Search engines split large datasets across multiple machines using document distribution. Documents are typically distributed randomly to produce good load balancing. We propose that documents be distributed by their size instead. This can make load balancing more difficult, but it produces immediate improvements in both index size and query throughput. To support our proposal, we show improvem...

BACKGROUND The observation of ultrasound generated cavitation bubbles deep in tissue is very difficult. The development of an imaging method capable of investigating cavitation bubbles in tissue would improve the efficiency and application of ultrasound in the clinic. Among the previous imaging modalities capable of detecting cavitation bubbles in vivo, the acoustic detection technique has the ...

Mass transfer studies are carried out in a bubble column with an internal diameter of 14 cm and various static liquid heights. The mass transfer coefficient is evaluated by using an oxygen sorption method. A model considering the gas holdup flushing and the sensor response is used. The interfacial mass transfer area is determined according to the measured bubble size distribution. The liquid-si...

Shock waves generated at different parts of vehicle interact with the boundary layer over the surface at high Mach flows. The adverse pressure gradient across strong shock wave causes the flow to separate and peak loads are generated at separation and reattachment points. The size of separation bubble in the shock boundary layer interaction flows depends on various parameters. Reynolds-averaged...

The process of microbubble filtration from blood is complex and highly dependent on the forces of flow and buoyancy. To protect the patient from air emboli, arterial-line filters commonly use a micropore screen, a large volume housing with purpose-built shape, and a purge port to trap, separate, and remove circulating microbubbles. Although it has been proposed that an insufficient buoyancy for...

Acoustic measurements provide convenient non-invasive means for the characterisation of materials. We show here for the first time how a commercial impedance tube can be used to provide accurate measurements of the velocity and attenuation of acoustic waves in liquid foams, as well as their effective "acoustic" density, over the 0.5-6kHz frequency range. We demonstrate this using two types of l...

The demand for eco-friendly technologies for industrial processes is increasing. Various factors such as labour costs, exploitation and waste management influences the production costs and hence the profit generated. The water treatment industry is one example of a well-developed sector which is facing these concerns. Microbubble techniques exhibit many benefits which make them applicable to he...

A model is presented for the linking of helium bubbles growing in aging metal tritides. Stresses created by neighboring bubbles are found to produce bubble growth toward coalescence. This process is interrupted by the fracture of ligaments between bubble arrays. The condition for ligament fracture percolates through the material to reach external surfaces, leading to material micro-cracking and...