Determination of particle concentration in the breathing zone for four different types of office ventilation systems

Many factors affect the airflow patterns, thermal comfort, contaminant removal efficiency and indoor air quality at individual workstations in office buildings. In this study, four ventilation systems were used in a test chamber designed to represent an area of a typical office building floor and reproduce the real characteristics of a modern office space. Measurements of particle concentration and thermal parameters (temperature and velocity) were carried out for each of the following types of ventilation systems: (a) conventional air distribution system with ceiling supply and return; (b) conventional air distribution system with ceiling supply and return near the floor; (c) underfloor air distribution system; and (d) split system. The measurements aimed to analyse the particle removal efficiency in the breathing zone and the impact of particle concentration on an individual at the workstation. The efficiency of the ventilation system was analysed by measuring particle size and concentration, ventilation effectiveness and the indoor/outdoor ratio. Each ventilation system showed different airflow patterns and the efficiency of each ventilation system in the removal of the particles in the breathing zone showed no correlation with particle size and the various methods of analyses used. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Recycling Krylov subspaces for efficient large-scale electrical impedance tomography

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) captures images of internal features of a body. Electrodes are attached to the boundary of the body, low intensity alternating currents are applied, and the resulting electric potentials are measured. Then, based on the measurements, an estimation algorithm obtains the three-dimensional internal admittivity distribution that corresponds to the image. One of the main goals of medical EIT is to achieve high resolution and an accurate result at low computational cost. However, when the finite element method (FEM) is employed and the corresponding mesh is refined to increase resolution and accuracy, the computational cost increases substantially, especially in the estimation of absolute admittivity distributions. Therefore, we consider in this work a fast iterative solver for the forward problem, which was previously reported in the context of structural optimization. We propose several improvements to this solver to increase its performance in the EIT context. The solver is based on the recycling of approximate invariant subspaces, and it is applied to reduce the EIT computation time for a constant and high resolution finite element mesh. In addition, we consider a powerful preconditioner and provide a detailed pseudocode for the improved iterative solver. The numerical results show the effectiveness of our approach: the proposed algorithm is faster than the preconditioned conjugate gradient (CG) algorithm. The results also show that even on a standard PC without parallelization, a high mesh resolution (more than 150,000 degrees of freedom) can be used for image estimation at a relatively low computational cost. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Viscosity measurement of Newtonian liquids using the complex reflection coefficient

This work presents the implementation of the ultrasonic shear reflectance method for viscosity measurement of Newtonian liquids using wave mode conversion from longitudinal to shear waves and vice versa. The method is based on the measurement of the complex reflection coefficient (magnitude and phase) at a solid-liquid interface. The implemented measurement cell is composed of an ultrasonic transducer, a water buffer, an aluminum prism, a PMMA buffer rod, and a sample chamber. Viscosity measurements were made in the range from 1 to 3.5 MHz for olive oil and for automotive oils (SAE 40, 90, and 250) at 15 and 22.5 degrees C, respectively. Moreover, olive oil and corn oil measurements were conducted in the range from 15 to 30 degrees C at 3.5 and 2.25 MHz, respectively. The ultrasonic measurements, in the case of the less viscous liquids, agree with the results provided by a rotational viscometer, showing Newtonian behavior. In the case of the more viscous liquids, a significant difference was obtained, showing a clear non-Newtonian behavior that cannot be described by the Kelvin-Voigt model.

Microstructure and texture assessment of Al-Mn-Fe-Si (3003) aluminum alloy produced by continuous and semicontinuous casting processes

Aluminum sheets are currently produced by the direct-chill process (DC). The need for low-cost aluminum sheets is a challenge for the development of new materials produced by the twin roll caster (TRC) process. It is expected that sheets produced from these different casting procedures will differ in their microstructure. These differences in microstructure and in the crystallographic texture have great impact on sheet mechanical properties and formability. The present study investigated microstructure and evaluated texture of two strips of Al-Mn-Fe-Si (3003) aluminum alloy produced by TRC and by hot-rolling processes. It was possible to notice that the microstructure, morphology, and grain size of the TRC sample were more homogenous than those found in hot-rolled samples. Both strips, obtained by the two processes, showed strong texture gradient across the thickness.

Hardness and structure characterization of Ti(6)Al(4)V films produced by reactive magnetron sputtering on a conventional austenitic stainless steel

Ti(6)Al(4)V thin films were grown by magnetron sputtering on a conventional austenitic stainless steel. Five deposition conditions varying both the deposition chamber pressure and the plasma power were studied. Highly textured thin films were obtained, their crystallite size (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Real time optimization (RTO) with model predictive control (MPC)

This paper studies a simplified methodology to integrate the real time optimization (RTO) of a continuous system into the model predictive controller in the one layer strategy. The gradient of the economic objective function is included in the cost function of the controller. Optimal conditions of the process at steady state are searched through the use of a rigorous non-linear process model, while the trajectory to be followed is predicted with the use of a linear dynamic model, obtained through a plant step test. The main advantage of the proposed strategy is that the resulting control/optimization problem can still be solved with a quadratic programming routine at each sampling step. Simulation results show that the approach proposed may be comparable to the strategy that solves the full economic optimization problem inside the MPC controller where the resulting control problem becomes a non-linear programming problem with a much higher computer load. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Improving the tracking capability of adaptive filters via convex combination

As is well known, Hessian-based adaptive filters (such as the recursive-least squares algorithm (RLS) for supervised adaptive filtering, or the Shalvi-Weinstein algorithm (SWA) for blind equalization) converge much faster than gradient-based algorithms [such as the least-mean-squares algorithm (LMS) or the constant-modulus algorithm (CMA)]. However, when the problem is tracking a time-variant filter, the issue is not so clear-cut: there are environments for which each family presents better performance. Given this, we propose the use of a convex combination of algorithms of different families to obtain an algorithm with superior tracking capability. We show the potential of this combination and provide a unified theoretical model for the steady-state excess mean-square error for convex combinations of gradient- and Hessian-based algorithms, assuming a random-walk model for the parameter variations. The proposed model is valid for algorithms of the same or different families, and for supervised (LMS and RLS) or blind (CMA and SWA) algorithms.

Jointly multi-user detection and channel estimation with genetic algorithm

This work aims at proposing the use of the evolutionary computation methodology in order to jointly solve the multiuser channel estimation (MuChE) and detection problems at its maximum-likelihood, both related to the direct sequence code division multiple access (DS/CDMA). The effectiveness of the proposed heuristic approach is proven by comparing performance and complexity merit figures with that obtained by traditional methods found in literature. Simulation results considering genetic algorithm (GA) applied to multipath, DS/CDMA and MuChE and multi-user detection (MuD) show that the proposed genetic algorithm multi-user channel estimation (GAMuChE) yields a normalized mean square error estimation (nMSE) inferior to 11%, under slowly varying multipath fading channels, large range of Doppler frequencies and medium system load, it exhibits lower complexity when compared to both maximum likelihood multi-user channel estimation (MLMuChE) and gradient descent method (GrdDsc). A near-optimum multi-user detector (MuD) based on the genetic algorithm (GAMuD), also proposed in this work, provides a significant reduction in the computational complexity when compared to the optimum multi-user detector (OMuD). In addition, the complexity of the GAMuChE and GAMuD algorithms were (jointly) analyzed in terms of number of operations necessary to reach the convergence, and compared to other jointly MuChE and MuD strategies. The joint GAMuChE-GAMuD scheme can be regarded as a promising alternative for implementing third-generation (3G) and fourth-generation (4G) wireless systems in the near future. Copyright (C) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Cardiovascular Simulator Improvement: Pressure Versus Volume Loop Assessment

This article presents improvement on a physical cardiovascular simulator (PCS) system. Intraventricular pressure versus intraventricular volume (PxV) loop was obtained to evaluate performance of a pulsatile chamber mimicking the human left ventricle. PxV loop shows heart contractility and is normally used to evaluate heart performance. In many heart diseases, the stroke volume decreases because of low heart contractility. This pathological situation must be simulated by the PCS in order to evaluate the assistance provided by a ventricular assist device (VAD). The PCS system is automatically controlled by a computer and is an auxiliary tool for VAD control strategies development. This PCS system is according to a Windkessel model where lumped parameters are used for cardiovascular system analysis. Peripheral resistance, arteries compliance, and fluid inertance are simulated. The simulator has an actuator with a roller screw and brushless direct current motor, and the stroke volume is regulated by the actuator displacement. Internal pressure and volume measurements are monitored to obtain the PxV loop. Left chamber internal pressure is directly obtained by pressure transducer; however, internal volume has been obtained indirectly by using a linear variable differential transformer, which senses the diaphragm displacement. Correlations between the internal volume and diaphragm position are made. LabVIEW integrates these signals and shows the pressure versus internal volume loop. The results that have been obtained from the PCS system show PxV loops at different ventricle elastances, making possible the simulation of pathological situations. A preliminary test with a pulsatile VAD attached to PCS system was made.

In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Lyophilized Bioprosthetic Valve

Freeze-drying of biological tissues allows for dry storage and gamma ray sterilization, which may improve their use as a medical prosthesis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the rehydration characteristics and hydrodynamic performance of prosthetic valves before and after lyophilization. Two size 23 bovine pericardium aortic valve prostheses from different manufacturers were evaluated in a Shelhigh (Union, NJ, USA) pulse duplicator (80 ppm, 5 L/min) before and after lyophilization. Flow and transvalvular pressure gradient were registered in vitro and in vivo, and images of opening and closing of the prosthesis were obtained in the pulse duplicator in a digital camera. Rehydration was evaluated by comparison of dry valve weight with valve weight after 15 min, and 1, 24, 48, and 72 h in saline solution, inside the pulse duplicator. In vivo performance was assessed by surgical implantation in Santa Ines young male sheep in the pulmonary position after 30 min rehydration with 0.9% saline. Transvalvular pressure gradient and flow measurements were obtained immediately after implantation and 3 months after surgery when valves were explanted. Captured images showed a change in the profile opening and closing of valve prosthesis after lyophilization. The gradient measured (in vitro) in two valves was 17.08 +/- 0.57 and 18.76 +/- 0.70 mm Hg before lyophilization, and 34.24 +/- 0.59 and 30.40 +/- 0.97 mm Hg after lyophilization. Rehydration of both lyophilized valves was approximately 82%. Drying changed the profile of the opening and closing of valve prostheses, and increased on average by 83% the gradient in vitro tests. The result of the in vivo tests suggests maintaining pressure levels of the animal with the lyophilized prostheses within acceptable levels.

A new approach to heart valve tissue engineering: mimicking the heart ventricle with a ventricular assist device in a novel bioreactor

The `biomimetic` approach to tissue engineering usually involves the use of a bioreactor mimicking physiological parameters whilst supplying nutrients to the developing tissue. Here we present a new heart valve bioreactor, having as its centrepiece a ventricular assist device (VAD), which exposes the cell-scaffold constructs to a wider array of mechanical forces. The pump of the VAD has two chambers: a blood and a pneumatic chamber, separated by an elastic membrane. Pulsatile air-pressure is generated by a piston-type actuator and delivered to the pneumatic chamber, ejecting the fluid in the blood chamber. Subsequently, applied vacuum to the pneumatic chamber causes the blood chamber to fill. A mechanical heart valve was placed in the VAD`s inflow position. The tissue engineered (TE) valve was placed in the outflow position. The VAD was coupled in series with a Windkessel compliance chamber, variable throttle and reservoir, connected by silicone tubings. The reservoir sat on an elevated platform, allowing adjustment of ventricular preload between 0 and 11 mmHg. To allow for sterile gaseous exchange between the circuit interior and exterior, a 0.2 mu m filter was placed at the reservoir. Pressure and flow were registered downstream of the TE valve. The circuit was filled with culture medium and fitted in a standard 5% CO(2) incubator set at 37 degrees C. Pressure and flow waveforms were similar to those obtained under physiological conditions for the pulmonary circulation. The `cardiomimetic` approach presented here represents a new perspective to conventional biomimetic approaches in TE, with potential advantages. Copyright (C) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Adsorbent new materials and composites produced in a single step

The aim of this work is the production and preliminary characterization of adsorbent new materials useful for sensor development. A new plasma chamber was simulated and designed in order to obtain multiple layers and/or composites in a single step. Plasma deposited organic fluorocompound and hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) thin films were produced and tested as adsorbent layers. Chemical characterization used ellipsometry, Raman. infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Hydrophobic and oleophobic character were determined by contact angle measurements. Adsorption characteristics were evaluated using quartz crystal microbalance. Not only HMDS but also the fluorocompound can polymerize but intermixing and a double layer are only obtained in very narrow conditions. The films are adsorbent and mildly hydrophobic. Films deposited on a microchromatographic column can be used on sample pretreatment to remove and/or preconcentrate volatile organic Compounds. Therefore, with this approach it is possible to obtain films with different monomers on double layer or composites, with organic/inorganic materials or particles and use them on sample pretreatment for chemical analysis. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Predicting the columnar-to-equiaxed transition for a distribution of nucleation undercoolings

A deterministic mathematical model for steady-state unidirectional solidification is proposed to predict the columnar-to-equiaxed transition. In the model, which is an extension to the classic model proposed by Hunt [Hunt JD. Mater Sci Eng 1984;65:75], equiaxed grains nucleate according to either a normal or a log-normal distribution of nucleation undercoolings. Growth maps are constructed, indicating either columnar or equiaxed solidification as a function of the velocity of isotherms and temperature gradient. The fields A columnar and equiaxed growth change significantly with the spread of the nucleation undercooling distribution. Increasing the spread Favors columnar solidification if the dimensionless velocity of the isotherms is larger than 1. For a velocity less than 1, however, equiaxed solidification is initially favored, but columnar solidification is enhanced for a larger increase in the spread. This behavior was confirmed by a stochastic model, which showed that an increase in the distribution spread Could change the grain structure from completely columnar to 50% columnar grains. (c) 2008 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Endophytic bacteria in long-term in vitro cultivated axenic pineapple microplants revealed by PCR-DGGE

In vitro propagated plants are believed to be free of microbes. However, after 5 years of in vitro culture of pineapple plants, without evidence of microbial contamination, the use of culture-independent molecular approach [classifying heterogeneous nucleic acids amplified via universal and specific 16S rRNA gene by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)], and further analysis by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) revealed endophytic bacteria in roots, young and mature leaves of such plants. The amplification of 16S rRNA gene (Bacteria domain) with the exclusion of the plant chloroplast DNA interference, confirmed the presence of bacterial DNA, from endophytic microorganisms within microplant tissues. PCR-DGGE analysis revealed clear differences on bacterial communities depending on plant organ. Group-specific DGGE analyses also indicated differences in the structures of Actinobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria and Betaproteobacteria communities in each part of plants. The results suggest the occurrence of a succession of bacterial communities colonizing actively the microplants organs. This study is the first report that brings together evidences that pineapple microplants, previously considered axenic, harbor an endophytic bacterial community encompassing members of Actinobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria and Betaproteobacteria group which is responsive to differences in organs due to plant development.

Changes in wood-water relationship due to heat treatment assessed on micro-samples of three Eucalyptus species

Wood-water relationship of untreated and heat-treated wood was studied. Specimens of Eucalyptus grandis, E saligna, and E citriodora were submitted to five conditions of heat treatment: 180 degrees C and 220 degrees C with air; 220 degrees C, 250 degrees C, and 280 degrees C with N(2). The wood-water relationships were accurately studied in a special device, in which the moisture content (MC) of the sample was measured with a highly sensitive electronic microbalance placed in a climatic chamber. The dimensions of the sample were collected continuously without contact by means of two high-speed laser scan micrometers. Sorption curves and shrinkage-MC relationships were observed. To study the effects of heat treatment, the following parameters were also determined: fiber saturation point (FPS), wood anisotropy (T/R ratio), shrinkage slope, reduction in hygroscopicity, and anti-shrink efficiency (ASE). The physical properties were significantly affected only at 220 degrees C and above. At heat temperature levels higher than 220 degrees C, the reduction in hygroscopicity and ASE are higher than 40% and continue to be reduced with increasing temperature level. This work also demonstrates that heat treatment does not change the slope of the curves shrinkage vs. MC, proving that heat treatment affects the domain of alterations in wood properties, but not the behavior within this domain.