution network, the load model is described as constant power. Since this model cannot reflect the characteristics of actual loads, the result of the traditional calculation is always different from the actual situation. In this paper, the load model in which dynamic load represented by air conditioners parallel with static load represented by lighting loads is used to describe characteristics of residents load, and the three-phase power flow calculation model is proposed. The power flow calculation model includes the power balance equations of three-phase (A,B,C), the current balance equations of phase 0, and the torque balancing equations of induction motors in air conditioners. And then an alternating iterative algorithm of induction motor torque balance equations with each node balance equations is proposed to solve the three-phase power flow model. This method is applied to an actual low voltage distribution network of residents load, and by the calculation of three different operating states of air conditioners, the result demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed model and the algorithm.

Comparative performance evaluation of advanced AC and DC EV propulsion systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

MacDowall, R. D.; Crumley, R. L.

Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) evaluates EV propulsion systems and components for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Electric and Hybrid Vehicle (EHV) Program. In this study, experimental data were used to evaluate the relative performances of the benchmark Chrysler/GE ETV-1 DC and the Ford/GE First Generation Single-Shaft AC (ETX-I) propulsion systems. Tests were conducted on the INEL's chassis dynamometer using identical aerodynamic and rolling resistance road-load coefficients and vehicle test weights. The results allowed a direct comparison of selected efficiency and performance characteristics for the two propulsion system technologies. The ETX-I AC system exhibited slightly lower system efficiency during constant speed testing than the ETV-1 DC propulsion system.

Development and performance of pulse-width-modulated static inverter and converter modules

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pittman, P. F.; Gourash, F.; Birchenough, A. G.; Pittman, P. F.; Ravas, R. J.; Hall, W. G.

1971-01-01

Pulse-width-modulated inverter and converter modules are being developed for modular aerospace electrical power systems. The modules, rate 2.5 kilowatts per module and 10-minute - 150-percent overload, operate from 56 volts dc. The converter module provides two output voltages: a nominal link voltage of 200 volts dc when used with the inverter, and 150 volts dc to a load bus when used separately. The inverter module output is 400-hertz, sinusoidal, three-phase, 120/208 volts. Tests of breadboard models with standard parts and integrated circuits show rated power efficiencies of 71.4 and 85.1 percent and voltage regulation of 5 and 3.1 percent for inverter and converter modules, respectively. Sine-wave output distortion is 0.74 percent.

Computations of Chaotic Flows in Micromixers

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-04-07

Naval Research Laboratory Washington, DC 20375-5320 NRL/MR/6410--06-8948 Computations of Chaotic Flows in Micromixers April 7, 2006 Approved for...PAGES 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT Computations of Chaotic Flows in Micromixers Carolyn R. Kaplan, Junhui Liu, David R. Mott, and Elaine S. Oran NRL/MR...striations form in time 1 _______________ Manuscript approved December 8, 2005. COMPUTATIONS OF CHAOTIC FLOWS IN MICROMIXERS or distance. Sometimes it is

Computational fluid dynamics for modeling the turbulent natural convection in a double air-channel solar chimney system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zavala-Guillén, I.; Xamán, J.; Álvarez, G.; Arce, J.; Hernández-Pérez, I.; Gijón-Rivera, M.

2016-03-01

This study reports the modeling of the turbulent natural convection in a double air-channel solar chimney (SC-DC) and its comparison with a single air-channel solar chimney (SC-C). Prediction of the mass flow and the thermal behavior of the SC-DC were obtained under three different climates of Mexico during one summer day. The climates correspond to: tropical savannah (Mérida), arid desert (Hermosillo) and temperate with warm summer (Mexico City). A code based on the Finite Volume Method was developed and a k-ω turbulence model has been used to model air turbulence in the solar chimney (SC). The code was validated against experimental data. The results indicate that during the day the SC-DC extracts about 50% more mass flow than the SC-C. When the SC-DC is located in Mérida, Hermosillo and Mexico City, the air-changes extracted along the day were 60, 63 and 52, respectively. The air temperature at the outlet of the chimney increased up to 33%, 38% and 61% with respect to the temperature it has at the inlet for Mérida, Hermosillo and Mexico City, respectively.

Preserved dendritic cell HLA-DR expression and reduced regulatory T cell activation in asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax infection.

PubMed

Kho, Steven; Marfurt, Jutta; Noviyanti, Rintis; Kusuma, Andreas; Piera, Kim A; Burdam, Faustina H; Kenangalem, Enny; Lampah, Daniel A; Engwerda, Christian R; Poespoprodjo, Jeanne R; Price, Ric N; Anstey, Nicholas M; Minigo, Gabriela; Woodberry, Tonia

2015-08-01

Clinical illness with Plasmodium falciparum or Plasmodium vivax compromises the function of dendritic cells (DC) and expands regulatory T (Treg) cells. Individuals with asymptomatic parasitemia have clinical immunity, restricting parasite expansion and preventing clinical disease. The role of DC and Treg cells during asymptomatic Plasmodium infection is unclear. During a cross-sectional household survey in Papua, Indonesia, we examined the number and activation of blood plasmacytoid DC (pDC), CD141(+), and CD1c(+) myeloid DC (mDC) subsets and Treg cells using flow cytometry in 168 afebrile children (of whom 15 had P. falciparum and 36 had P. vivax infections) and 162 afebrile adults (of whom 20 had P. falciparum and 20 had P. vivax infections), alongside samples from 16 patients hospitalized with uncomplicated malaria. Unlike DC from malaria patients, DC from children and adults with asymptomatic, microscopy-positive P. vivax or P. falciparum infection increased or retained HLA-DR expression. Treg cells in asymptomatic adults and children exhibited reduced activation, suggesting increased immune responsiveness. The pDC and mDC subsets varied according to clinical immunity (asymptomatic or symptomatic Plasmodium infection) and, in asymptomatic infection, according to host age and parasite species. In conclusion, active control of asymptomatic infection was associated with and likely contingent upon functional DC and reduced Treg cell activation. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

An Experimental Visualization and Image Analysis of Electrohydrodynamically Induced Vapor-Phase Silicon Oil Flow under DC Corona Discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ohyama, Ryu-Ichiro; Fukumoto, Masaru

A DC corona discharge induced electrohydrodynamic (EHD) flow phenomenon for a multi-phase fluid containing a vapor-phase dielectric liquid in the fresh air was investigated. The experimental electrode system was a simple arrangement of needle-plate electrodes for the corona discharges and high-resistivity silicon oil was used as the vapor-phase liquid enclosure. The qualitative observation of EHD flow patterns was conducted by an optical processing on computer tomography and the time-series of discharge current pulse generations at corona discharge electrode were measured simultaneously. These experimental results were analyzed in relationship between the EHD flow motions and the current pulse generations in synchronization. The current pulses and the EHD flow motions from the corona discharge electrode presented a continuous mode similar to the ionic wind in the fresh air and an intermittent mode. In the intermittent mode, the observed EHD flow motion was synchronized with the separated discharge pulse generations. From these experimental results, it was expected that the existence of silicon oil vapor trapped charges gave an occasion to the intermittent generations of the discharge pulses and the secondary EHD flow.

The role of proteinase 3 (PR3) and the protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) pathway in dendritic cell (DC) maturation of human-DC-like monocytes and murine DC.

PubMed

Jiang, Bo; Grage-Griebenow, Evelin; Csernok, Elena; Butherus, Kristine; Ehlers, Stefan; Gross, Wolfgang L; Holle, Julia U

2010-01-01

The aim of the study was to assess PAR-2 expression on dendritic cell (DC) subsets and other immune cells of Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) patients and healthy controls (HC) and to investigate whether Proteinase 3 (PR3, a serine protease which can activate PAR2) induces maturation of human DC-like monocytes and murine Flt-3 ligand- and GM-CSF-generated DC. Human peripheral blood cells including DC subsets and Flt-3l- and GM-CSF-generated mouse DC were analysed for expression of PAR-2 and DC maturation markers by flow cytometry before and after stimulation with PR3, trypsin, PAR-2 agonist or LPS for 24 h. There was no difference of PAR-2 expression on PMNs, monocytes, lymphocytes and DC between all WG samples and HC. However, in inactive WG, expression of PAR-2 was downregulated on the cell surface of PMNs, monocytes, lymphocytes, and CD11c+DC compared to active WG and HC. PR3 and PAR2-agonists did not induce upregulation of PAR-2 or maturation markers of human DC-like monocytes in WG and HC. Likewise, murine PR3 did not induce upregulation of PAR-2 or maturation markers in murine DC. PAR-2 expression is downregulated on human peripheral blood cells including CD11c+ DC in inactive WG compared to active WG and HC, possibly reflecting a non-activated status of these cells in inactive disease. PR3 and PAR-2- agonists did not induce maturation of human ex vivo DC-like monocytes in WG and HC and of murine DC, suggesting this pathway is not singularly involved in the maturation of these cell subsets.

A soft-switching coupled inductor bidirectional DC-DC converter with high-conversion ratio

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chao, Kuei-Hsiang; Jheng, Yi-Cing

2018-01-01

A soft-switching bidirectional DC-DC converter is presented herein as a way to improve the conversion efficiency of a photovoltaic (PV) system. Adoption of coupled inductors enables the presented converter not only to provide a high-conversion ratio but also to suppress the transient surge voltage via the release of the energy stored in leakage flux of the coupled inductors, and the cost can kept down consequently. A combined use of a switching mechanism and an auxiliary resonant branch enables the converter to successfully perform zero-voltage switching operations on the main switches and improves the efficiency accordingly. It was testified by experiments that our proposed converter works relatively efficiently in full-load working range. Additionally, the framework of the converter intended for testifying has high-conversion ratio. The results of a test, where a generating system using PV module array coupled with batteries as energy storage device was used as the low-voltage input side, and DC link was used as high-voltage side, demonstrated our proposed converter framework with high-conversion ratio on both high-voltage and low-voltage sides.

Multiphase High-Frequency Isolated DC-DC Converter for Industrial Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maurya, Rakesh; Srivastava, S. P.; Agarwal, Pramod

2014-01-01

Industrial applications such as welding, plasma cutting, and surface hardening require a large DC current at low voltage. In such applications, the rating of power supply varies from few kilowatts to hundreds of kilowatts. The power supply employs in such applications particularly in arc welding process is expected to operate from open-circuit (no-load) to short-circuit (when the electrode sticks to the workpiece for a short span of time) quickly. In this paper, high-frequency isolated multiphase DC-DC converter is proposed which is well suited for aforementioned applications. Based on mathematical analysis, a simulation study with 5 kW, 5 V/1,000 A proposed model is carried out using Simulink block set and Sim Power System tool box and its performances are evaluated under symmetrical control methods. To verify the simulation results, scaled prototype model of rating 1.5 V/100 A is developed and tested with aforementioned control method under different operating conditions. In comparison with conventional welding power supply employed in many industries, the performance of proposed converter is improved significantly in terms of size and weight, efficiency and dynamic response.

pDC therapy induces recovery from EAE by recruiting endogenous pDC to sites of CNS inflammation.

PubMed

Duraes, Fernanda V; Lippens, Carla; Steinbach, Karin; Dubrot, Juan; Brighouse, Dale; Bendriss-Vermare, Nathalie; Issazadeh-Navikas, Shohreh; Merkler, Doron; Hugues, Stephanie

2016-02-01

Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) exhibit both innate and adaptive functions. In particular they are the main source of type I IFNs and directly impact T cell responses through antigen presentation. We have previously demonstrated that during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) initiation, myelin-antigen presentation by pDCs is associated with suppressive Treg development and results in attenuated EAE. Here, we show that pDCs transferred during acute disease phase confer recovery from EAE. Clinical improvement is associated with migration of injected pDCs into inflamed CNS and is dependent on the subsequent and selective chemerin-mediated recruitment of endogenous pDCs to the CNS. The protective effect requires pDC pre-loading with myelin antigen, and is associated with the modulation of CNS-infiltrating pDC phenotype and inhibition of CNS encephalitogenic T cells. This study may pave the way for novel pDC-based cell therapies in autoimmune diseases, aiming at specifically modulating pathogenic cells that induce and sustain autoimmune inflammation. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Temporal downscaling of decadal sediment load estimates to a daily interval for use in hindcast simulations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ganju, N.K.; Knowles, N.; Schoellhamer, D.H.

2008-01-01

In this study we used hydrologic proxies to develop a daily sediment load time-series, which agrees with decadal sediment load estimates, when integrated. Hindcast simulations of bathymetric change in estuaries require daily sediment loads from major tributary rivers, to capture the episodic delivery of sediment during multi-day freshwater flow pulses. Two independent decadal sediment load estimates are available for the Sacramento/San Joaquin River Delta, California prior to 1959, but they must be downscaled to a daily interval for use in hindcast models. Daily flow and sediment load data to the Delta are available after 1930 and 1959, respectively, but bathymetric change simulations for San Francisco Bay prior to this require a method to generate daily sediment load estimates into the Delta. We used two historical proxies, monthly rainfall and unimpaired flow magnitudes, to generate monthly unimpaired flows to the Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta for the 1851-1929 period. This step generated the shape of the monthly hydrograph. These historical monthly flows were compared to unimpaired monthly flows from the modern era (1967-1987), and a least-squares metric selected a modern water year analogue for each historical water year. The daily hydrograph for the modern analogue was then assigned to the historical year and scaled to match the flow volume estimated by dendrochronology methods, providing the correct total flow for the year. We applied a sediment rating curve to this time-series of daily flows, to generate daily sediment loads for 1851-1958. The rating curve was calibrated with the two independent decadal sediment load estimates, over two distinct periods. This novel technique retained the timing and magnitude of freshwater flows and sediment loads, without damping variability or net sediment loads to San Francisco Bay. The time-series represents the hydraulic mining period with sustained periods of increased sediment loads, and a dramatic decrease after 1910, corresponding to a reduction in available mining debris. The analogue selection procedure also permits exploration of the morphological hydrograph concept, where a limited set of hydrographs is used to simulate the same bathymetric change as the actual set of hydrographs. The final daily sediment load time-series and morphological hydrograph concept will be applied as landward boundary conditions for hindcasting simulations of bathymetric change in San Francisco Bay.

78 FR 48868 - Nationwide Categorical Waivers Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-12

... (motorized automatic two (2) wing revolving doors; self[hyphen]contained photovoltaic LED area lighting systems; ultrasonic directional sensors and DC300 facility controllers for a parking guidance system; load...

Effect of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Infection on the Frequency, Phenotype and Function of Circulating Dendritic Cells in Cattle

PubMed Central

Sei, Janet J.; Waters, Ryan A.; Kenney, Mary; Barlow, John W.; Golde, William T.

2016-01-01

Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is a highly contagious virus that causes one of the most devastating diseases in cloven-hoofed animals. Disease symptoms develop within 2 to 3 days of exposure and include fever and vesicular lesions on the tongue and hooves. Dendritic cells (DC) play an essential role in protective immune responses against pathogens. Therefore, investigating their role during FMDV infection would lead to a better understanding of host-pathogen interactions. In this study, following infection of cattle with FMDV, we investigated the frequency and function of conventional (cDC) and plasmacytoid DC (pDC) in blood by using multi-color flow cytometry. We show that the frequency of cDC and pDC increased following FMDV infection and peaked 3 to 4 days post-infection. During peak viremia, the cattle became lymphopenic, the expression of MHC class II molecules on cDC and pDC was dramatically down-regulated, the processing of exogenous antigen by cDC and pDC was impaired, and there was an increase in IL-10 production by DC and monocytes. Notably, after clearance of FMDV from the blood, MHC class II expression returned to pre-infection levels. Altogether, our study demonstrates that in cattle, FMDV inhibits the function of DC, thereby retarding the initiation of adaptive immune responses, potentially enhancing virus shedding during the acute phase of infection. PMID:27008425

Understanding of self-terminating pulse generation using silicon controlled rectifier and RC load

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chang, Chris, E-mail: chrischang81@gmail.com; Karunasiri, Gamani, E-mail: karunasiri@nps.edu; Alves, Fabio, E-mail: falves@alionscience.com

2016-01-15

Recently a silicon controlled rectifier (SCR)-based circuit that generates self-terminating voltage pulses was employed for the detection of light and ionizing radiation in pulse mode. The circuit consisted of a SCR connected in series with a RC load and DC bias. In this paper, we report the investigation of the physics underlying the pulsing mechanism of the SCR-based. It was found that during the switching of SCR, the voltage across the capacitor increased beyond that of the DC bias, thus generating a reverse current in the circuit, which helped to turn the SCR off. The pulsing was found to bemore » sustainable only for a specific range of RC values depending on the SCR’s intrinsic turn-on/off times. The findings of this work will help to design optimum SCR based circuits for pulse mode detection of light and ionizing radiation without external amplification circuitry.« less

Comparative study of reference currents and DC bus voltage control for Three-Phase Four-Wire Four-Leg SAPF to compensate harmonics and reactive power with 3D SVM.

PubMed

Chebabhi, A; Fellah, M K; Kessal, A; Benkhoris, M F

2015-07-01

In this paper the performances of three reference currents and DC bus voltage control techniques for Three-Phase Four-Wire Four-Leg SAPF are compared for balanced and unbalanced load conditions. The main goals are to minimize the harmonics, reduce the magnitude of neutral current, eliminate the zero-sequence current components caused by single-phase nonlinear loads and compensate the reactive power, and on the other hand improve performances such as robustness, stabilization, trajectory pursuit, and reduce time response. The three techniques are analyzed mathematically and simulation results are compared. The techniques considered for comparative study are the PI Control, Sliding Mode Control and the Backstepping Control. Synchronous reference frame theory (SRF) in the dqo-axes is used to generate the reference currents, of the inverter. Copyright © 2015 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

On-Line Tracking Controller for Brushless DC Motor Drives Using Artificial Neural Networks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rubaai, Ahmed

1996-01-01

A real-time control architecture is developed for time-varying nonlinear brushless dc motors operating in a high performance drives environment. The developed control architecture possesses the capabilities of simultaneous on-line identification and control. The dynamics of the motor are modeled on-line and controlled using an artificial neural network, as the system runs. The control architecture combines the experience and dependability of adaptive tracking systems with potential and promise of the neural computing technology. The sensitivity of real-time controller to parametric changes that occur during training is investigated. Such changes are usually manifested by rapid changes in the load of the brushless motor drives. This sudden change in the external load is simulated for the sigmoidal and sinusoidal reference tracks. The ability of the neuro-controller to maintain reasonable tracking accuracy in the presence of external noise is also verified for a number of desired reference trajectories.

Medium change based image estimation from application of inverse algorithms to coda wave measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhan, Hanyu; Jiang, Hanwan; Jiang, Ruinian

2018-03-01

Perturbations worked as extra scatters will cause coda waveform distortions; thus, coda wave with long propagation time and traveling path are sensitive to micro-defects in strongly heterogeneous media such as concretes. In this paper, we conduct varied external loads on a life-size concrete slab which contains multiple existing micro-cracks, and a couple of sources and receivers are installed to collect coda wave signals. The waveform decorrelation coefficients (DC) at different loads are calculated for all available source-receiver pair measurements. Then inversions of the DC results are applied to estimate the associated distribution density values in three-dimensional regions through kernel sensitivity model and least-square algorithms, which leads to the images indicating the micro-cracks positions. This work provides an efficiently non-destructive approach to detect internal defects and damages of large-size concrete structures.

Analysis of Ares Crew Launch Vehicle Transonic Alternating Flow Phenomenon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sekula, Martin K.; Piatak, David J.; Rausch, Russ D.

2012-01-01

A transonic wind tunnel test of the Ares I-X Rigid Buffet Model (RBM) identified a Mach number regime where unusually large buffet loads are present. A subsequent investigation identified the cause of these loads to be an alternating flow phenomenon at the Crew Module-Service Module junction. The conical design of the Ares I-X Crew Module and the cylindrical design of the Service Module exposes the vehicle to unsteady pressure loads due to the sudden transition between a subsonic separated and a supersonic attached flow about the cone-cylinder junction as the local flow randomly fluctuates back and forth between the two flow states. These fluctuations produce a square-wave like pattern in the pressure time histories resulting in large amplitude, impulsive buffet loads. Subsequent testing of the Ares I RBM found much lower buffet loads since the evolved Ares I design includes an ogive fairing that covers the Crew Module-Service Module junction, thereby making the vehicle less susceptible to the onset of alternating flow. An analysis of the alternating flow separation and attachment phenomenon indicates that the phenomenon is most severe at low angles of attack and exacerbated by the presence of vehicle protuberances. A launch vehicle may experience either a single or, at most, a few impulsive loads since it is constantly accelerating during ascent rather than dwelling at constant flow conditions in a wind tunnel. A comparison of a windtunnel- test-data-derived impulsive load to flight-test-data-derived load indicates a significant over-prediction in the magnitude and duration of the buffet load. I. Introduction One

Watershed Scale Impacts of Stormwater Green Infrastructure on Hydrology and Nutrient Fluxes in the Mid-Atlantic Region.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaffe, P. R.; Pennino, M. J.; McDonald, R.

2015-12-01

Stormwater green infrastructure (SGI), including rain gardens, detention ponds, bioswales, and green roofs, is being implemented in cities across the globe to help reduce flooding, decrease combined sewer overflows, and lessen pollutant transport to streams and rivers. Despite the increasing use of urban SGI, there is much uncertainty regarding the cumulative effects of multiple SGI projects on hydrology and water quality at the watershed scale. To assess the cumulative effects of SGI, major cities across the mid-Atlantic were selected based on availability of SGI, water quality, and stream flow data. The impact of SGI was evaluated by comparing similar watersheds, with and without SGI or by assessing how long-term changes in SGI impact hydrologic and water quality metrics over time. Most mid-Atlantic cities have a goal of achieving 10-75% SGI by 2030. Of these cites, Washington D.C. currently has the highest density of SGI (15.5%), while Philadelphia, PA and New York, NY have the lowest (0.14% and 0.28%, respectively). When comparing watersheds of similar size and percent impervious surface cover, watersheds with lower amounts of SGI, on average, show up to 40% greater annual total nitrogen and 75% greater total phosphorus loads and show flashier hydrology (as indicated by 35% greater average peak discharge, 26% more peak discharge events per year, and 21% higher peak-to-volume ratio) compared to watersheds with higher amounts of SGI. However, for cities with combined sewer systems (e.g. Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia, PA), there was no relationship between the level of combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and the amount of SGI, indicating the level of SGI may not yet be sufficient to reduce CSOs as intended. When comparing individual watersheds over time, increases in SGI show no significant effect on the long-term trends in nutrient loads or hydrologic variables, potentially being obscured by the larger effect of interannual variability.

Energy cost and mechanical work of walking during load carriage in soldiers.

PubMed

Grenier, Jordane G; Peyrot, Nicolas; Castells, Josiane; Oullion, Roger; Messonnier, Laurent; Morin, Jean-Benoit

2012-06-01

In the military context, soldiers carry equipments of total mass often exceeding 30%-40% of their body mass (BM) and complexly distributed around their body (backpack, weapons, electronics, protections, etc.), which represents severe load carrying conditions. This study aimed to better understand the effects of load carriage on walking energetics and mechanics during military-type walking. Ten male infantrymen recently retired from the French Foreign Legion performed 3-min walking trials at a constant speed of 4 km·h(-1) on an instrumented treadmill, during which walking pattern spatiotemporal parameters, energy cost (C(W)), external mechanical work (W(ext)), and the work done by one leg against the other during the double-contact period (W(int,dc)) were specifically assessed. Three conditions were tested: (i) light sportswear (SP, reference condition considered as unloaded), (ii) battle equipment (BT, ∼22 kg, ∼27% of subjects' BM, corresponding to a military intermediate load), and (iii) road march equipment (RM, ∼38 kg, ∼46% of subjects' BM, corresponding to a military high load). Repeated-measures ANOVA showed that military equipment carriage significantly (i) altered the spatiotemporal pattern of walking (all P < 0.01), (ii) increased absolute gross and net CW (P < 0.0001), and (iii) increased both absolute and mass-relative W(ext) (P < 0.01) and W(int,dc) (P < 0.0001) but did not alter the inverted pendulum recovery or locomotor efficiency. Military equipments carriage induced significant changes in walking mechanics and energetics, but these effects appeared not greater than those reported with loads carried around the waist and close to the center of mass. This result was not expected because the latter has been hypothesized to be the optimal method of load carriage from a metabolic standpoint.

Design of a Battery Intermediate Storage System for Rep-Rated Pulsed Power Loads

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-04-01

will be charged with a bank of LiFePO4 batteries in conjunction with a DC-DC converter. During discharge, the batteries will generate heat from the...able to use typical wall power. High power electrochemical cells will be used as the prime power source and emerging technologies such as LiFePO4 ...LFP26650 LiFePO4 cells connected in series [1]. Each cell has a capacity of roughly 2.6Ah, has an approximate internal resistance of 9mΩ, and a

Partitioning Algorithms for Simultaneously Balancing Iterative and Direct Methods

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-03-03

is defined as 57698&:&;=<$>?8A@B8 DC E & /F <G8H IJ0 K L 012 1NM? which is the ratio of the highest partition weight over the average...OQPSR , 57698T:;=<$>U8T@B8 DC E & /VXWZYK[\\O , and E :^] E_CU`4ab /V is minimized. The load imbalance is the constraint we have to satisfy, and...that the initial partitioning can be improved [16, 19, 20]. 3 Problem Definition and Challenges Consider a graph )c2 with d e f vertices

Application of Hybrid Optimization-Expert System for Optimal Power Management on Board Space Power Station

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Momoh, James; Chattopadhyay, Deb; Basheer, Omar Ali AL

1996-01-01

The space power system has two sources of energy: photo-voltaic blankets and batteries. The optimal power management problem on-board has two broad operations: off-line power scheduling to determine the load allocation schedule of the next several hours based on the forecast of load and solar power availability. The nature of this study puts less emphasis on speed requirement for computation and more importance on the optimality of the solution. The second category problem, on-line power rescheduling, is needed in the event of occurrence of a contingency to optimally reschedule the loads to minimize the 'unused' or 'wasted' energy while keeping the priority on certain type of load and minimum disturbance of the original optimal schedule determined in the first-stage off-line study. The computational performance of the on-line 'rescheduler' is an important criterion and plays a critical role in the selection of the appropriate tool. The Howard University Center for Energy Systems and Control has developed a hybrid optimization-expert systems based power management program. The pre-scheduler has been developed using a non-linear multi-objective optimization technique called the Outer Approximation method and implemented using the General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS). The optimization model has the capability of dealing with multiple conflicting objectives viz. maximizing energy utilization, minimizing the variation of load over a day, etc. and incorporates several complex interaction between the loads in a space system. The rescheduling is performed using an expert system developed in PROLOG which utilizes a rule-base for reallocation of the loads in an emergency condition viz. shortage of power due to solar array failure, increase of base load, addition of new activity, repetition of old activity etc. Both the modules handle decision making on battery charging and discharging and allocation of loads over a time-horizon of a day divided into intervals of 10 minutes. The models have been extensively tested using a case study for the Space Station Freedom and the results for the case study will be presented. Several future enhancements of the pre-scheduler and the 'rescheduler' have been outlined which include graphic analyzer for the on-line module, incorporating probabilistic considerations, including spatial location of the loads and the connectivity using a direct current (DC) load flow model.

Effects of Alternative Fuels and Aromatics on Gas-Turbine Particle Emissions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thornhill, K. L., II; Moore, R.; Winstead, E.; Anderson, B. E.; Klettlinger, J. L.; Ross, R. C.; Surgenor, A.

2015-12-01

This presentation describes experiments conducted with a Honeywell GTCP36-150 Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) to evaluate the effects of varying fuel composition on particle emissions. The APU uses a single-stage compressor stage, gas turbine engine with a can-type combustor to generate bypass flow and electrical power for supporting small aircraft and helicopters. It is installed in a "hush-house" at NASA Glenn Research Center and is configured as a stand-alone unit that can be fueled from an onboard tank or external supply. It operates at constant RPM, but its fuel flow can be varied by changing the electrical load or volume of bypass flow. For these tests, an external bank of resistors were attached to the APU's DC and AC electrical outlets and emissions measurements were made at low, medium and maximum electrical current loads. Exhaust samples were drawn from several points downstream in the exhaust duct and fed to an extensive suite of gas and aerosol sensors installed within a mobile laboratory parked nearby. Aromatic- and sulfur-free synthetic kerosenes from Rentech, Gevo, UOP, Amyris and Sasol were tested and their potential to reduce PM emissions evaluated against a single Jet A1 base fuel. The role of aromatic compounds in regulating soot emissions was also evaluated by adding metered amounts of aromatic blends (Aro-100, AF-Blend, SAK) and pure compounds (tetracontane and 1-methylnaphthalene) to a base alternative fuel (Sasol). Results show that, relative to Jet A1, alternative fuels reduce nonvolatile particle number emissions by 50-80% and--by virtue of producing much smaller particles—mass emissions by 65-90%; fuels with the highest hydrogen content produced the greatest reductions. Nonvolatile particle emissions varied in proportion to fuel aromatic content, with additives containing the most complex ring structures producing the greatest emission enhancements.

DC-biased AC-electroosmotic and AC-electrothermal flow mixing in microchannels.

PubMed

Ng, Wee Yang; Goh, Shireen; Lam, Yee Cheong; Yang, Chun; Rodríguez, Isabel

2009-03-21

This paper presents a novel approach of mixing two laminar flowing streams in microchannels. The mixer consists of a pair of electrodes disposed along a fluidic channel. By energizing the electrodes with a DC-biased (2.5 V) AC voltage (20 Vpp), an electrokinetic flow is induced with a flow profile perpendicular to that of the incoming laminar streams of liquids to be mixed. As a result, the flow lines of the incoming streams and the induced flow are forced to crossover and very efficient stirring and mixing at short mixing length can be achieved. The mixer can be operated from the AC-electroosmotic (ACEO) (sigma=1 mS/m, f=100 kHz) to the AC-electrothermal (ACET) (sigma=500 mS/m, f=500 kHz) flow regimes. The mixing efficiency in the ACEO regime was 92%, with a mixing length of 600 microm (Q=2 microL/min), an estimated mixing time of 69 ms and an induced ACEO flow velocity of approximately 725 microm/s. The mixing efficiency in the ACET regime was 65% for a mixing length of approximately 1200 microm. The mixer is efficient and suitable for mixing reagents in a fluid media from low to high conductivity as required in diverse microfluidic applications.

PIV measurements in a compact return diffuser under multi-conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, L.; Lu, W. G.; Shi, W. D.

2013-12-01

Due to the complex three-dimensional geometries of impellers and diffusers, their design is a delicate and difficult task. Slight change could lead to significant changes in hydraulic performance and internal flow structure. Conversely, the grasp of the pump's internal flow pattern could benefit from pump design improvement. The internal flow fields in a compact return diffuser have been investigated experimentally under multi-conditions. A special Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) test rig is designed, and the two-dimensional PIV measurements are successfully conducted in the diffuser mid-plane to capture the complex flow patterns. The analysis of the obtained results has been focused on the flow structure in diffuser, especially under part-load conditions. The vortex and recirculation flow patterns in diffuser are captured and analysed accordingly. Strong flow separation and back flow appeared at the part-load flow rates. Under the design and over-load conditions, the flow fields in diffuser are uniform, and the flow separation and back flow appear at the part-load flow rates, strong back flow is captured at one diffuser passage under 0.2Qdes.

Transcatheter Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Doxorubicin-loaded DC Bead (DEBDOX): Technical Recommendations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lencioni, Riccardo, E-mail: riccardo.lencioni@med.unipi.it; Baere, Thierry de; Burrel, Marta

2012-10-15

Tranarterial chemoembolization (TACE) has been established by a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials as the standard of care for nonsurgical patients with large or multinodular noninvasive hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) isolated to the liver and with preserved liver function. Although conventional TACE with administration of an anticancer-in-oil emulsion followed by embolic agents has been the most popular technique, the introduction of embolic drug-eluting beads has provided an alternative to lipiodol-based regimens. Experimental studies have shown that TACE with drug-eluting beads has a safe pharmacokinetic profile and results in effective tumor killing in animal models. Early clinical experiences have confirmed that drug-elutingmore » beads provide a combined ischemic and cytotoxic effect locally with low systemic toxic exposure. Recently, the clinical value of a TACE protocol performed by using the embolic microsphere DC Bead loaded with doxorubicin (DEBDOX; drug-eluting bead doxorubicin) has been shown by randomized controlled trials. An important limitation of conventional TACE has been the inconsistency in the technique and the treatment schedules. This limitation has hampered the acceptance of TACE as a standard oncology treatment. Doxorubicin-loaded DC Bead provides levels of consistency and repeatability not available with conventional TACE and offers the opportunity to implement a standardized approach to HCC treatment. With this in mind, a panel of physicians took part in a consensus meeting held during the European Conference on Interventional Oncology in Florence, Italy, to develop a set of technical recommendations for the use of DEBDOX in HCC treatment. The conclusions of the expert panel are summarized.« less

The influence of superimposed DC current on electrical and spectroscopic characteristics of HiPIMS discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuo, Xiao; Chen, Rende; Liu, Jingzhou; Ke, Peiling; Wang, Aiying

2018-01-01

The electrical characteristics and spectroscopic properties have been comprehensively investigated in a DC superimposed high power impulse magnetron sputtering (DC-HiPIMS) deposition system in this paper. The influence of superimposed DC current on the variation of target and substrate current waveforms, active species and electron temperatures with pulse voltages are focused. The peak target currents in DC-HiPIMS are lower than in HiPIMS. The time scales of the two main discharge processes like ionization and gas rarefaction in DC-HiPIMS are analyzed. When the pulse voltage is higher than 600 V, the gas rarefaction effect becomes apparent. Overall, the ionization process is found to be dominant in the initial ˜100 μs during each pulse. The active species of Ar and Cr in DC-HiPIMS are higher than in HiPIMS unless that the pulse voltage reaches 900 V. However, the ionization degree in HiPIMS exceeds that in DC-HiPIMS at around 600 V. The electron temperature calculated by modified Boltzmann plot method based on corona model has a precipitous increase from 0.87 to 25.0 eV in HiPIMS, but varies mildly after the introduction of the superimposed DC current. Additionally, the current from plasma flowing to the substrate is improved when a DC current is superimposed with HiPIMS.

Dendritic Cells Promote Macrophage Infiltration and Comprise a Substantial Proportion of Obesity-Associated Increases in CD11c+ Cells in Adipose Tissue and Liver

PubMed Central

Stefanovic-Racic, Maja; Yang, Xiao; Turner, Michael S.; Mantell, Benjamin S.; Stolz, Donna B.; Sumpter, Tina L.; Sipula, Ian J.; Dedousis, Nikolaos; Scott, Donald K.; Morel, Penelope A.; Thomson, Angus W.; O’Doherty, Robert M.

2012-01-01

Obesity-associated increases in adipose tissue (AT) CD11c+ cells suggest that dendritic cells (DC), which are involved in the tissue recruitment and activation of macrophages, may play a role in determining AT and liver immunophenotype in obesity. This study addressed this hypothesis. With the use of flow cytometry, electron microscopy, and loss-and-gain of function approaches, the contribution of DC to the pattern of immune cell alterations and recruitment in obesity was assessed. In AT and liver there was a substantial, high-fat diet (HFD)–induced increase in DC. In AT, these increases were associated with crown-like structures, whereas in liver the increase in DC constituted an early and reversible response to diet. Notably, mice lacking DC had reduced AT and liver macrophages, whereas DC replacement in DC-null mice increased liver and AT macrophage populations. Furthermore, delivery of bone marrow–derived DC to lean wild-type mice increased AT and liver macrophage infiltration. Finally, mice lacking DC were resistant to the weight gain and metabolic abnormalities of an HFD. Together, these data demonstrate that DC are elevated in obesity, promote macrophage infiltration of AT and liver, contribute to the determination of tissue immunophenotype, and play a role in systemic metabolic responses to an HFD. PMID:22851575

Particle loading time and humidity effects on the efficiency of an N95 filtering facepiece respirator model under constant and inhalation cyclic flows.

PubMed

Mahdavi, Alireza; Haghighat, Fariborz; Bahloul, Ali; Brochot, Clothilde; Ostiguy, Claude

2015-06-01

It is necessary to investigate the efficiencies of filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) exposed to ultrafine particles (UFPs) for long periods of time, since the particle loading time may potentially affect the efficiency of FFRs. This article aims to investigate the filtration efficiency for a model of electrostatic N95 FFRs with constant and 'inhalation-only' cyclic flows, in terms of particle loading time effect, using different humidity conditions. Filters were exposed to generated polydisperse NaCl particles. Experiments were performed mimicking an 'inhalation-only' scenario with a cyclic flow of 85 l min(-1) as the minute volume [or 170 l min(-1) as mean inhalation flow (MIF)] and for two constant flows of 85 and 170 l min(-1), under three relative humidity (RH) levels of 10, 50, and 80%. Each test was performed for loading time periods of 6h and the particle penetration (10-205.4nm in electrical mobility diameter) was measured once every 2h. For a 10% RH, the penetration of smaller size particles (<80nm), including the most penetrating particle size (MPPS), decreased over time for both constant and cyclic flows. For 50 and 80% RH levels, the changes in penetration were typically observed in an opposite direction with less magnitude. The penetrations at MPPS increased with respect to loading time under constant flow conditions (85 and 170 l min(-1)): it did not substantially increase under cyclic flows. The comparison of the cyclic flow (85 l min(-1) as minute volume) and constant flow equal to the cyclic flow minute volume indicated that, for all conditions the penetration was significantly less for the constant flow than that of cyclic flow. The comparison between the cyclic (170 l min(-1) as MIF) and constant flow equal to cyclic flow MIF indicated that, for the initial stage of loading, the penetrations were almost equal, but they were different for the final stages of the loading time. For a 10% RH, the penetration of a wide range of sizes was observed to be higher with the cyclic flow (170 as MIF) than with the equivalent constant flow (170 l min(-1)). For 50 and 80% RH levels, the penetrations were usually greater with a constant flow (170 l min(-1)) than with a cyclic flow (170 l min(-1) as MIF). It is concluded that, for the tested electrostatic N95 filters, the change in penetration as a function of the loading time does not necessarily take place with the same rate under constant (MIF) and cyclic flow. Moreover, for all tested flow rates, the penetration is not only affected by the loading time but also by the RH level. Lower RH levels (10%) have decreasing penetration rates in terms of loading time, while higher RH levels (50 and 80%) have increasing penetration rates. Also, the loading of the filter is normally accompanied with a shift of MPPS towards larger sizes. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Occupational Hygiene Society.

Altered Landscapes and Groundwater Sustainability — Exploring Impacts with Induced Polarization, DC Resistivity, and Thermal Tracing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eddy-Miller, C.; Caldwell, R.; Wheeler, J.; McCarthy, P.; Binley, A. M.; Constantz, J. E.; Stonestrom, D. A.

2009-12-01

Anthropogenically impacted landscapes constitute rising proportions of the Earth’s surface that are characterized by generally elevated nutrient and sediment loadings concurrent with increased consumptive water withdrawals. In recent years a growing number of hydraulically engineered riparian habitat restoration projects have attempted to ameliorate negative impacts of land use on groundwater-surface water systems resulting, e.g., from agricultural practices and urban development. Often the nature of groundwater-surface water interactions in pre- and minimally altered systems is poorly known, making it difficult to assess the impacts of land use and restoration projects on groundwater sustainability. Traditional assessments of surface water parameters (flow, temperature, dissolved oxygen, biotic composition, etc.) can be complemented by hydraulic and thermal measurements to better understand the important role played by groundwater-surface water interactions. Hydraulic and thermal measurements are usually limited to point samples, however, making non-invasive and spatially extensive geophysical characterizations an attractive additional tool. Groundwater-surface water interactions along the Smith River, a tributary to the Missouri River in Montana, and Fish Creek and Flat Creek, tributaries to the Snake River in Wyoming, are being examined using a combination of hydraulic measurements, thermal tracing, and electrical-property imaging. Ninety-two direct-current (DC) resistivity and induced polarization cross sections were obtained at stream transects covering a wide variety of hydrogeologic settings ranging from shallow bedrock to thick alluvial sequences, nature of groundwater-surface water interactions (always gaining, always losing, or seasonally varying) and anthropogenic impacts (minimal low-intensity agriculture to major landscape engineering, including channel reconstruction). DC resistivity and induced polarization delineated mutually distinct features related to hydraulic architecture. For example, induced polarization imaging resolved channel-edge muck deposits that are presumed to be sites of low hydraulic conductivity, chemical reduction, and metal accumulation. DC resistivity delineated bedrock-alluvium contacts and showed potential for tracking changes in salinization. While electrical properties cannot substitute for hydraulic and thermal data, the addition of relatively rapidly acquired, spatially extensive resistivity and induced polarization imaging offers synergistic opportunities for interpretive hydrologic investigations.

Leptin deficiency in vivo enhances the ability of splenic dendritic cells to activate T cells

PubMed Central

Ramirez, Oscar

2014-01-01

Leptin is a pleiotropic adipokine that is critical for regulating food intake and energy expenditure and also participates in functions of the immune system, including those of antigen-presenting cells. Here, we assess the effect of leptin deficiency on the function splenic dendritic cells (sDC). sDC from leptin-deficient mice (Lepob) were evaluated ex vivo for phenotype, ability to respond to inflammatory stimuli, to acquire and process antigens and to activate T cells. The data show that Lepob sDC express activation markers similar to controls and respond similarly to LPS activation or anti-CD40 cross-linking. In addition, antigen acquisition and processing by Lepob sDC was similar to controls. However, Lepob sDC elicited higher production of IFN-γ in mixed lymphocyte reactions and increased production of IL-2 by antigen-specific T-cell hybridoma relative to controls. To assess Lepob sDC activation of T cells in vivo, Lepob and control mice were infected systemically with Mycobacterium avium. Lepob mice were significantly better at neutralizing the infection as measured by splenic bacterial load over time. This was mirrored with an increased percentage of activated T cells in M. avium-infected Lepob mice. Thus, although no changes were detected in sDC phenotype, activation, antigen processing or presentation, these DC surprisingly presented an enhanced ability to activate T cells ex vivo and in vivo. These data demonstrate that leptin can modulate DC function and suggest that leptin may dampen T-cell responsiveness in the physiological setting. PMID:24966213

The effect of mass loading on the temperature of a flowing plasma. [in vicinity of Io

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Linker, Jon A.; Kivelson, Margaret G.; Walker, Raymond J.

1989-01-01

How the addition of ions at rest (mass loading) affects the temperature of a flowing plasma in a MHD approximation is investigated, using analytic theory and time dependent, three-dimensional MHD simulations of plasma flow past Io. The MHD equations show that the temperature can increase or decrease relative to the background, depending on the local sonic Mach number M(S), of the flow. For flows with M(S) of greater than sq rt 9/5 (when gamma = 5/3), mass loading increases the plasma temperature. However, the simulations show a nonlinear response to the addition of mass. If the mass loading rate is large enough, the temperature increase may be smaller than expected, or the temperature may actually decrease, because a large mass loading rate slows the flow and decreases the thermal energy of the newly created plasma.

Numerical Evaluation of the "Dual-Kernel Counter-flow" Matric Convolution Integral that Arises in Discrete/Continuous (D/C) Control Theory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nixon, Douglas D.

2009-01-01

Discrete/Continuous (D/C) control theory is a new generalized theory of discrete-time control that expands the concept of conventional (exact) discrete-time control to create a framework for design and implementation of discretetime control systems that include a continuous-time command function generator so that actuator commands need not be constant between control decisions, but can be more generally defined and implemented as functions that vary with time across sample period. Because the plant/control system construct contains two linear subsystems arranged in tandem, a novel dual-kernel counter-flow convolution integral appears in the formulation. As part of the D/C system design and implementation process, numerical evaluation of that integral over the sample period is required. Three fundamentally different evaluation methods and associated algorithms are derived for the constant-coefficient case. Numerical results are matched against three available examples that have closed-form solutions.

Effect of Endodontic Access on the Failure Load of Lithium Disilicate and Resin Nano-ceramic CADCAM Crowns

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-06-09

3 August 2016 Douglas D. Lancaster, COL, DC Army Post Graduate Dental School Effect of Endodontic Access on the Failure Load of Lithium...University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD; Schofield Barracks Dental Clinic, Schofield Barracks, HI; Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu...underlying die was reached. (Neo Diamond, Microcopy Dental ). The access outline was then completed with a medium (100-110µm) grit round-ended

Innovative Alternatives to Lifting Overturned Military Vehicles

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-04-25

NUMBER 5e. TASK NUMBER 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS( ES ) United States Air Force Academy,Washington,DC,20301 8...PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS( ES ) 10. SPONSOR/MONITOR’S ACRONYM(S) 11. SPONSOR...Initial testing of the prototype involved using a SATEC load frame to apply a load. As previously stated, during the first test the design failed

Modeling, analysis and control of fuel cell hybrid power systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suh, Kyung Won

Transient performance is a key characteristic of fuel cells, that is sometimes more critical than efficiency, due to the importance of accepting unpredictable electric loads. To fulfill the transient requirement in vehicle propulsion and portable fuel cell applications, a fuel cell stack is typically coupled with a battery through a DC/DC converter to form a hybrid power system. Although many power management strategies already exist, they all rely on low level controllers that realize the power split. In this dissertation we design controllers that realize various power split strategies by directly manipulating physical actuators (low level commands). We maintain the causality of the electric dynamics (voltage and current) and investigate how the electric architecture affects the hybridization level and the power management. We first establish the performance limitations associated with a stand-alone and power-autonomous fuel cell system that is not supplemented by an additional energy storage and powers all its auxiliary components by itself. Specifically, we examine the transient performance in fuel cell power delivery as it is limited by the air supplied by a compressor driven by the fuel cell itself. The performance limitations arise from the intrinsic coupling in the fluid and electrical domain between the compressor and the fuel cell stack. Feedforward and feedback control strategies are used to demonstrate these limitations analytically and with simulations. Experimental tests on a small commercial fuel cell auxiliary power unit (APU) confirm the dynamics and the identified limitations. The dynamics associated with the integration of a fuel cell system and a DC/DC converter is then investigated. Decentralized and fully centralized (using linear quadratic techniques) controllers are designed to regulate the power system voltage and to prevent fuel cell oxygen starvation. Regulating these two performance variables is a difficult task and requires a compromise due to the conflicting objectives. The compromise can be mitigated by augmenting the fuel cell power system with an energy buffer such as a battery. We consider two different and popular ways of connecting the battery and the fuel cell to the load and we refer to them as electric architectures. Various controller gains are used to span the fuel cell operation from load-following to load-leveling, and hence, to determine adequate fuel cell-battery sizing (hybridization level) and the associated trends in the system efficiency.

Two new families of high-gain dc-dc power electronic converters for dc-microgrids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prabhala, Venkata Anand Kishore

Distributing the electric power in dc form is an appealing solution in many applications such as telecommunications, data centers, commercial buildings, and microgrids. A high gain dc-dc power electronic converter can be used to individually link low-voltage elements such as solar panels, fuel cells, and batteries to the dc voltage bus which is usually 400 volts. This way, it is not required to put such elements in a series string to build up their voltages. Consequently, each element can function at it optimal operating point regardless of the other elements in the system. In this dissertation, first a comparative study of dc microgrid architectures and their advantages over their ac counterparts is presented. Voltage level selection of dc distribution systems is discussed from the cost, reliability, efficiency, and safety standpoints. Next, a new family of non-isolated high-voltage-gain dc-dc power electronic converters with unidirectional power flow is introduced. This family of converters benefits from a low voltage stress across its switches. The proposed topologies are versatile as they can be utilized as single-input or double-input power converters. In either case, they draw continuous currents from their sources. Lastly, a bidirectional high-voltage-gain dc-dc power electronic converter is proposed. This converter is comprised of a bidirectional boost converter which feeds a switched-capacitor architecture. The switched-capacitor stage suggested here has several advantages over the existing approaches. For example, it benefits from a higher voltage gain while it uses less number of capacitors. The proposed converters are highly efficient and modular. The operating modes, dc voltage gain, and design procedure for each converter are discussed in details. Hardware prototypes have been developed in the lab. The results obtained from the hardware agree with those of the simulation models.

Impute DC link (IDCL) cell based power converters and control thereof

DOEpatents

Divan, Deepakraj M.; Prasai, Anish; Hernendez, Jorge; Moghe, Rohit; Iyer, Amrit; Kandula, Rajendra Prasad

2016-04-26

Power flow controllers based on Imputed DC Link (IDCL) cells are provided. The IDCL cell is a self-contained power electronic building block (PEBB). The IDCL cell may be stacked in series and parallel to achieve power flow control at higher voltage and current levels. Each IDCL cell may comprise a gate drive, a voltage sharing module, and a thermal management component in order to facilitate easy integration of the cell into a variety of applications. By providing direct AC conversion, the IDCL cell based AC/AC converters reduce device count, eliminate the use of electrolytic capacitors that have life and reliability issues, and improve system efficiency compared with similarly rated back-to-back inverter system.

Large amplitude Fourier transformed ac voltammetry at a rotating disc electrode: a versatile technique for covering Levich and flow rate insensitive regimes in a single experiment.

PubMed

Bano, Kiran; Kennedy, Gareth F; Zhang, Jie; Bond, Alan M

2012-04-14

The theory for large amplitude Fourier transformed ac voltammetry at a rotating disc electrode is described. Resolution of time domain data into dc and ac harmonic components reveals that the mass transport for the dc component is controlled by convective-diffusion, while the background free higher order harmonic components are flow rate insensitive and mainly governed by linear diffusion. Thus, remarkable versatility is available; Levich behaviour of the dc component limiting current provides diffusion coefficient values and access to higher harmonics allows fast electrode kinetics to be probed. Two series of experiments (dc and ac voltammetry) have been required to extract these parameters; here large amplitude ac voltammetry with RDE methodology is used to demonstrate that kinetics and diffusion coefficient information can be extracted from a single experiment. To demonstrate the power of this approach, theoretical and experimental comparisons of data obtained for the reversible [Ru(NH(3))(6)](3+/2+) and quasi-reversible [Fe(CN)(6)](3-/4-) electron transfer processes are presented over a wide range of electrode rotation rates and with different concentrations and electrode materials. Excellent agreement of experimental and simulated data is achieved, which allows parameters such as electron transfer rate, diffusion coefficient, uncompensated resistance and others to be determined using a strategically applied approach that takes into account the different levels of sensitivity of each parameter to the dc or the ac harmonic.

Management of small-for-gestational-age twins with absent/reversed end diastolic flow in the umbilical artery: outcome of a policy of daily biophysical profile (BPP).

PubMed

Kennelly, Máiréad M; Sturgiss, Stephen N

2007-01-01

To evaluate a strategy of daily biophysical profile (BPP) for pregnancies with small-for-gestational-age twins and with absent or reversed end diastolic flow (AREDF) in the umbilical artery of one twin and to assess the latency interval between detection and delivery in monochorionic (MC) and dichorionic (DC) twin pregnancy. A search of the Fetal Medicine Database was carried out between 2000 and 2005 at a single tertiary centre to identify all cases with AREDF in the umbilical artery with one small-for-gestational-age twin. Active monitoring with daily BPP was undertaken, once the estimated fetal weights (EFW) was >or= 500 g and at a gestational age of >or= 24 weeks in both twins. Delivery was timed on the basis of an abnormal BPP, two equivocal BPP within 12 h or gestational age of >or= 32(+0) weeks. Twenty-two MC and 17 DC twin pregnancies were identified. There were no fetal losses in the viable actively monitored MC (19) and DC (13) twins. There was a longer latency interval in the MC group at 21.7 days versus 14.4 days in the DC group (p = 0.13). Delivery was indicated for an abnormal BPP (57.8% MC vs 30.8% DC). A strategy of daily BPP can be used to monitor preterm twin fetuses with AREDF, prolonging pregnancy with an acceptable perinatal outcome. Copyright 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Three month intervention with protein and energy rich supplements improve muscle function and quality of life in malnourished patients with non-neoplastic gastrointestinal disease--a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Norman, Kristina; Kirchner, Henriette; Freudenreich, Manuela; Ockenga, Johann; Lochs, Herbert; Pirlich, Matthias

2008-02-01

Malnutrition is a common problem in patients with digestive disease and is associated with impaired outcome. We investigated the effect of a three-month post-hospital nutritional intervention with high protein and energy supplements on body composition, muscle function and quality of life (QoL) in malnourished GI patients. Eighty malnourished patients with benign digestive disease were randomized to receive either oral nutritional supplements (ONS) for three months in addition to dietary counselling (DC) (ONS patients) or only dietary counselling (DC patients). Nutritional status was determined with the subjective global assessment, body composition by bioelectrical impedance and anthropometry, muscle function with hand-grip strength and peak flow. QoL was assessed by the 36-item short-form questionnaire. Age, body cell mass (BCM), muscle function, gender distribution and QoL did not differ between ONS patients (n=38) and DC patients (n=42) at baseline. Body weight and BCM improved significantly in both groups after three months. However, hand-grip strength (26.1+/-11.3-31.5+/-10.1 kg, p<0.0001) and peak flow (329.2+/-124.0-388.9+/-108.4 l /min, p=0.004) improved only in the ONS patients and remained unchanged in the DC patients. Similarly, all eight scales of the QoL improved in the ONS patients compared with merely three in the DC patients. DC patients experienced significantly more readmissions (n=20) than ONS patients (n=10) during the study period (p=0.041). A three month intervention with high protein oral supplements improves outcome in malnourished patients with digestive disease in terms of functional status, QoL and rehospitalization.

Formalization, equivalence and generalization of basic resonance electrical circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penev, Dimitar; Arnaudov, Dimitar; Hinov, Nikolay

2017-12-01

In the work are presented basic resonance circuits, which are used in resonance energy converters. The following resonant circuits are considered: serial, serial with parallel load parallel capacitor, parallel and parallel with serial loaded inductance. For the circuits under consideration, expressions are generated for the frequencies of own oscillations and for the equivalence of the active power emitted in the load. Mathematical expressions are graphically constructed and verified using computer simulations. The results obtained are used in the model based design of resonant energy converters with DC or AC output. This guaranteed the output indicators of power electronic devices.

A robust low quiescent current power receiver for inductive power transmission in bio implants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Helalian, Hamid; Pasandi, Ghasem; Jafarabadi Ashtiani, Shahin

2017-05-01

In this paper, a robust low quiescent current complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) power receiver for wireless power transmission is presented. This power receiver consists of three main parts including rectifier, switch capacitor DC-DC converter and low-dropout regulator (LDO) without output capacitor. The switch capacitor DC-DC converter has variable conversion ratios and synchronous controller that lets the DC-DC converter to switch among five different conversion ratios to prevent output voltage drop and LDO regulator efficiency reduction. For all ranges of output current (0-10 mA), the voltage regulator is compensated and is stable. Voltage regulator stabilisation does not need the off-chip capacitor. In addition, a novel adaptive biasing frequency compensation method for low dropout voltage regulator is proposed in this paper. This method provides essential minimum current for compensation and reduces the quiescent current more effectively. The power receiver was designed in a 180-nm industrial CMOS technology, and the voltage range of the input is from 0.8 to 2 V, while the voltage range of the output is from 1.2 to 1.75 V, with a maximum load current of 10 mA, the unregulated efficiency of 79.2%, and the regulated efficiency of 64.4%.

Extended linear ion trap frequency standard apparatus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prestage, John D. (Inventor)

1995-01-01

A linear ion trap for frequency standard applications is provided with a plurality of trapping rods equally spaced and applied quadruple rf voltages for radial confinement of atomic ions and biased level pins at each end for axial confinement of the ions. The trapping rods are divided into two linear ion trap regions by a gap in each rod in a common radial plane to provide dc discontinuity, thus dc isolating one region from the other. A first region for ion-loading and preparation fluorescence is biased with a dc voltage to transport ions into a second region for resonance frequency comparison with a local oscillator derived frequency while the second region is held at zero voltage. The dc bias voltage of the regions is reversed for transporting the ions back into the first region for fluorescence measurement. The dual mode cycle is repeated continuously for comparison and feedback control of the local oscillator derived frequency. Only the second region requires magnetic shielding for the resonance function which is sensitive to any ambient magnetic fields.

Research on modeling and conduction disturbance simulation of secondary power system in a device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ding, Xu; Yu, Zhi-Yong; Jin, Rui

2017-06-01

To find electromagnetic interference (EMI) and other problems in the secondary power supply system design quickly and effectively, simulations are carried out under the Saber simulation software platform. The DC/DC converter model with complete performance and electromagnetic characteristics is established by combining parametric modeling with Mast language. By using the method of macro modeling, the hall current sensor and power supply filter model are established respectively based on the function, schematic diagram of the components. Also the simulation of the component model and the whole secondary power supply system are carried out. The simulation results show that the proposed model satisfies the functional requirements of the system and has high accuracy. At the same time, due to the ripple characteristics in the DC/DC converter modeling, it can be used as a conducted interference model to simulate the power bus conducted emission CE102 project under the condition that the simulated load is full, which provides a useful reference for the electromagnetic interference suppression of the system.

AC power generation from microbial fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lobo, Fernanda Leite; Wang, Heming; Forrestal, Casey; Ren, Zhiyong Jason

2015-11-01

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) directly convert biodegradable substrates to electricity and carry good potential for energy-positive wastewater treatment. However, the low and direct current (DC) output from MFC is not usable for general electronics except small sensors, yet commercial DC-AC converters or inverters used in solar systems cannot be directly applied to MFCs. This study presents a new DC-AC converter system for MFCs that can generate alternating voltage in any desired frequency. Results show that AC power can be easily achieved in three different frequencies tested (1, 10, 60 Hz), and no energy storage layer such as capacitors was needed. The DC-AC converter efficiency was higher than 95% when powered by either individual MFCs or simple MFC stacks. Total harmonic distortion (THD) was used to investigate the quality of the energy, and it showed that the energy could be directly usable for linear electronic loads. This study shows that through electrical conversion MFCs can be potentially used in household electronics for decentralized off-grid communities.

Design of an Auto-zeroed, Differential, Organic Thin-film Field-effect Transistor Amplifier for Sensor Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Binkley, David M.; Verma, Nikhil; Crawford, Robert L.; Brandon, Erik; Jackson, Thomas N.

2004-01-01

Organic strain gauge and other sensors require high-gain, precision dc amplification to process their low-level output signals. Ideally, amplifiers would be fabricated using organic thin-film field-effect transistors (OTFT's) adjacent to the sensors. However, OTFT amplifiers exhibit low gain and high input-referred dc offsets that must be effectively managed. This paper presents a four-stage, cascaded differential OTFT amplifier utilizing switched capacitor auto-zeroing. Each stage provides a nominal voltage gain of four through a differential pair driving low-impedance active loads, which provide common-mode output voltage control. p-type pentacence OTFT's are used for the amplifier devices and auto-zero switches. Simulations indicate the amplifier provides a nominal voltage gain of 280 V/V and effectively amplifies a 1-mV dc signal in the presence of 500-mV amplifier input-referred dc offset voltages. Future work could include the addition of digital gain calibration and offset correction of residual offsets associated with charge injection imbalance in the differential circuits.

Stability test for power converters in high-powered operations for J-PARC MR main magnets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morita, Yuichi; Kurimoto, Yoshinori; Miura, Kazuki; Sagawa, Ryu; Shimogawa, Tetsushi

2017-10-01

The Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC) aims at achieving a megawatt-class proton accelerator facility. One promising method for increasing the beam power is to shorten the repetition cycle of the main ring from the current cycle of 2.48 s to 1.3 s. In this scheme, however, the increase in the output voltage and the power variation of the electric system are serious concerns for the power supplies of the main magnets. We have been developing a new power supply that provides solutions to these issues. Recently, we proposed a new method for high-powered tests of the converter that does not require a large-scale load and power source. We carried out a high-powered test of ∼100 kVA for the prototype DC/DC converters of the new power supply with this method. This paper introduces the design of the power supply and the results of the high-powered test for the prototype DC/DC converters.

Generator voltage stabilisation for series-hybrid electric vehicles.

PubMed

Stewart, P; Gladwin, D; Stewart, J; Cowley, R

2008-04-01

This paper presents a controller for use in speed control of an internal combustion engine for series-hybrid electric vehicle applications. Particular reference is made to the stability of the rectified DC link voltage under load disturbance. In the system under consideration, the primary power source is a four-cylinder normally aspirated gasoline internal combustion engine, which is mechanically coupled to a three-phase permanent magnet AC generator. The generated AC voltage is subsequently rectified to supply a lead-acid battery, and permanent magnet traction motors via three-phase full bridge power electronic inverters. Two complementary performance objectives exist. Firstly to maintain the internal combustion engine at its optimal operating point, and secondly to supply a stable 42 V supply to the traction drive inverters. Achievement of these goals minimises the transient energy storage requirements at the DC link, with a consequent reduction in both weight and cost. These objectives imply constant velocity operation of the internal combustion engine under external load disturbances and changes in both operating conditions and vehicle speed set-points. An electronically operated throttle allows closed loop engine velocity control. System time delays and nonlinearities render closed loop control design extremely problematic. A model-based controller is designed and shown to be effective in controlling the DC link voltage, resulting in the well-conditioned operation of the hybrid vehicle.

Analysis and Assessment of Operation Risk for Hybrid AC/DC Power System based on the Monte Carlo Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Xiaojing; Li, Qiang; Zhang, Hao; Guo, Ziming; Zhao, Kun; Li, Xinpeng

2018-06-01

Based on the Monte Carlo method, an improved risk assessment method for hybrid AC/DC power system with VSC station considering the operation status of generators, converter stations, AC lines and DC lines is proposed. According to the sequential AC/DC power flow algorithm, node voltage and line active power are solved, and then the operation risk indices of node voltage over-limit and line active power over-limit are calculated. Finally, an improved two-area IEEE RTS-96 system is taken as a case to analyze and assessment its operation risk. The results show that the proposed model and method can intuitively and directly reflect the weak nodes and weak lines of the system, which can provide some reference for the dispatching department.

Evaluation of flow mixing in an ARID-HV algal raceway using statistics of temporal and spatial distribution of fluid particles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xu, Ben; Li, Peiwen; Waller, Peter

2015-02-27

This paper analyzes and evaluates the flow mixing in an open channel algal raceway for biofuel production. The flow mixing governs the frequency of how algae cells are exposed to sunlight, due to the fluid movement between the surface and the bottom of the algal raceway, thereby affecting algal growth rate. In this work, we investigated the flow mixing performance in a table-sized model of the High Velocity Algae Raceway Integrated Design (ARID-HV). Various geometries of the raceway channels and dams were considered in both the CFD analysis and experimental flowvisualization. In the CFD simulation, the pathlines of fluid particlesweremore » analyzed to obtain the distribution of the number of times that particles passed across a critical water depth, Dc, defined as a cycle count. In addition, the distribution of the time period fraction that the fluid particles stayed in the zones above and below Dc was recorded. Such information was used to evaluate the flow mixing in the raceway. The CFD evaluation of the flow mixing was validated using experimental flow visualization, which showed a good qualitative agreement with the numerical results. In conclusion, this CFD-based evaluation methodology is recommended for flow field optimization for open channel algal raceways, as well as for other engineering applications in which flow mixing is an important concern.« less

Nitrogen dynamics in the tidal freshwater Potomac River, Maryland and Virginia, water years 1979-81

USGS Publications Warehouse

Shultz, David J.

1989-01-01

On an annual basis, river-supplied nitrate is the predominant form of nitrogen supplied to the tidal Potomac River from external sources. Much of the nitrate is associated with high flows that have rapid transit times through the tidal river. The Blue Plains Sewage-Treatment Plant (STP) at Washington, D.C., is the greatest source of all nitrogen species during low-flow periods. Prior to the fall of 1980, ammonia concentrations in depth-integrated, composited water samples were greatest (more than 1.00 mg/L (milligram per liter) as nitrogen) during summer periods near Alexandria, Va., because of loading from the nearby Blue Plains STP and reduced river discharge. After the fall of 1980, initiation of advanced wastewater treatment at the Blue Plains STP reduced ammonia loading to the river by 90 percent and increased nitrate loading by a similar percentage. As a result, concentrations of ammonia during the 1981 low-flow period were less than 0.20 mg/L as nitrogen at Alexandria, while nitrate concentrations were greater than 1.50 mg/L as nitrogen. Concentrations of ammonia and nitrate at Alexandria were shown to be reasonably predictable by use of a simple dilution model that considers only loading from Chain Bridge and the Blue Plains STP. This apparently is the result of the short residence time through the Chain Bridge-to-Alexandria section of the tidal Potomac River, which precludes significant biological alterations. In marked contrast, the residence times of water parcels in the tidal Potomac River from Alexandria to Quantico, Va., are much greater because of the geometry of the reach. Biological nitrogen-cycle transformation processes affect nitrogen-species concentrations to a greater extent in this reach, especially during summer low-flow periods. Mass-balance calculations that separate changes in transport mass from biological transformations indicatethat the tidal Potomac River was a net sink for all the nitrogen constituents during the 1980 and 1981 summer low-flow periods. However, during the 1980-81 winter period, some ammonia and nitrate was transported out of the tidal Potomac River into the transition zone. Despite the reduced availability of ammonia, nitrogen-15 uptake studies showed that phytoplankton preferred ammonia to nitrate unless ammonia concentrations were less than 0.10 mg/L as nitrogen. Nitrification-rate studies during 1981 using a carbon-14 uptake technique indicate that rates did not vary with sample location, except for one sample from the head of the tidal river, where the rates were much higher. The numbers of Nitrobacter bacteria were highest in samples from near the Blue Plains STP and were greater than the numbers of Nitrosomonas bacteria. The predominance of Nitrobacter bacteria seemed to be associated with advanced wastewater treatment at the Blue Plains STP. Before advanced wastewater treatment, Nitrosomonas were numerically predominant and had the largest numbers near the Blue Plains STP. These results could be due to (1) loading of nitrifying bacteria in the Blue Plains sewage effluent that had been inhibited from further growth by an inhibitory substance or (2) the method used to measure nitrification rates, which measured only the ammonia oxidation stage; it is not possible to reject either mechanism on the basis of the data available. Process models were used in conjunction with mass-balance determinations and individual process studies to estimate rates of processes that were not directly measured. It is estimated that denitrification removed 10 times as much nitrate from the water column during the summer of 1981 as during the summer of 1980. Sedimentation of particulate nitrogen is estimated to be the largest sink for nitrogen from the water column and was approximately equal to the external annual loading of all nitrogen constituents on a daily basis. In summer, when river flows usually are low, the tidal Potomac River appears to be a partially closed system rather tha

Magnetic transit-time flowmeter

DOEpatents

Forster, George A.

1976-07-06

The flow rate of a conducting fluid in a stream is determined by disposing two permanent-magnet flowmeters in the stream, one downstream of the other. Flow of the conducting fluid causes the generation of both d-c and a-c electrical signals, the a-c comprising flow noise. Measurement of the time delay between similarities in the a-c signals by cross-correlation methods provides a measure of the rate of flow of the fluid.

Experimental Study on Impact Load on a Dam Due to Debris Flow

Treesearch

lwao Miyoshi

1991-01-01

When a dam is struck by mud or debris flow, it is put under a great impact load and sometimes is destroyed. To prevent such destruction, it is important to perform basic research about the impact load on a dam due to debris flow. Thus, we have made an experimental study and tried to establish a method to estimate such a impact load on the dam. The experiment was...

Comparison of effects of overload on parameters and performance of samarium-cobalt and strontium-ferrite radially oriented permanent magnet brushless DC motors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Demerdash, N.A.; Nehl, T.W.; Nyamusa, T.A.

1985-08-01

Effects of high momentary overloads on the samarium-cobalt and strontium-ferrite permanent magnets and the magnetic field in electronically commutated brushless dc machines, as well as their impact on the associated machine parameters were studied. The effect of overload on the machine parameters, and subsequently on the machine system performance was also investigated. This was accomplished through the combined use of finite element analysis of the magnetic field in such machines, perturbation of the magnetic energies to determine machine inductances, and dynamic simulation of the performance of brushless dc machines, when energized from voltage source inverters. These effects were investigated throughmore » application of the above methods to two equivalent 15 hp brushless dc motors, one of which was built with samarium-cobalt magnets, while the other was built with strontium- ferrite magnets. For momentary overloads as high as 4.5 p.u. magnet flux reductions of 29% and 42% of the no load flux were obtained in the samarium-cobalt and strontiumferrite machines, respectively. Corresponding reductions in the line to line armature inductances of 52% and 46% of the no load values were reported for the samarium-cobalt and strontium-ferrite cases, respectively. The overload affected the profiles and magnitudes of armature induced back emfs. Subsequently, the effects of overload on machine parameters were found to have significant impact on the performance of the machine systems, where findings indicate that the samarium-cobalt unit is more suited for higher overload duties than the strontium-ferrite machine.« less

DC discharges in atmospheric air for bio-decontamination - spectroscopic methods for mechanism identification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Machala, Z.; Jedlovský, I.; Chládeková, L.; Pongrác, B.; Giertl, D.; Janda, M.; Ikurová, L. Å.; Polčic, P.

2009-08-01

Three types of DC electrical discharges in atmospheric air (streamer corona, transient spark and glow discharge) were tested for bio-decontamination of bacteria and yeasts in water solution, and spores on surfaces. Static vs. flowing treatment of contaminated water were compared, in the latter the flowing water either covered the grounded electrode or passed through the high voltage needle electrode. The bacteria were killed most efficiently in the flowing regime by transient spark. Streamer corona was efficient when the treated medium flew through the active corona region. The spores on plastic foil and paper surfaces were successfully inactivated by negative corona. The microbes were handled and their population evaluated by standard microbiology cultivation procedures. The emission spectroscopy of the discharges and TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) absorption spectrometric detection of the products of lipid peroxidation of bacterial cell membranes indicated a major role of radicals and reactive oxygen species among the bio-decontamination mechanisms.

An approach to quantify sources, seasonal change, and biogeochemical processes affecting metal loading in streams: Facilitating decisions for remediation of mine drainage

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kimball, B.A.; Runkel, R.L.; Walton-Day, K.

2010-01-01

Historical mining has left complex problems in catchments throughout the world. Land managers are faced with making cost-effective plans to remediate mine influences. Remediation plans are facilitated by spatial mass-loading profiles that indicate the locations of metal mass-loading, seasonal changes, and the extent of biogeochemical processes. Field-scale experiments during both low- and high-flow conditions and time-series data over diel cycles illustrate how this can be accomplished. A low-flow experiment provided spatially detailed loading profiles to indicate where loading occurred. For example, SO42 - was principally derived from sources upstream from the study reach, but three principal locations also were important for SO42 - loading within the reach. During high-flow conditions, Lagrangian sampling provided data to interpret seasonal changes and indicated locations where snowmelt runoff flushed metals to the stream. Comparison of metal concentrations between the low- and high-flow experiments indicated substantial increases in metal loading at high flow, but little change in metal concentrations, showing that toxicity at the most downstream sampling site was not substantially greater during snowmelt runoff. During high-flow conditions, a detailed temporal sampling at fixed sites indicated that Zn concentration more than doubled during the diel cycle. Monitoring programs must account for diel variation to provide meaningful results. Mass-loading studies during different flow conditions and detailed time-series over diel cycles provide useful scientific support for stream management decisions.

Cetuximab-activated natural killer (NK) and dendritic cells (DC) collaborate to trigger tumor antigen-specific T cell immunity in head and neck cancer patients

PubMed Central

Srivastava, Raghvendra M.; Lee, Steve C.; Filho, Pedro A. Andrade; Lord, Christopher A.; Jie, Hyun-bae; Davidson, H. Carter; López-Albaitero, Andrés; Gibson, Sandra P.; Gooding, William E.; Ferrone, Soldano; Ferris, Robert L.

2013-01-01

Purpose Tumor antigen (TA)-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAb) block oncogenic signaling and induce Fcγ receptor (FcγR)-mediated cytotoxicity. However, the role of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) and FcγR in initiating innate and adaptive immune responses in mAb-treated human cancer patients is still emerging. Experimental Design FcγRIIIa codon 158 polymorphism was correlated with survival in 107 cetuximab-treated head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. Flow cytometry was performed to quantify EGFR-specific T cells in cetuximab-treated HNC patients. The effect of cetuximab on NK cell, dendritic cell (DC), and T cell activation was measured using IFN-γ release assays and flow cytometry. Results FcγR IIIa polymorphism did not predict clinical outcome in cetuximab-treated HNC patients, however elevated circulating EGFR -specific CD8+ 853-861 T cells were found in cetuximab-treated HNC patients (p<0.005). Cetuximab promoted EGFR-specific cellular immunity through the interaction of EGFR+ tumor cells and FcγRIIIa on NK cells, but not on the polymorphism per se. Cetuximab-activated NK cells induced IFN-γ dependent expression of DC maturation markers, antigen presentation machinery (APM) components such as TAP-1/2, and Th1 chemokines through NKG2D/MICA binding. Cetuximab initiated adaptive immune responses via NK-cell induced DC maturation, which enhanced cross-presentation to CTL specific for EGFR as well as another TA, MAGE-3. Conclusion Cetuximab-activated NK cells promote DC maturation and CD8+ T cell priming, leading to TA spreading and Th1 cytokine release through ‘NK-DC cross-talk.’ FcγRIIIa polymorphism did not predict clinical response to cetuximab, but was necessary for NK-DC interaction and mAb induced cross-presentation. EGFR-specific T cells in cetuximab treated HNC patients may contribute to clinical response. PMID:23444227

Dusty Plasma Experimental (DPEx) device for complex plasma experiments with flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaiswal, S.; Bandyopadhyay, P.; Sen, A.

2015-11-01

A versatile table-top dusty plasma experimental device to study flow induced excitations of linear and nonlinear waves/structures in a complex plasma is presented. In this Π-shaped apparatus, a DC glow discharge plasma is produced between a disc shaped anode and a grounded long cathode tray by applying a high voltage DC in the background of a neutral gas (argon) and subsequently a dusty plasma is created by introducing micron sized dust particles that get charged and levitated in the sheath region. A flow of the dust particles is induced in a controlled manner by adjusting the pumping speed and the gas flow rate into the device. A full characterisation of the plasma, using Langmuir and emissive probe data, and that of the dusty plasma using particle tracking data with the help of an idl based (super) Particle Identification and Tracking (sPIT) code is reported. Experimental results on the variation of the dust flow velocity as a function of the neutral pressure and the gas flow rate are given. The neutral drag force acting on the particles and the Epstein coefficient are estimated from the initial acceleration of the particles. The potential experimental capabilities of the device for conducting fundamental studies of flow induced instabilities are discussed.

Washington, D.C. USA

NASA Image and Video Library

1984-10-13

41G-40-071 (5-13 Oct. 1984) --- Washington, D.C. -- the nation's capital -- is at right center in this phtograph from the Earth-orbiting space shuttle Challenger. J.F. Dulles Airport at lower left. Andrews Air Force Base is at right center edge. The Potomac River enters at left center, flows past Washington and as a tidal estuary at lower right. Also visible are the Great Falls of the Potomac. Photo credit: NASA

Robust interferon-α and IL-12 responses by dendritic cells are related to efficient CD4+ T-cell recovery in HIV patients on ART.

PubMed

Tan, Dino Bee Aik; Yong, Yean Kong; Lim, Andrew; Tan, Hong Yien; Kamarulzaman, Adeeba; French, Martyn; Price, Patricia

2011-05-01

Amongst HIV patients with successful virological responses to antiretroviral therapy (ART), poor CD4(+) T-cell recovery is associated with low nadir CD4(+) T-cell counts and persistent immune activation. These factors might be influenced by dendritic cell (DC) function. Interferon-α-producing plasmacytoid DC and IL-12-producing myeloid DC were quantified by flow cytometry after stimulation with agonists to TLR7/8 (CL075) or TLR9 (CpG-ODN). These were compared between patients who achieved CD4(+) T-cell counts above or below 200 cells/μL after 6 months on ART (High vs. Low groups). High Group patients had more DC producing interferon-α or IL-12 at Weeks 6 and 12 on ART than Low Group patients. The frequencies of cytokine-producing DC at Week 12 were directly correlated with CD4(+) T-cell counts at baseline and at Week 12. Patients with good recovery of CD4(+) T-cells had robust TLR-mediated interferon-α responses by plasmacytoid DC and IL-12 responses by myeloid DC during early ART (1-3 months). Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Transverse ac-driven and geometric ratchet effects for vortices in conformal crystal pinning arrays

DOE PAGES

Reichhardt, Charles; Reichhardt, Cynthia Jane Olsen

2016-02-11

A conformal pinning array is created by taking a conformal transformation of a uniform hexagonal lattice to create a structure in which the sixfold ordering of the original lattice is preserved but which has a spatial gradient in the pinning site density. With a series of conformal arrays it is possible to create asymmetric substrates, and it was previously shown that when an ac drive is applied parallel to the asymmetry direction, a pronounced ratchet effect occurs with a net dc flow of vortices in the same direction as the ac drive. Here, in this article, we show that whenmore » the ac drive is applied perpendicular to the substrate asymmetry direction, it is possible to realize a transverse ratchet effect where a net dc flow of vortices is generated perpendicular to the ac drive. The conformal transverse ratchet effect is distinct from previous versions of transverse ratchets in that it occurs due to the generation of non-Gaussian transverse vortex velocity fluctuations by the plastic motion of vortices, so that the system behaves as a noise correlation ratchet. The transverse ratchet effect is much more pronounced in the conformal arrays than in random gradient arrays and is absent in square gradient arrays due the different nature of the vortex flow in each geometry. We show that a series of reversals can occur in the transverse ratchet effect due to changes in the vortex flow across the pinning gradient as a function of vortex filling, pinning strength, and ac amplitude. We also consider the case where a dc drive applied perpendicular to the substrate asymmetry direction generates a net flow of vortices perpendicular to the dc drive, producing what is known as a geometric or drift ratchet that again arises due to non-Gaussian dynamically generated fluctuations. The drift ratchet is more efficient than the ac driven ratchet and also exhibits a series of reversals for varied parameters. Lastly, our results should be general to a wide class of systems undergoing nonequilibrium dynamics on conformal substrates, such as colloidal particles on optical traps.« less

Construction of estimated flow- and load-duration curves for Kentucky using the Water Availability Tool for Environmental Resources (WATER)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Unthank, Michael D.; Newson, Jeremy K.; Williamson, Tanja N.; Nelson, Hugh L.

2012-01-01

Flow- and load-duration curves were constructed from the model outputs of the U.S. Geological Survey's Water Availability Tool for Environmental Resources (WATER) application for streams in Kentucky. The WATER application was designed to access multiple geospatial datasets to generate more than 60 years of statistically based streamflow data for Kentucky. The WATER application enables a user to graphically select a site on a stream and generate an estimated hydrograph and flow-duration curve for the watershed upstream of that point. The flow-duration curves are constructed by calculating the exceedance probability of the modeled daily streamflows. User-defined water-quality criteria and (or) sampling results can be loaded into the WATER application to construct load-duration curves that are based on the modeled streamflow results. Estimates of flow and streamflow statistics were derived from TOPographically Based Hydrological MODEL (TOPMODEL) simulations in the WATER application. A modified TOPMODEL code, SDP-TOPMODEL (Sinkhole Drainage Process-TOPMODEL) was used to simulate daily mean discharges over the period of record for 5 karst and 5 non-karst watersheds in Kentucky in order to verify the calibrated model. A statistical evaluation of the model's verification simulations show that calibration criteria, established by previous WATER application reports, were met thus insuring the model's ability to provide acceptably accurate estimates of discharge at gaged and ungaged sites throughout Kentucky. Flow-duration curves are constructed in the WATER application by calculating the exceedence probability of the modeled daily flow values. The flow-duration intervals are expressed as a percentage, with zero corresponding to the highest stream discharge in the streamflow record. Load-duration curves are constructed by applying the loading equation (Load = Flow*Water-quality criterion) at each flow interval.

Electric transportation in environmentally planned city of tomorrow. Paper No. 7788

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Watkins, B.

1977-01-01

A discussion is given of the operation of the electric monorail trains at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. The all-electric trains are powered by eight 600 V dc motors and use an air suspension system providing excellent riding qualities. A key factor in the overall efficiency is the loading and unloading technique in which the passengers step onto a moving circular platform which is synchronized to the speed of the vehicles being loaded. (PMA)

Corrosion-Fatigue Cracking in HY-80 and HY-130 Steels

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-22

Naval Research Laboratory Washington, DC 20375-5320 NRL/MR/6355--15-9584 Corrosion- Fatigue Cracking in HY-80 and HY-130 Steels January 22, 2015 P.S...RESPONSIBLE PERSON 19b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (include area code) b. ABSTRACT c. THIS PAGE 18. NUMBER OF PAGES 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT Corrosion- Fatigue ...including [NaCl] concentration) and load ratio on fatigue crack growth kinetics of HY-80 and HY-130 steels. Fracture mechanics wedge-opening-load