Reconstructed snow accumulation rate observations from five new firn cores show a statistically significant negative trend in accumulation rates over the past four decades across the central West Antarctic ice sheet. A negative temporal trend in accumulation is unexpected in light of rising surface temperatures and simulations run by GCMs. Both the magnitude of the mean accumulation rates and the range of interannual variability observed in the new records compares favorably to older records, suggesting that the new accumulation rate records may serve as a regional proxy for recent temporal trends in West Antarctic accumulation rates. The observed negative trend is likely the result of Southern Hemisphere high-latitude internal atmospheric dynamics, dominated by changes in the austral fall season. The well-documented positive trend in the Southern Annular Mode causes a low pressure center to form over the Amundsen Sea, which in turn produces lower accumulation rates across the western portion of the West Antarctic ice sheet. The new accumulation rate records are compared to several models/reanalyses to test the skill of simulated accumulation rate predictions. While the models/reanalyses and the new observations agree well in both mean and variability, the simulated records do not capture the full negative trend observed in the reconstructed records.

Background and Objectives: Mitral stenosis with extensive mitral annular calcification (MAC) remains surgically challenging in respect to clinical outcome. Prolonged surgery time with imminent ventricular rupture and systolic anterior motion can be considered as a complex of causal factors. The aim of our alternative hybrid approach was to reduce the risk of annual rupture and paravalvular leaks and to avoid obstruction of the outflow tract. A review of the current literature was also carried out. Materials and Methods: Six female patients (mean age 76 9 years) with severe mitral valve stenosis and severely calcified annulus underwent an open implantation of an Edwards Sapien 3 prosthesis on cardiopulmonary bypass. Our hybrid approach involved resection of the anterior mitral leaflet, placement of anchor sutures and the deployment of a balloon expanded prosthesis under visual control. Concomitant procedures were carried out in three patients. Results: The mean duration of cross-clamping was 95 31 min and cardiopulmonary bypass was 137 60 min. The perioperative TEE showed in three patients an inconspicuous, heart valve-typical gradient on all implanted prostheses and a clinically irrelevant paravalvular leakage occurred in the anterior annulus. In the left ventricular outflow tract, mild to moderately elevated gradients were recorded. No adverse cerebrovascular events and pacemaker implantations were observed. All but one patient survived to discharge. Survival at one year was 83.3%. Conclusions: This “off label” implantation of the Edwards Sapien 3 prosthesis may be considered as a suitable bail-out approach for patients at high-risk for mitral valve surgery or deemed inoperable due to extensive MAC.

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This research addresses the critical need for precise two-phase flow data in the development of computer simulation models, with a specific focus on the annular flow regime's droplet behavior. The study aims to contribute to the evaluation of safety and efficiency in nuclear reactors that handle fluids transitioning between liquid and gas states for thermal energy transport. Central to the investigation is the collection and analysis of droplet size and velocity distribution data, particularly to help with developing models for the water-cooled nuclear power plants. The experimental setup employs advanced tools, including a high-speed camera, lens, teleconverter, and a selected light source, to capture high-resolution images of droplets. Calibration procedures, incorporating depth of field testing, are implemented to ensure accurate droplet size measurements. A critical component of the research is the introduction of a droplet identification program, developed using Matlab, which facilitates efficient processing of experimental data. Preliminary results from the Virginia Tech test facility demonstrate the system's capability to eliminate out-of-focus droplets and obtain precise droplet data in a reasonable amount of time. Experimental results from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute test facility provide droplet size and velocity distributions for a variety of annular flow conditions. This facility has a concurrent two-flow system that pumps air and water at different rates through a 9.525 mm inner diameter tube. The conditions tested include gas superficial velocities ranging from 22 to 40 m/s and liquid superficial velocities ranging from 0.09 to 0.44 m/s. The measured flow has a temperature of 21°C and a pressure of 1 atm. / Master of Science / This research explores the behavior of small droplets as fluids transition between liquid and gas states, particularly within the context of the cooling water in nuclear power plants. The overarching goal is to collect data on these droplets to improve computer simulations that help design nuclear reactors and assess their safety. This is important because it is often infeasible due to safety, monetary, or time restrictions to physically test some nuclear reactor equipment. The study employs state-of-the-art technology, including high-speed cameras and specialized imaging tools, to capture and analyze droplet size distribution data. This investigation is pivotal in ensuring the fuel in nuclear reactors remain adequately cooled during part of the boiling process. The research methodology includes the development of a droplet identification program using Matlab, ensuring efficient processing of experimental data. Preliminary findings from experimental tests at Virginia Tech showcase the program's capability to filter out irrelevant data and provide accurate droplet information. Experimental results from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute annular flow test facility provide droplet size and velocity data for a range of conditions that cooling water may face. Beyond its contributions to nuclear engineering, this research holds promise for influencing advancements in various applications that involve liquid droplets, opening avenues for innovation in the broader scientific and engineering communities.