Abstract: Casting cores particularly useful in the investment casting industry are described. The cores are characterized by the presence of hollow ceramic particles, which facilitate the removal of the core from the casting they are used to form. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the core is characterized by solid and hollow ceramic particles sintered to each other to form a core matrix, and such particles have the same composition. In an even further preferred embodiment, high temperature stable fibers are distributed uniformly throughout the matrix.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for generating electrical power by disposing a plurality of power producing modules in a substantially constant velocity ocean current and mechanically coupling the output of the modules to drive a single electrical generator.

Abstract: Device suitable for use in heat and mass transfer applications comprising a manifold structure having outwardly extending protrusions from the surface thereof and which is spirally wound into a plurality of convolutions and is surrounded by a shell having a cylindrical body member and conical ends. The protrusions are interconnected with one another so that flow progresses from one to another. The device can be used for heat transfer and for mass transfer between various fluid streams, in particular, venous blood and a stream of oxygen. The manifold structure being spirally wound provides a manifold for oxygen flow in an axial, as well as circumferential, direction. Blood flows axially through the mass transfer device in a plurality of essentially concentric streams. When two manifold structures are provided in tandem in a body member, both heat and mass transfer can be provided with a stream of blood.

Abstract: A navigational buoy is provided having a buoy and an inflatable anchor. The buoy and anchor are connected by a hollow stem that is itself flexible or is rigid and is connected to the anchor by a flexible elastomeric bearing. The stem is adapted to provide fluid communication with the anchor so that the anchor can be inflated after being positioned below the sea bottom. The flexibility of the stem is regulated by the materials used to form the stem, solid or liquid fillers in the stem and pneumatic pressure in the stem.

Abstract: Apparatus for defoaming a fluid material. The apparatus comprises a non-wetting material in closely adjacent relationship to a material having a lesser degree of non-wetting characteristics with respect to the fluid being defoamed. In one embodiment, fibers with different non-wetting characteristics are woven together with one type of fibers being woven at a 90.degree. angle with respect to the other type of fibers. In another embodiment, fabrics consisting of one type of fibers are in alternate adjacent contact with fabric of the other type of fibers. The characteristics of the fibers are preferably inherent in the material.

Abstract: A method for oxygenating blood by combining blood and oxygen in a receptacle to form a foam, the foam flowing upwardly through a bead bed having a multitude of tortuous paths and contact surfaces. The oxygenated blood is then defoamed and collected for recirculation to the patient.