#$%^&*AU2012244330A120121122.pdf#####CONVERSION OF NITROGEN DIOXIDE (NO 2) TO NITRIC OXIDE (NO) Abstract 5 Inhalation of low levels of nitric oxide can rapidly and safely decrease pulmonary hypertension in mammals. A nitric oxide delivery system that converts nitrogen dioxide to nitric oxide employs a surface-active material, such as silica gel, coated with an aqueous solution of antioxidant, such as ascorbic acid.