Long-period gratings in photonic crystal fibers operating near the phase-matching turning point for evanescent chemical and biochemical sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kanka, Jiri

2012-06-01

Fiber-optic long-period grating (LPG) operating near the dispersion turning point in its phase matching curve (PMC), referred to as a Turn Around Point (TAP) LPG, is known to be extremely sensitive to external parameters. Moreover, in a TAP LPG the phase matching condition can be almost satisfied over large spectral range, yielding a broadband LPG operation. TAP LPGs have been investigated, namely for use as broadband mode convertors and biosensors. So far TAP LPGs have been realized in specially designed or post-processed conventional fibers, not yet in PCFs, which allow a great degree of freedom in engineering the fiber's dispersion properties through the control of the PCF structural parameters. We have developed the design optimization technique for TAP PCF LPGs employing the finite element method for PCF modal analysis in a combination with the Nelder-Mead simplex method for minimizing the objective function based on target-specific PCF properties. Using this tool we have designed TAP PCF LPGs for specified wavelength ranges and refractive indices of medium in the air holes. Possible TAP PCF-LPG operational regimes - dual-resonance, broadband mode conversion and transmitted intensity-based operation - will be demonstrated numerically. Potential and limitations of TAP PCF-LPGs for evanescent chemical and biochemical sensing will be assessed.

LPG as a Fuel for Diesel Engines-Experimental Investigations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cristian Nutu, Nikolaos; Pana, Constantin; Negurescu, Niculae; Cernat, Alexandru; Mirica, Ionel

2017-10-01

The main objective of the paper is to reduce the pollutant emissions of a compression ignition engine, fuelling the engine with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), aiming to maintain the energetic performances of the engine. To optimise the engine operation a corelation between the substitute ratio of the diesel fuel with LPG and the adjustments for the investigated regimens must be made in order to limit the maximum pressure and smoke level, knock and rough engine functioning, fuel consumption and the level of the pollutant emissions. The test bed situated in the Thermotechnics, Engines, Thermal Equipments and Refrigeration Instalations Department was adapted to be fuelled with liquefied petroleum gas. A conventional LPG fuelling instalation was adopted, consisting of a LPG tank, a vaporiser, conections between the tank and the vaporiser and a valve to adjust the gaseous fuel flow. Using the diesel-gas methode, in the intake manifold of the engine is injected LPG in gaseous aggregation state and the airr-LPG homogeneous mixture is ignited from the flame appeared in the diesel fuel sprays. To maintain the engine power at the same level like in the standard case of fuelling only with diesel fuel, for each investigated operate regimen the diesel fuel dose was reduced, being energetically substituted with LPG. The engine used for experimental investigations is a turbocharged truck diesel engine with a 10.34 dm3 displacement. The investigated working regimen was 40% load and 1750 rpm and the energetic substitute ratios of the diesel fuel with LPG was situated between [0-25%].

Selective catalytic oxidation: a new catalytic approach to the desulfurization of natural gas and liquid petroleum gas for fuel cell reformer applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lampert, J.

In both natural gas and liquid petroleum gas (LPG), sulfur degrades the performance of the catalysts used in fuel reformers and fuel cells. In order to improve system performance, the sulfur must be removed to concentrations of less than 200 ppbv (in many applications to less than 20 ppbv) before the fuel reforming operation. Engelhard Corporation presents a unique approach to the desulfurization of natural gas and LPG. This new method catalytically converts the organic and inorganic sulfur species to sulfur oxides. The sulfur oxides are then adsorbed on a high capacity adsorbent. The sulfur compounds in the fuel are converted to sulfur oxides by combining the fuel with a small amount of air. The mixture is then heated from 250 to 270 °C, and contacted with a monolith supported sulfur tolerant catalyst at atmospheric pressure. When Engelhard Corporation demonstrated this catalytic approach in the laboratory, the result showed sulfur breakthrough to be less than 10 ppbv in the case of natural gas, and less than 150 ppbv for LPG. We used a simulated natural gas and LPG mixture, doped with a 50-170 ppmv sulfur compound containing equal concentrations of COS, ethylmercaptan, dimethylsulfide, methylethylsulfide and tetrahydrothiophene. There is no need for recycled H 2 as in the case for hydrodesulfurization.

Modelling the pressurization induced by solar radiation on above ground installations of LPG pipeline systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leporini, M.; Terenzi, A.; Marchetti, B.; Giacchetta, G.; Polonara, F.; Corvaro, F.; Cocci Grifoni, R.

2017-11-01

Pipelining Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is a mode of LPG transportation more environmentally-friendly than others due to the lower energy consumption and exhaust emissions. Worldwide, there are over 20000 kilometers of LPG pipelines. There are a number of codes that industry follows for the design, fabrication, construction and operation of liquid LPG pipelines. However, no standards exist to modelling particular critical phenomena which can occur on these lines due to external environmental conditions like the solar radiation pressurization. In fact, the solar radiation can expose above ground pipeline sections at pressure values above the maximum Design Pressure with resulting risks and problems. The present work presents an innovative practice suitable for the Oil & Gas industry to modelling the pressurization induced by the solar radiation on above ground LPG pipeline sections with the application to a real case.

Au sensitized ZnO nanorods for enhanced liquefied petroleum gas sensing properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakate, U. T.; Bulakhe, R. N.; Lokhande, C. D.; Kale, S. N.

2016-05-01

The zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods have grown on glass substrate by spray pyrolysis deposition (SPD) method using zinc acetate solution. The phase formation, surface morphology and elemental composition of ZnO films have been investigated using X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) techniques. The liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sensing response was remarkably improved by sensitization of gold (Au) surface noble metal on ZnO nanorods film. Maximum LPG response of 21% was observed for 1040 ppm of LPG, for pure ZnO nanorods sample. After Au sensitization on ZnO nanorods film sample, the LPG response greatly improved up to 48% at operating temperature 623 K. The improved LPG response is attributed Au sensitization with spill-over mechanism. Proposed model for LPG sensing mechanism discussed.

Study of Zn-Cu Ferrite Nanoparticles for LPG Sensing

PubMed Central

Jain, Anuj; Baranwal, Ravi Kant; Bharti, Ajaya; Vakil, Z.; Prajapati, C. S.

2013-01-01

Nanostructured zinc-copper mixed ferrite was synthesized using sol-gel method. XRD patterns of different compositions of zinc-copper ferrite, Zn(1−x)CuxFe2O4 (x = 0.0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75), revealed single phase inverse spinel ferrite in all the samples synthesized. With increasing copper concentration, the crystallite size was found to be increased from 28 nm to 47 nm. The surface morphology of all the samples studied by the Scanning Electron Microscopy there exhibits porous structure of particles throughout the samples. The pellets of the samples are prepared for LPG sensing characteristics. The sensing is carried out at different operating temperatures (200, 225, and 250°C) with the variation of LPG concentrations (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6 vol%). The maximum sensitivity of 55.33% is observed at 250°C operating for the 0.6 vol% LPG. PMID:23864833

Influence of H2O2 on LPG fuel performance evaluation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Muhammad Saad; Ahmed, Iqbal; Mutalib, Mohammad Ibrahim bin Abdul; Nadeem, Saad; Ali, Shahid

2014-10-01

The objective of this mode of combustion is to insertion of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) combustion on spark plug ignition engines. The addition of hydrogen peroxide may probably decrease the formation of NOx, COx and unburned hydrocarbons. Hypothetically, Studies have shown that addition of hydrogen peroxide to examine the performance of LPG/H2O2 mixture in numerous volumetric compositions starting from lean LPG until obtaining a better composition can reduce the LPG fuel consumption. The theory behind this idea is that, the addition of H2O2 can cover the lean operation limit, increase the lean burn ability, diminution the burn duration along with controlling the exhaust emission by significantly reducing the greenhouse gaseous.

77 FR 72430 - Application for a Presidential Permit To Operate and Maintain Pipeline Facilities on the Border...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-05

... business at 333 Clay Street, Suite 1600, Houston Texas, 77002. Plains LPG is a subsidiary of Plains All... whether issuing a new Presidential Permit reflecting the corporate succession and authorizing Plains LPG...

Performance of a small compression ignition engine fuelled by liquified petroleum gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ambarita, Himsar; Yohanes Setyawan, Eko; Ginting, Sibuk; Naibaho, Waldemar

2017-09-01

In this work, a small air cooled single cylinder of diesel engine with a rated power of 2.5 kW at 3000 rpm is tested in two different modes. In the first mode, the CI engines run on diesel fuel mode. In the second mode, the CI engine run on liquified petroleum gas (LPG) mode. In order to simulate the load, a generator is employed. The load is fixed at 800 W and engine speed varies from 2400 rpm to 3400 rpm. The out power, specific fuel consumption, and brake thermal efficiency resulted from the engine in both modes are compared. The results show that the output power of the CI engine run on LPG fuel is comparable with the engine run on diesel fuel. However, the specific fuel consumption of the CI engine with LPG fuel is higher 17.53% in average in comparison with the CI engine run on diesel fuel. The efficiency of the CI engine with LPG fuel is lower 21.43% in average in comparison with the CI engine run on diesel fuel.

Risk management of LPG transport activities in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Boult, M

2000-01-07

This paper gives a background to risk management of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) transport activities, with special regard to the activities taking place in Hong Kong. In particular, it looks at the recent activities undertaken by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR); the recent risk assessment of LPG transport in the Territory, the measures developed to minimise the risks (including risk management improvements) and the risk management activities undertaken by the Government and the operators.

Evaluation of aftermarket LPG conversion kits in light-duty vehicle applications. Final report

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

Bass, E A

1993-06-01

SwRI was contracted by NREL to evaluate three LPG conversion kits on a Chevrolet Lumina. The objective of the project was to measure the Federal Test Procedure (FTP) emissions and fuel economy of these kits, and compare their performance to gasoline-fueled operation and to each other. Varying LPG fuel blends allowed a preliminary look at the potential for fuel system disturbance. The project required kit installation and adjustment according to manufacturer`s instructions. A limited amount of trouble diagnosis was also performed on the fuel systems. A simultaneous contract from the Texas Railroad Commission, in cooperation with NREL, provided funds formore » additional testing with market fuels (HD5 propane and industry average gasoline) and hydrocarbon (HC) emissions speciation to determine the ozone-forming potential of LPG HC emissions. This report documents the procurement, installation, and testing of these LPG conversion kits.« less

Experimental evaluation of LPG tank explosion hazards.

PubMed

Stawczyk, Jan

2003-01-31

Liquefied-pressure gases (LPG) are transported and stored in the liquid phase in closed tanks under sufficiently high pressure. In the case of an accident, an abrupt tank unsealing may release enormous quantity of evaporating gas and energy that has a destructive effect on the tank and its surroundings. In this paper, experiments with explosions of small LPG tanks are described. The data acquisition equipment applied in the tests provided a chance to learn dynamics of the process and determine hazard factors. The tests enabled a determination of temperature and pressure at which tanks containing LPG disrupt. The results enable a reconstruction of consecutive phases of the explosion and identification of hazards resulting from damage of the tanks. An explanation of the tank unsealing process with fluid parameters above critical point is given.

Novel synthesis approach for stable sodium superoxide (NaO2) nanoparticles for LPG sensing application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nemade, Kailash; Waghuley, Sandeep

2017-05-01

The synthesis of stable superoxide is still great challenge for the researchers working in the field of materials science. Through this letter, we report the novel and simple synthesis approach for the preparation of stable sodium superoxide (NaO2) nanoparticles. NaO2 nanoparticles were prepared by a spray pyrolysis technique, under oxygen rich environment for gas sensing application. The texture characterizations show that as-obtained NaO2 nanoparticles have high structural purity. Most importantly, NaO2 nanoparticles exhibits higher sensing response, shorter response time and recovery time, low operating temperature and good stability during sensing of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The main accomplishment of present work is that as-fabricated sensor has low operating temperature (423 K), which is below auto-ignition temperature of LPG. The gas sensing mechanism of NaO2 nanoparticles was discussed without the conventional oxygen bridging mechanism. Through this short communication, LPG sensing application of stable sodium superoxide nanoparticle is explored.

Observation of increases in emission from modern vehicles over time in Hong Kong using remote sensing.

PubMed

Lau, Jason; Hung, W T; Cheung, C S

2012-04-01

In this study on-road gaseous emissions of vehicles are investigated using remote sensing measurements collected over three different periods. The results show that a high percentage of gaseous pollutants were emitted from a small percentage of vehicles. Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) vehicles generally have higher gaseous emissions compared to other vehicles, particularly among higher-emitting vehicles. Vehicles with high vehicle specific power (VSP) tend to have lower CO and HC emissions while petrol and LPG vehicles tend to have higher NO emissions when engine load is high. It can be observed that gaseous emission factors of petrol and LPG vehicles increase greatly within 2 years of being introduced to the vehicle fleet, suggesting that engine and catalyst performance deteriorate rapidly. It can be observed that LPG vehicles have higher levels of gaseous emissions than petrol vehicles, suggesting that proper maintenance of LPG vehicles is essential in reducing gaseous emissions from vehicles. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optical fiber LPG biosensor integrated microfluidic chip for ultrasensitive glucose detection

PubMed Central

Yin, Ming-jie; Huang, Bobo; Gao, Shaorui; Zhang, A. Ping; Ye, Xuesong

2016-01-01

An optical fiber sensor integrated microfluidic chip is presented for ultrasensitive detection of glucose. A long-period grating (LPG) inscribed in a small-diameter single-mode fiber (SDSMF) is employed as an optical refractive-index (RI) sensor. With the layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technique, poly (ethylenimine) (PEI) and poly (acrylic acid) (PAA) multilayer film is deposited on the SDSMF-LPG sensor for both supporting and signal enhancement, and then a glucose oxidase (GOD) layer is immobilized on the outer layer for glucose sensing. A microfluidic chip for glucose detection is fabricated after embedding the SDSMF-LPG biosensor into the microchannel of the chip. Experimental results reveal that the SDSMF-LPG biosensor based on such a hybrid sensing film can ultrasensitively detect glucose concentration as low as 1 nM. After integration into the microfluidic chip, the detection range of the sensor is extended from 2 µM to 10 µM, and the response time is remarkablely shortened from 6 minutes to 70 seconds. PMID:27231643

SnO2 quantum dots decorated on RGO: a superior sensitive, selective and reproducible performance for a H2 and LPG sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishra, R. K.; Upadhyay, S. B.; Kushwaha, Ajay; Kim, Tae-Hyung; Murali, G.; Verma, Ranjana; Srivastava, Manish; Singh, Jay; Sahay, P. P.; Hee Lee, Seung

2015-07-01

We report the H2 and LPG gas sensing behavior of RGO/SnO2 QDs synthesized by a surfactant assisted hydrothermal method. The RGO/SnO2 QD based sensor shows a high response of ~89.3% to H2 and ~92.4% to LPG for 500 ppm test gas concentration at operating temperatures of 200 °C and 250 °C, respectively. Further, the RGO/SnO2 QD based sensor shows good selectivity for H2 and LPG in the presence of other interfering gases such as ammonia, chloroform, toluene, benzene, acetone, n-butylacetate, acetic acid and formic acid. We observed that the gas response to H2 is 29.8 times higher than that to acetic acid whereas the gas response to LPG is 17.8 times higher than that to formic acid. Long-term analyses have also been performed to demonstrate the reproducible nature of the RGO/SnO2 QD based sensor over passing time which shows excellent reproducibility.We report the H2 and LPG gas sensing behavior of RGO/SnO2 QDs synthesized by a surfactant assisted hydrothermal method. The RGO/SnO2 QD based sensor shows a high response of ~89.3% to H2 and ~92.4% to LPG for 500 ppm test gas concentration at operating temperatures of 200 °C and 250 °C, respectively. Further, the RGO/SnO2 QD based sensor shows good selectivity for H2 and LPG in the presence of other interfering gases such as ammonia, chloroform, toluene, benzene, acetone, n-butylacetate, acetic acid and formic acid. We observed that the gas response to H2 is 29.8 times higher than that to acetic acid whereas the gas response to LPG is 17.8 times higher than that to formic acid. Long-term analyses have also been performed to demonstrate the reproducible nature of the RGO/SnO2 QD based sensor over passing time which shows excellent reproducibility. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr02837j

Nanocrystalline SnO2:F thin films for liquid petroleum gas sensors.

PubMed

Chaisitsak, Sutichai

2011-01-01

This paper reports the improvement in the sensing performance of nanocrystalline SnO(2)-based liquid petroleum gas (LPG) sensors by doping with fluorine (F). Un-doped and F-doped tin oxide films were prepared on glass substrates by the dip-coating technique using a layer-by-layer deposition cycle (alternating between dip-coating a thin layer followed by a drying in air after each new layer). The results showed that this technique is superior to the conventional technique for both improving the film thickness uniformity and film transparency. The effect of F concentration on the structural, surface morphological and LPG sensing properties of the SnO(2) films was investigated. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and X-ray diffraction pattern measurements showed that the obtained thin films are nanocrystalline SnO(2) with nanoscale-textured surfaces. Gas sensing characteristics (sensor response and response/recovery time) of the SnO(2):F sensors based on a planar interdigital structure were investigated at different operating temperatures and at different LPG concentrations. The addition of fluorine to SnO(2) was found to be advantageous for efficient detection of LPG gases, e.g., F-doped sensors are more stable at a low operating temperature (300 °C) with higher sensor response and faster response/recovery time, compared to un-doped sensor materials. The sensors based on SnO(2):F films could detect LPG even at a low level of 25% LEL, showing the possibility of using this transparent material for LPG leak detection.

Burn injuries related to liquefied petroleum gas-powered cars.

PubMed

Bozkurt, Mehmet; Kulahci, Yalcin; Zor, Fatih; Kapi, Emin

2008-01-01

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is used as a type of fuel, is stored as a liquid under high pressure in tanks. Immediate and sudden explosion of these tanks can release a large amount of gas and energy into the environment and can result in serious burns. In this study, the cases of 18 patients injured due to LPG burns in five incidents were examined, along with their epidemiologic features. The authors also investigated the causes of the LPG tank explosions. Inhalation injury was present in 11 cases with varying degrees of severity, and 7 patients subsequently required mechanical ventilation. The explosions resulted from weakening of the tank wall (n = 2), crash impact (n = 2), and gas leakage from the tank (n = 1). LPG-powered cars are becoming more popular because of their lower operational costs. However, LPG tanks can be hazardous in the event of a tank explosion. Burns caused by explosions of the LPG tanks in cars have significant mortality and morbidity. This danger must be taken into account and public awareness must be increased.

Emission Studies in CI Engine using LPG and Palm Kernel Methyl Ester as Fuels and Di-ethyl Ether as an Additive

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dora, Nagaraju; Jothi, T. J. Sarvoththama

2018-05-01

The present study investigates the effectiveness of using di-ethyl ether (DEE) as the fuel additive in engine performance and emissions. Experiments are carried out in a single cylinder four stroke diesel engine at constant speed. Two different fuels namely liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and palm kernel methyl ester (PKME) are used as primary fuels with DEE as the fuel additive. LPG flow rates of 0.6 and 0.8 kg/h are considered, and flow rate of DEE is varied to maintain the constant engine speed. In case of PKME fuel, it is blended with diesel in the latter to the former ratio of 80:20, and DEE is varied in the volumetric proportion of 1 and 2%. Results indicate that for the engine operating in LPG-DEE mode at 0.6 kg/h of LPG, the brake thermal efficiency is lowered by 26%; however, NOx is subsequently reduced by around 30% compared to the engine running with only diesel fuel at 70% load. Similarly, results of PKME blended fuel showed a drastic reduction in the NOx and CO emissions. In these two modes of operation, DEE is observed to be significant fuel additive regarding emissions reduction.

Room temperature LPG resistive sensor based on the use of a few-layer graphene/SnO2 nanocomposite.

PubMed

Goutham, Solleti; Bykkam, Satish; Sadasivuni, Kishor Kumar; Kumar, Devarai Santhosh; Ahmadipour, Mohsen; Ahmad, Zainal Arifin; Rao, Kalagadda Venkateswara

2017-12-20

A nanocomposite consisting of a few layers of graphene (FLG) and tin dioxide (SnO 2 ) was prepared by ultrasound-assisted synthesis. The uniform SnO 2 nanoparticles (NPs) on the FLG were characterized by X-ray diffraction in terms of lattice and phase structure. The functional groups present in the composite were analyzed by FTIR. Electron microscopy (HR-TEM and FE-SEM) was used to study the morphology. The effect of the fraction of FLG present in the nanocomposite was investigated. Sensitivity, selectivity and reproducibility towards resistive sensing of liquid propane gas (LPG) was characterized by the I-V method. The sensor with 1% of FLG on SnO 2 operated at a typical voltage of 1 V performs best in giving a rapid and sensitive response even at 27 °C. This proves that the operating temperature of such sensors can be drastically decreased which is in contrast to conventional metal oxide LPG sensors. Graphical abstract Schematic of a room temperature gas sensor for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). It is based on the use of a few-layered graphene (1 wt%)/SnO 2 nanocomposite that was deposited on an interdigitated electrode (IDEs). A sensing mechanism for LPG detection has been established.

Nanocrystalline SnO2:F Thin Films for Liquid Petroleum Gas Sensors

PubMed Central

Chaisitsak, Sutichai

2011-01-01

This paper reports the improvement in the sensing performance of nanocrystalline SnO2-based liquid petroleum gas (LPG) sensors by doping with fluorine (F). Un-doped and F-doped tin oxide films were prepared on glass substrates by the dip-coating technique using a layer-by-layer deposition cycle (alternating between dip-coating a thin layer followed by a drying in air after each new layer). The results showed that this technique is superior to the conventional technique for both improving the film thickness uniformity and film transparency. The effect of F concentration on the structural, surface morphological and LPG sensing properties of the SnO2 films was investigated. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and X-ray diffraction pattern measurements showed that the obtained thin films are nanocrystalline SnO2 with nanoscale-textured surfaces. Gas sensing characteristics (sensor response and response/recovery time) of the SnO2:F sensors based on a planar interdigital structure were investigated at different operating temperatures and at different LPG concentrations. The addition of fluorine to SnO2 was found to be advantageous for efficient detection of LPG gases, e.g., F-doped sensors are more stable at a low operating temperature (300 °C) with higher sensor response and faster response/recovery time, compared to un-doped sensor materials. The sensors based on SnO2:F films could detect LPG even at a low level of 25% LEL, showing the possibility of using this transparent material for LPG leak detection. PMID:22164007

Particular bi-fuel application of spark ignition engines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raţiu, S.; Alexa, V.; Kiss, I.

2016-02-01

This paper presents a comparative test concerning the operation of a spark-ignition engine, make: Dacia 1300, model: 810.99, fuelled alternatively with gasoline and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). The tests carried out show, on the one hand, the maintenance of power and torque performances in both engine fuelling cases, for all the engine operation regimes, and, on the other hand, a considerable decrease in CO and HC emissions when using poor mixtures related to LPG fuelling.

Synthesis, characterization and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sensing properties of WO3 nano-particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Subhash; Majumder, S. B.

2018-05-01

Metal oxide sensors, such as ZnO, SnO2, and WO3 etc. have been utilized for several decades for low-costd etection of combustible and toxic gases. In the present work tungsten oxide (WO3) nanoparticles have been prepared by using an economic wet chemical synthesis route. To understand the phase formation behavior of the synthesized powders, X-ray diffraction analysis has been performed. The microstructure evolution of the synthesized powders was characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The calcined phase pure WO3 nanoparticles are investigated in terms of LPG gas sensing properties. The gas sensing measurements has been done in two different mode of operation (namely static and dynamic measurements). The degree of oxygen deficiency in the WO3 sensor also affected the sensor properties and the optimum oxygen content of WO3 was necessary to get high sensitivity for LPG. The WO3 sensor shows the excellent sensor properties for LPG at the operating temperature of 250°C.

An experimental study of the flow of LPG as refrigerant inside an adiabatic helical coiled capillary tube in vapour compression refrigeration system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Punia, Sanjeev Singh; Singh, Jagdev

2015-11-01

This paper presents an experimental investigation for the flow of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as a refrigerant inside an adiabatic helically coiled capillary tube in vapour compression refrigeration system. The effect of various geometric parameters and operating conditions like capillary tube inner diameter, length of capillary tube, coil diameter and different inlet subcoolings on the mass flow rate of LPG through the helical coiled capillary tube geometry has been investigated. It has been established that the coil diameter significantly influences the mass flow rate of LPG through the adiabatic helical capillary tube. It has been concluded that the effect of coiling of capillary tube reduces the mass flow rate by 5-12 % as compared to those of the straight capillary tube operating under similar conditions. The data obtained from the experiments are analyzed and a dimensionless correlation has been developed. The proposed correlation predicts that more than 90 % of experimental data which is in agreement with measured data in an error band of ±10 %.

Some aspects of the CI engine modification aimed at operation on LPG with the application of spark ignition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaparuk, J.; Luft, S.; Skrzek, T.; Wojtyniak, M.

2016-09-01

A lot of investigation on modification of the compression ignition engine aimed at operation on LPG with the application of spark ignition has been carried out in the Laboratory of Vehicles and Combustion Engines at Kazimierz Pulaski University of Technology and Humanities in Radom. This paper presents results of investigation on establishment of the proper ignition advance angle in the modified engine. Within the framework of this investigation it was assessed the effect of this regulation on basic engine operating parameters, exhaust emission as well as basic combustion parameters.

A comparative analysis of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene related burns.

PubMed

Ahuja, Rajeev B; Dash, Jayant K; Shrivastava, Prabhat

2011-12-01

Previous studies from our department reflected a trend of decreasing incidence of burns culminating from rising income levels, which were bringing about a change in the cooking fuel in many urban households [1,2]. These studies also indicated a changing scenario of increased incidence of burns from LPG mishaps [2]. In the absence of much information on the subject we felt it rather imperative to comparatively study the pattern of burn injuries resulting from LPG and kerosene. This prospective study was conducted on the clinical database of consecutive patients admitted with burns sustained due to LPG and kerosene from 1st January 2009 to 31st May 2010 (17 months). Data recorded for each patient included; age, gender, religion, socioeconomic status, literacy level, type of family unit, marital status, type of dwelling unit, mode of injury and its exact mechanism, place of incident, level of cooking stove, extent of burns (%TBSA), presence of features of inhalation injury, number of patients affected in a single mishap, size of LPG cylinder used, length of hospital stay and mortality. Of 731 flame burn patients in this study, 395 (54%) were due to kerosene burns and 200 (27.4%) from LPG mishaps. Significantly, the majority of injuries, in both the groups, occurred in lower middle class families living as nuclear units, in a single room dwelling, without a separate kitchen. Majority of LPG burns (70.5%, 141 patients) resulted from a gas leak and 25.5% were from cooking negligence (51 patients). 50.5% of kerosene accidents were from 'stove mishaps' and 49% due to cooking negligence. In all kerosene accidents the stove was kept at floor level but in LPG group 20.6% had the stove placed on a platform. There was a slight difference in mean TBSA burns; 51% in kerosene group compared to 41.5% TBSA in LPG group. There were nine episodes in LPG group in which there were more than three burn victims admitted for treatment. Very importantly, 77% patients in LPG group were from a large cylinder (14.2 kg), which uses a rubber connecting tube. Mortality in kerosene group (50.6%) was far higher than in LPG group (33.5%). This study, from 200 LPG burn admissions, for the first time details the profile from LPG mishaps. It is very interesting to note that of all burns in the world the inequitable distribution bias towards LMICs (low and middle income countries) extends further towards low middle class families within the LMIC. A major risk factor is constrained living condition of a single room dwelling unit. Almost all burns from LPG mishaps were potentially preventable if more care had been practiced to ensure safety. Since majority of LPG mishaps were from gas leaks, either from the rubber tube (Fig. 1) or the stove valve, the observation of floor level cooking in 79.4% of LPG cases may be an economic compulsion of a single room dwelling unit without much impact on the injury pattern. The small LPG cylinder (5 kg) in which the burner is placed directly over the cylinder, as one unit without a connecting tube, is safer because it reduces the chances of a gas leak from an ill-fitting or a cracked rubber connecting tube (Fig. 2). Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

SnO2 quantum dots decorated on RGO: a superior sensitive, selective and reproducible performance for a H2 and LPG sensor.

PubMed

Mishra, R K; Upadhyay, S B; Kushwaha, Ajay; Kim, Tae-Hyung; Murali, G; Verma, Ranjana; Srivastava, Manish; Singh, Jay; Sahay, P P; Lee, Seung Hee

2015-07-28

We report the H2 and LPG gas sensing behavior of RGO/SnO2 QDs synthesized by a surfactant assisted hydrothermal method. The RGO/SnO2 QD based sensor shows a high response of ∼89.3% to H2 and ∼92.4% to LPG for 500 ppm test gas concentration at operating temperatures of 200 °C and 250 °C, respectively. Further, the RGO/SnO2 QD based sensor shows good selectivity for H2 and LPG in the presence of other interfering gases such as ammonia, chloroform, toluene, benzene, acetone, n-butylacetate, acetic acid and formic acid. We observed that the gas response to H2 is 29.8 times higher than that to acetic acid whereas the gas response to LPG is 17.8 times higher than that to formic acid. Long-term analyses have also been performed to demonstrate the reproducible nature of the RGO/SnO2 QD based sensor over passing time which shows excellent reproducibility.

The use of gaseous fuels mixtures for SI engines propulsion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flekiewicz, M.; Kubica, G.

2016-09-01

Paper presents results of SI engine tests, carried on for different gaseous fuels. Carried out analysis made it possible to define correlation between fuel composition and engine operating parameters. Tests covered various gaseous mixtures: of methane and hydrogen and LPG with DME featuring different shares. The first group, considered as low carbon content fuels can be characterized by low CO2 emissions. Flammability of hydrogen added in those mixtures realizes the function of combustion process activator. That is why hydrogen addition improves the energy conversion by about 3%. The second group of fuels is constituted by LPG and DME mixtures. DME mixes perfectly with LPG, and differently than in case of other hydrocarbon fuels consists also of oxygen makes the stoichiometric mixture less oxygen demanding. In case of this fuel an improvement in engine volumetric and overall engine efficiency has been noticed, when compared to LPG. For the 11% DME share in the mixture an improvement of 2% in the efficiency has been noticed. During the tests standard CNG/LPG feeding systems have been used, what underlines utility value of the research. The stand tests results have been followed by combustion process simulation including exhaust forming and charge exchange.

Synthesis of ZnO nanopencils using wet chemical method and its investigation as LPG sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimpi, Navinchandra G.; Jain, Shilpa; Karmakar, Narayan; Shah, Akshara; Kothari, D. C.; Mishra, Satyendra

2016-12-01

ZnO nanopencils (NPCs) were prepared by a novel wet chemical process, using triethanolamine (TEA) as a mild base, which is relatively simple and cost effective method as compared to hydrothermal method. ZnO NPCs were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) spectroscopy in mid-IR and far-IR regions, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), UV-vis (UV-vis) absorption spectroscopy, room temperature Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). ZnO NPCs obtained, were highly pure, uniform and monodispersed.XRD pattern indicated hexagonal unit cell structure with preferred orientation along the c-axis. Sensing behaviour of ZnO NPCs was studied towards Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) at different operating temperatures. The study shows that ZnO NPCs were most sensitive and promising candidate for detection of LPG at 250 °C with gas sensitivity > 60%. The high response towards LPG is due to high surface area of ZnO NPCs and their parallel alignment.

LPG sensing characteristics of electrospray deposited SnO2 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gürbüz, Mevlüt; Günkaya, Göktuğ; Doğan, Aydın

2014-11-01

In this study, SnO2 films were fabricated on conductive substrate such as aluminum and platinum coated alumina using electro-spray deposition (ESD) method for gas sensor applications. Solution flow rate, coating time, substrate-nozzle distance and solid/alcohol ratio were studied to optimize SnO2 film structure. The morphology of the deposited films was characterized by stereo and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The gas sensing properties of tin oxide films were investigated using liquid petroleum gas (LPG) for various lower explosive limit (LEL). The results obtained from microscopic analyses show that optimum SnO2 films were evaluated at flow rate of 0.05 ml/min, at distance of 6 cm, for 10 min deposition time, for 20 gSnO2/Lethanol ratio and at 7 kV DC electric field. By the results obtained from the gas sensing behavior, the sensitivity of the films was increased with operating temperature. The films showed better sensitivity for 20 LEL LPG concentration at 450 °C operating temperature.

TiO2 Nanorods Decorated with Pd Nanoparticles for Enhanced Liquefied Petroleum Gas Sensing Performance.

PubMed

Dhawale, Dattatray S; Gujar, Tanaji P; Lokhande, Chandrakant D

2017-08-15

Development of highly sensitive and selective semiconductor-based metal oxide sensor devices to detect toxic, explosive, flammable, and pollutant gases is still a challenging research topic. In the present work, we systematically enhanced the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sensing performance of chemical bath deposited TiO 2 nanorods by decorating Pd nanoparticle catalyst. Surface morphology with elemental mapping, crystal structure, composition and oxidation states, and surface area measurements of pristine TiO 2 and Pd:TiO 2 nanorods was examined by high resolution transmission electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and nitrogen adsorption-desorption characterization techniques. LPG sensing performance of pristine TiO 2 and Pd:TiO 2 nanorods was investigated in different LPG concentration and operating temperature ranges. The LPG response of 21% for pristine TiO 2 nanorods is enhanced to 49% after Pd catalyst decoration with reasonably fast response and recovery times. Further, the sensor exhibited long-term stability, which could be due to the strong metal support (Pd:TiO 2 ) interaction and catalytic properties offered by the Pd nanoparticle catalyst. The work described herein demonstrates a general and scalable approach that provides a promising route for rational design of variety of sensor devices for LPG detection.

Leishmania infantum Lipophosphoglycan-Deficient Mutants: A Tool to Study Host Cell-Parasite Interplay

PubMed Central

Lázaro-Souza, Milena; Matte, Christine; Lima, Jonilson B.; Arango Duque, Guillermo; Quintela-Carvalho, Graziele; de Carvalho Vivarini, Áislan; Moura-Pontes, Sara; Figueira, Cláudio P.; Jesus-Santos, Flávio H.; Gazos Lopes, Ulisses; Farias, Leonardo P.; Araújo-Santos, Théo; Descoteaux, Albert; Borges, Valéria M.

2018-01-01

Lipophosphoglycan (LPG) is the major surface glycoconjugate of metacyclic Leishmania promastigotes and is associated with virulence in various species of this parasite. Here, we generated a LPG-deficient mutant of Leishmania infantum, the foremost etiologic agent of visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil. The L. infantum LPG-deficient mutant (Δlpg1) was obtained by homologous recombination and complemented via episomal expression of LPG1 (Δlpg1 + LPG1). Deletion of LPG1 had no observable effect on parasite morphology or on the presence of subcellular organelles, such as lipid droplets. While both wild-type and add-back parasites reached late phase in axenic cultures, the growth of Δlpg1 parasites was delayed. Additionally, the deletion of LPG1 impaired the outcome of infection in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages. Although no significant differences were observed in parasite load after 4 h of infection, survival of Δlpg1 parasites was significantly reduced at 72 h post-infection. Interestingly, L. infantum LPG-deficient mutants induced a strong NF-κB-dependent activation of the inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) promoter compared to wild type and Δlpg1 + LPG1 parasites. In conclusion, the L. infantum Δlpg1 mutant constitutes a powerful tool to investigate the role(s) played by LPG in host cell-parasite interactions. PMID:29675001

Exhaust Emissions from Gasoline- and LPG-Powered Vehicles Operating at the Altitude of Mexico City.

PubMed

Gamas, Erick D; Diaz, Luis; Rodriguez, René; López-Salinas, E; Schifter, Isaac; Ontiveros, Luis

1999-10-01

Unburned hydrocarbons (HCs), carbon monoxide (CO), and oxides of nitrogen (NO x ) are the compounds regulated as pollutants by an environmental standard in the Metropolitan Area of Mexico City (MAMC). The main fuel used in vehicular transportation is gasoline, and the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is now an alternative as low emission technology to decrease the environmental impact of transportation operations. The environmental impact of commercial gasoline consumption in the Valley of Mexico was estimated by on-road and FTP-75 testing of three formulations of gasoline (one leaded [octane 81] and two unleaded [one octane 87 and one octane 93]). A fleet of 30 vehicles was used: 10 were chosen that had pre-1990 technology, while 12 were 1991-1996 vehicles equipped with fuel injection, catalytic converters, and air/ fuel ratio control technology. The remaining eight vehicles were high-performance new model vehicles (1995-1996) equipped with the newest technology available for pollution control. Fifteen vehicles in the fleet were also tested for the effect of changing from leaded to unleaded gasoline. Three different LPG formulations were tested using three vehicles representative of the LPG-powered fleet in the MAMC. Two gasoline-to-LPG conversion certified commercial systems were evaluated following the BAR-90 and the HOT-505 procedures. Emissions corresponding to the high-octane (premium) gasoline showed a 15% higher contribution to HCs with a 6% lower reactivity than the 87 octane gasoline; the HCs in the exhaust for premium gasoline are mainly isoparaffins. When the vehicles were tested on the road at high speeds, an average 3% increase in mileage was obtained when vehicles were switched from leaded to unleaded gasoline, while a 5% increase in mileage was observed when vehicles were switched from 87 octane to premium gasoline. The tests of LPG formulations indicated that a change in composition from 60% vol of propane to 85.5% vol reduces levels of HCs and CO emissions; such is not the case for the NO x emissions. The higher the concentration of propane, the higher the levels of NO x that reached values above the maximum limits set by the environmental standard. A value of 70% vol of propane in the LPG mixture, with variations no greater than 4%, seems to be the best method for reducing pollutant emissions in Mexico City.

Volatile Organic Compounds Sensing Using Optical Fibre Long Period Grating with Mesoporous Nano-Scale Coating

PubMed Central

Hromadka, Jiri; Korposh, Sergiy; Partridge, Matthew; James, Stephen W.; Davis, Frank; Crump, Derrick; Tatam, Ralph P.

2017-01-01

A long period grating (LPG) modified with a mesoporous film infused with a calixarene as a functional compound was employed for the detection of individual volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and their mixtures. The mesoporous film consisted of an inorganic part, SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs), along with an organic moiety of poly(allylamine hydrochloride) polycation PAH, which was finally infused with the functional compound, p-sulphanato calix[4]arene (CA[4]) or p-sulphanato calix[8]arene (CA[8]). The LPG sensor was designed to operate at the phase matching turning point to provide the highest sensitivity. The sensing mechanism is based on the measurement of the refractive index (RI) change induced by a complex of the VOCs with calixarene. The LPG, modified with a coating of 5 cycles of (SiO2 NPs/PAH) and infused with CA[4] or CA[8], was exposed to chloroform, benzene, toluene and acetone vapours. The British Standards test of the VOCs emissions from material (BS EN ISO 16000-9:2006) was used to test the LPG sensor performance. PMID:28208691

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

Skariah, Benoy, E-mail: skariahbenoy@yahoo.co.in, E-mail: dr.boben1@gmail.com; Thomas, Boben, E-mail: skariahbenoy@yahoo.co.in, E-mail: dr.boben1@gmail.com

For LPG sensing, boron doped (0.2 to 0.8 wt. %) polycrystalline tin oxide thin films are deposited by spray pyrolysis in the temperature range 325 - 430 °C. Sensor response of 56 % is achieved for 1000 ppm of LPG, at an operating temperature of 350 °C. The effects of ageing under ambient conditions on the sensor response are investigated for a storage period of six years. Ageing increases the film resistance but the gas response is lowered. XRD, SEM, FESEM, FTIR and XPS are utilized for structural, morphological and compositional charaterisations.

Polyaniline-Cadmium Ferrite Nanostructured Composite for Room-Temperature Liquefied Petroleum Gas Sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotresh, S.; Ravikiran, Y. T.; Tiwari, S. K.; Vijaya Kumari, S. C.

2017-08-01

We introduce polyaniline-cadmium ferrite (PANI-CdFe2O4) nanostructured composite as a room-temperature-operable liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sensor. The structure of PANI and the composite prepared by chemical polymerization was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy. Comparative XRD and FT-IR analysis confirmed CdFe2O4 embedded in PANI matrix with mutual interfacial interaction. The nanostructure of the composite was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. A simple LPG sensor operable at room temperature, exclusively based on spin-coated PANI-CdFe2O4 nanocomposite, was fabricated with maximum sensing response of 50.83% at 1000 ppm LPG. The response and recovery time of the sensor were 50 s and 110 s, respectively, and it was stable over a period of 1 month with slight degradation of 4%. The sensing mechanism is discussed on the basis of the p- n heterojunction barrier formed at the interface of PANI and CdFe2O4.

Vehicle conversion to hybrid gasoline/alternative fuel operation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Donakowski, T. D.

1982-01-01

The alternative fuels considered are compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquid petroleum gas (LPG), and methanol; vehicles were required to operate in a hybrid or dual-fuel gasoline/alternative fuel mode. Economic feasibility was determined by comparing the costs of continued use of gasoline fuel with the use of alternative fuel and retrofitted equipment. Differences in the amounts of future expenditures are adjusted by means of a total life-cycle costing. All fuels studied are technically feasible to allow a retrofit conversion to hybrid gasoline/alternative fuel operation except for methanol. Conversion to LPG is not recommended for vehicles with more than 100,000 km (60,000 miles) of prior use. Methanol conversion is not recommended for vehicles with more than 50,00 km (30,000 miles).

Highly Sensitive Refractive Index Sensor Based on Adiabatically Tapered Microfiber Long Period Gratings

PubMed Central

Ji, Wen Bin; Tjin, Swee Chuan; Lin, Bo; Ng, Choong Leng

2013-01-01

We demonstrate a refractive index sensor based on a long period grating (LPG) inscribed in a special photosensitive microfiber with double-clad profile. The fiber is tapered gradually enough to ensure the adiabaticity of the fiber taper. In other words, the resulting insertion loss is sufficiently small. The boron and germanium co-doped inner cladding makes it suitable for inscribing gratings into its tapered form. The manner of wavelength shift for refractive indices (RIs) differs from conventional LPG, and the refractive index detection limit is 1.67 × 10−5. PMID:24141267

Highly sensitive refractive index sensor based on adiabatically tapered microfiber long period gratings.

PubMed

Ji, Wen Bin; Tjin, Swee Chuan; Lin, Bo; Ng, Choong Leng

2013-10-17

We demonstrate a refractive index sensor based on a long period grating (LPG) inscribed in a special photosensitive microfiber with double-clad profile. The fiber is tapered gradually enough to ensure the adiabaticity of the fiber taper. In other words, the resulting insertion loss is sufficiently small. The boron and germanium co-doped inner cladding makes it suitable for inscribing gratings into its tapered form. The manner of wavelength shift for refractive indices (RIs) differs from conventional LPG, and the refractive index detection limit is 1.67 × 10⁻⁵.

Differential Impact of LPG-and PG-Deficient Leishmania major Mutants on the Immune Response of Human Dendritic Cells

PubMed Central

Jayakumar, Asha; Hickerson, Suzanne; Mostrom, Janet; Turco, Salvatore J.; Beverley, Stephen M.; McDowell, Mary Ann

2015-01-01

Background Leishmania major infection induces robust interleukin-12 (IL12) production in human dendritic cells (hDC), ultimately resulting in Th1-mediated immunity and clinical resolution. The surface of Leishmania parasites is covered in a dense glycocalyx consisting of primarily lipophosphoglycan (LPG) and other phosphoglycan-containing molecules (PGs), making these glycoconjugates the likely pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPS) responsible for IL12 induction. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we explored the role of parasite glycoconjugates on the hDC IL12 response by generating L. major Friedlin V1 mutants defective in LPG alone, (FV1 lpg1-), or generally deficient for all PGs, (FV1 lpg2-). Infection with metacyclic, infective stage, L. major or purified LPG induced high levels of IL12B subunit gene transcripts in hDCs, which was abrogated with FV1 lpg1- infections. In contrast, hDC infections with FV1 lpg2- displayed increased IL12B expression, suggesting other PG-related/LPG2 dependent molecules may act to dampen the immune response. Global transcriptional profiling comparing WT, FV1 lpg1-, FV1 lpg2- infections revealed that FV1 lpg1- mutants entered hDCs in a silent fashion as indicated by repression of gene expression. Transcription factor binding site analysis suggests that LPG recognition by hDCs induces IL-12 in a signaling cascade resulting in Nuclear Factor κ B (NFκB) and Interferon Regulatory Factor (IRF) mediated transcription. Conclusions/Significance These data suggest that L. major LPG is a major PAMP recognized by hDC to induce IL12-mediated protective immunity and that there is a complex interplay between PG-baring Leishmania surface glycoconjugates that result in modulation of host cellular IL12. PMID:26630499

Nanostructured ZnO films for potential use in LPG gas sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Latyshev, V. M.; Berestok, T. O.; Opanasyuk, A. S.; Kornyushchenko, A. S.; Perekrestov, V. I.

2017-05-01

The aim of the work was to obtain ZnO nanostructures with heightened surface area and to study relationship between formation method and gas sensor properties towards propane-butane mixture (LPG). In order to synthesize ZnO nanostructures chemical and physical formation methods have been utilized. The first one was chemical bath deposition technology and the second one magnetron sputtering of Zn followed by oxidation. Optimal method and technological parameters corresponding to formation of material with the highest sensor response have been determined experimentally. Dynamical gas sensor response at different temperature values and dependencies of the sensor sensitivity on the temperature at different LPG concentrations in air have been investigated. It has been found, that sensor response depends on the sample morphology and has the highest value for the structure consisting of thin nanowires. The factors that lead to the decrease in the gas sensor operating temperature have been determined.

Evaluation of burn injuries related to liquefied petroleum gas.

PubMed

Tarim, Mehmet Akin

2014-01-01

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a fuel that is widely used for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes. LPG is also commonly used in restaurants, industries, and cars; however, the home continues to be the main site for accidents. In Turkey, the increased usage of LPG as a cooking or heating fuel has resulted in many burn injuries from LPG mishaps. Between January 2000 and June 2011, 56 LPG-burned patients were compared with 112 flame-burned patients. There were no significant differences with respect to the mean age, sex, hospitalization time, and mortality in both groups. In the LPG-caused burn cases, 41 burns (73.2%) occurred at home, seven (12.5) were work-related mishaps, and eight (14.3) were associated with car accidents. The majority of the LPG burns (82%, 46 patients) resulted from a gas leak, and 18% of them were related to the failure to close LPG tubes in the patients' kitchens (10 patients). Burns to the face and neck (82 vs 67%, P = .039) and upper (62 vs 23%, P = .000) and lower (70 vs 45%, P = .002) extremities were significantly higher in LPG-caused burn cases than flame-burned cases. General awareness regarding the risk of LPG and first aid for burns appears to be lacking. The LPG delivery system should be standardized throughout countries that widely use LPG.

Sprayed zinc oxide films: Ultra-violet light-induced reversible surface wettability and platinum-sensitization-assisted improved liquefied petroleum gas response.

PubMed

Nakate, Umesh T; Patil, Pramila; Bulakhe, R N; Lokhande, C D; Kale, Sangeeta N; Naushad, Mu; Mane, Rajaram S

2016-10-15

We report the rapid (superhydrophobic to superhydrophilic) transition property and improvement in the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sensing response of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods (NRs) on UV-irradiation and platinum (Pt) surface sensitization, respectively. The morphological evolution of ZnO NRs is evidenced from the field emission scanning electron microscope and atomic force microscope digital images and for the structural elucidation X-ray diffraction pattern is used. Elemental survey mapping is obtained from energy dispersive X-ray analysis spectrum. The optical properties have been studied by UV-Visible and photoluminescence spectroscopy measurements. The rapid (120sec) conversion of superhydrophobic (154°) ZnO NRs film to superhydrophilic (7°) is obtained under UV light illumination and the superhydrophobicity is regained by storing sample in dark. The mechanism for switching wettability behavior of ZnO NRs has thoroughly been discussed. In second phase, Pt-sensitized ZnO NRs film has demonstrated considerable gas sensitivity at 260ppm concentration of LPG. At 623K operating temperature, the maximum LPG response of 58% and the response time of 49sec for 1040ppm LPG concentration of Pt- sensitized ZnO NRs film are obtained. This higher LPG response of Pt-sensitized ZnO NRs film over pristine is primarily due to electronic effect and catalytic effect (spill-over effect) caused by an additional of Pt on ZnO NRs film surface. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A simulation for predicting potential cooling effect on LPG-fuelled vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Setiyo, M.; Soeparman, S.; Wahyudi, S.; Hamidi, N.

2016-03-01

Liquefied Petroleum Gas vehicles (LPG Vehicles) provide a potential cooling effect about 430 kJ/kg LPG consumption. This cooling effect is obtained from the LPG phase change from liquid to vapor in the vaporizer. In the existing system, energy to evaporate LPG is obtained from the coolant which is circulated around the vaporizer. One advantage is that the LPG (70/30 propane / butane) when expanded from 8 bar to at 1.2 bar, the temperature is less than -25 °C. These conditions provide opportunities to evaporate LPG with ambient air flow, then produce a cooling effect for cooling car's cabin. In this study, some LPG mix was investigated to determine the optimum condition. A simulation was carried out to estimate potential cooling effects of 2000 cc engine from 1000 rpm to 6000 rpm. In this case, the mass flow rate of LPG is a function of fuel consumption. The simulation result shows that the LPG (70/30 propane/butane) provide the greatest cooling effect compared with other mixtures. In conclusion, the 2000 cc engine fueled LPG at 3000 rpm provides potential cooling effect more than 1.3 kW, despite in the low engine speed (1000 rpm) only provides about 0.5 kW.

Gas response properties of citrate gel synthesized nanocrystalline MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}: Effect of sintering temperature

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

Patil, J.Y.; Mulla, I.S.; Suryavanshi, S.S., E-mail: sssuryavanshi@rediffmail.com

2013-02-15

Graphical abstract: Display Omitted Highlights: ► Synthesis of nanocrystalline MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} by economical citrate gel combustion method. ► Structural, morphological, and gas response properties of MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4}. ► Enhancement in selectivity of MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} towards LPG with sintering temperature. ► Use of MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} to detect different gases at different operating temperatures. -- Abstract: Spinel type MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} material was synthesized by citrate gel combustion method. The effect of sintering temperature on structural, morphological, and gas response properties was studied. The powder X-ray diffraction pattern and transmission electron microscope study confirms nanocrystalline spinel structure ofmore » the synthesized powder. The material was tested for response properties to various reducing gases like liquid petroleum gas (LPG), acetone, ethanol, and ammonia. The results demonstrated n-type semiconducting behavior of MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} material. It was revealed that MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} sintered at 973 K was most sensitive to LPG at 648 K and to acetone at 498 K. However MgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} sintered at 1173 K exhibited higher response and selectivity to LPG with marginal increase in the operating temperature. Furthermore, the sensor exhibited a fast response and a good recovery. It was observed that the particles size, porosity, and surface activity of the sensor material is affected by the sintering temperature.« less

A prospective randomized trial of postoperative pain following different insufflation pressures during gynecologic laparoscopy.

PubMed

Topçu, H O; Cavkaytar, S; Kokanalı, K; Guzel, A I; Islimye, M; Doganay, M

2014-11-01

To determine the effects of different intra-abdominal pressure values on visceral pain following gynecologic laparoscopic surgery in the Trendelenburg position. This randomized, controlled prospective trial was conducted at a tertiary education hospital and included 150 patients who underwent gynecologic laparoscopy with different abdominal insufflation pressures. There were 54 patients in the 8 mmHg low pressure group (LPG), 45 in the 12 mmHg standard pressure group (SPG), and 51 in the 15 mmHg high pressure group (HPG). We assessed mean age, body mass index (BMI), duration of surgery, analgesic consumption, length of hospital stay, amount of CO2 expended and volume of hemorrhage. Visceral pain and referred visceral pain were assessed 6, 12, and 24 h postoperatively using a visual analog scale (VAS). There was no significant difference in age, BMI, analgesic consumption or length of hospital stay among groups. The mean operative time and total CO2 expended during surgery were higher in the LPG compared with the SPG and HPG. The mean intensity of postoperative pain assessed by the VAS score at 6 and 12 h was less in the LPG than in the SPG and HPG and was reduced significantly at 12 h. VAS scores at 24 h in the LPG and SPG were lower than in the HPG. Pain is reduced by low insufflation pressure compared with standard and high insufflation pressure following gynecologic laparoscopic surgery in the Trendelenburg position. However, low insufflation pressure may result in longer operation times and increased hemorrhage. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cooking Fuels in Lagos, Nigeria: Factors Associated with Household Choice of Kerosene or Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).

PubMed

Ozoh, Obianuju B; Okwor, Tochi J; Adetona, Olorunfemi; Akinkugbe, Ayesha O; Amadi, Casmir E; Esezobor, Christopher; Adeyeye, Olufunke O; Ojo, Oluwafemi; Nwude, Vivian N; Mortimer, Kevin

2018-03-31

Cooking with dirty-burning fuels is associated with health risk from household air pollution. We assessed the prevalence of and factors associated with the use of cooking fuels, and attitudes and barriers towards use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This was a cross-sectional, population-based survey conducted in 519 households in Lagos, Nigeria. We used a structured questionnaire to obtain information regarding choice of household cooking fuel and the attitudes towards the use of LPG. Kerosene was the most frequently used cooking fuel ( n = 475, 91.5%; primary use n = 364, 70.1%) followed by charcoal ( n = 159, 30.6%; primary use n = 88, 17%) and LPG ( n = 86, 16.6%; primary use n = 63, 12.1%). Higher level of education, higher income and younger age were associated with LPG vs. kerosene use. Fuel expenditure on LPG was significantly lower than for kerosene ( N (Naira) 2169.0 ± 1507.0 vs. N 2581.6 ± 1407.5). Over 90% of non-LPG users were willing to switch to LPG but cited safety issues and high cost as potential barriers to switching. Our findings suggest that misinformation and beliefs regarding benefits, safety and cost of LPG are important barriers to LPG use. An educational intervention program could be a cost-effective approach to improve LPG adoption and should be formally addressed through a well-designed community-based intervention study.

Cooking Fuels in Lagos, Nigeria: Factors Associated with Household Choice of Kerosene or Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)

PubMed Central

Okwor, Tochi J.; Adetona, Olorunfemi; Akinkugbe, Ayesha O.; Amadi, Casmir E.; Esezobor, Christopher; Adeyeye, Olufunke O.; Ojo, Oluwafemi; Nwude, Vivian N.; Mortimer, Kevin

2018-01-01

Cooking with dirty-burning fuels is associated with health risk from household air pollution. We assessed the prevalence of and factors associated with the use of cooking fuels, and attitudes and barriers towards use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This was a cross-sectional, population-based survey conducted in 519 households in Lagos, Nigeria. We used a structured questionnaire to obtain information regarding choice of household cooking fuel and the attitudes towards the use of LPG. Kerosene was the most frequently used cooking fuel (n = 475, 91.5%; primary use n = 364, 70.1%) followed by charcoal (n = 159, 30.6%; primary use n = 88, 17%) and LPG (n = 86, 16.6%; primary use n = 63, 12.1%). Higher level of education, higher income and younger age were associated with LPG vs. kerosene use. Fuel expenditure on LPG was significantly lower than for kerosene (N (Naira) 2169.0 ± 1507.0 vs. N2581.6 ± 1407.5). Over 90% of non-LPG users were willing to switch to LPG but cited safety issues and high cost as potential barriers to switching. Our findings suggest that misinformation and beliefs regarding benefits, safety and cost of LPG are important barriers to LPG use. An educational intervention program could be a cost-effective approach to improve LPG adoption and should be formally addressed through a well-designed community-based intervention study. PMID:29614713

Influence of cooled exhaust gas recirculation on performance, emissions and combustion characteristics of LPG fuelled lean burn SI engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ravi, K.; Pradeep Bhasker, J.; Alexander, Jim; Porpatham, E.

2017-11-01

On fuel perspective, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) provides cleaner emissions and also facilitates lean burn signifying less fuel consumption and emissions. Lean burn technology can attain better efficiencies and lesser combustion temperatures but this temperature is quite sufficient to facilitate formation of nitrogen oxide (NOx). Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) for NOx reduction has been considered allover but extremely little literatures exist on the consequence of EGR on lean burn LPG fuelled spark ignition (SI) engine. The following research is carried out to find the optimal rate of EGR addition to reduce NOx emissions without settling on performance and combustion characteristics. A single cylinder diesel engine is altered to operate as LPG fuelled SI engine at a compression ratio of 10.5:1 and arrangements to provide different ratios of cooled EGR in the intake manifold. Investigations are done to arrive at optimum ratio of the EGR to reduce emissions without compromising on performance. Significant reductions in NOx emissions alongside HC and CO emissions were seen. Higher percentages of EGR further diluted the charge and lead to improper combustion and thus increased hydrocarbon emissions. Cooled EGR reduced the peak in-cylinder temperature which reduced NOx emissions but lead to misfire at lower lean limits.

Characterization of a ricin-resistant mutant of Leishmania donovani that expresses lipophosphoglycan.

PubMed

Phillips, Megan R; Turco, Salvatore J

2015-04-01

The abundant cell-surface lipophosphoglycan (LPG) of Leishmania parasites plays a central role throughout the eukaryote's life cycle. A number of LPG-defective mutants and their complementing genes have been isolated and have proven invaluable in assessing the importance of LPG and related glycoconjugates in parasite virulence. While ricin agglutination selection protocols frequently result in lpg- mutants, one  Leishmania donovani variant we isolated, named JABBA, was found to be lpg+. Procyclic (logarithmic) JABBA expresses significant amounts of a large-sized LPG, larger than observed from procyclic wild type but similar in size to LPG from wild type from metacyclic (stationary) phase. Structural analysis of the LPG from logarithmically grown JABBA by capillary electrophoresis protocols revealed that it averaged 30 repeat units composed of the unsubstituted Gal(β1,4)Man(α1)-PO4 typical of wild-type L. donovani. Analysis of JABBA LPG caps indicated that 20% is branched trisaccharide Gal(β1,4)[Glc(β1,2)]Man and tetrasaccharide Gal(β1,4)[Glc(β1,2)Man(α1,2)]Man instead of the usual Gal(β1,4)Man and Man(α1,2)Man terminating caps. Consistent with these structural observations, analyses of the relevant glycosyltransferases in JABBA microsomes involved in LPG biosynthesis showed a 2-fold increase in elongating mannosylphosphoryltransferase activity and up-regulation of a β-glucosyltransferase activity. Furthermore, the caps of JABBA LPG are cryptic in presentation as shown by the loss of binding by the lectins, ricin, peanut agglutinin and concanavalin A and reduced accessibility of the terminal galactose residues to oxidation by galactose oxidase. These results indicate that LPG from JABBA is intriguingly similar to the larger LPG in wild-type parasites that arises following the differentiation of the non-infectious procyclic promastigotes to infectious, metacyclic forms. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Risk reduction in road and rail LPG transportation by passive fire protection.

PubMed

Paltrinieri, Nicola; Landucci, Gabriele; Molag, Menso; Bonvicini, Sarah; Spadoni, Gigliola; Cozzani, Valerio

2009-08-15

The potential reduction of risk in LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) road transport due to the adoption of passive fire protections was investigated. Experimental data available for small scale vessels fully engulfed by a fire were extended to real scale road and rail tankers through a finite elements model. The results of mathematical simulations of real scale fire engulfment scenarios that may follow accidents involving LPG tankers proved the effectiveness of the thermal protections in preventing the "fired" BLEVE (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion) scenario. The presence of a thermal coating greatly increases the "time to failure", providing a time lapse that in the European experience may be considered sufficient to allow the start of effective mitigation actions by fire brigades. The results obtained were used to calculate the expected reduction of individual and societal risk due to LPG transportation in real case scenarios. The analysis confirmed that the introduction of passive fire protections turns out in a significant reduction of risk, up to an order of magnitude in the case of individual risk and of about 50% if the expectation value is considered. Thus, the adoption of passive fire protections, not compulsory in European regulations, may be an effective technical measure for risk reduction, and may contribute to achieve the control of "major accidents hazards" cited by the European legislation.

Nanostructure ZnFe2O4 with Bacillus subtilis for Detection of LPG at Low Temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goutham, Solleti; Kumar, Devarai Santhosh; Sadasivuni, Kishor Kumar; Cabibihan, John-John; Rao, Kalagadda Venkateswara

2017-04-01

The present study deals with the development of a chemical sensor for the detection of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at a low operating temperature using Zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4)/ Bacillus subtilis ( B. subtilis) hybrid nanostructures. The nanostructure ZnFe2O4 and B. subtilis powder, taken in equal proportion was made into films using the spin coating technique. X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were used to study morphology, structure and crystallite size. The sensing properties of the hybrid structure were studied and excellent response was observed in the temperature range of 50-55°C for 400 ppm LPG, when compared to the individual components of the hybrid. The signal output of the proposed sensor were extremely stable for more than 30 days. This method proposes the usage of the biomolecule/metal oxide composites in electronics and helps to reduce the metal oxide usage.

Contribution of LPG-Derived Emissions to Air Pollution in the Metropolitan Area of Guadalajara City.

PubMed

Schifter, Isaac; Magdaleno, Moises; Díaz, Luis; Melgarejo, Luis A; Barrera, Adrian; Krüger, Burkhard; Arriaga, José L; Lopez-Salinas, Esteban

2000-10-01

Measurements of hydrocarbon (HC) emissions generated by the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara City (MAG) are presented in this work. Based on measurements in the course of distribution, handling, and consumption, an estimated 4407 tons/yr are released into the atmosphere. The three most important contributors to LPG emissions were refilling of LPG-fueled vehicles and commercial and domestic consumption. The MAG shows a different contribution pattern of LPG emission sources compared with that of the metropolitan area of Mexico City (MAMC). These results show that each megacity has different sources of emissions, which provides more accurate strategies in the handling procedures for LPG to decrease the impact in O 3 levels. This work represents the first evaluation performed in Guadalajara City, based on current measurements, of the LPG contribution to polluting emissions.

Contribution of LPG-derived emissions to air pollution in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara City.

PubMed

Schifter, I; Magdaleno, M; Díaz, L; Melgarejo, L A; Barrera, A; Krüger, B; Arriaga, J L; López-Salinas, E

2000-10-01

Measurements of hydrocarbon (HC) emissions generated by the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara City (MAG) are presented in this work. Based on measurements in the course of distribution, handling, and consumption, an estimated 4407 tons/yr are released into the atmosphere. The three most important contributors to LPG emissions were refilling of LPG-fueled vehicles and commercial and domestic consumption. The MAG shows a different contribution pattern of LPG emission sources compared with that of the metropolitan area of Mexico City (MAMC). These results show that each megacity has different sources of emissions, which provides more accurate strategies in the handling procedures for LPG to decrease the impact in O3 levels. This work represents the first evaluation performed in Guadalajara City, based on current measurements, of the LPG contribution to polluting emissions.

Airflow obstruction among street vendors who refill cigarette lighters with liquefied petroleum gas.

PubMed

Moitra, S; Blanc, P D; Brashier, B B

2014-09-01

Manual cigarette lighter refilling with butane/propane admixed liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a common low-income occupation in India. This practice may cause adverse health effects from LPG exposure among such workers. To assess respiratory status among LPG-exposed workers and non-exposed controls. We quantified the exposure and evaluated respiratory symptoms and lung function among 113 LPG refilling workers (aged 41.9±9.9 years) and 79 controls (aged 40.8±7.2 years). We used multiple linear regression analysis to estimate the LPG exposure response within the group of refilling workers, adjusting for age, height and smoking status. Compared to the controls, the LPG-exposed lighter refillers manifested a 190 ml decrement in 1-second forced expiratory volume (FEV1) (2.55±0.4 vs. 2.26±0.3 l) and a 6% decrement in FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) (both P < 0.05). We found a significantly negative exposure response among the LPG workers: for FVC and FEV1, 44 ml per ml of reported daily LPG use in refilling (P < 0.05). Likely heavy exposure to LPG through manually refilling cigarette lighters is associated with airflow decrements. This adverse effect may be relevant to other occupational groups heavily exposed to volatile hydrocarbons, especially those in marginal employment sectors.

Feasibility and Nutritional Benefits of Laparoscopic Proximal Gastrectomy for Early Gastric Cancer in the Upper Stomach.

PubMed

Kosuga, Toshiyuki; Ichikawa, Daisuke; Komatsu, Shuhei; Okamoto, Kazuma; Konishi, Hirotaka; Shiozaki, Atsushi; Fujiwara, Hitoshi; Otsuji, Eigo

2015-12-01

Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) has recently been applied for early gastric cancer (EGC) in the upper stomach as a minimally invasive and function-preserving surgery. This study aimed to clarify the feasibility and nutritional benefits of LPG over laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG). This was a retrospective study of 77 patients with clinical stage I gastric cancer in the upper stomach. Of these patients, 25 underwent LPG, while 52 underwent LTG. Surgical outcomes and postoperative nutritional status such as changes in body weight and blood chemistries were compared between LPG and LTG. Intraoperative blood loss and C-reactive protein levels at 3 and 7 days after surgery were significantly lower in LPG than in LTG (p = 0.018, 0.036, and 0.042, respectively). No significant differences were observed in postoperative early or late complication rates between LPG and LTG. The incidence of Los Angeles Grade B or more severe reflux esophagitis after LPG was 9.1 %, which was similar to that after LTG (9.3 %). Postoperative changes in body weight at 6 months and 1 and 2 years after surgery were consistently less in LPG than in LTG (p = 0.001, 0.022, and 0.001, respectively). Moreover, postoperative levels of hemoglobin and serum albumin and total lymphocyte count were also higher in LPG than in LTG. LPG may be a better choice for EGC in the upper stomach than LTG because it has distinct advantages in terms of surgical invasiveness and postoperative nutritional status.

Pressure sensitivity of dual resonant long-period gratings written in boron co-doped optical fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smietana, Mateusz; Bock, Wojtek J.; Mikulic, Predrag; Chen, Jiahua; Wisniewski, Roland

2011-05-01

The paper presents a pressure sensor based on a long-period grating (LPG) written in boron co-doped photosensitive fiber and operating at the phase-matching turning point. It is shown that the pressure sensitivity can be tuned by varying the UV exposure time during the LPG fabrication process. The achieved pressure sensitivity can reach over 1 nm•bar-1, and is at least four times higher than for previously presented gratings working away from the double-resonance regime. In terms of intensity-based measurement, the sensitivity at the turning point can reach 0.212 dB•bar-1.

Nanocrystalline NiNd0.01Fe1.99O4 as a gas sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shinde, Tukaram J.; Gadkari, Ashok B.; Jadhav, Sarjerao R.; Kumar, Surender; Dalawai, Sanjeev P.; Vasambekar, Pramod N.

2015-06-01

Nanocrystalline NiNd0.01Fe1.99O4 has been synthesized by oxalate co-precipitation method and was characterized by X-ray diffraction technique. X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the formation of single phase cubic spinel structure. Crystallite size of the ferrite lies in the nano-particle range. The gas sensing properties of nanocrystalline ferrite were studied for gases like Cl2, LPG and C2H5OH. It was observed that NiNd0.01Fe1.99O4 is more sensitive towards chlorine followed by LPG at an operating temperature 277 °C compared to ethanol.

Characterization of a ricin-resistant mutant of Leishmania donovani that expresses lipophosphoglycan

PubMed Central

Phillips, Megan R; Turco, Salvatore J

2015-01-01

The abundant cell-surface lipophosphoglycan (LPG) of Leishmania parasites plays a central role throughout the eukaryote's life cycle. A number of LPG-defective mutants and their complementing genes have been isolated and have proven invaluable in assessing the importance of LPG and related glycoconjugates in parasite virulence. While ricin agglutination selection protocols frequently result in lpg− mutants, one  Leishmania donovani variant we isolated, named JABBA, was found to be lpg+. Procyclic (logarithmic) JABBA expresses significant amounts of a large-sized LPG, larger than observed from procyclic wild type but similar in size to LPG from wild type from metacyclic (stationary) phase. Structural analysis of the LPG from logarithmically grown JABBA by capillary electrophoresis protocols revealed that it averaged 30 repeat units composed of the unsubstituted Gal(β1,4)Man(α1)-PO4 typical of wild-type L. donovani. Analysis of JABBA LPG caps indicated that 20% is branched trisaccharide Gal(β1,4)[Glc(β1,2)]Man and tetrasaccharide Gal(β1,4)[Glc(β1,2)Man(α1,2)]Man instead of the usual Gal(β1,4)Man and Man(α1,2)Man terminating caps. Consistent with these structural observations, analyses of the relevant glycosyltransferases in JABBA microsomes involved in LPG biosynthesis showed a 2-fold increase in elongating mannosylphosphoryltransferase activity and up-regulation of a β-glucosyltransferase activity. Furthermore, the caps of JABBA LPG are cryptic in presentation as shown by the loss of binding by the lectins, ricin, peanut agglutinin and concanavalin A and reduced accessibility of the terminal galactose residues to oxidation by galactose oxidase. These results indicate that LPG from JABBA is intriguingly similar to the larger LPG in wild-type parasites that arises following the differentiation of the non-infectious procyclic promastigotes to infectious, metacyclic forms. PMID:25472443

Five-year epidemiology of liquefied petroleum gas-related burns.

PubMed

Jin, Ronghua; Wu, Pan; Ho, Jon Kee; Wang, Xingang; Han, Chunmao

2018-02-01

The incidence of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)-related burns has increased over recent years, and it has become a serious public health issue in developing countries such as India and Turkey. This paper aims to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of LPG-related burns to provide assistance and suggestions for planning prevention strategies. A 5-year retrospective study was conducted in patients with LPG-related burns admitted to the Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, between 1st January 2011 and 31st December 2015. Information obtained for each patient included age, gender, education status, occupation, medical insurance, average hospital cost, length of hospital stay, monthly distribution of incidence, place of burns, mechanism of burns, extent of burns, site of burns, accompanying injuries, and treatment outcomes. For the first 4 years (2011-2014), the yearly incidence of LPG-related burns was at approximately 10% of all burns; however, in the fifth year (2015) alone, there was a surge to 26.94%. A total of 1337 burn patients were admitted during this period. Of these, 195 patients were admitted because of 169 LPG-related accidents; there were 11 accidents involving more than one victim. LPG-related burns occurred most frequently in patients aged 21-60 years (73.85%). The majority of injuries occurred from May to August (56.41%), and the most common place was home (83.08%, 162 patients). Gas leak (81.03%) was the main cause of LPG-related burns, followed by inappropriate operation (7.69%) and cooking negligence (2.05%). The mean burn area was 31.32±25.40% of TBSA. The most common sites of burns were the upper extremities (37.47%), followed by the head/face and neck (24.80%) and lower extremities (19.95%). The most common accompanying injuries included inhalation injury (23.59%), shock (8.71%), and external injury (7.18%). The average hospital stay was 22.90±19.47days (range 2-84 days). Only 48 patients (24.62%) had medical insurance, while 124 patients (63.59%) had no medical insurance. The average hospital cost of the no medical insurance group was significantly higher (p<0.0001) than that of the medical insurance group. In addition, 72.73% of patients who left against medical advice (LAMA) were uninsured. The number of patients who recovered at our hospital was 165 (84.62%), while 22 patients (11.28%) LAMA. The overall mortality rate was 4.10% (8 patients). Our study shows that the exponential increase in LPG-related burns is alarming. This calls for rigorous precautions. Because gas leak was the main cause of LPG-related burns, any part of LPG stove system that shows signs of weathering should be replaced regularly. In addition, we also found that most of the LAMA patients were uninsured. Thus, comprehensive medical insurance should be involved early in the recovery process to assure a safe and adequate discharge. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

Binding of Daptomycin to Anionic Lipid Vesicles Is Reduced in the Presence of Lysyl-Phosphatidylglycerol

PubMed Central

Khatib, Tala O.; Stevenson, Heather; Yeaman, Michael R.; Bayer, Arnold S.

2016-01-01

The cytoplasmic membrane of Staphylococcus aureus contains ∼20 mol% of the net cationic lipid lysyl-phosphatidylglycerol (LPG). Elevated fractions of LPG are associated with increased resistance to cationic antibiotics, including the lipopeptide daptomycin (DAP). Although the surface charge of the bacterial cytoplasmic membrane is altered by LPG, surface binding of DAP was found to be only moderately affected in anionic vesicles containing 20 mol% LPG. These results suggest that charge repulsion cannot fully explain LPG-mediated resistance to cationic peptides. PMID:27216066

Liquefied petroleum gas cold burn sustained while refueling a car.

PubMed

Scarr, Bronwyn; Mitra, Biswadev; Maini, Amit; Cleland, Heather

2010-02-01

There have been few cases of cold burn related to the exposure of liquid petroleum gas (LPG). We present the case of a young woman exposed to LPG while refueling her car who sustained partial thickness burns to the dorsum of her hand. Contact with LPG leaking from a pressurized system causes tissue damage because of cold injury. Immediate management of LPG is extrapolated from the management of frostbite. The increasing use of LPG mandates an awareness of prevention strategies and management principles in the setting of adverse events.

Charcoal versus LPG grilling: A carbon-footprint comparison

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

Johnson, Eric, E-mail: ejohnson@ecosite.co.u

2009-11-15

Undoubtedly, grilling is popular. Britons fire up their barbeques some 60 million times a year, consuming many thousands of tonnes of fuel. In milder climates consumption is even higher, and in the developing world, charcoal continues to be an essential cooking fuel. So it is worth comparing the carbon footprints of the two major grill types, charcoal and LPG, and that was the purpose of the study this paper documents. Charcoal and LPG grill systems were defined, and their carbon footprints were calculated for a base case and for some plausible variations to that base case. In the base case,more » the charcoal grilling footprint of 998 kg CO{sub 2}e is almost three times as large as that for LPG grilling, 349 kg CO{sub 2}e. The relationship is robust under all plausible sensitivities. The overwhelming factors are that as a fuel, LPG is dramatically more efficient than charcoal in its production and considerably more efficient in cooking. Secondary factors are: use of firelighters, which LPG does not need; LPG's use of a heavier, more complicated grill; and LPG's use of cylinders that charcoal does not need.« less

Visceral larvae as a predictive index of the overall level of fish batch infection in European anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus): A rapid procedure for Food Business Operators to assess marketability.

PubMed

Guardone, L; Nucera, D; Pergola, V; Costanzo, F; Costa, E; Tinacci, L; Guidi, A; Armani, A

2017-06-05

The European anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus), one of the most important pelagic fish resources in the Mediterranean Sea, is frequently infected by anisakid larvae. Food Business Operators (FBOs) should use appropriate sampling plans and analytical methods to avoid commercialization of massively infected batches and reduce the risk of transmission of viable zoonotic larvae. In this study, performed at FishLab (Department of Veterinary Sciences of the University of Pisa) during 2016, an official sampling plan was associated with a digestion protocol for the inspection of anchovies. Considering that anisakid larvae are usually located in the fish visceral cavity and in the adjacent muscles (VM), this part was analyzed. In particular, we assessed the reliability of the digestion of a subsample of 150g (±30g) of VM, randomly collected from 29 specimens, in estimating the marketability of the anchovies' batch. Fifty-seven samples of 29 anchovies were collected. Each anchovy was sectioned to separate VM. All the subsamples were digested, and visible larvae counted. A high correlation between the number of larvae in VM regions and in the total batch was observed, indicating a very significant contribution of the VM region on total number of parasites. The Mean Abundance (MA) was used to assess the batch marketability according to a threshold calculated on the basis of the maximum number of nematodes tolerated per sample. Considering that the MA can be calculated only when the number of examined specimens is known, the number of visible Larvae per gram of tissue (LpG) was calculated on 150g (±30g) of VM subsamples. A LpG marketability threshold was calculated dividing the maximum number of tolerated nematodes by the average weight of a sample of 29 anchovies calculated considering data available in literature. To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the LpG threshold, the marketability of 57 batches assessed on the basis of the MA threshold was assumed as the gold standard. The proposed LpG showed very high Specificity and Sensitivity. These findings suggest that the analysis of VM is representative of the overall infestation of the batch, both when considering the absolute number of parasites and the LpG, and may represent a valid alternative to the whole anchovy digestion. In particular, the use of an automated digestive method, coupled with the aforesaid sampling plan, could allow the procedure to be used by FBOs in operational conditions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of liquefied petroleum gas on ozone formation in Guadalajara and Mexico City.

PubMed

Jaimes-López, J Luis; Sandoval-Fernández, Julio; González-Ortíz, Emmanuel; Vázquez-García, Marcos; González-Macías, Uriel; Zambrano-García, Angel

2005-06-01

Leakages of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are suspected to contribute greatly to ozone (O3) formation in Mexico City. We tested such a hypothesis by outdoor captive-air irradiation (CAI) experiments in the two largest Mexican metropolitan areas: Guadalajara (GMA) in 1997 and Mexico City (MCMA) in 2000. O3 was monitored in each city for 20 days (8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.) in smog chambers containing unaltered morning air or morning air enriched with either commercial LPG or LPG synthetic mixture 60/40 (propane and butane). Tested additions of both components were 35% (by volume) in GMA and 60% (by volume) in MCMA. The addition effects on O3 (max) were compared with effects from diluting LPG components or total nonmethane hydrocarbons (tNMHCs) by 50%. Diluting tNMHCs had the greatest absolute effect at both cities: it lowered O3 (max) by 24% in GMA and 55% in MCMA. Adding commercial LPG increased O3 (max) by 6% in GMA and 28% in MCMA; whereas adding LPG synthetic mixture 60/40 caused a similar increase in O3 (max), 4 and 21% in GMA and MCMA, respectively. Compared with dilution of tNMHCs, dilution of LPG-associated compounds had a smaller decreasing effect on O3 (max), only 4% in GMA and 15% in MCMA. These results show that commercial LPG and LPG synthetic mixture 60/40 affect O3 formation to a lesser extent than estimated previously.

Preparation and characterization of Ag-doped In2O3 nanoparticles gas sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anand, Kanica; Kaur, Jasmeet; Singh, Ravi Chand; Thangaraj, Rengasamy

2017-08-01

Pure and Ag-doped In2O3 nanoparticles are synthesized by the co-precipitation method and are characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. Gas sensing properties of the sensors has been investigated towards methanol, ethanol, acetone and LPG at different operating temperatures. It is found that the sensor response magnitude of the 3% Ag-doped In2O3 nanoparticles sensors is higher to 50 ppm of ethanol at 300 °C, to acetone at 350 °C and to LPG at 400 °C. This is mainly attributed to the large number of oxygen vacancies and defects in doped sensors as corroborated by the photoluminescence studies.

Detecting Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) at Room Temperature Using ZnSnO3/ZnO Nanowire Piezo-Nanogenerator as Self-Powered Gas Sensor.

PubMed

Fu, Yongming; Nie, Yuxin; Zhao, Yayu; Wang, Penglei; Xing, Lili; Zhang, Yan; Xue, Xinyu

2015-05-20

High sensitivity, selectivity, and reliability have been achieved from ZnSnO3/ZnO nanowire (NW) piezo-nanogenerator (NG) as self-powered gas sensor (SPGS) for detecting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at room temperature (RT). After being exposed to 8000 ppm LPG, the output piezo-voltage of ZnSnO3/ZnO NW SPGS under compressive deformation is 0.089 V, much smaller than that in air ambience (0.533 V). The sensitivity of the SPGS against 8000 ppm LPG is up to 83.23, and the low limit of detection is 600 ppm. The SPGS has lower sensitivity against H2S, H2, ethanol, methanol and saturated water vapor than LPG, indicating good selectivity for detecting LPG. After two months, the decline of the sensing performance is less than 6%. Such piezo-LPG sensing at RT can be ascribed to the new piezo-surface coupling effect of ZnSnO3/ZnO nanocomposites. The practical application of the device driven by human motion has also been simply demonstrated. This work provides a novel approach to fabricate RT-LPG sensors and promotes the development of self-powered sensing system.

75 FR 32519 - Small Business Size Standards: Waiver of the Nonmanufacturer Rule

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-08

... (Compressed and Liquefied Gases), under NAICS code 325120 (Industrial Gases Manufacturing). On March 23, 2010...), under NAICS code 325120 (Industrial Gases Manufacturing). Dated: June 1, 2010. Karen Hontz, Director... Propane Gas (LPG), North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 325120, Product Service Code...

Fuel processing in integrated micro-structured heat-exchanger reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kolb, G.; Schürer, J.; Tiemann, D.; Wichert, M.; Zapf, R.; Hessel, V.; Löwe, H.

Micro-structured fuel processors are under development at IMM for different fuels such as methanol, ethanol, propane/butane (LPG), gasoline and diesel. The target application are mobile, portable and small scale stationary auxiliary power units (APU) based upon fuel cell technology. The key feature of the systems is an integrated plate heat-exchanger technology which allows for the thermal integration of several functions in a single device. Steam reforming may be coupled with catalytic combustion in separate flow paths of a heat-exchanger. Reactors and complete fuel processors are tested up to the size range of 5 kW power output of a corresponding fuel cell. On top of reactor and system prototyping and testing, catalyst coatings are under development at IMM for numerous reactions such as steam reforming of LPG, ethanol and methanol, catalytic combustion of LPG and methanol, and for CO clean-up reactions, namely water-gas shift, methanation and the preferential oxidation of carbon monoxide. These catalysts are investigated in specially developed testing reactors. In selected cases 1000 h stability testing is performed on catalyst coatings at weight hourly space velocities, which are sufficiently high to meet the demands of future fuel processing reactors.

Compressed Natural Gas and Liquefied Petroleum Gas Conversions: The National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Experience

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-04-01

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) contracted with conversion : companies in six states to convert approximately 900 light-duty Federal fleet : vehicles to operate on compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied petroleum gas : (LPG). After...

77 FR 72431 - Application for a Presidential Permit To Operate and Maintain Pipeline Facilities on the Border...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-05

... principle place of business at 333 Clay Street, Suite 1600, Houston Texas, 77002. Plains LPG is a subsidiary... with regard to whether issuing a new Presidential Permit reflecting the corporate succession and...

On-board measurement of emissions from liquefied petroleum gas, gasoline and diesel powered passenger cars in Algeria.

PubMed

Chikhi, Saâdane; Boughedaoui, Ménouèr; Kerbachi, Rabah; Joumard, Robert

2014-08-01

On-board measurements of unit emissions of CO, HC, NOx and CO₂ were conducted on 17 private cars powered by different types of fuels including gasoline, dual gasoline-liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), gasoline, and diesel. The tests performed revealed the effect of LPG injection technology on unit emissions and made it possible to compare the measured emissions to the European Artemis emission model. A sequential multipoint injection LPG kit with no catalyst installed was found to be the most efficient pollutant reduction device for all of the pollutants, with the exception of the NOx. Specific test results for a sub-group of LPG vehicles revealed that LPG-fueled engines with no catalyst cannot compete with catalyzed gasoline and diesel engines. Vehicle age does not appear to be a determining parameter with regard to vehicle pollutant emissions. A fuel switch to LPG offers many advantages as far as pollutant emissions are concerned, due to LPG's intrinsic characteristics. However, these advantages are being rapidly offset by the strong development of both gasoline and diesel engine technologies and catalyst converters. The LPG's performance on a chassis dynamometer under real driving conditions was better than expected. The enforcement of pollutant emission standards in developing countries is an important step towards introducing clean technology and reducing vehicle emissions. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Bi-fuel System - Gasoline/LPG in A Used 4-Stroke Motorcycle - Fuel Injection Type

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suthisripok, Tongchit; Phusakol, Nachaphat; Sawetkittirut, Nuttapol

2017-10-01

Bi-fuel-Gasoline/LPG system has been effectively and efficiently used in gasoline vehicles with less pollutants emission. The motorcycle tested was a used Honda AirBlade i110 - fuel injection type. A 3-litre LPG storage tank, an electronic fuel control unit, a 1-mm LPG injector and a regulator were securely installed. The converted motorcycle can be started with either gasoline or LPG. The safety relief valve was set below 48 kPa and over 110 kPa. The motorcycle was tuned at the relative rich air-fuel ratio (λ) of 0.85-0.90 to attain the best power output. From dynamometer tests over the speed range of 65-100 km/h, the average power output when fuelling LPG was 5.16 hp; dropped 3.9% from the use of gasoline91. The average LPG consumption rate from the city road test at the average speed of 60 km/h was 40.1 km/l, about 17.7% more. This corresponded to lower LPG’s energy density of about 16.2%. In emission, the CO and HC concentrations were 44.4% and 26.5% lower. Once a standard gas equipment set with ECU and LPG injector were securely installed and the engine was properly tuned up to suit LPG’s characteristics, the converted bi-fuel motorcycle offers efficiently, safely and economically performance with environmental friendly emission.

Consequence analysis in LPG installation using an integrated computer package.

PubMed

Ditali, S; Colombi, M; Moreschini, G; Senni, S

2000-01-07

This paper presents the prototype of the computer code, Atlantide, developed to assess the consequences associated with accidental events that can occur in a LPG storage plant. The characteristic of Atlantide is to be simple enough but at the same time adequate to cope with consequence analysis as required by Italian legislation in fulfilling the Seveso Directive. The application of Atlantide is appropriate for LPG storage/transferring installations. The models and correlations implemented in the code are relevant to flashing liquid releases, heavy gas dispersion and other typical phenomena such as BLEVE/Fireball. The computer code allows, on the basis of the operating/design characteristics, the study of the relevant accidental events from the evaluation of the release rate (liquid, gaseous and two-phase) in the unit involved, to the analysis of the subsequent evaporation and dispersion, up to the assessment of the final phenomena of fire and explosion. This is done taking as reference simplified Event Trees which describe the evolution of accidental scenarios, taking into account the most likely meteorological conditions, the different release situations and other features typical of a LPG installation. The limited input data required and the automatic linking between the single models, that are activated in a defined sequence, depending on the accidental event selected, minimize both the time required for the risk analysis and the possibility of errors. Models and equations implemented in Atlantide have been selected from public literature or in-house developed software and tailored with the aim to be easy to use and fast to run but, nevertheless, able to provide realistic simulation of the accidental event as well as reliable results, in terms of physical effects and hazardous areas. The results have been compared with those of other internationally recognized codes and with the criteria adopted by Italian authorities to verify the Safety Reports for LPG installations. A brief of the theoretical basis of each model implemented in Atlantide and an example of application are included in the paper.

End to deficit of LPG. [Argentina] (in Spanish)

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

Andrich, V.

1980-03-01

In the Buenos Aires province of Argentina, Gas de Estado is constructing the future heart of the petrochemical complex, Bahia Blanca. The complex contains 2 absorption-refrigeration plants, a gas compressing plant, equipment maintenance shops and an important operations base for the Argentine truck gas pipelines. This will be the largest LPG plant in Latin America. The General Cerri plant, under construction, is located in an area of 40,000 sq m with new installations to extract ethane and higher hydrocarbons. The design optimizes the extraction of hydrocarbons from the natural gas and recovers 76% of the ethane. Selection of the processmore » resulted from an investigation that compared the system with processes that use water cooling and absorption with refrigerated oil.« less

Nanocrystalline NiNd{sub 0.01}Fe{sub 1.99}O{sub 4} as a gas sensor

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

Shinde, Tukaram J., E-mail: pshindetj@yahoo.co.in; Gadkari, Ashok B.; Jadhav, Sarjerao R.

2015-06-24

Nanocrystalline NiNd{sub 0.01}Fe{sub 1.99}O{sub 4} has been synthesized by oxalate co-precipitation method and was characterized by X-ray diffraction technique. X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the formation of single phase cubic spinel structure. Crystallite size of the ferrite lies in the nano-particle range. The gas sensing properties of nanocrystalline ferrite were studied for gases like Cl{sub 2}, LPG and C{sub 2}H{sub 5}OH. It was observed that NiNd{sub 0.01}Fe{sub 1.99}O{sub 4} is more sensitive towards chlorine followed by LPG at an operating temperature 277 °C compared to ethanol.

Conceptual Model of Supply Chain Structure Mapping - A Case of Subsidized LPG Commodity in Yogyakarta

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sulistio, Joko; Thoif, Afifuddin; Fitri Alindira, Aulia

2016-01-01

— In 2007, the government launched a conversion program of kerosene to LPG by issuing a Presidential Regulation No. 104/2007 on Supply, Distribution and Pricing LPG 3 Kg. Article 2 on the regulation says that setting the supply, distribution, and pricing of LPG 3 Kg include planning an annual sales volume of enterprises, the reference price and the retail price and conditions of export and import of LPG 3 Kg in order to reduce subsidies Kerosene especially to divert the use of kerosene according to government policy. In principle, the purpose of this policy is to reduce energy subsidies on commodities, especially Kerosene. Although the government claimed the conversion program is success, there are few problems arising from conversion program. In 2014, many scarcity and high price of LPG 3 Kg were reported. In this case, Pertamina was given full authority to manage all supply chain and distribution. Because the root of the problem of scarcity that occurred in the supply chain system has not been explained, the proposed solutions will also be partial and not comprehensive. Thus, this research will build a structural map of the causes of supply chain system LPG 3 Kg, as well as providing a comprehensive picture of system dynamics of LPG 3 Kg supply chain system which applied in Indonesia. And the result is expected as in form of Causal Loop Diagram of supply chain system.

Effective hydrogen generator testing for on-site small engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chaiwongsa, Praitoon; Pornsuwancharoen, Nithiroth; Yupapin, Preecha P.

2009-07-01

We propose a new concept of hydrogen generator testing for on-site small engine. In general, there is a trade-off between simpler vehicle design and infrastructure issues, for instance, liquid fuels such as gasoline and methanol for small engine use. In this article we compare the hydrogen gases combination the gasoline between normal systems (gasoline only) for small engine. The advantage of the hydrogen combines gasoline for small engine saving the gasoline 25%. Furthermore, the new concept of hydrogen combination for diesel engine, bio-diesel engine, liquid petroleum gas (LPG), natural gas vehicle (NGV), which is discussed in details.

Structural comparison of lipophosphoglycan from Leishmania turanica and L. major, two species transmitted by Phlebotomus papatasi.

PubMed

Volf, Petr; Nogueira, Paula M; Myskova, Jitka; Turco, Salvatore J; Soares, Rodrigo P

2014-10-01

The lipophosphoglycan (LPG) of Leishmania major has a major role in the attachment to Phlebotomus papatasi midgut. Here, we investigated the comparative structural features of LPG of L. turanica, another species transmitted by P. papatasi. The mAb WIC 79.3, specific for terminal Gal(β1,3) side-chains, strongly reacted with L. turanica LPG. In contrast, L. turanica LPG was not recognized by arabinose-specific mAb 3F12. In conclusion, LPGs from L. major and L. turanica are similar, with the latter being less arabinosylated than L. major's. The high galactose content in L. turanica LPG is consistent with its predicted recognition by P. papatasi lectin PpGalec. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Explosion characteristics of LPG-air mixtures in closed vessels.

PubMed

Razus, Domnina; Brinzea, Venera; Mitu, Maria; Oancea, D

2009-06-15

The experimental study of explosive combustion of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas)-air mixtures at ambient initial temperature was performed in two closed vessels with central ignition, at various total initial pressures within 0.3-1.3bar and various fuel/air ratios, within the flammability limits. The transient pressure-time records were used to determine several explosion characteristics of LPG-air: the peak explosion pressure, the explosion time (the time necessary to reach the peak pressure), the maximum rate of pressure rise and the severity factor. All explosion parameters are strongly dependent on initial pressure of fuel-air mixture and on fuel/air ratio. The explosion characteristics of LPG-air mixtures are discussed in comparison with data referring to the main components of LPG: propane and butane, obtained in identical conditions.

Early Leakage Protection System of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) Based on ATMega 16 Microcontroller

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sriwati; Ikhsan Ilahi, Nur; Musrawati; Baco, Syarifuddin; Suyuti'Andani Achmad, Ansar; Umrianah, Ejah

2018-04-01

LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). LPG is a hydrocarbon gas production from refineries and gas refinery with the major components of propane gas (C3H8) and butane (C4H10). Limit flame (Flammable Range) or also called gas with air. Value Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) is the minimum limit of the concentration of fuel vapor in the air which if there is no source of fire, the gas will be burned. While the value of the Upper Explosive Limit (UEL), which limits the maximum concentration of fuel vapor in the air, which if no source of fire, the gas will be burned. Protection system is a defend mechanism of human, equipment, and buildings around the protected area. Goals to be achieved in this research are to design a protection system against the consequences caused by the leakage of LPG gas based on ATmega16 microcontroller. The method used in this research is to reduce the levels of leaked LPG and turned off the power source when the leakage of LPG is on the verge of explosive limit. The design of this protection system works accurately between 200 ppm up to 10000 ppm, which is still below the threshold of explosive. Thus protecting the early result of that will result in the leakage of LPG gas.

All-optical switching based on optical fibre long period gratings modified bacteriorhodopsin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Korposh, S.; James, S.; Partridge, M.; Sichka, M.; Tatam, R.

2018-05-01

All-optical switching using an optical fibre long-period gating (LPG) modified with bacteriorhodopsin (bR) is demonstrated. The switching process is based on the photo-induced RI change of bR, which in turn changes the phase matching conditions of the mode coupling by the LPG, leading to modulation of the propagating light. The effect was studied with an LPG immersed into a bR solution and with LPGs coated with the bR films, deposited onto the LPGs using the layer-by-layer electrostatic self-assembly (LbL) method. The dependence of the all-optical switching efficiency upon the concentration of the bR solution and on the grating period of the LPG was also studied. In addition, an in-fibre Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) composed of a cascaded LPG pair separated by 30 mm and modified with bR was used to enhance the wavelength range of all-optical switching. The switching wavelength is determined by the grating period of the LPG. Switching efficiencies of 16% and 35% were observed when an LPG and an MZI were immersed into bR solutions, respectively. The switching time for devices coated with bR-films was within 1 s, 10 times faster than that observed for devices immersed into bR solution.

Late Pleniglacial vegetation in eastern-central Europe: are there modern analogues in Siberia?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magyari, Enikő Katalin; Kuneš, Petr; Jakab, Gusztáv; Sümegi, Pál; Pelánková, Barbora; Schäbitz, Frank; Braun, Mihály; Chytrý, Milan

2014-07-01

To characterize Late Pleniglacial (LPG: 26.5-15 ka cal BP) and particularly Last Glacial Maximum (LGM: 21 ± 2 ka cal BP) vegetation and climate, fossil pollen assemblages are often compared with modern pollen assemblages. Given the non-analogue climate of the LPG, a key question is how glacial pollen assemblages and thereby vegetation compare with modern vegetation. In this paper we present three LPG pollen records from the Carpathian Basin and the adjoining Carpathian Mountains to address this question and provide a concise compositional characterization of the LPG vegetation. Fossil pollen assemblages were compared with surface pollen spectra from the Altai-Sayan Mountains in southern Siberia. This area shows many similarities with the LPG vegetation of eastern-central Europe, and has long been considered as its best modern analogue. Ordination and analogue matching were used to characterize vegetation composition and find the best analogues. Our results show that few LPG pollen assemblages have statistically significant analogues in southern Siberia. When analogue pairings occur they suggest the predominance of wet and mesic grasslands and dry steppe in the studied region. Wooded vegetation types (continental and suboceanic hemiboreal forest, continental taiga) appear as significant analogues only in a few cases during the LGM and more frequently after 16 ka cal BP. These results suggest that the LPG landscape of the Carpathian Basin was dominated by dry steppe that occurred outside the river floodplains, while wet and mesic grasslands occurred in the floodplains and on other sites influenced by ground water. Woody vegetation mainly occurred in river valleys, on wet north-facing hillsides, and scattered trees were likely also present on the loess plateaus. The dominant woody species were Larix, Pinus sylvestris, Pinus mugo, Pinus cembra, Picea abies, Betula pendula/pubescens, Betula nana, Juniperus, Hippophaë rhamnoides, Populus, Salix and Alnus. The pollen records suggest uninterrupted presence of mesophilous temperate trees (Quercus, Ulmus, Corylus, Fagus and Fraxinus excelsior) in the Eastern Carpathian Mountains throughout the LPG. We demonstrate that the LPG vegetation in this area was characterized by increasing grass cover and high frequency of wildfires. We conclude that pollen spectra over represent trees in the forest-steppe landscape of the LPG, furthermore pollen-based quantitative climate reconstructions for the LPG are challenging in this area due to the scarcity of modern analogues.

Photonic crystal fiber as lab-in-fiber optofluidic platform for sensing and process monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Fei

The ability to design and fabricate photonic crystal fiber (PCF) of vastly different microstructural and optical characteristics is arguably one of the most significant recent advances in the field of fiber optics. This dissertation aims to advance the PCF research frontier by exploring long-period fiber gratings (LPG) inscribed in PCF for sensing and process monitoring via combined numerical and experimental investigation. Specifically, a mode solver based on the Finite Element Method (FEM) has been employed to calculate the mode field distribution, the phase matching condition, and the dispersive characteristics associated with LPG-induced coupling of the fundamental core mode (LP01) to various cladding modes (LPmn, m=0,1; n=2,3, ...) in an endlessly single mode PCF. The numerical results have been used to guide the design and fabrication of LPG in PCF by CO2 laser inscription to maximize index sensitivity in gas or liquid medium. Cascaded PCF-LPG has been fabricated and shown to exhibit record sensitivity in excess of 1700 nm/RIU with high resolution for index measurements of gas phase. The inherent interference fringes in the transmission spectrum of cascaded PCF-LPG have been utilized to analyze mode coupling behaviour. In addition, we have developed and implemented a reflective mirror-aided method to allow symmetrical CO2 laser irradiation of PCF during LPG inscription. Both numerical analysis and experimental measurements have shown significantly improved mode coupling behaviour, mode field distribution, as well as reproducibility in LPG fabrication, critical for practical exploitation of the PCF-LPG platform. We have further exploited the high index sensitivity of PCF-LPG to monitor layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVPON) and poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) polyelectrolyte layers as well as the pH responsiveness of the cross-linked PMAA hydrogel films. A shift of ˜1.625 nm in the resonance wavelength per polyelectrolyte layer deposited inside PCF-LPG has been registered with robust pH response of the hydrogel. These findings have demonstrated the significant potential of PCF-LPG as a novel lab-in-fiber optofluidic platform for basic and applied studies of LbL in confined geometry for nanosensors and nano-actuators based on stimuli-responsive polyelectrolyte thin films.

Effects of spark plug configuration on combustion and emission characteristics of a LPG fuelled lean burn SI engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ravi, K.; Khan, Manazir Ahmed; Pradeep Bhasker, J.; Porpatham, E.

2017-11-01

Introduction of technological innovation in automotive engines in reducing pollution and increasing efficiency have been under contemplation. Gaseous fuels have proved to be a promising way to reduce emissions in Spark Ignition (SI) engines. In particular, LPG settled to be a favourable fuel for SI engines because of their higher hydrogen to carbon ratio, octane rating and lower emissions. Wide ignition limits and efficient combustion characteristics make LPG suitable for lean burn operation. But lean combustion technology has certain drawbacks like poor flame propagation, cyclic variations etc. Based on copious research it was found that location, types and number of spark plug significantly influence in reducing cyclic variations. In this work the influence of single and dual spark plugs of conventional and surface discharge electrode type were analysed. Dual surface discharge electrode spark plug enhanced the brake thermal efficiency and greatly reduced the cyclic variations. The experimental results show that rate of heat release and pressure rise was more and combustion duration was shortened in this configuration. On the emissions front, the NOx emission has increased whereas HC and CO emissions were reduced under lean condition.

A comparison of exhaust emissions from vehicles fuelled with petrol, LPG and CNG

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bielaczyc, P.; Szczotka, A.; Woodburn, J.

2016-09-01

This paper presents an analysis of THC, NMHC, CO, NOx and CO2 emissions during testing of two bi-fuel vehicles, fuelled with petrol and gaseous fuels, on a chassis dynamometer in the context of the Euro 6 emissions requirements. The analyses were performed on one Euro 5 bi-fuel vehicle (petrol/LPG) and one Euro 5 bi-fuel vehicle (petrol/CNG), both with SI engines equipped with MPI feeding systems operating in closed-loop control, typical three-way-catalysts and heated oxygen sensors. The vehicles had been adapted by their manufacturers for fuelling with LPG or CNG by using additional special equipment mounted onto the existing petrol fuelling system. The vehicles tested featured multipoint gas injection systems. The aim of this paper was an analysis of the impact of the gaseous fuels on the exhaust emission in comparison to the emission of the vehicles fuelled with petrol. The tests subject to the analyses presented here were performed in the Engine Research Department of BOSMAL Automotive Research and Development Institute Ltd in Bielsko-Biala, Poland, within a research programme investigating the influence of alternative fuels on exhaust emissions from light duty vehicle vehicles with spark-ignition and compression-ignition engines.

Synthesis of nano-structured tin oxide thin films with faster response to LPG and ammonia by spray pyrolysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

PrasannaKumari, K.; Thomas, Boben

2018-01-01

Nanostructured SnO2 thin film have been efficiently fabricated by spray pyrolysis using atomizers of different types. The structure and morphology of as-prepared samples are investigated by techniques such as x-ray diffraction, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy. Significant morphological changes are observed in films by modifying the precursor atomization as a result of change of spray device. The optical characterization indicates that change in atomization, affects the absorbance and the band gap, following the varied crystallite size. Gas sensing investigations on ultrasonically prepared tin oxide films show NH3 response at operating temperatures lower down to 50 °C. For 1000 ppm of LPG the response at 350 °C for air blast atomizer film is about 99%, with short response and recovery times. The photoluminescence emmision spectra reveal the correlation between atomization process and the quantity of oxygen vacancies present in the samples. The favorable size reduction in microstructure with good crystallinity with slight change in lattice properties suggest their scope in gas sensing applications. On the basis of these characterizations, the mechanism of LPG and NH3 gas sensing of nanostructured SnO2 thin films has been proposed.

Evaluation of traffic exhaust contributions to ambient carbonaceous submicron particulate matter in an urban roadside environment in Hong Kong

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Berto Paul; Kwok Keung Louie, Peter; Luk, Connie; Keung Chan, Chak

2017-12-01

Road traffic has significant impacts on air quality particularly in densely urbanized and populated areas where vehicle emissions are a major local source of ambient particulate matter. Engine type (i.e., fuel use) significantly impacts the chemical characteristics of tailpipe emission, and thus the distribution of engine types in traffic impacts measured ambient concentrations. This study provides an estimation of the contribution of vehicles powered by different fuels (gasoline, diesel, LPG) to carbonaceous submicron aerosol mass (PM1) based on ambient aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) and elemental carbon (EC) measurements and vehicle count data in an urban inner city environment in Hong Kong with the aim to gauge the importance of different engine types to particulate matter burdens in a typical urban street canyon. On an average per-vehicle basis, gasoline vehicles emitted 75 and 93 % more organics than diesel and LPG vehicles, respectively, while EC emissions from diesel vehicles were 45 % higher than those from gasoline vehicles. LPG vehicles showed no appreciable contributions to EC and thus overall represented a small contributor to traffic-related primary ambient PM1 despite their high abundance (˜ 30 %) in the traffic mix. Total carbonaceous particle mass contributions to ambient PM1 from diesel engines were only marginally higher (˜ 4 %) than those from gasoline engines, which is likely an effect of recently introduced control strategies targeted at commercial vehicles and buses. Overall, gasoline vehicles contributed 1.2 µg m-3 of EC and 1.1 µ m-3 of organics, LPG vehicles 0.6 µg m-3 of organics and diesel vehicles 2.0 µg m-3 of EC and 0.7 µg m-3 of organics to ambient carbonaceous PM1.

Algeria LPG pipeline is build by Bechtel

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

Horner, C.

1984-08-01

The construction of the 313 mile long, 24 in. LPG pipeline from Hassi R'Mel to Arzew, Algeria is described. The pipeline was designed to deliver 6 million tons of LPG annually using one pumping station. Eventually an additional pumping station will be added to raise the system capacity to 9 million tons annually.

Influence of fuel composition on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon emissions from a fleet of in-service passenger cars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, McKenzie C. H.; Ayoko, Godwin A.; Morawska, Lidia.; Ristovski, Zoran D.; Jayaratne, E. Rohan

The composition of exhaust emissions from eight in-service passenger cars powered by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and unleaded petrol (ULP) were measured on a chassis dynamometer at two driving speeds (60 and 80 km h -1) with the aims of evaluating their polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contents and investigating the effects of the type of fuel on vehicle performance, ambient air quality and associated health risks. Naphthalene, fluorene, phenanthrene, anthracene, pyrene, chrysene, benzo(a)anthracene and benzo(b)fluoranthene were the most prominent PAHs emitted by both ULP and LPG powered cars. The total emission factors of PAHs from LPG cars were generally lower than (but statistically comparable with) those of ULP cars. Similarly, the total BAP eq of the PAHs emitted by LPG cars were lower than those from ULP cars. Multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) methods showed that cars powered by LPG fuel performed better than those powered by ULP fuel in term of PAH levels. The implications of these observations on the advantages and disadvantages of using ULP and LPG fuels are discussed.

Comparison of bursting pressure results of LPG tank using experimental and finite element method.

PubMed

Aksoley, M Egemen; Ozcelik, Babur; Bican, Ismail

2008-03-01

In this study, the resistance of liquefied-petroleum gas (LPG) tanks produced from carbon steel sheet metal of different thicknesses has been investigated by bursting pressure experiments and non-linear Finite Element Method (FEM) method by increasing internal pressure values. The designs of LPG tanks produced from sheet metal to be used at the study have been realized by analytical calculations made taking into consideration of related standards. Bursting pressure tests have been performed that were inclined to decreasing the sheet thickness of LPG tanks used in industry. It has been shown that the LPG tanks can be produced in compliance with the standards when the sheet thickness is lowered from 3 to 2.8mm. The FEM results have displayed close values with the bursting results obtained from the experiments.

Technical evaluation and assessment of CNG/LPG bi-fuel and flex-fuel vehicle viability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sinor, J. E.

1994-05-01

This report compares vehicles using compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and combinations of the two in bi-fuel or flex-fuel configurations. Evidence shows that environmental and energy advantages can be gained by replacing two-fuel CNG/gasoline vehicles with two-fuel or flex-fuel systems to be economically competitive, it is necessary to develop a universal CNG/LPG pressure-regulator-injector and engine control module to switch from one tank to the other. For flex-fuel CNG/LPG designs, appropriate composition sensors, refueling pumps, fuel tanks, and vaporizers are necessary.

Large-Scale Wireless Temperature Monitoring System for Liquefied Petroleum Gas Storage Tanks.

PubMed

Fan, Guangwen; Shen, Yu; Hao, Xiaowei; Yuan, Zongming; Zhou, Zhi

2015-09-18

Temperature distribution is a critical indicator of the health condition for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) storage tanks. In this paper, we present a large-scale wireless temperature monitoring system to evaluate the safety of LPG storage tanks. The system includes wireless sensors networks, high temperature fiber-optic sensors, and monitoring software. Finally, a case study on real-world LPG storage tanks proves the feasibility of the system. The unique features of wireless transmission, automatic data acquisition and management, local and remote access make the developed system a good alternative for temperature monitoring of LPG storage tanks in practical applications.

Surfactant modified SnO2 nanostructured thin film for improved sensing performance of LPG and ammonia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumari, K. Prasanna; Thomas, Boben

2017-05-01

SnO2 nanostructured thin films have been successfully synthesized by way of spray pyrolysis from surfactant added solution. The X-ray diffraction pattern discloses the tetragonal rutile phase of the deposited SnO2 films, which experience a grain size reduction from 35 nm to 19 nm, on the addition of PVP surfactant in precursor. Gas sensing investigations on the surfactant modified film show considerable LPG and NH3 response at a lower operating temperature of 150°C. Quick response (˜20s) and fast recovery (˜30s) are the main features of these sensors. The measurement of AC conductivity of the sample allows understanding the conduction mechanism and sensing action for to enhance the detection sensitivity greatly.

Component-wise exergy and energy analysis of vapor compression refrigeration system using mixture of R134a and LPG as refrigerant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gill, Jatinder; Singh, Jagdev

2018-05-01

In this work, the experimental examination was carried out using a mixture of R134a and LPG refrigerant (consisting of R134a and LPG in a proportion of 28:72 by weight) as a replacement for R134a in a vapor compression refrigeration system. Exergy and energy tests were carried out at different evaporator and condenser temperatures with controlled environmental conditions. The results showed that the exergy destruction in the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and a capillary tube of the R134a / LPG refrigeration system was found lower by approximately 11.13-3.41%, 2.24-3.43%, 12.02-13.47% and 1.54-5.61% respectively. The compressor exhibits the highest level of destruction, accompanied by a condenser, an evaporator and a capillary tube in refrigeration systems. The refrigeration capacity, COP and power consumption of the compressor of the R134a /LPG refrigeration system were detected higher and lower compared to the R134a refrigeration system by about 7.04-11.41%, 15.1-17.82%, and 3.83-8.08% respectively. Also, the miscibility of R134a and LPG blend with mineral oil discovered good. The R134a and LPG refrigerant mixture proposed in this study perform superior to R134a from component-wise exergy and energy analyses under similar experimental conditions.

Possible health effects of liquefied petroleum gas on workers at filling and distribution stations of Gaza governorates.

PubMed

Sirdah, M M; Al Laham, N A; El Madhoun, R A

2013-03-01

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is widely used in the Gaza Strip for domestic purposes, in agriculture and industry and, illegally, in cars. This study aimed to identify possible health effects on workers exposed to LPG in Gaza governorates. Data were collected by a questionnaire interview, and haematological and biochemical analyses of venous blood samples were made from 30 workers at filling and distribution stations and 30 apparently healthy controls. Statistically significant differences were found in all self-reported health-related complaints among LPG workers versus controls. LPG workers had significantly higher values of red blood cell counts, haemoglobin, haematocrit mean corpuscular haemoglobin and platelet counts. They also had significantly higher values of kidney function tests (urea, creatinine and uric acid) and liver function enzyme activities (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase). LPG workers at Gaza Strip petroleum stations are at higher risk for health-related symptoms and clinical abnormalities.

Long-period grating and its cascaded counterpart in photonic crystal fiber for gas phase measurement.

PubMed

Tian, Fei; Kanka, Jiri; Du, Henry

2012-09-10

Regular and cascaded long period gratings (LPG, C-LPG) of periods ranging from 460 to 590 μm were inscribed in an endlessly single mode photonic crystal fiber (PCF) using CO(2) laser for sensing measurements of helium, argon and acetylene. High index sensitivities in excess of 1700 nm/RIU were achieved in both grating schemes with a period of 460 μm. The sharp interference fringes in the transmission spectrum of C-PCF-LPG afforded not only greatly enhanced sensing resolution, but also accuracy when the phase-shift of the fringe pattern is determined through spectral processing. Comparative numerical and experimental studies indicated LP(01) to LP(03) mode coupling as the principal coupling step for both PCF-LPG and C-PCF-LPG with emergence of multi-mode coupling at shorter grating periods or longer resonance wavelengths.

The application of super wavelet finite element on temperature-pressure coupled field simulation of LPG tank under jet fire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Bin

2015-02-01

Temperature-pressure coupled field analysis of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tank under jet fire can offer theoretical guidance for preventing the fire accidents of LPG tank, the application of super wavelet finite element on it is studied in depth. First, review of related researches on heat transfer analysis of LPG tank under fire and super wavelet are carried out. Second, basic theory of super wavelet transform is studied. Third, the temperature-pressure coupled model of gas phase and liquid LPG under jet fire is established based on the equation of state, the VOF model and the RNG k-ɛ model. Then the super wavelet finite element formulation is constructed using the super wavelet scale function as interpolating function. Finally, the simulation is carried out, and results show that the super wavelet finite element method has higher computing precision than wavelet finite element method.

Cost effectiveness of converting to alternative motor vehicle fuels. A technical assistance study for the City of Longview

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

McCoy, G.A.

1983-11-18

The City of Longview can obtain significant fuel savings benefits by converting a portion of their vehicle fleet to operate on either compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquid petroleum gas (LPG) fuels. The conversion of 41 vehicles including police units, sedans, pickups, and light duty trucks to CNG use would offset approximately 47% of the city's 1982 gasoline consumption. The CNG conversion capital outlay of $115,000 would be recovered through fuel cost reductions. The Cascade Natural Gas Corporation sells natural gas under an interruptible tariff for $0.505 per therm, equivalent to slightly less than one gallon of gasoline. The citymore » currently purchases unleaded gasoline at $1.115 per gallon. A payback analysis indicates that 39.6 months are required for the CNG fuel savings benefits to offset the initial or first costs of the conversion. The conversion of fleet vehicles to liquid petroleum gas (LPG) or propane produces comparable savings in vehicle operating costs. The conversion of 59 vehicles including police units, pickup and one ton trucks, street sweepers, and five cubic yard dump trucks would cost approximately $59,900. The annual purchase of 107,000 gallons of propane would offset the consumption of 96,300 gallons of gasoline, or approximately 67% of the city's 1982 usage. Propane is currently retailing for $0.68 to $0.74 per gallon. A payback analysis indicates that 27.7 months are required for the fuel savings benefits to offset the initial LPG conversion costs.« less

Large-Scale Wireless Temperature Monitoring System for Liquefied Petroleum Gas Storage Tanks

PubMed Central

Fan, Guangwen; Shen, Yu; Hao, Xiaowei; Yuan, Zongming; Zhou, Zhi

2015-01-01

Temperature distribution is a critical indicator of the health condition for Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) storage tanks. In this paper, we present a large-scale wireless temperature monitoring system to evaluate the safety of LPG storage tanks. The system includes wireless sensors networks, high temperature fiber-optic sensors, and monitoring software. Finally, a case study on real-world LPG storage tanks proves the feasibility of the system. The unique features of wireless transmission, automatic data acquisition and management, local and remote access make the developed system a good alternative for temperature monitoring of LPG storage tanks in practical applications. PMID:26393596

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) poisoning: report of two cases and review of the literature.

PubMed

Fukunaga, T; Yamamoto, H; Tanegashima, A; Yamamoto, Y; Nishi, K

1996-10-25

Two autopsy cases of men who died while connecting a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) pipe are reported. Their blood concentrations of propane (the main content of LPG) were 0.12 and 3.40 mg/100 g, respectively. The cause of death after exposure of LPG has generally been considered to be asphyxia from hypoxia. The large differences in the blood propane levels found here and reported in the literature, however, suggest that direct toxic effects of propane poisoning may be the cause of death in some cases. Propane concentrations and the cause of death are reviewed and discussed.

Lipophosphoglycan polymorphisms do not affect Leishmania amazonensis development in the permissive vectors Lutzomyia migonei and Lutzomyia longipalpis.

PubMed

Nogueira, Paula M; Guimarães, Agna C; Assis, Rafael R; Sadlova, Jovana; Myskova, Jitka; Pruzinova, Katerina; Hlavackova, Jana; Turco, Salvatore J; Torrecilhas, Ana C; Volf, Petr; Soares, Rodrigo P

2017-12-16

Lipophosphoglycan (LPG) is a dominant surface molecule of Leishmania promastigotes. Its species-specific polymorphisms are found mainly in the sugars that branch off the conserved Gal(β1,4)Man(α1)-PO 4 backbone of repeat units. Leishmania amazonensis is one of the most important species causing human cutaneous leishmaniasis in the New World. Here, we describe LPG intraspecific polymorphisms in two Le. amazonensis reference strains and their role during the development in three sand fly species. Strains isolated from Lutzomyia flaviscutellata (PH8) and from a human patient (Josefa) displayed structural polymorphism in the LPG repeat units, possessing side chains with 1 and 2 β-glucose or 1 to 3 β-galactose, respectively. Both strains successfully infected permissive vectors Lutzomyia longipalpis and Lutzomyia migonei and could colonize their stomodeal valve and differentiate into metacyclic forms. Despite bearing terminal galactose residues on LPG, Josefa could not sustain infection in the restrictive vector Phlebotomus papatasi. LPG polymorphisms did not affect the ability of Le. amazonensis to develop late-stage infections in permissive vectors. However, the non-establishment of infection in Ph. papatasi by Josefa strain suggested other LPG-independent factors in this restrictive vector.

Effects of a liquefied petroleum gas stove intervention on pollutant exposure and adult cardiopulmonary outcomes (CHAP): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Fandiño-Del-Rio, Magdalena; Goodman, Dina; Kephart, Josiah L; Miele, Catherine H; Williams, Kendra N; Moazzami, Mitra; Fung, Elizabeth C; Koehler, Kirsten; Davila-Roman, Victor G; Lee, Kathryn A; Nangia, Saachi; Harvey, Steven A; Steenland, Kyle; Gonzales, Gustavo F; Checkley, William

2017-11-03

Biomass fuel smoke is a leading risk factor for the burden of disease worldwide. International campaigns are promoting the widespread adoption of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in resource-limited settings. However, it is unclear if the introduction and use of LPG stoves, in settings where biomass fuels are used daily, reduces pollution concentration exposure, improves health outcomes, or how cultural and social barriers influence the exclusive adoption of LPG stoves. We will conduct a randomized controlled, field intervention trial of LPG stoves and fuel distribution in rural Puno, Peru, in which we will enroll 180 female participants aged 25-64 years and follow them for 2 years. After enrollment, we will collect information on sociodemographic characteristics, household characteristics, and cooking practices. During the first year of the study, LPG stoves and fuel tanks will be delivered to the homes of 90 intervention participants. During the second year, participants in the intervention arm will keep their LPG stoves, but the gas supply will stop. Control participants will receive LPG stoves and vouchers to obtain free fuel from distributors at the beginning of the second year, but gas will not be delivered. Starting at baseline, we will collect longitudinal measurements of respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function, blood pressure, endothelial function, carotid artery intima-media thickness, 24-h dietary recalls, exhaled carbon monoxide, quality-of-life indicators, and stove-use behaviors. Environmental exposure assessments will occur six times over the 2-year follow-up period, consisting of 48-h personal exposure and kitchen concentration measurements of fine particulate matter and carbon monoxide, and 48-h kitchen concentrations of nitrogen dioxide for a subset of 100 participants. Findings from this study will allow us to better understand behavioral patterns, environmental exposures, and cardiovascular and pulmonary outcomes resulting from the adoption of LPG stoves. If this trial indicates that LPG stoves are a feasible and effective way to reduce household air pollution and improve health, it will provide important information to support widespread adoption of LPG fuel as a strategy to reduce the global burden of disease. ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT02994680 , Cardiopulmonary Outcomes and Household Air Pollution (CHAP) Trial. Registered on 28 November 2016.

DNA-Aptamer optical biosensors based on a LPG-SPR optical fiber platform for point-of-care diagnostic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coelho, L.; Queirós, R. B.; Santos, J. L.; Martins, M. Cristina L.; Viegas, D.; Jorge, P. A. S.

2014-03-01

Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) is the base for some of the most sensitive label free optical fiber biosensors. However, most solutions presented to date require the use of fragile fiber optic structure such as adiabatic tapers or side polished fibers. On the other hand, long-period fiber gratings (LPG) present themselves as an interesting solution to attain an evanescent wave refractive index sensor platform while preserving the optical fiber integrity. The combination of these two approaches constitute a powerful platform that can potentially reach the highest sensitivities as it was recently demonstrated by detailed theoretical study [1, 2]. In this work, a LPG-SPR platform is explored in different configurations (metal coating between two LPG - symmetric and asymmetric) operating in the telecom band (around 1550 nm). For this purpose LPGs with period of 396 μm are combined with tailor made metallic thin films. In particular, the sensing regions were coated with 2 nm of chromium to improve the adhesion to the fiber and 16 nm of gold followed by a 100 nm thick layer of TiO2 dielectric material strategically chosen to attain plasmon resonance in the desired wavelength range. The obtained refractometric platforms were then validated as a biosensor. For this purpose the detection of thrombin using an aptamer based probe was used as a model system for protein detection. The surface of the sensing fibers were cleaned with isopropanol and dried with N2 and then the aminated thrombin aptamer (5'-[NH2]- GGTTGGTGTGGTTGG-3') was immobilized by physisorption using Poly-L-Lysine (PLL) as cationic polymer. Preliminary results indicate the viability of the LPFG-SPR-APTAMER as a flexible platforms point of care diagnostic biosensors.

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

Wang, X.; Xiao, Y.; Xu, S.

A co-production system based on Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthesis reactor and gas turbine was simulated and analyzed. Syngas from entrained bed coal gasification was used as feedstock of the low-temperature slurry phase Fischer-Tropsch reactor. Raw synthetic liquid produced was fractioned and upgraded to diesel, gasoline, and liquid petrol gas (LPG). Tail gas composed of unconverted syngas and FT light components was fed to the gas turbine. Supplemental fuel (NG, or refinery mine gas) might be necessary, which was dependent on gas turbine capacity expander through flow capacity, etc. FT yield information was important to the simulation of this co-production system. Amore » correlation model based on Mobil's two step pilot plant was applied. User models that can predict product yields and cooperate with other units were embedded into Aspen plus simulation. Performance prediction of syngas fired gas turbine was the other key of this system. The increase in mass flow through the turbine affects the match between compressor and turbine operating conditions. The calculation was carried out by GS software developed by Politecnico Di Milano and Princeton University. Various cases were investigated to match the FT synthesis island, power island, and gasification island in co-production systems. Effects of CO{sub 2} removal/LPG recovery, co-firing, and CH{sub 4} content variation were studied. Simulation results indicated that more than 50% of input energy was converted to electricity and FT products. Total yield of gasoline, diesel, and LPG was 136-155 g/N m{sup 3} (CO+H{sub 2}). At coal feed of 21.9 kg/s, net electricity exported to the grid was higher than 100 MW. Total production of diesel and gasoline (and LPG) was 118,000 t (134,000 t)/year. Under the economic analysis conditions assumed in this paper the co-production system was economically feasible.« less

Characterization of performance-emission indices of a diesel engine using ANFIS operating in dual-fuel mode with LPG

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakraborty, Amitav; Roy, Sumit; Banerjee, Rahul

2018-03-01

This experimental work highlights the inherent capability of an adaptive-neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) based model to act as a robust system identification tool (SIT) in prognosticating the performance and emission parameters of an existing diesel engine running of diesel-LPG dual fuel mode. The developed model proved its adeptness by successfully harnessing the effects of the input parameters of load, injection duration and LPG energy share on output parameters of BSFCEQ, BTE, NOX, SOOT, CO and HC. Successive evaluation of the ANFIS model, revealed high levels of resemblance with the already forecasted ANN results for the same input parameters and it was evident that similar to ANN, ANFIS also has the innate ability to act as a robust SIT. The ANFIS predicted data harmonized the experimental data with high overall accuracy. The correlation coefficient (R) values are stretched in between 0.99207 to 0.999988. The mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) tallies were recorded in the range of 0.02-0.173% with the root mean square errors (RMSE) in acceptable margins. Hence the developed model is capable of emulating the actual engine parameters with commendable ranges of accuracy, which in turn would act as a robust prediction platform in the future domains of optimization.

Leishmania major survival in selective Phlebotomus papatasi sand fly vector requires a specific SCG-encoded lipophosphoglycan galactosylation pattern.

PubMed

Dobson, Deborah E; Kamhawi, Shaden; Lawyer, Phillip; Turco, Salvatore J; Beverley, Stephen M; Sacks, David L

2010-11-11

Phlebotomine sand flies that transmit the protozoan parasite Leishmania differ greatly in their ability to support different parasite species or strains in the laboratory: while some show considerable selectivity, others are more permissive. In "selective" sand flies, Leishmania binding and survival in the fly midgut typically depends upon the abundant promastigote surface adhesin lipophosphoglycan (LPG), which exhibits species- and strain-specific modifications of the dominant phosphoglycan (PG) repeat units. For the "selective" fly Phlebotomus papatasi PpapJ, side chain galactosyl-modifications (scGal) of PG repeats play key roles in parasite binding. We probed the specificity and properties of this scGal-LPG PAMP (Pathogen Associated Molecular Pattern) through studies of natural isolates exhibiting a wide range of galactosylation patterns, and of a panel of isogenic L. major engineered to express similar scGal-LPG diversity by transfection of SCG-encoded β1,3-galactosyltransferases with different activities. Surprisingly, both 'poly-scGal' and 'null-scGal' lines survived poorly relative to PpapJ-sympatric L. major FV1 and other 'mono-scGal' lines. However, survival of all lines was equivalent in P. duboscqi, which naturally transmit L. major strains bearing 'null-scGal'-LPG PAMPs. We then asked whether scGal-LPG-mediated interactions were sufficient for PpapJ midgut survival by engineering Leishmania donovani, which normally express unsubstituted LPG, to express a 'PpapJ-optimal' scGal-LPG PAMP. Unexpectedly, these "L. major FV1-cloaked" L. donovani-SCG lines remained unable to survive within PpapJ flies. These studies establish that midgut survival of L. major in PpapJ flies is exquisitely sensitive to the scGal-LPG PAMP, requiring a specific 'mono-scGal' pattern. However, failure of 'mono-scGal' L. donovani-SCG lines to survive in selective PpapJ flies suggests a requirement for an additional, as yet unidentified L. major-specific parasite factor(s). The interplay of the LPG PAMP and additional factor(s) with sand fly midgut receptors may determine whether a given sand fly host is "selective" or "permissive", with important consequences to both disease transmission and the natural co-evolution of sand flies and Leishmania.

Multi-parameter measurements using optical fibre long period gratings for indoor air quality monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hromadka, J.; Korposh, S.; Partridge, M. C.; James, S.; Davis, F.; Crump, D.; Lee, S.-W.; Tatam, R. P.

2017-04-01

An array of three long period gratings (LPGs) fabricated in a single optical fibre and multiplexed in the wavelength domain was used to measure simultaneously temperature, relative humidity (RH) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Each LPG sensor was designed to optimize its response to a desired measurand. The LPGs were fabricated with periods such that they operated at or near the phase matching turning point. The sensors were calibrated in the laboratory and the simultaneous measurement of the key indoor air quality parameters was undertaken in laboratory and office environments. It was demonstrated successfully that the data produced by the LPG sensor array under real conditions was in a good agreement with that produced by commercially available sensors. Further, the potential application of fibre optic sensors for VOCs detection at high levels has been demonstrated.

An unusual cause of cold injury: liquified petroleum gas leakage.

PubMed

Seyhan, Nevra; Jasharllari, Lorenc; Kayapınar, Muhammed; Savacı, Nedim

2011-11-01

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is an odorless and colorless gas that is a mixture of hydrocarbons (propane and butane). It is now more commonly preferred among drivers as an auto-gas throughout the world because it is cheaper than petrol or diesel and produces the same amount of energy. Because of its rapid vaporization and consequent lowering of temperature, it may cause severe cold injuries. A 33-year-old male who suffered from hand burn due to LPG is presented in this article. In LPG-converted cars, if the conversion has not been done properly, LPG may leak. Thus, the public must be informed of this potential danger while undertaking repairs of their vehicles.

Fibre optic chemical sensor based on graphene oxide-coated long period grating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Chen; Cai, Qi; Sun, Zhongyuan; Xu, Baojian; Zhao, Jianlong; Zhang, Lin; Chen, Xianfeng

2016-05-01

In this work, a graphene oxide-coated long period fibre grating (GO-LPG) is proposed for chemical sensing application. Graphene oxide (GO) has been deposited on the surface of long period grating to form a sensing layer which significantly enhances the interaction between LPG propagating light and the surrounding-medium. The sensing mechanism of GO-LPG relies on the change of grating resonance intensity against surrounding-medium refractive index (SRI). The proposed GO-LPG has been used to measure the concentrations of sugar aqueous solutions. The refractive index sensitivities with 99.5 dB/RIU in low refractive index region (1.33-1.35) and 320.6 dB/RIU in high index region (1.42-1.44) have been achieved, showing an enhancement by a factor of 3.2 and 6.8 for low and high index regions, respectively. The proposed GO-LPG can be further extended to the development of optical biochemical sensor with advantages of high sensitivity, real-time and label-free sensing.

Kinetic modeling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) reduction of titania in MATLAB

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yin, Tan Wei; Ramakrishnan, Sivakumar; Rezan, Sheikh Abdul; Noor, Ahmad Fauzi Mohd; Izah Shoparwe, Noor; Alizadeh, Reza; Roohi, Parham

2017-04-01

In the present study, reduction of Titania (TiO2) by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)-hydrogen-argon gas mixture was investigated by experimental and kinetic modelling in MATLAB. The reduction experiments were carried out in the temperature range of 1100-1200°C with a reduction time from 1-3 hours and 10-20 minutes of LPG flowing time. A shrinking core model (SCM) was employed for the kinetic modelling in order to determine the rate and extent of reduction. The highest experimental extent of reduction of 38% occurred at a temperature of 1200°C with 3 hours reduction time and 20 minutes of LPG flowing time. The SCM gave a predicted extent of reduction of 82.1% due to assumptions made in the model. The deviation between SCM and experimental data was attributed to porosity, thermodynamic properties and minute thermal fluctuations within the sample. In general, the reduction rates increased with increasing reduction temperature and LPG flowing time.

School Districts Move to the Head of the Class with Propane

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

None

School districts across the country are under pressure to reduce their cost of operations and ensure their budgets are spent wisely. School bus fleets operate more than 675,000 buses in the United States, and many school districts have found the answer to their budget woes in the form of propane, or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Propane is a reliable, domestic fuel, and it's used in approximately 2% of school buses nationwide.

Explosion hazards of LPG-air mixtures in vented enclosure with obstacles.

PubMed

Zhang, Qi; Wang, Yaxing; Lian, Zhen

2017-07-15

Numerical simulations were performed to study explosion characteristics of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) explosion in enclosure with a vent. Unlike explosion overpressure and dynamic pressure, explosion temperature of the LPG-air mixture at a given concentration in a vented enclosure has very little variation with obstacle numbers for a given blockage ratio. For an enclosure without obstacle, explosion overpressures for the stoichiometric mixtures and the fuel-lean mixtures reach their maximum within the vent and that for fuel-rich mixture reaches its maximum beyond and near the vent. Dynamic pressures produced by an indoor LPG explosion reach their maximum always beyond the vent no matter obstacles are present or not in the enclosure. A LPG explosion in a vented enclosure with built-in obstacles is strong enough to make the brick and mortar wall with a thickness of 370mm damaged. If there is no obstacle in the enclosure, the lower explosion pressure of several kPa can not break the brick and mortar wall with a thickness of 370mm. For a LPG explosion produced in an enclosure with a vent, main hazards, within the vent, are overpressure and high temperature. However main hazards are dynamic pressure, blast wind, and high temperature beyond the vent. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Fine Particulate Matter ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

This study measured polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) composition in particulate matter emissions from residential cookstoves. A variety of fuel and cookstove combinations were examined, including: (i) liquid petroleum gas (LPG), (ii) kerosene in a wick stove, (iii) wood (10% and 30% moisture content on a wet basis) in a forced-draft fan stove, and (iv) wood in a natural-draft rocket cookstove. LPG combustion had the highest thermal efficiency (~57%) and the lowest PAH emissions per unit fuel energy, resulting in the lowest PAH emissions per useful energy delivered (MJd). The average benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) emission factor for LPG was 0.842 µg/MJd; the emission rate was 0.043 µg/min. The highest PAH emissions were from wood burning in the natural-draft stove (209-700 µg B[a]P/MJd). PAH emissions from kerosene were significantly lower than those from the wood burning in the natural-draft cookstove, but higher than those from LPG. It is expected that in rural regions where LPG and kerosene are unavailable or unaffordable, the forced-draft fan stove may be an alternative because its emission factor (5.17-8.07 µg B[a]P/MJd) and emission rate (0.52-0.57 µg/min) are similar to kerosene (5.36 µg B[a]P/MJd and 0.45 µg/min). Compared with wood combustion emissions, LPG stoves emit less total PAH emissions and less fractions of high molecular weight PAHs. Relatively large variations in PAH emissions from LPG call for additional future tests to identify the major

LPG and NH3 sensing characteristics of DC electrochemically deposited Co3O4 films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shelke, P. N.; Khollam, Y. B.; Gunjal, S. D.; Koinkar, P. M.; Jadkar, S. R.; Mohite, K. C.

2015-03-01

Present communication reports the LPG and NH3 sensing properties of Co3O4 films prepared on throughly cleaned stainless steel (SS) and copper (CU) substrates by using DC electrochemical deposition method followed by air annealing at 350°C/2 h. The resultant films are characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The LPG and NH3 gas sensing properties of these films are measured at room temperature (RT) by using static gas sensing system at different concentrations of test gas ranging from 25 ppm to 350 ppm. The XRD and Raman spectroscopy studies clearly indicated the formation of pure cubic spinel Co3O4 in all films. The LPG and NH3 gas sensing properties of films showed (i) the increase in sensitivity factor (S.F.) with gas concentrations and (ii) more sensibility to LPG as compared to NH3 gas. In case of NH3 gas (conc. 150 ppm) and LPG gas (conc. 60 ppm) sensing, the maximum S.F. = 270 and 258 are found for the films deposited on CU substrates, respectively. For all films, the response time (3-5 min.) is found to be much higher than the recovery time (30-50 sec). For all films, the response and recovery time are found to be higher for LPG as compared to NH3 gas. Further, repeatability-reproducibility in gas sensing properties is clearly noted by analysis of data for number of cycles recorded for all films from different set of depositions.

Effectiveness of replacing catalytic converters in LPG-fueled vehicles in Hong Kong

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyu, Xiaopu; Guo, Hai; Simpson, Isobel J.; Meinardi, Simone; Louie, Peter K. K.; Ling, Zhenhao; Wang, Yu; Liu, Ming; Luk, Connie W. Y.; Wang, Nan; Blake, Donald R.

2016-05-01

Many taxis and public buses are powered by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Hong Kong. With more vehicles using LPG, they have become the major contributor to ambient volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Hong Kong. An intervention program which aimed to reduce the emissions of VOCs and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from LPG-fueled vehicles was implemented by the Hong Kong government in September 2013. Long-term real-time measurements indicated that the program was remarkably effective in reducing LPG-related VOCs, NOx and nitric oxide (NO) in the atmosphere. Receptor modeling results further revealed that propane, propene, i-butane, n-butane and NO in LPG-fueled vehicle exhaust emissions decreased by 40.8 ± 0.1, 45.7 ± 0.2, 35.7 ± 0.1, 47.8 ± 0.1 and 88.6 ± 0.7 %, respectively, during the implementation of the program. In contrast, despite the reduction of VOCs and NOx, O3 following the program increased by 0.40 ± 0.03 ppbv (˜ 5.6 %). The LPG-fueled vehicle exhaust was generally destructive to OH and HO2. However, the destruction effect weakened for OH and it even turned to positive contribution to HO2 during the program. These changes led to the increases of OH, HO2 and HO2 / OH ratio, which might explain the positive O3 increment. Analysis of O3-VOCs-NOx sensitivity in ambient air indicated VOC-limited regimes in the O3 formation before and during the program. Moreover, a maximum reduction percentage of NOx (i.e., 69 %) and the lowest reduction ratio of VOCs / NOx (i.e., 1.1) in LPG-fueled vehicle exhaust were determined to give a zero O3 increment. The findings are of great help to future formulation and implementation of control strategies on vehicle emissions in Hong Kong, and could be extended to other regions in China and around the world.

Immunological and biochemical analysis of glycosylated surface antigens and lipophosphoglycan of Tritrichomonas foetus.

PubMed

Singh, B N; BonDurant, R H; Campero, C M; Corbeil, L B

2001-08-01

Immunoaffinity-purified TF1.17 adhesin antigen was compared biochemically and antigenically to Tritrichomonas foetus (TF) lipophosphoglycan (LPG) and a soluble glycosylated antigen (SGA) released from T. foetus and implicated in pathogenesis and immunity. The monoclonal antibodies (Mabs TF1.15 and TF1.17) specific for a glycosylated TF1.17 antigen were previously shown to prevent adhesion of the T. foetus parasites to bovine vaginal epithelial cells and to mediate killing by bovine complement. SGA was isolated from T. foetus-conditioned buffer and purified by octyl-Sepharose hydrophobic column chromatography. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis of SGA showed a major SGA1 component (approximately 190 kDa) and a minor SGA2 component (50-70 kDa), which migrated close to TF-LPG and TF1.17. The carbohydrate and lipid compositional analyses of affinity-purified TF1.17 and SGA2 by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas-liquid chromatography revealed the presence of monosaccharides and fatty acids as found in TF-LPG. All antigens contained terminal fucose as determined by alpha-fucosidase digestion followed by HPLC. ELISA and western blots were used to further characterize these glycosylated antigens and to analyze their relationships. The Mabs TF1.15 and TF1.17 reacted very strongly to TF-LPG and SGA2. as well as TF1.17 antigen, indicating that these molecules share common epitopes. These Mabs did not react with the SGA1 component either in ELISA and western blot analyses. Also, the monosaccharide composition of SGA1 was very different from the other three antigen, suggesting SGA1 was different from LPG, SGA2 and TF1.17. Although LPG reacted with Mabs to native TF1.17 antigen, LPG did not induce an immune response in cattle with the same route and adjuvant used to produce strong antibody responses to the native antigen. The latter response suggests that the tightly bound peptide present in the immunoaffinity-purified antigen is necessary for induction of a response to (an) epitope(s) in TF-LPG and TF1.17. Furthermore, vaginal fluid from T. foetus-infected heifers and serum from a cow with a T. foetus-associated pyometra recognized both TF1.17 and TF-LPG in western blots. These results suggest that T. foetus LPG and SGA2 are related to TF1.17 antigen, which was previously shown to play an important role in the pathogenesis and host response in bovine trichomoniasis.

Leishmania major Survival in Selective Phlebotomus papatasi Sand Fly Vector Requires a Specific SCG-Encoded Lipophosphoglycan Galactosylation Pattern

PubMed Central

Dobson, Deborah E.; Kamhawi, Shaden; Lawyer, Phillip; Turco, Salvatore J.; Beverley, Stephen M.; Sacks, David L.

2010-01-01

Phlebotomine sand flies that transmit the protozoan parasite Leishmania differ greatly in their ability to support different parasite species or strains in the laboratory: while some show considerable selectivity, others are more permissive. In “selective” sand flies, Leishmania binding and survival in the fly midgut typically depends upon the abundant promastigote surface adhesin lipophosphoglycan (LPG), which exhibits species- and strain-specific modifications of the dominant phosphoglycan (PG) repeat units. For the “selective” fly Phlebotomus papatasi PpapJ, side chain galactosyl-modifications (scGal) of PG repeats play key roles in parasite binding. We probed the specificity and properties of this scGal-LPG PAMP (Pathogen Associated Molecular Pattern) through studies of natural isolates exhibiting a wide range of galactosylation patterns, and of a panel of isogenic L. major engineered to express similar scGal-LPG diversity by transfection of SCG-encoded β1,3-galactosyltransferases with different activities. Surprisingly, both ‘poly-scGal’ and ‘null-scGal’ lines survived poorly relative to PpapJ-sympatric L. major FV1 and other ‘mono-scGal’ lines. However, survival of all lines was equivalent in P. duboscqi, which naturally transmit L. major strains bearing ‘null-scGal’-LPG PAMPs. We then asked whether scGal-LPG-mediated interactions were sufficient for PpapJ midgut survival by engineering Leishmania donovani, which normally express unsubstituted LPG, to express a ‘PpapJ-optimal’ scGal-LPG PAMP. Unexpectedly, these “L. major FV1-cloaked” L. donovani-SCG lines remained unable to survive within PpapJ flies. These studies establish that midgut survival of L. major in PpapJ flies is exquisitely sensitive to the scGal-LPG PAMP, requiring a specific ‘mono-scGal’ pattern. However, failure of ‘mono-scGal’ L. donovani-SCG lines to survive in selective PpapJ flies suggests a requirement for an additional, as yet unidentified L. major-specific parasite factor(s). The interplay of the LPG PAMP and additional factor(s) with sand fly midgut receptors may determine whether a given sand fly host is “selective” or “permissive”, with important consequences to both disease transmission and the natural co-evolution of sand flies and Leishmania. PMID:21085609

The effect of cover use on plastic pyrolysis reactor heating process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Armadi, Benny H.; Rangkuti, Chalilullah; Fauzi, M. D.; Permatasari, R.

2017-03-01

Plastic pyrolysis process to produce liquid fuel is an endothermic process that uses heat from the combustion of fuel as heat source. The reactor used is usually a vertical cylindrical in shape, with LPG fuel combustion under the flat bottom of the reactor, and the combustion gases is dispersed into the surrounding environment, so that heat transferred to the plastic inside the reactor is not effective, causing high LPG consumption. In this study, the reactor is made of stainless steel plate, with a vertical cylindrical shape, with a basic cylindrical conical truncated by a pit pass hot flue gas in the middle that serves to deliver flue gas into the chimney. The contact area between the hot combusted LPG gases to the processed plastic inside the reactor becomes bigger and gets better heat transfer, and required less LPG consumption. For more effective heat transfer process, an outer cover of this reactor was made and the relatively hot combustion gases are used to heat the outside of the reactor by directing the flow of the flue gas from the chimney down along the outer wall of the reactor and out the bottom lid. This construction makes the heating process to be faster and the LPG fuel is used more efficiently. From the measurements, it was found to raise 1°C of temperature inside the covered reactor, the LPG consumed is 0.59 gram, and if the reactor cover is removed, the gas demand will rise nearly threefold to 1.43 grams. With this method, in addition to reducing the rate of heat loss will also help reduce LPG consumption significantly.

A novel optical fiber biochemical sensor based on long period grating

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Xianhui; Liao, Yanbiao; Zhang, Min; Lai, Shurong; Yin, Haibo

2007-09-01

In this paper, our present work, which aimed at investigating a novel optical fiber biochemical sensor based on long period grating (LPG), is introduced. Biochemical sensor is one of the most attractive fields of sensor research, especially with the development and occurrence of all kinds of novel theory and technology such as LPG. When there is a refraction index periodic perturbation, the guiding mode and cladding mode in LPG couple with each other. This make the LPG is sensitive to the ambient refractive index. This means it can be a novel bio-chemical sensor when it is applied in the fields of biochemistry. After investigating the principle of coupling in LPG, where the formulas of resonance wave length and band width are induced by 3-layer step index model, we developed an optical fiber biochemical sensor. The structure of its probe is designed by coating some function films whose thickness is between several tens and several hundreds nanometers on the cladding of optical fiber. Experiments of monitoring the saline separateness process of Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) and Mice-Immunoglobulin G (M-IgG) by using the developed LPG sensor have been done. The monitoring indicated that for the BSA, the saline separateness occurs when the saturation is between 50% and 60%, for the M-IgG, the percentage is between 30%-40%. Besides the monitoring, the experiments could also analyze the effects of protein type (different molecule structure), protein consistency and saline saturation to saline separateness. The experimental results show that the optical fiber biochemical sensor based on LPG has many advantages such as simple structure, high sensitivity and miniature. It has a promising future in many research fields and application fields.

Effect of intraoperative fluid management on outcome after intraabdominal surgery.

PubMed

Nisanevich, Vadim; Felsenstein, Itamar; Almogy, Gidon; Weissman, Charles; Einav, Sharon; Matot, Idit

2005-07-01

The debate over the correct perioperative fluid management is unresolved. The impact of two intraoperative fluid regimes on postoperative outcome was prospectively evaluated in 152 patients with an American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status of I-III who were undergoing elective intraabdominal surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to receive intraoperatively either liberal (liberal protocol group [LPG], n = 75; bolus of 10 ml/kg followed by 12 ml x kg(-1) x h(-1)) or restrictive (restrictive protocol group [RPG], n = 77; 4 ml x kg(-1) x h(-1)) amounts of lactated Ringer's solution. The primary endpoint was the number of patients who died or experienced complications. The secondary endpoints included time to initial passage of flatus and feces, duration of hospital stay, and changes in body weight, hematocrit, and albumin serum concentration in the first 3 postoperative days. The number of patients with complications was lower in the RPG (P = 0.046). Patients in the LPG passed flatus and feces significantly later (flatus, median [range]: 4 [3-7] days in the LPG vs. 3 [2-7] days in the RPG; P < 0.001; feces: 6 [4-9] days in the LPG vs. 4 [3-9] days in the RPG; P < 0.001), and their postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer (9 [7-24] days in the LPG vs. 8 [6-21] days in the RPG; P = 0.01). Significantly larger increases in body weight were observed in the LPG compared with the RPG (P < 0.01). In the first 3 postoperative days, hematocrit and albumin concentrations were significantly higher in the RPG compared with the LPG. In patients undergoing elective intraabdominal surgery, intraoperative use of restrictive fluid management may be advantageous because it reduces postoperative morbidity and shortens hospital stay.

Effectiveness of replacing catalytic converters in LPG-fueled vehicles in Hong Kong

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyu, X. P.; Guo, H.; Simpson, I. J.; Meinardi, S.; Louie, P. K. K.; Ling, Z. H.; Wang, Y.; Liu, M.; Luk, C. W. Y.; Wang, N.; Blake, D. R.

2015-12-01

Many taxis and public buses are powered by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Hong Kong. With more vehicles using LPG, they have become the major contributor to ambient volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Hong Kong. An intervention program aimed to reduce the emissions of VOCs and nitrogen oxides (NOx) from LPG-fueled vehicles was implemented by the Hong Kong Government in September 2013. Long-term real-time measurements indicated that the program was remarkably effective in reducing LPG-related VOCs, NOx and nitric oxide (NO) in the atmosphere. Receptor modeling results further revealed that propane, propene, i-butane, n-butane and NO in LPG-fueled vehicle exhaust emissions decreased by 37.3 ± 0.4, 50.2 ± 0.3, 32.9 ± 0.4, 41.1 ± 0.4 and 75.9 ± 0.3 %, respectively, during the implementation of the program. In contrast, despite the reduction of VOCs and NOx, the O3 production following the program increased by 0.25 ± 0.04 ppbv h-1 (4.8 %). Moreover, the production rate of HOx decreased due to the reduction of VOCs, whereas NO reduction resulted in a more significant decrease of the HOx in destruction compared to the decrease in production, and an increase of hydroxyl (OH) and hydroperoxyl (HO2). Analysis of O3-VOCs-NOx sensitivity in ambient air indicated VOC-limited regimes in the O3 formation before and during the program. Moreover, a maximum reduction percentage of NOx (i.e., 29.4 %) and the lowest reduction ratio of VOCs / NOx (i.e., ~ 3 : 1) in LPG-fueled vehicle emissions were determined to give a zero O3 increment. The findings are of great help to future formulation and implementation of control strategies on vehicle emissions in Hong Kong.

Selective vancomycin detection using optical fibre long period gratings functionalised with molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles.

PubMed

Korposh, Sergiy; Chianella, Iva; Guerreiro, Antonio; Caygill, Sarah; Piletsky, Sergey; James, Stephen W; Tatam, Ralph P

2014-05-07

An optical fibre long period grating (LPG) sensor modified with molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (nanoMIPs) for the specific detection of antibiotics is presented. The operation of the sensor is based on the measurement of changes in refractive index induced by the interaction of nanoMIPs deposited onto the cladding of the LPG with free vancomycin (VA). The binding of nanoMIPs to vancomycin was characterised by a binding constant of 4.3 ± 0.1 × 10(-8) M. The lowest concentration of analyte measured by the fibre sensor was 10 nM. In addition, the sensor exhibited selectivity, as much smaller responses were obtained for high concentrations (∼700 μM) of other commonly prescribed antibiotics such as amoxicillin, bleomycin and gentamicin. In addition, the response of the sensor was characterised in a complex matrix, porcine plasma, spiked with 10 μM of VA.

Selective vancomycin detection using optical fibre long period gratings functionalised with molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Korposh, Sergiy; Chianella, Iva; Guerreiro, Antonio; Caygill, Sarah; Piletsky, Sergey; James, Stephen W.; Tatam, Ralph P.

2015-01-01

An optical fibre long period grating (LPG) sensor modified with molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (nanoMIPs) for the specific detection of antibiotics is presented. The operation of the sensor is based on the measurement of changes in refractive index induced by the interaction of nanoMIPs deposited onto the cladding of the LPG with free vancomycin (VA). The binding of nanoMIPs to vancomycin was characterised by a binding constant of 4.3±0.1×10−8 M. The lowest concentration of analyte measured by the fibre sensor was 10 nM. In addition, the sensor exhibited selectivity, as much smaller responses were obtained for high concentrations (~ 700 μM) of other commonly prescribed antibiotics such as amoxicillin, bleomycin and gentamicin. In addition, the response of the sensor was characterised in a complex matrix, porcine plasma, spiked with 10 μM of VA. PMID:24634909

Magnetostrictive patch sensor system for battery-less real-time measurement of torsional vibrations of rotating shafts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jun Kyu; Seung, Hong Min; Park, Chung Il; Lee, Joo Kyung; Lim, Do Hyeong; Kim, Yoon Young

2018-02-01

Real-time uninterrupted measurement for torsional vibrations of rotating shafts is crucial for permanent health monitoring. So far, strain gauge systems with telemetry units have been used for real-time monitoring. However, they have a critical disadvantage in that shaft operations must be stopped intermittently to replace telemetry unit batteries. To find an alternative method to carry out battery-less real-time measurement for torsional vibrations of rotating shafts, a magnetostrictive patch sensor system was proposed in the present study. Since the proposed sensor does not use any powered telemetry system, no battery is needed and thus there is no need to stop rotating shafts for battery replacement. The proposed sensor consists of magnetostrictive patches and small magnets tightly bonded onto a shaft. A solenoid coil is placed around the shaft to convert magnetostrictive patch deformation by shaft torsional vibration into electric voltage output. For sensor design and characterization, investigations were performed in a laboratory on relatively small-sized stationary solid shaft. A magnetostrictive patch sensor system was then designed and installed on a large rotating propulsion shaft of an LPG carrier ship in operation. Vibration signals were measured using the proposed sensor system and compared to those measured with a telemetry unit-equipped strain gauge system.

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Jjjj of... - NOX, CO, and VOC Emission Standards for Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines ≥100 HP (Except...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines â¥100 HP (Except Gasoline and Rich Burn LPG), Stationary SI Landfill... Standards for Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines ≥100 HP (Except Gasoline and Rich Burn LPG), Stationary SI...-Emergency SI Natural Gas b and Non-Emergency SI Lean Burn LPG b 100≤HP HP 25 HP Table 1 to Subpart JJJJ of...

Assessment of particulate concentrations from domestic biomass combustion in rural Mexico

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

Brauer, M.; Bartlett, K.; Regalado-Pineda, J.

Recent evidence has suggested that woodsmoke exposure in developed countries is associated with acute and chronic health impacts. Particulate concentrations were measured in rural Mexican kitchens using biomass combustion for cooking. To investigate differences in indoor particle concentrations between kitchens using different fuels and stove types, measurements were made in eight kitchens using only biomass, six using only liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), six using a combination of biomass and LPG, and three using biomass in ventilated stoves. Outdoor samples were collected at the same time as the indoor samples. PM{sub 10} and PM{sub 2.5} measurements were made with inertial impactors,more » and particle light scattering was measured continuously with an integrating nephelometer. PM{sub 10} and PM{sub 2.5} concentrations (mean concentrations of 768 and 555 {mu}g m{sup -3}, respectively) in the kitchens burning only biomass were greater than in all other types (biomass > biomass + LPG > ventilated > LPG > outdoor). A similar trend was evident for the indoor/outdoor concentration ratio. Based on the short-term measurements estimated from the nephelometer data, PM{sub 10} and PM{sub 2.5} cooking period average and 5-min peak concentrations were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in kitchens using only biomass than in those using LPG, a combination of LPG and biomass, or a ventilated biomass stove. 20 refs., 3 figs., 3 tabs.« less

CFD model simulation of LPG dispersion in urban areas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pontiggia, Marco; Landucci, Gabriele; Busini, Valentina; Derudi, Marco; Alba, Mario; Scaioni, Marco; Bonvicini, Sarah; Cozzani, Valerio; Rota, Renato

2011-08-01

There is an increasing concern related to the releases of industrial hazardous materials (either toxic or flammable) due to terrorist attacks or accidental events in congested industrial or urban areas. In particular, a reliable estimation of the hazardous cloud footprint as a function of time is required to assist emergency response decision and planning as a primary element of any Decision Support System. Among the various hazardous materials, the hazard due to the road and rail transportation of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is well known since large quantities of LPG are commercialized and the rail or road transportation patterns are often close to downtown areas. Since it is well known that the widely-used dispersion models do not account for the effects of any obstacle like buildings, tanks, railcars, or trees, in this paper a CFD model has been applied to simulate the reported consequences of a recent major accident involving an LPG railcar rupture in a congested urban area (Viareggio town, in Italy), showing both the large influence of the obstacles on LPG dispersion as well as the potentials of CFD models to foresee such an influence.

Salinization of groundwater around underground LPG storage caverns, Korea : statistical interpretation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, J.; Chang, H.

2001-12-01

In this research, we investigate the reciprocal influence between groundwater flow and its salinization occurred in two underground cavern sites, using major ion chemistry, PCA for chemical analysis data, and cross-correlation for various hydraulic data. The study areas are two underground LPG storage facilities constructed in South Sea coast, Yosu, and West Sea coastal regions, Pyeongtaek, Korea. Considerably high concentration of major cations and anions of groundwaters at both sites showed brackish or saline water types. In Yosu site, some great chemical difference of groundwater samples between rainy and dry season was caused by temporal intrusion of high-saline water into propane and butane cavern zone, but not in Pyeongtaek site. Cl/Br ratios and δ 18O- δ D distribution for tracing of salinization source water in both sites revealed that two kind of saline water (seawater and halite-dissolved solution) could influence the groundwater salinization in Yosu site, whereas only seawater intrusion could affect the groundwater chemistry of the observation wells in Pyeongtaek site. PCA performed by 8 and 10 chemical ions as statistical variables in both sites showed that intensive intrusion of seawater through butane cavern was occurred at Yosu site while seawater-groundwater mixing was observed at some observation wells located in the marginal part of Pyeongtaek site. Cross-correlation results revealed that the positive relationship between hydraulic head and cavern operating pressure was far more conspicuous at propane cavern zone in both sites (65 ~90% of correlation coefficients). According to the cross-correlation results of Yosu site, small change of head could provoke massive influx of halite-dissolved solution from surface through vertically developed fracture networks. However in Pyeongtaek site, the pressure-sensitive observation wells are not completely consistent with seawater-mixed wells, and the hydraulic change of heads at these wells related to the operating pressure is highly associated with horizontal fault developed along the east-west line of propane cavern zone.

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Jjjj of... - NOX, CO, and VOC Emission Standards for Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines ≥100 HP (Except...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines â¥100 HP (Except Gasoline and Rich Burn LPG), Stationary SI Landfill... Standards for Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines ≥100 HP (Except Gasoline and Rich Burn LPG), Stationary SI...-Emergency SI Natural Gas b and Non-Emergency SI Lean Burn LPG b 100≤HP<500 7/1/2008 2.0 4.0 1.0 160 540 86 1...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Jjjj of... - NOX, CO, and VOC Emission Standards for Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines ≥100 HP (Except...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines â¥100 HP (Except Gasoline and Rich Burn LPG), Stationary SI Landfill... Standards for Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines ≥100 HP (Except Gasoline and Rich Burn LPG), Stationary SI...-Emergency SI Natural Gas b and Non-Emergency SI Lean Burn LPG b 100≤HP<500 7/1/2008 2.0 4.0 1.0 160 540 86 1...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Jjjj of... - NOX, CO, and VOC Emission Standards for Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines ≥100 HP (Except...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines â¥100 HP (Except Gasoline and Rich Burn LPG), Stationary SI Landfill... Standards for Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines ≥100 HP (Except Gasoline and Rich Burn LPG), Stationary SI...-Emergency SI Natural Gas b and Non-Emergency SI Lean Burn LPG b 100≤HP<500 7/1/2008 2.0 4.0 1.0 160 540 86 1...

Influence of film thickness and Fe doping on LPG sensing properties of Mn3O4 thin film grown by SILAR method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belkhedkar, M. R.; Ubale, A. U.

2018-05-01

Nanocrystalline Fe doped and undoped Mn3O4 thin films have been deposited by Successive Ionic Layer Adsorption and Reaction (SILAR) method onto glass substrates using MnCl2 and NaOH as cationic and anionic precursors. The grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM)) have been carried out to analyze structural and surface morphological properties of the films. The LPG sensing performance of Mn3O4thin films have been studied by varying temperature, concentration of LPG, thickness of the film and doping percentage of Fe. The LPG response of the Mn3O4thin films were found to be enhances with film thickness and decreases with increased Fe doping (0 to 8 wt. %) at 573 K temperature.

Sol-gel formed spherical nanostructured titania based liquefied petroleum gas sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sabhajeet, S. R.; Yadav, B. C.; Sonker, Rakesh K.

2018-05-01

The present work reports the preparation of Titania(TiO2) thin film by sol-gel technique and its Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) sensing. TiO2 exists in numerous phases possessing different structural properties like amorphous, anatase or anatase/rutile mixed phases. The structural analysis confirmed the formation of TiO2 having an average crystallite size 21 nm. SEM showed the regular and porous surface morphology. The band gap of the material was found as 3.65 eV. This film was employed for LPG sensing and variations in resistance with exposure of LPG were observed. Sensor response (S) as a function of time was calculated and its maximum value was found as 2.8 for 4% vol. of LPG with a response and recovery times of 240 sec and 248 sec respectively.

AT on Buried LPG Tanks Over 13 m3: An Innovative and Practical Solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Fratta, Crescenzo; Ferraro, Antonio; Tscheliesnig, Peter; Lackner, Gerald; Correggia, Vincenzo; Altamura, Nicola

In Italy, since 2005, techniques based on Acoustic Emission have been introduced for testing of underground LPG tanks up to 13 m3, according to the European standard EN 12818:2004. The testing procedure for these tanks plans to install one or more pairs of sensors inside the "dome" suited for the access to the valves and fittings of the tank, directly on the accessible metal shell. This methodology is not applicable for the underground LPG buried tanks, where it is necessary to install a larger number of AE sensors, in order to cover at 100% the whole tank shell, even at very deep positions. Already in 2004, the European standard EN 12820 (Appendix C - Informative)give the possibility to use Acoustic Emission testing of LPG underground or buried tanks with a capacity exceeding 13 m3, but no technique was specified for the application. In 2008, TÜV AUSTRIA ITALIA - BLU SOLUTIONS srl - Italian company of TÜV AUSTRIA Group - has developed a technique to get access at tank shell, where tank capacity is greater than 13 m3 and its' diameter greater than 3,5 m. This methodology was fully in comply with the provisions of the European Standard EN 12819:2010, becoming an innovative solution widely appreciated and is used in Italy since this time. Currently, large companies and petrochemical plants, at the occurrence of the tank's requalification, have engaged TÜV AUSTRIA ITALIA - BLU SOLUTIONS to install such permanent predispositions, which allow access to the tank shell - test object - with diameters from 4 to 8 m. Through this access, you can install the AE sensors needed to cover at 100% the tank surface and then to perform AE test. In an economic crisis period, this technique is proving a valid and practically applicable answer, in order to reduce inspection costs and downtime by offering a technically advanced solution (AT), increasing the safety of the involved operators, protecting natural resources and the environment.

Low-cost and high-resolution interrogation scheme for LPG-based temperature sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Venkata Reddy, M.; Srimannarayana, K.; Venkatappa Rao, T.; Vengal Rao, P.

2015-09-01

A low-cost and high-resolution interrogation scheme for a long-period fiber grating (LPG) temperature sensor with adjustable temperature range has been designed, developed and tested. In general LPGs are widely used as optical sensors and can be used as optical edge filters to interrogate the wavelength encoded signal from sensors such as fiber Bragg grating (FBG) by converting it into intensity modulated signal. But the interrogation of LPG sensors using FBG is a bit novel and it is to be studied experimentally. The sensor works based on measurement of shift in attenuation band of LPG corresponding to the applied temperature. The wavelength shift of LPG attenuation band is monitored using an optical spectrum analyser (OSA). Further the bulk and expensive OSA is replaced with a low-cost interrogation system that employ an FBG, photodiode and a transimpedance amplifier (TIA). The designed interrogation scheme makes the system low-cost, fast in response, and also enhances its resolution up to 0.1°C. The measurable temperature range using the proposed scheme is limited to 120 °C. However this range can be shifted within 15-450 °C by means of adjusting the Bragg wavelength of FBG.

Proteomic regulation during Legionella pneumophila biofilm development: decrease of virulence factors and enhancement of response to oxidative stress.

PubMed

Khemiri, Arbia; Lecheheb, Sandra Ahmed; Chi Song, Philippe Chan; Jouenne, Thierry; Cosette, Pascal

2014-06-01

Legionella pneumophila (L. pneumophila) is a Gram-negative bacterium, which can be found worldwide in aquatic environments. It tends to persist because it is often protected within biofilms or amoebae. L. pneumophila biofilms have a major impact on water systems, making the understanding of the bacterial physiological adaptation in biofilms a fundamental step towards their eradication. In this study, we report for the first time the influence of the biofilm mode of growth on the proteome of L. pneumophila. We compared the protein patterns of microorganisms grown as suspensions, cultured as colonies on agar plates or recovered with biofilms formed on stainless steel coupons. Statistical analyses of the protein expression data set confirmed the biofilm phenotype specificity which had been previously observed. It also identified dozens of proteins whose abundance was modified in biofilms. Proteins corresponding to virulence factors (macrophage infectivity potentiator protein, secreted proteases) were largely repressed in adherent cells. In contrast, a peptidoglycan-associated lipoprotein (Lpg2043) and a peroxynitrite reductase (Lpg2965) were accumulated by biofilm cells. Remarkably, hypothetical proteins, that appear to be unique to the Legionella genus (Lpg0563, Lpg1111 and Lpg1809), were over-expressed by sessile bacteria.

Utilization of LPG and gasoline engine exhaust emissions by microalgae.

PubMed

Taştan, Burcu Ertit; Duygu, Ergin; Ilbaş, Mustafa; Dönmez, Gönül

2013-02-15

The effect of engine exhaust emissions on air pollution is one of the greatest problems that the world is facing today. The study focused on the effects of realistic levels of engine exhaust emissions of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and gasoline (GSN) on Phormidium sp. and Chlorella sp. Multi parameters including pH, different medial compositions, fuel types, flow rates and biomass concentrations were described in detail. Effects of some growth factors such as triacontanol (TRIA) and salicylic acid (SA) have also been tested. The maximum biomass concentration of Phormidium sp. reached after 15 days at 0.36 and 0.15 g/L initial biomass concentrations were found as 1.160 g/L for LPG emission treated cultures and 1.331 g/L for GSN emission treated cultures, respectively. The corresponding figures were 1.478 g/L for LPG emission treated cultures and 1.636 g/L for GSN emission treated cultures at 0.65 and 0.36 g/L initial Chlorella sp. biomass concentrations. This study highlights the significance of using Phormidium sp. and Chlorella sp. for utilization of LPG and GSN engine exhaust emissions by the help of growth factors. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier B.V.

49 CFR 172.326 - Portable tanks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... petroleum gas (LPG) that is unodorized as authorized in § 173.315(b)(1) unless it is legibly marked NON... the portable tank are not visible. (d) NON-ODORIZED marking on portable tanks containing LPG. After...

Local health care system utilizing the LPG (liquid propane gas) network.

PubMed

Umemoto, T; Hoshi, H; Tsuda, M; Horio, S; Itou, N; Neriki, T

1998-07-01

JAC's LPG monitoring network system is mainly provided in mountain villages. However, by using this system, it will be possible to start a Digital Network Program for the Elderly while maintaining superior economic feasibility and public benefit using existing information infrastructures. This project also has the capabilities for the creation of a fire/disaster monitoring system, as well as a health care system by using conventional LPG monitoring systems. Telemedicine is an option for the future, as well, by connecting medical equipment and a tele-conferencing system.

Incident analysis of Bucheon LPG filling station pool fire and BLEVE.

PubMed

Park, Kyoshik; Mannan, M Sam; Jo, Young-Do; Kim, Ji-Yoon; Keren, Nir; Wang, Yanjun

2006-09-01

An LPG filling station incident in Korea has been studied. The direct cause of the incident was concluded to be faulty joining of the couplings of the hoses during the butane unloading process from a tank lorry into an underground storage tank. The faulty connection of a hose to the tank lorry resulted in a massive leak of gas followed by catastrophic explosions. The leaking source was verified by calculating the amount of released LPG and by analyzing captured photos recorded by the television news service. Two BLEVEs were also studied.

Indoor exposures to particulate matter emissions in various types of households using different cooking fuels in rural areas of south India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deepthi, Y.; Nagendra, S. S.; Gummadi, S. N.

2017-12-01

Exposure to Particulate Matter (PM) that are typically generated from heavy biomass usage in cooking and from unpaved roads is a major health risk in the rural areas of developing countries. To understand the exposure levels in such areas, PM (PM10, PM2.5 and PM1) characterizations was carried out through indoor monitoring in a rural site of south India with varied cooking fuels such as only biomass, biomass plus LPG and only LPG in different types of housing namely indoor kitchen without partition (IKWO), indoor kitchen with partition (IKWP), separate enclosed kitchen outside house (SEKO) and open kitchen (OK). Results indicated that use of biomass resulted in the highest PM10 concentrations of 179.51±21µg/m3 followed by combination of biomass and LPG (101.99±21 µg/m3) and LPG (77.48±9µg/m3). Similar patterns were observed in PM2.5 and PM1 with highest emissions from biomass burning. The PM concentrations of biomass households and combination of biomass and LPG households were 233.7 % and 80.2 % respectively higher than those using cleaner fuels (LPG). The monitoring also revealed that kitchen configuration is an important determinant for indoor exposures especially for biomass households. Among biomass users, average PM10, PM2.5 and PM1 concentrations in all type of houses were above the human permissible limit with IKWP having highest concentrations followed by IKWO>SEKO>OK. Thus, biomass household have high concentrations compared to LPG because of nature of combustion of solid biomass. Also, PM concentrations were higher in enclosed indoor kitchens (IKWO and IKWP) compared to SEKO and OK type kitchen configurations. It is evident from above discussions that type of fuel and kitchen setups are major attributes impacting Indoor air pollution (IAP) in rural areas and any policy intervention to minimize IAP must give due consideration to these two factors.

Biofunctionalization of silica-coated magnetic particles mediated by a peptide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Care, Andrew; Chi, Fei; Bergquist, Peter L.; Sunna, Anwar

2014-08-01

A linker peptide sequence with affinity to silica-containing materials was fused to Streptococcus protein G', an antibody-binding protein. This recombinant fusion protein, linker-protein G (LPG) was produced in E. coli and exhibited strong affinity to silica-coated magnetic particles and was able to bind to them at different pHs, indicating a true pH-independent binding. LPG was used as an anchorage point for the oriented immobilization of antibodies onto the surface of the particles. These particle-bound "LPG-Antibody complexes" mediated the binding and recovery of different cell types (e.g., human stem cells, Legionella, Cryptosporidium and Giardia), enabling their rapid and simple visualization and identification. This strategy was used also for the efficient capture of Cryptosporidium oocysts from water samples. These results demonstrate that LPG can mediate the direct biofunctionalization of silica-coated magnetic particles without the need for complex surface chemical modification.

Clean fuels for resource-poor settings: A systematic review of barriers and enablers to adoption and sustained use.

PubMed

Puzzolo, Elisa; Pope, Daniel; Stanistreet, Debbi; Rehfuess, Eva A; Bruce, Nigel G

2016-04-01

Access to, and sustained adoption of, clean household fuels at scale remains an aspirational goal to achieve sufficient reductions in household air pollution (HAP) in order to impact on the substantial global health burden caused by reliance on solid fuels. To systematically appraise the current evidence base to identify: (i) which factors enable or limit adoption and sustained use of clean fuels (namely liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), biogas, solar cooking and alcohol fuels) in low- and middle-income countries; (ii) lessons learnt concerning equitable scaling-up of programmes of cleaner cooking fuels in relation to poverty, urban-rural settings and gender. A mixed-methods systematic review was conducted using established review methodology and extensive searches of published and grey literature sources. Data extraction and quality appraisal of quantitative, qualitative and case studies meeting inclusion criteria were conducted using standardised methods with reliability checking. Forty-four studies from Africa, Asia and Latin America met the inclusion criteria (17 on biogas, 12 on LPG, 9 on solar, 6 on alcohol fuels). A broad range of inter-related enabling and limiting factors were identified for all four types of intervention, operating across seven pre-specified domains (i.e. fuel and technology characteristics, household and setting characteristics, knowledge and perceptions, financial, tax and subsidy aspects, market development, regulation, legislation and standards, and programme and policy mechanisms) and multiple levels (i.e. household, community, national). All domains matter and the majority of factors are common to all clean fuels interventions reviewed although some are fuel and technology-specific. All factors should therefore be taken into account and carefully assessed during planning and implementation of any small- and large-scale initiative aiming at promoting clean fuels for household cooking. Despite limitations in quantity and quality of the evidence this systematic review provides a useful starting point for the design, delivery and evaluation of programmes to ensure more effective adoption and use of LPG, biogas, alcohol fuels and solar cooking. This review was funded by the Department for International Development (DfID) of the United Kingdom. The authors would also like to thank the Evidence for Policy and Practice Information and Co-ordinating Centre (EPPI-Centre) for their technical support. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A founder haplotype of APOE-Sendai mutation associated with lipoprotein glomerulopathy.

PubMed

Toyota, Kentaro; Hashimoto, Taeko; Ogino, Daisuke; Matsunaga, Akira; Ito, Minoru; Masakane, Ikuto; Degawa, Noriyuki; Sato, Hiroshi; Shirai, Sayuri; Umetsu, Kazuo; Tamiya, Gen; Saito, Takao; Hayasaka, Kiyoshi

2013-05-01

Lipoprotein glomerulopathy (LPG) is a hereditary disease characterized by lipoprotein thrombi in the glomerulus, hyperlipoproteinemia, and a marked increase in serum apolipoprotein E (APOE). More than 12 APOE mutations have been identified as causes of LPG, and APOE-Sendai (Arg145Pro) mutation was frequently detected in patients from the eastern part of Japan including Yamagata prefecture. Recently, effective therapy with intensive lipid-lowering agents was established, and epidemiologic data are required for early diagnosis. We determined the haplotype structure of APOE-Sendai in 13 patients from 9 unrelated families with LPG, and found that the haplotype of all APOE-Sendai mutations was identical, suggesting that APOE-Sendai mutation is common in Japanese patients probably through a founder effect. We also studied the gene frequency of APOE-Sendai in 2023 control subjects and 418 patients receiving hemodialysis in Yamagata prefecture using the TaqMan method, but did not identify any subjects carrying the mutation, indicating that it is very rare in the general population even in the eastern part of Japan. In addition to APOE mutation, other genetic and/or epigenetic factors are considered to be involved in the pathogenesis of LPG because of its low penetrance. The patients did not have a common haplotype of the counterpart APOE allele, and some patients had the same haplotype of the counterpart APOE allele as the asymptomatic carriers. These results suggest that the counterpart APOE allele is not likely associated with the onset of LPG. Further study is required to clarify the pathogenesis of LPG.

Carbon footprints of heating oil and LPG heating systems

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

Johnson, Eric P., E-mail: ejohnson@ecosite.co.uk

For European homes without access to the natural gas grid, the main fuels-of-choice for heating are heating oil and LPG. How do the carbon footprints of these compare? Existing literature does not clearly answer this, so the current study was undertaken to fill this gap. Footprints were estimated in seven countries that are representative of the EU and constitute two-thirds of the EU-27 population: Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Poland and the UK. Novelties of the assessment were: systems were defined using the EcoBoiler model; well-to-tank data were updated according to most-recent research; and combustion emission factors were used thatmore » were derived from a survey conducted for this study. The key finding is that new residential heating systems fuelled by LPG are 20% lower carbon and 15% lower overall-environmental-impact than those fuelled by heating oil. An unexpected finding was that an LPG system's environmental impact is about the same as that of a bio heating oil system fuelled by 100% rapeseed methyl ester, Europe's predominant biofuel. Moreover, a 20/80 blend (by energy content) with conventional heating oil, a bio-heating-oil system generates a footprint about 15% higher than an LPG system's. The final finding is that fuel switching can pay off in carbon terms. If a new LPG heating system replaces an ageing oil-fired one for the final five years of its service life, the carbon footprint of the system's final five years is reduced by more than 50%.« less

Comparative study of regulated and unregulated air pollutant emissions before and after conversion of automobiles from gasoline power to liquefied petroleum gas/gasoline dual-fuel retrofits.

PubMed

Yang, Hsi-Hsien; Chien, Shu-Mei; Cheng, Man-Ting; Peng, Chiung-Yu

2007-12-15

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is increasingly being examined as an alternative to gasoline use in automobiles as interest grows in reducing air pollutant emissions. In this study, emissions of regulated (CO, THC, NO(x)) and unregulated air pollutants, including CO2, particulate matter (PM), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and BTEX (acronym for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene), were measured before and after conversion of nine gasoline-powered automobiles to LPG/ gasoline dual-fuel retrofits. The tests were conducted on a standard chassis dynamometer in accordance with the United States Environmental Protection Agency FTP-75 test procedure, with the exception that all tests were conducted under hot-start driving conditions. The influences of LPG on air pollutant emission levels and carcinogenic potency were investigated and compared with gasoline. The results showed average emission factors of 0.14 g/km, 0.33 mg/km, 0.09 g/km, 0.44 g/km, and 197 g/km for CO, THC, NO(x), PM, and CO2, respectively, for LPG/ gasoline dual-fuel retrofits. Paired-sample t-test results indicated that the emissions of CO (p = 0.03), THC (p = 0.04), and CO2 (p = 4.6 x 10(-8)) were significantly reduced with the retrofit in comparison with gasoline-powered automobiles. The reduction percentages were 71%, 89%, and 14% for CO, THC, and CO2, respectively. The average total PAH emission factor for LPG was 217 microg/km, which is significantly lower than gasoline (863 microg/km; p = 0.05). The PAH corresponding carcinogenicities (BaP(eq)) were calculated via toxic equivalencies based on benzo(a)pyrene (BaP). Paired-sample t-test results fortotal BaP(eq) emissions showed no significant difference between gasoline (30.0 microg/km) and LPG (24.8 microg/km) at a confidence level of 95%. The discrepancy between PAH and BaP(eq) emissions resulted from the higher emission percentages of high molecular weight PAHs for LPG, which might be from lubricant oil. The average emission factors of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene were 351, 4400, 324, and 1100 microg/ km, respectively, with LPG as fuel, which were all significantly lower than those for gasoline (95% confidence level). The average reduction percentages were 78%, 61%, 57%, and 58% for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene, respectively.

Adoption and sustained use of cleaner cooking fuels in rural India: a case control study protocol to understand household, network, and organizational drivers.

PubMed

Kumar, Praveen; Dhand, Amar; Tabak, Rachel G; Brownson, Ross C; Yadama, Gautam N

2017-01-01

Implementing efficient stoves and clean fuels in low and middle-income countries are critical for improving health of poor women and children and improve the environment. Cleaner biomass stoves, however, perform poorly against the World Health Organization's indoor air quality guidelines. This has shifted the focus to systematic dissemination and implementation of cleaner cooking systems such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) among poor communities. Even when there is some uptake of LPG by poor communities, its sustained use has been low. Concurrent use of LPG with traditional biomass cookstoves compromises reductions in household air pollution and limits health and environmental dividends. Therefore understanding key drivers of adoption and sustained implementation of clean fuels among the poor is critical. There is a significant gap, however, in the research to understand determinants and sustained exclusive use of clean fuels in rural poor communities. Using a case control study design, this study will explore the impact of affordability, accessibility, and awareness on adoption and sustained use of LPG among rural poor communities of India. The study uses a multistage random sampling to collect primary data from 510 households. Case group or LPG adopters constitute 255 households while control group or non-LPG adopters constitute the remaining 255 households. The study will deploy sophisticated stove use monitoring sensors in each of the stoves in 100 case group households to monitor stove use and stacking behavior (using clean and traditional systems of cooking) of participants for 12 months. Moreover, this will be the first study to explore the impact of personal social networks striated by gender on LPG adoption. This study is guided by the RE-AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance) implementation science evaluation framework. Lessons from this study will feed into a larger discussion on developing a pro-poor strategy to foster uptake and sustained use of cleaner cooking systems such as LPG. Understanding the determinants of adoption and sustained use of cleaner cooking systems through the RE-AIM framework will expand our insights on implementation of cleaner cooking systems among poor communities and will advance implementation science in the clean cooking sector. A thorough study of such implementation strategies is crucial to realize multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals on global health, climate change, and energy security.

Nanoscale TiO₂-coated LPGs as radiation-tolerant humidity sensors for high-energy physics applications.

PubMed

Consales, Marco; Berruti, Gaia; Borriello, Anna; Giordano, Michele; Buontempo, Salvatore; Breglio, Giovanni; Makovec, Alajos; Petagna, Paolo; Cusano, Andrea

2014-07-15

This Letter deals with a feasibility analysis for the development of radiation-tolerant fiber-optic humidity sensors based on long-period grating (LPG) technology to be applied in high-energy physics (HEP) experiments currently running at the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN). In particular, here we propose a high-sensitivity LPG sensor coated with a finely tuned titanium dioxide (TiO₂) thin layer (~100 nm thick) through the solgel deposition method. Relative humidity (RH) monitoring in the range 0%-75% and at four different temperatures (in the range -10°C-25°C) was carried out to assess sensor performance in real operative conditions required in typical experiments running at CERN. Experimental results demonstrate the very high RH sensitivities of the proposed device (up to 1.4 nm/% RH in correspondence to very low humidity levels), which turned out to be from one to three orders of magnitude higher than those exhibited by fiber Bragg grating sensors coated with micrometer-thin polyimide overlays. The radiation tolerance capability of the TiO₂-coated LPG sensor is also investigated by comparing the sensing performance before and after its exposure to a 1 Mrad dose of γ-ionizing radiation. Overall, the results collected demonstrate the strong potential of the proposed technology with regard to its future exploitation in HEP applications as a robust and valid alternative to the commercial (polymer-based) hygrometers currently used.

Finger Lakes LPG

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Finger Lakes LPG Storage, LLC; Two Brush Creek Blvd, Suite 200; Kansas City; Missouri 64112 (Applicant) has applied to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act, 42 U.S.C. 300f et. seq (the Act), for

Change in refractive index of muscle tissue during laser-induced interstitial thermotherapy.

PubMed

Chen, Na; Chen, Meimei; Liu, Shupeng; Guo, Qiang; Chen, Zhenyi; Wang, Tingyun

2014-01-01

This paper presents a long-period fiber-grating (LPG) based Michelson interferometric refractometry to monitor the change in refractive index of porcine muscle during laser-induced interstitial thermotherapy (LITT). As the wavelength of RI interferometer alters with the change in refractive index around the probe, the LPG based refractometry is combined with LITT system to measure the change in refractive index of porcine muscle when irradiated by laser. The experimental results show the denaturation of tissue alters the refractive index significantly and the LPG sensor can be applied to monitor the tissue state during the LITT.

Long-period grating fabricated by periodically tapering standard single-mode fiber.

PubMed

Shao, Li-Yang; Zhao, Jian; Dong, Xinyong; Tam, H Y; Lu, C; He, Sailing

2008-04-01

We fabricated an asymmetric long-period grating (LPG) by periodically tapering a section of standard single-mode fiber using a resistive filament heating. The LPG exhibits large peak transmission attenuation of -30.31 dB with only 22 periods in a 1.0 cm long optical fiber and possesses unique characteristics for sensing applications. The bending and strain sensitivities are 1.74 nm m and 1.11 pm/mu epsilon, respectively. The polarization dependent loss is large, up to 11.65 dB, which is caused by an asymmetric index profile in the cross section of the tapered LPG.

Improvement in LPG sensing response by surface activation of ZnO thick films with Cr2O3

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hastir, Anita; Virpal, Kaur, Jasmeet; Singh, Gurpreet; Kohli, Nipin; Singh, Onkar; Singh, Ravi Chand

2015-05-01

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) sensing response of pure and Cr2O3 activated ZnO has been investigated in this study. Zinc oxide was synthesized by co-precipitation route and deposited as a thick film on an alumina substrate. The surface of ZnO sensor was activated by chromium oxide on surface oxidation by chromium chloride. The concentration of chromium chloride solution used to activate the ZnO sensor surface has been varied from 0 to 5 %. It is observed that response to LPG has improved as compared to pure ZnO.

Assessment of indoor pollutants generated from bio and synthetic fuels in selected villages of Burdwan, West Bengal.

PubMed

Mondal, N K; Bhaumik, R; Das, C R; Aditya, P; Datta, J K; Banerjee, A; Das, K

2013-09-01

The objective of the present study was to access the pollutant generated from bio-fuels like bamboo sticks, cow dung, paddy straw, carbon dust cake, gobar gas, jute stick, and mustard stick and synthetic fuel like LPG during cooking in rural villages of Burdwan, West Bengal, India and its fluctuation in living room. The average SO2 released from the fuels was found in the following order: bamboo stick > cow dung > paddy straw > carbon cake > gobar gas > jute stick > LPG > mustard stick; NO2 emission was in the following order : mustard stick > carbon dust cake > paddy straw > cow dung cake > LPG, jute stick > gobar gas > bamboo stick > and SPM was obtained in the following sequence: cow dung cake > bamboo stick > carbon dust cake > gobar gas > LPG > mustard stick > paddy straw > jute stick, respectively. The highest living room to kitchen room (L/K) ratio of SO2, NO, and SPM was found in LPG, gobar gas, jute stick respectively in 2009 and followed by bamboo stick > paddy straw > jute stick > cow dung cake, respectively in 2010. Results of this study suggest that different fuels released different amount of air pollutants, but more extensive study is needed to confirm the relationship between fuels and released air pollutants.

Domestic liquefied petroleum gas: are we using a kitchen bomb?

PubMed

Paliwal, G; Agrawal, K; Srivastava, R K; Sharma, S

2014-09-01

The aim of this study is to understand the aetiological factors and pattern of burns caused by the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This hospital based study was conducted on consecutive patients admitted with major burns from September 2011 to August 2012. The data was recorded on predesigned data sheet. Age, gender, mode of injury, its exact mechanism, place of incidence, extent of burn and inhalation injury were recorded for every patient. 182 patients with LPG related burn injury were admitted in one year. This is 11% of total burn patients received during the same period (182/1656). 147 incidents caused these burns due to gas leak from various parts of the LPG cooking system. Leakage was either from the cylinder, pipe or stove in 52%, 36% and 2% incidents respectively. Human error accounted for 3% incidents while in 7% the mechanism could not be ascertained. Leakage from 5kg cylinder with pipe was the commonest aetiological factor. There were 14 group casualties with more than one victim involved. LPG related burns are preventable to a large extent. There is a need to improve the safety standards in the LPG stove system. Public awareness needs to be improved. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

A heterogeneous fleet vehicle routing model for solving the LPG distribution problem: A case study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Onut, S.; Kamber, M. R.; Altay, G.

2014-03-01

Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP) is an important management problem in the field of distribution and logistics. In VRPs, routes from a distribution point to geographically distributed points are designed with minimum cost and considering customer demands. All points should be visited only once and by one vehicle in one route. Total demand in one route should not exceed the capacity of the vehicle that assigned to that route. VRPs are varied due to real life constraints related to vehicle types, number of depots, transportation conditions and time periods, etc. Heterogeneous fleet vehicle routing problem is a kind of VRP that vehicles have different capacity and costs. There are two types of vehicles in our problem. In this study, it is used the real world data and obtained from a company that operates in LPG sector in Turkey. An optimization model is established for planning daily routes and assigned vehicles. The model is solved by GAMS and optimal solution is found in a reasonable time.

Interferometric Fiber Optic Sensors

PubMed Central

Lee, Byeong Ha; Kim, Young Ho; Park, Kwan Seob; Eom, Joo Beom; Kim, Myoung Jin; Rho, Byung Sup; Choi, Hae Young

2012-01-01

Fiber optic interferometers to sense various physical parameters including temperature, strain, pressure, and refractive index have been widely investigated. They can be categorized into four types: Fabry-Perot, Mach-Zehnder, Michelson, and Sagnac. In this paper, each type of interferometric sensor is reviewed in terms of operating principles, fabrication methods, and application fields. Some specific examples of recently reported interferometeric sensor technologies are presented in detail to show their large potential in practical applications. Some of the simple to fabricate but exceedingly effective Fabry-Perot interferometers, implemented in both extrinsic and intrinsic structures, are discussed. Also, a wide variety of Mach-Zehnder and Michelson interferometric sensors based on photonic crystal fibers are introduced along with their remarkable sensing performances. Finally, the simultaneous multi-parameter sensing capability of a pair of long period fiber grating (LPG) is presented in two types of structures; one is the Mach-Zehnder interferometer formed in a double cladding fiber and the other is the highly sensitive Sagnac interferometer cascaded with an LPG pair. PMID:22736961

An Investigation of Flow in Nozzle Hole of Dimethyl Ether

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kato, M.; Yokota, T.; Weber, J.; Gill, D.

2015-12-01

For over twenty years, DME has shown itself to be a most promising fuel for diesel combustion. DME is produced by simple synthesis of such common sources as coal, natural gas, biomass, and waste feedstock. DME is a flammable, thermally-stable liquid similar to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and can be handled like LPG. However, the physical properties of DME such as its low viscosity, lubricity and bulk modulus have negative effects for the fuel injection system, which have both limited the achievable injection pressures to about 500 bar and DME's introduction into the market. To overcome some of these effects, a common rail fuel injection system was adapted to operate with DME and produce injection pressures of up to 1000 bar. To understand the effect of the high injection pressure, tests were carried out using 2D optically accessed nozzles. This allowed the impact of the high vapour pressure of DME on the onset of cavitation in the nozzle hole to be assessed and improve the flow characteristics.

PN 2017-24: Finger Lakes LPG

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Finger Lakes LPG Storage, LLC; Two Brush Creek Blvd, Suite 200; Kansas City; Missouri 64112 (Applicant) has applied to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act, 42 U.S.C. 300f et. seq (the Act), for

LPG Dependence after a Suicide Attempt

PubMed Central

Aldemir, Ebru; Akyel, Betül; Altıntoprak, A. Ender; Aydın, Rezzan; Coşkunol, Hakan

2015-01-01

Inhalant abuse is a problem that is getting more common all around the world. The increase in prevalence of inhalant abuse escalates morbidity and mortality rates. About 22% of people using inhalant have died at their first attempt. Particularly propane, butane, or propane-butane mixture has highest mortality rates. Sudden sniffing death syndrome, cardiomyopathy, central nervous system toxicity, hematological abnormalities, kidney toxicity, and hepatocellular toxicities are the major complications of inhalant abuse. Herein we present a patient with inhalant use disorder. At the age of 19, after a stressful life event he had unsuccessfully tried to suicide by inhaling LPG (liquefied petroleum gas, a mixture of butane and propane gases). After he realized that he had hallucinations and felt better during the inhalation, he started to abuse it. He was addicted to LPG for 10 years at the time of admission. Besides being dangerous for the society security, this intense level of LPG inhalation (12 liters a day) not giving any physical harm makes this case interesting. PMID:25664196

Long period grating-based fiber-optic PH sensor for ocean monitoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ke; Klimov, Denis; Kolber, Zbigniew

2007-09-01

A fiber-optic PH sensor is developed based-on the long period grating (LPG). The LPG is fabricated by using CO II laser with a point-by-point technique. Then the grating portion is coated with PH sensitive hydrogel. The hydrogel, made of PVA/PAA, swells its volume in response to the PH change in the surrounding environment and results in a change in the refractive index. As a result, the LPG can response to the refractive index change in the coating by shifting its wavelength. Therefore, change in refractive index can be measured by tracking the wavelength shift using an optical spectrum analyzer (OSA). In this research, the LPG is dip-coated by the hydrogel. A chemostat is designed to simulate the marine environment. The PH in the chemostat is varied by controlling the CO II concentration in the sea water. A PH resolution 0.046/nm using the OSA has been obtained. This sensor is designed to monitor the sea water PH change in a long term basis.

An application of digital image processing techniques to the characterization of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) spray

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qi, Y. L.; Xu, B. Y.; Cai, S. L.

2006-12-01

To control fuel injection, optimize combustion and reduce emissions for LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) engines, it is necessary and important to understand the characteristics of LPG sprays. The present work investigates the geometry of LPG sprays, including spray tip penetration, spray angle, projected spray area and spray volume, by using schlieren photography and digital image processing techniques. Two types of single nozzle injectors were studied, with the same nozzle diameter, but one with and one without a double-hole flow-split head. A code developed to analyse the results directly from the digitized images is shown to be more accurate and efficient than manual measurement and analysis. Test results show that a higher injection pressure produces a longer spray tip penetration, a larger projected spray area and spray volume, but a smaller spray cone angle. The injector with the double-hole split-head nozzle produces better atomization and shorter tip penetration at medium and late injection times, but longer tip penetration in the early stage.

LPG Dependence after a Suicide Attempt.

PubMed

Aldemir, Ebru; Akyel, Betül; Altıntoprak, A Ender; Aydın, Rezzan; Coşkunol, Hakan

2015-01-01

Inhalant abuse is a problem that is getting more common all around the world. The increase in prevalence of inhalant abuse escalates morbidity and mortality rates. About 22% of people using inhalant have died at their first attempt. Particularly propane, butane, or propane-butane mixture has highest mortality rates. Sudden sniffing death syndrome, cardiomyopathy, central nervous system toxicity, hematological abnormalities, kidney toxicity, and hepatocellular toxicities are the major complications of inhalant abuse. Herein we present a patient with inhalant use disorder. At the age of 19, after a stressful life event he had unsuccessfully tried to suicide by inhaling LPG (liquefied petroleum gas, a mixture of butane and propane gases). After he realized that he had hallucinations and felt better during the inhalation, he started to abuse it. He was addicted to LPG for 10 years at the time of admission. Besides being dangerous for the society security, this intense level of LPG inhalation (12 liters a day) not giving any physical harm makes this case interesting.

Application of far infrared rare earth mineral composite materials to liquefied petroleum gas.

PubMed

Zhu, Dongbin; Liang, Jinsheng; Ding, Yan; Xu, Anping

2010-03-01

Far infrared rare earth mineral composite materials were prepared by the coprecipitation method using tourmaline, cerium acetate, and lanthanum acetate as raw materials. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy show that tourmaline modified with the rare earths La and Ce has a better far infrared emitting performance. Through XRD analysis, we attribute the improved far infrared emission properties of the tourmaline to the unit cell shrinkage of the tourmaline arising from La enhancing the redox properties of nano-CeO2. The effect of the composite materials on the combustion of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) was studied by the flue gas analysis and water boiling test. Based on the results, it was found that the composite materials could accelerate the combustion of LPG, and that the higher the emissivity of the rare earth mineral composite materials, the better the effects on combustion of LPG. In all activation styles, both air and LPG to be activated has a best effect, indicating the activations having a cumulative effect.

Microwave assisted combustion synthesis of nanocrystalline CoFe2O4 for LPG sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chaudhari, Prashant; Acharya, S. A.; Darunkar, S. S.; Gaikwad, V. M.

2015-08-01

A microwave-assisted citrate precursor method has been utilized for synthesis of nanocrystalline powders of CoFe2O4. The process takes only a few minutes to obtain as-synthesized CoFe2O4. Structural properties of the synthesized material were investigated by X-ray diffraction; scanning electron microscopy, Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The gas sensing properties of thick film of CoFe2O4 prepared by screen printing towards Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) revealed that CoFe2O4 thick films are sensitive and shows maximum sensitivity at 350°C for 2500 ppm of LPG.

Design Guidelines for Bus Transit Systems Using Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) as an Alternative Fuel.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-09-01

The use of alternative fuels to power transit buses is steadily increasing. Several fuels, including Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and Methanol/Ethanol, are already being used in buses. At present, there do not exist co...

Identifying a long-term/chronic, non-cancer pain population using a one-dimensional verbal pain rating scale: an epidemiological study.

PubMed

Jensen, Marianne Kjettrup; Sjøgren, Per; Ekholm, Ola; Rasmussen, Niels Kristian; Eriksen, Jørgen

2004-04-01

The usefulness of the verbal pain rating scale (VRS) included in the Short Form 36 (SF-36) in identifying characteristics of long-term pain conditions, was analyzed using data from the 1994 Danish Health and Morbidity Survey. Based on the rating of pain intensity during a 4-week recall period the respondents were categorized into three groups: a high pain group (HPG) consisting of persons reporting moderate to severe pain (VRS 4-6), a low pain group (LPG) who rated their pain as very mild or mild (VRS 2-3), and a control group (CG) with no pain (VRS 1). The investigated sample comprised 3992 persons (HPG=563 persons, LPG=1714, and CG=1715 persons). Older age, educational level (< 10 years of schooling), cohabitation status (divorce/separation), and moderate to severe physical job strain were found to be significant risk factors for reporting high pain intensity (HPG). Only minor differences were observed between the LPG and CG. The proportion of respondents with good perceived health was significantly lower in the HPG compared with LPG and CG. The dominant complaints in the HPG were related to the musculoskeletal system. During a 14-day period prior to the interview persons in the HPG had a mean of 1.19 working days lost due to illness compared with a mean of 0.2 for the LPG and CG. Analyzing the use of medical services during the year before the interview, persons belonging to the HPG had an average number of nine contacts to general practitioners and specialized doctors in the primary sector as compared to six for the LPG and four for the CG. Mean numbers of hospital admissions were 0.29 for the HPG, 0.15 for the LPG and 0.10 for the CG. Mean numbers of in-hospital days were 1.60, 0.80, and 0.43 for the HPG, LPG, and CG, respectively. Our study suggest that one-dimensional pain intensity scoring using a simple VRS-scoring is useful as a screening instrument for identifying persons suffering from pain of a more complex nature. High intensity scores on a pain intensity scale should indicate to the investigator that she/he might be facing a person whose pain complaints and behavior are not only based on a pure biological background, but in whom also severe psychological and social problems might be present.

Leishmania infantum: Lipophosphoglycan intraspecific variation and interaction with vertebrate and invertebrate hosts.

PubMed

Coelho-Finamore, J M; Freitas, V C; Assis, R R; Melo, M N; Novozhilova, N; Secundino, N F; Pimenta, P F; Turco, S J; Soares, R P

2011-03-01

Interspecies variations in lipophosphoglycan (LPG) have been the focus of intense study over the years due its role in specificity during sand fly-Leishmania interaction. This cell surface glycoconjugate is highly polymorphic among species with variations in sugars that branch off the conserved Gal(β1,4)Man(α1)-PO(4) backbone of repeat units. However, the degree of intraspecies polymorphism in LPG of Leishmania infantum (syn. Leishmania chagasi) is not known. In this study, intraspecific variation in the repeat units of LPG was evaluated in 16 strains of L. infantum from Brazil, France, Algeria and Tunisia. The structural polymorphism in the L. infantum LPG repeat units was relatively slight and consisted of three types: type I does not have side chains; type II has one β-glucose residue that branches off the disaccharide-phosphate repeat units and type III has up to three glucose residues (oligo-glucosylated). The significance of these modifications was investigated during in vivo interaction of L. infantum with Lutzomyia longipalpis, and in vitro interaction of the parasites and respective LPGs with murine macrophages. There were no consequential differences in the parasite densities in sand fly midguts infected with Leishmania strains exhibiting type I, II and III LPGs. However, higher nitric oxide production was observed in macrophages exposed to glucosylated type II LPG. Copyright © 2010 Australian Society for Parasitology Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Resistance Phenotypes Mediated by Aminoacyl-Phosphatidylglycerol Synthases

PubMed Central

Arendt, Wiebke; Hebecker, Stefanie; Jäger, Sonja; Nimtz, Manfred

2012-01-01

The specific aminoacylation of the phospholipid phosphatidylglycerol (PG) with alanine or with lysine catalyzed by aminoacyl-phosphatidylglycerol synthases (aaPGS) was shown to render various organisms less susceptible to antibacterial agents. This study makes use of Pseudomonas aeruginosa chimeric mutant strains producing lysyl-phosphatidylglycerol (L-PG) instead of the naturally occurring alanyl-phosphatidylglycerol (A-PG) to study the resulting impact on bacterial resistance. Consequences of such artificial phospholipid composition were studied in the presence of an overall of seven antimicrobials (β-lactams, a lipopeptide antibiotic, cationic antimicrobial peptides [CAMPs]) to quantitatively assess the effect of A-PG substitution (with L-PG, L-PG and A-PG, increased A-PG levels). For the employed Gram-negative P. aeruginosa model system, an exclusive charge repulsion mechanism does not explain the attenuated antimicrobial susceptibility due to PG modification. Additionally, the specificity of nine orthologous aaPGS enzymes was experimentally determined. The newly characterized protein sequences allowed for the establishment of a significant group of A-PG synthase sequences which were bioinformatically compared to the related group of L-PG synthesizing enzymes. The analysis revealed a diverse origin for the evolution of A-PG and L-PG synthases, as the specificity of an individual enzyme is not reflected in terms of a characteristic sequence motif. This finding is relevant for future development of potential aaPGS inhibitors. PMID:22267511

A multi-parameter optical fiber sensor with interrogation and discrimination capabilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhan, Yage; Wu, Hua; Yang, Qinyu; Pei, Jincheng; Yang, Xichun

2009-11-01

A multi-parameter and multi-function, but low-cost, optical fiber grating sensor with self-interrogation and self-discrimination capabilities is presented theoretically and experimentally. The sensor bases on three fiber Bragg gratings (FBG) and one fiber long period grating (LPG). Strain, vibration, pressure, ordinary temperature (-10 to 100 °C) and high temperature (100-800 °C) can be measured by the sensor. When high temperature (100-800 °C) is measured, the LPG is used as a high temperture sensor head and FBG 1 is used as an interrogation element. Alternatively, when one of the other four measurands is measured, FBG 1 (or FBG 2) is used as a sensor head and LPG is used as an interrogation element. When two of the other four measurands are measured simultaneously, FBG 1 and FBG 2 are used as sensor heads and LPG is used as a shared interrogation element. FBG 3 is used as a reference element to eliminate the errors resulted from light source fluctuation and the cross-sensitivity between measurand and environmental temperature. The measurands can be interrogated according to the signals of the photodiodes (PDs), which are related to the relative wavelength shift of the LPG and the FBGs. Experimental results agree well with theoretical analyses. The interrogation scheme is immune to light source fluctuation and the cross-sensitivity between measurands and enviromental temperature, and also the dynamic range is large.

H-NOX Regulation of c-di-GMP Metabolism and Biofilm Formation in Legionella pneumophila

PubMed Central

Carlson, Hans K.; Vance, Russell E.; Marletta, Michael A.

2010-01-01

Summary Heme Nitric oxide/OXygen (H-NOX) domains are a family of hemoprotein sensors that are widespread in bacterial genomes, but limited information is available on their function. Legionella pneumophila is the only prokaryote found thus far to encode two H-NOX proteins. This paper presents data supporting a role for one of the Legionella pneumophila H-NOXs in the regulation of biofilm formation. In summary: (i) unmarked deletions in the hnox1 gene do not affect growth rate in liquid culture or replication in permissive macrophages; (ii) theΔhnox1 strain displays a hyper-biofilm phenotype; (iii) the gene adjacent to hnox1 is a GGDEF-EAL protein, lpg1057, and overexpression in Legionella pneumophila of this protein, or the well-studied diguanylate cyclase, vca0956, results in a hyper-biofilm phenotype; (iv) the Lpg1057 protein displays diguanylate cyclase activity in vitro and this activity is inhibited by the Hnox1 protein in the Fe(II)-NO ligation state, but not the Fe(II) unligated state; (v) consistent with the Hnox1 regulation of Lpg1057, unmarked deletions of lpg1057 in theΔhnox1 background results in reversion of the hyper-biofilm phenotype back to wild-type biofilm levels. Taken together, these results suggest a role for hnox1 in regulating c-di-GMP production by lpg1057 and biofilm formation in response to NO. PMID:20572940

77 FR 22381 - Odorant Fade in Railroad Tank Cars

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-04-13

... can lead to the loss of odorant. 4. Facilities that load odorized LPG into tank cars take any other... diminished levels of odorant or no odorant present, represents significant safety risks. Absent sufficient... the LPG in the storage tanks at the construction site had virtually no odorant present, explaining why...

78 FR 42889 - Pipeline Safety: Reminder of Requirements for Utility LP-Gas and LPG Pipeline Systems

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-18

... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 49 CFR Part 192 [Docket No. PHMSA-2013-0097] Pipeline Safety: Reminder of Requirements for Utility LP-Gas and LPG Pipeline Systems AGENCY: Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), DOT. ACTION...

Clean amine solvents economically and online

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

Price, J.; Burns, D.

1995-08-01

Using electrodialysis technology to clean amine solvents is economically competitive with traditional change-out or ``bleed and feed`` methods, even for small systems, because a unit shutdown is not necessary to perform the process. Electrodialysis also has advantages over other online cleanup processes like ion exchange and vacuum reclamation. Off gases and olefinic and saturate liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) streams generated during operation of fluid catalytic crackers (FCC), cokers and other refinery processing equipment must be treated to remove undesirable components like hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide before they can be sold or used in downstream processes. At an Arkansas City,more » Kansas, refinery, a classic amine-based chemical absorbent system is used for this purpose. It comprises two absorbing contacts for gas and two for liquids. The system is charged with an N-methyldiethanolamine (MDEA)-based product that selectively absorbs contaminants. Amine is regenerated by removing contaminants with steam stripping. Lean amine is then recirculated to the absorbers. This case history demonstrates the effectiveness of electrodialysis technology for contaminant removal.« less

A new mix of power for the ESO installations in Chile: greener, more reliable, cheaper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Filippi, G.; Tamai, R.; Kalaitzoglou, D.; Wild, W.; Delorme, A.; Rioseco, D.

2016-07-01

The highest sky quality demands for astronomical research impose to locate observatories often in areas not easily reached by the existing power infrastructures. At the same time, availability and cost of power is a primary factor for sustainable operations. Power may also be a potential source for CO2 pollution. As part of its green initiatives, ESO is in the process of replacing the power sources for its own, La Silla and Paranal-Armazones, and shared, ALMA, installations in Chile in order to provide them with more reliable, affordable, and smaller CO2 footprint power solutions. The connectivity to the Chilean interconnected power systems (grid) which is to extensively use Non-Conventional Renewable Energy (NCRE) as well as the use of less polluting fuels wherever self-generation cannot be avoided are key building blocks for the solutions selected for every site. In addition, considerations such as the environmental impact and - if required - the partnership with other entities have also to be taken into account. After years of preparatory work to which the Chilean Authorities provided great help and support, ESO has now launched an articulated program to upgrade the existing agreements/facilities in i) the La Silla Observatory, from free to regulated grid client status due to an agreement with a Solar Farm private initiative, in ii) the Paranal-Armazones Observatory, from local generation using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to connection to the grid which is to extensively use NCRE, and last but not least, in iii) the ALMA Observatory where ESO participates together with North American and East Asian partners, from replacing the LPG as fuel for the turbine local generation system with the use of less polluting natural gas (NG) supplied by a pipe connection to eliminate the pollution caused by the LPG trucks (currently 1 LPG truck from the VIII region, Bio Bio, to the II region, ALMA and back every day, for a total of 3000km). The technologies used and the status of completion of the different projects, as well as the expected benefits are discussed in this paper.

Numerical and experimental investigation of long-period gratings in photonic crystal fiber for refractive index sensing of gas media.

PubMed

Tian, Fei; He, Zonghu; Du, Henry

2012-02-01

We have used the finite-difference frequency-domain (FDFD) method to simulate the core mode to cladding mode couplings in long-period gratings (LPGs) in photonic crystal fiber (PCF). Four sets of LPG-PCF have been fabricated with respective periodicities of 590, 540, 515, and 490 μm, resulting in corresponding resonance wavelengths (RWs) of 1241, 1399, 1494, and 1579 nm. We show both theoretically and experimentally that the longer the RW, the more sensitive the LPG-PCF is to the index change in Ar. We demonstrate a robust sensitivity of 517 nm per refractive index unit using the LPG-PCF at 1579 nm RW.

ASE Program Certification Standards for Light/Medium Duty CNG/LPG Training Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation, Herndon, VA.

This publication provides the evaluation policies, procedures, and standards to which a compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) technician training program must adhere to be granted certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. The policies section has three parts: the automobile areas that may…

A local experience is often a global experience, forum attendees hear

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

Not Available

1992-06-01

This paper reports that in the first session on supply/demand Roman Samsonov of NPO Soyuzgastechnologiya gave delegates an insight into developing the Soviet gas industry, providing a look at the structure of the industry and consumption patterns. Residential and petrochemical customers are the basic consumers. As of last Jan. 1, 34.6 million apartments used LPG, with at least 150 million people using the fuel for cooling alone. Consumption has greatly increased since the 1970s. In 1970, 4.9 million tonnes of LPG were consumed and by 1980, 8.81 million tonnes. However, the production of LPG in 1990 had reached only 10.5more » million tonnes, about 70% of its domestic needs. Samsonov noted that complete satisfaction of the domestic market can be reached only at the expense of solving the problem of transportation and investing in repairing and keeping facilities going at the Gorky oil refining plant and the Gnedintsovo and Minnibayev oil refining plants. These actions would allow LPG production to increase by more than 10% from the present day production.« less

Economic, demographic and social factors of energy demand in Mexican households, 2008-2014

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perez Pena, Rafael

This research project focuses on estimating the effect of economic, demographic, and social factors in residential energy demand in Mexico from 2008 to 2014. Therefore, it estimates demand equations for electricity, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), coal and natural gas using Mexican household data from 2008 to 2014. It also applies accessibility theory and it estimates energy access indicators using different specifications of demand for LPG in 2014. Sprawl measures, gravity model, and central place theory are the accessibility theory supporting the energy access indicators. Results suggest the greater the household income, the population size, the educational level of the householder, the energy access, and the lower the energy price and the household size, the greater the demand for energy in Mexico from 2008 to 2014. The greater the education, the lower the demand for firewood and coal. LPG and firewood have a monopolistically competitive market structure. Energy access indicators informed by accessibility theory are statistically significant and show the expected sign when applied to LPG in Mexican household in 2014.

Conjugation, characterization and toxicity of lipophosphoglycan-polyacrylic acid conjugate for vaccination against leishmaniasis.

PubMed

Topuzogullari, Murat; Cakir Koc, Rabia; Dincer Isoglu, Sevil; Bagirova, Melahat; Akdeste, Zeynep; Elcicek, Serhat; Oztel, Olga N; Yesilkir Baydar, Serap; Canim Ates, Sezen; Allahverdiyev, Adil M

2013-06-03

Research on the conjugates of synthetic polyelectrolytes with antigenic molecules, such as proteins, peptides, or carbohydrates, is an attractive area due to their highly immunogenic character in comparison to classical adjuvants. For example, polyacrylic acid (PAA) is a weak polyelectrolyte and has been used in several biomedical applications such as immunological studies, drug delivery, and enzyme immobilization. However, to our knowledge, there are no studies that document immune-stimulant properties of PAA in Leishmania infection. Therefore, we aimed to develop a potential vaccine candidate against leishmaniasis by covalently conjugating PAA with an immunologically vital molecule of lipophosphoglycan (LPG) found in Leishmania parasites. In the study, LPG and PAA were conjugated by a multi-step procedure, and final products were analyzed with GPC and MALDI-TOF MS techniques. In cytotoxicity experiments, LPG-PAA conjugates did not indicate toxic effects on L929 and J774 murine macrophage cells. We assume that LPG-PAA conjugate can be a potential vaccine candidate, and will be immunologically characterized in further studies to prove its potential.

Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Welded High Strength Steel Plate Using SMAW and SAW Method for LPG Storage Tanks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Winarto, Winarto; Riastuti, Rini; Kumeidi, Nur

2018-03-01

Indonesian government policy to convert energy consumption for domestic household from kerosene to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) may lead to the increasing demand for LPG storage tank. LPG storage tank with a large capacity generally used the HSLA steel material of ASTM A516 Grade 70 joined by SMAW or combination between SMAW and SAW method. The heat input can affect the microstructure and mechanical properties of the weld area. The input heat is proportional to the welding current and the arc voltage, but inversely proportional to its welding speed. The result shows that the combination of SMAW-SAW process yield the lower hardness in the HAZ and the fusion zone compared to the singe SMAW process. PWHT mainly applied to reduce residual stress of welded joint. The result shows that PWHT can reduce the hardness in the HAZ and the fusion zone in comparing with the singe SMAW process. The microstructure of weld joint shows a coarser structure in the combined welding process (SMAW-SAW) comparing with the single welding process (SMAW).

Cr2O3-modified ZnO thick film resistors as LPG sensors.

PubMed

Patil, D R; Patil, L A

2009-02-15

Thick films of pure ZnO were obtained by screen-printing technique. Surface functionalized ZnO thick films by Cr(2)O(3) were obtained by dipping pure ZnO thick films into 0.01M aqueous solution of chromium trioxide (CrO(3)). The dipped films were fired at 500 degrees C for 30 min. Upon firing, the CrO(3) would reduce to Cr(2)O(3). Cr(2)O(3)-activated (0.47 mass%) ZnO thick films resulted in LPG sensor. Upon exposure to 100 ppm LPG, the barrier height between Cr(2)O(3) and ZnO grains decreases markedly, leading to a drastic decrease in resistance. The sensor was found to sense LPG at 350 degrees C and no cross sensitivity was observed to other hazardous, polluting and inflammable gases. The quick response ( approximately 18s) and fast recovery ( approximately 42s) are the main features of this sensor. The effects of microstructures and dopant concentrations on the gas sensing performance of the sensor were studied and discussed.

Assessment of an explosive LPG release accident: a case study.

PubMed

Bubbico, Roberto; Marchini, Mauro

2008-07-15

In the present paper, an accident occurred during a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tank filling activity has been taken into consideration. During the transfer of LPG from the source road tank car to the receiving fixed storage vessel, an accidental release of LPG gave rise to different final consequences ranging from a pool fire, to a fireball and to the catastrophic rupture of the tank with successive explosion of its contents. The sequence of events has been investigated by using some of the consequence calculation models most commonly adopted in risk analysis and accident investigation. On one hand, this allows to better understand the link between the various events of the accident. On the other hand, a comparison between the results of the calculations and the damages actually observed after the accident, allows to check the accuracy of the prediction models and to critically assess their validity. In particular, it was shown that the largest uncertainty is associated with the calculation of the energy involved in the physical expansion of the fluid (both liquid and vapor) after the catastrophic rupture of the tank.

A differential detection scheme of spectral shifts in long-period fiber gratings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhelyazkova, Katerina; Eftimov, Tinko; Smietana, Mateusz; Bock, Wojtek

2010-10-01

In this work we present an analysis of the response of a compact, simple and inexpensive optoelectronic sensor system intended to detect spectral shifts of a long-period fiber grating (LPG). The system makes use of a diffraction grating and a couple of receiving optical fibers that pick up signals at two different wavelengths. This differential detection system provides the same useful information from an LPG-based sensor as with a conventional laboratory system using optical spectrum analyzers for monitoring the minimum offset of LPG. The design of the fiber detection pair as a function of the parameters of the dispersion grating, the pick-up fiber and the LPG parameters, is presented in detail. Simulation of the detection system responses is presented using real from spectral shifts in nano-coated LPGs caused by the evaporation of various liquids such as water, ethanol and acetone, which are examples of corrosive, flammable and hazardous substances. Fiber optic sensors with similar detection can find applications in structural health monitoring for moisture detection, monitoring the spillage of toxic and flammable substances in industry etc.

Environmental payoffs of LPG cooking in India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, D.; Pachauri, S.; Zerriffi, H.

2017-11-01

Over two-thirds of Indians use solid fuels to meet daily cooking energy needs, with associated negative environmental, social, and health impacts. Major national initiatives implemented by the Indian government over the last few decades have included subsidies for cleaner burning fuels like liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene to encourage a transition to these. However, the extent to which these programs have affected net emissions from the use of these improved fuels has not been adequately studied. Here, we estimate the amount of fuelwood displaced and its net emissions impact due to improved access to LPG for cooking in India between 2001 and 2011 using nationally representative household expenditure surveys and census datasets. We account for a suite of climate-relevant emissions (Kyoto gases and other short-lived climate pollutants) and biomass renewability scenarios (a fully renewable and a conservative non-renewable case). We estimate that the national fuelwood displaced due to increased LPG access between 2001 and 2011 was approximately 7.2 million tons. On aggregate, we estimate a net emissions reduction of 6.73 MtCO2e due to the fuelwood displaced from increased access to LPG, when both Kyoto and non-Kyoto climate-active emissions are accounted for and assuming 0.3 as the fraction of non-renewable biomass (fNRB) harvested. However, if only Kyoto gases are considered, we estimate a smaller net emissions decrease of 0.03 MtCO2e (assuming fully renewable biomass harvesting), or 3.05 MtCO2e (assuming 0.3 as the fNRB). We conclude that the transition to LPG cooking in India reduced pressures on forests and achieved modest climate benefits, though uncertainties regarding the extent of non-renewable biomass harvesting and suite of climate-active emissions included in such an estimation can significantly influence results in any given year and should be considered carefully in any analysis and policy-making.

Effect of indoor air pollution on the respiratory system of women using different fuels for cooking in an urban slum of Pondicherry.

PubMed

Dutt, D; Srinivasa, D K; Rotti, S B; Sahai, A; Konar, D

1996-01-01

Some of the highest exposures to air pollutants in developing countries occur inside homes where biofuels are used for daily cooking. Inhalation of these pollutants may cause deleterious effects on health. We studied the effects of exposure to indoor air pollution from the use of cooking fuels on lung functions and respiratory symptoms in women aged 15-60 years. The study was conducted in Kuruchikuppam, an urban slum in Pondicherry. The study participants were 105 women using biofuels, 105 using kerosene and 105 using liquid petroleum gas (LPG), selected from among 1117 women aged 15-60 years, by a stratified random sampling technique. These women were interviewed at home to collect information about exposure to fuel smoke and presence of respiratory symptoms. Lung functions were assessed by measuring forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). Occurrence of respiratory symptoms over six months was noted by making monthly follow up visits. Women using biofuels experienced more respiratory symptoms (23%) than those using kerosene (13%;p > 0.05) or LPG (8%; p < 0.05). Lung functions-FVC, FEV1, FEV1% and PEFR-were significantly lower in biofuel users compared with both kerosene (p < 0.01) and LPG users (p < 0.001). Lung functions in kerosene users also were significantly poorer when compared with LPG users (p < 0.01). Predicted pulmonary functions using multiple regression equations, derived from the data set of the present study, indicated that women using biofuels were more liable to have reduced pulmonary functions than women using kerosene or LPG. Women exposed to biofuel smoke suffer more from respiratory illnesses and have decreased pulmonary functions compared with women exposed to kerosene or LPG smoke. To reduce pollutant exposures we recommend the use of smokeless chullas or cleaner fuels such as charcoal, biogas and kerosene.

Spatiotemporal variation of ozone precursors and ozone formation in Hong Kong: Grid field measurement and modelling study.

PubMed

Lyu, X P; Liu, M; Guo, H; Ling, Z H; Wang, Y; Louie, P K K; Luk, C W Y

2016-11-01

Grid field measurements of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) covering the entire territory of Hong Kong were simultaneously carried out twice daily on 27 September 2013 and 24 September 2014, respectively, to advance our understanding on the spatiotemporal variations of VOCs and ozone (O3) formation, the factors controlling O3 formation and the efficacy of a control measure in Hong Kong. From before to after the control measure on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fueled vehicles, the VOCs originated from LPG vehicle exhaust deceased from 41.3±1.2μg/m(3) (49.7±1.5%) to 32.8±1.4μg/m(3) (38.8±1.7%) (p<0.05). In contrast, the contribution to VOCs made by gasoline and diesel vehicle exhaust and solvent usage increased (p<0.05). VOCs and nitric oxide (NO) in LPG source experienced the highest reductions at the roadside sites, while the variations were not significant at the urban and new town sites (p>0.05). For O3 production, LPG vehicle exhaust generally made a negative contribution (-0.17±0.06 ppbv) at the roadside sites, however it turned to a slightly positive contribution (0.004±0.038 ppbv) after the control measure. At the urban sites, although the reductions of VOCs and NO were minor (p>0.05), O3 produced by LPG vehicle significantly reduced from 4.19±1.92 ppbv to 0.95±0.38 ppbv (p<0.05). Meanwhile, O3 produced by LPG at the new town sites remained stable. The analysis of O3-precursor relationships revealed that alkenes and aromatics were the main species limiting roadside O3 formation, while aromatics were the most predominant controlling factor at urban and new town sites. In contrast, isoprene and sometimes NOx limited the O3 formation in rural environment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sources of C₂-C₄ alkenes, the most important ozone nonmethane hydrocarbon precursors in the Pearl River Delta region.

PubMed

Zhang, Yanli; Wang, Xinming; Zhang, Zhou; Lü, Sujun; Huang, Zhonghui; Li, Longfeng

2015-01-01

Surface ozone is becoming an increasing concern in China's megacities such as the urban centers located in the highly industrialized and densely populated Pearl River Delta (PRD) region, where previous studies suggested that ozone production is sensitive to VOC emissions with alkenes being important precursors. However, little was known about sources of alkenes. Here we present our monitoring of ambient volatile organic compounds at four representative urban, suburban and rural sites in the PRD region during November-December 2009, which experienced frequent ozone episodes. C2-C4 alkenes, whose total mixing ratios were 11-20% of non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) quantified, accounted for 38-64% of ozone formation potentials (OFPs) and 30-50% of the total hydroxyl radical (OH) reactivity by NMHCs. Ethylene was the most abundant alkene, accounting for 8-15% in total mixing ratios of NMHCs and contributed 25-46% of OFPs. Correlations between C2-C4 alkenes and typical source tracers suggested that ethylene might be largely related to vehicle exhausts and industry activities, while propene and butenes were much more LPG-related. Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) confirmed that vehicle exhaust and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were two major sources that altogether accounted for 52-62%, 58-77%, 73-83%, 68-79% and 73-84% for ethylene, propene, 1-butene, trans-2-butene and cis-2-butene, respectively. Vehicle exhausts alone contributed 32-49% ethylene and 35-41% propene. Industry activities contributed 13-23% ethylene and 7-20% propene. LPG instead contributed the most to butenes (38-65%) and substantially to propene (23-36%). Extensive tests confirmed high fractions of propene and butenes in LPG then used in Guangzhou and in LPG combustion plumes; therefore, limiting alkene contents in LPG would benefit regional ozone control. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A Comparative Study of Chemically and Biologically Synthesized MgO Nanomaterial for Liquefied Petroleum Gas Detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thirupathi, Rampelly; Solleti, Goutham; Sreekanth, Tirumala; Sadasivuni, Kishor Kumar; Venkateswara Rao, Kalagadda

2018-03-01

The exceptional chemical and physical properties of nanostructured materials are extremely suitable for designing new and enhanced sensing devices, particularly gas sensors and biosensors. The present work describes the synthesis of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles through two methods: a green synthesis using aloe vera plant extract and a chemical method using a glycine-based solution combustion route. In a single step, the extracted organic molecules from aloe vera plants were used to reduce metal ions by the green method. MgO nanoparticles were coated onto the interdigital electrode using the drop-drying method. The dynamic gas-sensing characteristics were measured for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at different concentrations and various temperatures. The MgO nanoparticles were characterized by using x-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy to determine the size and structure of the particles. The product's functional properties were analyzed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy and UV-visible spectroscopy. We found that the LPG sensing behavior of biologically synthesized MgO registers excellent sensitivity at various operating temperatures.

A Comparative Study of Chemically and Biologically Synthesized MgO Nanomaterial for Liquefied Petroleum Gas Detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thirupathi, Rampelly; Solleti, Goutham; Sreekanth, Tirumala; Sadasivuni, Kishor Kumar; Venkateswara Rao, Kalagadda

2018-07-01

The exceptional chemical and physical properties of nanostructured materials are extremely suitable for designing new and enhanced sensing devices, particularly gas sensors and biosensors. The present work describes the synthesis of magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles through two methods: a green synthesis using aloe vera plant extract and a chemical method using a glycine-based solution combustion route. In a single step, the extracted organic molecules from aloe vera plants were used to reduce metal ions by the green method. MgO nanoparticles were coated onto the interdigital electrode using the drop-drying method. The dynamic gas-sensing characteristics were measured for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at different concentrations and various temperatures. The MgO nanoparticles were characterized by using x-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy to determine the size and structure of the particles. The product's functional properties were analyzed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy and UV-visible spectroscopy. We found that the LPG sensing behavior of biologically synthesized MgO registers excellent sensitivity at various operating temperatures.

Effect of pH on particles size and gas sensing properties of In2O3 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anand, Kanica; Thangaraj, Rengasamy; Singh, Ravi Chand

2016-05-01

In this work, indium oxide (In2O3) nanoparticles have been synthesized by co-precipitation method and the effect of pH on the structural and sensor response values of In2O3 nanoparticles has been reported. X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD) revealed the formation of cubic phase In2O3 nanoparticles. FESEM results indicate the formation of nearly spherical shape In2O3 nanoparticles. The band gap energy value changed with change in pH value and found to have highest value at pH 9. Indium oxide nanoparticles thus prepared were deposited as thick films on alumina substrates to act as gas sensors and their sensing response to ethanol vapors and LPG at 50 ppm was investigated at different operating temperatures. It has been observed that all sensors exhibited optimum response at 300°C towards ethanol and at 400°C towards LPG. In2O3 nanoparticles prepared at pH 9, being smallest in size as compared to other, exhibit highest sensor response (SR).

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

Chellini, R.

French industry has played a major role in supplying surface equipment for the exploitation of the N`Kossa oil field, located in deep waters (150-300 m) some 60 km offshore the Congo Coast. This immense reservoir (7 km long, 4 km wide, 3000 m under the seabed) was discovered in 1984, and production of oil and LPG started recently. Production of crude oil, which will peak 5 million tons in 1998, and LPG, reaching 300000 tons in 1999, is expected to continue for a period of 30 years. The NKP floating barge used for production is considered a world first inmore » many aspects. It was designed by CTIP Geoproduction (TPG) for the operator, ELF Congo, and was constructed in Marseilles. The barge, which features a prestressed concrete hull, has a bearing capacity of 330000 tons. It is 220 long and 46 m wide, providing a deck area of one hectare. All production facilities as well as living quarters for 160 people are housed on the barge which, for construction purposes, was subdivided into six modules. This paper describes the design of the power generation module. 3 figs.« less

Intergovernmental Advanced Stationary PEM Fuel Cell System Demonstration Final Report

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

Rich Chartrand

A program to complete the design, construction and demonstration of a PEMFC system fuelled by Ethanol, LPG or NG for telecom applications was initiated in October 2007. Early in the program the economics for Ethanol were shown to be unfeasible and permission was given by DOE to focus on LPG only. The design and construction of a prototype unit was completed in Jun 2009 using commercially available PEM FC stack from Ballard Power Systems. During the course of testing, the high pressure drop of the stack was shown to be problematic in terms of control and stability of the reformer.more » Also, due to the power requirements for air compression the overall efficiency of the system was shown to be lower than a similar system using internally developed low pressure drop FC stack. In Q3 2009, the decision was made to change to the Plug power stack and a second prototype was built and tested. Overall net efficiency was shown to be 31.5% at 3 kW output. Total output of the system is 6 kW. Using the new stack hardware, material cost reduction of 63% was achieved over the previous Alpha design. During a November 2009 review meeting Plug Power proposed and was granted permission, to demonstrate the new, commercial version of Plug Power's telecom system at CERL. As this product was also being tested as part of a DOE Topic 7A program, this part of the program was transferred to the Topic 7A program. In Q32008, the scope of work of this program was expanded to include a National Grid demonstration project of a micro-CHP system using hightemperature PEM technology. The Gensys Blue system was cleared for unattended operation, grid connection, and power generation in Aug 2009 at Union College in NY state. The system continues to operate providing power and heat to Beuth House. The system is being continually evaluated and improvements to hardware and controls will be implemented as more is learned about the system's operation. The program is instrumental in improving the efficiency and reducing costs of PEMFC based power systems using LPG fuel and continues to makes steps towards meeting DOE's targets. Plug Power would like to thank DOE for their support of this program.« less

33 CFR 165.155 - Northville Industries Offshore Platform, Riverhead, Long Island, New York-safety zone.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Platform, Riverhead, Long Island, New York-safety zone. 165.155 Section 165.155 Navigation and Navigable...—safety zone. (a) The following area is established as a safety zone during the specified condition: (1... (LPG) vessel is moored at the Offshore Platform. The safety zone remains in effect until the LPG vessel...

33 CFR 165.155 - Northville Industries Offshore Platform, Riverhead, Long Island, New York-safety zone.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Platform, Riverhead, Long Island, New York-safety zone. 165.155 Section 165.155 Navigation and Navigable...—safety zone. (a) The following area is established as a safety zone during the specified condition: (1... (LPG) vessel is moored at the Offshore Platform. The safety zone remains in effect until the LPG vessel...

46 CFR 25.45-2 - Cooking systems on vessels carrying passengers for hire.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... stated therein, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), or compressed natural gas (CNG). (b) Cooking systems using LPG or CNG must meet the following requirements: (1) The design, installation, and testing of each... of each CNG system must meet ABYC A-22-78 or chapter 6 of NFPA 302. (3) Cooking systems using chapter...

Effect of prenatal exposure to kitchen fuel on birth weight.

PubMed

Kadam, Yugantara Ramesh; Mimansa, Anugya; Chavan, Pragati Vishnu; Gore, Alka Dilip

2013-10-01

Maternal exposure to kitchen fuel smoke may lead to impaired fetal growth. To study the effect of exposure to various kitchen fuels on birth weight. Retrospective analytical. Hospital based. Mothers and their newborns. Mothers registered in first trimester with minimum 3 visits, non-anemic, full-term, and singleton delivery. History of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH), Diabetes Mellitus (DM), tobacco chewers or mishri users. 328 mothers and their new-borne. Six months. Study tools: Chi-square, Z-test, ANOVA, and binary logistic regression. Effect of confounders on birth weight was tested and found to be non-significant. Mean ± SD of birth weight was 2.669 ± 0.442 in Liquid Petroleium Gas (LPG) users (n = 178), 2.465 ± 0.465 in wood users (n = 94), 2.557 ± 0.603 in LPG + wood users (n = 27) and 2.617 ± 0.470 in kerosene users (n = 29). Infants born to wood users had lowest birth weight and averagely 204 g lighter than LPG users (F = 4.056, P < 0.01). Percentage of newborns with low birth weight (LBW) in wood users was 44.68% which was significantly higher than in LPG users (24.16%), LPG + wood users (40.74%) and in kerosene users (34.48%) (Chi-square = 12.926, P < 0.01). As duration of exposure to wood fuel increases there is significant decline in birth weight (F = 3.825, P < 0.05). By using logistic regression type of fuel is only best predictor. Cooking with wood fuel is a significant risk-factor for LBW, which is modifiable.

Synthesis of carbon nanoparticles from commercially available liquified petroleum gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nandiyanto, A. B. D.; Fadhlulloh, M. A.; Rahman, T.; Mudzakir, A.

2016-04-01

The aim of this study was to synthesize carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) from commercially available liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). In the research procedure, LPG was reacted with air to construct CNPs. To confirm the successful synthesis of CNPs, we conducted several sample analyses: Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Infrared Spectra (FTIR). We also varied LPG and oxygen mole ratios at 0.8; 2.4; 4.8; and 7.2. The GC-MS results indicated the composition of LPG was propane (58.90%), isobutane (18.35%), butane (22.26%), and butane, 2-methyl (0.48%). The TEM results showed that the particles were spheres with sizes of between 25 and 35 nm. The sizes of particles were controllable, depending on the mole ratio. The XRD results showed mole ratios of LPG and oxygen of 0.80 and 2.40 were natural graphite, whereas the mole ratios of 4.80 and 7.20 were hexagonal graphite. FT-IR results showed CNPs have absorption peaks at wave number (i) 752 (C-H bend sp2); (ii) 835 (C=C); (iii) 1274 (C-O-C vibration); (iv) 1400 and 1600 (C-C stretch aromatic); (v) 2800 (C-H sp2); (vi) 2900 (CH sp3); (vii) 3100 (C-H aromatic); and (viii) 3400 cm-1 (O-H). From the FTIR analysis results, the sample contained allotrope graphite due to detection of peaks at 1400 and 1600 cm-1 (C-C stretch aromatic) and 3100 cm-1 (C-H aromatic).

An unusual etiology in cold injury: Liquefied petroleum gas.

PubMed

Kapı, Emin; Bozkurt, Mehmet; Taylan Filinte, Gaye; Kuvat, Samet Vasfi; Alioğlu, Celal

2017-05-01

Cold injury is a condition that causes reversible and irreversible damage when tissues are exposed to cold. This injury occurs due to various etiologies, and the most commonly observed ones include contact with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) used in households, vehicles, and industry. LPG is a type of gas stored in liquid state under high pressure within cylinders. LPG contains a mixture of propane and butane gases. Direct contact of these gases with the tissues has the potential to cause metabolic, toxic, and respiratory damage. In this study, we present the cases of four patients with cold injury in the face and upper extremity caused by a pressurized jet stream of liquid gas that escaped out of the valves of the LPG cylinders. The patients had bullous lesions in the upper extremities and the face and second- and third-degree cold injuries with fibrotic and necrotic areas. The superficial defects secondarily healed with minimal scarring, while the necrotic finger had to be amputated. Cold injury on the skin caused by high-pressure jet streams of liquid gas as in our study is a rare occurrence. Our patients are important cases due to the rare etiology of cold injury.

Synthesis of fructooligosaccharides from Aspergillus niger commercial inulinase immobilized in montmorillonite pretreated in pressurized propane and LPG.

PubMed

de Oliveira Kuhn, Graciele; Rosa, Clarissa Dalla; Silva, Marceli Fernandes; Treichel, Helen; de Oliveira, Débora; Oliveira, J Vladimir

2013-02-01

Commercial inulinase from Aspergillus niger was immobilized in montmorillonite and then treated in pressurized propane and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Firstly, the effects of system pressure, exposure time, and depressurization rate, using propane and LPG, on enzymatic activity were evaluated through central composite design 2³. Residual activities of 145.1 and 148.5% were observed for LPG (30 bar, 6 h, and depressurization rate of 20 bar min⁻¹) and propane (270 bar, 1 h, and depressurization rate of 100 bar min⁻¹), respectively. The catalysts treated at these conditions in both fluids were then used for the production of fructooligosaccharides (FOS) using sucrose and inulin as substrates in aqueous and organic systems. The main objective of this step was to evaluate the yield and productivity in FOS, using alternatives for enhancing enzyme activity by means of pressurized fluids and also using low-cost supports for enzyme immobilization, aiming at obtaining a stable biocatalyst to be used for synthesis reactions. Yields of 18% were achieved using sucrose as substrate in aqueous medium, showing the potential of this procedure, hence suggesting a further optimization step to increase the process yield.

Investigation on Periodically Surface-Corrugated Long-Period Gratings Inscribed on Photonic Crystal Fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Young-Geun

2017-04-01

Transmission characteristics of periodically surface-corrugated long-period gratings (LPGs) inscribed on photonic crystal fibers (PCFs) using a wet-etching technique were experimentally investigated. A conventional wet method was implemented to periodically engrave the silica cladding region of the PCFs resulting in the periodic surface corrugation in the PCF. After applying the external strain to the PCF with the periodic surface micro-ridges, periodic modulation of refractive index based on the photoelastic effect is induced resulting in the formation of the PCF-based LPG. Increasing the applied strain successfully improves the extinction ratio of the resonant peak of the PCF-based LPG without the resonant wavelength shift. We also measured the transmission characteristics of the PCF-based LPG with variations in temperature and ambient index.

Optimization of few-mode-fiber based mode converter for mode division multiplexing transmission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Yiwei; Fu, Songnian; Zhang, Minming; Tang, M.; Shum, P.; Liu, Deming

2013-10-01

Few-mode-fiber (FMF) based mode division multiplexing (MDM) is a promising technique to further increase the transmission capacity of single mode fibers. We propose and numerically investigate a fiber-optical mode converter (MC) using long period gratings (LPGs) fabricated on the FMF by point-by-point CO2 laser inscription technique. In order to precisely excite three modes (LP01, LP11, and LP02), both untilted LPG and tilted LPG are comprehensively optimized through the length, index modulation depth, and tilt angle of the LPG in order to achieve a mode contrast ratio (MCR) of more than 20 dB with less wavelength dependence. It is found that the proposed MCs have obvious advantages of high MCR, low mode crosstalk, easy fabrication and maintenance, and compact size.

Liquid petroleum gas sensing application of ZnO/CdO:ZnO nanocomposites at low temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rajput, Jeevitesh K.; Pathak, T. K.; Kumar, V.; Swart, H. C.; Purohit, L. P.

2018-04-01

ZnO and CdO:ZnO nanoparticles are synthesized by sol-gel precipitation method. The structural analysis shows composite structure for CdO:ZnO nanoparticles with (002) and (111) phase. The SEM images show wedge like morphology and 3-D hexagonal morphology with ˜110 nm in size. The uniform growth of CdO:ZnO nanoparticles were observed in EDS element mapping image. LPG sensing was observed for CdO:ZnO nanoparticle with rapid sensing response 8.69% at operating temperature 50°C. This sensing response can be accounted due by absorption ions reactions at low operating temperature.

Conception and construction of an LPG tank using a composite membrane technology

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

Fuvel, P.; Claude, J.

TECHNIGAZ and TOTAL C.F.P. have developed a new LPG storage technology derived from the membrane concept used for LNG storage and transportation. This technology called GMS uses a composite membrane as primary barrier. A 2 000 m/sup 3/ storage pilot unit, based on that concept, is under construction in TOTAL's refinery at DUNKIRK (France) since September 1983.

Source Apportionment of Volatile Organic Compounds in an Urban Environment at the Yangtze River Delta, China.

PubMed

An, Junlin; Wang, Junxiu; Zhang, Yuxin; Zhu, Bin

2017-04-01

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were collected continuously during June-August 2013 and December 2013-February 2014 at an urban site in Nanjing in the Yangtze River Delta. The positive matrix factorization receptor model was used to analyse the sources of VOCs in different seasons. Eight and seven sources were identified in summer and winter, respectively. In summer and winter, the dominant sources of VOCs were vehicular emissions, liquefied petroleum gas/natural gas (LPG/NG) usage, solvent usage, biomass/biofuel burning, and industrial production. In summer, vehicular emissions made the most significant contribution to ambient VOCs (38%), followed by LPG/NG usage (20%), solvent usage (19%), biomass/biofuel burning (13%), and industrial production (10%). In winter, LPG/NG usage accounted for 36% of ambient VOCs, whereas vehicular emissions, biomass/biofuel burning, industrial production and solvent usage contributed 30, 18, 9, and 6%, respectively. The contribution of LPG/NG usage in winter was approximately four times that in summer, whereas the contribution from biomass/biofuel burning in winter was more than twice that in summer. The sources related to vehicular emissions and LPG/NG usages were important. Using conditional probability function analysis, the VOC sources were mainly associated with easterly, northeasterly and southeasterly directions, pointing towards the major expressway and industrial area. Using the propylene-equivalent method, paint and varnish (23%) was the highest source of VOCs in summer and biomass/biofuel burning (36%) in winter. Using the ozone formation potential method, the most important source was biomass/biofuel burning (32% in summer and 47% in winter). The result suggests that the biomass/biofuel burning and paint and varnish play important roles in controlling ozone chemical formation in Nanjing.

Respiratory symptoms, lung function and particulate matter pollution in residential indoor environment in Ile-Ife, Nigeria.

PubMed

Ibhafidon, Lawrence I; Obaseki, Daniel O; Erhabor, Gregory E; Akor, Alexander A; Irabor, Iziegbe; Obioh, Ib

2014-01-01

Particulate air pollution is associated with increased incidence of respiratory symptoms and decreased pulmonary, function but the relative impact of pollution from different domestic energy sources is not well-known or studied. The study was aimed at assessing the association between particulate concentrations, respiratory symptoms and lung function. It was a cross-sectional study comprised of randomly selected residents of three communities. These communities were selected according to the predominant type of fuel used for household cooking which were: firewood, kerosene and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Assessment of the indoor PM10 levels was done by filtration using the Gent stacked filter unit sampler for collection of atmospheric aerosol in two size fractions (PM2.5 and PM10). The Medical Research Council (MRC) questionnaire was administered followed by spirometry test. The mean PM10 concentration in participants using LPG, kerosene and firewood was 80.8 ± 9.52 μg/m(3), 236.9 ± 26.5 μg/m(3) and 269 ±93.7 μg/m(3), respectively. The mean age and height-adjusted percent predicted forced expiratory volumes in 1 s (FEV1) for men were 127 ± 7, 109 ± 40 and 91 ± 20 and for women were 129 ± 13, 115 ± 14, 100 ± 14 in users of LPG, kerosene and firewood, respectively. A similar trend was found in the forced vital capacity (FVCs). Users of firewood had significantly lower FEV1 and FVC compared with LPG users (P < 0.05). The participants using firewood had the highest prevalence of pulmonary and non-pulmonary symptoms (57.1%), whereas subjects using LPG had the lowest (23.8%). There are high levels of particulate matter pollutions with respiratory effects in residential indoor environments in Ile-Ife, Nigeria.

Respiratory symptoms, lung function decrement and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in pre-menopausal Indian women exposed to biomass smoke.

PubMed

Mukherjee, Sayali; Roychoudhury, Sanghita; Siddique, Shabana; Banerjee, Madhuchanda; Bhattacharya, Purba; Lahiri, Twisha; Ray, Manas Ranjan

2014-12-01

The impact of chronic exposure to smoke from biomass burning on respiratory health has been examined. Six-hundred and eighty-one non-smoking women (median age 35 years) from eastern India who cook exclusively with biomass (wood, dung and crop residues) and 438 age-matched women from similar neighborhood who cook with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were examined. Pulmonary function test was done by spirometry. The concentrations of particulate matter having diameter of < 10 µm (PM10) and < 2.5 µm (PM2.5) in indoor air was measured by real-time aerosol monitor. Compared with LPG users, biomass users had greater prevalence of upper (50.9 versus 28.5%) and lower respiratory symptoms (71.8 versus 30.8%) and dyspnea (58.4 versus 19.9%). They showed reduction in all parameters measured by spirometer especially in mid-expiratory volume. PM10 and PM2.5 concentration in biomass using kitchen were 2-3-times more than LPG-using kitchen, and the decline in spirometry values was positively associated PM10 and PM2.5 levels in indoor air after controlling education, family income and kitchen location as potential confounders. Overall, 29.7% of biomass users and 16.4% of LPG users had deficient lung function, and restrictive type of deficiency was predominant. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was diagnosed in 4.6% of biomass and 0.9% of LPG users. Women who predominantly used dung cake and did not possess separate kitchen had poorer lung function. Cumulative exposure to biomass smoke causes lung function decrement and facilitates COPD development even in non-smoking and relatively young pre-menopausal women.

Mutagenicity of urine from individuals exposed to LPG combustion products.

PubMed

Yin, X J; Liu, J Z; Kong, X H; Chu, J H; Wang, H; Xiao, Z X

1998-09-01

The mutagenicity of urine from individuals exposed to the combustion products of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) was detected with Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and its newly developed derivatives YG1021 (nitroreductase overproducing) and YG1024 (O-acetyltransferase overproducing). The detection showed significantly increased mutagenicity for the two YG strains and increased positive rates for all three strains in the presence of both rat liver S9 and beta-glucuronidase. Further analysis demonstrated that urine samples taken from smoking and non-smoking exposed individuals exhibited significantly higher mutagenic potency (revertants/10 microliters urine concentrate) than their corresponding controls. These results indicate that the increased urine mutagenicity is caused by the exposure to LPG combustion products or smoking. The mutagenic potency of urine samples of all exposed individuals tested with YG1024 was found to be about 7 times higher than with TA98. The difference in mutagenic potency was smaller for the same samples when comparison was made between YG1021 and TA98. This suggests that the mutagenic compounds present in the urine samples contain mainly aromatic compounds as glucuronide conjugates. Our results demonstrate that YG1024 is more sensitive than TA98 in detecting the mutagenicity of these samples. In addition, no significant difference in the mutagenic potency between the 'pure' exposed (non-smokers') and the 'pure' smokers' (unexposed) samples was found in all three tester strains. This might mean that the exposure extent of mutagens/carcinogens in LPG combustion products for exposed individuals roughly corresponds to the smoking level of smokers who smoke 20-40 cigarettes per day. Furthermore, the results also suggest that synergism might exist in the mutagenic effects of exposure to LPG combustion products and cigarette smoking.

Terahertz bandwidth all-optical Hilbert transformers based on long-period gratings.

PubMed

Ashrafi, Reza; Azaña, José

2012-07-01

A novel, all-optical design for implementing terahertz (THz) bandwidth real-time Hilbert transformers is proposed and numerically demonstrated. An all-optical Hilbert transformer can be implemented using a uniform-period long-period grating (LPG) with a properly designed amplitude-only grating apodization profile, incorporating a single π-phase shift in the middle of the grating length. The designed LPG-based Hilbert transformers can be practically implemented using either fiber-optic or integrated-waveguide technologies. As a generalization, photonic fractional Hilbert transformers are also designed based on the same optical platform. In this general case, the resulting LPGs have multiple π-phase shifts along the grating length. Our numerical simulations confirm that all-optical Hilbert transformers capable of processing arbitrary optical signals with bandwidths well in the THz range can be implemented using feasible fiber/waveguide LPG designs.

Explosion Hazards Associated with Spills of Large Quantities of Hazardous Materials. Phase I

DTIC Science & Technology

1974-10-01

quantities of hazardous material such as liquified natural gas ( LNG ), liquified petroleum gils (LPG), or ethylene. The principal results are (1) a...associated with spills of large quantities of hazardous material such as liquified natural gas ( LNG ), liquified petroleum gas (LPG), or ethylene. The...liquified natural gas ( LNG ). Unfortunately, as the quantity of material shipped at one time increases, so does the potential hazard associated with

Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy for gastric neoplasms.

PubMed

Kukar, Moshim; Gabriel, Emmanuel; Ben-David, Kfir; Hochwald, Steven N

2018-06-19

For cancers of the distal gastroesophageal junction or the proximal stomach, proximal gastrectomy can be performed. It is associated with several perioperative benefits compared with total gastrectomy. The use of laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG) has become an increasingly popular approach for select tumors. We describe our method of LPG, including the preoperative work-up, illustrated depictions of the key steps of the surgery, and our postoperative pathway. A total of 6 patients underwent LPG between July, 2013 to June, 2017. Five patients had early-stage adenocarcinoma, and 1 patient had a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. The median age of the cohort was 70, and each patient had significant comorbidities. Conversion to open was required for 1 patient. All patients had negative final margins and an adequate lymph node dissection (median number of nodes examined was 15, range 12-22). The median postoperative length of stay was 7 days (range 4-7). Two patients developed anastomotic strictures requiring intervention, and 1 patient experienced significant reflux. At a median follow-up of 11 months, there was 1 recurrence. Three patients were alive without evidence of disease, and 2 patients died from other causes. For carefully selected patients, LPG is a safe and reasonable alternative to total gastrectomy, which is associated with similar oncologic outcomes and low morbidity. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Global strength assessment in oblique waves of a large gas carrier ship, based on a non-linear iterative method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Domnisoru, L.; Modiga, A.; Gasparotti, C.

2016-08-01

At the ship's design, the first step of the hull structural assessment is based on the longitudinal strength analysis, with head wave equivalent loads by the ships' classification societies’ rules. This paper presents an enhancement of the longitudinal strength analysis, considering the general case of the oblique quasi-static equivalent waves, based on the own non-linear iterative procedure and in-house program. The numerical approach is developed for the mono-hull ships, without restrictions on 3D-hull offset lines non-linearities, and involves three interlinked iterative cycles on floating, pitch and roll trim equilibrium conditions. Besides the ship-wave equilibrium parameters, the ship's girder wave induced loads are obtained. As numerical study case we have considered a large LPG liquefied petroleum gas carrier. The numerical results of the large LPG are compared with the statistical design values from several ships' classification societies’ rules. This study makes possible to obtain the oblique wave conditions that are inducing the maximum loads into the large LPG ship's girder. The numerical results of this study are pointing out that the non-linear iterative approach is necessary for the computation of the extreme loads induced by the oblique waves, ensuring better accuracy of the large LPG ship's longitudinal strength assessment.

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

Phillips, S. D.; Tarud, J. K.; Biddy, M. J.

This report documents the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL's) assessment of the feasibility of making gasoline via the methanol-to-gasoline route using syngas from a 2,000 dry metric tonne/day (2,205 U.S. ton/day) biomass-fed facility. A new technoeconomic model was developed in Aspen Plus for this study, based on the model developed for NREL's thermochemical ethanol design report (Phillips et al. 2007). The necessary process changes were incorporated into a biomass-to-gasoline model using a methanol synthesis operation followed by conversion, upgrading, and finishing to gasoline. Using a methodology similar to that used in previous NREL design reports and a feedstock cost ofmore » $50.70/dry ton ($55.89/dry metric tonne), the estimated plant gate price is $16.60/MMBtu ($15.73/GJ) (U.S. $2007) for gasoline and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) produced from biomass via gasification of wood, methanol synthesis, and the methanol-to-gasoline process. The corresponding unit prices for gasoline and LPG are $1.95/gallon ($0.52/liter) and $1.53/gallon ($0.40/liter) with yields of 55.1 and 9.3 gallons per U.S. ton of dry biomass (229.9 and 38.8 liters per metric tonne of dry biomass), respectively.« less

Effect of pH on particles size and gas sensing properties of In{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles

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

Anand, Kanica, E-mail: kanica.anand@yahoo.com; Thangaraj, Rengasamy; Singh, Ravi Chand

In this work, indium oxide (In{sub 2}O{sub 3}) nanoparticles have been synthesized by co-precipitation method and the effect of pH on the structural and sensor response values of In{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles has been reported. X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD) revealed the formation of cubic phase In{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles. FESEM results indicate the formation of nearly spherical shape In{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles. The band gap energy value changed with change in pH value and found to have highest value at pH 9. Indium oxide nanoparticles thus prepared were deposited as thick films on alumina substrates to act as gas sensorsmore » and their sensing response to ethanol vapors and LPG at 50 ppm was investigated at different operating temperatures. It has been observed that all sensors exhibited optimum response at 300°C towards ethanol and at 400°C towards LPG. In{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles prepared at pH 9, being smallest in size as compared to other, exhibit highest sensor response (SR).« less

Liquefied petroleum gas sensor based on manganese (III) oxide and zinc manganese (III) oxide nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Shiva; Chauhan, Pratima; Husain, Shahid

2018-01-01

In this paper, {{{Mn}}}2{{{O}}}3 and {{{ZnMn}}}2{{{O}}}4 nanoparticles (NPs) are successfully synthesized using chemical co-precipitation method at room temperature and further annealed at 450 °C. The structure, crystallite size, morphology, specific surface area (SSA) and band gap energy have been determined by x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDS) and UV-visible spectrophotometer. The sensor films of the {{{Mn}}}2{{{O}}}3 NPs and {{{ZnMn}}}2{{{O}}}4 NPs have been fabricated onto glass substrate using spin coater system separately. These sensor films are investigated for different concentrations (200-1200 ppm) of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at different operating temperatures ranging from 100 °C to 400 °C. A comparative study of gas sensing properties shows that spinel {{{ZnMn}}}2{{{O}}}4 sensor film exhibit excellent response (≈ 80 % ) towards 1000 ppm LPG at 300 °C in comparison to {{{Mn}}}2{{{O}}}3 sensor films. The enhancement in the gas sensing characteristics of {{{ZnMn}}}2{{{O}}}4 sensor film is attributed to the reduced crystallite size, greater SSA, and modification in structure as well as morphology.

CdO nanosheet film with a (200)-preferred orientation with sensitivity to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at low-temperatures.

PubMed

Cui, Guangliang; Li, Zimeng; Gao, Liang; Zhang, Mingzhe

2012-12-21

CdO nanosheet film can be synthesized by electrochemical deposition in an ultra-thin liquid layer by using Cd(NO(3))(2) and HNO(3) as source materials for Cd and oxygen respectively. HNO(3) is also used to adjust the pH of the electrolyte. Studies on the detailed structure indicate that the synthesized CdO nanosheet film has a face-centered cubic structure with (200)-preferred orientation. The response of the CdO nanosheet film to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at low temperature has been significantly improved by the novel structure of film. It has exhibited excellent sensitivity and selectivity to LPG at low temperature. A new growth mechanism of electrochemical deposition has been proposed to elaborate the formation of nanosheet in an ultra-thin liquid layer. The self-oscillation of potential in the growth interface and intermediate hydroxide are responsible for the formation of nanosheets.

Ataxia with Parkinsonism and dystonia after intentional inhalation of liquefied petroleum gas.

PubMed

Godani, Massimiliano; Canavese, Francesca; Migliorini, Sonia; Del Sette, Massimo

2015-01-01

The practice of inhaling liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to commit suicide is uncommon and almost exclusively a prerogative of the prison population. Numerous cases of sudden deaths caused by intentional propane and/or butane inhalation have been described, but these cases survived and a description of the consequences is very rare. We describe a prisoner who survived after voluntary inhalation of LPG, and who developed ataxia, Parkinsonism, and dystonia. Brain MRI showed bilateral hyperintensity in the basal ganglia and in the cerebellar hemispheres. The clinical evolution and the MRI abnormalities are similar to those described in cases of poisoning by CO where the mechanism of brain injury is related to histotoxic hypoxia. We believe that LPG, considered until now a mixture of gas with low neurotoxic power, may have caused direct toxic damage to the brain, mediated by a mechanism of hypoxia, such as in CO intoxication.

Designing a behavioral intervention using the COM-B model and the theoretical domains framework to promote gas stove use in rural Guatemala: a formative research study.

PubMed

Thompson, Lisa M; Diaz-Artiga, Anaité; Weinstein, John R; Handley, Margaret A

2018-02-14

Three billion people use solid cooking fuels, and 4 million people die from household air pollution annually. Shifting households to clean fuels, like liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), may protect health only if stoves are consistently used. Few studies have used an implementation science framework to systematically assess "de-implementation" of traditional stoves, and none have done so with pregnant women who are more likely to adopt new behaviors. We evaluated an introduced LPG stove coupled with a phased behavioral intervention to encourage exclusive gas stove use among pregnant women in rural Guatemala. We enrolled 50 women at < 20 weeks gestation in this prospective cohort study. All women received a free 3-burner LPG stove and ten tank refills. We conducted formative research using COM-B Model and Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). This included thematic analysis of focus group findings and classes delivered to 25 pregnant women (Phase 1). In Phase 2, we complemented classes with a home-based tailored behavioral intervention with a different group of 25 pregnant women. We mapped 35 TDF constructs onto survey questions. To evaluate stove use, we placed temperature sensors on wood and gas stoves and estimated fraction of stove use three times during pregnancy and twice during the first month after infant birth. Class attendance rates were above 92%. We discussed feasible ways to reduce HAP exposure, proper stove use, maintenance and safety. We addressed food preferences, ease of cooking and time savings through cooking demonstrations. In Phase 2, the COM-B framework revealed that other household members needed to be involved if the gas stove was to be consistently used. Social identity and empowerment were key in decisions about stove repairs and LPG tank refills. The seven intervention functions included training, education, persuasion, incentivization, modelling, enablement and environmental restructuring. Wood stove use dropped upon introduction of the gas stove from 6.4 h to 1.9 h. This is the first study using the COM-B Model to develop a behavioral intervention that promotes household-level sustained use of LPG stoves. This study lays the groundwork for a future LPG stove intervention trial coupled with a behavioral change intervention. NCT02812914, registered 3 June 2016, retrospectively registered.

High refractive index and temperature sensitivity LPGs for high temperature operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nascimento, I. M.; Gouveia, C.; Jana, Surnimal; Bera, Susanta; Baptista, J. M.; Moreira, Paulo; Biwas, Palas; Bandyopadhyay, Somnath; Jorge, Pedro A. S.

2013-11-01

A fiber optic sensor for high sensitivity refractive index and temperature measurement able to withstand temperature up to 450 °C is reported. Two identical LPG gratings were fabricated, whereas one was coated with a high refractive index (~1.78) sol-gel thin film in order to increase its sensitivity to the external refractive index. The two sensors were characterized and compared in refractive index and temperature. Sensitivities of 1063 nm/RIU (1.338 - 1.348) and 260 pm/°C were achieved for refractive index and temperature, respectively.

Nigeria`s Escravos gas project starts up

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

Nwokoma, M.

Nigeria`s Escravos gas project, Delta state, officially began late last year. The project -- 6,650 b/d of LPG and 1,740 b/d of condensate from 165 MMscfd of gas -- is the first attempt to rid Nigeria of incessant flares that have lit the Delta skies. Operator Chevron Nigeria Ltd. believes that the Escravos project will enable the joint venture to utilize a significant portion of the gas reserves, thus reducing gas flaring. The paper describes the background of the project, the gas fields, transport pipeline, process design, construction, and start-up.

Tailored instructor feedback leads to more effective virtual-reality laparoscopic training.

PubMed

Paschold, M; Huber, T; Zeißig, S R; Lang, H; Kneist, Werner

2014-03-01

Laparoscopic novices begin at different performance levels, and studies on tailored training concepts are warranted. The effect of verbal instructor feedback has been investigated with varying results, and its effectiveness in virtual-reality laparoscopic (VRL) simulations still is unclear. This study aimed to determine whether laparoscopic novices with lower initial performance statuses may profit from training with intensive instructor feedback. A prospective, single-blinded study was performed within a week-long curricular course. In this study, 20 medical students performed a complex bimanual maneuver on a VRL simulator. There was a division in performance levels, with a high-performer group (HPG) that received a better median score and a low-performer group (LPG). During the training phase, only the initial LPG received standardized instructor feedback in a one-to-one setting. The final assessment of skills for both groups involved performing the task without feedback at the end of the course. The HPG and LPG showed significantly different initial performance levels according global and categorized (time, economics, error) scores (p < 0.005). This difference disappeared quickly throughout the instructor feedback phase. The final assessment demonstrated that both groups were at the same level of performance. This is the first study to use a tailored training concept with instructor feedback limited to the LPG. The tailored training was effective and economic for the laparoscopic novices and their teachers.

Diagnostic accuracy of T stage of gastric cancer from the view point of application of laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy.

PubMed

Kouzu, Keita; Tsujimoto, Hironori; Hiraki, Shuichi; Nomura, Shinsuke; Yamamoto, Junji; Ueno, Hideki

2018-06-01

The preoperative diagnosis of T stage is important in selecting limited treatments, such as laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG), which lacks the ability to palpate the tumor. Therefore, the present study examined the accuracy of preoperative diagnosis of the depth of tumor invasion in early gastric cancer from the view point of the indication for LPG. A total of 193 patients with cT1 gastric cancer underwent LPG with gastrointestinal endoscopic examinations and a series of upper gastrointestinal radiographs. The patients with pT1 were classified into the correctly diagnosed group (163 patients, 84.5%), and those with pT2 or deeper were classified into the underestimated group (30 patients, 15.5%). Factors that were associated with underestimation of tumor depth were analyzed. Tumor size in the underestimated group was significantly larger; the lesions were more frequently located in the upper third of the stomach and were more histologically diffuse, scirrhous, with infiltrative growth, and more frequent lymphatic and venous invasion. For upper third lesions, in univariate analysis, histology (diffuse type) was associated with underestimation of tumor depth. Multivariate analysis found that tumor size (≥20 mm) and histology (diffuse type) were independently associated with underestimation of tumor depth. gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach with diffuse type histology and >20 mm needs particular attention when considering the application of LPG.

Diagnostic accuracy of T stage of gastric cancer from the view point of application of laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy

PubMed Central

Kouzu, Keita; Tsujimoto, Hironori; Hiraki, Shuichi; Nomura, Shinsuke; Yamamoto, Junji; Ueno, Hideki

2018-01-01

The preoperative diagnosis of T stage is important in selecting limited treatments, such as laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy (LPG), which lacks the ability to palpate the tumor. Therefore, the present study examined the accuracy of preoperative diagnosis of the depth of tumor invasion in early gastric cancer from the view point of the indication for LPG. A total of 193 patients with cT1 gastric cancer underwent LPG with gastrointestinal endoscopic examinations and a series of upper gastrointestinal radiographs. The patients with pT1 were classified into the correctly diagnosed group (163 patients, 84.5%), and those with pT2 or deeper were classified into the underestimated group (30 patients, 15.5%). Factors that were associated with underestimation of tumor depth were analyzed. Tumor size in the underestimated group was significantly larger; the lesions were more frequently located in the upper third of the stomach and were more histologically diffuse, scirrhous, with infiltrative growth, and more frequent lymphatic and venous invasion. For upper third lesions, in univariate analysis, histology (diffuse type) was associated with underestimation of tumor depth. Multivariate analysis found that tumor size (≥20 mm) and histology (diffuse type) were independently associated with underestimation of tumor depth. gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach with diffuse type histology and >20 mm needs particular attention when considering the application of LPG. PMID:29844908

Characterization of volatile organic compounds at a roadside environment in Hong Kong: An investigation of influences after air pollution control strategies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Yu; Ling, Zhen Hao; Lee, Shun Cheng; Ho, Steven Sai Hang; Cao, Jun Ji; Blake, Donald R.; Cheng, Yan; Lai, Sen Chao; Ho, Kin Fai; Gao, Yuan; Cui, Long; Louie, Peter K. K.

2015-12-01

Vehicular emission is one of the important anthropogenic pollution sources for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Four characterization campaigns were conducted at a representative urban roadside environment in Hong Kong between May 2011 and February 2012. Carbon monoxide (CO) and VOCs including methane (CH4), non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs), halocarbons, and alkyl nitrates were quantified. Both mixing ratios and compositions of the target VOCs show ignorable seasonal variations. Except CO, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tracers of propane, i-butane and n-butane are the three most abundant VOCs, which increased significantly as compared with the data measured at the same location in 2003. Meanwhile, the mixing ratios of diesel- and gasoline tracers such as ethyne, alkenes, aromatics, halogenated, and nitrated hydrocarbons decreased by at least of 37%. The application of advanced multivariate receptor modeling technique of positive matrix factorization (PMF) evidenced that the LPG fuel consumption is the largest pollution source, accounting for 60 ± 5% of the total quantified VOCs at the roadside location. The sum of ozone formation potential (OFP) for the target VOCs was 300.9 μg-O3 m-3, which was 47% lower than the value of 567.3 μg-O3 m-3 measured in 2003. The utilization of LPG as fuel in public transport (i.e., taxis and mini-buses) contributed 51% of the sum of OFP, significantly higher than the contributions from gasoline- (16%) and diesel-fueled (12%) engine emissions. Our results demonstrated the effectiveness of the switch from diesel to LPG-fueled engine for taxis and mini-buses implemented by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government between the recent ten years, in additional to the execution of substitution to LPG-fueled engine and restrictions of the vehicular emissions in compliance with the updated European emission standards.

An Amoebal Grazer of Cyanobacteria Requires Cobalamin Produced by Heterotrophic Bacteria.

PubMed

Ma, Amy T; Beld, Joris; Brahamsha, Bianca

2017-05-15

Amoebae are unicellular eukaryotes that consume microbial prey through phagocytosis, playing a role in shaping microbial food webs. Many amoebal species can be cultivated axenically in rich media or monoxenically with a single bacterial prey species. Here, we characterize heterolobosean amoeba LPG3, a recent natural isolate, which is unable to grow on unicellular cyanobacteria, its primary food source, in the absence of a heterotrophic bacterium, a Pseudomonas species coisolate. To investigate the molecular basis of this requirement for heterotrophic bacteria, we performed a screen using the defined nonredundant transposon library of Vibrio cholerae , which implicated genes in corrinoid uptake and biosynthesis. Furthermore, cobalamin synthase deletion mutations in V. cholerae and the Pseudomonas species coisolate do not support the growth of amoeba LPG3 on cyanobacteria. While cyanobacteria are robust producers of a corrinoid variant called pseudocobalamin, this variant does not support the growth of amoeba LPG3. Instead, we show that it requires cobalamin that is produced by the Pseudomonas species coisolate. The diversity of eukaryotes utilizing corrinoids is poorly understood, and this amoebal corrinoid auxotroph serves as a model for examining predator-prey interactions and micronutrient transfer in bacterivores underpinning microbial food webs. IMPORTANCE Cyanobacteria are important primary producers in aquatic environments, where they are grazed upon by a variety of phagotrophic protists and, hence, have an impact on nutrient flux at the base of microbial food webs. Here, we characterize amoebal isolate LPG3, which consumes cyanobacteria as its primary food source but also requires heterotrophic bacteria as a source of corrinoid vitamins. Amoeba LPG3 specifically requires the corrinoid variant produced by heterotrophic bacteria and cannot grow on cyanobacteria alone, as they produce a different corrinoid variant. This same corrinoid specificity is also exhibited by other eukaryotes, including humans and algae. This amoebal model system allows us to dissect predator-prey interactions to uncover factors that may shape microbial food webs while also providing insight into corrinoid specificity in eukaryotes. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

Women's personal and indoor exposures to PM 2.5 in Mysore, India: Impact of domestic fuel usage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andresen, Penny Rechkemmer; Ramachandran, Gurumurthy; Pai, Pramod; Maynard, Andrew

In traditional societies, women are more likely to be adversely affected by exposures to fine particulates from domestic fuel combustion due to their role in the family as the primary cooks. In this study, 24-h gravimetric personal and indoor PM 2.5 exposures were measured for 15 women using kerosene and another 15 women using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as their main cooking fuel in Mysore, India. The women also answered a detailed questionnaire regarding their residential housing characteristics, health status, cooking practices and socioeconomic status. Repeated measurements were obtained during two seasons. The main objective of this study was to determine whether exposures to PM 2.5 differed according to fuel usage patterns. A repeated-measures general linear model (GLM) was used to analyze the data. Women using kerosene as their primary cooking fuel had significantly higher exposures. During summer, the arithmetic mean (± standard error) for kerosene users personal exposure was 111±13 and 71±15 μg m -3 for LPG users. Kerosene users had higher exposures in winter (177±21 μg m -3) compared to summer exposures. However, for LPG users there was no difference in their seasonal geometric mean exposures at 71±13 μg m -3. Indoor concentrations followed similar patterns. In summer, kerosene-using households had an arithmetic mean concentration of 98±9 μg m -3 and LPG-using households had an arithmetic mean concentration of 71±9 μg m -3. Winter concentrations were significantly higher than summer concentrations for kerosene users (155±13 μg m -3). Again, LPG users showed only slightly higher indoor concentrations (73±6 μg m -3) than kerosene users. Socioeconomic status, age, season and income were significant predictors of cooking fuel choice.

An Amoebal Grazer of Cyanobacteria Requires Cobalamin Produced by Heterotrophic Bacteria

PubMed Central

Beld, Joris; Brahamsha, Bianca

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Amoebae are unicellular eukaryotes that consume microbial prey through phagocytosis, playing a role in shaping microbial food webs. Many amoebal species can be cultivated axenically in rich media or monoxenically with a single bacterial prey species. Here, we characterize heterolobosean amoeba LPG3, a recent natural isolate, which is unable to grow on unicellular cyanobacteria, its primary food source, in the absence of a heterotrophic bacterium, a Pseudomonas species coisolate. To investigate the molecular basis of this requirement for heterotrophic bacteria, we performed a screen using the defined nonredundant transposon library of Vibrio cholerae, which implicated genes in corrinoid uptake and biosynthesis. Furthermore, cobalamin synthase deletion mutations in V. cholerae and the Pseudomonas species coisolate do not support the growth of amoeba LPG3 on cyanobacteria. While cyanobacteria are robust producers of a corrinoid variant called pseudocobalamin, this variant does not support the growth of amoeba LPG3. Instead, we show that it requires cobalamin that is produced by the Pseudomonas species coisolate. The diversity of eukaryotes utilizing corrinoids is poorly understood, and this amoebal corrinoid auxotroph serves as a model for examining predator-prey interactions and micronutrient transfer in bacterivores underpinning microbial food webs. IMPORTANCE Cyanobacteria are important primary producers in aquatic environments, where they are grazed upon by a variety of phagotrophic protists and, hence, have an impact on nutrient flux at the base of microbial food webs. Here, we characterize amoebal isolate LPG3, which consumes cyanobacteria as its primary food source but also requires heterotrophic bacteria as a source of corrinoid vitamins. Amoeba LPG3 specifically requires the corrinoid variant produced by heterotrophic bacteria and cannot grow on cyanobacteria alone, as they produce a different corrinoid variant. This same corrinoid specificity is also exhibited by other eukaryotes, including humans and algae. This amoebal model system allows us to dissect predator-prey interactions to uncover factors that may shape microbial food webs while also providing insight into corrinoid specificity in eukaryotes. PMID:28283521

8-pCPT-cGMP prevents mitochondrial depolarization and improves the outcome of steatotic partial liver transplantation

PubMed Central

Liu, Qinlong; Rehman, Hasibur; Krishnasamy, Yasodha; Lemasters, John J; Zhong, Zhi

2017-01-01

Permeant cGMP analogs prevent the mitochondria permeability transition (MPT) in vitro. In this study, we explored whether 8-pCPT-cGMP prevents the MPT and decreases post-transplant damage to fatty partial liver grafts (FPG) in vivo. Rats were fed a control or high-fat, high-fructose diet for 2-week. Lean and fatty liver explants were reduced in size ex vivo to ~35% and stored in the University of Wisconsin solution with and without 8-pCPT-cGMP (300 µM) for 2 h. After transplantation, alanine aminotransferase release (indicator of hepatocellular injury), hyperbilirubinemia (indicator of poor liver function), and cell death were all higher in FPG than in lean partial grafts (LPG). Liver regeneration increased in LPG but was suppressed in FPG. 8-pCPT-cGMP blunted graft injury, improved liver regeneration and function, and increased survival of FPG. Hepatic mitochondrial depolarization detected by intravital multiphoton microscopy of rhodamine 123 in living rats was ~3.5-fold higher in FPG than in LPG. 8-pCPT-cGMP decreased mitochondrial depolarization in FPG almost to the level of LPG. Activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), an energy sensitive kinase that stimulates cell proliferation and growth, and p70S6 kinase, a downstream signaling molecule of mTOR, was increased in LPG but suppressed in FPG. 8-pCPT-cGMP restored the activity of mTOR and p70S6 kinase in FPG. 8-pCPT-cGMP also increased activation of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) and expression of cyclins D1 and E in FPG. Non-alcoholic steatosis increases injury and suppresses regeneration after partial liver transplantation, at least in part, due to more severe mitochondrial dysfunction. Protection of mitochondria with a cGMP analog effectively improves outcomes of FPG transplantation. PMID:28694919

Respiratory symptoms, lung function and particulate matter pollution in residential indoor environment in Ile-Ife, Nigeria

PubMed Central

Ibhafidon, Lawrence I.; Obaseki, Daniel O.; Erhabor, Gregory E.; Akor, Alexander A.; Irabor, Iziegbe; Obioh, IB

2014-01-01

Introduction: Particulate air pollution is associated with increased incidence of respiratory symptoms and decreased pulmonary, function but the relative impact of pollution from different domestic energy sources is not well-known or studied. Aim: The study was aimed at assessing the association between particulate concentrations, respiratory symptoms and lung function. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study comprised of randomly selected residents of three communities. These communities were selected according to the predominant type of fuel used for household cooking which were: firewood, kerosene and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Assessment of the indoor PM10 levels was done by filtration using the Gent stacked filter unit sampler for collection of atmospheric aerosol in two size fractions (PM2.5 and PM10). The Medical Research Council (MRC) questionnaire was administered followed by spirometry test. Results: The mean PM10 concentration in participants using LPG, kerosene and firewood was 80.8 ± 9.52 μg/m3, 236.9 ± 26.5 μg/m3 and 269 ±93.7 μg/m3, respectively. The mean age and height-adjusted percent predicted forced expiratory volumes in 1 s (FEV1) for men were 127 ± 7, 109 ± 40 and 91 ± 20 and for women were 129 ± 13, 115 ± 14, 100 ± 14 in users of LPG, kerosene and firewood, respectively. A similar trend was found in the forced vital capacity (FVCs). Users of firewood had significantly lower FEV1 and FVC compared with LPG users (P < 0.05). The participants using firewood had the highest prevalence of pulmonary and non-pulmonary symptoms (57.1%), whereas subjects using LPG had the lowest (23.8%). Conclusion: There are high levels of particulate matter pollutions with respiratory effects in residential indoor environments in Ile-Ife, Nigeria PMID:24970970

Fire disaster caused by LPG tanker explosion at Lice in Diyarbakır (Turkey): July 21, 2014.

PubMed

Zengin, Yılmaz; Dursun, Recep; İçer, Mustafa; Gündüz, Ercan; Durgun, Hasan Mansur; Erbatur, Serkan; Damar, Ömer; Güloğlu, Cahfer

2015-09-01

A disaster can be defined as a situation where the affected society cannot overcome its own resources. Our aim was to present the case of a fire disaster caused by a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker-based explosion on the Diyarbakır-Bingöl road in Lice to determine the various kinds of challenges and patient groups that an emergency department faces and to discuss more effective interventions for similar disasters. This is a retrospective cross-sectional study. To find out the factors that affected mortality, we investigated the patient conditions presented at the time of admission. Among 69 patients included in the study, 62 were male (89.9%) and seven were female (10.1%). The average age of patients was 32.10±14.01 years, and the burn percentage was 51.1±32.2. One patient died during the first response, and a total of 34 patients (49.3%) died during the patient follow-up. Factors statistically related to mortality were determined to be inclusion in the severe burn group, presence of inhalation injuries, use of central venous catheter on patients, application of fasciotomy, presence of a tracheostomy opening, use of endotracheal intubation and sedoanalgesia, and transfer to centers outside the city (p-values <0.001, <0.001, <0.001, <0.001, <0.001, <0.001, 0.001, and 0.003, respectively). In conclusion, although fire disasters caused by LPG tanker explosions are rare, the frequency of such disasters will increase with the increase in LPG use. The factors affecting mortality should be determined to decrease mortality. We recommend that all personnel members who engage in work related to LPG from production to use, in addition to rescue and first-response personnel, be trained comprehensively and that advanced technological fire equipment be used to prevent such disasters. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

Experimental investigations on effect of different materials and varying depths of one turn exhaust channel swiss roll combustor on its thermal performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mane Deshmukh, Sagar B.; Krishnamoorthy, A.; Bhojwani, V. K.; Pawane, Ashwini

2017-05-01

More energy density of hydrocarbon fuels compared to advanced batteries available in the market demands for development of systems which will use hydrocarbon fuels at small scale to generate power in small quantity (i.e. in few watts) and device efficiency should be reasonably good, but the basic requirement is to generate heat from the fuels like methane, propane, hydrogen, LPG and converting into power. Swiss roll combustor has proved to be best combustor at small scale. Present work is carried out on one turn exhaust channel and half turn of inlet mixture channel Swiss roll combustor. Purpose of keeping exhaust channel length more than the inlet mixture channel to ensure sufficient time for heat exchange between burned and unburned gases, which is not reported in earlier studies. Experimental study mentions effects of different design parameters like materials of combustor, various depths, equivalence ratio, mass flow rates of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), volume of combustion space and environmental conditions (with insulation and without insulation to combustors) on fuel lean limit and fuel rich limit, temperature profile obtained on all external surfaces, in the main combustion chamber, in the channel carrying unburned gas mixture and burned gas mixture, heat loss to atmosphere from all the walls of combustor, flame location. Different combustor materials tested were stainless steel, Aluminum, copper, brass, bronze, Granite. Depths considered were 22mm, 15mm, 10mm and 5mm. It was observed that flame stability inside the combustion chamber is affected by materials, depths and flow rates. Unburned mixture carrying channel was kept below quenching distance of flame to avoid flash back. Burned gas carrying channel dimension was more than the quenching distance. Considerable temperature rise was observed with insulation to combustors. But combustors with more thermal conductivity showed more heat loss to atmosphere which led to instability of flame.

Improving Properties of a Novel β-Galactosidase from Lactobacillus plantarum by Covalent Immobilization.

PubMed

Benavente, Rocio; Pessela, Benevides C; Curiel, Jose Antonio; de las Rivas, Blanca; Muñoz, Rosario; Guisán, Jose Manuel; Mancheño, Jose M; Cardelle-Cobas, Alejandra; Ruiz-Matute, Ana I; Corzo, Nieves

2015-04-30

A novel β-galactosidase from Lactobacillus plantarum (LPG) was over-expressed in E. coli and purified via a single chromatographic step by using lowly activated IMAC (immobilized metal for affinity chromatography) supports. The pure enzyme exhibited a high hydrolytic activity of 491 IU/mL towards o-nitrophenyl β-D-galactopyranoside. This value was conserved in the presence of different divalent cations and was quite resistant to the inhibition effects of different carbohydrates. The pure multimeric enzyme was stabilized by multipoint and multisubunit covalent attachment on glyoxyl-agarose. The glyoxyl-LPG immobilized preparation was over 20-fold more stable than the soluble enzyme or the one-point CNBr-LPG immobilized preparation at 50 °C. This β-galactosidase was successfully used in the hydrolysis of lactose and lactulose and formation of different oligosaccharides was detected. High production of galacto-oligosaccharides (35%) and oligosaccharides derived from lactulose (30%) was found and, for the first time, a new oligosaccharide derived from lactulose, tentatively identified as 3'-galactosyl lactulose, has been described.

Crisis communication: learning from the 1998 LPG near miss in Stockholm.

PubMed

Castenfors, K; Svedin, L

2001-12-14

The authors examine current trends in urban risks and resilience in relation to hazardous material transports in general, and crisis communication and the Stockholm liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) near miss in 1998 in particular. The article discusses how current dynamics affecting urban areas, such as the decay in terms of increased condensation and limited expansion alternatives combined with industry site contamination and transports of hazardous materials on old worn-out physical infrastructure, work together to produce high-risk factors and increase urban vulnerability in large parts of the world today. Crisis communication takes a particularly pronounced role in the article as challenges in communication and confidence maintenance under conditions of information uncertainty and limited information control are explored. The LPG near miss case illustrates a Swedish case of urban risk and the tight coupling to hazardous material transports. The case also serves as a current example of Swedish resilience and lack of preparedness in urban crises, with particular observations and lessons learned in regards to crisis communication.

Impact of cleaner fuel use and improved stoves on acute respiratory infections: evidence from India.

PubMed

Lamichhane, Prabhat; Sharma, Anurag; Mahal, Ajay

2017-11-01

The use of cleaner fuel and improved stoves has been promoted as a means to lower harmful emissions from solid fuels. However, little is known about how exclusive use of cleaner fuels, mixed fuel use and improved stoves influences children's health. We compared the impact of using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) exclusively with mixed fuel use (LPG plus polluting fuels) and with exclusive use of polluting fuels on acute respiratory infections (ARI) among 16 157 children 0-4 years of age from households in the 2012 Indian Human Development Survey. Inverse probability weighting (IPW) procedures for multiple treatments were used for this evaluation. Children from households using LPG had a 5.0% lower probability of reporting ARI relative to exclusive users of polluting fuels, with larger effects (10.7%) in rural households. The probability of ARI in households using improved stoves and mixed fuel use was also lower in rural households, by 2.9% and 2.8%, respectively. The magnitude of effect varied across population subgroups, with the highest effects for children living in households living in kachha (low quality material) houses households identified as poor. Use of LPG and improved stoves lowered the probability of ARI among children younger than 5 years. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Effect of dietary protein on intake, nutrients utilization, nitrogen balance, blood metabolites, growth and puberty in growing Bhadawari buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) heifers.

PubMed

Singh, Sultan; Kushwaha, Badri Prasad; Maity, Subendu Bikas; Singh, Krishan Kunwar; Das, Nityanand

2015-01-01

Fifteen Bhadawari buffalo heifers of 207 ± 9.78 kg mean body weight were randomly distributed into three dietary groups to evaluate the effect of protein level on nutrient utilization, nitrogen (N) balance, growth rate, blood metabolites, and puberty. All animals were offered wheat straw-berseem diets supplemented with concentrate mixtures of similar energy (2.7 Mcal/kg) and different protein levels (14.3-22%). Animals of standard-protein group (SPG) were offered protein and energy as per requirement, while animals of low-protein group (LPG) and high-protein group (HPG) were fed 20% less and 20% more protein, respectively, than SPG. Feed dry matter (DM) and metabolizable energy (ME) intake (% body wt. and g/kg w(0.75)) were similar for all three diets; however, the crude protein (CP) and digestible crude protein (DCP) intake on percent body weight and per kilogram metabolic weight was higher (P < 0.05) in HPG than in SPG or LPG. Digestibility of CP, cellulose, and hemicellulose was higher (P < 0.05) in HPG versus LPG. Fecal N excretion was similar, while urinary N excretion was highest (P < 0.05) in HPG (74.83 g/day) compared with SPG (50.03 g/day) and LPG (47.88 g/day), which resulted in lower N retention in HPG than in the other dietary groups. Level of dietary N had no effect on blood metabolites viz. glucose, urea, and N. Digestible energy (DE) and ME contents of diets were identical, while DCP contents were higher (P < 0.05) in HPG than in LPG. Feed and nutrient (CP and ME) conversion efficiency to produce a unit kilogram weight gain was identical among the dietary groups. Dietary protein level had no effect on the heifer's weight and age at puberty. The mean growth rate of heifers at 240 days was higher (P > 0.05) in SPG (330.8 g/day) than in LPG (296.7 g/day), while the animals gained more weight in January to March months and the lowest weight in May to July months. Protein level had no effect on conception rate of heifers. Results revealed that 20% higher or less protein than the ICAR requirement had no significant (P > 0.05) on feed intake, nutrient conversion efficiency for weight gain, heifer growth, and puberty; however, 20% more protein increased urinary N loss.

Subzero water permeability parameters and optimal freezing rates for sperm cells of the southern platyfish, Xiphophorus maculatus.

PubMed

Pinisetty, D; Huang, C; Dong, Q; Tiersch, T R; Devireddy, R V

2005-06-01

This study reports the subzero water transport characteristics (and empirically determined optimal rates for freezing) of sperm cells of live-bearing fishes of the genus Xiphophorus, specifically those of the southern platyfish Xiphophorus maculatus. These fishes are valuable models for biomedical research and are commercially raised as ornamental fish for use in aquariums. Water transport during freezing of X. maculatus sperm cell suspensions was obtained using a shape-independent differential scanning calorimeter technique in the presence of extracellular ice at a cooling rate of 20 degrees C/min in three different media: (1) Hanks' balanced salt solution (HBSS) without cryoprotective agents (CPAs); (2) HBSS with 14% (v/v) glycerol, and (3) HBSS with 10% (v/v) dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The sperm cell was modeled as a cylinder with a length of 52.35 microm and a diameter of 0.66 microm with an osmotically inactive cell volume (Vb) of 0.6 V0, where V0 is the isotonic or initial cell volume. This translates to a surface area, SA to initial water volume, WV ratio of 15.15 microm(-1). By fitting a model of water transport to the experimentally determined volumetric shrinkage data, the best fit membrane permeability parameters (reference membrane permeability to water at 0 degrees C, Lpg or Lpg [cpa] and the activation energy, E(Lp) or E(Lp) [cpa]) were found to range from: Lpg or Lpg [cpa] = 0.0053-0.0093 microm/minatm; E(Lp) or E(Lp) [cpa] = 9.79-29.00 kcal/mol. By incorporating these membrane permeability parameters in a recently developed generic optimal cooling rate equation (optimal cooling rate, [Formula: see text] where the units of B(opt) are degrees C/min, E(Lp) or E(Lp) [cpa] are kcal/mol, L(pg) or L(pg) [cpa] are microm/minatm and SA/WV are microm(-1)), we determined the optimal rates of freezing X. maculatus sperm cells to be 28 degrees C/min (in HBSS), 47 degrees C/min (in HBSS+14% glycerol) and 36 degrees C/min (in HBSS+10% DMSO). Preliminary empirical experiments suggest that the optimal rate of freezing X. maculatus sperm in the presence of 14% glycerol to be approximately 25 degrees C/min. Possible reasons for the observed discrepancy between the theoretically predicted and experimentally determined optimal rates of freezing X. maculatus sperm cells are discussed.

Nicotinic acid modulates Legionella pneumophila gene expression and induces virulence traits.

PubMed

Edwards, Rachel L; Bryan, Andrew; Jules, Matthieu; Harada, Kaoru; Buchrieser, Carmen; Swanson, Michele S

2013-03-01

In response to environmental fluctuations or stresses, bacteria can activate transcriptional and phenotypic programs to coordinate an adaptive response. The intracellular pathogen Legionella pneumophila converts from a noninfectious replicative form to an infectious transmissive form when the bacterium encounters alterations in either amino acid concentrations or fatty acid biosynthesis. Here, we report that L. pneumophila differentiation is also triggered by nicotinic acid, a precursor of the central metabolite NAD(+). In particular, when replicative L. pneumophila are treated with 5 mM nicotinic acid, the bacteria induce numerous transmissive-phase phenotypes, including motility, cytotoxicity toward macrophages, sodium sensitivity, and lysosome avoidance. Transcriptional profile analysis determined that nicotinic acid induces the expression of a panel of genes characteristic of transmissive-phase L. pneumophila. Moreover, an additional 213 genes specific to nicotinic acid treatment were altered. Although nearly 25% of these genes lack an assigned function, the gene most highly induced by nicotinic acid treatment encodes a putative major facilitator superfamily transporter, Lpg0273. Indeed, lpg0273 protects L. pneumophila from toxic concentrations of nicotinic acid as judged by analyzing the growth of the corresponding mutant. The broad utility of the nicotinic acid pathway to couple central metabolism and cell fate is underscored by this small metabolite's modulation of gene expression by diverse microbes, including Candida glabrata, Bordetella pertussis, Escherichia coli, and L. pneumophila.

Development of Low Temperature Inverted Angle for LPG Carrier Using Slab

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doo, Wonchul; Lee, Chulwon; Cho, Sungkyu

Hyundai Steel Company had developed the inverted angles as second only to the Japan steel maker in 1992. Current market share of Hyundai Steel Company is second position after JFE Steel Corporation. Main application of the inverted angles is the reinforcement of shipbuilding as the stiffener of hull. Hyundai Steel Company has also been developing the low temperature steel grade applied for LPG carrier's cargo tank and secondary barrier using slab. This steel grade require the guarantee of -60°C impact toughness and weldability.

Tropical Cyclones within the Sedimentary Record: Analyzing Overwash Deposition from Event to Millennial Timescales

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-02-01

101. Matsuyama, M., and Moon, S. M. (1998). A bloom of low-light- adapted Chromatium sp. Lake Kaiike. Jpn J Limnol 59, 79-85. Matsuyama, M., and...debris 4 OS-56742 LPG4 2810 +30 2502-2618 2621-2651 (∆R=0) -2.03 224-225 Gastropods shells (Heleobops sp.) 5 OS-41361 LPG4 3320 +30 3481-3541 -17.22...Dashed grey lines indicate depths of equal age base on the presented chronological constraints. Figure adapted from Donnelly and Woodruff (2007

Increased risk of respiratory illness associated with kerosene fuel use among women and children in urban Bangalore, India.

PubMed

Choi, Jae-Young; Baumgartner, Jill; Harnden, Sarah; Alexander, Bruce H; Town, Robert J; D'Souza, George; Ramachandran, Gurumurthy

2015-02-01

Kerosene is a widely used cooking and lighting fuel in developing countries. The potential respiratory health effects of cooking with kerosene relative to cooking with cleaner fuels such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) have not been well characterised. We sampled 600 households from six urban neighbourhoods in Bangalore, India. Each household's primary cook, usually the woman of the house, was interviewed to collect information on current domestic fuel use and whether there was any presence of respiratory symptoms or illness in her or in the children in the household. Our analysis was limited to 547 adult females (ages 18-85) and 845 children (ages 0-17) in households exclusively cooking with either kerosene or LPG. We investigated the associations between kerosene use and the likelihood of having respiratory symptoms or illness using multivariate logistic regression models. Among adult women, cooking with kerosene was associated with cough (OR=1.88; 95% CI 1.19 to 2.99), bronchitis (OR=1.54; 95% CI 1.00 to 2.37), phlegm (OR=1.51; 95% CI 0.98 to 2.33) and chest illness (OR=1.61; 95% CI 1.02 to 2.53), relative to cooking with LPG in the multivariate models. Among children, living in a household cooking with kerosene was associated with bronchitis (OR=1.91; 95% CI 1.17 to 3.13), phlegm (OR=2.020; 95% CI 1.29 to 3.74) and chest illness (OR=1.70; 95% CI 0.99 to 2.90) after adjusting for other covariates. We also found associations between kerosene use and wheezing, difficulty breathing and asthma in adults and cough and wheezing in children, though these associations were not statistically significant. Women and children in households cooking with kerosene were more likely to have respiratory symptoms and illnesses compared with those in households cooking with LPG. Transitioning from kerosene to LPG for cooking may improve respiratory health among adult women and children in this population. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Impact of Hong Kong's Voluntary Catalytic Converter Replacement Programme on Roadside Air Quality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simpson, I. J.; Guo, H.; Louie, P. K. K.; Luk, C.; Lyu, X.; Meinardi, S.; Yam, Y. S.; Blake, D. R.

2015-12-01

As part of its ongoing policies to improve roadside air quality, in 2013 the Hong Kong government launched an incentive programme to replace catalytic converters and oxygen sensors in taxis and light buses mainly fueled by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The majority of replacements occurred from October 2013 to April 2014, with 75% of eligible vehicles participating in the programme, or 16,472 vehicles. Based on taxi exhaust measurements at a Hong Kong vehicle testing facility, the concentrations of n-butane, propane and i-butane (the primary components of LPG) decreased by 97% following the replacements. To determine the impact of the programme on roadside air quality, long-term measurements of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were analyzed before, during and after the replacement programme, mainly at a busy roadside location in Mong Kok, Hong Kong. A clear decrease in the levels of major pollutants associated with LPG vehicle exhaust was observed at the roadside. For example, average (± 1 standard deviation) n-butane levels from October to April decreased from 13.0 ± 3.6 and 13.9 ± 2.6 ppbv in the two years preceding the programme, to 9.2 ± 2.9 ppbv during the programme, to 6.2 ± 1.7 ppbv the year after the programme. By contrast, compounds such as i-pentane that are not strongly associated with LPG or with LPG exhaust remained steady, averaging 0.90 ± 0.34, 1.01 ± 0.31, 0.93 ± 0.37, and 0.91 ± 0.42 ppbv from October to April of 2011/12, 2012/13, 2013/14 and 2014/15, respectively. Impacts of the programme on roadside levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and ozone (O3) will also be discussed. Because many taxis are high mileage vehicles that travel several hundred kilometers daily, their catalytic converters need to be replaced approximately every 18 months. Therefore ongoing vehicle maintenance will be required in order to preserve the gains made from this initial subsidy programme.

Evaluating the Performance of Household Liquefied Petroleum Gas Cookstoves.

PubMed

Shen, Guofeng; Hays, Michael D; Smith, Kirk R; Williams, Craig; Faircloth, Jerroll W; Jetter, James J

2018-01-16

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cookstoves are considered to be an important solution for mitigating household air pollution; however, their performance has rarely been evaluated. To fill the data and knowledge gaps in this important area, 89 laboratory tests were conducted to quantify efficiencies and pollutant emissions from five commercially available household LPG stoves under different burning conditions. The mean thermal efficiency (±standard deviation) for the tested LPG cookstoves was 51 ± 6%, meeting guidelines for the highest tier level (Tier 4) under the International Organization for Standardization, International Workshop Agreement 11. Emission factors of CO 2 , CO, THC, CH 4 , and NO x on the basis of useful energy delivered (MJ d ) were 142 ± 17, 0.77 ± 0.55, 130 ± 196, 5.6 ± 8.2, and 46 ± 9 mg/MJ d , respectively. Approximately 90% of the PM 2.5 data were below the detection limit, corresponding to an emission rate below 0.11 mg/min. For those data above the detection limit, the average emission factor was 2.4 ± 1.6 mg/MJ d , with a mean emission rate of 0.20 ± 0.16 mg/min. Under the specified gas pressure (2.8 kPa), but with the burner control set to minimum air flow rate, less complete combustion resulted in a visually yellow flame, and CO, PM 2.5 , EC, and BC emissions all increased. LPG cookstoves met guidelines for Tier 4 for both CO and PM 2.5 emissions and mostly met the World Health Organization Emission Rate Targets set to protect human health.

Lab-on-fiber optofluidic platform for in-situ study of therapeutic peptides and bacterial response (Rising Researcher Presentation) (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tian, Fei; Yang, Fan; Liang, Junfeng

2017-05-01

Hospital acquired infections in indwelling device have become a life-threatening issue accompanied by the wide use of medical devices and implants. The infection process typically involves the attachment, growth and eventual assemblage of microbial cells into biofilms, with the latter exhibiting extremely higher antibiotic tolerance than planktonic bacteria. Surface constructed antimicrobial coatings offer a viable solution for bacteria responsive antibiotic strategy in medical devices such as catheter and stents. Therapeutic peptide has pioneered the field for their attractive pharmacological profile with broad antibacterial spectrum, great efficacy and long life-span. It has been a common practice to separately assess bacteria responses through commercially available activity assay kits after their exposure to antibiotic coatings, limiting the assessment of their activity in vitro with a discontinuous fashion. We developed and demonstrated an innovative all-optical lab-on-fiber optofluidic platform (LOFOP) to fill in this technical gap by allowing in situ measurement of the bacteria attachment in a continuous manner. This LOFOP allows for evaluation of drug release and resultant bacterial response by integrating glass capillary with lytic peptide-containing LbL-coated long period graing (LPG) as its core. S. aureus suspension is introduced through the assembled optofluidic platform with the capillary and the peptide-coated LPG. The efficacy of the peptide-containing coating is evaluated in situ by monitoring the attachment of bacteria and the ensuing development of biofilms using the LPG. LPG without antimicrobial coatings will be explored and compared as control.

Long-Period Gratings in Highly Germanium-Doped, Single-Mode Optical Fibers for Sensing Applications

PubMed Central

Schlangen, Sebastian; Bremer, Kort; Zheng, Yulong; Böhm, Sebastian; Steinke, Michael; Wellmann, Felix; Neumann, Jörg; Overmeyer, Ludger

2018-01-01

Long-period fiber gratings (LPGs) are well known for their sensitivity to external influences, which make them interesting for a large number of sensing applications. For these applications, fibers with a high numerical aperture (i.e., fibers with highly germanium (Ge)-doped fused silica fiber cores) are more attractive since they are intrinsically photosensitive, as well as less sensitive to bend- and microbend-induced light attenuations. In this work, we introduce a novel method to inscribe LPGs into highly Ge-doped, single-mode fibers. By tapering the optical fiber, and thus, tailoring the effective indices of the core and cladding modes, for the first time, an LPG was inscribed into such fibers using the amplitude mask technique and a KrF excimer laser. Based on this novel method, sensitive LPG-based fiber optic sensors only a few millimeters in length can be incorporated in bend-insensitive fibers for use in various monitoring applications. Moreover, by applying the described inscription method, the LPG spectrum can be influenced and tailored according to the specific demands of a particular application. PMID:29702600

An evaluation of the LPG vehicles program in the metropolitan area of Mexico City.

PubMed

Schifter, I; Díaz, L; López-Salinas, E; Rodríguez, R; Avalos, S; Guerrero, V

2000-02-01

The environmental agency in the metropolitan area of Mexico City has launched a program to introduce more energy-efficient modes of transport, one of which is the use of alternative and less polluting fuels. With the perspective in mind, a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fleet of vehicles is exempt of the mandatory "one day without a car" program if the emission of pollutants is below the standard authorized for that specific purpose. Today, about 28,000 light-duty vehicles and heavy-duty trucks circulate in the area, most of them as aftermarket converted vehicles. In this work, we evaluated regulated exhaust emission and other parameters on 134 representative vehicles of that fleet. From the data obtained, an estimate of emission factors and their contribution to the global emission in the metropolitan area is provided. It is concluded that more than 95% of the in-use vehicles using LPG presented regulated emissions which exceeded in one or more the environmental regulations values required for certification. The poor maintenance of the vehicles and the type of conversion kit installed could be the culprits of the results obtained.

Gas dispersion concentration of trace inorganic contaminants from fuel gas and analysis using head-column field-amplified sample stacking capillary electrophoresis.

PubMed

Yang, Jianmin; Li, Hai-Fang; Li, Meilan; Lin, Jin-Ming

2012-08-21

The presence of inorganic elements in fuel gas generally accelerates the corrosion and depletion of materials used in the fuel gas industry, and even leads to serious accidents. For identification of existing trace inorganic contaminants in fuel gas in a portable way, a highly efficient gas-liquid sampling collection system based on gas dispersion concentration is introduced in this work. Using the constructed dual path gas-liquid collection setup, inorganic cations and anions were simultaneously collected from real liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and analyzed by capillary electrophoresis (CE) with indirect UV absorbance detection. The head-column field-amplified sample stacking technique was applied to improve the detection limits to 2-25 ng mL(-1). The developed collection and analytical methods have successfully determined existing inorganic contaminants in a real LPG sample in the range of 4.59-138.69 μg m(-3). The recoveries of cations and anions with spiked LPG samples were between 83.98 and 105.63%, and the relative standard deviations (RSDs) were less than 7.19%.

Synthesis and characterization of InNbO₄ nanopowder for gas sensors.

PubMed

Balamurugan, C; Vijayakumar, E; Subramania, A

2012-01-15

Indium niobate (InNbO(4)) nanopowder was prepared by a comparatively low temperature niobium citrate complex process. The prepared InNbO(4) was characterized by thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and impedance studies. It revealed that the well crystalline monoclinic InNbO(4) nanopowder was obtained at the calcination temperature of 600°C. The average particle diameter was 22nm. The optical band gap was found to be 2.66eV. The temperature dependent conductivity obeyed Arrhenius relation. The activation energy of the conductivity process was calculated to be 0.43eV. The gas sensing behaviour of the prepared InNbO(4) was studied by measuring the change in resistance of the sensor material as a function of various concentrations of the test gases such as liquid petroleum gas (LPG), ammonia (NH(3)) and ethanol (C(2)H(5)OH) at their optimized operating temperature. InNbO(4) had a better sensitivity to LPG (0.97) and NH(3) (0.70) gas than ethanol (0.46). The sensor responses of InNbO(4) as a function of gas concentrations and with recovery time were also studied in detail. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A comparative study of the elemental composition of the exhaust emissions of cars powered by liquefied petroleum gas and unleaded petrol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, McKenzie C. H.; Ayoko, Godwin A.; Morawska, Lidia; Ristovski, Zoran D.; Jayaratne, E. Rohan; Kokot, Serge

Elements emitted from the exhausts of new Ford Falcon Forte cars powered by unleaded petrol (ULP) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were measured on a chassis dynamometer. The measurements were carried out in February, June and August 2001, and at two steady state driving conditions (60 and 80 km h -1). Thirty seven elements were quantified in the exhaust samples by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS). The total emission factors of the elements from the exhausts of ULP cars were higher than those of LPG cars at both engine speeds even though high variability in the exhaust emissions from different cars was noted. The effect of the operating conditions such as mileage of the cars, engine speed, fuel and lubricating oil compositions on the emissions was studied. To investigate the effects of these conditions, multivariate data analysis methods were employed including exploratory principal component analysis (PCA), and the multi-criteria decision making methods (MCDM), preference ranking organization method for enrichment evaluation (PROMETHEE) and geometrical analysis for interactive aid (GAIA), for ranking the cars on the basis of the emission factors of the elements. PCA biplot of the complete data matrix showed a clear discrimination of the February, June and August emission test results. In addition, (i) platinum group elements (PGE) emissions were separated from each other in the three different clusters viz. Pt with February, Pd with June and Rh with August; (ii) the motor oil related elements, Zn and P, were particularly associated with the June and August tests (these vectors were also grouped with V, Al and Cu); and (iii) highest emissions of most major elements were associated with the August test after the cars have recorded their highest mileage. Extensive analysis with the aid of the MCDM ranking methods demonstrated clearly that cars powered by LPG outperform those powered by ULP. In general, cars tested in June perform better than those tested in August, which suggested that mileage was the key criterion of car performance on the basis of elemental emission factors.

Complete validation of a unique digestion assay to detect Trichinella larvae in horse meat demonstrates the reliability of this assay for meeting food safety and trade requirements.

PubMed

Forbes, L B; Hill, D E; Parker, S; Tessaro, S V; Gamble, H R; Gajadhar, A A

2008-03-01

A tissue digestion assay using a double separatory funnel procedure for the detection of Trichinella larvae in horse meat was validated for application in food safety programs and trade. The assay consisted of a pepsin-HCl digestion step to release larvae from muscle tissue and two sequential sedimentation steps in separatory funnels to recover and concentrate larvae for detection with a stereomicroscope. With defined critical control points, the assay was conducted within a quality assurance system compliant with International Organization for Standardization-International Electrotechnical Commission (ISO/IEC) 17025 guidelines. Samples used in the validation were obtained from horses experimentally infected with Trichinella spiralis to obtain a range of muscle larvae densities. One-, 5-, and 10-g samples of infected tissue were combined with 99, 95, and 90 g, respectively, of known negative horse tissue to create a 100-g sample for testing. Samples of 5 and 10 g were more likely to be positive than were 1-g samples when larval densities were less than three larvae per gram (lpg). This difference is important because ingested meat with 1 lpg is considered the threshold for clinical disease in humans. Using a 5-g sample size, all samples containing 1.3 to 2 lpg were detected, and 60 to 100% of samples with infected horse meat containing 0.1 to 0.7 lpg were detected. In this study, the double separatory funnel digestion assay was efficient and reliable for its intended use in food safety and trade. This procedure is the only digestion assay for Trichinella in horse meat that has been validated as consistent and effective at critical levels of sensitivity.

An optical fiber expendable seawater temperature/depth profile sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Qiang; Chen, Shizhe; Zhang, Keke; Yan, Xingkui; Yang, Xianglong; Bai, Xuejiao; Liu, Shixuan

2017-10-01

Marine expendable temperature/depth profiler (XBT) is a disposable measuring instrument which can obtain temperature/depth profile data quickly in large area waters and mainly used for marine surveys, scientific research, military application. The temperature measuring device is a thermistor in the conventional XBT probe (CXBT)and the depth data is only a calculated value by speed and time depth calculation formula which is not an accurate measurement result. Firstly, an optical fiber expendable temperature/depth sensor based on the FBG-LPG cascaded structure is proposed to solve the problems of the CXBT, namely the use of LPG and FBG were used to detect the water temperature and depth, respectively. Secondly, the fiber end reflective mirror is used to simplify optical cascade structure and optimize the system performance. Finally, the optical path is designed and optimized using the reflective optical fiber end mirror. The experimental results show that the sensitivity of temperature and depth sensing based on FBG-LPG cascade structure is about 0.0030C and 0.1%F.S. respectively, which can meet the requirements of the sea water temperature/depth observation. The reflectivity of reflection mirror is in the range from 48.8% to 72.5%, the resonant peak of FBG and LPG are reasonable and the whole spectrum are suitable for demodulation. Through research on the optical fiber XBT (FXBT), the direct measurement of deep-sea temperature/depth profile data can be obtained simultaneously, quickly and accurately. The FXBT is a new all-optical seawater temperature/depth sensor, which has important academic value and broad application prospect and is expected to replace the CXBT in the future.

Indoor respirable particulate matter concentrations from an open fire, improved cookstove, and LPG/open fire combination in a rural Guatemalan community.

PubMed

Albalak, R; Bruce, N; McCracken, J P; Smith, K R; De Gallardo, T

2001-07-01

Improved biomass cookstoves have the potential to reduce pollutant emissions and thereby reduce pollution exposure among populations in developing countries who cook daily with biomass fuels. However, evaluation of such interventions has been very limited. This article presents results from a study carried out in 30 households in rural Guatemala. Twenty-four hour PM3.5 concentrations were compared over 8 months for three fuel/cookstove conditions (n = 10 households for each condition): a traditional open fire cookstove, an improved cookstove called the plancha mejorada, and a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) stove/open fire combination. Twenty-four hour geometric mean PM3.5 concentrations were 1560 micrograms/m3 (n = 58; 95% C.I. 1310, 1850), 280 micrograms/m3 (n = 59; 95% C.I. 240-320), and 850 micrograms/m3 (n = 60; 95% C.I. 680-1050) for the open fire, plancha, and LPG/open fire combination, respectively. A generalized estimating equation model showed a 45% reduction in PM3.5 concentrations for the LPG/open fire combination as compared to the open fire alone. The difference approached significance (p < 0.0737). The plancha showed an 85% reduction in PM3.5 concentrations as compared to the open fire (p < 0.0001). An analysis of the interaction of time with stove type showed that the temporal trend in pollution did not significantly differ among the three stove types. The reduced PM3.5 concentrations were maintained over time. Season did not affect pollutant concentrations. Of the two interventions, the plancha appears to offer the best prospects for achieving substantial reductions in indoor air pollution levels, although issues of cost and stove maintenance remain to be addressed.

Low-cost conformable storage to maximize vehicle range

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

Graham, R.P.

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) are currently the leading fuel contenders for converting vehicles from gasoline and diesel to alternative fuels. Two factors that inhibit conversion are additional vehicle costs and reduced range compared to gasoline. In overcoming these barriers, a key element of the alternative fuel system becomes the storage tank for these pressurized fuels. Using cylindrical pressure vessels is the conventional approach, but they do not package well in the available vehicle volume. Thiokol Corporation has developed and is now producing a conformable (non-cylindrical) aluminum storage system for LPG vans. This system increases fuelmore » storage in a given rectangular envelope. The goal of this project was to develop the technology for a lower cost conformable tank made of injection-molded plastic. Much of the cost of the aluminum conformable tank is in the fabrication because several weld seams are required. The injection-molding process has the potential to greatly reduce the fabrication costs. The requirements of a pressurized fuel tank on a vehicle necessitate the proper combination of material properties. Material selection and tank design must be optimized for maximum internal volume and minimum material use to be competitive with other technologies. The material and the design must also facilitate the injection-molding process. Prototype tanks must be fabricated to reveal molding problems, prove solutions, and measure results. In production, efficient fabrication will be key to making these tanks cost competitive. The work accomplished during this project has demonstrated that conformable LPG tanks can be molded with thermoplastics. However, to achieve a competitive tank, improvements are needed in the effective material strength. If these improvements can be made, molded plastics should produce a lower cost tank that can store more LPG on a vehicle than conventional cylinders.« less

Nickel antimony oxide (NiSb2O6): A fascinating nanostructured material for gas sensing application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Archana; Singh, Ajendra; Singh, Satyendra; Tandon, Poonam

2016-02-01

Fabrication of nanocrystalline NiSb2O6 thin films via sol-gel spin coating method towards the development of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sensor operable at room temperature (25 °C) is being reported. Nanostructural, surface morphological and optical properties of trirutile-type NiSb2O6 have been investigated in order to explore the parameters of interest. The crystallite size has been found to be 19 nm. A detailed sensing performance (sensitivity, sensor response, response and recovery times, reproducibility and long term stability) of NiSb2O6 nanostructures grown on alumina substrate has been investigated.

Metal-organic framework thin films on a surface of optical fibre long period grating for chemical sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hromadka, J.; Tokay, B.; James, S.; Korposh, S.

2017-04-01

An optical fibre long period grating (LPG) modified with a thin film of HKUST-1, a material from metal organic framework (MOF) family, was employed for the detection of carbon dioxide. The sensing mechanism is based on the measurement of the change of the refractive index (RI) of the coating that is induced by the penetration of CO2 molecules into the HKUST-1 pores. The responses of the resonance bands in the transmission spectrum of an LPG modified with 40 layers of HKUST-1 upon exposure to carbon dioxide in mixture with nitrogen were investigated.

All-optical switching application based on optical nonlinearity of Yb(3+) doped aluminosilicate glass fiber with a long-period fiber gratings pair.

PubMed

Kim, Yune; Kim, Nam; Chung, Youngjoo; Paek, Un-Chul; Han, Won-Taek

2004-02-23

We propose a new fiber-type all-optical switching device based on the optical nonlinearity of Yb(3+) doped fiber and a long-period fiber gratings(LPG) pair. The all-optical ON-OFF switching with the continuous wave laser signal at ~1556nm in the LPG pair including the 25.5cm long Yb(3+) doped fiber was demonstrated up to ~200Hz upon pumping with the modulated square wave pulses at 976nm, where a full optical switching with the ~18dB extinction ratio was obtained at the launched pump power of ~35mW.

Laser ignition of liquid petroleum gas at elevated pressures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loktionov, E.; Pasechnikov, N.; Telekh, V.

2017-11-01

Recent development of laser spark plugs for internal combustion engines have shown lack of data on laser ignition of fuel mixtures at multi-bar pressures needed for laser pulse energy and focusing optimisation. Methane and hydrogen based mixtures are comparatively well investigated, but propane and butane based ones (LPG), which are widely used in vehicles, are still almost unstudied. Optical breakdown thresholds in gases decrease with pressure increase up to ca. 100 bar, but breakdown is not a sufficient condition for combustion ignition. So minimum ignition energy (MIE) becomes more important for combustion core onset, and its dependency on mixture composition and pressure has several important features. For example, unlike breakdown threshold, is poorly dependent on laser pulse length, at least in pico- and to microsecond range. We have defined experimentally the dependencies of minimum picosecond laser pulse energies (MIE related value) needed for ignition of LPG based mixtures of 1.0 to 1.6 equivalence ratios and pressure of 1.0 to 3.5 bar. In addition to expected values decrease, low-energy flammability range broadening has been found at pressure increase. Laser ignition of LPG in Wankel rotary engine is reported for the first time.

Effect of Embedded Pd Microstructures on the Flat-Band-Voltage Operation of Room Temperature ZnO-Based Liquid Petroleum Gas Sensors

PubMed Central

Ali, Ghusoon M.; Thompson, Cody V.; Jasim, Ali K.; Abdulbaqi, Isam M.; Moore, James C.

2013-01-01

Three methods were used to fabricate ZnO-based room temperature liquid petroleum gas (LPG) sensors having interdigitated metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) structures. Specifically, devices with Pd Schottky contacts were fabricated with: (1) un-doped ZnO active layers; (2) Pd-doped ZnO active layers; and (3) un-doped ZnO layers on top of Pd microstructure arrays. All ZnO films were grown on p-type Si(111) substrates by the sol-gel method. For devices incorporating a microstructure array, Pd islands were first grown on the substrate by thermal evaporation using a 100 μm mesh shadow mask. We have estimated the sensitivity of the sensors for applied voltage from –5 to 5 V in air ambient, as well as with exposure to LPG in concentrations from 500 to 3,500 ppm at room temperature (300 K). The current-voltage characteristics were studied and parameters such as leakage current, barrier height, reach-through voltage, and flat-band voltage were extracted. We include contributions due to the barrier height dependence on the electric field and tunneling through the barrier for the studied MSM devices. The Pd-enhanced devices demonstrated a maximum gas response at flat-band voltages. The study also revealed that active layers consisting of Pd microstructure embedded ZnO films resulted in devices exhibiting greater gas-response as compared to those using Pd-doped ZnO thin films or un-doped active layers.

Detection specificity studies of bacteriophage adhesin-coated long-period grating-based biosensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koba, Marcin; Śmietana, Mateusz; Brzozowska, Ewa; Górska, Sabina; Mikulic, Predrag; Cusano, Andrea; Bock, Wojtek J.

2015-09-01

In this work, we present a label-free detection specificity study of an optical fiber long-period grating (LPG) biosensor working near the dispersion turning point of higher order cladding modes. The LPG sensor functionalized with bacteriophage adhesin is tested with specific and non-specific bacteria dry weight. We show that such biosensor is able to selectively bind, thus recognize different bacteria. We use bacteria dry weights of E. coli B as positive test and E. coli K12 and Salmonella enterica as negative tests. The resonance wavelength shift induced by E. coli B reaches over 90 nm, while for E. coli K12 and Salmonella enterica approximately 40 and 20 nm, respectively.

Picosecond and sub-picosecond flat-top pulse generation using uniform long-period fiber gratings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Y.; Kulishov, M.; Slavík, R.; Azaña, J.

2006-12-01

We propose a novel linear filtering scheme based on ultrafast all-optical differentiation for re-shaping of ultrashort pulses generated from a mode-locked laser into flat-top pulses. The technique is demonstrated using simple all-fiber optical filters, more specifically uniform long period fiber gratings (LPGs) operated in transmission. The large bandwidth typical for these fiber filters allows scaling the technique to the sub-picosecond regime. In the experiments reported here, 600-fs and 1.8-ps Gaussian-like optical pulses (@ 1535 nm) have been re-shaped into 1-ps and 3.2-ps flat-top pulses, respectively, using a single 9-cm long uniform LPG.

Studies on exhaust emissions of mahua oil operated compression ignition engine.

PubMed

Kapilan, N; Reddy, R P

2009-07-01

The world is confronted with fossil fuel depletion and environmental degradation. The energy demand and pollution problems lead to research for an alternative renewable energy sources. Vegetable oils and biodiesel present a very promising alternative fuel to diesel. In this work, an experimental work was carried out to study the feasibility of using raw mahua oil (MO) as a substitute for diesel in dual fuel engine. A single cylinder diesel engine was modified to work in dual fuel mode and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) was used as primary fuel and mahua oil was used as pilot fuel. The results show that the performance of the dual fuel engine at the injector opening pressure of 220 bar and the advanced injection timing of 30 degrees bTDC results in performance close to diesel base line (DBL) operation and lower smoke and oxides of nitrogen emission.

Synthesis of ZnO thin film by sol-gel spin coating technique for H2S gas sensing application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nimbalkar, Amol R.; Patil, Maruti G.

2017-12-01

In this present work, zinc oxide (ZnO) thin film synthesized by a simple sol-gel spin coating technique. The structural, morphology, compositional, microstructural, optical, electrical and gas sensing properties of the film were studied by using XRD, FESEM, EDS, XPS, HRTEM, Raman, FTIR and UV-vis techniques. The ZnO thin film shows hexagonal wurtzite structure with a porous structured morphology. Gas sensing performance of synthesized ZnO thin film was tested initially for H2S gas at different operating temperatures as well as concentrations. The maximum gas response is achieved towards H2S gas at 300 °C operating temperature, at 100 ppm gas concentration as compared to other gases like CH3OH, Cl2, NH3, LPG, CH3COCH3, and C2H5OH with a good stability.

Sol-Gel-Based Titania-Silica Thin Film Overlay for Long Period Fiber Grating-Based Biosensors.

PubMed

Chiavaioli, Francesco; Biswas, Palas; Trono, Cosimo; Jana, Sunirmal; Bandyopadhyay, Somnath; Basumallick, Nandini; Giannetti, Ambra; Tombelli, Sara; Bera, Susanta; Mallick, Aparajita; Baldini, Francesco

2015-12-15

An evanescent wave optical fiber biosensor based on titania-silica-coated long period grating (LPG) is presented. The chemical overlay, which increases the refractive index (RI) sensitivity of the sensor, consists of a sol-gel-based titania-silica thin film, deposited along the sensing portion of the fiber by means of the dip-coating technique. Changing both the sol viscosity and the withdrawal speed during the dip-coating made it possible to adjust the thickness of the film overlay, which is a crucial parameter for the sensor performance. After the functionalization of the fiber surface using a methacrylic acid/methacrylate copolymer, an antibody/antigen (IgG/anti-IgG) assay was carried out to assess the performance of sol-gel based titania-silica-coated LPGs as biosensors. The analyte concentration was determined from the wavelength shift at the end of the binding process and from the initial binding rate. This is the first time that a sol-gel based titania-silica-coated LPG is proposed as an effective and feasible label-free biosensor. The specificity of the sensor was validated by performing the same model assay after spiking anti-IgG into human serum. With this structured LPG, detection limits of the order of tens of micrograms per liter (10(-11) M) are attained.

Pressure sensing in high-refractive-index liquids using long-period gratings nanocoated with silicon nitride.

PubMed

Smietana, Mateusz; Bock, Wojtek J; Mikulic, Predrag; Chen, Jiahua

2010-01-01

The paper presents a novel pressure sensor based on a silicon nitride (SiNx) nanocoated long-period grating (LPG). The high-temperature, radio-frequency plasma-enhanced chemical-vapor-deposited (RF PECVD) SiNx nanocoating was applied to tune the sensitivity of the LPG to the external refractive index. The technique allows for deposition of good quality, hard and wear-resistant nanofilms as required for optical sensors. Thanks to the SiNx nanocoating it is possible to overcome a limitation of working in the external-refractive-index range, which for a bare fiber cannot be close to that of the cladding. The nanocoated LPG-based sensing structure we developed is functional in high-refractive-index liquids (nD>1.46) such as oil or gasoline, with pressure sensitivity as high as when water is used as a working liquid. The nanocoating developed for this experiment not only has the highest refractive index ever achieved in LPGs (n>2.2 at λ=1,550 nm), but is also the thinnest (<100 nm) able to tune the external-refractive-index sensitivity of the gratings. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time a nanocoating has been applied on LPGs that is able to simultaneously tune the refractive-index sensitivity and to enable measurements of other parameters.

Cluster Analysis of Indonesian Province Based on Household Primary Cooking Fuel Using K-Means

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huda, S. N.

2017-03-01

Each household definitely provides installations for cooking. Kerosene, which is refined from petroleum products once dominated types of primary fuel for cooking in Indonesia, whereas kerosene has an expensive cost and small efficiency. Other household use LPG as their primary cooking fuel. However, LPG supply is also limited. In addition, with a very diverse environments and cultures in Indonesia led to diversity of the installation type of cooking, such as wood-burning stove brazier. The government is also promoting alternative fuels, such as charcoal briquettes, and fuel from biomass. The use of other fuels is part of the diversification of energy that is expected to reduce community dependence on petroleum-based fuels. The use of various fuels in cooking that vary from one region to another reflects the distribution of fuel basic use by household. By knowing the characteristics of each province, the government can take appropriate policies to each province according each character. Therefore, it would be very good if there exist a cluster analysis of all provinces in Indonesia based on the type of primary cooking fuel in household. Cluster analysis is done using K-Means method with K ranging from 2-5. Cluster results are validated using Silhouette Coefficient (SC). The results show that the highest SC achieved from K = 2 with SC value 0.39135818388151. Two clusters reflect provinces in Indonesia, one is a cluster of more traditional provinces and the other is a cluster of more modern provinces. The cluster results are then shown in a map using Google Map API.

PM2.5 in household kitchens of Bhaktapur, Nepal, using four different cooking fuels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pokhrel, Amod K.; Bates, Michael N.; Acharya, Jiwan; Valentiner-Branth, Palle; Chandyo, Ram K.; Shrestha, Prakash S.; Raut, Anil K.; Smith, Kirk R.

2015-07-01

In studies examining the health effects of household air pollution (HAP), lack of affordable monitoring devices often precludes collection of actual air pollution data, forcing use of exposure indicators, such as type of cooking fuel used. Among the most important pollutants is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), perhaps the best single indicator of risk from smoke exposure. In this study, we deployed an affordable and robust device to monitor PM2.5 in 824 households in Bhaktapur, Nepal. Four primary cooking fuels were used in roughly equal proportions in these households: electricity (22%), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) (29%), kerosene (23%), and biomass (26%). PM2.5 concentrations were measured in the kitchens using a light-scattering nephelometer, the UCB-PATS (University of California, Berkeley-Particle and Temperature monitoring System). The major predictors of PM2.5 concentrations in study households were investigated. The UCB-PATS results were well correlated with the gravimetric results (R2 = 0.84; for all fuels combined). The mean household PM2.5 concentrations across all seasons of the year were 656 (standard deviation (SD):924) μg/m3 from biomass; 169 (SD: 207) μg/m3 from kerosene; 101 (SD: 130) μg/m3 from LPG; and 80 (SD: 103) μg/m3 from electric stoves. In the multivariate regression of PM2.5 measures, compared with electric stoves, use of LPG, kerosene and biomass stoves were associated with increased indoor PM2.5 concentrations of 65% (95% CI: 38-95%), 146% (103-200%), and 733% (589-907%), respectively. The UCB-PATS performed well in the field. Biomass fuel stoves without flues were the most significant sources of PM2.5, followed by kerosene and then LPG stoves. Outdoor PM2.5, and season influenced indoor PM2.5 levels. Results support careful use of inexpensive light-scattering monitors for monitoring of HAP in developing countries.

High sensitive reflection type long period fiber grating biosensor for real time detection of thyroglobulin, a differentiated thyroid cancer biomarker: the Smart Health project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quero, G.; Severino, R.; Vaiano, P.; Consales, M.; Ruvo, M.; Sandomenico, A.; Borriello, A.; Giordano, M.; Zuppolini, S.; Diodato, L.; Cutolo, A.; Cusano, A.

2015-09-01

We report the development of a reflection-type long period fiber grating (LPG) biosensor able to perform the real time detection of thyroid cancer markers in the needle washout of fine-needle aspiration biopsy. A standard LPG is first transformed in a practical probe working in reflection mode, then it is coated by an atactic-polystyrene overlay in order to increase its surrounding refractive index sensitivity and to provide, at the same time, the desired interfacial properties for a stable bioreceptor immobilization. The results provide a clear demonstration of the effectiveness and sensitivity of the developed biosensing platform, allowing the in vitro detection of human Thyroglobulin at sub-nanomolar concentrations.

Chemically designed Pt/PPy nano-composite for effective LPG gas sensor.

PubMed

Gaikwad, Namrata; Bhanoth, Sreenu; More, Priyesh V; Jain, G H; Khanna, P K

2014-03-07

Simultaneous in situ reduction of hexachloroplatinic acid by the amine group in the pyrrole monomer and oxidation of pyrrole to form polypyrrole (PPy) was examined. The reactions were performed at various temperatures to understand the degree of reduction of platinum precursor as well as doping of polypyrrole with Pt(II) chloro-complex. Spectroscopic images revealed different morphologies for the Pt/PPy nano-composite prepared at various temperatures. The as-prepared Pt/PPy nano-composite samples were tested for their ability to sense liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) which resulted in excellent sensing at relatively low temperature. The porous nature and ohmic contact between the PPy and platinum nanoparticles makes the as-prepared Pt/PPy nano-composite highly useful for sensors as well as electronic applications.

The use of solar energy for powering a portable autoclave.

PubMed

Dravid, M N; Chandak, A; Phute, S U; Khadse, R K; Adchitre, H R; Kulkarni, S D

2012-04-01

Climate change and the depletion of fossil fuels have forced the developed world to look for clean energy alternatives. Solar cooking is developing in Asian and African countries blessed with ample sun, but is still at an early stage. A portable autoclave was developed in India using this technology. The Prince-40 Concentrator provided adequate capacity to autoclave culture media and treat biomedical waste in a small laboratory set-up, and could save electricity worth Rs. 15,000 (188.10 GBP)/year or LPG worth Rs. 37,500 (470.25 GBP)/year. This technology would be of immense use in health centres in rural areas with frequent power cuts or no power supply. Copyright © 2012 The Healthcare Infection Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Design of compact long-period gratings imprinted in optimized photonic crystal fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seraji, F. E.; Chehreghani Anzabi, L.; Farsinezhad, S.

2009-10-01

To imprint a long-period grating (LPG) in a photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with an optimum response, first the parameters of the PCF should be optimized. In this paper, by using a semi-analytical enhanced improved vectorial effective index method, the optimized PCF parameters are determined by dividing the single-mode operation of the PCF into two regions in terms of air-hole spacing Λ ( Λ>3 μm and Λ≤3 μm). For each region appropriate expressions are suggested to evaluate the PCF parameters. By calculating the effective refractive index difference between the optimized core and cladding of the PCF under a phase-matching condition, the optimum grating period in terms of the PCF parameters is obtained.

Enhanced visible-light photocatalysis and gas sensor properties of polythiophene supported tin doped titanium nanocomposite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chandra, M. Ravi; Siva Prasada Reddy, P.; Rao, T. Siva; Pammi, S. V. N.; Siva Kumar, K.; Vijay Babu, K.; Kiran Kumar, Ch.; Hemalatha, K. P. J.

2017-06-01

The polythiophene supported tin doped titanium nanocomposites (PTh/Sn-TiO2) were synthesized by modified sol-gel process through oxidative polymerization of thiophene. The fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-DRS) analysis confirms the existence of synergetic interaction between metal oxide and polymer along with extension of absorption edge to visible region. The composites are found to be in spherical form with core-shell structure, which is confirmed by scanning electron spectroscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images, the presence of all respective elements of composite are proven by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis. The importance of polythiophene on surface of metal oxide has been were studied as a function of photocatalytic activity for degradation of organic pollutant congo red and gas sensor behavior towards liquid petroleum gas (LPG). All the composites are photocatalytically active and the composite with 1.5 wt% thiophene degrades the pollutant congo red within 120 min when compared to remaining catalysts under visible light irradiation. On the other hand, same composite have shown potential gas sensor properties towards LPG at 300 °C. Considering all the results, it can be noted that polythiophene acts as good sensitizer towards LPG and supporter for the tin doped titania that improve the photocatalytic activity under visible light.

Pressure Sensing in High-Refractive-Index Liquids Using Long-Period Gratings Nanocoated with Silicon Nitride

PubMed Central

Smietana, Mateusz; Bock, Wojtek J.; Mikulic, Predrag; Chen, Jiahua

2010-01-01

The paper presents a novel pressure sensor based on a silicon nitride (SiNx) nanocoated long-period grating (LPG). The high-temperature, radio-frequency plasma-enhanced chemical-vapor-deposited (RF PECVD) SiNx nanocoating was applied to tune the sensitivity of the LPG to the external refractive index. The technique allows for deposition of good quality, hard and wear-resistant nanofilms as required for optical sensors. Thanks to the SiNx nanocoating it is possible to overcome a limitation of working in the external-refractive-index range, which for a bare fiber cannot be close to that of the cladding. The nanocoated LPG-based sensing structure we developed is functional in high-refractive-index liquids (nd > 1.46) such as oil or gasoline, with pressure sensitivity as high as when water is used as a working liquid. The nanocoating developed for this experiment not only has the highest refractive index ever achieved in LPGs (n > 2.2 at λ = 1,550 nm), but is also the thinnest (<100 nm) able to tune the external-refractive-index sensitivity of the gratings. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time a nanocoating has been applied on LPGs that is able to simultaneously tune the refractive-index sensitivity and to enable measurements of other parameters. PMID:22163527

Aromatic hydrocarbons as ozone precursors before and after outbreak of the 2008 financial crisis in the Pearl River Delta region, south China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Yanli; Wang, Xinming; Blake, Donald R.; Li, Longfeng; Zhang, Zhou; Wang, Shaoyi; Guo, Hai; Lee, Frank S. C.; Gao, Bo; Chan, Loyin; Wu, Dui; Rowland, F. Sherwood

2012-08-01

In the second half of 2008 China's highly industrialized Pearl River Delta (PRD) region was hard-hit by the financial crisis (FC). This study reports volatile organic compounds measured in the PRD during November-December in both 2007 before the FC and 2008 after the FC. While total mixing ratios of non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) on average were only about 7% lower from 40.2 ppbv in 2007 to 37.5 ppbv in 2008, their ozone formation potentials (OFPs) dropped about 30%, resulting from about 55% plummet of aromatic hydrocarbons (AHs) against a greater than 20% increase of total alkanes/alkenes. The elevated alkanes and alkenes in 2008 could be explained by greater emissions from vehicle exhausts and LPG combustion due to rapid increase of vehicle numbers and LPG consumption; the drop of AHs could be explained by reduced emissions from industries using AH-containing solvents due to the influence of the FC, as indicated by much lower ratios of toluene to benzene and of xylenes/trichloroethylene/tetrachloroethylene to carbon monoxide (CO) in 2008. Source apportionment by positive matrix factorization (PMF) also revealed much less contribution of industry solvents to total anthropogenic NMHCs and particularly to toluene and xylenes in 2008 than in 2007. Based on PMF reconstructed source contributions, calculated OFPs by industrial emissions were responsible for 40.8% in 2007 in contrast to 18.4% in 2008. Further investigation into local industry output statistics suggested that the plummet of AHs in 2008 should be attributed to small enterprises, which contributed largely to ambient AHs due to their huge numbers and non-existent emission treatment, but were much more influenced by the FC.

Thermoelectric Properties of Cu-Doped n-Type Bi2Te2.85Se0.15 Prepared by Liquid Phase Growth Using a Sliding Boat

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kitagawa, Hiroyuki; Matsuura, Tsukasa; Kato, Toshihito; Kamata, Kin-ya

2015-06-01

N-type Bi2Te2.85Se0.15 thermoelectric materials were prepared by liquid phase growth (LPG) using a sliding boat, a simple and short fabrication process for Bi2Te3-related materials. Cu was selected as a donor dopant, and its effect on thermoelectric properties was investigated. Thick sheets and bars of Cu x Bi2 Te2.85Se0.15 ( x=0-0.25) of 1-2mm in thickness were obtained using the process. X-ray diffraction patterns and scanning electron micrographs showed that the in-plane direction tended to correspond to the hexagonal c-plane, which is the preferred direction for thermoelectric conversion. Cu-doping was effective in controlling conduction type and carrier (electron) concentration. The conduction type was p-type for undoped Bi2Te2.85Se0.15 and became n-type after Cu-doping. The Hall carrier concentration was increased by Cu-doping. Small resistivity was achieved in Cu0.02Bi2Te2.85Se0.15 owing to an optimized amount of Cu-doping and high crystal orientation. As a result, the maximum power factor near 310K for Cu0.02Bi2Te2.85Se0.15 was approximately 4×10-3W/K2m and had good reproducibility. Furthermore, the thermal stability of Cu0.02Bi2Te2.85Se0.15 was also confirmed by thermal cycling measurements of electrical resistivity. Thus, n-type Bi2Te2.85Se0.15 with a large power factor was prepared using the present LPG process.

Inflammation, oxidative stress, and higher expression levels of Nrf2 and NQO1 proteins in the airways of women chronically exposed to biomass fuel smoke.

PubMed

Mondal, Nandan Kumar; Saha, Hirak; Mukherjee, Bidisha; Tyagi, Neetu; Ray, Manas Ranjan

2018-01-24

The study was carried out to examine whether chronic exposure to smoke during daily household cooking with biomass fuel (BMF) elicits changes in airway cytology and expressions of Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2 [NF-E2]-related factor 2 [Nrf2]), Keap1 (Kelch-like erythroid-cell-derived protein with CNC homology [ECH]-associated protein 1), and NQO1 (NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1) proteins in the airways. For this, 282 BMF-using women (median age 34 year) and 236 age-matched women who cooked with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were enrolled. Particulate matter with diameters of < 10 µm (PM 10 ) and < 2.5 µm (PM 2.5 ) were measured in indoor air with real-time laser photometer. Routine hematology, sputum cytology, Nrf2, Keap1, NQO1, and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) along with the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase were measured in both groups. PM 10 and PM 2.5 levels were significantly higher in BMF-using households compared to LPG. Compared with LPG users, BMF users had 32% more leukocytes in circulation and their sputa were 1.4-times more cellular with significant increase in absolute number of neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils, and alveolar macrophages, suggesting airway inflammation. ROS generation was 1.5-times higher in blood neutrophils and 34% higher in sputum cells of BMF users while erythrocyte SOD was 31% lower and plasma catalase was relatively unchanged, suggesting oxidative stress. In BMF users, Keap1 expression was reduced, the percentage of AEC with nuclear expression of Nrf2 was two- to three-times more, and NQO1 level in sputum cell lysate was two-times higher than that of LPG users. In conclusion, cooking with BMF was associated with Nrf2 activation and elevated NQO1 protein level in the airways. The changes may be adaptive cellular response to counteract biomass smoke-elicited oxidative stress and inflammation-related tissue injury in the airways.

Source apportionment of ambient non-methane hydrocarbons in Hong Kong: application of a principal component analysis/absolute principal component scores (PCA/APCS) receptor model.

PubMed

Guo, H; Wang, T; Louie, P K K

2004-06-01

Receptor-oriented source apportionment models are often used to identify sources of ambient air pollutants and to estimate source contributions to air pollutant concentrations. In this study, a PCA/APCS model was applied to the data on non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) measured from January to December 2001 at two sampling sites: Tsuen Wan (TW) and Central & Western (CW) Toxic Air Pollutants Monitoring Stations in Hong Kong. This multivariate method enables the identification of major air pollution sources along with the quantitative apportionment of each source to pollutant species. The PCA analysis identified four major pollution sources at TW site and five major sources at CW site. The extracted pollution sources included vehicular internal engine combustion with unburned fuel emissions, use of solvent particularly paints, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) or natural gas leakage, and industrial, commercial and domestic sources such as solvents, decoration, fuel combustion, chemical factories and power plants. The results of APCS receptor model indicated that 39% and 48% of the total NMHCs mass concentrations measured at CW and TW were originated from vehicle emissions, respectively. 32% and 36.4% of the total NMHCs were emitted from the use of solvent and 11% and 19.4% were apportioned to the LPG or natural gas leakage, respectively. 5.2% and 9% of the total NMHCs mass concentrations were attributed to other industrial, commercial and domestic sources, respectively. It was also found that vehicle emissions and LPG or natural gas leakage were the main sources of C(3)-C(5) alkanes and C(3)-C(5) alkenes while aromatics were predominantly released from paints. Comparison of source contributions to ambient NMHCs at the two sites indicated that the contribution of LPG or natural gas at CW site was almost twice that at TW site. High correlation coefficients (R(2) > 0.8) between the measured and predicted values suggested that the PCA/APCS model was applicable for estimation of sources of NMHCs in ambient air.

Identification of awkward postures that cause discomfort to Liquid Petroleum Gas workers in Mumbai, India

PubMed Central

Chowdhury, Salian Shivani; Boricha, Jinal; Yardi, Sujata

2012-01-01

Background: Awkward, extreme and repetitive postures have been associated with work related musculoskeletal discomfort and injury to the lower back. Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) workers in India; that is the delivery men carry heavy cylinders on their shoulders and back. The cylinders come in commercial and residential form which range in weight from 14.2kgs, 16.2kgs, 19.2kgs, 32kgs, 40 kgs etc. They have a tedious schedule of 8 h/day and mostly associated with loading and unloading of the cylinders. Their job demands a high intensity of strength and power. They are exposed to high level of physical demands and relatively lesser amount of rest which makes them vulnerable to various injuries over a period of time. Materials and Methods: 100 LPG workers (delivery men) were interviewed using the Ovako work assessment system OWAS posture code and action category system developed by ISMAIL et al.[10] was used. A battery of questions with specific stress was constructed and validated in the Department of Physiotherapy, Padmashree Dr D.Y Patil University, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, India. Results: This study presented an ergonomic assessment of LPG workers. The results show that the workers work in awkward postures. They transfer the cylinders in poor postures with high velocity and motion repetitiveness thus subjecting their spine to greater amounts of compressive forces. Regarding to work discomfort survey questionnaire, the postures cause ill effects on their various body segments. Among them 90% fall in category 4 while loading the cylinder, that is the load by those postures have a very harmful effect on musculoskeletal, system-corrective action for improvement required immediately. And while unloading 70% fall in category 3, which are postures that have harmful effect on musculoskeletal system. Corrective actions should be done as soon as possible. Majority of workers also complained of severe injury to back-34%, shoulder-20%, knee-20%, neck-16%, and toes-10%. Conclusion: These findings provide a prima facie evidence of higher occupational stresses among the LPG workers because of identified specific stressors prevalent in their jobs and explore the possible intervention strategies for its reduction. PMID:23112499

Modeling the potential health benefits of lower household air pollution after a hypothetical liquified petroleum gas (LPG) cookstove intervention.

PubMed

Steenland, Kyle; Pillarisetti, Ajay; Kirby, Miles; Peel, Jennifer; Clark, Maggie; Checkley, Will; Chang, Howard H; Clasen, Thomas

2018-02-01

Improved biomass and advanced fuel cookstoves can lower household air pollution (HAP), but levels of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) often remain above the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended interim target of 35μg/m 3 . Based on existing literature, we first estimate a range of likely levels of personal PM 2.5 before and after a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) intervention. Using simulations reflecting uncertainty in both the exposure estimates and exposure-response coefficients, we estimate corresponding expected health benefits for systolic blood pressure (SBP) in adults, birthweight, and pneumonia incidence among children <2years old. We also estimate potential avoided premature mortality among those exposed. Our best estimate is that an LPG stove intervention would decrease personal PM 2.5 exposure from approximately 270μg/m 3 to approximately 70μg/m 3 , due to likely continued use of traditional open-fire stoves. We estimate that this decrease would lead to a 5.5mmHg lower SBP among women over age 50, a 338g higher birthweight, and a 37% lower incidence of severe childhood pneumonia. We estimate that decreased SBP, if sustained, would result in a 5%-10% decrease in mortality for women over age 50. We estimate that higher birthweight would reduce infant mortality by 4 to 11 deaths per 1000 births; for comparison, the current global infant mortality rate is 32/1000 live births. Reduced exposure is estimated to prevent approximately 29 cases of severe pneumonia per year per 1000 children under 2, avoiding approximately 2-3 deaths/1000 per year. However, there are large uncertainties around all these estimates due to uncertainty in both exposure estimates and in exposure-response coefficients; all health effect estimates include the null value of no benefit. An LPG stove intervention, while not likely to lower exposure to the WHO interim target level, is still likely to offer important health benefits. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Identification of awkward postures that cause discomfort to Liquid Petroleum Gas workers in Mumbai, India.

PubMed

Chowdhury, Salian Shivani; Boricha, Jinal; Yardi, Sujata

2012-01-01

Awkward, extreme and repetitive postures have been associated with work related musculoskeletal discomfort and injury to the lower back. Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) workers in India; that is the delivery men carry heavy cylinders on their shoulders and back. The cylinders come in commercial and residential form which range in weight from 14.2kgs, 16.2kgs, 19.2kgs, 32kgs, 40 kgs etc. They have a tedious schedule of 8 h/day and mostly associated with loading and unloading of the cylinders. Their job demands a high intensity of strength and power. They are exposed to high level of physical demands and relatively lesser amount of rest which makes them vulnerable to various injuries over a period of time. 100 LPG workers (delivery men) were interviewed using the Ovako work assessment system OWAS posture code and action category system developed by ISMAIL et al.[10] was used. A battery of questions with specific stress was constructed and validated in the Department of Physiotherapy, Padmashree Dr D.Y Patil University, Nerul, Navi Mumbai, India. This study presented an ergonomic assessment of LPG workers. The results show that the workers work in awkward postures. They transfer the cylinders in poor postures with high velocity and motion repetitiveness thus subjecting their spine to greater amounts of compressive forces. Regarding to work discomfort survey questionnaire, the postures cause ill effects on their various body segments. Among them 90% fall in category 4 while loading the cylinder, that is the load by those postures have a very harmful effect on musculoskeletal, system-corrective action for improvement required immediately. And while unloading 70% fall in category 3, which are postures that have harmful effect on musculoskeletal system. Corrective actions should be done as soon as possible. Majority of workers also complained of severe injury to back-34%, shoulder-20%, knee-20%, neck-16%, and toes-10%. These findings provide a prima facie evidence of higher occupational stresses among the LPG workers because of identified specific stressors prevalent in their jobs and explore the possible intervention strategies for its reduction.

High sensitivity long-period grating-based temperature monitoring using a wide wavelength range to 2.2 μm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Venugopalan, Thillainathan; Yeo, Teck L.; Sun, Tong; Grattan, Kenneth T. V.

2006-12-01

Temperature effects on the various cladding modes of a long-period grating (LPG) fabricated in B-Ge co-doped fibre have been investigated to create a high sensitivity measurement device. The temperature sensitivities of the attenuation bands of the LPG over the wavelength region 1.2-2.2 μm, for a grating with a 330 μm period, were obtained by monitoring the wavelength shift of each attenuation band, with a temperature increment of 20 °C, over the range from 23 °C to 140 °C. The attenuation band appearing over the 1.8-2.0 μm wavelength range has shown a nearly five times higher temperature sensitivity than that of lower order modes, and thus it shows significant promise for fibre optic temperature sensor applications.

Ghana randomized air pollution and health study (GRAPHS): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Jack, Darby W; Asante, Kwaku Poku; Wylie, Blair J; Chillrud, Steve N; Whyatt, Robin M; Ae-Ngibise, Kenneth A; Quinn, Ashlinn K; Yawson, Abena Konadu; Boamah, Ellen Abrafi; Agyei, Oscar; Mujtaba, Mohammed; Kaali, Seyram; Kinney, Patrick; Owusu-Agyei, Seth

2015-09-22

Household air pollution exposure is a major health risk, but validated interventions remain elusive. The Ghana Randomized Air Pollution and Health Study (GRAPHS) is a cluster-randomized trial that evaluates the efficacy of clean fuels (liquefied petroleum gas, or LPG) and efficient biomass cookstoves in the Brong-Ahafo region of central Ghana. We recruit pregnant women into LPG, efficient cookstove, and control arms and track birth weight and physician-assessed severe pneumonia incidence in the first year of life. A woman is eligible to participate if she is in the first or second trimester of pregnancy and carrying a live singleton fetus, if she is the primary cook, and if she does not smoke. We hypothesize that babies born to intervention mothers will weigh more and will have fewer cases of physician-assessed severe pneumonia in the first year of life. Additionally, an extensive personal air pollution exposure monitoring effort opens the way for exposure-response analyses, which we will present alongside intention-to-treat analyses. Major funding was provided by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, The Thrasher Research Fund, and the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves. Household air pollution exposure is a major health risk that requires well-tested interventions. GRAPHS will provide important new evidence on the efficacy of both efficient biomass cookstoves and LPG, and will thus help inform health and energy policies in developing countries. The trial was registered with clinicaltrials.gov on 13 April 2011 with the identifier NCT01335490 .

Prediction and analysis of promiscuous T cell-epitopes derived from the vaccine candidate antigens of Leishmania donovani binding to MHC class-II alleles using in silico approach.

PubMed

Kashyap, Manju; Jaiswal, Varun; Farooq, Umar

2017-09-01

Visceral leishmaniasis is a dreadful infectious disease and caused by the intracellular protozoan parasites, Leishmania donovani and Leishmania infantum. Despite extensive efforts for developing effective prophylactic vaccine, still no vaccine is available against leishmaniasis. However, advancement in immunoinformatics methods generated new dimension in peptide based vaccine development. The present study was aimed to identify T-cell epitopes from the vaccine candidate antigens like Lipophosphogylcan-3(LPG-3) and Nucleoside hydrolase (NH) from the L. donovani using in silico methods. Available best tools were used for the identification of promiscuous peptides for MHC class-II alleles. A total of 34 promiscuous peptides from LPG-3, 3 from NH were identified on the basis of their 100% binding affinity towards all six HLA alleles, taken in this study. These peptides were further checked computationally to know their IFN-γ and IL4 inducing potential and nine peptides were identified. Peptide binding interactions with predominant HLA alleles were done by docking. Out of nine docked promiscuous peptides, only two peptides (QESRILRVIKKKLVR, RILRVIKKKLVRKTL), from LPG-3 and one peptide (FDKFWCLVIDALKRI) from NH showed lowest binding energy with all six alleles. These promiscuous T-cell epitopes were predicted on the basis of their antigenicity, hydrophobicity, potential immune response and docking scores. The immunogenicity of predicted promiscuous peptides might be used for subunit vaccine development with immune-modulating adjuvants. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fuel for Life: Domestic Cooking Fuels and Women’s Health in Rural China

PubMed Central

Nie, Peng; Sousa-Poza, Alfonso; Xue, Jianhong

2016-01-01

Background: There is evidence that household air pollution is associated with poor health in China, and that this form of air pollution may even be more of a health concern in China than the much-publicized outdoor air pollution. However, there is little empirical evidence on the relationship between household air pollution and health in China based on nationally representative and longitudinal data. This study examines the association between the type of domestic cooking fuel and the health of women aged ≥16 in rural China. Methods: Using longitudinal and biomarker data from the China Family Panel Studies (n = 12,901) and the China Health and Nutrition Survey (n = 15,539), we investigate the impact of three major domestic cooking fuels (wood/straw, coal, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)) on health status using both cross-sectional and panel approaches. Results: Compared to women whose households cook with dirty fuels like wood/straw, women whose households cook with cleaner fuels like LPG have a significantly lower probability of chronic or acute diseases and are more likely to report better health. Cooking with domestic coal instead of wood or straw is also associated with elevated levels of having certain risks (such as systolic blood pressure) related to cardiovascular diseases. Conclusions: Our study provides evidence that using cleaner fuels like LPG is associated with better health among women in rural China, suggesting that the shift from dirty fuels to cleaner choices may be associated with improved health outcomes. PMID:27517950

Long period fiber grating based sensor for the detection of triacylglycerides.

PubMed

Baliyan, Anjli; Sital, Shivani; Tiwari, Umesh; Gupta, Rani; Sharma, Enakshi K

2016-05-15

In this paper, stable, label free enzyme based sensor using long period fiber grating (LPG) is described for the detection of triacylglycerides. A stable covalent binding technique for lipase enzyme immobilization on an optical fiber is reported. An active and stable attachment of the functional group of the enzyme on the fiber surface is achieved using this method. Enzyme immobilization is confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Raman Spectroscopy. The stability is confirmed by lipase p-nitrophenyl palmitate (PNP) assay. In contrast to widely used amperometric based biosensor, where a number of enzymes are required, only one enzyme, namely, lipase is required in our sensor. The sensor shows optimum response within one minute at a temperature of 37°C and pH of 7.4. The sensor is based on the shift in resonance wavelength of the LPG transmission spectrum due to the interaction of triacylglycerides with the enzyme. The biosensor is highly specific towards triacylglycerides and is unaffected by the presence of many other interfering substances in serum. Interaction between the bio-molecules and the long period grating surface is also modeled theoretically using a four layer model for the LPG fiber with the bio-recognition layer and the results obtained are consistent with experimentally obtained results. The sensor shows a high sensitivity of 0.5 nm/mM and a low detection limit of 17.71 mg/dl for the physiological range of triacylglycerides in human blood. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fuel for Life: Domestic Cooking Fuels and Women's Health in Rural China.

PubMed

Nie, Peng; Sousa-Poza, Alfonso; Xue, Jianhong

2016-08-10

There is evidence that household air pollution is associated with poor health in China, and that this form of air pollution may even be more of a health concern in China than the much-publicized outdoor air pollution. However, there is little empirical evidence on the relationship between household air pollution and health in China based on nationally representative and longitudinal data. This study examines the association between the type of domestic cooking fuel and the health of women aged ≥16 in rural China. Using longitudinal and biomarker data from the China Family Panel Studies (n = 12,901) and the China Health and Nutrition Survey (n = 15,539), we investigate the impact of three major domestic cooking fuels (wood/straw, coal, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)) on health status using both cross-sectional and panel approaches. Compared to women whose households cook with dirty fuels like wood/straw, women whose households cook with cleaner fuels like LPG have a significantly lower probability of chronic or acute diseases and are more likely to report better health. Cooking with domestic coal instead of wood or straw is also associated with elevated levels of having certain risks (such as systolic blood pressure) related to cardiovascular diseases. Our study provides evidence that using cleaner fuels like LPG is associated with better health among women in rural China, suggesting that the shift from dirty fuels to cleaner choices may be associated with improved health outcomes.

Evaluating availability and price of essential medicines in Boston area (Massachusetts, USA) using WHO/HAI methodology.

PubMed

Sharma, Abhishek; Rorden, Lindsey; Ewen, Margaret; Laing, Richard

2016-01-01

Many patients even those with health insurance pay out-of-pocket for medicines. We investigated the availability and prices of essential medicines in the Boston area. Using the WHO/HAI methodology, availability and undiscounted price data for both originator brand (OB) and lowest price generic (LPG) equivalent versions of 25 essential medicines (14 prescription; 11 over-the-counter (OTC)) were obtained from 17 private pharmacies. The inclusion and prices of 26 essential medicines in seven pharmacy discount programs were also studied. The medicine prices were compared with international reference prices (IRPs). In surveyed pharmacies, the OB medicines were less available as compared to the generics. The OB and LPG versions of OTC medicines were 21.33 and 11.53 times the IRP, respectively. The median prices of prescription medicines were higher, with OB and LPG versions at 158.14 and 38.03 times the IRP, respectively. In studied pharmacy discount programs, the price ratios of surveyed medicines varied from 4.4-13.9. While noting the WHO target that consumers should pay no more than four times the IRPs, medicine prices were considerably higher in the Boston area. The prices for medicines included in the pharmacy discount programs were closest to WHO's target. Consumers should shop around, as medicine inclusion and prices vary across discount programs. In order for consumers to identify meaningful potential savings through comparison shopping, price transparency is needed.

Albendazole Stimulates the Excretion of Strongyloides stercoralis Larvae in Stool Specimens and Enhances Sensitivity for Diagnosis of Strongyloidiasis▿

PubMed Central

Anamnart, Witthaya; Pattanawongsa, Attarat; Intapan, Pewpan Maleewong; Maleewong, Wanchai

2010-01-01

We succeeded in stimulation of excretion of Strongyloides stercoralis larvae in stool by oral administration of a single dose of 400 mg albendazole to strongyloidiasis patients. This result overcame the false-negative results of stool examination due to low larval numbers. Stool samples were collected from 152 asymptomatic strongyloidiasis patients in the morning, prior to eating. After breakfast, they were given a dose of 400 mg albendazole, and stool samples were collected the following morning. Agar plate culture (APC), modified formalin-ether concentration technique (MFECT), and direct-smear (DS) methods were used to examine stool specimens within 3 h after defecation. The results before and after albendazole was taken were compared. All APCs that were positive became negative after albendazole administration, while MFECT showed a 1.4- to 18.0-fold increase in larval numbers in 97.4% (148/152) of the samples. The DSs were positive in 3 out of 3 smears at a larval number of ≥45 larvae per g (lpg) of stool, and in 1or 2 out of 3 smears at a larval number between 35 and 44 lpg. At a larval number of <35 lpg, the DS became negative. Interestingly 90.5% (19/21) of the samples that were negative by all methods before albendazole administration became positive by MFECT after the treatment. Thus, MFECT can be effectively used for diagnosis of strongyloidiasis with prior administration of albendazole to the subject. PMID:20844212

Pulmonary function and fuel use: a population survey.

PubMed

Saha, Asim; Rao, N Mohan; Kulkarni, P K; Majumdar, P K; Saiyed, H N

2005-10-31

In the backdrop of conflicting reports (some studies reported adverse outcomes of biomass fuel use whereas few studies reported absence of any association between adverse health effect and fuel use, may be due to presence of large number of confounding variables) on the respiratory health effects of biomass fuel use, this cross sectional survey was undertaken to understand the role of fuel use on pulmonary function. This study was conducted in a village of western India involving 369 randomly selected adult subjects (165 male and 204 female). All the subjects were interviewed and were subjected to pulmonary function test. Analysis of covariance was performed to compare the levels of different pulmonary function test parameters in relation to different fuel use taking care of the role of possible confounding factors. This study showed that biomass fuel use (especially wood) is an important factor for deterioration of pulmonary function (particularly in female). FEV1 (p < .05), FEV1% (p < .01), PEFR (p < .05) and FEF(25-75) (p < .01) values were significantly lower in biomass fuel using females than nonusers. Comparison of only biomass fuel use vs. only LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) use and only wood vs. only LPG use has showed that LPG is a safer fuel so far as deterioration of pulmonary function is concerned. This study observes some deterioration of pulmonary function in the male subjects also, who came from biomass fuel using families. This study concluded that traditional biomass fuels like wood have adverse effects on pulmonary function.

The toxicological properties of petroleum gases.

PubMed

McKee, Richard H; Herron, Deborah; Saperstein, Mark; Podhasky, Paula; Hoffman, Gary M; Roberts, Linda

2014-01-01

To characterize the toxicological hazards of petroleum gases, 90-day inhalation toxicity (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development [OECD] 413) and developmental toxicity (OECD 414) tests were conducted with liquefied propane gas (LPG) at concentrations of 1000, 5000, or 10,000 ppm. A micronucleus test (OECD 474) of LPG was also conducted. No systemic or developmental effects were observed; the overall no observed adverse effect concentration (NOAEC) was 10,000 ppm. Further, there was no effect of LPG exposure at levels up to 10,000 ppm on micronucleus induction and no evidence of bone marrow toxicity. Other alkane gases (ethane, propane, n-butane, and isobutane) were then evaluated in combined repeated exposure studies with reproduction/development toxicity screening tests (OECD 422). There were no toxicologically important changes in parameters relating to systemic toxicity or neurotoxicity for any of these gases at concentrations ranging from 9000 to 16,000 ppm. There was no evidence of effects on developmental or reproductive toxicity in the studies of ethane, propane, or n-butane at the highest concentrations tested. However, there was a reduction in mating in the high-exposure group (9000 ppm) of the isobutane study, which although not significantly different was outside the range previously observed in the testing laboratory. Assuming the reduction in mating to have been toxicologically significant, the NOAEC for the isobutane reproductive toxicity screening test was 3000 ppm (7125 mg/m(3)). A method is proposed by which the toxicity of any of the 106 complex petroleum gas streams can be estimated from its composition.

Mining machinery/equipment/parts/services. Oil and gas field equipment/machinery/parts/supplies (Ecuador). Refinery equipment, parts, and accessories, March 1991. Export trade information

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

Not Available

1991-03-01

The petroleum sector in Ecuador brings in about 65 percent of the country's revenue. Three of the refineries are located in the coastal region. The other two, plus the Liquified Petroleum Gas Plant (LPG), are located in the Oriente region (Amazon jungle). The refineries operate at about 85% of their installation capacity. The Petroindustrial and Petropeninsula investment plan for 1991 comtemplates the expansion of the Esmeraldas refinery to 110,000 barrels a day, and the up-grading of the Shushufindi and Libertad refineries located near the city of Guayaquil. The United States is by far the largest supplier of refinery equipment, partsmore » and accessories, controlling about 90% of the total market.« less

LLNL demonstration of liquid gun propellant destruction in a 0.1 gallon per minute scale reactor

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

Cena, R.J.; Thorsness, C.B.; Coburn, T.T.

1994-06-01

The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has built and operated a pilot plant for processing oil shale using recirculating hot solids. This pilot plant, was adapted in 1993 to demonstrate the feasibility of decomposing a liquid gun propellant (LGP), LP XM46, a mixture of 76% HAN (NH{sub 3}OHNO{sub 3}) and 24% TEAN (HOCH{sub 2}CH{sub 2}){sub 3} NHNO{sub 3} diluted 1:3 in water. In the Livermore process, the LPG is thermally treated in a moving packed bed of ceramic spheres, where TEAN and HAN decompose, forming a suite of gases including: methane, carbon monoxide, oxygen, nitrogen oxides, ammonia and molecular nitrogen.more » The ceramic spheres are circulated and heated, providing the energy required for thermal decomposition. The authors performed an extended one day (8 hour) test of the solids recirculation system, with continuous injection of approximately 0.1 gal/min of LGP, diluted 1:3 in water, for a period of eight hours. The apparatus operated smoothly over the course of the eight hour run during which 144 kg of solution was processed, containing 36 kg of LGP. Continuous on-line gas analysis was invaluable in tracking the progress of the experiment and quantifying the decomposition products. The reactor was operated in two modes, a {open_quotes}Pyrolysis{close_quotes} mode, where decomposition products were removed from the moving bed reactor exit, passing through condensers to a flare, and in a {open_quotes}Combustion{close_quotes} mode, where the products were oxidized in air lift pipe prior to exiting the system. In the {open_quotes}Pyrolysis{close_quotes} mode, driver gases were recycled producing a small, concentrated stream of decomposition products. In the {open_quotes}Combustion mode{close_quotes}, the driver gases were not recycled, resulting in 40 times higher gas flow rates and correspondingly lower concentrations of nitrogen bearing gases.« less

40 CFR 1036.805 - Symbols, acronyms, and abbreviations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

.... ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials. BTU British thermal units. CFR Code of Federal... pound. lbC pound carbon. LPG liquefied petroleum gas. Mg megagrams (10 6 grams, or one metric ton). MJ...

40 CFR 1036.805 - Symbols, acronyms, and abbreviations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

.... ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials. BTU British thermal units. CFR Code of Federal... pound. lbC pound carbon. LPG liquefied petroleum gas. Mg megagrams (10 6 grams, or one metric ton). MJ...

40 CFR 1036.805 - Symbols, acronyms, and abbreviations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

.... ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials. BTU British thermal units. CFR Code of Federal... pound. lbC pound carbon. LPG liquefied petroleum gas. Mg megagrams (10 6 grams, or one metric ton). MJ...

Catalytic cracking process

DOEpatents

Lokhandwala, Kaaeid A.; Baker, Richard W.

2001-01-01

Processes and apparatus for providing improved catalytic cracking, specifically improved recovery of olefins, LPG or hydrogen from catalytic crackers. The improvement is achieved by passing part of the wet gas stream across membranes selective in favor of light hydrocarbons over hydrogen.

International comparison CCQM-K119 liquefied petroleum gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brewer, P. J.; Downey, M. L.; Atkins, E.; Brown, R. J. C.; Brown, A. S.; Zalewska, E. T.; van der Veen, A. M. H.; Smeulders, D. E.; McCallum, J. B.; Satumba, R. T.; Kim, Y. D.; Kang, N.; Bae, H. K.; Woo, J. C.; Konopelko, L. A.; Popova, T. A.; Meshkov, A. V.; Efremova, O. V.; Kustikov, Y.

2018-01-01

Liquefied hydrocarbon mixtures with traceable composition are required in order to underpin measurements of the composition and other physical properties of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), thus meeting the needs of an increasingly large industrial market. This comparison aims to assess the analytical capabilities of laboratories for measuring the composition of a Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) mixture when sampled in the liquid phase from a Constant Pressure Cylinder. Mixtures contained ethane, propane, propene, i-butane, n-butane, but-1-ene and i-pentane with nominal amount fractions of 2, 71, 9, 4, 10, 3 and 1 cmol mol-1 respectively. Main text To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database kcdb.bipm.org/. The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).

Effect of open air drying, LPG based drier and pretreatments on the quality of Indian gooseberry (aonla).

PubMed

Gudapaty, Pratibha; Indavarapu, Srinivas; Korwar, Girish R; Shankar, Arun Kumar; Adake, Ravi Kant V; Bandi, Venkateshwarlu; Kanchu, Srinivas Rao

2010-10-01

The aonla fruits (whole fruit, pricking, splits, segments) were subjected to pretreatments like blanching, osmotic dehydration with salt (2%) and sugar (40%) in different experiments before drying to obtain a product with better keeping quality. An LPG based drier (CRIDA drier) with capacity to dry 50 kg of fresh Indian gooseberry (aonla) was used. Nutritional quality and rehydration characteristics of CRIDA drier dried products were higher and free from contamination. Drying time was shortest for blanched and osmotically dehydrated segments dried in CRIDA drier and the product had better vitamin C retention, rehydration characteristics and sensory acceptability compared to sun or cabinet drier dried product. The additional expenditure spent on gas in CRIDA drier is compensated by reduced labour cost and higher price for the better quality product. Alternate energy sources like biogas and biomass can be used as fuel in the CRIDA drier.

Propane fear

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

Begley, R.

1992-02-12

A minor feature of a Congressional energy bill is causing consternation for a number of propane-consuming chemical companies. The firms are fighting the bill`s inclusion of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) on a list of alternative fuels that can be used to meet its urban fleet vehicles requirements. The firms fear that this added use would drive up the price of propane-an LPG-for homeowners, farmers, and themselves. Speaking for the Propane Consumers Coalition, a Dow Chemical spokesman says 7.7 million households use propane, as does agriculture, and current demand is such that December saw a 23-year low in US inventories. Themore » US depends on imports of propane, he says, and about half the propane sold in the US is derived from the refining of oil, much of which is also imported. Adding demand for vehicle fuel would drive up imports and process, the spokesman says, thereby damaging all users, including the petrochemical industry.« less

High-throughput investigation of catalysts for JP-8 fuel cracking to liquefied petroleum gas.

PubMed

Bedenbaugh, John E; Kim, Sungtak; Sasmaz, Erdem; Lauterbach, Jochen

2013-09-09

Portable power technologies for military applications necessitate the production of fuels similar to LPG from existing feedstocks. Catalytic cracking of military jet fuel to form a mixture of C₂-C₄ hydrocarbons was investigated using high-throughput experimentation. Cracking experiments were performed in a gas-phase, 16-sample high-throughput reactor. Zeolite ZSM-5 catalysts with low Si/Al ratios (≤25) demonstrated the highest production of C₂-C₄ hydrocarbons at moderate reaction temperatures (623-823 K). ZSM-5 catalysts were optimized for JP-8 cracking activity to LPG through varying reaction temperature and framework Si/Al ratio. The reducing atmosphere required during catalytic cracking resulted in coking of the catalyst and a commensurate decrease in conversion rate. Rare earth metal promoters for ZSM-5 catalysts were screened to reduce coking deactivation rates, while noble metal promoters reduced onset temperatures for coke burnoff regeneration.

Outlook for modern cooking energy access in Central America

PubMed Central

2018-01-01

The Central American nations of Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua are among the poorest in the Americas. While the fraction of population dependent on solid fuels has declined in these nations over the last 25 years, the number of people using them has risen. Here, we first assess current patterns of cooking energy use in these nations. We then apply a discrete model of household cooking choices and demand to simulate future pathways of clean cooking uptake and the outlook for achieving target 7.1 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), which aims to ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services by 2030. We find that by 2030, ensuing income growth is likely to enable 90% of urban populations in these nations to switch to using modern cooking energy services. However, without supporting policies, between 40% to 50% of rural Guatemalans and Hondurans, while over two-thirds of rural Nicaraguans, are likely to find clean fuels or stoves unaffordable in 2030. A targeted subsidy on modern fuels, like liquid petroleum gas (LPG), is the most effective policy mechanism we studied that could provide such support. A 50% subsidy policy on LPG targeted to the rural and urban poor population could, by 2030, make cooking with LPG affordable to an additional 7.3 million people in these countries. We estimate that such a policy would cost about $250 million per year and would have negligible greenhouse gas emissions impacts. Such a policy could also have significant health benefits, preventing about 8,890 premature deaths annually from reduced exposure to cooking-related household pollution in 2030. PMID:29883457

Pulmonary function and fuel use: A population survey

PubMed Central

Saha, Asim; Mohan Rao, N; Kulkarni, PK; Majumdar, PK; Saiyed, HN

2005-01-01

Background In the backdrop of conflicting reports (some studies reported adverse outcomes of biomass fuel use whereas few studies reported absence of any association between adverse health effect and fuel use, may be due to presence of large number of confounding variables) on the respiratory health effects of biomass fuel use, this cross sectional survey was undertaken to understand the role of fuel use on pulmonary function. Method This study was conducted in a village of western India involving 369 randomly selected adult subjects (165 male and 204 female). All the subjects were interviewed and were subjected to pulmonary function test. Analysis of covariance was performed to compare the levels of different pulmonary function test parameters in relation to different fuel use taking care of the role of possible confounding factors. Results This study showed that biomass fuel use (especially wood) is an important factor for deterioration of pulmonary function (particularly in female). FEV1 (p < .05), FEV1 % (p < .01), PEFR (p < .05) and FEF25–75 (p < .01) values were significantly lower in biomass fuel using females than nonusers. Comparison of only biomass fuel use vs. only LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) use and only wood vs. only LPG use has showed that LPG is a safer fuel so far as deterioration of pulmonary function is concerned. This study observes some deterioration of pulmonary function in the male subjects also, who came from biomass fuel using families. Conclusion This study concluded that traditional biomass fuels like wood have adverse effects on pulmonary function. PMID:16255784

North American Natural Gas Vision

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-01-01

hand sales of natural gas and LPG. 17 Decreto Legal, Diario Oficial , Noviembre 25, 1993. 37 Review Section 38 Figure 2. Mexican Natural Gas...California 500 Mexicali Baja California 29 Naco - Hermosillo Sonora 130 Nacozari de Garcia Sonora 85 Agua Prieta Sonora 173

Clean air program : design guidelines for bus transit systems using hydrogen as an alternative fuel

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-04-01

Alternative fuels such as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and alcohol fuels (methanol, and ethanol) are already being used in commercial vehicles and transit buses in revenue service. Hydrogen...

Evaluating the Performance of Household Liquefied Petroleum Gas Cookstoves

EPA Science Inventory

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cookstoves are considered to be an important solution for mitigating household air pollution; however, their performance has rarely been evaluated. To fill the data and knowledge gaps in this important area, laboratory tests (number of tests: 89) wer...

Fire testing and computer modelling of rail tank-cars engulfed in fires : literature review

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2006-03-01

This literature review contains important references relating to fire effects on pressure : vessels. The specific pressure vessels of interest are rail tank-cars carrying pressure : liquefied gases such as LPG and anhydrous ammonia. The literature id...

49 CFR 192.1001 - What definitions apply to this subpart?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (CONTINUED) PIPELINE SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF NATURAL AND OTHER GAS BY PIPELINE: MINIMUM FEDERAL SAFETY STANDARDS Gas Distribution Pipeline... liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) distribution pipeline that serves fewer than 100 customers from a single...

Trichomonas vaginalis Lipophosphoglycan Exploits Binding to Galectin-1 and -3 to Modulate Epithelial Immunity*

PubMed Central

Fichorova, Raina N.; Yamamoto, Hidemi S.; Fashemi, Titilayo; Foley, Evan; Ryan, Stanthia; Beatty, Noah; Dawood, Hassan; Hayes, Gary R.; St-Pierre, Guillaume; Sato, Sachiko; Singh, Bibhuti N.

2016-01-01

Trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection caused by the vaginotropic extracellular protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. The infection is recurrent, with no lasting immunity, often asymptomatic, and linked to pregnancy complications and risk of viral infection. The molecular mechanisms of immune evasion by the parasite are poorly understood. We demonstrate that galectin-1 and -3 are expressed by the human cervical and vaginal epithelial cells and act as pathogen-recognition receptors for the ceramide phosphoinositol glycan core (CPI-GC) of the dominant surface protozoan lipophosphoglycan (LPG). We used an in vitro model with siRNA galectin knockdown epithelial clones, recombinant galectins, clinical Trichomonas isolates, and mutant protozoan derivatives to dissect the function of galectin-1 and -3 in the context of Trichomonas infection. Galectin-1 suppressed chemokines that facilitate recruitment of phagocytes, which can eliminate extracellular protozoa (IL-8) or bridge innate to adaptive immunity (MIP-3α and RANTES (regulated on activation normal T cell expressed and secreted)). Silencing galectin-1 increased and adding exogenous galectin-1 suppressed chemokine responses to Trichomonas or CPI-GC/LPG. In contrast, silencing galectin-3 reduced IL-8 response to LPG. Live Trichomonas depleted the extracellular levels of galectin-3. Clinical isolates and mutant Trichomonas CPI-GC that had reduced affinity to galectin-3 but maintained affinity to galectin-1 suppressed chemokine expression. Thus via CPI-GC binding, Trichomonas is capable of regulating galectin bioavailability and function to the benefit of its parasitic survival. These findings suggest novel approaches to control trichomoniasis and warrant further studies of galectin-binding diversity among clinical isolates as a possible source for symptom disparity in parasitic infections. PMID:26589797

Genomic organization and expression of the expanded SCG/L/R gene family of Leishmania major: internal clusters and telomeric localization of SCGs mediating species-specific LPG modifications.

PubMed

Dobson, Deborah E; Scholtes, Luella D; Myler, Peter J; Turco, Salvatore J; Beverley, Stephen M

2006-04-01

Stage-specific modifications to the abundant surface lipophosphoglycan (LPG) adhesin of Leishmania play critical roles in binding and release of the parasite during its infectious cycle in the sand fly, and control the ability of different fly species to transmit different parasite strains and species. In Leishmania major Friedlin V1, binding to a sand fly midgut lectin is mediated by side chain galactosyl (scGal) modifications of the LPG phosphoglycan (PG) repeats, while release occurs following arabinose-capping of scGals. Previously we identified a family of six SCG genes encoding PG scbeta-galactosyltransferases, and here we show that the extended SCG gene family (now termed SCG/L/R) encompasses 14 members in three subfamilies (SCG, SCGL and SCGR). Northern blot and RT-PCR analyses suggest that most of the SCG/L/R genes are expressed, with distinct patterns during the infectious cycle. The six SCGR subfamily genes are clustered and interspersed with the two SCA genes responsible for developmentally regulated arabinosylation of PG scGals; relationships amongst the SCGR revealed clear evidence of extensive gene conversion. In contrast, the seven SCG 'core' family members are localized adjacent to telomeres. These telomeres share varying amounts of sequence upstream and/or downstream of the SCG ORFs, again providing evidence of past gene conversions. Multiple SCG1-7 RNAs were expressed simultaneously within parasite populations. Potentially, telomeric localization of SCG genes may function primarily to facilitate gene conversion and the elaboration of functional evolutionary diversity in the degree of PG sc-galactosylation observed in other strains of L. major.

Analytic Validation of Immunohistochemistry Assays: New Benchmark Data From a Survey of 1085 Laboratories.

PubMed

Stuart, Lauren N; Volmar, Keith E; Nowak, Jan A; Fatheree, Lisa A; Souers, Rhona J; Fitzgibbons, Patrick L; Goldsmith, Jeffrey D; Astles, J Rex; Nakhleh, Raouf E

2017-09-01

- A cooperative agreement between the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was undertaken to measure laboratories' awareness and implementation of an evidence-based laboratory practice guideline (LPG) on immunohistochemical (IHC) validation practices published in 2014. - To establish new benchmark data on IHC laboratory practices. - A 2015 survey on IHC assay validation practices was sent to laboratories subscribed to specific CAP proficiency testing programs and to additional nonsubscribing laboratories that perform IHC testing. Specific questions were designed to capture laboratory practices not addressed in a 2010 survey. - The analysis was based on responses from 1085 laboratories that perform IHC staining. Ninety-six percent (809 of 844) always documented validation of IHC assays. Sixty percent (648 of 1078) had separate procedures for predictive and nonpredictive markers, 42.7% (220 of 515) had procedures for laboratory-developed tests, 50% (349 of 697) had procedures for testing cytologic specimens, and 46.2% (363 of 785) had procedures for testing decalcified specimens. Minimum case numbers were specified by 85.9% (720 of 838) of laboratories for nonpredictive markers and 76% (584 of 768) for predictive markers. Median concordance requirements were 95% for both types. For initial validation, 75.4% (538 of 714) of laboratories adopted the 20-case minimum for nonpredictive markers and 45.9% (266 of 579) adopted the 40-case minimum for predictive markers as outlined in the 2014 LPG. The most common method for validation was correlation with morphology and expected results. Laboratories also reported which assay changes necessitated revalidation and their minimum case requirements. - Benchmark data on current IHC validation practices and procedures may help laboratories understand the issues and influence further refinement of LPG recommendations.

TECHNOLOGY FOR ENHANCED BIODIESEL ECONOMICS - PHASE II

EPA Science Inventory

The overall goal of this project is to complete the research and development of an innovative process technology to enhance the economics of biodiesel production, through upgrading the byproduct glycerol to a propane fuel (LPG), which (a) is widely used today, (b) has an exist...

LPG ammonia and nitrogen dioxide gas sensing properties of nanostructured polypyrrole thin film

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

Bagul, Sagar B., E-mail: nano.sbbagul@gmail.com; Upadhye, Deepak S.; Sharma, Ramphal, E-mail: rps.phy@gmail.com

Nanostructured Polypyrrole thin film was synthesized by easy and economic chemical oxidative polymerization technique on glass at room temperature. The prepared thin film of Polypyrrole was characterized by optical absorbance study by UV-visible spectroscopy and electrical study by I-V measurement system. The optical absorbance spectrum of Polypyrrole shows two fundamental peaks in region of 420 and 890 nm, which confirms the formation of Polypyrrole on glass substrate. The I-V graph of nanostructured Polypyrrole represents the Ohmic nature. Furthermore, the thin film of Polypyrrole was investigated by Scanning electron microscopy for surface morphology study. The SEM micrograph represents spherical nanostructured morphology ofmore » Polypyrrole on glass substrate. In order to investigate gas sensing properties, 100 ppm of LPG, Ammonia and Nitrogen Dioxide were injected in the gas chamber and magnitude of resistance has been recorded as a function of time in second. It was observed that nanostructured Polypyrrole thin film shows good sensing behavior at room temperature.« less

Selective bio-oxidation of propane to acetone using methane-oxidizing Methylomonas sp. DH-1.

PubMed

Hur, Dong Hoon; Nguyen, Thu Thi; Kim, Donghyuk; Lee, Eun Yeol

2017-07-01

Propane is the major component of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Nowadays, the use of LPG is decreasing, and thus utilization of propane as a chemical feedstock is in need of development. An efficient biological conversion of propane to acetone using a methanotrophic whole cell as the biocatalyst was proposed and investigated. A bio-oxidation pathway of propane to acetone in Methylomonas sp. DH-1 was analyzed by gene expression profiling via RNA sequencing. Propane was oxidized to 2-propanol by particulate methane monooxygenase and subsequently to acetone by methanol dehydrogenases. Methylomonas sp. DH-1 was deficient in acetone-converting enzymes and thus accumulated acetone in the absence of any enzyme inhibition. The maximum accumulation, average productivity and specific productivity of acetone were 16.62 mM, 0.678 mM/h and 0.141 mmol/g cell/h, respectively, under the optimized conditions. Our study demonstrates a novel method for the bioconversion of propane to acetone using methanotrophs under mild reaction condition.

Simultaneous measurement of refractive index and temperature based on intensity demodulation using matching grating method.

PubMed

Qi, Liang; Zhao, Chun-Liu; Kang, Juan; Jin, Yongxing; Wang, Jianfeng; Ye, Manping; Jin, Shangzhong

2013-07-01

A solution refractive index (SRI) and temperature simultaneous measurement sensor with intensity-demodulation system based on matching grating method were demonstrated. Long period grating written in a photonic crystal fiber (LPG-PCF), provides temperature stable and wavelength dependent optical intensity transmission. The reflective peaks of two fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs), one of which is etched then sensitive to both SRI and temperature, another (FBG2) is only sensitive to temperature, were located in the same linear range of the LPG-PCF's transmission spectrum. An identical FBG with FBG2 was chosen as a matching FBG. When environments (SRI and temperature) change, the wavelength shifts of the FBGs are translated effectively to the reflection intensity changes. By monitoring output lights of unmatching and matching paths, the SRI and temperature were deduced by a signal processing unit. Experimental results show that the simultaneous refractive index and temperature measurement system work well. The proposed sensor system is compact and suitable for in situ applications at lower cost.

The development of rotary drum dryer for palm fruit sterilization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hanifarianty, S.; Legwiriyakul, A.; Alimalbari, A.; Nuntadusit, C.; Theppaya, T.; Wae-Hayee, M.

2018-01-01

The aim of this research was to design and develop a rotary drum dryer for palm fruit sterilization. In this article, the results of the effect of ventilation hole number on the reduction of moisture content in palm fruit were presented. The experimental set up was a drum dryer which has 57.5 cm in a diameter and 90 cm in a length (the size was similar to 200-littre steel drum container). A driving gear and a gear motor rotated the drum dryer. The ventilation hole were drilled on the lateral side of the drum. The diameter of ventilation hole was 10 mm, and the number of ventilation hole were 18, 36 and 72 hole (each side was 9, 18 and 36 hole, respectively). In the experiment, the palm fruit was dried by using LPG to burn and heat the bottom of the drum. The flow rate of LPG was controlled to keep the temperature inside the drum steadily at 120°C.

Studies on the sensing behaviour of nanocrystalline CuGa(2)O(4) towards hydrogen, liquefied petroleum gas and ammonia.

PubMed

Biswas, Soumya Kanti; Sarkar, Arpita; Pathak, Amita; Pramanik, Panchanan

2010-06-15

In the present article, the gas sensing behaviour of nanocrystalline CuGa(2)O(4) towards H(2), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and NH(3) has been reported for the first time. Nanocrystalline powders of CuGa(2)O(4) having average particle sizes in the range of 30-60nm have been prepared through thermal decomposition of an aqueous precursor solution comprising copper nitrate, gallium nitrate and triethanol amine (TEA), followed by calcination at 750 degrees C for 2h. The synthesized nanocrystalline CuGa(2)O(4) powders have been characterised through X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) study, energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis and BET (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller) surface area measurement. The synthesized CuGa(2)O(4) having spinel structure with specific surface area of 40m(2)/g exhibits maximum sensitivity towards H(2), LPG, and NH(3) at 350 degrees C.

LPG ammonia and nitrogen dioxide gas sensing properties of nanostructured polypyrrole thin film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bagul, Sagar B.; Upadhye, Deepak S.; Sharma, Ramphal

2016-05-01

Nanostructured Polypyrrole thin film was synthesized by easy and economic chemical oxidative polymerization technique on glass at room temperature. The prepared thin film of Polypyrrole was characterized by optical absorbance study by UV-visible spectroscopy and electrical study by I-V measurement system. The optical absorbance spectrum of Polypyrrole shows two fundamental peaks in region of 420 and 890 nm, which confirms the formation of Polypyrrole on glass substrate. The I-V graph of nanostructured Polypyrrole represents the Ohmic nature. Furthermore, the thin film of Polypyrrole was investigated by Scanning electron microscopy for surface morphology study. The SEM micrograph represents spherical nanostructured morphology of Polypyrrole on glass substrate. In order to investigate gas sensing properties, 100 ppm of LPG, Ammonia and Nitrogen Dioxide were injected in the gas chamber and magnitude of resistance has been recorded as a function of time in second. It was observed that nanostructured Polypyrrole thin film shows good sensing behavior at room temperature.

The Viareggio LPG railway accident: event reconstruction and modeling.

PubMed

Brambilla, Sara; Manca, Davide

2010-10-15

This manuscript describes in detail the LPG accident occurred in Viareggio on June 2009 and its modeling. The accident investigation highlighted the uncertainty and complexity of assessing and modeling what happened in the congested environment close to the Viareggio railway station. Nonetheless, the analysis allowed comprehending the sequence of events, the way they influenced each other, and the different possible paths/evolutions. The paper describes suitable models for the quantitative assessment of the consequences of the most probable accidental dynamics and its outcomes. The main finding is that after about 80 s from the beginning of the release the dense-gas cloud reached the surrounding houses that were destroyed successively by internal explosions. This fact has two main implications. First, it shows that the adopted modeling framework can give a correct picture of what happened in Viareggio. Second, it confirms the need to develop effective mitigation measures because, in case of this kind of accidents, there is no time to apply any protective emergency plans/actions. 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Pacific Northwest Laboratory annual report for 1980 to the DOE Assistant Secretary for Environment. Part 5. Environmental assessment, control, health and safety

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

Baalman, R.W.; Hays, I.D.

1981-02-01

Pacific Northwest Laboratory's (PNL) 1980 annual report to the DOE Assistant Secretary for Environment describes research in environment, health, and safety conducted during fiscal year 1980. Part 5 includes technology assessments for natural gas, enhanced oil recovery, oil shale, uranium mining, magnetic fusion energy, solar energy, uranium enrichment and industrial energy utilization; regional analysis studies of environmental transport and community impacts; environmental and safety engineering for LNG, oil spills, LPG, shale oil waste waters, geothermal liquid waste disposal, compressed air energy storage, and nuclear/fusion fuel cycles; operational and environmental safety studies of decommissioning, environmental monitoring, personnel dosimetry, and analysis ofmore » criticality safety; health physics studies; and epidemiological studies. Also included are an author index, organization of PNL charts and distribution lists of the annual report, along with lists of presentations and publications. (DLS)« less

Experimental Investigation of A Twin Shaft Micro Gas-Turbine System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadig, Hussain; Sulaiman, Shaharin Anwar; Ibrahim, Idris

2013-06-01

Due to the fast depletion of fossil fuels and its negative impact on the environment, more attention has been concentrated to find new resources, policies and technologies, which meet the global needs with regard to fuel sustainability and emissions. In this paper, as a step to study the effect of burning low calorific value fuels on gas-turbine performance; a 50 kW slightly pressurized non-premixed tubular combustor along with turbocharger based twin shaft micro gas-turbine was designed and fabricated. A series of tests were conducted to characterize the system using LPG fuel. The tests include the analysis of the temperature profile, pressure and combustor efficiency as well as air fuel ratio and speed of the second turbine. The tests showed a stable operation with acceptable efficiency, air fuel ratio, and temperature gradient for the single and twin shaft turbines.

The influence of fuel type to combustion characteristic in diffusion flame drying by computational fluid dynamics simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Septiani, Eka Lutfi; Widiyastuti, W.; Machmudah, Siti; Nurtono, Tantular; Winardi, Sugeng

2017-05-01

Diffusion flame spray drying has become promising method in nanoparticles synthesis giving several advantages and low operation cost. In order to scale up the process which needs high experimentation time and cost, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) by Ansys Fluent 15.0 software has been used. Combustion characteristic in diffusion flame reactor may affects particle size distribution. This study aims to observe influence of fuel type to combustion characteristic in the reactor. Large Eddy Simulation (LES) and non-premixed combustion model are selected for the turbulence and combustion model respectively. Methane, propane, and LPG in 0.5 L/min were used as type of fuel. While the oxidizer is air with 200% excess of O2. Simulation result shown that the maximum temperature was obtained from propane-air combustion in 2268 K. However, the stable temperature contour was achieved by methane-air combustion.

Effect of annealing on particle size, microstructure and gas sensing properties of Mn substituted CoFe2O4 nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, E. Ranjith; Kamzin, A. S.; Janani, K.

2016-11-01

Microstructure, morphological and gas sensor studies of Mn substituted cobalt ferrite nanoparticles synthesized by a simple evaporation method and auto- combustion method. The influence of heat treatment on phase and particle size of spinel ferrite nanoparticles were determined by X-ray diffraction and Mossbauer spectroscopy. The XRD study reveals that the lattice constant and crystallite size of the samples increases with the increase of annealing temperature. Last one was confirmed by Mossbauer data. The lowest size of particles of MnCoFe2O4 (~3 nm) is obtained by auto combustion method. The spherical shaped nanoparticles are recorded by TEM. Furthermore, conductance response of Mn-Co ferrite nanomaterial was measured by exposing the material to reducing gas like liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) which showed a sensor response of ~0.19 at an optimum operating temperature of 250 °C.

Clean Air Program : Design Guidelines for Bus Transit Systems Using Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) as an Alternative Fuel

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-03-01

The use of alternative fuels to power transit buses is steadily increasing. Several fuels, including Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and Methanol/Ethanol, are already being used. At present, t...

Clean air program : design guidelines for bus transit systems using electric and hybrid electric propulsion as an alternative fuel

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-03-01

The use of alternative fuels to power transit buses is steadily increasing. Several fuels, including : Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and : Methanol/Ethanol, are already being used. At presen...

24 CFR Appendix I to Subpart C of... - Specific Hazardous Substances

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... Ketone Naptha Pentane Propylene Oxide Toluene Vinyl Acetate Xylene Hazardous Gases Acetaldehyde Butadiene Butane Ethene Ethylene Ethylene Oxide Hydrogen Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG... Commercial/Industrial Facilities,” by Rolf Jensen and Associates, Inc., April 1982) [49 FR 5105, Feb. 10...

46 CFR 184.240 - Gas systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) must meet the following... design, installation and testing of each CNG system must meet ABYC A-22, “Marine Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Systems,” Chapter 6 of NFPA 302, or other standard specified by the Commandant. (c) Cooking...

77 FR 50926 - Security Zones; Certain Dangerous Cargo Vessels, Tampa, FL

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-08-23

... Certain Dangerous Cargo (CDC) vessels, which are vessels carrying anhydrous ammonia, liquefied propane gas... Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida. A CDC vessel is one carrying anhydrous ammonia, liquefied... vessel carrying Anhydrous Ammonia (NH3), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), or Ammonium Nitrate (NH4) and...

Major Contributions: Feminism and Men's Lives.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Skovholt, Thomas M.

1978-01-01

Discusses the various areas of sex role change as an evolution verging on revolution, and states the result of these changes as being a blurring of gender roles. Reactions of different male groups, from the traditional to the liberal, are given, as well as a complete explanation of emotional trouble spots. (LPG)

Marijuana Use among Students and Peers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Griffin, Brenda S.; Griffin, Charles T.

1978-01-01

A casual path model based on Sutherland's theory was developed and applied to student marijuana use as a specific delinquent act. Two types of differential association were suggested to explain the genesis of marijuana use for the individual. The data tended to lend support to the causal path model. (Author/LPG)

GREENHOUSE GASES FROM BIOMASS AND FOSSIL FUEL STOVES IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: A MANILA PILOT STUDY

EPA Science Inventory

Samples were taken of the combustion gases released by household cookstoves in Manila, Philippines. In a total of 24 samples, 14 cookstoves were tested. These were fueled by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), kerosene (three kinds of stoves), charcoal, and wood. Ambient samples were ...

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Fine Particulate Matter Emitted from Burning Kerosene, Liquid Petroleum Gas, and Wood Fuels in Household Cookstoves

EPA Science Inventory

This study measured polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) composition in particulate matter emissions from residential cookstoves. A variety of fuel and cookstove combinations were examined, including: (i) liquid petroleum gas (LPG), (ii) kerosene in a wick stove, (iii) wood (10%...

76 FR 5483 - Hazardous Materials: Incorporation of Certain Cargo Tank Special Permits Into Regulations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-01

... material in a manner that varies from the regulations provided an equivalent level of safety is maintained... Permit (SP) 11209--Authorization to transport liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in non-DOT specification... roadway striping in non-DOT specification cargo tanks. SP 13341--Authorization for private motor carriers...

Niosh analytical methods for Set G

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

Not Available

1976-12-01

Industrial Hygiene sampling and analytical monitoring methods validated under the joint NIOSH/OSHA Standards Completion Program for Set G are contained herein. Monitoring methods for the following compounds are included: butadiene, heptane, ketene, methyl cyclohexane, octachloronaphthalene, pentachloronaphthalene, petroleum distillates, propylene dichloride, turpentine, dioxane, hexane, LPG, naphtha(coal tar), octane, pentane, propane, and stoddard solvent.

33 CFR 165.103 - Safety and Security Zones; LPG Vessel Transits in Portland, Maine, Captain of the Port Zone...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Harbor, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. (a) Location. The following areas are safety and security zones: (1... receiving facility on the Piscataqua River, Newington, New Hampshire. (b) Definitions. For purposes of this... Vessel Transits in Portland, Maine, Captain of the Port Zone, Portsmouth Harbor, Portsmouth, New...

33 CFR 165.103 - Safety and Security Zones; LPG Vessel Transits in Portland, Maine, Captain of the Port Zone...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Harbor, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. (a) Location. The following areas are safety and security zones: (1... receiving facility on the Piscataqua River, Newington, New Hampshire. (b) Definitions. For purposes of this... Vessel Transits in Portland, Maine, Captain of the Port Zone, Portsmouth Harbor, Portsmouth, New...

33 CFR 165.103 - Safety and Security Zones; LPG Vessel Transits in Portland, Maine, Captain of the Port Zone...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Harbor, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. (a) Location. The following areas are safety and security zones: (1... receiving facility on the Piscataqua River, Newington, New Hampshire. (b) Definitions. For purposes of this... Vessel Transits in Portland, Maine, Captain of the Port Zone, Portsmouth Harbor, Portsmouth, New...

33 CFR 165.103 - Safety and Security Zones; LPG Vessel Transits in Portland, Maine, Captain of the Port Zone...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Harbor, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. (a) Location. The following areas are safety and security zones: (1... receiving facility on the Piscataqua River, Newington, New Hampshire. (b) Definitions. For purposes of this... Vessel Transits in Portland, Maine, Captain of the Port Zone, Portsmouth Harbor, Portsmouth, New...

33 CFR 165.103 - Safety and Security Zones; LPG Vessel Transits in Portland, Maine, Captain of the Port Zone...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Harbor, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. (a) Location. The following areas are safety and security zones: (1... receiving facility on the Piscataqua River, Newington, New Hampshire. (b) Definitions. For purposes of this... Vessel Transits in Portland, Maine, Captain of the Port Zone, Portsmouth Harbor, Portsmouth, New...

Daddy's Gone to Colorado: Male-Staffed Child Care for Father-Absent Boys.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brody, Steve

1978-01-01

The article presents the goals, methods, and case examples of The Nutury, a predominantly male-staffed child care center serving single-parent children. The primary goal is to provide consistent relationships with men for children without a male model in their home. Clinical observations reveal positive life-styles and attitudes. (LPG)

Predicting Stroop Effect from Spontaneous Neuronal Activity: A Study of Regional Homogeneity

PubMed Central

Liu, Congcong; Chen, Zhencai; Wang, Ting; Tang, Dandan; Hitchman, Glenn; Sun, Jiangzhou; Zhao, Xiaoyue; Wang, Lijun; Chen, Antao

2015-01-01

The Stroop effect is one of the most robust and well-studied phenomena in cognitive psychology and cognitive neuroscience. However, little is known about the relationship between intrinsic brain activity and the individual differences of this effect. In the present study, we explored this issue by examining whether resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) signals could predict individual differences in the Stroop effect of healthy individuals. A partial correlation analysis was calculated to examine the relationship between regional homogeneity (ReHo) and Stroop effect size, while controlling for age, sex, and framewise displacement (FD). The results showed positive correlations in the left inferior frontal gyrus (LIFG), the left insula, the ventral anterior cingulate cortex (vACC), and the medial frontal gyrus (MFG), and negative correlation in the left precentral gyrus (LPG). These results indicate the possible influences of the LIFG, the left insula, and the LPG on the efficiency of cognitive control, and demonstrate that the key nodes of default mode network (DMN) may be important in goal-directed behavior and/or mental effort during cognitive control tasks. PMID:25938442

Will CNG threaten your future loads

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

Not Available

A campaign to promote the use of natural gas as a fleet fuel is described and as a result, CNG conversions are beginning to take hold in some market segments. Only a few months after Ford Motor Co. announced production plans for an LPG-powered line of Granada/Cougar models, it unveiled an alternative-fuels concept car - a short-ranged metro sportscar - that could be ordered by the customer with any of four fuel systems (CNG, propane, ethanol, or methanol) offered on a dedicated or single-fuel basis. By including CNG in its alternative-fuels concept, Ford not only gave a boost to effortsmore » to build a motor fuel load for natural gas, but also indicated that CNG, as well as propane, is a viable alternative to gasoline in some applications. Recent reports of advances in CNG technology that enhance its potential as a motor fuel - together with other reports of at least one US firm launching production of a CNG motor fuel system and of several companies already marketing them - might be cause for the LPG industry to take another look at CNG's competitive potential.« less

Trichomonas vaginalis clinical isolates: cytoadherence and adherence to polystyrene, intrauterine device, and vaginal ring.

PubMed

Dos Santos, Odelta; Rigo, Graziela Vargas; Macedo, Alexandre José; Tasca, Tiana

2017-12-01

The parasitism by Trichomonas vaginalis is complex and in part is mediated by cytoadherence accomplished via five surface proteins named adhesins and a glycoconjugate called lipophosphoglycan (TvLPG). In this study, we evaluated the ability of T. vaginalis isolates to adhere to cells, plastic (polystyrene microplates), intrauterine device (IUD), and vaginal ring. Of 32 T. vaginalis isolates, 4 (12.5%) were strong adherent. The T. vaginalis isolates TV-LACM6 and TV-LACM14 (strong polystyrene-adherent) were also able to adhere to IUD and vaginal ring. Following chemical treatments, results demonstrated that the T. vaginalis components, lipophosphoglycan, cytoskeletal proteins, and surface molecules, were involved in both adherence to polystyrene and cytoadherence. The gene expression level from four adhesion proteins was highest in trophozoites adhered to cells than trophozoites adhered to the abiotic surface (polystyrene microplate). Our data indicate the major involvement of TvLPG in adherence to polystyrene, and that adhesins are important for cytoadherence. Furthermore, to our knowledge, this is the first report showing the T. vaginalis adherence to contraceptive devices, reaffirming its importance as pathogen among women in reproductive age.

Exploration of government policy structure which support and block energy transition process in indonesia using system dynamics model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Destyanto, A. R.; Silalahi, T. D.; Hidayatno, A.

2017-11-01

System dynamic modeling is widely used to predict and simulate the energy system in several countries. One of the applications of system dynamics is to evaluate national energy policy alternatives, and energy efficiency analysis. Using system dynamic modeling, this research aims to evaluate the energy transition policy that has been implemented in Indonesia on the past conversion program of kerosene to LPG for household cook fuel consumption, which considered as successful energy transition program implemented since 2007. This research is important since Indonesia considered not yet succeeded to execute another energy transition program on conversion program of oil fuel to gas fuel for transportation that has started since 1989. The aim of this research is to explore which policy intervention that has significant contribution to support or even block the conversion program. Findings in this simulation show that policy intervention to withdraw the kerosene supply and government push to increase production capacity of the support equipment industries (gas stove, regulator, and LPG Cylinder) is the main influence on the success of the program conversion program.

Depicting mass flow rate of R134a /LPG refrigerant through straight and helical coiled adiabatic capillary tubes of vapor compression refrigeration system using artificial neural network approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gill, Jatinder; Singh, Jagdev

2018-07-01

In this work, an experimental investigation is carried out with R134a and LPG refrigerant mixture for depicting mass flow rate through straight and helical coil adiabatic capillary tubes in a vapor compression refrigeration system. Various experiments were conducted under steady-state conditions, by changing capillary tube length, inner diameter, coil diameter and degree of subcooling. The results showed that mass flow rate through helical coil capillary tube was found lower than straight capillary tube by about 5-16%. Dimensionless correlation and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models were developed to predict mass flow rate. It was found that dimensionless correlation and ANN model predictions agreed well with experimental results and brought out an absolute fraction of variance of 0.961 and 0.988, root mean square error of 0.489 and 0.275 and mean absolute percentage error of 4.75% and 2.31% respectively. The results suggested that ANN model shows better statistical prediction than dimensionless correlation model.

Mesophilic anaerobic digestion: first option for waste treatment in tropical regions.

PubMed

Suryawanshi, P C; Chaudhari, A B; Kothari, R M

2010-12-01

Rural India derives its energy needs for cooking and heating through the use of fuel wood and for lighting and agricultural operations through kerosene and diesel. Use of fuel wood has aggravated the problem of de-forestation, while availability of kerosene and diesel cannot be guaranteed due to corrupt practices in the public distribution systems. In contrast, urban India derives its energy needs through LPG cylinders, petrol, and electricity. However, their cost and uncertainty rendered them beyond the reach of lower income population. This scenario is more or less true with many developing countries. To meet these objectives, biogas generation from biodegradable waste using anaerobic digestion (AD) appears to be a sustainable avenue as it could be used for (a) water and space heating of farmhouses, animal shelters, (b) generating steam for food processing plants, and (c) electricity generation, in addition to reducing the pollution/hazard potential of these wastes. Many of the underdeveloped and developing countries are in the temperate zone and thus mesophilic AD could provide a desired pathway to achieve a long delayed need of energy for comfortable living, farming, and industrial operations. Efforts made in this direction are reviewed in the present article.

Genetic metabolic complementation establishes a requirement for GDP-fucose in Leishmania.

PubMed

Guo, Hongjie; Novozhilova, Natalia M; Bandini, Giulia; Turco, Salvatore J; Ferguson, Michael A J; Beverley, Stephen M

2017-06-23

To survive in its sand fly vector, the trypanosomatid protozoan parasite Leishmania first attaches to the midgut to avoid excretion, but eventually it must detach for transmission by the next bite. In Leishmania major strain Friedlin, this is controlled by modifications of the stage-specific adhesin lipophosphoglycan (LPG). During differentiation to infective metacyclics, d-arabinopyranose (d-Ara p ) caps the LPG side-chain galactose residues, blocking interaction with the midgut lectin PpGalec, thereby leading to parasite detachment and transmission. Previously, we characterized two closely related L. major genes ( FKP40 and AFKP80 ) encoding bifunctional proteins with kinase/pyrophosphorylase activities required for salvage and conversion of l-fucose and/or d-Ara p into the nucleotide-sugar substrates required by glycosyltransferases. Whereas only AFKP80 yielded GDP-d-Ara p from exogenous d-Ara p , both proteins were able to salvage l-fucose to GDP-fucose. We now show that Δ afkp80 - null mutants ablated d-Ara p modifications of LPG as predicted, whereas Δ fkp40 - null mutants resembled wild type (WT). Fucoconjugates had not been reported previously in L. major , but unexpectedly, we were unable to generate fkp40 - / afkp80 - double mutants, unless one of the A/FKPs was expressed ectopically. To test whether GDP-fucose itself was essential for Leishmania viability, we employed "genetic metabolite complementation." First, the trypanosome de novo pathway enzymes GDP-mannose dehydratase (GMD) and GDP-fucose synthetase (GMER) were expressed ectopically; from these cells, the Δ fkp40 - /Δ afkp80 - double mutant was now readily obtained. As expected, the Δ fkp40 - /Δ afkp80 - /+ TbGMD-GMER line lacked the capacity to generate GDP-Ara p , while synthesizing abundant GDP-fucose. These results establish a requirement for GDP-fucose for L. major viability and predict the existence of an essential fucoconjugate(s). © 2017 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Characterization of particulate-bound PAHs in rural households using different types of domestic energy in Henan Province, China.

PubMed

Wu, Fuyong; Liu, Xueping; Wang, Wei; Man, Yu Bon; Chan, Chuen Yu; Liu, Wenxin; Tao, Shu; Wong, Ming Hung

2015-12-01

The concentrations and composition of sixteen PAHs adsorbed to respirable particulate matter (PM10≤10 μm) and inhalable particulate matter (PM2.5≤2.5 μm) were determined during autumn and winter in rural households of Henan Province, China, which used four types of domestic energy [crop residues, coal, liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and electricity] for cooking and heating. The present results show that there were significantly (p<0.05) seasonal variations of particulate-bound PAHs in the rural households. The daily mean concentrations of particulate-bound PAHs in the kitchens, sitting rooms and outdoors were apparently higher in winter than those in autumn, except those in the kitchens using coal. The present study also shows that there were obvious variations of particulate-bound PAHs among the four types of domestic energy used in the rural households. The households using LPG for cooking can, at least in some circumstances, have higher concentrations of PAHs in the kitchens than using crop residues or electricity. In addition, using coal in the sitting rooms seemed to result in apparently higher concentrations of particulate-bound PAHs than using the other three types of domestic energy during winter. The most severe contamination occurred in the kitchens using LPG in winter, where the daily mean concentrations of PM2.5-bound PAHs were up to 762.5±931.2 ng m(-3), indicating that there was serious health risk of inhalation exposure to PAHs in the rural households of Henan Province. Rural residents' exposure to PM2.5-bound PAHs in kitchens would be roughly reduced by 69.8% and 85.5% via replacing coal or crop residues with electricity in autumn. The pilot research would provide important supplementary information to the indoor air pollution studies in rural area. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Study on Sources of Volatile Organic Compounds (CMB) in Pearl River Delta region, China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Y.; Shao, M.; Lu, S.; Chang, C.; Wang, C. J.; Wang, B.

2007-05-01

The profiles of major Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) sources including vehicle exhaust, gasoline vapor, painting, asphalt, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), biomass burning and petrochemical industry in Pearl River Delta were experimentally determined. Source samples were taken by using dilution chamber for mobile and stationary sources, laboratory simulation for biomass burning. The concentrations of 108 VOC species of sources were quantified by using canister with pre-concentration-GC/MS system, from which 52 PAMS hydrocarbons and one kind of chlorinated hydrocarbon were deployed to build the source profiles for source apportionment of VOCs. Based the measurement of source profiles, the possible tracers for various emission sources were identified, e.g 2-methylbutane and 1,3-butadiene were the tracers for motor vehicle exhaust, the characteristic compounds of architectural and furnishing coatings are aromatics such as toluene and m/p-xylene; the light hydrocarbons, namely n-butane, trans-2-butene and n-pentane, dominated the composition of gasoline vapor; and the nonane, decane and undecane are found to represent the asphalt emissions etc.. The CMB receptor model was applied to source apportionment of 58 hydrocarbons measured at seven sites during the PRD campaign, 2004. The 12 kinds of VOC sources include gasoline/diesel-powered vehicle exhaust, gasoline/diesel headspace vapor, vehicle evaporative emissions, liquid petroleum gas (LPG) leakage, painting vapors, asphalt emission from paved road, biomass burning, coal burning, chemical industry and petroleum refinery. Vehicle exhaust was the largest sources contributing over half of the ambient VOCs at the three urban sites (GuangZhou, FoShan and ZhongShan). LPG leakage played an important role with the percentage of 8- 16% in most sites in PRD. Contributions from solvents usage were highest at DongGuan, an industrial site. At XinKen, the solvents and coatings had the largest percentage of 31% probably due to the influence of its upwind area of DongGuan. The local biomass burning was also found to be a noticeable source at XK.

Genetic metabolic complementation establishes a requirement for GDP-fucose in Leishmania

PubMed Central

Novozhilova, Natalia M.; Turco, Salvatore J.

2017-01-01

To survive in its sand fly vector, the trypanosomatid protozoan parasite Leishmania first attaches to the midgut to avoid excretion, but eventually it must detach for transmission by the next bite. In Leishmania major strain Friedlin, this is controlled by modifications of the stage-specific adhesin lipophosphoglycan (LPG). During differentiation to infective metacyclics, d-arabinopyranose (d-Arap) caps the LPG side-chain galactose residues, blocking interaction with the midgut lectin PpGalec, thereby leading to parasite detachment and transmission. Previously, we characterized two closely related L. major genes (FKP40 and AFKP80) encoding bifunctional proteins with kinase/pyrophosphorylase activities required for salvage and conversion of l-fucose and/or d-Arap into the nucleotide-sugar substrates required by glycosyltransferases. Whereas only AFKP80 yielded GDP-d-Arap from exogenous d-Arap, both proteins were able to salvage l-fucose to GDP-fucose. We now show that Δafkp80− null mutants ablated d-Arap modifications of LPG as predicted, whereas Δfkp40− null mutants resembled wild type (WT). Fucoconjugates had not been reported previously in L. major, but unexpectedly, we were unable to generate fkp40−/afkp80− double mutants, unless one of the A/FKPs was expressed ectopically. To test whether GDP-fucose itself was essential for Leishmania viability, we employed “genetic metabolite complementation.” First, the trypanosome de novo pathway enzymes GDP-mannose dehydratase (GMD) and GDP-fucose synthetase (GMER) were expressed ectopically; from these cells, the Δfkp40−/Δafkp80− double mutant was now readily obtained. As expected, the Δfkp40−/Δafkp80−/+TbGMD-GMER line lacked the capacity to generate GDP-Arap, while synthesizing abundant GDP-fucose. These results establish a requirement for GDP-fucose for L. major viability and predict the existence of an essential fucoconjugate(s). PMID:28465349

Systemic inflammatory changes and increased oxidative stress in rural Indian women cooking with biomass fuels.

PubMed

Dutta, Anindita; Ray, Manas Ranjan; Banerjee, Anirban

2012-06-15

The study was undertaken to investigate whether regular cooking with biomass aggravates systemic inflammation and oxidative stress that might result in increase in the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) in rural Indian women compared to cooking with a cleaner fuel like liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). A total of 635 women (median age 36 years) who cooked with biomass and 452 age-matched control women who cooked with LPG were enrolled. Serum interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) were measured by ELISA. Generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by leukocytes was measured by flow cytometry, and erythrocytic superoxide dismutase (SOD) was measured by spectrophotometry. Hypertension was diagnosed following the Seventh Report of the Joint Committee. Tachycardia was determined as pulse rate >100 beats per minute. Particulate matter of diameter less than 10 and 2.5 μm (PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅, respectively) in cooking areas was measured using real-time aerosol monitor. Compared with control, biomass users had more particulate pollution in indoor air, their serum contained significantly elevated levels of IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α and CRP, and ROS generation was increased by 37% while SOD was depleted by 41.5%, greater prevalence of hypertension and tachycardia compared to their LPG-using neighbors. PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅ levels were positively associated with markers of inflammation, oxidative stress and hypertension. Inflammatory markers correlated with raised blood pressure. Cooking with biomass exacerbates systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, hypertension and tachycardia in poor women cooking with biomass fuel and hence, predisposes them to increased risk of CVD development compared to the controls. Systemic inflammation and oxidative stress may be the mechanistic factors involved in the development of CVD. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The effect of dimethylsulfoxide on the water transport response of rat hepatocytes during freezing.

PubMed

Smith, D J; Schulte, M; Bischof, J C

1998-10-01

Successful improvement of cryopreservation protocols for cells in suspension requires knowledge of how such cells respond to the biophysical stresses of freezing (intracellular ice formation, water transport) while in the presence of a cryoprotective agent (CPA). This work investigates the biophysical water transport response in a clinically important cell type--isolated hepatocytes--during freezing in the presence of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). Sprague-Dawley rat liver hepatocytes were frozen in Williams E media supplemented with 0, 1, and 2 M DMSO, at rates of 5, 10, and 50 degrees C/min. The water transport was measured by cell volumetric changes as assessed by cryomicroscopy and image analysis. Assuming that water is the only species transported under these conditions, a water transport model of the form dV/dT = f(Lpg([CPA]), ELp([CPA]), T(t)) was curve-fit to the experimental data to obtain the biophysical parameters of water transport--the reference hydraulic permeability (Lpg) and activation energy of water transport (ELp)--for each DMSO concentration. These parameters were estimated two ways: (1) by curve-fitting the model to the average volume of the pooled cell data, and (2) by curve-fitting individual cell volume data and averaging the resulting parameters. The experimental data showed that less dehydration occurs during freezing at a given rate in the presence of DMSO at temperatures between 0 and -10 degrees C. However, dehydration was able to continue at lower temperatures (< -10 degrees C) in the presence of DMSO. The values of Lpg and ELp obtained using the individual cell volume data both decreased from their non-CPA values--4.33 x 10(-13) m3/N-s (2.69 microns/min-atm) and 317 kJ/mol (75.9 kcal/mol), respectively--to 0.873 x 10(-13) m3/N-s (0.542 micron/min-atm) and 137 kJ/mol (32.8 kcal/mol), respectively, in 1 M DMSO and 0.715 x 10(-13) m3/N-s (0.444 micron/min-atm) and 107 kJ/mol (25.7 kcal/mol), respectively, in 2 M DMSO. The trends in the pooled volume values for Lpg and ELp were very similar, but the overall fit was considered worse than for the individual volume parameters. A unique way of presenting the curve-fitting results supports a clear trend of reduction of both biophysical parameters in the presence of DMSO, and no clear trend in cooling rate dependence of the biophysical parameters. In addition, these results suggest that close proximity of the experimental cell volume data to the equilibrium volume curve may significantly reduce the efficiency of the curve-fitting process.

Trichinella britovi biomass in naturally infected pine martens (Martes martes) of Latvia.

PubMed

Kirjušina, Muza; Bakasejevs, Eduards; Pezzotti, Patrizio; Pozio, Edoardo

2016-11-15

Parasites of the genus Trichinella are cosmopolitan nematodes infecting primarily wild animals, which represent the main reservoirs of these zoonotic pathogens. To investigate the transmission patterns of Trichinella spp. from wild to domestic animals and to humans and for the risk assessment of these parasites in a geographical area, it is important to know the number of possible transmission events deriving from carcasses of infected hosts. For this purpose, the evaluation of the larval biomass in reservoir hosts is needed. No data is available on how to estimate the biomass of Trichinella spp. larvae in muscles of naturally infected animals. The aim of this study was to evaluate the larval biomass in naturally infected pine martens (Martes martes) of Latvia, in which the prevalence of Trichinella britovi infection was over 50%. Single muscles or group of muscles (abdomen, back, diaphragm, intercostal muscles, muscles from the head, left and right shoulders, lower and upper parts of the forelimbs and hind limbs, neck, rump with tail, and base and tip of the tongue) were collected from five skinned and eviscerated carcasses of T. britovi infected pine martens. Muscles were entirely removed from the bones and weighted. Each muscle or group of muscles was separately digested to detect the larvae per gram (LPG). Using linear regression, the larval burden in each muscle or group of muscles was evaluated to measure the possible prediction of the total animal larval burden (both as total number of larvae and as average LPG). All muscles were significantly predictive of the total burden with high "goodness of fit" (all adjusted R2>0.80; P≤0.01), and the left shoulder provided the highest adjusted R2 (0.999). Then, to estimate the Trichinella britovi biomass in the pine marten population of Latvia, recent literature data on prevalence (56.2%, 95% CI: 47.8-64.3) and geometric mean LPG (1.26, 95% CI: 0.89-1.79) in the limb muscles of a sample representative of the whole Latvian pine marten population, were used. Using the predictive estimated relationship between LPG in the limb and that in the entire animals and by the estimated animal population and their mean total muscle weight, the Trichinella britovi biomass in the pine marten population of Latvia was estimated to be of 6,647,092 (95% CI: 3,840,030-11,100,000) larvae. The assessment of the biomass in nature can help to understand the epidemiological pattern of these pathogens, to implement actions aimed at controlling the infection in target animal species, and to acquire basic information on the complex biology of this group of zoonotic nematodes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Alternative Fuels Data Center: Natural Gas Vehicles

Science.gov Websites

Publications | All Publications Tools Vehicle Cost Calculator Vehicle Search All Tools Vehicle Cost Calculator Choose a vehicle to compare fuel cost and emissions with a conventional vehicle. Select Fuel/Technology (LPG) Next Vehicle Cost Calculator Vehicle 0 City 0 Hwy (mi/gal) 0 City 0 Hwy (kWh/100m) Gasoline

Vehicle Cost Calculator

Science.gov Websites

Vehicle Cost Calculator Choose a vehicle to compare fuel cost and emissions with a conventional Fuel (E85) Biodiesel (B20) Propane (LPG) Next Vehicle Cost Calculator Vehicle 0 City 0 Hwy (mi/gal) 0 55 % Hwy 45 % Other Trips 3484 Total miles/year City 20 % Hwy 80 % Fuel Cost Emissions Annual Fuel

Fuel Price Effects on Readiness

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-05-01

Wide Fuel Management 1. DLA’s Role DLA-E has the mission of acquiring, storing, selling, and distributing energy including petroleum, natural gas ...energy, and installations also use energy in the form of electricity (11 percent), natural gas (8 percent), and coal (2 percent). See Schwartz, Blakely...have also excluded liquefied propane gas (LPG), from this study. 10 through four IDIQ

Alternative Fuels Data Center: Propane Basics

Science.gov Websites

released, the liquid propane vaporizes and turns into gas that is used in combustion. An odorant, ethyl petroleum gas (LPG) or propane autogas, propane is a cleaner-burning alternative fuel that's been used for decades to power light-, medium- and heavy-duty propane vehicles. Propane is a three-carbon alkane gas

46 CFR 169.703 - Cooking and heating.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... compressed natural gas (CNG) is authorized for cooking purposes only. (1) The design, installation and..., installation, and testing of each CNG system must meet either Chapter 6 of NFPA 302 or ABYC A-22. (3) The... additional requirements must also be met: (i) LPG or CNG must be odorized in accordance with ABYC A-1.5.d or...

46 CFR 169.703 - Cooking and heating.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... compressed natural gas (CNG) is authorized for cooking purposes only. (1) The design, installation and..., installation, and testing of each CNG system must meet either Chapter 6 of NFPA 302 or ABYC A-22. (3) The... additional requirements must also be met: (i) LPG or CNG must be odorized in accordance with ABYC A-1.5.d or...

46 CFR 169.703 - Cooking and heating.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... compressed natural gas (CNG) is authorized for cooking purposes only. (1) The design, installation and..., installation, and testing of each CNG system must meet either Chapter 6 of NFPA 302 or ABYC A-22. (3) The... additional requirements must also be met: (i) LPG or CNG must be odorized in accordance with ABYC A-1.5.d or...

49 CFR 172.328 - Cargo tanks.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... containing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) that is unodorized as authorized in § 173.315(b)(1) unless it is... markings: Gases. Except for certain nurse tanks which must be marked as specified in § 173.315(m) of this... specified for the gas in the § 172.101 table; or (2) An appropriate common name for the material (e.g...

Cooking practices, air quality, and the acceptability of advanced cookstoves in Haryana, India: an exploratory study to inform large-scale interventions.

PubMed

Mukhopadhyay, Rupak; Sambandam, Sankar; Pillarisetti, Ajay; Jack, Darby; Mukhopadhyay, Krishnendu; Balakrishnan, Kalpana; Vaswani, Mayur; Bates, Michael N; Kinney, Patrick L; Arora, Narendra; Smith, Kirk R

2012-09-05

In India, approximately 66% of households rely on dung or woody biomass as fuels for cooking. These fuels are burned under inefficient conditions, leading to household air pollution (HAP) and exposure to smoke containing toxic substances. Large-scale intervention efforts need to be informed by careful piloting to address multiple methodological and sociocultural issues. This exploratory study provides preliminary data for such an exercise from Palwal District, Haryana, India. Traditional cooking practices were assessed through semi-structured interviews in participating households. Philips and Oorja, two brands of commercially available advanced cookstoves with small blowers to improve combustion, were deployed in these households. Concentrations of particulate matter (PM) with a diameter <2.5 μm (PM2.5) and carbon monoxide (CO) related to traditional stove use were measured using real-time and integrated personal, microenvironmental samplers for optimizing protocols to evaluate exposure reduction. Qualitative data on acceptability of advanced stoves and objective measures of stove usage were also collected. Twenty-eight of the thirty-two participating households had outdoor primary cooking spaces. Twenty households had liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) but preferred traditional stoves as the cost of LPG was higher and because meals cooked on traditional stoves were perceived to taste better. Kitchen area concentrations and kitchen personal concentrations assessed during cooking events were very high, with respective mean PM2.5 concentrations of 468 and 718 µg/m3. Twenty-four hour outdoor concentrations averaged 400 µg/m3. Twenty-four hour personal CO concentrations ranged between 0.82 and 5.27 ppm. The Philips stove was used more often and for more hours than the Oorja. The high PM and CO concentrations reinforce the need for interventions that reduce HAP exposure in the aforementioned community. Of the two stoves tested, participants expressed satisfaction with the Philips brand as it met the local criteria for usability. Further understanding of how the introduction of an advanced stove influences patterns of household energy use is needed. The preliminary data provided here would be useful for designing feasibility and/or pilot studies aimed at intervention efforts locally and nationally.

Cooking practices, air quality, and the acceptability of advanced cookstoves in Haryana, India: an exploratory study to inform large-scale interventions

PubMed Central

Mukhopadhyay, Rupak; Sambandam, Sankar; Pillarisetti, Ajay; Jack, Darby; Mukhopadhyay, Krishnendu; Balakrishnan, Kalpana; Vaswani, Mayur; Bates, Michael N.; Kinney, Patrick L.; Arora, Narendra; Smith, Kirk R.

2012-01-01

Background In India, approximately 66% of households rely on dung or woody biomass as fuels for cooking. These fuels are burned under inefficient conditions, leading to household air pollution (HAP) and exposure to smoke containing toxic substances. Large-scale intervention efforts need to be informed by careful piloting to address multiple methodological and sociocultural issues. This exploratory study provides preliminary data for such an exercise from Palwal District, Haryana, India. Methods Traditional cooking practices were assessed through semi-structured interviews in participating households. Philips and Oorja, two brands of commercially available advanced cookstoves with small blowers to improve combustion, were deployed in these households. Concentrations of particulate matter (PM) with a diameter <2.5 μm (PM2.5) and carbon monoxide (CO) related to traditional stove use were measured using real-time and integrated personal, microenvironmental samplers for optimizing protocols to evaluate exposure reduction. Qualitative data on acceptability of advanced stoves and objective measures of stove usage were also collected. Results Twenty-eight of the thirty-two participating households had outdoor primary cooking spaces. Twenty households had liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) but preferred traditional stoves as the cost of LPG was higher and because meals cooked on traditional stoves were perceived to taste better. Kitchen area concentrations and kitchen personal concentrations assessed during cooking events were very high, with respective mean PM2.5 concentrations of 468 and 718 µg/m3. Twenty-four hour outdoor concentrations averaged 400 µg/m3. Twenty-four hour personal CO concentrations ranged between 0.82 and 5.27 ppm. The Philips stove was used more often and for more hours than the Oorja. Conclusions The high PM and CO concentrations reinforce the need for interventions that reduce HAP exposure in the aforementioned community. Of the two stoves tested, participants expressed satisfaction with the Philips brand as it met the local criteria for usability. Further understanding of how the introduction of an advanced stove influences patterns of household energy use is needed. The preliminary data provided here would be useful for designing feasibility and/or pilot studies aimed at intervention efforts locally and nationally. PMID:22989509

An eco friendly solution to the food waste disposal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Babu, G. Reddy; Kumar, G. Madhav

2017-07-01

In recent years, waste disposal at workmen camp is one of the major problems being faced by many nations across the world. In the workmen colony at Chittapur, a series of kitchens were built for cooking purpose and a number of small canteens are also functioning. Considerable quantity of food waste is collected daily from these eateries and disposed at a faraway place. Food waste is highly degradable in nature, if not disposed properly it causes problems related to environmental pollution. Hence, it is very important to identify an environment friendly process rather than opt for land filling or any disposal method. We worked together to find a suitable eco-friendly solution for the food waste disposal at Chittapur site and suggested that biogas production through anaerobic digestion is a solution for the disposal and utilization of food waste for better purpose. This resulted in setting up a 500 kg per day food waste treatment biogas plant at Chittapur. This establishment is the first time in the construction industry at workmen camp in India. Anaerobic Digestion has been recognized as one of the best options that is available for treating food waste, as it generates two valuable end products, biogas and compost. Biogas is a mixture of CH4 and CO2 about (55:45). Biogas generated can be used for thermal applications such as cooking or for generating electricity. The digested slurry is a well stabilized organic manure and can be used as soil fertilizer. Plant design is to handle 500 kg of food waste /day. 27 kg LPG is obtained from 500kg of kitchen waste. The Value of 27 kg of LPG is Rs.2700/day. Daily 1000 litres of digested effluent was obtained. It is good organic manure with plant micro nutrients and macro nutrients. This can be used for growing plants and in agriculture. The value of manure per day is Rs.250/-. The annual revenue is Rs.10.62 lakhs and the annual expenditure is 1.8 lakhs. The net benefit is 8.82 lakhs. Payback period is 2.1 years. This process controls the environmental pollution and fulfilled the concept of reuse, reduce, recycle and renewable

Alternative Fuels Data Center: Diesel Vehicles Using Biodiesel

Science.gov Websites

Publications | All Publications Tools Vehicle Cost Calculator Laws and Incentives Search All Tools Vehicle Cost Calculator Choose a vehicle to compare fuel cost and emissions with a conventional vehicle. Select Fuel ) Propane (LPG) Next Vehicle Cost Calculator Vehicle 0 City 0 Hwy (mi/gal) 0 City 0 Hwy (kWh/100m) Gasoline

78 FR 21931 - Arlington Storage Company, LLC; Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Assessment for the...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-04-12

... ``Gallery 2''), previously used for liquid propane gas (LPG) storage, to natural gas storage. The Project is... an area used for salt mining and/or natural gas activities. Project work areas have been previously... ``Gallery 2'') to natural gas storage. The addition of Gallery 2 would add an incremental 0.55 billion cubic...

Alternative Fuels Data Center: Propane Tank Overfill Safety Advisory

Science.gov Websites

rises above set safe levels. However, even if conditions result in a fuel release, an ignition source vehicle tanks are all equipped with PRDs to ensure safe levels of LPG pressure in the tanks, and we are practices for OPDs to ensure they work properly. The US DOE Clean Cities (DOE-CC) program is working with

Differential modulation of macrophage response elicited by glycoinositolphospholipids and lipophosphoglycan from Leishmania (Viannia) shawi.

PubMed

Passero, Luiz F D; Assis, Rafael R; da Silva, Thays N F; Nogueira, Paula M; Macedo, Diego H; Pessoa, Natália L; Campos, Marco A; Laurenti, Márcia D; Soares, Rodrigo P

2015-08-01

In this work, some aspects of the glycobiology of Leishmania shawi were examined, as it is a causative agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the New World. Additionally, the interaction of L. shawi's main glycoconjugates [lipophosphoglycan (LPG) and glycoinositolphospholipids (GIPLs)] with macrophages was evaluated in vitro. L. shawi LPG was devoid of side-chains in its repeat units, whereas monosaccharide analysis showed that GIPLs were suggestive of mannose-rich (type I or hybrid). In order to evaluate the biological roles of those molecules, BALB/c resident peritoneal macrophages were incubated with these glycoconjugates for 24h, and the levels of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-12p70 and IL-10, were determined. In general, the GIPLs exhibited a greater proinflammatory role than the LPGs did. However, for the first time, the GIPLs from this species were able to trigger the production of IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine. In conclusion, L. shawi glycoconjugates were able to interact with the innate immune compartment. These data reinforce the role of parasite glycoconjugates during parasite and host cell interactions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

An automatic flow system for NIR screening analysis of liquefied petroleum gas with respect to propane content.

PubMed

Dantas, Hebertty V; Barbosa, Mayara F; Nascimento, Elaine C L; Moreira, Pablo N T; Galvão, Roberto K H; Araújo, Mário C U

2013-03-15

This paper proposes a NIR spectrometric method for screening analysis of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) samples. The proposed method is aimed at discriminating samples with low and high propane content, which can be useful for the adjustment of burn settings in industrial applications. A gas flow system was developed to introduce the LPG sample into a NIR flow cell at constant pressure. In addition, a gas chromatographer was employed to determine the propane content of the sample for reference purposes. The results of a principal component analysis, as well as a classification study using SIMCA (soft independent modeling of class analogies), revealed that the samples can be successfully discriminated with respect to propane content by using the NIR spectrum in the range 8100-8800 cm(-1). In addition, by using SPA-LDA (linear discriminant analysis with variables selected by the successive projections algorithm), it was found that perfect discrimination can also be achieved by using only two wavenumbers (8215 and 8324 cm(-1)). This finding may be of value for the design of a dedicated, low-cost instrument for routine analyses. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of CuO nanolubricant on compressor characteristics and performance of LPG based refrigeration cycle: experimental investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, Ravinder; Singh, Jagdev; Kundal, Pankaj

2018-05-01

Refrigeration, Ventilation and Air Conditioning system is the largest reason behind the increasing demand of energy consumption in the world and saving that energy through some innovative methods becomes a large issue for the researchers. Compressor is a primary component of the refrigeration cycle. The application of nanoparticles in refrigeration cycle overcomes the energy consumption issue by improving the compressor suction and discharge characteristics. In this paper, an experimental study is carried out to investigate the effect of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles on different parameters of the refrigeration cycle. CuO particles are appended with the system refrigerant through lubricating oil of the compressor. Further, the viscosity measurements and friction coefficient analysis of compressor lubricant for different fractions of nanoparticles has been investigated. The results showed that both the suction and discharge characteristics of the compressor were enhanced with the utilization of nanolubricant in LPG based refrigeration cycle. Nanoparticles additive in lubricant increases the viscosity which lead to a significant decrease in friction coefficient. The COP of the cycle was improved by 46%, as the energy consumption of the compressor was decreased by 7%.

PM, NOx and butane emissions from on-road vehicle fleets in Hong Kong and their implications on emission control policy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ning, Zhi; Wubulihairen, Maimaitireyimu; Yang, Fenhuan

2012-12-01

Vehicular emissions are the major sources of air pollution in urban areas. For metropolitan cities with large population working and living in environments with direct traffic impact, emission control is of great significance to protect public health. Implementation of more stringent emission standards, retrofitting fleet with emission control devices and switching to clearer fuel has been commonly practiced in different cities including Hong Kong. The present study employed a new plume chasing method for effective and quick evaluation of on-road fleet emission factors of particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and butane from heavy duty diesel trucks, diesel buses and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) vehicles. The results showed distinct profiles of the emissions from different fleets with excessive butane emissions from LPG fleet and contrasting PM and NOx emissions from diesel trucks and buses fleets. A cross comparison was also made with emission data from other cities and from historic local studies. The implications of the observed difference on the effectiveness of emission control measures and policy are discussed with recommendations of direction for future research and policy making.

Highly sensitive fiber grating chemical sensors: An effective alternative to atomic absorption spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laxmeshwar, Lata. S.; Jadhav, Mangesh S.; Akki, Jyoti. F.; Raikar, Prasad; Kumar, Jitendra; prakash, Om; Raikar, U. S.

2017-06-01

Accuracy in quantitative determination of trace elements like Zinc, present in drinking water in ppm level, is a big challenge and optical fiber gratings as chemical sensors may provide a promising solution to overcome the same. This paper presents design of two simple chemical sensors based on the principle of shift in characteristic wavelength of gratings with change in their effective refractive index, to measure the concentration of Zinc in drinking water using etched short period grating (FBG) and Long period grating (LPG) respectively. Three samples of drinking water from different places have been examined for presence of Zinc. Further, the results obtained by our sensors have also been verified with the results obtained by a standard method, Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The whole experiment has been performed by fixing the fibers in a horizontal position with the sensor regions at the center of the fibers, making it less prone to disturbance and breaking. The sensitivity of LPG sensor is about 205 times that of the FBG sensor. A few advantages of Fiber grating sensors, besides their regular features, over AAS have also been discussed, that make our sensors potential alternatives for existing techniques in determination of trace elements in drinking water.

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

Luketa, Anay; Rudeen, David Keith

The objective of this work is to assess dispersion distances of a vapor mixture of species released from a railcar containing a tight crude oil. Tight crude oils can have higher levels of light ends as compared to conventional crude oils [1], which if released and dispersed could pose a potential hazard with regards to a flash fire, explosion, and/or asphyxiation. A historical accident involving rail transport in Viareggio, Italy illustrates how the spillage of LPG can lead to severe damage as a result of a propagating vapor cloud [2]. One of 14 railcars was punctured after derailment, releasing aboutmore » 110 m 3 of LPG into a densely populated area (2000 persons/km 2 ). The resulting vapor cloud propagated and infiltrated nearby buildings and houses which were an average of 10 m in height. Ignition of the cloud occurred approximately 100 to 300 seconds after the start of the spill. A flash fire and explosions resulted, killing 31 people. Evidence suggests that most deaths occurred due to the asphyxiation and thermal hazards from the flash fire. Thus, the motivation for this work is to assess if significant vapors can develop from a railcar carrying a tight crude oil and if this cloud could disperse potentially to nearby populations.« less

Unexplained neurological events during bathing in young people: Possible association with the use of gas geysers.

PubMed

Singh, Prabhjeet; Lamba, Anuraag; Bansal, Rajinder; Singh, Gagandeep

2008-04-01

Here, we report sudden, unexplained neurological collapse in 14 young people while bathing with hot water associated with the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)-based water heaters (gas geysers) in ill-ventilated bathrooms. None of the patients reported any circumstantial evidence of seizures or prior epilepsy. One patient developed cortical blindness and demonstrated posterior leucoencephalopathy on imaging studies. The remaining patients made rapid and excellent recovery without any residual neurological sequelae. In these cases, the results of all routine investigations, i.e., serum chemistry, brain imaging (computed tomography in 2 and magnetic resonance imaging in 10) and electroencephalography were normal. The clinical clustering of these cases in winter months with similar presentations of reversible encephalopathy probably indicates an inhalational toxin exposure. Therefore, we postulate a hypothesis that harmful emissions consisting of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbon gases (HC) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), produced by incomplete combustion of LPG might be responsible for the cellular injury and subsequent transient neurological deficits. Physicians should be aware of this entity in order to avoid misdiagnosis of this condition as seizures, and a public awareness should also be created regarding the proper use of these devices.

Ultrasound assisted synthesis of PANI/ZnMoO4 nanocomposite for simultaneous improvement in anticorrosion, physico-chemical properties and its application in gas sensing.

PubMed

Bhanvase, B A; Darda, N S; Veerkar, N C; Shende, A S; Satpute, S R; Sonawane, S H

2015-05-01

Ultrasound assisted in-situ semi-batch emulsion polymerization has been used for the preparation of polyaniline (PANI) and PANI/ZnMoO4 nanocomposite with different loading of ZnMoO4 (ZM) nanoparticles. ZM nanoparticles were functionalized using Myristic acid (MA) for better compatibility with PANI. The cavitational effects induced due to ultrasonic irradiations have been shown significant enhancement in the dispersion of functionalized ZM nanoparticles into the PANI during ultrasound assisted in-situ emulsion polymerization process. TEM images of PANI/ZM nanocomposite particles give the direct evidence of fine dispersion and encapsulation of MA treated ZM nanoparticles in PANI matrix. The presence of ZM nanoparticles in PANI/ZM nanocomposite shows significant improvement in the mechanical (cross-cut adhesion), thermal, anticorrosion and sensing properties of PANI/ZM nanocomposite/alkyd coatings over PANI/alkyd and neat alkyd resin coating. Fine and uniform dispersion of ZM nanoparticles in PANI matrix using this novel synthesis method (PANI (p-type)/ZM (n-type) hetero-junction) improves LPG sensing ability and minimizes response time to sense LPG significantly compared with neat PANI. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The role of inspection and maintenance in controlling vehicular emissions in Kathmandu valley, Nepal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faiz, Asif; Bahadur Ale, Bhakta; Nagarkoti, Ram Kumar

Motor vehicles are a major source of air pollutant emissions in Kathmandu valley, Nepal. In-use vehicle emission limits were first introduced in Nepal in 1998 and updated in 2000. The emission regulations for gasoline vehicles limit CO emissions to 3-4.5% by volume and HC emissions to 1000 ppm for four-wheeled vehicles, and 7800 ppm for two- and three- wheelers. Emission limits for LPG/CNG vehicles are 3% for CO and 1000 ppm for HC. For diesel vehicles, smoke density must not exceed 65-75 HSU depending on the age of the vehicle. The Government operates a rudimentary inspection and maintenance (I/M) program based on an idle engine test, utilizing an exhaust gas analyzer (for gasoline/LPG/CNG vehicles) and an opacimeter for diesel vehicles. The I/M program is confined to four-wheeled vehicles and occasional three-wheelers. The inspections are required at least once a year and are conducted at designated vehicle testing stations. The I/M program is supplemented by roadside checks. This paper is based on the findings of an analysis of vehicle emissions test data for the period June 2000 to July 2002, covering some 45,000 data sets. Each data set includes information on vehicle type and ownership, the model year, and CO/HC test emission values. The analysis reported in this paper covers the characteristics and statistical distribution of emissions from gasoline-fuelled vehicles, including the impact of gross emitters. The effects of vehicle age, model year (with or without catalysts), usage, and ownership (private vs. public) on emissions of gasoline-fuelled vehicles are discussed. The findings for diesel vehicles have been reported earlier by Ale and Nagarkoti (2003b. Evaluation of Kathmandu valley inspection and maintenance program on diesel vehicles. Journal of the Institute of Engineering 3(1)). This study identifies the limitations of the current I/M program, given that it does not include 70% of the fleet consisting of two-wheelers and concludes with proposed changes to the I/M program to make it more effective.

Exposure of a liquefied gas container to an external fire.

PubMed

Raj, Phani K

2005-06-30

In liquefied gas, bulk-storage facilities and plants, the separation distances between storage tanks and between a tank and a line of adjoining property that can be built are governed by local regulations and/or codes (e.g. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 58, 2004). Separation distance requirements have been in the NFPA 58 Code for over 60 years; however, no scientific foundations (either theoretical or experimental) are available for the specified distances. Even though the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry has operated safely over the years, there is a question as to whether the code-specified distances provide sufficient safety to LPG-storage tanks, when they are exposed to large external fires. A radiation heat-transfer-based model is presented in this paper. The temporal variation of the vapor-wetted tank-wall temperature is calculated when exposed to thermal radiation from an external, non-impinging, large, 30.5 m (100 ft) diameter, highly radiative, hydrocarbon fuel (pool) fire located at a specified distance. Structural steel wall of a pressurized, liquefied gas container (such as the ASME LP-Gas tank) begins to lose its strength, when the wall temperature approaches a critical temperature, 810 K (1000 degrees F). LP-Gas tank walls reaching close to this temperature will be a cause for major concern because of increased potential for tank failure, which could result in catastrophic consequences. Results from the model for exposure of different size ASME (LP-Gas) containers to a hydrocarbon pool fire of 30.5 m (100 ft) in diameter, located with its base edge at the separation distances specified by NFPA 58 [NFPA 58, Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code, Table 6.3.1, 2004 ed., National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA, 2004] indicate that the vapor-wetted wall temperature of the containers never reach the critical temperature under common wind conditions (0, 5 and 10 m/s), with the flame tilting towards the tank. This indicates that the separation distances specified in the code are adequate for non-impingement type of fires. The model can be used to test the efficacy of other similar codes and regulations for other materials.

Predictors and respiratory depositions of airborne endotoxin in homes using biomass fuels and LPG gas for cooking

PubMed Central

Padhi, Bijaya Kumar; Adhikari, Atin; Satapathy, Prakasini; Patra, Alok Kumar; Chandel, Dinesh; Panigrahi, Pinaki

2016-01-01

Recent studies have highlighted presence of endotoxin in indoor air and its role in respiratory morbidities. Burning of household fuels including unprocessed wood and dried animal dung could be a major source of endotoxin in homes. We measured endotoxin levels in different size fractions of airborne particles (PM10, PM2.5, and PM1), and estimated the deposition of particle-bound endotoxin in the respiratory tract. The study was carried out in homes burning solid biomass fuel (n = 35) and LPG (n = 35). Sample filters were analyzed for endotoxin and organic carbon (OC) content. Household characteristics including temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide levels were also recorded. Multivariate regression models were used to estimate the contributing factors for airborne endotoxin. Respiratory deposition doses were calculated using a computer-based model. We found a higher endotoxin concentration in PM2.5 fractions of the particle in both LPG (median: 110, interquartile range, (IQR): 100-120 EU/m3) and biomass (median: 350, IQR: 315-430 EU/m3) burning homes. In the multivariate-adjusted model, burning of solid biomass fuel (β: 67; 95%CI: 10.5-124) emerged as the most significant predictor followed by OC (β: 4.7; 95%CI: 2.7-6.8), RH (β: 1.6; 95%CI: 0.76-2.4) and PM2.5 (β: 0.45; 95%CI: 0.11-0.78) for airborne endotoxin (p < 0.05). We also observed an interaction between PM organic carbon content and household fuel in predicting the endotoxin levels. The model calculations showed that in biomass burning homes, total endotoxin deposition was higher among infants (59%) than in adult males (47%), of which at least 10% of inhaled endotoxin is deposited in the alveolar region of the lung. These results indicate that fine particles are significant contributors to the deposition of endotoxin in the alveolar region of the lung. Considering the paramount role of endotoxin exposure, and the source and timing of exposure on respiratory health, additional studies are warranted to guide evidence-based public health interventions. PMID:26956936

Predictors and respiratory depositions of airborne endotoxin in homes using biomass fuels and LPG gas for cooking.

PubMed

Padhi, Bijaya K; Adhikari, Atin; Satapathy, Prakasini; Patra, Alok K; Chandel, Dinesh; Panigrahi, Pinaki

2017-01-01

Recent studies have highlighted the presence of endotoxin in indoor air and its role in respiratory morbidities. Burning of household fuels including unprocessed wood and dried animal dung could be a major source of endotoxin in homes. We measured endotoxin levels in different size fractions of airborne particles (PM10, PM2.5, and PM1), and estimated the deposition of particle-bound endotoxin in the respiratory tract. The study was carried out in homes burning solid biomass fuel (n=35) and LPG (n=35). Sample filters were analyzed for endotoxin and organic carbon (OC) content. Household characteristics including temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide levels were also recorded. Multivariate regression models were used to estimate the contributing factors for airborne endotoxin. Respiratory deposition doses were calculated using a computer-based model. We found a higher endotoxin concentration in PM2.5 fractions of the particle in both LPG (median: 110, interquartile range (IQR) 100-120 EU/m 3 ) and biomass (median: 350, IQR: 315-430 EU/m 3 ) burning homes. In the multivariate-adjusted model, burning of solid biomass fuel (β: 67; 95% CI: 10.5-124) emerged as the most significant predictor followed by OC (β: 4.7; 95% CI: 2.7-6.8), RH (β: 1.6; 95% CI: 0.76-2.4), and PM2.5 (β: 0.45; 95% CI: 0.11-0.78) for airborne endotoxin (P<0.05). We also observed an interaction between PM organic carbon content and household fuel in predicting the endotoxin levels. The model calculations showed that in biomass burning homes, total endotoxin deposition was higher among infants (59%) than in adult males (47%), of which at least 10% of inhaled endotoxin is deposited in the alveolar region of the lung. These results indicate that fine particles are significant contributors to the deposition of endotoxin in the alveolar region of the lung. Considering the paramount role of endotoxin exposure, and the source and timing of exposure on respiratory health, additional studies are warranted to guide evidence-based public health interventions.

Systemic inflammatory changes and increased oxidative stress in rural Indian women cooking with biomass fuels

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

Dutta, Anindita, E-mail: anidu14@gmail.com; Department of Experimental Hematology, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, 37, S.P. Mukherjee Road, Kolkata-700 026; Ray, Manas Ranjan

The study was undertaken to investigate whether regular cooking with biomass aggravates systemic inflammation and oxidative stress that might result in increase in the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) in rural Indian women compared to cooking with a cleaner fuel like liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). A total of 635 women (median age 36 years) who cooked with biomass and 452 age-matched control women who cooked with LPG were enrolled. Serum interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) were measured by ELISA. Generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by leukocytes was measured by flow cytometry,more » and erythrocytic superoxide dismutase (SOD) was measured by spectrophotometry. Hypertension was diagnosed following the Seventh Report of the Joint Committee. Tachycardia was determined as pulse rate > 100 beats per minute. Particulate matter of diameter less than 10 and 2.5 μm (PM{sub 10} and PM{sub 2.5}, respectively) in cooking areas was measured using real-time aerosol monitor. Compared with control, biomass users had more particulate pollution in indoor air, their serum contained significantly elevated levels of IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α and CRP, and ROS generation was increased by 37% while SOD was depleted by 41.5%, greater prevalence of hypertension and tachycardia compared to their LPG-using neighbors. PM{sub 10} and PM{sub 2.5} levels were positively associated with markers of inflammation, oxidative stress and hypertension. Inflammatory markers correlated with raised blood pressure. Cooking with biomass exacerbates systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, hypertension and tachycardia in poor women cooking with biomass fuel and hence, predisposes them to increased risk of CVD development compared to the controls. Systemic inflammation and oxidative stress may be the mechanistic factors involved in the development of CVD. -- Highlights: ► Effect of chronic biomass smoke exposure on cardiovascular health was investigated. ► Serum markers of systemic inflammation and oxidative stress were studied. ► Biomass using women had increased systemic inflammation and oxidative stress. ► Indoor air pollution and observed changes were positively associated.« less

Structural, Optical and Ethanol Sensing Properties of Dy-Doped SnO2 Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shaikh, F. I.; Chikhale, L. P.; Nadargi, D. Y.; Mulla, I. S.; Suryavanshi, S. S.

2018-04-01

We report a facile co-precipitation synthesis of dysprosium (Dy3+) doped tin oxide (SnO2) thick films and their use as gas sensors. The doping percentage (Dy3+) was varied from 1 mol.% to 4 mol.% with the step of 1 mol.%. As-produced material with varying doping levels were sintered in air; and by using a screen printing technique, their thick films were developed. Prior to sensing performance investigations, the films were examined for structural, morphological and compositional properties using x-ray diffraction, a field emission scanning electron microscope, a transmission electron microscope, selected area electron diffraction, energy dispersive analysis by x-rays, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopic techniques. The structural analyses revealed formation of single phase nanocrystalline material with tetragonal rutile structure of SnO2. The morphological analyses confirmed the nanocrystalline porous morphology of as-developed material. Elemental analysis defined the composition of material in accordance with the doping concentration. The produced sensor material exhibited good response towards different reducing gases (acetone, ethanol, LPG, and ammonia) at different operating temperatures. The present study confirms that the Dy3+ doping in SnO2 enhances the response towards ethanol with reduction in operating temperature. Particularly, 3 mol.% Dy3+ doped sensor exhibited the highest response (˜ 92%) at an operating temperature of 300°C with better selectivity, fast response (˜ 13 s) and recovery (˜ 22 s) towards ethanol.

A Theory of Intra-Agent Replanning

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-06-01

1972] Fikes, R.; Hart, P.; and Nils- son, N. 1972. Learning and executing generalized robot plans. Artificial intelligence 3:251–288. [Fox et al. 2006...2003] Gerevini, A.; Saetti, A.; and Serina, I. 2003. Planning through stochastic local search and temporal action graphs in lpg. J. Artif . Intell. Res...order planning. In Proceedings of the National Conference on Artificial Intelligence , 1004–1009. [Kambhampati 1990] Kambhampati, S. 1990. Mapping and

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Jjjj of... - NOX, CO, and VOC Emission Standards for Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines ≥100 HP (Except...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 6 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false NOX, CO, and VOC Emission Standards for Stationary Non-Emergency SI Engines â¥100 HP (Except Gasoline and Rich Burn LPG), Stationary SI Landfill... Landfill/Digester Gas Engines, and Stationary Emergency Engines >25 HP Engine type and fuel Maximum engine...

The LIC Planners’s Guide (LPG)

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-03-01

administrative and contract law . 2. ASSIST IN CRIMINAL LAW: Assist Host Nation/Allied governments in filing and processing cases for redress of property and...forces to assist in administrative/ contract law , assist in criminal law, assist in claims, provide legal assistance, and to provide assistance in...SERVICES (LFA): 11-8 ASSIST IN ADMINISTRATIVE/ CONTRACT LAW : 11-8 ASSIST IN CLAIMS: 11-8 ASSIST IN CRIMINAL LAW: 11-8 PROVIDE INTERNATIONAL LAW

Source profiles for nonmethane organic compounds in the atmosphere of Cairo, Egypt.

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

Doskey, P. V.; Fukui, Y.; Sultan, M.

1999-07-01

Profiles of the sources of nonmethane organic compounds (NMOCs) were developed for emissions from vehicles, petroleum fuels (gasoline, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and natural gas), a petroleum refinery, a smelter, and a cast iron factory in Cairo, Egypt. More than 100 hydrocarbons and oxygenated hydrocarbons were tentatively identified and quantified. Gasoline-vapor and whole-gasoline profiles could be distinguished from the other profiles by high concentrations of the C{sub 5} and C{sub 6} saturated hydrocarbons. The vehicle emission profile was similar to the whole-gasoline profile, with the exception of the unsaturated and aromatic hydrocarbons, which were present at higher concentrations in themore » vehicle emission profile. High levels of the C{sub 2}-C{sub 4} saturated hydrocarbons, particularly n-butane, were characteristic features of the petroleum refinery emissions. The smelter and cast iron factory emissions were similar to the refinery emissions; however, the levels of benzene and toluene were greater in the former two sources. The LPG and natural gas emissions contained high concentrations of n-butane and ethane, respectively. The NMOC source profiles for Cairo were distinctly different from profiles for U.S. sources, indicating that NMOC source profiles are sensitive to the particular composition of petroleum fuels that are used in a location.« less

Influence of the Crystal Structure of Titanium Oxide on the Catalytic Activity of Rh/TiO2 in Steam Reforming of Propane at Low Temperature.

PubMed

Yu, Lin; Sato, Katsutoshi; Toriyama, Takaaki; Yamamoto, Tomokazu; Matsumura, Syo; Nagaoka, Katsutoshi

2018-06-21

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) reduce CO 2 emissions due to their high-energy-conversion efficiency. Although SOFCs can convert LPG directly, coking occurs easily by decomposition of hydrocarbons, including C-C bonds on the electrode of fuel cell stacks. It is therefore necessary to develop an active steam pre-reforming catalyst that eliminates the hydrocarbons at low temperature, in which waste heat of SOFCs is used. Herein, we show that the crystal structure of the TiO 2 that anchors Rh particles is crucial for catalytic activity of Rh/TiO 2 catalysts for propane pre-reforming. Our experimental results revealed that strong metal support interaction (SMSI) induced during H 2 pre-reduction were optimized over Rh/TiO 2 with a rutile structure; this catalyst catalyzed the reaction much more effectively than conventional Rh/γ-Al 2 O 3 . In contrast, the SMSI was too strong for Rh/TiO 2 with an anatase structure, and the surface of the Rh particles was therefore covered mostly with partially reduced TiO 2 . The result was very low activity. © 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Comparison of spectral analysis of vibration using commercial knock sensor and 3-axis acceleration sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zieliński, Ł.; Walczak, D.; Szczurowski, K.; Radkowski, S.

2016-09-01

With the development of internal combustion engines, engineers attempt to reduce the noise and vibration generated. Due to the high cost of fuel, are increasingly looking for new sources of power in order to reduce costs. In diesel engines, an increasingly popular method is the admixture of propane-butane. This follows because of the price of the fuel as well as to improve the efficiency of combustion. With the development of this type of dual fuel power seems to be a reasonable study of the effects of LPG to generate noise and vibration, as well as an attempt to evaluate the combustion process. Unfortunately, too much addition of LPG causes a phenomenon called knock consisting in abnormal, uneven, explosive combustion of fuels in reciprocating engines. This phenomenon may lead to a reduction in engine performance and permanent damage. Control of the knock detection uses vibration acceleration sensors recording the high frequency ranges. Within the framework of the research conducted by the team of authors, an attempt was made to compare the vibroacoustic signals originating from the commercial knocking sensor with a three-axis acceleration sensor. These signals were subject to a quick Fourier transform in the purpose of analysing the amplitude spectra.

Source apportionment of ambient volatile organic compounds in the Pearl River Delta, China: Part II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Ying; Shao, Min; Lu, Sihua; Chang, Chih-Chung; Wang, Jia-Lin; Fu, Linlin

The chemical mass balance receptor model was applied to the source apportionment of 58 hydrocarbons measured at seven sites in a field campaign that examined regional air quality in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region in the fall of 2004. A total of 12 volatile organic compound (VOC) emission sources were considered, including gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicle exhausts, headspace vapors of gasoline and diesel fuel, vehicle evaporative emissions, liquid petroleum gas (LPG) leakage, paint vapors, asphalt emissions from paved roads, biomass combustion, coal combustion, the chemical industry, and petroleum refineries. Vehicle exhaust was the largest source of VOCs, contributing to >50% of ambient VOCs at the three urban sites (Guangzhou, Foshan, and Zhongshan). LPG leakage played an important role, representing 8-16% of emissions at most sites in the PRD. Solvent usage was the biggest emitter of VOCs at Dongguan, an industrial site, contributing 33% of ambient VOCs. Similarly, at Xinken, a non-urban site, the evaporation of solvents and coatings was the largest emission source, accounting for 31% of emissions, probably because it was downwind of Dongguan. Local biomass combustion was a noticeable source of VOCs at Xinken; although its contribution was estimated at 14.3%, biomass combustion was the third largest VOC source at this site.

Grapefruit photonic crystal fiber long period gratings sensor for DNT sensing application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Chuanyi; Li, Jingke; Zhu, Tenglong

2016-10-01

The detection of explosives and their residues is of great importance in public health, antiterrorism and homeland security applications. The vapor pressures of most explosive compounds are extremely low and attenuation of the available vapor is often great due to diffusion in the environment, making direct vapor detection difficult. In reality bomb dogs are still the most efficient way to quickly detect explosives on the spot. Many formulations of TNT-based explosives contain DNT residues. The use of long period gratings (LPGs) formed in grapefruit photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with thin-film overlay coated on the inner surface of air holes for gas sensing is demonstrated. A gas analyteinduced index variation of the thin-film immobilized on the inner surface of the holey region of the fiber can be observed by a shift of the resonance wavelength. We demonstrate a 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT) sensor using grapefruit PCF-LPGs. Coating with gas-sensitive thin-film on the inner surface of the air holes of the grapefruit PCF-LPG could provide a promising platform for rapid highly sensitive gas sensing. A rapid and highly sensitive detection of DNT has been demonstrated using the grapefruit PCF-LPG sensor to show the feasibility of the proposed approach.

Removal of sulphur-containing odorants from fuel gases for fuel cell-based combined heat and power applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Wild, P. J.; Nyqvist, R. G.; de Bruijn, F. A.; Stobbe, E. R.

Natural gas (NG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are important potential feedstocks for the production of hydrogen for fuel cell-based (e.g. proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) or solid oxide fuel Cells (SOFC) combined heat and power (CHP) applications. To prevent detrimental effects on the (electro)catalysts in fuel cell-based combined heat and power installations (FC-CHP), sulphur removal from the feedstock is mandatory. An experimental bench-marking study of adsorbents has identified several candidates for the removal of sulphur containing odorants at low temperature. Among these adsorbents a new material has been discovered that offers an economically attractive means to remove TetraHydroThiophene (THT), the main European odorant, from natural gas at ambient temperature. The material is environmentally benign, easy to use and possesses good activity (residual sulphur levels below 20 ppbv) and capacity for the common odorant THT in natural gas. When compared to state-of-the-art metal-promoted active carbon the new material has a THT uptake capacity that is up to 10 times larger, depending on temperature and pressure. Promoted versions of the new material have shown potential for the removal of THT at higher temperatures and/or for the removal of other odorants such as mercaptans from natural gas or from LPG.

Cost-benefit analysis of passive fire protections in road LPG transportation.

PubMed

Paltrinieri, Nicola; Bonvicini, Sarah; Spadoni, Gigliola; Cozzani, Valerio

2012-02-01

The cost-benefit evaluation of passive fire protection adoption in the road transport of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) was investigated. In a previous study, mathematical simulations of real scale fire scenarios proved the effectiveness of passive fire protections in preventing the "fired" boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion (BLEVE), thus providing a significant risk reduction. In the present study the economical aspects of the adoption of fire protections are analyzed and an approach to cost-benefit analysis (CBA) is proposed. The CBA model is based on the comparison of the risk reduction due to fire protections (expressed in monetary terms by the value of a statistical life) and the cost of the application of fire protections to a fleet of tankers. Different types of fire protections were considered, as well as the possibility to apply protections to the entire fleet or only to a part of it. The application of the proposed model to a real-life case study is presented and discussed. Results demonstrate that the adoption of passive fire protections on road tankers, though not compulsory in Europe, can be economically feasible, thus representing a concrete measure to achieve control of the "major hazard accidents" cited by the European legislation. © 2011 Society for Risk Analysis.

Sensitivity control of optical fiber biosensors utilizing turnaround point long period gratings with self-assembled polymer coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gifford, Erika; Wang, Z.; Ramachandran, S.; Heflin, J. R.

2007-09-01

Ionic self-assembled multilayers (ISAMs) adsorbed on long period fiber gratings (LPGs) can serve as an inexpensive, robust, portable, biosensor platform. The ISAM technique is a layer-by-layer deposition technique that creates thin films on the nanoscale level. The combination of ISAMs with LPGs yields exceptional sensitivity of the optical fiber transmission spectrum. We have shown theoretically that the resonant wavelength shift for a thin-film coated LPG can be caused by the variation of the film's refractive index and/or the variation of the thickness of the film. We have experimentally demonstrated that the deposition of nm-thick ISAM films on LPGs induces shifts in the resonant wavelength of > 1.6 nm per nm of thin film. It has also been shown that the sensitivity of the LPG to the thickness of the ISAM film increases with increased film thickness. We have further demonstrated that ISAM-coated LPGs can function effectively as biosensors by using the biotin-streptavidin system and by using the Bacillus anthracis (Anthrax) antibody- PA (Protective Antigen) system. Experiments have been successfully performed in both air and solution, which illustrates the versatility of the biosensor. The results confirm that ISAM-LPGs yield a reusable, thermally-stable, and robust platform for designing and building efficient optical biosensors.

Assessment of institutional barriers to the use of natural gas fuel in automotive vehicle fleets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jablonski, J.; Lent, L.; Lawrence, M.; White, L.

1983-01-01

Institutional barriers to the use of natural gas as a fuel for motor vehicle fleets were identified. Recommendations for barrier removal were developed. Eight types of institutional barriers were assessed: (1) lack of a national standard for the safe design and certification of natural gas vehicles and refueling stations; (2) excessively conservative or misapplied state and local regulations, including bridge and tunnel restrictions, restrictions on types of vehicles that may be fueled by natural gas, zoning regulations that prohibit operation of refueling stations, parking restrictions, application of LPG standards to LNG vehicles, and unintentionally unsafe vehicle or refueling station requirements; (3) need for clarification of EPA's tampering enforcement policy; (4) the U.S. hydrocarbon standard; (5) uncertainty concerning state utility commission jurisdiction; (6) sale for resale prohibitions imposed by natural gas utility companies or state utility commissions; (7) uncertainty of the effects of conversions to natural gas on vehicle manufactures warranties; and (8) need for a natural gas to gasoline equivalent units conversion factor for use in calculation of state road use taxes.

Feasibility study on the modernization and expansion of the Tema Oil Refinery. Executive Summary. Export trade information

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

Not Available

1992-04-01

The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), which was commissioned in 1963, is a simple hydro-skimming plant which processes crude oil into LPG, gasoline, kerosene, gasoil, and fuel oil. It is the only petroleum refinery in Ghana. Over the years some of the equipment in the refinery has deteriorated or become obsolete necessitating major rehabilitation. A study of the refinery expansion project takes into consideration earlier studies and, equally important, recognizes the extensive work done by TOR in rehabilitating the refinery. The program, carried out in phases because of funding limitations, has addressed the critical repairs and replacements in the process unitsmore » and utilities necessary to prolong the life of the refinery and assure reliability and safe operation. It undertook the task of investigating the feasibility of modernizing and expanding the refinery at Tema, Ghana to meet projected market demands until the year 2005. A process planning study was conducted to select the optimal process and utility configuration which would result in economic benefits to Ghana.« less

Gas-engine-based, low-emission cogeneration units

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

Chellini, R.

1994-04-01

Continental Energy Systems (CES) of Westmalle, Belgium, has been specializing, since its foundation in 1983, in the supply of cogeneration packages in the 50-300 KW power range. CES activity is mainly concentrated in the transformation of Valmet, Scania, Iveco and MAN diesel engines into spark-ignited engines capable of running on natural gas, CNG, LPG, biogas, landfill gas, etc. In the upper power range they also package Waukesha gas engines supplied from the Dutch plant of the American engine manufacturer. The new closed-loop combustion control system allows engines in the naturally-aspirated or turbocharged configuration with catalytic converters to operate well belowmore » Euro 2 limits. In fact, these engines already comply with 1995 CARB (California Air Resources Board) emission limits and with those that will become mandatory in Europe with the 1996 step. The new system still makes use of conventional components for metering and mixing functions, but these are considered as three separate devices; the electronic control unit, the oxygen sensor and an actuator enabling closed loop air/fuel ratio control. 4 figs.« less

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

Valenchon, C.; Nagel, R.; Viallon, J.P.

This paper gives a presentation of the NKOSSA Production Barge. Most attention is, however, paid to the concrete hull. As part of the development of the NKOSSA hydrocarbon field located off the Congolese coast, West Africa, ELF CONGO will use a prestressed concrete barge as the main production facility to carry the equipment for oil and gas treatment. Once operational at the KNOSSA field, the barge and its 30,000 tons of equipment will house 160 people, serve as control center for the other field installations and provide oil treatment, LPG production, gas reinjection and water injection functions together with allmore » utilities. The hull of the barge is of rectangular shape, 220 m long, 46 m wide and 16 m high. The bottom is 45 cm thick, the sides 50 cm and the deck 40 cm thick. High performance concrete, with a 70 MPa compressive cylinder strength is used for the construction of the hull, for both strength and durability purposes. The barge will be permanently anchored in 170 m water depth by twelve 4.5 inch chains in group of three at each corner of the vessel.« less

Characterization of Gas Transport Properties of Fractured Rocks By Borehole and Chamber Tests.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimo, M.; Shimaya, S.; Maejima, T.

2014-12-01

Gas transport characteristics of fractured rocks is a great concern to variety of engineering applications such as underground storage of LPG, nuclear waste disposal, CCS and gas flooding in the oil field. Besides absolute permeability, relative permeability and capillary pressure as a function of water saturation have direct influences to the results of two phase flow simulation. However, number of the reported gas flow tests for fractured rocks are limited, therefore, the applicability of the conventional two-phase flow functions used for porous media, such as Mualem-van Genuchten model, to prediction of the gas transport in the fractured rock mass are not well understood. The authors conducted the two types of in-situ tests, with different scales, a borehole gas-injection test and a chamber gas-injection test in fractured granitic rock. These tests were conducted in the Cretaceous granitic rocks at the Namikata underground LPG storage cavern construction site in Ehime Prefecture in Japan, preceding to the cavern scale gas-tightness test. A borehole injection test was conducted using vertical and sub-vertical boreholes drilled from the water injection tunnel nearly at the depth of the top of the cavern, EL-150m. A new type downhole gas injection equipment that is capable to create a small 'cavern' within a borehole was developed. After performing a series of preliminary tests to investigate the hydraulic conductivity and gas-tightness, i.e. threshold pressure, gas injection tests were conducted under different gas pressure. Fig.1 shows an example of the test results From a chamber test using a air pressurizing chamber with volume of approximately166m3, the gas-tightness was confirmed within the uncertainty of 22Pa under the storage pressure of 0.7MPa, however, significant air leakage occurred possibly through an open fracture intersecting the chamber just after cavern pressure exceeds the initial hydrostatic pressure at the ceiling level of the chamber. Anomalies were detected in the data of the pore pressure as well as AE monitoring around the chamber. Results from the above two tests were simulated using a multi-phase transport simulator, TOUGH2, developed at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Fig.2 shows the model and an example of the simulation.

Solar Air Heating Metal Roofing for Reroofing, New Construction, and Retrofit

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-06-01

Fahrenheit ft2 square foot FY fiscal year GHG greenhouse gas HGL HydroGeoLogic, Inc. HVAC heating, ventilation and air-conditioning LPG Liquefied...the greenhouse gas emission reductions; and 6. Document the performance of the solar roof as it compares to a reflective “Cool Roof.” Among the...Orders, and Agency implementing directives and instructions require the reduction of energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, increased use of renewable

Jeju Naval Base: Strategic Implications for Northeast Asia

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

of which stays within 6 miles of shore. Ship types include container, 400-500 dry weight metric ton liquefied petroleum gas ( LPG ) and tanker. Major...little indigenous energy production, is the world’s fifth-largest crude buyer and the second-largest importer of liquefied natural gas .9 The Chinese...economy relies on oil, natural gas , and other raw materials imported by sea.10 Petroleum imports into Dalian, coal and petroleum into Qinhuangdao, oil

Simulation of an electric vehicle model on the new WLTC test cycle using AVL CRUISE software

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cristian Cioroianu, Constantin; Marinescu, Dănuţ Gabriel; Iorga, Adrian; Răzvan Sibiceanu, Adrian

2017-10-01

Nowadays, environmental pollution has become a general issue and the automotive industry is probably the most affected. The principal air-quality pollutant emissions from petrol, diesel and LPG engines are carbon dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, un-burnt hydrocarbons. Modern cars produce only quite small quantities of the air quality pollutants, but the emissions from large numbers of cars add to a significant air quality problem. Electric vehicles are an answer to this problem because they have absolutely no emissions. These vehicles have some major disadvantages regarding cost and range. In this paper, an electric vehicle model will be created in the AVL Cruise software. The constructed model is based on the existing Dacia Sandero. Also unlike the real car, the model presented has different characteristics since it is a full electric vehicle. It has an electric motor instead of the petrol engine and a battery pack placed in the trunk. The model will be simulated in order to obtain data regarding vehicle performance, energy consumption and range on the new WLTC test cycle. The obtained know-how will help on later improvements of the electric model regarding methods to increase the vehicle range on the new WLTC test cycle.

Properties of Artificial Gaseous Mixtures for their Safe Use and Support the Natural Gas Supply Networks / Własności Sztucznych Mieszanin Gazowych do Bezpiecznego ich Użytkowania i Wspomagania Zasilania Sieci Gazu Ziemnego

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Łaciak, Mariusz

2012-11-01

The increase in natural gas consumption by the general public and industry development, in particular the petrochemical and chemical industries, has made increasing the world interest in using gas replacement for natural gas, both as mixtures of flammable gases and gas mixtures as LPG with air (SNG - Synthetic Natural Gas). Economic analysis in many cases prove that to ensure interchangeability of gas would cost less than the increase in pipeline capacity to deliver the same quantity of natural gas. In addition, SNG systems and installations, could be considered as investments to improve security and flexibility of gas supply. Known existing methods for determining the interchangeability of gases in gas gear based on Wobbe index, which determines the heat input and the burning rate tide, which in turn is related to flame stability. Exceeding the Wobbe index of a value increases the amount of carbon monoxide in the exhaust than the permissible concentration. Methods of determining the interchangeability of gases is characterized by a gas in relation to the above-described phenomena by means of quantitative indicators, or using diagrams interchangeability, where the gas is characterized by the position of a point in a coordinate system. The best known method for determining the interchangeability of gases is Delbourg method, in which the gas is characterized by the revised (expanded) Wobbe Index (Wr), the combustion potential, rate of soot formation (Ic) and the ratio of the formation of yellow ends (I). Universal way to determine the interchangeability of gas is also Weaver accounting method. It does not require determination of the reference gas. It is designed for utensils for household gas and gas pressure p = 1.25 kPa. The criteria and definition of gas interchangeability volatility in practice to the combustion in a gas gear. In the case of gas exchange in industrial furnaces, interchangeability criteria are usually not very useful because of other conditions of combustion and heat exchange. In industrial reheating furnace gas is combusted in a sealed combustion chambers. Air supply is regulated. The exhaust gases are discharged into canals and the chimney to the atmosphere. The temperature difference between load (fuel gas) and the flame is much less than in the case of gas household appliances. In the furnace heat exchange takes place mainly by radiation in 85% to 95%. The value of heat flux flowing from the gas to a heated charge is not proportional to the heat load burners. Interchangeability of gas is linked by adding to natural gas, a certain amount of gas that is a substitute for natural gas in meeting the criteria for substitution in order to ensure certainty of supply of natural gas to customers. Gases that can be used in the processes of blending and used as replacement gases are mainly a mixture of propane and propane - butane (LPG - Liquid Petroleum Gas), landfill gas or biogas (LFG - Landfill Gas) and dimethyl ether (DME). One of the more well-known gas mixtures used in many countries around the world to compensate for peak demands is a mixture containing about 75% of natural gas and approximately 25% propane / air (LPG / air). Also in Poland is prepared to amend the provisions in this regard (at this moment - oxygen in the gas network can not exceed 0.2%). In this paper, the calculations of interchangeability of gas mixtures LFG - LPG and LPG - air (SNG) for natural gas was made. It was determined whether the analyzed mixtures have similar stable flame zones regardless of the quality of LFG fuel and whether they may in whole or in part replace CH4, without any modification of equipment suction air for combustion. The obtained results will determine whether the fuel can be used as a replacement for natural gas used in such household appliances and, possibly, industrial burners. In connection with the possibility of changes in the quality of LFG, depending on such factors as storage time, as pre-treatment, will be determined the degree of interchangeability of LFG as a fuel mixed with regard to its quality.

A light hydrocarbon fuel processor producing high-purity hydrogen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Löffler, Daniel G.; Taylor, Kyle; Mason, Dylan

This paper discusses the design process and presents performance data for a dual fuel (natural gas and LPG) fuel processor for PEM fuel cells delivering between 2 and 8 kW electric power in stationary applications. The fuel processor resulted from a series of design compromises made to address different design constraints. First, the product quality was selected; then, the unit operations needed to achieve that product quality were chosen from the pool of available technologies. Next, the specific equipment needed for each unit operation was selected. Finally, the unit operations were thermally integrated to achieve high thermal efficiency. Early in the design process, it was decided that the fuel processor would deliver high-purity hydrogen. Hydrogen can be separated from other gases by pressure-driven processes based on either selective adsorption or permeation. The pressure requirement made steam reforming (SR) the preferred reforming technology because it does not require compression of combustion air; therefore, steam reforming is more efficient in a high-pressure fuel processor than alternative technologies like autothermal reforming (ATR) or partial oxidation (POX), where the combustion occurs at the pressure of the process stream. A low-temperature pre-reformer reactor is needed upstream of a steam reformer to suppress coke formation; yet, low temperatures facilitate the formation of metal sulfides that deactivate the catalyst. For this reason, a desulfurization unit is needed upstream of the pre-reformer. Hydrogen separation was implemented using a palladium alloy membrane. Packed beds were chosen for the pre-reformer and reformer reactors primarily because of their low cost, relatively simple operation and low maintenance. Commercial, off-the-shelf balance of plant (BOP) components (pumps, valves, and heat exchangers) were used to integrate the unit operations. The fuel processor delivers up to 100 slm hydrogen >99.9% pure with <1 ppm CO, <3 ppm CO 2. The thermal efficiency is better than 67% operating at full load. This fuel processor has been integrated with a 5-kW fuel cell producing electricity and hot water.

Immunogenicity Evaluation of a Rationally Designed Polytope Construct Encoding HLA-A*0201 Restricted Epitopes Derived from Leishmania major Related Proteins in HLA-A2/DR1 Transgenic Mice: Steps toward Polytope Vaccine

PubMed Central

Seyed, Negar; Taheri, Tahereh; Vauchy, Charline; Dosset, Magalie; Godet, Yann; Eslamifar, Ali; Sharifi, Iraj; Adotevi, Olivier; Borg, Christophe; Rohrlich, Pierre Simon; Rafati, Sima

2014-01-01

Background There are several reports demonstrating the role of CD8 T cells against Leishmania species. Therefore peptide vaccine might represent an effective approach to control the infection. We developed a rational polytope-DNA construct encoding immunogenic HLA-A2 restricted peptides and validated the processing and presentation of encoded epitopes in a preclinical mouse model humanized for the MHC-class-I and II. Methods and Findings HLA-A*0201 restricted epitopes from LPG-3, LmSTI-1, CPB and CPC along with H-2Kd restricted peptides, were lined-up together as a polytope string in a DNA construct. Polytope string was rationally designed by harnessing advantages of ubiquitin, spacers and HLA-DR restricted Th1 epitope. Endotoxin free pcDNA plasmid expressing the polytope was inoculated into humanized HLA-DRB1*0101/HLA-A*0201 transgenic mice intramuscularly 4 days after Cardiotoxin priming followed by 2 boosters at one week interval. Mice were sacrificed 10 days after the last booster, and splenocytes were subjected to ex-vivo and in-vitro evaluation of specific IFN-γ production and in-vitro cytotoxicity against individual peptides by ELISpot and standard chromium-51(51Cr) release assay respectively. 4 H-2Kd and 5 HLA-A*0201 restricted peptides were able to induce specific CD8 T cell responses in BALB/C and HLA-A2/DR1 mice respectively. IFN-γ and cytolytic activity together discriminated LPG-3-P1 as dominant, LmSTI-1-P3 and LmSTI-1-P6 as subdominant with both cytolytic activity and IFN-γ production, LmSTI-1-P4 and LPG-3-P5 as subdominant with only IFN-γ production potential. Conclusions Here we described a new DNA-polytope construct for Leishmania vaccination encompassing immunogenic HLA-A2 restricted peptides. Immunogenicity evaluation in HLA-transgenic model confirmed CD8 T cell induction with expected affinities and avidities showing almost efficient processing and presentation of the peptides in relevant preclinical model. Further evaluation will determine the efficacy of this polytope construct protecting against infectious challenge of Leishmania. Fortunately HLA transgenic mice are promising preclinical models helping to speed up immunogenicity analysis in a human related mouse model. PMID:25310094

The tragedy of San Juanico--the most severe LPG disaster in history.

PubMed

Arturson, G

1987-04-01

During the early morning of Monday, 19 November 1984, one of the largest disasters in industrial history occurred in the Mexico City Area, causing the greatest rescue effort to assist population in an emergency ever undertaken. The tragic catastrophe started in a large LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas) storage and distribution centre in San Juan Ixhuatepec, 20 km north of Mexico City. The facilities, owned by the Pemex State Oil Company, consisted of six spherical storage tanks (four with a volume of 1600 m3 and two with a volume of 2400 m3) and 48 horizontal cylindrical bullet tanks of different sizes. At the time of the disaster the storage tanks contained 11,000 m3 of a mixture of propane and butane. The inhabitants of San Juan Ixhuatepec numbered about 40,000, and a further 60,000 lived in the hills surrounding the village. The majority were poor country people living in one-story houses constructed of concrete pillars filled in with bricks and with roofs of iron sheets. The disaster started due to LPG leakage, probably a pipe leakage or rupture due to excess pressure. A vapour cloud built up and was slowly moved by the north-east wind towards the ground-placed flare pit located in the western part of the plant. The vapour cloud was ignited around 5:40 a.m. and was followed by an extensive fire at the plant area. The first explosion was registered on the seismograph at the University of Mexico at 05 h 44 min 52 s and was followed by a dozen explosions within the next hour, some of them of BLEVE type (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion) due to rupture of one or more storage tanks. Two of the explosions had an intensity of 0.5 on the Richter scale. Unburned and burning gas entered the houses south of the plant area and set fire to everything. Blast waves from the explosions not only destroyed a number of houses but also shifted several cylindrical tanks from their supports and added more gas to the fire. The smaller spheres and some of the cylinders exploded and fragments and even whole cylinders weighing around 30 tons, were scattered over distances ranging from a few to up to 1200 m.

Lower galactosylation levels of the Lipophosphoglycan from Leishmania (Leishmania) major-like strains affect interaction with Phlebotomus papatasi and Lutzomyia longipalpis.

PubMed

Guimarães, Agna Cristina; Nogueira, Paula Monalisa; Silva, Soraia de Oliveira; Sadlova, Jovana; Pruzinova, Katerina; Hlavacova, Jana; Melo, Maria Norma; Soares, Rodrigo Pedro

2018-01-01

BACKGROUND Leishmania major is an Old World species causing cutaneous leishmaniasis and is transmitted by Phlebotomus papatasi and Phlebotomus duboscqi. In Brazil, two isolates from patients who never left the country were characterised as L. major-like (BH49 and BH121). Using molecular techniques, these isolates were indistinguishable from the L. major reference strain (FV1). OBJECTIVES We evaluated the lipophosphoglycans (LPGs) of the strains and their behaviour in Old and New World sand fly vectors. METHODS LPGs were purified, and repeat units were qualitatively evaluated by immunoblotting. Experimental in vivo infection with L. major-like strains was performed in Lutzomyia longipalpis (New World, permissive vector) and Ph. papatasi (Old World, restrictive or specific vector). FINDINGS The LPGs of both strains were devoid of arabinosylated side chains, whereas the LPG of strain BH49 was more galactosylated than that of strain BH121. All strains with different levels of galactosylation in their LPGs were able to infect both vectors, exhibiting colonisation of the stomodeal valve and metacyclogenesis. The BH121 strain (less galactosylated) exhibited lower infection intensity compared to BH49 and FV1 in both vectors. MAIN CONCLUSIONS Intraspecific variation in the LPG of L. major-like strains occur, and the different galactosylation levels affected interactions with the invertebrate host.

Household energy use in urban Venezuela: Implications from surveys in Maracaibo, Valencia, Merida, and Barcelona-Puerto La Cruz

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

Figueroa, M.J.; Sathaye, J.

1993-08-01

This report identifies the most important results of a comparative analysis of household commercial energy use in Venezuelan urban cities. The use of modern fuels is widespread among all cities. Cooking consumes the largest share of urban household energy use. The survey documents no use of biomass and a negligible use of kerosene for cooking. LPG, natural gas, and kerosene are the main fuels available. LPG is the fuel choice of low-income households in all cities except Maracaibo, where 40% of all households use natural gas. Electricity consumption in Venezuela`s urban households is remarkably high compared with the levels usedmore » in households in comparable Latin American countries and in households of industrialized nations which confront harsher climatic conditions and, therefore, use electricity for water and space heating. The penetration of appliances in Venezuela`s urban households is very high. The appliances available on the market are inefficient, and there are inefficient patterns of energy use among the population. Climate conditions and the urban built form all play important roles in determining the high level of energy consumption in Venezuelan urban households. It is important to acknowledge the opportunities for introducing energy efficiency and conservation in Venezuela`s residential sector, particularly given current economic and financial constraints, which may hamper the future provision of energy services.« less

Production, purification and utilization of biogas as fuel for internal combustion engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hernandez, Noel M.; Villanueva, Eliseo P.

2018-03-01

This study attempts to modify a 4-cylinder gasoline engine to run with a purified compressed biogas as substitute for fossil fuels. Water scrubbing method was used as the easiest purification technique to remove CO2 and iron filing for H2S. The pressurized raw biogas was fed in a low cost made portable floating type gas holder with volume capacity of 0.74 m3. The purified biogas was compressed using a reciprocating compressor through a two stage series of enrichment and moisture removal process using activated alumina into the steel cylinder to improve the quality of the methane content. The enriched biogas was filled in the LPG tank for 20 minutes at 10 bars at an average of 73.67% CH4 with no traces of H2S as storage for engine utilization. The modification involved the installation and mounting of LPG conversion kit. A comparative analysis of the performance and combustion characteristics of the engine was evaluated separately with gasoline and purified compressed biogas using electro-dynamometer as variable loads. The findings show that power output deterioration in compressed biogas was mainly due to high percentage of CO2 and other gases impurities. It also shows that because of the calorific value of biogas, the thermal efficiency is lesser than that of gasoline. It implies that the overall engine performance can be improved by removing undesirable gases in the mixture.

Modeling the release, spreading, and burning of LNG, LPG, and gasoline on water.

PubMed

Johnson, David W; Cornwell, John B

2007-02-20

Current interest in the shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) has renewed the debate about the safety of shipping large volumes of flammable fuels. The size of a spreading pool following a release of LNG from an LNG tank ship has been the subject of numerous papers and studies dating back to the mid-1970s. Several papers have presented idealized views of how the LNG would be released and spread across a quiescent water surface. There is a considerable amount of publicly available material describing these idealized releases, but little discussion of how other flammable fuels would behave if released from similar sized ships. The purpose of this paper is to determine whether the models currently available from the United States Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) can be used to simulate the release, spreading, vaporization, and pool fire impacts for materials other than LNG, and if so, identify which material-specific parameters are required. The review of the basic equations and principles in FERC's LNG release, spreading, and burning models did not reveal a critical fault that would prevent their use in evaluating the consequences of other flammable fluid releases. With the correct physical data, the models can be used with the same level of confidence for materials such as LPG and gasoline as they are for LNG.

Lipophosphoglycans from Leishmania amazonensis Strains Display Immunomodulatory Properties via TLR4 and Do Not Affect Sand Fly Infection

PubMed Central

Nogueira, Paula M.; Assis, Rafael R.; Torrecilhas, Ana C.; Saraiva, Elvira M.; Pessoa, Natália L.; Campos, Marco A.; Marialva, Eric F.; Ríos-Velasquez, Cláudia M.; Pessoa, Felipe A.; Secundino, Nágila F.; Rugani, Jerônimo N.; Nieves, Elsa; Turco, Salvatore J.; Melo, Maria N.

2016-01-01

The immunomodulatory properties of lipophosphoglycans (LPG) from New World species of Leishmania have been assessed in Leishmania infantum and Leishmania braziliensis, the causative agents of visceral and cutaneous leishmaniasis, respectively. This glycoconjugate is highly polymorphic among species with variation in sugars that branch off the conserved Gal(β1,4)Man(α1)-PO4 backbone of repeat units. Here, the immunomodulatory activity of LPGs from Leishmania amazonensis, the causative agent of diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis, was evaluated in two strains from Brazil. One strain (PH8) was originally isolated from the sand fly and the other (Josefa) was isolated from a human case. The ability of purified LPGs from both strains was investigated during in vitro interaction with peritoneal murine macrophages and CHO cells and in vivo infection with Lutzomyia migonei. In peritoneal murine macrophages, the LPGs from both strains activated TLR4. Both LPGs equally activate MAPKs and the NF-κB inhibitor p-IκBα, but were not able to translocate NF-κB. In vivo experiments with sand flies showed that both stains were able to sustain infection in L. migonei. A preliminary biochemical analysis indicates intraspecies variation in the LPG sugar moieties. However, they did not result in different activation profiles of the innate immune system. Also those polymorphisms did not affect infectivity to the sand fly. PMID:27508930

Lipophosphoglycans from Leishmania amazonensis Strains Display Immunomodulatory Properties via TLR4 and Do Not Affect Sand Fly Infection.

PubMed

Nogueira, Paula M; Assis, Rafael R; Torrecilhas, Ana C; Saraiva, Elvira M; Pessoa, Natália L; Campos, Marco A; Marialva, Eric F; Ríos-Velasquez, Cláudia M; Pessoa, Felipe A; Secundino, Nágila F; Rugani, Jerônimo N; Nieves, Elsa; Turco, Salvatore J; Melo, Maria N; Soares, Rodrigo P

2016-08-01

The immunomodulatory properties of lipophosphoglycans (LPG) from New World species of Leishmania have been assessed in Leishmania infantum and Leishmania braziliensis, the causative agents of visceral and cutaneous leishmaniasis, respectively. This glycoconjugate is highly polymorphic among species with variation in sugars that branch off the conserved Gal(β1,4)Man(α1)-PO4 backbone of repeat units. Here, the immunomodulatory activity of LPGs from Leishmania amazonensis, the causative agent of diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis, was evaluated in two strains from Brazil. One strain (PH8) was originally isolated from the sand fly and the other (Josefa) was isolated from a human case. The ability of purified LPGs from both strains was investigated during in vitro interaction with peritoneal murine macrophages and CHO cells and in vivo infection with Lutzomyia migonei. In peritoneal murine macrophages, the LPGs from both strains activated TLR4. Both LPGs equally activate MAPKs and the NF-κB inhibitor p-IκBα, but were not able to translocate NF-κB. In vivo experiments with sand flies showed that both stains were able to sustain infection in L. migonei. A preliminary biochemical analysis indicates intraspecies variation in the LPG sugar moieties. However, they did not result in different activation profiles of the innate immune system. Also those polymorphisms did not affect infectivity to the sand fly.

Compressed Natural Gas Vehicle Maintenance Facility Modification Handbook

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

Kelly, Kay L.; Ramsden, Margo M.; Gonzales, John E.

To ensure the safety of personnel and facilities, vehicle maintenance facilities are required by law and by guidelines of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Fire Code (IFC) to exhibit certain design features. They are also required to be fitted with certain fire protection equipment and devices because of the potential for fire or explosion in the event of fuel leakage or spills. All fuels have an explosion or fire potential if specific conditions are present. The hazard presented by liquid fuels, such as gasoline and diesel, results from the spillage of these liquids and subsequent ignitionmore » of vapors, causing a fire or explosion. Facilities that maintain liquid-fueled vehicles and implement appropriate safety measures are protected with ventilation systems designed to capture liquid fuel vapors at or near floor level. To minimize the potential for ignition in the event of a spill, receptacles, electrical fixtures, and hot-work operations, such as welding, are located outside of these areas. Compressed natural gas (CNG) is composed of methane with slight amounts of heavier simple hydrocarbons. Maintenance facilities that maintain CNG vehicles indoors must be protected against fire and explosion. However, the means of ensuring safety are different from those employed for liquid fuels because of the gaseous nature of methane and the fact that it is lighter than air. Because CNG is lighter than air, a release will rise to the ceiling of the maintenance facility and quickly dissipate rather than remaining at or near floor level like liquid fuel vapors. Although some of the means of protection for CNG vehicle maintenance facilities are similar to those used for liquid-fueled vehicles (ventilation and elimination of ignition sources), the types and placement of the protection equipment are different because of the behavior of the different fuels. The nature of gaseous methane may also require additional safeguards, such as combustible gas detectors and control systems, or specialized space heating, which are not needed in facilities servicing liquid-fuel vehicles. This handbook covers maintenance facilities that service CNG-fueled vehicles. Although similar requirements are mandated for liquefied natural gas (LNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fueled vehicles, LNG and LPG are not covered in this handbook.« less

Chemical Stockpile Disposal Program. Risk Analysis of the Continued Storage of Chemical Munitions

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-08-01

Grass Army Depot LIC liquid incinerator LPF leakers processing facility LPG liquified propane gas MD)B munitions demilitarization building"I 1DIA mu...screening process , con- sidering both frequency and magnitude of agent release, are included in the deliverables of this project. S.1.3. Scove of Study...simplistic terms the PRA process focuses on answering the fol- •• loving three basic questions: 1. Wh.t can go wrong? 2. How frequently is it expected to

Protecting the Turkish Straits from Maritime Terrorism: A Scheme to Impede Propeller Efficiency

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-01

electric fence, fire nozzle with pressurized water, optical laser distracter (a dazzle gun), Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) and other types of non...are easily ignited by machinery, cigarettes, and static electricity . Static electricity discharged when one walks on a carpet or brushes his/her hair...formed in the first tank car due to the impact with a signaling stake. The pressurized LPG was released as a two-phase jet: the liquid phase formed a

Making the Case: What is the Problem with Targeted Killing?

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-01

lpg=PA67&dq= Sharm -el- Sheikh+negotiations+to+end+the+second+intifada&source=bl&ots=yGaaSEJVty&sig=zWLzFW0WaBdn ZqSMtU7Bux7lpDA&hl=en&ei...election of Abbas, the Sharm el-Sheikh Summit in February 2005 opened an opportunity for a negotiated truce between Sharon and Abbas. Sharon made...Homes Destroyed (2001-2008).115 In February 2005, following the Sharm el-Sheikh Summit, Defense Minister Shaul Mofaz put a halt to punitive home

Electrical Field Dependence of Protein Conformation and Channel Function in Lipid Membranes of Different Compositions

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-07-01

surface because of the previous potential sweeps ). c- Cyclic voltamograms after different exposure times of the Hg drop electrode to a solution of lpg/ml...Cd + and 10-M NaCl. b - Cyclic voltamograms under similar conditions. Exposure time indicated, sweep rate O.2V/sec. specific capacitance < 4pf/cm 2...alamethicin. Cyclic voltametry shows (Fig. 3b) that it is the reduction current depending on the transport of TI+ ions across the monolayer to the electrode

Fabrication of longitudinally arbitrary shaped fiber tapers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nold, J.; Plötner, M.; Böhme, S.; Sattler, B.; deVries, O.; Schreiber, T.; Eberhardt, R.; Tünnermann, A.

2018-02-01

We present our current results on the fabrication of arbitrary shaped fiber tapers on our tapering rig using a CO2-laser as heat source. Single mode excitation of multimode fibers as well as changing the fiber geometry in an LPG-like fashion is presented. It is shown that this setup allows for reproducible fabrication of single-mode excitation tapers to extract the fundamental mode (M2 < 1.1) from a 30 μm core having an NA of 0.09.

Continual renewal and replication of persistent Leishmania major parasites in concomitantly immune hosts

PubMed Central

Mandell, Michael A.

2017-01-01

In most natural infections or after recovery, small numbers of Leishmania parasites remain indefinitely in the host. Persistent parasites play a vital role in protective immunity against disease pathology upon reinfection through the process of concomitant immunity, as well as in transmission and reactivation, yet are poorly understood. A key question is whether persistent parasites undergo replication, and we devised several approaches to probe the small numbers in persistent infections. We find two populations of persistent Leishmania major: one rapidly replicating, similar to parasites in acute infections, and another showing little evidence of replication. Persistent Leishmania were not found in “safe” immunoprivileged cell types, instead residing in macrophages and DCs, ∼60% of which expressed inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Remarkably, parasites within iNOS+ cells showed normal morphology and genome integrity and labeled comparably with BrdU to parasites within iNOS− cells, suggesting that these parasites may be unexpectedly resistant to NO. Nonetheless, because persistent parasite numbers remain roughly constant over time, their replication implies that ongoing destruction likewise occurs. Similar results were obtained with the attenuated lpg2− mutant, a convenient model that rapidly enters a persistent state without inducing pathology due to loss of the Golgi GDP mannose transporter. These data shed light on Leishmania persistence and concomitant immunity, suggesting a model wherein a parasite reservoir repopulates itself indefinitely, whereas some progeny are terminated in antigen-presenting cells, thereby stimulating immunity. This model may be relevant to understanding immunity to other persistent pathogen infections. PMID:28096392

Compact propane fuel processor for auxiliary power unit application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dokupil, M.; Spitta, C.; Mathiak, J.; Beckhaus, P.; Heinzel, A.

With focus on mobile applications a fuel cell auxiliary power unit (APU) using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is currently being developed at the Centre for Fuel Cell Technology (Zentrum für BrennstoffzellenTechnik, ZBT gGmbH). The system is consisting of an integrated compact and lightweight fuel processor and a low temperature PEM fuel cell for an electric power output of 300 W. This article is presenting the current status of development of the fuel processor which is designed for a nominal hydrogen output of 1 k Wth,H2 within a load range from 50 to 120%. A modular setup was chosen defining a reformer/burner module and a CO-purification module. Based on the performance specifications, thermodynamic simulations, benchmarking and selection of catalysts the modules have been developed and characterised simultaneously and then assembled to the complete fuel processor. Automated operation results in a cold startup time of about 25 min for nominal load and carbon monoxide output concentrations below 50 ppm for steady state and dynamic operation. Also fast transient response of the fuel processor at load changes with low fluctuations of the reformate gas composition have been achieved. Beside the development of the main reactors the transfer of the fuel processor to an autonomous system is of major concern. Hence, concepts for packaging have been developed resulting in a volume of 7 l and a weight of 3 kg. Further a selection of peripheral components has been tested and evaluated regarding to the substitution of the laboratory equipment.

Cooking fuel smoke and respiratory symptoms among women in low-income areas in Maputo.

PubMed

Ellegård, A

1996-09-01

The association between exposure to air pollution from cooking fuels and health aspects was studied in Maputo. Mozambique. Almost 1200 randomly selected women residing in the suburbs of Maputo were interviewed and 218 were monitored for air pollution. The fuels most commonly used were wood, charcoal, electricity, and liquified petroleum gas (LPG). Wood users were exposed to significantly higher levels of particulate pollution during cooking time (1200 micrograms/m3) than charcoal users (540 micrograms/m3) and users of modern fuels (LPG and electricity) (200-380 micrograms/m3). Wood users were found to have significantly more cough symptoms than other groups. This association remained significant when controlling for a large number of environmental variables. There was no difference in cough symptoms between charcoal users and users of modern fuels. Other respiratory symptoms such as dyspnea, wheezing, and inhalation and exhalation difficulties were not associated with wood use. Reducing wood use would likely improve acute respiratory health effects in wood users and possibly improve the ambient air pollution conditions in Maputo. To reduce the health impact of wood smoke exposure, it appears that the least costly and quickest method would be to encourage charcoal use to a greater extent, although high carbon monoxide levels would have to be addressed. Turning to modern fuels is beyond the means of most these households in the short term and could not be shown to be more effective.

Comparative analysis of carbohydrate residues in the midgut of phlebotomines (Diptera: Psychodidae) from colony and field populations from Amazon, Brazil.

PubMed

de Oliveira, Davi Marcos Souza; da Silva, Bruno José Martins; de Sena, Chubert Bernardo Castro; Lima, José Aprígio Nunes; Vasconcelos Dos Santos, Thiago; Silveira, Fernando Tobias; Silva, Edilene Oliveira

2016-09-01

Leishmaniasis are worldwide diseases that occur in 98 countries including Brazil, transmitted by the bite of female phlebotomines during blood feeding. In Brazil it is known that some species of sand flies as Lutzomyia longipalpis sensun latum (vector of Leishmania infantum chagasi), Lutzomyia flaviscutellata (vector of Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis) and Lutzomyia antunesi [suspected vector of Leishmania (Viannia) lindenbergi] are incriminated of transmitting the parasite Leishmania for the vertebrate host. The phlebotomine-parasite is mediated by the attachment of the promastigote lipophosphoglycan (LPG) to the midgut epithelium. However, another mechanism that is LPG-independent and mediated by N-acetyl-galactosamine (GalNAc) seems to occur in some species of phlebotomines that are classified as permissive. The aim of this study was to characterize the carbohydrate residues that, probably, play a role in parasite attachment to the midgut of phlebotomine from colony and field populations from the Brazilian Amazonian region. We observed the presence of GalNAc, mannose, galactose and GlcNAc in all phlebotomine species. A binding assay between L. (L.) amazonensis and L. i.chagasi to the midguts of different species of phlebotomines was performed. The attachment of both Leishmania and vector species suggests the presence of GalNAc on the midgut surfaces. Thus, these results suggested that GalNAc is a possible binding sites of Leishmania in sand flies from the Brazilian Amazonian region. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Respiratory symptoms of vendors in an open-air hawker center in brunei darussalam.

PubMed

Nazurah Bt Abdul Wahid, Nurul Nor; Balalla, N B P; Koh, David

2014-01-01

We studied respiratory problems among vendors exposed to cooking fumes in an open-air hawker center. Exposure to cooking fumes from either the use of fossil fuels or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has been shown to be associated with adverse respiratory health effects. We conducted a cross-sectional study among 67 food vendors exposed to cooking fumes as well as 18 merchandise sellers at an open-air hawker center in Brunei Darussalam. Past medical and smoking history and exposure to cooking fumes were obtained. The validated American Thoracic Society Questionnaire with a translated Malay version was used to ask for respiratory symptoms. Compared to merchandise sellers (n = 18), cooking vendors (n = 67) had a higher self-reported respiratory symptoms (50.7% for those cooking and 33.3% for merchandise sellers). Cough (28.3%) was the main respiratory symptom experienced in cooking vendors and breathlessness (22.2%) among merchandise sellers. Half (50.0%) of cooking vendors who worked for more than 10 years had cough and 27.3% had phlegm. Those cooking with charcoal were two times more likely to have cough than those cooking with LPG. Cooking vendors with a job duration of more than 10 years were thrice more likely to have cough. Cooking vendors in the open-air hawker center exposed to cooking fumes had more respiratory symptoms compared to non-exposed merchandise sellers. The type of fuel used for cooking and duration of work was associated with increased prevalence of cough.

A Study on BC Emission from Vehicles using Different Types of Fuel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, K.; Son, J.; Kim, J.; Kim, S.; Park, G.; Sung, K.; Kim, I.; Chung, T.; Park, T.; Kang, S.; Ban, J.; Kim, J.; Hong, Y. D.; Woo, J. H.; Lee, T.

2017-12-01

Black carbon (BC) is an anthropogenic aerosol from fossil fuels, and biomass burning. It absorbs solar radiation, and heats the atmosphere leading 0.4W m-2 radiative forcing. BC is a particle that can cause serious effects on human body as well. Toxicological studies of black carbon suggests that BC may be an important carrier of toxic chemicals to human body. The recent researches show that one of the main precursor of BC is vehicle emission, but the inventory of BC emission rate from vehicle is inadequate in South Korea. This study tries to find differences of BC emission from different sizes of vehicles using different types of fuels. Fuels used in vehicles are gasoline, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and diesel. BC was directly measured from the tail pipe of vehicles using Aethalometer (AE33, Magee Scientific Corporation). This study was conducted in Transport Pollutant Research Center, National Institute of Environmental Research, South Korea. Measurement was progressed with the five different test modes of speeds. Speed modes includes 4.7, 17.3, 34.1, 65.4, and 97.3 km h-1. Emission rate of BC was high in the slowest speed mode, and showed decrease with increase of the speed of vehicles. Gasoline vehicles had the relatively higher emission rate of BC than the LPG vehicle, while the emission rate of BC for Diesel with DPF (Diesel Particle Filter) was observed to be the lowest.

The effect of varying plyometric volume on stretch-shortening cycle capability in collegiate male rugby players.

PubMed

Jeffreys, Mark; De Ste Croix, Mark; Lloyd, Rhodri S; Oliver, Jon L; Hughes, Jonathan

2017-03-25

The purpose of this study was to identify the effectiveness of low and high volume plyometric loads on developing stretch shortening cycle capability in collegiate rugby players. A between- group repeated measures design was used. Thirty six subjects (age 20.3 ±1.6 yrs, mass 91.63 ±10.36kg, stature 182.03 ±5.24cm) were randomly assigned to one of three groups, a control group (CG), a low volume plyometric group (LPG) or a high volume plyometric group (HPG). Data were collected from a force plate, and measures of reactive strength index (RSI) and leg stiffness were calculated from jump height, contact time and flight time. A significant between group × time (F = 4.01, P <0.05) interaction effect for RSI was observed. Bonferroni post hoc analysis indicated that both the LPG training group (P = 0.002) and HPG training group (P = 0.009) were significantly higher than the control group. No significant interaction effect between time × group were observed for leg stiffness (F = 1.39, P = 0.25). The current study has demonstrated that it is possible to improve reactive strength capabilities via the use of a low volume plyometric program. The low volume program elicited the same performance improvement in RSI as a high volume program whilst undertaking a lower dose. This suggests that strength and conditioning coaches may be able to benefit from the ability to develop more time efficient and effective plyometric programs.

Biogas Stoves Reduce Firewood Use, Household Air Pollution, and Hospital Visits in Odisha, India.

PubMed

Lewis, Jessica J; Hollingsworth, John W; Chartier, Ryan T; Cooper, Ellen M; Foster, William Michael; Gomes, Genna L; Kussin, Peter S; MacInnis, John J; Padhi, Bijaya K; Panigrahi, Pinaki; Rodes, Charles E; Ryde, Ian T; Singha, Ashok K; Stapleton, Heather M; Thornburg, Jonathan; Young, Cora J; Meyer, Joel N; Pattanayak, Subhrendu K

2017-01-03

Traditional cooking using biomass is associated with ill health, local environmental degradation, and regional climate change. Clean stoves (liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), biogas, and electric) are heralded as a solution, but few studies have demonstrated their environmental health benefits in field settings. We analyzed the impact of mainly biogas (as well as electric and LPG) stove use on social, environmental, and health outcomes in two districts in Odisha, India, where the Indian government has promoted household biogas. We established a cross-sectional observational cohort of 105 households that use either traditional mud stoves or improved cookstoves (ICS). Our multidisciplinary team conducted surveys, environmental air sampling, fuel weighing, and health measurements. We examined associations between traditional or improved stove use and primary outcomes, stratifying households by proximity to major industrial plants. ICS use was associated with 91% reduced use of firewood (p < 0.01), substantial time savings for primary cooks, a 72% reduction in PM 2.5 , a 78% reduction in PAH levels, and significant reductions in water-soluble organic carbon and nitrogen (p < 0.01) in household air samples. ICS use was associated with reduced time in the hospital with acute respiratory infection and reduced diastolic blood pressure but not with other health measurements. We find many significant gains from promoting rural biogas stoves in a context in which traditional stove use persists, although pollution levels in ICS households still remained above WHO guidelines.

Langmuir and Langmuir-Blodgett films of multifunctional, amphiphilic polyethers with cholesterol moieties.

PubMed

Reuter, Sascha; Hofmann, Anna M; Busse, Karsten; Frey, Holger; Kressler, Jörg

2011-03-01

Langmuir films of multifunctional, hydrophilic polyethers containing a hydrophobic cholesterol group (Ch) were studied by surface pressure-mean molecular area (π-mmA) measurements and Brewster angle microscopy (BAM). The polyethers were either homopolymers or diblock copolymers of linear poly(glycerol) (lPG), linear poly(glyceryl glycidyl ether) (lPGG), linear poly(ethylene glycol) (lPEG), or hyperbranched poly(glycerol) (hbPG). Surface pressure measurements revealed that the homopolymers lPG and hbPG did not stay at the water surface after spreading and solvent evaporation, in contrast to lPEG. Because of the incorporation of the Ch group in the polymer structure, stable Langmuir films were formed by Ch-lPG(n), Ch-lPGG(n), and Ch-hbPG(n). The Ch-hbPG(n), Ch-lPEG(n), Ch-lPEG(n)-b-lPG(m), Ch-lPEG(n)-b-lPGG(m), and Ch-lPEG(n)-b-hbPG(m) systems showed an extended plateau region assigned to a phase transition involving the Ch groups. Typical hierarchically ordered morphologies of the LB films on hydrophilic substrates were observed for all Ch-initiated polymers. All LB films showed that Ch of the Ch-initiated homopolymers is able to crystallize. This strong tendency of self-aggregation then triggers further dewetting effects of the respective polyether entities. Fingerlike morphologies are observed for Ch-lPEG(69), since the lPEG(69) entity is able to undergo crystallization after transfer onto the silicon substrate.

Phenotypic and genotypic correlates of daptomycin-resistant methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates.

PubMed

Kang, Kyoung-Mi; Mishra, Nagendra N; Park, Kun Taek; Lee, Gi-Yong; Park, Yong Ho; Bayer, Arnold S; Yang, Soo-Jin

2017-02-01

Daptomycin (DAP) has potent activity in vitro and in vivo against both methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) strains. DAP-resistance (DAP-R) in S. aureus has been mainly observed in MRSA strains, and has been linked to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the mprF gene leading to altered cell membrane (CM) phospholipid (PL) profiles, enhanced positive surface charge, and changes in CM fluidity. The current study was designed to delineate whether these same genotypic and phenotypic perturbations are demonstrated in clinically-derived DAP-R MSSA strains. We used three isogenic DAP-susceptible (DAP-S)/DAP-R strainpairs and compared: (i) presence of mprF SNPs, (ii) temporal expression profiles of the two key determinants (mprF and dltABCD) of net positive surface charge, (iii) increased production of mprF-dependent lysinylated-phosphatidylglycerol (L-PG), (iv) positive surface charge assays, and (v) susceptibility to cationic host defense peptides (HDPs) of neutrophil and platelet origins. Similar to prior data in MRSA, DAP-R (vs DAP-S) MSSA strains exhibited hallmark hot-spot SNPs in mprF, enhanced and dysregulated expression of both mprF and dltA, L-PG overproduction, HDP resistance and enhanced positive surface charge profiles. However, in contrast to most DAP-R MRSA strains, there were no changes in CM fluidity seen. Thus, charge repulsion via mprF-and dlt-mediated enhancement of positive surface charge may be the main mechanism to explain DAP-R in MSSA strains.

Cellular biophysics during freezing of rat and mouse sperm predicts post-thaw motility.

PubMed

Hagiwara, Mie; Choi, Jeung Hwan; Devireddy, Ramachandra V; Roberts, Kenneth P; Wolkers, Willem F; Makhlouf, Antoine; Bischof, John C

2009-10-01

Though cryopreservation of mouse sperm yields good survival and motility after thawing, cryopreservation of rat sperm remains a challenge. This study was designed to evaluate the biophysics (membrane permeability) of rat in comparison to mouse to better understand the cooling rate response that contributes to cryopreservation success or failure in these two sperm types. In order to extract subzero membrane hydraulic permeability in the presence of ice, a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) method was used. By analyzing rat and mouse sperm frozen at 5 degrees C/min and 20 degrees C/min, heat release signatures characteristic of each sperm type were obtained and correlated to cellular dehydration. The dehydration response was then fit to a model of cellular water transport (dehydration) by adjusting cell-specific biophysical (membrane hydraulic permeability) parameters L(pg) and E(Lp). A "combined fit" (to 5 degrees C/min and 20 degrees C/min data) for rat sperm in Biggers-Whitten-Whittingham media yielded L(pg) = 0.007 microm min(-1) atm(-1) and E(Lp) = 17.8 kcal/mol, and in egg yolk cryopreservation media yielded L(pg) = 0.005 microm min(-1) atm(-1) and E(Lp) = 14.3 kcal/mol. These parameters, especially the activation energy, were found to be lower than previously published parameters for mouse sperm. In addition, the biophysical responses in mouse and rat sperm were shown to depend on the constituents of the cryopreservation media, in particular egg yolk and glycerol. Using these parameters, optimal cooling rates for cryopreservation were predicted for each sperm based on a criteria of 5%-15% normalized cell water at -30 degrees C during freezing in cryopreservation media. These predicted rates range from 53 degrees C/min to 70 degrees C/min and from 28 degrees C/min to 36 degrees C/min in rat and mouse, respectively. These predictions were validated by comparison to experimentally determined cryopreservation outcomes, in this case based on motility. Maximum motility was obtained with freezing rates between 50 degrees C/min and 80 degrees C/min for rat and at 20 degrees C/min with a sharp drop at 50 degrees C/min for mouse. In summary, DSC experiments on mouse and rat sperm yielded a difference in membrane permeability parameters in the two sperm types that, when implemented in a biophysical model of water transport, reasonably predict different optimal cooling rate outcomes for each sperm after cryopreservation.

Software User’s Manual for the RAILCAR4.1 Toxic Industrial Chemical Source Characterization Program

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-01

average cloud area during formation as half of the final cloud area of  Dc2/4.    Since the equations for these parameters can be quite  complex , the...hydrogen chloride  propane (LPG)  chlorine  hydrogen  cyanide  sulfur dioxide  chlorine dioxide  hydrogen fluoride  sulfuric acid  cyanogen chloride

40 CFR 86.096-8 - Emission standards for 1996 and later model year light-duty vehicles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Fueled, Natural Gas-Fueled, Liquefied Petroleum Gas-Fueled and Methanol-Fueled Heavy-Duty Vehicles § 86... NMHCE CO NOX PM Gasoline 0.41 0.25 3.4 0.4 0.08 Diesel 0.41 0.25 3.4 1.0 0.08 Methanol 0.41 0.25 3.4 0.4....31 4.2 1.25 0.10 Methanol 0.31 4.2 0.6 0.10 Natural Gas 0.31 4.2 0.6 0.10 LPG 0.31 4.2 0.6 0.10 (ii...

40 CFR 86.096-8 - Emission standards for 1996 and later model year light-duty vehicles.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Fueled, Natural Gas-Fueled, Liquefied Petroleum Gas-Fueled and Methanol-Fueled Heavy-Duty Vehicles § 86... NMHCE CO NOX PM Gasoline 0.41 0.25 3.4 0.4 0.08 Diesel 0.41 0.25 3.4 1.0 0.08 Methanol 0.41 0.25 3.4 0.4....31 4.2 1.25 0.10 Methanol 0.31 4.2 0.6 0.10 Natural Gas 0.31 4.2 0.6 0.10 LPG 0.31 4.2 0.6 0.10 (ii...

Salt deposits in Arizona promise gas-storage opportunities

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rauzi, S.L.

2002-01-01

Massive salt formations and their proximity to pipeline systems and power plants make Arizona attractive for natural gas storage. Caverns dissolved in subsurface salt are used to store LPG at Ferrellgas Partners LP facility near Holbrook and the AmeriGas Partners LP facility near Glendale. Three other companies are investigating the feasibility of storing natural gas in Arizona salt: Copper Eagle Gas Storage LLC, Desert Crossing Gas Storage and Transportation System LLC, and Aquila Inc. The most extensive salt deposits are in the Colorado Plateau Province. Marine and nonmarine salt deposits are present in Arizona.

Visualization of hydraulic connections using Borehole Array around LPG Underground Storage Cavern

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shimo, M.; Mashimo, H.; Maejima, T.; Aoki, K.

2006-12-01

This paper presents a systematic approach to visualize the hydraulic connections within the fractured rock mass around the underground LPG storage caverns using array of water injection boreholes. By taking advantage that water injection boreholes are located so as to cover the storage caverns, a complete sketch of hydraulic conditions around the caverns, such as locations of water conducting fractures, hydraulic conductivity and groundwater pressure can be obtained. Applicability of the proposed techniques have been tested in an on-going construction project operated by JOGMEC, Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation, at Namikata, Western part of Japan. Three 26m x 30m x 485m caverns, located at 150 - 200 m below the ground surface in a granitic rock, are under construction. By systematically monitoring the pressure responses between the neighboring boreholes during drilling of total 387 boreholes around the two propane caverns, a spatial profile of the hydraulic connections and hydraulic conductivity around the caverns has been successfully obtained. Locations of localized depressurized zones created during an arch excavation have been detected by monitoring pressure in each borehole after stopping water supply to that borehole temporarily. Measurement has been conducted using each one of the 302 boreholes, one at a time. Observation shows that there is a clear correlation between total pressure drop and pressure gradient versus time curve on semi-logarithmic plot, dH/log10t, as expected by the numerical prediction. Regions where dH/log10t is larger than a certain criteria, determined by a numerical simulation for flow around a cavern in a rock with uniform hydraulic conductivity, have been evaluated as a depressurized zone caused by insufficient water supply, possibly due to existence of the high permeable zones. Separate pore pressure measurement around the caverns also supports this interpretation that a low pressure is prevailing near the borehole where a large value of dH/log10t is obtained. As a countermeasure to avoid further depressurization, installation of additional water injection hole was conducted. The same observation was then repeated. It is recognized that dH/log10t has recovered above the criteria, showing that the local water balance has been improved. Finally it is concluded that the proposed rather simple but space encompassing observation is applicable to groundwater management during construction and also provides useful information for creating a hydrogeological model, considering a fracture network system, that will be used for the evaluation of the cavern performance as a storage tank.

Obstructive airway diseases in women exposed to biomass smoke.

PubMed

Ekici, Aydanur; Ekici, Mehmet; Kurtipek, Ercan; Akin, Ahmet; Arslan, Mesut; Kara, Türkan; Apaydin, Zeliha; Demir, Selma

2005-09-01

The majority of women living in rural areas in Turkey use biomass fuels for domestic energy and are exposed to high levels of indoor air pollution every day. The objective of this study was to compare the presence of chronic airway diseases (CAD) in two groups of nonsmoking women older than 40 years with (exposed group, n=397) and without a history of exposure to biomass cooking (liquid petroleum gas (LPG); control group, n=199), in 2002 in Kirikkale, Turkey. Detailed respiratory symptoms were collected with a standard questionnaire adapted from that of the British Medical Research Council. Exposure was calculated as the average hours spent daily for cooking multiplied by the number of years. CAD were defined as either chronic airway obstruction (CAO; (forced expiratory volume in 1s/forced vital capacity)<0.70), chronic bronchitis, or chronic bronchitis with CAO. The prevalence of CAD in the exposed group was found to be higher than that in the LPG group (28.5% vs. 13.6%, crude odds ratios (ORs) 2.5 (1.5--4.0), P=0.0001). The fraction of CAD attributed to exposure to biomass smoke after adjusting for possible confounding factors was 23.1% (95% confidence interval (CI) 13.4--33.2). Acute symptoms during exposure to biomass smoke were important predictors for the presence of CAD. Biomass smoke pollution is an important contributing factor in the development of CAD in nonsmoking women living in a rural area. The presence of acute symptoms during cooking in women in rural areas should signal to general practitioners the possibility of CAD.

Fermentation, degradation and microbial nitrogen partitioning for three forage colour phenotypes within anthocyanidin-accumulating Lc-alfalfa progeny.

PubMed

Jonker, Arjan; Gruber, Margaret Y; Wang, Yuxi; Narvaez, Nelmy; Coulman, Bruce; McKinnon, John J; Christensen, David A; Azarfar, Arash; Yu, Peiqiang

2012-08-30

Alfalfa has the disadvantage of having a rapid initial rate of protein degradation, which results in pasture bloat, low efficiency of protein utilisation and excessive nitrogen (N) pollution into the environment for cattle. Introducing a gene that stimulates the accumulation of monomeric/polymeric anthocyanidins might reduce the ruminal protein degradation rate (by fixing protein and/or direct interaction with microbes) and additionally reduce methane emission. The objectives of this study were to evaluate in vitro fermentation, degradation and microbial N partitioning of three forage colour phenotypes (green, light purple-green (LPG) and purple-green (PG)) within newly developed Lc-progeny and to compare them with those of parental green non-transgenic (NT) alfalfa. PG-Lc accumulated more anthocyanidin compared with Green-Lc (P < 0.05), with LPG-Lc intermediate. Volatile fatty acids and potentially degradable dry matter (DM) and N were similar among the four phenotypes. Gas, methane and ammonia accumulation rates were slower for the two purple-Lc phenotypes compared with NT-alfalfa (P < 0.05), while Green-Lc was intermediate. Effective degradable DM and N were lower in the three Lc-phenotypes (P < 0.05) compared with NT-alfalfa. Anthocyanidin concentration was negatively correlated (P < 0.05) with gas and methane production rates and effective degradability of DM and N. The Lc-alfalfa phenotypes accumulated anthocyanidin. Fermentation and degradation parameters indicated a reduced rate of fermentation and effective degradability for both purple anthocyanidin-accumulating Lc-alfalfa phenotypes compared with NT-alfalfa. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry.

Reciprocal functional interactions between the brainstem and the lower spinal cord

PubMed Central

Yazawa, Itaru

2014-01-01

The interplay of the neuronal discharge patterns regarding respiration and locomotion was investigated using electrophysiological techniques in a decerebrate and arterially perfused in situ mouse preparation. The phrenic, tibial, and/or peroneal nerve discharge became clearly organized into discharge episodes of increasing frequency and duration, punctuated by periods of quiescence as the perfusion flow rate increased at room temperature. The modulated sympathetic tone induced by the hyperoxic/normocapnic state was found to activate the locomotor pattern generator (LPG) via descending pathways and generate a left and right alternating discharge during discharge episodes in the motor nerves. The rhythm coupling of respiration and locomotion occurred at a 1:1 frequency ratio. Although the phrenic discharge synchronized with the tibial discharge at all flow rates tested, the time lag between peaks of the two discharges during locomotion was ≈400 ms rather than ≈200 ms, suggesting spinal feedback via ascending pathways. The incidence of the phrenic and tibial discharge episodes decreased by ≈50% after spinalization at the twelfth thoracic cord and the respiratory rhythm was more regular. These results indicate that: (i) locomotion can be generated in a hyperoxic/normocapnic state induced by specific respiratory conditions, (ii) the central mechanism regarding entrainment of respiratory and locomotor rhythms relies on spinal feedback via ascending pathways, initiated by the activated LPG generating locomotion, and (iii) the increase in respiratory rate seen during locomotion is caused not only by afferent mechanical and nociceptive inputs but also by impulses from the activated spinal cord producing a locomotor-like discharge via ascending pathways. PMID:24910591

Multiple Legionella pneumophila effector virulence phenotypes revealed through high-throughput analysis of targeted mutant libraries

PubMed Central

Shames, Stephanie R.; Liu, Luying; Havey, James C.; Schofield, Whitman B.; Goodman, Andrew L.; Roy, Craig R.

2017-01-01

Legionella pneumophila is the causative agent of a severe pneumonia called Legionnaires’ disease. A single strain of L. pneumophila encodes a repertoire of over 300 different effector proteins that are delivered into host cells by the Dot/Icm type IV secretion system during infection. The large number of L. pneumophila effectors has been a limiting factor in assessing the importance of individual effectors for virulence. Here, a transposon insertion sequencing technology called INSeq was used to analyze replication of a pool of effector mutants in parallel both in a mouse model of infection and in cultured host cells. Loss-of-function mutations in genes encoding effector proteins resulted in host-specific or broad virulence phenotypes. Screen results were validated for several effector mutants displaying different virulence phenotypes using genetic complementation studies and infection assays. Specifically, loss-of-function mutations in the gene encoding LegC4 resulted in enhanced L. pneumophila in the lungs of infected mice but not within cultured host cells, which indicates LegC4 augments bacterial clearance by the host immune system. The effector proteins RavY and Lpg2505 were important for efficient replication within both mammalian and protozoan hosts. Further analysis of Lpg2505 revealed that this protein functions as a metaeffector that counteracts host cytotoxicity displayed by the effector protein SidI. Thus, this study identified a large cohort of effectors that contribute to L. pneumophila virulence positively or negatively and has demonstrated regulation of effector protein activities by cognate metaeffectors as being critical for host pathogenesis. PMID:29133401

Genetic Variation of pln Loci Among Probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum Group Strains with Antioxidant and Cholesterol-Lowering Ability.

PubMed

Devi, Sundru Manjulata; Halami, Prakash M

2017-10-13

In the present study, 14 different plantaricin-encoding genes of pln loci were studied and compared to available sequences from public domain database of probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum strains. Based upon the presence and absence of selected genes, pln locus was grouped into eight clusters. Further, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis for seven genes has discriminated the complex pln locus into five types which includes WCFS1 (in Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum MCC 2976 and MCC 2974 and Lactobacillus paraplantarum MCC 2978), closely related to J51 (in Lb. paraplantarum MCC 2973 and MCC 2977), J23 (in Lb. plantarum MTCC 5422), NC8 (in Lb. paraplantarum MTCC 9483), and a new E1 type (in Lb. plantarum subsp. plantarum E1). It was observed that the plnA, EF, NC8βα, NC81F, NC8HK, and G were expressed in E1 strain. Further, southern hybridization confirmed the chromosome-encoded plantaricin in Lb. plantarum group (LPG) strains. Several PCR assays and DNA sequence analysis of the regions amplified in pln loci of E1 isolate suggested a hybrid variant of NC8 and J51 plantaritypes. This indicates the wide distribution of plantaricin with remarkable variation, diversity, and plasticity among the LPG strains of vegetable origin. Further, the selected strains were able to reduce the growth of Kocuria rhizophila ATCC 9341 by 40-54% within 6 h of co-incubation under in vitro pathogen exclusion assay. These isolates also possessed cholesterol-lowering and antioxidant activity suggesting their application in the development of functional foods.

Leishmania-derived trimannose modulates inflammatory response to significantly reduce Leishmania (L.) major-induced lesions.

PubMed

Grinnage-Pulley, Tara L; Kabotso, Daniel E K; Rintelmann, Chelsea L; Roychoudhury, Rajarshi; Schaut, Robert G; Toepp, Angela J; Gibson-Corley, Katherine N; Parrish, Molly; Pohl, Nicola L B; Petersen, Christine A

2017-10-23

Leishmania lipophosphoglycan (LPG) is a key virulence factor, initiating inflammation resulting in cutaneous lesions. LPG is capped by various oligosaccharides. How these glycans are recognized and how they alter the course of Leishmania infection is poorly understood. Previous studies synthesized α-1,2-trimannose cap sugars on latex beads demonstrated that C57BL/6 mice co-inoculated with L. major and trimannose-coated beads produced significantly higher levels of IL-12 p40 and other pro-inflammatory, type 1 cytokines compared L. major infection alone within the first 48 h of infection. However, as L. major infection typically progress over weeks to months, the role of trimannose in altering disease progression over the course of infection was unknown. Wild-type mice were inoculated with either trimannose or carrier (uncoated) beads, infected with L. major alone, co-inoculated with carrier beads and L. major, or co-inoculated with trimannose beads and L. major Trimannose treatment of L. major- infected mice decreased parasite load and significantly decreased lesion size at 14 days post infection (pi) compared to non-treated, infected mice. Infected, trimannose-treated mice had decreased IL-12p40 and IL-10 secretion and increased IFN-γ at 14 days pi. Mice lacking the ability to detect trimannose, mannose-receptor deleted mice (MR -/- ), when treated with trimannose beads and infected with L. major did not have decreased lesion size. Leishmania -derived trimannose represents a novel immunomodulator that provides early type 1-skewed cytokine production to control parasite load and alter the course of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Microbiology.

Comparison of luteal estradiol patch and gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist suppression protocol before gonadotropin stimulation versus microdose gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist protocol for patients with a history of poor in vitro fertilization outcomes.

PubMed

Weitzman, Vanessa N; Engmann, Lawrence; DiLuigi, Andrea; Maier, Donald; Nulsen, John; Benadiva, Claudio

2009-07-01

To compare IVF outcomes in poor-responder patients undergoing stimulation after luteal phase E(2) patch/GnRH antagonist (LPG) protocol versus microdose GnRH agonist protocol. Retrospective analysis. University-based IVF center. Forty-five women undergoing ovarian stimulation for IVF using the LPG protocol were compared with 76 women stimulated with the microdose GnRH agonist protocol from May 2005 to April 2006. Cancellation rate, number of oocytes retrieved, and clinical pregnancy rates. The mean number of oocytes (9.1 +/- 4.1 vs. 8.9 +/- 4.3) and mature oocytes (6.7 +/- 3.5 vs. 6.8 +/- 3.1) retrieved were similar, as were the fertilization rates (70.0% +/- 24.2% vs. 69.9% +/- 21.5%) and the number of embryos transferred (2.5 +/- 1.1 vs. 2.7 +/- 1.3). The cancellation rate was not significantly different between the groups (13/45, 28.9% vs. 23/76, 30.3%). Likewise, there were no significant differences among the implantation rate (15.0% vs. 12.5%), clinical pregnancy rate (43.3% vs. 45.1%), and ongoing pregnancy rate per transfer (33.3% vs. 26.0%) between both groups. This study demonstrates that the use of an E(2) patch and a GnRH antagonist during the preceding luteal phase in patients with a history of failed cycles can provide similar IVF outcomes when compared with the microdose GnRH agonist protocol.

Comprehensive analysis of phospholipids and glycolipids in the opportunistic pathogen Enterococcus faecalis

PubMed Central

Gao, Iris H.; Nair, Zeus J.; Kumar, Jaspal K.; Gao, Liang; Kline, Kimberly A.; Wenk, Markus R.

2017-01-01

Enterococcus faecalis is a Gram-positive, opportunistic, pathogenic bacterium that causes a significant number of antibiotic-resistant infections in hospitalized patients. The development of antibiotic resistance in hospital-associated pathogens is a formidable public health threat. In E. faecalis and other Gram-positive pathogens, correlations exist between lipid composition and antibiotic resistance. Resistance to the last-resort antibiotic daptomycin is accompanied by a decrease in phosphatidylglycerol (PG) levels, whereas multiple peptide resistance factor (MprF) converts anionic PG into cationic lysyl-PG via a trans-esterification reaction, providing resistance to cationic antimicrobial peptides. Unlike previous studies that relied on thin layer chromatography and spectrophotometry, we have performed liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) directly on lipids extracted from E. faecalis, and quantified the phospholipids through multiple reaction monitoring (MRM). In the daptomycin-sensitive E. faecalis strain OG1RF, we have identified 17 PGs, 8 lysyl-PGs (LPGs), 23 cardiolipins (CL), 3 glycerophospho-diglucosyl-diacylglycerols (GPDGDAG), 5 diglucosyl-diacylglycerols (DGDAG), 3 diacylglycerols (DAGs), and 4 triacylglycerols (TAGs). We have quantified PG and shown that PG levels vary during growth of E. faecalis in vitro. We also show that two daptomycin-resistant (DapR) strains of E. faecalis have substantially lower levels of PG and LPG levels. Since LPG levels in these strains are lower, daptomycin resistance is likely due to the reduction in PG. This lipidome map is the first comprehensive analysis of membrane phospholipids and glycolipids in the important human pathogen E. faecalis, for which antimicrobial resistance and altered lipid homeostasis have been intimately linked. PMID:28423018

Trends in multi-pollutant emissions from a technology-linked inventory for India: II. Residential, agricultural and informal industry sectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pandey, Apoorva; Sadavarte, Pankaj; Rao, Anand B.; Venkataraman, Chandra

2014-12-01

Dispersed traditional combustion technologies, characterized by inefficient combustion and significant emissions, are widely used in residential cooking and "informal industries" including brick production, food and agricultural product processing operations like drying and cooking operations related to sugarcane juice, milk, food-grain, jute, silk, tea and coffee. In addition, seasonal agricultural residue burning in field is a discontinuous source of significant emissions. Here we estimate fuel consumption in these sectors and agricultural residue burned using detailed technology divisions and survey-based primary data for 2010 and projected between 1996 and 2015. In the residential sector, a decline in the fraction of solid biomass users for cooking from 79% in 1996 to 65% in 2010 was offset by a growing population, leading to a nearly constant population of solid biomass users, with a corresponding increase in the population of LPG users. Emissions from agriculture followed the growth in agricultural production and diesel use by tractors and pumps. Trends in emissions from the informal industries sector followed those in coal combustion in brick kilns. Residential biomass cooking stoves were the largest contributors to emissions of PM2.5, OC, CO, NMVOC and CH4. Highest emitting technologies of BC were residential kerosene wick lamps. Emissions of SO2 were largely from coal combustion in Bull's trench kilns and other brick manufacturing technologies. Diesel use in tractors was the major source of NOx emissions. Uncertainties in emission estimates were principally from highly uncertain emission factors, particularly for technologies in the informal industries.

Compression-Ignition Sensitivity Studies of Liquid Propellants for Guns

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-07-01

a -- h f m1 Report No. PCRL-F’.-75-004 July 1979 COMPRESSION-I=NITION SDNSITrI"Y STUDIES j? LIQUID PROPELLAhTS rOR GUNS Contract No. DAXK10-78-C-0315...Rmpression- qnition nsitivit 24AU7ud1ies,ś of Liquid Pr ielants or Guns # It) M~oehe BenReuven E6ad Martin ýumme rfielId - AAK10-78-C-0315/J 9...levels and pressurization rates comparable to .’iose of liquid propellant gun (LPG) systems, particularly during the start-up phase o-f the ballistic cycle

Fiber-bragg grating-loop ringdown method and apparatus

DOEpatents

Wang, Chuji [Starkville, MS

2008-01-29

A device comprising a fiber grating loop ringdown (FGLRD) system of analysis is disclosed. A fiber Bragg grating (FBG) or Long-Period grating (LPG) written in a section of single mode fused silica fiber is incorporated into a fiber loop. By utilizing the wing areas of the gratings' bandwidth as a wavelength dependent attenuator of the light transmission, a fiber grating loop ringdown concept is formed. One aspect of the present invention is temperature sensing, which has been demonstrated using the disclosed device. Temperature measurements in the areas of accuracy, stability, high temperature, and dynamic range are also described.

Advanced Fiber-optic Monitoring System for Space-flight Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hull, M. S.; VanTassell, R. L.; Pennington, C. D.; Roman, M.

2005-01-01

Researchers at Luna Innovations Inc. and the National Aeronautic and Space Administration s Marshall Space Flight Center (NASA MSFC) have developed an integrated fiber-optic sensor system for real-time monitoring of chemical contaminants and whole-cell bacterial pathogens in water. The system integrates interferometric and evanescent-wave optical fiber-based sensing methodologies with atomic force microscopy (AFM) and long-period grating (LPG) technology to provide versatile measurement capability for both micro- and nano-scale analytes. Sensors can be multiplexed in an array format and embedded in a totally self-contained laboratory card for use with an automated microfluidics platform.

Experimental investigation of the phase equilibria in the carbon dioxide-propane-3 M MDEA system

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

Jou, F.Y.; Mather, A.E.; Otto, F.D.

1995-07-01

The treating of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to remove carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide using aqueous alkanolamine solutions is an important aspect of gas processing. One of the amines used in the natural gas industry is methyldiethanolamine (MDEA). Measurements of the phase equilibria in the carbon dioxide-propane-3 M MDEA system have been made at 25 and 40 C at pressures up to 15.5 MPa. Vapor-liquid, liquid-liquid, and vapor-liquid-liquid equilibria were determined. The vapor-liquid equilibrium data were compared with the model of Deshmukh and Mather.

Long-period fibre grating writing with a slit-apertured femtosecond laser beam (λ = 1026 nm)

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

Dostovalov, A V; Wolf, A A; Babin, S A

We report on long-period grating (LPG) writing in a standard telecom fibre, SMF-28e+, via refractive index modification by femtosecond pulses. A method is proposed for grating writing with a slit-apertured beam, which enables one to produce LPGs with reduced background losses and a resonance peak markedly stronger than that in the case of grating writing with a Gaussian beam. The method can be used to fabricate LPGs for use as spectral filters of fibre lasers and sensing elements of sensor systems. (fibre and integrated-optical structures)

Feasibility study on the modernization and expansion of the Tema Oil Refinery: Appendix 1, Part A. REFOP reports. Export trade information (Draft)

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

Not Available

1992-04-01

The Tema Oil Refinery, which was commissioned in 1963, is a simple hydroskimming plant which processes crude oil into LPG, gasoline, kerosene, gasoil, and fuel oil. It is the only petroleum refinery in Ghana. Over the years, some of the equipment in the refinery has deteriorated or become obsolete, necessitating major rehabilitation. A feasibility study is investigating the modernization and expansion of the refinery to meet projected market demands until the year 2005. This report is appendix I, part A to the feasibility study.

Feasibility study on the modernization and expansion of the Tema Oil Refinery: Appendix 1, Part B. REFOP reports (Final report). Export trade information

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

Not Available

1992-04-01

The Tema Oil Refinery, which was commissioned in 1963, is a simple hydroskimming plant which processes crude oil into LPG, gasoline, kerosene, gasoil, and fuel oil. It is the only petroleum refinery in Ghana. Over the years, some of the equipment in the refinery has deteriorated or become obsolete, necessitating major rehabilitation. A feasibility study is investigating the modernization and expansion of the refinery to meet projected market demands until the year 2005. This report is appendix I, part B to the feasibility study.

Enhancement of NH3 gas sensitivity at room temperature by carbon nanotube-based sensor coated with Co nanoparticles.

PubMed

Nguyen, Lich Quang; Phan, Pho Quoc; Duong, Huyen Ngoc; Nguyen, Chien Duc; Nguyen, Lam Huu

2013-01-30

Multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) film has been fabricated onto Pt-patterned alumina substrates using the chemical vapor deposition method for NH(3) gas sensing applications. The MWCNT-based sensor is sensitive to NH(3) gas at room temperature. Nanoclusters of Co catalysts have been sputtered on the surface of the MWCNT film to enhance gas sensitivity with respect to unfunctionalized CNT films. The gas sensitivity of Co-functionalized MWCNT-based gas sensors is thus significantly improved. The sensor exhibits good repeatability and high selectivity towards NH(3), compared with alcohol and LPG.

Gas Sensitivity Study of Polypyrrole Decorated Graphene Oxide Thick Film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patil, Pritam; Gaikwad, Ganesh; Patil, Devidas Ramrao; Naik, Jitendra

2016-04-01

Polypyrrole (PPy) and graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites were prepared by in situ polymerization method. The synthesized nanocomposites were characterized for current-voltage characteristic, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy, which gave the evidence of the strong interaction between PPy nanofibers and GO nanosheets. The PPy/GO nanocomposites were used for the sensing of H2S, LPG, CO2 and NH3 gases respectively at room temperature. It was observed that PPy/GO nanocomposites with different GO weight ratios (5, 10 and 20 %) had better selectivity and sensitivity towards NH3 at room temperature.

Structural and Functional Investigations of the Effector Protein LpiR1 from Legionella pneumophila.

PubMed

Beyrakhova, Ksenia A; van Straaten, Karin; Li, Lei; Boniecki, Michal T; Anderson, Deborah H; Cygler, Miroslaw

2016-07-22

Legionella pneumophila is a causative agent of a severe pneumonia, known as Legionnaires' disease. Legionella pathogenicity is mediated by specific virulence factors, called bacterial effectors, which are injected into the invaded host cell by the bacterial type IV secretion system. Bacterial effectors are involved in complex interactions with the components of the host cell immune and signaling pathways, which eventually lead to bacterial survival and replication inside the mammalian cell. Structural and functional studies of bacterial effectors are, therefore, crucial for elucidating the mechanisms of Legionella virulence. Here we describe the crystal structure of the LpiR1 (Lpg0634) effector protein and investigate the effects of its overexpression in mammalian cells. LpiR1 is an α-helical protein that consists of two similar domains aligned in an antiparallel fashion. The hydrophilic cleft between the domains might serve as a binding site for a potential host cell interaction partner. LpiR1 binds the phosphate group at a conserved site and is stabilized by Mn(2+), Ca(2+), or Mg(2+) ions. When overexpressed in mammalian cells, a GFP-LpiR1 fusion protein is localized in the cytoplasm. Intracellular signaling antibody array analysis revealed small changes in the phosphorylation state of several components of the Akt signaling pathway in HEK293T cells overexpressing LpiR1. © 2016 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

The application of the high-speed photography in the experiments of boiling liquid expanding vapor explosions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Sining; Sun, Jinhua; Chen, Dongliang

2007-01-01

The liquefied-petroleum gas tank in some failure situations may release its contents, and then a series of hazards with different degrees of severity may occur. The most dangerous accident is the boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion (BLEVE). In this paper, a small-scale experiment was established to experimentally investigate the possible processes that could lead to a BLEVE. As there is some danger in using LPG in the experiments, water was used as the test fluid. The change of pressure and temperature was measured during the experiment. The ejection of the vapor and the sequent two-phase flow were recorded by a high-speed video camera. It was observed that two pressure peaks result after the pressure is released. The vapor was first ejected at a high speed; there was a sudden pressure drop which made the liquid superheated. The superheated liquid then boiled violently causing the liquid contents to swell, and also, the vapor pressure in the tank increased rapidly. The second pressure peak was possibly due to the swell of this two-phase flow which was likely to violently impact the wall of the tank with high speed. The whole evolution of the two-phase flow was recorded through photos captured by the high-speed video camera, and the "two step" BLEVE process was confirmed.

Initiation of insulin pump therapy in children at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes resulted in improved long-term glycemic control.

PubMed

Lang, Eunice G; King, Bruce R; Miller, Malcolm N; Dunn, Sandra V; Price, Darrell A; Foskett, Deborah C

2017-02-01

Insulin pump therapy (IPT) is increasingly used in children and young people with type 1 diabetes. There are limited studies evaluating the optimal time to start IPT. The aim of this study was to determine if early initiation of IPT in children with type 1 diabetes leads to improved glycaemic control and quality of life (QOL) compared with the later introduction of IPT. There were 38 subjects in the early pump group (EPG) (age 12.6 + 4.9 yr, 23 male) and 37 in the later pump group (LPG) (age 13.1 + 4.1 yr, 19 male). Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), rate of severe hypoglycemia, and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) were collected retrospectively over a 48-month period. Eligible subjects and/or their parents completed both a Paediatric and Paediatric Diabetes-specific Quality of Life Inventory. HbA1c measurements were lower in the EPG (6.8%; 51 mmol/mol) compared to the LPG (7.9%; 63 mmol/mol), across the 48 months of the study (p < 0.0001). There was no significant difference in the rate (per patient years) of severe hypoglycaemia (0.02; 0.07) p = 0.075 between the two groups. There were no episodes of DKA in either group. There was no significant difference in QOL between the groups with both having high satisfaction rates. Initiation of IPT at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in children resulted in consistently lower HbA1c with no apparent change in hypoglycemia, DKA, or QOL. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Household air pollution, health, and climate change: cleaning the air

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goldemberg, Jose; Martinez-Gomez, Javier; Sagar, Ambuj; Smith, Kirk R.

2018-03-01

Air pollution from the use of solid household fuels is now recognized to be a major health risk in developing countries. Accordingly, there has been some shift in development thinking and investment from previous efforts, which has focused only on improving the efficiency of household fuel use, to those that focus on reducing exposure to the air pollution that leads to health impact. Unfortunately, however, this is occurring just as the climate agenda has come to dominate much of the discourse and action on international sustainable development. Thus, instead of optimizing approaches that centrally focus on the large health impact, the household energy agenda has been hampered by the constraints imposed by a narrow definition of sustainability—one primarily driven by the desire to mitigate greenhouse emissions by relying on renewable biomass fueling so-called improved cookstoves. In reality, however, solid biomass is extremely difficult to burn sufficiently cleanly in household stoves to reach health goals. In comparison to the international development community, however, some large countries, notably Brazil historically and more recently, India have substantially expanded the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in their household energy mix, using their own resources, having a major impact on their national energy picture. The net climate impact of such approaches compared to current biomass stoves is minimal or non-existent, and the social and health benefits are, in contrast, potentially great. LPG can be seen as a transition fuel for clean household energy, with induction stoves powered by renewables as the holy grail (an approach already being adopted by Ecuador as also discussed here). The enormous human and social benefits of clean energy, rather than climate concerns, should dominate the household energy access agenda today.

Temperature insensitive all-fiber accelerometer using a photonic crystal fiber long-period grating interferometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Shijie; Zhu, Yinian; Krishnaswamy, Sridhar

2012-04-01

Fiber-optic accelerometers have attracted great attention in recent years due to the fact that they have many advantages over electrical counterparts because all-fiber accelerometers have the capabilities for multiplexing to reduce cabling and to transmit signals over a long distance. They are also immune to electromagnetic interference. We propose and develop a compact and robust photonic crystal fiber (PCF) Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) that can be implemented as an accelerometer for measurements of vibration and displacement. To excite core mode to couple out with cladding modes, two long-period gratings (LPGs) with identical transmission spectra are needed to be written in an endless single-mode PCF using a CO2 laser. The first LPG can couple a part of core mode to several cladding modes. After the light beams travel at different speeds over a certain length of the core and cladding, the cladding modes will be recoupled back to the core when they meet the second LPG, resulting in interference between the core mode and cladding modes. Dynamic strain is introduced to the PCF-MZI fiber segment that is bonded onto a spring-mass system. The shift of interference fringe can be measured by a photodetector, and the transformed analog voltage signal is proportional to the acceleration of the sensor head. Based on simulations of the PCF-MZI accelerometer, we can get a sensitivity of ~ 0.08 nm/g which is comparable with fiber Bragg grating (FBG) accelerometers. The proposed accelerometer has a capability of temperature insensitivity; therefore, no thermal-compensation scheme is required. Experimental results indicate that the PCF-MZI accelerometer may be a good candidate sensor for applications in civil engineering infrastructure and aeronautical platforms.

Household air pollution from various types of rural kitchens and its exposure assessment.

PubMed

Sidhu, Maninder Kaur; Ravindra, Khaiwal; Mor, Suman; John, Siby

2017-05-15

Exposure to household air pollutants has become a leading environmental health risk in developing countries. Considering this, real-time temporal variation in fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) and carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations were measured in various types of rural household kitchens. Observed average concentrations of PM 2.5 , CO, percent relative humidity (%RH) and temperature (T) in five different kitchen types were 549.6μg/m 3 , 4.2ppm, 70.2% and 20°C respectively. Highest CO and PM 2.5 concentration were found in household performing cooking in indoor kitchens (CO: 9.3ppm; PM 2.5 : 696.5μg/m 3 ) followed by outdoor kitchens (CO: 5.8ppm; PM 2.5 : 539.5μg/m 3 ). The concentration of PM 2.5 and CO varied according to the fuel type and highest concentration was observed in kitchens using cowdung cakes followed by agricultural residue>firewood>biogas>Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). Results revealed that the pollutants concentration varied with kitchen type, fuel type and the location of kitchen. An exposure index was developed to calculate the exposure of cook, non-cook and children below 5years. Analysis of exposure index values shows that cooks, who use solid biomass fuel (SBF) in indoor kitchen, are four times more exposed to the harmful pollutants than the cooks using clean fuel. Further, using indoor PM 2.5 concentrations, hazard quotient was calculated based on evaluation of intake concentration and toxicological risk, which also shows that SBF users have higher health risks (hazard quotient>1) than the clean fuel (LPG) users. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Emission sources of non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) and their contribution to photochemical ozone (O3) formation at an urban atmosphere in western India.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yadav, R.; Sahu, L. K.; Tripathi, N.; Pal, D.

2017-12-01

Atmospheric non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) were measured at a sampling site in Udaipur city of western India during 2015 to recognize their pollution levels, variation characteristics, sources and photochemical reactivity. The samples were analyzed for NMVOCs using a Gas Chromatograph equipped with Flame Ionization Detector (GC/FID) and Thermal Desorption (TD) system. The main focus on understand the sources responsible for NMVOC emissions, and evaluating the role of the identified sources towards ozone formation. Hourly variations of various NMVOC species indicate that VOCs mixing ratios were influenced by photochemical removal with OH radicals for reactive species, secondary formation for oxygenated VOCs. In general, higher mixing ratios were observed during winter/pre-monsoon and lower levels during the monsoon season due to the seasonal change in meteorological, transport path of air parcel and boundary layer conditions. The high levels of propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10) show the dominance of LPG over the study location. The correlation coefficients of typical NMVOC pairs (ethylene/propylene, propylene/isoprene, and ethane/propane) depicted that vehicular emission and natural gas leakages were important sources for atmospheric hydrocarbons in Udaipur. Based on the annual data, PMF analysis suggest the source factors namely biomass burning/ bio-fuel, automobile exhaust, Industrial/ natural gas/power plant emissions, petrol/Diesel, gasoline evaporation, and use of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) contribute to NMVOCs loading. The propylene-equivalent and ozone formation potential of NMVOCs have also been calculated in order to find out their OH reactivity and contribution to the photochemical ozone formation.

Non-methane hydrocarbons source apportionment at different sites in Mexico City during 2002-2003

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vega, E.; Sanchez, G.; Molina, L.

2007-09-01

The atmospheric concentrations of a variety of non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC) collected at different sites, representing urban and rural environments within Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA) during 1997, 2002 and 2003 field campaigns, were compared and used as an input for the Chemical Mass Balance (CMB) receptor model to determine the source contribution of NMHC to the atmosphere. A common feature at all the locations was the dominance of alkenes (59%), aromatics (16%) and olefins (9%) in the average NMHC burden. At the urban sites the interquartile range of NMHC concentrations showed stabilization over this period with a slight increase in the concentrations of propane and butanes in the southwest site of the MCMA in 2003 due to the increased use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The receptor model CMB version 8.0 was used to apportion the NMHC sources at six locations within the MCMA, representing the heavily industrialized, commercial, residential and rural areas. For the 2003 field campaign, the contribution of vehicular emissions dominated the NMHC concentrations (19.7%±7.1% for gasoline vehicles and 35.4%±17.5% for diesel vehicles) followed by the emissions of marketing and handling of LPG (29.9%±8.0%). The NMHC concentrations showed a weekly cycle with the highest levels towards the end of the week and lowest at weekend and beginning of the week, suggesting that both emissions and accumulations process play a key role in building up NMHC levels. The toluene to benzene ratio was used to determine photochemical ageing of the air samples during the 2003 field campaign. The database was divided into periods with similar wind circulation pattern; the results suggest that ageing process within the MCMA is generally suppressed by the amount of fresh emissions.

Distributed All-Optical Sensor to Detect dCO2 in Aqueous Environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhatia, S.; Coelho, J.; Melo, L.; Davies, B.; Ahmed, F.; Bao, B.; Wild, P.; Risk, D. A.; Sinton, D.; Jun, M.

2012-12-01

Already a proven technology for temperature and stress measurements, an all-optical sensor to detect dCO2 is being developed for deployment in challenging environments. Optical sensors function under high pressure, do not require electronics and therefore experience no magnetic interference. They are also able to transmit signals over long distances with minimal losses. The dCO2 sensor's principal application is in measurement monitoring and verification of carbon capture and storage sites; however, it could also be useful in ocean, fresh water, and transition environments. The objective for the first phase of development was to detect a CO2 signal in laboratory tests. The developmental program incorporated experiments to detect CO2 under high pressure (1400 psi) in aqueous environments. Laboratory testing involved a custom pressure cell, off-the-shelf and custom long period gratings written in SMF125 fiber. Femptosecond laser micromachining was used to test alternative long period grating (LPG) and cutout shapes to maximize evanescent field interaction with the environment. A comprehensive program of geochemical modeling using PHREEQC 2 was used to identify the diversity of species in environments of interest that could exert confounding influence. Purchased UV-LPG responded to changes in concentration of scCO2 in brine at high pressure. Signal differences between CO2-saturated brine and pure brine were also noted under the same, high pressure conditions. Geochemical modeling software, PHREEQC 2, revealed a diversity of species in environments of interest whose concentrations varied strongly with temperature and pH. The modeling program's detailed characterization of environments informed work currently being undertaken as part of Phase 2, to develop a CO2-selective membrane to filter out measurement artifact.

VO2 nanorods for efficient performance in thermal fluids and sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dey, Kajal Kumar; Bhatnagar, Divyanshu; Srivastava, Avanish Kumar; Wan, Meher; Singh, Satyendra; Yadav, Raja Ram; Yadav, Bal Chandra; Deepa, Melepurath

2015-03-01

VO2 (B) nanorods with average width ranging between 50-100 nm are synthesized via a hydrothermal method and the post hydrothermal treatment drying temperature is found to be influential in their overall phase and growth morphology evolution. The nanorods with unusually high optical bandgap for a VO2 material are effective in enhancing the thermal performance of ethylene glycol nanofluids over a wide temperature range as is indicated by the temperature dependent thermal conductivity measurements. Humidity and LPG sensors fabricated using the VO2 (B) nanorods bear testament to their efficient sensing performance, which can be partially attributed to the mesoporous nature of the nanorods.VO2 (B) nanorods with average width ranging between 50-100 nm are synthesized via a hydrothermal method and the post hydrothermal treatment drying temperature is found to be influential in their overall phase and growth morphology evolution. The nanorods with unusually high optical bandgap for a VO2 material are effective in enhancing the thermal performance of ethylene glycol nanofluids over a wide temperature range as is indicated by the temperature dependent thermal conductivity measurements. Humidity and LPG sensors fabricated using the VO2 (B) nanorods bear testament to their efficient sensing performance, which can be partially attributed to the mesoporous nature of the nanorods. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Plots representing the actual ratio Knf/KEG (Knf is the thermal conductivity of the nanofluid and KEG being thermal conductivity of the base fluid) across the entire experimental temperature range of 20 to 80 °C, table representing a comparison of performance of the VO2 sensor towards different gases. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr06032f

49 CFR 37.191 - Special provision for small mixed-service operators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Special provision for small mixed-service operators. 37.191 Section 37.191 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation TRANSPORTATION... small mixed-service operators. (a) For purposes of this section, a small mixed-service operator is a...

49 CFR 37.191 - Special provision for small mixed-service operators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Special provision for small mixed-service operators. 37.191 Section 37.191 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation TRANSPORTATION... small mixed-service operators. (a) For purposes of this section, a small mixed-service operator is a...

49 CFR 37.191 - Special provision for small mixed-service operators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Special provision for small mixed-service operators. 37.191 Section 37.191 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation TRANSPORTATION... small mixed-service operators. (a) For purposes of this section, a small mixed-service operator is a...

49 CFR 37.191 - Special provision for small mixed-service operators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Special provision for small mixed-service operators. 37.191 Section 37.191 Transportation Office of the Secretary of Transportation TRANSPORTATION... small mixed-service operators. (a) For purposes of this section, a small mixed-service operator is a...

Functionalization of a long period grating coated with gold nanoparticles for glyphosate detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heidemann, Bárbara R.; Pereira, Júlia C.; Chiamenti, Ismael; Oliveira, Marcela M.; Muller, Marcia; Fabris, José L.

2017-04-01

This work describes a method for producing a nanostructured fiber optic device for sensing of pesticides in water environment. The device consists of a long period grating with a coating of gold nanoparticles functionalized with cysteamine. The LPG shows attenuation bands near the phase matching turning point at the visible spectral range. A bottom-up production route was used to deposit gold nanoparticles on the fiber surface. Sensitivity to the refractive index of the external medium was measured before and after the layer deposition. Cysteamine was used as a ligand for glyphosate present in water at a concentration of 100 μM.

Market survey on products from the Tema Oil Refinery carried out as part of the feasibility study on the Tema Oil Refinery expansion project. Export trade information

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

Not Available

1991-10-01

The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), which was commissioned in 1963, is a simple hydroskimming plant which processes crude oil into LPG, gasoline, kerosene, gasoil, and fuel oil. It is the only petroleum refinery in Ghana. Over the years some of the equipment in the refinery has deteriorated or become obsolete necessitating major rehabilitation. A feasibility study is investigating the modernization and expansion of the refinery to meet projected market demands until the year 2005. The report presents the results of a market survey done on products from TOR.

Curvature measurement with photonic crystal fiber based Mach-Zehnder interferometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deng, Ming; Tang, Chang-Ping; Zhu, Tao; Rao, Yun-Jiang

2011-05-01

A PCF-based MZI with regular and high-contrast fringe pattern is fabricated by splicing a section of PCF in between two SMFs with a commercial available fusion splicer. Its resonant wavelength is sensitive to external bending with a sensitivity of 3.046nm/m but independent on temperature. To that end, we also propose another kind of bending sensor with higher sensitivity of 5.129nm/m. This device is constructed by combining an LPG and an MZI with zero offset at the second splice. It is anticipated that the high sensitive structures will find applications in robot arms and artificial limbs.

Sensing characteristics of long period gratings in hollow core fiber fabricated via electrode arc discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iadicicco, Agostino; Cutolo, A.; Campopiano, Stefania

2014-05-01

This paper reports on the fabrication of Long Period Gratings (LPGs) in hollow-core air-silica photonic bandgap fibers (HC-PCFs) by using pressure assisted Electrode Arc Discharge (EAD) technique. In particular, the fabrication procedure relies on the combined use of EAD step, to locally heat the HC fiber, and of a static pressure (slightly higher than the external one) inside the fiber holes, to modify the holes. Here, the experimental fabrication of LPG prototypes with different periods and lengths are discussed. And, the sensitivity of LPGs in HC-PCF to environmental parameters such as strain, temperature and static pressure are presented and discussed.

Enhancement of NH3 Gas Sensitivity at Room Temperature by Carbon Nanotube-Based Sensor Coated with Co Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Nguyen, Lich Quang; Phan, Pho Quoc; Duong, Huyen Ngoc; Nguyen, Chien Duc; Nguyen, Lam Huu

2013-01-01

Multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) film has been fabricated onto Pt-patterned alumina substrates using the chemical vapor deposition method for NH3 gas sensing applications. The MWCNT-based sensor is sensitive to NH3 gas at room temperature. Nanoclusters of Co catalysts have been sputtered on the surface of the MWCNT film to enhance gas sensitivity with respect to unfunctionalized CNT films. The gas sensitivity of Co-functionalized MWCNT-based gas sensors is thus significantly improved. The sensor exhibits good repeatability and high selectivity towards NH3, compared with alcohol and LPG. PMID:23364198

Development and Testing of a 6-Cylinder HCCI Engine for Distributed Generation

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

Flowers, D L; Martinez-Frias, J; Espinosa-Loza, F

2005-07-12

This paper describes the technical approach for converting a Caterpillar 3406 natural gas spark ignited engine into HCCI mode. The paper describes all stages of the process, starting with a preliminary analysis that determined that the engine can be operated by preheating the intake air with a heat exchanger that recovers energy from the exhaust gases. This heat exchanger plays a dual role, since it is also used for starting the engine. For start-up, the heat exchanger is preheated with a natural gas burner. The engine is therefore started in HCCI mode, avoiding the need to handle the potentially difficultmore » transition from SI or diesel mode to HCCI. The fueling system was modified by replacing the natural gas carburetor with a liquid petroleum gas (LPG) carburetor. This modification sets an upper limit for the equivalence ratio at {phi} {approx} 0.4, which is ideal for HCCI operation and guarantees that the engine will not fail due to knock. Equivalence ratio can be reduced below 0.4 for low load operation with an electronic control valve. Intake boosting has been a challenge, as commercially available turbochargers are not a good match for the engine, due to the low HCCI exhaust temperature. Commercial introduction of HCCI engines for stationary power will therefore require the development of turbochargers designed specifically for this mode of operation. Considering that no appropriate off-the-shelf turbocharger for HCCI engines exists at this time, we are investigating mechanical supercharging options, which will deliver the required boost pressure (3 bar absolute intake) at the expense of some reduction in the output power and efficiency. An appropriate turbocharger can later be installed for improved performance when it becomes available or when a custom turbocharger is developed. The engine is now running in HCCI mode and producing power in an essentially naturally aspirated mode. Current work focuses on developing an automatic controller for obtaining consistent combustion in the 6 cylinders. The engine will then be tested for 1000 hours to demonstrate durability. This paper presents intermediate progress towards development of an HCCI engine for stationary power generation and next steps towards achieving the project goals.« less

Life cycle assessment of biochar application in Vietnam using two pyrolysis technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mohammadi, Ali; Cowie, Annette; Mai, Thi Lan Anh; Anaya de la Rosa, Ruy; Kristiansen, Paul; Brandão, Miguel; Joseph, Stephen

2016-04-01

This study presents a comparative analysis of the environmental impacts of biochar systems in Vietnam using household scale and district scale pyrolysis technologies. At the household scale, pyrolytic cook-stoves were assumed to be used by households to produce biochar. The pyrolytic cook-stoves burn pyrolysis gases and use the heat for cooking. At the district scale, the BIGchar 2200 unit, a continuous operation system, is utilised to convert rice husk to biochar. This unit allows for easy capture of produced gases, which can be used to generate energy products, adding value to biochar production and decreasing environmental costs through the displacement of fossil fuels. The biochar produced from each system was assumed to be applied to paddy rice fields. Results from Life Cycle Assessment showed that biochar production at the both scales for application to the soil significantly improved environmental performance of 1 Mg of rice husk relative to the reference scenario (open burning of husk) across a range of impacts including climate change (CC), particulate matter and non-renewable energy (NRE) use. Net carbon abatement of biochar systems ranged from 355 to 427 kg CO2-eq Mg-1 of spring rice husk at the household scale and district scale, respectively. The district scale offered greater carbon abatement primarily due to the higher rate of LPG displaced by this unit.

Ce doped NiO nanoparticles as selective NO2 gas sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gawali, Swati R.; Patil, Vithoba L.; Deonikar, Virendrakumar G.; Patil, Santosh S.; Patil, Deepak R.; Patil, Pramod S.; Pant, Jayashree

2018-03-01

Metal oxide gas sensors are promising portable gas detection devices because of their advantages such as low cost, easy production and compact size. The performance of such sensors is strongly dependent on material properties such as morphology, structure and doping. In the present study, we report the effect of cerium (Ce) doping on nickel oxide (NiO) nano-structured thin film sensors towards various gases. Bare NiO and Ce doped NiO nanoparticles (Ce:NiO) were synthesized by sol-gel method. To understand the effect of Ce doping in nickel oxide, various molar percentages of Ce with respect to nickel were incorporated. The structure, phase, morphology and band-gap energy of as-synthesized nanoparticles were studied by XRD, SEM, EDAX and UV-vis spectroscopy. Thin film gas sensors of all the samples were prepared and subjected to various gases such as LPG, NH3, CH3COCH3 and NO2. A systematic and comparative study reveals an enhanced gas sensing performance of Ce:NiO sensors towards NO2 gas. The maximum sensitivity for NO2 gas is around 0.719% per ppm at moderate operating temperature of 150 °C for 0.5% Ce:NiO thin film gas sensor. The enhanced gas sensing performance for Ce:NiO is attributed to the distortion of crystal lattice caused by doping of Ce into NiO.

Small Water System Operations and Maintenance. A Field Study Training Program. Second Edition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kerri, Kenneth D.; And Others

Proper installation, inspection, operation, maintenance, repair and management of small water systems have a significant impact on the operation and maintenance cost and effectiveness of the systems. The objective of this manual is to provide small water system operators with the knowledge and skills required to operate and maintain these systems…

14 CFR 135.399 - Small nontransport category airplane performance operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Small nontransport category airplane... PERSONS ON BOARD SUCH AIRCRAFT Airplane Performance Operating Limitations § 135.399 Small nontransport category airplane performance operating limitations. (a) No person may operate a reciprocating engine or...

14 CFR 135.399 - Small nontransport category airplane performance operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Small nontransport category airplane... PERSONS ON BOARD SUCH AIRCRAFT Airplane Performance Operating Limitations § 135.399 Small nontransport category airplane performance operating limitations. (a) No person may operate a reciprocating engine or...

14 CFR 135.399 - Small nontransport category airplane performance operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Small nontransport category airplane... PERSONS ON BOARD SUCH AIRCRAFT Airplane Performance Operating Limitations § 135.399 Small nontransport category airplane performance operating limitations. (a) No person may operate a reciprocating engine or...

14 CFR 135.397 - Small transport category airplane performance operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Small transport category airplane... PERSONS ON BOARD SUCH AIRCRAFT Airplane Performance Operating Limitations § 135.397 Small transport category airplane performance operating limitations. (a) No person may operate a reciprocating engine...

14 CFR 135.397 - Small transport category airplane performance operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Small transport category airplane... PERSONS ON BOARD SUCH AIRCRAFT Airplane Performance Operating Limitations § 135.397 Small transport category airplane performance operating limitations. (a) No person may operate a reciprocating engine...

14 CFR 135.397 - Small transport category airplane performance operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Small transport category airplane... PERSONS ON BOARD SUCH AIRCRAFT Airplane Performance Operating Limitations § 135.397 Small transport category airplane performance operating limitations. (a) No person may operate a reciprocating engine...

14 CFR 135.399 - Small nontransport category airplane performance operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Small nontransport category airplane... PERSONS ON BOARD SUCH AIRCRAFT Airplane Performance Operating Limitations § 135.399 Small nontransport category airplane performance operating limitations. (a) No person may operate a reciprocating engine or...

14 CFR 135.397 - Small transport category airplane performance operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Small transport category airplane... PERSONS ON BOARD SUCH AIRCRAFT Airplane Performance Operating Limitations § 135.397 Small transport category airplane performance operating limitations. (a) No person may operate a reciprocating engine...

14 CFR 135.399 - Small nontransport category airplane performance operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Small nontransport category airplane... PERSONS ON BOARD SUCH AIRCRAFT Airplane Performance Operating Limitations § 135.399 Small nontransport category airplane performance operating limitations. (a) No person may operate a reciprocating engine or...

14 CFR 135.397 - Small transport category airplane performance operating limitations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Small transport category airplane... PERSONS ON BOARD SUCH AIRCRAFT Airplane Performance Operating Limitations § 135.397 Small transport category airplane performance operating limitations. (a) No person may operate a reciprocating engine...