@inproceedings{MeckMuellerAltherretal.2020, author = {Meck, Marvin M. and M{\"u}ller, Tim M. and Altherr, Lena and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Improving an industrial cooling system using MINLP, considering capital and operating costs}, series = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, booktitle = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-48438-5 (Print)}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-48439-2_61}, pages = {505 -- 512}, year = {2020}, abstract = {The chemical industry is one of the most important industrial sectors in Germany in terms of manufacturing revenue. While thermodynamic boundary conditions often restrict the scope for reducing the energy consumption of core processes, secondary processes such as cooling offer scope for energy optimisation. In this contribution, we therefore model and optimise an existing cooling system. The technical boundary conditions of the model are provided by the operators, the German chemical company BASF SE. In order to systematically evaluate different degrees of freedom in topology and operation, we formulate and solve a Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Program (MINLP), and compare our optimisation results with the existing system.}, language = {en} } @article{MuellerLeiseLorenzetal.2020, author = {M{\"u}ller, Tim M. and Leise, Philipp and Lorenz, Imke-Sophie and Altherr, Lena and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Optimization and validation of pumping system design and operation for water supply in high-rise buildings}, series = {Optimization and Engineering}, volume = {2021}, journal = {Optimization and Engineering}, number = {22}, publisher = {Springer}, issn = {1573-2924}, doi = {10.1007/s11081-020-09553-4}, pages = {643 -- 686}, year = {2020}, abstract = {The application of mathematical optimization methods for water supply system design and operation provides the capacity to increase the energy efficiency and to lower the investment costs considerably. We present a system approach for the optimal design and operation of pumping systems in real-world high-rise buildings that is based on the usage of mixed-integer nonlinear and mixed-integer linear modeling approaches. In addition, we consider different booster station topologies, i.e. parallel and series-parallel central booster stations as well as decentral booster stations. To confirm the validity of the underlying optimization models with real-world system behavior, we additionally present validation results based on experiments conducted on a modularly constructed pumping test rig. Within the models we consider layout and control decisions for different load scenarios, leading to a Deterministic Equivalent of a two-stage stochastic optimization program. We use a piecewise linearization as well as a piecewise relaxation of the pumps' characteristics to derive mixed-integer linear models. Besides the solution with off-the-shelf solvers, we present a problem specific exact solving algorithm to improve the computation time. Focusing on the efficient exploration of the solution space, we divide the problem into smaller subproblems, which partly can be cut off in the solution process. Furthermore, we discuss the performance and applicability of the solution approaches for real buildings and analyze the technical aspects of the solutions from an engineer's point of view, keeping in mind the economically important trade-off between investment and operation costs.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{MuellerAltherrLeiseetal.2020, author = {M{\"u}ller, Tim M. and Altherr, Lena and Leise, Philipp and Pelz, Peter F.}, title = {Optimization of pumping systems for buildings: Experimental validation of different degrees of model detail on a modular test rig}, series = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, booktitle = {Operations Research Proceedings 2019}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-48438-5}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-48439-2_58}, pages = {481 -- 488}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Successful optimization requires an appropriate model of the system under consideration. When selecting a suitable level of detail, one has to consider solution quality as well as the computational and implementation effort. In this paper, we present a MINLP for a pumping system for the drinking water supply of high-rise buildings. We investigate the influence of the granularity of the underlying physical models on the solution quality. Therefore, we model the system with a varying level of detail regarding the friction losses, and conduct an experimental validation of our model on a modular test rig. Furthermore, we investigate the computational effort and show that it can be reduced by the integration of domain-specific knowledge.}, language = {en} } @article{AltherrLeisePfetschetal.2018, author = {Altherr, Lena and Leise, Philipp and Pfetsch, Marc E. and Schmitt, Andreas}, title = {Algorithmic design and resilience assessment of energy efficient high-rise water supply systems}, series = {Applied Mechanics and Materials}, volume = {885}, journal = {Applied Mechanics and Materials}, publisher = {Trans Tech Publications}, address = {B{\"a}ch}, issn = {1662-7482}, doi = {10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMM.885.211}, pages = {211 -- 223}, year = {2018}, abstract = {High-rise water supply systems provide water flow and suitable pressure in all levels of tall buildings. To design such state-of-the-art systems, the consideration of energy efficiency and the anticipation of component failures are mandatory. In this paper, we use Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Programming to compute an optimal placement of pipes and pumps, as well as an optimal control strategy.Moreover, we consider the resilience of the system to pump failures. A resilient system is able to fulfill a predefined minimum functionality even though components fail or are restricted in their normal usage. We present models to measure and optimize the resilience. To demonstrate our approach, we design and analyze an optimal resilient decentralized water supply system inspired by a real-life hotel building.}, language = {en} } @incollection{PfetschAbeleAltherretal.2021, author = {Pfetsch, Marc E. and Abele, Eberhard and Altherr, Lena and B{\"o}lling, Christian and Br{\"o}tz, Nicolas and Dietrich, Ingo and Gally, Tristan and Geßner, Felix and Groche, Peter and Hoppe, Florian and Kirchner, Eckhard and Kloberdanz, Hermann and Knoll, Maximilian and Kolvenbach, Philip and Kuttich-Meinlschmidt, Anja and Leise, Philipp and Lorenz, Ulf and Matei, Alexander and Molitor, Dirk A. and Niessen, Pia and Pelz, Peter F. and Rexer, Manuel and Schmitt, Andreas and Schmitt, Johann M. and Schulte, Fiona and Ulbrich, Stefan and Weigold, Matthias}, title = {Strategies for mastering uncertainty}, series = {Mastering uncertainty in mechanical engineering}, booktitle = {Mastering uncertainty in mechanical engineering}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, isbn = {978-3-030-78353-2}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-78354-9_6}, pages = {365 -- 456}, year = {2021}, abstract = {This chapter describes three general strategies to master uncertainty in technical systems: robustness, flexibility and resilience. It builds on the previous chapters about methods to analyse and identify uncertainty and may rely on the availability of technologies for particular systems, such as active components. Robustness aims for the design of technical systems that are insensitive to anticipated uncertainties. Flexibility increases the ability of a system to work under different situations. Resilience extends this characteristic by requiring a given minimal functional performance, even after disturbances or failure of system components, and it may incorporate recovery. The three strategies are described and discussed in turn. Moreover, they are demonstrated on specific technical systems.}, language = {en} } @article{BraunChengDoweyetal.2021, author = {Braun, Sebastian and Cheng, Chi-Tsun and Dowey, Steve and Wollert, J{\"o}rg}, title = {Performance evaluation of skill-based order-assignment in production environments with multi-agent systems}, series = {IEEE Journal of Emerging and Selected Topics in Industrial Electronics}, journal = {IEEE Journal of Emerging and Selected Topics in Industrial Electronics}, number = {Early Access}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York}, issn = {2687-9735}, doi = {10.1109/JESTIE.2021.3108524}, year = {2021}, abstract = {The fourth industrial revolution introduces disruptive technologies to production environments. One of these technologies are multi-agent systems (MASs), where agents virtualize machines. However, the agent's actual performances in production environments can hardly be estimated as most research has been focusing on isolated projects and specific scenarios. We address this gap by implementing a highly connected and configurable reference model with quantifiable key performance indicators (KPIs) for production scheduling and routing in single-piece workflows. Furthermore, we propose an algorithm to optimize the search of extrema in highly connected distributed systems. The benefits, limits, and drawbacks of MASs and their performances are evaluated extensively by event-based simulations against the introduced model, which acts as a benchmark. Even though the performance of the proposed MAS is, on average, slightly lower than the reference system, the increased flexibility allows it to find new solutions and deliver improved factory-planning outcomes. Our MAS shows an emerging behavior by using flexible production techniques to correct errors and compensate for bottlenecks. This increased flexibility offers substantial improvement potential. The general model in this paper allows the transfer of the results to estimate real systems or other models.}, language = {en} } @article{JahnkeRousselHombachetal.2016, author = {Jahnke, Siegfried and Roussel, Johanna and Hombach, Thomas and Kochs, Johannes and Fischbach, Andreas and Huber, Gregor and Scharr, Hanno}, title = {phenoSeeder - A robot system for automated handling and phenotyping of individual seeds}, series = {Plant physiology}, volume = {172}, journal = {Plant physiology}, number = {3}, publisher = {Oxford University Press}, address = {Oxford}, issn = {0032-0889}, doi = {10.1104/pp.16.01122}, pages = {1358 -- 1370}, year = {2016}, abstract = {The enormous diversity of seed traits is an intriguing feature and critical for the overwhelming success of higher plants. In particular, seed mass is generally regarded to be key for seedling development but is mostly approximated by using scanning methods delivering only two-dimensional data, often termed seed size. However, three-dimensional traits, such as the volume or mass of single seeds, are very rarely determined in routine measurements. Here, we introduce a device named phenoSeeder, which enables the handling and phenotyping of individual seeds of very different sizes. The system consists of a pick-and-place robot and a modular setup of sensors that can be versatilely extended. Basic biometric traits detected for individual seeds are two-dimensional data from projections, three-dimensional data from volumetric measures, and mass, from which seed density is also calculated. Each seed is tracked by an identifier and, after phenotyping, can be planted, sorted, or individually stored for further evaluation or processing (e.g. in routine seed-to-plant tracking pipelines). By investigating seeds of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), rapeseed (Brassica napus), and barley (Hordeum vulgare), we observed that, even for apparently round-shaped seeds of rapeseed, correlations between the projected area and the mass of seeds were much weaker than between volume and mass. This indicates that simple projections may not deliver good proxies for seed mass. Although throughput is limited, we expect that automated seed phenotyping on a single-seed basis can contribute valuable information for applications in a wide range of wild or crop species, including seed classification, seed sorting, and assessment of seed quality.}, language = {en} } @article{Wrede2016, author = {Wrede, Oliver}, title = {Continuity in travel information}, series = {Information Design Journal}, volume = {22}, journal = {Information Design Journal}, number = {2}, publisher = {John Benjamins}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0142-5471}, doi = {10.1075/idj.22.2.09wre}, pages = {172 -- 178}, year = {2016}, abstract = {This article discusses the contrast between the information transportation companies provide to travellers and that of their brand messaging. Companies' brand messaging often portrays the service they provide as pleasant, stress free and perfect. Customers and users of the service, on the other hand, often describe their experience of the service as a negative one. This article suggests that the brand value would be greater if transportation companies paid more attention to the users' experience when designing their information systems, particularly in worst case scenarios.}, language = {en} } @article{NeuJanserKhatibietal.2017, author = {Neu, Eugen and Janser, Frank and Khatibi, Akbar A. and Orifici, Adrian C.}, title = {Fully Automated Operational Modal Analysis using multi-stage clustering}, series = {Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing}, volume = {Vol. 84, Part A}, journal = {Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0888-3270}, doi = {10.1016/j.ymssp.2016.07.031}, pages = {308 -- 323}, year = {2017}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KesslerBalcGebhardtetal.2017, author = {Kessler, Julia and Balc, Nicolae and Gebhardt, Andreas and Abbas, Karim}, title = {Basic research on lattice structures focused on the reliance of the cross sectional area and additional coatings}, series = {The 4th International Conference on Computing and Solutions in Manufacturing Engineering 2016 - CoSME'16}, booktitle = {The 4th International Conference on Computing and Solutions in Manufacturing Engineering 2016 - CoSME'16}, edition = {Vol. 94}, doi = {10.1051/matecconf/20179403008}, pages = {7 S.}, year = {2017}, language = {en} } @article{FunkeKeinzKustereretal.2016, author = {Funke, Harald and Keinz, Jan and Kusterer, Karsten and Ayed, Anis Haj and Kazari, Masahide and Kitajima, Junichi and Horikawa, Atsushi and Okada, Kunio}, title = {Experimental and Numerical Study on Optimizing the Dry Low NOₓ Micromix Hydrogen Combustion Principle for Industrial Gas Turbine Applications}, series = {Journal of Thermal Science and Engineering Applications}, volume = {9}, journal = {Journal of Thermal Science and Engineering Applications}, number = {2}, publisher = {ASME}, address = {New York, NY}, issn = {1948-5093}, doi = {10.1115/1.4034849}, pages = {021001 -- 021001-10}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Combined with the use of renewable energy sources for its production, hydrogen represents a possible alternative gas turbine fuel for future low-emission power generation. Due to the difference in the physical properties of hydrogen compared to other fuels such as natural gas, well-established gas turbine combustion systems cannot be directly applied to dry low NOₓ (DLN) hydrogen combustion. The DLN micromix combustion of hydrogen has been under development for many years, since it has the promise to significantly reduce NOₓ emissions. This combustion principle for air-breathing engines is based on crossflow mixing of air and gaseous hydrogen. Air and hydrogen react in multiple miniaturized diffusion-type flames with an inherent safety against flashback and with low NOₓ emissions due to a very short residence time of the reactants in the flame region. The paper presents an advanced DLN micromix hydrogen application. The experimental and numerical study shows a combustor configuration with a significantly reduced number of enlarged fuel injectors with high-thermal power output at constant energy density. Larger fuel injectors reduce manufacturing costs, are more robust and less sensitive to fuel contamination and blockage in industrial environments. The experimental and numerical results confirm the successful application of high-energy injectors, while the DLN micromix characteristics of the design point, under part-load conditions, and under off-design operation are maintained. Atmospheric test rig data on NOₓ emissions, optical flame-structure, and combustor material temperatures are compared to numerical simulations and show good agreement. The impact of the applied scaling and design laws on the miniaturized micromix flamelets is particularly investigated numerically for the resulting flow field, the flame-structure, and NOₓ formation.}, language = {en} } @article{AyedKustererFunkeetal.2016, author = {Ayed, Anis Haj and Kusterer, Karsten and Funke, Harald and Keinz, Jan}, title = {CFD Based Improvement of the DLN Hydrogen Micromix Combustion Technology at Increased Energy Densities}, series = {American Scientific Research Journal for Engineering, Technology, and Sciences (ASRJETS)}, volume = {26}, journal = {American Scientific Research Journal for Engineering, Technology, and Sciences (ASRJETS)}, number = {3}, publisher = {GSSRR}, issn = {2313-4402}, pages = {290 -- 303}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Combined with the use of renewable energy sources for its production, Hydrogen represents a possible alternative gas turbine fuel within future low emission power generation. Due to the large difference in the physical properties of Hydrogen compared to other fuels such as natural gas, well established gas turbine combustion systems cannot be directly applied for Dry Low NOx (DLN) Hydrogen combustion. Thus, the development of DLN combustion technologies is an essential and challenging task for the future of Hydrogen fuelled gas turbines. The DLN Micromix combustion principle for hydrogen fuel has been developed to significantly reduce NOx-emissions. This combustion principle is based on cross-flow mixing of air and gaseous hydrogen which reacts in multiple miniaturized diffusion-type flames. The major advantages of this combustion principle are the inherent safety against flash-back and the low NOx-emissions due to a very short residence time of reactants in the flame region of the micro-flames. The Micromix Combustion technology has been already proven experimentally and numerically for pure Hydrogen fuel operation at different energy density levels. The aim of the present study is to analyze the influence of different geometry parameter variations on the flame structure and the NOx emission and to identify the most relevant design parameters, aiming to provide a physical understanding of the Micromix flame sensitivity to the burner design and identify further optimization potential of this innovative combustion technology while increasing its energy density and making it mature enough for real gas turbine application. The study reveals great optimization potential of the Micromix Combustion technology with respect to the DLN characteristics and gives insight into the impact of geometry modifications on flame structure and NOx emission. This allows to further increase the energy density of the Micromix burners and to integrate this technology in industrial gas turbines.}, language = {en} } @article{OrzadaJohstMaderwaldetal.2013, author = {Orzada, Stephan and Johst, S{\"o}ren and Maderwald, Stefan and Bitz, Andreas and Solbach, Klaus and Ladd, Mark E.}, title = {Mitigation of B1(+) inhomogeneity on single-channel transmit systems with TIAMO}, series = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, volume = {70}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, number = {1}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1522-2594}, doi = {10.1002/mrm.24453}, pages = {290 -- 294}, year = {2013}, language = {en} } @article{OrzadaMaderwaldPoseretal.2012, author = {Orzada, S. and Maderwald, S. and Poser, B. A. and Johst, S. and Kannengiesser, S. and Ladd, M. E. and Bitz, Andreas}, title = {Time-interleaved acquisition of modes: an analysis of SAR and image contrast implications}, series = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, volume = {67}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, number = {4}, publisher = {Wiley-Liss}, address = {New York}, issn = {1522-2594}, doi = {10.1002/mrm.23081}, pages = {1033 -- 1041}, year = {2012}, abstract = {s the magnetic field strength and therefore the operational frequency in MRI are increased, the radiofrequency wavelength approaches the size of the human head/body, resulting in wave effects which cause signal decreases and dropouts. Especially, whole-body imaging at 7 T and higher is therefore challenging. Recently, an acquisition scheme called time-interleaved acquisition of modes has been proposed to tackle the inhomogeneity problems in high-field MRI. The basic premise is to excite two (or more) different Burn:x-wiley:07403194:media:MRM23081:tex2gif-stack-1 modes using static radiofrequency shimming in an interleaved acquisition, where the complementary radiofrequency patterns of the two modes can be exploited to improve overall signal homogeneity. In this work, the impact of time-interleaved acquisition of mode on image contrast as well as on time-averaged specific absorption rate is addressed in detail. Time-interleaved acquisition of mode is superior in Burn:x-wiley:07403194:media:MRM23081:tex2gif-stack-2 homogeneity compared with conventional radiofrequency shimming while being highly specific absorption rate efficient. Time-interleaved acquisition of modes can enable almost homogeneous high-field imaging throughout the entire field of view in PD, T2, and T2*-weighted imaging and, if a specified homogeneity criterion is met, in T1-weighted imaging as well.}, language = {en} } @article{KobusBitzUdenetal.2012, author = {Kobus, Thiele and Bitz, Andreas and Uden, Mark J. van and Lagemaat, Miram W. and Rothgang, Eva and Orzada, Stephan and Heerschap, Arend and Scheenen, Tom W. J.}, title = {In vivo 31P MR spectroscopic imaging of the human prostate at 7 T: safety and feasibility}, series = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, volume = {68}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, number = {6}, publisher = {Wiley-Liss}, address = {New York}, issn = {1522-2594}, doi = {10.1002/mrm.24175}, pages = {1683 -- 1695}, year = {2012}, abstract = {31P MR spectroscopic imaging of the human prostate provides information about phosphorylated metabolites that could be used for prostate cancer characterization. The sensitivity of a magnetic field strength of 7 T might enable 3D 31P MR spectroscopic imaging with relevant spatial resolution in a clinically acceptable measurement time. To this end, a 31P endorectal coil was developed and combined with an eight-channel 1H body-array coil to relate metabolic information to anatomical location. An extensive safety validation was performed to evaluate the specific absorption rate, the radiofrequency field distribution, and the temperature distribution of both coils. This validation consisted of detailed Finite Integration Technique simulations, confirmed by MR thermometry and Burn:x-wiley:07403194:media:MRM24175:tex2gif-stack-1 measurements in a phantom and in vivo temperature measurements. The safety studies demonstrated that the presence of the 31P endorectal coil had no influence on the specific absorption rate levels and temperature distribution of the external eight-channel 1H array coil. To stay within a 10 g averaged local specific absorption rate of 10 W/kg, a maximum time-averaged input power of 33 W for the 1H array coil was allowed. For transmitting with the 31P endorectal coil, our safety limit of less than 1°C temperature increase in vivo during a 15-min MR spectroscopic imaging experiment was reached at a time-averaged input power of 1.9 W. With this power setting, a second in vivo measurement was performed on a healthy volunteer. Using adiabatic excitation, 3D 31P MR spectroscopic imaging produced spectra from the entire prostate in 18 min with a spatial resolution of 4 cm3. The spectral resolution enabled the separate detection of phosphocholine, phosphoethanolamine, inorganic phosphate, and other metabolites that could play an important role in the characterization of prostate cancer.}, language = {en} } @article{OrzadaMaderwaldPoseretal.2010, author = {Orzada, Stephan and Maderwald, Stefan and Poser, Benedikt Andreas and Bitz, Andreas and Quick, Harald H. and Ladd, Mark E.}, title = {RF excitation using time interleaved acquisition of modes (TIAMO) to address B1 inhomogeneity in high-field MRI}, series = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, volume = {64}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, number = {2}, publisher = {Wiley-Liss}, address = {New York}, issn = {1522-2594}, doi = {10.1002/mrm.22527}, pages = {327 -- 333}, year = {2010}, abstract = {As the field strength and, therefore, the operational frequency in MRI is increased, the wavelength approaches the size of the human head/body, resulting in wave effects, which cause signal decreases and dropouts. Several multichannel approaches have been proposed to try to tackle these problems, including RF shimming, where each element in an array is driven by its own amplifier and modulated with a certain (constant) amplitude and phase relative to the other elements, and Transmit SENSE, where spatially tailored RF pulses are used. In this article, a relatively inexpensive and easy to use imaging scheme for 7 Tesla imaging is proposed to mitigate signal voids due to B1 field inhomogeneity. Two time-interleaved images are acquired using a different excitation mode for each. By forming virtual receive elements, both images are reconstructed together using GRAPPA to achieve a more homogeneous image, with only small SNR and SAR penalty in head and body imaging at 7 Tesla.}, language = {en} } @article{UmutluBitzMaderwaldetal.2013, author = {Umutlu, Lale and Bitz, Andreas and Maderwald, Stefan and Orzada, Stephan and Kinner, Sonja and Kraff, Oliver and Brote, Irina and Ladd, Susanne C. and Schroeder, Tobias and Forsting, Michael}, title = {Contrast-enhanced ultra-high-field liver MRI: a feasibility trial}, series = {European Journal of Radiology}, volume = {82}, journal = {European Journal of Radiology}, number = {5}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0720-048X}, doi = {10.1016/j.ejrad.2011.07.004}, pages = {760 -- 767}, year = {2013}, language = {en} } @article{YazdanbakhshSolbachBitz2012, author = {Yazdanbakhsh, Pedram and Solbach, Klaus and Bitz, Andreas}, title = {Variable power combiner for RF mode shimming in 7-T MR imaging}, series = {IEEE Transaction on Biomedical Engineering}, volume = {59}, journal = {IEEE Transaction on Biomedical Engineering}, number = {9}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York}, issn = {1558-2531}, doi = {10.1109/TBME.2012.2205926}, pages = {2549 -- 2557}, year = {2012}, abstract = {This contribution discusses the utilization of RF power in an MRI system with RF mode shimming which enables the superposition of circularly polarized modes of a transmit RF coil array driven by a Butler matrix. Since the required power for the individual modes can vary widely, mode-shimming can result in a significant underutilization of the total available RF power. A variable power combiner (VPC) is proposed to improve the power utilization: it can be realized as a reconfiguration of the MRI transmit system by the inclusion of one additional matrix network which receives the power from all transmit amplifiers at its input ports and provides any desired (combined) power distribution at its output ports by controlling the phase and amplitude of the amplifiers' input signals. The power distribution at the output ports of the VPC is then fed into the "mode" ports of the coil array Butler matrix in order to superimpose the spatial modes at the highest achievable power utilization. The VPC configuration is compared to the standard configuration of the transmit chain of our MRI system with 8 transmit channels and 16 coils. In realistic scenarios, improved power utilization was achieved from 17\% to 60\% and from 14\% to 55\% for an elliptical phantom and a region of interest in the abdomen, respectively, and an increase of the power utilization of 1 dB for a region of interest in the upper leg. In general, it is found that the VPC allows significant improvement in power utilization when the shimming solution demands only a few modes to be energized, while the technique can yield loss in power utilization in cases with many modes required at high power level.}, language = {en} } @article{ProchnowGebingLadageetal.2011, author = {Prochnow, Nora and Gebing, Tina and Ladage, Kerstin and Krause-Finkeldey, Dorothee and Ourdi, Abessamad El and Bitz, Andreas and Streckert, Joachim and Hansen, Volkert and Dermietzel, Rolf}, title = {Electromagnetic field effect or simply stress? Effects of UMTS exposure on hippocampal longterm plasticity in the context of procedure related hormone release}, series = {PLoS one}, volume = {6}, journal = {PLoS one}, number = {5}, publisher = {PLOS}, address = {San Francisco}, doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0019437}, pages = {e19437}, year = {2011}, abstract = {Harmful effects of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on cognitive and behavioural features of humans and rodents have been controversially discussed and raised persistent concern about adverse effects of EMF on general brain functions. In the present study we applied radio-frequency (RF) signals of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) to full brain exposed male Wistar rats in order to elaborate putative influences on stress hormone release (corticosteron; CORT and adrenocorticotropic hormone; ACTH) and on hippocampal derived synaptic long-term plasticity (LTP) and depression (LTD) as electrophysiological hallmarks for memory storage and memory consolidation. Exposure was computer controlled providing blind conditions. Nominal brain-averaged specific absorption rates (SAR) as a measure of applied mass-related dissipated RF power were 0, 2, and 10 W/kg over a period of 120 min. Comparison of cage exposed animals revealed, regardless of EMF exposure, significantly increased CORT and ACTH levels which corresponded with generally decreased field potential slopes and amplitudes in hippocampal LTP and LTD. Animals following SAR exposure of 2 W/kg (averaged over the whole brain of 2.3 g tissue mass) did not differ from the sham-exposed group in LTP and LTD experiments. In contrast, a significant reduction in LTP and LTD was observed at the high power rate of SAR (10 W/kg). The results demonstrate that a rate of 2 W/kg displays no adverse impact on LTP and LTD, while 10 W/kg leads to significant effects on the electrophysiological parameters, which can be clearly distinguished from the stress derived background. Our findings suggest that UMTS exposure with SAR in the range of 2 W/kg is not harmful to critical markers for memory storage and memory consolidation, however, an influence of UMTS at high energy absorption rates (10 W/kg) cannot be excluded.}, language = {en} } @article{OrzadaBitzSchaeferetal.2011, author = {Orzada, Stephan and Bitz, Andreas and Sch{\"a}fer, Lena C. and Ladd, Susanne C. and Ladd, Mark E. and Maderwald, Stefan}, title = {Open design eight-channel transmit/receive coil for high-resolution and real-time ankle imaging at 7 T}, series = {Medical Physics}, volume = {38}, journal = {Medical Physics}, number = {3}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Hoboken}, issn = {2473-4209}, doi = {10.1118/1.3553399}, pages = {1162 -- 1167}, year = {2011}, abstract = {Purpose: At 1.5 T, real-time MRI of joint movement has been shown to be feasible. However, 7 T, provides higher SNR and thus an improved potential for parallel imaging acceleration. The purpose of this work was to build an open, U-shaped eight-channel transmit/receive microstrip coil for 7 T MRI to enable high-resolution and real-time imaging of the moving ankle joint. Methods: A U-shaped eight-channel transmit/receive array for the human ankle was built.urn:x-wiley:00942405:mp3399:equation:mp3399-math-0001-parameters and urn:x-wiley:00942405:mp3399:equation:mp3399-math-0002-factor were measured. SAR calculations of different ankle postures were performed to ensure patient safety. Inhomogeneities in the transmit field consequent to the open design were compensated for by the use of static RF shimming. High-resolution and real-time imaging was performed in human volunteers. Results: The presented array showed good performance with regard to patient comfort and image quality. High acceleration factors of up to 4 are feasible without visible acceleration artifacts. Reasonable image homogeneity was achieved with RF shimming. Conclusions: Open, noncylindrical designs for transmit/receive coils are practical at 7 T and real-time imaging of the moving joint is feasible with the presented coil design.}, language = {en} } @article{KraffBitzDammannetal.2010, author = {Kraff, Oliver and Bitz, Andreas and Dammann, Philipp and Ladd, Susanne C. and Ladd, Mark E. and Quick, Harald H.}, title = {An eight-channel transmit/receive multipurpose coil for musculoskeletal MR imaging at 7 T}, series = {Medical Physics}, volume = {37}, journal = {Medical Physics}, number = {12}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Hoboken, NJ}, issn = {2473-4209}, doi = {10.1118/1.3517176}, pages = {6368 -- 6376}, year = {2010}, abstract = {Purpose: MRI plays a leading diagnostic role in assessing the musculoskeletal (MSK) system and is well established for most questions at clinically used field strengths (up to 3 T). However, there are still limitations in imaging early stages of cartilage degeneration, very fine tendons and ligaments, or in locating nerve lesions, for example. 7 T MRI of the knee has already received increasing attention in the current published literature, but there is a strong need to develop new radiofrequency (RF) coils to assess more regions of the MSK system. In this work, an eight-channel transmit/receive RF array was built as a multipurpose coil for imaging some of the thus far neglected regions. An extensive coil characterization protocol and first in vivo results of the human wrist, shoulder, elbow, knee, and ankle imaged at 7 T will be presented. Methods: Eight surface loop coils with a dimension ofurn:x-wiley:00942405:media:mp7176:mp7176-math-0001 were machined from FR4 circuit board material. To facilitate easy positioning, two coil clusters, each with four loop elements, were combined to one RF transmit/receive array. An overlapped and shifted arrangement of the coil elements was chosen to reduce the mutual inductance between neighboring coils. A phantom made of body-simulating liquid was used for tuning and matching on the bench. Afterward, the S-parameters were verified on a human wrist, elbow, and shoulder. For safety validation, a detailed compliance test was performed including full wave simulations of the RF field distribution and the corresponding specific absorption rate (SAR) for all joints. In vivo images of four volunteers were assessed with gradient echo and spin echo sequences modified to obtain optimal image contrast, full anatomic coverage, and the highest spatial resolution within a reasonable acquisition time. The performance of the RF coil was additionally evaluated by in vivo B1 mapping. Results: A comparison of B1 per unit power, flip angle distribution, and anatomic images showed a fairly homogeneous excitation for the smaller joints (elbow, wrist, and ankle), while for the larger joints, the shoulder and especially the knee, B1 inhomogeneities and limited penetration depth were more pronounced. However, the greater part of the shoulder joint could be imaged.In vivo images rendered very fine anatomic details such as fascicles of the median nerve and the branching of the nerve bundles. High-resolution images of cartilage, labrum, and tendons could be acquired. Additionally, turbo spin echo (TSE) and inversion recovery sequences performed very well. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the concept of two four-channel transmit/receive RF arrays can be used as a multipurpose coil for high-resolutionin vivo MR imaging of the musculoskeletal system at 7 T. Not only gradient echo but also typical clinical and SAR-intensive sequences such as STIR and TSE performed well. Imaging of small structures and peripheral nerves could in particular benefit from this technique.}, language = {en} } @article{OrzadaLaddBitz2016, author = {Orzada, Stephan and Ladd, Mark E. and Bitz, Andreas}, title = {A method to approximate maximum local SAR in multichannel transmit MR systems without transmit phase information}, series = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, volume = {78}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, number = {2}, publisher = {International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, issn = {1522-2594}, doi = {10.1002/mrm.26398}, pages = {805 -- 811}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Purpose To calculate local specific absorption rate (SAR) correctly, both the amplitude and phase of the signal in each transmit channel have to be known. In this work, we propose a method to derive a conservative upper bound for the local SAR, with a reasonable safety margin without knowledge of the transmit phases of the channels. Methods The proposed method uses virtual observation points (VOPs). Correction factors are calculated for each set of VOPs that prevent underestimation of local SAR when the VOPs are applied with the correct amplitudes but fixed phases. Results The proposed method proved to be superior to the worst-case calculation based on the maximum eigenvalue of the VOPs. The mean overestimation for six coil setups could be reduced, whereas no underestimation of the maximum local SAR occurred. In the best investigated case, the overestimation could be reduced from a factor of 3.3 to a factor of 1.7. Conclusion The upper bound for the local SAR calculated with the proposed method allows a fast estimation of the local SAR based on power measurements in the transmit channels and facilitates SAR monitoring in systems that do not have the capability to monitor transmit phases}, language = {en} } @article{ChenSchoembergKraffetal.2016, author = {Chen, Bixia and Schoemberg, Tobias and Kraff, Oliver and Dammann, Philipp and Bitz, Andreas and Schlamann, Marc and Quick, Harald H. and Ladd, Mark E. and Sure, Ulrich and Wrede, Karsten H.}, title = {Cranial fixation plates in cerebral magnetic resonance imaging: a 3 and 7 Tesla in vivo image quality study}, series = {Magnetic Resonance Materials in Physics, Biology and Medicine}, volume = {29}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance Materials in Physics, Biology and Medicine}, number = {3}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {1352-8661}, doi = {10.1007/s10334-016-0548-1}, pages = {389 -- 398}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Objective This study assesses and quantifies impairment of postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 7 Tesla (T) after implantation of titanium cranial fixation plates (CFPs) for neurosurgical bone flap fixation. Materials and methods The study group comprised five patients who were intra-individually examined with 3 and 7 T MRI preoperatively and postoperatively (within 72 h/3 months) after implantation of CFPs. Acquired sequences included T₁-weighted magnetization-prepared rapid-acquisition gradient-echo (MPRAGE), T₂-weighted turbo-spin-echo (TSE) imaging, and susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI). Two experienced neurosurgeons and a neuroradiologist rated image quality and the presence of artifacts in consensus reading. Results Minor artifacts occurred around the CFPs in MPRAGE and T2 TSE at both field strengths, with no significant differences between 3 and 7 T. In SWI, artifacts were accentuated in the early postoperative scans at both field strengths due to intracranial air and hemorrhagic remnants. After resorption, the brain tissue directly adjacent to skull bone could still be assessed. Image quality after 3 months was equal to the preoperative examinations at 3 and 7 T. Conclusion Image quality after CFP implantation was not significantly impaired in 7 T MRI, and artifacts were comparable to those in 3 T MRI.}, language = {en} } @article{SchmidtForkmannSinkeetal.2016, author = {Schmidt, K. and Forkmann, K. and Sinke, C. and Gratz, M. and Bitz, Andreas and Bingel, U.}, title = {The differential effect of trigeminal vs. peripheral pain stimulation on visual processing and memory encoding is influenced by pain-related fear}, series = {NeuroImage}, volume = {134}, journal = {NeuroImage}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {1053-8119}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2016.03.026}, pages = {386 -- 395}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Compared to peripheral pain, trigeminal pain elicits higher levels of fear, which is assumed to enhance the interruptive effects of pain on concomitant cognitive processes. In this fMRI study we examined the behavioral and neural effects of trigeminal (forehead) and peripheral (hand) pain on visual processing and memory encoding. Cerebral activity was measured in 23 healthy subjects performing a visual categorization task that was immediately followed by a surprise recognition task. During the categorization task subjects received concomitant noxious electrical stimulation on the forehead or hand. Our data show that fear ratings were significantly higher for trigeminal pain. Categorization and recognition performance did not differ between pictures that were presented with trigeminal and peripheral pain. However, object categorization in the presence of trigeminal pain was associated with stronger activity in task-relevant visual areas (lateral occipital complex, LOC), memory encoding areas (hippocampus and parahippocampus) and areas implicated in emotional processing (amygdala) compared to peripheral pain. Further, individual differences in neural activation between the trigeminal and the peripheral condition were positively related to differences in fear ratings between both conditions. Functional connectivity between amygdala and LOC was increased during trigeminal compared to peripheral painful stimulation. Fear-driven compensatory resource activation seems to be enhanced for trigeminal stimuli, presumably due to their exceptional biological relevance.}, language = {en} } @article{BankOrzadaSmitsetal.2015, author = {Bank, Bart L. van de and Orzada, Stephan and Smits, Frits and Lagemaat, Miriam W. and Rodgers, Christopher T. and Bitz, Andreas and Scheenen, Tom W. J.}, title = {Optimized (31) P MRS in the human brain at 7 T with a dedicated RF coil setup}, series = {NMR in Biomedicine}, volume = {28}, journal = {NMR in Biomedicine}, number = {11}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1099-1492}, doi = {10.1002/nbm.3422}, pages = {1570 -- 1578}, year = {2015}, language = {en} } @techreport{SansomLawsonTuchoetal.2016, author = {Sansom, M. and Lawson, R.M. and Tucho, R. and Kendrick, C. and Ogden, R. and Resalati, S. and Garay, R. and D{\"o}ring, Bernd and Reger, V. and Gilbert, J. and Heikkinen, J. and Hemmila, K.}, title = {Building in active thermal mass into steel structures (BATIMASS) - EUR 28166EN}, publisher = {Publications Office of the European Union}, address = {Luxembourg}, organization = {European Commission}, isbn = {978-92-79-63176-4}, issn = {1831-9424}, doi = {10.2777/25999}, pages = {147 Seiten}, year = {2016}, abstract = {The main objective of the BATIMASS project was to address how the energy balance in relatively lightweight steel buildings can be improved by building in 'active thermal mass' (ATM) into the building fabric. This was achieved through concept design, dynamic thermal modelling and testing of a number of potentially viable systems and concepts. A significant programme of thermal simulation modelling was undertaken utilising the thermally equivalent slab (TES) concept to model the passive thermal capacity effect of profiled, composite metal floor decks. It is apparent from the modelling results that thermal mass is a highly complex phenomenon which is highly dependent upon building type, occupancy patterns, climate and many other aspects of the building design and servicing strategy. The ATM systems developed, both conceptually and for prototype testing, focussed on water-cooled composite slabs, the Cofradal floor system and the phase change material (PCM) Energain. In addition to laboratory testing of prototypes, whole building monitoring was undertaken at the Kubik building in Spain and the RWTH test building in Germany. Advanced thermal modelling was also undertaken to estimate the likely benefits of the ATM concept designs developed and for comparison with the test results. In addition to thermal testing, structural tests were conducted on composite floor specimens incorporating embedded water pipes. This Final Report presents the results of the activities carried out under this RFCS contract RFSR CT 2012 00033. The work carried out is reported in six major sections corresponding to the technical Work Packages of the project. Only summaries of the work carried out are provided in this report; all work undertaken is fully reported in the formal project deliverables.}, language = {en} } @article{NoureddineBitzLaddetal.2015, author = {Noureddine, Yacine and Bitz, Andreas and Ladd, Mark E. and Th{\"u}rling, Markus and Ladd, Susanne C. and Schaefers, Gregor and Kraff, Oliver}, title = {Experience with magnetic resonance imaging of human subjects with passive implants and tattoos at 7 T: a retrospective study}, series = {Magnetic Resonance Materials in Physics, Biology and Medicine}, volume = {28}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance Materials in Physics, Biology and Medicine}, number = {6}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {1352-8661}, doi = {10.1007/s10334-015-0499-y}, pages = {577 -- 590}, year = {2015}, language = {en} } @article{LagemaatBreukelsVosetal.2016, author = {Lagemaat, Miriam W. and Breukels, Vincent and Vos, Eline K. and B., Adam and Uden, Mark J. van and Orzada, Stephan and Bitz, Andreas and Maas, Marnix C. and Scheenen, Tom W. J.}, title = {¹H MR spectroscopic imaging of the prostate at 7T using spectral-spatial pulses}, series = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, volume = {75}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, number = {3}, publisher = {International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, issn = {1522-2594}, doi = {10.1002/mrm.25569}, pages = {933 -- 945}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Purpose To assess the feasibility of prostate ¹H MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) using low-power spectral-spatial (SPSP) pulses at 7T, exploiting accurate spectral selection and spatial selectivity simultaneously. Methods A double spin-echo sequence was equipped with SPSP refocusing pulses with a spectral selectivity of 1 ppm. Three-dimensional prostate ¹H-MRSI at 7T was performed with the SPSP-MRSI sequence using an 8-channel transmit array coil and an endorectal receive coil in three patients with prostate cancer and in one healthy subject. No additional water or lipid suppression pulses were used. Results Prostate ¹H-MRSI could be obtained well within specific absorption rate (SAR) limits in a clinically feasible time (10 min). Next to the common citrate signals, the prostate spectra exhibited high spermine signals concealing creatine and sometimes also choline. Residual lipid signals were observed at the edges of the prostate because of limitations in spectral and spatial selectivity. Conclusion It is possible to perform prostate ¹H-MRSI at 7T with a SPSP-MRSI sequence while using separate transmit and receive coils. This low-SAR MRSI concept provides the opportunity to increase spatial resolution of MRSI within reasonable scan times.}, language = {en} } @article{VosLagemaatBarentszetal.2014, author = {Vos, E. K. and Lagemaat, M. W. and Barentsz, J. O. and F{\"u}tterer, J. J. and Zamecnik, P. and Roozen, H. and Orzada, S. and Bitz, Andreas and Maas, M. C. and Scheenen, T. W. J.}, title = {Image quality and cancer visibility of T2-weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the prostate at 7 Tesla}, series = {European Radiology}, volume = {24}, journal = {European Radiology}, number = {8}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Cham}, issn = {1432-1084}, doi = {10.1007/s00330-014-3234-6}, pages = {1950 -- 1958}, year = {2014}, abstract = {Objectives To assess the image quality of T2-weighted (T2w) magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate and the visibility of prostate cancer at 7 Tesla (T). Materials \& methods Seventeen prostate cancer patients underwent T2w imaging at 7T with only an external transmit/receive array coil. Three radiologists independently scored images for image quality, visibility of anatomical structures, and presence of artefacts. Krippendorff's alpha and weighted kappa statistics were used to assess inter-observer agreement. Visibility of prostate cancer lesions was assessed by directly linking the T2w images to the confirmed location of prostate cancer on histopathology. Results T2w imaging at 7T was achievable with 'satisfactory' (3/5) to 'good' (4/5) quality. Visibility of anatomical structures was predominantly scored as 'satisfactory' (3/5) and 'good' (4/5). If artefacts were present, they were mostly motion artefacts and, to a lesser extent, aliasing artefacts and noise. Krippendorff's analysis revealed an α = 0.44 between three readers for the overall image quality scores. Clinically significant cancer lesions in both peripheral zone and transition zone were visible at 7T. Conclusion T2w imaging with satisfactory to good quality can be routinely acquired, and cancer lesions were visible in patients with prostate cancer at 7T using only an external transmit/receive body array coil.}, language = {en} } @article{LagemaatMaasVosetal.2015, author = {Lagemaat, Miriam W. and Maas, Marnix C. and Vos, Eline K. and Bitz, Andreas and Orzada, Stephan and Weiland, Elisabeth and Uden, Mark J. van and Kobus, Thiele and Heerschap, Arend and Scheenen, Tom W. J.}, title = {(31) P MR spectroscopic imaging of the human prostate at 7 T: T1 relaxation times, Nuclear Overhauser Effect, and spectral characterization}, series = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, volume = {73}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, number = {3}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1522-2594}, doi = {10.1002/mrm.25209}, pages = {909 -- 920}, year = {2015}, language = {en} } @article{TheysohnKraffEilersetal.2014, author = {Theysohn, Jens M. and Kraff, Oliver and Eilers, Kristina and Andrade, Dorian and Gerwig, Marcus and Timmann, Dagmar and Schmitt, Franz and Ladd, Mark E. and Ladd, Susanne C. and Bitz, Andreas}, title = {Vestibular effects of a 7 Tesla MRI examination compared to 1.5 T and 0 T in healthy volunteers}, series = {PLoS one}, volume = {9}, journal = {PLoS one}, number = {3}, publisher = {PLOS}, address = {San Francisco}, issn = {1932-6203}, doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0092104}, pages = {e92104}, year = {2014}, abstract = {Ultra-high-field MRI (7 Tesla (T) and above) elicits more temporary side-effects compared to 1.5 T and 3 T, e.g. dizziness or "postural instability" even after exiting the scanner. The current study aims to assess quantitatively vestibular performance before and after exposure to different MRI scenarios at 7 T, 1.5 T and 0 T. Sway path and body axis rotation (Unterberger's stepping test) were quantitatively recorded in a total of 46 volunteers before, 2 minutes after, and 15 minutes after different exposure scenarios: 7 T head MRI (n = 27), 7 T no RF (n = 22), 7 T only B₀ (n = 20), 7 T in \& out B₀ (n = 20), 1.5 T no RF (n = 20), 0 T (n = 15). All exposure scenarios lasted 30 minutes except for brief one minute exposure in 7 T in \& out B₀. Both measures were documented utilizing a 3D ultrasound system. During sway path evaluation, the experiment was repeated with eyes both open and closed. Sway paths for all long-lasting 7 T scenarios (normal, no RF, only B₀) with eyes closed were significantly prolonged 2 minutes after exiting the scanner, normalizing after 15 minutes. Brief exposure to 7 T B₀ or 30 minutes exposure to 1.5 T or 0 T did not show significant changes. End positions after Unterberger's stepping test were significantly changed counter-clockwise after all 7 T scenarios, including the brief in \& out B₀ exposure. Shorter exposure resulted in a smaller alteration angle. In contrast to sway path, reversal of changes in body axis rotation was incomplete after 15 minutes. 1.5 T caused no rotational changes. The results show that exposure to the 7 Tesla static magnetic field causes only a temporary dysfunction or "over-compensation" of the vestibular system not measurable at 1.5 or 0 Tesla. Radiofrequency fields, gradient switching, and orthostatic dysregulation do not seem to play a role.}, language = {en} } @article{KraffBitzBreyeretal.2011, author = {Kraff, Oliver and Bitz, Andreas and Breyer, Tobias and Kruszona, Stefan and Maderwald, Stefan and Brote, Irina and Gizewski, Elke R. and Ladd, Mark E. and Quick, Harald H.}, title = {A transmit/receive radiofrequency array for imaging the carotid arteries at 7 Tesla: coil design and first in vivo results}, series = {Investigative Radiology}, volume = {46}, journal = {Investigative Radiology}, number = {4}, publisher = {Wolters Kluwer}, address = {K{\"o}ln}, issn = {1536-0210}, doi = {10.1097/RLI.0b013e318206cee4}, pages = {246 -- 254}, year = {2011}, abstract = {Objective: To develop a transmit/receive radiofrequency (RF) array for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the carotid arteries at 7 T. The prototype is characterized in numerical simulations and bench measurements, and the feasibility of plaque imaging at 7 T is demonstrated in first in vivo images. Materials and Methods: The RF phased array coil consists of 8 surface loop coils. To allow imaging of both sides of the neck, the RF array is divided into 2 coil clusters, each with 4 overlapping loop elements. For safety validation, numerical computations of the RF field distribution and the corresponding specific absorption rate were performed on the basis of a heterogeneous human body model. To validate the coil model, maps of the transmit B1+ field were compared between simulation and measurement. In vivo images of a healthy volunteer and a patient (ulcerating plaque and a 50\% stenosis of the right internal carotid artery) were acquired using a 3-dimensional FLASH sequence with a high isotropic spatial resolution of 0.54 mm as well as using pulse-triggered proton density (PD)/T2-weighted turbo spin echo sequences. Results: Measurements of the S-parameters yielded a reflection and isolation of the coil elements of better than -18 and -13 dB, respectively. Measurements of the g-factor indicated good image quality for parallel imaging acceleration factors up to 2.4. A similar distribution and a very good match of the absolute values were found between the measured and simulated B1+ transmit RF field for the validation of the coil model. In vivo images revealed good signal excitation of both sides of the neck and a high vessel-to-background image contrast for the noncontrast-enhanced 3-dimensional FLASH sequence. Imaging at 7 T could depict the extent of stenosis, and revealed the disruption and ulcer of the plaque. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that 2 four-channel transmit/receive RF arrays for each side of the neck is a suitable concept for in vivo MRI of the carotid arteries at 7 Tesla. Further studies are needed to explore and exploit the full potential of 7 T high-field MRI for carotid atherosclerotic plaque imaging.}, language = {en} } @article{ElQuardiStreckertBitzetal.2011, author = {El Quardi, A. and Streckert, J. and Bitz, Andreas and M{\"u}nkner, S. and Engel, J. and Hansen, V.}, title = {New fin-line devices for radiofrequency exposure of small biological samples in vitro allowing whole-cell patch clamp recordings}, series = {Bioelectromagnetics}, volume = {32}, journal = {Bioelectromagnetics}, number = {2}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1521-186X}, doi = {10.1002/bem.20621}, pages = {102 -- 112}, year = {2011}, abstract = {The development and analysis of three waveguides for the exposure of small biological in vitro samples to mobile communication signals at 900 MHz (GSM, Global System for Mobile Communications), 1.8 GHz (GSM), and 2 GHz (UMTS, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) is presented. The waveguides were based on a fin-line concept and the chamber containing the samples bathed in extracellular solution was placed onto two fins with a slot in between, where the exposure field concentrates. Measures were taken to allow for patch clamp recordings during radiofrequency (RF) exposure. The necessary power for the achievement of the maximum desired specific absorption rate (SAR) of 20 W/kg (average over the mass of the solution) was approximately Pin = 50 mW, Pin = 19 mW, and Pin = 18 mW for the 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2 GHz devices, respectively. At 20 W/kg, a slight RF-induced temperature elevation in the solution of no more than 0.3 °C was detected, while no thermal offsets due to the electromagnetic exposure could be detected at the lower SAR settings (2, 0.2, and 0.02 W/kg). A deviation of 10\% from the intended solution volume yielded a calculated SAR deviation of 8\% from the desired value. A maximum ±10\% variation in the local SAR could occur when the position of the patch clamp electrode was altered within the area where the cells to be investigated were located.}, language = {en} } @article{SchlamannVoigtMaderwaldetal.2010, author = {Schlamann, Marc and Voigt, Melanie A. and Maderwald, Stefan and Bitz, Andreas and Kraff, Oliver and Ladd, Susanne C. and Ladd, Mark E. and Forsting, Michael and Wilhelm, Hans}, title = {Exposure to high-field MRI does not affect cognitive function}, series = {Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging}, volume = {31}, journal = {Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging}, number = {5}, publisher = {Wiley-Liss}, address = {New York}, issn = {1522-2586}, doi = {10.1002/jmri.22065}, pages = {1061 -- 1066}, year = {2010}, abstract = {Purpose To assess potential cognitive deficits under the influence of static magnetic fields at various field strengths some studies already exist. These studies were not focused on attention as the most vulnerable cognitive function. Additionally, mostly no magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences were performed. Materials and Methods In all, 25 right-handed men were enrolled in this study. All subjects underwent one MRI examination of 63 minutes at 1.5 T and one at 7 T within an interval of 10 to 30 days. The order of the examinations was randomized. Subjects were referred to six standardized neuropsychological tests strictly focused on attention immediately before and after each MRI examination. Differences in neuropsychological variables between the timepoints before and after each MRI examination were assessed and P-values were calculated Results Only six subtests revealed significant differences between pre- and post-MRI. In these tests the subjects achieved better results in post-MRI testing than in pre-MRI testing (P = 0.013-0.032). The other tests revealed no significant results. Conclusion The improvement in post-MRI testing is only explicable as a result of learning effects. MRI examinations, even in ultrahigh-field scanners, do not seem to have any persisting influence on the attention networks of human cognition immediately after exposure.}, language = {en} } @article{BitzZhouElQuardietal.2009, author = {Bitz, Andreas and Zhou, Yi and El Quardi, Abdessamad and Streckert, Joachim}, title = {Occupational Exposure at Mobile Communication Base Station Antenna Sites}, series = {Frequenz}, volume = {63}, journal = {Frequenz}, number = {7-8}, issn = {2191-6349}, doi = {10.1515/FREQ.2009.63.7-8.123}, pages = {123 -- 128}, year = {2009}, language = {en} } @article{SchlamannYoonMaderwaldetal.2010, author = {Schlamann, Marc and Yoon, Min-Suk and Maderwald, Stefan and Pietrzyk, Thomas and Bitz, Andreas and Gerwig, Marcus and Forsting, Michael and Ladd, Susanne C. and Ladd, Mark E. and Kastrup, Oliver}, title = {Short term effects of magnetic resonance imaging on excitability of the motor cortex at 1.5T and 7T}, series = {Academic Radiology}, volume = {17}, journal = {Academic Radiology}, number = {3}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {1076-6332}, doi = {10.1016/j.acra.2009.10.004}, pages = {277 -- 281}, year = {2010}, abstract = {Rationale and Objectives The increasing spread of high-field and ultra-high-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners has encouraged new discussion of the safety aspects of MRI. Few studies have been published on possible cognitive effects of MRI examinations. The aim of this study was to examine whether changes are measurable after MRI examinations at 1.5 and 7 T by means of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Materials and Methods TMS was performed in 12 healthy, right-handed male volunteers. First the individual motor threshold was specified, and then the cortical silent period (SP) was measured. Subsequently, the volunteers were exposed to the 1.5-T MRI scanner for 63 minutes using standard sequences. The MRI examination was immediately followed by another TMS session. Fifteen minutes later, TMS was repeated. Four weeks later, the complete setting was repeated using a 7-T scanner. Control conditions included lying in the 1.5-T scanner for 63 minutes without scanning and lying in a separate room for 63 minutes. TMS was performed in the same way in each case. For statistical analysis, Wilcoxon's rank test was performed. Results Immediately after MRI exposure, the SP was highly significantly prolonged in all 12 subjects at 1.5 and 7 T. The motor threshold was significantly increased. Fifteen minutes after the examination, the measured value tended toward normal again. Control conditions revealed no significant differences. Conclusion MRI examinations lead to a transient and highly significant alteration in cortical excitability. This effect does not seem to depend on the strength of the static magnetic field.}, language = {en} } @article{KraffBitzKruszonaetal.2009, author = {Kraff, Oliver and Bitz, Andreas and Kruszona, Stefan and Orzada, Stephan and Schaefer, Lena C. and Theysohn, Jens M. and Maderwald, Stefan and Ladd, Mark E. and Quick, Harald H.}, title = {An eight-channel phased array RF coil for spine MR imaging at 7 T}, series = {Investigative Radiology}, volume = {44}, journal = {Investigative Radiology}, number = {11}, publisher = {Lippincott Williams \& Wilkins}, issn = {1536-0210}, doi = {10.1097/RLI.0b013e3181b24ab7}, pages = {734 -- 740}, year = {2009}, language = {en} } @article{KlompBitzHeerschapetal.2009, author = {Klomp, D. W. J. and Bitz, Andreas and Heerschap, A. and Scheenen, T. W. J.}, title = {Proton spectroscopic imaging of the human prostate at 7 T}, series = {NMR in Biomedicine}, volume = {22}, journal = {NMR in Biomedicine}, number = {5}, issn = {1099-1492}, doi = {10.1002/nbm.1360}, pages = {495 -- 501}, year = {2009}, language = {en} } @article{LerchlKruegerNiehausetal.2008, author = {Lerchl, Alexander and Kr{\"u}ger, Heike and Niehaus, Michael and Streckert, Joachim R. and Bitz, Andreas and Hansen, Volkert}, title = {Effects of mobile phone electromagnetic fields at nonthermal SAR values on melatonin and body weight of Djungarian hamsters (Phodopus sungorus)}, series = {Journal of Pineal Research}, volume = {44}, journal = {Journal of Pineal Research}, number = {3}, issn = {1600-079X}, doi = {10.1111/j.1600-079X.2007.00522.x}, pages = {267 -- 272}, year = {2008}, language = {en} } @techreport{LawsonBaddooVanieretal.2013, author = {Lawson, R.M. and Baddoo, N.R. and Vanier, G. and D{\"o}ring, Bernd and Kuhnhenne, M. and Nieminen, J. and Beguin, P. and Herbin, S. and Caroli, G. and Adetunji, I. and Kozlowski, A.}, title = {Renovation of buildings using steel technologies (Robust) - EUR 25335}, publisher = {Publications Office of the European Union}, address = {Luxembourg}, organization = {European Commission}, isbn = {978-92-79-24950-1}, issn = {1831-9424}, doi = {10.2777/97860}, pages = {134 Seiten}, year = {2013}, abstract = {Robust addresses the renovation and improvement of existing residential, industrial and commercial buildings using steel-based technologies, focusing on techniques such as over-cladding, over-roofing and roof-top extensions. Steel-intensive renovation techniques currently on the market were reviewed. Performance criteria were developed for over-cladding systems meeting current regulatory standards, with guidelines on how to achieve appropriate levels of air-tightness.}, language = {en} } @techreport{FeldmannKuhnhenneDoeringetal.2013, author = {Feldmann, M. and Kuhnhenne, M. and D{\"o}ring, Bernd and Pyschny, D. and Lawson, R.M. and Chuter, R.D. and Boudjabeur, S. and Lecomte-Labory, F. and Airaksinen, M. and Heikkinen, J. and Laamanen, J. and Albart, P. and D'Haeyer, R. and Chica, J.A. and Maseda, J.M. and Amundarain, A. and Rips, M.O. and Nu{\~n}ez, J.A. and Mac{\´i}as, O. and Beguin, P. and Ben Larbi, A.}, title = {Energy and thermal improvements for construction in steel (ETHICS) - EUR 26010}, publisher = {Publications Office of the European Union}, address = {Luxembourg}, organization = {European Commission}, isbn = {978-92-79-30789-8}, issn = {1831-9424}, doi = {10.2777/17106}, pages = {136 Seiten}, year = {2013}, abstract = {ETHICS is concerned with evaluating, measuring and making improvements in the thermal and energy performance of steel-clad and steel-framed buildings. It addresses basic building physics performance at a laboratory and full-scale level, and the preparation of design guidance for commercial, industrial and residential buildings. It includes the development of design tools to assist users in assessing whole-building performance, and calibrates these tools against whole-building measurements, which will be obtained from this research. Opportunities for renewable energy and other energy-saving features will be assessed. This project focuses on objectives that are of particular interest for the design of new steel constructions regarding energy efficiency. ETHICS investigates the as-built performance by on-site tests regarding air tightness and heat transfer properties of the building envelope and by monitoring the energy consumption and thermal comfort of selected up-to-date steel buildings. As energy efficiency is a key requirement for design and construction of buildings in the future, this project provides well-founded scientific data, which prove the high energy performance of current steel constructions and work out details for further improvements to maintain and extend the position of steel products in the construction sector.}, language = {en} } @techreport{KestiMononenLautsoetal.2015, author = {Kesti, Jyrki and Mononen, Tarmo and Lautso, Petteri and D{\"o}ring, Bernd and Reger, Vitali and Holopainen, R. and Jung, N. and Shemeikka, J. and Nieminen, J. and Reda, F. and Lawson, Mark and Botti, Andrea and Hall, R. and Zold, A. and Buday, T.}, title = {Zero energy solutions for multifunctional steel intensive commercial buildings (ZEMUSIC) - EUR 27627}, publisher = {Publications Office of the European Union}, address = {Luxembourg}, organization = {European Commission}, isbn = {978-92-79-54071-4}, issn = {1831-9424}, doi = {10.2777/111520}, pages = {146 Seiten}, year = {2015}, abstract = {The broad commercial objective of this project was the sustainable value creation in steel building technology by addressing the ways in which significant energy reductions can be made in the operation phase of multi-storey commercial buildings. A review on energy efficient commercial buildings in Europe has been carried out consisting of several case studies from different countries. The project included development of zero-energy concepts for reducing energy demand as well as concepts for heating, cooling and ventilation systems by utilising renewable energy sources in three different climates. Also alternative structural frame solutions were developed and analyzed in respect of structural and MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing solutions) features. An innovative long span floor system with integrated MEP routings promises a cost effective alternative for sophisticated ventilation distribution and radiant heating and cooling systems, allowing for high energy efficiency and high quality interior climate. The report includes also review of best architectural practices for integrated renewable energy solutions including different design strategies for building facades of zero energy buildings. Interesting results and design basis are also presented for steel energy pile concept, where structural foundation piles are utilized for ground energy harvesting. Life cycle cost calculations for near zero energy office building based on developed technologies show that a near zero energy construction is also profitable. The results and work methods of the project have been summarized in the form of design guidance that offers designers the knowledge gained in a form that can be easily understood.}, language = {en} } @article{FiedlerLaddBitz2017, author = {Fiedler, Thomas M. and Ladd, Mark E. and Bitz, Andreas}, title = {SAR Simulations \& Safety}, series = {NeuroImage}, journal = {NeuroImage}, number = {Epub ahead of print}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {1053-8119}, doi = {10.1016/j.neuroimage.2017.03.035}, year = {2017}, language = {en} } @article{NoureddineKraffLaddetal.2017, author = {Noureddine, Yacine and Kraff, Oliver and Ladd, Mark E. and Wrede, Karsten H. and Chen, Bixia and Quick, Harald H. and Schaefers, Gregor and Bitz, Andreas}, title = {In vitro and in silico assessment of RF-induced heating around intracranial aneurysm clips at 7 Tesla}, series = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, number = {Early view}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1522-2594}, doi = {10.1002/mrm.26650}, pages = {14 Seiten}, year = {2017}, language = {en} } @article{FiedlerLaddBitz2017, author = {Fiedler, Thomas M. and Ladd, Mark E. and Bitz, Andreas}, title = {RF safety assessment of a bilateral four-channel transmit/receive 7 Tesla breast coil: SAR versus temperature limits}, series = {Medical Physics}, volume = {44}, journal = {Medical Physics}, number = {1}, doi = {10.1002/mp.12034}, pages = {143 -- 157}, year = {2017}, language = {en} } @article{LagemaatVosMaasetal.2014, author = {Lagemaat, Miriam W. and Vos, Eline K. and Maas, Marnix C. and Bitz, Andreas and Orzada, Stephan and Uden, Mark J. van and Kobus, Thiele and Heerschap, Arend and Scheenen, Tom W. J.}, title = {Phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging at 7 T in patients with prostate cancer}, series = {Investigative Radiology}, volume = {49}, journal = {Investigative Radiology}, number = {5}, publisher = {Lippincott Williams \& Wilkins}, address = {Philadelphia, Pa.}, issn = {1536-0210}, doi = {10.1097/RLI.0000000000000012}, pages = {363 -- 372}, year = {2014}, abstract = {Objectives The aim of this study was to identify characteristics of phosphorus (³¹P) spectra of the human prostate and to investigate changes of individual phospholipid metabolites in prostate cancer through in vivo ³¹P magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) at 7 T. Materials and Methods In this institutional review board-approved study, 15 patients with biopsy-proven prostate cancer underwent T₂-weighted magnetic resonance imaging and 3-dimensional ³¹P MRSI at 7 T. Voxels were selected at the tumor location, in normal-appearing peripheral zone tissue, normal-appearing transition zone tissue, and in the base of the prostate close to the seminal vesicles. Phosphorus metabolite ratios were determined and compared between tissue types. Results Signals of phosphoethanolamine (PE) and phosphocholine (PC) were present and well resolved in most ³¹P spectra in the prostate. Glycerophosphocholine signals were observable in 43\% of the voxels in malignant tissue, but in only 10\% of the voxels in normal-appearing tissue away from the seminal vesicles. In many spectra, independent of tissue type, 2 peaks resonated in the chemical shift range of inorganic phosphate, possibly representing 2 separate pH compartments. The PC/PE ratio in the seminal vesicles was highly elevated compared with the prostate in 5 patients. A considerable overlap of ³¹P metabolite ratios was found between prostate cancer and normal-appearing prostate tissue, preventing direct discrimination of these tissues. The only 2 patients with high Gleason scores tumors (≥4+5) presented with high PC and glycerophosphocholine levels in their cancer lesions. Conclusions Phosphorus MRSI at 7 T shows distinct features of phospholipid metabolites in the prostate gland and its surrounding structures. In this exploratory study, no differences in ³¹P metabolite ratios were observed between prostate cancer and normal-appearing prostate tissue possibly because of the partial volume effects of small tumor foci in large MRSI voxels.}, language = {en} } @incollection{FeldmannDoeringPyschny2016, author = {Feldmann, M. and D{\"o}ring, Bernd and Pyschny, D.}, title = {Floor systems; Sustainabilty analyses and assessments of steel bridges}, series = {Sustainable steel buildings : a practical guide for structures and envelopes}, booktitle = {Sustainable steel buildings : a practical guide for structures and envelopes}, publisher = {Wiley Blackwell}, address = {Chichester, West Sussex}, isbn = {978-1-118-74079-8 (PDF)}, pages = {198 -- 223}, year = {2016}, language = {en} } @article{MaasVosLagemaatetal.2014, author = {Maas, Marnix C. and Vos, Eline K. and Lagemaat, Miriam W. and Bitz, Andreas and Orzada, Stephan and Kobus, Thiele and Kraff, Oliver and Maderwald, Stefan and Ladd, Mark E. and Scheenen, Tom W. J.}, title = {Feasibility of T₂-weighted turbo spin echo imaging of the human prostate at 7 tesla}, series = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, volume = {71}, journal = {Magnetic Resonance in Medicine}, number = {5}, publisher = {Wiley-VCH}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1522-2594}, doi = {10.1002/mrm.24818}, pages = {1711 -- 1719}, year = {2014}, abstract = {Purpose To demonstrate that high quality T₂-weighted (T2w) turbo spin-echo (TSE) imaging of the complete prostate can be achieved routinely and within safety limits at 7 T, using an external transceive body array coil only. Methods Nine healthy volunteers and 12 prostate cancer patients were scanned on a 7 T whole-body system. Preparation consisted of B₀ and radiofrequency shimming and localized flip angle calibration. T₁ and T₂ relaxation times were measured and used to define the T2w-TSE protocol. T2w imaging was performed using a TSE sequence (pulse repetition time/echo time 3000-3640/71 ms) with prolonged excitation and refocusing pulses to reduce specific absorption rate. Results High quality T2w TSE imaging was performed in less than 2 min in all subjects. Tumors of patients with gold-standard tumor localization (MR-guided biopsy or prostatectomy) were well visualized on 7 T imaging (n = 3). The number of consecutive slices achievable within a 10-g averaged specific absorption rate limit of 10 W/kg was ≥28 in all subjects, sufficient for full prostate coverage with 3-mm slices in at least one direction. Conclusion High quality T2w TSE prostate imaging can be performed routinely and within specific absorption rate limits at 7 T with an external transceive body array.}, language = {en} } @article{UmutluKraffFischeretal.2013, author = {Umutlu, Lale and Kraff, Oliver and Fischer, Anja and Kinner, Sonja and Maderwald, Stefan and Nassenstein, Kai and Nensa, Felix and Gr{\"u}neisen, Johannes and Orzada, Stephan and Bitz, Andreas and Forsting, Michael and Ladd, Mark E. and Lauenstein, Thomas C.}, title = {Seven-Tesla MRI of the female pelvis}, series = {European Radiology}, volume = {23}, journal = {European Radiology}, number = {9}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {1432-1084}, doi = {10.1007/s00330-013-2868-0}, pages = {2364 -- 2373}, year = {2013}, language = {en} } @article{BitzFelderWittig2013, author = {Bitz, Andreas and Felder, Jorg and Wittig, Tilmann}, title = {Designing MRI Coils with Aid of Simulation}, series = {Microwaves \& RF}, volume = {52}, journal = {Microwaves \& RF}, number = {7}, publisher = {Penton}, address = {Cleveland, Ohio}, issn = {0745-2993}, pages = {56}, year = {2013}, language = {en} } @article{KraffWredeSchoembergetal.2013, author = {Kraff, Oliver and Wrede, Karsten H. and Schoemberg, Tobias and Dammann, Philipp and Noureddine, Yacine and Orzada, Stephan and Ladd, Mark E. and Bitz, Andreas}, title = {MR safety assessment of potential RF heating from cranial fixation plates at 7 T}, series = {Medical Physics}, volume = {40}, journal = {Medical Physics}, number = {4}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Hoboken}, issn = {2473-4209}, doi = {10.1118/1.4795347}, pages = {042302-1 -- 042302-10}, year = {2013}, language = {en} } @article{UmutluMaderwaldKinneretal.2013, author = {Umutlu, L. and Maderwald, S. and Kinner, S. and Kraff, O. and Bitz, Andreas and Orzada, S. and Johst, S. and Wrede, K. and Forsting, M. and Ladd, M. E. and Lauenstein, T. C. and Quick, H. H.}, title = {First-pass contrast-enhanced renal MRA at 7 Tesla: initial results}, series = {European Radiology}, volume = {23}, journal = {European Radiology}, number = {4}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {1432-1084}, doi = {10.1007/s00330-012-2666-0}, pages = {1059 -- 1066}, year = {2013}, language = {en} } @article{UmutluOrzadaKinneretal.2011, author = {Umutlu, Lale and Orzada, Stephan and Kinner, Sonja and Maderwald, Stefan and Bronte, Irina and Bitz, Andreas and Kraff, Oliver and Ladd, Susanne C. and Antoch, Gerald and Ladd, Mark E. and Quick, Harald H. and Lauenstein, Thomas C.}, title = {Renal imaging at 7 Tesla: preliminary results}, series = {European Radiology}, volume = {21}, journal = {European Radiology}, number = {4}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {1432-1084}, pages = {841 -- 849}, year = {2011}, abstract = {Objective To investigate the feasibility of 7T MR imaging of the kidneys utilising a custom-built 8-channel transmit/receive radiofrequency body coil. Methods In vivo unenhanced MR was performed in 8 healthy volunteers on a 7T whole-body MR system. After B0 shimming the following sequences were obtained: 1) 2D and 3D spoiled gradient-echo sequences (FLASH, VIBE), 2) T1-weighted 2D in and opposed phase 3) True-FISP imaging and 4) a T2-weighted turbo spin echo (TSE) sequence. Visual evaluation of the overall image quality was performed by two radiologists. Results Renal MRI at 7T was feasible in all eight subjects. Best image quality was found using T1-weighted gradient echo MRI, providing high anatomical details and excellent conspicuity of the non-enhanced vasculature. With successful shimming, B1 signal voids could be effectively reduced and/or shifted out of the region of interest in most sequence types. However, T2-weighted TSE imaging remained challenging and strongly impaired because of signal heterogeneities in three volunteers. Conclusion The results demonstrate the feasibility and diagnostic potential of dedicated 7T renal imaging. Further optimisation of imaging sequences and dedicated RF coil concepts are expected to improve the acquisition quality and ultimately provide high clinical diagnostic value.}, language = {en} } @article{NeuJanserKhatibietal.2016, author = {Neu, Eugen and Janser, Frank and Khatibi, Akbar A. and Orifici, Adrian C.}, title = {Automated modal parameter-based anomaly detection under varying wind excitation}, series = {Structural Health Monitoring}, volume = {15}, journal = {Structural Health Monitoring}, number = {6}, publisher = {Sage}, address = {London}, issn = {1475-9217}, doi = {10.1177/1475921716665803}, pages = {1 -- 20}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Wind-induced operational variability is one of the major challenges for structural health monitoring of slender engineering structures like aircraft wings or wind turbine blades. Damage sensitive features often show an even bigger sensitivity to operational variability. In this study a composite cantilever was subjected to multiple mass configurations, velocities and angles of attack in a controlled wind tunnel environment. A small-scale impact damage was introduced to the specimen and the structural response measurements were repeated. The proposed damage detection methodology is based on automated operational modal analysis. A novel baseline preparation procedure is described that reduces the amount of user interaction to the provision of a single consistency threshold. The procedure starts with an indeterminate number of operational modal analysis identifications from a large number of datasets and returns a complete baseline matrix of natural frequencies and damping ratios that is suitable for subsequent anomaly detection. Mahalanobis distance-based anomaly detection is then applied to successfully detect the damage under varying severities of operational variability and with various degrees of knowledge about the present operational conditions. The damage detection capabilities of the proposed methodology were found to be excellent under varying velocities and angles of attack. Damage detection was less successful under joint mass and wind variability but could be significantly improved through the provision of the currently encountered operational conditions.}, language = {en} } @article{ZangeSchopenAlbrachtetal.2017, author = {Zange, Jochen and Schopen, Kathrin and Albracht, Kirsten and Gerlach, Darius A. and Frings-Meuthen, Petra and Maffiuletti, Nicola A. and Bloch, Wilhelm and Rittweger, J{\"o}rn}, title = {Using the Hephaistos orthotic device to study countermeasure effectiveness of neuromuscular electrical stimulation and dietary lupin protein supplementation, a randomised controlled trial}, series = {Plos one}, volume = {12}, journal = {Plos one}, number = {2}, doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0171562}, year = {2017}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{GoldmannBraunsteinHeinrichetal.2015, author = {Goldmann, Jan-Peter and Braunstein, Bjoern and Heinrich, Kai and Sanno, Maximilian and St{\"a}udle, Benjamin and Ritzdorf, Wolfgang and Br{\"u}ggemann, Gert-Peter and Albracht, Kirsten}, title = {Joint work of the take-off leg during elite high jump}, series = {Proceedings of the 33th International Conference on Biomechanics in Sports (ISBS)}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the 33th International Conference on Biomechanics in Sports (ISBS)}, pages = {3 S.}, year = {2015}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{DroszezSannoGoldmannetal.2016, author = {Droszez, Anna and Sanno, Maximilian and Goldmann, Jan-Peter and Albracht, Kirsten and Br{\"u}ggemann, Gerd-Peter and Braunstein, Bjoern}, title = {Differences between take-off behavior during vertical jumps and two artistic elements}, series = {34th International Conference of Biomechanics in Sport, Tsukuba, Japan, July 18-22, 2016}, booktitle = {34th International Conference of Biomechanics in Sport, Tsukuba, Japan, July 18-22, 2016}, issn = {1999-4168}, pages = {577 -- 580}, year = {2016}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{AbelBoninAlbrachtetal.2010, author = {Abel, Thomas and Bonin, Dominik and Albracht, Kirsten and Zeller, Sebastian and Br{\"u}ggemann, Gert-Peter and Burkett, Brendan and Str{\"u}der, Heiko K.}, title = {Kinematic profile of the elite handcyclist}, series = {28th International Conference on Biomechanics in Sports, Marquette, Michigan, USA, July 19 - 23, 2010}, booktitle = {28th International Conference on Biomechanics in Sports, Marquette, Michigan, USA, July 19 - 23, 2010}, issn = {1999-4168}, pages = {140 -- 141}, year = {2010}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{BraunsteinGoldmannAlbrachtetal.2013, author = {Braunstein, Bjoern and Goldmann, Jan-Peter and Albracht, Kirsten and Sanno, Maximilian and Willwacher, Steffen and Heinrich, Kai and Herrmann, Volker and Br{\"u}ggemann, Gert-Peter}, title = {Joint specific contribution of mechanical power and work during acceleration and top speed in elite sprinters}, series = {31 International Conference on Biomechanics in Sports, Taipei, Taiwan, July 07 - July 22, 2013}, booktitle = {31 International Conference on Biomechanics in Sports, Taipei, Taiwan, July 07 - July 22, 2013}, issn = {1999-4168}, year = {2013}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Albracht2010, author = {Albracht, Kirsten}, title = {Influence of mechanical properties of the leg extensor muscletendon units on running economy}, publisher = {Deutsche Sporthochschule K{\"o}ln}, address = {K{\"o}ln}, pages = {X, 1221 Bl. : graph. Darst.}, year = {2010}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KolditzAlbrachtFasseetal.2015, author = {Kolditz, Melanie and Albracht, Kirsten and Fasse, Alessandro and Albin, Thivaharan and Br{\"u}ggemann, Gert-Peter and Abel, Dirk}, title = {Evaluation of an industrial robot as a leg press training device}, series = {XV International Symposium on Computer Simulation in Biomechanics July 9th - 11th 2015, Edinburgh, UK}, booktitle = {XV International Symposium on Computer Simulation in Biomechanics July 9th - 11th 2015, Edinburgh, UK}, pages = {41 -- 42}, year = {2015}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KolditzAlbinFasseetal.2015, author = {Kolditz, Melanie and Albin, Thivaharan and Fasse, Alessandro and Br{\"u}ggemann, Gert-Peter and Abel, Dirk and Albracht, Kirsten}, title = {Simulative Analysis of Joint Loading During Leg Press Exercise for Control Applications}, series = {IFAC-PapersOnLine}, volume = {48}, booktitle = {IFAC-PapersOnLine}, number = {20}, doi = {10.1016/j.ifacol.2015.10.179}, pages = {435 -- 440}, year = {2015}, language = {en} } @article{deBloisdeZangerPaulssenetal.2018, author = {de Blois, Eric and de Zanger, Rory M. S. and Paulßen, Elisabeth and Sze Chan, Ho and Breeman, Wouter A. P.}, title = {Semi-automated system for concentrating 68Ga-eluate to obtain high molar and volume concentration of 68Ga-Radiopharmaca for preclinical applications}, series = {Nuclear Medicine and Biology}, volume = {64-65}, journal = {Nuclear Medicine and Biology}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, doi = {10.1016/j.nucmedbio.2018.06.006}, pages = {16 -- 21}, year = {2018}, abstract = {68Ga-radiopharmaceuticals are common in the field of Nuclear Medicine to visualize receptor-mediated processes. In contrast to straightforward labeling procedures for clinical applications, preclinical in vitro and in vivo applications are hampered for reasons like e.g. volume restriction, activity concentration, molar activity and osmolality. Therefore, we developed a semiautomatic system specifically to overcome these problems. A difficulty appeared unexpectedly, as intrinsic trace metals derived from eluate (Zn, Fe and Cu) are concentrated as well in amounts that influence radiochemical yield and thus lower molar activity.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SchmidtsKraftSchreiberetal.2018, author = {Schmidts, Oliver and Kraft, Bodo and Schreiber, Marc and Z{\"u}ndorf, Albert}, title = {Continuously evaluated research projects in collaborative decoupled environments}, series = {2018 ACM/IEEE 5th International Workshop on Software Engineering Research and Industrial PracticePractice, May 29, 2018, Gothenburg, Sweden : SER\&IP' 18}, booktitle = {2018 ACM/IEEE 5th International Workshop on Software Engineering Research and Industrial PracticePractice, May 29, 2018, Gothenburg, Sweden : SER\&IP' 18}, publisher = {ACM}, address = {New York, NY}, pages = {1 -- 9}, year = {2018}, abstract = {Often, research results from collaboration projects are not transferred into productive environments even though approaches are proven to work in demonstration prototypes. These demonstration prototypes are usually too fragile and error-prone to be transferred easily into productive environments. A lot of additional work is required. Inspired by the idea of an incremental delivery process, we introduce an architecture pattern, which combines the approach of Metrics Driven Research Collaboration with microservices for the ease of integration. It enables keeping track of project goals over the course of the collaboration while every party may focus on their expert skills: researchers may focus on complex algorithms, practitioners may focus on their business goals. Through the simplified integration (intermediate) research results can be introduced into a productive environment which enables getting an early user feedback and allows for the early evaluation of different approaches. The practitioners' business model benefits throughout the full project duration.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Keinz2018, author = {Keinz, Jan}, title = {Optimization of a Dry Low NOx Micromix Combustor for an Industrial Gas Turbine Using Hydrogen-Rich Syngas Fuel}, publisher = {Universit{\´e} Libre de Bruxelles - Brussels School of Engineering Aero-Thermo-Mechanics}, address = {Br{\"u}ssel}, year = {2018}, language = {en} } @article{DethloffKrollLudwigs2006, author = {Dethloff, Nina and Kroll-Ludwigs, Kathrin}, title = {The Constitutional Court as Driver of Reforms in German Family Law}, series = {International Survey of Family Law}, journal = {International Survey of Family Law}, pages = {217 -- 234}, year = {2006}, language = {en} } @article{DethloffKrollLudwigs2008, author = {Dethloff, Nina and Kroll-Ludwigs, Kathrin}, title = {Strengthening Children's Rights in German Family Law}, series = {The International Survey of Family Law}, journal = {The International Survey of Family Law}, pages = {119 -- 136}, year = {2008}, language = {en} } @article{KrollLudwigs2007, author = {Kroll-Ludwigs, Kathrin}, title = {The Reform of German Maintenance Law}, series = {The International Survey of Family Law}, journal = {The International Survey of Family Law}, pages = {85 -- 100}, year = {2007}, language = {en} } @article{SchneiderTran2015, author = {Schneider, Felix and Tran, Duc Hung}, title = {On the relation between the fair value option and bid-ask spreads: descriptive evidence on the recognition of credit risk changes under IFRS}, series = {Journal of Business Economics}, volume = {85}, journal = {Journal of Business Economics}, number = {9}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin}, issn = {1861-8928}, doi = {10.1007/s11573-015-0776-2}, pages = {1049 -- 1081}, year = {2015}, language = {en} } @article{Tran2014, author = {Tran, Duc Hung}, title = {Multiple corporate governance attributes and the cost of capital - Evidence from Germany}, series = {The British Accounting Review}, volume = {46}, journal = {The British Accounting Review}, number = {2}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0890-8389}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bar.2014.02.003}, pages = {179 -- 197}, year = {2014}, abstract = {This paper investigates the extent to which corporate governance affects the cost of debt and equity capital of German exchange-listed companies. I examine corporate governance along three dimensions: financial information quality, ownership structure and board structure. The results suggest that firms with high levels of financial transparency and bonus compensations face lower cost of equity. In addition, block ownership is negatively related to firms' cost of equity when the blockholders are other firms, managers or founding-family members. Consistent with the conjecture that agency costs increase with firm size, I find significant cost of debt effects only in the largest German companies. Here, the creditors demand lower cost of debt from firms with block ownerships held by corporations or banks. My findings demonstrate that a uniform set of governance attributes is unlikely to satisfy suppliers of debt and equity capital equally.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{Behbahani2014, author = {Behbahani, Mehdi}, title = {An Experimental Study of Thrombocyte Reactions in Response to Biomaterial Surfaces and Varying Shear Stress}, series = {Proceedings of the International Conference on Biomedical Engineering and Systems Prague, Czech Republic, August 14-15, 2014}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the International Conference on Biomedical Engineering and Systems Prague, Czech Republic, August 14-15, 2014}, pages = {Paper 125}, year = {2014}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{BehbahaniRibleMoulinecetal.2015, author = {Behbahani, Mehdi and Rible, Sebastian and Moulinec, Charles and Fournier, Yvan and Nicolai, Mike and Crosetto, Paolo}, title = {Simulation of the FDA Centrifugal Blood Pump Using High Performance Computing}, series = {World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology International Journal of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering}, volume = {9}, booktitle = {World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology International Journal of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering}, number = {5}, year = {2015}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{EssingholtMeyerKuhnetal.2018, author = {Essingholt, Felix and Meyer, Frederic and Kuhn, Peter and Schmidt, Philip and Benkner, Thorsten and Grabmaier, Anton}, title = {Non-invasive heart beat measurement using microwave resonators}, series = {Proceedings, Vol. 2, Eurosensors 2018 Conference, Graz, Austria, 9-12 September 2018}, booktitle = {Proceedings, Vol. 2, Eurosensors 2018 Conference, Graz, Austria, 9-12 September 2018}, publisher = {MDPI}, address = {Basel}, issn = {2504-3900}, doi = {10.3390/proceedings2131002}, pages = {1002}, year = {2018}, language = {en} } @incollection{KrollLudwigs2008, author = {Kroll-Ludwigs, Kathrin}, title = {Unification of Conflict of Laws in Europe. Matrimonial Property Regimes}, series = {European Challenges in Contemporary Family Law}, booktitle = {European Challenges in Contemporary Family Law}, editor = {Boele-Woelki, Katharina}, publisher = {Intersentia}, address = {Antwerpen}, isbn = {978-90-5095-692-5}, pages = {379 -- 393}, year = {2008}, language = {en} } @article{EckertAbbasiMangetal.2020, author = {Eckert, Alexander and Abbasi, Mozhdeh and Mang, Thomas and Saalw{\"a}chter, Kay and Walther, Andreas}, title = {Structure, Mechanical Properties, and Dynamics of Polyethylenoxide/Nanoclay Nacre-Mimetic Nanocomposites}, series = {Macromolecules}, volume = {53}, journal = {Macromolecules}, number = {5}, publisher = {ACS Publications}, address = {Washington, DC}, issn = {1520-5835}, doi = {10.1021/acs.macromol.9b01931}, pages = {1716 -- 1725}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Nacre-mimetic nanocomposites based on high fractions of synthetic high-aspect-ratio nanoclays in combination with polymers are continuously pushing boundaries for advanced material properties, such as high barrier against oxygen, extraordinary mechanical behavior, fire shielding, and glass-like transparency. Additionally, they provide interesting model systems to study polymers under nanoconfinement due to the well-defined layered nanocomposite arrangement. Although the general behavior in terms of forming such layered nanocomposite materials using evaporative self-assembly and controlling the nanoclay gallery spacing by the nanoclay/polymer ratio is understood, some combinations of polymer matrices and nanoclay reinforcement do not comply with the established models. Here, we demonstrate a thorough characterization and analysis of such an unusual polymer/nanoclay pair that falls outside of the general behavior. Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and sodium fluorohectorite form nacre-mimetic, lamellar nanocomposites that are completely transparent and show high mechanical stiffness and high gas barrier, but there is only limited expansion of the nanoclay gallery spacing when adding increasing amounts of polymer. This behavior is maintained for molecular weights of PEO varied over four orders of magnitude and can be traced back to depletion forces. By careful investigation via X-ray diffraction and proton low-resolution solid-state NMR, we are able to quantify the amount of mobile and immobilized polymer species in between the nanoclay galleries and around proposed tactoid stacks embedded in a PEO matrix. We further elucidate the unusual confined polymer dynamics, indicating a relevant role of specific surface interactions.}, language = {en} } @article{JildehWagnerSchoening2021, author = {Jildeh, Zaid B. and Wagner, Patrick H. and Sch{\"o}ning, Michael Josef}, title = {Sterilization of Objects, Products, and Packaging Surfaces and Their Characterization in Different Fields of Industry: The Status in 2020}, series = {physica status solidi (a) applications and materials science}, volume = {218}, journal = {physica status solidi (a) applications and materials science}, number = {13}, publisher = {Wiley-VCH}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1862-6319}, doi = {10.1002/pssa.202000732}, pages = {27 Seiten}, year = {2021}, abstract = {The treatment method to deactivate viable microorganisms from objects or products is termed sterilization. There are multiple forms of sterilization, each intended to be applied for a specific target, which depends on—but not limited to—the thermal, physical, and chemical stability of that target. Herein, an overview on the currently used sterilization processes in the global market is provided. Different sterilization techniques are grouped under a category that describes the method of treatment: radiation (gamma, electron beam, X-ray, and ultraviolet), thermal (dry and moist heat), and chemical (ethylene oxide, ozone, chlorine dioxide, and hydrogen peroxide). For each sterilization process, the typical process parameters as defined by regulations and the mode of antimicrobial activity are summarized. Finally, the recommended microorganisms that are used as biological indicators to validate sterilization processes in accordance with the rules that are established by various regulatory agencies are summarized.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Bayer2021, author = {Bayer, Robin}, title = {Development of a novel in-vitro vascular model for determination of physiological and pathophysiological mechanobiology}, publisher = {Universit{\"a}t zu K{\"o}ln}, address = {K{\"o}ln}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:hbz:38-362212}, pages = {IV, 115 Seiten}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @article{MolinnusDrinicIkenetal.2021, author = {Molinnus, Denise and Drinic, Aleksander and Iken, Heiko and Kr{\"o}ger, Nadja and Zinser, Max and Smeets, Ralf and K{\"o}pf, Marius and Kopp, Alexander and Sch{\"o}ning, Michael Josef}, title = {Towards a flexible electrochemical biosensor fabricated from biocompatible Bombyx mori silk}, series = {Biosensors and Bioelectronics}, volume = {183}, journal = {Biosensors and Bioelectronics}, number = {Art. 113204}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0956-5663}, doi = {10.1016/j.bios.2021.113204}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @article{YoshinobuSchoening2021, author = {Yoshinobu, Tatsuo and Sch{\"o}ning, Michael Josef}, title = {Light-addressable potentiometric sensors (LAPS) for cell monitoring and biosensing}, series = {Current Opinion in Electrochemistry}, journal = {Current Opinion in Electrochemistry}, number = {In Press, Journal Pre-proof}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {2451-9103}, doi = {10.1016/j.coelec.2021.100727}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @incollection{EngemannDuKallweitetal.2020, author = {Engemann, Heiko and Du, Shengzhi and Kallweit, Stephan and Ning, Chuanfang and Anwar, Saqib}, title = {AutoSynPose: Automatic Generation of Synthetic Datasets for 6D Object Pose Estimation}, series = {Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. Proceedings of MLIS 2020}, booktitle = {Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. Proceedings of MLIS 2020}, publisher = {IOS Press}, address = {Amsterdam}, isbn = {978-1-64368-137-5}, doi = {10.3233/FAIA200770}, pages = {89 -- 97}, year = {2020}, abstract = {We present an automated pipeline for the generation of synthetic datasets for six-dimension (6D) object pose estimation. Therefore, a completely automated generation process based on predefined settings is developed, which enables the user to create large datasets with a minimum of interaction and which is feasible for applications with a high object variance. The pipeline is based on the Unreal 4 (UE4) game engine and provides a high variation for domain randomization, such as object appearance, ambient lighting, camera-object transformation and distractor density. In addition to the object pose and bounding box, the metadata includes all randomization parameters, which enables further studies on randomization parameter tuning. The developed workflow is adaptable to other 3D objects and UE4 environments. An exemplary dataset is provided including five objects of the Yale-CMU-Berkeley (YCB) object set. The datasets consist of 6 million subsegments using 97 rendering locations in 12 different UE4 environments. Each dataset subsegment includes one RGB image, one depth image and one class segmentation image at pixel-level.}, language = {en} } @article{EngemannDuKallweitetal.2020, author = {Engemann, Heiko and Du, Shengzhi and Kallweit, Stephan and C{\"o}nen, Patrick and Dawar, Harshal}, title = {OMNIVIL - an autonomous mobile manipulator for flexible production}, series = {Sensors}, volume = {20}, journal = {Sensors}, number = {24, art. no. 7249}, publisher = {MDPI}, address = {Basel}, isbn = {1424-8220}, doi = {10.3390/s20247249}, pages = {1 -- 30}, year = {2020}, language = {en} } @article{Maurischat2021, author = {Maurischat, Andreas}, title = {Algebraic independence of the Carlitz period and its hyperderivatives}, pages = {1 -- 12}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @article{WertIkenSchoeningetal.2021, author = {Wert, Stefan and Iken, Heiko and Sch{\"o}ning, Michael Josef and Matysik, Frank-Michael}, title = {Development of a temperature-pulse enhanced electrochemical glucose biosensor and characterization of its stability via scanning electrochemical microscopy}, series = {Electroanalysis}, journal = {Electroanalysis}, number = {Early View}, publisher = {Wiley-VCH}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1521-4109}, doi = {10.1002/elan.202100089}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Glucose oxidase (GOx) is an enzyme frequently used in glucose biosensors. As increased temperatures can enhance the performance of electrochemical sensors, we investigated the impact of temperature pulses on GOx that was drop-coated on flattened Pt microwires. The wires were heated by an alternating current. The sensitivity towards glucose and the temperature stability of GOx was investigated by amperometry. An up to 22-fold increase of sensitivity was observed. Spatially resolved enzyme activity changes were investigated via scanning electrochemical microscopy. The application of short (<100 ms) heat pulses was associated with less thermal inactivation of the immobilized GOx than long-term heating.}, language = {en} } @article{LowisFergusonPaulssenetal.2021, author = {Lowis, Carsten and Ferguson, Simon and Paulßen, Elisabeth and Hoehr, Cornelia}, title = {Improved Sc-44 production in a siphon-style liquid target on a medical cyclotron}, series = {Applied Radiation and Isotopes}, volume = {172}, journal = {Applied Radiation and Isotopes}, number = {Art. 109675}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0969-8043}, doi = {10.1016/j.apradiso.2021.109675}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @article{WaldvogelRitzmannFreyleretal.2021, author = {Waldvogel, Janice and Ritzmann, Ramona and Freyler, Kathrin and Helm, Michael and Monti, Elena and Albracht, Kirsten and St{\"a}udle, Benjamin and Gollhofer, Albert and Narici, Marco}, title = {The Anticipation of Gravity in Human Ballistic Movement}, series = {Frontiers in Physiology}, journal = {Frontiers in Physiology}, publisher = {Frontiers}, address = {Lausanne}, issn = {1664-042X}, doi = {10.3389/fphys.2021.614060}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Stretch-shortening type actions are characterized by lengthening of the pre-activated muscle-tendon unit (MTU) in the eccentric phase immediately followed by muscle shortening. Under 1 g, pre-activity before and muscle activity after ground contact, scale muscle stiffness, which is crucial for the recoil properties of the MTU in the subsequent push-off. This study aimed to examine the neuro-mechanical coupling of the stretch-shortening cycle in response to gravity levels ranging from 0.1 to 2 g. During parabolic flights, 17 subjects performed drop jumps while electromyography (EMG) of the lower limb muscles was combined with ultrasound images of the gastrocnemius medialis, 2D kinematics and kinetics to depict changes in energy management and performance. Neuro-mechanical coupling in 1 g was characterized by high magnitudes of pre-activity and eccentric muscle activity allowing an isometric muscle behavior during ground contact. EMG during pre-activity and the concentric phase systematically increased from 0.1 to 1 g. Below 1 g the EMG in the eccentric phase was diminished, leading to muscle lengthening and reduced MTU stretches. Kinetic energy at take-off and performance were decreased compared to 1 g. Above 1 g, reduced EMG in the eccentric phase was accompanied by large MTU and muscle stretch, increased joint flexion amplitudes, energy loss and reduced performance. The energy outcome function established by linear mixed model reveals that the central nervous system regulates the extensor muscles phase- and load-specifically. In conclusion, neuro-mechanical coupling appears to be optimized in 1 g. Below 1 g, the energy outcome is compromised by reduced muscle stiffness. Above 1 g, loading progressively induces muscle lengthening, thus facilitating energy dissipation.}, language = {en} } @article{BohndickBosseJaenschetal.2021, author = {Bohndick, Carla and Bosse, Elke and J{\"a}nsch, Vanessa K. and Barnat, Miriam}, title = {How different diversity factors affect the perception of first-year requirements in higher education}, series = {Frontline Learning Research}, volume = {9}, journal = {Frontline Learning Research}, number = {2}, publisher = {EARLI}, issn = {2295-3159}, doi = {10.14786/flr.v9i2.667}, pages = {78 -- 95}, year = {2021}, abstract = {In the light of growing university entry rates, higher education institutions not only serve larger numbers of students, but also seek to meet first-year students' ever more diverse needs. Yet to inform universities how to support the transition to higher education, research only offers limited insights. Current studies tend to either focus on the individual factors that affect student success or they highlight students' social background and their educational biography in order to examine the achievement of selected, non-traditional groups of students. Both lines of research appear to lack integration and often fail to take organisational diversity into account, such as different types of higher education institutions or degree programmes. For a more comprehensive understanding of student diversity, the present study includes individual, social and organisational factors. To gain insights into their role for the transition to higher education, we examine how the different factors affect the students' perception of the formal and informal requirements of the first year as more or less difficult to cope with. As the perceived requirements result from both the characteristics of the students and the institutional context, they allow to investigate transition at the interface of the micro and the meso level of higher education. Latent profile analyses revealed that there are no profiles with complex patterns of perception of the first-year requirements, but the identified groups rather differ in the overall level of perceived challenges. Moreover, SEM indicates that the differences in the perception largely depend on the individual factors self-efficacy and volition.}, language = {en} } @article{HugenrothNeidlinEngelmannetal.2021, author = {Hugenroth, Kristin and Neidlin, Michael and Engelmann, Ulrich M. and Kaufmann, Tim A. S. and Steinseifer, Ulrich and Heilmann, Torsten}, title = {Tipless Transseptal Cannula Concept Combines Improved Hemodynamic Properties and Risk-Reduced Placement: an In Silico Proof-of-Concept}, series = {Artificial Organs}, journal = {Artificial Organs}, number = {Accepted Article}, publisher = {Wiley}, address = {Weinheim}, issn = {1525-1594}, doi = {10.1111/aor.13964}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{AyedStrieganKustereretal.2017, author = {Ayed, Anis Haj and Striegan, Constantin J. D. and Kusterer, Karsten and Funke, Harald and Kazari, M. and Horikawa, Atsushi and Okada, Kunio}, title = {Automated design space exploration of the hydrogen fueled "Micromix" combustor technology}, pages = {1 -- 8}, year = {2017}, abstract = {Combined with the use of renewable energy sources for its production, Hydrogen represents a possible alternative gas turbine fuel for future low emission power generation. Due to its different physical properties compared to other fuels such as natural gas, well established gas turbine combustion systems cannot be directly applied for Dry Low NOx (DLN) Hydrogen combustion. This makes the development of new combustion technologies an essential and challenging task for the future of hydrogen fueled gas turbines. The newly developed and successfully tested "DLN Micromix" combustion technology offers a great potential to burn hydrogen in gas turbines at very low NOx emissions. Aiming to further develop an existing burner design in terms of increased energy density, a redesign is required in order to stabilise the flames at higher mass flows and to maintain low emission levels. For this purpose, a systematic design exploration has been carried out with the support of CFD and optimisation tools to identify the interactions of geometrical and design parameters on the combustor performance. Aerodynamic effects as well as flame and emission formation are observed and understood time- and cost-efficiently. Correlations between single geometric values, the pressure drop of the burner and NOx production have been identified as a result. This numeric methodology helps to reduce the effort of manufacturing and testing to few designs for single validation campaigns, in order to confirm the flame stability and NOx emissions in a wider operating condition field.}, language = {en} } @article{AyedKustererFunkeetal.2017, author = {Ayed, Anis Haj and Kusterer, Karsten and Funke, Harald and Keinz, Jan and Bohn, D.}, title = {CFD based exploration of the dry-low-NOx hydrogen micromix combustion technology at increased energy densities}, series = {Propulsion and Power Research}, volume = {6}, journal = {Propulsion and Power Research}, number = {1}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, isbn = {2212-540X}, doi = {10.1016/j.jppr.2017.01.005}, pages = {15 -- 24}, year = {2017}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{HoegenDonckerRuetters2020, author = {Hoegen, Anne von and Doncker, Rik W. De and R{\"u}tters, Ren{\´e}}, title = {Teaching Digital Control of Operational Amplifier Processes with a LabVIEW Interface and Embedded Hardware}, series = {2020 23rd International Conference on Electrical Machines and Systems (ICEMS)}, booktitle = {2020 23rd International Conference on Electrical Machines and Systems (ICEMS)}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, doi = {10.23919/ICEMS50442.2020.9290928}, pages = {1117 -- 1122}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Control engineering theory is hard to grasp for undergraduates during the first semesters, as it deals with the dynamical behavior of systems also in combination with control strategies on an abstract level. Therefore, operational amplifier (OpAmp) processes are reasonable and very effective systems to connect mathematical description with actual system's behavior. In this paper, we present an experiment for a laboratory session in which an embedded system, driven by a LabVIEW human machine interface (HMI) via USB, controls the analog circuits.With this setup we want to show the possibility of firstly, analyzing a first order process and secondly, designing a P-and PI-controller. Thereby, the theory of control engineering is always applied to the empirical results in order to break down the abstract level for the students.}, language = {en} } @article{MoratFaudeHanssenetal.2020, author = {Morat, Mareike and Faude, Oliver and Hanssen, Henner and Ludyga, Sebastian and Zacher, Jonas and Eibl, Angi and Albracht, Kirsten and Donath, Lars}, title = {Agility Training to Integratively Promote Neuromuscular, Cognitive, Cardiovascular and Psychosocial Function in Healthy Older Adults: A Study Protocol of a One-Year Randomized-Controlled Trial}, series = {International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health}, volume = {17}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health}, number = {6}, publisher = {MDPI}, address = {Basel}, issn = {1660-4601}, doi = {10.3390/ijerph17061853}, pages = {1 -- 14}, year = {2020}, abstract = {Exercise training effectively mitigates aging-induced health and fitness impairments. Traditional training recommendations for the elderly focus separately on relevant physiological fitness domains, such as balance, flexibility, strength and endurance. Thus, a more holistic and functional training framework is needed. The proposed agility training concept integratively tackles spatial orientation, stop and go, balance and strength. The presented protocol aims at introducing a two-armed, one-year randomized controlled trial, evaluating the effects of this concept on neuromuscular, cardiovascular, cognitive and psychosocial health outcomes in healthy older adults. Eighty-five participants were enrolled in this ongoing trial. Seventy-nine participants completed baseline testing and were block-randomized to the agility training group or the inactive control group. All participants undergo pre- and post-testing with interim assessment after six months. The intervention group currently receives supervised, group-based agility training twice a week over one year, with progressively demanding perceptual, cognitive and physical exercises. Knee extension strength, reactive balance, dual task gait speed and the Agility Challenge for the Elderly (ACE) serve as primary endpoints and neuromuscular, cognitive, cardiovascular, and psychosocial meassures serve as surrogate secondary outcomes. Our protocol promotes a comprehensive exercise training concept for older adults, that might facilitate stakeholders in health and exercise to stimulate relevant health outcomes without relying on excessively time-consuming physical activity recommendations.}, language = {en} } @article{GivanoudiCornelisRasschaertetal.2021, author = {Givanoudi, Stella and Cornelis, Peter and Rasschaert, Geertrui and Wackers, Gideon and Iken, Heiko and Rolka, David and Yongabi, Derick and Robbens, Johan and Sch{\"o}ning, Michael Josef and Heyndrickx, Marc and Wagner, Patrick}, title = {Selective Campylobacter detection and quantification in poultry: A sensor tool for detecting the cause of a common zoonosis at its source}, series = {Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical}, journal = {Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical}, number = {In Press, Journal Pre-proof}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {0925-4005}, doi = {10.1016/j.snb.2021.129484}, pages = {Article 129484}, year = {2021}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SchubaHoefkenLinzbach2022, author = {Schuba, Marko and H{\"o}fken, Hans-Wilhelm and Linzbach, Sophie}, title = {An ICS Honeynet for Detecting and Analyzing Cyberattacks in Industrial Plants}, series = {2021 International Conference on Electrical, Computer and Energy Technologies (ICECET)}, booktitle = {2021 International Conference on Electrical, Computer and Energy Technologies (ICECET)}, publisher = {IEEE}, isbn = {978-1-6654-4231-2}, doi = {10.1109/ICECET52533.2021.9698746}, pages = {6 Seiten}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Cybersecurity of Industrial Control Systems (ICS) is an important issue, as ICS incidents may have a direct impact on safety of people or the environment. At the same time the awareness and knowledge about cybersecurity, particularly in the context of ICS, is alarmingly low. Industrial honeypots offer a cheap and easy to implement way to raise cybersecurity awareness and to educate ICS staff about typical attack patterns. When integrated in a productive network, industrial honeypots may not only reveal attackers early but may also distract them from the actual important systems of the network. Implementing multiple honeypots as a honeynet, the systems can be used to emulate or simulate a whole Industrial Control System. This paper describes a network of honeypots emulating HTTP, SNMP, S7communication and the Modbus protocol using Conpot, IMUNES and SNAP7. The nodes mimic SIMATIC S7 programmable logic controllers (PLCs) which are widely used across the globe. The deployed honeypots' features will be compared with the features of real SIMATIC S7 PLCs. Furthermore, the honeynet has been made publicly available for ten days and occurring cyberattacks have been analyzed}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{ChristianMontagSchubaetal.2018, author = {Christian, Esser and Montag, Tim and Schuba, Marko and Allhof, Manuel}, title = {Future critical infrastructure and security - cyberattacks on charging stations}, series = {31st International Electric Vehicle Symposium \& Exhibition and International Electric Vehicle Technology Conference (EVS31 \& EVTeC 2018)}, booktitle = {31st International Electric Vehicle Symposium \& Exhibition and International Electric Vehicle Technology Conference (EVS31 \& EVTeC 2018)}, publisher = {Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan (JSAE)}, address = {Tokyo}, isbn = {978-1-5108-9157-9}, pages = {665 -- 671}, year = {2018}, language = {en} } @article{MalinowskiFournierHorbachetal.2022, author = {Malinowski, Daniel and Fournier, Yvan and Horbach, Andreas and Frick, Michael and Magliani, Mirko and Kalverkamp, Sebastian and Hildinger, Martin and Spillner, Jan and Behbahani, Mehdi and Hima, Flutura}, title = {Computational fluid dynamics analysis of endoluminal aortic perfusion}, series = {Perfusion}, volume = {0}, journal = {Perfusion}, number = {0}, publisher = {Sage}, address = {London}, issn = {1477-111X}, doi = {10.1177/02676591221099809}, pages = {1 -- 8}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Introduction: In peripheral percutaneous (VA) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) procedures the femoral arteries perfusion route has inherent disadvantages regarding poor upper body perfusion due to watershed. With the advent of new long flexible cannulas an advancement of the tip up to the ascending aorta has become feasible. To investigate the impact of such long endoluminal cannulas on upper body perfusion, a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) study was performed considering different support levels and three cannula positions. Methods: An idealized literature-based- and a real patient proximal aortic geometry including an endoluminal cannula were constructed. The blood flow was considered continuous. Oxygen saturation was set to 80\% for the blood coming from the heart and to 100\% for the blood leaving the cannula. 50\% and 90\% venoarterial support levels from the total blood flow rate of 6 l/min were investigated for three different positions of the cannula in the aortic arch. Results: For both geometries, the placement of the cannula in the ascending aorta led to a superior oxygenation of all aortic blood vessels except for the left coronary artery. Cannula placements at the aortic arch and descending aorta could support supra-aortic arteries, but not the coronary arteries. All positions were able to support all branches with saturated blood at 90\% flow volume. Conclusions: In accordance with clinical observations CFD analysis reveals, that retrograde advancement of a long endoluminal cannula can considerably improve the oxygenation of the upper body and lead to oxygen saturation distributions similar to those of a central cannulation.}, language = {en} } @article{LenzKahmannBehbahanietal.2022, author = {Lenz, Maximilian and Kahmann, Stephanie Lucina and Behbahani, Mehdi and Pennig, Lenhard and Hackl, Michael and Leschinger, Tim and M{\"u}ller, Lars Peter and Wegmann, Kilian}, title = {Influence of rotator cuff preload on fracture configuration in proximal humerus fractures: a proof of concept for fracture simulation}, series = {Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery}, journal = {Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Berlin, Heidelberg}, issn = {1434-3916}, doi = {10.1007/s00402-022-04471-9}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Introduction In regard of surgical training, the reproducible simulation of life-like proximal humerus fractures in human cadaveric specimens is desirable. The aim of the present study was to develop a technique that allows simulation of realistic proximal humerus fractures and to analyse the influence of rotator cuff preload on the generated lesions in regards of fracture configuration. Materials and methods Ten cadaveric specimens (6 left, 4 right) were fractured using a custom-made drop-test bench, in two groups. Five specimens were fractured without rotator cuff preload, while the other five were fractured with the tendons of the rotator cuff preloaded with 2 kg each. The humeral shaft and the shortened scapula were potted. The humerus was positioned at 90° of abduction and 10° of internal rotation to simulate a fall on the elevated arm. In two specimens of each group, the emergence of the fractures was documented with high-speed video imaging. Pre-fracture radiographs were taken to evaluate the deltoid-tuberosity index as a measure of bone density. Post-fracture X-rays and CT scans were performed to define the exact fracture configurations. Neer's classification was used to analyse the fractures. Results In all ten cadaveric specimens life-like proximal humerus fractures were achieved. Two III-part and three IV-part fractures resulted in each group. The preloading of the rotator cuff muscles had no further influence on the fracture configuration. High-speed videos of the fracture simulation revealed identical fracture mechanisms for both groups. We observed a two-step fracture mechanism, with initial impaction of the head segment against the glenoid followed by fracturing of the head and the tuberosities and then with further impaction of the shaft against the acromion, which lead to separation of the tuberosities. Conclusion A high energetic axial impulse can reliably induce realistic proximal humerus fractures in cadaveric specimens. The preload of the rotator cuff muscles had no influence on initial fracture configuration. Therefore, fracture simulation in the proximal humerus is less elaborate. Using the presented technique, pre-fractured specimens are available for real-life surgical education.}, language = {en} } @article{ChloeMalyaranCraveiroetal.2022, author = {Chlo{\´e}, Radermacher and Malyaran, Hanna and Craveiro, Rogerio Bastos and Peglow, Sarah and Behbahani, Mehdi and Pufe, Thomas and Wolf, Michael and Neuss, Sabine}, title = {Mechanical loading on cementoblasts: a mini review}, series = {Osteologie}, volume = {31}, journal = {Osteologie}, number = {2}, publisher = {Thieme}, address = {Stuttgart}, issn = {1019-1291}, doi = {10.1055/a-1826-0777}, pages = {111 -- 118}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Orthodontic treatments are concomitant with mechanical forces and thereby cause teeth movements. The applied forces are transmitted to the tooth root and the periodontal ligaments which is compressed on one side and tensed up on the other side. Indeed, strong forces can lead to tooth root resorption and the crown-to-tooth ratio is reduced with the potential for significant clinical impact. The cementum, which covers the tooth root, is a thin mineralized tissue of the periodontium that connects the periodontal ligament with the tooth and is build up by cementoblasts. The impact of tension and compression on these cells is investigated in several in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrating differences in protein expression and signaling pathways. In summary, osteogenic marker changes indicate that cyclic tensile forces support whereas static tension inhibits cementogenesis. Furthermore, cementogenesis experiences the same protein expression changes in static conditions as static tension, but cyclic compression leads to the exact opposite of cyclic tension. Consistent with marker expression changes, the singaling pathways of Wnt/ß-catenin and RANKL/OPG show that tissue compression leads to cementum degradation and tension forces to cementogenesis. However, the cementum, and in particular its cementoblasts, remain a research area which should be explored in more detail to understand the underlying mechanism of bone resorption and remodeling after orthodontic treatments.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{ChavezBermudezWollert2022, author = {Chavez Bermudez, Victor Francisco and Wollert, J{\"o}rg}, title = {10BASE-T1L industry 4.0 smart switch for field devices based on IO-Link}, series = {2022 IEEE 18th International Conference on Factory Communication Systems (WFCS)}, booktitle = {2022 IEEE 18th International Conference on Factory Communication Systems (WFCS)}, publisher = {IEEE}, address = {New York, NY}, isbn = {978-1-6654-1086-1}, doi = {10.1109/WFCS53837.2022.9779176}, pages = {4 Seiten}, year = {2022}, abstract = {The recent amendment to the Ethernet physical layer known as the IEEE 802.3cg specification, allows to connect devices up to a distance of one kilometer and delivers a maximum of 60 watts of power over a twisted pair of wires. This new standard, also known as 10BASE-TIL, promises to overcome the limits of current physical layers used for field devices and bring them a step closer to Ethernet-based applications. The main advantage of 10BASE- TIL is that it can deliver power and data over the same line over a long distance, where traditional solutions (e.g., CAN, IO-Link, HART) fall short and cannot match its 10 Mbps bandwidth. Due to its recentness, IOBASE- TIL is still not integrated into field devices and it has been less than two years since silicon manufacturers released the first Ethernet-PHY chips. In this paper, we present a design proposal on how field devices could be integrated into a IOBASE-TIL smart switch that allows plug-and-play connectivity for sensors and actuators and is compliant with the Industry 4.0 vision. Instead of presenting a new field-level protocol for this work, we have decided to adopt the IO-Link specification which already includes a plug-and-play approach with features such as diagnosis and device configuration. The main objective of this work is to explore how field devices could be integrated into 10BASE-TIL Ethernet, its adaption with a well-known protocol, and its integration with Industry 4.0 technologies.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{UlmerBraunChengetal.2022, author = {Ulmer, Jessica and Braun, Sebastian and Cheng, Chi-Tsun and Dowey, Steve and Wollert, J{\"o}rg}, title = {Usage of digital twins for gamification applications in manufacturing}, series = {Procedia CIRP Leading manufacturing systems transformation - Proceedings of the 55th CIRP Conference on Manufacturing Systems 2022}, volume = {107}, booktitle = {Procedia CIRP Leading manufacturing systems transformation - Proceedings of the 55th CIRP Conference on Manufacturing Systems 2022}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {2212-8271}, doi = {10.1016/j.procir.2022.05.044}, pages = {675 -- 680}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Gamification applications are on the rise in the manufacturing sector to customize working scenarios, offer user-specific feedback, and provide personalized learning offerings. Commonly, different sensors are integrated into work environments to track workers' actions. Game elements are selected according to the work task and users' preferences. However, implementing gamified workplaces remains challenging as different data sources must be established, evaluated, and connected. Developers often require information from several areas of the companies to offer meaningful gamification strategies for their employees. Moreover, work environments and the associated support systems are usually not flexible enough to adapt to personal needs. Digital twins are one primary possibility to create a uniform data approach that can provide semantic information to gamification applications. Frequently, several digital twins have to interact with each other to provide information about the workplace, the manufacturing process, and the knowledge of the employees. This research aims to create an overview of existing digital twin approaches for digital support systems and presents a concept to use digital twins for gamified support and training systems. The concept is based upon the Reference Architecture Industry 4.0 (RAMI 4.0) and includes information about the whole life cycle of the assets. It is applied to an existing gamified training system and evaluated in the Industry 4.0 model factory by an example of a handle mounting.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{DannenSchindelePruemmeretal.2022, author = {Dannen, Tammo and Schindele, Benedikt and Pr{\"u}mmer, Marcel and Arntz, Kristian and Bergs, Thomas}, title = {Methodology for the self-optimizing determination of additive manufacturing process eligibility and optimization potentials in toolmaking}, series = {Procedia CIRP Leading manufacturing systems transformation - Proceedings of the 55th CIRP Conference on Manufacturing Systems 2022}, volume = {107}, booktitle = {Procedia CIRP Leading manufacturing systems transformation - Proceedings of the 55th CIRP Conference on Manufacturing Systems 2022}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Amsterdam}, issn = {2212-8271}, doi = {10.1016/j.procir.2022.05.188}, pages = {1539 -- 1544}, year = {2022}, abstract = {Additive Manufacturing (AM) of metallic workpieces faces a continuously rising technological relevance and market size. Producing complex or highly strained unique workpieces is a significant field of application, making AM highly relevant for tool components. Its successful economic application requires systematic workpiece based decisions and optimizations. Considering geometric and technological requirements as well as the necessary post-processing makes deciding effortful and requires in-depth knowledge. As design is usually adjusted to established manufacturing, associated technological and strategic potentials are often neglected. To embed AM in a future proof industrial environment, software-based self-learning tools are necessary. Integrated into production planning, they enable companies to unlock the potentials of AM efficiently. This paper presents an appropriate methodology for the analysis of process-specific AM-eligibility and optimization potential, added up by concrete optimization proposals. For an integrated workpiece characterization, proven methods are enlarged by tooling-specific figures. The first stage of the approach specifies the model's initialization. A learning set of tooling components is described using the developed key figure system. Based on this, a set of applicable rules for workpiece-specific result determination is generated through clustering and expert evaluation. Within the following application stage, strategic orientation is quantified and workpieces of interest are described using the developed key figures. Subsequently, the retrieved information is used for automatically generating specific recommendations relying on the generated ruleset of stage one. Finally, actual experiences regarding the recommendations are gathered within stage three. Statistic learning transfers those to the generated ruleset leading to a continuously deepening knowledge base. This process enables a steady improvement in output quality.}, language = {en} }