High-Sensitivity, Broad-Range Vacuum Gauge Using Nanotubes for Micromachined Cavities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manohara, Harish; Kaul, Anupama B.

2011-01-01

A broad-range vacuum gauge has been created by suspending a single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) (metallic or semiconducting) in a Schottky diode format or in a bridge conductor format, between two electrically charged mesas. SWNTs are highly sensitive to molecular collisions because of their extremely small diameters in the range of 1 to 3 nanometers. The measurement parameter will be the change in conductivity of SWNT due to decreasing rate of molecular collisions as the pressure inside a chamber decreases. The rate of heat removal approaches a saturation limit as the mean free path (m.f.p.) lengths of molecules increase due to decreasing pressure. Only those sensing elements that have a long relaxation time can produce a measureable response when m.f.p. of molecules increases (or time between two consecutive collisions increases). A suspended SWNT offers such a capability because of its one-dimensional nature and ultrasmall diameter. In the initial approach, similar architecture was used as that of a SWNT-Schottky diode that has been developed at JPL, and has its changing conductivity measured as the test chamber is pumped down from atmospheric pressure to high vacuum (10(exp -7) Torr). Continuous response of decreasing conductivity has been measured as a function of decreasing pressure (SWNT is a negative thermal coefficient material) from atmosphere to less than 10(exp -6) Torr. A measureable current change in the hundreds of nA range has been recorded in the 10(exp -6) Torr regime.

Mechanisms of decreased left ventricular preload during continuous positive pressure ventilation in ARDS

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

Dhainaut, J.F.; Devaux, J.Y.; Monsallier, J.F.

1986-07-01

Continuous positive pressure ventilation is associated with a reduction in left ventricular preload and cardiac output, but the mechanisms responsible are controversial. The decrease in left ventricular preload may result exclusively from a decreased systemic venous return due to increased pleural pressure, or from an additional effect such as decreased left ventricular compliance. To determine the mechanisms responsible, we studied the changes in cardiac output induced by continuous positive pressure ventilation in eight patients with the adult respiratory distress syndrome. We measured cardiac output by thermodilution, and biventricular ejection fraction by equilibrium gated blood pool scintigraphy. Biventricular end-diastolic volumes weremore » then calculated by dividing stroke volume by ejection fraction. As positive end-expiratory pressure increased from 0 to 20 cm H/sub 2/O, stroke volume and biventricular end-diastolic volumes fell about 25 percent, and biventricular ejection fraction remained unchanged. At 20 cm H/sub 2/O positive end-expiratory pressure, volume expansion for normalizing cardiac output restored biventricular end-diastolic volumes without markedly changing biventricular end-diastolic transmural pressures. The primary cause of the reduction in left ventricular preload with continuous positive pressure ventilation appears to be a fall in venous return and hence in right ventricular stroke volume, without evidence of change in left ventricular diastolic compliance.« less

Reflex effects on renal nerve activity characteristics in spontaneously hypertensive rats.

PubMed

DiBona, G F; Jones, S Y; Sawin, L L

1997-11-01

The effects of arterial and cardiac baroreflex activation on the discharge characteristics of renal sympathetic nerve activity were evaluated in conscious spontaneously hypertensive and Wistar-Kyoto rats. In spontaneously hypertensive rats compared with Wistar-Kyoto rats, (1) arterial baroreflex regulation of renal sympathetic nerve activity was reset to a higher arterial pressure and the gain was decreased and (2) cardiac baroreflex regulation of renal sympathetic nerve activity exhibited a lower gain. With the use of sympathetic peak detection analysis, the inhibition of integrated renal sympathetic nerve activity, which occurred during both increased arterial pressure (arterial baroreflex) and right atrial pressure (cardiac baroreflex), was due to parallel decreases in peak height with little change in peak frequency in both spontaneously hypertensive and Wistar-Kyoto rats. Arterial and cardiac baroreflex inhibition of renal sympathetic nerve activity in Wistar-Kyoto and spontaneously hypertensive rats is due to a parallel reduction in the number of active renal sympathetic nerve fibers.

Hospital visits for gastrointestinal Illness after a major water main break in 2010

EPA Science Inventory

Background/Aim Water main breaks can occur due to the stresses of an aging infrastructure and changing climate. Water main breaks are a public health concern because they can cause pressure transients (specifically, abrupt decreases in water pressure/flow in the pipeline), which ...

Effect of Physical Forces on the Metastatic Bone Microenvironment

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-10-01

G.R., et al., Cell proliferation of cultured human cancer cells are affected by the elevated tumor pressures that exist in vivo. Ann Biomed Eng, 2005... cell lines. In vitro experiments have shown that increased pressure leads to decreased PCa proliferation. Osteoblasts also have inhibited...applied to tumor cells . Novel candidate genes with altered expression due to pressure have been identified and are currently undergoing further

Critical cerebral perfusion pressure at high intracranial pressure measured by induced cerebrovascular and intracranial pressure reactivity.

PubMed

Bragin, Denis E; Statom, Gloria L; Yonas, Howard; Dai, Xingping; Nemoto, Edwin M

2014-12-01

The lower limit of cerebral blood flow autoregulation is the critical cerebral perfusion pressure at which cerebral blood flow begins to fall. It is important that cerebral perfusion pressure be maintained above this level to ensure adequate cerebral blood flow, especially in patients with high intracranial pressure. However, the critical cerebral perfusion pressure of 50 mm Hg, obtained by decreasing mean arterial pressure, differs from the value of 30 mm Hg, obtained by increasing intracranial pressure, which we previously showed was due to microvascular shunt flow maintenance of a falsely high cerebral blood flow. The present study shows that the critical cerebral perfusion pressure, measured by increasing intracranial pressure to decrease cerebral perfusion pressure, is inaccurate but accurately determined by dopamine-induced dynamic intracranial pressure reactivity and cerebrovascular reactivity. Cerebral perfusion pressure was decreased either by increasing intracranial pressure or decreasing mean arterial pressure and the critical cerebral perfusion pressure by both methods compared. Cortical Doppler flux, intracranial pressure, and mean arterial pressure were monitored throughout the study. At each cerebral perfusion pressure, we measured microvascular RBC flow velocity, blood-brain barrier integrity (transcapillary dye extravasation), and tissue oxygenation (reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) in the cerebral cortex of rats using in vivo two-photon laser scanning microscopy. University laboratory. Male Sprague-Dawley rats. At each cerebral perfusion pressure, dopamine-induced arterial pressure transients (~10 mm Hg, ~45 s duration) were used to measure induced intracranial pressure reactivity (Δ intracranial pressure/Δ mean arterial pressure) and induced cerebrovascular reactivity (Δ cerebral blood flow/Δ mean arterial pressure). At a normal cerebral perfusion pressure of 70 mm Hg, 10 mm Hg mean arterial pressure pulses had no effect on intracranial pressure or cerebral blood flow (induced intracranial pressure reactivity = -0.03 ± 0.07 and induced cerebrovascular reactivity = -0.02 ± 0.09), reflecting intact autoregulation. Decreasing cerebral perfusion pressure to 50 mm Hg by increasing intracranial pressure increased induced intracranial pressure reactivity and induced cerebrovascular reactivity to 0.24 ± 0.09 and 0.31 ± 0.13, respectively, reflecting impaired autoregulation (p < 0.05). By static cerebral blood flow, the first significant decrease in cerebral blood flow occurred at a cerebral perfusion pressure of 30 mm Hg (0.71 ± 0.08, p < 0.05). Critical cerebral perfusion pressure of 50 mm Hg was accurately determined by induced intracranial pressure reactivity and induced cerebrovascular reactivity, whereas the static method failed.

Droplet Impact on a Heated Surface under a Depressurized Environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hatakenaka, Ryuta; Tagawa, Yoshiyuki

2016-11-01

Behavior of a water droplet of the diameter 1-3mm impacting on a heated surface under depressurized environment (100kPa -1kPa) has been studied. A syringe pump for droplet generation and a heated plate are set into a transparent acrylic vacuum chamber. The internal pressure of the chamber is automatically controlled at a target pressure with a rotary pump, a pressure transducer, and an electrical valve. A silicon wafer of the thickness 0.28 mm is mounted on the heater plate, whose temperature is directly measured by attaching a thermocouple on the backside. The droplet behavior is captured using a high-speed camera in a direction perpendicular to droplet velocity. Some unique behaviors of droplet are observed by decreasing the environmental pressure, which are considered to be due to two basic elements: Enhancement of evaporation due to the lowered saturation temperature, and shortage of pneumatic spring effect between the droplet and heated wall due to the lowered pressure of the air.

Skin blood flow with elastic compressive extravehicular activity space suit.

PubMed

Tanaka, Kunihiko; Gotoh, Taro M; Morita, Hironobu; Hargens, Alan R

2003-10-01

During extravehicular activity (EVA), current space suits are pressurized with 100% oxygen at approximately 222 mmHg. A tight elastic garment, or mechanical counter pressure (MCP) suit that generates pressure by compression, may have several advantages over current space suit technology. In this study, we investigated local microcirculatory effects produced with negative ambient pressure with an MCP sleeve. The MCP glove and sleeve generated pressures similar to the current space suit. MCP remained constant during negative pressure due to unchanged elasticity of the material. Decreased skin capillary blood flow and temperature during MCP compression was counteracted by greater negative pressure or a smaller pressure differential.

The Effect of Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence on Intracochlear Sound Pressures

PubMed Central

Pisano, Dominic V.; Niesten, Marlien E.F.; Merchant, Saumil N.; Nakajima, Hideko Heidi

2013-01-01

Semicircular canal dehiscence (SCD) is a pathological opening in the bony wall of the inner ear that can result in conductive hearing loss. The hearing loss is variable across patients, and the precise mechanism and source of variability are not fully understood. Simultaneous measurements of basal intracochlear sound pressures in scala vestibuli (SV) and scala tympani (ST) enable quantification of the differential pressure across the cochlear partition, the stimulus that excites the cochlear partition. We used intracochlear sound pressure measurements in cadaveric preparations to study the effects of SCD size. Sound-induced pressures in SV and ST, as well as stapes velocity and ear-canal pressure were measured simultaneously for various sizes of SCD followed by SCD patching. Our results showed that at low frequencies (<600 Hz), SCD decreased the pressure in both SV and ST, as well as differential pressure, and these effects became more pronounced as dehiscence size was increased. Near 100 Hz, SV decreased about 10 dB for a 0.5 mm dehiscence and 20 dB for a 2 mm dehiscence, while ST decreased about 8 dB for a 0.5 mm dehiscence and 18 dB for a 2mm dehiscence. Differential pressure decreased about 10 dB for a 0.5 mm dehiscence and about 20 dB for a 2 mm dehiscense at 100 Hz. In some ears, for frequencies above 1 kHz, the smallest pinpoint dehiscence had bigger effects on the differential pressure (10 dB decrease) than larger dehiscenses (less than 10 dB decrease), suggesting larger hearing losses in this frequency range. These effects due to SCD were reversible by patching the dehiscence. We also showed that under certain circumstances such as SCD, stapes velocity is not related to how the ear can transduce sound across the cochlear partition because it is not directly related to the differential pressure, emphasizing that certain pathologies cannot be fully assessed by measurements such as stapes velocity. PMID:22814034

Worldwide trends in blood pressure from 1975 to 2015: a pooled analysis of 1479 population-based measurement studies with 19·1 million participants.

PubMed

2017-01-07

Raised blood pressure is an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and chronic kidney disease. We estimated worldwide trends in mean systolic and mean diastolic blood pressure, and the prevalence of, and number of people with, raised blood pressure, defined as systolic blood pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher or diastolic blood pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher. For this analysis, we pooled national, subnational, or community population-based studies that had measured blood pressure in adults aged 18 years and older. We used a Bayesian hierarchical model to estimate trends from 1975 to 2015 in mean systolic and mean diastolic blood pressure, and the prevalence of raised blood pressure for 200 countries. We calculated the contributions of changes in prevalence versus population growth and ageing to the increase in the number of adults with raised blood pressure. We pooled 1479 studies that had measured the blood pressures of 19·1 million adults. Global age-standardised mean systolic blood pressure in 2015 was 127·0 mm Hg (95% credible interval 125·7-128·3) in men and 122·3 mm Hg (121·0-123·6) in women; age-standardised mean diastolic blood pressure was 78·7 mm Hg (77·9-79·5) for men and 76·7 mm Hg (75·9-77·6) for women. Global age-standardised prevalence of raised blood pressure was 24·1% (21·4-27·1) in men and 20·1% (17·8-22·5) in women in 2015. Mean systolic and mean diastolic blood pressure decreased substantially from 1975 to 2015 in high-income western and Asia Pacific countries, moving these countries from having some of the highest worldwide blood pressure in 1975 to the lowest in 2015. Mean blood pressure also decreased in women in central and eastern Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and, more recently, central Asia, Middle East, and north Africa, but the estimated trends in these super-regions had larger uncertainty than in high-income super-regions. By contrast, mean blood pressure might have increased in east and southeast Asia, south Asia, Oceania, and sub-Saharan Africa. In 2015, central and eastern Europe, sub-Saharan Africa, and south Asia had the highest blood pressure levels. Prevalence of raised blood pressure decreased in high-income and some middle-income countries; it remained unchanged elsewhere. The number of adults with raised blood pressure increased from 594 million in 1975 to 1·13 billion in 2015, with the increase largely in low-income and middle-income countries. The global increase in the number of adults with raised blood pressure is a net effect of increase due to population growth and ageing, and decrease due to declining age-specific prevalence. During the past four decades, the highest worldwide blood pressure levels have shifted from high-income countries to low-income countries in south Asia and sub-Saharan Africa due to opposite trends, while blood pressure has been persistently high in central and eastern Europe. Wellcome Trust. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an Open Access article under the CC BY license. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Reliability of Baropodometry on the Evaluation of Plantar Load Distribution: A Transversal Study.

PubMed

Baumfeld, Daniel; Baumfeld, Tiago; da Rocha, Romário Lopes; Macedo, Benjamim; Raduan, Fernando; Zambelli, Roberto; Alves Silva, Thiago Alexandre; Nery, Caio

2017-01-01

Introduction . Baropodometry is used to measure the load distribution on feet during rest and walking. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in plantar foot pressures distribution due to period of working and due to stretching exercises of the posterior muscular chain. Methods . In this transversal study, all participants were submitted to baropodometric evaluation at two different times: before and after the working period and before and after stretching the muscles of the posterior chain. Results . We analyzed a total of 54 feet of 27 participants. After the working period, there was an average increase in the forefoot pressure of 0.16 Kgf/cm 2 and an average decrease in the hindfoot pressure of 0.17 Kgf/cm 2 . After stretching the posterior muscular chain, the average increase in the forefoot pressure was 0.56 Kgf/cm 2 and the hindfoot average pressure decrease was 0.56 Kgf/cm 2 . These changes were not statistically significant. Discussion . It was reported that the strength of the Achilles tendon generates greater forefoot load transferred from the hindfoot. In our study, no significant variation in the distribution of plantar pressure was observed. It can be inferred that baropodometry was a reliable instrument to determine the plantar pressure, regardless of the tension of the posterior chain muscles.

Temporal evolution of magma flow and degassing conditions during dome growth, insights from 2D numerical modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chevalier, Laure; Collombet, Marielle; Pinel, Virginie

2017-03-01

Understanding magma degassing evolution during an eruption is essential to improving forecasting of effusive/explosive regime transitions at andesitic volcanoes. Lava domes frequently form during effusive phases, inducing a pressure increase both within the conduit and within the surrounding rocks. To quantify the influence of dome height on magma flow and degassing, we couple magma and gas flow in a 2D numerical model. The deformation induced by magma flow evolution is also quantified. From realistic initial magma flow conditions in effusive regime (Collombet, 2009), we apply increasing pressure at the conduit top as the dome grows. Since volatile solubility increases with pressure, dome growth is then associated with an increase in magma dissolved water content at a given depth, which corresponds with a decrease in magma porosity and permeability. Magma flow evolution is associated with ground deflation of a few μrad in the near field. However this signal is not detectable as it is hidden by dome subsidence (a few mrad). A Darcy flow model is used to study the impact of pressure and permeability conditions on gas flow in the conduit and surrounding rock. We show that dome permeability has almost no influence on magma degassing. However, increasing pressure in the surrounding rock, due to dome loading, as well as decreasing magma permeability in the conduit limit permeable gas loss at the conduit walls, thus causing gas pressurization in the upper conduit by a few tens of MPa. Decreasing magma permeability and increasing gas pressure increase the likelihood of magma explosivity and hazard in the case of a rapid decompression due to dome collapse.

Optic nerve head blood flow response to reduced ocular perfusion pressure by alteration of either the blood pressure or intraocular pressure.

PubMed

Wang, Lin; Cull, Grant A; Fortune, Brad

2015-04-01

To test the hypothesis that blood flow autoregulation in the optic nerve head has less reserve to maintain normal blood flow in the face of blood pressure-induced ocular perfusion pressure decrease than a similar magnitude intraocular pressure-induced ocular perfusion pressure decrease. Twelve normal non-human primates were anesthetized by continuous intravenous infusion of pentobarbital. Optic nerve blood flow was monitored by laser speckle flowgraphy. In the first group of animals (n = 6), the experimental eye intraocular pressure was maintained at 10 mmHg using a saline reservoir connected to the anterior chamber. The blood pressure was gradually reduced by a slow injection of pentobarbital. In the second group (n = 6), the intraocular pressure was slowly increased from 10 mmHg to 50 mmHg by raising the reservoir. In both experimental groups, optic nerve head blood flow was measured continuously. The blood pressure and intraocular pressure were simultaneously recorded in all experiments. The optic nerve head blood flow showed significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.021, repeat measures analysis of variance). It declined significantly more in the blood pressure group compared to the intraocular pressure group when the ocular perfusion pressure was reduced to 35 mmHg (p < 0.045) and below. There was also a significant interaction between blood flow changes and the ocular perfusion pressure treatment (p = 0.004, adjusted Greenhouse & Geisser univariate test), indicating the gradually enlarged blood flow difference between the two groups was due to the ocular perfusion pressure decrease. The results show that optic nerve head blood flow is more susceptible to an ocular perfusion pressure decrease induced by lowering the blood pressure compared with that induced by increasing the intraocular pressure. This blood flow autoregulation capacity vulnerability to low blood pressure may provide experimental evidence related to the hemodynamic pathophysiology in glaucoma.

Shock driven melting and resolidification upon release in cerium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bolme, Cindy; Bronkhorst, Curt; Brown, Don; Cherne, Frank; Cooley, Jason; Furlanetto, Michael; Gleason, Arianna; Jensen, Brian; Owens, Charles; Ali, Suzanne; Fratanduono, Dayne; Galtier, Eric; Granados, Eduardo; Lee, Hae Ja; Nagler, Bob

2017-06-01

The temperature rise due to increasing entropy during shock compression and the corresponding temperature decrease due to isentropic expansion upon release cause the physics of melting and solidification under dynamic pressure changes to differ fundamentally from the more common liquid-solid transitions governed by thermal diffusion. We investigated laser shock driven melting and resolidification during release in cerium to examine the dynamics of these processes. Cerium was selected as the material of study due to the low pressure at which γ-cerium melts along the principle Hugoniot and due to cerium's anomalous melt boundary at low pressure, which facilitates its transition from liquid to solid during isentropic release. The structural phase of cerium was probed with X-ray diffraction using the LCLS X-ray free electron laser, which provided in situ measurements of the transition dynamics. The experimental results will be presented showing the resolidification occurring over 10s of ns.

Initial Experience with IV Ketamine Infusion for Treatment of Post Sternotomy Pain in a Patient with a Total Artificial Heart.

PubMed

Maher, Dermot P; Loyferman, Rusty; Yumul, Roya; Louy, Charles

2015-01-01

The implantation of total artificial hearts (TAH) via midline sternotomy for the treatment of severe biventricular cardiac dysfunction is associated with complex postoperative pain management. Ketamaine increases blood pressure by raising sympathetic outflow and cardiac output; however, ketamine is a direct vasodilator on isolated arterial tissues. In the setting of a TAH with a mechanically fixed cardiac output, a ketamine infusion for postoperative pain control has the potential to decrease blood pressure due to direct arterial vasodilation. We present the initial experience with a ketamine infusion in a patient with a TAH with minimal observed decreases in blood pressure and significantly improved postoperative pain.

Milk pH as a function of CO2 concentration, temperature, and pressure in a heat exchanger.

PubMed

Ma, Y; Barbano, D M

2003-12-01

Raw skim milk, with or without added CO2, was heated, held, and cooled in a small pilot-scale tubular heat exchanger (372 ml/min). The experiment was replicated twice, and, for each replication, milk was first carbonated at 0 to 1 degree C to contain 0 (control), 600, 1200, 1800, and 2400 ppm added CO2 using a continuous carbonation unit. After storage at 0 to 1 degree C, portions of milk at each CO2 concentration were heated to 40, 56, 72, and 80 degrees C, held at the desired temperature for 30 s (except 80 degrees C, holding 20 s) and cooled to 0 to 1 degree C. At each temperature, five pressures were applied: 69, 138, 207, 276, and 345 kPa. Pressure was controlled with a needle valve at the heat exchanger exit. Both the pressure gauge and pH probe were inline at the end of the holding section. Milk pH during heating depended on CO2 concentration, temperature, and pressure. During heating of milk without added CO2, pH decreased linearly as a function of increasing temperature but was independent of pressure. In general, the pH of milk with added CO2 decreased with increasing CO2 concentration and pressure. For milk with added CO2, at a fixed CO2 concentration, the effect of pressure on pH decrease was greater at a higher temperature. At a fixed temperature, the effect of pressure on pH decrease was greater for milk with a higher CO2 concentration. Thermal death of bacteria during pasteurization of milk without added CO2 is probably due not only to temperature but also to the decrease in pH that occurs during the process. Increasing milk CO2 concentration and pressure decreases the milk pH even further during heating and may further enhance the microbial killing power of pasteurization.

Modeling of Cardiovascular Response to Weightlessness

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sharp, M. Keith

1999-01-01

It was the hypothesis of this Project that the Simple lack of hydrostatic pressure in microgravity generates several purely physical reactions that underlie and may explain, in part, the cardiovascular response to weightlessness. For instance, hydrostatic pressure within the ventricles of the heart may improve cardiac performance by promoting expansion of ventricular volume during diastole. The lack of hydrostatic pressure in microgravity might, therefore, reduce diastolic filling and cardiac performance. The change in transmural pressure is possible due to the difference in hydrostatic pressure gradients between the blood inside the ventricle and the lung tissue surrounding the ventricle due to their different densities. On the other hand, hydrostatic pressure within the vasculature may reduce cardiac inlet pressures because of the typical location of the heart above the hydrostatic indifference level (the level at which pressure remains constant throughout changes in gravity). Additional physical responses of the body to changing gravitational conditions may influence cardiovascular performance. For instance, fluid shifts from the lower body to the thorax in microgravity may serve to increase central venous pressure (CVP) and boost cardiac output (CO). The concurrent release of gravitational force on the rib cage may tend to increase chest girth and decrease pedcardial pressure, augmenting ventricular filling. The lack of gravity on pulmonary tissue may allow an upward shifting of lung mass, causing a further decrease in pericardial pressure and increased CO. Additional effects include diuresis early in the flight, interstitial fluid shifts, gradual spinal extension and movement of abdominal mass, and redistribution of circulatory impedance because of venous distention in the upper body and the collapse of veins in the lower body. In this project, the cardiovascular responses to changes in intraventricular hydrostatic pressure, in intravascular hydrostatic pressure and, to a limited extent, in extravascular and pedcardial hydrostatic pressure were investigated. A complete hydraulic model of the cardiovascular system was built and flown aboard the NASA KC-135 and a computer model was developed and tested in simulated microgravity. Results obtained with these models have confirmed that a simple lack of hydrostatic pressure within an artificial ventricle causes a decrease in stroke volume. When combined with the acute increase in ventricular pressure associated with the elimination of hydrostatic pressure within the vasculature and the resultant cephalad fluid shift with the models in the upright position, however, stroke volume increased in the models. Imposition of a decreased pedcardial pressure in the computer model and in a simplified hydraulic model increased stroke volume. Physiologic regional fluid shifting was also demonstrated by the models. The unifying parameter characterizing of cardiac response was diastolic ventricular transmural pressure (DVDELTAP) The elimination of intraventricular hydrostatic pressure in O-G decreased DVDELTAP stroke volume, while the elimination of intravascular hydrostatic pressure increased DVDELTAP and stroke volume in the upright posture, but reduced DVDELTAP and stroke volume in the launch posture. The release of gravity on the chest wall and its associated influence on intrathoracic pressure, simulated by a drop in extraventricular pressure4, increased DVDELTAP ans stroke volume.

Analysis of the Magneto-Hydrodynamic (MHD) Energy Bypass Engine for High-Speed Air-Breathing Propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Riggins, David W.

2002-01-01

The performance of the MHD energy bypass air-breathing engine for high-speed propulsion is analyzed in this investigation. This engine is a specific type of the general class of inverse cycle engines. In this paper, the general relationship between engine performance (specific impulse and specific thrust) and the overall total pressure ratio through an engine (from inlet plane to exit plane) is first developed and illustrated. Engines with large total pressure decreases, regardless of cause or source, are seen to have exponentially decreasing performance. The ideal inverse cycle engine (of which the MHD engine is a sub-set) is then demonstrated to have a significant total pressure decrease across the engine; this total pressure decrease is cycle-driven, degrades rapidly with energy bypass ratio, and is independent of any irreversibility. The ideal MHD engine (inverse cycle engine with no irreversibility other than that inherent in the MHD work interaction processes) is next examined and is seen to have an additional large total pressure decrease due to MHD-generated irreversibility in the decelerator and the accelerator. This irreversibility mainly occurs in the deceleration process. Both inherent total pressure losses (inverse cycle and MHD irreversibility) result in a significant narrowing of the performance capability of the MHD bypass engine. The fundamental characteristics of MHD flow acceleration and flow deceleration from the standpoint of irreversibility and second-law constraints are next examined in order to clarify issues regarding flow losses and parameter selection in the MM modules. Severe constraints are seen to exist in the decelerator in terms of allowable deceleration Mach numbers and volumetric (length) required for meaningful energy bypass (work interaction). Considerable difficulties are also encountered and discussed due to thermal/work choking phenomena associated with the deceleration process. Lastly, full engine simulations utilizing inlet shock systems, finite-rate chemistry, wall cooling with thermally balanced engine (fuel heat sink), fuel injection and mixing, friction, etc. are shown and discussed for both the MHD engine and the conventional scramjet. The MHD bypass engine has significantly lower performance in all categories across the Mach number range (8 to 12.2). The lower performance is attributed to the combined effects of 1) additional irreversibility and cooling requirements associated with the MHD components and 2) the total pressure decrease associated with the inverse cycle itself.

Propagation of Pressure Waves, Caused by a Thermal Shock, in Liquid Metals Containing Gas Bubbles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okita, Kohei; Takagi, Shu; Matsumoto, Yoichiro

The propagation of pressure waves caused by a thermal shock in liquid mercury containing micro gas bubbles has been simulated numerically. In the present study, we clarify the influences of the introduced bubble size and void fraction on the absorption of thermal expansion of liquid mercury and attenuation of pressure waves. The mass, momentum and energy conservation equations for both bubbly mixture and gas inside each bubble are solved, in which the bubble dynamics is represented by the Keller equation. The results show that when the initial void fraction is larger than the rate of the thermal expansion of liquid mercury, the pressure rise caused by the thermal expansion decreases with decreasing the bubble radius, because of the increase of the natural frequency of bubbly mixture. On the other hand, as the bubble radius increases, the peak of pressure waves which propagate at the sound speed of mixture decreases gradually due to the dispersion effect of mixture. When the natural frequency of the mixture with large bubbles is lower than that of the thremal shock, the peak pressure at the wall increases because the pressure waves propagate through the mixture at the sound speed of liquid mercury. The comparison of the results with and without heat transfer through the gas liquid interface shows that the pressure waves are attenuated greatly by the thermal damping effect with the decrease of the void fraction which enhances the nonlinearity of bubble oscillation.

Distribution of coronary arterial capacitance in a canine model.

PubMed

Lader, A S; Smith, R S; Phillips, G C; McNamee, J E; Abel, F L

1998-03-01

The capacitative properties of the major left coronary arteries, left main (LM), left anterior descending (LAD), and left circumflex (LCX), were studied in 19 open-chest isolated dog hearts. Capacitance was determined by using ramp perfusion and a left ventricular-to-coronary shunt diastolic decay method; both methods gave similar results, indicating a minimal systolic capacitative component. Increased pericardial pressure (PCP), 25 mmHg, was used to experimentally alter transmural wall pressure. The response to increased PCP was different in the LAD vs. LCX; increasing PCP decreased capacitance in the LCX but increased capacitance in the LAD. This may have been due to the different intramural vs. epicardial volume distribution of these vessels and a decrease in intramural tension during increased PCP. Increased PCP decreased LCX capacitance by approximately 13%, but no changes in conductance or zero flow pressure intercept occurred in any of the three vessels, i. e., evidence against the waterfall theory of vascular collapse at these levels of PCP. Coronary arterial capacitance was also linearly related to perfusion pressure.

Photoinhibition of stem elongation by blue and red light: effects on hydraulic and cell wall properties

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kigel, J.; Cosgrove, D. J.

1991-01-01

The underlying mechanism of photoinhibition of stem elongation by blue (BL) and red light (RL) was studied in etiolated seedlings of pea (Pisum sativum L. cv Alaska). Brief BL irradiations resulted in fast transient inhibition of elongation, while a delayed (lag approximately 60 minutes) but prolonged inhibition was observed after brief RL. Possible changes in the hydraulic and wall properties of the growing cells during photoinhibition were examined. Cell sap osmotic pressure was unaffected by BL and RL, but both irradiations increased turgor pressure by approximately 0.05 megapascal (pressure-probe technique). Cell wall yielding was analyzed by in vivo stress relaxation (pressure-block technique). BL and RL reduced the initial rate of relaxation by 38 and 54%, while the final amount of relaxation was decreased by 48 and 10%, respectively. These results indicate that RL inhibits elongation mainly by lowering the wall yield coefficient, while most of the inhibitory effect of BL was due to an increase of the yield threshold. Mechanical extensibility of cell walls (Instron technique) was decreased by BL and RL, mainly due to a reduction in the plastic component of extensibility. Thus, photoinhibitions of elongation by both BL and RL are achieved through changes in cell wall properties, and are not due to effects on the hydraulic properties of the cell.

Anisotropic Pressure Effects on Superconductivity in Fe1+yTe1-xSx

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamamoto, Kazunori; Yamazaki, Teruo; Yamanaka, Takayoshi; Ueta, Daichi; Yoshizawa, Hideki; Yaguchi, Hiroshi

2018-05-01

We have investigated the uniaxial and hydrostatic pressure effects on superconductivity in Fe1.07Te0.88S0.12 through magnetic susceptibility measurements down to 1.8 K. The superconducting transition temperature Tc is enhanced by out-of-plane pressure (uniaxial pressure along the c-axis); the onset temperature of the superconductivity reaches 11.8 K at 0.4 GPa. In contrast, Tc is reduced by in-plane pressure (uniaxial pressure along the ab-plane) and hydrostatic pressure. Taking into account these results, it is inferred that the superconductivity of Fe1+yTe1-xSx is enhanced when the lattice constant c considerably decreases. This implies that the relationship between Tc and the anion height for Fe1+yTe1-xSx is similar to that for most iron-based superconductors. We consider the reduction of Tc by hydrostatic pressure to be due to the suppression of spin fluctuations because the system moves away from antiferromagnetic ordering, and the enhancement of Tc by out-of-plane pressure to be due to the anion height effect on Tc.

Bolus versus continuous low dose of enalaprilat in congestive heart failure with acute refractory decompensation.

PubMed

Podbregar, M; Voga, G; Horvat, M; Zuran, I; Krivec, B; Skale, R; Pareznik, R

1999-01-01

The first dose of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may trigger a considerable fall of blood pressure in chronic heart failure. The response may be dose-related. To determine hemodynamic and systemic oxygenation effects of low-dose enalaprilat, we administered intravenous enalaprilat (0.004 mg/kg) as bolus (group B) or continuous 1-hour infusion (group C) in 20 patients with congestive heart failure due to ischemic heart disease with acute decompensation refractory to inotropic, vasodilator and diuretic therapy. Hemodynamic and systemic oxygenation variables were recorded at baseline (+0 min), +30, +60, +120, +180, and +360 min after the start of intervention. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) (p < 0. 001), mean pulmonary artery pressure (MPAP) (p < 0.001), pulmonary artery occlusion pressure (PAOP) (p < 0.001), oxygen extraction ratio (ER) (p < 0.026) decreased regardless of enalaprilat application. Compared to group B, there was in group C prolonged decrease of MAP, MPAP, PAOP, ER and increase of pulmonary artery oxyhemoglobin saturation in regard to baseline values. Cardiac index, heart rate, central venous pressure and oxygen consumption index did not change. A low dose of intravenous enalaprilat (0.004 mg/kg) can be used to safely improve hemodynamics and systemic oxygenation in congestive heart failure due to ischemic heart disease with acute refractory decompensation.

Pressure-enhanced ortho-para conversion in solid hydrogen up to 58 GPa.

PubMed

Eggert, J H; Karmon, E; Hemley, R J; Mao, A; Goncharov, A F

1999-10-26

We measured the ortho-para conversion rate in solid hydrogen by using Raman scattering in a diamond-anvil cell, extending previous measurements by a factor of 60 in pressure. We confirm previous experiments that suggested a decrease in the conversion rate above about 0.5 GPa. We observe a distinct minimum at 3 GPa followed by a drastic increase in the conversion rate to our maximum pressure of 58 GPa. This pressure enhancement of conversion is not predicted by previous theoretical treatments and must be due to a new conversion pathway.

Smooth muscle fatigue due to repeated urinary bladder neurostimulation: an in vivo study.

PubMed

Bross, S; Schumacher, S; Scheepe, J R; Seif, C; Jünemann, K P; Alken, P

1999-01-01

The presented study investigates the influence of different pause lengths between two consecutive stimulations of the S3 roots on intravesical pressure during bladder neurostimulation. In eight male foxhounds (aged 7-18 months), laminectomy and placement of a modified Brindley electrode were performed. In four series with different pause lengths between two consecutive stimulations (1, 3, 5, and 15 min), the maximum intravesical pressure was measured during stimulation. The changes in intravesical pressure were registered in these four series, each series with six stimulations. A 15-min interval elapsed before the commencement of each series. In the series with a pause length of 15 min, the consecutive stimulations did not result in significant changes in maximum intravesical pressure. In the 5-min series, a significant decrease in intravesical pressure was not observed after the third stimulation. In the 3-min series, a significant decrease was seen at almost every stimulation (average decrease of 3.8% per stimulation) and in the 1-min series, a significant decrease was also observed at almost every stimulation (average decrease of 5.9% per stimulation). The results of repeated bladder neurostimulation demonstrate that the maximum intravesical pressure is dependent on the pause length between two consecutive stimulations. The detrusor muscle showed reversible and short-lived signs of fatigue. This implies the importance of a minimum 5-min interval between two subsequent stimulations. A pause length <5 min leads to a falsification of the results and thus to lower validity of the investigation.

High hydrostatic pressure induces pro-osteoarthritic changes in cartilage precursor cells: A transcriptome analysis.

PubMed

Montagne, Kevin; Onuma, Yasuko; Ito, Yuzuru; Aiki, Yasuhiko; Furukawa, Katsuko S; Ushida, Takashi

2017-01-01

Due to the high water content of cartilage, hydrostatic pressure is likely one of the main physical stimuli sensed by chondrocytes. Whereas, in the physiological range (0 to around 10 MPa), hydrostatic pressure exerts mostly pro-chondrogenic effects in chondrocyte models, excessive pressures have been reported to induce detrimental effects on cartilage, such as increased apoptosis and inflammation, and decreased cartilage marker expression. Though some genes modulated by high pressure have been identified, the effects of high pressure on the global gene expression pattern have still not been investigated. In this study, using microarray technology and real-time PCR validation, we analyzed the transcriptome of ATDC5 chondrocyte progenitors submitted to a continuous pressure of 25 MPa for up to 24 h. Several hundreds of genes were found to be modulated by pressure, including some not previously known to be mechano-sensitive. High pressure markedly increased the expression of stress-related genes, apoptosis-related genes and decreased that of cartilage matrix genes. Furthermore, a large set of genes involved in the progression of osteoarthritis were also induced by high pressure, suggesting that hydrostatic pressure could partly mimic in vitro some of the genetic alterations occurring in osteoarthritis.

Anisotropic physical properties and pressure dependent magnetic ordering of CrAuTe 4

DOE PAGES

Jo, Na Hyun; Kaluarachchi, Udhara S.; Wu, Yun; ...

2016-11-11

Systematic measurements of temperature-dependent magnetization, resistivity, and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) at ambient pressure as well as resistivity under pressures up to 5.25 GPa were conducted on single crystals of CrAuTe 4. Magnetization data suggest that magnetic moments are aligned antiferromagnetically along the crystallographic c axis below T N = 255 K. ARPES measurements show band reconstruction due to the magnetic ordering. Magnetoresistance data show clear anisotropy, and, at high fields, quantum oscillations. The Néel temperature decreases monotonically under pressure, decreasing to T N = 236 K at 5.22 GPa. The pressure dependencies of (i) T N, (ii) the residualmore » resistivity ratio, and (iii) the size and power-law behavior of the low-temperature magnetoresistance all show anomalies near 2 GPa suggesting that there may be a phase transition (structural, magnetic, and/or electronic) induced by pressure. Lastly, for pressures higher than 2 GPa a significantly different quantum oscillation frequency emerges, consistent with a pressure induced change in the electronic states.« less

Effects of milrinone and epinephrine or dopamine on biventricular function and hemodynamics in an animal model with right ventricular failure after pulmonary artery banding.

PubMed

Hyldebrandt, Janus Adler; Sivén, Eleonora; Agger, Peter; Frederiksen, Christian Alcaraz; Heiberg, Johan; Wemmelund, Kristian Borup; Ravn, Hanne Berg

2015-07-01

Right ventricular (RV) failure due to chronic pressure overload is a main determinant of outcome in congenital heart disease. Medical management is challenging because not only contractility but also the interventricular relationship is important for increasing cardiac output. This study evaluated the effect of milrinone alone and in combination with epinephrine or dopamine on hemodynamics, ventricular performance, and the interventricular relationship. RV failure was induced in 21 Danish landrace pigs by pulmonary artery banding. After 10 wk, animals were reexamined using biventricular pressure-volume conductance catheters. The maximum pressure in the RV increased by 113% (P < 0.0001) and end-diastolic volume by 43% (P < 0.002), while left ventricular (LV) pressure simultaneously decreased (P = 0.006). Concomitantly, mean arterial pressure (MAP; -16%, P = 0.01), cardiac index (CI; -23%, P < 0.0001), and mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO2 ; -40%, P < 0.0001) decreased. Milrinone increased CI (11%, P = 0.008) and heart rate (HR; 21%, P < 0.0001). Stroke volume index (SVI) decreased (7%, P = 0.03), although RV contractility was improved. The addition of either epinephrine or dopamine further increased CI and HR in a dose-dependent manner but without any significant differences between the two interventions. A more pronounced increase in biventricular contractility was observed in the dopamine-treated animals. LV volume was reduced in both the dopamine and epinephrine groups with increasing doses In the failing pressure overloaded RV, milrinone improved CI and increased contractility. Albeit additional dose-dependent effects of both epinephrine and dopamine on CI and contractility, neither of the interventions improved SVI due to reduced filling of the LV. Copyright © 2015 the American Physiological Society.

Time-dependent recovery of microcrack damage and seismic wave speeds in deformed limestone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brantut, Nicolas

2015-12-01

Limestone samples were deformed up to 5% inelastic axial strain at an effective confining pressure Peff=50 MPa in the cataclastic flow regime and subsequently maintained under constant static stress conditions (either isostatic of triaxial) for extended periods of time while elastic wave speeds and permeability were continuously monitored. During deformation, both seismic wave speeds and permeability decrease with increasing strain, due to the growth of subvertical microcracks and inelastic porosity reduction. During the static hold period under water-saturated conditions, the seismic wave speeds recovered gradually, typically by around 5% (relative to their initial value) after 2 days, while permeability remained constant. The recovery in wave speed increases with increasing confining pressure but decreases with increasing applied differential stress. The recovery is markedly lower when the samples are saturated with an inert fluid as opposed to water. The evolution in wave speed is interpreted quantitatively in terms of microcrack density, which shows that the post-deformation recovery is associated with a decrease in effective microcrack length, typically of the order to 10% after 2 days. The proposed mechanism for the observed damage recovery is microcrack closure due to a combination of backsliding on wing cracks driven by time-dependent friction and closure due to pressure solution at contacts between propping particles or asperities and microcrack walls. The recovery rates observed in the experiments, and the proposed underlying mechanisms, are compatible with seismological observations of seismic wave speed recovery along faults following earthquakes.

The role of water in the recovery of microcrack damage, permeability and seismic wave speeds in limestone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brantut, N.

2015-12-01

Limestone samples were deformed up to 5% inelastic axial strain at an effective confining pressure P_{eff}=50 MPa, in the cataclastic flow regime, and subsequently maintained under constant static stress conditions for extended periods of time while elastic wave speeds and permeability were continously monitored. During deformation, both seismic wave speeds and permeability decrease with increasing strain, due to the growth of sub-vertical microcracks and inelastic porosity reduction. During the static hold period under water-satured conditions, the seismic wave speeds recovered gradually, typically by around 5% (relative to their initial value) after two days, while permeability remained constant. The recovery in wave speed increases with increasing confining pressure, but decreases with increasing applied differential stress. The recovery is markedly lower when the samples are saturated with an inert fluid as opposed to water. The evolution in wave speed is interpreted quantitatively in terms of microcrack density, which shows that the post-deformation recovery is associated with an decrease in effective microcrack length, typically of the order to 10% after two days. The proposed mechanism for the observed damage recovery is microcrack closure due to a combination of backsliding on wing cracks driven by time-dependent friction and closure due to pressure-solution at contacts between propping particles or asperities and microcrack walls. The recovery rates observed in the experiments, and the proposed underlying mechanisms, are compatible with seismological observations of seismic wave speed recovery along faults following earthquakes.

Super-atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Chen, Lee Chuin; Rahman, Md Matiur; Hiraoka, Kenzo

2013-03-01

Super-atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) mass spectrometry was performed using a commercial mass spectrometer by pressurizing the ion source with compressed air up to 7 atm. Similar to typical APCI source, reactant ions in the experiment were generated with corona discharge using a needle electrode. Although a higher needle potential was necessary to initiate the corona discharge, discharge current and detected ion signal were stable at all tested pressures. A Roots booster pump with variable pumping speed was installed between the evacuation port of the mass spectrometer and the original rough pumps to maintain a same pressure in the first pumping stage of the mass spectrometer regardless of ion source pressure. Measurement of gaseous methamphetamine and research department explosive showed an increase in ion intensity with the ion source pressure until an optimum pressure at around 4-5 atm. Beyond 5 atm, the ion intensity decreased with further increase of pressure, likely due to greater ion losses inside the ion transport capillary. For benzene, it was found that besides molecular ion and protonated species, ion due to [M + 2H](+) which was not so common in APCI, was also observed with high ion abundance under super-atmospheric pressure condition. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Pressure-enhanced ortho-para conversion in solid hydrogen up to 58 GPa

PubMed Central

Eggert, Jon H.; Karmon, Eran; Hemley, Russell J.; Mao, Ho-kwang; Goncharov, Alexander F.

1999-01-01

We measured the ortho-para conversion rate in solid hydrogen by using Raman scattering in a diamond-anvil cell, extending previous measurements by a factor of 60 in pressure. We confirm previous experiments that suggested a decrease in the conversion rate above about 0.5 GPa. We observe a distinct minimum at 3 GPa followed by a drastic increase in the conversion rate to our maximum pressure of 58 GPa. This pressure enhancement of conversion is not predicted by previous theoretical treatments and must be due to a new conversion pathway. PMID:10535910

Theoretical study of the partial molar volume change associated with the pressure-induced structural transition of ubiquitin

PubMed Central

Imai, Takashi; Ohyama, Shusaku; Kovalenko, Andriy; Hirata, Fumio

2007-01-01

The partial molar volume (PMV) change associated with the pressure-induced structural transition of ubiquitin is analyzed by the three-dimensional reference interaction site model (3D-RISM) theory of molecular solvation. The theory predicts that the PMV decreases upon the structural transition, which is consistent with the experimental observation. The volume decomposition analysis demonstrates that the PMV reduction is primarily caused by the decrease in the volume of structural voids in the protein, which is partially canceled by the volume expansion due to the hydration effects. It is found from further analysis that the PMV reduction is ascribed substantially to the penetration of water molecules into a specific part of the protein. Based on the thermodynamic relation, this result implies that the water penetration causes the pressure-induced structural transition. It supports the water penetration model of pressure denaturation of proteins proposed earlier. PMID:17660257

Theoretical study of the partial molar volume change associated with the pressure-induced structural transition of ubiquitin.

PubMed

Imai, Takashi; Ohyama, Shusaku; Kovalenko, Andriy; Hirata, Fumio

2007-09-01

The partial molar volume (PMV) change associated with the pressure-induced structural transition of ubiquitin is analyzed by the three-dimensional reference interaction site model (3D-RISM) theory of molecular solvation. The theory predicts that the PMV decreases upon the structural transition, which is consistent with the experimental observation. The volume decomposition analysis demonstrates that the PMV reduction is primarily caused by the decrease in the volume of structural voids in the protein, which is partially canceled by the volume expansion due to the hydration effects. It is found from further analysis that the PMV reduction is ascribed substantially to the penetration of water molecules into a specific part of the protein. Based on the thermodynamic relation, this result implies that the water penetration causes the pressure-induced structural transition. It supports the water penetration model of pressure denaturation of proteins proposed earlier.

Influence of shielding gas pressure on welding characteristics in CO2 laser-MIG hybrid welding process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yanbin; Lei, Zhenglong; Li, Liqun; Wu, Lin

2006-01-01

The droplet transfer behavior and weld characteristics have been investigated under different pressures of shielding gas in CO2 laser and metal inert/active gas (laser-MIG) hybrid welding process. The experimental results indicate that the inherent droplet transfer frequency and stable welding range of conventional MIG arc are changed due to the interaction between CO2 laser beam and MIG arc in laser-MIG hybrid welding process, and the shielding gas pressure has a crucial effect on welding characteristics. When the pressure of shielding gas is low in comparison with MIG welding, the frequency of droplet transfer decreases, and the droplet transfer becomes unstable in laser-MIG hybrid welding. So the penetration depth decreases, which shows the characteristic of unstable hybrid welding. However, when the pressure of shielding gas increases to a critical value, the hybrid welding characteristic is changed from unstable hybrid welding to stable hybrid welding, and the frequency of droplet transfer and the penetration depth increase significantly.

Pressor response to intravenous tyramine is a marker of cardiac, but not vascular, adrenergic function

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meck, Janice V.; Martin, David S.; D'Aunno, Dominick S.; Waters, Wendy W.

2003-01-01

Intravenous injections of the indirect sympathetic amine, tyramine, are used as a test of peripheral adrenergic function. The authors measured the time course of increases in ejection fraction, heart rate, systolic and diastolic pressure, popliteal artery flow, and greater saphenous vein diameter before and after an injection of 4.0 mg/m(2) body surface area of tyramine in normal human subjects. The tyramine caused moderate, significant increases in systolic pressure and significant decreases in total peripheral resistance. The earliest changes were a 30% increase in ejection fraction and a 16% increase in systolic pressure, followed by a 60% increase in popliteal artery flow and a later 11% increase in greater saphenous vein diameter. There were no changes in diastolic pressure or heart rate. These results suggest that pressor responses during tyramine injections are primarily due to an inotropic response that increases cardiac output and pressure and causes a reflex decrease in vascular resistance. Thus, tyramine pressor tests are a measure of cardiac, but not vascular, sympathetic function.

StimuFrac Compressibility as a Function of CO2 Molar Fraction

DOE Data Explorer

Carlos A. Fernandez

2016-04-29

Compressibility values were obtained in a range of pressures at 250degC by employing a fixed volume view cell completely filled with PAA aqueous solution and injecting CO2 at constant flow rate (0.3mL/min). Pressure increase as a function of supercritical CO2 (scCO2) mass fraction in the mixture was monitored. The plot shows the apparent compressibility of Stimufrac as a function of scCO2 mass fraction obtained in a pressure range between 2100-7000 psi at 250degC. At small mass fractions of scCO2 the compressibility increases probably due to the dissolution/reaction of CO2 in aqueous PAA and reaches a maximum at mCO2/mH2O = 0.06. Then, compressibility decreases showing a linear relationship with scCO2 mass fraction due to the continuous increase in density of the binary fluid associated to the pressure increase.

Measurements of decreasing lattice thermal conductivity of ferropericlase across the high-spin to mixed-spin state.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Merkel, S.; Langrand, C.; Hilairet, N.; Konopkova, Z.; Andrault, D.

2016-12-01

The thermal conductivity of lower mantle minerals depends on crystal structure and phase, with important implications for the style of convection in the mantle and the heat flow across the core-mantle boundary. In this study, we demonstrate how measurements of temperature in the laser-heated diamond anvil cell (LHDAC) can be used to determine relative changes in thermal conductivity across a pressure-induced phase change. A finite-element 3D heat flow model of the LHDAC is used to simulate experimental conditions. Results from modeling show that the peak temperature in the cell is primarily controlled by the geometry, sample thermal conductivity and heat input due to laser heating. Controlling for geometry, the model can output expected temperature versus laser-power curves for an increase or decrease in thermal conductivity with pressure. The modeled temperature differences indicate that we can experimentally distinguish the sign and magnitude of a thermal conductivity change due to a pressure-induced phase change. We perform a series of experiments to test our models. In one set of experiments, we measure temperature versus laser-power as a function of pressure for the NaCl B1-B2 phase transition, over the pressure range 18 to 54 GPa. A decrease in thermal conductivity across the NaCl B1-B2 phase transition (dκ/dP = -1.6 +/- 0.2 W/(mK GPa)) is needed to explain our measurements. This result is consistent with thermal conductivity measurements of other ionic salts, which undergo the B1-B2 phase transition at much lower pressure. We apply this experiment design to investigate the effect of spin transition on an iron-bearing magnesium oxide sample. In a series of experiments, we measure temperature vs. laser power for (Mg,Fe)O with 24 mol% Fe, loaded in Ne, over a pressure range from 22 to 60 GPa. We observe an increase in thermal conductivity between 22 and 42 GPa. But between 42 and 60 GPa, a pressure range consistent with previously reported mixed-spin state phase of (Mg,Fe)O, we observe a decrease in thermal conductivity. This result suggests that there may be a broad zone, in the depth range of 1000 - 1500 km, of reduced thermal transport properties in the mantle.

Measurements of decreasing lattice thermal conductivity of ferropericlase across the high-spin to mixed-spin state.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McGuire, C. P.; Sawchuk, K. L. S.; Kavner, A.

2017-12-01

The thermal conductivity of lower mantle minerals depends on crystal structure and phase, with important implications for the style of convection in the mantle and the heat flow across the core-mantle boundary. In this study, we demonstrate how measurements of temperature in the laser-heated diamond anvil cell (LHDAC) can be used to determine relative changes in thermal conductivity across a pressure-induced phase change. A finite-element 3D heat flow model of the LHDAC is used to simulate experimental conditions. Results from modeling show that the peak temperature in the cell is primarily controlled by the geometry, sample thermal conductivity and heat input due to laser heating. Controlling for geometry, the model can output expected temperature versus laser-power curves for an increase or decrease in thermal conductivity with pressure. The modeled temperature differences indicate that we can experimentally distinguish the sign and magnitude of a thermal conductivity change due to a pressure-induced phase change. We perform a series of experiments to test our models. In one set of experiments, we measure temperature versus laser-power as a function of pressure for the NaCl B1-B2 phase transition, over the pressure range 18 to 54 GPa. A decrease in thermal conductivity across the NaCl B1-B2 phase transition (dκ/dP = -1.6 +/- 0.2 W/(mK GPa)) is needed to explain our measurements. This result is consistent with thermal conductivity measurements of other ionic salts, which undergo the B1-B2 phase transition at much lower pressure. We apply this experiment design to investigate the effect of spin transition on an iron-bearing magnesium oxide sample. In a series of experiments, we measure temperature vs. laser power for (Mg,Fe)O with 24 mol% Fe, loaded in Ne, over a pressure range from 22 to 60 GPa. We observe an increase in thermal conductivity between 22 and 42 GPa. But between 42 and 60 GPa, a pressure range consistent with previously reported mixed-spin state phase of (Mg,Fe)O, we observe a decrease in thermal conductivity. This result suggests that there may be a broad zone, in the depth range of 1000 - 1500 km, of reduced thermal transport properties in the mantle.

The 2009 Version of the Aeroprediction Code: The AP09

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-01-01

WITH LONG BOATTAILS .................. 17 2.6 INCORPORATION OF BOUNDARY LAYER DISPLACEMENT EFFECTS ON BODY TAIL CONFIGURATIONS WITH LONG B O A T T A...9 5 DECREASE IN CN. DUE TO BOATTAIL ...................................................... 11 6 PRESSURE COEFFICIENT ON CONE CYLINDER (M.o...2.07, a = 0 °) ....... 12 7 PRESSURE COEFFICIENT ON CONE CYLINDER (M, = 2.0, a = 12’) O F FIG U R E 6

Method transfer from high-pressure liquid chromatography to ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography. II. Temperature and pressure effects.

PubMed

Åsberg, Dennis; Samuelsson, Jörgen; Leśko, Marek; Cavazzini, Alberto; Kaczmarski, Krzysztof; Fornstedt, Torgny

2015-07-03

The importance of the generated temperature and pressure gradients in ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) are investigated and compared to high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The drug Omeprazole, together with three other model compounds (with different chemical characteristics, namely uncharged, positively and negatively charged) were used. Calculations of the complete temperature profile in the column at UHPLC conditions showed, in our experiments, a temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of 16 °C and a difference of 2 °C between the column center and the wall. Through van't Hoff plots, this information was used to single out the decrease in retention factor (k) solely due to the temperature gradient. The uncharged solute was least affected by temperature with a decrease in k of about 5% while for charged solutes the effect was more pronounced, with k decreases up to 14%. A pressure increase of 500 bar gave roughly 5% increase in k for the uncharged solute, while omeprazole and the other two charged solutes gave about 25, 20 and 15% increases in k, respectively. The stochastic model of chromatography was applied to estimate the dependence of the average number of adsorption/desorption events (n) and the average time spent by a molecule in the stationary phase (τs) on temperature and pressure on peak shape for the tailing, basic solute. Increasing the temperature yielded an increase in n and decrease in τs which resulted in less skew at high temperatures. With increasing pressure, the stochastic modeling gave interesting results for the basic solute showing that the skew of the peak increased with pressure. The conclusion is that pressure effects are more pronounced for both retention and peak shape than the temperature effects for the polar or charged compounds in our study. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cerebral edema, mass effects, and regional blood volume in man.

PubMed

Penn, R D; Kurtz, D

1977-03-01

The authors conducted quantitative analysis of computerized tomography (CT) scans to measure tumor size, cerebral edema, and regional blood volume in man. Mass lesions without edema caused a local reduction in blood volume. Cerebral edema also reduced blood volume in proportion to its severity. Consideration of the electrolyte changes and water shifts in white-matter edema suggested that the decrease in absorption coefficient seen in CT scans was due to the increase in water content. Thus, in cerebral edema separation of blood vessels as well as increased interstitial pressure decrease blood volume, and the regional differences in turn reflect pressure gradients within the brain.

Changes of endolymphatic pressure in the semicircular canal of pigeon by caloric stimulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wada, Y.; Suzuki, H.; Watanabe, S.

1994-08-01

It gets into difficult to explain the mechanism of caloric nystagmus only by convection theory from results of microgravity experiments. One of the other theories is an occurrence of a relative volume change due to a temperature change. Since the volume change must lead to a pressure change after caloric stimulation, we tried to measure the ampulla pressure of the horizontal semicircular canal in pigeons (Columba livia) using an improved servo micropipette system. The main result was that the ampulla pressure increased by cooling and decreased by heating. The changes of the ampulla pressure depended on the temperature change but were not influenced by the pigeon's head position.

Influence of pressure on pyrolysis of black liquor: 2. Char yields and component release.

PubMed

Whitty, Kevin; Kullberg, Mika; Sorvari, Vesa; Backman, Rainer; Hupa, Mikko

2008-02-01

This is the second in a series of papers concerning the behavior of black liquor during pyrolysis at elevated pressures. Two industrial black liquors were pyrolyzed under pressurized conditions in two laboratory-scale devices, a pressurized single-particle reactor and a pressurized grid heater. Temperatures ranging between 650 and 1100 degrees C and pressures in the range 1-20 bar were studied. Char yields were calculated and based on analysis of some of the chars the fate of carbon, sodium, potassium and sulfur was determined as a function of pyrolysis pressure. At temperatures below 800 degrees C little variation in char yield was observed at different pressures. At higher temperatures char yield increased with pressure due to slower decomposition of sodium carbonate. For the same reason, sodium release decreased with pressure. Sulfur release, however, increased with pressure primarily because there was less opportunity for its capture in the less-swollen chars.

Long-Term Effects of Stress Reduction on Mortality in Persons ≥55 Years of Age With Systemic Hypertension

PubMed Central

Schneider, Robert H.; Alexander, Charles N.; Staggers, Frank; Rainforth, Maxwell; Salerno, John W.; Hartz, Arthur; Arndt, Stephen; Barnes, Vernon A.; Nidich, Sanford I.

2005-01-01

Psychosocial stress contributes to high blood pressure and subsequent cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Previous controlled studies have associated decreasing stress with the Transcendental Meditation (TM) program with lower blood pressure. The objective of the present study was to evaluate, over the long term, all-cause and cause-specific mortality in older subjects who had high blood pressure and who participated in randomized controlled trials that included the TM program and other behavioral stress-decreasing interventions. Patient data were pooled from 2 published randomized controlled trials that compared TM, other behavioral interventions, and usual therapy for high blood pressure. There were 202 subjects, including 77 whites (mean age 81 years) and 125 African-American (mean age 66 years) men and women. In these studies, average baseline blood pressure was in the prehypertensive or stage I hypertension range. Follow-up of vital status and cause of death over a maximum of 18.8 years was determined from the National Death Index. Survival analysis was used to compare intervention groups on mortality rates after adjusting for study location. Mean follow-up was 7.6 ± 3.5 years. Compared with combined controls, the TM group showed a 23% decrease in the primary outcome of all-cause mortality after maximum follow-up (relative risk 0.77, p = 0.039). Secondary analyses showed a 30% decrease in the rate of cardiovascular mortality (relative risk 0.70, p = 0.045) and a 49% decrease in the rate of mortality due to cancer (relative risk 0.49, p = 0.16) in the TM group compared with combined controls. These results suggest that a specific stress-decreasing approach used in the prevention and control of high blood pressure, such as the TM program, may contribute to decreased mortality from all causes and cardiovascular disease in older subjects who have systemic hypertension. PMID:15842971

Effect of temperature rise and hydrostatic pressure on microbending loss and refractive index change in double-coated optical fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seraji, Faramarz E.; Toutian, Golnoosh

This paper presents an analysis of the effect of temperature rise and hydrostatic pressure on microbending loss, refractive index change, and stress components of a double-coated optical fiber by considering coating material parameters such as Young's modulus and the Poisson ratio. It is shown that, when temperature rises, the microbending loss and refractive index changes would decrease with increase of thickness of primary coating layer and will increase after passing through a minima. Increase of thickness of secondary coating layer causes the microbending loss and refractive index changes to decrease. We have shown that the temperature rise affecting the fiber makes the microbending loss and refractive index decrease, linearly. At a particular temperature, the microbending loss takes negative values, due to tensile pressure applied on the fiber. The increase of Young's modulus and the Poisson ratio of primary coating would lower the microbending loss and refractive index change whereas in the secondary coating layer, the condition reverses.

Effect of water immersion on cardiopulmonary physiology at high gravity (+Gz)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Arieli, R.; Boutellier, U.; Farhi, L. E.

1986-01-01

The cardiopulmonary responses of eight male subject between 21-31 years exposed to 1, 2, and 3 Gz during immersion at 35 + or - 0.5 C to heart level and during control dry rides are studied. Ventilation, O2 consumption, the end-tidal pressure of CO2, heart frequency, cardiac output, functional residual capacity, and the arterial pressure of CO2 were measured. It is observed that as Gz increases ventilation, heart frequency, and O2 consumption increase, and the end-tidal and arterial pressures of CO2 decrease during dry rides, but are not altered during immersion. It is detected that the functional residual capacity is lower during immersion and decreases in both the dry and immersed state as Gz increases, and cardiac output decreases as Gz increases in dry rides. It is noted that changes produced by acceleration in a Gz direction are due to the effect on the systemic circulation rather than to the effect on the lungs.

Comparison between swallowing and chewing of garlic on levels of serum lipids, cyclosporine, creatinine and lipid peroxidation in renal transplant recipients.

PubMed

Jabbari, Abbas; Argani, Hassan; Ghorbanihaghjo, Amir; Mahdavi, Reza

2005-05-19

Hyperlipidemia and increased degree of oxidative stress are among the important risk factors for Atherosclerosis in renal transplant recipients (RTR). The Medical treatment of hyperlipidemia in RTR because of drugs side effects has been problematic, therefore alternative methods such as using of Garlic as an effective material in cholesterol lowering and inhibition of LDL Oxidation has been noted. For evaluation of garlic effect on RTR, 50 renal transplant patients with stable renal function were selected and divided into 2 groups. They took one clove of garlic (1 gr) by chewing or swallowing for two months, after one month wash-out period, they took garlic by the other route. Results indicated that although lipid profile, BUN, Cr, serum levels of cyclosporine and diastolic blood pressure did not change, Systolic blood pressure decreased from 138.2 to 132.8 mmHg (p=0.001) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased from 2.4 to 1.7 nmol/ml (p=0.009) by swallowing route, Cholesterol decreased from 205.1 to 195.3 mg/dl (p=0.03), triglyceride decreased from 195.7 to 174.8 mg/dl (p=0.008), MDA decreased from 2.5 to 1.6 nmol/ml (p=0.001), systolic blood pressure decreased from 137.5 to 129.8 mmHg (p=0.001), diastolic blood pressure decreased from 84.6 to 77.6 mmHg (p=0.001) and Cr decreased from 1.51 to 1.44 mg/dl (p=0.03) by chewing route too. However HDL, LDL and cyclosporine serum levels had no significant differences by both of swallowing and chewing routes. We conclude that undamaged garlic (swallowed) had no lowering effect on lipid level of serum. But Crushed garlic (chewed) reduces cholesterol, triglyceride, MDA and blood pressure. Additionally creatinine reduced without notable decrease in cyclosporine serum levels may be due to cyclosporine nephrotoxicity ameliorating effect of garlic.

Origin of the pressure-dependent Tc valley in superconducting simple cubic phosphorus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Xianxin; Jeschke, Harald O.; Di Sante, Domenico; von Rohr, Fabian O.; Cava, Robert J.; Thomale, Ronny

2018-03-01

Motivated by recent experiments, we investigate the pressure-dependent electronic structure and electron-phonon (e-ph) coupling for simple cubic phosphorus by performing first-principles calculations within the full potential linearized augmented plane-wave method. As a function of increasing pressure, our calculations show a valley feature in Tc, followed by an eventual decrease for higher pressures. We demonstrate that this Tc valley at low pressures is due to two nearby Lifshitz transitions, as we analyze the band-resolved contributions to the e-ph coupling. Below the first Lifshitz transition, the phonon hardening and shrinking of the γ Fermi surface with s -orbital character results in a decreased Tc with increasing pressure. After the second Lifshitz transition, the appearance of δ Fermi surfaces with 3 d -orbital character generate strong e-ph interband couplings in α δ and β δ channels, and hence lead to an increase of Tc. For higher pressures, the phonon hardening finally dominates, and Tc decreases again. Our study reveals that the intriguing Tc valley discovered in experiment can be attributed to Lifshitz transitions, while the plateau of Tc detected at intermediate pressures appears to be beyond the scope of our analysis. This strongly suggests that aside from e-ph coupling, electronic correlations along with plasmonic contributions may be relevant for simple cubic phosphorus. Our findings hint at the notion that increasing pressure can shift the low-energy orbital weight towards d character, and as such even trigger an enhanced importance of orbital-selective electronic correlations despite an increase of the overall bandwidth.

Influence of hydrostatic pressure on the built-in electric field in ZnO/ZnMgO quantum wells

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

Teisseyre, Henryk, E-mail: teiss@ifpan.edu.pl; Institute of High Pressure, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sokołowska 29/37, 01-142 Warsaw; Kaminska, Agata

We used high hydrostatic pressure to perform photoluminescence measurements on polar ZnO/ZnMgO quantum well structures. Our structure oriented along the c-direction (polar direction) was grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy on a-plane sapphire. Due to the intrinsic electric field, which exists in polar wurtzite structure at ambient pressure, we observed a red shift of the emission related to the quantum-confined Stark effect. In the high hydrostatic pressure experiment, we observed a strong decrease of the quantum well pressure coefficients with increased thickness of the quantum wells. Generally, a narrower quantum well gave a higher pressure coefficient, closer to the band-gapmore » pressure coefficient of bulk material 20 meV/GPa for ZnO, while for wider quantum wells it is much lower. We observed a pressure coefficient of 19.4 meV/GPa for a 1.5 nm quantum well, while for an 8 nm quantum well the pressure coefficient was equal to 8.9 meV/GPa only. This is explained by taking into account the pressure-induced increase of the strain in our structure. The strain was calculated taking in to account that in-plane strain is not equal (due to fact that we used a-plane sapphire as a substrate) and the potential distribution in the structure was calculated self-consistently. The pressure induced increase of the built-in electric field is the same for all thicknesses of quantum wells, but becomes more pronounced for thicker quantum wells due to the quantum confined Stark effect lowering the pressure coefficients.« less

Performance assessment of low pressure nuclear thermal propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gerrish, Harrold P., Jr.; Doughty, Glen E.

1993-01-01

An increase in Isp for nuclear thermal propulsion systems is desirable for reducing the propellant requirements and cost of future applications, such as the Mars Transfer Vehicle. Several previous design studies have suggested that the Isp could be increased substantially with hydrogen dissociation/recombination. Hydrogen molecules (H2), at high temperatures and low pressures, will dissociate to monatomic hydrogen (H). The reverse process (i.e., formation of H2 from H) is exothermic. The exothermic energy in a nozzle increases the kinetic energy and therefore, increases the Isp. The low pressure nuclear thermal propulsion system (LPNTP) system is expected to maximize the hydrogen dissociation/recombination and Isp by operating at high chamber temperatures and low chamber pressures. The process involves hydrogen flow through a high temperature, low pressure fission reactor, and out a nozzle. The high temperature (approximately 3000 K) of the hydrogen in the reactor is limited by the temperature limits of the reactor material. The minimum chamber pressure is about 1 atm because lower pressures decrease the engines thrust to weight ratio below acceptable limits. This study assumes that hydrogen leaves the reactor and enters the nozzle at the 3000 K equilibrium dissociation level. Hydrogen dissociation in the reactor does not affect LPNTP performance like dissociation in traditional chemical propulsion systems, because energy from the reactor resupplies energy lost due to hydrogen dissociation. Recombination takes place in the nozzle due primarily to a drop in temperature as the Mach number increases. However, as the Mach number increases beyond the nozzle throat, the static pressure and density of the flow decreases and minimizes the recombination. The ideal LPNTP Isp at 3000 K and 10 psia is 1160 seconds due to the added energy from fast recombination rates. The actual Isp depends on the finite kinetic reaction rates which affect the amount of monatomic hydrogen recombination before the flow exits the nozzle. A LPNTP system has other technical issues (e.g. flow instability and two-phase flow) besides hydrogen dissociation/recombination which affect the systems practicality. In this study, only the effects of hydrogen dissociation/recombination are examined.

Functional properties and in vitro trypsin digestibility of red kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) protein isolate: Effect of high-pressure treatment.

PubMed

Yin, Shou-Wei; Tang, Chuan-He; Wen, Qi-Biao; Yang, Xiao-Quan; Li, Lin

2008-10-15

The effects of high-pressure (HP) treatment at 200-600MPa, prior to freeze-drying, on some functional properties and in vitro trypsin digestibility of vicilin-rich red kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) protein isolate (KPI) were investigated. Surface hydrophobicity and free sulfhydryl (SH) and disulfide bond (SS) contents were also evaluated. HP treatment resulted in gradual unfolding of protein structure, as evidenced by gradual increases in fluorescence strength and SS formation from SH groups, and decrease in denaturation enthalpy change. The protein solubility of KPI was significantly improved at pressures of 400MPa or higher, possibly due to formation of soluble aggregate from insoluble precipitate. HP treatment at 200 and 400MPa significantly increased emulsifying activity index (EAI) and emulsion stability index (ESI); however, EAI was significantly decreased at 600MPa (relative to untreated KPI). The thermal stability of the vicilin component was not affected by HP treatment. Additionally, in vitro trypsin digestibility of KPI was decreased only at a pressure above 200MPa and for long incubation time (e.g., 120min). The data suggest that some physiochemical and functional properties of vicilin-rich kidney proteins can be improved by means of high-pressure treatment. Copyright © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effect of air confinement on thermal contact resistance in nanoscale heat transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pratap, Dheeraj; Islam, Rakibul; Al-Alam, Patricia; Randrianalisoa, Jaona; Trannoy, Nathalie

2018-03-01

Here, we report a detailed analysis of thermal contact resistance (R c) of nano-size contact formed between a Wollaston wire thermal probe and the used samples (fused silica and titanium) as a function of air pressure (from 1 Pa to 105 Pa). Moreover, we suggest an analytical model using experimental data to extract R c. We found that for both samples, the thermal contact resistance decreases with increasing air pressure. We also showed that R c strongly depends on the thermal conductivity of materials keeping other parameters the same, such as roughness of the probe and samples, as well as the contact force. We provide a physical explanation of the R c trend with pressure and thermal conductivity of the materials: R c is ascribed to the heat transfer through solid-solid (probe-sample) contact and confined air at nanoscale cavities, due to the rough nature of the materials in contact. The contribution of confined air on heat transfer through the probe sample contact is significant at atmospheric pressure but decreases as the pressure decreases. In vacuum, only the solid-solid contact contributes to R c. In addition, theoretical calculations using the well-known acoustic and diffuse mismatch models showed a high thermal conductivity material that exhibits high heat transmission and consequently low R c, supporting our findings.

High methane natural gas/air explosion characteristics in confined vessel.

PubMed

Tang, Chenglong; Zhang, Shuang; Si, Zhanbo; Huang, Zuohua; Zhang, Kongming; Jin, Zebing

2014-08-15

The explosion characteristics of high methane fraction natural gas were investigated in a constant volume combustion vessel at different initial conditions. Results show that with the increase of initial pressure, the peak explosion pressure, the maximum rate of pressure rise increase due to a higher amount (mass) of flammable mixture, which delivers an increased amount of heat. The increased total flame duration and flame development time result as a consequence of the higher amount of flammable mixture. With the increase of the initial temperature, the peak explosion pressures decrease, but the pressure increase during combustion is accelerated, which indicates a faster flame speed and heat release rate. The maximum value of the explosion pressure, the maximum rate of pressure rise, the minimum total combustion duration and the minimum flame development time is observed when the equivalence ratio of the mixture is 1.1. Additionally, for higher methane fraction natural gas, the explosion pressure and the maximum rate of pressure rise are slightly decreased, while the combustion duration is postponed. The combustion phasing is empirically correlated with the experimental parameters with good fitting performance. Furthermore, the addition of dilute gas significantly reduces the explosion pressure, the maximum rate of pressure rise and postpones the flame development and this flame retarding effect of carbon dioxide is stronger than that of nitrogen. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Glomerular hemodynamic alterations during acute hyperinsulinemia in normal and diabetic rats

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tucker, B. J.; Anderson, C. M.; Thies, R. S.; Collins, R. C.; Blantz, R. C.

1992-01-01

Treatment of insulin dependent diabetes invariably requires exogenous insulin to control blood glucose. Insulin treatment, independent of other factors associated with insulin dependent diabetes, may induce changes that affect glomerular function. Due to exogenous delivery of insulin in insulin dependent diabetes entering systemic circulation prior to the portal vein, plasma levels of insulin are often in excess of that observed in non-diabetics. The specific effects of hyperinsulinemia on glomerular hemodynamics have not been previously examined. Micropuncture studies were performed in control (non-diabetic), untreated diabetic and insulin-treated diabetic rats 7 to 10 days after administration of 65 mg/kg body weight streptozotocin. After the first period micropuncture measurements were obtained, 5 U of regular insulin (Humulin-R) was infused i.v., and glucose clamped at euglycemic values (80 to 120 mg/dl). Blood glucose concentration in non-diabetic controls was 99 +/- 6 mg/dl. In control rats, insulin infusion and glucose clamp increased nephron filtration rate due to decreases in both afferent and efferent arteriolar resistance (afferent greater than efferent) resulting in increased plasma flow and increased glomerular hydrostatic pressure gradient. However, insulin infusion and glucose clamp produced the opposite effect in both untreated and insulin-treated diabetic rats with afferent arteriolar vasoconstriction resulting in decreases in plasma flow, glomerular hydrostatic pressure gradient and nephron filtration rate. Thromboxane A2 (TX) synthetase inhibition partially decreased the vasoconstrictive response due to acute insulin infusion in diabetic rats preventing the decrease in nephron filtration rate.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS).

Evolution and failure of liquid bridges between grains due to evaporation and due to extension

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hueckel, T.; Mielniczuk, B.; Said El Youssoufi, M.

2012-04-01

Evolution and rupture of liquid bridges between glass spheres during liquid evaporation and during mechanical extension was examined. The latter type of the tests has been widely studied, while a number of pertinent measurements during transient evaporation have not yet been reported. Also the resultant total capillary forces were measured and geometrical characteristics (curvature radii)were recorded with a photo camera and high-speed camera and subsequently digitalized. The obtained results reveal substantial differences in geometry of liquid bridges during extension and evaporation. On the other hand, evaporation and extension of liquid bridgelead to a similar qualitative response in terms of the pressure within the liquid bridge, starting with a significant suction, which initially somewhat increases during evaporation to reach a maximum, followed by a rapid monotonic decrease until zero, to become a sizable positive pressure prior to rupture. Extension same pattern is followed, except that there is no initial suction increase. Hence, in both cases, rupture consistently occurs at a positive fluid pressure. The pressure evolution is a simple resultant of the evolution of radii of curvature, with the neck radius becoming smaller than meridian radius. In terms of resultant capillary force, as the area of the bridge cross-section decreases with the square of the neck radius, the pressure difference is almost entirely negative, in part also due to surface tension component. Nevertheless, the suction decreases nearly monotonically during both processes. Rupture during evaporation of the bridges occurs most abruptly for larger separations, as early as after 25% volume evaporated. It is seen as a bifurcation of the geometry of equilibrium, as demonstrated on a movie with 27, 000 shots per second. The evolution of a bridge between three spheres exhibits a centrally located thin film instability with a circular hole growing within 1/3000th of a second. All these findings have an enormous impact on the mechanics of unsaturated media, as they determine the conditions and criteria for the loss of the "sand-castle" cohesion effect in the final phase of soil drying.

Discrete particle modeling and micromechanical characterization of bilayer tablet compaction.

PubMed

Yohannes, B; Gonzalez, M; Abebe, A; Sprockel, O; Nikfar, F; Kiang, S; Cuitiño, A M

2017-08-30

A mechanistic particle scale model is proposed for bilayer tablet compaction. Making bilayer tablets involves the application of first layer compaction pressure on the first layer powder and a second layer compaction pressure on entire powder bed. The bonding formed between the first layer and the second layer particles is crucial for the mechanical strength of the bilayer tablet. The bonding and the contact forces between particles of the first layer and second layer are affected by the deformation and rearrangement of particles due to the compaction pressures. Our model takes into consideration the elastic and plastic deformations of the first layer particles due to the first layer compaction pressure, in addition to the mechanical and physical properties of the particles. Using this model, bilayer tablets with layers of the same material and different materials, which are commonly used pharmaceutical powders, are tested. The simulations show that the strength of the layer interface becomes weaker than the strength of the two layers as the first layer compaction pressure is increased. The reduction of strength at the layer interface is related to reduction of the first layer surface roughness. The reduced roughness decreases the available bonding area and hence reduces the mechanical strength at the interface. In addition, the simulations show that at higher first layer compaction pressure the bonding area is significantly less than the total contact area at the layer interface. At the interface itself, there is a non-monotonic relationship between the bonding area and first layer force. The bonding area at the interface first increases and then decreases as the first layer pressure is increased. These results are in agreement with findings of previous experimental studies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Surface electromyography and plantar pressure changes with novel gait training device in participants with chronic ankle instability.

PubMed

Feger, Mark A; Hertel, Jay

2016-08-01

Rehabilitation is ineffective at restoring normal gait in chronic ankle instability patients. Our purpose was to determine if a novel gait-training device could decrease plantar pressure on the lateral column of the foot in chronic ankle instability patients. Ten chronic ankle instability patients completed 30s trials of baseline and gait-training walking at a self-selected pace while in-shoe plantar pressure and surface electromyography were recorded from their anterior tibialis, peroneus longus, medial gastrocnemius, and gluteus medius. The gait-training device applied a medially-directed force to the lower leg via elastic bands during the entire gait cycle. Plantar pressure measures of the entire foot and 9 specific regions of the foot as well as surface electromyography root mean square areas were compared between the baseline and gait-training conditions using paired t-tests with a priori level of significance of p≤0.05. The gait-training device decreased pressure time integrals and peak pressures in the lateral midfoot (p=0.003 and p=0.003) and lateral forefoot (p=0.023 and p=0.005), and increased pressure time integrals and peak pressures for the total foot (p=0.030 and p=0.017) and hallux (p=0.005 and p=0.002). The center of pressure was shifted medially during the entire stance phase (p<0.003 for all comparisons) due to increased peroneus longus activity prior to (p=0.002) and following initial contact (p=0.002). The gait-training device decreased pressure on the lateral column of the foot and increased peroneus longus muscle activity. Future research should analyze the efficacy of the gait-training device during gait retraining for chronic ankle instability. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Beyond sixfold coordinated Si in SiO2 glass at ultrahigh pressures

PubMed Central

Prescher, Clemens; Prakapenka, Vitali B.; Stefanski, Johannes; Jahn, Sandro; Skinner, Lawrie B.; Wang, Yanbin

2017-01-01

We investigated the structure of SiO2 glass up to 172 GPa using high-energy X-ray diffraction. The combination of a multichannel collimator with diamond anvil cells enabled the measurement of structural changes in silica glass with total X-ray diffraction to previously unachievable pressures. We show that SiO2 first undergoes a change in Si–O coordination number from fourfold to sixfold between 15 and 50 GPa, in agreement with previous investigations. Above 50 GPa, the estimated coordination number continuously increases from 6 to 6.8 at 172 GPa. Si–O bond length shows first an increase due to the fourfold to sixfold coordination change and then a smaller linear decrease up to 172 GPa. We reconcile the changes in relation to the oxygen-packing fraction, showing that oxygen packing decreases at ultrahigh pressures to accommodate the higher than sixfold Si–O coordination. These results give experimental insight into the structural changes of silicate glasses as analogue materials for silicate melts at ultrahigh pressures. PMID:28874582

Beyond sixfold coordinated Si in SiO2 glass at ultrahigh pressures.

PubMed

Prescher, Clemens; Prakapenka, Vitali B; Stefanski, Johannes; Jahn, Sandro; Skinner, Lawrie B; Wang, Yanbin

2017-09-19

We investigated the structure of SiO 2 glass up to 172 GPa using high-energy X-ray diffraction. The combination of a multichannel collimator with diamond anvil cells enabled the measurement of structural changes in silica glass with total X-ray diffraction to previously unachievable pressures. We show that SiO 2 first undergoes a change in Si-O coordination number from fourfold to sixfold between 15 and 50 GPa, in agreement with previous investigations. Above 50 GPa, the estimated coordination number continuously increases from 6 to 6.8 at 172 GPa. Si-O bond length shows first an increase due to the fourfold to sixfold coordination change and then a smaller linear decrease up to 172 GPa. We reconcile the changes in relation to the oxygen-packing fraction, showing that oxygen packing decreases at ultrahigh pressures to accommodate the higher than sixfold Si-O coordination. These results give experimental insight into the structural changes of silicate glasses as analogue materials for silicate melts at ultrahigh pressures.

Ozone formation in pulsed SDBD in a wide pressure range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Starikovskiy, Andrey; Nudnova, Maryia; mipt Team

2011-10-01

Ozone concentration in surface anode-directed DBD for wide pressure range (150 - 1300 torr) was experimentally measured. Voltage and pressure effect were investigated. Reduced electric field was measured for anode-directed and cathode-directed SDBD. E/n values in cathode-directed SDBD is higher than in cathode-directed on 50 percent at atmospheric pressure. E/n value increase leads to decrease the rate of oxygen dissociation and Ozone formation at lower pressures. Radiating region thickness of sliding discharge was measured. Typical thickness of radiating zone is 0.4-1.0 mm within pressure range 220-740 torr. It was shown that high-voltage pulsed nanosecond discharge due to high E/n value produces less Ozone with compare to other discharges. Kinetic model was proposed to describe Ozone formation in the pulsed nanosecond SDBD.

Plateau Waves of Intracranial Pressure and Partial Pressure of Cerebral Oxygen.

PubMed

Lang, Erhard W; Kasprowicz, Magdalena; Smielewski, Peter; Pickard, John; Czosnyka, Marek

2016-01-01

This study investigates 55 intracranial pressure (ICP) plateau waves recorded in 20 patients after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) with a focus on a moving correlation coefficient between mean arterial pressure (ABP) and ICP, called PRx, which serves as a marker of cerebrovascular reactivity, and a moving correlation coefficient between ABP and cerebral partial pressure of oxygen (pbtO2), called ORx, which serves as a marker for cerebral oxygen reactivity. ICP and ICPamplitude increased significantly during the plateau waves, whereas CPP and pbtO2 decreased significantly. ABP, ABP amplitude, and heart rate remained unchanged. In 73 % of plateau waves PRx increased during the wave. ORx showed an increase during and a decrease after the plateau waves, which was not statistically significant. Our data show profound cerebral vasoparalysis on top of the wave and, to a lesser extent, impairment of cerebral oxygen reactivity. The different behavior of the indices may be due to the different latencies of the cerebral blood flow and oxygen level control mechanisms. While cerebrovascular reactivity is a rapidly reacting mechanism, cerebral oxygen reactivity is slower.

Estimation of pressure-, temperature- and frictional heating-related effects on proteins' retention under ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatographic conditions.

PubMed

Fekete, Szabolcs; Guillarme, Davy

2015-05-08

The goal of this work was to evaluate the changes in retention induced by frictional heating, pressure and temperature under ultra high pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) conditions, for four model proteins (i.e. lysozyme, myoglobin, fligrastim and interferon alpha-2A) possessing molecular weights between 14 and 20kDa. First of all, because the decrease of the molar volume upon adsorption onto a hydrophobic surface was more pronounced for large molecules such as proteins, the impact of pressure appears to overcome the frictional heating effects. Nevertheless, we have also demonstrated that the retention decrease due to frictional heating was not negligible with such large biomolecules in the variable inlet pressure mode. Secondly, it is clearly shown that the modification of retention under various pressure and temperature conditions cannot be explained solely by the frictional heating and pressure effects. Indeed, some very uncommon van't Hoff plots (concave plots with a maximum) were recorded for our model/therapeutic proteins. These maximum retention factors values on the van't Hoff plots indicate a probable change of secondary structure/conformation with pressure and temperature. Based on these observations, it seems that the combination of pressure and temperature causes the protein denaturation and this folding-unfolding procedure is clearly protein dependent. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The effect of homogenization pressure on the flavor and flavor stability of whole milk powder.

PubMed

Park, Curtis W; Drake, MaryAnne

2017-07-01

Flavor is one of the key factors that can limit the application and shelf life of dried dairy ingredients. Many off-flavors are caused during ingredient manufacture that carry through into ingredient applications and decrease consumer acceptance. The objective of this research was to investigate the effect of homogenization pressure on the flavor and flavor stability of whole milk powder (WMP). Whole milk powder was produced from standardized pasteurized whole milk that was evaporated to 50% solids (wt/wt), homogenized in 2 stages with varying pressures (0/0, 5.5/1.4, 11.0/2.8, or 16.5/4.3 MPa), and spray dried. Whole milk powder was evaluated at 0, 3, and 6 mo of storage at 21°C. Sensory properties were evaluated by descriptive analysis. Volatile compounds were analyzed by sorptive stir bar extraction with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Fat globule size in condensed whole milk and particle size of powders were measured by laser diffraction. Surface free fat, inner free fat, and encapsulated fat of WMP were measured by solvent extractions. Phospholipid content was measured by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-evaporative light scattering. Furosine in WMP was analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Increased homogenization pressure decreased cardboard and painty flavors, volatile lipid oxidation compound concentrations, fat globule size in condensed milk, surface free fat, and inner free fat in WMP. Encapsulated fat increased and phospholipid-to-encapsulated fat ratio decreased with higher homogenization pressure. Surface free fat in powders increased cardboard flavor and lipid oxidation. These results indicate that off-flavors were decreased with increased homogenization pressures in WMP due to the decrease in free fat. To decrease off-flavor intensities in WMP, manufacturers should carefully evaluate these parameters during ingredient manufacture. Copyright © 2017 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Detecting Pore Fluid Pressure Changes by Using the Vp/Vs Ratio

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vanorio, T.; Mavko, G.

2006-12-01

A central problem in studies aimed at predicting the dynamic behavior of faults is monitoring and quantifying fluid changes in areas prone to overpressure. Experimental and modeling studies show the Vp/Vs ratio to be a good determinant of the saturation state of a rock formation as well as of its inner pore pressure condition. Dectecting pore pressure changes depends, among other causes, on the reliability of laboratory data to calibrate the in-situ measured velocities. Ideally, laboratory experiments performed under controlled conditions would identify the fundamental mechanisms responsible for changes in the measured acoustic properties. However, technical limitations in the laboratory together with the assumptions driving the experimental and modeling approaches rise spouriuos mechanisms which hinder our present understanding of the actual role of high pore pressure on the elastic and poroelastic parameters. Critical issues unclude: a) the frequencies used in the laboratory are responsible for high-frequency fluid effects which induce velocity dispersion. As a result, both the effective stress parameter and velocities (and their pressure-dependence) estimated from high- frequency ultrasonic data are different from those applicable to crustal low frequency wave propagation; b) laboratory measurements made at dry, drained conditions are assumed to mimic those in gas pressured rocks. However, in dry, drained conditions, no pore pressure is exerted in the pore space, and the pore gas is infinitely compressible; c) when using room-dry, drained measurements as the baseline to model pressured rock formations, the unloading path (i.e. decreasing confining pressure) is supposed to mimic the inflationary path due to pore pressure increase. Doing so, it is assumed that the amount of crack opening due to pore pressure is equal to that of crack closure caused by the overburden stress and thus, the effective stress coefficient is implicitely assumed equal to 1. To minimize the assumptions and limitations described above, we designed a laboratory experiment which used gas as pore fluid medium. Experimental results show that in gas-pressured saturated rocks the Vp/Vs ratio, while remaining lower than values reported for liquid saturation conditions, increases with decreasing differential pressure, similarly to the trend observed in liquid saturated rocks.

The human cardiovascular system in the absence of gravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bungo, M. W.; Charles, J. B.

1985-01-01

The data collected from a Space Shuttle crew to investigate cardiovascular changes due to microgravity are presented. The experimental procedures which involved preflight, immediate postflight, and one week following postflight echocardiograms of 13 individuals are described. The immediate postflight results reveal a 20 percent decrease in stroke volume, a 16 percent decrease in left ventricular diastolic volume index (LVDVI), no change in systolic volume, blood pressure, or cardiac index, and a 24 percent increase in heart rate. One week later a 17 percent stroke volume increase, a 29 percent increase in cardiac index, and normal blood pressure, and LVDVI were observed. It is concluded that upon reexposure to gravity a readaptation process for the cardiovascular system occurs.

Assessing complexity of skin blood flow oscillations in response to locally applied heating and pressure in rats: Implications for pressure ulcer risk

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liao, Fuyuan; O'Brien, William D.; Jan, Yih-Kuen

2013-10-01

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of local heating on the complexity of skin blood flow oscillations (BFO) under prolonged surface pressure in rats. Eleven Sprague-Dawley rats were studied: 7 rats underwent surface pressure with local heating (△t=10 °C) and 4 rats underwent pressure without heating. A pressure of 700 mmHg was applied to the right trochanter area of rats for 3 h. Skin blood flow was measured using laser Doppler flowmetry. The loading period was divided into nonoverlapping 30 min epochs. For each epoch, multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MDFA) was utilized to compute DFA coefficients and complexity of endothelial related metabolic, neurogenic, and myogenic frequencies of BFO. The results showed that under surface pressure, local heating led to a significant decrease in DFA coefficients of myogenic frequency during the initial epoch of loading period, a sustained decrease in complexity of myogenic frequency, and a significantly higher degree of complexity of metabolic frequency during the later phase of loading period. Surrogate tests showed that the reduction in complexity of myogenic frequency was associated with a loss of nonlinearity whereas increased complexity of metabolic frequency was associated with enhanced nonlinearity. Our results indicate that increased metabolic activity and decreased myogenic response due to local heating manifest themselves not only in magnitudes of metabolic and myogenic frequencies but also in their structural complexity. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using complexity analysis of BFO to monitor the ischemic status of weight-bearing skin and risk of pressure ulcers.

Influence of isoflurane on the diastolic pressure-flow relationship and critical occlusion pressure during arterial CABG surgery: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Hinz, José; Mansur, Ashham; Hanekop, Gerd G; Weyland, Andreas; Popov, Aron F; Schmitto, Jan D; Grüne, Frank F G; Bauer, Martin; Kazmaier, Stephan

2016-01-01

The effects of isoflurane on the determinants of blood flow during Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery are not completely understood. This study characterized the influence of isoflurane on the diastolic Pressure-Flow (P-F) relationship and Critical Occlusion Pressure (COP) during CABG surgery. Twenty patients undergoing CABG surgery were studied. Patients were assigned to an isoflurane or control group. Hemodynamic and flow measurements during CABG surgery were performed twice (15 minutes after the discontinuation of extracorporeal circulation (T15) and again 15 minutes later (T30)). The zero flow pressure intercept (a measure of COP) was extrapolated from a linear regression analysis of the instantaneous diastolic P-F relationship. In the isoflurane group, the application of isoflurane significantly increased the slope of the diastolic P-F relationship by 215% indicating a mean reduction of Coronary Vascular Resistance (CVR) by 46%. Simultaneously, the Mean Diastolic Aortic Pressure (MDAP) decreased by 19% mainly due to a decrease in the systemic vascular resistance index by 21%. The COP, cardiac index, heart rate, Left Ventricular End-Diastolic Pressure (LVEDP) and Coronary Sinus Pressure (CSP) did not change significantly. In the control group, the parameters remained unchanged. In both groups, COP significantly exceeded the CSP and LVEDP at both time points. We conclude that short-term application of isoflurane at a sedative concentration markedly increases the slope of the instantaneous diastolic P-F relationship during CABG surgery implying a distinct decrease with CVR in patients undergoing CABG surgery.

Silicate melts: The “anomalous” pressure dependence of the viscosity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bottinga, Y.; Richet, P.

1995-07-01

The decrease of the specific volume, when the extent of polymerization diminishes, is a cause of the pressure sensitivity of the viscosity of silicate melts. This effect can be explained by means of the Adam and Gibbs (1965) theory, taking into account the pressure dependence of the degree of polymerization of the melt and its influence on the configurational entropy. At temperatures close to their glass transitions, liquid silica and SiO2sbnd Na2O melts have configurational entropies that are probably due to the mixing of their bridging and nonbridging oxygen atoms.

Parameter setting and analysis of a dynamic tubular SOFC model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Wei; Fang, Ruixian; Khan, Jamil A.; Dougal, Roger A.

An improved one-dimensional dynamic model of a tubular SOFC stack capable of system simulation in the virtual test bed (VTB) simulation environment is presented in this paper. This model is based on the electrochemical and thermal modeling, accounting for the voltage losses and temperature dynamics. The modeling of an external reformer is also included in this study. A detailed parametric analysis of working conditions and cell configuration of the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stack is the main focus of this paper. The following operating parameters are investigated: pressure ratio, temperature, mass flow rate, external reforming degree and stream to carbon (S/C) ratio. The cell geometric parameters studied include cell diameter and cell length. Elevated operating pressure improves the cell performance. Whereas, higher operating temperature decreases both the Nernst potential and the irreversible losses, resulting in an initial increase then a decrease in cell efficiency. It was found that a higher S/C ratio yields a lower H 2 concentration and partial pressure, which has a negative effect on the Nernst potential. Increased cell diameter is found to increase the power due to a larger activation area at the same time and due to longer current path length there is an increase in the ohmic loss. Increased length of the cell has the undesired affect of an increased pressure drop.

Effect of pressure and magnetic field on the electrical resistivity of TbB6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakai, Takeshi; Oomi, Gendo; Kunii, Satoru

2009-06-01

Electrical resistivity of a single crystal of TbB6 was studied under hydrostatic pressures up to 2.1 GPa and magnetic fields up to 9 T. The Néel temperature, rN, decreases linearly with increasing pressure: \\ddiff lnTN/\\ddiff P = 3.14×10-2 GPa-1 at zero external field. This pressure dependence of TN weakens as external fields increase. At ambient pressure, the magnetoresistance at 4.2 K is positive up to 4.8 T and becomes negative above 4.8 T. The positive magnetoresistance observed at ambient pressure is suppressed by applying pressure, which enhances the negative magnetoresistance. These results are interpreted in terms of the reduction of the scattering of conduction electrons, due to disordered magnetic moment being suppressed by derealization of 4f electrons at high pressure, and the magnetic field variation of the large transition probability between the ground state and the excited levels.

Experimental investigation of the inlet detector configuration variation in the flow field at Mach 1.9

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hwang, Kyu C.; Tiwari, Surrendra N.; Miley, Stanley J.

1995-01-01

In recent years, active research has been conducted to study the technological feasibility of supersonic laminar flow control on the wing of the High Speed Civil Transport (HSCT). For this study, the F-16XL has been chosen due to its highly swept crank wing planform that closely resembles the HSCT configurations. During flights, it is discovered that the shock wave generated from the aircraft inlet introduces disturbances on the wing where the data acquisition is conducted. The flow field about a supersonic inlet is characterized by a complex three dimensional pattern of shock waves generated by the geometrical configuration of a deflector and a cowl lip. Hence, in this study, experimental method is employed to investigate the effects of the variation of deflector configuration on the flow field, and consequently, the possibility of diverting the incoming shock-disturbances away from the test section. In the present experiments, a model composed of a simple circular tube with a triangular deflector is designed to study the deflector length and the deflector base width variation in the flow field. Experimental results indicate that the lowest external pressure ratio is observed at the junction where the deflector lip and the inlet cowl lip merge. Also, it is noted that the external pressure ratio, the internal pressure ratio, the coefficient of spillage drag, and the shock standoff distance decrease as the deflector length increases. In addition, the Redefined Total Pressure Recovery Ratio (RTPRR) increases with an increase in the deflector length. Results from the study of the effect of the deflector's base width variation on the flow field indicate that the lowest external pressure ratio is observed at the junction between the inlet cowl lip and the deflector lip. As the base width of the deflector increases, the external pressure ratio at 0 rotation increases, whereas the external pressure ratio at 180 rotation decreases. In addition, the internal pressure ratio and the coefficient of spillage drag decrease as the base width of the deflector increases. However, RTPRR and shock standoff distance increase as the base width increases. In conclusion, as deflector dimensions vary, distinctive patterns in the pressure variation around the inlet deflector are observed. With an increase in the deflector length and base width, the magnitude of shock-disturbances are weakened due to a decrease in the external pressure ratio. Also, as the deflector length and base width increase, a smaller bow shock angle is formed. Therefore, the inlet shock wave formation would be significantly altered, and consequently, shock disturbances on the wing test section can be avoided through appropriately designing the deflector.

RATE-DEPENDENT PULL-OUT BEARING CAPACITY OF PILES BY SIMILITUDE MODEL TESTS USING SEEPAGE FORCE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kato, Tatsuya; Kokusho, Takaji

Pull-out test of model piles was conducted by varying the pull-out velocity and skin friction of piles using a seepage force similitude model test apparatus. Due to the seepage consolidation under the pressure of 150kPa, the effective stress distribution in a prototype saturated soil of 17m could be successfully reproduced in the model ground of 28cm thick, in which the pull-out tests were carried out. The pull-out load rose to a peak value at small displacement, and then decreased to a residual value. At the same time, pore pressure in the vicinity of the pile decreased due to suction near the tip and the positive dilatancy near the pile skin. The maximum pull-out load, pile axial load, side friction and the corresponding displacement increased dramatically with increasing pull-out velocity. It was found that these rate-dependent trends become more prominent with increasing skin friction.

Use of radiotelemetry to evaluate respiratory depression produced by chronic methadone administration.

PubMed

Lewanowitsch, Tanya; White, Jason M; Irvine, Rodney J

2004-01-26

Illicit and therapeutic opioid administration can result in overdose due to opioid-induced respiratory depression. Research investigating the respiratory depressant effects of opioids has been limited due to difficulties associated with acquiring long-term respiratory data. This study examined the novel use of radiotelemetry to measure respiratory rate, heart rate, locomotor activity and blood pressure in rats treated chronically with methadone. Over 4 days of treatment, respiratory rate decreased, but partial tolerance appeared to develop during active (night) periods. Decreased heart rate was observed during the night periods and tolerance appeared to develop to this effect. Activity and blood pressure did not change with treatment. The effects of naloxone hydrochloride and naloxone methiodide administration on the methadone-treated rats were also examined and both antagonists increased respiratory rate and heart rate, with only naloxone hydrochloride producing significant increases in activity. Radiotelemetry offers a means of evaluating drug effects on respiratory rate continually in ambulatory, unstressed animals.

Tumor necrosis factor-α: regulation of renal function and blood pressure

PubMed Central

Garvin, Jeffrey L.

2013-01-01

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is a pleiotropic cytokine that becomes elevated in chronic inflammatory states such as hypertension and diabetes and has been found to mediate both increases and decreases in blood pressure. High levels of TNF-α decrease blood pressure, whereas moderate increases in TNF-α have been associated with increased NaCl retention and hypertension. The explanation for these disparate effects is not clear but could simply be due to different concentrations of TNF-α within the kidney, the physiological status of the subject, or the type of stimulus initiating the inflammatory response. TNF-α alters renal hemodynamics and nephron transport, affecting both activity and expression of transporters. It also mediates organ damage by stimulating immune cell infiltration and cell death. Here we will summarize the available findings and attempt to provide plausible explanations for such discrepancies. PMID:23515717

Alternating versus synchronous ventilation of left and right lungs in piglets.

PubMed

Versprille, A; Hrachovina, V; Jansen, J R

1995-12-01

We tested whether alternating ventilation (AV) of each lung (i.e. with a phase difference of half a ventilatory cycle) would decrease central venous pressure and so increase cardiac output when compared with simultaneous ventilation (SV) of both lungs. If, during AV, the inflated lung expands partly via compression of the opposite lung, mean lung volume will be smaller during AV than SV. As a consequence, mean intrathoracic pressure (as cited in the literature), and therefore, central venous pressure will be smaller. The experiments were performed in seven anaesthetized and paralyzed piglets using a double-piston ventilator. Minute ventilation was the same during AV and SV. Starting at SV, we alternated three times between AV and SV for periods of 10 min. During AV, central venous pressure was decreased by 0.7 mmHg and cardiac output was increased by 10 +/- 4.4% (mean, +/-SD) compared with SV. AV also resulted in increased arterial pressure. During one-sided inflation with closed outlet of the opposite lung, a pressure rise occurred in the opposite lung, indicating compression. The higher cardiac output during AV than SV can be explained by the fact that central venous pressure is lower during AV. This lower central venous pressure is very probably due to the lower mean intrathoracic pressure caused by compression of the opposite lung during unilateral inflation.

Impact of high pressure freezing on DH5alpha Escherichia coli and red blood cells.

PubMed

Suppes, Galen J; Egan, Susan; Casillan, Alfred J; Wei Chan, Kok; Seckar, Bill

2003-10-01

The impact of high pressure and freezing on survivability of Escherichia coli and human red blood cells was evaluated to determine the utility of high-pressure transitions for preserving living cells. Based on microscopy and survivability, high pressures did not directly impact physical damage to living cells. E. coli studies showed that increased cell death is due to indirect phenomena with decreasing survivability at increasingly high pressures and exposure times. Pressurization rates up to 1.4kbar/min had negligible effects relative to exposures of >5min at high pressures.Both glycine and control of pH near 7.0 were successful in reducing the adverse impacts of high pressure. Survivability increased from <1% at 5min exposure to 2.1kbar of pressure to typical values >20%. The combination of glycine and the buffer salt led to even further improvements in survivability. Pressure changes were used to traverse temperature and pressures consistent with Ice I and Ice III phase boundaries of pure water.

Single bubble sonoluminescence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dan, Manas

In recent years considerable attention has been directed to the phenomenon of single bubble sonoluminescence, SBSL in which a single, stable, acoustically levitated bubble is made to oscillate with sufficiently large amplitude so as to emit picosecond light pulses in each cycle of the acoustic drive pressure. Remarkably, the phenomenon represents about twelve orders of magnitude of energy focusing. SBSL has been carefully and thoroughly studied in part of parameter space by previous authors. In the present work, the experimental observation of the influence of another important parameter namely the ambient pressure will be presented. It is the first complete and controlled study of the modifications of the bubble dynamics and SL emission due to the variation of the ambient pressure. It has been observed that the equilibrium radius as well as the maximum radius increase as the ambient pressure is decreased at constant driving pressure. Furthermore the expansion ratio (Rmax/ Rmin) increases as the ambient pressure is decreased, resulting in a change in the SL radiation. The intensity of SL emission increases about seven times for only a fifteen percent decrease of ambient pressure at constant driving pressure. However, it is not possible to push SL radiation beyond a certain limit by continuously decreasing the ambient pressure. On the other hand increasing the ambient pressure decreases the equilibrium radius, as well as the expansion ratio leading to a decrease of SL intensity. Amongst the SBSL emissions the light emission has been investigated rather elaborately. The other single bubble emission is the acoustic emission, AE. Here a detailed study of AE will be presented. The AE has been measured by a calibrated needle hydrophone in different regimes of bubble motion. The hydrophone response shows a large amplitude AE pulse which corresponds to the principal collapse, along with smaller amplitude pulses which can be associated with the after bounces of the bubble just after the initial collapse. The pressure amplitudes of the main AE spike are much weaker below the sonoluminescing regime. The amplitude of the principal AE spike in the sonoluminescing regime is about 1.2 atm at 7.2 mm from the bubble. The rise time as well as the FWHM of the principal spikes and after bounces in three different regimes of bubble motion has been reported. A light scattering experiment has been carried out to study the bubble dynamics. An extremely strong correlation between the results of light scattering and those of AE has been found.

Low-amplitude pulses to the circulation through periodic acceleration induces endothelial-dependent vasodilatation.

PubMed

Uryash, Arkady; Wu, Heng; Bassuk, Jorge; Kurlansky, Paul; Sackner, Marvin A; Adams, Jose A

2009-06-01

Low-amplitude pulses to the vasculature increase pulsatile shear stress to the endothelium. This activates endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) to promote NO release and endothelial-dependent vasodilatation. Descent of the dicrotic notch on the arterial pulse waveform and a-to-b ratio (a/b; where a is the height of the pulse amplitude and b is the height of the dicrotic notch above the end-diastolic level) reflects vasodilator (increased a/b) and vasoconstrictor effects (decreased a/b) due to NO level change. Periodic acceleration (pG(z)) (motion of the supine body head to foot on a platform) provides systemic additional pulsatile shear stress. The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not pG(z) applied to rats produced endothelial-dependent vasodilatation and increased NO production, and whether the latter was regulated by the Akt/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway. Male rats were anesthetized and instrumented, and pG(z) was applied. Sodium nitroprusside, N(G)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME), and wortmannin (WM; to block Akt/PI3K pathway) were administered to compare changes in a/b and mean aortic pressure. Descent of the dicrotic notch occurred within 2 s of initiating pG(z). Dose-dependent increase of a/b and decrease of mean aortic pressure took place with SNP. l-NAME produced a dose-dependent rise in mean aortic pressure and decrease of a/b, which was blunted with pG(z). In the presence of WM, pG(z) did not decrease aortic pressure or increase a/b. WM also abolished the pG(z) blunting effect on blood pressure and a/b of l-NAME-treated animals. eNOS expression was increased in aortic tissue after pG(z). This study indicates that addition of low-amplitude pulses to circulation through pG(z) produces endothelial-dependent vasodilatation due to increased NO in rats, which is mediated via activation of eNOS, in part, by the Akt/PI3K pathway.

Dynamic Stability of the Rate, State, Temperature, and Pore Pressure Friction Model at a Rock Interface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinha, Nitish; Singh, Arun K.; Singh, Trilok N.

2018-05-01

In this article, we study numerically the dynamic stability of the rate, state, temperature, and pore pressure friction (RSTPF) model at a rock interface using standard spring-mass sliding system. This particular friction model is a basically modified form of the previously studied friction model namely the rate, state, and temperature friction (RSTF). The RSTPF takes into account the role of thermal pressurization including dilatancy and permeability of the pore fluid due to shear heating at the slip interface. The linear stability analysis shows that the critical stiffness, at which the sliding becomes stable to unstable or vice versa, increases with the coefficient of thermal pressurization. Critical stiffness, on the other hand, remains constant for small values of either dilatancy factor or hydraulic diffusivity, but the same decreases as their values are increased further from dilatancy factor (˜ 10^{ - 4} ) and hydraulic diffusivity (˜ 10^{ - 9} {m}2 {s}^{ - 1} ) . Moreover, steady-state friction is independent of the coefficient of thermal pressurization, hydraulic diffusivity, and dilatancy factor. The proposed model is also used for predicting time of failure of a creeping interface of a rock slope under the constant gravitational force. It is observed that time of failure decreases with increase in coefficient of thermal pressurization and hydraulic diffusivity, but the dilatancy factor delays the failure of the rock fault under the condition of heat accumulation at the creeping interface. Moreover, stiffness of the rock-mass also stabilizes the failure process of the interface as the strain energy due to the gravitational force accumulates in the rock-mass before it transfers to the sliding interface. Practical implications of the present study are also discussed.

Uniaxial compression on the superconductivity of β-BDA-TTP salts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ito, Hiroshi; Ishihara, Tetsuo; Tanaka, Hisaaki; Kuroda, Shin-ichi; Yamada, Jun-ichi

2008-10-01

The β-type BDA-TTP superconductors attract attention due to the high transition temperature Tc at ambient pressure for organic superconductors. In order to get insight into the superconductivity in terms of the dimerized anisotropic triangular lattice model, Tc of β-(BDA-TTP)2X [X = SbF6, X = AsF6] is studied under uniaxial compression by resistivity measurements. Under compression parallel to the donor stack, Tc increases gradually up to 3 (X = SbF6), 5 (X = AsF6) kbar, and decreases under further piston pressure. Under compression perpendicular to the donor stack, Tc decreases gradually up to 2.5 (X = SbF6), 4 (X = AsF6) kbar and then decreases rapidly under further pressure. Only for X = AsF6, a Tc minimum at 3 kbar is found for both direction. These trends in Tc are understood as an interplay between the enhancement of antiferromagnetic spin fluctuation and frustration on the triangular lattice. By the interplane compression, Tc increased by 0.5 K up to 2 kbar for both salts, demonstrating the importance of the interlayer interaction.

Deterioration of left ventricular chamber performance after bed rest : "cardiovascular deconditioning" or hypovolemia?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perhonen, M. A.; Zuckerman, J. H.; Levine, B. D.; Blomqvist, C. G. (Principal Investigator)

2001-01-01

BACKGROUND: Orthostatic intolerance after bed rest is characterized by hypovolemia and an excessive reduction in stroke volume (SV) in the upright position. We studied whether the reduction in SV is due to a specific adaptation of the heart to head-down tilt bed rest (HDTBR) or acute hypovolemia alone. METHODS AND RESULTS: We constructed left ventricular (LV) pressure-volume curves from pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and LV end-diastolic volume and Starling curves from pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and SV during lower body negative pressure and saline loading in 7 men (25+/-2 years) before and after 2 weeks of -6 degrees HDTBR and after the acute administration of intravenous furosemide. Both HDTBR and hypovolemia led to a similar reduction in plasma volume. However, baseline LV end-diastolic volume decreased by 20+/-4% after HDTBR and by 7+/-2% after hypovolemia (interaction P<0.001). Moreover, SV was reduced more and the Starling curve was steeper during orthostatic stress after HDTBR than after hypovolemia. The pressure-volume curve showed a leftward shift and the equilibrium volume of the left ventricle was decreased after HDTBR; however, after hypovolemia alone, the curve was identical, with no change in equilibrium volume. Lower body negative pressure tolerance was reduced after both conditions; it decreased by 27+/-7% (P<0.05) after HDTBR and by 18+/-8% (P<0.05) after hypovolemia. CONCLUSIONS: Chronic HDTBR leads to ventricular remodeling, which is not seen with equivalent degrees of acute hypovolemia. This remodeling leads to a greater decrease in SV during orthostatic stress after bed rest than hypovolemia alone, potentially contributing to orthostatic intolerance.

Plasma parameters in a multidipole plasma system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruscanu, D.; Anita, V.; Popa, G.

Plasma potential and electron number densities and electron temperatures under bi-Maxwellian approximation for electron distribution function of the multidipole argon plasma source system were measured for a gas pressure ranging between 10-4 and 10-3 mbar and an anode-cathode voltage ranging between 40 and 120 V but a constant discharge current intensity. The first group, as ultimate or cold electrons and main electron plasma population, results by trapping of the slow electrons produced by ionisation process due to primary-neutral collisions. The trapping process is produced by potential well due to positive plasma potential with respect to the anode so that electron temperature of the ultimate electrons does not depend on both the gas pressure and discharge voltage. The second group, as secondary or hot electrons, results as degrading process of the primaries and their number density increases while their temperature decreases with the increase of both the gas pressure and discharge voltage.

Shock tube studies of thermal radiation of diesel-spray combustion under a range of spray conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsuboi, T.; Kurihara, Y.; Takasaki, M.; Katoh, R.; Ishii, K.

2007-05-01

A tailored interface shock tube and an over-tailored interface shock tube were used to measure the thermal energy radiated during diesel-spray combustion of light oil, α-methylnaphthalene and cetane by changing the injection pressure. The ignition delay of methanol and the thermal radiation were also measured. Experiments were performed in a steel shock tube with a 7 m low-pressure section filled with air and a 6 m high-pressure section. Pre-compressed fuel was injected through a throttle nozzle into air behind a reflected shock wave. Monochromatic emissive power and the power emitted across all infrared wavelengths were measured with IR-detectors set along the central axis of the tube. Time-dependent radii where soot particles radiated were also determined, and the results were as follows. For diesel spray combustion with high injection pressures (from 10 to 80 MPa), the thermal radiation energy of light oil per injection increased with injection pressure from 10 to 30 MPa. The energy was about 2% of the heat of combustion of light oil at P inj = about 30 MPa. At injection pressure above 30 MPa the thermal radiation decreased with increasing injection pressure. This profile agreed well with the combustion duration, the flame length, the maximum amount of soot in the flame, the time-integrated soot volume and the time-integrated flame volume. The ignition delay of light oil was observed to decrease monotonically with increasing fuel injection pressure. For diesel spray combustion of methanol, the thermal radiation including that due to the gas phase was 1% of the combustion heat at maximum, and usually lower than 1%. The thermal radiation due to soot was lower than 0.05% of the combustion heat. The ignition delays were larger (about 50%) than those of light oil. However, these differences were within experimental error.

Development of Maximum Bubble Pressure Method for Surface Tension Measurement of High Viscosity Molten Silicate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takeda, Osamu; Iwamoto, Hirone; Sakashita, Ryota; Iseki, Chiaki; Zhu, Hongmin

2017-07-01

A surface tension measurement method based on the maximum bubble pressure (MBP) method was developed in order to precisely determine the surface tension of molten silicates in this study. Specifically, the influence of viscosity on surface tension measurements was quantified, and the criteria for accurate measurement were investigated. It was found that the MBP apparently increased with an increase in viscosity. This was because extra pressure was required for the flowing liquid inside the capillary due to viscous resistance. It was also expected that the extra pressure would decrease by decreasing the fluid velocity. For silicone oil with a viscosity of 1000 \\hbox {mPa}{\\cdot }\\hbox {s}, the error on the MBP could be decreased to +1.7 % by increasing the bubble detachment time to 300 \\hbox {s}. However, the error was still over 1 % even when the bubble detachment time was increased to 600 \\hbox {s}. Therefore, a true value of the MBP was determined by using a curve-fitting technique with a simple relaxation function, and that was succeeded for silicone oil at 1000 \\hbox {mPa}{\\cdot } \\hbox {s} of viscosity. Furthermore, for silicone oil with a viscosity as high as 10 000 \\hbox {mPa}{\\cdot }\\hbox {s}, the apparent MBP approached a true value by interrupting the gas introduction during the pressure rising period and by re-introducing the gas at a slow flow rate. Based on the fundamental investigation at room temperature, the surface tension of the \\hbox {SiO}2-40 \\hbox {mol}%\\hbox {Na}2\\hbox {O} and \\hbox {SiO}2-50 \\hbox {mol}%\\hbox {Na}2\\hbox {O} melts was determined at a high temperature. The obtained value was slightly lower than the literature values, which might be due to the influence of viscosity on surface tension measurements being removed in this study.

Single Molecule Raman Spectroscopy Under High Pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Yuanxi; Dlott, Dana

2014-06-01

Pressure effects on surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectra of Rhdoamine 6G adsorbed on silver nanoparticle surfaces was studied using a confocal Raman microscope. Colloidal silver nanoparticles were treated with Rhodamine 6G (R6G) and its isotopically substituted partner, R6G-d4. Mixed isotopomers let us identify single-molecule spectra, since multiple-molecule spectra would show vibrational transitions from both species. The nanoparticles were embedded into a poly vinyl alcohol film, and loaded into a diamond anvil cell for the high-pressure Raman scattering measurement. Argon was the pressure medium. Ambient pressure Raman scattering spectra showed few single-molecule spectra. At moderately high pressure ( 1GPa), a surprising effect was observed. The number of sites with observable spectra decreased dramatically, and most of the spectra that could be observed were due to single molecules. The effects of high pressure suppressed the multiple-molecule Raman sites, leaving only the single-molecule sites to be observed.

Effect of Water Cut on Pressure Drop of Oil (D130) -Water Flow in 4″Horizontal Pipe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Basha, Mehaboob; Shaahid, S. M.; Al-Hems, Luai M.

2018-03-01

The oil-water flow in pipes is a challenging subject that is rich in physics and practical applications. It is often encountered in many oil and chemical industries. The pressure gradient of two phase flow is still subject of immense research. The present study reports pressure measurements of oil (D130)-water flow in a horizontal 4″ diameter stainless steel pipe at different flow conditions. Experiments were carried out for different water cuts (WC); 0-100%. Inlet oil-water flow rates were varied from 4000 to 8000 barrels-per-day in steps of 2000. It has been found that the frictional pressure drop decreases for WC = 0 - 40 %. With further increase in WC, friction pressure drop increases, this could be due to phase inversion.

Influence of fuel injection timing and pressure on in-flame soot particles in an automotive-size diesel engine.

PubMed

Zhang, Renlin; Kook, Sanghoon

2014-07-15

The current understanding of soot particle morphology in diesel engines and their dependency on the fuel injection timing and pressure is limited to those sampled from the exhaust. In this study, a thermophoretic sampling and subsequent transmission electron microscope imaging were applied to the in-flame soot particles inside the cylinder of a working diesel engine for various fuel injection timings and pressures. The results show that the number count of soot particles per image decreases by more than 80% when the injection timing is retarded from -12 to -2 crank angle degrees after the top dead center. The late injection also results in over 90% reduction of the projection area of soot particles on the TEM image and the size of soot aggregates also become smaller. The primary particle size, however, is found to be insensitive to the variations in fuel injection timing. For injection pressure variations, both the size of primary particles and soot aggregates are found to decrease with increasing injection pressure, demonstrating the benefits of high injection velocity and momentum. Detailed analysis shows that the number count of soot particles per image increases with increasing injection pressure up to 130 MPa, primarily due to the increased small particle aggregates that are less than 40 nm in the radius of gyration. The fractal dimension shows an overall decrease with the increasing injection pressure. However, there is a case that the fractal dimension shows an unexpected increase between 100 and 130 MPa injection pressure. It is because the small aggregates with more compact and agglomerated structures outnumber the large aggregates with more stretched chain-like structures.

The effects of horizontal body casting on blood volume, drug responsiveness, and +Gz tolerance in the rhesus monkey

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dickey, D. T.; Billman, G. E.; Teoh, K.; Sandler, H.; Stone, H. L.

1982-01-01

To simulate the weightless condition, eight rhesus monkeys, instrumented with solid-state pressure transducers, were horizontally restrained in body casts for 28 days. Blood volume decreased an average of 13% after 14 days of restraint, due mainly to a drop in plasma volume. Aortic pressure and heart rate responses to norepinephrine and phenylephrine decreased after 14 days of restraint. The monkeys did not show a statistically significant decreased tolerance to a 90 deg sudden upright tilt after horizontal restraint. During the fifth week of casting, four animals were subjected to +Gz acceleration tests on a centrifuge. The acceleration tolerance of the casted monkeys was significantly reduced compared to four similarly instrumented control animals. These findings indicate that the cardiovascular deconditioning associated with simulated weightlessness results from an inability to maintain central blood volume during orthostatic stress.

78 FR 10685 - Reports, Forms, and Recordkeeping Requirements: Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-02-14

... Traffic Safety Administration Title: Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Special Studies. OMB Number: 2174...: Improperly inflated tires pose a safety risk, increasing the chance of skidding, hydroplaning, longer stopping distances, and crashes due to flat tires and blowouts. In an effort to decrease the number of...

Speech intelligibility at high helium-oxygen pressures.

PubMed

Rothman, H B; Gelfand, R; Hollien, H; Lambertsen, C J

1980-12-01

Word-list intelligibility scores of unprocessed speech (mean of 4 subjects) were recorded in helium-oxygen atmospheres at stable pressures equivalent to 1600, 1400, 1200, 1000, 860, 690, 560, 392, and 200 fsw daring Predictive Studies IV-1975 by wide-bandwidth condenser microphones (frequency responses not degraded by increased gas density). Intelligibility scores were substantially lower in helium-oxygen a 200 fsw than in air at l ATA, but there was little difference between 200 fsw and 1600 fsw. A previously documented prominent decrease in intelligibility of speech between 200 or 600 fsw because of helium and pressure was probably due to degradation of microphone frequency response by high gas density.

Dietary Management of Hyperthyroidism in a Dog.

PubMed

Looney, Andrea; Wakshlag, Joseph

An 8 yr old female spayed golden retriever presented for a routine exam during which ventral cervical soft tissue masses were identified. History included weight loss, increased activity and appetite, gagging, and occasional diarrhea. Exam findings included a body condition score of 4/9 and palpable ventral cervical nodules. A serum thyroxine (T4) value was 8.0 ug/dL (normal = 0.8-3.5ug/dL). Doppler systolic blood pressure readings ranged from 200-210 mmHg (normal systolic blood pressure <150 mmHg). The diagnosis was hyperthyroidism due to active thyroid masses. Due to financial constraints, the owner elected conservative management. Initial treatment with methimazole resulted in a decreased T4 value of 5.0 ug/dL at approximately 4 mo after initiation of treatment. A commercially available iodine-restricted feline diet was fed and this resulted in further reduction in serum T4 levels, improved sleeping cycles, reduced anxiety, and reduced systolic blood pressure. A temporary suspension of iodine-restricted feline diet for 2 mo resulted in increases in serum T4 concentrations, which, subsequently, decreased with re-introduction of the diet. Roughly 10 mo after initiation of the therapeutic diet and 16 mo after intial diagnosis, the dog remains relatively normal clinically despite active growing cervical masses with T4 concentration of 2.3 ug/dL.

[Arterial hypertension due to altitude].

PubMed

Domej, Wolfgang; Trapp, Michael; Miggitsch, Eva Maria; Krakher, Tiziana; Riedlbauer, Rita; Roher, Peter; Schwaberger, Günther

2008-01-01

The behavior of blood pressure under hypoxic conditions depends on individual factors, altitude and duration of stay at altitude. While most humans are normotensive at higher altitudes, a few will react with moderate hypertension or hypotension. Excessive elevation of arterial blood pressure is not even to be expected below 4,000 m. Rather, several weeks' stay at higher altitude will decrease systolic and diastolic blood pressure at rest as well as during physical exertion. A high-altitude treatment for rehabilitation purposes at moderate altitude may be recommended for patients with cardio-circulatory disorders. Improvements can last several months even after returning to accustomed altitudes. Furthermore, endurance-trained hypertensive patients with pharmacologically controlled arterial blood pressure might be able to participate in mountain treks without additional health risk.

Role of angiotensin in renal sympathetic activation in cirrhotic rats.

PubMed

Voigt, M D; Jones, S Y; DiBona, G F

1999-08-01

Central nervous system (CNS) renin-angiotensin activity influences the basal level of renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and its reflex regulation. The effect of type 1 angiotensin II (ANG II)-receptor antagonist treatment (losartan) on cardiac baroreflex regulation of RSNA and renal sodium handling was examined in rats with cirrhosis due to common bile duct ligation (CBDL). Basal levels of heart rate, mean arterial pressure (MAP), RSNA, and urinary sodium excretion were not affected by intracerebroventricular administration of either losartan or vehicle to CBDL rats. After acute intravenous isotonic saline loading (10% body wt) in vehicle-treated CBDL rats, MAP was unchanged and the decrease in RSNA seen in normal rats did not occur. However, in losartan-treated CBDL rats, there were significant concurrent but transient decreases in MAP (-20 +/- 2 mmHg) and RSNA (-25 +/- 3%). The natriuretic response to acute volume loading in losartan-treated CBDL rats was significantly less than that in vehicle-treated CBDL rats only at those time points where there were significant decreases in MAP. Antagonism of CNS ANG II type 1 receptors augments the renal sympathoinhibitory response to acute volume loading in CBDL. However, the natriuretic response to the acute volume loading is not improved, likely due to the strong antinatriuretic influence of the concomitant marked decrease in MAP (renal perfusion pressure) mediated by widespread sympathetic withdrawal from the systemic vasculature.

Onset of cavity deformation upon subsonic motion of a projectile in a fluid complex plasma.

PubMed

Zhukhovitskii, D I; Ivlev, A V; Fortov, V E; Morfill, G E

2013-06-01

We study the deformation of a cavity around a large projectile moving with subsonic velocity in the cloud of small dust particles. To solve this problem, we employ the Navier-Stokes equation for a compressible fluid with due regard for friction between dust particles and atoms of neutral gas. The solution shows that due to friction, the pressure of a dust cloud at the surface of a cavity around the projectile can become negative, which entails the emergence of a considerable asymmetry of the cavity, i.e., the cavity deformation. Corresponding threshold velocity is calculated, which is found to decrease with increasing cavity size. Measurement of such velocity makes it possible to estimate the static pressure inside the dust cloud.

Impact of Variable-Density Flow on the Value-of-Information from Pressure and Concentration Data for Saline Aquifer Characterization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, S.; Williams, J. R.; Juanes, R.; Kang, P. K.

2017-12-01

Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) is becoming an important solution for ensuring sustainable water resources and mitigating saline water intrusion in coastal aquifers. Accurate estimates of hydrogeological parameters in subsurface flow and solute transport models are critical for making predictions and managing aquifer systems. In the presence of a density difference between the injected freshwater and ambient saline groundwater, the pressure field is coupled to the spatial distribution of salinity distribution, and therefore experiences transient changes. The variable-density effects can be quantified by a mixed convection ratio between two characteristic types of convection: free convection due to density contrast, and forced convection due to a hydraulic gradient. We analyze the variable-density effects on the value-of-information of pressure and concentration data for saline aquifer characterization. An ensemble Kalman filter is used to estimate permeability fields by assimilating the data, and the performance of the estimation is analyzed in terms of the accuracy and the uncertainty of estimated permeability fields and the predictability of arrival times of breakthrough curves in a realistic push-pull setting. This study demonstrates that: 1. Injecting fluids with the velocity that balances the two characteristic convections maximizes the value of data for saline aquifer characterization; 2. The variable-density effects on the value of data for the inverse estimation decrease as the permeability heterogeneity increases; 3. The advantage of joint inversion of pressure and concentration data decreases as the coupling effects between flow and transport increase.

Influence of the helium-pressure on diode-pumped alkali-vapor laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Fei; Chen, Fei; Xie, Ji-jiang; Zhang, Lai-ming; Li, Dian-jun; Yang, Gui-long; Guo, Jing

2013-05-01

Diode-pumped alkali-vapor laser (DPAL) is a kind of laser attracted much attention for its merits, such as high quantum efficiency, excellent beam quality, favorable thermal management, and potential scalability to high power and so on. Based on the rate-equation theory of end-pumped DPAL, the performances of DPAL using Cs-vapor collisionally broadened by helium are simulated and studied. With the increase of helium pressure, the numerical results show that: 1) the absorption line-width increases and the stimulated absorption cross-section decreases contrarily; 2) the threshold pumping power decreases to minimum and then rolls over to increase linearly; 3) the absorption efficiency rises to maximum initially due to enough large stimulated absorption cross-section in the far wings of collisionally broadened D2 transition (absorption transition), and then begins to reduce; 4) an optimal value of helium pressure exists to obtain the highest output power, leading to an optimal optical-optical efficiency. Furthermore, to generate the self-oscillation of laser, a critical value of helium pressure occurs when small-signal gain equals to the threshold gain.

Failure analysis of braided U-shaped metal bellows flexible hoses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pierce, Stephen O.

Most of the research performed extensively reviews the effects of non-reinforced metal bellows and their pressurized characteristics. However, the majority of flex hoses are manufactured with reinforcement by the means of interweaved wire braids. For this research, the outer braid reinforced metal bellows flex hoses will be examined for their failure at differing lengths. The relationship with the bellows expansion joints is such that as the length of the flex hoses increases, the pressure at which squirm occurs decreases. As such, for the testing being performed, the same approach to failure is expected. As the length of the flex hose increases, it is predicted that the hose will fail at a decreasing pressure. Since the braid is the only thing that prevents the squirm from occurring, more of the load will be displaced from the bellows and into the braid. This will ultimately cause failure of the braid to occur at a lower pressure as the length of the hoses increase due to more of the load being transmitted from the bellows and into the braid.

Effect of sputtering pressure on microstructure and bolometric properties of Nb:TiO{sub 2−x} films for infrared image sensor applications

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

Reddy, Y. Ashok Kumar, E-mail: akreddy111@gmail.com; Shin, Young Bong; Kang, In-Ku

This study aims to investigate the influence of the sputtering pressure (P{sub S}) on Nb:TiO{sub 2−x} films to enhance the bolometric properties. A decrease in the growth rate with the sputtering pressure was perceived in amorphous Nb:TiO{sub 2−x} films. The incorporation of oxygen with P{sub S} was confirmed in an X-ray photo electron spectroscopy analysis. The electrical resistivity was increased with an increase in P{sub S} due to a decrease in the number of oxygen vacancies. The linear I-V characteristics confirmed the ohmic contact behavior between the Nb:TiO{sub 2−x} layer and the electrode material. The present investigation finds that themore » sample with lower resistivity has good bolometric properties with low noise and high universal bolometric parameters. Finally, the Nb:TiO{sub 2−x} sample deposited at a sputtering pressure of 2 mTorr shows better bolometric properties than other materials for infrared image sensor applications.« less

Mitigating an increase of specific power consumption in a cryogenic air separation unit at reduced oxygen production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singla, Rohit; Chowdhury, Kanchan

2017-02-01

Specific power consumed in a Linde double column air separation unit (ASU) increases as the quantity of oxygen produced at a given purity is decreased due to the changes of system requirement or market demand. As the plant operates in part load condition, the specific power consumption (SPC) increases as the total power consumption remains the same. In order to mitigate the increase of SPC at lower oxygen production, the operating pressure of high pressure column (HPC) can be lowered by extending the low pressure column (LPC) by a few trays and adding a second reboiler. As the duty of second reboiler in LPC is increased, the recovery of oxygen decreases with a lowering of the HPC pressure. This results in mitigation of the increase of SPC of the plant. A Medium pressure ASU with dual reboiler that produces pressurised gaseous and liquid products of oxygen and nitrogen is simulated in Aspen Hysys 8.6®, a commercial process simulator to determine SPC at varying oxygen production. The effects of reduced pressure of air feed into the cold box on the size of heat exchangers (HX) are analysed. Operation strategy to obtain various oxygen production rates at varying demand is also proposed.

Pore-scale Analysis of the effects of Contact Angle Hysteresis on Blob Mobilization in a Pore Doublet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsu, Shao-Yiu; Glantz, Roland; Hilpert, Markus

2011-11-01

The mobilization of residual oil blobs in porous media is of major interest to the petroleum industry. We studied the Jamin effect, which hampers the blob mobilization, experimentally in a pore doublet model and explain the Jamin effect through contact angle hysteresis. A liquid blob was trapped in one of the tubes of the pore doublet model and then subjected to different pressure gradients. We measured the contact angles (in 2D and 3D) as well as the mean curvatures of the blob. Due to gravity effects and hysteresis, the contact angles of the blob were initially (zero pressure gradient) non-uniform and exhibited a pronounced altitude dependence. As the pressure gradient was increased, the contact angles became more uniform and the altitude dependence of the contact angle decreased. At the same time, the mean curvature of the drainage interface increased, and the mean curvature of the imbibition interface decreased. The pressure drops across the pore model, which we inferred with our theory from the measured contact angles and mean curvatures, were in line with the directly measured pressure data. We not only show that a trapped blob can sustain a finite pressure gradient but also develop methods to measure the contact angles and mean curvatures in 3D.

Self-actuating reactor shutdown system

DOEpatents

Barrus, Donald M.; Brummond, Willian A; Peterson, Leslie F.

1988-01-01

A control system for the automatic or self-actuated shutdown or "scram" of a nuclear reactor. The system is capable of initiating scram insertion by a signal from the plant protection system or by independent action directly sensing reactor conditions of low-flow or over-power. Self-actuation due to a loss of reactor coolant flow results from a decrease of pressure differential between the upper and lower ends of an absorber element. When the force due to this differential falls below the weight of the element, the element will fall by gravitational force to scram the reactor. Self-actuation due to high neutron flux is accomplished via a valve controlled by an electromagnet and a thermionic diode. In a reactor over-power, the diode will be heated to a change of state causing the electromagnet to be shorted thereby actuating the valve which provides the changed flow and pressure conditions required for scramming the absorber element.

Significant improvement in Mn2O3 transition metal oxide electrical conductivity via high pressure

PubMed Central

Hong, Fang; Yue, Binbin; Hirao, Naohisa; Liu, Zhenxian; Chen, Bin

2017-01-01

Highly efficient energy storage is in high demand for next-generation clean energy applications. As a promising energy storage material, the application of Mn2O3 is limited due to its poor electrical conductivity. Here, high-pressure techniques enhanced the electrical conductivity of Mn2O3 significantly. In situ synchrotron micro X-Ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy and resistivity measurement revealed that resistivity decreased with pressure and dramatically dropped near the phase transition. At the highest pressure, resistivity reduced by five orders of magnitude and the sample showed metal-like behavior. More importantly, resistivity remained much lower than its original value, even when the pressure was fully released. This work provides a new method to enhance the electronic properties of Mn2O3 using high-pressure treatment, benefiting its applications in energy-related fields. PMID:28276479

Vapor pressure and vapor fractionation of silicate melts of tektite composition

USGS Publications Warehouse

Walter, Louis S.; Carron, M.K.

1964-01-01

The total vapor pressure of Philippine tektite melts of approximately 70 per cent silica has been determined at temperatures ranging from 1500 to 2100??C. This pressure is 190 ?? 40 mm Hg at 1500??C, 450 ?? 50 mm at 1800??C and 850 ?? 70 mm at 2100?? C. Determinations were made by visually observing the temperature at which bubbles began to form at a constant low ambient pressure. By varying the ambient pressure, a boiling point curve was constructed. This curve differs from the equilibrium vapor pressure curve due to surface tension effects. This difference was evaluated by determining the equilibrium bubble size in the melt and calculating the pressure due to surface tension, assuming the latter to be 380 dyn/cm. The relative volatility from tektite melts of the oxides of Na, K, Fe, Al and Si has been determined as a function of temperature, total pressure arid roughly, of oxygen fugacity. The volatility of SiO2 is decreased and that of Na2O and K2O is increased in an oxygen-poor environment. Preliminary results indicate that volatilization at 2100??C under atmospheric pressure caused little or no change in the percentage Na2O and K2O. The ratio Fe3 Fe2 of the tektite is increased in ambient air at a pressure of 9 ?? 10-4 mm Hg (= 106.5 atm O2, partial pressure) at 2000??C. This suggests that tektites were formed either at lower oxygen pressures or that they are a product of incomplete oxidation of parent material with a still lower ferricferrous ratio. ?? 1964.

Effects of canrenone in patients with metabolic syndrome.

PubMed

Derosa, Giuseppe; Bonaventura, Aldo; Bianchi, Lucio; Romano, Davide; D'Angelo, Angela; Fogari, Elena; Maffioli, Pamela

2013-11-01

Metabolic syndrome is becoming a common disease due to a rise in obesity rates among adults. The aim was to evaluate the effects of canrenone compared to placebo on metabolic and inflammatory parameters in patients affected by metabolic syndrome. A total of 145 patients were treated with placebo or canrenone, 50 mg/day, for 3 months and then 50 mg b.i.d. till the end of the study. Blood pressure, body weight, body mass index, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting plasma insulin, HOMA-IR, lipid profile, plasma aldosterone, brain natriuretic peptide, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and M value were evaluated. A decrease of blood pressure was observed in canrenone group compared to baseline; moreover, systolic blood pressure value recorded after 6 months of canrenone therapy was lower than the one recorded with placebo. Canrenone gave a significant decrease of FPI and HOMA index, and an increase of M value both compared to baseline and to placebo. Canrenone also decreased triglycerides and FPG was not observed with placebo. Canrenone also decreased plasma aldosterone, Hs-CRP and TNF-α compared to baseline and to placebo. Canrenone seems to be effective in reducing some factors involved in metabolic syndrome and in improving insulin-resistance and the inflammatory state observed in these patients.

Damping Effect of an Unsaturated-Saturated System on Tempospatial Variations of Pressure Head and Specific Flux

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, C.; Zhang, Y. K.; Liang, X.

2014-12-01

Damping effect of an unsaturated-saturated system on tempospatialvariations of pressurehead and specificflux was investigated. The variance and covariance of both pressure head and specific flux in such a system due to a white noise infiltration were obtained by solving the moment equations of water flow in the system and verified with Monte Carlo simulations. It was found that both the pressure head and specific flux in this case are temporally non-stationary. The variance is zero at early time due to a deterministic initial condition used, then increases with time, and approaches anasymptotic limit at late time.Both pressure head and specific flux arealso non-stationary in space since the variance decreases from source to sink. The unsaturated-saturated systembehavesasa noise filterand it damps both the pressure head and specific flux, i.e., reduces their variations and enhances their correlation. The effect is stronger in upper unsaturated zone than in lower unsaturated zone and saturated zone. As a noise filter, the unsaturated-saturated system is mainly a low pass filter, filtering out the high frequency components in the time series of hydrological variables. The damping effect is much stronger in the saturated zone than in the saturated zone.

Control of Mechanical Stresses of High Pressure Container Walls by Magnetoelastic Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kulak, S. M.; Novikov, V. F.; Baranov, A. V.

2016-10-01

Deformations of the walls of pressure vessels arising in the process of testing and operation, as well as reduce their thickness due to corrosion, to create the prerequisites for the growth of mechanical stresses which accelerating the processes of strain aging, embrittlement of the material and reducing its fatigue properties. This article is devoted to researches of the magnetoelastic demagnetization in the wall of steel vessel of loading by internal pressure. It is established that the increasing pressure on the vessel wall is accompanied by a monotonic decrease in the intensity of the magnetic stray field of local magnetization of steel. It is shown that a magnetic stray field of local magnetization of the wall of steel vessel is non-uniform due to differences in structure and stresses. It is proposed to use the obtained results to control the stress state of vessels, experiencing multi-axial loads generated by internal pressure (pipelines, oil tanks, etc.) The method of magnetoelastic of the demagnetization of the steel has a high sensitivity to mechanical stress, the simplicity of implementation and expressiveness compared to the strain gauge and method of coercive force.

Modelling of nectarine drying under near infrared - Vacuum conditions.

PubMed

Alaei, Behnam; Chayjan, Reza Amiri

2015-01-01

Drying of nectarine slices was performed to determine the thermal and physical properties in order to reduce product deterioration due to chemical reactions, facilitate storage and lower transportation costs. Because nectarine slices are sensitive to heat with long drying period, the selection of a suitable drying approach is a challenging task. Infrared-vacuum drying can be used as an appropriate method for susceptible materials with high moisture content such as nectarine slices. Modelling of nectarine slices drying was carried out in a thin layer near infraredvacuum conditions. Drying of the samples was implemented at the absolute pressures of 20, 40 and 60 kPa and drying temperatures of 50, 60 and 70°C. Drying behaviour of nectarine slices, as well as the effect of drying conditions on moisture loss trend, drying rate, effective diffusion coefficient, activation energy, shrinkage, colour and energy consumption of nectarine slices, dried in near infrared-vacuum dryer are discussed in this study. Six mathematical models were used to predict the moisture ratio of the samples in thin layer drying. The Midilli model had supremacy in prediction of nectarine slices drying behaviour. The maximum drying rates of the samples were between 0.014-0.047 gwater/gdry material·min. Effective moisture diffusivity of the samples was estimated in the ranges of 2.46·10-10 to 6.48·10-10 m2/s. Activation energy were computed between 31.28 and 35.23 kJ/mol. Minimum shrinkage (48.4%) and total colour difference (15.1) were achieved at temperature of 50°C and absolute pressure of 20 kPa. Energy consumption of the tests was estimated in the ranges of 0.129 to 0.247 kWh. Effective moisture diffusivity was increased with decrease of vacuum pressure and increase of drying temperature but effect of drying temperature on effective moisture diffusivity of nectarine slices was more than vacuum pressure. Activation energy was decreased with decrease in absolute pressure. Total colour difference and shrinkage of nectarine slices on near infrared-vacuum drying was decreased with decrease of vacuum pressure and decrease of drying temperature.

Correlation between structural change and electrical transport properties of Fe-doped chrysotile nanotubes under high pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Junkai; Yang, Lili; Wu, Xiaoxin; Wei, Maobin; Liu, Yanqing; Gao, Chunxiao; Yang, Jinghai; Ma, Yanzhang

2018-04-01

Fe3+ doped chrysotile nanotubes (NTs) have been synthesized under controlled hydrothermal conditions, and have been characteristic of layered-walls and room-temperature ferromagnetism. High-pressure in situ impedance spectra and synchrotron XRD measurements are performed on Fe-doped chrysotile NTs to reveal the electrical transport and structural properties under compression. Sample resistance (R sum) was found to increase with the pressure elevation, accompanying the step decrease in the grain boundary relaxation frequency (f gb), which reflects the bandgap broadening and dipoles polarization weakening due to the application of pressure. Furthermore, it is found that both R sum and f gb change their pressure dependences at ~5.0 GPa, which is attributed to the nonlinear compressibility of c-axis and even the underlying lattice distortion of monoclinic structure obtained in the XRD observations.

Interfacial Free Energy as the Key to the Pressure-Induced Deceleration of Ice Nucleation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Espinosa, Jorge R.; Zaragoza, Alberto; Rosales-Pelaez, Pablo; Navarro, Caridad; Valeriani, Chantal; Vega, Carlos; Sanz, Eduardo

2016-09-01

The avoidance of water freezing is the holy grail in the cryopreservation of biological samples, food, and organs. Fast cooling rates are used to beat ice nucleation and avoid cell damage. This strategy can be enhanced by applying high pressures to decrease the nucleation rate, but the physics behind this procedure has not been fully understood yet. We perform computer experiments to investigate ice nucleation at high pressures consisting in embedding ice seeds in supercooled water. We find that the slowing down of the nucleation rate is mainly due to an increase of the ice I -water interfacial free energy with pressure. Our work also clarifies the molecular mechanism of ice nucleation for a wide pressure range. This study is not only relevant to cryopreservation, but also to water amorphization and climate change modeling.

Photosynthetic responses to altitude: an explanation based on optimality principles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Han; Prenticce, Iain Colin; Davis, Tyler; Keenan, Trevor; Wright, Ian; Peng, Changhui

2017-04-01

Increasing altitude is commonly accompanied by a declining ratio of leaf-internal to ambient CO2 partial pressures (ci:ca; hereafter, χ) and an increase in carboxylation capacity (Vcmax), while carbon assimilation (A) shows little to no change. Here we provide a consistent, quantitative explanation for these responses based on the 'least-cost hypothesis' for the regulation of χ and the 'co-ordination hypothesis' for the regulation of Vcmax. With leaf temperature held constant, our analysis predicts that the cost of maintaining water transport capacity increases with altitude (due to declining atmospheric pressure and increasing vapour pressure deficit, VPD) while the cost of maintaining carboxylation capacity decreases (due to the enhanced affinity of Rubisco for CO2 at low O2 partial pressures). Both effects favour investment in carboxylation capacity rather than water transport capacity. The response of A then reflects the competing effects of stronger CO2 limitation at low ci versus increased radiation penetration through a thinner atmosphere. These effects of atmospheric pressure are expected to be most strongly expressed in herbaceous plants that can maintain leaf temperatures in a narrow range. In leaves closely coupled to the atmosphere additional effects of declining temperature on photosynthesis are expected to modify but not obliterate those of pressure.

Long-term thermal effects on injectivity evolution during CO 2 storage

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

Vilarrasa, Victor; Rinaldi, Antonio P.; Rutqvist, Jonny

Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) is likely to reach the bottom of injection wells at a colder temperature than that of the storage formation, causing cooling of the rock. This cooling, together with overpressure, tends to open up fractures, which may enhance injectivity. Here, we investigate cooling effects on injectivity enhancement by modeling the In Salah CO 2 storage site and a theoretical, long-term injection case. We use stress-dependent permeability functions that predict an increase in permeability as the effective stress acting normal to fractures decreases. Normal effective stress can decrease either due to overpressure or cooling. We calibrate ourmore » In Salah model, which includes a fracture zone perpendicular to the well, obtaining a good fitting with the injection pressure measured at KB-502 and the rapid CO 2 breakthrough that occurred at the observation well KB-5 located 2 km away from the injection well. CO 2 preferentially advances through the fracture zone, which becomes two orders of magnitude more permeable than the rest of the reservoir. Nevertheless, the effect of cooling on the long-term injectivity enhancement is limited in pressure dominated storage sites, like at In Salah, because most of the permeability enhancement is due to overpressure. But, thermal effects enhance injectivity in cooling dominated storage sites, which may decrease the injection pressure by 20%, saving a significant amount of compression energy all over the duration of storage projects. Overall, our simulation results show that cooling has the potential to enhance injectivity in fractured reservoirs.« less

Multimodel assessment of the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere: Tropics and global trends

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gettelman, A.; Hegglin, M. I.; Son, S.-W.; Kim, J.; Fujiwara, M.; Birner, T.; Kremser, S.; Rex, M.; AñEl, J. A.; Akiyoshi, H.; Austin, J.; Bekki, S.; Braesike, P.; Brühl, C.; Butchart, N.; Chipperfield, M.; Dameris, M.; Dhomse, S.; Garny, H.; Hardiman, S. C.; JöCkel, P.; Kinnison, D. E.; Lamarque, J. F.; Mancini, E.; Marchand, M.; Michou, M.; Morgenstern, O.; Pawson, S.; Pitari, G.; Plummer, D.; Pyle, J. A.; Rozanov, E.; Scinocca, J.; Shepherd, T. G.; Shibata, K.; Smale, D.; TeyssèDre, H.; Tian, W.

2010-01-01

The performance of 18 coupled Chemistry Climate Models (CCMs) in the Tropical Tropopause Layer (TTL) is evaluated using qualitative and quantitative diagnostics. Trends in tropopause quantities in the tropics and the extratropical Upper Troposphere and Lower Stratosphere (UTLS) are analyzed. A quantitative grading methodology for evaluating CCMs is extended to include variability and used to develop four different grades for tropical tropopause temperature and pressure, water vapor and ozone. Four of the 18 models and the multi-model mean meet quantitative and qualitative standards for reproducing key processes in the TTL. Several diagnostics are performed on a subset of the models analyzing the Tropopause Inversion Layer (TIL), Lagrangian cold point and TTL transit time. Historical decreases in tropical tropopause pressure and decreases in water vapor are simulated, lending confidence to future projections. The models simulate continued decreases in tropopause pressure in the 21st century, along with ˜1K increases per century in cold point tropopause temperature and 0.5-1 ppmv per century increases in water vapor above the tropical tropopause. TTL water vapor increases below the cold point. In two models, these trends are associated with 35% increases in TTL cloud fraction. These changes indicate significant perturbations to TTL processes, specifically to deep convective heating and humidity transport. Ozone in the extratropical lowermost stratosphere has significant and hemispheric asymmetric trends. O3 is projected to increase by nearly 30% due to ozone recovery in the Southern Hemisphere (SH) and due to enhancements in the stratospheric circulation. These UTLS ozone trends may have significant effects in the TTL and the troposphere.

Long-term thermal effects on injectivity evolution during CO 2 storage

DOE PAGES

Vilarrasa, Victor; Rinaldi, Antonio P.; Rutqvist, Jonny

2017-08-22

Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) is likely to reach the bottom of injection wells at a colder temperature than that of the storage formation, causing cooling of the rock. This cooling, together with overpressure, tends to open up fractures, which may enhance injectivity. Here, we investigate cooling effects on injectivity enhancement by modeling the In Salah CO 2 storage site and a theoretical, long-term injection case. We use stress-dependent permeability functions that predict an increase in permeability as the effective stress acting normal to fractures decreases. Normal effective stress can decrease either due to overpressure or cooling. We calibrate ourmore » In Salah model, which includes a fracture zone perpendicular to the well, obtaining a good fitting with the injection pressure measured at KB-502 and the rapid CO 2 breakthrough that occurred at the observation well KB-5 located 2 km away from the injection well. CO 2 preferentially advances through the fracture zone, which becomes two orders of magnitude more permeable than the rest of the reservoir. Nevertheless, the effect of cooling on the long-term injectivity enhancement is limited in pressure dominated storage sites, like at In Salah, because most of the permeability enhancement is due to overpressure. But, thermal effects enhance injectivity in cooling dominated storage sites, which may decrease the injection pressure by 20%, saving a significant amount of compression energy all over the duration of storage projects. Overall, our simulation results show that cooling has the potential to enhance injectivity in fractured reservoirs.« less

Role of structural noise in aircraft pressure cockpit from vibration action of new-generation engines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baklanov, V. S.

2016-07-01

The evolution of new-generation aircraft engines is transitioning from a bypass ratio of 4-6 to an increased ratio of 8-12. This is leading to substantial broadening of the vibration spectrum of engines with a shift to the low-frequency range due to decreased rotation speed of the fan rotor, in turn requiring new solutions to decrease structural noise from engine vibrations to ensure comfort in the cockpits and cabins of aircraft.

Effect of temperature, high pressure and freezing/thawing of dry-cured ham slices on dielectric time domain reflectometry response.

PubMed

Rubio-Celorio, Marc; Garcia-Gil, Núria; Gou, Pere; Arnau, Jacint; Fulladosa, Elena

2015-02-01

Dielectric Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) is a useful technique for the characterization and classification of dry-cured ham according to its composition. However, changes in the behavior of dielectric properties may occur depending on environmental factors and processing. The effect of temperature, high pressure (HP) and freezing/thawing of dry-cured ham slices on the obtained TDR curves and on the predictions of salt and water contents when using previously developed predictive models, was evaluated in three independent experiments. The results showed that at temperatures below 20 °C there is an increase of the predicted salt content error, being more important in samples with higher water content. HP treatment caused a decrease of the reflected signal intensity due to the major mobility of available ions promoting an increase of the predicted salt content. Freezing/thawing treatment caused an increase of the reflected signal intensity due to the microstructural damages and the loss of water and ions, promoting a decrease of the predicted salt content.

[Raman studies of nanocrystalline BaTiO3 ceramics].

PubMed

Xiao, Chang-jiang; Jin, Chang-qing; Wang, Xiao-hui

2008-12-01

High pressure can significantly increase the densification. Further, during the high pressure assisted sintering, the nucleation rate is increased due to reduced energy barrier and the growth rate is suppressed due to the decreased diffusivity. Thus high pressure enables the specimen to be fabricated with relatively lower temperature and shorter sintering period that assures to obtain dense nanocrystalline ceramics. Dense nanocrystalline BaTiO3 ceramics with uniform grain sizes of 60 and 30 nm, respectively, were obtained by pressure assisted sintering. The crystal structure and phase transitions were investigated by Raman scattering at temperatures ranging from -190 to 200 degrees C. The Raman results indicated that the evolution of Raman spectrum with grain size is characterized by an intensity decrease, a broadening of the line width, a frequency shift, and the disappearance of the Raman mode. With increasing temperature, similar to 3 mm BaTiO3 normal ceramics, the successive phase transitions from rhombohedral to orthorhombic, orthorhombic to tetragonal, and tetragonal to cubic were also observed in nanocrystalline BaTiO3 ceramics. In addition, when particle size is reduced to the nanoscale, one will find some unusual physical properties in nanocrystalline ceramics, compared with those of coarse-grained BaTiO3 ceramics. The different coexistences of multiphase were found at different temperature. Especially, the ferroelectric tetragonal and orthorhombic phase can coexist at room temperature in nanocrystalline BaTiO3 ceramics. The phenomenon can be explained by the internal stress. The coexistences of different ferroelectric phases at room temperature indicate that the critical grain size for the disappearance of ferroelectricity in nanocrystalline BaTiO3 ceramics fabricated by pressure assisted sintering is below 30 nm.

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

Berdichevskii, M.G.; Marusin, V.V.

The possible contributions of several processes to the experimentally observed heating of nitrogen plasmas in an electarodeless rf capacitive discharge at pressures of p=2.7-67 kPa are discussed. These processes are electron-rotational, vibrational--translational (V--T), and nonresonance vibrational--vibrational (V--V) energy exchange and effects due to O/sub 2/, H/sub 2/O, and NO impurities in the gas. It is shown that as the pressure is decreased the heating mechanism changes from quasiequilibrium to nonequilibrium V--T heating caused by overpopulation of high vibrational levels in the ground state of the nitrogen molecule.

Pharmacological properties of 2-(2-chloro-p-toluidino)-2-imidazoline-nitrate (tolonidine), a new antihypertensive agent. III. Action on the secretions of the digestive tract and on the central nervous system, acute toxicity.

PubMed

Cosnier, D; Hache, J; Labrid, C; Streichenberger, G

1975-01-01

The pharmacological properties of 2-(2-chloro-p-toluidino)-2-imidazoline-nitrate (tolonidine) a new synthetic derivative of imidazoline are reported in a series of three successive articles. This compound has been shown to possess hypotensive and antihypertensive properties. After i.v. administration, the hypotensive phase was preceded by hypertension related to the potent direct alpha-sympatheticomimetic properties of the product. This pressor response, which was not seen after oral administration, was accompanied by a marked decrease in cardiac output and a significant increase in peripheral vascular resistance. The hypotensive action of the product was due to a drop in cardiac output probably reinforced by a decrease in vasoconstrictor sympathetic tone due to a central action. Whatever the route of administration, tolonidine slowed heart rate independently of blood pressure variations, due essentially to an increase in vagal tone. In studies of diuresis, liquid and salt loss were observed in the cat, not in the dog. At doses which induce a drop in blood pressure tolonidine did not produce a reduction in pilocarpine-induced salivary secretion and only partially inhibited gastric secretion. In the central nervous system, tolonidine produced a sedation which first appeared at doses having an antihypertensive effect but which was only fully apparent with increased doses. A decrease in the release of cerebral amines, serotonin and noradrenaline by tolonidine is proposed. Tolonidine was compared with three other antihypertensive agents: clonidine, which is structurally related, and guanethidine and mecamylamine, which are structurally unrelated and have a different mode of action. A close resemblance of the pharmacological properties of tolonidine and clonidine was established due to the chemical relationship between the two substances.

Photoelastic response of permanently densified oxide glasses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bechgaard, Tobias K.; Mauro, John C.; Thirion, Lynn M.; Rzoska, Sylwester J.; Bockowski, Michal; Smedskjaer, Morten M.

2017-05-01

The stress-induced birefringence (photoelastic response) in oxide glasses has important consequences for several applications, including glass for flat panel displays, chemically strengthened cover glass, and advanced optical glasses. While the effect of composition on the photoelastic response is relatively well documented, the effect of pressure has not been systematically studied. In this work, we evaluate the effect of hot isostatic compression on the photoelastic response of ten oxide glasses within two commonly used industrial glass families: aluminosilicates and boroaluminosilicates. Hot isostatic compression generally results in decreasing modifier-oxygen bond lengths and increasing network-former coordination numbers. These structural changes should lead to an increase in the stress optic coefficient (C) according to the model of Zwanziger et al., which can successfully predict the composition and structure dependence of C. However, in compressed glasses, we observe the opposite trend, viz., a decrease in the stress optic coefficient as a result of pressurization. We discuss this result based on measured changes in refractive index and elastic moduli within the context of atomic and lattice effects, building on the pioneering work of Mueller. We propose that the pressure-induced decrease in C is a result of changes in the shear modulus due to underlying topological changes in the glass network.

Combined effects of an intense laser field, electric field and hydrostatic pressure on donor impurity states in zinc-blende InGaN/GaN quantum dots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Guangxin; Zhou, Rui; Duan, Xiuzhi

2016-07-01

The shallow-donor impurity states in cylindrical zinc-blende (ZB) In x Ga1- x N/GaN quantum dots (QDs) have been theoretically investigated, considering the combined effects of an intense laser field (ILF), an external electric field, and hydrostatic pressure. The numerical results show that for an on-center impurity in ZB In x Ga1- x N/GaN QD, (1) the ground-state binding energy of the donor impurity is a decreasing function of the laser-dressing parameter and/or the QD's height; (2) as the QD's radius decreases, the binding energy of the donor impurity increases at first, reaches a maximum value, and then drops rapidly; (3) the binding energy of the donor impurity is a decreasing function of the external electric field due to the Stark effect; (4) the binding energy of the donor impurity increases as the applied hydrostatic pressure becomes large. In addition, the position of the impurity ion was also found to have an important influence on the binding energy of the donor impurity. The physical reasons have been analyzed in detail.

Methane combustion reactivity during the metal→metallic oxide transformation of Pd-Pt catalysts: Effect of oxygen pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Wenjie; Ran, Jingyu; Zhang, Zhien; Niu, Juntian; Zhang, Peng; Fu, Lijuan; Hu, Bo; Li, Qilai

2018-03-01

Density functional theory combined with kinetic models were used to probe different kinetics consequences by which methane activation on different oxygen chemical potential surfaces as oxygen pressure increased. The metallic oxide → metal transformation temperature of Pd-Pt catalysts increased with the increase of the Pd content or/and O2 pressure. The methane conversion rate on Pt catalyst increased and then decreased to a constant value when increasing the O2 pressure, and Pd catalyst showed a poor activity performance in the case of low O2 pressure. Moreover, its activity increased as the oxygen chemical potential for O2 pressure increased in the range of 2.5-10 KPa. For metal clusters, the Csbnd H bond and Odbnd O bond activation steps occurred predominantly on *-* site pairs. The methane conversion rate was determined by O2 pressure because the adsorbed O atoms were rapidly consumed by other adsorbed species in this kinetic regime. As the O2 pressure increased, the metallic active sites for methane activation were decreased and there was no longer lack of adsorbed O atoms, resulting in the decrease of the methane conversion rate. Furthermore, when the metallic surfaces were completely covered by adsorbed oxygen atoms at higher oxygen chemical potentials, Pt catalyst showed a poor activity due to a high Csbnd H bond activation barrier on O*sbnd O*. In the case of high O2 pressure, Pd atoms preferred to segregate to the active surface of Pd-Pt catalysts, leading to the formation of PdO surfaces. The increase of Pd segregation promoted a subsequent increase in active sites and methane conversion rate. The PdO was much more active than metallic and O* saturated surfaces for methane activation, inferred from the theory and experimental study. Pd-rich bimetallic catalyst (75% molar Pd) showed a dual high methane combustion activity on O2-poor and O2-rich conditions.

Flight evaluation of a pneumatic system for unsteady pressure measurements using conventional sensors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Curry, Robert E.; Gilyard, Glenn B.

1989-01-01

A flight experiment was conducted to evaluate a pressure measurement system which uses pneumatic tubing and remotely located electronically scanned pressure transducer modules for in-flight unsteady aerodynamic studies. A parametric study of tubing length and diameter on the attenuation and lag of the measured signals was conducted. The hardware was found to operate satisfactorily at rates of up to 500 samples/sec per port in flight. The signal attenuation and lag due to tubing were shown to increase with tubing length, decrease with tubing diameter, and increase with altitude over the ranges tested. Measurable signal levels were obtained for even the longest tubing length tested, 4 ft, at frequencies up to 100 Hz. This instrumentation system approach provides a practical means of conducting detailed unsteady pressure surveys in flight.

Adverse Heart-Lung Interactions in Ventilator-induced Lung Injury.

PubMed

Katira, Bhushan H; Giesinger, Regan E; Engelberts, Doreen; Zabini, Diana; Kornecki, Alik; Otulakowski, Gail; Yoshida, Takeshi; Kuebler, Wolfgang M; McNamara, Patrick J; Connelly, Kim A; Kavanagh, Brian P

2017-12-01

In the original 1974 in vivo study of ventilator-induced lung injury, Webb and Tierney reported that high Vt with zero positive end-expiratory pressure caused overwhelming lung injury, subsequently shown by others to be due to lung shear stress. To reproduce the lung injury and edema examined in the Webb and Tierney study and to investigate the underlying mechanism thereof. Sprague-Dawley rats weighing approximately 400 g received mechanical ventilation for 60 minutes according to the protocol of Webb and Tierney (airway pressures of 14/0, 30/0, 45/10, 45/0 cm H 2 O). Additional series of experiments (20 min in duration to ensure all animals survived) were studied to assess permeability (n = 4 per group), echocardiography (n = 4 per group), and right and left ventricular pressure (n = 5 and n = 4 per group, respectively). The original Webb and Tierney results were replicated in terms of lung/body weight ratio (45/0 > 45/10 ≈ 30/0 ≈ 14/0; P < 0.05) and histology. In 45/0, pulmonary edema was overt and rapid, with survival less than 30 minutes. In 45/0 (but not 45/10), there was an increase in microvascular permeability, cyclical abolition of preload, and progressive dilation of the right ventricle. Although left ventricular end-diastolic pressure decreased in 45/10, it increased in 45/0. In a classic model of ventilator-induced lung injury, high peak pressure (and zero positive end-expiratory pressure) causes respiratory swings (obliteration during inspiration) in right ventricular filling and pulmonary perfusion, ultimately resulting in right ventricular failure and dilation. Pulmonary edema was due to increased permeability, which was augmented by a modest (approximately 40%) increase in hydrostatic pressure. The lung injury and acute cor pulmonale is likely due to pulmonary microvascular injury, the mechanism of which is uncertain, but which may be due to cyclic interruption and exaggeration of pulmonary blood flow.

The effect of GSM and TETRA mobile handset signals on blood pressure, catechol levels and heart rate variability.

PubMed

Barker, Anthony T; Jackson, Peter R; Parry, Helen; Coulton, Leslie A; Cook, Greg G; Wood, Steven M

2007-09-01

An acute rise in blood pressure has been reported in normal volunteers during exposure to signals from a mobile phone handset. To investigate this finding further we carried out a double blind study in 120 healthy volunteers (43 men, 77 women) in whom we measured mean arterial pressure (MAP) during each of six exposure sessions. At each session subjects were exposed to one of six different radio frequency signals simulating both GSM and TETRA handsets in different transmission modes. Blood catechols before and after exposure, heart rate variability during exposure, and post exposure 24 h ambulatory blood pressure were also studied. Despite having the power to detect changes in MAP of less than 1 mmHg none of our measurements showed any effect which we could attribute to radio frequency exposure. We found a single statistically significant decrease of 0.7 mmHg (95% CI 0.3-1.2 mmHg, P = .04) with exposure to GSM handsets in sham mode. This may be due to a slight increase in operating temperature of the handsets when in this mode. Hence our results have not confirmed the original findings of an acute rise in blood pressure due to exposure to mobile phone handset signals. In light of this negative finding from a large study, coupled with two smaller GSM studies which have also proved negative, we are of the view that further studies of acute changes in blood pressure due to GSM and TETRA handsets are not required.

Hydrostatic pressure effect on PNIPAM cononsolvency in water-methanol solutions.

PubMed

Pica, Andrea; Graziano, Giuseppe

2017-12-01

When methanol is added to water at room temperature and 1atm, poly (N-isopropylacrylamide), PNIPAM, undergoes a coil-to-globule collapse transition. This intriguing phenomenon is called cononsolvency. Spectroscopic measurements have shown that application of high hydrostatic pressure destroys PNIPAM cononsolvency in water-methanol solutions. We have developed a theoretical approach that identifies the decrease in solvent-excluded volume effect as the driving force of PNIPAM collapse on increasing the temperature. The same approach indicates that cononsolvency, at room temperature and P=1atm, is caused by the inability of PNIPAM to make all the attractive energetic interactions that it could be engaged in, due to competition between water and methanol molecules. The present analysis suggests that high hydrostatic pressure destroys cononsolvency because the coil state becomes more compact, and the quantity measuring PNIPAM-solvent attractions increases in magnitude due to the solution density increase, and the ability of small water molecules to substitute methanol molecules on PNIPAM surface. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

133Cs nuclear magnetic resonance study of one-dimensional fluctuations in CsH2PO4 and its ferroelectric and antiferroelectric transitions at high pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schuele, Paul J.; Schmidt, V. Hugo

1989-02-01

Pressure and temperature effects on the one dimensional (1D) and higher-dimensionality correlations associated with the ferroelectric and antiferroelectric phase transitions in cesium dihydrogen phosphate were studied by means of the 133Cs nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spin-lattice relaxation time T1. We measured T1 at 6.5 MHz at temperatures down to the ferroelectric (FE) Curie point TC at 1 bar and at 1.5 and 3.0 kbar, down to the triple point Tt=124.6 K at 3.3 kbar, and down to the antiferroelectric (AFE) Néel point TN at 3.6 kbar. With decreasing temperature, T1 first decreases exponentially due to 1D fluctuations associated with the Jb interactions in disordered hydrogen-bonded chains running along b. As the temperature falls further, T1 then decreases linearly as the Jc interaction between these chains in hydrogen-bonded planes comes into play. From these results and the known pressure derivatives of TC and TN, we calculated pressure dependences for Jb, Jc, and for the interplanar interaction Ja. At 3.3 kbar Ja changes sign, so the plane stacking becomes AFE instead of FE. Above 8.9 kbar, where Jc extrapolates to zero, a new AFE phase with a checkerboard arrangement of FE b chains is predicted.

The effects of atmospheric processes on tehran smog forming.

PubMed

Mohammadi, H; Cohen, D; Babazadeh, M; Rokni, L

2012-01-01

Air pollution is one of the most important problems in urban areas that always threaten citizen's health. Photochemical smog is one of the main factors of air pollution in large cities like Tehran. Usually smog is not only a part of nature, but is being analyzed as an independent matter, which highly affects on the nature. It has been used as relationship between atmospheric elements such as temperature, pressure, relative humidity, wind speed with inversion in the time of smog forming and weather map in 500 Hpa level during 9 years descriptive static by using correlation coefficient in this analyze. Results show that there is a meaningful correlation between atmospheric elements and smog forming. This relation is seen between monthly average of these elements and monthly average of smog forming. However, when temperature decreases, corresponding pressure will increase and result of this will be smog forming. Usually smog increases in cold months of year due to enter cold high pressure air masses in Iran during December and January that is simultaneous with decreasing temperature and air pressure increases and inversion height distance decreases from the earth surface which cause to integrate air pollution under its surface, will cause to form smog in Tehran. It shows a meaningful and strong relation, based on resultant relations by correlation coefficient from inversion height and smog forming, so that obtained figure is more than 60% .

Dynamics of explosively imploded pressurized tubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szirti, Daniel; Loiseau, Jason; Higgins, Andrew; Tanguay, Vincent

2011-04-01

The detonation of an explosive layer surrounding a pressurized thin-walled tube causes the formation of a virtual piston that drives a precursor shock wave ahead of the detonation, generating very high temperatures and pressures in the gas contained within the tube. Such a device can be used as the driver for a high energy density shock tube or hypervelocity gas gun. The dynamics of the precursor shock wave were investigated for different tube sizes and initial fill pressures. Shock velocity and standoff distance were found to decrease with increasing fill pressure, mainly due to radial expansion of the tube. Adding a tamper can reduce this effect, but may increase jetting. A simple analytical model based on acoustic wave interactions was developed to calculate pump tube expansion and the resulting effect on the shock velocity and standoff distance. Results from this model agree quite well with experimental data.

Experimental investigation of turbine blade-tip excitation forces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Martinez-Sanchez, Manuel; Jaroux, Belgacem; Song, Seung Jin; Yoo, Soom-Yung; Palczynski, Taras

1994-01-01

Results of a program to investigate the magnitude and parametric variations of rotordynamic forces which arise in high power turbines due to blade-tip leakage effects are presented. Five different unshrouded turbine configurations and one configuration shrouded with a labyrinth seal were tested with static offsets of the turbine shaft. The forces along and perpendicular to the offset were measured directly with a rotating dynometer. Exploration of casing pressure and flow velocity distributions was used to investigate the force-generating mechanisms. For unshrouded turbines, the cross-forces originate mainly from the classical Alford mechanisms while the direct forces arise mainly from a slightly skewed pressure pattern. The Alford coefficient for cross-force was found to vary between 2.4 and 4.0, while the similar direct force coefficient varied from 1.5 to 3.5. The cross-forces are found to increase substantially when the gap is reduced from 3.0 to 1.9% of blade height, probably due to viscous blade-tip effects. The forces also increase when the hub gap between stator and rotor decreases. The force coefficient decreased with operating flow coefficient. In the case of the shrouded turbine, most of the forces arise from nonuniform seal pressures. This includes about 80% for the transverse forces. The rest appears to come from uneven work extraction. Their level is about 50% higher in the shrouded case.

The Effect of Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence on Intracochlear Sound Pressures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakajima, Hideko Heidi; Pisano, Dominic V.; Merchant, Saumil N.; Rosowski, John J.

2011-11-01

Semicircular canal dehiscence (SCD) is a pathological opening in the bony wall of the inner ear that can result in conductive hearing loss. The hearing loss is variable across patients, and the precise mechanism and source of variability is not fully understood. We use intracochlear sound pressure measurements in cadaveric preparations to study the effects of SCD size. Simultaneous measurement of basal intracochlear sound pressures in scala vestibuli (SV) and scala tympani (ST) quantifies the complex differential pressure across the cochlear partition, the stimulus that excites the partition. Sound-induced pressures in SV and ST, as well as stapes velocity and ear-canal pressure are measured simultaneously for various sizes of SCD followed by SCD patching. At low frequencies (<600 Hz) our results show that SCD decreases the pressure in both SV and ST, as well as differential pressure, and these effects become more pronounced as dehiscence size is increased. For frequencies above 1 kHz, the smallest pinpoint dehiscence can have the larger effect on the differential pressure in some ears. These effects due to SCD are reversible by patching the dehiscence.

Ice nucleation triggered by negative pressure.

PubMed

Marcolli, Claudia

2017-11-30

Homogeneous ice nucleation needs supercooling of more than 35 K to become effective. When pressure is applied to water, the melting and the freezing points both decrease. Conversely, melting and freezing temperatures increase under negative pressure, i.e. when water is stretched. This study presents an extrapolation of homogeneous ice nucleation temperatures from positive to negative pressures as a basis for further exploration of ice nucleation under negative pressure. It predicts that increasing negative pressure at temperatures below about 262 K eventually results in homogeneous ice nucleation while at warmer temperature homogeneous cavitation, i. e. bubble nucleation, dominates. Negative pressure occurs locally and briefly when water is stretched due to mechanical shock, sonic waves, or fragmentation. The occurrence of such transient negative pressure should suffice to trigger homogeneous ice nucleation at large supercooling in the absence of ice-nucleating surfaces. In addition, negative pressure can act together with ice-inducing surfaces to enhance their intrinsic ice nucleation efficiency. Dynamic ice nucleation can be used to improve properties and uniformity of frozen products by applying ultrasonic fields and might also be relevant for the freezing of large drops in rainclouds.

Cardiac contractile dysfunction during mild coronary flow reductions is due to an altered calcium-pressure relationship in rat hearts.

PubMed Central

Figueredo, V M; Brandes, R; Weiner, M W; Massie, B M; Camacho, S A

1992-01-01

Coronary artery stenosis or occlusion results in reduced coronary flow and myocardial contractile depression. At severe flow reductions, increased inorganic phosphate (Pi) and intracellular acidosis clearly play a role in contractile depression. However, during milder flow reductions the mechanism(s) underlying contractile depression are less clear. Previous perfused heart studies demonstrated no change of Pi or pH during mild flow reductions, suggesting that changes of intravascular pressure (garden hose effect) may be the mediator of this contractile depression. Others have reported conflicting results regarding another possible mediator of contractility, the cytosolic free calcium (Cai). To examine the respective roles of Cai, Pi, pH, and vascular pressure in regulating contractility during mild flow reductions, Indo-1 calcium fluorescence and 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy measurements were performed on Langendorff-perfused rat hearts. Cai and diastolic calcium levels did not change during flow reductions to 50% of control. Pi demonstrated a close relationship with developed pressure and significantly increased from 2.5 +/- 0.3 to 4.2 +/- 0.4 mumol/g dry weight during a 25% flow reduction. pH was unchanged until a 50% flow reduction. Increasing vascular pressure to superphysiological levels resulted in further increases of developed pressure, with no change in Cai. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that during mild coronary flow reductions, contractile depression is mediated by an altered relationship between Cai and pressure, rather than by decreased Cai. Furthermore, increased Pi and decreased intravascular pressure may be responsible for this altered calcium-pressure relationship during mild coronary flow reductions. PMID:1430205

Renal tissue damage induced by focused shock waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ioritani, N.; Kuwahara, M.; Kambe, K.; Taguchi, K.; Saitoh, T.; Shirai, S.; Orikasa, S.; Takayama, K.; Lush, P. A.

1990-07-01

Biological evidence of renal arterial wall damage induced by the microjet due to shock wave-cavitation bubble interaction was demonstrated in living dog kidneys. We also intended to clarify the mechanism of renal tissue damage and the effects of different conditions of shock wave exposure (peak pressure of focused area, number of shots, exposure rate) on the renal tissue damage in comparison to stone disintegration. Disruption of arterial wall was the most remarkable histological change in the focused area of the kidneys. This lesion appeared as if the wall had been punctured by a needle. Large hematoma formation in the renal parenchym, and interstitial hemorrhage seemed to be the results of the arterial lesion. This arterial disorder also led to ischemic necrosis of the tubules surrounding the hematoma. Micro-angiographic examination of extracted kidneys also proved such arterial puncture lesions and ischemic lesions. The number of shots required for model stone disintegration was not inversely proportional to peak pressure. It decreased markedly when peak pressure was above 700 bar. Similarly thenumber of shots for hematoma formation was not inversely proportional to peak pressure, however, this decreased markedly above 500 bar. These results suggested that a hematoma could be formed under a lower peak pressure than that required for stone disintegration.

Axial- and radial-resolved electron density and excitation temperature of aluminum plasma induced by nanosecond laser: Effect of the ambient gas composition and pressure

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

Dawood, Mahmoud S.; Hamdan, Ahmad, E-mail: ahmad.ba.hamdan@gmail.com, E-mail: Joelle.margot@umontreal.ca; Margot, Joëlle, E-mail: ahmad.ba.hamdan@gmail.com, E-mail: Joelle.margot@umontreal.ca

2015-11-15

The spatial variation of the characteristics of an aluminum plasma induced by a pulsed nanosecond XeCl laser is studied in this paper. The electron density and the excitation temperature are deduced from time- and space- resolved Stark broadening of an ion line and from a Boltzmann diagram, respectively. The influence of the gas pressure (from vacuum up to atmospheric pressure) and compositions (argon, nitrogen and helium) on these characteristics is investigated. It is observed that the highest electron density occurs near the laser spot and decreases by moving away both from the target surface and from the plume center tomore » its edge. The electron density increases with the gas pressure, the highest values being occurred at atmospheric pressure when the ambient gas has the highest mass, i.e. in argon. The excitation temperature is determined from the Boltzmann plot of line intensities of iron impurities present in the aluminum target. The highest temperature is observed close to the laser spot location for argon at atmospheric pressure. It decreases by moving away from the target surface in the axial direction. However, no significant variation of temperature occurs along the radial direction. The differences observed between the axial and radial direction are mainly due to the different plasma kinetics in both directions.« less

SCW Pressure-Channel Nuclear Reactor Some Design Features

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pioro, Igor L.; Khan, Mosin; Hopps, Victory; Jacobs, Chris; Patkunam, Ruban; Gopaul, Sandeep; Bakan, Kurtulus

Concepts of nuclear reactors cooled with water at supercritical pressures were studied as early as the 1950s and 1960s in the USA and Russia. After a 30-year break, the idea of developing nuclear reactors cooled with SuperCritical Water (SCW) became attractive again as the ultimate development path for water cooling. The main objectives of using SCW in nuclear reactors are: 1) to increase the thermal efficiency of modern Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) from 30-35% to about 45-48%, and 2) to decrease capital and operational costs and hence decrease electrical energy costs (˜1000 US/kW or even less). SCW NPPs will have much higher operating parameters compared to modern NPPs (pressure about 25 MPa and outlet temperature up to 625°C), and a simplified flow circuit, in which steam generators, steam dryers, steam separators, etc., can be eliminated. Also, higher SCW temperatures allow direct thermo-chemical production of hydrogen at low cost, due to increased reaction rates. Pressure-tube or pressure-channel SCW nuclear reactor concepts are being developed in Canada and Russia for some time. Some design features of the Canadian concept related to fuel channels are discussed in this paper. The main conclusion is that the development of SCW pressure-tube nuclear reactors is feasible and significant benefits can be expected over other thermal-energy systems.

Kinetic bottlenecks to chemical exchange rates for deep-sea animals - Part 1: Oxygen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hofmann, A. F.; Peltzer, E. T.; Brewer, P. G.

2012-10-01

Ocean warming will reduce dissolved oxygen concentrations which can pose challenges to marine life. Oxygen limits are traditionally reported simply as a static concentration thresholds with no temperature, pressure or flow rate dependency. Here we treat the oceanic oxygen supply potential for heterotrophic consumption as a dynamic molecular exchange problem analogous to familiar gas exchange processes at the sea surface. A combination of the purely physico-chemical oceanic properties temperature, hydrostatic pressure, and oxygen concentration defines the ability of the ocean to supply oxygen to any given animal. This general oceanic oxygen supply potential is modulated by animal specific properties such as the diffusive boundary layer thickness to define and limit maximal oxygen supply rates. Here we combine all these properties into formal, mechanistic equations defining novel oceanic properties that subsume various relevant classical oceanographic parameters to better visualize, map, comprehend, and predict the impact of ocean deoxygenation on aerobic life. By explicitly including temperature and hydrostatic pressure into our quantities, various ocean regions ranging from the cold deep-sea to warm, coastal seas can be compared. We define purely physico-chemical quantities to describe the oceanic oxygen supply potential, but also quantities that contain organism-specific properties which in a most generalized way describe general concepts and dependencies. We apply these novel quantities to example oceanic profiles around the world and find that temperature and pressure dependencies of diffusion and partial pressure create zones of greatest physical constriction on oxygen supply typically at around 1000 m depth, which coincides with oxygen concentration minimum zones. In these zones, which comprise the bulk of the world ocean, ocean warming and deoxygenation have a clear negative effect for aerobic life. In some shallow and warm waters the enhanced diffusion and higher partial pressure due to higher temperatures might slightly overcompensate for oxygen concentration decreases due to decreases in solubility.

CFD simulation of a miniature coaxial Stirling-type pulse tube cryocooler operating at 128 Hz

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Yibo; Dang, Haizheng

2016-01-01

A two-dimensional axis-symmetric CFD model of a miniature coaxial Stirling-type pulse tube cryocooler with an overall weight of 920 g operating at 128 Hz is established, and systematic simulations of the performance characteristics at different temperatures are conducted. Both thermal equilibrium and non-equilibrium mechanisms for the porous matrix are considered, and the regenerator losses including the gas and solid conduction, the pressure drop and the imperfect interfacial heat transfer are calculated, respectively. The results indicate that the pressure drop loss is dominant during the first 85% and 78% of regenerator length for the thermal equilibrium and non-equilibrium models, respectively, and it decreases monotonously from warm to cold end due to the steadily decreasing Darcy and Forchheimer terms, whereas other entropy generations share similar changing tendencies, going up gradually near the warm end, increasing dramatically from about 60% of length and then decreasing sharply near the cold end. The reasons for these entropy variations are discussed.

Numerical analysis of effects of transglottal pressure change on fundamental frequency of phonation.

PubMed

Deguchi, Shinji; Matsuzaki, Yuji; Ikeda, Tadashige

2007-02-01

In humans, a decrease in transglottal pressure (Pt) causes an increase in the fundamental frequency of phonation (F0) only at a specific voice pitch within the modal register, the mechanism of which remains unclear. In the present study, numerical analyses were performed to investigate the mechanism of the voice pitch-dependent positive change of F0 due to Pt decrease. The airflow and the airway, including the vocal folds, were modeled in terms of mechanics of fluid and structure. Simulations of phonation using the numerical model indicated that Pt affects both the average position and the average amplitude magnitude of vocal fold self-excited oscillation in a non-monotonous manner. This effect results in voice pitch-dependent responses of F0 to Pt decreases, including the positive response of F0 as actually observed in humans. The findings of the present study highlight the importance of considering self-excited oscillation of the vocal folds in elucidation of the phonation mechanism.

Comparative cephalopod shell strength and the role of septum morphology on stress distribution

PubMed Central

Zachow, Stefan; Hoffmann, René

2016-01-01

The evolution of complexly folded septa in ammonoids has long been a controversial topic. Explanations of the function of these folded septa can be divided into physiological and mechanical hypotheses with the mechanical functions tending to find widespread support. The complexity of the cephalopod shell has made it difficult to directly test the mechanical properties of these structures without oversimplification of the septal morphology or extraction of a small sub-domain. However, the power of modern finite element analysis now permits direct testing of mechanical hypothesis on complete, empirical models of the shells taken from computed tomographic data. Here we compare, for the first time using empirical models, the capability of the shells of extant Nautilus pompilius, Spirula spirula, and the extinct ammonite Cadoceras sp. to withstand hydrostatic pressure and point loads. Results show hydrostatic pressure imparts highest stress on the final septum with the rest of the shell showing minimal compression. S. spirula shows the lowest stress under hydrostatic pressure while N. pompilius shows the highest stress. Cadoceras sp. shows the development of high stress along the attachment of the septal saddles with the shell wall. Stress due to point loads decreases when the point force is directed along the suture as opposed to the unsupported chamber wall. Cadoceras sp. shows the greatest decrease in stress between the point loads compared to all other models. Greater amplitude of septal flutes corresponds with greater stress due to hydrostatic pressure; however, greater amplitude decreases the stress magnitude of point loads directed along the suture. In our models, sutural complexity does not predict greater resistance to hydrostatic pressure but it does seem to increase resistance to point loads, such as would be from predators. This result permits discussion of palaeoecological reconstructions on the basis of septal morphology. We further suggest that the ratio used to characterize septal morphology in the septal strength index and in calculations of tensile strength of nacre are likely insufficient. A better understanding of the material properties of cephalopod nacre may allow the estimation of maximum depth limits of shelled cephalopods through finite element analysis. PMID:27672501

Impact of anthropogenic aerosols from global, East Asian, and non-East Asian sources on East Asian summer monsoon system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Qiuyan; Wang, Zhili; Zhang, Hua

2017-01-01

The impact of the total effects due to anthropogenic aerosols from global, East Asian, and non-East Asian sources on East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) system is studied using an aerosol-climate online model BCC_AGCM2.0.1_CUACE/Aero. The results show that the summer mean net all-sky shortwave fluxes averaged over East Asian monsoon region (EAMR) at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) and surface reduce by 4.8 and 5.0 W m- 2, respectively, due to the increases of global aerosol emissions in 2000 relative to 1850. Changes in radiations and their resulting changes in heat and water transport and cloud fraction contribute together to the surface cooling over EAMR in summer. The increases in global anthropogenic aerosols lead to a decrease of 2.1 K in summer mean surface temperature and an increase of 0.4 hPa in summer mean surface pressure averaged over EAMR, respectively. It is shown that the changes in surface temperature and pressure are significantly larger over land than ocean, thus decreasing the contrast of land-sea surface temperature and pressure. This results in the marked anomalies of north and northeast winds over eastern and southern China and the surrounding oceans in summer, thereby weakening the EASM. The summer mean precipitation averaged over the EAMR reduces by 12%. The changes in non-East Asian aerosol emissions play a more important role in inducing the changes of local temperature and pressure, and thus significantly exacerbate the weakness of the EASM circulation due to local aerosol changes. The weakening of circulation due to both is comparable, and even the effect of non-local aerosols is larger in individual regions. The changes of local and non-local aerosols contribute comparably to the reductions in precipitation over oceans, whereas cause opposite changes over eastern China. Our results highlight the importance of aerosol changes outside East Asia in the impact of the changes of anthropogenic aerosols on EASM.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of music interventions in hypertension treatment: a quest for answers.

PubMed

Kühlmann, Anne Y R; Etnel, Jonathan R G; Roos-Hesselink, Jolien W; Jeekel, Johannes; Bogers, Ad J J C; Takkenberg, Johanna J M

2016-04-19

Adverse effects, treatment resistance and high costs associated with pharmacological treatment of hypertension have led to growing interest in non-pharmacological complementary therapies such as music interventions. This meta-analysis aims to provide an overview of reported evidence on the efficacy of music interventions in the treatment of hypertension. A systematic literature search was conducted for publications on the effect of music interventions on blood pressure in adult hypertensive subjects published between January 1990-June 2014. Randomized controlled trials with a follow-up duration ≥28 days were included. Blood pressure measures were pooled using inverse variance weighting. Of the 1689 abstracts reviewed, 10 randomized controlled trials were included. Random-effects pooling of the music intervention groups showed a trend toward a decrease in mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) from 144 mmHg(95 % CI:137-152) to 134 mmHg(95 % CI:124-144), and in mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP) from 84 mmHg(95 % CI:78-89) to 78 mmHg(95 % CI:73-84). Fixed-effect analysis of a subgroup of 3 trials with valid control groups showed a significant decrease in pooled mean SBP and DBP in both intervention and control groups. A comparison between music intervention groups and control groups was not possible due to unavailable measures of dispersion. This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed a trend towards a decrease in blood pressure in hypertensive patients who received music interventions, but failed to establish a cause-effect relationship between music interventions and blood pressure reduction. Considering the potential value of this safe, low-cost intervention, well-designed, high quality and sufficiently powered randomized studies assessing the efficacy of music interventions in the treatment of hypertension are warranted.

Thermal conductivity of H2O-CH3OH mixtures at high pressures: Implications for the dynamics of icy super-Earths outer shells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsieh, Wen-Pin; Deschamps, Frédéric

2015-10-01

Thermal conductivity of H2O-volatile mixtures at extreme pressure-temperature conditions is a key factor to determine the heat flux and profile of the interior temperature in icy bodies. We use time domain thermoreflectance and stimulated Brillouin scattering combined with diamond anvil cells to study the thermal conductivity and sound velocity of water (H2O)-methanol (CH3OH) mixtures to pressures as high as 12 GPa. Compared to pure H2O, the presence of 5-20 wt % CH3OH significantly reduces the thermal conductivity and sound velocity when the mixture becomes ice VI-CH3OH and ice VII-CH3OH phases at high pressures, indicating that the heat transfer is hindered within the icy body. We then apply these results to model the heat transfer through the icy mantles of super-Earths, assuming that these mantles are animated by thermal convection. Our calculations indicate that the decrease of thermal conductivity due to the presence of 10 wt % CH3OH induces a twofold decrease of the power transported by convection.

The synthetic cannabinoid WIN55212-2 decreases the intraocular pressure in human glaucoma resistant to conventional therapies.

PubMed

Porcella, A; Maxia, C; Gessa, G L; Pani, L

2001-01-01

The search for new ocular hypotensive agents represents a frontier of current eye research because blindness due to optic neuropathy occurs insidiously in 10% of all patients affected by glaucoma. Cannabinoids have been proposed to lower intraocular pressure by either central or peripheral effects but a specific mechanism for this action has never been elucidated. We recently demonstrated the presence of the central cannabinoid receptor (CB(1)) mRNA and protein in the human ciliary body. In the present study we show that the synthetic CB(1) receptor agonist, WIN 55212--2, applied topically at doses of 25 or 50 microg (n = 8), decreases the intraocular pressure of human glaucoma resistant to conventional therapies within the first 30 min (15 +/- 0.5% and 23 +/- 0.9%, respectively). A maximal reduction of 20 +/- 0.7% and 31 +/- 0.6%, respectively, is reached in the first 60 min. These data confirm that CB(1) receptors have direct involvement in the regulation of human intraocular pressure, and suggest that, among various classes of promising antiglaucoma agents, synthetic CB(1) receptor agonists should deserve further research and clinical development.

Optical investigation of BaFe2(As0.77P0.23)2 : Spin-fluctuation-mediated superconductivity under pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uykur, E.; Kobayashi, T.; Hirata, W.; Miyasaka, S.; Tajima, S.; Kuntscher, C. A.

2017-06-01

Temperature-dependent reflectivity measurements in the frequency range 75-8000 cm-1 were performed on BaFe2(As0.77P0.23)2 single crystals under pressure up to ˜5 GPa . The obtained optical conductivity spectra have been analyzed to extract the electron-boson spectral density α2F (Ω ) . A sharp resonance peak was observed in α2F (Ω ) upon the superconducting transition, persisting throughout the applied pressure range. The energy and temperature dependences of this peak are consistent with the superconducting gap opening. Furthermore, several similarities with other experimental probes such as inelastic neutron scattering (INS) [D. S. Inosov et al., Nat. Lett. 6, 178 (2010), 10.1038/nphys1483] give evidence for the coupling to a bosonic mode, possibly due to spin fluctuations. Moreover, electronic correlations have been calculated via spectral weight analysis, which revealed that the system stays in the strongly correlated regime throughout the applied pressure range. However, a comparison to the parent compound showed that the electronic correlations are slightly decreased with P doping. The investigation of the phase diagram obtained by our optical study under pressure also revealed the coexistence of the spin-density wave and the superconducting regions, where the coexistence region shifts to the lower pressure range with increasing P content. Moreover, the optimum pressure range, where the highest superconducting transition temperature has been obtained, shows a nonlinear decrease with increasing P content.

Mechanisms of anode power deposition in a low pressure free burning arc

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soulas, George C.; Myers, Roger M.

1994-01-01

Anode power deposition is a dominant power loss mechanism for arc jets and MPD thrusters. In this study, a free burning arc experiment was operated at pressures and current densities similar to those in arc jets and MPD thrusters in an attempt to identify the physics controlling this loss mechanism. Use of a free burning arc allowed for the isolation of independent variables controlling anode power deposition and provided a convenient and flexible way to cover a broad range of currents, anode surface pressures, and applied magnetic field strengths and orientations using an argon gas. Test results showed that anode power deposition decreased with increasing anode surface pressure up to 6.7 Pa (0.05 torr) and then became insensitive to pressure. Anode power increased with increasing arc current while the electron number density near the anode surface increased linearity. Anode power also increased with increasing applied magnetic field strength due to an increasing anode fall voltage. Applied magnetic field orientation had an effect only at high currents and low anode surface pressures, where anode power decreased when applied field lines intercepted the anode surface. The results demonstrated that anode power deposition was dominated by the current carrying electrons and that the anode fall voltage was the largest contributor. Furthermore, the results showed that anode power deposition can be reduced by operating at increased anode pressures, reduced arc currents, and applied magnetic field strengths and with magnetic field lines intercepting the anode.

Decrease of nitric oxide and increase in diastolic blood pressure are two events that affect renal function in dogs with pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism

PubMed Central

Vidal, Patricia N.; Miceli, Diego D.; Arias, Elber Soler; D’Anna, Elena; García, Jorge D.; Castillo, Victor Alejandro

2018-01-01

Hyperadrenocorticism is a frequent disease in dogs. The excess of circulating cortisol affects different organs and metabolic pathways, producing severe adverse effects that endanger the animal’s life. Among these effects, hypertension and renal damage can be mentioned. A group of 20 dogs with pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH) and 12 control dogs were used to study the following parameters: cortisol and nitric oxide (NO nit/nit) concentrations, diastolic and systolic blood pressure, renal artery resistance index by Doppler ultrasound, the rate of glomerular filtration by radio-renogram excretion and the presence of proteins in urine. Dogs with PDH showed a significantly lower NO nit/nit (P<0.0001) than the controls and this correlated with high values of diastolic and systolic pressure (r = -0.87; P<0.0001 and r = -0.81; P<0.0001 respectively). Most dogs (80%) are hypertensive mainly due to an increase in diastolic pressure, which correlated positively with the UPC (r = 0.8; P<0.001) and negatively with the glomerular rate of filtration (r = -0.58; P=0.007). Systolic pressure only increased in 60% of the cases and did not correlate with the mentioned variables. In PDH the decrease of NO affects blood pressure. The diastolic pressure would seem to have the greatest impact on the kidneys, therefore its evaluation and control are important to avoid and/or control renal damage. PMID:29721437

[Health and exercise: effects of exercise on high blood pressure].

PubMed

Ikeda, M; Nanri, H; Himeno, E

1993-09-01

Many factors, such as genetic, psychological, environmental, and socioeconomical factors, influence the health of individuals. Recently behavioral risks which cause preventable chronic diseases or premature death have been increasing. These risk factors are mainly due to living habits, such as over-eating, less exercise and psychological stress. Physical activity or fitness is reported to be inversely associated with morbidity and mortality from chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases diabetes mellitus, cancer and so on. Hypertension has also been reported to be associated with low physical fitness in cross-sectional studies. We have so far reported a significant blood pressure reduction in mild hypertensive patients who completed mild intensity exercise training in well controlled studies. Exercise seemed to modify the multiple factors that might participate in raising and maintaining high blood pressure. The mechanisms of lowering blood pressure by exercise training are mainly due to a depletion of blood volume or the reduction of both cardiac output and the sympathetic tone. They were supported by the evidence of increased levels of prostaglandin E, dopamine, taurine, and decreased levels of plasma norepinephrine and endogenous ouavain-like substance. In this article, we have reviewed the physiological and biochemical roles of exercise, the effects of exercise on high blood pressure, and the hypotensive mechanism of mild aerobic exercise hypertensive patients.

Physiologic Effect of Stent Therapy for Inferior Vena Cava Obstruction Due to Malignant Liver Tumor

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

Kishi, Kazushi; Sonomura, Tetsuo; Fujimoto, Hisashi

Purpose. To understand systemic the influence of stent therapy for inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction due to advanced liver tumor. Methods. Seven patients with symptomatic IVC obstruction due to advanced primary (n 4) or secondary (n = 3) liver tumor were subjected to stent therapy. Enrollment criteria included high IVC pressure over 15 mmHg and the presence of edema and ascites. Z-stents were deployed using coaxial sheath technique via femoral venous puncture. Physiologic and hematobiochemical parameters were analyzed. Results. All procedures were successful, and the stents remained patent until patient death. Promptly after stent placement, the IVC flow recovered, andmore » the venous blood pressure in the IVC below the obstruction level showed a significant decrease from 20.8 {+-} 1.2 mmHg (mean {+-} SE) to 10.7 {+-} 0.7 mmHg (p < 0.01). Transient mild increase of right atrial pressure was observed in 1 patient. During the following week prominent diuresis was observed in all patients. Mean urine output volume in the 3 days before the stent therapy was 0.81 {+-} 0.09 l/day compared with 2.1 {+-} 0.2 l/day (p < 0.01) in the 3 days after. The edema and ascites decreased in all patients. The caval pressure change correlated well (r > 0.6) with the urine volume increase, and with the decreased volume of edema and ascites. The urine volume increase correlated well with the decrement of edema, but not with that of ascites. Improvements for various durations in the levels of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, lactate dehydrogenase, fibrinogen, and platelet count were found (p < 0.05). These hematobiochemical changes were well correlated with each other and with the decrement of ascites. Two patients showed a low blood sodium level of 128.5 mEq/l after intensive natriuresis, and one of them died on day 21 with hepatic failure, which was interpreted as maladaptation aggravation. The mean survival time was 94.1 {+-} 34.1 days (mean {+-} SD), ranging from 21 to 140 days after stent treatment. Conclusion. The stent therapy for IVC obstruction due to malignant liver tumors was followed by a series of physiologic and hematobiochemical consequences, most of them favorable but some possibly unfavorable. Rational interpretations and predictions of sequelae based on physiologic science including cardiology, hepatology, and nephrology would facilitate the best management of stent therapy for malignant IVC obstruction.« less

Artificially decreased vapour pressure deficit in field conditions modifies foliar metabolite profiles in birch and aspen

PubMed Central

Lihavainen, Jenna; Keinänen, Markku; Keski-Saari, Sarita; Kontunen-Soppela, Sari; Sõber, Anu; Oksanen, Elina

2016-01-01

Relative air humidity (RH) is expected to increase in northern Europe due to climate change. Increasing RH reduces the difference of water vapour pressure deficit (VPD) between the leaf and the atmosphere, and affects the gas exchange of plants. Little is known about the effects of decreased VPD on plant metabolism, especially under field conditions. This study was conducted to determine the effects of artificially decreased VPD on silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.) and hybrid aspen (Populus tremula L.×P. tremuloides Michx.) foliar metabolite and nutrient profiles in a unique free air humidity manipulation (FAHM) field experiment during the fourth season of humidity manipulation, in 2011. Long-term exposure to decreased VPD modified nutrient homeostasis in tree leaves, as demonstrated by a lower N concentration and N:P ratio in aspen leaves, and higher Na concentration and lower K:Na ratio in the leaves of both species in decreased VPD than in ambient VPD. Decreased VPD caused a shift in foliar metabolite profiles of both species, affecting primary and secondary metabolites. Metabolic adjustment to decreased VPD included elevated levels of starch and heptulose sugars, sorbitol, hemiterpenoid and phenolic glycosides, and α-tocopherol. High levels of carbon reserves, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants under decreased VPD may modify plant resistance to environmental stresses emerging under changing climate. PMID:27255929

Surface pressure fluctuations due to an impinging underexpanded supersonic jet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pundir, Binu

The impingement of supersonic jets on surfaces is of interest because of its important application to jet blast deflectors (JBD), and short takeoff and vertical landing aircraft (STOVL) during hover. Typically, on an aircraft carrier deck, the impingement of the jet blast on the deflector generates impingement tones, and structural vibrations, not only on the JBD but also on the ship deck. Therefore, apart from direct transmission of jet noise to the gallery level, there is a component of noise transmitted due to the impingement of the jet on the JBD. The objectives of this work are to study the pressure spectra (i) on a flat plate, and separately on a cone due to axisymmetric impingement of a supersonic underexpanded cold jet issuing from a convergent-divergent nozzle and (ii) on a plane jet impinging on a finite plate and an adjoining ground plane due to the impingement of a planar jet on the plate. The characteristics of the surface pressure fluctuations are numerically investigated using WIND-US 2.0. The time-dependent, compressible Euler equations for perfect gas are employed for the present computations. The impingement distance between the jet nozzle and the deflector plate, and the plate inclination with respect to the incident jet are varied. The impingement zone stagnation bubble and a high-speed radial jet with several embedded structures (shocklets) were identified on the perpendicular plate. Flows involving cones reveal the presence of detached cone shocks, enclosing a recirculation zone. The location and magnitude of the peak pressure on the cone surface are a strong function of the cone apex angle. For the two-dimensional jet impingement on angled plate the peak value of pressure occurs at normal jet impingement. The pressure at the intersection point of the plate and the ground plane is sometimes higher than the peak pressure on the plate. Beyond this point there is a sharp decrease in pressure. As the flow accelerates, an oblique shock is sometimes formed in this grazing flow region. A recirculation region at the lower lip of the nozzle was observed for all the separation distances and plate inclinations.

Effect of Mannitol on Glomerular Ultrafiltration in the Hydropenic Rat

PubMed Central

Blantz, Roland C.

1974-01-01

The effect of mannitol upon glomerular ultrafiltration was examined in hydropenic Munich-Wistar rats. Superficial nephron filtration rate (sngfr) rose from 32.0±0.9 nl/min/g kidney wt to 42.0±1.6 (P < 0.001) in eight rats. Hydrostatic pressure gradients acting across the glomerular capillary (ΔP) were measured in glomerular capillaries and Bowman's space with a servo-nulling device, systemic (πA) and efferent arteriolar oncotic pressures (πE) were determined by microprotein analysis. These data were applied to a computer-based mathematical model of glomerular ultrafiltration to determine the profile of effective filtration pressure (EFP = ΔP — π) and total glomerular permeability (LpA) in both states. Filtration equilibrium obtained in hydropenia (LpA ≥ 0.099±0.006 nl/s/g kidney wt/mm Hg) and sngfr rose because EFP increased from a maximum value of 4.2±1.1 to 12.8±0.5 mm Hg after mannitol (P <0.01). This increase was due to both increased nephron plasma flow and decreased πA. Computer analysis of these data revealed that more than half (>58%) of this increase was due to decreased πA, consequent to dilution of protein. Since EFP was disequilibrated after mannitol, LpA could be calculated accurately (0.065 ± 0.003 nl/s/g kidney wt/mm Hg) and was significantly lower than the minimum estimate in hydropenia. Therefore, sngfr does increase with mannitol and this increase is not wholly dependent upon an increase in nephron plasma flow since the major factor increasing EFP was decreased πA. PMID:4418509

Sustainability assessment of regional water resources under the DPSIR framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Shikun; Wang, Yubao; Liu, Jing; Cai, Huanjie; Wu, Pute; Geng, Qingling; Xu, Lijun

2016-01-01

Fresh water is a scarce and critical resource in both natural and socioeconomic systems. Increasing populations combined with an increasing demand for water resources have led to water shortages worldwide. Current water management strategies may not be sustainable, and comprehensive action should be taken to minimize the water budget deficit. Sustainable water resources management is essential because it ensures the integration of social, economic, and environmental issues into all stages of water resources management. This paper establishes the indicators to evaluate the sustainability of water utilization based on the Drive-Pressure-Status-Impact-Response (DPSIR) model. Based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method, a comprehensive assessment of changes to the sustainability of the water resource system in the city of Bayannur was conducted using these indicators. The results indicate that there is an increase in the driving force of local water consumption due to changes in society, economic development, and the consumption structure of residents. The pressure on the water system increased, whereas the status of the water resources continued to decrease over the study period due to the increasing drive indicators. The local government adopted a series of response measures to relieve the decreasing water resources and alleviate the negative effects of the increasing driver in demand. The response measures improved the efficiency of water usage to a large extent, but the large-scale expansion in demands brought a rebounding effect, known as ;Jevons paradox; At the same time, the increasing emissions of industrial and agriculture pollutants brought huge pressures to the regional water resources environment, which caused a decrease in the sustainability of regional water resources. Changing medium and short-term factors, such as regional economic pattern, technological levels, and water utilization practices, can contribute to the sustainable utilization of regional water resources.

MEMS fiber-optic Fabry-Perot pressure sensor for high temperature application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fang, G. C.; Jia, P. G.; Cao, Q.; Xiong, J. J.

2016-10-01

We design and demonstrate a fiber-optic Fabry-Perot pressure sensor (FOFPPS) for high-temperature sensing by employing micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) technology. The FOFPPS is fabricated by anodically bonding the silicon wafer and the Pyrex glass together and fixing the facet of the optical fiber in parallel with the silicon surface by glass frit and organic adhesive. The silicon wafer can be reduced through dry etching technology to construct the sensitive diaphragm. The length of the cavity changes with the deformation of the diaphragm due to the loaded pressure, which leads to a wavelength shift of the interference spectrum. The pressure can be gauged by measuring the wavelength shift. The pressure experimental results show that the sensor has linear pressure sensitivities ranging from 0 kPa to 600 kPa at temperature range between 20°C to 300°C. The pressure sensitivity at 300°C is approximately 27.63 pm/kPa. The pressure sensitivities gradually decrease with increasing the temperature. The sensor also has a linear thermal drift when temperature changes from 20°C - 300°C.

Metastable Ar(1 s5) density dependence on pressure and argon-helium mixture in a high pressure radio frequency dielectric barrier discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Emmons, D. J.; Weeks, D. E.; Eshel, B.; Perram, G. P.

2018-01-01

Simulations of an α-mode radio frequency dielectric barrier discharge are performed for varying mixtures of argon and helium at pressures ranging from 200 to 500 Torr using both zero and one-dimensional models. Metastable densities are analyzed as a function of argon-helium mixture and pressure to determine the optimal conditions, maximizing metastable density for use in an optically pumped rare gas laser. Argon fractions corresponding to the peak metastable densities are found to be pressure dependent, shifting from approximately 15% Ar in He at 200 Torr to 10% at 500 Torr. A decrease in metastable density is observed as pressure is increased due to a diminution in the reduced electric field and a quadratic increase in metastable loss rates through A r2* formation. A zero-dimensional effective direct current model of the dielectric barrier discharge is implemented, showing agreement with the trends predicted by the one-dimensional fluid model in the bulk plasma.

[Thiazide diuretics in the treatment of hypertensive patients].

PubMed

Rasmussen, Knud

2015-05-11

This Cochrane review had the objectives to determine the dose-related decrease in blood pressure due to thiazide diuretics compared with placebo control in the treatment of hypertensive patients. Hydrochlorothiazide has a dose-related blood pressure-lowering effect over the dose range 6.25, 12.5, 25 and 50 mg/day of 4/2, 6/3, 8/3 and 11/5 mmHg, respectively. This exceeds the mean 3 mmHg reduction achieved by angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers as shown in other Cochrane reviews, which have compared these antihypertensive drugs with placebo having used similar inclusion/exclusion criteria.

The influence of severe plastic deformation by high pressure torsion on structure and mechanical properties of Hadfield steel single crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakharova, G. G.; Astafurova, E. G.

2010-07-01

Hadfield steel single crystals have been deformed by high pressure torsion at room temperature (P=5GPa) for 1, 2, 3 revolutions. The resulting microstructure has been studied by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray analysis. The size of fragments decreases with increasing number of revolutions due to interaction of slip dislocations, microbands and thin twins. As a result of severe plastic deformation, the microhardness of the Hadfield steel has been increased, and a portion of epsilon, α' martensite has been found.

Apex shift of a circular biconcave vesicle induced by osmotic pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Quan-Hui; Yan, Jie; Zhong-Can, Ou-Yang

1999-09-01

The contribution of a small osmotic pressure into the exact circular biconcave solution (H. Naito, M. Okuda, Ou-Yang Zhong-Can, Phys. Rev. E 48 (1993) 2304; 54 (1996) 2816) of the spontaneous curvature model of Helfrich leads to a definite and new theoretical consequence, the radius of the apex of the biconcave shape can shift toward to or apart from the center depending on the increase or decrease of the osmotic pressure. This result is in agreement with the following observed phenomena: The first stage of the discocyte-echinocyte and the discocyte-spherocyte transformation induced by exposing the cells to high concentrations of certain chemical agents; and the ring-shaped torocyte formation due to the iron deficiency or thalassemia.

An observational study: Effects of tenting of the abdominal wall on peak airway pressure in robotic radical prostatectomy surgery

PubMed Central

Kakde, Avinash Sahebarav; Wagh, Harshal D.

2017-01-01

Background: Robotic radical prostatectomy (RRP) is associated with various anesthetic challenges due to pneumoperitoneum and deep Trendelenburg position. Tenting of the abdominal wall done in RRP surgery causes decrease in peak airway pressure leading to better ventilation. Herein, we aimed to describe the effects of tenting of the abdominal wall on peak airway pressure in RRP surgery performed in deep Trendelenburg position. Methods: One hundred patients admitted for RRP in Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital of American Society of Anesthesiologists 1 and 2 physical status were included in the study. After undergoing preanesthesia work-up, patients received general anesthesia. Peak airway pressures were recorded after induction of general anesthesia, after insufflation of CO2, after giving Trendelenburg position, and after tenting of the abdominal wall with robotic arms. Results: Mean peak airway pressure recording after induction in supine position was 19.5 ± 2.3 cm of H2O, after insufflation of CO2 in supine position was 26.3 ± 2.6 cm of H2O, after giving steep head low was 34.1 ± 3.4 cm of H2O, and after tenting of the abdominal wall with robotic arms was 29.5 ± 2.5 cm of H2O. P value is highly statistically significant (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Tenting of the abdominal wall during RRP is beneficial as it decreases peak airway pressure and helps in better ventilation and thus reduces the ill effects of raised peak airway pressure and intra-abdominal pressures. PMID:28757826

Does blood pressure variability affect the summer associated symptoms amongst females?

PubMed

Sinha, Pragya; Singh, N P; Taneja, D K; Sah, Renuka

2010-04-01

Blood pressure usually increases in winter and decreases in summer i.e, shows seasonal variation. In a tropical country like India women often complain off prominent symptoms like dizziness, giddiness, fainting and weakness during summer months. The objective was to study the prevalence of above symptoms which are common during summer and its association with variation in blood pressure among normotensive healthy females aged 18-40 years. The present study was carried out on 132 women as a prospective observational study which included 2 home visits to the participants in the two different seasons in the months of May-June (summer) and December-January (winter) based on the data provided by the meteorological department of Government of India. Blood pressure and pulse rate (hemodynamic variables) was measured in these seasons and information was collected on the occurrence of the symptoms in these seasons. There was mean decrease of 11.07 +/- 10.29 mm of Hg in Systolic blood pressure & 6.79 +/-6.88 mm of Hg in diastolic blood pressure in summer as compared to winter. The symptoms in the form of weakness, dizziness and blackout which are generally perceived by women in this area to be due to low blood pressure were observed in 32.6% of the study subjects in summer compared with 2.3% in winter. The difference was statistically highly significant (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the mean value of electrolytes, creatinine and urea in the cases and the controls. Thus the seasonal variation in blood pressure rather than electrolytes abnormality may be responsible for these symptoms.

Rupture of thin liquid films on structured surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ajaev, Vladimir S.; Gatapova, Elizaveta Ya.; Kabov, Oleg A.

2011-10-01

We investigate stability and breakup of a thin liquid film on a solid surface under the action of disjoining pressure. The solid surface is structured by parallel grooves. Air is trapped in the grooves under the liquid film. Our mathematical model takes into account the effect of slip due to the presence of menisci separating the liquid film from the air inside the grooves, the deformation of these menisci due to local variations of pressure in the liquid film, and nonuniformities of the Hamaker constant which measures the strength of disjoining pressure. Both linear stability and strongly nonlinear evolution of the film are analyzed. Surface structuring results in decrease of the fastest growing instability wavelength and the rupture time. It is shown that a simplified description of film dynamics based on the standard formula for effective slip leads to significant deviations from the behavior seen in our simulations. Self-similar decay over several orders of magnitude of the film thickness near the rupture point is observed. We also show that the presence of the grooves can lead to instability in otherwise stable films if the relative groove width is above a critical value, found as a function of disjoining pressure parameters.

Probability Analysis of the Wave-Slamming Pressure Values of the Horizontal Deck with Elastic Support

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuo, Weiguang; Liu, Ming; Fan, Tianhui; Wang, Pengtao

2018-06-01

This paper presents the probability distribution of the slamming pressure from an experimental study of regular wave slamming on an elastically supported horizontal deck. The time series of the slamming pressure during the wave impact were first obtained through statistical analyses on experimental data. The exceeding probability distribution of the maximum slamming pressure peak and distribution parameters were analyzed, and the results show that the exceeding probability distribution of the maximum slamming pressure peak accords with the three-parameter Weibull distribution. Furthermore, the range and relationships of the distribution parameters were studied. The sum of the location parameter D and the scale parameter L was approximately equal to 1.0, and the exceeding probability was more than 36.79% when the random peak was equal to the sample average during the wave impact. The variation of the distribution parameters and slamming pressure under different model conditions were comprehensively presented, and the parameter values of the Weibull distribution of wave-slamming pressure peaks were different due to different test models. The parameter values were found to decrease due to the increased stiffness of the elastic support. The damage criterion of the structure model caused by the wave impact was initially discussed, and the structure model was destroyed when the average slamming time was greater than a certain value during the duration of the wave impact. The conclusions of the experimental study were then described.

Segregation of large granules from close-packed cluster of small granules due to buoyancy.

PubMed

Yang, Xian-qing; Zhou, Kun; Qiu, Kang; Zhao, Yue-min

2006-03-01

Segregation of large granules in a vibrofluidized granular bed with inhomogeneous granular number density distribution is studied by an event-driven algorithm. Simulation results show that the mean vertical position of large granules decreases with the increase of the density ration of the large granules to the small ones. This conclusion is consistent with the explanation that the net pressure due to the small surrounding particle impacts balances the large granular weight, and indict that the upward movement of the large granules is driven by the buoyancy. The values of temperature, density, and pressure of the systems are also computed by changing the conditions such as heating temperature on the bottom and restitution coefficient of particles. These results indicate that the segregation of large granules also happen in the systems with density inversion or even close-packed cluster of particles floating on a low-density fluid, due to the buoyancy. An equation of state is proposed to explain the buoyancy.

High-Reynolds-number turbulent-boundary-layer wall-pressure fluctuations with dilute polymer solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elbing, Brian R.; Winkel, Eric S.; Ceccio, Steven L.; Perlin, Marc; Dowling, David R.

2010-08-01

Wall-pressure fluctuations were investigated within a high-Reynolds-number turbulent boundary layer (TBL) modified by the addition of dilute friction-drag-reducing polymer solutions. The experiment was conducted at the U.S. Navy's Large Cavitation Channel on a 12.9 m long flat-plate test model with the surface hydraulically smooth (k+<0.2) and achieving downstream-distance-based Reynolds numbers to 220×106. The polymer (polyethylene oxide) solution was injected into the TBL through a slot in the surface. The primary flow diagnostics were skin-friction drag balances and an array of flush-mounted dynamic pressure transducers 9.8 m from the model leading edge. Parameters varied included the free-stream speed (6.7, 13.4, and 20.2 m s-1) and the injection condition (polymer molecular weight, injection concentration, and volumetric injection flux). The behavior of the pressure spectra, convection velocity, and coherence, regardless of the injection condition, were determined primarily based on the level of drag reduction. Results were divided into two regimes dependent on the level of polymer drag reduction (PDR), nominally separated at a PDR of 40%. The low-PDR regime is characterized by decreasing mean-square pressure fluctuations and increasing convection velocity with increasing drag reduction. This shows that the decrease in the pressure spectra with increasing drag reduction is due in part to the moving of the turbulent structures from the wall. Conversely, with further increases in drag reduction, the high-PDR regime has negligible variation in the mean-squared pressure fluctuations and convection velocity. The convection velocity remains constant at approximately 10% above the baseline-flow convection velocity, which suggests that the turbulent structures no longer move farther from the wall with increasing drag reduction. In light of recent numerical work, the coherence results indicate that in the low-PDR regime, the turbulent structures are being elongated in the streamwise direction and occurring at decreasing frequency. In the high-PDR regime, the rate of occurrence continues to decrease until large-scale coherent turbulent structures are potentially no longer present.

Heat-Exchange Fluids for Sulfuric Acid Vaporizers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lawson, D. D.; Petersen, G. R.

1982-01-01

Some fluorine-substituted organic materials meet criteria for heat-exchange fluids in contact with sulfuric acid. Most promising of these are perfluoropropylene oxide polymers with degree of polymerization (DP) between 10 and 50. It is desirable to have DP in high range because vapor pressure of material decreases as DP increases, and high-DP liquids have lower loss due to vaporization.

Anaerobic Digestion of Cattle Manure Influenced by Swirling Jet Induced Hydrodynamic Cavitation.

PubMed

Langone, Michela; Soldano, Mariangela; Fabbri, Claudio; Pirozzi, Francesco; Andreottola, Gianni

2018-04-01

In this work, a modified swirling jet-induced cavitation has been employed for increasing anaerobic digestion efficiency of cattle manure. The hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) treatment improved the organic matter solubilization and the anaerobic biodegradability of cattle manure. The degree of disintegration increased by 5.8, 8.9, and 15.8% after the HC treatment at 6.0, 7.0, and 8.0 bars, respectively. However, the HC treatment at 7.0 bars had better results in terms of methane production. This result may be attributed to the possible formation of toxic and refractory compounds at higher inlet pressures, which could inhibit the methanization process. Further, total Kjeldahl nitrogen content was found to decrease with increasing inlet pressures, as the pH and the turbulent mixing favored the ammonia stripping processes. HC treatment decreased the viscosity of the treated cattle manure, favoring the manure pumping and mixing. Considerations on the energy input due to the HC pre-treatment and the energy output due to the enhanced methane yield have been presented. A positive energy balance can be obtained looking at the improved operational practices in the anaerobic digesters after the implementation of the HC pre-treatment.

Measurement of effective bulk and contact resistance of gas diffusion layer under inhomogeneous compression - Part I: Electrical conductivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vikram, Ajit; Chowdhury, Prabudhya Roy; Phillips, Ryan K.; Hoorfar, Mina

2016-07-01

This paper describes a measurement technique developed for the determination of the effective electrical bulk resistance of the gas diffusion layer (GDL) and the contact resistance distribution at the interface of the GDL and the bipolar plate (BPP). The novelty of this study is the measurement and separation of the bulk and contact resistance under inhomogeneous compression, occurring in an actual fuel cell assembly due to the presence of the channels and ribs on the bipolar plates. The measurement of the electrical contact resistance, contributing to nearly two-third of the ohmic losses in the fuel cell assembly, shows a non-linear distribution along the GDL/BPP interface. The effective bulk resistance of the GDL under inhomogeneous compression showed a decrease of nearly 40% compared to that estimated for homogeneous compression at different compression pressures. Such a decrease in the effective bulk resistance under inhomogeneous compression could be due to the non-uniform distribution of pressure under the ribs and the channels. This measurement technique can be used to identify optimum GDL, BPP and channel-rib structures based on minimum bulk and contact resistances measured under inhomogeneous compression.

Vibrational collapse of boroxol rings in compacted B2O3 glasses: a study of Raman scattering and low temperature specific heat

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carini, Giovanni, Jr.; Carini, Giuseppe; D’Angelo, Giovanna; Federico, Mauro; Romano, Valentino

2018-05-01

Low and high frequency Raman scattering of B2O3 glasses, compacted under GPa pressures, has been performed to investigate structural changes due to increasing atomic packing. Compacted glasses, annealed at ambient temperature and pressure, experience a time-dependent decrease of the density to a smaller constant value over a period of few months, displaying a permanent plastic deformation. Increasing densification determines a parallel and progressive decrease of the intensity of the Boson peak and the main band at 808 cm‑1, both these modes arising from localized vibrations involving planar boroxol rings (B3O6), the glassy units formed from three basic BO3 triangles. The 808 cm‑1 mode preserves its frequency, while the BP evidences a well-defined frequency increase. The high-frequency multicomponent band between 1200 and 1600 cm‑1 also changes with increasing densification, disclosing a decreasing intensity of the 1260 cm‑1 mode due to oxygen vibrations of BO3 units bridging boroxol rings. This indicates the gradual vibrational collapse of groups formed from rings connected by more complex links than a single bridging oxygen. The observed behaviours suggest that glass compaction causes severe deformation of boroxol rings, determining a decrease of groups which preserve unaltered their vibrational activity. Growing glass densification stiffens the network and leads to a decrease of the excess heat capacity over the Debye prediction below 20 K, which is not accounted for by the hardening of the elastic continuum. By using the low-frequency Raman scattering to determine the temperature dependence of the heat capacity, it has been evaluated the density of low-frequency vibrational states which discloses a significant reduction of excess modes with increasing density.

Cardiovascular effects of pimobendan in healthy mature horses.

PubMed

Afonso, T; Giguère, S; Rapoport, G; Barton, M H; Coleman, A E

2016-05-01

Pimobendan is an inodilator used in dogs for the management of heart failure due to myxomatous valve disease or dilated cardiomyopathy. The lack of data regarding the effects of pimobendan in horses prevents the rational use of this drug. To determine the cardiovascular effects of pimobendan in healthy mature horses. Randomised experimental study. Five horses were fasted overnight prior to receiving i.v. pimobendan (0.25 mg/kg bwt), intragastric (i.g.) pimobendan (0.25 mg/kg bwt) or i.g. placebo with a washout period of one week between each administration. Horses were instrumented for the measurement of right ventricular (RV) minimum pressure, RV maximum pressure, RV end diastolic pressure, and maximum rate of increase and decrease in RV pressure before and 0.5, 1, 2, 4, and 8 h after drug administration. Arterial blood pressure, central venous pressure, cardiac output and heart rate were measured at the same time points. Data were expressed as a maximum percentage of change over baseline values. There were no adverse effects associated with administration of pimobendan. The percentage increase in heart rate was significantly greater for horses given pimobendan i.g. (33 ± 4%) and i.v. (36 ± 14%) than for those given a placebo (-2 ± 7%). The percentage increase in maximum rate of increase in RV pressure (35 ± 36%) and the percentage decrease in minimum pressure (47 ± 24%) and end diastolic pressure (34 ± 13%) were significantly greater in horses given pimobendan i.v. than in those given placebo. Other variables measured were not significantly different between treatment groups. Pimobendan administered i.v. has positive chronotropic and inotropic effects in healthy mature horses and warrants further investigation for the treatment of heart failure in horses. © 2015 EVJ Ltd.

Biophysical effects of water and synthetic urine on skin.

PubMed

Mayrovitz, H N; Sims, N

2001-01-01

Pressure ulcers often occur at sites subjected to pressure and wetness. Although skin wetness is a risk factor for pressure ulcers,the mechanisms and effects of wetness versus urine constituents on skin breakdown is unclear. The hypothesis that wetness reduces skin hardness and, thereby, increases vulnerability of underlying blood vessels to pressure-induced flow reductions was tested in this study. Pads saturated with water and with a water solution mixed with the main chemical constituents of urine (synthetic urine; s-urine) were applied to forearm skin of 10 healthy subjects for 5.5 hours. Skin hardness, blood flow change caused by 60 mm Hg of pressure, erythema, and temperature were compared among dry, water, and s-urine test sites. 10 healthy women. Research Center, Nova Southeastern University, Health Professions Division, Fort Lauderdale, FL. S-urine and water caused significant reductions in initial hardness and caused greater initial perfusion decreases during pressure load when compared with dry sites. Skin temperature and erythema were lower at wet sites when compared with dry sites. The findings of this study are consistent with the concept that sustained skin wetness increases vulnerability to pressure-induced blood flow reduction. The effect appears to be mainly dependent on wetness, but urine constituents may exacerbate the effect. In addition, wetness-related skin cooling may play a role. In the healthy subjects studied, the blood flow decrease was not sustained due to perfusion recovery under pressure. Skin wetness would likely have more sustained effects in patients with compromised recovery mechanisms. Measures to diminish skin exposure to wetness in these patients, whatever the wetness source, are an important consideration in a multifaceted strategy to reduce the risk of pressure ulcers.

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

Martínez-Ruiz, F. J.; Blas, F. J., E-mail: felipe@uhu.es; Centro de Investigación de Física Teórica y Matemática, Universidad de Huelva, 21071 Huelva

We propose an extension of the improved version of the inhomogeneous long-range corrections of Janeček [J. Phys. Chem. B 110, 6264–6269 (2006)], presented recently by MacDowell and Blas [J. Chem. Phys. 131, 074705 (2009)] to account for the intermolecular potential energy of spherical, rigid, and flexible molecular systems, to deal with the contributions to the microscopic components of the pressure tensor due to the dispersive long-range corrections. We have performed Monte Carlo simulations in the canonical ensemble to obtain the interfacial properties of spherical Lennard-Jones molecules with different cutoff distances, r{sub c} = 2.5, 3, 4, and 5σ. In addition,more » we have also considered cutoff distances r{sub c} = 2.5 and 3σ in combination with the inhomogeneous long-range corrections proposed in this work. The normal and tangential microscopic components of the pressure tensor are obtained using the mechanical or virial route in combination with the recipe of Irving and Kirkwood, while the macroscopic components are calculated using the Volume Perturbation thermodynamic route proposed by de Miguel and Jackson [J. Chem. Phys. 125, 164109 (2006)]. The vapour-liquid interfacial tension is evaluated using three different procedures, the Irving-Kirkwood method, the difference between the macroscopic components of the pressure tensor, and the Test-Area methodology. In addition to the pressure tensor and the surface tension, we also obtain density profiles, coexistence densities, vapour pressure, critical temperature and density, and interfacial thickness as functions of temperature, paying particular attention to the effect of the cutoff distance and the long-range corrections on these properties. According to our results, the main effect of increasing the cutoff distance (at fixed temperature) is to sharpen the vapour-liquid interface, to decrease the vapour pressure, and to increase the width of the biphasic coexistence region. As a result, the interfacial thickness decreases, the width of the tangential microscopic component of the pressure tensor profile increases, and the surface tension increases as the cutoff distance is larger. We have also checked the effect of the impulsive contribution to the pressure due to the discontinuity of the intermolecular interaction potential when it is cut. If this contribution is not accounted for in the calculation of the microscopic components of the pressure tensor, incorrect values of both components as well as a wrong structure along the vapour-liquid interface are obtained.« less

Defects in Vascular Mechanics Due to Aging in Rats: Studies on Arterial Wave Properties from a Single Aortic Pressure Pulse.

PubMed

Chang, Chun-Yi; Chang, Ru-Wen; Hsu, Shu-Hsien; Wu, Ming-Shiou; Cheng, Ya-Jung; Kao, Hsien-Li; Lai, Liang-Chuan; Wang, Chih-Hsien; Chang, Kuo-Chu

2017-01-01

Changes in vascular mechanics due to aging include elevated vascular impedance, diminished aorta distensibility, and an accelerated return of pulse wave reflection, which may increase the systolic workload on the heart. Classically, the accurate measurement of vascular mechanics requires the simultaneous recording of aortic pressure and flow signals. In practice, it is feasible to estimate arterial wave properties in terms of wave transit time (τ w ) and wave reflection index (RI) by using aortic pressure signal alone. In this study, we determined the τ w and magnitudes of the forward (∣ P f ∣) and backward (∣ P b ∣) pressure waves in Long-Evans male rats aged 4 ( n = 14), 6 ( n = 17), 12 ( n = 17), and 18 ( n = 24) months, based on the measured aortic pressure and an assumed triangular flow ( Q tri ). The pulsatile pressure wave was the only signal recorded in the ascending aorta by using a high-fidelity pressure sensor. The base of the unknown Q tri was constructed using a duration, which equals to the ejection time. The timing at the peak of the triangle was derived using the fourth-order derivative of the aortic pressure waveform. In the 18-month-old rats, the ratio of τ w to left ventricular ejection time (LVET) decreased, indicating a decline in the distensibility of the aorta. The increased ∣ P b ∣ associated with unaltered ∣ P f ∣ enhanced the RI in the older rats. The augmentation index (AI) also increased significantly with age. A significant negative correlation between the AI and τ w /LVET was observed: AI = -0.7424 - 0.9026 × (τ w /LVET) ( r = 0.4901; P < 0.0001). By contrast, RI was positively linearly correlated with the AI as follows: AI = -0.4844 + 2.3634 × RI ( r = 0.8423; P < 0.0001). Both the decreased τ w /LVET and increased RI suggested that the aging process may increase the AI, thereby increasing the systolic hydraulic load on the heart. The novelty of the study is that Q tri is constructed using the measured aortic pressure wave to approximate its corresponding flow signal, and that calibration of Q tri is not essential in the analysis.

Defects in Vascular Mechanics Due to Aging in Rats: Studies on Arterial Wave Properties from a Single Aortic Pressure Pulse

PubMed Central

Chang, Chun-Yi; Chang, Ru-Wen; Hsu, Shu-Hsien; Wu, Ming-Shiou; Cheng, Ya-Jung; Kao, Hsien-Li; Lai, Liang-Chuan; Wang, Chih-Hsien; Chang, Kuo-Chu

2017-01-01

Changes in vascular mechanics due to aging include elevated vascular impedance, diminished aorta distensibility, and an accelerated return of pulse wave reflection, which may increase the systolic workload on the heart. Classically, the accurate measurement of vascular mechanics requires the simultaneous recording of aortic pressure and flow signals. In practice, it is feasible to estimate arterial wave properties in terms of wave transit time (τw) and wave reflection index (RI) by using aortic pressure signal alone. In this study, we determined the τw and magnitudes of the forward (∣Pf∣) and backward (∣Pb∣) pressure waves in Long–Evans male rats aged 4 (n = 14), 6 (n = 17), 12 (n = 17), and 18 (n = 24) months, based on the measured aortic pressure and an assumed triangular flow (Qtri). The pulsatile pressure wave was the only signal recorded in the ascending aorta by using a high-fidelity pressure sensor. The base of the unknown Qtri was constructed using a duration, which equals to the ejection time. The timing at the peak of the triangle was derived using the fourth-order derivative of the aortic pressure waveform. In the 18-month-old rats, the ratio of τw to left ventricular ejection time (LVET) decreased, indicating a decline in the distensibility of the aorta. The increased ∣Pb∣ associated with unaltered ∣Pf∣ enhanced the RI in the older rats. The augmentation index (AI) also increased significantly with age. A significant negative correlation between the AI and τw/LVET was observed: AI = −0.7424 − 0.9026 × (τw/LVET) (r = 0.4901; P < 0.0001). By contrast, RI was positively linearly correlated with the AI as follows: AI = −0.4844 + 2.3634 × RI (r = 0.8423; P < 0.0001). Both the decreased τw/LVET and increased RI suggested that the aging process may increase the AI, thereby increasing the systolic hydraulic load on the heart. The novelty of the study is that Qtri is constructed using the measured aortic pressure wave to approximate its corresponding flow signal, and that calibration of Qtri is not essential in the analysis. PMID:28751867

Toe blood pressure and leg muscle oxygenation with body posture.

PubMed

Rosales-Velderrain, Armando; Cardno, Michael; Mateus, Jaime; Kumar, Ravindra; Schlabs, Thomas; Hargens, Alan R

2011-05-01

In 1980 Katkov and Chestukhin measured blood pressures and oxygenation invasively at various body tilt angles at different locations on the body, including the foot. To our knowledge, such measurements have not been performed noninvasively. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to measure toe blood pressure (TBP) and lower limb muscle oxygenation noninvasively at various body tilt angles, and to assess the use of a Finometer for noninvasive TBP measurements. Our noninvasive results are compared with those performed by Katkov and Chestukhin. We hypothesized that: 1) the Finometer provides a noninvasive measurement of TBP at different tilt angles; and 2) muscle oxygenation is highest with 0 and -6 degrees, and decreases with increased head-up tilt (HUT). There were 10 subjects who were exposed to different body tilt angles (-6, 0, 10, 30, 70, and 90 degrees). At each angle we measured TBP noninvasively with a Finometer and muscle tissue oxygenation by near infrared spectroscopy. We found a strong correlation between TBP using the Finometer and TBP predicted by adding the hydrostatic component due to body tilt to the standard arm blood pressure measurement. At 10, 30, 70, and 90 degrees both TBP and tissue oxygenation were significantly different from the 0 degree (supine) level. Oxygenation decreased and TBP increased with higher HUT angles. No differences were observed in TBP or oxygenation between -6 and 0 degree. The Finometer accurately measures TBP noninvasively with body tilt. Also, muscle oxygenation is highest at small HUT angles and decreases with increased HUT.

Reduction of Blood Pressure Following After Renal Artery Adventitia Stripping During Total Nephroureterectomy: Potential Effect of Renal Sympathetic Denervation.

PubMed

Okamura, Keisuke; Satou, Shunsuke; Setojima, Keita; Shono, Shinjiro; Miyajima, Shigero; Ishii, Tatsu; Shirai, Kazuyuki; Urata, Hidenori

2018-05-16

BACKGROUND Catheter-based renal sympathetic denervation has been reported to be effective for treatment resistance hypertension in Australia and Europe. However, in the blinded SYMPLICITY HTN-3 trial, renal denervation did not achieve a significant decrease in blood pressure (BP) in comparison to sham controls. There have been various discussions on the factors that influenced this result. CASE REPORT Two men on antihypertensive therapy underwent unilateral radical nephroureterectomy for cancer of the renal pelvis. When the renal artery adventitia was stripped and cauterized just before renal artery ligation, the measured BP of the 2 men increased after stripping adventitia and decreased gradually after cauterization of the renal artery. This was presumably due to removal of renal artery sympathetic nerves, similar to the mechanism of catheter-based renal sympathetic denervation, although anesthesia, fluid infusion, and/or mesenteric traction may have had an influence. CONCLUSIONS A similar strategy involving thoracolumbar sympathectomy was reported about 50 years ago. The clinically significant blood pressure reduction in these patients suggests renal denervation is effective.

Experimental study of geysers through a vent pipe connected to flowing sewers.

PubMed

Huang, Biao; Wu, Shiqiang; Zhu, David Z; Schulz, Harry E

2017-04-01

Geysers of air-water mixtures in urban drainage systems is receiving considerable attention due to public safety concerns. However, the geyser formation process and its relation with air release from pressurized pipes are still relatively little known. A large-scale physical model, that consisted of a main tunnel with a diameter of 270 mm and a length of 25 m connecting two reservoirs and a vertical vent pipe, was established to investigate geyser evolution and pressure transients. Experimental results including dynamic pressure data and high speed videos were analysed in order to characterize geysering flow through the vent pipe. Pressure transients were observed during geysering events. Their amplitudes were found to be about three times the driving pressure head and their periods were close to the classic surge tank predictions. The influence of flow rate and vent pipe size were examined: geyser heights and pressure peaks decreased for small flow rate and large diameter vent pipe. It is suggested that geyser heights are related with the pressure head and the density of the air-water mixture.

Effect of confinement in nano-porous materials on the solubility of a supercritical gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Yaofeng; Huang, Liangliang; Zhao, Shuangliang; Liu, Honglai; Gubbins, Keith E.

2016-11-01

By combining Gibbs Ensemble Monte Carlo simulations and density functional theory, we investigate the influence of confinement in a slit-shaped carbon pore on the solubility of a supercritical solute gas in a liquid solvent. In the cases studied here, competing adsorption of the solvent and solute determines whether the solubility is enhanced or suppressed for larger pores. We find that the solubility in the confined system is strongly dependent on pore width, and that molecular packing effects are important for small pore widths. In addition, the solubility decreases on increase in the temperature, as for the bulk mixture, but the rate of decrease is greater in the pore due to a decrease in the partial molar enthalpy of the solute in the pore; this effect becomes greater as pore width is decreased. The solubility is increased on increasing the bulk pressure of the gas in equilibrium with the pore, and obeys Henry's law at lower pressures. However, the Henry constant differs significantly from that for the bulk mixture, and the range of pressure over which Henry's law applies is reduced relative to that for the bulk mixture. The latter observation indicates that solute-solute interactions become more important in the pore than for the bulk at a given bulk pressure. Finally, we note that different authors use different definitions of the solubility in pores, leading to some confusion over the reported phenomenon of 'oversolubility'. We recommend that solubility be defined as the overall mole fraction of solute in the pores, since it takes into account the increase in density of the solvent in the pores, and avoids ambiguity in the definition of the pore volume.

Heart sounds analysis via esophageal stethoscope system in beagles.

PubMed

Park, Sang Hi; Shin, Young Duck; Bae, Jin Ho; Kwon, Eun Jung; Lee, Tae-Soo; Shin, Ji-Yun; Kim, Yeong-Cheol; Min, Gyeong-Deuk; Kim, Myoung hwan

2013-10-01

Esophageal stethoscope is less invasive and easy to handling. And it gives a lot of information. The purpose of this study is to investigate the correlation of blood pressure and heart sound as measured by esophageal stethoscope. Four male beagles weighing 10 to 12 kg were selected as experimental subjects. After general anesthesia, the esophageal stethoscope was inserted. After connecting the microphone, the heart sounds were visualized and recorded through a self-developed equipment and program. The amplitudes of S1 and S2 were monitored real-time to examine changes as the blood pressure increased and decreased. The relationship between the ratios of S1 to S2 (S1/S2) and changes in blood pressure due to ephedrine was evaluated. The same experiment was performed with different concentration of isoflurane. From S1 and S2 in the inotropics experiment, a high correlation appeared with change in blood pressure in S1. The relationship between S1/S2 and change in blood pressure showed a positive correlation in each experimental subject. In the volatile anesthetics experiment, the heart sounds decreased as MAC increased. Heart sounds were analyzed successfully with the esophageal stethoscope through the self-developed program and equipment. A proportional change in heart sounds was confirmed when blood pressure was changed using inotropics or volatile anesthetics. The esophageal stethoscope can achieve the closest proximity to the heart to hear sounds in a non-invasive manner.

Effects of Salinity and Confining Pressure on Hydration-Induced Fracture Propagation and Permeability of Mancos Shale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Shifeng; Sheng, James J.

2017-11-01

Low-salinity water imbibition was considered an enhanced recovery method in shale oil/gas reservoirs due to the resulting hydration-induced fractures, as observed at ambient conditions. To study the effect of confining pressure and salinity on hydration-induced fractures, time-elapsed computerized tomography (CT) was used to obtain cross-sectional images of shale cores. Based on the CT data of these cross-sectional images, cut faces parallel to the core axial in the middle of the core and 3D fracture images were also reconstructed. To study the effects of confining pressure and salinity on shale pore fluid flowing, shale permeability was measured with Nitrogen (N2), distilled water, 4% KCl solution, and 8% KCl solution. With confining pressures increased to 2 MPa or more, either in distilled water or in KCl solutions of different salinities, fractures were observed to close instead to propagate at the end of the tests. The intrinsic permeabilities of #1 and #2 Mancos shale cores were 60.0 and 7000 nD, respectively. When tested with distilled water, the permeability of #1 shale sample with 20.0 MPa confining pressure loaded, and #2 shale sample with 2.5 MPa confining pressure loaded, decreased to 0.45 and 15 nD, respectively. Using KCl can partly mitigate shale permeability degradation. Compared to 4% KCl, 8% KCl can decrease more permeability damage. From this point of view, high salinity KCl solution should be required for the water-based fracturing fluid.

The changes in resting anal pressure after performing full-thickness rectal advancement flaps.

PubMed

Balciscueta, Zutoia; Uribe, Natalia; Mínguez, Miguel; García-Granero, Eduardo

2017-09-01

Advancement flap is an accepted approach for treating complex fistula-in-ano.The purpose was to evaluate the changes in resting pressure along the anal canal after performing a full-thickness flap. Manometric review of patients who have undergone a full-thickness rectal advancement flap procedure for complex anal fistulas of cryptoglandular origin. Recurrence and continence were evaluated. Resting Anal Pressure was assessed along the anal canal by two measures: maximum resting pressure(MRP) and inferior resting pressure(IRP) at 0.5 cm from the anal verge. 119 patients were evaluated. Overall recurrence rate was5.9%. Anal continence was maintained intact in 76.5%. Manometric study showed a significant decrease in postoperative MRP(90.6 ± 31.9 to 45.2 ± 20 mmHg; p < 0.001), while IRP values did not differ significantly(28.2 ± 18.3 to 23.2 ± 13.5 mmHg; p = 0.1). Performing a full-thickness rectal flap causes a decrease of the MRP in the middle third of the anal canal, due to the inclusion of the internal sphincter in flap. It seems crucial to preserve the distal internal sphincter intact as it helps both to maintain the resting pressure in the lower third and avoid deformities of the anal margin. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Antihypertensive principles from the leaves of Melastoma candidum.

PubMed

Cheng, J T; Hsu, F L; Chen, H F

1993-10-01

Three active principles were isolated from the leaf of Melastoma candidum using the screening of hypotensive effects on spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). Intravenous injection of castalagin, procyanidin B-2, or helichrysoside into SHR lowered the mean blood pressure in a dose-dependent manner, with helichrysoside being the most potent compound. Plasma noradrenaline (NA) levels, both basal in SHR and elevated in normal rats through cold-stress stimulation, were attenuated by these compounds in a way which was not influenced by adrenalectomy. Decrease of NA release from sympathetic nerves was assumed to be responsible. Moreover, the hypertensive effect of various vasoconstrictors in anesthetized rats was reduced by helichrysoside. The same results were also observed in castalagin or procyanidin B-2 treated animals. The results indicate that the three principles possess the ability to lower blood pressure through a decrease of sympathetic tone as well as due to direct vasodilatation in SHRs.

Hot accretion flow with anisotropic viscosity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Mao-Chun; Bu, De-Fu; Gan, Zhao-Ming; Yuan, Ye-Fei

2017-12-01

In extremely low accretion rate systems, the ion mean-free path can be much larger than the gyroradius. Therefore, gas pressure is anisotropic with respect to magnetic field lines. The effects of pressure anisotropy can be modeled by an anisotropic viscosity with respect to magnetic field lines. Angular momentum can be transferred by anisotropic viscosity. In this paper, we investigate hot accretion flow with anisotropic viscosity. We consider the case that anisotropic viscous stress is much larger than Maxwell stress. We find that the flow is convectively unstable. We also find that the mass inflow rate decreases towards a black hole. Wind is very weak; its mass flux is 10-15% of the mass inflow rate. The inward decrease of inflow rate is mainly due to convective motions. This result may be useful to understand the accretion flow in the Galactic Center Sgr A* and M 87 galaxy.

Red-fleshed sweet orange juice improves the risk factors for metabolic syndrome.

PubMed

Silveira, Jacqueline Q; Dourado, Grace K Z S; Cesar, Thais B

2015-01-01

Orange juice consumption can promote lower levels of oxidative stress and inflammation due to the antioxidant activity of citrus flavonoids and carotenoids. In addition, red-fleshed sweet orange juice (red orange juice) also contains lycopene. This study investigated the effects of red orange juice consumption on risk factors for metabolic syndrome. Volunteers consumed red orange juice daily for 8 weeks, with clinical and biochemical assessments performed at baseline and on the final day. There was no change in the abdominal obesity, but low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, C-reactive protein decreased, while there was an increase of the antioxidant activity in serum after red orange juice consumption. Insulin resistance and systolic blood pressure were reduced in normal-weight volunteers, while diastolic blood pressure decreased in overweight volunteers after intervention. Red orange juice showed anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and lipid-lowering properties that may prevent the development of metabolic syndrome.

Cranial diameter pulsations measured by non-invasive ultrasound decrease with tilt

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ueno, Toshiaki; Ballard, Richard E.; Macias, Brandon R.; Yost, William T.; Hargens, Alan R.

2003-01-01

INTRODUCTION: Intracranial pressure (ICP) may play a significant role in physiological responses to microgravity by contributing to the nausea associated with microgravity exposure. However, effects of altered gravity on ICP in astronauts have not been investigated, primarily due to the invasiveness of currently available techniques. We have developed an ultrasonic device that monitors changes in cranial diameter pulsation non-invasively so that we can evaluate ICP dynamics in astronauts during spaceflight. This study was designed to demonstrate the feasibility of our ultrasound technique under the physiological condition in which ICP dynamics are changed due to altered gravitational force. METHODS: Six healthy volunteers were placed at 60 degrees head-up, 30 degrees headup, supine, and 15 degrees head-down positions for 3 min at each angle. We measured arterial blood pressure (ABP) with a finger pressure cuff, and cranial diameter pulsation with a pulsed phase lock loop device (PPLL). RESULTS: Analysis of covariance demonstrated that amplitudes of cranial diameter pulsations were significantly altered with the angle of tilt (p < 0.001). The 95% confidence interval for linear regression coefficients of the cranial diameter pulsation amplitudes with tilt angle was 0.862 to 0.968. However, ABP amplitudes did not show this relationship. DISCUSSION: Our noninvasive ultrasonic technique reveals that the amplitude of cranial diameter pulsation decreases as a function of tilt angle, suggesting that ICP pulsation follows the same relationship. It is demonstrated that the PPLL device has a sufficient sensitivity to detect changes non-invasively in ICP pulsation caused by altered gravity.

Numerical prediction of micro-channel LD heat sink operated with antifreeze based on CFD method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Gang; Liu, Yang; Wang, Chao; Wang, Wentao; Wang, Gang; Tang, Xiaojun

2014-12-01

To theoretically study the feasibility of antifreeze coolants applied as cooling fluids for high power LD heat sink, detailed Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis of liquid cooled micro-channels heat sinks is presented. The performance operated with antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol aqueous solution) compared with pure water are numerical calculated for the heat sinks with the same micro-channels structures. The maximum thermal resistance, total pressure loss (flow resistance), thermal resistance vs. flow-rate, and pressure loss vs. flow-rate etc. characteristics are numerical calculated. The results indicate that the type and temperature of coolants plays an important role on the performance of heat sinks. The whole thermal resistance and pressure loss of heat sinks increase significantly with antifreeze coolants compared with pure water mainly due to its relatively lower thermal conductivity and higher fluid viscosity. The thermal resistance and pressure loss are functions of the flow rate and operation temperature. Increasing of the coolant flow rate can reduce the thermal resistance of heat sinks; meanwhile increase the pressure loss significantly. The thermal resistance tends to a limit with increasing flow rate, while the pressure loss tends to increase exponentially with increasing flow rate. Low operation temperature chiefly increases the pressure loss rather than thermal resistance due to the remarkable increasing of fluid viscosity. The actual working point of the cooling circulation system can be determined on the basis of the pressure drop vs. flow rate curve for the micro-channel heat sink and that for the circulation system. In the same system, if the type or/and temperature of the coolant is changed, the working point is accordingly influenced, that is, working flow rate and pressure is changed simultaneously, due to which the heat sink performance is influenced. According to the numerical simulation results, if ethylene glycol aqueous solution is applied instead of pure water as the coolant under the same or a higher working temperature, the available output of optical power will decrease due to the worse heat sink performance; if applied under a lower working temperature(0 °C, －20 °C), although the heat sink performance become worse, however the temperature difference of heat transfer rises more significantly, the available output of optical power will increase on the contrary.

THE PRODUCTION OF HYDROGEN PEROXIDE BY HIGH OXYGEN PRESSURES

PubMed Central

Gilbert, Daniel L.; Gerschman, Rebeca; Ruhm, K. Barclay; Price, William E.

1958-01-01

Hydrogen peroxide is formed in solutions of glutathione exposed to oxygen. This hydrogen peroxide or its precursors will decrease the viscosity of polymers like desoxyribonucleic acid and sodium alginate. Further knowledge of the mechanism of these chemical effects of oxygen might further the understanding of the biological effects of oxygen. This study deals with the rate of solution of oxygen and with the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide in chemical systems exposed to high oxygen pressures. At 6 atmospheres, the absorption coefficient for oxygen into water was about 1 cm./hour and at 143 atmospheres, it was about 2 cm./hour; the difference probably being due to the modus operandi. The addition of cobalt (II), manganese (II), nickel (II), or zinc ions in glutathione (GSH) solutions exposed to high oxygen pressure decreased the net formation of hydrogen peroxide and also the reduced glutathione remaining in the solution. Studies on hydrogen peroxide decomposition indicated that these ions act probably by accelerating the hydrogen perioxide oxidation of glutathione. The chelating agent, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium salt, inhibited the oxidation of GSH exposed to high oxygen pressure for 14 hours. However, indication that oxidation still occurred, though at a much slower rate, was found in experiments lasting 10 weeks. Thiourea decomposed hydrogen peroxide very rapidly. When GSH solutions were exposed to high oxygen pressure, there was oxidation of the GSH, which became relatively smaller with increasing concentrations of GSH. PMID:13525677

Soft-bed experiments beneath Engabreen, Norway: Regelation, infiltration, basal slip and bed deformation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Iverson, N.R.; Hooyer, T.S.; Fischer, U.H.; Cohen, D.; Moore, P.L.; Jackson, M.; Lappegard, G.; Kohler, J.

2007-01-01

To avoid some of the limitations of studying soft-bed processes through boreholes, a prism of simulated till (1.8 m ?? 1.6 m ?? 0.45 m) with extensive instrumentation was constructed in a trough blasted in the rock bed of Engabreen, a temperate glacier in Norway. Tunnels there provide access to the bed beneath 213 m of ice. Pore-water pressure was regulated in the prism by pumping water to it. During experiments lasting 7-12 days, the glacier regelated downward into the prism to depths of 50-80 mm, accreting ice-infiltrated till at rates predicted by theory. During periods of sustained high pore-water pressure (70-100% of overburden), ice commonly slipped over the prism, due to a water layer at the prism surface. Deformation of the prism was activated when this layer thinned to a sub-millimeter thickness. Shear strain in the till was pervasive and decreased with depth. A model of slip by ploughing of ice-infiltrated till across the prism surface accounts for the slip that occurred when effective pressure was sufficiently low or high. Slip at low effective pressures resulted from water-layer thickening that increased non-linearly with decreasing effective pressure. If sufficiently widespread, such slip over soft glacier beds, which involves no viscous deformation resistance, may instigate abrupt increases in glacier velocity.

Tuning the electronic and the crystalline structure of LaBi by pressure: From extreme magnetoresistance to superconductivity

DOE PAGES

Tafti, F. F.; Torikachvili, M. S.; Stillwell, R. L.; ...

2017-01-10

Here, extreme magnetoresistance (XMR) in topological semimetals is a recent discovery which attracts attention due to its robust appearance in a growing number of materials. To search for a relation between XMR and superconductivity, we study the effect of pressure on LaBi. By increasing pressure, we observe the disappearance of XMR followed by the appearance of superconductivity at P ≈ 3.5 GPa. We find a region of coexistence between superconductivity and XMR in LaBi in contrast to other superconducting XMR materials. The suppression of XMR is correlated with increasing zero-field resistance instead of decreasing in-field resistance. At higher pressures, Pmore » ≈ 11 GPa, we find a structural transition from the face-centered cubic lattice to a primitive tetragonal lattice, in agreement with theoretical predictions. The relationship between extreme magnetoresistance, superconductivity, and structural transition in LaBi is discussed.« less

Hydraulic fracturing and permeability enhancement in granite from subcritical/brittle to supercritical/ductile conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, Noriaki; Egawa, Motoki; Sakaguchi, Kiyotoshi; Ishibashi, Takuya; Tsuchiya, Noriyoshi

2017-06-01

Hydraulic fracturing experiments were conducted at 200-450°C by injecting water into cylindrical granite samples containing a borehole at an initial effective confining pressure of 40 MPa. Intensive fracturing was observed at all temperatures, but the fracturing characteristics varied with temperature, perhaps due to differences in the water viscosity. At the lowest considered temperature (200°C), fewer fractures propagated linearly from the borehole, and the breakdown pressure was twice the confining pressure. However, these characteristics disappeared with increasing temperature; the fracture pattern shifted toward the formation of a greater number of shorter fractures over the entire body of the sample, and the breakdown pressure decreased greatly. Hydraulic fracturing significantly increased the permeability at all temperatures, and this permeability enhancement was likely to form a productive geothermal reservoir even at the highest considered temperature, which exceeded both the brittle-ductile transition temperature of granite and the critical temperature of water.

Local distribution of wall static pressure and heat transfer on a rough flat plate impinged by a slot air jet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meda, Adimurthy; Katti, Vadiraj V.

2017-08-01

The present work experimentally investigates the local distribution of wall static pressure and the heat transfer coefficient on a rough flat plate impinged by a slot air jet. The experimental parameters include, nozzle-to-plate spacing (Z /D h = 0.5-10.0), axial distance from stagnation point ( x/D h ), size of detached rib ( b = 4-12 mm) and Reynolds number ( Re = 2500-20,000). The wall static pressure on the surface is recorded using a Pitot tube and a differential pressure transmitter. Infrared thermal imaging technique is used to capture the temperature distribution on the target surface. It is observed that, the maximum wall static pressure occurs at the stagnation point ( x/D h = 0) for all nozzle-to-plate spacing ( Z/D h ) and rib dimensions studied. Coefficient of wall static pressure ( C p ) decreases monotonically with x/D h . Sub atmospheric pressure is evident in the detached rib configurations for jet to plate spacing up to 6.0 for all ribs studied. Sub atmospheric region is stronger at Z/D h = 0.5 due to the fluid accelerating under the rib. As nozzle to plate spacing ( Z/D h ) increases, the sub-atmospheric region becomes weak and vanishes gradually. Reasonable enhancement in both C p as well as Nu is observed for the detached rib configuration. Enhancement is found to decrease with the increase in the rib width. The results of the study can be used in optimizing the cooling system design.

The impact of the proportion of nanoparticles to the spherical microparticles of silver on the connection parameters LTJT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Szałapak, J.; Kiełbasiński, K.; Krzemiński, J.; Jakubowska, M.

2017-08-01

There are few EU directives restricting use of lead and other hazardous substances in electronics. That leads to ban Pb- Sn alloy from use, the consequence of which is a search for new ways of preparing joints. One of the discussed solutions is using silver particles in Low Temperature Joining Technique (LTJT). This technique allows to use different conducting pastes and lower their sintering temperatures with the use of pressure. The most popular material for the joining tests was silver. Due to its high melting temperature and high pressures needed for lowering the temperature, silver nanoparticles were considered and tested. The temperatures of sintering decreased to 300ºC and the pressures went down from about 40 to less than 10 MPa. Due to unsatisfactory parameters of such joints, the authors prepared mixtures of spherical, submicron-sized silver particles with nanoparticles. Joints were tested for their electrical and shears strength parameters. In this article, the authors show the comparison of different variations of the mixtures with joints prepared only with nanoparticles.

Verification Test of the SURF and SURFplus Models in xRage: Part II

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

Menikoff, Ralph

2016-06-20

The previous study used an underdriven detonation wave (steady ZND reaction zone profile followed by a scale invariant rarefaction wave) for PBX 9502 as a validation test of the implementation of the SURF and SURFplus models in the xRage code. Even with a fairly fine uniform mesh (12,800 cells for 100mm) the detonation wave profile had limited resolution due to the thin reaction zone width (0.18mm) for the fast SURF burn rate. Here we study the effect of finer resolution by comparing results of simulations with cell sizes of 8, 2 and 1 μm, which corresponds to 25, 100 andmore » 200 points within the reaction zone. With finer resolution the lead shock pressure is closer to the von Neumann spike pressure, and there is less noise in the rarefaction wave due to fluctuations within the reaction zone. As a result the average error decreases. The pointwise error is still dominated by the smearing the pressure kink in the vicinity of the sonic point which occurs at the end of the reaction zone.« less

Role of target thickness in proton acceleration from near-critical mass-limited plasmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuri, Deep Kumar; Das, Nilakshi; Patel, Kartik

2017-07-01

The role played by the target thickness in generating high energetic protons by a circularly polarized laser from near-critical mass-limited targets (MLT) has been investigated with the help of three-dimensional (3D) particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations. The radiation pressure accelerates protons from the front side of the target. Due to hole boring, the target front side gets deformed resulting in a change in the effective angle of incidence which causes vacuum heating and hence generates hot electrons. These hot electrons travel through the target at an angle with the laser axis and hence get more diverged along transverse directions for large target thickness. The hot electrons form sheath fields on the target rear side which accelerates protons via target normal sheath acceleration (TNSA). It is observed that the collimation of radiation pressure accelerated protons gets degraded on reaching the target rear side due to TNSA. The effect of transverse hot electron recirculations gets suppressed and the energetic protons get highly collimated on decreasing target thickness as the radiation pressure acceleration (RPA) starts dominating the acceleration process.

Gastrin stimulates renal dopamine production by increasing the renal tubular uptake of l-DOPA.

PubMed

Jiang, Xiaoliang; Zhang, Yanrong; Yang, Yu; Yang, Jian; Asico, Laureano D; Chen, Wei; Felder, Robin A; Armando, Ines; Jose, Pedro A; Yang, Zhiwei

2017-01-01

Gastrin is a peptide hormone that is involved in the regulation of sodium balance and blood pressure. Dopamine, which is also involved in the regulation of sodium balance and blood pressure, directly or indirectly interacts with other blood pressure-regulating hormones, including gastrin. This study aimed to determine the mechanisms of the interaction between gastrin and dopamine and tested the hypothesis that gastrin produced in the kidney increases renal dopamine production to keep blood pressure within the normal range. We show that in human and mouse renal proximal tubule cells (hRPTCs and mRPTCs, respectively), gastrin stimulates renal dopamine production by increasing the cellular uptake of l-DOPA via the l-type amino acid transporter (LAT) at the plasma membrane. The uptake of l-DOPA in RPTCs from C57Bl/6J mice is lower than in RPTCs from normotensive humans. l-DOPA uptake in renal cortical slices is also lower in salt-sensitive C57Bl/6J than in salt-resistant BALB/c mice. The deficient renal cortical uptake of l-DOPA in C57Bl/6J mice may be due to decreased LAT-1 activity that is related to its decreased expression at the plasma membrane, relative to BALB/c mice. We also show that renal-selective silencing of Gast by the renal subcapsular injection of Gast siRNA in BALB/c mice decreases renal dopamine production and increases blood pressure. These results highlight the importance of renal gastrin in stimulating renal dopamine production, which may give a new perspective in the prevention and treatment of hypertension. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Effect of interscalene block on intraocular pressure and ocular perfusion pressure.

PubMed

Basaran, Betul; Yilbas, Aysun Ankay; Gultekin, Zeki

2017-10-23

Interscalene block (ISB) is commonly associated with Horner's syndrome due to spread of local anesthetic to the cervical sympathetic chain. Postganglionic neurons that originate from superior cervical ganglia form the sympathetic innervation of eye. Decrease in sympathetic tone may change intraocular pressure (IOP) and ocular perfusion pressure (OPP). The aim of the study was to investigate whether ISB affects IOP and/or OPP. Thirty patients scheduled for ambulatory shoulder surgery under regional anesthesia with a single-shot ISB (15 mL 0.5% bupivacaine and 15 mL 2% lidocaine) were recruited. The IOP and OPP in both eyes, mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR) and end-tidal CO 2 (ETCO 2 ) were measured before ISB and 5, 10, 20, 30 and 60 min after ISB in the beach-chair position. The baseline IOP and OPP were similar in the blocked and unblocked sides (IOP 17.60 ± 1.69 and 17.40 ± 1.96 respectively p = 0.432; OPP 49.80 ± 8.20 and 50 ± 8.07 respectively p = 0.432). The IOP in the blocked side significantly decreased between 10th to 60th min following ISB, compared to the baseline values (p < 0.001). The OPP in the blocked side significantly increased from 10th to 60th min (p < 0.001) whereas, there were no significant changes in IOP and OPP throughout the measurement period in the unblocked side. ISB decreased IOP in the blocked side. ISB could be considered as a safe regional technique of choice in elderly patients at high risk for developing glaucoma.

Influence of different substrates on the performance of a two-stage high pressure anaerobic digestion system.

PubMed

Lemmer, A; Chen, Y; Lindner, J; Wonneberger, A M; Zielonka, S; Oechsner, H; Jungbluth, T

2015-02-01

The two-stage autogenerative high-pressure digestion technique is a novel and promising approach for the production of gaseous fuels or upgraded biogas. This new technique is described in the patent DE 10 2011 015415 A1 and integrates biogas production, its upgrading and pressure boosting in one process. Anaerobic digestion under elevated pressure conditions leads to decreasing pH-values in the digestate due to the augmented formation of carboxylic acid. Model calculations carried out to evaluate the two-stage design showed that the pH-value in the pressurized anaerobic filter has a major influence on the methane content of the biogas produced. Within this study, the influence of the nitrogen content as one of the most important buffering substances on the performance of the system has been tested. The results show that higher NH4 contents lead to higher pH-values in the digester and as a consequence to higher methane contents. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Association between ascites and primary hyperfibrinolysis: A cohort study in 210 dogs.

PubMed

Zoia, Andrea; Drigo, Michele; Simioni, Paolo; Caldin, Marco; Piek, Christine J

2017-05-01

Coagulation profiles were determined in 70 dogs with ascites, 70 healthy control dogs and 70 sick control dogs without ascites. Dogs with ascites were divided into four sub-groups based on the pathophysiology of fluid formation. Coagulation profile, serum C-reactive protein and frequency of discordant plasma fibrin-fibrinogen degradation products and D-dimer assay results, suggesting primary hyperfibrinolysis, were compared between groups. Within the ascites group, 10 samples of ascitic fluid were transudates due to decreased osmotic pressure, 18 were transudates due to increased hydrostatic pressure, 13 were exudates and 29 were haemorrhagic. Plasma fibrinogen concentrations were significantly lower in dogs with ascites compared to sick dogs without ascites. Activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, plasma concentrations of fibrin-fibrinogen degradation products and D-dimers, and frequency of primary hyperfibrinolysis, were significantly higher for dogs with ascites compared to both control groups. There was no significant difference in platelet count between groups. The frequency of primary hyperfibrinolysis was highest in dogs with transudative ascites due to increased hydrostatic pressure. Serum C-reactive protein was significantly higher in dogs with ascites compared to both control groups, and significantly and positively correlated with plasma D-dimers. In conclusion, dogs with ascites have an increased frequency of primary hyperfibrinolysis, especially with ascites secondary to increased hydrostatic pressure. The increased inflammation present in these dogs may have activated haemostasis in some cases, explaining the higher plasma D-dimers. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Static strength of molybdenum to 92 GPa under radial X-ray diffraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiong, L.; Tu, P.; Li, B.; Wu, S. Y.; Hao, J. B.; Bai, L. G.; Li, X. D.; Liu, J.

2018-06-01

The high-pressure strength of molybdenum (Mo) to 92 GPa has been studied by radial X-ray diffraction (RXRD) technique. The ratio of t/G is found to decrease above ˜24 GPa, showing the yield of Mo which is caused by plastic deformation at this pressure. Combined with high-pressure shear modulus, it was found that the differential stress corresponding to the yield of Mo at 24 GPa due to plastic deformation is 1.73 GPa. The second increase of t values occurs after ˜66 GPa, suggesting the strength of Mo with a differential stress of ˜1.93 GPa. In addition, the maximum difference stress of molybdenum at 87 GPa is 3.01 GPa.

On the melt infiltration of copper coated silicon carbide with an aluminium alloy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Asthana, R.; Rohatgi, P. K.

1992-01-01

Pressure-assisted infiltration of porous compacts of Cu coated and uncoated single crystals of platelet shaped alpha (hexagonal) SiC was used to study infiltration dynamics and particulate wettability with a 2014 Al alloy. The infiltration lengths were measured for a range of experimental variables which included infiltration pressure, infiltration time, and SiC size. A threshold pressure (P(th)) for flow initiation through compacts was identified from an analysis of infiltration data; P(th) decreased while penetration lengths increased with increasing SiC size (more fundamentally, due to changes in interparticle pore size) and with increasing infiltration times. Cu coated SiC led to lower P(th) and 60-80 percent larger penetration lengths compared to uncoated SiC under identical processing conditions.

Influence of probe pressure on diffuse reflectance spectra of human skin measured in vivo

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Popov, Alexey P.; Bykov, Alexander V.; Meglinski, Igor V.

2017-11-01

Mechanical pressure superficially applied on the human skin surface by a fiber-optic probe influences the spatial distribution of blood within the cutaneous tissues. Upon gradual load of weight on the probe, a stepwise increase in the skin reflectance spectra is observed. The decrease in the load follows the similar inverse staircase-like tendency. The observed stepwise reflectance spectra changes are due to, respectively, sequential extrusion of blood from the topical cutaneous vascular beds and their filling afterward. The obtained results are confirmed by Monte Carlo modeling. This implies that pressure-induced influence during the human skin diffuse reflectance spectra measurements in vivo should be taken into consideration, in particular, in the rapidly developing area of wearable gadgets for real-time monitoring of various human body parameters.

Mixing Characteristics of Elliptical Jet Control with Crosswire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manigandan, S.; Vijayaraja, K.

2018-02-01

The aerodynamic mixing efficiency of elliptical sonic jet flow with the effect of crosswire is studied computationally and experimentally at different range of nozzle pressure ratio with different orientation along the minor axis of the exit. The cross wire of different orientation is found to reduce the strength of the shock wave formation. Due to the presence of crosswire the pitot pressure oscillation is reduced fast, which weakens the shock cell structure. When the cross wire is placed at center position we see high mixing along the major axis. Similarly, when the cross wire is placed at ¼ and ¾ position we see high mixing promotion along minor axis. It also proves, as the position of the cross wire decreased along minor axis there will be increase in the mixing ratio. In addition to that we also found that, jet spread is high in major axis compared to minor axis due to bifurcation of jet along upstream

A model of neonatal tidal liquid ventilation mechanics.

PubMed

Costantino, M L; Fiore, G B

2001-09-01

Tidal liquid ventilation (TLV) with perfluorocarbons (PFC) has been proposed to treat surfactant-deficient lungs of preterm neonates, since it may prevent pulmonary instability by abating saccular surface tension. With a previous model describing gas exchange, we showed that ventilator settings are crucial for CO(2) scavenging during neonatal TLV. The present work is focused on some mechanical aspects of neonatal TLV that were hardly studied, i.e. the distribution of mechanical loads in the lungs, which is expected to differ substantially from gas ventilation. A new computational model is presented, describing pulmonary PFC hydrodynamics, where viscous losses, kinetic energy changes and lung compliance are accounted for. The model was implemented in a software package (LVMech) aimed at calculating pressures (and approximately estimate shear stresses) within the bronchial tree at different ventilator regimes. Simulations were run taking the previous model's outcomes into account. Results show that the pressure decrease due to high saccular compliance may compensate for the increased pressure drops due to PFC viscosity, and keep airway pressure low. Saccules are exposed to pressures remarkably different from those at the airway opening; during expiration negative pressures, which may cause airway collapse, are moderate and appear in the upper airways only. Delivering the fluid with a slightly smoothed square flow wave is convenient with respect to a sine wave. The use of LVMech allows to familiarize with LV treatment management taking the lungs' mechanical load into account, consistently with a proper respiratory support.

Modulation of plantar pressure and gastrocnemius activity during gait using electrical stimulation of the tibialis anterior in healthy adults

PubMed Central

Ueno, Mizuki; Yoshikawa, Yoshiyuki; Terashi, Hiroto; Fujino, Hidemi

2018-01-01

High plantar flexor moment during the stance phase is known to cause high plantar pressure under the forefoot; however, the effects on plantar pressure due to a change of gastrocnemius medialis (GM) activity during gait, have not been investigated to date. Reciprocal inhibition is one of the effects of electrical stimulation (ES), and is the automatic antagonist alpha motor neuron inhibition which is evoked by excitation of the agonist muscle. The aim of this study was to investigate the influences of ES of the tibialis anterior (TA) on plantar pressure and the GM activity during gait in healthy adults. ES was applied to the TAs of twenty healthy male adults for 30 minutes at the level of intensity that causes a full range of dorsiflexion in the ankle (frequency; 50 Hz, on-time; 10 sec, off-time; 10 sec). Subjects walked 10 meters before and after ES, and we measured the peak plantar pressure (PP), pressure time integral (PTI), and gait parameters by using an F-scan system. The percentage of integrated electromyogram (%IEMG), active time, onset time, peak time, and cessation time of TA and GM were calculated. PP and PTI under the forefoot, rear foot, and total plantar surface significantly decreased after the application of ES. Meanwhile, changes of gait parameters were not observed. %IEMG and the active time of both muscles did not change; however, onset time and peak time of GM became significantly delayed. ES application to the TA delayed the timing of onset and peak in the GM, and caused the decrease of plantar pressure during gait. The present results suggest that ES to the TA could become a new method for the control of plantar pressure via modulation of GM activity during gait. PMID:29746498

Study of the effect of jejuno-ileal distension on the motor activity of the stomach with evidence of "entero-gastric inhibitory reflex".

PubMed

Shafik, Ahmed; Shafik, Ali A; el-Sibai, Olfat

2003-01-01

In chronic constipation due to delayed colonic transit, stasis of the ileal contents with resulting ileal distension may occur. The current study investigated the effect of ileal and jejunal distension on the gastric motility, aiming at elucidating the possible existence of a relationship and its role in the flow through the gut. The response of the gastric pressure to ileal and jejunal balloon distension in increments of 2 mL of saline was recorded in 12 mongrel dogs. The test was repeated after separate local anesthetization of the ileum, jejunum and stomach. 2- and 4-mL ileal balloon distension produced no significant gastric pressure response, while 6- and up to 10-mL distension effected decrease of the antral and corporeal pressures (p < 0.05, p < 0.05, respectively). Jejunal distension produced a gastric pressure decline (p < 0.05) with 4 and up to 10 mL of saline. The gastric pressure decrease did not show significant changes with the various distending volumes. It was maintained as long as ileal or jejunal distension was continued. Distension of the anesthetized ileum or jejunum caused no gastric pressure changes, nor did ileal or jejunal distension produce pressure changes in the anesthetized stomach. The gastric pressure decline and presumably hypotonia upon ileal or jejunal distension with big volumes postulate a reflex relationship which we call "entero-gastric inhibitory reflex". The small intestine is suggested to slow down gastric emptying through this reflex. A balance is thus created between chyme delivery from the stomach and chyme processing by the small intestine. Reflex derangement in neurogenic and myogenic diseases may result in gastrointestinal disorders, a point that needs to be investigated.

Cirrus Cloud Retrieval Using Infrared Sounding Data: Multilevel Cloud Errors.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baum, Bryan A.; Wielicki, Bruce A.

1994-01-01

In this study we perform an error analysis for cloud-top pressure retrieval using the High-Resolution Infrared Radiometric Sounder (HIRS/2) 15-µm CO2 channels for the two-layer case of transmissive cirrus overlying an overcast, opaque stratiform cloud. This analysis includes standard deviation and bias error due to instrument noise and the presence of two cloud layers, the lower of which is opaque. Instantaneous cloud pressure retrieval errors are determined for a range of cloud amounts (0.1 1.0) and cloud-top pressures (850250 mb). Large cloud-top pressure retrieval errors are found to occur when a lower opaque layer is present underneath an upper transmissive cloud layer in the satellite field of view (FOV). Errors tend to increase with decreasing upper-cloud elective cloud amount and with decreasing cloud height (increasing pressure). Errors in retrieved upper-cloud pressure result in corresponding errors in derived effective cloud amount. For the case in which a HIRS FOV has two distinct cloud layers, the difference between the retrieved and actual cloud-top pressure is positive in all casts, meaning that the retrieved upper-cloud height is lower than the actual upper-cloud height. In addition, errors in retrieved cloud pressure are found to depend upon the lapse rate between the low-level cloud top and the surface. We examined which sounder channel combinations would minimize the total errors in derived cirrus cloud height caused by instrument noise and by the presence of a lower-level cloud. We find that while the sounding channels that peak between 700 and 1000 mb minimize random errors, the sounding channels that peak at 300—500 mb minimize bias errors. For a cloud climatology, the bias errors are most critical.

Reduction of Blood Pressure Following After Renal Artery Adventitia Stripping During Total Nephroureterectomy: Potential Effect of Renal Sympathetic Denervation

PubMed Central

Okamura, Keisuke; Satou, Shunsuke; Setojima, Keita; Shono, Shinjiro; Miyajima, Shigero; Ishii, Tatsu; Shirai, Kazuyuki; Urata, Hidenori

2018-01-01

Case series Patients: Male, 85 • Male, 89 Final Diagnosis: Essential hypertension Symptoms: High blood pressure Medication: Anti-hypertensive agents Clinical Procedure: Operation Specialty: Cardiology and Hypertension Objective: Unusual or unexpected effect of treatment Background: Catheter-based renal sympathetic denervation has been reported to be effective for treatment resistance hypertension in Australia and Europe. However, in the blinded SYMPLICITY HTN-3 trial, renal denervation did not achieve a significant decrease in blood pressure (BP) in comparison to sham controls. There have been various discussions on the factors that influenced this result. Case Reports: Two men on antihypertensive therapy underwent unilateral radical nephroureterectomy for cancer of the renal pelvis. When the renal artery adventitia was stripped and cauterized just before renal artery ligation, the measured BP of the 2 men increased after stripping adventitia and decreased gradually after cauterization of the renal artery. This was presumably due to removal of renal artery sympathetic nerves, similar to the mechanism of catheter-based renal sympathetic denervation, although anesthesia, fluid infusion, and/or mesenteric traction may have had an influence. Conclusions: A similar strategy involving thoracolumbar sympathectomy was reported about 50 years ago. The clinically significant blood pressure reduction in these patients suggests renal denervation is effective. PMID:29765015

Pressure effects on the dissipative behavior of nanocrystalline diamond microelectromechanical resonators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santos, J. T.; Holz, T.; Fernandes, A. J. S.; Costa, F. M.; Chu, V.; Conde, J. P.

2015-02-01

Diamond-based microelectromechanical resonators have the potential of enhanced performance due to the chemical inertness of the diamond structural layer and its high Young’s modulus, high wear resistance, low thermal expansion coefficient, and very high thermal conductivity. In this work, the resonance frequency and quality factor of MEMS resonators based on nanocrystalline diamond films are characterized under different air pressures. The dynamic behavior of 50-300 μm long linear bridges and double ended tuning forks, with resonance frequencies between 0.5 and 15 MHz and quality factors as high as 50 000 are described as a function of measurement pressure from high vacuum(~10 mTorr) up to atmospheric conditions. The resonance frequencies and quality factors in vacuum show good agreement with the theoretical models including anchor and thermoelastic dissipation (TED). The Young’s moduli for nanocrystalline diamond films extrapolated from experimental data are between 840-920 GPa. The critical pressure values, at which the quality factor starts decreasing due to dissipation in air, are dependent on the resonator length. Longer structures, with quality factors limited by TED and lower resonance frequencies, have low critical pressures, of the order of 1-10 Torr and go from an intrinsic dissipation, to a molecular dissipation regime and finally to a region of viscous dissipation. Shorter resonators, with higher resonance frequencies and quality factors limited by anchor losses, have higher critical pressures, some higher than atmospheric pressure, and enter directly into the viscous dissipation regime from the intrinsic region.

Pet food safety: sodium in pet foods.

PubMed

Chandler, Marjorie L

2008-08-01

Healthy dogs and cats appear to be able to adjust to differing amounts of sodium in their diet via the rennin-angiotensin-aldosterone mechanisms. There is no strong evidence that increased dietary sodium increases the risk of hypertension in dogs and cats, and the current recommendation for hypertensive animals is to avoid high dietary salt intake without making a specific effort to restrict it. The prevalence of salt sensitivity and its effect on blood pressure has not been determined for cats or dogs. The ideal amount of sodium in the diet of dogs and cats with cardiac deficiency has not been determined, as increasing may detrimentally increase the extracellular fluid volume, but decreasing it may detrimentally increase the activation of the rennin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Increased dietary sodium increases urine output and may decrease the risk of forming calcium oxalate uroliths due to the decrease in relative supersaturation of solutes. However, caution should be used in increasing the sodium intake of patients with renal disease as increased dietary sodium may have a negative effect on the kidneys independent of any effect on blood pressure.

Bone marrow support of the heart in pressure overload is lost with aging.

PubMed

Sopko, Nikolai A; Turturice, Benjamin A; Becker, Mitchell E; Brown, Chase R; Dong, Feng; Popović, Zoran B; Penn, Marc S

2010-12-21

Exogenous stem cell delivery is under investigation to prevent and treat cardiac dysfunction. It is less studied as to the extent endogenous bone marrow derived stem cells contribute to cardiac homeostais in response to stress and the affects of aging on this stress response. To determine the role of bone marrow (BM) derived stem cells on cardiac homeostasis in response to pressure overload (PO) and how this response is altered by aging. Young (8 weeks) and old (>40 weeks) C57/b6 mice underwent homo- and heterochronic BM transplantation prior to transverse aortic constriction (TAC). We found that older BM is associated with decreased cardiac function following TAC. This decreased function is associated with decrease in BM cell engraftment, increased myocyte apoptosis, decreased myocyte hypertrophy, increased myocardial fibrosis and decreased cardiac function. Additionally, there is a decrease in activation of resident cells within the heart in response to PO in old mice. Interestingly, these effects are not due to alterations in vascular density or inflammation in response to PO or differences in ex vivo stem cell migration between young and old mice. BM derived stem cells are activated in response to cardiac PO, and the recruitment of BM derived cells are involved in cardiac myocyte hypertrophy and maintenance of function in response to PO which is lost with aging.

Minimal pneumothorax with dynamic changes in ST segment similar to myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Yeom, Seok-Ran; Park, Sung-Wook; Kim, Young-Dae; Ahn, Byung-Jae; Ahn, Jin-Hee; Wang, Il-Jae

2017-08-01

Pneumothorax can cause a variety of electrocardiographic changes. ST segment elevation, which is mainly observed in myocardial infarction, can also be induced by pneumothorax. The mechanism is presumed to be a decrease in cardiac output, due to increased intra-thoracic pressure. We encountered a patient with ST segment elevation with minimal pneumothorax. Coronary angiography with ergonovine provocation test and echocardiogram had normal findings. The ST segment elevation was normalized by decreasing the amount of pneumothorax. We reviewed the literature and present possible mechanisms for this condition. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Bauer, Stephen J.

The elevation change data measured at the Bryan Mound Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) site over the last 16+ years has been studied and a model utilized to project elevation changes into the future. The subsidence rate at Bryan Mound is low in comparison with other Strategic Petroleum Reserve sites and has decreased with time due to the maintenance of higher operating pressures and the normal decrease in creep closure rate of caverns with time. However, the subsidence at the site is projected to continue. A model was developed to project subsidence values 20 years into the future; no subsidence relatedmore » issues are apparent from these projections.« less

The structural, electronic and magnetic properties of CoS2 under pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Zhong-Ying; Yang, Yan; Zhang, Jian-Min

2018-05-01

The structural, electronic and magnetic properties of CoS2 under pressure have been investigated by the first-principles calculations. The lattice constant and volume decrease with increasing pressure. The CoS2 is stable and behaves a brittle characteristic under the pressures of 0-5 GPa. The CoS2 presents metallic characteristic under the pressures of 1-5 GPa although it is nearly half-metal (HM) under the pressure of 0 GPa. The lowest conduction bands for spin-up and spin-down channels shift towards higher and lower energy region, respectively, with the pressure increasing from 0 to 5 GPa. In spin-up channel the conduction band minimum (CBM) is mainly contributed by Co-3d(eg) orbitals at R point but the valence band maximum (VBM) is contributed by Co-3d(t2g) orbitals near M point. While in spin-down channel the CBM is contributed by S-3p orbitals at Γ point but the VBM is contributed by Co-3d(t2g) orbitals near X point. The CoS2 is still suitable to be used in the supercapacitor under the environmental pressures of 0-5 GPa due to the high conductivity.

Analysis of scale effect in compressive ice failure and implications for design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taylor, Rocky Scott

The main focus of the study was the analysis of scale effect in local ice pressure resulting from probabilistic (spalling) fracture and the relationship between local and global loads due to the averaging of pressures across the width of a structure. A review of fundamental theory, relevant ice mechanics and a critical analysis of data and theory related to the scale dependent pressure behavior of ice were completed. To study high pressure zones (hpzs), data from small-scale indentation tests carried out at the NRC-IOT were analyzed, including small-scale ice block and ice sheet tests. Finite element analysis was used to model a sample ice block indentation event using a damaging, viscoelastic material model and element removal techniques (for spalling). Medium scale tactile sensor data from the Japan Ocean Industries Association (JOIA) program were analyzed to study details of hpz behavior. The averaging of non-simultaneous hpz loads during an ice-structure interaction was examined using local panel pressure data. Probabilistic averaging methodology for extrapolating full-scale pressures from local panel pressures was studied and an improved correlation model was formulated. Panel correlations for high speed events were observed to be lower than panel correlations for low speed events. Global pressure estimates based on probabilistic averaging were found to give substantially lower average errors in estimation of load compared with methods based on linear extrapolation (no averaging). Panel correlations were analyzed for Molikpaq and compared with JOIA results. From this analysis, it was shown that averaging does result in decreasing pressure for increasing structure width. The relationship between local pressure and ice thickness for a panel of unit width was studied in detail using full-scale data from the STRICE, Molikpaq, Cook Inlet and Japan Ocean Industries Association (JOIA) data sets. A distinct trend of decreasing pressure with increasing ice thickness was observed. The pressure-thickness behavior was found to be well modeled by the power law relationships Pavg = 0.278 h-0.408 MPa and Pstd = 0.172h-0.273 MPa for the mean and standard deviation of pressure, respectively. To study theoretical aspects of spalling fracture and the pressure-thickness scale effect, probabilistic failure models have been developed. A probabilistic model based on Weibull theory (tensile stresses only) was first developed. Estimates of failure pressure obtained with this model were orders of magnitude higher than the pressures observed from benchmark data due to the assumption of only tensile failure. A probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM) model including both tensile and compressive (shear) cracks was developed. Criteria for unstable fracture in tensile and compressive (shear) zones were given. From these results a clear theoretical scale effect in peak (spalling) pressure was observed. This scale effect followed the relationship Pp,th = 0.15h-0.50 MPa which agreed well with the benchmark data. The PFM model was applied to study the effect of ice edge shape (taper angle) and hpz eccentricity. Results indicated that specimens with flat edges spall at lower pressures while those with more tapered edges spall less readily. The mean peak (failure) pressure was also observed to decrease with increased eccentricity. It was concluded that hpzs centered about the middle of the ice thickness are the zones most likely to create the peak pressures that are of interest in design. Promising results were obtained using the PFM model, which provides strong support for continued research in the development and application of probabilistic fracture mechanics to the study of scale effects in compressive ice failure and to guide the development of methods for the estimation of design ice pressures.

Characteristics of Pressure Sensitive Paint Intrusiveness Effects on Aerodynamic Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Amer, Tahani R.; Liu, Tianshu; Oglesby, Donald M.

2001-01-01

One effect of using pressure sensitive paint (PSP) is the potential intrusiveness to the aerodynamic characteristics of the model. The paint thickness and roughness may affect the pressure distribution, and therefore, the forces and moments on the wind tunnel model. A study of these potential intrusive effects was carried out at NASA Langley Research Center where a series of wind tunnel tests were conducted using the Modem Design of Experiments (MDOE) test approach. The PSP effects on the integrated forces were measured on two different models at different test conditions in both the Low Turbulence Pressure Tunnel (LTPT) and the Unitary Plan Wind Tunnel (UPWT) at Langley. The paint effect was found to be very small over a range of Reynolds numbers, Mach numbers and angles of attack. This is due to the very low surface roughness of the painted surface. The surface roughness, after applying the NASA Langley developed PSP, was lower than that of the clean wing. However, the PSP coating had a localized effects on the pressure taps, which leads to an appreciable decrease in the pressure tap reading.

Effect of pressure on magnetic properties of mixed ferro-ferrimagnet (Ni0.38Mn0.62)3[Cr(CN)6]2.zH2O

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zentková, M.; Mihalik, M.; Arnold, Z.; Kamarád, J.

2010-01-01

We present the results of magnetization measurements performed on the ferro-ferrimagnetic (Ni0.38Mn0.62)3[Cr(CN)6]2.zH2O molecule-based magnet under pressures up to 0.8 GPa. Both antiferromagnetic JAF and ferromagnetic interaction JF are present in this magnet and temperature dependence of magnetization μ(T) exhibits the compensation temperature Tcomp at which the sign of the magnetization is reversed. Our results indicate that JAF dominates. The Curie temperature TC of the magnet increases with applied pressure, dTC/dp = 10.6 KGPa-1, due to strengthened JAF. The increase of the JAF is attributed to the enhanced value of the single electron overlapping integral S and the energy gap Δ of the mixed molecular orbitals t2g (Mn2+) and t2g (CrIII) induced by pressure. Magnetization processes are also affected by pressure: magnetization saturates at higher magnetic field and saturated magnetization is reduced. The compensation temperature Tcomp decreases under pressure.

Filament wound metal lined propellant tanks for future Earth-to-orbit transports

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Macconochie, Ian O.; Davis, Robert B.; Freeman, William T., Jr.

1988-01-01

For future Earth-to-orbit transport vehicles, reusability and lighter weights are sought for the main propellant tanks. To achieve this, a filament wound tank with a metal liner and an intermediate layer of foam-filled honeycomb is proposed. A hydrogen tank is used as an example. To accommodate mismatches in the expansion of liner and overwrap a design is proposed wherin the liner is configured so that the extension of the liner under pressure matches the expected contraction of the same liner due to the presence of a cryogen. In operation, the liner is pressurized at a rate such that the pressure strain matches the contraction due to decrease in temperature. As an alternate approach, compressive pre-stress is placed in the liner such that it will not separate from the overwrap. A finite element program is used to show stresses in the liner and overwrap for various tank pressures for the pre-stressed liner concept. A fracture mechanics analysis is made of the liners to determine tank life. The tank concept shown has a similar weight to the Shuttle external hydrogen tank, but the filament wound tank is expected to be reusable. Integration of the propellant tanks into a future transport vehicle is discussed.

Testing for altruism and social pressure in charitable giving.

PubMed

DellaVigna, Stefano; List, John A; Malmendier, Ulrike

2012-01-01

Every year, 90% of Americans give money to charities. Is such generosity necessarily welfare enhancing for the giver? We present a theoretical framework that distinguishes two types of motivation: individuals like to give, for example, due to altruism or warm glow, and individuals would rather not give but dislike saying no, for example, due to social pressure. We design a door-to-door fund-raiser in which some households are informed about the exact time of solicitation with a flyer on their doorknobs. Thus, they can seek or avoid the fund-raiser. We find that the flyer reduces the share of households opening the door by 9% to 25% and, if the flyer allows checking a Do Not Disturb box, reduces giving by 28% to 42%. The latter decrease is concentrated among donations smaller than $10. These findings suggest that social pressure is an important determinant of door-to-door giving. Combining data from this and a complementary field experiment, we structurally estimate the model. The estimated social pressure cost of saying no to a solicitor is $3.80 for an in-state charity and $1.40 for an out-of-state charity. Our welfare calculations suggest that our door-to-door fund-raising campaigns on average lower the utility of the potential donors.

Shock-induced collapse of a gas bubble in shockwave lithotripsy.

PubMed

Johnsen, Eric; Colonius, Tim

2008-10-01

The shock-induced collapse of a pre-existing nucleus near a solid surface in the focal region of a lithotripter is investigated. The entire flow field of the collapse of a single gas bubble subjected to a lithotripter pulse is simulated using a high-order accurate shock- and interface-capturing scheme, and the wall pressure is considered as an indication of potential damage. Results from the computations show the same qualitative behavior as that observed in experiments: a re-entrant jet forms in the direction of propagation of the pulse and penetrates the bubble during collapse, ultimately hitting the distal side and generating a water-hammer shock. As a result of the propagation of this wave, wall pressures on the order of 1 GPa may be achieved for bubbles collapsing close to the wall. The wall pressure decreases with initial stand-off distance and pulse width and increases with pulse amplitude. For the stand-off distances considered in the present work, the wall pressure due to bubble collapse is larger than that due to the incoming shockwave; the region over which this holds may extend to ten initial radii. The present results indicate that shock-induced collapse is a mechanism with high potential for damage in shockwave lithotripsy.

Shock-induced collapse of a gas bubble in shockwave lithotripsy

PubMed Central

Johnsen, Eric; Colonius, Tim

2008-01-01

The shock-induced collapse of a pre-existing nucleus near a solid surface in the focal region of a lithotripter is investigated. The entire flow field of the collapse of a single gas bubble subjected to a lithotripter pulse is simulated using a high-order accurate shock- and interface-capturing scheme, and the wall pressure is considered as an indication of potential damage. Results from the computations show the same qualitative behavior as that observed in experiments: a re-entrant jet forms in the direction of propagation of the pulse and penetrates the bubble during collapse, ultimately hitting the distal side and generating a water-hammer shock. As a result of the propagation of this wave, wall pressures on the order of 1 GPa may be achieved for bubbles collapsing close to the wall. The wall pressure decreases with initial stand-off distance and pulse width and increases with pulse amplitude. For the stand-off distances considered in the present work, the wall pressure due to bubble collapse is larger than that due to the incoming shockwave; the region over which this holds may extend to ten initial radii. The present results indicate that shock-induced collapse is a mechanism with high potential for damage in shockwave lithotripsy. PMID:19062841

Effects on surface meteorological parameters and radiation levels of a heavy dust storm occurred in Central Arabian Peninsula

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maghrabi, A. H.; Al-Dosari, A. F.

2016-12-01

On 24 April 2015 a severe dust storm event arrived at Riyadh causing various problems. The quantitative impact of this dusty event on solar ultraviolet radiation UVA and UVB, global solar radiation component, downward and outgoing long-wave radiation, and some meteorological variables, was investigated and presented. The results showed significant changes in all of these parameters due to this event. Shortly after the storm arrived, UVA, UVB, global radiation, and air temperature rapidly decrease by 83%, 86%, 57.5%, and 9.4%, respectively. Atmospheric pressure increased by 4 mbar, relative humidly increased from 8% to 16%, and wind direction became northerly with wind speed increasing to a maximum of 6.3 m/s. Outgoing long-wave radiation decreased by 19 W/m2 and downward long-wave radiation increased by 41 W/m2. The dust storm caused the atmosphere to emit radiation that resembled that of a black body. The daily average of the atmospheric pressure showed no changes compared to a non-dusty day. Apart from the relative humidity (which increased by about 32%), the remainder of the variables have shown significant reduction, with different magnitudes, in their daily values due to the dust event compared to the values of a non-disturbed reference day. For instance, the daily mean values of the UVA radiation, air temperature, and outgoing long-wave radiation, decreased in the dusty day by 15.6%, 30.8% and 11.4%, respectively, as compared to the clear day.

Fan Noise Source Diagnostic Test: Vane Unsteady Pressure Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Envia, Edmane

2002-01-01

To investigate the nature of fan outlet guide vane pressure fluctuations and their link to rotor-stator interaction noise, time histories of vane fluctuating pressures were digitally acquired as part of the Fan Noise Source Diagnostic Test. Vane unsteady pressures were measured at seven fan tip speeds for both a radial and a swept vane configuration. Using time-domain averaging and spectral analysis, the blade passing frequency (BPF) harmonic and broadband contents of the vane pressures were individually analyzed. Significant Sound Pressure Level (SPL) reductions were observed for the swept vane relative to the radial vane for the BPF harmonics of vane pressure, but vane broadband reductions due to sweep turned out to be much smaller especially on an average basis. Cross-correlation analysis was used to establish the level of spatial coherence of broadband pressures between different locations on the vane and integral length scales of pressure fluctuations were estimated from these correlations. Two main results of this work are: (1) the average broadband level on the vane (in dB) increases linearly with the fan tip speed for both the radial and swept vanes, and (2) the broadband pressure distribution on the vane is nearly homogeneous and its integral length scale is a monotonically decreasing function of fan tip speed.

Space Shuttle Upgrade Liquid Oxygen Tank Thermal Stratification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tunc, Gokturk; Wagner, Howard; Bayazitoglu, Yildiz

2001-01-01

In 1997, NASA initiated a study of a liquid oxygen and ethanol orbital maneuvering and reaction control system for space shuttle upgrades as well as other reusable launch vehicle applications. The pressure-fed system uses sub-cooled liquid oxygen at 2413.2 KPa (350 psia) stored passively using insulation. Thermal stratification builds up while the space shuttle is docked at the international space station. The venting from the space shuttle's liquid oxygen tank is not desired during this 96-hr time period. Once the shuttle undocks from the space station there could be a pressure collapse in the liquid oxygen tank caused by fluid mixing due to the thruster fU"ings . The thermal stratification and resulting pressure rise in the tank were examined by a computational fluid dynamic model. Since the heat transfer from the pressurant gas to the liquid will result in a decrease in tank pressure the final pressure after the 96 hours will be significantly less when the tank is pressurized with ambient temperature helium. Therefore, using helium at ambient temperature to pressurize the tank is preferred to pressurizing the tank with helium at the liquid oxygen temperature. The higher helium temperature will also result in less mass of helium to pressurize the tank.

Immediate effect of chandra nadi pranayama (left unilateral forced nostril breathing) on cardiovascular parameters in hypertensive patients.

PubMed

Bhavanani, Ananda Balayogi; Madanmohan; Sanjay, Zeena

2012-07-01

Recent studies have reported differential physiological and psychological effects produced by exclusive right and left nostril breathing and clinical research is required to prove immediate and sustained efficacy of these techniques in various psychosomatic conditions such as hypertension (HT). The present study was designed to determine immediate effects of 27 rounds of exclusive left nostril breathing, a yogic pranayama technique known as chandra nadi pranayama (CNP) on cardiovascular parameters in patients of essential HT. Twenty two patients of essential HT under regular standard medical management were individually taught to perform CNP by a qualified yoga instructor with a regularity of 6 breaths/min throughout a performance of 27 rounds of CNP. Pre and post intervention heart rate (HR) and blood pressure (BP) measurements were recorded using non-invasive semi-automatic BP monitor and Students t test for paired data used to determine significant differences. Twenty seven rounds of CNP produced an immediate decrease in all the measured cardiovascular parameters with the decrease in HR, systolic pressure (SP), pulse pressure, rate-pressure product and double product being statistically significant. Further, gender-based sub-analysis of our data revealed that our male participants evidenced significant reductions in HR and SP with an insignificant decrease in diastolic pressure, while in female participants only HR decreased significantly with an insignificant decrease in SP. It is concluded that CNP is effective in reducing HR and SP in hypertensive patients on regular standard medical management. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previously published reports on immediate effects of left UFNB in patients of HT and ours is the first to report on this beneficial clinical effect. This may be due to a normalization of autonomic cardiovascular rhythms with increased vagal modulation and/or decreased sympathetic activity along with improvement in baroreflex sensitivity. Further studies are required to enable a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved as well as determine how long such a BP lowering effect persists. We recommend that this simple and cost effective technique be added to the regular management protocol of HT and utilized when immediate reduction of BP is required in day-to-day as well as clinical situations.

Investigation into Behavior of a Steam-Water Mixture Flow Through Holes in a Submerged Perforated Sheet at High Void Fractions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melikhov, V. I.; Melikhov, O. I.; Nerovnov, A. A.; Nikonov, S. M.

2018-01-01

Processing of experimental data on the pressure difference across a submerged perforated sheet (SPS) revealed that, at sufficiently high void fractions under SPS, the pressure difference across it became less than the pressure difference for the pure steam stream with the same flowrate. To find the cause of this, the effect of a liquid film, which can be formed on the SPS upstream surface as a result of water droplets' impact and can smooth over sharp edges of holes in SDS, was examined. This can decrease the pressure drop across the sharp edges of holes. This assumption was checked through numerical solution to several model problems in the axisymmetric formulation for a steam flow in a round pipe with an orifice. The flow of steam and water was modeled using the viscous incompressible liquid approximation, while the turbulence was described by the k-ɛ model. The evolution of the interfacial area was modeled using the VOF model. The following model problems of steam flow through an orifice were studied: a single-phase flow, a flow through the orifice with a liquid film on its upstream surface, a flow through a chamfered hole, and a flow through the orifice with a liquid film on its upstream surface without liquid supply to the film. The predictions demonstrate that even the approximate account of the liquid film effect on the steam flow yields a considerable decrease in the pressure drop across the hole (from 8 to 24%) due to smoothing its sharp outlet edges over. This makes it possible to make a conclusion that the cause of a decrease in the pressure drop across SPS observed in the experiments at high void fractions is the formation of a liquid film, which smooths the sharp edges of the hole.

Effect of medium-pressure UV-lamp treatment on disinfection by-products in chlorinated seawater swimming pool waters.

PubMed

Cheema, Waqas A; Manasfi, Tarek; Kaarsholm, Kamilla M S; Andersen, Henrik R; Boudenne, Jean-Luc

2017-12-01

Several brominated disinfection by-products (DBPs) are formed in chlorinated seawater pools, due to the high concentration of bromide in seawater. UV irradiation is increasingly employed in freshwater pools, because UV treatment photodegrades harmful chloramines. However, in freshwater pools it has been reported that post-UV chlorination promotes the formation of other DBPs. To date, UV-based processes have not been investigated for DBPs in seawater pools. In this study, the effects of UV, followed by chlorination, on the concentration of three groups of DBPs were investigated in laboratory batch experiments using a medium-pressure UV lamp. Chlorine consumption increased following post-UV chlorination, most likely because UV irradiation degraded organic matter in the pool samples to more chlorine-reactive organic matter. Haloacetic acid (HAA) concentrations decreased significantly, due to photo-degradation, but the concentrations of trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetonitriles (HANs) increased with post-UV chlorination. Bromine incorporation in HAAs was significantly higher in the control samples chlorinated without UV irradiation but decreased significantly with UV treatment. Bromine incorporation was promoted in THM and HAN after UV and chlorine treatment. Overall, the accumulated bromine incorporation level in DBPs remained essentially unchanged in comparison with the control samples. Toxicity estimates increased with single-dose UV and chlorination, mainly due to increased HAN concentrations. However, brominated HANs are known in the literature to degrade following further UV treatment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The velocity of the arterial pulse wave: a viscous-fluid shock wave in an elastic tube.

PubMed

Painter, Page R

2008-07-29

The arterial pulse is a viscous-fluid shock wave that is initiated by blood ejected from the heart. This wave travels away from the heart at a speed termed the pulse wave velocity (PWV). The PWV increases during the course of a number of diseases, and this increase is often attributed to arterial stiffness. As the pulse wave approaches a point in an artery, the pressure rises as does the pressure gradient. This pressure gradient increases the rate of blood flow ahead of the wave. The rate of blood flow ahead of the wave decreases with distance because the pressure gradient also decreases with distance ahead of the wave. Consequently, the amount of blood per unit length in a segment of an artery increases ahead of the wave, and this increase stretches the wall of the artery. As a result, the tension in the wall increases, and this results in an increase in the pressure of blood in the artery. An expression for the PWV is derived from an equation describing the flow-pressure coupling (FPC) for a pulse wave in an incompressible, viscous fluid in an elastic tube. The initial increase in force of the fluid in the tube is described by an increasing exponential function of time. The relationship between force gradient and fluid flow is approximated by an expression known to hold for a rigid tube. For large arteries, the PWV derived by this method agrees with the Korteweg-Moens equation for the PWV in a non-viscous fluid. For small arteries, the PWV is approximately proportional to the Korteweg-Moens velocity divided by the radius of the artery. The PWV in small arteries is also predicted to increase when the specific rate of increase in pressure as a function of time decreases. This rate decreases with increasing myocardial ischemia, suggesting an explanation for the observation that an increase in the PWV is a predictor of future myocardial infarction. The derivation of the equation for the PWV that has been used for more than fifty years is analyzed and shown to yield predictions that do not appear to be correct. Contrary to the theory used for more than fifty years to predict the PWV, it speeds up as arteries become smaller and smaller. Furthermore, an increase in the PWV in some cases may be due to decreasing force of myocardial contraction rather than arterial stiffness.

Pressure transfer function and absorption cross section from the diffuse field to the human infant ear canal.

PubMed

Keefe, D H; Bulen, J C; Campbell, S L; Burns, E M

1994-01-01

The diffuse-field pressure transfer function from a reverberant field to the ear canal of human infants, ages 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, has been measured from 125-10700 Hz. The source was a loudspeaker using pink noise, and the diffuse-field pressure and the ear-canal pressure were simultaneously measured using a spatial averaging technique in a reverberant room. The results in most subjects show a two-peak structure in the 2-6-kHz range, corresponding to the ear-canal and concha resonances. The ear-canal resonance frequency decreases from 4.4 kHz at age 1 month to 2.9 kHz at age 24 months. The concha resonance frequency decreases from 5.5 kHz at age 1 month to 4.5 kHz at age 24 months. Below 2 kHz, the diffuse-field transfer function shows effects due to the torsos of the infant and parent, and varies with how the infant is held. Comparisons are reported of the diffuse-field absorption cross section for infants relative to adults. This quantity is a measure of power absorbed by the middle ear from a diffuse sound field, and large differences are observed in infants relative to adults. The radiation efficiencies of the infant and the adult ear are small at low frequencies, near unity at midfrequencies, and decrease at higher frequencies. The process of ear-canal development is not yet complete at age 24 months. The results have implications for experiments on hearing in infants.

Reduction of ascites mortality in broilers by coenzyme Q10.

PubMed

Geng, A L; Guo, Y M; Yang, Y

2004-09-01

Effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on growth performance and ascites were studied in broilers. One hundred eighty 1-d-old Arbor Acre male broiler chicks were randomly allocated into 3 groups with 6 replicates each. From d 8, the diets were supplemented with CoQ10 at levels of 0, 20, and 40 mg/kg, respectively. From d 15 to 21, all the chicks were exposed to low ambient temperature (15 to 18 degrees C) to induce ascites. Average feed intake, BW gain, and feed conversion ratio of the broilers during 0 to 3 wk, 3 to 6 wk, and 0 to 6 wk were measured. The results showed that there were no influences observed on broilers' growth performance, but the mortality due to ascites was reduced by CoQ10 supplementation (P < or = 0.05). Erythrocyte osmotic fragility (EOF) was significantly decreased by 40 mg/kg CoQ10 compared with the control, but no significant changes were observed on blood packed cell volume (PCV) among the treatments. Pulmonary arterial diastolic pressure was significantly decreased on d 36, but no significant changes were observed on right ventricular pressure (RVP), pulmonary arterial systolic pressure, and the maximum change ratio of right intraventricular pressure (+/- dp/ dtmax). Ascites heart index (AHI) was significantly decreased by 40 mg/kg CoQ10 supplementation (P < or = 0.05). The results of this study suggested that CoQ10 has a beneficial effect in reducing ascites mortality in broilers, and 40 mg/kg CoQ10 seems to be more effective than 20 mg/ kg CoQ10.

The elimination of free radicals in irradiated UHMWPEs with and without vitamin E stabilization by annealing under pressure.

PubMed

Oral, Ebru; Ghali, Bassem W; Muratoglu, Orhun K

2011-04-01

Radiation crosslinking of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) has been used to decrease the wear of joint implant bearing surfaces. While radiation crosslinking has been successful in decreasing femoral head penetration into UHMWPE acetabular liners in vivo, postirradiation thermal treatment of the polymer is required to ensure the oxidative stability of joint implants in the long term. Two types of thermal treatment have been used: (i) annealing below the melting point preserves the mechanical properties but the residual free radicals trapped in the crystalline regions are not completely eliminated, leading to oxidation in the long-term and (ii) annealing above the melting point (melting) eliminates the free radicals but leads to a decrease in mechanical properties through loss of crystallinity during the melting process. In this study, we hypothesized that free radicals could be reduced by annealing below the melting point under pressure effectively without melting due to the elevation of the melting point. By avoiding the complete melting of UHMWPE, mechanical properties would be preserved. Our hypothesis tested positive in that we found the radiation-induced free radicals to be markedly reduced (below the detection limit of state-of-the-art electron spin resonance) by thermal annealing under pressure in radiation crosslinked virgin UHMWPE and UHMWPE/vitamin-E blends without loss of mechanical properties. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Marginal sea surface temperature variation as a pre-cursor of heat waves over the Korean Peninsula

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ham, Yoo-Geun; Na, Hye-Yun

2017-11-01

This study examines the role of the marginal sea surface temperature (SST) on heat waves over Korea. It is found that sea surface warming in the south sea of Korea/Japan (122-138°E, 24- 33°N) causes heat waves after about a week. Due to the frictional force, the positive geopotential height anomalies associated with the south sea warming induce divergent flows over the boundary layer. This divergent flow induces the southerly in Korea, which leads to a positive temperature advection. On the other hand, over the freeatmosphere, the geostrophic wind around high-pressure anomalies flows in a westerly direction over Korea during the south sea warming, which is not effective in temperature advection. Therefore, the positive temperature advection in Korea due to the south sea warming decreases with height. This reduces the vertical potential temperature gradient, which indicates a negative potential vorticity (PV) tendency over Korea. Therefore, the high-pressure anomaly over the south sea of Korea is propagated northward, which results in heat waves due to more incoming solar radiation.

Evaluation of the impact of H2O, O2, and SO2 on postcombustion CO2 capture in metal-organic frameworks.

PubMed

Yu, Jiamei; Ma, Yuguang; Balbuena, Perla B

2012-05-29

Molecular modeling methods are used to estimate the influence of impurity species: water, O(2), and SO(2) in flue gas mixtures present in postcombustion CO(2) capture using a metal organic framework, HKUST-1, as a model sorbent material. Coordinated and uncoordinated water effects on CO(2) capture are analyzed. Increase of CO(2) adsorption is observed for both cases, which can be attributed to the enhanced binding energy between CO(2) and HKUST-1 due to the introduction of a small amount of water. Density functional theory calculations indicate that the binding energy between CO(2) and HKUST-1 with coordinated water is ~1 kcal/mol higher than that without coordinated water. It is found that the improvement of CO(2)/N(2) selectivity induced by coordinated water may mainly be attributed to the increased CO(2) adsorption on the hydrated HKUST-1. On the other hand, the enhanced selectivity induced by uncoordinated water in the flue gas mixture can be explained on the basis of the competition of adsorption sites between water and CO(2) (N(2)). At low pressures, a significant CO(2)/N(2) selectivity increase is due to the increase of CO(2) adsorption and decrease of N(2) adsorption as a consequence of competition of adsorption sites between water and N(2). However, with more water molecules adsorbed at higher pressures, the competition between water and CO(2) leads to the decrease of CO(2) adsorption capacity. Therefore, high pressure operation should be avoided in HKUST-1 sorbents for CO(2) capture. In addition, the effects of O(2) and SO(2) on CO(2) capture in HKUST-1 are investigated: The CO(2)/N(2) selectivity does not change much even with relatively high concentrations of O(2) in the flue gas (up to 8%). A slightly lower CO(2)/N(2) selectivity of a CO(2)/N(2)/H(2)O/SO(2) mixture is observed compared with that in a CO(2)/N(2)/H(2)O mixture, especially at high pressures, due to the strong SO(2) binding with HKUST-1.

[Peroperative risks in cerebral aneurysm surgery].

PubMed

Mustaki, J P; Bissonnette, B; Archer, D; Boulard, G; Ravussin, P

1996-01-01

The perioperative complications associated with cerebral aneurysm surgery require a specific anaesthetic management. Four major perioperative accidents are discussed in this review. The anaesthetic and surgical management in case of rebleeding subsequent to the re-rupture of the aneurysm is mainly prophylactic. It includes haemodynamic stability assurance, maintenance of mean arterial pressure (MAP) between 80-90 mmHg during stimulation of the patient such as endotracheal intubation, application of the skull-pin head-holder, incision, and craniotomy. The aneurysmal transmural pressure should be adequately maintained by avoiding an aggressive decrease of intracranial pressure. Once the skull is open, the brain must be kept slack in order to decrease pressure under the retractors and avoid the risks of stretching and tearing of the adjacent vessels. If, despite these precautions, the aneurysm ruptures again. MAP should be decreased to 60 mmHg and the brain rendered more slack, in order to allow direct clipping of the aneurysm, or temporary clipping of the adjacent vessels. The optimal agents in this situation are isoflurane (which decreases CMRO2), intravenous anaesthetic agents (inspite their negative inotropic effect, they may potentially protect the brain) and sodium nitroprusside. Vasospasm occurs usually between the 3rd and the 7th day after subarachnoid haemorrhage. It may be seen peroperatively. The optimal treatment, as well as prophylaxis, is moderate controlled hypertension (MAP > 100 mmHg), associated with hypervolaemia and haemodilution, the so-called triple H therapy, with strict control of the filling pressures. Other beneficial therapies are calcium antagonists (nimodipine and nicardipine), the removal of the blood accumulated around the brain and in the cisternae, and possibly local administration of papaverine. Abrupt MAP increases are controlled in order to maintain adequate aneurysmal transmural pressure. Beta-blockers, local anaesthetics administered locally or intravenously, a carefully titrated level of anaesthesia, a maintained volaemia play a protective role. Cerebral oedema is sometimes already present at the opening of the skull or may arise later, due to a high pressure under the retractors, to the surgical manipulations of the brain or to brain ischaemia subsequent to temporary clipping. Its treatment is aggressive, with intravenous agents, mannitol, deep hypocapnia and/or lumbar drainage. Prophylaxis, according to the "brain homeostasis concept", is the preferred method to avoid these four peroperative accidents. It includes normal blood volume, normoglycaemia, moderate hypocapnia, normotension, soft manipulation of the brain and optimal brain relaxation.

Blood Pressure Response to Meditation and Yoga: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Park, Seong-Hi; Han, Kuem Sun

2017-09-01

To introduce research that presents scientific evidence regarding the effects of mantra and mindfulness meditation techniques and yoga on decreasing blood pressure (BP) in patients who have hypertension. A literature search was performed to identify all studies published between 1946 and 2014 from periodicals indexed in Ovid Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, KoreaMed, and NDSL by using the following keywords: "hypertension," "blood pressure," "psychotherapy," "relaxation therapy," "meditation," "yoga," and "mind-body therapy." The Cochrane's Risk of Bias was applied to assess the internal validity of the randomized controlled trial studies. Thirteen studies were analyzed in this meta-analysis by using Review Manager 5.3. Among 510 possible studies, 13 met the selection criteria. Seven examined meditation, and six examined yoga. The meta-analysis indicated that meditation and yoga appeared to decrease both systolic and diastolic BP, which were within similar baseline ranges, and the reduction was statistically significant; however, some results showed little difference. After an in-depth analysis of those results, BP range and patient age were revealed as the factors that affected the different results in some reports. In particular, meditation played a noticeable role in decreasing the BP of subjects older than 60 years of age, whereas yoga seemed to contribute to the decrease of subjects aged less than 60 years. While acknowledging the limitations of this research due to the differences in BP and the participants' ages, meditation and yoga are demonstrated to be effective alternatives to pharmacotherapy. Given that BP decreased with the use of meditation and yoga, and this effect varied in different age groups, scientifically measured outcomes indicate that these practices are safe alternatives in some cases.

Experimental Investigation of Oscillatory Flow Pressure and Pressure Drop Through Complex Geometries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ibrahim, Mounir B.; Wang, Meng; Gedeon, David

2005-01-01

A series of experiments have been performed to investigate the oscillatory flow pressure and pressure drop through complex geometries. These experiments were conducted at the CSU-SLRE facility which is a horizontally opposed, two-piston, single-acting engine with a split crankshaft driving mechanism. Flow through a rectangular duct, with no insert (obstruction), was studied first. Then four different inserts were examined: Abrupt, Manifold, Diverging Short and Diverging Long. The inserts were mounted in the center of the rectangular duct to represent different type of geometries that could be encountered in Stirling machines. The pressure and pressure drop of the oscillating flow was studied for: 1) different inserts, 2) different phase angle between the two pistons of the engine (zero, 90 lead, 180, and 90 lag), and 3) for different piston frequencies (5, 10, 15, and 20 Hz). It was found that the pressure drop of the oscillatory flow increases with increasing Reynolds number. The pressure drop was shown to be mainly due to the gas inertia for the case of oscillatory flow through a rectangular duct with no insert. On the other hand, for the cases with different inserts into the rectangular duct, the pressure drop has three sources: inertia, friction, and local losses. The friction pressure drop is only a small fraction of the total pressure drop. It was also shown that the dimensionless pressure drop decreases with increasing kinetic Reynolds number.

Skin microvascular flow during hypobaric exposure with and without a mechanical counter-pressure space suit glove

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tanaka, Kunihiko; Waldie, James; Steinbach, Gregory C.; Webb, Paul; Tourbier, Dietmar; Knudsen, Jeffrey; Jarvis, Christine W.; Hargens, Alan R.

2002-01-01

INTRODUCTION: Current space suits are rigid, gas-pressurized shells that protect astronauts from the vacuum of space. A tight elastic garment or mechanical-counter-pressure (MCP) suit generates pressure by compression and may have several advantages over current space suit technology. In this study, we investigated local microcirculatory effects produced with and without a prototype MCP glove. METHODS: The right hand of eight normal volunteers was studied at normal ambient pressure and during exposure to -50, -100 and -150 mm Hg with and without the MCP glove. Measurements included the pressure against the hand, skin microvascular flow, temperature on the dorsum of the hand, and middle finger girth. RESULTS: Without the glove, skin microvascular flow and finger girth significantly increased with negative pressure, and the skin temperature decreased compared with the control condition. The MCP glove generated approximately 200 mm Hg at the skin surface; all measured values remained at control levels during exposure to negative pressure. DISCUSSION: Without the glove, skin microvascular flow and finger girth increased with negative pressure, probably due to a blood shift toward the hand. The elastic compression of the material of the MCP glove generated pressure on the hand similar to that in current gas-pressurized space suit gloves. The MCP glove prevented the apparent blood shift and thus maintained baseline values of the measured variables despite exposure of the hand to negative pressure.

Hydrological response to earthquakes in the Haibara well, central Japan - II. Possible mechanism inferred from time-varying hydraulic properties

USGS Publications Warehouse

Matsumoto, N.; Roeloffs, E.A.

2003-01-01

28 coseismic groundwater level decreases have been observed at the Haibara well, Shizuoka prefecture, central Japan, from 1981 to 1997. These groundwater level changes cannot be explained as the poroelastic response to coseismic static strain. We use the atmospheric pressure and tidal responses of the well, rock properties measured on core samples from the same formation and pumping test results to characterize the hydraulic and mechanical properties of the aquifer. The responses of the Haibara well to the M2 Earth tide constituent and to atmospheric pressure have varied over time. In particular, increasing amplitude and decreasing phase lags were observed after the 1993 pumping test, as well as after earthquakes that caused coseismic water level changes. The tidal response, together with the surface load efficiency derived from the atmospheric pressure response, is used to estimate the mechanical properties of the aquifer. The largest amplitude of the M2 constituent, 2.2 mm, is small enough to imply that pore fluid in this system is approximately twice as compressible as water, possibly due to the presence of a small amount of exsolved gas. Diffusion of a coseismic pressure drop near the well could account for the observed time histories of the water level changes. The time histories of the water level drops are well matched by the decay of a coseismic pressure drop at least 80 m away from the well. Removal of a small amount of gas from the formation in that location might in turn explain the coseismic pressure drops.

The power of vertical geolocation of atmospheric profiles from GNSS radio occultation.

PubMed

Scherllin-Pirscher, Barbara; Steiner, Andrea K; Kirchengast, Gottfried; Schwärz, Marc; Leroy, Stephen S

2017-02-16

High-resolution measurements from Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) radio occultation (RO) provide atmospheric profiles with independent information on altitude and pressure. This unique property is of crucial advantage when analyzing atmospheric characteristics that require joint knowledge of altitude and pressure or other thermodynamic atmospheric variables. Here we introduce and demonstrate the utility of this independent information from RO and discuss the computation, uncertainty, and use of RO atmospheric profiles on isohypsic coordinates-mean sea level altitude and geopotential height-as well as on thermodynamic coordinates (pressure and potential temperature). Using geopotential height as vertical grid, we give information on errors of RO-derived temperature, pressure, and potential temperature profiles and provide an empirical error model which accounts for seasonal and latitudinal variations. The observational uncertainty of individual temperature/pressure/potential temperature profiles is about 0.7 K/0.15%/1.4 K in the tropopause region. It gradually increases into the stratosphere and decreases toward the lower troposphere. This decrease is due to the increasing influence of background information. The total climatological error of mean atmospheric fields is, in general, dominated by the systematic error component. We use sampling error-corrected climatological fields to demonstrate the power of having different and accurate vertical coordinates available. As examples we analyze characteristics of the location of the tropopause for geopotential height, pressure, and potential temperature coordinates as well as seasonal variations of the midlatitude jet stream core. This highlights the broad applicability of RO and the utility of its versatile vertical geolocation for investigating the vertical structure of the troposphere and stratosphere.

[Neurovascular compression of the medulla oblongata: a rare cause of secondary hypertension].

PubMed

Nádas, Judit; Czirják, Sándor; Igaz, Péter; Vörös, Erika; Jermendy, György; Rácz, Károly; Tóth, Miklós

2014-05-25

Compression of the rostral ventrolateral medulla oblongata is one of the rarely identified causes of refractory hypertension. In patients with severe, intractable hypertension caused by neurovascular compression, neurosurgical decompression should be considered. The authors present the history of a 20-year-old man with severe hypertension. After excluding other possible causes of secondary hypertension, the underlying cause of his high blood pressure was identified by the demonstration of neurovascular compression shown by magnetic resonance angiography and an increased sympathetic activity (sinus tachycardia) during the high blood pressure episodes. Due to frequent episodes of hypertensive crises, surgical decompression was recommended, which was performed with the placement of an isograft between the brainstem and the left vertebral artery. In the first six months after the operation, the patient's blood pressure could be kept in the normal range with significantly reduced doses of antihypertensive medication. Repeat magnetic resonance angiography confirmed the cessation of brainstem compression. After six months, increased blood pressure returned periodically, but to a smaller extent and less frequently. Based on the result of magnetic resonance angiography performed 22 months after surgery, re-operation was considered. According to previous literature data long-term success can only be achieved in one third of patients after surgical decompression. In the majority of patients surgery results in a significant decrease of blood pressure, an increased efficiency of antihypertensive therapy as well as a decrease in the frequency of highly increased blood pressure episodes. Thus, a significant improvement of the patient's quality of life can be achieved. The case of this patient is an example of the latter scenario.

Diurnal Changes in Volume and Specific Tissue Weight of Crassulacean Acid Metabolism Plants 1

PubMed Central

Chen, Sheng-Shu; Black, Clanton C.

1983-01-01

The diurnal variations in volume and in specific weight were determined for green stems and leaves of Crassulacen acid metabolism (CAM) plants. Volume changes were measured by a water displacement method. Diurnal variations occurred in the volume of green CAM tissues. Their volume increased early in the light period reaching a maximum about mid-day, then the volume decreased to a minimum near midnight. The maximum volume increase each day was about 2.7% of the total volume. Control leaves of C3 and C4 plants exhibited reverse diurnal volume changes of 0.2 to 0.4%. The hypothesis is presented and supported that green CAM tissues should exhibit a diurnal increase in volume due to the increase of internal gas pressure from CO2 and O2 when their stomata are closed. Conversely, the volume should decrease when the gas pressure is decreased. The second hypothesis presented and supported was that the specific weight (milligrams of dry weight per square centimeter of green surface area) of green CAM tissues should increase at night due to the net fixation of CO2. Green CAM tissues increased their specific weight at night in contrast to control C3 and C4 leaves which decreased their specific weight at night. With Kalanchoë daigremontiana leaves, the calculated increase in specific leaf weight at night based on estimates of carbohydrate available for net CO2 fixation was near 6% and the measured increase in specific leaf weight was 6%. Diurnal measurements of CAM tissue water content were neither coincident nor reciprocal with their diurnal patterns of either volume or specific weight changes. PMID:16662833

Operando μ-Raman study of the actual water content of perfluorosulfonic acid membranes in the fuel cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Zhe; Badets, Vasilica; Huguet, Patrice; Morin, Arnaud; Schott, Pascal; Tran, Thi Bich Hue; Porozhnyy, Mikhaël; Nikonenko, Victor; Deabate, Stefano

2017-07-01

Operando μ-Raman spectroscopy is used to probe the water distribution across Nafion® and Aquivion™ membranes in the operating fuel cell. The through-plane water concentration profile is obtained with μm resolution at the middle of the active surface, both at the gas distribution channel and at the under-lands areas. Depth-resolved measurements carried out at room temperature show that the water content of both membranes increases with the increase of the feed gas relative humidity and decreases with the increase of stoichiometry. At given relative humidity and stoichiometry conditions, the water content first increases at the fuel cell start-up and, then, decreases progressively with the increase of the current density delivered by the cell. The water loss is due to the concomitant rise of pressure drops and of the cell inner temperature, the latter giving the larger contribution. Pressure drops are related to the increase of the feed gases fluxes while temperature rise is due to increasing ohmic losses and heat from the electrochemical reaction. Compared to Nafion, Aquivion exhibits larger water content, but similar dehydration rate as a function of ohmic losses, and larger water accumulation at the under-lands area compared to channel.

Changes in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the Mauritanian-Cap Vert upwelling region between 2005 and 2012

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

González-Dávila, Melchor; Magdalena Santana Casiano, J.; Machín, Francisco

2017-08-01

Coastal upwellings along the eastern margins of major ocean basins represent regions of large ecological and economic importance due to the high biological productivity. The role of these regions for the global carbon cycle makes them essential in addressing climate change. The physical forcing of upwelling processes that favor production in these areas are already being affected by global warming, which will modify the intensity of upwelling and, consequently, the carbon dioxide cycle. Here, we present monthly high-resolution surface experimental data for temperature and partial pressure of carbon dioxide in one of the four most important upwelling regions of the planet, the Mauritanian-Cap Vert upwelling region, from 2005 to 2012. This data set provides direct evidence of seasonal and interannual changes in the physical and biochemical processes. Specifically, we show an upwelling intensification and an increase of 0.6 Tg yr-1 in CO2 outgassing due to increased wind speed, despite increased primary productivity. This increase in CO2 outgassing together with the observed decrease in sea surface temperature at the location of the Mauritanian Cap Blanc, 21° N, produced a pH rate decrease of -0.003 ± 0.001 yr-1.

Probe pressure effects on human skin diffuse reflectance and fluorescence spectroscopy measurements

PubMed Central

Lim, Liang; Nichols, Brandon; Rajaram, Narasimhan; Tunnell, James W.

2011-01-01

Diffuse reflectance and fluorescence spectroscopy are popular research techniques for noninvasive disease diagnostics. Most systems include an optical fiber probe that transmits and collects optical spectra in contact with the suspected lesion. The purpose of this study is to investigate probe pressure effects on human skin spectroscopic measurements. We conduct an in-vivo experiment on human skin tissue to study the short-term (<2 s) and long-term (>30 s) effects of probe pressure on diffuse reflectance and fluorescence measurements. Short-term light probe pressure (P0 < 9 mN∕mm2) effects are within 0 ± 10% on all physiological properties extracted from diffuse reflectance and fluorescence measurements, and less than 0 ± 5% for diagnostically significant physiological properties. Absorption decreases with site-specific variations due to blood being compressed out of the sampled volume. Reduced scattering coefficient variation is site specific. Intrinsic fluorescence shows a large standard error, although no specific pressure-related trend is observed. Differences in tissue structure and morphology contribute to site-specific probe pressure effects. Therefore, the effects of pressure can be minimized when the pressure is small and applied for a short amount of time; however, long-term and large pressures induce significant distortions in measured spectra. PMID:21280899

The change in orientation of subsidiary shears near faults containing pore fluid under high pressure

USGS Publications Warehouse

Byerlee, J.

1992-01-01

Byerlee, J., 1992. The change in orientation of subsidiary shears near faults containing pore fluid under high pressure. In: T. Mikumo, K. Aki, M. Ohnaka, L.J. Ruff and P.K.P. Spudich (Editors), Earthquake Source Physics and Earthquake Precursors. Tectonophysics, 211: 295-303. The mechanical effects of a fault containing near-lithostatic fluid pressure in which fluid pressure decreases monotonically from the core of the fault zone to the adjacent country rock is considered. This fluid pressure distribution has mechanical implications for the orientation of subsidiary shears around a fault. Analysis shows that the maximum principal stress is oriented at a high angle to the fault in the country rock where the pore pressure is hydrostatic, and rotates to 45?? to the fault within the fault zone where the pore pressure is much higher. This analysis suggests that on the San Andreas fault, where heat flow constraints require that the coefficient of friction for slip on the fault be less than 0.1, the pore fluid pressure on the main fault is 85% of the lithostatic pressure. The observed geometry of the subsidiary shears in the creeping section of the San Andreas are broadly consistent with this model, with differences that may be due to the heterogeneous nature of the fault. ?? 1992.

Influence of the air’s refractive index on precision angle metrology with autocollimators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geckeler, Ralf D.; Křen, Petr; Just, Andreas; Schumann, Matthias; Krause, Michael

2018-07-01

In this paper, we discuss a substantial—though previously neglected—error source in precision metrology with autocollimators, specifically, changes in the air’s refractive index, with a focus on the dominant impact of pressure changes. Pressure decreases with increasing elevation above sea level and is subject to substantial variation due to weather changes. It causes changes in an autocollimator’s angle response which are proportional to the measured angle and which increase linearly with the beam length and air pressure. We characterise this important influence in detail by using extended theoretical and experimental investigations and derive strategies for correcting it. We discuss its implications for the comparison of autocollimator calibrations performed at different metrology institutes which is crucial for validating their calibration capabilities. This work aims at approaching fundamental limits in angle metrology with autocollimators.

Defect Creation by Linker Fragmentation in Metal-Organic Frameworks and Its Effects on Gas Uptake Properties

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

Barin, G; Krungleviciute, V; Gutov, O

2014-07-07

We successfully demonstrate an approach based on linker fragmentation to create defects and tune the pore volumes and surface areas of two metal-organic frameworks, NU-125 and HKUST-1, both of which feature copper paddlewheel nodes. Depending on the linker fragment composition, the defect can be either a vacant site or a functional group that the original linker does not have. In the first case, we show that both surface area and pore volume increase, while in the second case they decrease. The effect of defects on the high-pressure gas uptake is also studied over a large temperature and pressure range formore » different gases. We found that despite an increase in pore volume and surface area in structures with vacant sites, the absolute adsorption for methane decreases for HKUST-1 and slightly increases for NU-125. However, the working capacity (deliverable amount between 65 and 5 bar) in both cases remains similar to parent frameworks due to lower uptakes at low pressures. In the case of NU-125, the effect of defects became more pronounced at lower temperatures, reflecting the greater surface areas and pore volumes of the altered forms.« less

Cocaine-induced microvascular vasoconstriction but differential systemic haemodynamic responses in Yucatan versus Yorkshire varieties of swine.

PubMed Central

Miao, L.; Núñez, B. D.; Susulic, V.; Wheeler, S.; Carrozza, J. P.; Ross, J. N.; Morgan, J. P.

1996-01-01

1. Systemic and coronary haemodynamics were measured in 6 Yorkshire swine and 6 Yucatan miniature swine under isoflurane anaesthesia to investigate the influence of cocaine following its intravenous administration at 1, 3 and 7 mg kg-1. 2. Cocaine in Yorkshire swine decreased mean arterial pressure and rate pressure product (systolic pressure x heart rate), suggesting a cardiac depressant effect, whereas cocaine in Yucatan miniature swine increased these parameters, consistent with a hyperadrenergic state. 3. Cocaine in both Yorkshire swine and Yucatan miniature swine decreased coronary blood flow and coronary flow reserve, and increased coronary vascular resistance. 4. A modest generalized epicardial coronary artery constriction was observed by angiography, without evidence of focal spasm. 5. Our results confirm a marked vasoconstrictor effect of cocaine on the coronary arterial circulation, predominantly distal to the epicardial coronary arteries, but also indicate important differences in the systemic cardiovascular responses to the drug between two closely related strains of animals within the same species. Due to the similarities between the swine and human coronary arterial vasculature, we suggest that vasoconstriction in the coronary microcirculation may produce cardiac toxicity in man. PMID:8821549

Predicting injection related changes in seismic properties at Kevin Dome, north central Montana, using well logs and laboratory measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saltiel, S.; Bonner, B. P.; Ajo Franklin, J. B.

2014-12-01

Time-lapse seismic monitoring (4D) is currently the primary technique available for tracking sequestered CO2 in a geologic storage reservoir away from monitoring wells. The main seismic responses to injection are those due to direct fluid substitution, changes in differential pressure, and chemical interactions with reservoir rocks; the importance of each depends on reservoir/injection properties and temporal/spatial scales of interest. As part of the Big Sky Carbon Sequestration Partnership, we are monitoring the upcoming large scale (1 million ton+) CO2 injection in Kevin Dome, north central Montana. As part of this research, we predict the relative significance of these three effects, as an aid in design of field surveys. Analysis is undertaken using existing open-hole well log data and cores from wells drilled at producer and injector pads as well as core experiments. For this demonstration site, CO2 will be produced from a natural reservoir and re-injected down dip, where the formation is saturated with brine. Effective medium models based on borehole seismic velocity measurements predict relatively small effects (less than 40 m/s change in V¬p) due to the injection of more compressible supercritical CO2. This is due to the stiff dolomite reservoir rock, with high seismic velocities (Vp~6000 m/s, Vs~3000 m/s) and fairly low porosity (<10%). Assuming pure dolomite mineralogy, these models predict a slight increase in Vp during CO2 injection. This velocity increase is due to the lower density of CO2 relative to brine; which outweighs the small change in modulus compared to the stiff reservoir rock. We present both room pressure and in-situ P/T ultrasonic experiments using core samples obtained from the reservoir; such measurements are undertaken to access the expected seismic velocities under pressurized injection. The reservoir appears to have fairly low permeability. Large-volume injection is expected to produce large local pore pressure increases, which may have the largest immediate effect on seismic velocities. Increasing pore pressure lowers the differential pressure due to confining stress, which decreases seismic velocities by opening cracks. The magnitude of this effect depends both on rock microstructure and fracture at the field scale; core scale measurements will help separate these effects.

Effect of thermal pressurization on dynamic rupture propagation under depth-dependent stress

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Urata, Y.; Kuge, K.; Kase, Y.

2009-12-01

Fluid and pore pressure evolution can affect dynamic propagation of earthquake ruptures owing to thermal pressurization (e.g., Mase and Smith, 1985). We investigate dynamic rupture propagation with thermal pressurization on a fault subjected to depth-dependent stress, on the basis of 3-D numerical simulations for spontaneous dynamic ruptures. We put a vertical strike-slip rectangular fault in a semi-infinite, homogenous, and elastic medium. The length and width of the fault are 8 and 3 km, respectively. We assume a depth-dependent stress estimated by Yamashita et al. (2004). The numerical algorithm is based on the finite-difference method by Kase and Kuge (2001). A rupture is initiated by increasing shear stress in a small patch at the bottom of the fault, and then proceeds spontaneously, governed by a slip-weakening law with the Coulomb failure criteria. Coefficients of friction and Dc are homogeneous on the fault. On a fault with thermal pressurization, we allow effective normal stress to vary with pore pressure change due to frictional heating by the formulation of Bizzarri and Cocco (2006). When thermal pressurization does not work, tractions drop in the same way everywhere and rupture velocity is subshear except near the free surface. Due to thermal pressurization, dynamic friction on the fault decreases and is heterogeneous not only vertically but horizontally, slip increases, and rupture velocity along the strike direction becomes supershear. As a result, plural peaks of final slip appear, as observed in the case of undrained dip-slip fault by Urata et al. (2008). We found in this study that the early stage of rupture growth under the depth-dependent stress is affected by the location of an initial crack. When a rupture is initiated at the center of the fault without thermal pressurization, the rupture cannot propagate and terminates. Thermal pressurization can help such a powerless rupture to keep propagating.

Application of high hydrostatic pressure for increasing activity and stability of enzymes.

PubMed

Mozhaev, V V; Lange, R; Kudryashova, E V; Balny, C

1996-10-20

Elevated hydrostatic pressure has been used to increase catalytic activity and thermal stability of alpha-chymotrypsin (CT). For an anilide substrate, characterized by a negative value of the reaction activation volume (DeltaV( not equal)), an increase in pressure at 20 degrees C results in an exponential acceleration of the hydrolysis rate catalyzed by CT reaching a 6.5-fold increase in activity at 4700 atm (4.7 kbar). Due to a strong temperature dependence of DeltaV( not equal), the acceleration effect of high pressure becomes more pronounced at high temperatures. For example, at 50 degrees C, under a pressure of 3.6 kbar, CT shows activity which is more than 30 times higher than the activity at normal conditions (20 degrees C, 1 atm). At pressures of higher than 3.6 kbar, the enzymatic activity is decreased due to a pressure-induced denaturation.Elevated hydrostatic pressure is also efficient for increasing stability of CT against thermal denaturation. For example, at 55 degrees C, CT is almost instantaneously inactivated at atmospheric pressure, whereas under a pressure of 1.8 kbar CT retains its anilide-hydrolyzing activity during several dozen minutes. Additional stabilization can be achieved in the presence of glycerol, which is most effective for protection of CT at an intermediate concentration of 40% (v/v). There has been observed an additivity in stabilization effects of high pressure and glycerol: thermal inactivation of pressure-stabilized CT can be decelerated in a supplementary manner by addition of 40% (v/v) glycerol. The protection effect of glycerol on the catalytic activity and stability of CT becomes especially pronounced when both extreme factors of temperature and pressure reach critical values. For example, at approximately 55 degrees C and 4.7 kbar, enzymatic activity of CT in the presence of 40% (v/v) glycerol is severalfold higher than in aqueous buffer.The results of this study are discussed in terms of the hypotheses which explain the action of external and medium effects on protein structure, such as preferential hydration and osmotic pressure.

Assessment of water pipes durability under pressure surge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pham Ha, Hai; Minh, Lanh Pham Thi; Tang Van, Lam; Bulgakov, Boris; Bazhenova, Soafia

2017-10-01

Surge phenomenon occurs on the pipeline by the closing valve or pump suddenly lost power. Due to the complexity of the water hammer simulation, previous researches have only considered water hammer on the single pipe or calculation of some positions on water pipe network, it have not been analysis for all of pipe on the water distribution systems. Simulation of water hammer due to closing valve on water distribution system and the influence level of pressure surge is evaluated at the defects on pipe. Water hammer on water supply pipe network are simulated by Water HAMMER software academic version and the capacity of defects are calculated by SINTAP. SINTAP developed from Brite-Euram projects in Brussels-Belgium with the aim to develop a process for assessing the integrity of the structure for the European industry. Based on the principle of mechanical fault, indicating the size of defects in materials affect the load capacity of the product in the course of work, the process has proposed setting up the diagram to fatigue assessment defect (FAD). The methods are applied for water pipe networks of Lien Chieu district, Da Nang city, Viet Nam, the results show the affected area of wave pressure by closing the valve and thereby assess the greatest pressure surge effect to corroded pipe. The SINTAP standard and finite element mesh analysis at the defect during the occurrence of pressure surge which will accurately assess the bearing capacity of the old pipes. This is one of the bases to predict the leakage locations on the water distribution systems. Amount of water hammer when identified on the water supply networks are decreasing due to local losses at the nodes as well as the friction with pipe wall, so this paper adequately simulate water hammer phenomena applying for actual water distribution systems. The research verified that pipe wall with defect is damaged under the pressure surge value.

Computational fluid dynamics simulation of pressure and velocity distribution inside Meniere’s diseased vestibular system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shamsuddin, N. F. H.; Isa, N. M.; Taib, I.; Mohammed, A. N.

2017-09-01

Meniere’s disease or known as endolymphatic hydrops is an incurable vestibular disorder of the inner ear. This is due to the excessive fluid build-up in the endolymphatic sac which causing the vestibular endolymphatic membrane to start stretching. Although this mechanism has been widely accepted as the likely mechanism of Meniere’s syndrome, the reason for its occurrence remains unclear. Thus, the aims of this study to investigate the critical parameters of fluid flow in membranous labyrinth that is influencing instability of vestibular system. In addition, to visualise the flow behaviour between a normal membranous labyrinth and dilated membranous labyrinth in Meniere’s disease in predicting instability of vestibular system. Three dimensional geometry of endolymphatic sac is obtained from Magnetic Resonance Images (MRI) and reconstructed using commercial software. As basis of comparison the two different model of endolymphatic sac is considered in this study which are normal membranous labyrinth for model I and dilated membranous labyrinth for model II. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method is used to analyse the behaviour of pressure and velocity flow in the endolymphatic sac. The comparison was made in terms of pressure distribution and velocity profile. The results show that the pressure for dilated membranous labyrinth is greater than normal membranous labyrinth. Due to abnormally pressure in the vestibular system, it leads to the increasing value of the velocity at dilated membranous labyrinth while at the normal membranous labyrinth the velocity values decreasing. As a conclusion by changing the parameters which is pressure and velocity can significantly affect to the instability of vestibular system for Meniere’s disease.

Comparative hemodynamic effects of hypotension induced by diadenosine tetraphosphate (AP4A) and ATP in dogs.

PubMed

Takeda, Shohei; Inada, Yutaka; Fukui, Noriyuki; Tomaru, Teruaki

1997-03-01

ATP and diadenosine tetraphosphate (AP 4 A) have been shown to produce vasodilation mediated by P 1 - and P 2 -purinoceptor, respectively. The differing mechanisms involved in this vasodilating activity may induce different systemic hemodynamic changes. We compared the hemodynamic effects of AP 4 A-induced hypotension with those induced by ATP. Fourteen mongrel dogs were anesthetized with 0.87% halothane in oxygen (1 MAC). After the baseline period, mean arterial pressure was reduced to 60 mmHg for 60 min by the infusion of AP 4 A or ATP. The ATP- and AP 4 A-induced hypotension resulted in a maximum reduction in systemic vascular resistance of 43% and 46%, respectively (P<0.01), associated with a significant increase in stroke volume index. With ATP, a 20% of maximum increase (P<0.05) in cardiac index (CI) was observed during the induced hypotension. In contrast, AP 4 A-induced hypotension did not result in any changes in CI throughout the observation period. The varying results concerning CI during the ATP- and AP 4 A-induced hypotension were probably due to differences in ventricular filling pressure, since AP 4 A-induced hypotension was associated with decreases (P<0.01) in both right atrial and pulmonary capillary wedge pressures, whereas neither of these variables significantly changed with ATP. The hypotension induced by either ATP or AP 4 A was associated with a significant decrease in heart rate (HR). However, both the magnitude and duration of decreases in HR due to ATP-induced hypotension were more pronounced than those seen with AP 4 A. In conclusion, while both drugs were equally capable of inducing hypotension, our results suggest that AP 4 A was more suitable for induced hypotension because of its potent vasodilatory action with venodilation and less negative chronotropic action.

Stenosis differentially affects subendocardial and subepicardial arterioles in vivo.

PubMed

Merkus, D; Vergroesen, I; Hiramatsu, O; Tachibana, H; Nakamoto, H; Toyota, E; Goto, M; Ogasawara, Y; Spaan, J A; Kajiya, F

2001-04-01

The presence of a coronary stenosis results primarily in subendocardial ischemia. Apart from the decrease in coronary perfusion pressure, a stenosis also decreases coronary flow pulsations. Applying a coronary perfusion system, we compared the autoregulatory response of subendocardial (n = 10) and subepicardial (n = 12) arterioles (<120 microm) after stepwise decreases in coronary arterial pressure from 100 to 70, 50, and 30 mmHg in vivo in dogs (n = 9). Pressure steps were performed with and without stenosis on the perfusion line. Maximal arteriolar diameter during the cardiac cycle was determined and normalized to its value at 100 mmHg. The initial decrease in diameter during reductions in pressure was significantly larger at the subendocardium. Diameters of subendocardial and subepicardial arterioles were similar 10--15 s after the decrease in pressure without stenosis. However, stenosis decreased the dilatory response of the subendocardial arterioles significantly. This decreased dilatory response was also evidenced by a lower coronary inflow at similar average pressure in the presence of a stenosis. Inhibition of nitric oxide production with N(G)-monomethyl-L-arginine abrogated the effect of the stenosis on flow. We conclude that the decrease in pressure caused by a stenosis in vivo results in a larger decrease in diameter of the subendocardial arterioles than in the subepicardial arterioles, and furthermore stenosis selectively decreases the dilatory response of subendocardial arterioles. These two findings expand our understanding of subendocardial vulnerability to ischemia.

Hemodynamic, pulmonary vascular, and myocardial abnormalities secondary to pharmacologic constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus. A possible mechanism for persistent pulmonary hypertension and transient tricuspid insufficiency in the newborn infant.

PubMed

Levin, D L; Mills, L J; Weinberg, A G

1979-08-01

The prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor indomethacin was given orally or intravenously to pregnant ewes. This resulted in a significant rise in the fetal pulmonary-to-systemic arterial mean blood pressure difference across the ductus arteriosus, presumably secondary to constriction of the ductus arteriosus. In five experiments the pressure difference could be promptly but temporarily reversed by the administration of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) into the fetal inferior vena cava. Fetal lungs from study and control animals were fixed by perfusion at measured pulmonary arterial mean blood pressure, and fifth-generation resistance vessels were studied. The medial width/external diameter ratio was significantly increased in the study vs the control lungs due to increased smooth muscle and decreased external diameter. In addition, study fetuses had acute degenerative myocardial changes in the tricuspid valve papillary muscles, the right ventricular free wall and the interventricular septum. Similar changes were not seen in control fetuses. Indomethacin administration during pregnancy causes constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus, fetal pulmonary arterial hypertension, and right ventricular damage. If severe, this may cause rapid fetal death. If less severe, in the newborn infant, this mechanism may be one cause of persistent pulmonary hypertension due to vasoconstriction and increased pulmonary arterial smooth muscle and/or tricuspid insufficiency due to papillary muscle infarction.

Decreased dromotropic response to verapamil despite pronounced increased drug concentration in rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Mayo, P R; Skeith, K; Russell, A S; Jamali, F

2000-12-01

Inflammation reduces hepatic clearance of many drugs with unknown therapeutic consequences. This study was carried out to examine the effect of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of verapamil. Eight RA patients were age- and sex-matched with eight healthy volunteers. The disease severity was assessed, and ECG, blood pressure and verapamil enantiomers concentrations were measured for 12 h post 80 mg oral verapamil. Serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) and nitrite (NO2-) were measured in predose samples. IL-6 and NO2- concentrations were significantly increased in parallel with disease severity. Oral clearance of both S- and R-verapamil was significantly decreased by RA. While the unbound fraction of S- and R-verapamil decreased by 5 and 7-fold, respectively, the unbound AUC remained unchanged for the more potent enantiomer, S-verapamil. AUC of norverapamil enantiomers was increased 2-3-fold. Despite elevated serum drug concentrations in RA, the potential to prolong the PR-interval was significantly reduced by one fold and the effect on the heart rate and blood pressure did not increase. RA results in increased verapamil concentrations due likely to changes in protein binding, decreased clearance and/or altered hepatic blood flow. A significant decrease in dromotropic effect, despite increased serum drug concentrations, may be attributed to receptor down regulation caused by pro-inflammatory cytokines and/or NO.

Changes in pore structure of coal caused by coal-to-gas bioconversion

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

Zhang, Rui; Liu, Shimin; Bahadur, Jitendra

Microbial enhanced coalbed methane (ME-CBM) recovery is critically examined as a viable technology for natural gas recovery from coalbed methane (CBM) reservoirs. Since the majority of gas-in-place (GIP) is stored as an adsorbed phase in fine pores of coal matrix, the nano-pore structure directly influences gas storage and transport properties. Only limited studies have quantified the alteration of the nano-pore structure due to ME-CBM treatment. This study examines the evolution of the pore structure using a combination of small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), low-pressure N 2 and CO 2 adsorption (LPGA) and high-pressure methane adsorption methods. The results show thatmore » the surface fractal dimension decreases for the two bioconverted coals compared to the untreated coal. After bio-treatment, the mesopore surface area and pore volume decrease with the average pore diameter increases, while the micropore surface area increases with pore volume decreases. Both inaccessible meso-/micropore size distributions decrease after bioconversion, while the accessible micropore size distribution increases, making a portion of closed micropore network accessible. In addition, the methane adsorption capacities increase after bio-treatment, which is confirmed by the increase of micropore surface area. A conceptual physical model of methanogenesis is proposed based on the evolution of the pore structure.« less

Changes in pore structure of coal caused by coal-to-gas bioconversion

DOE PAGES

Zhang, Rui; Liu, Shimin; Bahadur, Jitendra; ...

2017-06-19

Microbial enhanced coalbed methane (ME-CBM) recovery is critically examined as a viable technology for natural gas recovery from coalbed methane (CBM) reservoirs. Since the majority of gas-in-place (GIP) is stored as an adsorbed phase in fine pores of coal matrix, the nano-pore structure directly influences gas storage and transport properties. Only limited studies have quantified the alteration of the nano-pore structure due to ME-CBM treatment. This study examines the evolution of the pore structure using a combination of small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), low-pressure N 2 and CO 2 adsorption (LPGA) and high-pressure methane adsorption methods. The results show thatmore » the surface fractal dimension decreases for the two bioconverted coals compared to the untreated coal. After bio-treatment, the mesopore surface area and pore volume decrease with the average pore diameter increases, while the micropore surface area increases with pore volume decreases. Both inaccessible meso-/micropore size distributions decrease after bioconversion, while the accessible micropore size distribution increases, making a portion of closed micropore network accessible. In addition, the methane adsorption capacities increase after bio-treatment, which is confirmed by the increase of micropore surface area. A conceptual physical model of methanogenesis is proposed based on the evolution of the pore structure.« less

Properties of a Laser Shock Wave in Al-Cu Alloy under Elevated Temperatures: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study

PubMed Central

Meng, Xiankai; Zhou, Jianzhong; Huang, Shu; Su, Chun; Sheng, Jie

2017-01-01

The laser shock wave (LSW) generated by the interaction between a laser and a material has been widely used in laser manufacturing, such as laser shock peening and laser shock forming. However, due to the high strain rate, the propagation of LSW in materials, especially LSW at elevated temperatures, is difficult to study through experimental methods. A molecular dynamics simulation was used in this study to investigate the propagation of LSW in an Al-Cu alloy. The Hugoniot relations of LSW were obtained at different temperatures and the effects of elevated temperatures on shock velocity and shock pressure were analyzed. Then the elastic and plastic wave of the LSW was researched. Finally, the evolution of dislocations induced by LSW and its mechanism under elevated temperatures was explored. The results indicate that the shock velocity and shock pressure induced by LSW both decrease with the increasing temperatures. Moreover, the velocity of elastic wave and plastic wave both decrease with the increasing treatment temperature, while their difference decreases as the temperature increases. Moreover, the dislocation atoms increases with the increasing temperatures before 2 ps, while it decreases with the increasing temperatures after 2 ps. The reason for the results is related to the formation and evolution of extended dislocations. PMID:28772433

Properties of a Laser Shock Wave in Al-Cu Alloy under Elevated Temperatures: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study.

PubMed

Meng, Xiankai; Zhou, Jianzhong; Huang, Shu; Su, Chun; Sheng, Jie

2017-01-18

The laser shock wave (LSW) generated by the interaction between a laser and a material has been widely used in laser manufacturing, such as laser shock peening and laser shock forming. However, due to the high strain rate, the propagation of LSW in materials, especially LSW at elevated temperatures, is difficult to study through experimental methods. A molecular dynamics simulation was used in this study to investigate the propagation of LSW in an Al-Cu alloy. The Hugoniot relations of LSW were obtained at different temperatures and the effects of elevated temperatures on shock velocity and shock pressure were analyzed. Then the elastic and plastic wave of the LSW was researched. Finally, the evolution of dislocations induced by LSW and its mechanism under elevated temperatures was explored. The results indicate that the shock velocity and shock pressure induced by LSW both decrease with the increasing temperatures. Moreover, the velocity of elastic wave and plastic wave both decrease with the increasing treatment temperature, while their difference decreases as the temperature increases. Moreover, the dislocation atoms increases with the increasing temperatures before 2 ps, while it decreases with the increasing temperatures after 2 ps. The reason for the results is related to the formation and evolution of extended dislocations.

Evaluation of multiple modes of oximetry monitoring as an index of splanchnic blood flow in a newborn lamb model of hypoxic, ischemic, and hemorrhagic stress.

PubMed

Applegate, Richard L; Ramsingh, Davinder S; Dorotta, Ihab; Sanghvi, Chirag; Blood, Arlin B

2013-06-01

Early and aggressive treatment of circulatory failure is associated with increased survival, highlighting the need for monitoring methods capable of early detection. Vasoconstriction and decreased oxygenation of the splanchnic circulation are a sentinel response of the cardiovasculature during circulatory distress. Thus, we measured esophageal oxygenation as an index of decreased tissue oxygen delivery caused by three types of ischemic insult, occlusive decreases in mesenteric blood flow, and hemodynamic adaptations to systemic hypoxia and simulated hemorrhagic stress. Five anesthetized lambs were instrumented for monitoring of mean arterial pressure, mesenteric artery blood flow, central venous hemoglobin oxygen saturation, and esophageal and buccal microvascular hemoglobin oxygen saturation (StO2). The sensitivities of oximetry monitoring to detect cardiovascular insult were assessed by observing responses to graded occlusion of the descending aorta, systemic hypoxia due to decreased FIO2, and acute hemorrhage. Decreases in mesenteric artery flow during aortic occlusions were correlated with decreased esophageal StO2 (R = 0.41). During hypoxia, esophageal StO2 decreased significantly within 1 min of initiation, whereas buccal StO2 decreased within 3 min, and central venous saturation did not change significantly. All modes of oximetry monitoring and arterial blood pressure were correlated with mesenteric artery flow during acute hemorrhage. Esophageal StO2 demonstrated a greater decrease from baseline levels as well as a more rapid return to baseline levels during reinfusion of the withdrawn blood. These experiments suggest that monitoring esophageal StO2 may be useful in the detection of decreased mesenteric oxygen delivery as may occur in conditions associated with hypoperfusion or hypoxia.

Baroreflex Function in Rats after Simulated Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hasser, Eileen M.

1997-01-01

Prolonged exposure of humans to decreased gravitational forces during spaceflight results in a number of adverse cardiovascular consequences, often referred to as cardiovascular deconditioning. Prominent among these negative cardiovascular effects are orthostatic intolerance and decreased exercise capacity. Rat hindlimb unweighting is an animal model which simulates weightlessness, and results in similar cardiovascular consequences. Cardiovascular reflexes, including arterial and cardiopulmonary baroreflexes, are required for normal adjustment to both orthostatic challenges and exercise. Therefore, the orthostatic intolerance and decreased exercise capacity associated with exposure to microgravity may be due to cardiovascular reflex dysfunction. The proposed studies will test the general hypothesis that hindlimb unweighting in rats results in impaired autonomic reflex control of the sympathetic nervous system. Specifically, we hypothesize that the ability to reflexly increase sympathetic nerve activity in response to decreases in arterial pressure or blood volume will be blunted due to hindlimb unweighting. There are 3 specific aims: (1) To evaluate arterial and cardiopulmonary baroreflex control of renal and lumbar sympathetic nerve activity in conscious rats subjected to 14 days of hindlimb unweighting; (2) To examine the interaction between arterial and cardiopulmonary baroreflex control of sympathetic nerve activity in conscious hindlimb unweighted rats; (3) to evaluate changes in afferent and/or central nervous system mechanisms in baroreflex regulation of the sympathetic nervous system. These experiments will provide information related to potential mechanisms for orthostatic and exercise intolerance due to microgravity.

Flow shear stabilization of rotating plasmas due to the Coriolis effect.

PubMed

Haverkort, J W; de Blank, H J

2012-07-01

A radially decreasing toroidal rotation frequency can have a stabilizing effect on nonaxisymmetric magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) instabilities. We show that this is a consequence of the Coriolis effect that induces a restoring pressure gradient force when plasma is perturbed radially. In a rotating cylindrical plasma, this Coriolis-pressure effect is canceled by the centrifugal effect responsible for the magnetorotational instability. In a magnetically confined toroidal plasma, a large aspect ratio expansion shows that only half of the effect is canceled. This analytical result is confirmed by numerical computations. When the plasma rotates faster toroidally in the core than near the edge, the effect can contribute to the formation of transport barriers by stabilizing MHD instabilities.

Thermodynamics and vibrational study of hydrogenated carbon nanotubes: A DFT study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khalil, Rana M. Arif; Hussain, Fayyaz; Rana, Anwar Manzoor; Imran, Muhammad

2018-02-01

Thermodynamic stability of the hydrogenated carbon nanotubes has been explored in the chemisorption limit. Statistical physics and density functional theory calculations have been used to predict hydrogen release temperatures at standard pressure in zigzag and armchair carbon nanotubes. It is found that hydrogen release temperatures decrease with increase in diameters of hydrogenated zigzag carbon nanotubes (CNTs) but opposite trend is noted in armchair CNTs at standard pressure of 1 bar. The smaller diameter hydrogenated zigzag CNTs have large values of hydrogen release temperature due to the stability of Csbnd H bonds. The vibrational density of states for hydrogenated carbon nanotubes have been calculated to confirm the Csbnd H stretching mode caused by sp3 hybridization.

Effects of Positive Airway Pressure on Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea during Acute Ascent to Altitude

PubMed Central

Nishida, Katsufumi; Cloward, Tom V.; Weaver, Lindell K.; Brown, Samuel M.; Bell, James E.; Grissom, Colin K.

2015-01-01

Rationale: In acute ascent to altitude, untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is often replaced with central sleep apnea (CSA). In patients with obstructive sleep apnea who travel to altitude, it is unknown whether their home positive airway pressure (PAP) settings are sufficient to treat their obstructive sleep apnea, or altitude-associated central sleep apnea. Methods: Ten participants with positive airway pressure–treated obstructive sleep apnea, who reside at 1,320 m altitude, underwent polysomnography on their home positive airway pressure settings at 1,320 m and at a simulated altitude of 2,750 m in a hypobaric chamber. Six of the participants were subsequently studied without positive airway pressure at 2,750 m. Measurements and Main Results: At 1,320 m, all participants’ sleep apnea was controlled with positive airway pressure on home settings; at 2,750, no participants’ sleep apnea was controlled. At higher altitude, the apnea–hypopnea index was higher (11 vs. 2 events/h; P < 0.01), mostly due to hypopneas (10.5 vs. 2 events/h; P < 0.01). Mean oxygen saturations were lower (88 vs. 93%; P < 0.01) and total sleep time was diminished (349 vs. 393 min; P = 0.03). Four of six participants without positive airway pressure at 2,750 m required supplemental oxygen to prevent sustained oxygen saturation (as determined by pulse oximetry) less than 80%. Positive airway pressure also was associated with reduced central sleep apnea (0 vs. 1; P = 0.03), improved sleep time (358 vs. 292 min; P = 0.06), and improved sleep efficiency (78 vs. 63%; P = 0.04). Conclusions: Acute altitude exposure in patients with obstructive sleep apnea treated with positive airway pressure is associated with hypoxemia, decreased sleep time, and increased frequency of hypopneas compared with baseline altitude. Application of positive airway pressure at altitude is associated with decreased central sleep apnea and increased sleep efficiency. PMID:25884271

Dependence of CO2 Reactivity of Carbon Anodes on Pore Structure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Tong; Xue, Jilai; Lang, Guanghui; Liu, Rui; Gao, Shoulei; Wang, Zengjie

2017-09-01

The correlation between the CO2 reactivity and pore structure of carbon anodes was experimentally investigated. The pore structures of the anodes before and after CO2 oxidation were characterized using image analysis. The porosity, mean pore diameter, and the number of micro-cracks decreased with increasing anode forming pressure, while they increased with over-compaction. With prolonged CO2 oxidation time, the porosity, pore density, mean pore diameter, pore aspect ratio, and the number of micro-cracks increased due to the merging of small pores, increased pore connectivity, and generation of new pores. The activation energy decreased with increasing porosity of the anodes' pitch phase due to easier CO2 penetration and reaction within the anodes. The results confirm that the fine pitch-coke phase of anodes is preferentially consumed, a cause of carbon dusting. Optimization of the pore structures to balance the pitch, coke, and butt phases may potentially further reduce carbon dusting.

Effect of microwave argon plasma on the glycosidic and hydrogen bonding system of cotton cellulose.

PubMed

Prabhu, S; Vaideki, K; Anitha, S

2017-01-20

Cotton fabric was processed with microwave (Ar) plasma to alter its hydrophilicity. The process parameters namely microwave power, process gas pressure and processing time were optimized using Box-Behnken method available in the Design Expert software. It was observed that certain combinations of process parameters improved existing hydrophilicity while the other combinations decreased it. ATR-FTIR spectral analysis was used to identify the strain induced in inter chain, intra chain, and inter sheet hydrogen bond and glycosidic covalent bond due to plasma treatment. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies was used to analyze the effect of plasma on unit cell parameters and degree of crystallinity. Fabric surface etching was identified using FESEM analysis. Thus, it can be concluded that the increase/decrease in the hydrophilicity of the plasma treated fabric was due to these structural and physical changes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Polymer Visualization System with Accurate Heating and Cooling Control and High-Speed Imaging

PubMed Central

Wong, Anson; Guo, Yanting; Park, Chul B.; Zhou, Nan Q.

2015-01-01

A visualization system to observe crystal and bubble formation in polymers under high temperature and pressure has been developed. Using this system, polymer can be subjected to a programmable thermal treatment to simulate the process in high pressure differential scanning calorimetry (HPDSC). With a high-temperature/high-pressure view-cell unit, this system enables in situ observation of crystal formation in semi-crystalline polymers to complement thermal analyses with HPDSC. The high-speed recording capability of the camera not only allows detailed recording of crystal formation, it also enables in situ capture of plastic foaming processes with a high temporal resolution. To demonstrate the system’s capability, crystal formation and foaming processes of polypropylene/carbon dioxide systems were examined. It was observed that crystals nucleated and grew into spherulites, and they grew at faster rates as temperature decreased. This observation agrees with the crystallinity measurement obtained with the HPDSC. Cell nucleation first occurred at crystals’ boundaries due to CO2 exclusion from crystal growth fronts. Subsequently, cells were nucleated around the existing ones due to tensile stresses generated in the constrained amorphous regions between networks of crystals. PMID:25915031

Patterns of recruitment and injury in a heterogeneous airway network model

PubMed Central

Stewart, Peter S.; Jensen, Oliver E.

2015-01-01

In respiratory distress, lung airways become flooded with liquid and may collapse due to surface-tension forces acting on air–liquid interfaces, inhibiting gas exchange. This paper proposes a mathematical multiscale model for the mechanical ventilation of a network of occluded airways, where air is forced into the network at a fixed tidal volume, allowing investigation of optimal recruitment strategies. The temporal response is derived from mechanistic models of individual airway reopening, incorporating feedback on the airway pressure due to recruitment. The model accounts for stochastic variability in airway diameter and stiffness across and between generations. For weak heterogeneity, the network is completely ventilated via one or more avalanches of recruitment (with airways recruited in quick succession), each characterized by a transient decrease in the airway pressure; avalanches become more erratic for airways that are initially more flooded. However, the time taken for complete ventilation of the network increases significantly as the network becomes more heterogeneous, leading to increased stresses on airway walls. The model predicts that the most peripheral airways are most at risk of ventilation-induced damage. A positive-end-expiratory pressure reduces the total recruitment time but at the cost of larger stresses exerted on airway walls. PMID:26423440

Perfluorocarbon compounds: transmitting liquids for infrared laser tissue ablation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frenz, Martin; Pratisto, Hans S.; Toth, Cynthia A.; Jansen, E. Duco; Altermatt, Hans J.; Welch, Ashley J.; Weber, Heinz P.

1996-05-01

One concern during IR-laser ablation of tissue under water is the mechanical injury that may be induced in tissue due to rapid bubble expansion and collapse or due to strong laser-induced pressure waves. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using a liquid which is transparent to the IR-region of the spectrum in order to minimize these undesired mechanical side-effects. As transmitting medium perfluorocarbon liquid was used. Free- running Er:YAG and Ho:YAG laser pulses were delivered into the liquid via a 400 micrometers fiber. Bubble formation during the ablation process was recorded with fast flash photography while pressure transients were measured with a needle hydrophone. The effect of the surrounding material (air, water, perfluorooctane) on the tissue response of chicken breast was evaluated in vitro using histology. It was observed that a large bubble (up to 6 mm in diameter) was formed under perfluorooctane driven by the ablation products. This bubble, however, does not generate a pressure wave when collapsing. Although perfluorooctane only shows a weak absorption for infrared radiation, laser-induced thermal lensing in the liquid strongly decreases the radiant exposure and therefore the ablation efficiency.

Prebreakdown phenomena and formation process of the glow discharge in low-pressure Ar gas

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

Hosokawa, Tatsuzo; Goto, Kazuhiro; Ohuchi, Mikio

2001-06-01

The prebreakdown phenomena and the formation process of the glow discharge in a low-pressure Ar gas were investigated under a uniform field gap. Prebreakdown phenomena were observed for 0.5Torrcm{le}pd{le}2Torrcm (where p is pressure, d the gap distance) in Ar gas under conditions of a slowly increasing voltage. It was observed that the prebreakdown phenomena formed pulse discharges up to the transition to the glow discharge. The amplitudes of the photon and current pulses due to the pulse discharge increased with time, and then decreased as soon as the transition to a steady glow discharge occurred. When the overvoltage or externalmore » series resistance was increased, the pulse amplitudes increased with the applied voltage and decreased with the resistance. The characteristics of the prebreakdown phenomena were changed by the shape of the electrodes. The formation mechanism of the glow discharge can be qualitatively explained by that of the streamer in a high-pressure discharge. The transient glow discharge was observed, and its duration increased with an increase in resistance. The instability of the glow discharge was controlled by three factors, namely, Kaufmann{close_quote}s criterion, the Child{endash}Langmuir law, and the density balance between the production and removal rates of electrons. {copyright} 2001 American Institute of Physics.« less

Stabilization study on a wet-granule tableting method for a compression-sensitive benzodiazepine receptor agonist.

PubMed

Fujita, Megumi; Himi, Satoshi; Iwata, Motokazu

2010-03-01

SX-3228, 6-benzyl-3-(5-methoxy-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1,6-naphthyridin-2(1H)-one, is a newly-synthesized benzodiazepine receptor agonist intended to be developed as a tablet preparation. This compound, however, becomes chemically unstable due to decreased crystallinity when it undergoes mechanical treatments such as grinding and compression. A wet-granule tableting method, where wet granules are compressed before being dried, was therefore investigated as it has the advantage of producing tablets of sufficient hardness at quite low compression pressures. The results of the stability testing showed that the drug substance was chemically considerably more stable in wet-granule compression tablets compared to conventional tablets. Furthermore, the drug substance was found to be relatively chemically stable in wet-granule compression tablets even when high compression pressure was used and the effect of this pressure was small. After investigating the reason for this excellent stability, it became evident that near-isotropic pressure was exerted on the crystals of the drug substance because almost all the empty spaces in the tablets were occupied with water during the wet-granule compression process. Decreases in crystallinity of the drug substance were thus small, making the drug substance chemically stable in the wet-granule compression tablets. We believe that this novel approach could be useful for many other compounds that are destabilized by mechanical treatments.

Fluid pressure waves trigger earthquakes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mulargia, Francesco; Bizzarri, Andrea

2015-03-01

Fluids-essentially meteoric water-are present everywhere in the Earth's crust, occasionally also with pressures higher than hydrostatic due to the tectonic strain imposed on impermeable undrained layers, to the impoundment of artificial lakes or to the forced injections required by oil and gas exploration and production. Experimental evidence suggests that such fluids flow along preferred paths of high diffusivity, provided by rock joints and faults. Studying the coupled poroelastic problem, we find that such flow is ruled by a nonlinear partial differential equation amenable to a Barenblatt-type solution, implying that it takes place in form of solitary pressure waves propagating at a velocity which decreases with time as v ∝ t [1/(n - 1) - 1] with n ≳ 7. According to Tresca-Von Mises criterion, these waves appear to play a major role in earthquake triggering, being also capable to account for aftershock delay without any further assumption. The measure of stress and fluid pressure inside active faults may therefore provide direct information about fault potential instability.

Patterning of graphene for flexible electronics with remote atmospheric-pressure plasma using dielectric barrier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Duk Jae; Park, Jeongwon; Geon Han, Jeon

2016-08-01

We show results of the patterning of graphene layers on poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) films through remote atmospheric-pressure dielectric barrier discharge plasma. The size of plasma discharge electrodes was adjusted for large-area and role-to-role-type substrates. Optical emission spectroscopy (OES) was used to analyze the characteristics of charge species in atmospheric-pressure plasma. The OES emission intensity of the O2* peaks (248.8 and 259.3 nm) shows the highest value at the ratio of \\text{N}2:\\text{clean dry air (CDA)} = 100:1 due to the highest plasma discharge. The PET surface roughness and hydrophilic behavior were controlled with CDA flow rate during the process. Although the atmospheric-pressure plasma treatment of the PET film led to an increase in the FT-IR intensity of C-O bonding at 1240 cm-1, the peak intensity at 1710 cm-1 (C=O bonding) decreased. The patterning of graphene layers was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy.

Analysis of the Effect of Injection Pressure on Ignition Delay and Combustion Process of Biodiesel from Palm Oil, Algae and Waste Cooking Oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Irham Anas, Mohd; Khalid, Amir; Hakim Zulkifli, Fathul; Jaat, Norrizam; Faisal Hushim, Mohd; Manshoor, Bukhari; Zaman, Izzuddin

2017-10-01

Biodiesel is a domestically produced, renewable fuel that can be manufactured from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled restaurant grease for use in diesel engines. The objective of this research is investigation the effects of the variant injection pressure on ignition delay and emission for different biodiesel using rapid compression machine. Rapid Compression Machine (RCM) is used to simulate a single compression stroke of an internal combustion engine as a real engine. Four types of biodiesel which are waste cooking oil, crude palm oil, algae and jatropha were tested at injection pressure of 80 MPa, 90 MPa and 130 MPa under constant ambient temperature at 950 K. Increased in injection pressure resulted shorter ignition delay proven by WCO5 which decreased from 1.3 ms at 80 MPa to 0.7 ms at 130 MPa. Meanwhile, emission for CO2 increased due to better fuel atomization for fuel-air mixture formation lead to completed combustion.

Control of optical transport parameters of 'porous medium – supercritical fluid' systems

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

Zimnyakov, D A; Ushakova, O V; Yuvchenko, S A

2015-11-30

The possibility of controlling optical transport parameters (in particular, transport scattering coefficient) of porous systems based on polymer fibres, saturated with carbon dioxide in different phase states (gaseous, liquid and supercritical) has been experimentally studied. An increase in the pressure of the saturating medium leads to a rise of its refractive index and, correspondingly, the diffuse-transmission coefficient of the system due to the decrease in the transport scattering coefficient. It is shown that, in the case of subcritical saturating carbon dioxide, the small-angle diffuse transmission of probed porous layers at pressures close to the saturated vapour pressure is determined bymore » the effect of capillary condensation in pores. The immersion effect in 'porous medium – supercritical fluid' systems, where the fluid pressure is used as a control parameter, is considered. The results of reconstructing the values of transport scattering coefficient of probed layers for different refractive indices of a saturating fluid are presented. (radiation scattering)« less

Effect of flame stabilizer design on performance and exhaust pollutants of a two-row 72-module swirl-can combustor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Biaglow, J. A.; Trout, A. M.

1976-01-01

A test program was conducted to evaluate the effects of four flame stabilizer designs on the performance and gaseous pollutant levels of an experimental full-annular swirl-can combustor. Combustor operating parameters, including inlet-air temperature, reference velocity, and fuel-air ratio, were set to simulate conditions in a 30:1 pressure ratio engine. Combustor inlet total pressure was held constant at 6 atm due to the facility limit. Combustor performance and gaseous pollutant levels were strongly affected by the geometry and resulting total pressure loss of the four flame stabilizer designs investigated. The addition of shrouds to two designs produced an 18 to 22% decrease in the combustion chamber pressure loss and thus resulted in doubling the exit temperature pattern factor and up to 42% higher levels of oxides of nitrogen. A previously developed oxides of nitrogen correlating parameter agreed with each model within an emission index of plus or minus 1 but was not capable of correlating all models together.

Microscopic Analysis of Bacterial Motility at High Pressure

PubMed Central

Nishiyama, Masayoshi; Sowa, Yoshiyuki

2012-01-01

The bacterial flagellar motor is a molecular machine that converts an ion flux to the rotation of a helical flagellar filament. Counterclockwise rotation of the filaments allows them to join in a bundle and propel the cell forward. Loss of motility can be caused by environmental factors such as temperature, pH, and solvation. Hydrostatic pressure is also a physical inhibitor of bacterial motility, but the detailed mechanism of this inhibition is still unknown. Here, we developed a high-pressure microscope that enables us to acquire high-resolution microscopic images, regardless of applied pressures. We also characterized the pressure dependence of the motility of swimming Escherichia coli cells and the rotation of single flagellar motors. The fraction and speed of swimming cells decreased with increased pressure. At 80 MPa, all cells stopped swimming and simply diffused in solution. After the release of pressure, most cells immediately recovered their initial motility. Direct observation of the motility of single flagellar motors revealed that at 80 MPa, the motors generate torque that should be sufficient to join rotating filaments in a bundle. The discrepancy in the behavior of free swimming cells and individual motors could be due to the applied pressure inhibiting the formation of rotating filament bundles that can propel the cell body in an aqueous environment. PMID:22768943

The effect of forward skewed rotor blades on aerodynamic and aeroacoustic performance of axial-flow fan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Jun; Zhong, Fangyuan

Based on comparative experiment, this paper deals with using tangentially skewed rotor blades in axial-flow fan. It is seen from the comparison of the overall performance of the fan with skewed bladed rotor and radial bladed rotor that the skewed blades operate more efficiently than the radial blades, especially at low volume flows. Meanwhile, decrease in pressure rise and flow rate of axial-flow fan with skewed rotor blades is found. The rotor-stator interaction noise and broadband noise of axial-flow fan are reduced with skewed rotor blades. Forward skewed blades tend to reduce the accumulation of the blade boundary layer in the tip region resulting from the effect of centrifugal forces. The turning of streamlines from the outer radius region into inner radius region in blade passages due to the radial component of blade forces of skewed blades is the main reason for the decrease in pressure rise and flow rate.

Intraocular pressure decrease with preservative-free fixed and unfixed combination of tafluprost and timolol in pseudoexfoliative glaucoma.

PubMed

Holló, Gábor; Ropo, Auli

2015-01-01

We investigated the intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering efficacy of preservative-free fixed and non-fixed combination of tafluprost 0.0015% and timolol 0.5% in pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (XFG). A per protocol worse eye analysis was made on all XFG patients who participated in a recent 6 month, prospective, randomized, double-masked, parallel group, multicenter phase III study. The mean time-wise IOP decreased by 8.62 to 10.25 mmHg (31.8 to 36.7%) in the fixed dose combination arm (15 patients) and by 5.38 to 11.35 mmHg (21.3 to 41.2%) in the non-fixed combination arm (13 patients), respectively (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). The results show that a preservative-free fixed dose combination of tafluprost and timolol provides a clinically significant IOP reduction in XFG, and may offer an advantage for the XFG patients with dry eye, due to its preservative-free nature.

The thyroid and environmental stress in mammals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Galton, V. A.

1977-01-01

The effects of hyperoxia at ambient pressure on thyroid function and thyroid hormone metabolism have been assessed. Thyroidal activity was depressed in mice and rats by exposure to hyperoxia, due at least in part to a decrease in the rate of secretion of pituitary thyrotropin. The effects of hyperoxia on the peripheral deiodination of thyroxine were dependent on the concentration of oxygen employed and/or the duration of exposure. When significant changes were observed a reduction in the rate of deiodination and in the deiodinative clearance of T sub 4 occurred. Hyperoxia also resulted in a marked fall in circulating T sub 4 concentration and a decrease in T sub 4-binding activity in serum. Many of these effects of hyperoxia were prevented by the concomitant administration of large amounts of Vitamin E. These decreases in thyroid function and T sub 4 metabolism were associated with a decrease in the rate of whole body oxygen consumption. It was concluded that the deleterious effects of oxygen in the rat were not due to an oxygen induced hyperthyroid state in the peripheral tissues. Thyroxine was shown to be essential for survival during acute cold stress.

Break the electron- hole balance and pressure induced superconductivity in Tungsten Ditelluride

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Fengqi; Pan, Xing-Chen

Tungsten ditelluride has garnered immense interest due to the recent discovery of titanic unsaturated magnetoresistance up to 60 Tesla and its possible topological metal nature. The titanic unsaturated magnetoresistance is attributed to the perfect compensation between the opposite carriers in this material. Motivated by the small and sensitive Fermi surface of 5d electronic orbitals, we break the electron-hole balance by the application of high pressure. Superconductivity sharply appears at the pressure of 2.5 GPa, quickly reaching a maximum critical temperature of 7 K at around 16.8 GPa, and followed by a monotonic decrease in Tc with increasing pressure exhibiting the typical dome-shaped superconducting phase. What's more, linear magnetoresistance dominates the transport behavior under high pressure instead of semi-classical parabolic magnetoresistance, like in other topological metals. Refence: Nature Commun. 6, 7805 (2015), arXiv 1505, 07968. The authors would like to thank the National Key Projects for Basic Research in China, the National Natural Science Foundation of China , the NSF of Jiangsu Province, the PAPD project, and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities.

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

Li, Yufeng; Zhou, Yonghui; Guo, Zhaopeng

Weyl semimetal defines a material with three-dimensional Dirac cones, which appear in pair due to the breaking of spatial inversion or time reversal symmetry. Superconductivity is the state of quantum condensation of paired electrons. Turning a Weyl semimetal into superconducting state is very important in having some unprecedented discoveries. In this work, by doing resistive measurements on a recently recognized Weyl semimetal TaP under pressures up to about 100 GPa, we show the concurrence of superconductivity and a structure transition at about 70 GPa. It is found that the superconductivity becomes more pronounced when decreasing pressure and retains when themore » pressure is completely released. High-pressure x-ray diffraction measurements also confirm the structure phase transition from I41md to P-6m2 at about 70 GPa. More importantly, ab-initial calculations reveal that the P-6m2 phase is a new Weyl semimetal phase and has only one set of Weyl points at the same energy level. Our discovery of superconductivity in TaP by high pressure will stimulate investigations on superconductivity and Majorana fermions in Weyl semimetals.« less

Acute Right Ventricle Failure in the Intensive Care Unit: Assessment and Management.

PubMed

Hrymak, Carmen; Strumpher, Johann; Jacobsohn, Eric

2017-01-01

Caring for the critically ill patient with acute right ventricle (RV) failure is a diagnostic and management challenge. A thorough understanding of normal RV anatomy and physiology is essential to manage RV failure. Despite the fact that the RV is essentially a volume chamber that ejects into a low-pressure system, the left ventricle contributes significantly to RV function through maintenance of the transseptal gradient (TSG). Preserving systemic mean arterial pressure maintains the TSG and RV perfusion. Various pathological states cause acute RV failure by decreasing the TSG and RV perfusion and/or increasing pulmonary vascular resistance. Early diagnosis prevents rapid progression of RV failure due to the "double hit phenomenon," which is acute intra-abdominal multiple organ system failure as a result of a reduced blood pressure and elevated central venous pressure. Management includes hemodynamic support and reversal of the precipitating cause through optimizing RV rate and rhythm, determining ideal RV filling pressure, reducing RV afterload through nonpharmacologic and pharmacological means, and selecting the appropriate RV inotrope or mechanical support. Copyright © 2016 Canadian Cardiovascular Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reactor pressure vessel nozzle

DOEpatents

Challberg, Roy C.; Upton, Hubert A.

1994-01-01

A nozzle for joining a pool of water to a nuclear reactor pressure vessel includes a tubular body having a proximal end joinable to the pressure vessel and a distal end joinable in flow communication with the pool. The body includes a flow passage therethrough having in serial flow communication a first port at the distal end, a throat spaced axially from the first port, a conical channel extending axially from the throat, and a second port at the proximal end which is joinable in flow communication with the pressure vessel. The inner diameter of the flow passage decreases from the first port to the throat and then increases along the conical channel to the second port. In this way, the conical channel acts as a diverging channel or diffuser in the forward flow direction from the first port to the second port for recovering pressure due to the flow restriction provided by the throat. In the backflow direction from the second port to the first port, the conical channel is a converging channel and with the abrupt increase in flow area from the throat to the first port collectively increase resistance to flow therethrough.

Physiologic Evaluation of Ventilation Perfusion Mismatch and Respiratory Mechanics at Different Positive End-expiratory Pressure in Patients Undergoing Protective One-lung Ventilation.

PubMed

Spadaro, Savino; Grasso, Salvatore; Karbing, Dan Stieper; Fogagnolo, Alberto; Contoli, Marco; Bollini, Giacomo; Ragazzi, Riccardo; Cinnella, Gilda; Verri, Marco; Cavallesco, Narciso Giorgio; Rees, Stephen Edward; Volta, Carlo Alberto

2018-03-01

Arterial oxygenation is often impaired during one-lung ventilation, due to both pulmonary shunt and atelectasis. The use of low tidal volume (VT) (5 ml/kg predicted body weight) in the context of a lung-protective approach exacerbates atelectasis. This study sought to determine the combined physiologic effects of positive end-expiratory pressure and low VT during one-lung ventilation. Data from 41 patients studied during general anesthesia for thoracic surgery were collected and analyzed. Shunt fraction, high V/Q and respiratory mechanics were measured at positive end-expiratory pressure 0 cm H2O during bilateral lung ventilation and one-lung ventilation and, subsequently, during one-lung ventilation at 5 or 10 cm H2O of positive end-expiratory pressure. Shunt fraction and high V/Q were measured using variation of inspired oxygen fraction and measurement of respiratory gas concentration and arterial blood gas. The level of positive end-expiratory pressure was applied in random order and maintained for 15 min before measurements. During one-lung ventilation, increasing positive end-expiratory pressure from 0 cm H2O to 5 cm H2O and 10 cm H2O resulted in a shunt fraction decrease of 5% (0 to 11) and 11% (5 to 16), respectively (P < 0.001). The PaO2/FIO2 ratio increased significantly only at a positive end-expiratory pressure of 10 cm H2O (P < 0.001). Driving pressure decreased from 16 ± 3 cm H2O at a positive end-expiratory pressure of 0 cm H2O to 12 ± 3 cm H2O at a positive end-expiratory pressure of 10 cm H2O (P < 0.001). The high V/Q ratio did not change. During low VT one-lung ventilation, high positive end-expiratory pressure levels improve pulmonary function without increasing high V/Q and reduce driving pressure.

Cardiovascular autonomic modulation and activity of carotid baroreceptors at altitude.

PubMed

Bernardi, L; Passino, C; Spadacini, G; Calciati, A; Robergs, R; Greene, R; Martignoni, E; Anand, I; Appenzeller, O

1998-11-01

1. To assess the effects of acute exposure to high altitude on baroreceptor function in man we evaluated the effects of baroreceptor activation on R-R interval and blood pressure control at high altitude. We measured the low-frequency (LF) and high-frequency (HF) components in R-R, non-invasive blood pressure and skin blood flow, and the effect of baroreceptor modulation by 0. 1-Hz sinusoidal neck suction. Ten healthy sea-level natives and three high-altitude native, long-term sea-level residents were evaluated at sea level, upon arrival at 4970 m and 1 week later.2. Compared with sea level, acute high altitude decreased R-R and increased blood pressure in all subjects [sea-level natives: R-R from 1002+/-45 to 775+/-57 ms, systolic blood pressure from 130+/-3 to 150+/-8 mmHg; high-altitude natives: R-R from 809+/-116 to 749+/-47 ms, systolic blood pressure from 110+/-12 to 125+/-11 mmHg (P<0.05 for all)]. One week later systolic blood pressure was similar to values at sea level in all subjects, whereas R-R remained elevated in sea-level natives. The low-frequency power in R-R and systolic blood pressure increased in sea-level natives [R-R-LF from 47+/-8 to 65+/-10% (P<0.05), systolic blood pressure-LF from 1.7+/-0. 3 to 2.6+/-0.4 ln-mmHg2 (P<0.05)], but not in high-altitude natives (R-R-LF from 32+/-13 to 38+/-19%, systolic blood pressure-LF from 1. 9+/-0.5 to 1.7+/-0.8 ln-mmHg2). The R-R-HF decreased in sea-level natives but not in high-altitude natives, and no changes occurred in systolic blood pressure-HF. These changes remained evident 1 week later. Skin blood flow variability and its spectral components decreased markedly at high altitude in sea-level natives but showed no changes in high-altitude natives. Neck suction significantly increased the R-R- and systolic blood pressure-LF in all subjects at both sea level and high altitude.3. High altitude induces sympathetic activation in sea-level natives which is partially counteracted by active baroreflex. Despite long-term acclimatization at sea level, high-altitude natives also maintain active baroreflex at high altitude but with lower sympathetic activation, indicating a persisting high-altitude adaptation which may be genetic or due to baroreflex activity not completely lost by at least 1 year's sea-level residence.

Influence of loading and unloading velocity of confining pressure on strength and permeability characteristics of crystalline sandstone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Dong-ming; Yang, Yu-shun; Chu, Ya-pei; Zhang, Xiang; Xue, Yan-guang

2018-06-01

The triaxial compression test of crystalline sandstone under different loading and unloading velocity of confining pressure is carried out by using the self-made "THM coupled with servo-controlled seepage apparatus for containing-gas coal", analyzed the strength, deformation and permeability characteristics of the sample, the results show that: with the increase of confining pressures loading-unloading velocity, Mohr's stress circle center of the specimen shift to the right, and the ultimate intensity, peak strain and residual stress of the specimens increase gradually. With the decrease of unloading velocity of confining pressure, the axial strain, the radial strain and the volumetric strain of the sample decrease first and then increases, but the radial strain decreases more greatly. The loading and unloading of confining pressure has greater influence on axial strain of specimens. The deformation modulus decreases rapidly with the increase of axial strain and the Poisson's ratio decreases gradually at the initial stage of loading. When the confining pressure is loaded, the deformation modulus decrease gradually, and the Poisson's ratio increases gradually. When the confining pressure is unloaded, the deformation modulus increase gradually, and the Poisson's ratio decreases gradually. When the specimen reaches the ultimate intensity, the deformation modulus decreases rapidly, while the Poisson's ratio increases rapidly. The fitting curve of the confining pressure and the deformation modulus and the Poisson's ratio in accordance with the distribution of quadratic polynomial function in the loading-unloading confining pressure. There is a corresponding relationship between the evolution of rock permeability and damage deformation during the process of loading and unloading. In the late stage of yielding, the permeability increases slowly, and the permeability increases sharply after the rock sample is destroyed. Fitting the permeability and confining pressure conform to the variation law of the exponential function.

Permeability Evolution With Shearing of Simulated Faults in Unconventional Shale Reservoirs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, W.; Gensterblum, Y.; Reece, J. S.; Zoback, M. D.

2016-12-01

Horizontal drilling and multi-stage hydraulic fracturing can lead to fault reactivation, a process thought to influence production from extremely low-permeability unconventional reservoir. A fundamental understanding of permeability changes with shear could be helpful for optimizing reservoir stimulation strategies. We examined the effects of confining pressure and frictional sliding on fault permeability in Eagle Ford shale samples. We performed shear-flow experiments in a triaxial apparatus on four shale samples: (1) clay-rich sample with sawcut fault, (2) calcite-rich sample with sawcut fault, (3) clay-rich sample with natural fault, and (4) calcite-rich sample with natural fault. We used pressure pulse-decay and steady-state flow techniques to measure fault permeability. Initial pore and confining pressures are set to 2.5 MPa and 5.0 MPa, respectively. To investigate the influence of confining pressure on fault permeability, we incrementally raised and lowered the confining pressure and measure permeability at different effective stresses. To examine the effect of frictional sliding on fault permeability, we slide the samples four times at a constant shear displacement rate of 0.043 mm/min for 10 minutes each and measure fault permeability before and after frictional sliding. We used a 3D Laser Scanner to image fault surface topography before and after the experiment. Our results show that frictional sliding can enhance fault permeability at low confining pressures (e.g., ≥5.0 MPa) and reduce fault permeability at high confining pressures (e.g., ≥7.5 MPa). The permeability of sawcut faults almost fully recovers when confining pressure returns to the initial value, and increases with sliding due to asperity damage and subsequent dilation at low confining pressures. In contrast, the permeability of natural faults does not fully recover. It initially increases with sliding, but then decreases with further sliding most likely due to fault gouge blocking fluid pathways.

Severe hypotension during the decreasing phase of Gz stress in anesthetized rats wearing an anti-G suit.

PubMed

Maruyama, Satoshi; Kemuriyama, Takehito; Manabe, Tomoko; Takahata, Tomofumi; Shoji, Ichiro; Nishida, Yasuhiro

2011-11-01

Physiological responses to +Gz stress have been reported in several studies. However, no reports exist on differences in arterial pressure responses between increasing and decreasing G phases. We hypothesized that +Gz stress and/or an anti-G support might disturb the circulation system and cause potential brain hypoperfusion, even if the anti-G support protects against G-induced loss of consciousness. Dependency of +Gz magnitude, hemodynamic changes, renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA), and aortic blood flow (AoBF) were estimated in anesthetized rats to analyze the effects of +Gz stress and/or an anti-G support on arterial pressure at a level of the brain (APLB). The rats were exposed to +Gz using a centrifuge for small animals while wearing an anti-G suit. APLB remained at the control level while the anti-G suit was inflated. However, a decrease in APLB was observed twice during increasing and decreasing G phases using the anti-G suit. Hypotension in the decreasing C phase at +5 Gz was significantly deeper than that in the increasing G phase (47.5 +/- 7.7 vs. 29.6 +/- 3.0 mmHg). RSNA responses to Gz loads were greater in the decreasing G than in the increasing G phase (129.7 +/- 8.6 vs. 147.3 +/- 10.4%). Both AoBF and calculated vascular resistance were suppressed more significantly in the decreasing G than in the increasing G phase (38.3 +/- 4.4 vs. 34.4 +/- 3.4 ml x min(-1), 1.44 +/- 0.22 vs. 1.09 +/- 0.14 mmHg x min(-1) x ml(-1)). We conclude that transient excessive decreasing G hypotension may occur during the decreasing G phase, which may be due to anti-G suit functioning.

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

Dhaka, R. S.; Biswas, C.; Shukla, A. K.

We have studied xenon and argon bubbles formed in the subsurface region of Al(111) by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. As a consequence of the nanometer size of the bubbles, the photohole formed by Xe 3d or Ar 2p photoemission is screened by the Al conduction electrons, which substantially lowers the binding energy (BE) as compared to the gas phase. As the bubble size increases, the Al conduction electron screening decreases and the BE increases. On the basis of density functional theory, we show that the change in the bubble pressure with size is not responsible for the BE shift of innermore » shell core levels, such as Xe 3d or Ar 2p. On the other hand, an increase in BE with bubble size for outer shell core levels, such as Ar 3p, could be due to a decrease in both pressure and Al conduction electron screening. The core level line shape also changes with bubble size. For example, the spectra are broadened due to the distribution of the bubble radius around its mean value, and an asymmetry for small bubbles is observed that decreases for larger bubbles. An annealing of Xe and Ar bubbles after an implantation up to 640 K shows that the BE increases with annealing temperature. Since it is well known that bubble size increases with annealing temperature, this further supports our contention of BE shift with bubble size. A defect induced partial disorder of the Al(111) surface by Xe and Ar bombardment is observed by low energy electron diffraction, but this does not affect the Al 2p BE and line shape.« less

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

Paz-Soldan, C.; La Haye, R. J.; Shiraki, D.

DIII-D plasmas at very low density exhibit onset of n=1 error field (EF) penetration (the `low-density locked mode') not at a critical density or EF, but instead at a critical level of runaway electron (RE) intensity. Raising the density during a discharge does not avoid EF penetration, so long as RE growth proceeds to the critical level. Penetration is preceded by non-thermalization of the electron cyclotron emission, anisotropization of the total pressure, synchrotron emission shape changes, as well as decreases in the loop voltage and bulk thermal electron temperature. The same phenomena occur despite various types of optimal EF correction,more » and in some cases modes are born rotating. Similar phenomena are also found at the low-density limit in JET. These results stand in contrast to the conventional interpretation of the low-density stability limit as being due to residual EFs and demonstrate a new pathway to EF penetration instability due to REs. Existing scaling laws for penetration project to increasing EF sensitivity as bulk temperatures decrease, though other possible mechanisms include classical tearing instability, thermo-resistive instability, and pressure-anisotropy driven instability. Regardless of first-principles mechanism, known scaling laws for Ohmic energy confinement combined with theoretical RE production rates allow rough extrapolation of the RE criticality condition, and thus, the low-density limit to other tokamaks. Furthermore, the extrapolated low-density limit by this pathway decreases with increasing machine size and is considerably below expected operating conditions for ITER. While likely unimportant for ITER, this effect can explain the low-density limit of existing tokamaks operating with small residual EFs.« less

Simulations of sonic boom ray tube area fluctuations for propagation through atmospheric turbulence including caustics via a Monte Carlo method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sparrow, Victor W.; Pierce, Allan D.

1992-01-01

A theory which gives statistical predictions for how often sonic booms propagating through the earth's turbulent boundary layer will encounter caustics, given the spectral properties of the atmospheric turbulence, is outlined. The theory is simple but approximately accounts for the variation of ray tube areas along ray paths. This theory predicts that the variation of ray tube areas is determined by the product of two similar area factors, psi (x) and phi (x), each satisfying a generic harmonic oscillator equation. If an area factor increases the peak acoustic pressure decreases, and if the factor decreases the peak acoustic pressure increases. Additionally, if an area factor decreases to zero and becomes negative, the ray has propagated through a caustic, which contributes a phase change of 90 degrees to the wave. Thus, it is clear that the number of times that a sonic boom wave passes through a caustic should be related to the distorted boom waveform received on the ground. Examples are given based on a characterization of atmospheric turbulence due to the structure function of Tatarski as modified by Crow.

Spreading of a liquid film on a substrate by the evaporation-adsorption process

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

Wayner, P.C. Jr.; Schonberg, J.

1992-09-01

The importance of evaporation followed by multilayer adsorption in comparison to liquid flow at the leading edge of a volatile spreading film is analyzed. Presuming that both flows are functions of the same chemical potential gradient, a dimensionless group (N) which delineates the relative importance of vapor diffusion flow to viscous flow on the surface is obtained: N = [rho][sub i]D[nu]x/([minus][bar A][pi]). The relative importance of vapor flow increases with the vapor-pressure dependent partial density, [rho][sub i], and diffusivity, D, of the diffusing vapor, the kinematic viscosity of the liquid, [nu], and the distance downstream from the bulk liquid region,more » x, and decreases with the Hamaker constant, 6[pi][bar A]. Using physical properties the modifiers volatile'' and nonvolatile'' can thereby be put in perspective. Changes in the interfacial force field are a function of [bar A]. The spreading velocity due to the vapor diffusion process is obtained and is found to decrease with a decrease in the interfacial force field and the bulk vapor pressure. The infinite stress at the contact line can be easily relieved by evaporation-adsorption in many systems.« less

The influence of the cathode array and the pressure variations on the current sheath dynamics of a small plasma focus device in the presence of an axial magnetic probe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piriaei, D.; Javadi, S.; Mahabadi, T. D.; Yousefi, H. R.; Salar Elahi, A.; Ghoranneviss, M.

2017-04-01

In this research, the influence of the cathode array and the pressure variations on the current sheath dynamics of a small plasma focus device (450 J) was investigated. For this purpose, the signals of an axial magnetic probe for two different gases (argon and nitrogen) were studied. The magnetic probe signals showed the slower movement of the current sheath layer when the number of cathode rods decreased. This was related to the increase in the circuit inductance, which caused the longer discharge time of the capacitor bank followed by the creation of runaway electrons. These electrons in turn produced the impurities that led to the appearance of the instabilities inside the plasma. On the other hand, in order to investigate the effect of the cathode array variation on the instabilities produced inside the plasma, the wavelet technique was used. With the aid of frequency analysis, this technique showed the increase in these instabilities, which was due to the non-uniform formation of the current sheath layer during the breakdown phase, and finally, the higher values of the pressure caused the slower movement of the current sheath due to the inverse relation of the current sheath velocity to the square root of the pressure.

Bilateral sphenopalatine ganglion block reduces blood pressure in never treated patients with essential hypertension. A randomized controlled single-blinded study.

PubMed

Triantafyllidi, Helen; Arvaniti, Chrysa; Schoinas, Antonios; Benas, Dimitris; Vlachos, Stefanos; Palaiodimos, Leonidas; Pavlidis, George; Ikonomidis, Ignatios; Batistaki, Chrysanthi; Voumvourakis, Costas; Lekakis, John

2018-01-01

Sympathetic fibers connect sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) with the central nervous system. We aimed to study the effect of SPG block in blood pressure (BP) in never treated patients with stage I-II essential hypertension. We performed bilateral SPG block with lidocaine 2% in 33 hypertensive patients (mean age 48±12years, 24 men) and a sham operation with water for injection in 11 patients who served as the control group (mean age 51±12years, 8 men). All patients have been subjected to 24h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring prior and a month after the SBG block in order to estimate any differences in blood pressure parameters. We defined as responders to SBG block those patients with a 24h SBP decrease ≥5mmHg. We found that 24h and daytime DBP (p=0.02) as well as daytime DBP load (p=0.03) were decreased in the study group a month after SPG block. In addition, a significant response was noted in 12/33 responders (36%) regarding: a. SBP and DBP during overall 24h and daytime (p<0.001) and night-time periods, b. pre-awake and early morning SBP and c. SBP (daytime and night-time) and DBP (daytime) load. No differences regarding BP were found in the sham operation group. SPG block is a promising, minimally invasive option of BP decrease in hypertensives, probably through SNS modulation. Additionally, due to its anesthetic effect, SPG block might act as a method of selection for those hypertensive patients with an activated SNS before any other invasive antihypertensive procedure. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

INCREASED MYOCARDIAL STIFFNESS DUE TO CARDIAC TITIN ISOFORM SWITCHING IN A MOUSE MODEL OF VOLUME OVERLOAD LIMITS ECCENTRIC REMODELING

PubMed Central

Hutchinson, Kirk R; Saripalli, Chandra; Chung, Charles S.; Granzier, Henk

2014-01-01

We investigated the cellular and molecular mechanisms of diastolic dysfunction in pure volume overload induced by aortocaval fistula (ACF) surgery in the mouse. Four weeks of volume overload resulted in significant biventricular hypertrophy; protein expression analysis in left ventricular (LV) tissue showed a marked decrease in titin's N2BA/N2B ratio with no change in phosphorylation of titin's spring region. Titin-based passive tensions were significantly increased; a result of the decreased N2BA/N2B ratio. Conscious echocardiography in ACF mice revealed eccentric remodeling and pressure volume analysis revealed systolic dysfunction: reductions in ejection fraction (EF), +dP/dt, and the slope of the endsystolic pressure volume relationships (ESPVR). ACF mice also had diastolic dysfunction: increased LV end-diastolic pressure and reduced relaxation rates. Additionally, a decrease in the slope of the end diastolic pressure volume relationship (EDPVR) was found. However, correcting for altered geometry of the LV normalized the change in EDPVR and revealed, in line with our skinned muscle data, increased myocardial stiffness in vivo. ACF mice also had increased expression of the signaling proteins FHL-1, FHL-2, and CARP that bind to titin's spring region suggesting that titin stiffening is important to the volume overload phenotype. To test this we investigated the effect of volume overload in the RBM20 heterozygous (HET) mouse model, which exhibits reduced titin stiffness. It was found that LV hypertrophy was attenuated and that LV eccentricity was exacerbated. We propose that pure volume overload induces an increase in titin stiffness that is beneficial and limits eccentric remodeling. PMID:25450617

Numerical investigation of improving the performance of a single expansion ramp nozzle at off-design conditions by secondary injection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lv, Zheng; Xu, Jinglei; Mo, Jianwei

2017-04-01

The performance of a single expansion ramp nozzle (SERN) is poor due to over-expansion at off-design conditions. The present study focuses on improving the SERN performance by secondary injection on the cowl and is carried out by using the k - ε RNG turbulence model. The incidence shock wave resulting from the secondary injection impinges on the expansion ramp, resulting in separation and the increase of the pressure distribution along the ramp. The performance of the SERN can be improved significantly, and the augmentation of the thrust coefficient, lift and pitch moment can be as high as 3.16%, 29.43% and 41.67%, respectively, when the nozzle pressure ratio (NPR) is 10. The location of the injection has a considerable effect on the lift and pitching moment, and the direction of the pitch moment can be changed from nose-up to nose-down when the injection is on the tail of the cowl. The effect of the injection on the axial thrust coefficient is much more apparent, if the operation NPR is far from the design point, and however, the results for the lift and pitching moment are opposite. The increases of injection total pressure and injection width have positive impacts on the SERN performance. And if the parameter φ maintains constant, the axial thrust coefficient would increase when the injection total pressure decreases, so low energy flow can also be used as the secondary injection without decreasing the lift and pitching moment. The mass flow rate of the injection can be decreased by applying the higher total temperature flow without reducing the performance of the SERN.

Theoretical studies of optical gain tuning by hydrostatic pressure in GaInNAs/GaAs quantum wells

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

Gladysiewicz, M.; Wartak, M. S.; Department of Physics and Computer Science, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3C5

In order to describe theoretically the tuning of the optical gain by hydrostatic pressure in GaInNAs/GaAs quantum wells (QWs), the optical gain calculations within kp approach were developed and applied for N-containing and N-free QWs. The electronic band structure and the optical gain for GaInNAs/GaAs QW were calculated within the 10-band kp model which takes into account the interaction of electron levels in the QW with the nitrogen resonant level in GaInNAs. It has been shown that this interaction increases with the hydrostatic pressure and as a result the optical gain for GaInNAs/GaAs QW decreases by about 40% and 80%more » for transverse electric and transverse magnetic modes, respectively, for the hydrostatic pressure change from 0 to 40 kilobars. Such an effect is not observed for N-free QWs where the dispersion of electron and hole energies remains unchanged with the hydrostatic pressure. This is due to the fact that the conduction and valence band potentials in GaInAs/GaAs QW scale linearly with the hydrostatic pressure.« less

Experimental investigation on the coupled effect of effective stress and gas slippage on the permeability of shale.

PubMed

Yang, Diansen; Wang, Wei; Chen, Weizhong; Wang, Shugang; Wang, Xiaoqiong

2017-03-17

Permeability is one of the most important parameters to evaluate gas production in shale reservoirs. Because shale permeability is extremely low, gas is often used in the laboratory to measure permeability. However, the measured apparent gas permeability is higher than the intrinsic permeability due to the gas slippage effect, which could be even more dominant for materials with nanopores. Increasing gas pressure during tests reduces gas slippage effect, but it also decreases the effective stress which in turn influences the permeability. The coupled effect of gas slippage and effective stress on shale permeability remains unclear. Here we perform laboratory experiments on Longmaxi shale specimens to explore the coupled effect. We use the pressure transient method to measure permeability under different stress and pressure conditions. Our results reveal that the apparent measured permeability is controlled by these two competing effects. With increasing gas pressure, there exists a pressure threshold at which the dominant effect on permeability switches from gas slippage to effective stress. Based on the Klinkenberg model, we propose a new conceptual model that incorporates both competing effects. Combining microstructure analysis, we further discuss the roles of stress, gas pressure and water contents on gas permeability of shale.

Pressure-Responsive, Surfactant-Free CO2-Based Nanostructured Fluids

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Microemulsions are extensively used in advanced material and chemical processing. However, considerable amounts of surfactant are needed for their formulation, which is a drawback due to both economic and ecological reasons. Here, we describe the nanostructuration of recently discovered surfactant-free, carbon dioxide (CO2)-based microemulsion-like systems in a water/organic-solvent/CO2 pressurized ternary mixture. “Water-rich” nanodomains embedded into a “water-depleted” matrix have been observed and characterized by the combination of Raman spectroscopy, molecular dynamics simulations, and small-angle neutron scattering. These single-phase fluids show a reversible, pressure-responsive nanostructuration; the “water-rich” nanodomains at a given pressure can be instantaneously degraded/expanded by increasing/decreasing the pressure, resulting in a reversible, rapid, and homogeneous mixing/demixing of their content. This pressure-triggered responsiveness, together with other inherent features of these fluids, such as the absence of any contaminant in the ternary mixture (e.g., surfactant), their spontaneous formation, and their solvation capability (enabling the dissolution of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules), make them appealing complex fluid systems to be used in molecular material processing and in chemical engineering. PMID:28846386

Influence of high-pressure torsion on formation/destruction of nano-sized spinodal structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alhamidi, Ali; Edalati, Kaveh; Horita, Zenji

2018-04-01

The microstructures and hardness of Al - 30 mol.% Zn are investigated after processing by high-pressure torsion (HPT) for different numbers of revolutions, N = 1, 3, 10 or 25, as well as after post-HPT annealing at different temperatures, T = 373 K, 473 K, 573 K and 673 K. It was found that a work softening occurs by decreasing the grain size to the submicrometer level and increasing the fraction of high-angle boundaries. As a result of HPT processing, a complete decomposition of supersaturated solid solution of Zn in Al occurs and the spinodal structure is destroyed. This suggests that softening of the Al-Zn alloys after HPT is due to the decomposition of the supersaturated solid solution and destruction of spinodal decomposition. After post-HPT annealing, ultrafine-grained Al-Zn alloys show an unusual mechanical properties and its hardness increased to 187 HV. Microstructural analysis showed that the high hardness after post-HPT annealing is due to the formation of spinodal structures.

System Validation Experiments for Obtaining Tracer Laser-Induced Fluorescence Data at Elevated Pressure and Temperature.

PubMed

Hartwig, Jason; Mittal, Gaurav; Kumar, Kamal; Sung, Chih-Jen

2018-04-01

This paper presents a set of system validation experiments that can be used to qualify either static or flow experimental systems for gathering tracer photophysical data or conducting laser diagnostics at high pressure and temperature in order to establish design and operation limits and reduce uncertainty in data interpretation. Tests demonstrated here quantify the effect of tracer absorption at the test cell walls, stratification, photolysis, pyrolysis, adequacy of mixing and seeding, and reabsorption of laser light using acetone as the tracer and 282 nm excitation. Results show that acetone exhibits a 10% decrease in fluorescence signal over 36 000 shots at 127.4 mJ/cm 2 , and photolysis is negligible below 1000 shots collected. Meanwhile, appropriately chosen gas residence times can mitigate risks due to pyrolysis and inadequate mixing and seeding; for the current work 100 ms residence time ensured <0.5% alteration of tracer number density due to thermal destruction. Experimental results here are compared to theoretical values from the literature.

Climate-driven changes to the spatio-temporal distribution of the parasitic nematode, Haemonchus contortus, in sheep in Europe.

PubMed

Rose, Hannah; Caminade, Cyril; Bolajoko, Muhammad Bashir; Phelan, Paul; van Dijk, Jan; Baylis, Matthew; Williams, Diana; Morgan, Eric R

2016-03-01

Recent climate change has resulted in changes to the phenology and distribution of invertebrates worldwide. Where invertebrates are associated with disease, climate variability and changes in climate may also affect the spatio-temporal dynamics of disease. Due to its significant impact on sheep production and welfare, the recent increase in diagnoses of ovine haemonchosis caused by the nematode Haemonchus contortus in some temperate regions is particularly concerning. This study is the first to evaluate the impact of climate change on H. contortus at a continental scale. A model of the basic reproductive quotient of macroparasites, Q0 , adapted to H. contortus and extended to incorporate environmental stochasticity and parasite behaviour, was used to simulate Pan-European spatio-temporal changes in H. contortus infection pressure under scenarios of climate change. Baseline Q0 simulations, using historic climate observations, reflected the current distribution of H. contortus in Europe. In northern Europe, the distribution of H. contortus is currently limited by temperatures falling below the development threshold during the winter months and within-host arrested development is necessary for population persistence over winter. In southern Europe, H. contortus infection pressure is limited during the summer months by increased temperature and decreased moisture. Compared with this baseline, Q0 simulations driven by a climate model ensemble predicted an increase in H. contortus infection pressure by the 2080s. In northern Europe, a temporal range expansion was predicted as the mean period of transmission increased by 2-3 months. A bimodal seasonal pattern of infection pressure, similar to that currently observed in southern Europe, emerges in northern Europe due to increasing summer temperatures and decreasing moisture. The predicted patterns of change could alter the epidemiology of H. contortus in Europe, affect the future sustainability of contemporary control strategies, and potentially drive local adaptation to climate change in parasite populations. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Investigation of postural hypotension due to static prolonged standing in female workers.

PubMed

Kabe, Isamu; Tsuruoka, Hiroko; Tokujitani, Yoko; Endo, Yuichi; Furusawa, Mami; Takebayashi, Toru

2007-07-01

The "Just-in-Time system" improves productivity and efficiency through cost reduction while it makes workers work in a standing posture. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of postural hypotension in females during prolonged standing work, and to discuss preventive methods. Twelve female static standing workers (mean age+/-standard deviation; 32+/-14 yr old), 6 male static standing workers (30+/-4 yr old), 10 female walking workers (27+/-7 yr old) and 9 female desk workers (31+/-5 yr old) in a certain telecommunications equipment manufacturing factory agreed to participate in this study. All participants received an interview with an occupational physician, and performed the standing up test before working and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) while working. Although the blood pressure of the standing up test did not differ among the groups, mean pulse rates on standing up significantly increased in every group. Hypotension rates in the female standing workers' group by ABPM were 9 persons of 12 participants (75%) for systolic blood pressure (SBP), and were 11 persons of 12 participants (92%) for diastolic blood pressure (DBP). There were significantly higher than those in the female desk workers' group, none of 9 participants (0%) for SBP and 2 of 9 participants (22%) for DBP. The hypotension rates both male standing and female walking worker groups did not differ. Because all 8 workers who were found to have postural hypotension by the standing up test had decreased SBP and/or DBP by ABPM, it is suggested that persons at high risk of postural hypotension during standing work could be screened by the standing up test. The mechanism of postural hypotension may be a decrease of venous return due to leg swelling, and neurocardiogenic or vasovagal response. Preventing the congestion of the lower limbs by walking, managing standing time and wearing elastic hose to keep the amount of the venous return could prevent postural hypotension during prolonged standing work.

Titanium-scaffolded organic-monolithic stationary phases for ultra-high-pressure liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Vonk, Rudy J; Vaast, Axel; Eeltink, Sebastiaan; Schoenmakers, Peter J

2014-09-12

Organic-polymer monoliths with overall dimensions larger than one millimetre are prone to rupture - either within the monolith itself or between the monoliths and the containing wall - due to the inevitable shrinkage accompanying the formation of a cross-linked polymeric network. This problem has been addressed by creating titanium-scaffolded poly(styrene-co-divinylbenzene) (S-co-DVB) monoliths. Titanium-scaffolded monoliths were successfully used in liquid chromatography at very high pressures (up to 80MPa) and using gradients spanning the full range of water-acetonitrile compositions (0 to 100%). The kinetic-performance of (50-mm long) titanium-scaffolded monoliths was compared to that of similar monolith created in 1-mm i.d. glass-lined tubing at pressures up to 50MPa. The peak capacities obtained with the titanium-scaffolded column was about 30% lower. An increased Eddy-diffusion, due to the pillar-structure, and a decreased permeability are thought to be the main reasons for this reduced kinetic-performance. No decrease in performance was observed when the titanium-scaffolded columns were operated at pressures of 80MPa for up to 12h. The column-to-column repeatability (n=5) was acceptable in terms of observed peak widths at half heights (RSD ca. 10%) The run-to-run repeatability (n=135) in terms of retention times and peak widths at half height were found to be good. Titanium-scaffolded columns coupled in series up to a combined length of (200mm) were used for the analyses of a complex Escherichia coli protein sample. Our experiments demonstrate that columns based on titanium-scaffolded organic-polymer monolith can be operated under strenuous conditions without loss in performance. The titanium-scaffolded approach makes it feasible to create organic-polymer monoliths in wide-bore columns with accurate temperature control. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Pore Pressure Evolution in Shallow Subduction Earthquake Sequences and Effects on Aseismic Slip Transients -- Numerical Modeling With Rate and State Friction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Y.; Rice, J. R.

2005-12-01

In 3D modeling of long tectonic loading and earthquake sequences on a shallow subduction fault [Liu and Rice, 2005], with depth-variable rate and state friction properties, we found that aseismic transient slip episodes emerge spontaneously with only a simplified representation of effects of metamorphic fluid release. That involved assumption of a constant in time but uniformly low effective normal stress in the downdip region. As suggested by observations in several major subduction zones [Obara, 2002; Rogers and Dragert, 2003; Kodaira et al, 2004], the presence of fluids, possibly released from dehydration reactions beneath the seismogenic zone, and their pressurization within the fault zone may play an important role in causing aseismic transients and associated non-volcanic tremors. To investigate the effects of fluids in the subduction zone, particularly on the generation of aseismic transients and their various features, we develop a more complete physical description of the pore pressure evolution (specifically, pore pressure increase due to supply from dehydration reactions and shear heating, decrease due to transport and dilatancy during slip), and incorporate that into the rate and state based 3D modeling. We first incorporated two important factors, dilatancy and shear heating, following Segall and Rice [1995, 2004] and Taylor [1998]. In the 2D simulations (slip varies with depth only), a dilatancy-stabilizing effect is seen which slows down the seismic rupture front and can prevent rapid slip from extending all the way to the trench, similarly to Taylor [1998]. Shear heating increases the pore pressure, and results in faster coseismic rupture propagation and larger final slips. In the 3D simulations, dilatancy also stabilizes the along-strike rupture propagation of both seismic and aseismic slips. That is, aseismic slip transients migrate along the strike faster with a shorter Tp (the characteristic time for pore pressure in the fault core to re-equilibrate with that of its surroundings). This is consistent with our previous simulations, which show that the aseismic transients migrate along the strike at a higher speed under a lower, constant in time, effective normal stress. As a combination of the two factors, we show the pore pressure evolution with drops (due to dilatancy during slip) and then rises (due to shear heating) on the fault over multiple time scales. We next plan to formulate, and merge with the slip-rupture analysis, fuller fluid release models based on phase equilibria and models of transport in which the average fault-parallel permeability is a decreasing function of the effective normal stress. The thrust fault zone, at seismogenic depths and slightly downdip, is represented in a conceptually similar manner to the well-studied major continental faults, assuming the fault core materials have a lower permeability than the neighboring damaged zone. Heat diffusion in the fault core and damaged zone will also be considered in the modeling. The simulation results may help to improve our understanding of the processes of the aseismic transients observed within a transform plate boundary along the SAF near Cholame, California [Nadeau and Dolenc, 2005].

New type of microengine using internal combustion of hydrogen and oxygen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Svetovoy, Vitaly B.; Sanders, Remco G. P.; Ma, Kechun; Elwenspoek, Miko C.

2014-03-01

Microsystems become part of everyday life but their application is restricted by lack of strong and fast motors (actuators) converting energy into motion. For example, widespread internal combustion engines cannot be scaled down because combustion reactions are quenched in a small space. Here we present an actuator with the dimensions 100 × 100 × 5 μm3 that is using internal combustion of hydrogen and oxygen as part of its working cycle. Water electrolysis driven by short voltage pulses creates an extra pressure of 0.5-4 bar for a time of 100-400 μs in a chamber closed by a flexible membrane. When the pulses are switched off this pressure is released even faster allowing production of mechanical work in short cycles. We provide arguments that this unexpectedly fast pressure decrease is due to spontaneous combustion of the gases in the chamber. This actuator is the first step to truly microscopic combustion engines.

Synthesis of Fe3O4 nanostructures by backward plume deposition and influence of ambient gas pressure on their morphology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, J. J.; Mahmood, S.; Zhang, T.; Hassan, S. M.; White, T.; Ramanujan, R. V.; Lee, P.; Rawat, R. S.

2007-04-01

Iron oxide nanostructures with significantly fewer droplets were successfully synthesized by pulsed laser deposition using a special target-substrate geometry, which is coined backward plume deposition. The morphology of deposited nanostructures for backward plume deposition is found to be strongly controlled by the ambient gas pressure and changes from a thin film to an assemble of nanoclusters to nanoclusters with loosely bound floccule-like network with the increase in ambient gas pressure. The post-annealing considerably changes the structural properties of deposited materials, which were determined to be magnetite FCC-Fe3O4. It also causes the relaxation of long range stress in the film and hence leads to an increase in the saturation magnetization. The coercivity is found to decrease upon annealing due to the growth of randomly oriented Fe3O4 nanocrystallite as well as the relaxation of internal stress.

High pressure stability of protein complexes studied by static and dynamic light scattering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gebhardt, Ronald; Kulozik, Ulrich

2011-03-01

The high pressure dissociation of hemocyanin prepared from the lobster Homarus americanus and casein micelles from cow milk were observed by in situ light scattering. The hemocyanin dodecamer dissociated via a hexamer into monomers in a two-step three-species reaction. The influence of ligands and the effector l-lactate on the dissociation behavior was investigated. While no effect by carbon monoxide after exchanging the ligand oxygen was observed, the addition of the effector l-lactate led to a decrease in the pressure stability. Due to a trimer intermediate which was found to be stabilized by l-lactate, the dissociation reaction in the presence of the effector was analyzed by a three-step four-species reaction. In the case of casein micelles, a two-step dissociation mechanism was found. The stabilizing interactions of casein micelles were identified and separated.

Effect of high-pressure processing of bovine colostrum on immunoglobulin G concentration, pathogens, viscosity, and transfer of passive immunity to calves.

PubMed

Foster, Derek M; Poulsen, Keith P; Sylvester, Hannah J; Jacob, Megan E; Casulli, Kaitlyn E; Farkas, Brian E

2016-11-01

This study aimed to determine the effects of high-pressure processing on the immunoglobulin concentration, microbial load, viscosity, and transfer of passive immunity to calves when applied to bovine colostrum as an alternative to thermal pasteurization. A pilot study using Staphylococcus aureus was conducted to determine which pressure-time treatments are most appropriate for use with bovine colostrum, with the goals of maximizing bacterial inactivation while minimizing IgG content and viscosity changes. Following the pilot study, an inoculation study was conducted in which first-milking colostrum samples from Holstein-Friesian cows were inoculated with known concentrations of various bacteria or viruses and pressure processed at either 300 MPa for up to 60min or at 400MPa for up to 30min. The recovery of total native aerobic bacteria, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica ssp. enterica serovar Dublin, Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis, bovine herpesvirus type 1, and feline calicivirus were determined after processing. Colostrum IgG content was measured before and after pressure processing. Shear stress and viscosity for each treatment was determined over shear rates encompassing those found during calf feeding and at normal bovine body temperature (37.8°C). Following a calf trial, serum IgG concentration was measured in 14 calves fed 4 L of colostrum pressure processed at 400MPa for 15min. In the pilot study, S. aureus was effectively reduced with pressure treatment at 300 and 400MPa (0, 5, 10, 15, 30, and 45min), with 2 treatments at 400MPa (30, 45min) determined to be inappropriate for use with bovine colostrum due to viscosity and IgG changes. High-pressure processing at 300MPa (30, 45, and 60min) and 400MPa (10, 15, and 20min) was shown to effectively reduce total native aerobic bacteria, E. coli, Salmonella Dublin, bovine herpesvirus type 1, and feline calicivirus populations in bovine colostrum, but no decrease occurred in Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis. All inoculation study pressure treatments insignificantly decreased IgG content of colostrum. Treatment of colostrum at 400MPa for 15min during the calf trial decreased IgG content of colostrum. Treatment at 400MPa for 15min increased colostrum viscosity, with 2 of 14 samples requiring dilution with water for calf feeding. Calves fed pressure-processed colostrum had similar serum IgG but lower efficiency of absorption than calves fed heat-treated colostrum. The results of this study suggest that high-pressure processing of bovine colostrum maintains an acceptable IgG level while decreasing bacterial and viral counts. Changes in viscosity sometimes made calf feeding more difficult, but still feasible. Additional research to optimize this technology for on-farm use is necessary. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tensile strength decreases and perfusion pressure of 3-holed polyamide epidural catheters increases in long-term epidural infusion.

PubMed

Kim, Pascal; Meyer, Urs; Schüpfer, Guido; Rukwied, Roman; Konrad, Christoph; Gerber, Helmut

2011-01-01

Epidural analgesia is an established method for pain management. The failure rate is 8% to 12% due to technical difficulties (catheter dislocation and/or disconnection; partial or total catheter occlusion) and management. The mechanical properties of the catheters, like tensile strength and flow rate, may also be affected by the analgesic solution and/or the tissue environment. We investigated the tensile strength and perfusion pressure of new (n=20), perioperatively (n=30), and postoperatively (n=73) used epidural catheters (20-gauge, polyamide, closed tip, 3 side holes; Perifix [B. Braun]). To prevent dislocation, epidural catheters were taped (n=5) or fixed by suture (n=68) to the skin. After removal, mechanical properties were assessed by a tensile-testing machine (INSTRON 4500), and perfusion pressure was measured at flow rates of 10, 20, and 40 mL/h. All catheters demonstrated a 2-step force transmission. Initially, a minimal increase of length could be observed at 15 N followed by an elongation of several cm at additional forces (7 N). Breakage occurred in the control group at 23.5±1.5 N compared with 22.4±1.6 N in perioperative and 22.4±1.7 N in postoperative catheters (P<0.05). Duration of catheter use had no effect on tensile strength, whereas perfusion pressure at clinically used flow rates (10 mL/h) increased significantly from 19±1.3 to 44±72 mm Hg during long-term (≥7 days) epidural analgesia (P<0.05, analysis of variance). Fixation by suture had no influence on tensile strength or perfusion pressure. Epidural catheter use significantly increases the perfusion pressure and decreases the tensile strength. Copyright © 2011 by American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine

Biomechanics of Hyperflexion and Kneeling before and after Total Knee Arthroplasty

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

The capacity to perform certain activities is frequently compromised after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) due to a functional decline resulting from decreased range of motion and a diminished ability to kneel. In this manuscript, the current biomechanical understanding of hyperflexion and kneeling before and after TKA will be discussed. Patellofemoral and tibiofemoral joint contact area, contact pressure, and kinematics were evaluated in cadaveric studies using a Tekscan pressure measuring system and Microscribe. Testing was performed on intact knees and following cruciate retaining and posterior stabilized TKA at knee flexion angles of 90°, 105°, 120°, and 135°. Three loading conditions were used to simulate squatting, double stance kneeling, and single stance kneeling. Following TKA with double stance kneeling, patellofemoral contact areas did not increase significantly at high knee flexion angle (135°). Kneeling resulted in tibial posterior translation and external rotation at all flexion angles. Moving from double to single stance kneeling tended to increase pressures in the cruciate retaining group, but decreased pressures in the posterior stabilized group. The cruciate retaining group had significantly larger contact areas than the posterior stabilized group, although no significant differences in pressures were observed comparing the two TKA designs (p < 0.05). If greater than 120° of postoperative knee range of motion can be achieved following TKA, then kneeling may be performed with less risk in the patellofemoral joint than was previously believed to be the case. However, kneeling may increase the likelihood of damage to cartilage and menisci in intact knees and after TKA increases in tibiofemoral contact area and pressures may lead to polyethyelene wear if performed on a chronic, repetitive basis. PMID:24900891

Biomechanics of hyperflexion and kneeling before and after total knee arthroplasty.

PubMed

Lee, Thay Q

2014-06-01

The capacity to perform certain activities is frequently compromised after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) due to a functional decline resulting from decreased range of motion and a diminished ability to kneel. In this manuscript, the current biomechanical understanding of hyperflexion and kneeling before and after TKA will be discussed. Patellofemoral and tibiofemoral joint contact area, contact pressure, and kinematics were evaluated in cadaveric studies using a Tekscan pressure measuring system and Microscribe. Testing was performed on intact knees and following cruciate retaining and posterior stabilized TKA at knee flexion angles of 90°, 105°, 120°, and 135°. Three loading conditions were used to simulate squatting, double stance kneeling, and single stance kneeling. Following TKA with double stance kneeling, patellofemoral contact areas did not increase significantly at high knee flexion angle (135°). Kneeling resulted in tibial posterior translation and external rotation at all flexion angles. Moving from double to single stance kneeling tended to increase pressures in the cruciate retaining group, but decreased pressures in the posterior stabilized group. The cruciate retaining group had significantly larger contact areas than the posterior stabilized group, although no significant differences in pressures were observed comparing the two TKA designs (p < 0.05). If greater than 120° of postoperative knee range of motion can be achieved following TKA, then kneeling may be performed with less risk in the patellofemoral joint than was previously believed to be the case. However, kneeling may increase the likelihood of damage to cartilage and menisci in intact knees and after TKA increases in tibiofemoral contact area and pressures may lead to polyethyelene wear if performed on a chronic, repetitive basis.

Erythrocyte aggregation under high pressure studied by laser photometry and mathematical analysis.

PubMed

Toyama, Yoshiharu; Yoshida, Hisashi; Yamamoto, Takao; Dobashi, Toshiaki

2016-04-01

The effects of hydrostatic pressure on erythrocyte aggregation have been studied by laser photometry and analysis based on a phenomenological theory. Samples were prepared by suspending swine erythrocytes in their own plasma. A high-pressure vessel consisting of a stainless-steel block with a hole to hold a sample cell and two sapphire windows to allows the passage of a He-Ne laser beam was used in the experimental setup. The suspension was stirred at 1500 rpm to disperse the erythrocytes homogeneously. Immediately after reducing the stirring rate from 1500 rpm to 300 rpm, the transmitted light intensity (I) was recorded every 10 ms under a high pressure of 40-200 MPa. The value of I increased with time (t) owing to erythrocyte aggregation. From the phenomenological theory, the equation ΔI(t)=ΔIeq[1-e(-Kt)/(1-B(1-e(-Kt)))] was derived for the change in the transmitted light intensity (ΔI) due to erythrocyte aggregation, where ΔIeq is the transmitted light intensity in the steady state, K is a time constant and B is a constant that represents the ratio of the number of interaction sites on erythrocyte aggregates at time t to that in the steady state. The observed time courses of ΔI obtained at all pressures could be closely fitted to the theoretical equation. ΔIeq roughly increased with increasing pressure. On the other hand, K and B abruptly decreased above 120 MPa. The growth rate of aggregates decreased above 120 MPa. These results suggest a change in the mechanism of erythrocyte aggregation at approximately 120 MPa. We discuss the physical meaning of the parameters. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Depletion of the vibrational ground state of CH4 in absorption spectroscopy at 3.4 μm in N2 and air in the 1-100 Torr range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hausmaninger, Thomas; Zhao, Gang; Ma, Weiguang; Axner, Ove

2018-01-01

A model presented in an accompanying work predicts that mid-IR absorption signals from methane in trace concentrations in various buffer gases detected at pressures in the 1-100 Torr range can be reduced and distorted due to depletion of the vibrational ground state if the molecules are exposed to laser powers in the tens of mW range or above. This work provides experimental evidence of such depletion in a resonant cavity under a variety of conditions, e.g. for intracavity laser powers up to 2 W and for buffer gases of N2 or dry air, and verifies the applicability of the model. It was found that the degree of depletion is significantly larger in N2 than dry air, and that it increases with pressure for pressures up to around 10 Torr (attributed to a decreased diffusion rate) but decreases with pressure for pressures above 20 Torr (caused by an increased collisional vibrational decay rate). The maximum degree of depletion (∼80%) was obtained for methane in N2 at around 15 Torr. This implies that absorption spectrometry of methane can experience significant non-linear dependencies on laser power, pressure, as well as buffer gas composition. It is shown that depletion takes place also in 13CH4, which verifies the applicability of the model also for this isotopologue, and that NICE-OHMS signals detected in absorption phase are less affected by depletion than in dispersion. It was concluded that the absorption mode of detection can provide concentration assessments that are virtually free of influence of depletion for intracavity powers below 0.8 W.

Hemodynamic response to fluid removal during hemodialysis: categorization of causes of intradialytic hypotension.

PubMed

Levin, Nathan W; de Abreu, Marcia H F G; Borges, Lucas E; Tavares Filho, Helcio A; Sarwar, Rabia; Gupta, Surendra; Hafeez, Tahir; Lev, Shaul; Williams, Caroline

2018-04-14

Intradialytic hypotension is a clinically significant problem, however, the hemodynamics that underlie ultrafiltration and consequent hypotensive episodes has not been studied comprehensively. Intradialytic cardiac output, cardiac power and peripheral resistance changes from pretreatment measurements were evaluated using a novel regional impedance cardiographic device (NICaS, NI Medical, Peta Tikva, Israel) in 263 hemodialysis sessions in 54 patients in dialysis units in the USA and Brazil with the goal of determining the various hemodynamic trends as blood pressure decreases. Hypotensive episodes occurred in 99 (13.5%) of 736 intra- and postdialytic evaluations. The hemodynamic profiles of the episodes were categorized: (i) The cardiac power index significantly decreased in 35% of episodes by 36%, from 0.66 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.60-0.72] to 0.43 (95% CI 0.37-0.48) [w/m2] with a small reduction in the total peripheral resistance index. (ii) The total peripheral resistance index significantly decreased in 37.4% of episodes by 33%, from 3342 (95% CI 2824-3859) to 2251 (95% CI 1900-2602) [dyn × s/cm5 × m2] with a small reduction in the cardiac power index. (iii) Both the cardiac power index and total peripheral resistance index significantly decreased in 27.3% of episodes, the cardiac power index by 25% from 0.63 (95% CI 0.57-0.70) to 0.48 (95% CI 0.42-0.53) [w/m2] and the total peripheral resistance index by 23% from 2964 (95% CI 2428-3501) to 2266 (95% CI 1891-2642). The hemodynamic profiles clearly define specific hemodynamic mechanisms of cardiac power reduction and/or vasodilatation as underlying intradialytic hypotensive episodes. A reduction in cardiac power (reduction of both blood pressure and cardiac output) could be the result of preload reduction due to a high ultrafiltration rate with not enough refilling or low target weight. A reduction in peripheral resistance (reduction in blood pressure and increase in cardiac output) could be the result of relative vasodilatation as arteries do not contract to compensate for volume reduction due to autonomous dysfunction. As both phenomena are independent, they may appear at the same time. Based on these results, a reduction of ultrafiltration rate and an increase in target weight to improve preload or immediate therapeutic actions to increase peripheral resistance are rational measures that could be taken to maintain blood pressure and prevent hypotensive ischemic complications in dialysis patients.

Effects of sounds generated by a dental turbine and a stream on regional cerebral blood flow and cardiovascular responses.

PubMed

Mishima, Riho; Kudo, Takumu; Tsunetsugu, Yuko; Miyazaki, Yoshifumi; Yamamura, Chie; Yamada, Yoshiaki

2004-09-01

Effects of sound generated by a dental turbine and a small stream (murmur) and the effects of no sound (null, control) on heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and hemodynamic changes (oxygenated, deoxygenated, and total hemoglobin concentrations) in the frontal cortex were measured in 18 young volunteers. Questionnaires completed by the volunteers were also evaluated. Near-infrared spectroscopy and the Finapres technique were employed to measure hemodynamic and vascular responses, respectively. The subjects assessed the murmur, null, and turbine sounds as "pleasant," "natural," and "unpleasant," respectively. Blood pressures changed in response to the murmur, null, and turbine sound stimuli as expected: lower than the control level, unchanged, and higher than the control level, respectively. Mean blood pressure values tended to increase gradually over the recording time even during the null sound stimulation, possibly because of the recording environment. Oxygenated hemoglobin concentrations decreased drastically in response to the dental turbine sound, while deoxygenated hemoglobin concentrations remained unchanged and thus total hemoglobin concentrations decreased (due to the decreased oxygenated hemoglobin concentrations). Hemodynamic responses to the murmuring sound and the null sound were slight or unchanged, respectively. Surprisingly, heart rate measurements remained fairly stable in response to the stimulatory noises. In conclusion, we demonstrate here that sound generated by a dental turbine may affect cerebral blood flow and metabolism as well as autonomic responses. Copyright 2004 The Society of the Nippon Dental University

Constriction of isolated collecting lymphatic vessels in response to acute increases in downstream pressure

PubMed Central

Scallan, Joshua P; Wolpers, John H; Davis, Michael J

2013-01-01

Collecting lymphatic vessels generate pressure to transport lymph downstream to the subclavian vein against a significant pressure head. To investigate their response to elevated downstream pressure, collecting lymphatic vessels containing one valve (incomplete lymphangion) or two valves (complete lymphangion) were isolated from the rat mesentery and tied to glass cannulae capable of independent pressure control. Downstream pressure was selectively raised to various levels, either stepwise or ramp-wise, while keeping upstream pressure constant. Diameter and valve positions were tracked under video microscopy, while intralymphangion pressure was measured concurrently with a servo-null micropipette. Surprisingly, a potent lymphatic constriction occurred in response to the downstream pressure gradient due to (1) a pressure-dependent myogenic constriction and (2) a frequency-dependent decrease in diastolic diameter. The myogenic index of the lymphatic constriction (−3.3 ± 0.6, in mmHg) was greater than that of arterioles or collecting lymphatic vessels exposed to uniform increases in pressure (i.e. upstream and downstream pressures raised together). Additionally, the constriction was transmitted to the upstream lymphatic vessel segment even though it was protected from changes in pressure by a closed intraluminal valve; the conducted constriction was blocked by loading only the pressurized half of the vessel with either ML-7 (0.5 mm) to block contraction, or cromakalim (3 μm) to hyperpolarize the downstream muscle layer. Finally, we provide evidence that the lymphatic constriction is important to maintain normal intraluminal valve closure during each contraction cycle in the face of an adverse pressure gradient, which probably protects the lymphatic capillaries from lymph backflow. PMID:23045335

Work of breathing using different interfaces in spontaneous positive pressure ventilation: helmet, face-mask, and endotracheal tube.

PubMed

Oda, Shinya; Otaki, Kei; Yashima, Nozomi; Kurota, Misato; Matsushita, Sachiko; Kumasaka, Airi; Kurihara, Hutaba; Kawamae, Kaneyuki

2016-08-01

Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) using a helmet is expected to cause inspiratory trigger delay due to the large collapsible and compliant chamber. We compared the work of breathing (WOB) of NPPV using a helmet or a full face-mask with that of invasive ventilation by tracheal intubation. We used a lung model capable of simulating spontaneous breathing (LUNGOO; Air Water Inc., Japan). LUNGOO was set at compliance (C) = 50 mL/cmH2O and resistance (R) = 5 cmH2O/L/s for normal lung simulation, C = 20 mL/cmH2O and R = 5 cmH2O/L/s for restrictive lung, and C = 50 mL/cmH2O and R = 20 cmH2O/L/s for obstructive lung. Muscle pressure was fixed at 25 cmH2O and respiratory rate at 20 bpm. Pressure support ventilation and continuous positive airway pressure were performed with each interface placed on a dummy head made of reinforced plastic that was connected to LUNGOO. We tested the inspiratory WOB difference between the interfaces with various combinations of ventilator settings (positive end-expiratory pressure 5 cmH2O; pressure support 0, 5, and 10 cmH2O). In the normal lung and restrictive lung models, WOB decreased more with the face-mask than the helmet, especially when accompanied by the level of pressure support. In the obstructive lung model, WOB with the helmet decreased compared with the other two interfaces. In the mixed lung model, there were no significant differences in WOB between the three interfaces. NPPV using a helmet is more effective than the other interfaces for WOB in obstructive lung disease.

Effects of Al content on water partitioning between orthopyroxene and olivine: Implications for lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakurai, Moe; Tsujino, Noriyoshi; Sakuma, Hiroshi; Kawamura, Katsuyuki; Takahashi, Eiichi

2014-08-01

To investigate the partitioning coefficient of water between orthopyroxene (Opx) and olivine (Ol) (D(Opx/Ol)) under low-water concentrations (3˜387 wt. ppm) similar to the Earth's mantle conditions, high-pressure experiments have been conducted at pressures of 1.5-6 GPa and a temperature of 1573 K. The experiments were performed with Kawai-type multi-anvil and piston-cylinder apparatus by using starting materials of natural Ol and synthetic Opx with various Al contents. The water contents were obtained with a vacuum type Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FT-IR6100, IRT5000). IR-spectra of Ol and Al-bearing Opx in this study are similar to those obtained by high-pressure experiments (Bai and Kohlstedt, 1993) and natural rocks (Grant et al., 2007), respectively. It is believed that broad bands in IR spectra of natural Opx are due to effect of crystal distortion by large Al substitution. On the contrary, IR-spectra of Al-free Opx are not consistent with those reported by Rauch and Keppler (2002) likely because of the large difference of water fugacity. D(Al-free Opx/Ol) is ˜1 at all pressure conditions or decreases with increasing pressure. However, the water contents of Al-bearing Opx are significantly larger than those of Ol at the same conditions. In addition, the effect of Al concentration in Opx on D(Opx/Ol) becomes larger with increasing pressure. The high Al content in Opx significantly increases D(Opx/Ol) and the trend increases with increasing pressure. D(Opx/Ol) drops sharply at the pressure at which the Al concentration of Opx becomes nearly 0 in the Earth's mantle conditions. This conclusion indicates that viscosity of the upper mantle decreases sharply at depths larger than those in which orthopyroxene contains no Al. The dramatic change of D(Opx/Ol) may explain the lithosphere-asthenosphere boundary beneath oceans and continents.

Extreme pressure differences at 0900 NZST and winds across New Zealand

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salinger, M. James; Griffiths, Georgina M.; Gosai, Ashmita

2005-07-01

Trends in extremes in station daily sea-level pressure differences at 0900 NZST are examined, and extreme daily wind gusts, across New Zealand, since the 1960s. Annual time series were examined (with indices of magnitude and frequency over threshold percentiles) from the daily indices selected. These follow from earlier indices of normalized monthly mean sea-level pressure differences between station pairs, except the daily indices are not normalized. The frequency statistics quantify the number of extreme zonal (westerly and easterly), or extreme meridional (southerly or northerly), pressure gradient events. The frequency and magnitude of extreme westerly episodes has increased slightly over New Zealand, with a significant increase in the westerly extremes to the south of New Zealand. In contrast, the magnitude and frequency of easterly extremes has decreased over New Zealand, but increased to the south, with some trends weakly significant. The frequency and magnitude of daily southerly extremes has decreased significantly in the region.Extreme daily wind gust events at key climate stations in New Zealand and at Hobart, Australia, are highly likely to be associated with an extreme daily pressure difference. The converse was less likely to hold: extreme wind gusts were not always observed on days with extreme daily pressure difference, probably due to the strong influence that topography has on localized station winds. Significant correlations exist between the frequency indices and both annual-average mean sea-level pressures around the Australasian region and annual-average sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the Southern Hemisphere. These correlations are generally stronger for indices of extreme westerly or extreme southerly airflows. Annual-average pressures in the Tasman Sea or Southern Ocean are highly correlated to zonal indices (frequency of extreme westerlies). SST anomalies in the NINO3 region or on either side of the South Island are significantly correlated with the frequency of extreme westerly airflows.

Changes in left ventricular function as determined by the multi-wire gamma camera at near presyncopal levels of lower body negative pressure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pintner, R.; Fortney, S.; Mulvagh, S.; Lacy, J.

1992-01-01

At presyncopal levels of lower body negative pressure (LBNP), we have frequently observed electrocardiographic responses that may be due to changes in cardiac position and/or shape, but could be indicative of altered myocardial function. To further investigate this, we evaluated cardiac function using a nuclear imaging technique in 21 healthy subjects (17 men and 4 women) after 30 minutes of supine rest and near the end of a presyncopal-limited LBNP exposure (LBNP averaged 65 plus or minus 3 mmHg at injection). Cardiac first pass images were obtained with a Multi-Wire Gamma Camera following an intravenous bolus injection of 30-50 millicurries of Tantalum-178. Manual blood pressures and electrocardiograms were obtained throughout the 3 minute graded LBNP protocol. Between rest and injection during LBNP, heart rate increased (P less than 0.01) from 67 plus or minus 3 beats per minute to 99 plus or minus beats per minute, systolic blood pressure decreased (P less than 0.01) from 110 plus or minus 3 mmHg to 107 plus or minus 3 mmHg and left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) decreased (P less than 0.01) from 0.57 plus or minus 0.02 to 0.48 plus or minus 0.02. During LBNP, ST segment depression of at least 0.5 mm occurred in 7 subjects. Subjects with ST depression had greater reductions (P = 0.05) in EF than subjects without ST depression (0.15 plus or minus 0.07 versus 0.005 plus or minus 0.03), but also tolerated greater levels (P less than 0.05) of negative pressure (88 plus or minus mmHg versus 69 plus or minus 5 mmHg). There was a significant relationship between presyncopal LBNP level and EF (R(exp 2) = 0.50, P less than 0.05). Our findings suggest there may be a decrease in systolic myocardial function at high levels of LBNP.

Relieving dyspnoea by non-invasive ventilation decreases pain thresholds in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

PubMed

Dangers, Laurence; Laviolette, Louis; Georges, Marjolaine; Gonzalez-Bermejo, Jésus; Rivals, Isabelle; Similowski, Thomas; Morelot-Panzini, Capucine

2017-03-01

Dyspnoea is a threatening sensation of respiratory discomfort that presents many similarities with pain. Experimental dyspnoea in healthy subjects induces analgesia. This 'dyspnoea-pain counter-irritation' could, in reverse, imply that relieving dyspnoea in patients with chronic respiratory diseases would lower their pain thresholds. We first determined pressure pain thresholds in 25 healthy volunteers (22-31 years; 13 men; handheld algometer), during unloaded breathing (BASELINE) and during inspiratory threshold loading (ITL). Two levels of loading were used, adjusted to induce dyspnoea self-rated at 60% or 80% of a 10 cm visual analogue scale (ITL6 and ITL8). 18 patients with chronic respiratory failure due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) were then studied during unassisted breathing and after 30 and 60 min of non-invasive ventilation-NIV30 and NIV60-(same dyspnoea evaluation). In healthy volunteers, pressure pain thresholds increased significantly in the deltoid during ITL6 (p<0.05) and ITL8 (p<0.05) and in the trapezius during ITL8 (p<0.05), validating the use of pressure pain thresholds to study dyspnoea-pain counter-irritation. In patients with ALS, the pressure pain thresholds measured in the deltoid during unassisted breathing decreased by a median of 24.5%-33.0% of baseline during NIV30 and NIV60 (p<0.05). Relieving dyspnoea by NIV in patients with ALS having respiratory failure is associated with decreased pressure pain thresholds. Clinical implications have yet to be determined, but this observation suggests that patients with ALS could become more susceptible to pain after the institution of NIV, hence the need for reinforced attention towards potentially painful diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Extrapolation From Wind Tunnel to Flight: Shuttle Orbiter Aerodynamics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Muylaert, J.; Walpot, L.; Rostand, P.; Rapuc, M.; Brauckmann, G.; Paulson, J.; Trockmorton, D.; Weilmuenster, K.

1998-01-01

The paper reviews a combined numerical and experimental activity on the Shuttle Orbiter, first performed at NASA Langley within the Orbiter Experiment (OEX) and subsequently at ESA, as part of the AGARD FDP WG 18 activities. The study at Langley was undertaken to resolve the pitch up anomaly observed during the entry of the first flight of the Shuttle Orbiter. The present paper will focus on real gas effects on aerodynamics and not on heating. The facilities used at NASA Langley were the 15-in. Mach 6, the 20-in, Mach 6, the 31-in. Mach 10 and the 20-in. Mach 6 CF4 facility. The paper focuses on the high Mach, high altitude portion of the first entry of the Shuttle where the vehicle exhibited a nose-up pitching moment relative to pre-flight prediction of (Delta C(sub m)) = 0.03. In order to study the relative contribution of compressibility, viscous interaction and real gas effects on basic body pitching moment and flap efficiency, an experimental study was undertaken to examine the effects of Mach, Reynolds and ratio of specific heats at NASA. At high Mach, a decrease of gamma occurs in the shock layer due to high temperature effects. The primary effect of this lower specific heat ratio is a decrease of the pressure on the aft windward expansion surface of the Orbiter causing the nose-up pitching moment. Testing in the heavy gas, Mach 6 CF4 tunnel, gave a good simulation of high temperature effects. The facilities used at ESA were the lm Mach 10 at ONERA Modane, the 0.7 m hot shot F4 at ONERA Le Fauga and the 0.88 m piston driven shock tube HEG at DLR Goettingen. Encouraging good force measurements were obtained in the F4 facility on the Orbiter configuration. Testing of the same model in the perfect gas Mach 10 S4 Modane facility was performed so as to have "reference" conditions. When one compares the F4 and S4 test results, the data suggests that the Orbiter "pitch up" is due to real gas effects. In addition, pressure measurements, performed on the aft portion of the windward side of the Halis configuration in HEG and F4, confirm that the pitch up is mainly attributed to a reduction of pressure due to a local decrease in gamma.

Retrospective, nonrandomized controlled study on autoadjusting, dual-pressure positive airway pressure therapy for a consecutive series of complex insomnia disorder patients

PubMed Central

Krakow, Barry; McIver, Natalia D; Ulibarri, Victor A; Nadorff, Michael R

2017-01-01

Purpose Emerging evidence shows that positive airway pressure (PAP) treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) in chronic insomnia patients (proposed “complex insomnia” disorder) leads to substantial decreases in insomnia severity. Although continuous PAP (CPAP) is the pressure mode most widely researched, intolerance to fixed pressurized air is rarely investigated or described in comorbidity patients. This retrospective study examined dual pressure, autoadjusting PAP modes in chronic, complex insomnia disorder patients. Patients and methods Chronic insomnia disorder patients (mean [SD] insomnia severity index [ISI] =19.11 [3.34]) objectively diagnosed with OSA or UARS and using either autobilevel PAP device or adaptive servoventilation (ASV) device after failing CPAP therapy (frequently due to intolerance to pressurized air, poor outcomes, or emergence of CSA) were divided into PAP users (≥20 h/wk) and partial users (<20 h/wk) for comparison. Subjective and objective baseline and follow-up measures were analyzed. Results Of the 302 complex insomnia patients, PAP users (n=246) averaged 6.10 (1.78) nightly hours and 42.71 (12.48) weekly hours and partial users (n=56) averaged 1.67 (0.76) nightly hours and 11.70 (5.31) weekly hours. For mean (SD) decreases in total ISI scores, a significant (group × time) interaction was observed (F[1,300]=13.566; P<0.0001) with PAP users (–7.59 [5.92]; d=1.63) showing superior results to partial users (−4.34 [6.13]; d=0.81). Anecdotally, patients reported better tolerability with advanced PAP compared to previous experience with CPAP. Both adaptive servoventilation and autobilevel PAP showed similar ISI score improvement without statistical differences between devices. Total weekly hours of PAP use correlated inversely with change in insomnia symptoms (r=−0.256, P<0.01). Conclusion Insomnia severity significantly decreased in patients using autoadjusting PAP devices, but the study design restricts interpretation to an association. Future research must elucidate the interaction between insomnia and OSA/UARS as well as the adverse influence of pressure intolerance on PAP adaptation in complex insomnia patients. Randomized controlled studies must determine whether advanced PAP modes provide benefits over standard CPAP modes in these comorbidity patients. PMID:28331381

On the secular decrease in the semimajor axis of Lageos orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rubincam, D. P.

1980-01-01

The semimajor axis of the Lageos orbit is decreasing secularly at the rate of -1.1 mm/day due to an unknown force. Nine possible mechanisms are investigated. Five of the mechanisms, resonance with the Earth's gravitational field, gravitational radiation, the Poynting-Robertson effect, transfer of spin angular momentum to the orbital angular momentum, and drag from near Earth dust are ruled out because they are too small to require unacceptable assumptions to account for the observed rate. Three other mechanisms, the Yarkovsky effect, the Schach effect, and terrestrial radiation pressure could possibly give the proper order of magnitude for the decay rate, but the characteristic signatures of these perturbations do not agree with the observed secular decrease. Atmospheric drag from a combination of charged and neutral particles is the most likely cause for the orbital decay. This mechanism explains at least 71 percent of the observed rate of decrease of the semimajor axis.

Propellant Crack Tip Ignition and Propagation under Rapid Pressurization

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-10-01

that the ignition-delay time decreases and the heat flux to the propellant surface increases as the pressurization rate is increased. The decrease in...leading to ignition. The model predicts the experimental obseriation that the ignition delay time decreases as the pressurization rate is increased...pressurization rate on both crack propagation velocity and time variation of crack shape was studied. Experimental results indicated that the crack velocity

Refeeding hypertension in dietary obesity

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

Ernsberger, P.; Nelson, D.O.

1988-01-01

A novel model of nutritionally induced hypertension in the rat is described. Dietary obesity was produced by providing sweet milk in addition to regular chow, which elicited a 52% increase in caloric intake. Despite 54% greater body weight gain and 139% heavier retroperitoneal fat pads, 120 days of overfeeding failed to increase systolic pressure in the conscious state or mean arterial pressure under urethan anesthesia. In contrast, mild hypertension developed in intermittantly fasted obese animals. The first 4-day supplemented fast was initiated 4 wk after the introduction of sweet milk, when the animals were 47 g overweight relative to chow-fedmore » controls. Thereafter, 4 days of starvation were alternated with 2 wk of refeeding for a total of 4 cycles. A rapid fall in systolic blood pressure accompanied the onset of supplemented fasting and was maintained thereafter. With refeeding, blood pressure rose precipitously, despite poststarvation anorexia. Blood pressure tended to rise slightly over the remainder of the realimentation period. After the 4th supplemented fast, hypertension was sustained during 30 days of refeeding. Cumulative caloric intake in starved-refed rats fell within 2% of that in chow-fed controls. Refeeding hypertension appeared to be due to increased sympathetic nervous activity, since (1) cardiac {beta}-adrenergic receptors were downregulated, as indicated by a 40% decrease in the maximum binding of ({sup 3}H)dihydroalpranolol; and (2) the decrease in heart rate as a result of {beta}-blockade was enhanced. Refeeding hypertension in the dietary obese rat may be a potential animal model for some forms of human obesity-related hypertension.« less

Temperature and rate of dehydration of major constituents of carbonaceous chondrites under vacuum conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pohl, Leos; Britt, Daniel

2017-10-01

Some sub-types of carbonaceous chondrites contain a significant amount of hydrated minerals which produce specific absorption lines, typically due to the presence of hydroxyls. However, if these asteroids have come close enough to the Sun during their history, the high temperatures might have resulted in mineral decomposition and consequent loss of hydroxyl (or water) molecules in the surface layer and even to certain depths. Determination of the hydration state of phyllosilicates typically found on asteroids as well as the relative quantities of hydrated to desiccated phyllosilicates relies on experimental data - the temperature and rate of dehydration. Both dehydration temperature and rate depend on pressure. The rate also depends on the temperature. Experimentally determined phase curves for serpentine, that show for example decomposition of antigorite to forsterite and enstatite or talc and water, exist for GPa pressure levels. For antigorite, these temperatures span the range 500-750°C for pressures between 0.1 GPa and 8 GPa. However, these data are not suitable for vacuum environment found on asteroids; further, at lower pressures, the available data suggest a monotonically decreasing dehydration temperature with decreasing pressure. Also, the available data suggest dependence of both dehydration temperature and rate on the grain size distribution of the mineral. We have determined the temperature and rate of dehydration of the serpentine polymorphs antigorite, lizardite, cronstedtite, under high vacuum conditions and for various grain size distributions. The grain size distributions have been determined by particle analyzer and each sample source was also analyzed using X-Ray Diffraction.

Ion Energy and Ion Flux Distributions of CF4/Ar/O2 Inductively Coupled Plasmas in a GEC Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rao, M. V. V. S.; Cruden, Brett; Sharma, Surendra; Meyyappan, Meyya

2001-01-01

Knowledge of ion kinetics in plasma processing gas mixtures, such as CF4:Ar:O2, is important for understanding plasma assisted etching and deposition of materials. Ion energies and ion fluxes were measured in this mixture for 80:10:10, 60:20:20, and 40:30:30 mixture ratios in the pressure range of 10-50 mTorr, and at 200 and 300 W of RF power. Ions from plasma, sampled through a 10 micron orifice in the center of the lower plane electrode, were energy and mass analyzed by a combination of electrostatic energy and quadrupole mass filters. CFx(+) (x = 1 - 3), F2(+), F(+), C(+) from CF4, Ar(+) from Ar, and O2(+) and O(+) from O2, and by-product ions SiFx(+)(x = 1 - 3) from etching of quartz coupling window, COFx(+)(x = 1 - 3), CO(+), CO2(+), and OF(+) were detected. In all conditions ion flux decreases with increase of pressure but increase with increase of RF power. Ar(+) signal decreases with increase of pressure while CF3(+), which is the dominant ion at all conditions, increases with increase in pressure. The loss mechanism for Ar(+) and increase of CF3(+) is due to large cross section for Ar(+) + CF4 yields Ar + CF3(+) + F. Ion energies, which range from 15-25 eV depending on plasma operating conditions, are nearly Gaussian. By-product ion signals are higher at lower pressures indicating stronger plasma interaction with quartz window.

Pressure-induced spin reorientation transition in layered ferromagnetic insulator Cr2Ge2Te6

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Zhisheng; Lohmann, Mark; Ali, Zulfikhar A.; Tang, Chi; Li, Junxue; Xing, Wenyu; Zhong, Jiangnan; Jia, Shuang; Han, Wei; Coh, Sinisa; Beyermann, Ward; Shi, Jing

2018-05-01

The anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR) of Cr2Ge2Te6 (CGT), a layered ferromagnetic insulator, is investigated under an applied hydrostatic pressure up to 2 GPa. The easy-axis direction of the magnetization is inferred from the AMR saturation feature in the presence and absence of an applied pressure. At zero applied pressure, the easy axis is along the c direction or perpendicular to the layer. Upon application of a hydrostatic pressure > 1 GPa, the uniaxial anisotropy switches to easy-plane anisotropy which drives the equilibrium magnetization from the c axis to the a b plane at zero magnetic field, which amounts to a giant magnetic anisotropy energy change (> 100%). As the temperature is increased across the Curie temperature, the characteristic AMR effect gradually decreases and disappears. Our first-principles calculations confirm the giant magnetic anisotropy energy change with moderate pressure and assign its origin to the increased off-site spin-orbit interaction of Te atoms due to a shorter Cr-Te distance. Such a pressure-induced spin reorientation transition is very rare in three-dimensional ferromagnets, but it may be common to other layered ferromagnets with similar crystal structures to CGT, and therefore offers a unique way to control magnetic anisotropy.

Determination of Process Parameters in Multi-Stage Hydro-Mechanical Deep Drawing by FE Simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, D. Ravi; Manohar, M.

2017-09-01

In this work, analysis has been carried to simulate manufacturing of a near hemispherical bottom part with large depth by hydro-mechanical deep drawing with an aim to reduce the number of forming steps and to reduce the extent of thinning in the dome region. Inconel 718 has been considered as the material due to its importance in aerospace industry. It is a Ni-based super alloy and it is one of the most widely used of all super alloys primarily due to large-scale applications in aircraft engines. Using Finite Element Method (FEM), numerical simulations have been carried out for multi-stage hydro-mechanical deep drawing by using the same draw ratios and design parameters as in the case of conventional deep drawing in four stages. The results showed that the minimum thickness in the final part can be increased significantly when compared to conventional deep drawing. It has been found that the part could be deep drawn to the desired height (after trimming at the final stage) without any severe wrinkling. Blank holding force (BHF) and peak counter pressure have been found to have a strong influence on thinning in the component. Decreasing the coefficient of friction has marginally increased the minimum thickness in the final component. By increasing the draw ratio and optimizing BHF, counter pressure and die corner radius in the simulations, it has been found that it is possible to draw the final part in three stages. It has been found that thinning can be further reduced by decreasing the initial blank size without any reduction in the final height. This reduced the draw ratio at every stage and optimum combination of BHF and counter pressure have been found for the 3-stage process also.

Dynamic mechanical properties and anisotropy of synthetic shales with different clay minerals under confining pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gong, Fei; Di, Bangrang; Wei, Jianxin; Ding, Pinbo; Shuai, Da

2018-03-01

The presence of clay minerals can alter the elastic behaviour of reservoir rocks significantly as the type of clay minerals, their volume and distribution, and their orientation control the shale's intrinsic anisotropic behaviours. Clay minerals are the most abundant materials in shale, and it has been proven extremely difficult to measure the elastic properties of natural shale by means of a single variable (in this case, the type of clay minerals), due to the influences of multiple factors, including water, TOC content and complex mineral compositions. We used quartz, clay (kaolinite, illite and smectite), carbonate and kerogen extract as the primary materials to construct synthetic shale with different clay minerals. Ultrasonic experiments were conducted to investigate the anisotropy of velocity and mechanical properties in dry synthetic and natural shale as a function of confining pressure. Velocities in synthetic shale are sensitive to the type of clay minerals, possibly due to the different structures of the clay minerals. The velocities increase with confining pressure and show higher rate of velocity increase at low pressures, and P-wave velocity is usually more sensitive than S-wave velocity to confining pressure according to our results. Similarly, the dynamic Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio increase with applied pressure, and the results also reveal that E11 is always larger than E33 and ν31 is smaller than ν12. Velocity and mechanical anisotropy decrease with increasing stress, and are sensitive to stress and the type of clay minerals. However, the changes of mechanical anisotropy with applied stress are larger compared with the velocity anisotropy, indicating that mechanical properties are more sensitive to the change of rock properties.

Comparison of Simulated Microgravity and Hydrostatic Pressure for Chondrogenesis of hASC.

PubMed

Mellor, Liliana F; Steward, Andrew J; Nordberg, Rachel C; Taylor, Michael A; Loboa, Elizabeth G

2017-04-01

Cartilage tissue engineering is a growing field due to the lack of regenerative capacity of native tissue. The use of bioreactors for cartilage tissue engineering is common, but the results are controversial. Some studies suggest that microgravity bioreactors are ideal for chondrogenesis, while others show that mimicking hydrostatic pressure is crucial for cartilage formation. A parallel study comparing the effects of loading and unloading on chondrogenesis has not been performed. The goal of this study was to evaluate chondrogenesis of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASC) under two different mechanical stimuli relative to static culture: microgravity and cyclic hydrostatic pressure (CHP). Pellets of hASC were cultured for 14 d under simulated microgravity using a rotating wall vessel bioreactor or under CHP (7.5 MPa, 1 Hz, 4 h · d-1) using a hydrostatic pressure vessel. We found that CHP increased mRNA expression of Aggrecan, Sox9, and Collagen II, caused a threefold increase in sulfated glycosaminoglycan production, and resulted in stronger vimentin staining intensity and organization relative to microgravity. In addition, Wnt-signaling patterns were altered in a manner that suggests that simulated microgravity decreases chondrogenic differentiation when compared to CHP. Our goal was to compare chondrogenic differentiation of hASC using a microgravity bioreactor and a hydrostatic pressure vessel, two commonly used bioreactors in cartilage tissue engineering. Our results indicate that CHP promotes hASC chondrogenesis and that microgravity may inhibit hASC chondrogenesis. Our findings further suggest that cartilage formation and regeneration might be compromised in space due to the lack of mechanical loading.Mellor LF, Steward AJ, Nordberg RC, Taylor MA, Loboa EG. Comparison of simulated microgravity and hydrostatic pressure for chondrogenesis of hASC. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2017; 88(4):377-384.

Effects of acute and chronic cilazapril treatment in spontaneously hypertensive rats

PubMed Central

Fischli, W.; Hefti, F.; Clozel, J.-P.

1989-01-01

1 The effects of acute and chronic treatment with cilazapril, a new ACE inhibitor, on peripheral vasculature and renal excretory function were assessed in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Regional blood flow and cardiac output were measured by the radio-active microspheres technique. 2 Acute treatment (3 mg kg-1 intravenously) reduced mean arterial blood pressure from 171 ± 7 to 140 241 ± 7 mm Hg (P < 0.001), chronic treatment (1 × 10 mg kg-1 day-1 orally for 9 weeks) from 191 ± 5 to 122 ± 3 mm Hg P < 0.001). With both kinds of treatments cardiac output was unchanged. Heart rate was slightly decreased (-9%, P < 0.05) with chronic treatment. Acutely, the main effect of cilazapril was a decrease of the renal vascular resistance (-41%, P < 0.001) associated with an increase of the fraction of the cardiac output distributed to the kidney (+46%, P < 0.001). Chronically, cilazapril decreased regional vascular resistance in most of the peripheral vascular beds except the heart. 3 With a high dose of cilazapril (10 mg kg-1 orally) both acute and chronic treatment increased diuresis (+107% and +92%, P < 0.001) and natriuresis (+124% and +111%, P < 0.001) with a slight increase in kaliuresis. However, with a low dose (1 mg kg-1 orally) the kidneys responded only to chronic treatment. 4 It is concluded that chronic treatment with cilazapril decreases arterial blood pressure more than acute treatment. This effect seems to be due to a greater peripheral vasodilation. In addition, diuretic and natriuretic effects of cilazapril probably contribute to blood pressure reduction. PMID:2527529

Comparative effects of avocado oil and losartan on blood pressure, renal vascular function, and mitochondrial oxidative stress in hypertensive rats.

PubMed

Márquez-Ramírez, Cristian Adrián; Hernández de la Paz, José Lucio; Ortiz-Avila, Omar; Raya-Farias, Andrés; González-Hernández, Juan Carlos; Rodríguez-Orozco, Alain Raimundo; Salgado-Garciglia, Rafael; Saavedra-Molina, Alfredo; Godínez-Hernández, Daniel; Cortés-Rojo, Christian

2018-03-20

Angiotensin II (Ang-II) antagonism alleviates hypertensive kidney damage by improving mitochondrial function and decreasing oxidative stress. This condition also is associated with altered renal vascular tone due to enhanced constriction by Ang-II. Thus, approaches ameliorating these events are desirable to alleviate kidney damage. Avocado oil, a source of antioxidants and oleic acid, is known to improve mitochondrial function, while oleic acid has antihypertensive effects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test whether avocado oil counteracts, to a similar degree as the Ang-II blocker losartan, the deleterious effects of hypertension on blood pressure, renal vascular performance, kidney mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress. Hypertensive rats induced with Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) were supplemented during 45 d with avocado oil or losartan. Vascular responses were analyzed in perfused kidney. Membrane potential, reactive oxygen species levels, and glutathione were analyzed in isolated kidney mitochondria. In hypertensive rats, avocado oil decreased 21.2% and 15.5% diastolic and systolic blood pressures, respectively, and alleviated impaired renal vasodilation. Hypertension decreased membrane potential by 83.7% and augmented reactive oxygen species levels by 51% in mitochondria fueled with a complex I substrate, whereas it augmented the levels of oxidized glutathione in 48%. These alterations were normalized by avocado oil at a comparable degree to losartan. Because avocado oil mimicked the effects of losartan, we propose that the effects of avocado oil might be mediated by decreasing the actions of Ang-II on mitochondria. These results suggest that avocado oil intake might be a nutritional approach to attenuate the deleterious effects of hypertension on kidney. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Changes in Soil Bacterial Communities and Diversity in ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Silver-induced selective pressure is becoming increasingly important due to the growing use of silver (Ag) as an antimicrobial agent in biomedical and commercial products. With demonstrated links between environmental resistomes and clinical pathogens, it is important to identify microbial profiles related to silver tolerance/resistance. We investigated the effects of ionic Ag stress on soil bacterial communities and identified resistant/persistant bacterial populations. Silver treatments of 50 - 400 mg Ag kg-1 soil were established in five soils. Chemical lability measurements using diffusive gradients in thin-film devices confirmed that significant (albeit decreasing) labile Ag concentrations were present throughout the 9-month incubation period. Synchrotron X-ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy demonstrate that this decreasing lability was due to changes in Ag speciation to less soluble forms such as Ag0 and Ag2S. Real-time PCR and Illumina MiSeq screening of 16S rRNA bacterial genes showed β-diversity in response to Ag pressure, and immediate and significant reductions in 16S rRNA gene counts with varying degrees of recovery. These effects were more strongly influenced by exposure time than by Ag dose at these rates. Ag-selected dominant OTUs principally resided in known persister taxa (mainly Gram positive), including metal-tolerant bacteria and slow-growing Mycobacteria. Soil microbial communities have been implicated as sources of an

Breakdown in helium in high-voltage open discharge with subnanosecond current front rise

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

Schweigert, I. V., E-mail: ischweig@itam.nsc.ru; Alexandrov, A. L.; Bokhan, P. A.

Investigations of high-voltage open discharge in helium have shown a possibility of generation of current pulses with subnanosecond front rise, due to ultra-fast breakdown development. The open discharge is ignited between two planar cathodes with mesh anode in the middle between them. For gas pressure 6 Torr and 20 kV applied voltage, the rate of current rise reaches 500 A/(cm{sup 2} ns) for current density 200 A/cm{sup 2} and more. The time of breakdown development was measured for different helium pressures and a kinetic model of breakdown in open discharge is presented, based on elementary reactions for electrons, ions andmore » fast atoms. The model also includes various cathode emission processes due to cathode bombardment by ions, fast atoms, electrons and photons of resonant radiation with Doppler shift of frequency. It is shown, that the dominating emission processes depend on the evolution of the discharge voltage during the breakdown. In the simulations, two cases of voltage behavior were considered: (i) the voltage is kept constant during the breakdown; (ii) the voltage is reduced with the growth of current. For the first case, the exponentially growing current is maintained due to photoemission by the resonant photons with Doppler-shifted frequency. For the second case, the dominating factor of current growth is the secondary electron emission. In both cases, the subnanosecond rise of discharge current was obtained. Also the effect of gas pressure on breakdown development was considered. It was found that for 20 Torr gas pressure the time of current rise decreases to 0.1 ns, which is in agreement with experimental data.« less

Water drinking as a treatment for orthostatic syndromes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shannon, John R.; Diedrich, Andre; Biaggioni, Italo; Tank, Jens; Robertson, Rose Marie; Robertson, David; Jordan, Jens

2002-01-01

PURPOSE: Water drinking increases blood pressure in a substantial proportion of patients who have severe orthostatic hypotension due to autonomic failure. We tested the hypothesis that water drinking can be used as a practical treatment for patients with orthostatic and postprandial hypotension, as well as those with orthostatic tachycardia. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: We studied the effect of drinking water on seated and standing blood pressure and heart rate in 11 patients who had severe orthostatic hypotension due to autonomic failure and in 9 patients who had orthostatic tachycardia due to idiopathic orthostatic intolerance. We also tested the effect of water drinking on postprandial hypotension in 7 patients who had autonomic failure. Patients drank 480 mL of tap water at room temperature in less than 5 minutes. RESULTS: In patients with autonomic failure, mean (+/- SD) blood pressure after 1 minute of standing was 83 +/- 6/53 +/- 3.4 mm Hg at baseline, which increased to 114 +/- 30/66 +/- 18 mm Hg (P <0.01) 35 minutes after drinking. After a meal, blood pressure decreased by 43 +/- 36/20 +/- 13 mm Hg without water drinking, compared with 22 +/- 10/12 +/- 5 mm Hg with drinking (P <0.001). In patients with idiopathic orthostatic intolerance, water drinking attenuated orthostatic tachycardia (123 +/- 23 beats per minute) at baseline to 108 +/- 21 beats per minute after water drinking ( P <0.001). CONCLUSION: Water drinking elicits a rapid pressor response in patients with autonomic failure and can be used to treat orthostatic and postprandial hypotension. Water drinking moderately reduces orthostatic tachycardia in patients with idiopathic orthostatic intolerance. Thus, water drinking may serve as an adjunctive treatment in patients with impaired orthostatic tolerance.

Preliminary Study of a Hybrid Helicon-ECR Plasma Source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

M. Hala, A.; Oksuz, L.; Ximing, Zhu

2016-08-01

A new type of hybrid discharge is experimentally investigated in this work. A helicon source and an electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) source were combined to produce plasma. As a preliminary study of this type of plasma, the optical emission spectroscopy (OES) method was used to obtain values of electron temperature and density under a series of typical conditions. Generally, it was observed that the electron temperature decreases and the electron density increases as the pressure increased. When increasing the applied power at a certain pressure, the average electron density at certain positions in the discharge does not increase significantly possibly due to the high degree of neutral depletion. Electron temperature increased with power in the hybrid mode. Possible mechanisms of these preliminary observations are discussed.

Pulmonary atelectasis manifested after induction of anesthesia: a contribution of sinobronchial syndrome?

PubMed

Igarashi, Ayuko; Amagasa, Sumio; Oda, Shinya; Yokoo, Noriko

2007-01-01

A 31-year-old man underwent general anesthesia for sinus surgery. Anesthesia was induced with midazolam and butorphanol, and an endotracheal tube was orally placed with a bronchoscope, due to difficulty with temporomandibular joint opening. Ventilation difficulty and increased peak inspiratory pressure were noticed shortly after tracheal intubation, and bronchoscopy was performed for diagnosis. The bronchi were filled with a clear mucous secretion. Removal of the secretion improved respiration and decreased the peak inspiratory pressure. A chest roentgenogram taken prior to extubation showed right upper lobe atelectasis. A diagnosis of sinobronchial syndrome was made postoperatively. The etiology of the acutely developed atelectasis was unclear. However, the latent syndrome may have induced excessive airway secretion with stimuli such as endotracheal intubation.

Intraocular pressure measurements after conductive keratoplasty.

PubMed

Kymionis, George D; Naoumidi, Tatiana L; Aslanides, Ioannis M; Kumar, Vinod; Astyrakakis, Nikolaos I; Tsilimbaris, Miltiadis; Pallikaris, Ioannis G

2005-01-01

To determine the possible impact of conductive keratoplasty (CK) on intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements. A prospective, single-center, noncomparative interventional case series was performed. Baseline and postoperative IOPs were measured by Goldmann applanation tonometry in 32 eyes of 18 patients who underwent CK for hyperopia correction. Mean follow-up was 11.9 months (range: 8 to 18 months). After CK, a statistically significant decrease in the measured IOP was observed (before CK: 14.22+/-1.64 vs after CK: 12.66+/-2.21, P<.001). The change in IOP readings postoperatively was not correlated with age, sex, keratometric readings, or attempted correction. Despite the limitations due to the small number of patients enrolled in this study, the applanation tonometer appears to underestimate the true IOP after CK.

Effects of surface roughness, MHD and couple stress on squeeze film characteristics between curved circular plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hanumagowda, B. N.; Salma, A.; Nagarajappa, C. S.

2018-04-01

The theoretical discussion is carried out for understanding the combined study of MHD, rough surface and couple-stress in the presence of applied magnetic field between two curved circular plates is present analysis. Modified Reynolds Equations accounting for rough surface using stochastic model of Christensen are mathematically formulated. The close form derivations for pressure, load-supporting capacity and response-film time are obtained. Our results shows that, there is an significant increase (decrease) for pressure, load-supporting capacity and squeeze film time due to the effect of azimuthal (radial) roughness parameter when compared to the Hanumagowda.et.al [14] and numerical data of load supporting capacity and response time are given in Table for engineering applications.

Influence of Hydrostatic Pressure on the Corrosion Behavior of Superhydrophobic Surfaces on Bare and Oxidized Aluminum Substrates.

PubMed

Ou, J F; Fang, X Z; Zhao, W J; Lei, S; Xue, M S; Wang, F J; Li, C Q; Lu, Y L; Li, W

2018-05-22

It is generally recognized that superhydrophobic surfaces in water may be used for corrosion resistance due to the entrapped air in the solid/liquid interface and could find potential applications in the protection of ship hull. For a superhydrophobic surface, as its immersion depth into water increases, the resultant hydrostatic pressure is also increased, and the entrapped air can be squeezed out much more easily. It is therefore predicted that high hydrostatic pressure would cause an unexpected decrease in corrosion resistance for the vessels in deep water (e.g., submarines) because of the unstable entrapped air. In this work, in order to clarify the role of hydrostatic pressure in the corrosion behavior of superhydrophobic surfaces, two typical superhydrophobic surfaces (SHSs) were prepared on bare and oxidized aluminum substrates, respectively, and then were immersed into the NaCl aqueous solutions with different depths of ∼0 cm (hydrostatic pressure ∼0 kPa), 10 cm (1 kPa), and 150 cm (15 kPa). It was found out for the SHSs on the oxidized Al, as the hydrostatic pressure increased, the corrosion behavior became severe. However, for the SHSs on the bare Al, their corrosion behavior was complex due to hydrostatic pressure. It was found that the corrosion resistance under 1 kPa was the highest. Further mechanism analysis revealed that this alleviated corrosion behavior under 1 kPa resulted from suppressing the oxygen diffusion through the liquid and reducing the subsequent corrosion rate as compared with 0 kPa, whereas the relatively low hydrostatic pressure (HP) could stabilize the entrapped air and hence enhance the corrosion resistance, compared with 15 kPa. The present study therefore provided a fundamental understanding for the applications of SHSs to prevent the corrosion, especially for various vessels in deep water.

Effects of body position on the carbon monoxide diffusing capacity in patients with chronic heart failure: relation to hemodynamic changes.

PubMed

Faggiano, P; D'Aloia, A; Simoni, P; Gualeni, A; Foglio, K; Ambrosino, N; Giordano, A

1998-01-01

Pulmonary diffusion has been found to be reduced in patients with congestive heart failure. The effects of postural changes on the diffusing capacity had been evaluated in healthy subjects, but not in patients with heart failure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the posture-induced changes in diffusing capacity in patients with chronic heart failure and their relation to the hemodynamic profile. The pulmonary carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) was measured in the supine position, with 20 degrees passive head elevation, and in the sitting position, both postures maintained for 10 min, in a group of 32 male patients with mild to moderate chronic heart failure due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction (ejection fraction <35%). On a separate day, in the absence of any changes in clinical status and therapy, the hemodynamic parameters were measured by right-heart catheterization. The sequence of postures was assigned randomly. The mean values of DLCO were slightly reduced and did not differ in the two positions (20.3 +/- 5.7 vs. 19.4 +/- 5.6 ml/min/mm Hg, 77 +/- 23 vs. 75 +/- 20% of predicted, respectively). The patients were then subdivided according to changes in DLCO from the supine to the sitting position: DLCO increased (+23%) in 9 patients (28%, group 1), decreased (-17.5%) in 17 patients (53%, group 2), and remained within the coefficient of reproducibility ( +/- 5 %) in 6 patients (group 3). As compared with group 2, group 1 patients showed a significant increase in mean pulmonary artery pressure (+7 vs. -15%, p < 0.01) and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (+8 vs. -22%, p < 0.005) from the supine to the sitting position, while the cardiac index showed a smaller - but not significant - decrease in group 1 (-5 vs. -12%). The percent changes in DLCO significantly correlated with changes in pulmonary capillary wedge (r = 0.54, p < 0.0005) and mean pulmonary artery (r = 0.47, p < 0.005) pressures. In chronic heart failure postural changes may induce different responses in diffusing capacity. To a greater extent than in healthy subjects, the most common response is a decrease in DLCO in the sitting as compared with the supine position. The DLCO changes correlate with variations in pulmonary circulation pressure, probably due to changes in pulmonary vascular recruitment and pulmonary capillary blood volume.

Three-Dimensional Modeling of Fluid and Heat Transport in an Accretionary Complex

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paula, C. A.; Ge, S.; Screaton, E. J.

2001-12-01

As sediments are scraped off of the subducting oceanic crust and accreted to the overriding plate, the rapid loading causes pore pressures in the underthrust sediments to increase. The change in pore pressure drives fluid flow and heat transport within the accretionary complex. Fluid is channeled along higher permeability faults and fractures and expelled at the seafloor. In this investigation, we examined the effects of sediment loading on fluid flow and thermal transport in the decollement at the Barbados Ridge subduction zone. Both the width and thickness of the Barbados Ridge accretionary complex increase from north to south. The presence of mud diapers south of the Tiburon Rise and an observed southward decrease in heat flow measurements indicate that the increased thickness of the southern Barbados accretionary prism affects the transport of chemicals and heat by fluids. The three-dimensional geometry and physical properties of the accretionary complex were utilized to construct a three-dimensional fluid flow/heat transport model. We calculated the pore pressure change due to a period of sediment loading and added this to steady-state pressure conditions to generate initial conditions for transient simulations. We then examined the diffusion of pore pressure and possible perturbation of the thermal regime over time due to loading of the underthrust sediments. The model results show that the sediment-loading event was sufficient to create small temperature fluctuations in the decollement zone. The magnitude of temperature fluctuation in the decollement was greatest at the deformation front but did not vary significantly from north to south of the Tiburon Rise.

Tilting-induced decrease in systolic blood pressure in bedridden hypertensive elderly inpatients: effects of azelnidipine.

PubMed

Morimoto, Shigeto; Takahashi, Takashi; Okaishi, Kohya; Nakahashi, Takeshi; Nomura, Kohji; Kanda, Tsugiyasu; Okuro, Masashi; Murai, Hiroshi; Nishino, Tomoichi; Matsumoto, Masayuki

2006-12-01

The object of this study was to examine blood pressure (BP) variability due to postural change in elderly hypertensive patients. The subjects studied were 154 elderly inpatients in a hospital for the elderly (48 male and 106 female; median age: 82 years), consisting of age- and sex-matched bedridden (n=39) and non-bedridden (n=39) normotensive controls and bedridden (n=38) and non-bedridden (n=38) hypertensive patients. BP and pulse rate (PR) were measured in the supine position, then again after a 2-min, 45 deg head-up tilt with the legs horizontal. The decrease in systolic BP (SBP) on tilting in the bedridden hypertensive group (median: -10 mmHg; range: -32 to 9 mmHg) was significantly (p<0.008) greater than those in the other three groups. Monotherapy with azeinidipine, a long-acting calcium channel blocker, for 3 months not only significantly reduced the basal BP and PR of hypertensive patients in the two groups, but also significantly (p<0.05) attenuated the tilt-induced decrease in the SBP to -3 mmHg (-19 to 25 mmHg) and enhanced the change in PR from -1 bpm (-10 to 7 bpm) to 1 bpm (-4 to 23 bpm) in the bedridden hypertensive group. Our findings indicate that tilt-induced decrease in SBP is a rather common phenomenon in bedridden elderly hypertensive patients, and that treatment with azelnidipine attenuates tilt-induced decrease in SBP, probably through an improvement of baroreceptor sensitivity.

Model-based identification of optimal operating conditions for amino acid simulated moving bed enantioseparation using a macrocyclic glycopeptide stationary phase.

PubMed

Fuereder, Markus; Majeed, Imthiyas N; Panke, Sven; Bechtold, Matthias

2014-06-13

Teicoplanin aglycone columns allow efficient separation of amino acid enantiomers in aqueous mobile phases and enable robust and predictable simulated moving bed (SMB) separation of racemic methionine despite a dependency of the adsorption behavior on the column history (memory effect). In this work we systematically investigated the influence of the mobile phase (methanol content) and temperature on SMB performance using a model-based optimization approach that accounts for methionine solubility, adsorption behavior and back pressure. Adsorption isotherms became more favorable with increasing methanol content but methionine solubility was decreased and back pressure increased. Numerical optimization suggested a moderate methanol content (25-35%) for most efficient operation. Higher temperature had a positive effect on specific productivity and desorbent requirement due to higher methionine solubility, lower back pressure and virtually invariant selectivity at high loadings of racemic methionine. However, process robustness (defined as a difference in flow rate ratios) decreased strongly with increasing temperature to the extent that any significant increase in temperature over 32°C will likely result in operating points that cannot be realized technically even with the lab-scale piston pump SMB system employed in this study. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Decreasing electrical resistivity of silver along the melting boundary up to 5 GPa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Littleton, Joshua A. H.; Secco, Richard A.; Yong, Wenjun

2018-04-01

The electrical resistivity of Ag was experimentally measured at high pressures up to 5 GPa and at temperatures up to ∼300 K above melting. The resistivity decreased as a function of pressure and increased as a function of temperature as expected and is in very good agreement with 1 atm data. Observed melting temperatures at high pressures also agree well with previous experimental and theoretical studies. The main finding of this study is that resistivity of Ag decreases along the pressure- and temperature-dependent melting boundary, in conflict with prediction of resistivity invariance. This result is discussed in terms of the dominant contribution of the increasing energy separation between the Fermi level and 4d-band as a function of pressure. Calculated from the resistivity using the Wiedemann-Franz law, the electronic thermal conductivity increased as a function of pressure and decreased as a function of temperature as expected. The decrease in the high pressure thermal conductivity in the liquid phase as a function of temperature contrasts with the behavior of the 1 atm data.

Experimental analysis of large capacity MR dampers with short- and long-stroke

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zemp, René; de la Llera, Juan Carlos; Weber, Felix

2014-12-01

The purpose of this article is to study and characterize experimentally two magneto-rheological dampers with short- and long-stroke, denoted hereafter as MRD-S and MRD-L. The latter was designed to improve the Earthquake performance of a 21-story reinforced concrete building equipped with two 160 ton tuned pendular masses. The MRD-L has a nominal force capacity of 300 kN and a stroke of ±1 m; the MRD-S has a nominal force capacity of 150 kN, and a stroke of ±0.1 m. The MRD-S was tested with two different magneto-rheological and one viscous fluid. Due to the presence of Eddy currents, both dampers show a time lag between current intensity and damper force as the magnetization on the damper changes in time. Experimental results from the MRD-L show a force drop-off behavior. A decrease in active-mode forces due to temperature increase is also analyzed for the MRD-S and the different fluids. Moreover, the observed increase in internal damper pressure due to energy dissipation is evaluated for the different fluids in both dampers. An analytical model to predict internal pressure increase in the damper is proposed that includes as a parameter the concentration of magnetic particles inside the fluid. Analytical dynamic pressure results are validated using the experimental tests. Finally, an extended Bingham fluid model, which considers compressibility of the fluid, is also proposed and validated using damper tests.

Lagrangian dynamics of the mistral during the HyMeX SOP2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drobinski, P.; Alonzo, B.; Basdevant, C.; Cocquerez, P.; Doerenbecher, A.; Fourrié, N.; Nuret, M.

2017-02-01

The mistral refers to a severe wind blowing over the Gulf of Lions after being channeled in the Rhone valley. It influences the western Mediterranean climate as it brings cold and dry continental air over the warm western Mediterranean, generating intense air-sea heat exchanges and sea surface cooling, inducing the formation of the western Mediterranean deep water that moves into the Atlantic Ocean. The mistral is frequently observed to extend as far as a few hundred kilometers from the coast, and its fine-scale dynamics over the sea is still only partially understood as finely resolved observations in time and space are lacking. The boundary layer pressurized balloons (BLPB) developed by the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales and deployed during HyMeX SOP2 allowed the Lagrangian documentation of the mistral events that occurred between beginning of February to mid-March 2013. Analyzed in synergy with the AROME-WMED weather forecast model, all the terms of the Lagrangian formulation of the momentum conservation equation could be quantified showing three different regions: (1) an injection zone where the mistral flow is directed toward the center of the Genoa cyclone due to a strong zonal pressure gradient, enhanced friction, and entrainment in the mountain wake; (2) an ejection zone where the flow is deflected outward of the cyclone due to either the nonnegligible inertia pseudoforce or an inertial oscillation caused by a sudden friction decrease; and (3) a region of geostrophic deceleration due to the weakening of the pressure gradient.

Lagrangian dynamics of the mistral during the HyMeX SOP2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drobinski, Philippe; Alonzo, Bastien; Basdevant, Claude; Cocquerez, Philippe; Fourrié, Nadia; Nuret, Mathieu

2017-04-01

The mistral refers to a severe wind blowing over the Gulf of Lions after being channeled in the Rhone valley. It influences the western Mediterranean climate as it brings cold and dry continental air over the warm western Mediterranean, generating intense air-sea heat exchanges and sea surface cooling, inducing the formation of the western Mediterranean deep water that moves into the Atlantic Ocean. The mistral is frequently observed to extend as far as a few hundred kilometers from the coast, and its fine-scale dynamics over the sea is still only partially understood as finely resolved observations in time and space are lacking. The boundary layer pressurized balloons (BLPB) developed by the Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales and deployed during HyMeX SOP2 allowed the Lagrangian documentation of the mistral events that occurred between beginning of February to mid-March 2013. Analyzed in synergy with the AROME-WMED weather forecast model, all the terms of the Lagrangian formulation of the momentum conservation equation could be quantified showing three different regions: (1) an injection zone where the mistral flow is directed toward the center of the Genoa cyclone due to a strong zonal pressure gradient, enhanced friction, and entrainment in the mountain wake; (2) an ejection zone where the flow is deflected outward of the cyclone due to either the nonnegligible inertia pseudoforce or an inertial oscillation caused by a sudden friction decrease; and (3) a region of geostrophic deceleration due to the weakening of the pressure gradient.

Micro X-ray CT Imaging of Sediments under Confining Pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schindler, M.; Prasad, M.

2016-12-01

We developed a pressure and temperature control system for use inside the micro X-ray CT scanner Xradia 400. We succeeded in building a pressure vessel that can be pressurized to 34.5 MPa (5000 psi) while being transparent to X-rays. The setup can currently be cooled to -5°C and heated to 40°C. We were able to observe grain damage and porosity reduction due to applied confining pressure in clean quartz sand samples and quartz sand and bentonite samples. By comparing micro CT images at atmospheric pressure and 13.8 MPa (2000 psi) confining pressure, we observed compaction of the samples resulting in grain damage and fracturing of sediment grains (Figure 1). When the confining pressure was decreased some grains experienced further fracturing. The grain damage appears irreversible. Further fracturing of grains in pre-compacted sediment was observed upon repeated confining pressure cycling. We are currently working on feed-throughs for fluid lines and electric wiring to use ultrasonic transducers and pressure control in combination. Further we plan to include pore pressure in addition to confining pressure into the system. The pressure control system in combination with ultrasonic transducers will allow us to visually observe pore scale changes in rock samples while simultaneously identifying their influence on ultrasonic velocities. Such pore-scale changes are usually not taken into account by rock physics models and could help to identify why laboratory data diverges from theoretical models. Further, it is possible to compute compressibility from mCT images at different stress states by image correlation

Interface fluid syndrome in human eye bank corneas after LASIK: causes and pathogenesis.

PubMed

Dawson, Daniel G; Schmack, Ingo; Holley, Glenn P; Waring, George O; Grossniklaus, Hans E; Edelhauser, Henry F

2007-10-01

To evaluate the effects of corneal edema on human donor corneas that had previous LASIK using a laboratory model with histologic and ultrastructural correlations. Experimental study. Thirty human eye bank corneas from 15 donors (mean age +/- standard deviation, 49.9+/-8.9 years) who had had previous LASIK surgery (2-8 years before death). The corneas were mounted in an artificial anterior chamber and the corneal endothelium was perfused for up to 5.0 hours with 0.9% saline solution (endothelial cell damage group) or BSS Plus at a pressure of 15 mmHg (control group), or BSS Plus at a pressure of 55 mmHg (high-pressure group). The corneas were evaluated by confocal and specular microscopy before, during, and at the end of the experimental period. Subsequently, the specimens were evaluated by light and electron microscopy. Corneal thickness, reflectivity, histology, and ultrastructure. Endothelial cell damage resulted in an increased (141.5+/-38.8 microm) total corneal thickness relative to controls (52.3+/-33.7 microm), whereas high pressure resulted in a decreased thickness (24.8+/-14.1 microm) relative to controls. This ultimately was due to swelling of the LASIK interface in both groups and swelling of the residual stromal bed (RSB) in the endothelial cell damage group or compression of the RSB and, possibly, the flap in the high-pressure group. A significant increase in corneal reflectivity at the LASIK interface occurred in both groups, primarily due to varying degrees of fluid accumulation and associated hydropic keratocyte degeneration, as well as increased corneal reflectivity in the RSB only in the endothelial cell damage group. After LASIK surgery, edematous corneas preferentially hydrate and swell in the paracentral and central interface wound, commonly resulting in a hazy corneal appearance primarily due to keratocyte hydropic degeneration. More severe corneal edema is characterized by the formation of an optically empty space corresponding to an interface fluid pocket. The spectrum of interface fluid syndrome can be described in 3 stages.

Percutaneous mechanical mitral commissurotomy performed with a Cribier's metallic valvulotome. Initial results.

PubMed

Bastos, M D; Esteves, C A; Araújo, D; Bastos, L A; Eistein, M; Santana, G P; Oliveira, G J; Brasil, L; Calzada, A; Calzada, D B; Pereira, J; Sales, R; Olivera, N G

2001-08-01

To evaluate the immediate results of percutaneous mechanical mitral commissurotomy. Thirty patients underwent percutaneous mechanical mitral commissurotomy performed with a Cribier's metallic valvulotome from 8/11/99 to 2/4/00. Mean age was 30.7 years, and 73.3% were women. With regards to functional class, 63.3% were class III, and 36.7% were class IV. The echocardiographic score had a mean value of 7.5+/- 1.8. The mitral valve area increased from 0.97+/-0.15cm2 to 2.16+/-0.50cm2 (p>0.0001). The mean diastolic gradient decreased from 17.9+/-5.0mmHg to 3.2+/-1.4mmHg. The mean left atrial pressure decreased from 23.6+/-5.4mmHg to 8.6+/-3.1mmHg, (p>0.0001). Systolic pressure in the pulmonary artery decreased from 52.7+/-18.3mmHg to 32.2+/-7.4mmHg. Twenty-nine cases were successful. One patient developed severe mitral regurgitation. Interatrial septal defect was observed and one patient. One patient had cardiac tamponade due to left ventricular perforation. No deaths occurred. This method has proven to be safe and efficient in the treatment of rheumatic mitral stenosis. The potential advantage is that it can be used multiple times after sterilization, which decreases procedural costs significantly.

Adsorption process to recover hydrogen from feed gas mixtures having low hydrogen concentration

DOEpatents

Golden, Timothy Christopher; Weist, Jr., Edward Landis; Hufton, Jeffrey Raymond; Novosat, Paul Anthony

2010-04-13

A process for selectively separating hydrogen from at least one more strongly adsorbable component in a plurality of adsorption beds to produce a hydrogen-rich product gas from a low hydrogen concentration feed with a high recovery rate. Each of the plurality of adsorption beds subjected to a repetitive cycle. The process comprises an adsorption step for producing the hydrogen-rich product from a feed gas mixture comprising 5% to 50% hydrogen, at least two pressure equalization by void space gas withdrawal steps, a provide purge step resulting in a first pressure decrease, a blowdown step resulting in a second pressure decrease, a purge step, at least two pressure equalization by void space gas introduction steps, and a repressurization step. The second pressure decrease is at least 2 times greater than the first pressure decrease.

Pathophysiology and Toxicokinetic Studies of Blue-Green Algae Intoxication in the Swine Model

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-06-26

perfusion, renal perfusion, and mean arterial and central venous pressures were decreased, and portal pressure increased. Liver iron and hemoglobin indicated...the lethal dose, aortic mean pressure and central venous pressure decreased significantly, while portal venous pressure significantly increased. The...8217" recorded on a poiygraphY and logged on a hemodynamic analyzer.𔄁 Mean aortic, central venous , and portal venous pressures were determined predosing

Integrated CO 2 Storage and Brine Extraction

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

Hunter, Kelsey; Bielicki, Jeffrey M.; Middleton, Richard

Carbon dioxide (CO 2) capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) can reduce CO 2 emissions from fossil fuel power plants by injecting CO 2 into deep saline aquifers for storage. CCUS typically increases reservoir pressure which increases costs, because less CO 2 can be injected, and risks such as induced seismicity. Extracting brine with enhanced water recovery (EWR) from the CO 2 storage reservoir can manage and reduce pressure in the formation, decrease the risks linked to reservoir overpressure (e.g., induced seismicity), increase CO 2 storage capacity, and enable CO 2 plume management. We modeled scenarios of CO 2 injection withmore » EWR into the Rock Springs Uplift (RSU) formation in southwest Wyoming. The Finite Element Heat and Mass Transfer Code (FEHM) was used to model CO 2 injection with brine extraction and the corresponding increase in pressure within the RSU. We analyzed the model for pressure management, CO 2 storage, CO 2 saturation, and brine extraction due to the quantity and location of brine extraction wells. The model limited CO 2 injection to a constant pressure increase of two MPa at the injection well with and without extracting brine at hydrostatic pressure. Finally, we found that brine extraction can be used as a technical and cost-effective pressure management strategy to limit reservoir pressure buildup and increase CO 2 storage associated with a single injection well.« less

Integrated CO 2 Storage and Brine Extraction

DOE PAGES

Hunter, Kelsey; Bielicki, Jeffrey M.; Middleton, Richard; ...

2017-08-18

Carbon dioxide (CO 2) capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) can reduce CO 2 emissions from fossil fuel power plants by injecting CO 2 into deep saline aquifers for storage. CCUS typically increases reservoir pressure which increases costs, because less CO 2 can be injected, and risks such as induced seismicity. Extracting brine with enhanced water recovery (EWR) from the CO 2 storage reservoir can manage and reduce pressure in the formation, decrease the risks linked to reservoir overpressure (e.g., induced seismicity), increase CO 2 storage capacity, and enable CO 2 plume management. We modeled scenarios of CO 2 injection withmore » EWR into the Rock Springs Uplift (RSU) formation in southwest Wyoming. The Finite Element Heat and Mass Transfer Code (FEHM) was used to model CO 2 injection with brine extraction and the corresponding increase in pressure within the RSU. We analyzed the model for pressure management, CO 2 storage, CO 2 saturation, and brine extraction due to the quantity and location of brine extraction wells. The model limited CO 2 injection to a constant pressure increase of two MPa at the injection well with and without extracting brine at hydrostatic pressure. Finally, we found that brine extraction can be used as a technical and cost-effective pressure management strategy to limit reservoir pressure buildup and increase CO 2 storage associated with a single injection well.« less

Animal model of neuropathic tachycardia syndrome

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carson, R. P.; Appalsamy, M.; Diedrich, A.; Davis, T. L.; Robertson, D.

2001-01-01

Clinically relevant autonomic dysfunction can result from either complete or partial loss of sympathetic outflow to effector organs. Reported animal models of autonomic neuropathy have aimed to achieve complete lesions of sympathetic nerves, but incomplete lesions might be more relevant to certain clinical entities. We hypothesized that loss of sympathetic innervation would result in a predicted decrease in arterial pressure and a compensatory increase in heart rate. Increased heart rate due to loss of sympathetic innervation is seemingly paradoxical, but it provides a mechanistic explanation for clinical autonomic syndromes such as neuropathic postural tachycardia syndrome. Partially dysautonomic animals were generated by selectively lesioning postganglionic sympathetic neurons with 150 mg/kg 6-hydroxydopamine hydrobromide in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Blood pressure and heart rate were monitored using radiotelemetry. Systolic blood pressure decreased within hours postlesion (Delta>20 mm Hg). Within 4 days postlesion, heart rate rose and remained elevated above control levels. The severity of the lesion was determined functionally and pharmacologically by spectral analysis and responsiveness to tyramine. Low-frequency spectral power of systolic blood pressure was reduced postlesion and correlated with the diminished tyramine responsiveness (r=0.9572, P=0.0053). The tachycardia was abolished by treatment with the beta-antagonist propranolol, demonstrating that it was mediated by catecholamines acting on cardiac beta-receptors. Partial lesions of the autonomic nervous system have been hypothesized to underlie many disorders, including neuropathic postural tachycardia syndrome. This animal model may help us better understand the pathophysiology of autonomic dysfunction and lead to development of therapeutic interventions.

Hemodynamic transition driven by stent porosity in sidewall aneurysms.

PubMed

Bouillot, Pierre; Brina, Olivier; Ouared, Rafik; Lovblad, Karl-Olof; Farhat, Mohamed; Pereira, Vitor Mendes

2015-05-01

The healing process of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) treated with flow diverter stents (FDSs) depends on the IA flow modifications and on the epithelization process over the neck. In sidewall IA models with straight parent artery, two main hemodynamic regimes with different flow patterns and IA flow magnitude were broadly observed for unstented and high porosity stented IA on one side, and low porosity stented IA on the other side. The hemodynamic transition between these two regimes is potentially involved in thrombosis formation. In the present study, CFD simulations and multi-time lag (MTL) particle imaging velocimetry (PIV) measurements were combined to investigate the physical nature of this transition. Measurable velocity fields and non-measurable shear stress and pressure fields were assessed experimentally and numerically in the aneurysm volume in the presence of stents with various porosities. The two main regimes observed in both PIV and CFD showed typical flow features of shear and pressure driven regimes. In particular, the waveform of the averaged IA velocities was matching both the shear stress waveform at IA neck or the pressure gradient waveform in parent artery. Moreover, the transition between the two regimes was controlled by stent porosity: a decrease of stent porosity leads to an increase (decrease) of pressure differential (shear stress) through IA neck. Finally, a good PIV-CFD agreement was found except in transitional regimes and low motion eddies due to small mismatch of PIV-CFD running conditions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ethically problematic treatment decisions: a physician survey.

PubMed

Saarni, Samuli I; Parmanne, Piitu; Halila, Ritva

2008-02-01

Experiencing ethical problems requires both ethically problematic situations and ethical sensitivity. Ethically problematic treatment decisions are distressing and might reflect health care quality problems. Whether all physicians actually experience ethical problems, what these problems are and how they vary according to physician age, gender and work sector are largely unknown. A mail survey of all non-retired physicians licensed in Finland (n = 17,172, response rate 75.6%). The proportion of physicians reporting having made ethically problematic treatment decisions decreased in linear fashion from 60% at ages below 30 years to 21% at ages over 63 years. The only problem that did not decrease in frequency with age was having withdrawn necessary treatments. Women and primary care physicians reported problematic decisions most often, although gender differences were small. Primary care physicians most often reported having performed too many investigations or having pressured patients, whereas hospital physicians emphasized having withdrawn necessary treatments. Performing unnecessary treatments or investigations was explained by pressure from patients or relatives, and performing too few treatments or investigations was explained by inadequate resources. In general, young physicians felt pressured to do too much, whereas older physicians felt they could not do enough due to inadequate resources. Older physicians might be less exposed to ethically problematic situations, be more able to handle them or have lower ethical sensitivity. Young physicians could benefit from support in resisting pressure to perform unnecessary treatments, whereas older physicians might benefit from training in recognizing ethical issues.

Paraneoplastic Cushing Syndrome Due To Wilm's Tumor.

PubMed

Faizan, Mahwish; Manzoor, Jaida; Saleem, Muhammad; Anwar, Saadia; Mehmood, Qaiser; Hameed, Ambreen; Ali, Agha Shabbir

2017-05-01

Paraneoplastic syndromes are rare disorders that are triggered by an altered immune system response to neoplasm. Paraneoplastic syndromes may be the first or the most prominent manifestations of cancer. Wilm's tumor is the most frequent pediatric renal malignancy and usually presents with abdominal mass. Unusual presentations like acquired von Willebrand disease, sudden death due to pulmonary embolism and Cushing syndrome have been described in the literature. Cushing syndrome, as the presenting symptom of a malignant renal tumor in children, is a very rare entity. Few case reports are available in the literature exploring the option of preoperative chemotherapy as well as upfront nephrectomy. We report a rare case of paraneoplastic Cushing syndrome due to a Wilm's tumor. Based on gradual decrease of postoperative weight, blood pressure, serum adrenocorticotropic hormone, and plasma cortisol levels, along with histological confirmation of Wilm's tumor, paraneoplastic Cushing syndrome due to Wilm's tumor was confirmed.

Extreme challenges on cardiovascular control during gravity transitions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verheyden, B.; Beckers, F.; Aubert, A. E.

Introduction. During parabolic flights transient periods of hypergravity and microgravity are created. These periods cause translocations of bodily fluids in the longitudinal axis of the body, leading to altered cardiac preload and afterload. These extreme orthostatic challenges provide a unique platform to study baroreflex-mediated responses of the cardiovascular autonomic control system. This might have important features for the development of a model of cardiovascular deconditioning that is observed in a variety of patient populations. Purpose. Until now, due to methodological restrictions, most studies have been concentrating on the analysis of cardiovascular variability in time domain. The purpose of this study is to evaluate heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure variability (BPV) simultaneously, using frequency domain analysis techniques (low frequency power (LF: 0.04-0.15 Hz); high frequency power (HF: 0.16-0.4 Hz)), providing additional information about cardiac and vasomotor sympathetic modulation during gravity transitions. Methods. 12 healthy non-medicated volunteers (age = 24 ± 2.5 yr) underwent continuous ECG and blood pressure (BP) recordings during the 32nd and 34th parabolic flight campaign organized by ESA. The subjects performed 15 parabolas in supine and 15 parabolas in standing position. 5 transient gravity phases were abstracted; phase 1 and 5: before and after the parabola (1G); phase 2 and 4: at the ascending and descending leg of the parabola (2G); phase 3: at the apex of the parabola (0g). Phase 2, 3 and 4 last 20 seconds. Results. No significant differences were found in HRV and BPV parameters in supine position between the different gravity phases. In standing position, mean RR- interval was higher during 0G (900 ± 103 ms) compared to 1G (700 ± 87 ms) and 2G (600 ± 94 ms). Mean arterial BP remained relatively constant during 0G but tended to decrease during 2G (102 ± 2 mmHg vs. 105 ± 3 mmHg). Positive correlations were found between the evolution of pulse pressure (PP) and HR during the parabolic trajectory (r = 0.7). LF power and HF power of HRV evaluated in the opposite direction, but to the same extent, as shown by an increase (decrease) in HF (LF) power during 0G by ± 18% and a decrease (increase) in HF (LF) power during 2G by ± 33%, compared to 1G. In spite of a decrease in mean diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of about 10%, LF power of BPV increased by approximately 45% during 0G. The LF/HF ratio of the HRV spectrum decreased during 0G (± 45%) and increased during 2G (± 15%). Conclusion: Cardiac vagal reflex activity at initial microgravity is characterized by an increase in vagal modulation and a decrease in sympathetic modulation and is suggested to depend in the first place on increased PP and thus SV through high-pressure (arterial) receptors. In hypergravity the reverse phenomena occurs (increased sympathetic and decreased vagal activity. Increased vasomotor sympathetic modulation at early microgravity is suggested to depend on decreased DBP through the activation of low-pressure (cardiopulmonary) receptors.

Can amorphization take place in nanoscale interconnects?

PubMed

Kumar, S; Joshi, K L; van Duin, A C T; Haque, M A

2012-03-09

The trend of miniaturization has highlighted the problems of heat dissipation and electromigration in nanoelectronic device interconnects, but not amorphization. While amorphization is known to be a high pressure and/or temperature phenomenon, we argue that defect density is the key factor, while temperature and pressure are only the means. For nanoscale interconnects carrying modest current density, large vacancy concentrations may be generated without the necessity of high temperature or pressure due to the large fraction of grain boundaries and triple points. To investigate this hypothesis, we performed in situ transmission electron microscope (TEM) experiments on 200 nm thick (80 nm average grain size) aluminum specimens. Electron diffraction patterns indicate partial amorphization at modest current density of about 10(5) A cm(-2), which is too low to trigger electromigration. Since amorphization results in drastic decrease in mechanical ductility as well as electrical and thermal conductivity, further increase in current density to about 7 × 10(5) A cm(-2) resulted in brittle fracture failure. Our molecular dynamics (MD) simulations predict the formation of amorphous regions in response to large mechanical stresses (due to nanoscale grain size) and excess vacancies at the cathode side of the thin films. The findings of this study suggest that amorphization can precede electromigration and thereby play a vital role in the reliability of micro/nanoelectronic devices.

Photoluminescence studies of Mn4+ ions in YAlO3 crystals at ambient and high pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhydachevskii, Ya; Galanciak, D.; Kobyakov, S.; Berkowski, M.; Kaminska, A.; Suchocki, A.; Zakharko, Ya; Durygin, A.

2006-12-01

Detailed investigations of the photoluminescence properties of Mn4+ (3d3) ions in YAlO3 have been performed in the temperature range 10-600 K. The luminescence of Mn4+ ions due to the ^{2}\\mathrm {E}\\to {}^{4}\\mathrm {A}_{2} transition consists of two zero-phonon lines (R lines) at 691.3 and 692.7 nm, which became visible only at low temperature, and their vibronic sidebands that cover the range of 660-740 nm. The thermal quenching of the luminescence intensity due to the non-radiative decay occurs at temperatures above 420 K. The temperature dependence of the luminescence decay time shows a quasi-linear decrease from τ = 4.9 to 1.6 ms in the temperature range from 90 to 420 K (with a temperature coefficient -0.01 ms K-1) that makes YAlO3:Mn a potentially good phosphor for a fibre optic fluorescence thermometer in this temperature range. The high-pressure low-temperature luminescence measurements in a diamond-anvil cell reveal similar pressure coefficients for Mn4+ and Cr3+ dopant ions in YAlO3, equal to 1.16 cm-1 kbar-1 and 1.08 cm-1 kbar-1, respectively.

Influence of variations in systemic blood flow and pressure on cerebral and systemic oxygen saturation in cardiopulmonary bypass patients.

PubMed

Moerman, A; Denys, W; De Somer, F; Wouters, P F; De Hert, S G

2013-10-01

Although both pressure and flow are considered important determinants of regional organ perfusion, the relative importance of each is less established. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of variations in flow, pressure, or both on cerebral and whole-body oxygen saturation. Thirty-four consenting patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass were included. Using a randomized cross-over design, four different haemodynamic states were simulated: (i) 20% flow decrease, (ii) 20% flow decrease with phenylephrine to restore baseline pressure, (iii) 20% pressure decrease with sodium nitroprusside (SNP) under baseline flow, and (iv) increased flow with baseline pressure. The effect of these changes was evaluated on cerebral (Sc(O₂)) and systemic (Sv(O₂)) oxygen saturation, and on systemic oxygen extraction ratio (OER). Data were assessed by within- and between-group comparisons. Decrease in flow was associated with a decrease in [from 63.5 (7.4) to 62.0 (8.5) %, P<0.001]. When arterial pressure was restored with phenylephrine during low flow, Sc(O₂) further decreased from 61.0 (9.7) to 59.2 (10.2) %, P<0.001. Increase in flow was associated with an increase in Sc(O₂) from 62.6 (7.7) to 63.6 (8.9) %, P=0.03, while decreases in pressure with the use of SNP did not affect Sc(O₂). Sv(O₂) was significantly lower (P<0.001) and OER was significantly higher (P<0.001) in the low flow arms. In the present elective cardiac surgery population, Sc(O₂) and Sv(O₂) were significantly lower with lower flow, regardless of systemic arterial pressure. Moreover, phenylephrine administration was associated with a reduced cerebral and systemic oxygen saturation.

On the influence of surfactant on the coarsening of aqueous foams.

PubMed

Briceño-Ahumada, Zenaida; Langevin, Dominique

2017-06-01

We review the coarsening process of foams made with various surfactants and gases, focusing on physico-chemical aspects. Several parameters strongly affect coarsening: foam liquid fraction and foam film permeability, this permeability depending on the surfactant used. Both parameters may evolve with time: the liquid fraction, due to gravity drainage, and the film permeability, due to the decrease of capillary pressure during bubble growth, and to the subsequent increase in film thickness. Bubble coalescence may enhance the bubble's growth rate, in which case the bubble polydispersity increases. The differences found between the experiments reported in the literature and between experiments and theories are discussed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Coastal and Estuarine Mangrove Squeeze in the Mekong and Saigon Delta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stive, M.

2016-02-01

Both in the Mekong and Saigon deltas coastal squeeze is a frequent and pregnant problem, which leads to amazingly alarmous coastal and estuarine erosion rates. From the landside the squeeze is due to encroaching dike relocations and agri- and aquacultures, from the sea side it is due to decreasing sediment sources and relative sea level rise. These multiple pressures at some locations, certainly away from the sediment sources (like Ca Mau) leads to unprecedentent erosion rates. Managed retreat may be a longer term solution, but this will require a new way of thinking. Sandy and silt nourishment strategies may be an innovative alternative, but will require underbuilding scientific and practical research.

Perfusion index derived from a pulse oximeter can predict the incidence of hypotension during spinal anaesthesia for Caesarean delivery.

PubMed

Toyama, S; Kakumoto, M; Morioka, M; Matsuoka, K; Omatsu, H; Tagaito, Y; Numai, T; Shimoyama, M

2013-08-01

Hypotension during spinal anaesthesia for Caesarean delivery is a result of decreased vascular resistance due to sympathetic blockade and decreased cardiac output due to blood pooling in blocked areas of the body. Change in baseline peripheral vascular tone due to pregnancy may affect the degree of such hypotension. The perfusion index (PI) derived from a pulse oximeter has been used for assessing peripheral perfusion dynamics due to changes in peripheral vascular tone. The aim of this study was to examine whether baseline PI could predict the incidence of spinal anaesthesia-induced hypotension during Caesarean delivery. Parturients undergoing elective Caesarean delivery under spinal anaesthesia with hyperbaric bupivacaine 10 mg and fentanyl 20 μg were enrolled in this prospective study. The correlation between baseline PI and the degree of hypotension during spinal anaesthesia and also the predictability of spinal anaesthesia-induced hypotension during Caesarean delivery by PI were investigated. Baseline PI correlated with the degree of decreases in systolic and mean arterial pressure (r=0.664, P<0.0001 and r=0.491, P=0.0029, respectively). The cut-off PI value of 3.5 identified parturients at risk for spinal anaesthesia-induced hypotension with a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 86% (P<0.001). The change of PI in parturients with baseline PI ≤ 3.5 was not significant during the observational period, while PI in parturients with baseline PI>3.5 demonstrated marked decreases after spinal injection. We demonstrated that higher baseline PI was associated with profound hypotension and that baseline PI could predict the incidence of spinal anaesthesia-induced hypotension during Caesarean delivery.

Casein micelle dissociation in skim milk during high-pressure treatment: effects of pressure, pH, and temperature.

PubMed

Orlien, V; Boserup, L; Olsen, K

2010-01-01

The effect of pH (from 5.5 to 7.5) and temperature (from 5 to 40 degrees C) on the turbidity of reconstituted skim milk powder was investigated at ambient pressure and in situ under pressure (up to 500MPa) by measurement of light scattering. High-pressure treatment reduced the turbidity of milk for all combinations of pH and temperature due to micelle dissociation. The turbidity profiles had a characteristic sigmoidal shape in which almost no effect on turbidity was observed at low pressures (100MPa), followed by a stronger pressure dependency over a pressure range of 150MPa during which turbidity decreased extremely. From the turbidity profiles, the threshold pressure for disruption of micelle integrity was determined and ranged from 150MPa at low pH to 350-400MPa at high pH. The threshold pressure diagram clearly showed a relationship between the barostability of casein micelles and pH, whereas almost no effect of temperature was shown. This remarkable pH effect was a consequence of pressure-induced changes in the electrostatic interactions between colloidal calcium phosphate and the caseins responsible for maintaining micellar structure and was explained by a shift in the calcium phosphate balance in the micelle-serum system. Accordingly, a mechanism for high pressure-induced disruption of micelle integrity is suggested in which the state of calcium plays a crucial role in the micelle dissociation process. Copyright 2010 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Interaction of poly(ethylene-glycols) with air-water interfaces and lipid monolayers: investigations on surface pressure and surface potential.

PubMed Central

Winterhalter, M; Bürner, H; Marzinka, S; Benz, R; Kasianowicz, J J

1995-01-01

We have characterized the surface activity of different-sized poly(ethylene-glycols) (PEG; M(r) 200-100,000 Da) in the presence or absence of lipid monolayers and over a wide range of bulk PEG concentrations (10(-8)-10% w/v). Measurements of the surface potential and surface pressure demonstrate that PEGs interact with the air-water and lipid-water interfaces. Without lipid, PEG added either to the subphase or to the air-water interface forms relatively stable monolayers. Except for very low molecular weight polymers (PEGs < 1000 Da), low concentrations of PEG in the subphase (between 10(-5) and 10(-4)% w/v) increase the surface potential from zero (with respect to the potential of a pure air-water interface) to a plateau value of approximately 440 mV. At much higher polymer concentrations, > 10(-1)% (w/v), depending on the molecular weight of the PEG and corresponding to the concentration at which the polymers in solution are likely to overlap, the surface potential decreases. High concentrations of PEG in the subphase cause a similar decrease in the surface potential of densely packed lipid monolayers spread from either diphytanoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPhPC), dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC), or dioleoyl phosphatidylserine (DOPS). Adding PEG as a monolayer at the air-water interface also affects the surface activity of DPhPC or DPPC monolayers. At low lipid concentration, the surface pressure and potential are determined by the polymer. For intermediate lipid concentrations, the surface pressure-area and surface potential-area isotherms show that the effects due to lipid and PEG are not always additive and that the polymer's effect is distinct for the two lipids. When PEG-lipid-mixed monolayers are compressed to surface pressures greater than the collapse pressure for a PEG monolayer, the surface pressure-area and surface potential-area isotherms approach that of the lipid alone, suggesting that for this experimental condition PEG is expelled from the interface. PMID:8534807

High pressure and time resolved studies of optical properties of n-type doped GaN/AlN multi-quantum wells: Experimental and theoretical analysis

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

Kaminska, A.; Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University, College of Science, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Dewajtis 5, 01-815 Warsaw; Jankowski, D.

High-pressure and time-resolved studies of the optical emission from n-type doped GaN/AlN multi-quantum-wells (MQWs) with various well thicknesses are analysed in comparison with ab initio calculations of the electronic (band structure, density of states) and optical (emission energies and their pressure derivatives, oscillator strength) properties. The optical properties of GaN/AlN MQWs are strongly affected by quantum confinement and polarization-induced electric fields. Thus, the photoluminescence (PL) peak energy decreases by over 1 eV with quantum well (QW) thicknesses increasing from 1 to 6 nm. Furthermore, the respective PL decay times increased from about 1 ns up to 10 μs, due to the strong built-in electricmore » field. It was also shown that the band gap pressure coefficients are significantly reduced in MQWs as compared to bulk AlN and GaN crystals. Such coefficients are strongly dependent on the geometric factors such as the thickness of the wells and barriers. The transition energies, their oscillator strength, and pressure dependence are modeled for tetragonally strained structures of the same geometry using a full tensorial representation of the strain in the MQWs under external pressure. These MQWs were simulated directly using density functional theory calculations, taking into account two different systems: the semi-insulating QWs and the n-doped QWs with the same charge density as in the experimental samples. Such an approach allowed an assessment of the impact of n-type doping on optical properties of GaN/AlN MQWs. We find a good agreement between these two approaches and between theory and experimental results. We can therefore confirm that the nonlinear effects induced by the tetragonal strain related to the lattice mismatch between the substrates and the polar MQWs are responsible for the drastic decrease of the pressure coefficients observed experimentally.« less

Effect of Axisymmetric Aft Wall Angle Cavity in Supersonic Flow Field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeyakumar, S.; Assis, Shan M.; Jayaraman, K.

2018-03-01

Cavity plays a significant role in scramjet combustors to enhance mixing and flame holding of supersonic streams. In this study, the characteristics of axisymmetric cavity with varying aft wall angles in a non-reacting supersonic flow field are experimentally investigated. The experiments are conducted in a blow-down type supersonic flow facility. The facility consists of a supersonic nozzle followed by a circular cross sectional duct. The axisymmetric cavity is incorporated inside the duct. Cavity aft wall is inclined with two consecutive angles. The performance of the aft wall cavities are compared with rectangular cavity. Decreasing aft wall angle reduces the cavity drag due to the stable flow field which is vital for flame holding in supersonic combustor. Uniform mixing and gradual decrease in stagnation pressure loss can be achieved by decreasing the cavity aft wall angle.

Anomalous Behavior of the Homogeneous Ice Nucleation Rate in “No-Man’s Land”

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

We present an analysis of ice nucleation kinetics from near-ambient pressure water as temperature decreases below the homogeneous limit TH by cooling micrometer-sized droplets (microdroplets) evaporatively at 103–104 K/s and probing the structure ultrafast using femtosecond pulses from the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) free-electron X-ray laser. Below 232 K, we observed a slower nucleation rate increase with decreasing temperature than anticipated from previous measurements, which we suggest is due to the rapid decrease in water’s diffusivity. This is consistent with earlier findings that microdroplets do not crystallize at <227 K, but vitrify at cooling rates of 106–107 K/s. We also hypothesize that the slower increase in the nucleation rate is connected with the proposed “fragile-to-strong” transition anomaly in water. PMID:26207172

Study on the stress changes due to the regional groundwater exploitation based on a 3-D fully coupled poroelastic model: An example of the North China Plain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, H.; Zhang, H.; Pang, Y. J.; Shi, Y.

2017-12-01

With the quick urban development, over-exploitation of groundwater resources becomes more and more intense, which leads to not only widespread groundwater depression cones but also a series of harsh environmental and geological hazards. Among which, the most intuitive phenomenon is the ground subsidence in loose sediments. However, another direct consequence triggered by the groundwater depletion is the substantial crustal deformation and potential modulation of crustal stress underneath the groundwater over-pumping zones. In our previous 3-D viscoelastic finite element model, we found that continuous over-exploitation of groundwater resources in North China Plain during the past 60 years give rise to crustal-scale uplift reaching 4.9cm, with the Coulomb failure stress decreasing by up to 12 kPa, which may inhibit the nucleation of possible big earthquake events. Furthermore, according to the effective pressure principle and lab experiments, the pore pressure may also have changed due to the reduced water level. In order to quantitatively analyze the stress changes due to the regional groundwater exploitation in North China Plain, a three-dimensional fully coupled poroelastic finite element model is developed in this study. The high resolution topography, grounwater level fluctuation, fault parameters and etc, are taken into consideration. Further, the changes of Coulomb Failure Stress, in correspondence to elastic stress and pore pressure changes induced by fluid diffusion are calculated. Meanwhile, the elastic strain energy accumulation in region due to the regional groundwater exploitation is obtained. Finally, we try to analyze the seismic risk of major faults within North China Plain to further discuss the regional seismic activities.

Reactor pressure vessel nozzle

DOEpatents

Challberg, R.C.; Upton, H.A.

1994-10-04

A nozzle for joining a pool of water to a nuclear reactor pressure vessel includes a tubular body having a proximal end joinable to the pressure vessel and a distal end joinable in flow communication with the pool. The body includes a flow passage therethrough having in serial flow communication a first port at the distal end, a throat spaced axially from the first port, a conical channel extending axially from the throat, and a second port at the proximal end which is joinable in flow communication with the pressure vessel. The inner diameter of the flow passage decreases from the first port to the throat and then increases along the conical channel to the second port. In this way, the conical channel acts as a diverging channel or diffuser in the forward flow direction from the first port to the second port for recovering pressure due to the flow restriction provided by the throat. In the backflow direction from the second port to the first port, the conical channel is a converging channel and with the abrupt increase in flow area from the throat to the first port collectively increase resistance to flow therethrough. 2 figs.

Pressure dependence of the optical properties of the charge-density-wave compound LaTe2

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

Lavagnini, M.; Sacchetti, A.; Degiorgi, L.

2009-12-14

We report the pressure dependence of the optical response of LaTe{sub 2}, which is deep in the charge-density-wave (CDW) ground state even at 300 K. The reflectivity spectrum is collected in the mid-infrared spectral range at room temperature and at pressures between 0 and 7 GPa. We extract the energy scale due to the single particle excitation across the CDW gap and the Drude weight. We establish that the gap decreases upon compressing the lattice, while the Drude weight increases. This signals a reduction in the quality of nesting upon applying pressure, therefore inducing a lesser impact of the CDWmore » condensate on the electronic properties of LaTe{sub 2}. The consequent suppression of the CDW gap leads to a release of additional charge carriers, manifested by the shift of weight from the gap feature into the metallic component of the optical response. On the contrary, the power-law behavior, seen in the optical conductivity at energies above the gap excitation and indicating a weakly interacting limit within the Tomonaga-Luttinger liquid scenario, seems to be only moderately dependent on pressure.« less

Penning Effects in High-Pressure Discharge of the Plasma Display Panel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, S. S.; Choi, E. H.; Uhm, H. S.

2001-10-01

The plasma display panel is operated with high-pressure gas, for which the breakdown voltage reduction may be accomplished by mixing a small amount of xenon with neon gas. The UV light emitted from xenon discharge plasma is converted into fluorescent light, providing TV images. A recent theoretical calculation indicates that the breakdown voltage is significantly reduced for the mixed gas due to collisional frequency decrease. It is easy to ionize xenon atoms with low ionization energy. The electrons can also easily get their kinetic energy in neon gas mixed with xenon atoms, thereby reducing their collisional cross section and ionizing xenon atoms. However, previous study indicates that the breakdown voltage can be further reduced by the Penning effects, which has been mostly studied in a low pressure discharge. Influence of the Penning effects on the high-pressure discharge in a neon-xenon mixed gas is investigated in connection with applications to the plasma display panel. A theoretical model for high-pressure discharge is developed. It is shown that the breakdown voltage is reduced by 20 percent at the xenon mole fraction of 0.015, which agree remarkably well with experimental data.

Methods of increasing thermal efficiency of steam and gas turbine plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasserman, A. A.; Shutenko, M. A.

2017-11-01

Three new methods of increasing efficiency of turbine power plants are described. Increasing average temperature of heat supply in steam turbine plant by mixing steam after overheaters with products of combustion of natural gas in the oxygen. Development of this idea consists in maintaining steam temperature on the major part of expansion in the turbine at level, close to initial temperature. Increasing efficiency of gas turbine plant by way of regenerative heating of the air by gas after its expansion in high pressure turbine and before expansion in the low pressure turbine. Due to this temperature of air, entering combustion chamber, is increased and average temperature of heat supply is consequently increased. At the same time average temperature of heat removal is decreased. Increasing efficiency of combined cycle power plant by avoiding of heat transfer from gas to wet steam and transferring heat from gas to water and superheated steam only. Steam will be generated by multi stage throttling of the water from supercritical pressure and temperature close to critical, to the pressure slightly higher than condensation pressure. Throttling of the water and separation of the wet steam on saturated water and steam does not require complicated technical devices.

Modeling systolic pressure variation due to positive pressure ventilation.

PubMed

Messerges, Joanne

2006-01-01

Although many clinical techniques have been proposed to assess blood volume none have been established as an undisputed standard practice, Volume studies suggest systolic pressure variation (SPV) as a promising volume indicator but underlying influences on SPV are not well understood. Successful modeling of SPV will reveal the major SPV influencers, guide algorithm development to accommodate these influencers, and potentially lead to a more clinically relevant interpretation of SPV values, thus improving upon current clinical methods for assessing blood volume. This study takes a first step towards identifying SPV influencers by investigating three variations of an existing pressure-flow cardiovascular model. Each successive version introduces an additional modification in attempt to model SPV under normovolemic and hypovolemic conditions, where the last model accounts for positive pressure ventilation, venous compression, and a rightward septum shift. Under normovolemic conditions, each model yields SPV values of 5.8, 6.4, and 6.7 mmHg, respectively. Under hypovolemic conditions the results do not agree with clinical findings, suggesting these three mechanisms alone do not dictate the clinical SPV response to a decrease in volume. Model results are used to suggest improvements for future work.

Melting properties of Pt and its transport coefficients in liquid states under high pressures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Pan-Pan; Shao, Ju-Xiang; Cao, Qi-Long

2016-11-01

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the melting and transport properties in liquid states of platinum for the pressure range (50-200 GPa) are reported. The melting curve of platinum is consistent with previous ab initio MD simulation results and the first-principles melting curve. Calculated results for the pressure dependence of fusion entropy and fusion volume show that the fusion entropy and the fusion volume decrease with increasing pressure, and the ratio of the fusion volume to fusion entropy roughly reproduces the melting slope, which has a moderate decrease along the melting line. The Arrhenius law well describes the temperature dependence of self-diffusion coefficients and viscosity under high pressure, and the diffusion activation energy decreases with increasing pressure, while the viscosity activation energy increases with increasing pressure. In addition, the entropy-scaling law, proposed by Rosenfeld under ambient pressure, still holds well for liquid Pt under high pressure conditions.

The non-thermal origin of the tokamak low-density stability limit

DOE PAGES

Paz-Soldan, C.; La Haye, R. J.; Shiraki, D.; ...

2016-04-13

DIII-D plasmas at very low density exhibit onset of n=1 error field (EF) penetration (the `low-density locked mode') not at a critical density or EF, but instead at a critical level of runaway electron (RE) intensity. Raising the density during a discharge does not avoid EF penetration, so long as RE growth proceeds to the critical level. Penetration is preceded by non-thermalization of the electron cyclotron emission, anisotropization of the total pressure, synchrotron emission shape changes, as well as decreases in the loop voltage and bulk thermal electron temperature. The same phenomena occur despite various types of optimal EF correction,more » and in some cases modes are born rotating. Similar phenomena are also found at the low-density limit in JET. These results stand in contrast to the conventional interpretation of the low-density stability limit as being due to residual EFs and demonstrate a new pathway to EF penetration instability due to REs. Existing scaling laws for penetration project to increasing EF sensitivity as bulk temperatures decrease, though other possible mechanisms include classical tearing instability, thermo-resistive instability, and pressure-anisotropy driven instability. Regardless of first-principles mechanism, known scaling laws for Ohmic energy confinement combined with theoretical RE production rates allow rough extrapolation of the RE criticality condition, and thus, the low-density limit to other tokamaks. Furthermore, the extrapolated low-density limit by this pathway decreases with increasing machine size and is considerably below expected operating conditions for ITER. While likely unimportant for ITER, this effect can explain the low-density limit of existing tokamaks operating with small residual EFs.« less

Creeping gaseous flows through elastic tube and annulus micro-configurations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elbaz, Shai; Jacob, Hila; Gat, Amir

2016-11-01

Gaseous flows in elastic micro-configurations is relevant to biological systems (e.g. alveolar ducts in the lungs) as well as to applications such as gas actuated soft micro-robots. We here examine the effect of low-Mach-number compressibility on creeping gaseous axial flows through linearly elastic tube and annulus micro-configurations. For steady flows, the leading-order effects of elasticity on the pressure distribution and mass-flux are obtained. For transient flow in a tube with small deformations, elastic effects are shown to be negligible in leading order due to compressibility. We then examine transient flows in annular configurations where the deformation is significant compared with the gap between the inner and outer cylinders defining the annulus. Both compressibility and elasticity are obtained as dominant terms interacting with viscosity. For a sudden flux impulse, the governing non-linear leading order diffusion equation is initially approximated by a porous-medium-equation of order 2.5 for the pressure square. However, as the fluid expand and the pressure decreases, the governing equation degenerates to a porous-medium-equation of order 2 for the pressure.

Numerical investigation of biogas diffusion flames characteristics under several operation conditions in counter-flow configuration with an emphasis on thermal and chemical effects of CO2 in the fuel mixture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mameri, A.; Tabet, F.; Hadef, A.

2017-08-01

This study addresses the influence of several operating conditions (composition and ambient pressure) on biogas diffusion flame structure and NO emissions with particular attention on thermal and chemical effect of CO2. The biogas flame is modeled by a counter flow diffusion flame and analyzed in mixture fraction space using flamelet approach. The GRI Mech-3.0 mechanism that involves 53 species and 325 reactions is adopted for the oxidation chemistry. It has been observed that flame properties are very sensitive to biogas composition and pressure. CO2 addition decreases flame temperature by both thermal and chemical effects. Added CO2 may participate in chemical reaction due to thermal dissociation (chemical effect). Excessively supplied CO2 plays the role of pure diluent (thermal effect). The ambient pressure rise increases temperature and reduces flame thickness, radiation losses and dissociation amount. At high pressure, recombination reactions coupled with chain carrier radicals reduction, diminishes NO mass fraction.

Solubility of carbon dioxide in aqueous mixtures of alkanolamines

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

Dawodu, O.F.; Meisen, A.

1994-07-01

The solubility of CO[sub 2] in water + N-methyldiethanolamine + monoethanolamine (MDEA + MEA) and water + N-methyldiethanolamine + diethanolamine (MDEA + DEA) are reported at two compositions of 3.4 M MDEA + 0.8 M MEA or DEA and 2.1 M MDEA + 2.1 M MEA or DEA at temperatures from 70 to 180 C and CO[sub 2] partial pressures from 100 to 3,850 kPa. The solubility of CO[sub 2] in the blends decreased with an increase in temperature but increased with an increase in CO[sub 2] partial pressure. At low partial pressures of CO[sub 2] and the same totalmore » amine concentration, the equilibrium CO[sub 2] loadings were in the order MDEA + MEA > MDEA + DEA > MDEA. However, at high CO[sub 2] partial pressures, the equilibrium CO[sub 2] loadings in the MDEA solutions were higher than those of the MDEA + MEA and MDEA + DEA blends of equal molar strengths due to the stoichiometric loading limitations of MEA and DEA. The nonadditivity of the equilibrium loadings for single amine systems highlights the need for independent measurements on amine blends.« less

Effect of back-pressure forcing on shock train structures in rectangular channels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gnani, F.; Zare-Behtash, H.; White, C.; Kontis, K.

2018-04-01

The deceleration of a supersonic flow to the subsonic regime inside a high-speed engine occurs through a series of shock waves, known as a shock train. The generation of such a flow structure is due to the interaction between the shock waves and the boundary layer inside a long and narrow duct. The understanding of the physics governing the shock train is vital for the improvement of the design of high-speed engines and the development of flow control strategies. The present paper analyses the sensitivity of the shock train configuration to a back-pressure variation. The complex characteristics of the shock train at an inflow Mach number M = 2 in a channel of constant height are investigated with two-dimensional RANS equations closed by the Wilcox k-ω turbulence model. Under a sinusoidal back-pressure variation, the simulated results indicate that the shock train executes a motion around its mean position that deviates from a perfect sinusoidal profile with variation in oscillation amplitude, frequency, and whether the pressure is first increased or decreased.

Characterization and destruction of Definity® microbubbles used for ultrasound imaging and drug delivery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarkar, Kausik; Chatterjee, Dhiman; Jain, Pankaj

2004-11-01

Intravenously injected encapsulated microbubbles improve the contrast of an ultrasound image. Their destruction is used in measuring blood flow, stimulating arteriogenesis, and drug delivery. We measure attenuation and scattering of ultrasound through solution of contrast agent Definity (Bristol Meyer-Squibb Imaging, North Ballerina, MA). We have developed an interfacial rheology model for the stabilizing encapsulation of such microbubbles. By matching with attenuation data, we obtain the characteristic rheological parameters for Definity. We compare model predictions with measured scattering. We investigate microbubble destruction under acoustic excitation by measuring time-varying attenuation data. Three regions of acoustic pressure amplitudes are found: at low pressure, there is no destruction; at slightly higher pressure bubbles are destroyed, and the rate of destruction depends on a combination of PRF and amplitude. At a still higher pressure amplitude, the attenuation decreases catastrophically. The last two regimes correspond respectively to 1) slow destruction of bubbles due to increased gas diffusion and 2) complete bubble destruction leading to release of free bubbles. (Supported by DOD, NSF and University of Delaware Research Foundation)

Theoretical Investigation of the Viscous Damping Coefficient of Hydraulic Actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Ming-Hui; Pan, Qing; Li, Yi-Bo; Ma, Peng-Da; Ma, Jun

2017-07-01

The viscous damping coefficient (VDC) of hydraulic actuators is crucial for system modeling, control and dynamic characteristic analysis. Currently, the researches on hydraulic actuators focus on behavior assessment, promotion of control performance and efficiency. However, the estimation of the VDC is difficult due to a lack of study. Firstly, using two types of hydraulic cylinders, behaviors of the VDC are experimentally examined with velocities and pressure variations. For the tested plunger type hydraulic cylinder, the exponential model B = α υ^{ - β } ,(α > 0,β > 0) or B = α1 e^{{ - β1 υ }} + α2 e^{{ - β2 υ }} (α1 ,α2 > 0,β1 ,β2 > 0), fits the relation between the VDC and velocities for a given pressure of chamber with high precision. The magnitude of the VDC decreases almost linearly under certain velocities when increasing the chamber pressure from 0.6 MPa to 6.0 MPa. Furthermore, the effects of the chamber pressures on the VDC of piston and plunge type hydraulic cylinders are different due to different sealing types. In order to investigate the VDC of a plunger type hydraulic actuator drastically, a steady-state numerical model has been developed to describe the mechanism incorporating tandem seal lubrication, back-up ring related friction behaviors and shear stress of fluid. It is shown that the simulated results of VDC agree with the measured results with a good accuracy. The proposed method provides an instruction to predict the VDC in system modeling and analysis.

The localized effect of the Bi level on the valence band in the dilute bismuth GaBixAs1-x alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Chuan-Zhen; Zhu, Min-Min; Wang, Jun; Wang, Sha-Sha; Lu, Ke-Qing

2018-05-01

The research on the temperature dependence of the band gap energy of the dilute bismuth GaBixAs1-x alloy has been done. It is found that its temperature insensitiveness is due to the enhanced localized character of the valence band state and the small decrease of the temperature coefficient for the conduction band minimum (CBM). The enhanced localized character of the valence band state is the main factor. In order to describe the localized effect of the Bi levels on the valence band, the localized energy is introduced into the Varshni's equation. It is found that the effect of the localized Bi level on the valence band becomes strong with increasing Bi content. In addition, it is found that the pressure dependence of the band gap energy of GaBixAs1-x does not seem to be influenced by the localized Bi levels. It is due to two factors. One is that the pressure dependence of the band gap energy is mainly determined by the D CBM of GaBixAs1-x. The D CBM of GaBixAs1-x is not influenced by the localized Bi levels. The other is that the small variation of the pressure coefficient for the D valence band maximum (VBM) state of GaBixAs1-x can be cancelled by the variation of the pressure coefficient for the D CBM state of GaBixAs1-x.

Missing pressure in the dayside ionosphere of Venus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cloutier, P. A.; Stewart, B. K.; Taylor, H. A., Jr.

1992-01-01

Data obtained by various instruments on the Pioneer-Venus spacecraft were used to study the conservation of momentum flux from the solar wind through the dayside ionopause into the thermal Venus ionosphere. A consistent pressure deficit was found below the ionopause, with a strong dependence on solar wind pressure. Independent of solar wind pressure, the pressure deficit was found to decrease with decreasing altitude below the ionopause. Measurements of this pressure deficit (missing pressure) are presented as a function of altitude for various solar wind conditions. The identity of the missing pressure component and the correlation with solar wind pressure are discussed.

Brachial blood flow under relative levels of blood flow restriction is decreased in a nonlinear fashion.

PubMed

Mouser, J Grant; Ade, Carl J; Black, Christopher D; Bemben, Debra A; Bemben, Michael G

2018-05-01

Blood flow restriction (BFR), the application of external pressure to occlude venous return and restrict arterial inflow, has been shown to increase muscular size and strength when combined with low-load resistance exercise. BFR in the research setting uses a wide range of pressures, applying a pressure based upon an individual's systolic pressure or a percentage of occlusion pressure; not a directly determined reduction in blood flow. The relationship between relative pressure and blood flow has not been established. To measure blood flow in the arm under relative levels of BFR. Forty-five people (18-40 years old) participated. Arterial occlusion pressure in the right arm was measured using a 5-cm pneumatic cuff. Blood flow in the brachial artery was measured at rest and at pressures between 10% and 90% of occlusion using ultrasound. Blood flow decreased in a nonlinear, stepped fashion. Blood flow decreased at 10% of occlusion and remained constant until decreasing again at 40%, where it remained until 90% of occlusion. The decrease in brachial blood flow is not proportional to the applied relative pressure. The prescription of blood flow restriction should take into account the stimulus provided at each relative level of blood flow. © 2017 Scandinavian Society of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Blood pressure measurement with the tail-cuff method in Wistar and spontaneously hypertensive rats: influence of adrenergic- and nitric oxide-mediated vasomotion.

PubMed

Fritz, M; Rinaldi, G

2008-01-01

Systolic blood pressure (SBP) is still measured in rats by the tail-cuff method, allowing readings when pulse/flow disappears during cuff inflation and reappears during deflation, separated by a compression interval. Although cuff deflation is habitually used to estimate SBP, we found cuff deflation-cuff inflation pressure to be usually negative, indicating that cuff deflation pressure < cuff inflation pressure. SBP was measured in 226 male Wistar and SHR utilizing compression intervals of different durations, and also pharmacological interventions intended to modulate the cuff deflation-cuff inflation cycle. Direct, simultaneous intravascular measurements were also performed in some animals. With compression interval congruent with 15 s, cuff deflation-cuff inflation was--6 +/- 0.6 mmHg in 73 Wistar and--6 +/- 1.4 mmHg in 51 SHR. Lengthening compression interval up to 4 min increased cuff deflation-cuff inflation pressure significantly to--27 +/- 3 mmHg in Wistar and to - 31 +/- 5 mmHg in SHR, suggesting accumulation of a vasodilating mediator. This increase of cuff deflation-cuff inflation pressure was prevented by papaverine (totally in Wistar, partially in SHR), indicating its dependence on vasodilatory capacity. Adrenergic blockade decreased cuff deflation-cuff inflation pressure to--13 +/- 5 mmHg (P < 0.05) in SHR, but had no effect in Wistar rats. Injection of L-NAME decreased cuff deflation-cuff inflation pressure to--5 +/- 2 mmHg (P < 0.05) in Wistar rats but was ineffective in SHR. Simultaneous measurements by tail-cuff method and carotid cannulation revealed that the cuff inflation most accurately estimated the intravascular SBP. 1) Cuff inflation measurements should be considered representative of SBP, as cuff deflation can underestimate SBP depending on compression interval duration, 2) nitric oxide accumulation due to flow deprivation is the main cause of SBP underestimation by cuff deflation in Wistar, and 3) in SHR, nitric oxide effects were minimal, and sympathetic activation plus physical factors seemed to predominate in the determining the outcome of measurements.

Is the obesity epidemic reversing favorable trends in blood pressure? Evidence from cohorts born between 1890 and 1990 in the United States.

PubMed

Goff, David C; Gillespie, Cathleen; Howard, George; Labarthe, Darwin R

2012-08-01

Previous reports have described favorable changes in the relationship between systolic blood pressure and age in recent birth cohorts. The obesity epidemic might threaten that pattern. To update analyses of differences between birth cohorts in the relationship between systolic blood pressure and age and to determine whether increases in obesity have had adverse effects. We examined the systolic blood pressure distributions across birth cohorts born between 1890 and 1990 in 68,070 participants, aged 18-74 years, in the National Health (and Nutrition) Examination Surveys between 1960 and 2008. We postulated that age-adjusted 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 90th percentiles of systolic blood pressure had decreased in more recent versus earlier cohorts, and that this pattern had slowed or reversed recently due, at least in part, to obesity. After adjusting for gender, race, age and age(2), the 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 90th percentiles of systolic blood pressure were 1.1, 1.4, 1.9, 2.5, and 3.4 mmHg lower for each decade more recently born (all P < .0001). Quadratic terms for birth cohort were positive and significant (P < .001) across all percentiles, consistent with a decelerating cohort effect. Mediation of this deceleration was observed for body mass index ranging from 20.4% to 44.3% (P < .01 at all percentiles). More recent cohorts born in the United States between 1890 and 1990 have had smaller increases in systolic blood pressure with aging. At any age, their systolic blood pressure distributions are shifted lower relative to earlier cohorts. Decreases of 1.9 mmHg in the median systolic blood pressure per decade translates into 11.4-13.3 mmHg over 6-7 decades, a shift that would contribute importantly to lower rates of cardiovascular diseases. These favorable changes are slowing, perhaps owing, at least in part, to the obesity epidemic. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Experimental Investigation of Two-Phase Oil (D130)-Water Flow in 4″ Pipe for Different Inclination Angles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shaahid, S. M.; Basha, Mehaboob; Al-Hems, Luai M.

2018-03-01

Oil and water are often produced and transported together in pipelines that have various degrees of inclination from the horizontal. The flow of two immiscible liquids oil and water in pipes has been a research topic since several decades. In oil and chemical industries, knowledge of the frictional pressure loss in oil-water flows in pipes is necessary to specify the size of the pump required to pump the emulsions. An experimental investigation has been carried out for measurement of pressure drop of oil (D130)-water two-phase flows in 4 inch diameter inclined stainless steel pipe at different flow conditions. Experiments were conducted for different inclination angles including; 0°, 15°, 30° (for water cuts “WC” 0 - 100%). The flow rates at the inlet were varied from 4000 to 8000 barrels-per-day (BPD). For a given flow rate the frictional pressure drop has been found to increase (for all angles) from WC = 0 - 60%, and thereafter friction pressure drop decreases, this could be due phase inversion. For a given WC 40%, the frictional pressure drop has been found to increase with angle and flow rate. It has been noticed that inclination angle has appreciable effect on frictional pressure drop.

Effect of static pressure on acoustic energy radiated by cavitation bubbles in viscous liquids under ultrasound.

PubMed

Yasui, Kyuichi; Towata, Atsuya; Tuziuti, Toru; Kozuka, Teruyuki; Kato, Kazumi

2011-11-01

The effect of static pressure on acoustic emissions including shock-wave emissions from cavitation bubbles in viscous liquids under ultrasound has been studied by numerical simulations in order to investigate the effect of static pressure on dispersion of nano-particles in liquids by ultrasound. The results of the numerical simulations for bubbles of 5 μm in equilibrium radius at 20 kHz have indicated that the optimal static pressure which maximizes the energy of acoustic waves radiated by a bubble per acoustic cycle increases as the acoustic pressure amplitude increases or the viscosity of the solution decreases. It qualitatively agrees with the experimental results by Sauter et al. [Ultrason. Sonochem. 15, 517 (2008)]. In liquids with relatively high viscosity (∼200 mPa s), a bubble collapses more violently than in pure water when the acoustic pressure amplitude is relatively large (∼20 bar). In a mixture of bubbles of different equilibrium radius (3 and 5 μm), the acoustic energy radiated by a 5 μm bubble is much larger than that by a 3 μm bubble due to the interaction with bubbles of different equilibrium radius. The acoustic energy radiated by a 5 μm bubble is substantially increased by the interaction with 3 μm bubbles.

An Experimental Investigation of the Risk of Triggering Geological Disasters by Injection under Shear Stress

PubMed Central

Liu, Yixin; Xu, Jiang; Peng, Shoujian

2016-01-01

Fluid injection has been applied in many fields, such as hazardous waste deep well injection, forced circulation in geothermal fields, hydraulic fracturing, and CO2 geological storage. However, current research mainly focuses on geological data statistics and the dominating effects of pore pressure. There are only a few laboratory-conditioned studies on the role of drilling boreholes and the effect of injection pressure on the borehole wall. Through experimental phenomenology, this study examines the risk of triggering geological disasters by fluid injection under shear stress. We developed a new direct shear test apparatus, coupled Hydro-Mechanical (HM), to investigate mechanical property variations when an intact rock experienced step drilling borehole, fluid injection, and fluid pressure acting on the borehole and fracture wall. We tested the peak shear stress of sandstone under different experimental conditions, which showed that drilling borehole, water injection, and increased pore pressure led to the decrease in peak shear stress. Furthermore, as pore pressure increased, peak shear stress dispersion increased due to crack propagation irregularity. Because the peak shear stress changed during the fluid injection steps, we suggest that the risk of triggering geological disaster with injection under shear stress, pore, borehole, and fluid pressure should be considered. PMID:27929142

An Experimental Investigation of the Risk of Triggering Geological Disasters by Injection under Shear Stress.

PubMed

Liu, Yixin; Xu, Jiang; Peng, Shoujian

2016-12-08

Fluid injection has been applied in many fields, such as hazardous waste deep well injection, forced circulation in geothermal fields, hydraulic fracturing, and CO 2 geological storage. However, current research mainly focuses on geological data statistics and the dominating effects of pore pressure. There are only a few laboratory-conditioned studies on the role of drilling boreholes and the effect of injection pressure on the borehole wall. Through experimental phenomenology, this study examines the risk of triggering geological disasters by fluid injection under shear stress. We developed a new direct shear test apparatus, coupled Hydro-Mechanical (HM), to investigate mechanical property variations when an intact rock experienced step drilling borehole, fluid injection, and fluid pressure acting on the borehole and fracture wall. We tested the peak shear stress of sandstone under different experimental conditions, which showed that drilling borehole, water injection, and increased pore pressure led to the decrease in peak shear stress. Furthermore, as pore pressure increased, peak shear stress dispersion increased due to crack propagation irregularity. Because the peak shear stress changed during the fluid injection steps, we suggest that the risk of triggering geological disaster with injection under shear stress, pore, borehole, and fluid pressure should be considered.

Pressure-Induced Melting of Confined Ice.

PubMed

Sotthewes, Kai; Bampoulis, Pantelis; Zandvliet, Harold J W; Lohse, Detlef; Poelsema, Bene

2017-12-26

The classic regelation experiment of Thomson in the 1850s deals with cutting an ice cube, followed by refreezing. The cutting was attributed to pressure-induced melting but has been challenged continuously, and only lately consensus emerged by understanding that compression shortens the O:H nonbond and lengthens the H-O bond simultaneously. This H-O elongation leads to energy loss and lowers the melting point. The hot debate survived well over 150 years, mainly due to a poorly defined heat exchange with the environment in the experiment. In our current experiment, we achieved thermal isolation from the environment and studied the fully reversible ice-liquid water transition for water confined between graphene and muscovite mica. We observe a transition from two-dimensional (2D) ice into a quasi-liquid phase by applying a pressure exerted by an atomic force microscopy tip. At room temperature, the critical pressure amounts to about 6 GPa. The transition is completely reversible: refreezing occurs when the applied pressure is lifted. The critical pressure to melt the 2D ice decreases with temperature, and we measured the phase coexistence line between 293 and 333 K. From a Clausius-Clapeyron analysis, we determine the latent heat of fusion of two-dimensional ice at 0.15 eV/molecule, being twice as large as that of bulk ice.

Experimental investigation on the coupled effect of effective stress and gas slippage on the permeability of shale

PubMed Central

Yang, Diansen; Wang, Wei; Chen, Weizhong; Wang, Shugang; Wang, Xiaoqiong

2017-01-01

Permeability is one of the most important parameters to evaluate gas production in shale reservoirs. Because shale permeability is extremely low, gas is often used in the laboratory to measure permeability. However, the measured apparent gas permeability is higher than the intrinsic permeability due to the gas slippage effect, which could be even more dominant for materials with nanopores. Increasing gas pressure during tests reduces gas slippage effect, but it also decreases the effective stress which in turn influences the permeability. The coupled effect of gas slippage and effective stress on shale permeability remains unclear. Here we perform laboratory experiments on Longmaxi shale specimens to explore the coupled effect. We use the pressure transient method to measure permeability under different stress and pressure conditions. Our results reveal that the apparent measured permeability is controlled by these two competing effects. With increasing gas pressure, there exists a pressure threshold at which the dominant effect on permeability switches from gas slippage to effective stress. Based on the Klinkenberg model, we propose a new conceptual model that incorporates both competing effects. Combining microstructure analysis, we further discuss the roles of stress, gas pressure and water contents on gas permeability of shale. PMID:28304395

Langmuir probe study of a magnetically enhanced RF plasma source at pressures below 0.1 Pa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kousal, Jaroslav; Tichý, Milan; Šebek, Ondřej; Čechvala, Juraj; Biederman, Hynek

2011-08-01

The majority of plasma polymerization sources operate at pressures higher than 1 Pa. At these pressures most common deposition methods do not show significant directionality. One way of enhancing the directional effects is to decrease the working pressure to increase the mean free path of the reactive molecules. The plasma source used in this work was designed to study the plasma polymerization process at pressures below 0.1 Pa. The source consists of the classical radio frequency (RF) (13.56 MHz, capacitive coupled) tubular reactor enhanced by an external magnetic circuit. The working gas is introduced into the discharge by a capillary. This forms a relatively localized zone of higher pressure where the monomer is activated. Due to the magnetic field, the plasma is constricted near the axis of the reactor with nearly collisionless gas flow. The plasma parameters were obtained using a double Langmuir probe. Plasma density in the range ni = 1013-1016 m-3 was obtained in various parts of the discharge under typical conditions. The presence of the magnetic field led to the presence of relatively strong electric fields (103 V m-1) and relatively high electron energies up to several tens of eV in the plasma.

North Pacific atmospheric rivers and their influence on western North America at the Last Glacial Maximum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lora, Juan M.; Mitchell, Jonathan L.; Risi, Camille; Tripati, Aradhna E.

2017-01-01

Southwestern North America was wetter than present during the Last Glacial Maximum. The causes of increased water availability have been recently debated, and quantitative precipitation reconstructions have been underutilized in model-data comparisons. We investigate the climatological response of North Pacific atmospheric rivers to the glacial climate using model simulations and paleoclimate reconstructions. Atmospheric moisture transport due to these features shifted toward the southeast relative to modern. Enhanced southwesterly moisture delivery between Hawaii and California increased precipitation in the southwest while decreasing it in the Pacific Northwest, in agreement with reconstructions. Coupled climate models that are best able to reproduce reconstructed precipitation changes simulate decreases in sea level pressure across the eastern North Pacific and show the strongest southeastward shifts of moisture transport relative to a modern climate. Precipitation increases of ˜1 mm d-1, due largely to atmospheric rivers, are of the right magnitude to account for reconstructed pluvial conditions in parts of southwestern North America during the Last Glacial Maximum.

Clinical, Laboratorial, and Urodynamic Findings of Prostatic Artery Embolization for the Treatment of Urinary Retention Related to Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. A Prospective Single-Center Pilot Study

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

Antunes, Alberto A.; Carnevale, Francisco C., E-mail: fcarnevale@uol.com.br; Motta Leal Filho, Joaquim M. da

2013-08-01

PurposeThis study was designed to describe the clinical, laboratorial, and urodynamic findings of prostatic artery embolization (PAE) in patients with urinary retention due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).MethodsA prospective study of 11 patients with urinary retention due to BPH was conducted. Patients underwent physical examination, prostate specific antigen (PSA) measurement, transrectal ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging. International prostate symptom score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL), and urodynamic testing were used to assess the outcome before and after 1 year.ResultsClinical success was 91 % (10/11 patients) with a mean follow-up of 22.3 months (range, 12-41 months). At the first year follow-up,more » the mean IPSS score was 2.8 points (p = 0.04), mean QoL was 0.4 points (p = 0.001), mean PSA decreased from 10.1 to 4.3 ng/mL (p = 0.003), maximum urinary flow (Qmax) improved from 4.2 to 10.8 mL/sec (p = 0.009), and detrusor pressure (Pdet) decreased from 85.7 to 51.5 cm H{sub 2}O (p = 0.007). Before PAE, Bladder Outlet Obstruction Index (BOOI) showed values >40 in 100 % of patients. After PAE, 30 % of patients were >40 (obstructed), 40 % were between 20 and 40 (undetermined), and 30 % were <20 (unobstructed). Patients with a BOOI <20 had higher PSA values at 1-day after PAE.ConclusionsClinical and urodynamic parameters improved significantly after PAE in patients with acute urinary retention due to BPH. Total PSA at day 1 after PAE was higher in patients with unobstructed values in pressure flow studies.« less

Pressure of non-professional use of pesticides on operators, aquatic organisms and bees in Belgium.

PubMed

Fevery, Davina; Houbraken, Michael; Spanoghe, Pieter

2016-04-15

Various studies focus on professional pesticide use, whereas pressure of non-professional use on human and the environment is often neglected. In this study, an attempt was made to estimate the pressure of non-professional use of pesticides on operators, aquatic organisms and bees in Belgium based on sales figures and by using three exposure models. A classification in non-professional use was made based on type of pesticide, application method and on intensity of non-professional use. Pressure of non-professional use on operators is highest for intensive operators, caused by the use of insecticides in an aerosol spray can. Pressure of non-professional pesticides on aquatic life is mainly generated by the use of herbicides. The aerosol spray induces the highest pressure whereas the trigger application hardly affects operator and environmental exposure. The ordinary non-professional user generates most pressure on aquatic organisms. Pressure of non-professional pesticides on bees is mainly caused by the use of insecticides, especially the active substance imidacloprid in combination with the aerosol spray can application method applied by an intensive operator. In general, both total usage (kg) and pressure of pesticides decreased for the period 2005 to 2012 due to efforts made by the government and industry. The results of this study suggest to pay special attention to aerosol spray applications and the non-professional use of insecticides. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of marihuana on intraocular and blood pressure in glaucoma.

PubMed

Merritt, J C; Crawford, W J; Alexander, P C; Anduze, A L; Gelbart, S S

1980-03-01

Marihuana inhalation was accompanied by increased heart rate and decreased intraocular and blood pressure in 18 subjects with heterogenous glaucomas. The hypotensive effects appeared in 60 to 90 minutes as the decrease in intraocular pressure (IOP) appeared to follow the decrease in blood pressure. In addition to any local effect, the mechanism of lowered to any local effect, the mechanism of lowered IOP may also involve the decreased pressure perfusing the ciliary body vasculature as a result of the peripheral vasodilatory properties of marihuana. Postural hypotension, tachycardia, palpitations, and alterations in mental status occurred with such frequency as to mitigate against the routine used in the general glaucoma population. Our data indicate that further research should be directed to local means of delivering the ocular hypotensive cannabinoid to the glaucomatous eye.

Nanostructures study of CNT nanofluids transport with temperature-dependent variable viscosity in a muscular tube

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akbar, Noreen Sher; Abid, Syed Ali; Tripathi, Dharmendra; Mir, Nazir Ahmed

2017-03-01

The transport of single-wall carbon nanotube (CNT) nanofluids with temperature-dependent variable viscosity is analyzed by peristaltically driven flow. The main flow problem has been modeled using cylindrical coordinates and flow equations are simplified to ordinary differential equations using long wavelength and low Reynolds' number approximation. Analytical solutions have been obtained for axial velocity, pressure gradient and temperature. Results acquired are discussed graphically for better understanding. It is observed that with an increment in the Grashof number the velocity of the governing fluids starts to decrease significantly and the pressure gradient is higher for pure water as compared to single-walled carbon nanotubes due to low density. As the specific heat is very high for pure water as compared to the multi-wall carbon nanotubes, it raises temperature of the muscles, in the case of pure water, as compared to the multi-walled carbon nanotubes. Furthermore, it is noticed that the trapped bolus starts decreasing in size as the buoyancy forces are dominant as compared to viscous forces. This model may be applicable in biomedical engineering and nanotechnology to design the biomedical devices.

Effects of weather variability and air pollutants on emergency admissions for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

PubMed

Hori, Aya; Hashizume, Masahiro; Tsuda, Yoko; Tsukahara, Teruomi; Nomiyama, Tetsuo

2012-01-01

We examined the effect of ambient temperature, air pressure and air pollutants on daily emergency admissions by identifying the cause of admission for each type of stroke and cardiovascular disease using generalized linear Poisson regression models allowing for overdispersion, and controlling for seasonal and inter-annual variations, days of the week and public holidays, levels of influenza and respiratory syncytial viruses. Every 1°C decrease in mean temperature was associated with an increase in the daily number of emergency admissions by 7.83% (95% CI 2.06-13.25) for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and heart failure, by 35.57% (95% CI 15.59-59.02) for intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) and by 11.71% (95% CI 4.1-19.89) for cerebral infarction. An increase of emergency admissions due to ICH (3.25% (95% CI 0.94-5.51)), heart failure (3.56% (95% CI 1.09-5.96)) was observed at every 1 hPa decrease in air pressure from the previous days. We found stronger detrimental effect of cold on stroke than cardiovascular disease.

An update on cardiovascular effects of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome.

PubMed

Uyar, Meral; Davutoglu, Vedat

2016-09-01

Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome is an important health problem which may cause or worsen systemic diseases. Chronic intermittent hypoxia during repetitive airflow cessations may cause endothelial dysfunction. Sleep apnoea is also shown to be associated with hypercoagulability which may be due to decreased nitric oxide levels and impaired vasodilatation. Endothelial dysfunction, increased systemic inflammation, sympathetic nervous system activation, increased oxidative stress and dysglycaemia may all contribute to cardiovascular processes such as hypertension, arrhythmia, stroke, heart failure and coronary artery disease in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea. Treatment approaches in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea mainly focus on maintaining upper airway patency either with positive airway pressure devices or upper airway appliances. Strategies involving positive airway pressure therapy are associated with decreased morbidity and mortality. Obstructive sleep apnoea should be suspected as an underlying mechanism in patients with cardiovascular disease and warrants appropriate treatment. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

The Effect of Aortic Compliance on Left Ventricular Power Requirement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pahlevan, Niema; Gharib, Morteza

2009-11-01

Aortic compliance depends on both geometry and mechanical properties of the aorta. Reduction in arterial compliance has been associated with aging, smoking, and multiple cardiovascular diseases. Increased stiffness of the aorta affects the wave dynamics in the aorta by increasing both pulse pressure amplitude and wave speed. We hypothesized that decreased aortic compliance leads to an increased left ventricular power requirement for a fixed cardiac output due to altered pulse pressure and pulse wave velocity. We used a computational approach using the finite element method for solid and fluid domains coupled to each other by using the direct coupling method. A nonlinear material model was used for the solid wall. The fluid flow model was considered to be Newtonian, incompressible, and laminar. The simulation was performed for a heart rate of 75 beats per minute for six different compliances while keeping the cardiac output and the peripheral resistance constant. The results show a trend towards increased left ventricular energy expenditure per cycle with decreased compliance. The relevance of these findings to clinical observations will be discussed.

Self-Powered Viscosity and Pressure Sensing in Microfluidic Systems Based on the Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting of Flowing Droplets.

PubMed

Wang, Zhao; Tan, Lun; Pan, Xumin; Liu, Gao; He, Yahua; Jin, Wenchao; Li, Meng; Hu, Yongming; Gu, Haoshuang

2017-08-30

The rapid development of microscaled piezoelectric energy harvesters has provided a simple and highly efficient way for building self-powered sensor systems through harvesting the mechanical energy from the ambient environment. In this work, a self-powered microfluidic sensor that can harvest the mechanical energy of the fluid and simultaneously monitor their characteristics was fabricated by integrating the flexible piezoelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) nanofibers with the well-designed microfluidic chips. Those devices could generate open-circuit high output voltage up to 1.8 V when a droplet of water is flowing past the suspended PVDF nanofibers and result in their periodical deformations. The impulsive output voltage signal allowed them to be utilized for droplets or bubbles counting in the microfluidic systems. Furthermore, the devices also exhibited self-powered sensing behavior due to the decreased voltage amplitude with increasing input pressure and liquid viscosity. The drop of output voltage could be attributed to the variation of flow condition and velocity of the droplets, leading to the reduced deformation of the piezoelectric PVDF layer and the decrease of the generated piezoelectric potential.

High pressure effect on the color of minced cured restructured ham at different levels of drying, pH, and NaCl.

PubMed

Bak, Kathrine Holmgaard; Lindahl, Gunilla; Karlsson, Anders H; Lloret, Elsa; Ferrini, Gabriele; Arnau, Jacint; Orlien, Vibeke

2012-03-01

Color changes of minced cured restructured ham was studied considering the effects of high pressure (HP) treatment (600MPa, 13°C, 5min), raw meat pH(24) (low, normal, high), salt content (15, 30g/kg), and drying (20%, 50% weight loss). Raw hams were selected based on pH(24) in Semimembranosus, mixed with additives, frozen, sliced, and dried using the Quick-Dry-Slice® process. Meat color (CIE 1976 L*a*b*) and reflectance spectra were measured before and after HP treatment. HP significantly increased L*, decreased a*, and decreased b* for restructured ham dried to 20% weight loss, regardless of salt content and pH(24). L* and a* were best preserved in high pH/high salt restructured ham. HP had no effect on the color of restructured ham dried to 50% weight loss. HP had no effect on the shape of reflectance curves, indicating that the pigment responsible for minced cured restructured ham color did not change due to HP. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optimizing catalysis conditions to decrease aromatic hydrocarbons and increase alkanes for improving jet biofuel quality.

PubMed

Cheng, Jun; Li, Tao; Huang, Rui; Zhou, Junhu; Cen, Kefa

2014-04-01

To produce quality jet biofuel with high amount of alkanes and low amount of aromatic hydrocarbons, two zeolites of HY and HZSM-5 supporting Ni and Mo were used as catalysts to convert soybean oil into jet fuel. Zeolite HY exhibited higher jet range alkane selectivity (40.3%) and lower jet range aromatic hydrocarbon selectivity (23.8%) than zeolite HZSM-5 (13.8% and 58.9%). When reaction temperature increased from 330 to 390°C, yield of jet fuel over Ni-Mo/HY catalyst at 4 MPa hydrogen pressure increased from 0% to 49.1% due to the shift of reaction pathway from oligomerization to cracking reaction. Further increase of reaction temperature from 390 to 410°C resulted in increased yield of jet range aromatic hydrocarbons from 18.7% to 30%, which decreased jet fuel quality. A high yield of jet fuel (48.2%) was obtained at 1 MPa low hydrogen pressure over Ni (8 wt.%)-Mo (12 wt.%)/HY catalyst. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Simulations of dissociation constants in low pressure supercritical water

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Halstead, S. J.; An, P.; Zhang, S.

2014-09-01

This article reports molecular dynamics simulations of the dissociation of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide in water from ambient to supercritical temperatures at a fixed pressure of 250 atm. Corrosion of reaction vessels is known to be a serious problem of supercritical water, and acid/base dissociation can be a significant contributing factor to this. The SPC/e model was used in conjunction with solute models determined from density functional calculations and OPLSAA Lennard-Jones parameters. Radial distribution functions were calculated, and these show a significant increase in solute-solvent ordering upon forming the product ions at all temperatures. For both dissociations, rapidly decreasing entropy of reaction was found to be the controlling thermodynamic factor, and this is thought to arise due to the ions produced from dissociation maintaining a relatively high density and ordered solvation shell compared to the reactants. The change in entropy of reaction reaches a minimum at the critical temperature. The values of pKa and pKb were calculated and both increased with temperature, in qualitative agreement with other work, until a maximum value at 748 K, after which there was a slight decrease.

A study on a instability slope in Taiwan subjected to rainfalls

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsiao, D. H.; Hsieh, C. S.; Yeh, L. C.; Lin, D. Y.; T-A Phan, V.

2018-04-01

After the long-term monitoring on the Chaishan area in Taiwan from 2005 to 2012 by Kaohsiung City Government, the obtained results showed that annual lateral displacements in the region are about 7-8cm to the Taiwan Strait. The geological surface profiles of Chaishan area are in sequence weathered limestone, clay layer, limestone and mudstone layer, respectively. Thus the frictional resistance between weathered soils and rock layer could decrease after infiltration of rainwater due to impervious to water of the lowest mudstone layer. Typhoon invades often Taiwan each year, resulting in rainfall infiltration and rising groundwater level, as well as increased pore water pressure within the soil mass, causing the earth movements in some parts of Chaishan, especially in the Temple A (Shan Hai Temple) accompanied with cracking phenomenon. In this paper, limit equilibrium (LE) and finite element method (FEM) are used for slope analysis, in which the slope is considered as unsaturated soil. Results showed groundwater amounts are easy to accumulate and increasing pore water pressure give resulting in decreased safety factor. Both of groundwater level and rain durations were also considered in this study.

Atomistic modeling of helium segregation to grain boundaries in tungsten and its effect on de-cohesion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez, Enrique; Uberuaga, Blas P.; Wirth, Brian D.

2017-08-01

Due to their low sputtering yield, low intrinsic tritium retention, high melting point, and high thermal conductivity, W and W alloys are promising candidates for the divertor region in a magnetic fusion device. Transmutation reactions under neutron irradiation lead to the formation of He and H particles that potentially degrade material performance and might lead to failure. High He fluxes ultimately lead to the formation and bursting of bubbles that induce swelling, a strong decrease in toughness, and a nanoscale microstructure that potentially degrades the plasma. Understanding the behavior of He in polycrystalline W is thus of significant importance as one avenue for controlling the material properties under operating conditions. This paper studies the interaction of substitutional He atoms with various grain boundaries in pure W and the effect of the He presence on the system response to external loading. We observe that He segregates to all the interfaces tested and decreases the cohesion of the system at the grain boundary. Upon tension, the presence of He significantly decreases the yield stress, which depends considerably on the bubble pressure. Increasing pressure reduces cohesion, as expected. More complex stress states result in more convoluted behavior, with He hindering grain boundary sliding upon simple shear.

Surface diffusion effects on growth of nanowires by chemical beam epitaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Persson, A. I.; Fröberg, L. E.; Jeppesen, S.; Björk, M. T.; Samuelson, L.

2007-02-01

Surface processes play a large role in the growth of semiconductor nanowires by chemical beam epitaxy. In particular, for III-V nanowires the surface diffusion of group-III species is important to understand in order to control the nanowire growth. In this paper, we have grown InAs-based nanowires positioned by electron beam lithography and have investigated the dependence of the diffusion of In species on temperature, group-III and -V source pressure and group-V source combinations by measuring nanowire growth rate for different nanowire spacings. We present a model which relates the nanowire growth rate to the migration length of In species. The model is fitted to the experimental data for different growth conditions, using the migration length as fitting parameter. The results show that the migration length increases with decreasing temperature and increasing group-V/group-III source pressure ratio. This will most often lead to an increase in growth rate, but deviations will occur due to incomplete decomposition and changes in sticking coefficient for group-III species. The results also show that the introduction of phosphorous precursor for growth of InAs1-xPx nanowires decreases the migration length of the In species followed by a decrease in nanowire growth rate.

The morphology, physiology and nutritional quality of lettuce grown under hypobaria and hypoxia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Yongkang; Gao, Feng; Guo, Shuangsheng; Li, Fang

2015-07-01

The objectives of this research were to investigate the morphological, physiological and nutritional characteristics of lettuce plants (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Rome) under hypobaric and hypoxic conditions. Plants were grown under two levels of total pressures (101 and 30 kPa) and three levels of oxygen partial pressures (21, 6 and 2 kPa) for 20 days. Hypoxia (6 or 2 kPa) not only significantly inhibited the growth of lettuce plants by decreasing biomass, leaf area, root/shoot ratio, water content, the contents of minerals and organic compounds (vitamin C, crude protein and crude fat), but also destroyed the ultrastructure of mitochondria and chloroplast. The activities of catalase and total superoxide dismutase, the contents of glutathione and the total antioxidant capacity significantly decreased due to hypoxia. Hypobaria (30 kPa) did not markedly enhance the biomass, but it increased leaf area, root/shoot ratio and relative water content. Hypobaria also decreased the contents of total phenols, malondialdehyde and total carbohydrate and protected the ultrastructure of mitochondria and chloroplast under hypoxia. Furthermore, the activities of catalase and total superoxide dismutase, the contents of minerals and organic compounds markedly increased under hypobaria. This study demonstrates that hypobaria (30 kPa) does not increase the growth of lettuce plants, but it enhances plant's stress resistance and nutritional quality under hypoxia.

Asymptomatic cardiopulmonary changes caused by adenoid hypertrophy.

PubMed

Abdel-Aziz, Mosaad

2011-07-01

Adenoid hypertrophy is the most common cause of pediatric upper airway obstruction, and it can lead to cardiopulmonary complications such as pulmonary hypertension, cor pulmonale, and even heart failure. The aim of this study was to detect the asymptomatic cardiopulmonary changes that could happen in children with adenoid hypertrophy.Eighty children with adenoid hypertrophy were included in this study. Chest x-ray was used to assess the cardiothoracic ratio, whereas echocardiography was used for measuring the pulmonary arterial pressures, right ventricular diastolic filling parameters, and right ventricular end-diastolic diameters. All patients underwent adenoidectomy with or without tonsillectomy, and they were subjected again to echocardiographic assessment 6 months after the operation. No patient showed an increase in the cardiothoracic ratio on x-ray. Preoperative echocardiography showed an increase in pulmonary artery pressure (22.7 [SD, 3.8] mm Hg), a decrease in right ventricular diastolic filling parameters (E/A = 1.03 [SD, 0.17]), and an increase in right ventricular end-diastolic diameters (1.89 [SD, 0.19] cm). Postoperatively, pulmonary artery pressure decreased to 17.2 [SD, 2.1] mm Hg, right ventricular diastolic filling (E/A) increased to 1.25 [SD, 0.11], and right ventricular end-diastolic diameters decreased to 1.68 [SD, 0.12] cm. The comparison between preoperative and postoperative results for each individual parameter was statistically significant. Clinically asymptomatic cardiopulmonary changes due to adenoid hypertrophy are not rare. Early diagnosis and treatment of upper airway obstruction can prevent these serious complications. Echocardiographic examination should be recommended for these patients as a part of preoperative preparation to avoid anesthetic complications.

Photosynthesis Decrease and Stomatal Control of Gas Exchange in Abies alba Mill. in Response to Vapor Pressure Difference.

PubMed

Guehl, J M; Aussenac, G

1987-02-01

The responses of steady state CO(2) assimilation rate (A), transpiration rate (E), and stomatal conductance (g(s)) to changes in leaf-to-air vapor pressure difference (DeltaW) were examined on different dates in shoots from Abies alba trees growing outside. In Ecouves, a provenance representative of wet oceanic conditions in Northern France, both A and g(s) decreased when DeltaW was increased from 4.6 to 14.5 Pa KPa(-1). In Nebias, which represented the dry end of the natural range of A. alba in southern France, A and g(s) decreased only after reaching peak levels at 9.0 and 7.0 Pa KPa(-1), respectively. The representation of the data in assimilation rate (A) versus intercellular CO(2) partial pressure (C(i)) graphs allowed us to determine how stomata and mesophyll photosynthesis interacted when DeltaW was increased. Changes in A were primarily due to alterations in mesophyll photosynthesis. At high DeltaW, and especially in Ecouves when soil water deficit prevailed, A declined, while C(i) remained approximately constant, which may be interpreted as an adjustment of g(s) to changes in mesophyll photosynthesis. Such a stomatal control of gas exchange appeared as an alternative to the classical feedforward interpretation of E versus DeltaW responses with a peak rate of E. The gas exchange response to DeltaW was also characterized by considerable deviations from the optimization theory of IR Cowan and GD Farquhar (1977 Symp Soc Exp Biol 31: 471-505).

A Data Mining Project to Identify Cardiovascular Related Factors That May Contribute to Changes in Visual Acuity Within the US Astronaut Corps

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Westby, Christian M.; Stein, Sydney P.; Platts, Steven H.

2011-01-01

Many of the cardiovascular-related adaptations that occur in the microgravity environment are due, in part, to a well-characterized cephalad-fluid shift that is evidenced by facial edema and decreased lower limb circumference. It is believed that most of these alterations occur as a compensatory response necessary to maintain a "normal" blood pressure and cardiac output while in space. However, data from both flight and analog research suggest that in some instances these microgravity-induced alterations may contribute to cardiovascular-related pathologies. Most concerning is the potential relation between the vision disturbances experienced by some long duration crewmembers and changes in cerebral blood flow and intra-ocular pressure. The purpose of this project was to identify cardiovascular measures that may potentially distinguish individuals at risk for visual disturbances after long duration space flight. Toward this goal, we constructed a dataset from Medical Operation tilt/stand test evaluations pre- (days L-15-L-5) and immediate post-flight (day R+0) on 20 (3 females, 17 males). We restricted our evaluation to only crewmembers who participated in both shuttle and space station missions. Data analysis was performed using both descriptive and analytical methods (Stata 11.2, College Station, TX) and are presented as means +/- 95% CI. Crewmembers averaged 5207 (3447 - 8934) flight hours across both long (MIR-23 through Expedition16) and short (STS-27 through STS-101) duration missions between 1988 and 2008. The mean age of the crew at the time of their most recent shuttle flight was 41 (34-44) compared to 47 (40-54) years during their time on station. In order to focus our analysis (we did not have codes to separate out subjects by symptomotology) , we performed a visual inspection of each cardiovascular measures captured during testing and plotted them against stand time, pre- to post-flight, and between mission duration. It was found that pulse pressure most clearly differentiated the two mission types. Statistical analysis confirmed that pulse pressure was significantly higher before [45.6; (42.1 to 49.1)] and after [50.7; (46.9 to 54.6)] time on station compared with their most recent shuttle flight [31.6 (27.8 to 35.4), and 32.2 (28.3 to 36.0) respectively] even after correcting differences in age and cumulative number of mission hours. Without knowing the identity of which long duration crewmembers demonstrated visual changes, we were limited to examining whether certain crew regulate components of pulse pressure, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, differently due to microgravity exposure. To that end, we stratified crew into tertiles based on either their pre-flight measure of systolic or diastolic blood pressure. Those crew in the highest tertile for both systolic (lower tertile (n=8; 103-111), middle tertile (n=7; 113-121), and upper tertile (n=5; 125-136) and diastolic blood pressure (lower tertile (n=8; 58-64), middle tertile (n=7; 67-73), and upper tertile (n=5; 75-81) demonstrated less variability in pulse pressure between R+0 and L-10 (Figure 2). Interestingly, those crewmembers with the highest resting systolic blood pressure demonstrated either no change or in some instances an increase in total peripheral resistance, where those in the lower tertiles had lower values of total peripheral resistance compared to pre-flight levels. In this study, it was found that crewmembers in the highest tertile for both systolic and diastolic blood pressure demonstrated less variability in pulse pressure and that the decrease in variability was due in part to lower levels of compliance as indicated by similar or higher levels of total peripheral resistance after compared with before flight levels. Whether there is a relation between blood pressure regulation and total peripheral resistance in crew presenting with negative changes in visual acuity remains unknown.

Fluid‐driven seismicity response of the Rinconada fault near Paso Robles, California, to the 2003 M 6.5 San Simeon earthquake

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hardebeck, Jeanne L.

2012-01-01

The 2003 M 6.5 San Simeon, California, earthquake caused significant damage in the city of Paso Robles and a persistent cluster of aftershocks close to Paso Robles near the Rinconada fault. Given the importance of secondary aftershock triggering in sequences of large events, a concern is whether this cluster of events could trigger another damaging earthquake near Paso Robles. An epidemic‐type aftershock sequence (ETAS) model is fit to the Rinconada seismicity, and multiple realizations indicate a 0.36% probability of at least one M≥6.0 earthquake during the next 30 years. However, this probability estimate is only as good as the projection into the future of the ETAS model. There is evidence that the seismicity may be influenced by fluid pressure changes, which cannot be forecasted using ETAS. The strongest evidence for fluids is the delay between the San Simeon mainshock and a high rate of seismicity in mid to late 2004. This delay can be explained as having been caused by a pore pressure decrease due to an undrained response to the coseismic dilatation, followed by increased pore pressure during the return to equilibrium. Seismicity migration along the fault also suggests fluid involvement, although the migration is too slow to be consistent with pore pressure diffusion. All other evidence, including focal mechanisms and b‐value, is consistent with tectonic earthquakes. This suggests a model where the role of fluid pressure changes is limited to the first seven months, while the fluid pressure equilibrates. The ETAS modeling adequately fits the events after July 2004 when the pore pressure stabilizes. The ETAS models imply that while the probability of a damaging earthquake on the Rinconada fault has approximately doubled due to the San Simeon earthquake, the absolute probability remains low.

VAPOR PRESSURE ISOTOPE EFFECTS IN THE MEASUREMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL TRITIUM SAMPLES.

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

Kuhne, W.

2012-12-03

Standard procedures for the measurement of tritium in water samples often require distillation of an appropriate sample aliquot. This distillation process may result in a fractionation of tritiated water and regular light water due to the vapor pressure isotope effect, introducing either a bias or an additional contribution to the total tritium measurement uncertainty. The magnitude of the vapor pressure isotope effect is characterized as functions of the amount of water distilled from the sample aliquot and the heat settings for the distillation process. The tritium concentration in the distillate is higher than the tritium concentration in the sample earlymore » in the distillation process, it then sharply decreases due to the vapor pressure isotope effect and becomes lower than the tritium concentration in the sample, until the high tritium concentration retained in the boiling flask is evaporated at the end of the process. At that time, the tritium concentration in the distillate again overestimates the sample tritium concentration. The vapor pressure isotope effect is more pronounced the slower the evaporation and distillation process is conducted; a lower heat setting during the evaporation of the sample results in a larger bias in the tritium measurement. The experimental setup used and the fact that the current study allowed for an investigation of the relative change in vapor pressure isotope effect in the course of the distillation process distinguish it from and extend previously published measurements. The separation factor as a quantitative measure of the vapor pressure isotope effect is found to assume values of 1.034 {+-} 0.033, 1.052 {+-} 0.025, and 1.066 {+-} 0.037, depending on the vigor of the boiling process during distillation of the sample. A lower heat setting in the experimental setup, and therefore a less vigorous boiling process, results in a larger value for the separation factor. For a tritium measurement in water samples, this implies that the tritium concentration could be underestimated by 3 - 6%.« less

Effect of tilting on blood pressure and interstitial fluid pressures of bluefish and smooth dogfish.

PubMed

Ogilvy, C S; DuBois, A B

1982-01-01

Tolerance of the circulatory system of fish for gravitational stress has not been measured previously. We examined this in bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix) and smooth dogfish (Mustelus canis) by placing them horizontally on a V-board in air while their gills were perfused with aerated seawater, then tilting them head up for 0.5 h, and finally returning them to horizontal. Meanwhile, we recorded the blood pressure, pulse pressure, and heart rate in the ventral aorta, and interstitial fluid pressure in the head and tail. All four bluefish tolerated a 30 degrees tilt or even a 60 degrees tilt with little change in blood pressure or interstitial pressure in the anterior and posterior regions. All recovered afterward. However, in the seven dogfish examined, the posterior interstitial fluid pressure increased from 2.8 +/- 1.0 cmH2O before tilting to 11.8 +/- 3.3 cmH2O toward the end of a 30 degrees tilt lasting 30 min. The blood pressure decreased as the pulse pressure approached zero, showing that circulatory insufficiency had developed due to insufficient venous return to the heart. Most of the dogfish died within a few hours after the experiment. These findings are in keeping with the conclusion that the vasculature of bluefish has more rigidity, less permeability, and perhaps more compensatory tone than that of smooth dogfish. We speculate that bluefish may have evolved their circulatory tolerance for gravity as a cross-adaptation to the stresses imposed on the circulation by forward acceleration and by regional differences of transcutaneous pressure occurring during fast carangiform swimming.

In-pipe aerodynamic characteristics of a projectile in comparison with free flight for transonic Mach numbers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hruschka, R.; Klatt, D.

2018-03-01

The transient shock dynamics and drag characteristics of a projectile flying through a pipe 3.55 times larger than its diameter at transonic speed are analyzed by means of time-of-flight and pipe wall pressure measurements as well as computational fluid dynamics (CFD). In addition, free-flight drag of the 4.5-mm-pellet-type projectile was also measured in a Mach number range between 0.5 and 1.5, providing a means for comparison against in-pipe data and CFD. The flow is categorized into five typical regimes the in-pipe projectile experiences. When projectile speed and hence compressibility effects are low, the presence of the pipe has little influence on the drag. Between Mach 0.5 and 0.8, there is a strong drag increase due to the presence of the pipe, however, up to a value of about two times the free-flight drag. This is exactly where the nose-to-base pressure ratio of the projectile becomes critical for locally sonic speed, allowing the drag to be estimated by equations describing choked flow through a converging-diverging nozzle. For even higher projectile Mach numbers, the drag coefficient decreases again, to a value slightly below the free-flight drag at Mach 1.5. This behavior is explained by a velocity-independent base pressure coefficient in the pipe, as opposed to base pressure decreasing with velocity in free flight. The drag calculated by CFD simulations agreed largely with the measurements within their experimental uncertainty, with some discrepancies remaining for free-flying projectiles at supersonic speed. Wall pressure measurements as well as measured speeds of both leading and trailing shocks caused by the projectile in the pipe also agreed well with CFD.

Selective loss of orientation column maps in visual cortex during brief elevation of intraocular pressure.

PubMed

Chen, Xin; Sun, Chao; Huang, Luoxiu; Shou, Tiande

2003-01-01

To compare the orientation column maps elicited by different spatial frequency gratings in cortical area 17 of cats before and during brief elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP). IOP was elevated by injecting saline into the anterior chamber of a cat's eye through a syringe needle. The IOP was elevated enough to cause a retinal perfusion pressure (arterial pressure minus IOP) of approximately 30 mm Hg during a brief elevation of IOP. The visual stimulus gratings were varied in spatial frequency, whereas other parameters were kept constant. The orientation column maps of the cortical area 17 were monocularly elicited by drifting gratings of different spatial frequencies and revealed by a brain intrinsic signal optical imaging system. These maps were compared before and during short-term elevation of IOP. The response amplitude of the orientation maps in area 17 decreased during a brief elevation of IOP. This decrease was dependent on the retinal perfusion pressure but not on the absolute IOP. The location of the most visible maps was spatial-frequency dependent. The blurring or loss of the pattern of the orientation maps was most severe when high-spatial-frequency gratings were used and appeared most significantly on the posterior part of the exposed cortex while IOP was elevated. However, the basic patterns of the maps remained unchanged. Changes in cortical signal were not due to changes in the optics of the eye with elevation of IOP. A stable normal IOP is essential for maintaining normal visual cortical functions. During a brief and high elevation of IOP, the cortical processing of high-spatial-frequency visual information was diminished because of a selectively functional decline of the retinogeniculocortical X pathway by a mechanism of retinal circulation origin.

Load dependence of the effective regurgitant orifice area in a sheep model of aortic regurgitation.

PubMed

Reimold, S C; Byrne, J G; Caguioa, E S; Lee, C C; Laurence, R G; Peigh, P S; Cohn, L H; Lee, R T

1991-10-01

Treatment of patients with aortic regurgitation with vasodilators reduces regurgitant volume, ventricular dilation and left ventricular mass. Although these effects are presumably due to afterload reduction, it is also possible that the aortic regurgitant orifice area is not constant. To test the latter hypothesis, aortic regurgitation was created in 10 open chest sheep by partial resection of the noncoronary leaflet under direct visualization. Regurgitant flow was measured with an aortic supravalvular electromagnetic probe; aortic and left ventricular pressures were measured with catheter-tipped micromanometer pressure transducers. The effective regurgitant orifice area was calculated by a modification of the continuity equation in a manner similar to the Gorlin equation. The regurgitant orifice area was measured three times: after aortic regurgitation was created, after mean arterial pressure was increased by 15 to 25 mm Hg with intravenous dopamine and after mean arterial pressure was reduced by 15 to 25 mm Hg with intravenous sodium nitroprusside. Comparison of regurgitant volumes and areas obtained after creation of aortic regurgitation and at the conclusion of the experiment in the absence of dopamine or sodium nitroprusside demonstrated no significant change over time. Dopamine administration was associated with an 86 +/- 81% increase in regurgitant volume (p less than 0.01) and a 38 +/- 44% increase in regurgitant orifice area (p less than 0.01). Sodium nitroprusside administration resulted in a 51 +/- 14% decrease in regurgitant volume (p less than 0.001) and a 28 +/- 21% reduction in regurgitant orifice area (p = 0.007). In this model of acute aortic regurgitation, the effective regurgitant orifice area was altered by increasing or decreasing the aortic transvalvular pressure gradient.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Human Physiology in an Aquatic Environment.

PubMed

Pendergast, David R; Moon, Richard E; Krasney, John J; Held, Heather E; Zamparo, Paola

2015-09-20

Water covers over 70% of the earth, has varying depths and temperatures and contains much of the earth's resources. Head-out water immersion (HOWI) or submersion at various depths (diving) in water of thermoneutral (TN) temperature elicits profound cardiorespiratory, endocrine, and renal responses. The translocation of blood into the thorax and elevation of plasma volume by autotransfusion of fluid from cells to the vascular compartment lead to increased cardiac stroke volume and output and there is a hyperperfusion of some tissues. Pulmonary artery and capillary hydrostatic pressures increase causing a decline in vital capacity with the potential for pulmonary edema. Atrial stretch and increased arterial pressure cause reflex autonomic responses which result in endocrine changes that return plasma volume and arterial pressure to preimmersion levels. Plasma volume is regulated via a reflex diuresis and natriuresis. Hydrostatic pressure also leads to elastic loading of the chest, increasing work of breathing, energy cost, and thus blood flow to respiratory muscles. Decreases in water temperature in HOWI do not affect the cardiac output compared to TN; however, they influence heart rate and the distribution of muscle and fat blood flow. The reduced muscle blood flow results in a reduced maximal oxygen consumption. The properties of water determine the mechanical load and the physiological responses during exercise in water (e.g. swimming and water based activities). Increased hydrostatic pressure caused by submersion does not affect stroke volume; however, progressive bradycardia decreases cardiac output. During submersion, compressed gas must be breathed which introduces the potential for oxygen toxicity, narcosis due to nitrogen, and tissue and vascular gas bubbles during decompression and after may cause pain in joints and the nervous system. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

The Time-Dependency of Deformation in Porous Carbonate Rocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kibikas, W. M.; Lisabeth, H. P.; Zhu, W.

2016-12-01

Porous carbonate rocks are natural reservoirs for freshwater and hydrocarbons. More recently, due to their potential for geothermal energy generation as well as carbon sequestration, there are renewed interests in better understanding of the deformation behavior of carbonate rocks. We conducted a series of deformation experiments to investigate the effects of strain rate and pore fluid chemistry on rock strength and transport properties of porous limestones. Indiana limestone samples with initial porosity of 16% are deformed at 25 °C under effective pressures of 10, 30, and 50 MPa. Under nominally dry conditions, the limestone samples are deformed under 3 different strain rates, 1.5 x 10-4 s-1, 1.5 x 10-5 s-1 and 1.5 x 10-6 s-1 respectively. The experimental results indicate that the mechanical behavior is both rate- and pressure-dependent. At low confining pressures, post-yielding deformation changes from predominantly strain softening to strain hardening as strain rate decreases. At high confining pressures, while all samples exhibit shear-enhanced compaction, decreasing strain rate leads to an increase in compaction. Slower strain rates enhance compaction at all confining pressure conditions. The rate-dependence of deformation behaviors of porous carbonate rocks at dry conditions indicates there is a strong visco-elastic coupling for the degradation of elastic modulus with increasing plastic deformation. In fluid saturated samples, inelastic strain of limestone is partitioned among low temperature plasticity, cataclasis and solution transport. Comparison of inelastic behaviors of samples deformed with distilled water and CO2-saturated aqueous solution as pore fluids provide experimental constraints on the relative activities of the various mechanisms. Detailed microstructural analysis is conducted to take into account the links between stress, microstructure and the inelastic behavior and failure mechanisms.

Influence of bronchial diameter change on the airflow dynamics based on a pressure-controlled ventilation system.

PubMed

Ren, Shuai; Cai, Maolin; Shi, Yan; Xu, Weiqing; Zhang, Xiaohua Douglas

2018-03-01

Bronchial diameter is a key parameter that affects the respiratory treatment of mechanically ventilated patients. In this paper, to reveal the influence of bronchial diameter on the airflow dynamics of pressure-controlled mechanically ventilated patients, a new respiratory system model is presented that combines multigeneration airways with lungs. Furthermore, experiments and simulation studies to verify the model are performed. Finally, through the simulation study, it can be determined that in airway generations 2 to 7, when the diameter is reduced to half of the original value, the maximum air pressure (maximum air pressure in lungs) decreases by nearly 16%, the maximum flow decreases by nearly 30%, and the total airway pressure loss (sum of each generation pressure drop) is more than 5 times the original value. Moreover, in airway generations 8 to 16, with increasing diameter, the maximum air pressure, maximum flow, and total airway pressure loss remain almost constant. When the diameter is reduced to half of the original value, the maximum air pressure decreases by 3%, the maximum flow decreases by nearly 5%, and the total airway pressure loss increases by 200%. The study creates a foundation for improvement in respiratory disease diagnosis and treatment. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Pressure sores and blood and serum dysmetabolism in spinal cord injury patients.

PubMed

Scivoletto, G; Fuoco, U; Morganti, B; Cosentino, E; Molinari, M

2004-08-01

Spinal cord injury (SCI) patients with pressure sores were studied before and after surgical intervention for ulcer healing and compared with matched SCI patients without sores and with patients with pressure sores and other diseases. To analyse the relationship between pressure sores and anaemia and serum protein alteration in SCI patients. To study the pathogenesis of these alterations and suggest appropriate therapy. Spinal cord unit in Rome, Italy. A total of 13 SCI patients with pressure sores, 13 comparable patients without pressure sores and four patients with other diseases and pressure sores. Haematochemical parameters. Patients with pressure sore showed significant decreased red cells, decreased haemoglobin and haematocrit, increased white cells and ferritin and decreased transferrin and transferrin saturation; total hypoproteinemia and hypoalbuminemia with increased Alfa-1 and gamma globulins increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein were also present. The alterations returned to normal after surgical intervention for pressure sore healing. Patients with pressure sores suffer from anaemia and serum protein alteration that fells within the range of metabolic alteration of chronic disorders and neoplastic diseases. The alterations depend on a decreased utilisation of iron stores in the reticuloendothelial system and on inhibition of the hepatic synthesis of albumin. With regard to treatment, iron treatment should be avoided because of the risk of haemochromatosis.

Combined effects of high hydrostatic pressure and sodium nitrite on color, water holding capacity and texture of frankfurter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jonas, G.; Csehi, B.; Palotas, P.; Toth, A.; Kenesei, Gy; Pasztor-Huszar, K.; Friedrich, L.

2017-10-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of sodium nitrite and high hydrostatic pressure on the color, water holding capacity (WHC) and texture characteristics of frankfurter. Three hundred, 450 and 600 MPa (5 minutes; 20 °C) and 50, 75, 100 and 125 ppm (calculated on weight of meat) sodium nitrite were applied. Parameters were measured right after the pressure treatment. Data were evaluated with two-way analysis of variance (p 0.05) with pressure levels and sodium nitrite amounts as factors. Nitrite reduction significantly increased lightness (L*) and resulted in decreased redness (a*) value. The pressure treatments decreased the lightness at all nitrite concentrations and did not significantly affect the red color of frankfurters. Fifty and 75 ppm nitrite and pressurization at 300 or 450 MPa improved the water holding property of frankfurter. The pressure treatment did not significantly affect the WHC but changing the nitrite amount had significant effect on it. Interactive effect occurred between pressure levels and nitrite concentrations for hardness. The pressure treatment increased and the nitrite reduction decreased hardness. Significant changes were found in cohesiveness at 450 and 600 MPa in frankfurters containing 50 and 75 ppm nitrite: pressure treatment at higher levels and nitrite reduction decreased the value of cohesiveness.

Experimental shock metamorphism of maximum microcline

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robertson, P. B.

1975-01-01

A series of recovery experiments are conducted to study the behavior of single-crystal perthitic maximum microcline shock-loaded to a peak pressure of 417 kbar. Microcline is found to deform in a manner similar to quartz and other alkali feldspars. It is observed that shock-induced cleavages occur initially at or slightly below the Hugoniot elastic limit (60-85 kbar), that shock-induced rather than thermal disordering begins above the Hugoniot elastic limit, and that all types of planar elements form parallel to crystallographic planes of low Miller indices. When increasing pressure, it is found that bulk density, refractive indices, and birefringence of the recovered material decrease and approach diaplectic glass values, whereas disappearance and weakening of reflections in Debye-Sherrer patterns are due to disordering of the feldspar lattice.

Involvement of the raphe in the respiratory effects of gigantocellular area activation.

PubMed

Richard, C A; Stremel, R W

1990-07-01

Previous reports indicate that the nucleus reticularis gigantocellularis (NGC) of the brainstem reticular formation is involved in inhibitory respiratory and cardiovascular reflexes. Stimulation of portions of the nearby bulbar raphe complex, specifically the raphe magnus (RM), have also been shown to suppress phrenic activity and to decrease blood pressure and heart rate. Since synaptic connectivity between the NGC and the RM has been demonstrated, we hypothesized that the RM may be involved in the cardiopulmonary effects of NGC stimulation. This study found that electrolytic lesions in the raphe magnus attenuated the inhibitory respiratory effects but not the cardiovascular suppression due to NGC stimulation. Lesions in the raphe magnus also lowered resting blood pressure and resting breath frequency. We conclude that the RM may mediate part of the NGC-mediated respiratory effects.

Fuel quality combustion analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Naegeli, D. W.; Moses, C. A.

1979-01-01

A high pressure research combustor operating over a wide range of burner inlet conditions was used to determine the effects of fuel molecular structure on soot formation. Six test fuels with equal hydrogen content (12.8%) were blended to stress different molecular components and final boiling points. The fuels containing high concentrations (20%) of polycyclic aromatics and partially saturated polycyclic structures such as tetralin, produced more soot than would be expected from a hydrogen content correlation for typical petroleum based fuels. Fuels containing naphthenes such as decalin agreed with the hydrogen content correlation. The contribution of polycyclic aromatics to soot formation was equivalent to a reduction in fuel hydrogen content of about one percent. The fuel sensitivity to soot formation due to the polycyclic aromatic contribution decreased as burner inlet pressure and fuel/air ratio increased.

Electronic structure of nitrides PuN and UN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lukoyanov, A. V.; Anisimov, V. I.

2016-11-01

The electronic structure of uranium and plutonium nitrides in ambient conditions and under pressure is investigated using the LDA + U + SO band method taking into account the spin-orbit coupling and the strong correlations of 5 f electrons of actinoid ions. The parameters of these interactions for the equilibrium cubic structure are calculated additionally. The application of pressure reduces the magnetic moment in PuN due to predominance of the f 6 configuration and the jj-type coupling. An increase in the occupancy of the 5 f state in UN leads to a decrease in the magnetic moment, which is also detected in the trigonal structure of the UN x β phase (La2O3-type structure). The theoretical results are in good agreement with the available experimental data.

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

Lukoyanov, A. V., E-mail: lukoyanov@imp.uran.ru; Anisimov, V. I.

The electronic structure of uranium and plutonium nitrides in ambient conditions and under pressure is investigated using the LDA + U + SO band method taking into account the spin–orbit coupling and the strong correlations of 5f electrons of actinoid ions. The parameters of these interactions for the equilibrium cubic structure are calculated additionally. The application of pressure reduces the magnetic moment in PuN due to predominance of the f{sup 6} configuration and the jj-type coupling. An increase in the occupancy of the 5f state in UN leads to a decrease in the magnetic moment, which is also detected inmore » the trigonal structure of the UN{sub x} β phase (La{sub 2}O{sub 3}-type structure). The theoretical results are in good agreement with the available experimental data.« less

First-principles study of the structural, elastic, vibrational, thermodynamic and electronic properties of the Mo2B intermetallic under pressure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Escamilla, R.; Carvajal, E.; Cruz-Irisson, M.; Romero, M.; Gómez, R.; Marquina, V.; Galván, D. H.; Durán, A.

2016-12-01

The structural, elastic, vibrational, thermodynamic and electronic properties of the Mo2B intermetallic under pressure are assessed using first-principles calculations based on the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) proposed by Perdew-Wang (PW91). Our results show that the calculated structural parameters at a pressure of zero GPa are in good agreement with the available experimental data. The effect of high pressures on the lattice constants shows that the compression along the c-axis and along the a-axis are similar. The elastic constants were calculated using the static finite strain technique, and the bulk shear moduli are derived from the ideal polycrystalline aggregate. We find that the elastic constants, elastic modulus and hardness monotonically increase as a function of pressure; consequently, the structure is dynamically stable and tends from brittle to ductile behavior under pressure. The Debye temperature θD increases and the so-called Gru¨ neisen constant γ decreases due to stiffening of the crystal structure. The phonon dispersion curves were obtained using the direct method. Additionally, the internal energy (ΔE), the Helmholtz free energy (ΔF), the entropy (S) and the lattice contribution to the heat capacity Cv were calculated and analyzed with the help of the phonon dispersion curves. The N(EF) and the electron transfer between the B and Mo atoms increase as a function of pressure.

Synergistic effect of energy drinks and overweight/obesity on cardiac autonomic testing using the Valsalva maneuver in university students.

PubMed

Majeed, Farrukh; Yar, Talay; Alsunni, Ahmed; Alhawaj, Ali Fouad; AlRahim, Ahmed; Alzaki, Muneer

2017-01-01

Obesity and caffeine consumption may lead to autonomic disturbances that can result in a wide range of cardiovascular disorders. To determine autonomic disturbances produced by the synergistic effects of overweight or obesity (OW/OB) and energy drinks. Cross-sectional, analytical. Physiology department at a university in Saudi Arabia. University students, 18-22 years of age, of normal weight (NW) and OW/OB were recruited by convenience sampling. Autonomic testing by the Valsalva ratio (VR) along with systolic and diastolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, and mean arterial blood pressure were measured at baseline (0 minute) and 60 minutes after energy drink consumption. Autonomic disturbance, hemodynamic changes. In 50 (27 males and 23 females) subjects, 21 NW and 29 OW/OB, a significant decrease in VR was observed in OW/OB subjects and in NW and OW/OB females at 60 minutes after energy drink consumption. Values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, pulse pressure and mean arterial blood pressure were also significantly higher in OW/OB and in females as compared to NW and males. BMI was negatively correlated with VR and diastolic blood pressure at 60 minutes. Obesity and energy drinks alter autonomic functions. In some individuals, OW/OB may augment these effects. Due to time and resource restraints, only the acute effects of energy drinks were examined.

Start-up circuit upgrading to reduce the erosion of the rotor blades of the last stages of steam turbines and prevent the mass strips of stellite plates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bozhko, V. V.; Gorin, A. V.; Zaitsev, I. V.; Kovalev, I. A.; Nosovitskii, I. A.; Orlik, V. G.; Lomagin, S. N.; Chernov, V. P.

2017-03-01

At turbine starts with low steam flow rates in idle mode, the low-pressure rotor blades consume energy, causing the ventilation heating of the stages and creating higher depression in them than in the condenser. This leads to the return steam flows in the exhaust of the low-pressure cylinder (LPC), reducing the heat due to the moisture of starting steam damps and cooling injections. It is shown that, as a result of upgrading with the transition to fully milled shroud platforms of rotor blades, the depression in the stages decreases and their cooling efficiency is reduced due to the removal of an elastic turn of the rotor blades under the action of centrifugal forces and seal of them by periphery. Heating the rotor blades of the last stages exceeds the temperature threshold of soldering resistance of stellite plates (150°C), and their mass strips begin. The start-up circuit providing both the temperature retention of the last stages lower the soldering resistance threshold due to overwetting the steam damps up to saturation condition and the high degree of removal from the dump steam of excessive erosive-dangerous condensed moisture was proposed, applied, and tested at the operating power unit. The investment in the development and application of the new start-up circuit are compensated in the course of a year owing to guaranteed prevention of the strips of stellite plates that lengthens the service life of the rotor blades of the last stages as well as increase of the rotor blade efficiency due to the sharp decrease of erosive wear of the profiles and reduction of their surface roughness. This reduces the annual consumption of equivalent fuel by approximately 1000 t for every 100 MW of installed capacity.

Study on Fluid-solid Coupling Mathematical Models and Numerical Simulation of Coal Containing Gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Gang; Hao, Meng; Jin, Hongwei

2018-02-01

Based on coal seam gas migration theory under multi-physics field coupling effect, fluid-solid coupling model of coal seam gas was build using elastic mechanics, fluid mechanics in porous medium and effective stress principle. Gas seepage behavior under different original gas pressure was simulated. Results indicated that residual gas pressure, gas pressure gradient and gas low were bigger when original gas pressure was higher. Coal permeability distribution decreased exponentially when original gas pressure was lower than critical pressure. Coal permeability decreased rapidly first and then increased slowly when original pressure was higher than critical pressure.

Enabling aqueous processing for crack-free thick electrodes

DOE PAGES

Du, Zhijia; Rollag, K. M.; Li, J.; ...

2017-04-14

Aqueous processing of thick electrodes for Li-ion cells promises to increase energy density due to increased volume fraction of active materials, and to reduce cost due to the elimination of the toxic solvents. Here in this paper this work reports the processing and characterization of aqueous processed electrodes with high areal loading and associated full pouch cell performance. Cracking of the electrode coatings becomes a critical issue for aqueous processing of the positive electrode as areal loading increases above 20–25 mg/cm 2 (~4 mAh/cm 2). Crack initiation and propagation, which was observed during drying via optical microscopy, is related tomore » the build-up of capillary pressure during the drying process. The surface tension of water was reduced by the addition of isopropyl alcohol (IPA), which led to improved wettability and decreased capillary pressure during drying. The critical thickness (areal loading) without cracking increased gradually with increasing IPA content. The electrochemical performance was evaluated in pouch cells. Electrodes processed with water/IPA (80/20 wt%) mixture exhibited good structural integrity with good rate performance and cycling performance.« less

Fluid flow characteristics during polymer flooding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, S. L.; Dou, H. E.; Wu, M.; Zhang, H. J.

2018-05-01

At present the main problems of polymer flooding is the high injection pressure which could not guarantee the later injection. In this paper the analyses of polymer’s physical properties and its solution’s variable movement characteristics in porous media reveal the inevitable trend of decrease in injection capacity and liquid production due to the increase of fluid viscosity and flow rate with more flow resistance. The injection rate makes the primary contribution to the active viscosity of the polymer solution in porous media. The higher injection rate, the greater shearing degradation and the more the viscosity loss. Besides the quantitative variation, the rate also changes qualitatively as that the injection rate demonstrates composite change of injection intensity and density. Due to the different adjustment function of the polymer solution on its injection profile, there should be different adjustment model of rates in such stages. Here in combination of the on-site recognitions, several conclusions and recommendations are made based on the study of the injection pattern adjustment during polymer flooding to improve the pressure distribution system, which would be a meaningful reference for extensive polymer flooding in the petroleum industry.

Fast flow of Jakobshavn Isbræ and its subglacial drainage system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Werder, M. A.; Joughin, I. R.

2013-12-01

Jakobshavn Isbræ and many other outlet glaciers of present and past ice sheets lie in deep troughs which often have several overdeepened sections. The subglacial drainage system of such glaciers is heavily influenced by two effects caused by the pressure dependence of the melting point of water. The melting point decreases with increasing water pressure, this enhances wall-melt in downward sloping channels and diminishes wall-melt in upward sloping channels. Thus the first effect is the well known shutdown of channels on steep adverse bed slopes of overdeepenings and the associated high water pressure/low effective pressure. The second effect is a 2D effect and has not received much/any attention so far: the orientation of a channel will be deflected from the direction of the (negative) hydraulic potential gradient (which drives the water flow) towards the steepest slope of the bed. This leads to the enhanced formation of side channels dipping into the trough at about a 45° angle. This efficient connection between the margin and the trough equalizes the hydraulic potential, again leading to higher water pressure in the trough. We investigate these two effects with the 2D subglacial drainage system model GlaDS using Jakobshavn Isbræ as an example. We compare model runs with the pressure melt term disabled and enabled. With the term disabled the main channel situated in the trough is continuous and produces a large depression in the hydraulic potential and consequently high effective pressure in the trough (1-2MPa). Conversely, with the term enabled the main channel becomes discontinuous on steep adverse bed slopes and many side channels form on the margins of the trough. This leads to a hydraulic potential in the trough which is higher than in the surrounding area and consequently the effective pressure is low (0-1MPa). Low effective pressure leads to reduced basal drag and thus to more basal sliding. The modeled large decrease of effective pressure in the trough due to the pressure dependence of the melting point of water suggests that basal drag will be small and that sliding speeds are large. Thus, this may be one of the leading causes for the fast flow of Jakobshavn Isbræ and other glaciers in deep troughs.

Carbon fiber polymer-matrix structural composites tailored for multifunctionality by filler incorporation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Seungjin

This dissertation provides multifunctional carbon fiber polymer-matrix structural composites for vibration damping, thermal conduction and thermoelectricity. Specifically, (i) it has strengthened and stiffened carbon fiber polymer-matrix structural composites by the incorporation of halloysite nanotubes, carbon nanotubes and silicon carbide whiskers, (ii) it has improved mechanical energy dissipation using carbon fiber polymer-matrix structural composites with filler incorporation, (iii) it has increased the through-thickness thermal conductivity of carbon fiber polymer-matrix composite by curing pressure increase and filler incorporation, and (iv) it has enhanced the thermoelectric behavior of carbon fiber polymer-matrix structural composites. Low-cost natural halloysite nanotubes (0.1 microm diameter) were effective for strengthening and stiffening continuous fiber polymer-matrix composites, as shown for crossply carbon fiber (5 microm diameter, ˜59 vol.%) epoxy-matrix composites under flexure, giving 17% increase in strength, 11% increase in modulus and 21% decrease in ductility. They were less effective than expensive multiwalled carbon nanotubes (0.02 microm diameter), which gave 25% increase in strength, 11% increase in modulus and 14% decrease in ductility. However, they were more effective than expensive silicon carbide whiskers (1 microm diameter), which gave 15% increase in strength, 9% increase in modulus and 20% decrease in ductility. Each filler, at ˜2 vol.%, was incorporated in the composite at every interlaminar interface by fiber prepreg surface modification. The flexural strength increase due to halloysite nanotubes incorporation related to the interlaminar shear strength increase. The measured values of the composite modulus agreed roughly with the calculated values based on the Rule of Mixtures. Continuous carbon fiber composites with enhanced vibration damping under flexure are provided by incorporation of fillers between the laminae. Exfoliated graphite (EG) as a sole filler is more effective than carbon nanotube (SWCNT/MWCNT), halloysite nanotube (HNT) or nanoclay as sole fillers in enhancing the loss tangent, if the curing pressure is 2.0 (not 0.5) MPa. The MWCNT, SiC whisker and halloysite nanotube as sole fillers are effective for increasing the storage modulus. The combined use of a storage-modulus-enhancing filler (CNT, SiC whisker or HNT) and a loss-tangent-enhancing filler (EG or nanoclay) gives the best performance. With EG, HNT and 2.0-MPa curing, the loss modulus is increased by 110%, while the flexural strength is decreased by 14% and the flexural modulus is not affected. With nanoclay, HNT and 0.5-MPa curing, the loss modulus is increased by 96%, while the flexural strength and modulus are essentially not affected. The low through-thickness thermal conductivity limits heat dissipation from continuous carbon fiber polymer-matrix composites. This conductivity is increased by up to 60% by raising the curing pressure from 0.1 to 2.0 MPa and up to 33% by incorporation of a filler (61.5 vol.%) at the interlaminar interface. The thermal resistivity is dominated by the lamina resistivity (which is contributed substantially by the intralaminar fiber--fiber interfacial resistivity), with the interlaminar interface thermal resistivity being unexpectedly negligible. The lamina resistivity and intralaminar fiber-fiber interfacial resistivity are decreased by up to 56% by raising the curing pressure and up to 36% by filler incorporation. Thermoelectric structural materials are potentially attractive for large-scale energy harvesting. Through filler incorporation and unprecedented decoupling of the bulk (laminae) and interfacial (interlaminar interfaces) contributions to the Seebeck voltage (through-thickness Seebeck voltage of a crossply continuous carbon fiber/epoxy composite laminate), this work provides thermoelectric power magnitudes at ˜70°C up to 110, 1670 and 11000 microV/K for the laminate, a lamina and an interlaminar interface respectively. The interface provides an apparent thermoelectric effect due to carrier backflow. The interfacial voltage is opposite in sign from the laminate and lamina voltages and is slightly lower in magnitude than the lamina voltage. The through-thickness thermoelectric behavior of continuous carbon fiber epoxy-matrix structural composites has been greatly improved by the use of tellurium particles (13 vol.% of composite), bismuth telluride particles (2 vol.%) and carbon black (2 vol.%) at the interlaminar interface. The thermoelectric power is increased from 8 to 163 microV/K, while the electrical resistivity is decreased from 0.17 to 0.02 O.cm, the thermal conductivity is decreased from 1.31 to 0.51 W/m.K, and the dimensionless thermoelectric figure of merit ZT at 70°C is increased from 9 x 10-6 to 9 x 10-2. Decrease in the curing pressure from 4.0 to 0.5 MPa decreases ZT slightly, mainly due to the increase in electrical resistivity.

Impact of Fluidic Chevrons on Jet Noise

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Henderson, Brenda S.; Kinzie, Kevin W.; Whitmire, Julia; Abeysinghe, Amal

2005-01-01

The impact of alternating fluidic core chevrons on the production of jet noise is investigated. Core nozzles for a representative 1/9th scale, bypass ratio 5 model system were manufactured with slots cut near the trailing edges to allow for air injection into the core and fan streams. The injectors followed an alternating pattern around the nozzle perimeter so that the injection alternated between injection into the core stream and injection into the fan stream. For the takeoff condition and a forward flight Mach number of 0.10, the overall sound pressure levels at the peak jet noise angle decrease with increasing injection pressure. Sound pressure levels increase for observation angles less than 110o at higher injection pressures due to increases in high frequency noise. Greater increases in high frequency noise are observed when the number of injectors increases from 8 to 12. When the forward flight Mach number is increased to 0.28, jet noise reduction (relative to the baseline) is observed at aft angles for increasing injection pressure while significant increases in jet noise are observed at forward observation angles due to substantial acoustic radiation at high frequencies. A comparison between inflow and alternating injectors shows that, for equal mass injection rates, the inflow nozzle produces greater low frequency noise reduction (relative to the baseline) than the alternating injectors at 90o and aft observation angles and a forward flight Mach number of 0.28. Preliminary computational fluid dynamic simulations indicate that the spatial decay rate of the hot potential core flow is less for the inflow nozzle than for the alternating nozzles which indicates that gentle mixing may be preferred over sever mixing when fluidic chevrons are used for jet noise reduction.

Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension: roles of norepinephrine deficiency in its causes, its treatment, and future research directions.

PubMed

Loavenbruck, Adam; Sandroni, Paola

2015-11-01

Although a diversity of neurotransmitters and hormones participate in controlling blood pressure, norepinephrine released from postganglionic sympathetic nerve terminals is an important mediator of the rapid regulation of cardiovascular function required for homeostasis of cerebral perfusion. Hence, neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (NOH) often represents a deficiency of noradrenergic responsiveness to postural change. PubMed searches with 'orthostatic hypotension' and 'norepinephrine' as conjoint search terms and no restriction on language or date, so as to survey the pathophysiologic and clinical relevance of norepinephrine deficiency for current NOH interventions and for future directions in treatment and research. Norepinephrine deficiency in NOH can arise peripherally, due to cardiovascular sympathetic denervation (as in pure autonomic failure, Parkinson's disease, and a variety of neuropathies), or centrally, due to a failure of viscerosensory signals to generate adequate sympathetic traffic to intact sympathetic nerve endings (as in multiple system atrophy). Nonpharmacologic countermeasures such as pre-emptive water intake may yield blood-pressure increases exceeding those achieved pharmacologically. For patients with symptomatic NOH unresponsive to such strategies, a variety of pharmacologic interventions have been administered off-label on the basis of drug mechanisms expected to increase blood pressure via blood-volume expansion or vasoconstriction. Two pressor agents have received FDA approval: the sympathomimetic midodrine and more recently the norepinephrine prodrug droxidopa. Pressor agents are important for treating symptomatic NOH in patients unresponsive to lifestyle changes alone. However, the dysautonomia underlying NOH often permits blood-pressure excursions toward both hypotension and hypertension. Future research should aim to shed light on the resulting management issues, and should also explore the possibility of pharmacotherapy selectively targeting orthostatic blood-pressure decreases.

The influence of process parameters in production of lipopeptide iturin A using aerated packed bed bioreactors in solid-state fermentation.

PubMed

Piedrahíta-Aguirre, C A; Bastos, R G; Carvalho, A L; Monte Alegre, R

2014-08-01

The strain Bacillus iso 1 co-produces the lipopeptide iturin A and biopolymer poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) in solid-state fermentation of substrate consisting of soybean meal, wheat bran with rice husks as an inert support. The effects of pressure drop, oxygen consumption, medium permeability and temperature profile were studied in an aerated packed bed bioreactor to produce iturin A, diameter of which was 50 mm and bed height 300 mm. The highest concentrations of iturin A and γ-PGA were 5.58 and 3.58 g/kg-dry substrate, respectively, at 0.4 L/min after 96 h of fermentation. The low oxygen uptake rates, being 23.34 and 22.56 mg O2/kg-dry solid substrate for each air flow rate tested generated 5.75 W/kg-dry substrate that increased the fermentation temperature at 3.7 °C. The highest pressure drop was 561 Pa/m at 0.8 L/min in 24 h. This is the highest concentration of iturin A produced to date in an aerated packed bed bioreactor in solid-state fermentation. The results can be useful to design strategies to scale-up process of iturin A in aerated packed bed bioreactors. Low concentration of γ-PGA affected seriously pressure drop, decreasing the viability of the process due to generation of huge pressure gradients with volumetric air flow rates. Also, the low oxygenation favored the iturin A production due to the reduction of free void by γ-PGA production, and finally, the low oxygen consumption generated low metabolic heat. The results show that it must control the pressure gradients to scale-up the process of iturin A production.

Characterizing the Influence of the General Circulation on Marine Boundary Layer Clouds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rozendaal, Margaret A.; Rossow, William B.; Hansen, James E. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The seasonal and intraseasonal variability of boundary layer cloud in the subtropical eastern oceans are studied using combined data from the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project (ISCCP) and the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) reanalysis. Spectral analysis reveals that most of the time variability of cloud properties occurs on seasonal to annual time scales. The variance decreases one to two orders of magnitude for each decade of time scale decrease, indicating that daily to monthly time scales have smaller, but non-negligible variability. The length of these dominant time scales suggests that the majority of the variability is influenced by the general circulation and its interaction with boundary layer turbulence, rather than a product of boundary layer turbulence alone. Previous datasets have lacked the necessary resolution in either time or in space to properly characterize variability on synoptic scales; this is remedied by using global satellite-retrieved cloud properties. We characterize the intraseasonal subtropical cloud variability in both hemispheres and in different seasons. In addition to cloud fraction, we examine variability of cloud optical thickness - cloud top pressure frequency distributions. Despite the large concentration of research on the variability of Northern Hemisphere (NH) regions during summer, it is noted that the largest amplitude intraseasonal variability in the NH regions occurs during local winter. The effect of intraseasonal variability on the calculation and interpretation of seasonal results is investigated. Decreases in seasonally averaged cloud cover, optical thickness and cloud top pressure from the May-through-September season to the November-through-March season are most apparent in the NH regions. Further analysis indicates that these changes are due to an increase in frequency, but a decrease in the persistence of synoptic events. In addition, changes in cloud top pressure and optical thickness characteristics from the summer to winter seasons indicate that the NH subtropics undergo a change in dynamic regime with season. This change appears in the cloud fields as a shift from the more commonly seen lower-altitude, thicker optical thickness clouds to higher-altitude, thinner clouds. The latter cloud-type is associated with the lower sea level pressure, upward vertical velocity phase of the synoptic wave. Intraseasonal changes in cloud properties in the Southern Hemisphere and NH summer are much smaller in amplitude. Although they also appear to be linked to changes in the large-scale dynamics, similarly to NH winter variations, the relationships are more ambiguous due to the small amplitudes and longer time scales. We attempt to interpret some of these relationships using the results of the Betts and Ridgway (1989) box model. However, these results cannot consistently explain the patterns when results from all regions are considered, implying that this model may not adequately explain all the processes involved in the variability.

Probe-Substrate Distance Control in Desorption Electrospray Ionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yarger, Tyler J.; Yuill, Elizabeth M.; Baker, Lane A.

2018-03-01

We introduce probe-substrate distance (Dps)-control to desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) and report a systematic investigation of key experimental parameters. Examination of voltage, flow rate, and nebulizing gas pressure suggests as Dps decreases, the distance-dependent spray current increases, until a critical point. At the critical point the relationship inverts, and the spray current decreases as the probe moves closer to the surface due to constriction of solution flow by the nebulizing gas. Dps control was used to explore the use of spray current as a signal for feedback positioning, while mass spectrometry imaging was performed simultaneously. Further development of this technique is expected to find application in study of structure-function relationships for clinical diagnostics, biological investigation, and materials characterization. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

Thermal conductivity measurements in porous mixtures of methane hydrate and quartz sand

USGS Publications Warehouse

Waite, W.F.; deMartin, B.J.; Kirby, S.H.; Pinkston, J.; Ruppel, C.D.

2002-01-01

Using von Herzen and Maxwell's needle probe method, we measured thermal conductivity in four porous mixtures of quartz sand and methane gas hydrate, with hydrate composing 0, 33, 67 and 100% of the solid volume. Thermal conductivities were measured at a constant methane pore pressure of 24.8 MPa between -20 and +15??C, and at a constant temperature of -10??C between 3.5 and 27.6 MPa methane pore pressure. Thermal conductivity decreased with increasing temperature and increased with increasing methane pore pressure. Both dependencies weakened with increasing hydrate content. Despite the high thermal conductivity of quartz relative to methane hydrate, the largest thermal conductivity was measured in the mixture containing 33% hydrate rather than in hydrate-free sand. This suggests gas hydrate enhanced grain-to-grain heat transfer, perhaps due to intergranular contact growth during hydrate synthesis. These results for gas-filled porous mixtures can help constrain thermal conductivity estimates in porous, gas hydrate-bearing systems.

Quantitative measurement of electron number in nanosecond and picosecond laser-induced air breakdown

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

Wu, Yue; Sawyer, Jordan C.; Su, Liu

2016-05-07

Here we present quantitative measurements of total electron numbers in laser-induced air breakdown at pressures ranging from atmospheric to 40 bar{sub g} by 10 ns and 100 ps laser pulses. A quantifiable definition for the laser-induced breakdown threshold is identified by a sharp increase in the measurable total electron numbers via dielectric-calibrated coherent microwave scattering. For the 10 ns laser pulse, the threshold of laser-induced breakdown in atmospheric air is defined as the total electron number of ∼10{sup 6}. This breakdown threshold decreases with an increase of pressure and laser photon energy (shorter wavelength), which is consistent with the theory of initialmore » multiphoton ionization and subsequent avalanche processes. For the 100 ps laser pulse cases, a clear threshold is not present and only marginal pressure effects can be observed, which is due to the short pulse duration leading to stronger multiphoton ionization and minimal collisional avalanche ionization.« less

Thermal expansion anomaly regulated by entropy.

PubMed

Liu, Zi-Kui; Wang, Yi; Shang, ShunLi

2014-11-13

Thermal expansion, defined as the temperature dependence of volume under constant pressure, is a common phenomenon in nature and originates from anharmonic lattice dynamics. However, it has been poorly understood how thermal expansion can show anomalies such as colossal positive, zero, or negative thermal expansion (CPTE, ZTE, or NTE), especially in quantitative terms. Here we show that changes in configurational entropy due to metastable micro(scopic)states can lead to quantitative prediction of these anomalies. We integrate the Maxwell relation, statistic mechanics, and first-principles calculations to demonstrate that when the entropy is increased by pressure, NTE occurs such as in Invar alloy (Fe3Pt, for example), silicon, ice, and water, and when the entropy is decreased dramatically by pressure, CPTE is expected such as in anti-Invar cerium, ice and water. Our findings provide a theoretic framework to understand and predict a broad range of anomalies in nature in addition to thermal expansion, which may include gigantic electrocaloric and electromechanical responses, anomalously reduced thermal conductivity, and spin distributions.

Thermal Expansion Anomaly Regulated by Entropy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zi-Kui; Wang, Yi; Shang, Shunli

2014-11-01

Thermal expansion, defined as the temperature dependence of volume under constant pressure, is a common phenomenon in nature and originates from anharmonic lattice dynamics. However, it has been poorly understood how thermal expansion can show anomalies such as colossal positive, zero, or negative thermal expansion (CPTE, ZTE, or NTE), especially in quantitative terms. Here we show that changes in configurational entropy due to metastable micro(scopic)states can lead to quantitative prediction of these anomalies. We integrate the Maxwell relation, statistic mechanics, and first-principles calculations to demonstrate that when the entropy is increased by pressure, NTE occurs such as in Invar alloy (Fe3Pt, for example), silicon, ice, and water, and when the entropy is decreased dramatically by pressure, CPTE is expected such as in anti-Invar cerium, ice and water. Our findings provide a theoretic framework to understand and predict a broad range of anomalies in nature in addition to thermal expansion, which may include gigantic electrocaloric and electromechanical responses, anomalously reduced thermal conductivity, and spin distributions.

Error in Dasibi flight measurements of atmospheric ozone due to instrument wall-loss

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ainsworth, J. E.; Hagemeyer, J. R.; Reed, E. I.

1981-01-01

Theory suggests that in laminar flow the percent loss of a trace constituent to the walls of a measuring instrument varies as P to the -2/3, where P is the total gas pressure. Preliminary laboratory ozone wall-loss measurements confirm this P to the -2/3 dependence. Accurate assessment of wall-loss is thus of particular importance for those balloon-borne instruments utilizing laminar flow at ambient pressure, since the ambient pressure decreases by a factor of 350 during ascent to 40 km. Measurements and extrapolations made for a Dasibi ozone monitor modified for balloon flight indicate that the wall-loss error at 40 km was between 6 and 30 percent and that the wall-loss error in the derived total ozone column-content for the region from the surface to 40 km altitude was between 2 and 10 percent. At 1000 mb, turbulence caused an order of magnitude increase in the Dasibi wall-loss.

Tide-related variability of TAG hydrothermal activity observed by deep-sea monitoring system and OBSH

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujioka, Kantaro; Kobayashi, Kazuo; Kato, Kazuhiro; Aoki, Misumi; Mitsuzawa, Kyohiko; Kinoshita, Masataka; Nishizawa, Azusa

1997-12-01

Hydrothermal activities were monitored by an ocean bottom seismometer with hydrophone (OBSH) and a composite measuring system (Manatee) including CTD, current meter, transmission meter and cameras at a small depression on the TAG hydrothermal mound in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Low-frequency pressure pulses detected by the hydrophone with semi-diurnal periodicity seem to correspond to cycles of hydrothermal upflow from a small and short-lived smoker vent close to the observing site. The peaks of pressure pulses are synchronous with the maximum gradient of areal strain decrease due to tidal load release. Microearthquakes with very near epicenters occur sporadically and do not appear to be directly correlatable to hydrothermal venting. Temporal variations in bottom water temperature also have semi-diurnal periodicity but are more complicated than the pressure events. Temperatures may be affected both by upwelling of hot water and by lateral flow of the bottom current changing its directions with ocean tide.

Surface roughening of undoped and in situ B-doped SiGe epitaxial layers deposited by using reduced pressure chemical vapor deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Youngmo; Park, Jiwoo; Sohn, Hyunchul

2018-01-01

Si1- x Ge x (:B) epitaxial layers were deposited by using reduced pressure chemical vapor deposition with SiH4, GeH4, and B2H6 source gases, and the dependences of the surface roughness of undoped Si1- x Ge x on the GeH4 flow rate and of Si1- x Ge x :B on the B2H6 flow rate were investigated. The root-mean-square (RMS) roughness value of the undoped Si1- x Ge x at constant thickness increased gradually with increasing Ge composition, resulting from an increase in the amplitude of the wavy surface before defect formation. At higher Ge compositions, the residual strain in Si1- x Ge x significantly decreased through the formation of defects along with an abrupt increase in the RMS roughness. The variation of the surface roughness of Si1- x Ge x :B depended on the boron (B) concentration. At low B concentrations, the RMS roughness of Si1- x Ge x remained constant regardless of Ge composition, which is similar to that of undoped Si1- x Ge x . However, at high B concentrations, the RMS roughness of Si1- x Ge x :B increased greatly due to B islanding. In addition, at very high B concentrations ( 9.9 at%), the RMS roughness of Si1- x Ge x :B decreased due to non-epitaxial growth.

Bed failure induced by internal solitary waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rivera-Rosario, Gustavo A.; Diamessis, Peter J.; Jenkins, James T.

2017-07-01

The pressure field inside a porous bed induced by the passage of an Internal Solitary Wave (ISW) of depression is examined using high-accuracy numerical simulations. The velocity and density fields are obtained by solving the Dubreil-Jacotin-Long Equation, for a two-layer, continuously stratified water column. The total wave-induced pressure across the surface of the bed is computed by vertically integrating for the hydrostatic and nonhydrostatic contributions. The bed is assumed to be a continuum composed of either sand or silt, with a small amount of trapped gas. Results show variations in pore-water pressure penetrating deeper into more conductive materials and remaining for a prolonged period after the wave has passed. In order to quantify the potential for failure, the vertical pressure gradient is compared against the buoyant weight of the bed. The pressure gradient exceeds this weight for weakly conductive materials. Failure is further enhanced by a decrease in bed saturation, consistent with studies in surface-wave induced failure. In deeper water, the ISW-induced pressure is stronger, causing failure only for weakly conductive materials. The pressure associated with the free-surface displacement that accompanies ISWs is significant, when the water depth is less than 100 m, but has little influence when it is greater than 100 m, where the hydrostatic pressure due to the pycnocline displacement is much larger. Since the pore-pressure gradient reduces the specific weight of the bed, results show that particles are easier for the flow to suspend, suggesting that pressure contributes to the powerful resuspension events observed in the field.

Impact of high pressure treatment on functional, rheological, pasting, and structural properties of lentil starch dispersions.

PubMed

Ahmed, Jasim; Thomas, Linu; Taher, Ayoub; Joseph, Antony

2016-11-05

Lentil starch (LS) dispersions (flour to water 1:4w/w) were subjected to high pressure (HP) treatment at 0.1, 400, 500 and 600MPa for 10min, followed by evaluation on the functional, particle size, rheological, pasting, and structural properties of post-process samples. Water holding capacity of pressurized starch increased with the pressure intensity due to increase in damaged starch. The amount of resistant starch increased from 5 to 6.8% after pressure treatment at 600MPa. An increase in starch granule particle size (196-207μm) was obvious after HP treatment. The lentil starch was completely gelatinized after pressure treatment at 600MPa for 10min as evidenced from differential scanning calorimetry, rheometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy observation. The elastic modulus, G' of lentil starch gel was less frequency dependent, and higher in magnitude at high pressure (>500MPa) than at lower pressure range (≤400MPa). XRD analysis revealed the disappearance of two diffraction peak intensities at 14.86° and 22.82° at 600MPa for 10min, which confirms the transformation of crystalline to amorphous region of lentil starch. Pasting properties were significantly influenced by the pressure treatment especially at 600MPa, resulting in a considerable decrease in peak viscosity, breakdown and final viscosity, and an increase in peak time. It can be inferred that the functional properties of pressure-treated LS are mainly based on the structural destruction of granules. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Contribution of the Arterial System and the Heart to Blood Pressure during Normal Aging - A Simulation Study.

PubMed

Maksuti, Elira; Westerhof, Nico; Westerhof, Berend E; Broomé, Michael; Stergiopulos, Nikos

2016-01-01

During aging, systolic blood pressure continuously increases over time, whereas diastolic pressure first increases and then slightly decreases after middle age. These pressure changes are usually explained by changes of the arterial system alone (increase in arterial stiffness and vascular resistance). However, we hypothesise that the heart contributes to the age-related blood pressure progression as well. In the present study we quantified the blood pressure changes in normal aging by using a Windkessel model for the arterial system and the time-varying elastance model for the heart, and compared the simulation results with data from the Framingham Heart Study. Parameters representing arterial changes (resistance and stiffness) during aging were based on literature values, whereas parameters representing cardiac changes were computed through physiological rules (compensated hypertrophy and preservation of end-diastolic volume). When taking into account arterial changes only, the systolic and diastolic pressure did not agree well with the population data. Between 20 and 80 years, systolic pressure increased from 100 to 122 mmHg, and diastolic pressure decreased from 76 to 55 mmHg. When taking cardiac adaptations into account as well, systolic and diastolic pressure increased from 100 to 151 mmHg and decreased from 76 to 69 mmHg, respectively. Our results show that not only the arterial system, but also the heart, contributes to the changes in blood pressure during aging. The changes in arterial properties initiate a systolic pressure increase, which in turn initiates a cardiac remodelling process that further augments systolic pressure and mitigates the decrease in diastolic pressure.

Radiation pressure acceleration: The factors limiting maximum attainable ion energy

DOE PAGES

Bulanov, S. S.; Esarey, E.; Schroeder, C. B.; ...

2016-04-15

Radiation pressure acceleration (RPA) is a highly efficient mechanism of laser-driven ion acceleration, with near complete transfer of the laser energy to the ions in the relativistic regime. However, there is a fundamental limit on the maximum attainable ion energy, which is determined by the group velocity of the laser. The tightly focused laser pulses have group velocities smaller than the vacuum light speed, and, since they offer the high intensity needed for the RPA regime, it is plausible that group velocity effects would manifest themselves in the experiments involving tightly focused pulses and thin foils. However, in this case,more » finite spot size effects are important, and another limiting factor, the transverse expansion of the target, may dominate over the group velocity effect. As the laser pulse diffracts after passing the focus, the target expands accordingly due to the transverse intensity profile of the laser. Due to this expansion, the areal density of the target decreases, making it transparent for radiation and effectively terminating the acceleration. The off-normal incidence of the laser on the target, due either to the experimental setup, or to the deformation of the target, will also lead to establishing a limit on maximum ion energy.« less

Propofol-induced increase in vascular capacitance is due to inhibition of sympathetic vasoconstrictive activity.

PubMed

Hoka, S; Yamaura, K; Takenaka, T; Takahashi, S

1998-12-01

Venodilation is thought to be one of the mechanisms underlying propofol-induced hypotension. The purpose of this study is to test two hypotheses: (1) propofol increases systemic vascular capacitance, and (2) the capacitance change produced by propofol is a result of an inhibition of sympathetic vasoconstrictor activity. In 33 Wistar rats previously anesthetized with urethane and ketamine, vascular capacitance was examined before and after propofol infusion by measuring mean circulatory filling pressure (Pmcf). The Pmcf was measured during a brief period of circulatory arrest produced by inflating an indwelling balloon in the right atrium. Rats were assigned into four groups: an intact group, a sympathetic nervous system (SNS)-block group produced by hexamethonium infusion, a SNS-block + noradrenaline (NA) group, and a hypovolemic group. The Pmcf was measured at a control state and 2 min after a bolus administration of 2, 10, and 20 mg/kg of propofol. The mean arterial pressure (MAP) was decreased by propofol dose-dependently in intact, hypovolemic, and SNS-block groups, but the decrease in MAP was less in the SNS-block group (-25%) than in the intact (-50%) and hypovolemic (-61%) groups. In the SNS-block + NA group, MAP decreased only at 20 mg/kg of propofol (-18%). The Pmcf decreased in intact and hypovolemic groups in a dose-dependent fashion but was unchanged in the SNS-block and SNS-block + NA groups. The results have provided two principal findings: (1) propofol decreases Pmcf dose-dependently, and (2) the decrease in Pmcf by propofol is elicited only when the sympathetic nervous system is intact, suggesting that propofol increases systemic vascular capacitance as a result of an inhibition of sympathetic nervous system.

Odors generated from the Maillard reaction affect autonomic nervous activity and decrease blood pressure through the olfactory system.

PubMed

Zhou, Lanxi; Ohata, Motoko; Owashi, Chisato; Nagai, Katsuya; Yokoyama, Issei; Arihara, Keizo

2018-02-01

Systolic blood pressure (SBP) of rats decreases significantly following exposure to the odor generated from the Maillard reaction of protein digests with xylose. This study identified active odorants that affect blood pressure and demonstrated the mechanism of action. Among the four potent odorants that contribute most to the odor of the Maillard reaction sample, 2,5-dimethyl-4-hydroxy-3(2H)-furanone (DMHF) and 5-methyl-2-pyrazinemethanol (MPM) decreased SBP significantly. The earliest decrease in blood pressure was observed 5 min after exposure to DMHF. Application of zinc sulfate to the nasal cavity eliminated the effect. Furthermore, gastric vagal (parasympathetic) nerve activity was elevated and renal sympathetic nerve activity was lowered after exposure to DMHF. It is indicated that DMHF affects blood pressure through the olfactory system, and the mechanism for the effect of DMHF on blood pressure involves the autonomic nervous system. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

The paradoxical effect of bevacizumab in the therapy of malignant gliomas

PubMed Central

Thompson, Eric M.; Frenkel, Eugene P.

2011-01-01

One rationale behind the use of agents that inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor in the therapy of primary CNS malignancies is based upon the concept that normalization of tumor vasculature with a decrease in tumor interstitial pressure will improve access of cytoreductive drugs and improve radiotherapy efficacy due to increased oxygen delivery. However, several studies have raised the concern that these agents may both rapidly restore the low permeability characteristics of the blood–brain barrier and counteract the beneficial effect of pseudoprogression. The result may be decreased therapeutic efficacy while increasing infiltration by co-opting normal vessels. In this discussion, we examine both histologic and radiographic tumor progression in the context of antiangiogenic agents. Issues dealing with the safety of bevacizumab (Avastin®, Genentech, South San Francisco, CA) and its potential to decrease efficacy of standard radiochemotherapy when used to treat patients with newly diagnosed malignant glioma are emphasized. PMID:21205697

Method of producing improved microstructure and properties for ceramic superconductors

DOEpatents

Singh, Jitendra P.; Guttschow, Rob A.; Dusek, Joseph T.; Poeppel, Roger B.

1996-01-01

A ceramic superconductor is produced by close control of oxygen partial pressure during sintering of the material. The resulting microstructure of YBa.sub.2 Cu.sub.3 O.sub.x indicates that sintering kinetics are enhanced at reduced p(O.sub.2). The density of specimens sintered at 910.degree. C. increased from 79 to 94% theoretical when p(O.sub.2) was decreased from 0.1 to 0.0001 MPa. The increase in density with decrease in p(O.sub.2) derives from enhanced sintering kinetics, due to increased defect concentration and decreased activation energy of the rate-controlling species undergoing diffusion. Sintering at 910.degree. C. resulted in a fine-grain microstructure, with an average grain size of approximately 4 .mu.m. Such a microstructure results in reduced microcracking, strengths as high as 191 MPa and high critical current density capacity.

Method of producing improved microstructure and properties for ceramic superconductors

DOEpatents

Singh, J.P.; Guttschow, R.A.; Dusek, J.T.; Poeppel, R.B.

1996-06-11

A ceramic superconductor is produced by close control of oxygen partial pressure during sintering of the material. The resulting microstructure of YBa{sub 2}Cu{sub 3}O{sub x} indicates that sintering kinetics are enhanced at reduced p(O{sub 2}). The density of specimens sintered at 910 C increased from 79 to 94% theoretical when p(O{sub 2}) was decreased from 0.1 to 0.0001 MPa. The increase in density with decrease in p(O{sub 2}) derives from enhanced sintering kinetics, due to increased defect concentration and decreased activation energy of the rate-controlling species undergoing diffusion. Sintering at 910 C resulted in a fine-grain microstructure, with an average grain size of approximately 4 {micro}m. Such a microstructure results in reduced microcracking, strengths as high as 191 MPa and high critical current density capacity. 20 figs.

Anomalous behavior of the homogeneous ice nucleation rate in “No-Man’s Land”

DOE PAGES

Laksmono, Hartawan; McQueen, Trevor A.; Sellberg, Jonas A.; ...

2015-07-02

We present an analysis of ice nucleation kinetics from near-ambient pressure water as temperature decreases below the homogeneous limit T H by cooling micrometer-sized droplets (microdroplets) evaporatively at 10³-10⁴ K/s and probing the structure ultrafast using femtosecond pulses from the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) free-electron X-ray laser. Below 232 K, we observed a slower nucleation rate increase with decreasing temperature than anticipated from previous measurements, which we suggest is due to the rapid decrease in water's diffusivity. This is consistent with earlier findings that microdroplets do not crystallize at <227 K, but vitrify at cooling rates of 10⁶–10⁷more » K/s. We also hypothesize that the slower increase in the nucleation rate is connected with the proposed "fragile-to-strong" transition anomaly in water.« less

Study of alcohol fuel of butanol and ethanol effect on the compression ignition (CI) engine performance, combustion and emission characteristic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aziz, M. A.; Yusop, A. F.; Mat Yasin, M. H.; Hamidi, M. A.; Alias, A.; Hussin, H.; Hamri, S.

2017-10-01

Diesel engine which is one of the larger contributors to total consumption for petroleum is an attractive power unit used widely in many fields. However, diesel engines are among the main contributors to air pollutions for the large amount of emissions, such as CO, CO2 and NOx lead to an adverse effect on human health. Many researches have been done to find alternative fuels that are clean and efficient. Biodiesel is preferred as an alternative source for diesel engine which produces lower emission of pollutants. This study has focused on the evaluation of diesel and alcohol-diesel fuel properties and also the performance, combustion and exhaust emission from diesel engine fuelled with diesel and alcohol. Butanol and ethanol is blend with diesel fuel at 1:9 ratio. There are three test fuel that is tested which Diesel (100% diesel), D90BU10 (10% Butanol and 90% diesel) and D90E10 (10% Ethanol and 90% diesel). The comparison between diesel and alcohol-diesel blend has been made in terms of fuel properties characterization, engine performance such as brake power (BP) and brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) also the in cylinder maximum pressure characteristic. Thus, exhaust gas emission of CO, CO2, NOx and O2 emission also has been observed at constant load of 50% but in different operating engine speed (1100 rpm, 1400 rpm, 1700 rpm, 2000 rpm and 2300 rpm). The results show the addition of 10% of each butanol and ethanol to diesel fuel had decreased the fuel density about 0.3% to 0.5% compared to mineral diesel. In addition, viscosity and energy content are also decrease. The addition of 10% butanol had improved the fuel cetane number however the ethanol blends react differently. In term of engine performance, as the engine speed increased, BP output also increase respectively. Hence, the alcohol blends fuel generates lower BP compared to diesel, plus BSFC for all test fuel shows decreasing trend at low and medium speed, however increased gradually at higher engine speed. Thus, D90BU10 had higher BSFC compared to mineral diesel and D90E10. In general, the addition of alcohol blend in diesel fuel had increase the BSFC. In term of in cylinder pressure, as the engine speed is increased, the crank angle noted to move away from TDC for all test fuel. The maximum cylinder pressure increased at low and medium speed, but decrease in higher engine speed. The addition of 10% of butanol and ethanol in the mineral diesel decreased the maximum cylinder pressure. Meanwhile, O2 emission of D90E10 is higher compared to D90BU10 due to higher oxygen content found in ethanol. The CO2 emission of D90BU10 recorded higher compared to mineral diesel due to the high oxygen contents in the alcohol. CO emission of alcohol blend on the other hand had lower emission at higher engine speed compared to mineral diesel. As engine speed is increased, NOx emission of mineral diesel and D90E10 had decreased gradually. However, D90BU10 had increased of NOx emission at lower to medium engine speed, than gradually decreased at higher engine speed.

Impact of Mantle Wind on Subducting Plate Geometry and Interplate Pressure: Insights From Physical Modelling.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boutelier, D.; Cruden, A. R.

2005-12-01

New physical models of subduction investigate the impact of large-scale mantle flow on the structure of the subducted slab and deformation of the downgoing and overriding plates. The experiments comprise two lithospheric plates made of highly filled silicone polymer resting on a model asthenosphere of low viscosity transparent silicone polymer. Subduction is driven by a piston that pushes the subducting plate at constant rate, a slab-pull force due to the relative density of the slab, and a basal drag force exerted by flow in the model asthenosphere. Large-scale mantle flow is imposed by a second piston moving at constant rate in a tunnel at the bottom of the experiment tank. Passive markers in the mantle track the evolution of flow during the experiment. Slab structure is recorded by side pictures of the experiment while horizontal deformation is studied via passive marker grids on top of both plates. The initial mantle flow direction beneath the overriding plate can be sub-horizontal or sub-vertical. In both cases, as the slab penetrates the mantle, the mantle flow pattern changes to accommodate the subducting high viscosity lithosphere. As the slab continues to descend, the imposed flow produces either over- or under-pressure on the lower surface of the slab depending on the initial mantle flow pattern (sub-horizontal or sub-vertical respectively). Over-pressure imposed on the slab lower surface promotes shallow dip subduction while under-pressure tends to steepen the slab. These effects resemble those observed in previous experiments when the overriding plate moves horizontally with respect to a static asthenosphere. Our experiments also demonstrate that a strong vertical drag force (due to relatively fast downward mantle flow) exerted on the slab results in a decrease in strain rate in both the downgoing and overriding plates, suggesting a decrease in interplate pressure. Furthermore, with an increase in drag force deformation in the downgoing plate can switch from compression to extension. The density contrast between the downgoing plate and asthenosphere is varied from 0% to ~2% in order to investigate the relative contributions of mantle flow and slab pull force on the geometry of the slab and tectonic regime (compressional or extensional).

Recovery of Neonatal Head Turning to Decreased Sound Pressure Level.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tarquinio, Nancy; And Others

1990-01-01

Investigated newborns' responses to decreased sound pressure level (SPL) by means of a localized head turning habituation procedure. Findings, which demonstrated recovery of neonatal head turning to decreased SPL, were inconsistent with the selective receptor adaptation model. (RH)

Transient Three-Dimensional Side Load Analysis of a Film Cooled Nozzle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Ten-See; Guidos, Mike

2008-01-01

Transient three-dimensional numerical investigations on the side load physics for an engine encompassing a film cooled nozzle extension and a regeneratively cooled thrust chamber, were performed. The objectives of this study are to identify the three-dimensional side load physics and to compute the associated aerodynamic side load using an anchored computational methodology. The computational methodology is based on an unstructured-grid, pressure-based computational fluid dynamics formulation, and a transient inlet history based on an engine system simulation. Ultimately, the computational results will be provided to the nozzle designers for estimating of effect of the peak side load on the nozzle structure. Computations simulating engine startup at ambient pressures corresponding to sea level and three high altitudes were performed. In addition, computations for both engine startup and shutdown transients were also performed for a stub nozzle, operating at sea level. For engine with the full nozzle extension, computational result shows starting up at sea level, the peak side load occurs when the lambda shock steps into the turbine exhaust flow, while the side load caused by the transition from free-shock separation to restricted-shock separation comes at second; and the side loads decreasing rapidly and progressively as the ambient pressure decreases. For the stub nozzle operating at sea level, the computed side loads during both startup and shutdown becomes very small due to the much reduced flow area.

Quantifying the effects of hydration on corneal stiffness with optical coherence elastography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Manmohan; Li, Jiasong; Han, Zhaolong; Vantipalli, Srilatha; Aglyamov, Salavat R.; Twa, Michael D.; Larin, Kirill V.

2018-02-01

Several methods have been proposed to assess changes in corneal biomechanical properties due to various factors, such as degenerative diseases, intraocular pressure, and therapeutic interventions (e.g. corneal collagen crosslinking). However, the effect of the corneal tissue hydration state on corneal stiffness is not well understood. In this work, we induce low amplitude (< 10 μm) elastic waves with a focused micro air-pulse in fresh in situ rabbit corneas (n = 10) in the whole eye-globe configuration at an artificially controlled intraocular pressure. The waves were then detected with a phase-stabilized swept source optical coherence elastography system. Baseline measurements were taken every 20 minutes for an hour while the corneas were hydrated with 1X PBS. After the measurement at 60 minutes, a 20% dextran solution was topically instilled to dehydrate the corneas. The measurements were repeated every 20 minutes again for an hour. The results showed that the elastic wave velocity decreased as the corneal thickness decreased. Finite element modeling (FEM) was performed using the corneal geometry and elastic wave propagation speed to assess the stiffness of the samples. The results show that the stiffness increased from 430 kPa during hydration with PBS to 500 kPa after dehydration with dextran, demonstrating that corneal hydration state, apart from geometry and intraocular pressure, can change the stiffness of the cornea.

Intraguild Predation Dynamics in a Lake Ecosystem Based on a Coupled Hydrodynamic-Ecological Model: The Example of Lake Kinneret (Israel).

PubMed

Makler-Pick, Vardit; Hipsey, Matthew R; Zohary, Tamar; Carmel, Yohay; Gal, Gideon

2017-03-29

The food web of Lake Kinneret contains intraguild predation (IGP). Predatory invertebrates and planktivorous fish both feed on herbivorous zooplankton, while the planktivorous fish also feed on the predatory invertebrates. In this study, a complex mechanistic hydrodynamic-ecological model, coupled to a bioenergetics-based fish population model (DYCD-FISH), was employed with the aim of revealing IGP dynamics. The results indicate that the predation pressure of predatory zooplankton on herbivorous zooplankton varies widely, depending on the season. At the time of its annual peak, it is 10-20 times higher than the fish predation pressure. When the number of fish was significantly higher, as occurs in the lake after atypical meteorological years, the effect was a shift from a bottom-up controlled ecosystem, to the top-down control of planktivorous fish and a significant reduction of predatory and herbivorous zooplankton biomass. Yet, seasonally, the decrease in predatory-zooplankton biomass was followed by a decrease in their predation pressure on herbivorous zooplankton, leading to an increase of herbivorous zooplankton biomass to an extent similar to the base level. The analysis demonstrates the emergence of non-equilibrium IGP dynamics due to intra-annual and inter-annual changes in the physico-chemical characteristics of the lake, and suggests that IGP dynamics should be considered in food web models in order to more accurately capture mass transfer and trophic interactions.

Cold pressor stimulus temperature and resting masseter muscle haemodynamics in normal humans.

PubMed

Maekawa, K; Kuboki, T; Clark, G T; Shinoda, M; Yamashita, A

1998-11-01

Cold pressor stimulation reportedly increases sympathetic nerve activity in human skeletal muscles. This study examined the effect of cold pressor stimulation on the resting haemodynamics of the right masseter muscle in normal individuals, using near-infrared spectroscopy. Nine healthy non-smoking males with no history of chronic muscle pain or vascular headaches participated. Their right hand was immersed in a water bath (4, 10, 15 degrees C) for exactly 1 min. Each trial lasted 7 min (1 min before, 1 min during, 5 min after stimulation) and a strictly random order was utilized for the three test temperatures and the mock trial. Masseter muscle haemoglobin concentration and oxygen saturation, as well as heart rate and blood pressure, were continuously recorded in each trial. After completing the four trials, each participant produced and sustained a 30-s maximum voluntary clench in the intercuspal position. Data across the four trials were baseline-corrected and then magnitude-normalized to the individual's highest absolute haemoglobin and oxygen signal during the 30-s maximal clenching effort. Haemoglobin and oxygen saturation increased progressively during cold pressor stimulation as the water temperature decreased (Hb, p < 0.0001; O2, p = 0.0327); very little effect was seen during the mock trial. Heart rate and blood pressure also increased progressively during the stimulation as the temperature decreased (heart rate, p = 0.0013; systolic blood pressure, p = 0.0042; diastolic blood pressure, p = 0.0156). These data suggest that cold pressor, stimulation induces a strong increase in intramuscular blood volume which appears to be due to both a local vasodilative response and increased cardiac output.

Modeling the effect of non-penetrating ballistic impact as a means of detecting behind armor blunt trauma.

PubMed

Roberts, Jack C; O'Connor, James V; Ward, Emily E

2005-06-01

According to the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Standard 0101.04, the maximum deformation a soft armor vest can undergo without penetration is 44 mm. However, this does not take into account the effect of the pressure wave or energy transferred to the organs within the torso due to behind armor blunt trauma (BABT). Therefore, a study was undertaken to develop a finite element model (FEM) to study these effects. A finite element model (FEM) of the human thorax; complete with musculoskeletal structure and internal organs (heart, liver, lungs and stomach), intercostal muscle and skin, has been developed in LS-DYNA. A Kevlar vest was modeled on the chest to simulate non-penetrating ballistic impact. Using a projectile modeled with a size and mass equivalent to a 9 mm (124 grain) bullet at 360 and 425 m/s, four impacts were simulated against NIJ Level II and Level IIIa Kevlar vests at the midsternum and right thorax. At the same velocity, the pressures decreased by a factor of 3 and the energy absorbed by the organs decreased by a factor of 6 for the NIJ Level II and Level IIIa vests, respectively. As the projectile velocity increased, the peak pressures increased by a factor of 3 while the energy absorbed by the organs increased by a factor of 4. The resulting pressure profiles and kinetic energy exhibited by the respective organs indicate this model may be useful in identifying mechanisms of injury as well as organs at an elevated injury risk as a result of BABT.

Denudation of metal powder layers in laser powder bed fusion processes

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

Matthews, Manyalibo J.; Guss, Gabe; Khairallah, Saad A.

Understanding laser interaction with metal powder beds is critical in predicting optimum processing regimes in laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing of metals. In this work, we study the denudation of metal powders that is observed near the laser scan path as a function of laser parameters and ambient gas pressure. We show that the observed depletion of metal powder particles in the zone immediately surrounding the solidified track is due to a competition between outward metal vapor flux directed away from the laser spot and entrainment of powder particles in a shear flow of gas driven by a metalmore » vapor jet at the melt track. Between atmospheric pressure and ~10 Torr of Ar gas, the denuded zone width increases with decreasing ambient gas pressure and is dominated by entrainment from inward gas flow. The denuded zone then decreases from 10 to 2.2 Torr reaching a minimum before increasing again from 2.2 to 0.5 Torr where metal vapor flux and expansion from the melt pool dominates. In addition, the dynamics of the denudation process were captured using high-speed imaging, revealing that the particle movement is a complex interplay among melt pool geometry, metal vapor flow, and ambient gas pressure. The experimental results are rationalized through finite element simulations of the melt track formation and resulting vapor flow patterns. The results presented here represent new insights to denudation and melt track formation that can be important for the prediction and minimization of void defects and surface roughness in additively manufactured metal components.« less

Temperature and Pressure Effects of Desalination Using a MFI-Type Zeolite Membrane

PubMed Central

Zhu, Bo; Kim, Jun Hyun; Na, Yong-Han; Moon, Il-Shik; Connor, Greg; Maeda, Shuichi; Morris, Gayle; Gray, Stephen; Duke, Mikel

2013-01-01

Zeolites are potentially a robust desalination alternative, as they are chemically stable and possess the essential properties needed to reject ions. Zeolite membranes could desalinate “challenging” waters, such as saline secondary effluent, without any substantial pre-treatment, due to the robust mechanical properties of ceramic membranes. A novel MFI-type zeolite membrane was developed on a tubular α-Al2O3 substrate by a combined rubbing and secondary hydrothermal growth method. The prepared membrane was characterised by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and single gas (He or N2) permeation and underwent desalination tests with NaCl solutions under different pressures (0.7 MPa and 7 MPa). The results showed that higher pressure resulted in higher Na+ rejection and permeate flux. The zeolite membrane achieved a good rejection of Na+ (~82%) for a NaCl feed solution with a TDS (total dissolved solids) of 3000 mg·L−1 at an applied pressure of 7 MPa and 21 °C. To explore the opportunity for high salinity and high temperature desalination, this membrane was also tested with high concentration NaCl solutions (up to TDS 90,000 mg·L−1) and at 90 °C. This is the first known work at such high salinities of NaCl. It was found that increasing the salinity of the feed solution decreased both Na+ rejection and flux. An increase in testing temperature resulted in an increase in permeate flux, but a decrease in ion rejection. PMID:24956943

Denudation of metal powder layers in laser powder bed fusion processes

DOE PAGES

Matthews, Manyalibo J.; Guss, Gabe; Khairallah, Saad A.; ...

2016-05-20

Understanding laser interaction with metal powder beds is critical in predicting optimum processing regimes in laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing of metals. In this work, we study the denudation of metal powders that is observed near the laser scan path as a function of laser parameters and ambient gas pressure. We show that the observed depletion of metal powder particles in the zone immediately surrounding the solidified track is due to a competition between outward metal vapor flux directed away from the laser spot and entrainment of powder particles in a shear flow of gas driven by a metalmore » vapor jet at the melt track. Between atmospheric pressure and ~10 Torr of Ar gas, the denuded zone width increases with decreasing ambient gas pressure and is dominated by entrainment from inward gas flow. The denuded zone then decreases from 10 to 2.2 Torr reaching a minimum before increasing again from 2.2 to 0.5 Torr where metal vapor flux and expansion from the melt pool dominates. In addition, the dynamics of the denudation process were captured using high-speed imaging, revealing that the particle movement is a complex interplay among melt pool geometry, metal vapor flow, and ambient gas pressure. The experimental results are rationalized through finite element simulations of the melt track formation and resulting vapor flow patterns. The results presented here represent new insights to denudation and melt track formation that can be important for the prediction and minimization of void defects and surface roughness in additively manufactured metal components.« less

Control of upper airway muscle activity in younger versus older men during sleep onset

PubMed Central

Fogel, Robert B; White, David P; Pierce, Robert J; Malhotra, Atul; Edwards, Jill K; Dunai, Judy; Kleverlaan, Darci; Trinder, John

2003-01-01

Pharyngeal dilator muscles are clearly important in the pathophysiology of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSA). We have previously shown that the activity of both the genioglossus (GGEMG) and tensor palatini (TPEMG) are decreased at sleep onset, and that this decrement in muscle activity is greater in the apnoea patient than in healthy controls. We have also previously shown this decrement to be greater in older men when compared with younger ones. In order to explore the mechanisms responsible for this decrement in muscle activity nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) was applied to reduce negative pressure mediated muscle activation. We then investigated the effect of sleep onset (transition from predominantly α to predominantly θ EEG activity) on ventilation, upper airway muscle activation and upper airway resistance (UAR) in middle-aged and younger healthy men. We found that both GGEMG and TPEMG were reduced by the application of nasal CPAP during wakefulness, but that CPAP did not alter the decrement in activity in either muscle seen in the first two breaths following an α to θ transition. However, CPAP prevented both the rise in UAR at sleep onset that occurred on the control night, and the recruitment in GGEMG seen in the third to fifth breaths following the α to θ transition. Further, GGEMG was higher in the middle-aged men than in the younger men during wakefulness and was decreased more in the middle-aged men with the application of nasal CPAP. No differences were seen in TPEMG between the two age groups. These data suggest that the initial sleep onset reduction in upper airway muscle activity is due to loss of a ‘wakefulness’ stimulus, rather than to loss of responsiveness to negative pressure. In addition, it suggests that in older men, higher wakeful muscle activity is due to an anatomically more collapsible upper airway with more negative pressure driven muscle activation. Sleep onset per se does not appear to have a greater effect on upper airway muscle activity as one ages. PMID:12963804

Cardiovascular regulation in humans in response to oscillatory lower body negative pressure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Levenhagen, D. K.; Evans, J. M.; Wang, M.; Knapp, C. F.

1994-01-01

The frequency response characteristics of human cardiovascular regulation during hypotensive stress have not been determined. We therefore exposed 10 male volunteers to seven frequencies (0.004-0.1 Hz) of oscillatory lower body negative pressure (OLBNP; 0-50 mmHg). Fourier spectra of arterial pressure (AP), central venous pressure (CVP), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), heart rate (HR), and total peripheral resistance (TPR) were determined and first harmonic mean, amplitude, and phase angles with respect to OLBNP are presented. AP was relatively well regulated as demonstrated by small oscillations in half amplitude (3.5 mmHg) that were independent of OLBNP frequency and similar to unstressed control spectra. Due to the biomechanics of the system, the magnitudes of oscillations in calf circumference (CC) and CVP decreased with increasing frequency; therefore, we normalized responses by these indexes of the fluid volume shifted. The ratios of oscillations in AP to oscillations in CC increased by an order of magnitude, whereas oscillations in CVP to oscillations in CC and oscillations in AP to oscillations in CVP both tripled between 0.004 and 0.1 Hz. Therefore, even though the amount of fluid shifted by OLBNP decreased with increasing frequency, the magnitude of both CVP and AP oscillations per volume of fluid shifted increased (peaking at 0.08 Hz). The phase relationships between variables, particularly the increasing lags in SV and TPR, but not CVP, indicated that efferent responses with lags of 5-6 s could account for the observed responses. We conclude that, at frequencies below 0.02 Hz, the neural system of humans functioned optimally in regulating AP; OLBNP-induced decreases in SV (by as much as 50%) were counteracted by appropriate oscillations in HR and TPR responses. As OLBNP frequency increased, SV, TPR, and HR oscillations increasingly lagged the input and became less optimally timed for AP regulation.

A model for radial dike emplacement in composite cones based on observations from Summer Coon volcano, Colorado, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Poland, Michael P.; Moats, W.P.; Fink, J.H.

2008-01-01

We mapped the geometry of 13 silicic dikes at Summer Coon, an eroded Oligocene stratovolcano in southern Colorado, to investigate various characteristics of radial dike emplacement in composite volcanoes. Exposed dikes are up to about 7 km in length and have numerous offset segments along their upper peripheries. Surprisingly, most dikes at Summer Coon increase in thickness with distance from the center of the volcano. Magma pressure in a dike is expected to lessen away from the pressurized source region, which would encourage a blade-like dike to decrease in thickness with distance from the center of the volcano. We attribute the observed thickness pattern as evidence of a driving pressure gradient, which is caused by decreasing host rock shear modulus and horizontal stress, both due to decreasing emplacement depths beneath the sloping flanks of the volcano. Based on data from Summer Coon, we propose that radial dikes originate at depth below the summit of a host volcano and follow steeply inclined paths towards the surface. Near the interface between volcanic cone and basement, which may represent a neutral buoyancy surface or stress barrier, magma is transported subhorizontally and radially away from the center of the volcano in blade-like dikes. The dikes thicken with increasing radial distance, and offset segments and fingers form along the upper peripheries of the intrusions. Eruptions may occur anywhere along the length of the dikes, but the erupted volume will generally be greater for dike-fed eruptions far from the center of the host volcano owing to the increase in driving pressure with distance from the source. Observed eruptive volumes, vent locations, and vent-area intrusions from inferred post-glacial dike-fed eruptions at Mount Adams, Washington, USA, support the proposed model. Hazards associated with radial dike emplacement are therefore greater for longer dikes that propagate to the outer flanks of a volcano. ?? Springer-Verlag 2007.