Introduction Increased Intra-abdominal pressure is common in critically ill patients [1] and it may adversely affect respiratory function. Mechanical ventilation (MV) is considered a predisposing factor for increased intra-abdominal pressure (IAP), especially when positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) is applied or in the presence of auto-PEEP. (2) However, it is not known if an increase in i...

Thermo-Elasto-Plastic analyses of thick-walled spherical tanks made of functionally graded materials are investigated analytically. These tanks are subjected to positive or negative temperature gradient and internal pressure loadings separately or simultaneously. The power law modeling has been used for through-the-thickness variation of mechanical properties. von Mises yield criterion and Elas...

BACKGROUND Closed endotracheal suctioning during mechanical ventilation is increasingly used, but its impact on ventilator function has not been fully studied. METHODS We evaluated the impact of closed suctioning with 11 critical-care ventilators, during assisted ventilation in pressure-support mode, pressure-assist/control mode, volume-assist/control mode, and during continuous positive airw...