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The production and assembly of customized products increases the demand for flexible automation systems. One approach is to remove the safety fences that separate human and industrial robot to combine their skills. This collaboration possesses a certain risk for the human co-worker, leading to numerous safety concepts to protect him. The human needs to be monitored and tracked by a safety system using different sensors. The proposed system consists of a RGBD camera for surveillance of the common working area, an array of optical distance sensors to compensate shadowing effects of the RGBD camera and a laser range finder to detect the co-worker when approaching the work cell. The software for collision detection, path planning, robot control and predicting the behaviour of the co-worker is based on the Robot Operating System (ROS). A first prototype of the work cell shows that with advanced algorithms from the field of mobile robotics a very flexible safety concept can be realized: the robot not simply stops its movement when detecting a collision, but plans and executes an alternative path around the obstacle.
When exploring glacier ice it is often necessary to take samples or implement sensors at a certain depth underneath the glacier surface. One way of doing this is by using heated melting probes. In their common form these devices experience a straight one-dimensional downwards motion and can be modeled by standard close-contact melting theory. A recently developed melting probe however, the IceMole, achieves maneuverability by simultaneously applying a surface temperature gradient to induce a change in melting direction and controlling the effective contact-force by means of an ice screw to stabilize its change in attitude. A modeling framework for forced curvilinear melting does not exist so far and will be the content of this paper. At first, we will extend the existing theory for quasi-stationary close-contact melting to curved trajectories. We do this by introducing a rotational mode. This additional unknown in the system implies yet the need for another model closure. Within this new framework we will focus on the effect of a variable contact-force as well as different surface temperature profiles. In order to solve for melting velocity and curvature of the melting path we present both an inverse solution strategy for the analytical model, and a more general finite element framework implemented into the open source software package ELMER. Model results are discussed and compared to experimental data conducted in laboratory tests.
Optimization of the immobilization of bacterial spores on glass substrates with organosilanes
(2016)
Spores can be immobilized on biosensors to function as sensitive recognition elements. However, the immobilization can affect the sensitivity and reproducibility of the sensor signal. In this work, three different immobilization strategies with organosilanes were optimized and characterized to immobilize Bacillus atrophaeus spores on glass substrates. Five different silanization parameters were investigated: nature of the solvent, concentration of the silane, silanization time, curing process, and silanization temperature. The resulting silane layers were resistant to a buffer solution (e.g., Ringer solution) with a polysorbate (e.g., Tween®80) and sonication.
Bonding of polymer-based microfluidics to polymer substrates still poses a challenge for Lab-On-a-Chip applications. Especially, when sensing elements are incorporated, patterned deposition of adhesives with curing at ambient conditions is required. Here, we demonstrate a fabrication method for fully printed microfluidic systems with sensing elements using inkjet and stereolithographic 3D-printing.
Im Jahr 2015 wurden in Deutschland über drei Millionen Benzinautos und lediglich 12.363 Elektroautos neu zugelassen. Das ursprünglich von der Bundesregierung vorgegebene Ziel, dass bis 2020 eine Million E-Autos auf deutschen Straßen fahren (und bis 2030 sechs Millionen), rückt damit in immer weitere Ferne. Um das Ziel dennoch zu erreichen, plant die Bundesregierung nun eine staatliche Prämie für den Kauf von Elektroautos: Umwelt-, Verkehrs- und Wirtschaftsministerium haben gemeinsam ein Konzept entworfen, dem zufolge private Käufer zukünftig einen Zuschuss von 5.000 Euro beim Erwerb eines Elektroautos bekommen sollen. 40 Prozent dieses Zuschusses soll von den Autoherstellern getragen werden. Das Programm, das weitere ausgabenwirksame öffentliche Maßnahmen vorsieht, würde Kosten in Milliardenhöhe verursachen. Die beabsichtigte Subventionierung wirft die Frage auf, ob diese wirtschaftlich sinnvoll sind.
A comparative performance analysis of the CFD platforms OpenFOAM and FLOW-3D is presented, focusing on a 3D swirling turbulent flow: a steady hydraulic jump at low Reynolds number. Turbulence is treated using RANS approach RNG k-ε. A Volume Of Fluid (VOF) method is used to track the air–water interface, consequently aeration is modeled using an Eulerian–Eulerian approach. Structured meshes of cubic elements are used to discretize the channel geometry. The numerical model accuracy is assessed comparing representative hydraulic jump variables (sequent depth ratio, roller length, mean velocity profiles, velocity decay or free surface profile) to experimental data. The model results are also compared to previous studies to broaden the result validation. Both codes reproduced the phenomenon under study concurring with experimental data, although special care must be taken when swirling flows occur. Both models can be used to reproduce the hydraulic performance of energy dissipation structures at low Reynolds numbers.
Visualization of the recovery process of defects in a cultured cell layer by chemical imaging sensor
(2016)
The chemical imaging sensor is a field-effect sensor which is able to visualize both the distribution of ions (in LAPS mode) and the distribution of impedance (in SPIM mode) in the sample. In this study, a novel cell assay is proposed, in which the chemical imaging sensor operated in SPIM mode is applied to monitor the recovery of defects in a cell layer brought into proximity of the sensing surface. A reduced impedance at a defect formed artificially in a cell layer was successfully visualized in a photocurrent image. The cell layer was cultured over two weeks, during which the temporal change of the photocurrent distribution corresponding to the recovery of the defect was observed.
On-line monitoring of the metabolic activity of microorganisms involved in intermediate stages of biogas production plays an important role to avoid undesirable “down times” during the biogas production. In order to control this process, an on-chip differential measuring system based on the light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) principle combined with a 3D-printed multi-chamber structure has been realized. As a test microorganism, Escherichia coli K12 (E. coli K12) were used for cell-based measurements. Multi-chamber structures were developed to determine the metabolic activity of E. coli K12 in suspension for a different number of cells, responding to the addition of a constant or variable amount of glucose concentrations, enabling differential and simultaneous measurements.
Abstractauthoren Graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles were incorporated in temperature-sensitive Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) hydrogels. The nanoparticles increase the light absorption and convert light energy into heat efficiently. Thus, the hydrogels with GO can be stimulated spatially resolved by illumination as it was demonstrated by IR thermography. The temporal progression of the temperature maximum was detected for different concentrations of GO within the polymer network. Furthermore, the compatibility of PNIPAAm hydrogels with GO and cell cultures was investigated. For this purpose, culture medium was incubated with hydrogels containing GO and the viability and morphology of chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells was examined after several days of culturing in presence of this medium.
Purpose
Two semi-empirical models were recently published, both making use of existing literature data, but each taking into account different physical phenomena that trigger hemolysis. In the first model, hemoglobin (Hb) release is described as a permeation procedure across the membrane, assuming a shear stress-dependent process (sublethal model). The second model only accounts for hemoglobin release that is caused by cell membrane breakdown, which occurs when red blood cells (RBC) undergo mechanically induced shearing for a period longer than the threshold time (nonuniform threshold model). In this paper, we introduce a model that considers the hemolysis generated by both these possible phenomena.
Methods
Since hemolysis can possibly be caused by permeation of hemoglobin through the RBC functional membrane as well as by release of hemoglobin from RBC membrane breakdown, our proposed model combines both these models. An experimental setup consisting of a Couette device was utilized for validation of our proposed model.
Results
A comparison is presented between the damage index (DI) predicted by the proposed model vs. the sublethal model vs. the nonthreshold model and experimental datasets. This comparison covers a wide range of shear stress for both human and porcine blood. An appropriate agreement between the measured DI and the DI predicted by the present model was obtained.
Conclusions
The semiempirical hemolysis model introduced in this paper aims for significantly enhanced conformity with experimental data. Two phenomenological outcomes become possible with the proposed approach: an estimation of the average time after which cell membrane breakdown occurs under the applied conditions, and a prediction of the ratio between the phenomena involved in hemolysis.
Insolvenzanfechtung: Keine Gläubigerbenachteiligung bei Ablösezahlung gegen Forderungsverzicht
(2016)
Schwerpunkt einer vorinsolvenzlichen Sanierung ist i.d.R., dass einzelne Gläubiger gegen Teilzahlungen auf ihre Forderungen verzichten und somit dem Unternehmen den notwendigen finanziellen Freiraum für einen Turnaround geben. Die Motivation der Gläubiger für einen Verzicht ist dabei auch die Überlegung, dass eine quotale Befriedigung im Rahmen eines Insolvenzverfahrens oft wesentlich geringer ausfallen würde als die durch den Vergleich realisierte Teilzahlung. Das Risiko, im Falle der Insolvenz eine Teilzahlung im Rahmen der Insolvenzanfechtung aber wieder zurückgewähren zu müssen, macht einen Forderungsverzicht weniger attraktiv. Mit Urteil vom 28.01.2016 hat der BGH nun entschieden, dass eine Insolvenzanfechtung mangels Gläubigerbenachteiligung ausscheidet, wenn der in der Teilzahlung liegende Vermögensverlust durch den damit verbundenen Verzicht auf die Restforderung voll ausgeglichen wird. Im Folgenden wird untersucht, ob dieses Urteil als Blaupause für eine anfechtungsfeste Restrukturierung einzelner Verbindlichkeiten dienen kann.
Self-aeration is traditionally explained by the water turbulent boundary layer outer edge intersection with the free surface. This paper presents a discussion on the commonly accepted hypothesis behind the computation of the critical point of self-aeration in spillway flows and a new formulation is proposed based on the existence of a developing air flow over the free surface. Upstream of the inception point of self-aeration, some surface roughening has been often reported in previous studies which consequently implies some entrapped air transport and air–water flows coupling. Such air flow is proven in this study by presenting measured air velocities and computing the air boundary layer thickness for a 1V:2H smooth chute flow. Additionally, the growth rate of free surface waves has been analysed by means of Ultrasonic Sensors measurements, obtaining also the entrapped air concentration. High-speed camera imaging has been used for qualitative study of the flow perturbations.
Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) is a promising candidate for flutter testing and Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) of aircraft wings that are passively excited by wind loads. However, no studies have been published where OMA is tested in transonic flows, which is the dominant condition for large civil aircraft and is characterized by complex and unique aerodynamic phenomena. We use data from the HIRENASD large-scale wind tunnel experiment to automatically extract modal parameters from an ambiently excited wing operated in the transonic regime using two OMA methods: Stochastic Subspace Identification (SSI) and Frequency Domain Decomposition (FDD). The system response is evaluated based on accelerometer measurements. The excitation is investigated from surface pressure measurements. The forcing function is shown to be non-white, non-stationary and contaminated by narrow-banded transonic disturbances. All these properties violate fundamental OMA assumptions about the forcing function. Despite this, all physical modes in the investigated frequency range were successfully identified, and in addition transonic pressure waves were identified as physical modes as well. The SSI method showed superior identification capabilities for the investigated case. The investigation shows that complex transonic flows can interfere with OMA. This can make existing approaches for modal tracking unsuitable for their application to aircraft wings operated in the transonic flight regime. Approaches to separate the true physical modes from the transonic disturbances are discussed.
We investigate the suitability of selected measures of complexity based on recurrence quantification analysis and recurrence networks for an identification of pre-seizure states in multi-day, multi-channel, invasive electroencephalographic recordings from five epilepsy patients. We employ several statistical techniques to avoid spurious findings due to various influencing factors and due to multiple comparisons and observe precursory structures in three patients. Our findings indicate a high congruence among measures in identifying seizure precursors and emphasize the current notion of seizure generation in large-scale epileptic networks. A final judgment of the suitability for field studies, however, requires evaluation on a larger database.
Evaluation of fragility curves for a three-storey-reinforced-concrete mock-up of SMART 2013 project
(2016)
Given the strong increase in regulatory requirements for business processes the management of business process compliance becomes a more and more regarded field in IS research. Several methods have been developed to support compliance checking of conceptual models. However, their focus on distinct modeling languages and mostly linear (i.e., predecessor-successor related) compliance rules may hinder widespread adoption and application in practice. Furthermore, hardly any of them has been evaluated in a real-world setting. We address this issue by applying a generic pattern matching approach for conceptual models to business process compliance checking in the financial sector. It consists of a model query language, a search algorithm and a corresponding modelling tool prototype. It is (1) applicable for all graph-based conceptual modeling languages and (2) for different kinds of compliance rules. Furthermore, based on an applicability check, we (3) evaluate the approach in a financial industry project setting against its relevance for decision support of audit and compliance management tasks.
This summer, RoboCup competitions were held for the 20th time in Leipzig, Germany. It was the second time that RoboCup took place in Germany, 10 years after the 2006 RoboCup in Bremen. In this article, we give an overview on the latest developments of RoboCup and what happened in the different leagues over the last decade. With its 20th edition, RoboCup clearly is a success story and a role model for robotics competitions. From our personal view point, we acknowledge this by giving a retrospection about what makes RoboCup such a success.
Ground or aerial robots equipped with advanced sensing technologies, such as three-dimensional laser scanners and advanced mapping algorithms, are deemed useful as a supporting technology for first responders. A great deal of excellent research in the field exists, but practical applications at real disaster sites are scarce. Many projects concentrate on equipping robots with advanced capabilities, such as autonomous exploration or object manipulation. In spite of this, realistic application areas for such robots are limited to teleoperated reconnaissance or search. In this paper, we investigate how well state-of-the-art and off-the-shelf components and algorithms are suited for reconnaissance in current disaster-relief scenarios. The basic idea is to make use of some of the most common sensors and deploy some widely used algorithms in a disaster situation, and to evaluate how well the components work for these scenarios. We acquired the sensor data from two field experiments, one from a disaster-relief operation in a motorway tunnel, and one from a mapping experiment in a partly closed down motorway tunnel. Based on these data, which we make publicly available, we evaluate state-of-the-art and off-the-shelf mapping approaches. In our analysis, we integrate opinions and replies from first responders as well as from some algorithm developers on the usefulness of the data and the limitations of the deployed approaches, respectively. We discuss the lessons we learned during the two missions. These lessons are interesting for the community working in similar areas of urban search and rescue, particularly reconnaissance and search.
In the field of biotechnology and molecular biology, the use of small liquid volumes has significant advantages. In particular, screening and optimization runs with acceptable amounts of expensive and hardly available catalysts, reagents, or biomolecules are feasible with microfluidic technologies. The presented new microfluidic system is based on the inclusion of small liquid volumes by a protective shell of magnetizable microparticles. Hereby, discrete aqueous microreactor drops with volumes of 1–30 μL can be formed on a simple planar surface. A digital movement and manipulation of the microreactor is performed by overlapping magnetic forces. The magnetic forces are generated by an electrical coil matrix positioned below a glass plate. With the new platform technology, several discrete reaction compartments can be moved simultaneously on one surface. Due to the magnetic fields, the reactors can even be merged to initiate reactions by mixing or positioned above surface-immobilized catalysts and then opened by magnetic force. Comparative synthesis routes of the magnetizable shell particles and superhydrophobic glass slides including their performance and stability with the reaction platform are described. The influence of diffusive mass transport during the catalyzed reaction is discussed by evaluation finite element model of the microreactor. Furthermore, a first model dye reaction of the enzyme laccase has been established.
Application of the optical flow method to velocity determination in hydraulic structure models
(2016)
Schalung und Gerüste
(2016)
Systemschalungen und Systemgerüste haben den Baustellenbetrieb in vielen Bereichen sehr vereinfacht. Dennoch sind Kenntnisse in diesen Feldern für eine erfolgreiche und effektive Bauleitung unverzichtbar. In diesem Kapitel werden Hinweise und Empfehlungen für die Bemessung und Einsatz von Schalungen, Trag- und Arbeitsgerüsten für den Baustellenbetrieb gegeben.
Engineers are of particular importance for the societies of tomorrow. The big social challenges society has to cope with in future, can only be mastered, if engineers link the development and innovation process closely with the requirements of people. As a result, in the frame of the innovation process engineers have to design and develop products for diverse users. Therefore, the consideration of diversity in this process is a core competence engineers should have. Implementing the consideration of diverse requirements into product design is also linked to the development of sustainable products and thus leads to social responsible research and development, the core concept formulated by the EU.
For this reason, future engineers should be educated to look at the technical perspectives of a problem embedded in the related questions within societies they are developing their artefacts for. As a result, the aim of teaching engineering should be to prepare engineers for these requirements and to draw attention to the diverse needs in a globalized world.
To match the competence profiles of future engineers to the global challenges and the resulting social responsibility, RWTH Aachen University, one of the leading technical universities in Germany, has established the bridging professorship “Gender and Diversity in Engineering” (GDI) which educates engineers with an interdisciplinary approach to expand engineering limits. The interdisciplinary teaching concept of the research group pursues an approach which imparts an application oriented Gender and Diversity expertise to future engineers. In the frame of an established teaching concept, which is a result of experiences and expertise of the research group, students gain theoretical knowledge about Gender and Diversity and learn how to transfer their knowledge into their later field of action.
In the frame of the conference the institutional approach will be presented as well as the teaching concept which will be introduced by concrete course examples.
This paper describes the results and methods used during the 8th Global Trajectory Optimization Competition (GTOC) of the DLR team. Trajectory optimization is crucial for most of the space missions and usually can be formulated as a global optimization problem. A lot of research has been done to different type of mission problems. The most demanding ones are low thrust transfers with e.g. gravity assist sequences. In that case the optimal control problem is combined with an integer problem. In most of the GTOCs we apply a filtering of the problem based on domain knowledge.
In Deutschland liegt der Anteil der Windkraft an der Gesamtstromerzeugung bei 13,3% mit mehr als 25.000 installierten Windenergieanlagen (WEA). Weltweit erfährt die Windbranche ein rasantes Wachstum. Indien und China berichten eine jährliche Wachstumsrate an Neuinstallationen von 45%. Die Technologie zur Erzeugung elektrischer Energie aus Windkraft ist noch vergleichsweise jung. Durch die weltweit steigende Anzahl an Windenergieanlagen wächst zunehmend der Bedarf an innovativen Wartungslösungen. Komponenten wie Generator oder Getriebe sind inzwischen weitestgehend ausgereift. Der Fokus richtet sich zunehmend auf die wesentliche Kernkomponente - die Rotorblätter.
Industriekletterer inspizieren die Rotorblätter oder Türme i.d.R.
in einem zwei Jahres Rhythmus. Sie werden zunehmend durch Seilarbeitsbühnen unterstützt. Für größere Reparaturen kommen Kräne zum Einsatz, mit denen das Rotorblatt für die Instandhaltung demontiert wird. Die Standardinspektion besteht aus Sicht- und Klopfprüfung der Rotorblattoberfläche und ist nur bei sehr ruhiger Wetterlage durchführbar. Seit September 2014 wird das Forschungsprojekt SMART (Scanning, Monitoring, Analysis, Repair and Transportation), Entwicklung einer Wartungsplattform für WEA, vom BMWi gefördert. Das Konsortium besteht aus zwei Firmen und der
Fachhochschule Aachen. Die SMART-Anlage klettert reibschlüssig am Turm der WEA mittels speziellen Kettenfahrwerken (Abbildung) auf- und abwärts. Ein ringförmiges Spannsystems, basierend auf dem Konzept der „Nürnberger“-Schere, erzeugt die erforderliche Anpresskraft für den Kletterprozess. Wettergeschützte Arbeitskabinen ermöglichen die ganzjährige Instandhaltung von Rotorblättern und ebenso Türmen. Dadurch können Wartungsarbeiten auf 24 Stunden am Tag ausgeweitet werden. Der kombinierte Einsatz (Sensorfusion) bildgebender Messtechnik wie Thermografie, Ultraschall, und Terahertz in der Arbeitskabine kann die Dokumentation, Effizienz und Qualität der Instandhaltungsarbeiten erheblich verbessern. Langfristiges Ziel von SMART ist ein Condition Monitoring für Rotorblätter und Türme auf Basis digitalisierter dreidimensionaler Volumenscans. Der kooperative Einsatz mit UAVs erweitert die Instandhaltungsstrategie. UAVs ermöglichen die schnelle, kostengünstige globale optische Inspektion von Rotorblattoberflächen zur Detektion potentieller Fehlstellen. Der „Proof-of-Concept“ Meilenstein wurde mit der Demonstration eines funktionsfähigen Modells im Dezember 2015 erfolgreich abgeschlossen.
Characterization and evaluation of lignocellulosic biomass 130 hydrolysates for ABE fermentation
(2016)
Purpose
The most commonly used mobility assessments for screening risk of falls among older adults are rating scales such as the Tinetti performance oriented mobility assessment (POMA). However, its correlation with falls is not always predictable and disadvantages of the scale include difficulty to assess many of the items on a 3-point scale and poor specificity. The purpose of this study was to describe the ability of the new Aachen Mobility and Balance Index (AMBI) to discriminate between subjects with a fall history and subjects without such events in comparison to the Tinetti POMA Scale.
Methods
For this prospective cohort study, 24 participants in the study group and 10 in the control group were selected from a population of patients in our hospital who had met the stringent inclusion criteria. Both groups completed the Tinetti POMA Scale (gait and balance component) and the AMBI (tandem stance, tandem walk, ten-meter-walk-test, sit-to-stand with five repetitions, 360° turns, timed-up-and-go-test and measurement of the dominant hand grip strength). A history of falls and hospitalization in the past year were evaluated retrospectively. The relationships among the mobility tests were examined with Bland–Altmananalysis. Receiver-operated characteristics curves, sensitivity and specificity were calculated.
Results
The study showed a strong negative correlation between the AMBI (17 points max., highest fall risk) and Tinetti POMA Scale (28 points max., lowest fall risk; r = −0.78, p < 0.001) with an excellent discrimination between community-dwelling older people and a younger control group. However, there were no differences in any of the mobility and balance measurements between participants with and without a fall history with equal characteristics in test comparison (AMBI vs. Tinetti POMA Scale: AUC 0.570 vs. 0.598; p = 0.762). The Tinetti POMA Scale (cut-off <20 points) showed a sensitivity of 0.45 and a specificity of 0.69, the AMBI a sensitivity of 0.64 and a specificity of 0.46 (cut-off >5 points).
Conclusion
The AMBI comprises mobility and balance tasks with increasing difficulty as well as a measurement of the dominant hand-grip strength. Its ability to identify fallers was comparable to the Tinetti POMA Scale. However, both measurement sets showed shortcomings in discrimination between fallers and non-fallers based on a self-reported retrospective falls-status.
For the successful implementation of microfluidic reaction systems, such as PCR and electrophoresis, the movement of small liquid volumes is essential. In conventional lab-on-a-chip-platforms, solvents and samples are passed through defined microfluidic channels with complex flow control installations. The droplet actuation platform presented here is a promising alternative. With it, it is possible to move a liquid drop (microreactor) on a planar surface of a reaction platform (lab-in-a-drop). The actuation of microreactors on the hydrophobic surface of the platform is based on the use of magnetic forces acting on the outer shell of the liquid drops which is made of a thin layer of superhydrophobic magnetite particles. The hydrophobic surface of the platform is needed to avoid any contact between the liquid core and the surface to allow a smooth movement of the microreactor. On the platform, one or more microreactors with volumes of 10 µL can be positioned and moved simultaneously. The platform itself consists of a 3 x 3 matrix of electrical double coils which accommodate either neodymium or iron cores. The magnetic field gradients are automatically controlled. By variation of the magnetic field gradients, the microreactors' magnetic hydrophobic shell can be manipulated automatically to move the microreactor or open the shell reversibly. Reactions of substrates and corresponding enzymes can be initiated by merging the microreactors or bringing them into contact with surface immobilized catalysts.
The performance and biomass yield of the perennial energy plant Sida hermaphrodita (hereafter referred to as Sida) as a feedstock for biogas and solid fuel was evaluated throughout one entire growing period at agricultural field conditions. A Sida plant development code was established to allow comparison of the plant growth stages and biomass composition. Four scenarios were evaluated to determine the use of Sida biomass with regard to plant development and harvest time: (i) one harvest for solid fuel only; (ii) one harvest for biogas production only; (iii) one harvest for biogas production, followed by a harvest of the regrown biomass for solid fuel; and (iv) two consecutive harvests for biogas production. To determine Sida's value as a feedstock for combustion, we assessed the caloric value, the ash quality, and melting point with regard to DIN EN ISO norms. The results showed highest total dry biomass yields of max. 25 t ha⁻¹, whereas the highest dry matter of 70% to 80% was obtained at the end of the growing period. Scenario (i) clearly indicated the highest energy recovery, accounting for 439 288 MJ ha⁻¹; the energy recovery of the four scenarios from highest to lowest followed this order: (i) ≫ (iii) ≫ (iv) > (ii). Analysis of the Sida ashes showed a high melting point of >1500 °C, associated with a net calorific value of 16.5–17.2 MJ kg⁻¹. All prerequisites for DIN EN ISO norms were achieved, indicating Sida's advantage as a solid energy carrier without any post-treatment after harvesting. Cell wall analysis of the stems showed a constant lignin content after sampling week 16 (July), whereas cellulose had already reached a plateau in sampling week 4 (April). The results highlight Sida as a promising woody, perennial plant, providing biomass for flexible and multipurpose energy applications.
Four members of a homologous series of chlorinated poly(vinyl ester) oligomers CCl₃–(CH₂CH (OCO(CH₂)ₘCH₃))ₙ–Cl with degrees of polymerization of 10 and 20 were prepared by telomerisation using carbon tetrachloride. The number of side chain carbon atoms ranges from 2 (poly(vinyl acetate) to 18 (poly(vinyl stearate)). The effect of the n-alkyl side chain length and of the degree of polymerization on the thermal stability and crystallization behaviour of the synthesized compounds was investigated.
All oligomers degrade in two major steps by first losing HCl and side chains with subsequent breakdown of the backbone. The members with short side chains, up to poly(vinyl octanoate), are amorphous and show internal plasticization, whereas those with high number of side chain carbon atoms are semi-crystalline due to side-chain crystallization. A better packing for poly(vinyl stearate) is also noticeable. The glass transition and melting temperatures as well as the onset temperature of decomposition are influenced to a larger extent by the side chain length than by the degree of polymerization. Thermal stability is improved if both the size and number of side chains increase, but only a long side chain causes a significant increase of the resistance to degradation. This results in a stabilization of PVAc so that oligomers from poly(vinyl octanoate) on are stable under atmospheric conditions. Thus, the way to design stable, chlorinated PVEs oligomers is to use a long n-alkyl side chain.
Hintergrund
Die Anwendung und das Verständnis von Statistik sind sehr wichtig für die biomedizinische Forschung und für die klinische Praxis. Dies gilt insbesondere auch zur Abschätzung der Möglichkeiten unterschiedlichster Diagnostik- und Therapieoptionen beim Glaukom. Die scheinbare Komplexität der Statistik, die zum Teil dem „gesunden Menschenverstand“ zu widersprechen scheint, zusammen mit der nur vorsichtigen Akzeptanz der Statistik bei vielen Medizinern können zu bewussten und unbewussten Manipulationen bei der Datendarstellung und -interpretation führen.
Ziel der Arbeit
Ziel ist die verständliche Darstellung einiger typischer Fehler in der medizinisch-statistischen Datenbehandlung.
Material und Methoden
Anhand hypothetischer Beispiele aus der Glaukomdiagnostik erfolgen die Darstellung der Wirkung eines hypotensiven Medikamentes sowie die Beurteilung der Ergebnisse eines diagnostischen Tests. Es werden die typischsten statistischen Einsatzbereiche und Irrtumsquellen ausführlich und verständlich analysiert
Ergebnisse
Mechanismen von Datenmanipulation und falscher Dateninterpretation werden aufgeklärt. Typische Irrtumsquellen bei der statistischen Auswertung und Datendarstellung werden dabei erläutert.
Schlussfolgerungen
Die erläuterten praktischen Beispiele zeigen die Notwendigkeit, die Grundlagen der Statistik zu verstehen und korrekt anwenden zu können. Fehlendes Grundlagenwissen und Halbwissen der medizinischen Statistik können zu folgenschweren Missverständnissen und falschen Entscheidungen in der medizinischen Forschung, aber auch in der klinischen Praxis führen.
The aim of this work was to perform a detailed investigation of the use of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) technology to process eutectic silver-copper alloy Ag 28 wt. % Cu (also called AgCu28). The processing occurred with a Realizer SLM 50 desktop machine. The powder analysis (SEM-topography, EDX, particle distribution) was reported as well as the absorption rates for the near-infrared (NIR) spectrum. Microscope imaging showed the surface topography of the manufactured parts. Furthermore, microsections were conducted for the analysis of porosity. The Design of Experiments approach used the response surface method in order to model the statistical relationship between laser power, spot distance and pulse time.
Regardless of size or destination, synthetic biology starts with com-parably small information units, which need to be combined and properly arranged in order to achieve a certain goal. This may be the de novo synthesis of individual genes from oligonucleotides, a shuffling of protein domains in order to create novel biocatalysts, the assembly of multiple enzyme encoding genes in metabolic pathway design, or strain development at the production stage. The CoLibry concept has been designed in order to close the gap between recombinant production of individual genes and genome editing.
To give the exchange of goods and services between the European Union (EU) and the United States (U.S.) new momentum the two parties are currently negotiating the transatlantic free trade agreement Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP). The aim is to create the largest free trade area in the world. The agreement, once entered into force, will oblige EU countries and the U.S. to further liberalize their markets.
The negotiations on TTIP include a chapter on Electronic Communications/ Telecommunications. The challenge therein will be securing commitments for market access to Electronic Communications services. At the same time, these commitments must reflect the legitimate need for consumer protection issues. The need to reduce Electronic Communications-related non-tariff barriers to trade between the Parties is due to the fact that these markets are heavily regulated. Without transnational rules as to regulations national governments can abuse these regulations to deter the market entry by new (foreign) suppliers. Thus the free trade agreement TTIP affects in many respects regulatory provisions on and access to Electronic Communications markets. The objective of this paper is therefore to examine to what extend the regulatory principles for Electronic Communications markets envisaged under TTIP will result in trade facilitation and regulatory convergence between the EU and the U.S.
As to this question the result of the analysis is that the chapter on Electronic Communications will be an important step towards facilitating trade in Electronic Communications services. At the same time some regulatory convergence will take place, but this convergence will not lead to a (full) harmonization of regulations. Rather the norm, also after TTIP negotiations will have been concluded successfully, will be mutual recognition of different regulatory regimes. Different regulations being the optimal policy response in different market settings will continue to exist. Moreover, it is very unlikely that such regulatory principles for the Electronic Communications sector are a vehicle for a race to the bottom in levels of consumer protection.
In Anbetracht weltweit zunehmend strengerer klimapolitischer
Ziele steigt auch der Druck für Nutzfahrzeughersteller, effizientere und umweltfreundlichere
Technologien zu entwickeln. Den Blick bei der Bewertung dieser
ausschließlich auf die Fahrzeugnutzung zu richten, ist längst nicht mehr zufriedenstellend.
Im Rahmen dieser Analyse wird ein gegenwärtig auf dem Markt erwerblicher
und in deutschen Städten bereits seit Jahren betriebener Hybridbus
energetisch und ökologisch mit einem konventionell angetriebenen, nahezu baugleichen
Modell entlang des Lebensweges bewertet.
Nach Definition von Ziel und Untersuchungsrahmen wird ein Überblick auf bereits
durchgeführte Lebenszyklusanalysen zu Hybridbussen im Stadtverkehr gegeben
und Schlussfolgerungen für die anschließende Analyse abgeleitet. Diese
wird im Rahmen einer energetischen und ökologischen Bewertung beider Produktsysteme
anhand der Parameter "Primärenergieeinsatz" und "CO2äq Emissionen"
praktiziert. Der Fahrzeugrumpf beider Fahrzeuge des gleichen Modells
wird dabei als einheitlich angenommen, sodass bei dem Vergleich der Herstellung
vereinfacht nur die sich unterscheidenden Komponenten des Antriebstranges
berücksichtigt werden. Die Resultate der Wirkungsabschätzung werden als
Differenz des Hybridbusses gegenüber dem Referenzfahrzeug über die einzelnen
Lebenszyklusphasen dargestellt. Schließlich werden Prognosen getroffen, ab
welcher Strecke die bei der Herstellung erzeugten höheren CO2äq Emissionen
des Hybridantriebstranges gegenüber dem Referenzmodell ausgeglichen werden.
Für das Auftreten extremer Wetterereignisse werden für Kernkraftwerke Eintrittshäufigkeiten für nicht mehr beherrschbare Zustände von unter 10⁻⁴/a gefordert. Dies gilt auch für die Einwirkung von Blitzeinschlägen. Die bisherige Nachweisführung zu Blitz- und Überspannungsschutz eines KKW in Deutschland ist deterministisch. In diesem Bericht werden das Vorgehen für einen entsprechenden Nachweis für leittechnische Einrichtungen der Sicherheitstechnik von KKW, der zur geforderten Zielgröße der Eintrittshäufigkeit führt. Die Ergebnisse werden zusammenfassend bewertet.
The light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) has the unique feature to address different regions of a sensor surface without the need of complex structures. Measurements at different locations on the sensor surface can be performed in a common analyte solution, which distinctly simplifies the fluidic set-up. However, the measurement in a single analyte chamber prevents the application of different drugs or different concentrations of a drug to each measurement spot at the same time as in the case of multi-reservoir-based set-ups. In this work, the authors designed a LAPS-based set-up for cell culture screening that utilises magnetic beads loaded with the endotoxin (lipopolysaccharides, LPS), to generate a spatially distributed gradient of analyte concentration. Different external magnetic fields can be adjusted to move the magnetic beads loaded with a specific drug within the measurement cell. By recording the metabolic activities of a cell layer cultured on top of the LAPS surface, this work shows the possibility to apply different concentrations of a sample along the LAPS measurement spots within a common analyte solution.
Autoradiography is a well-established method of nuclear imaging. When different radionuclides are present simultaneously, additional processing is needed to distinguish distributions of radionuclides. In this work, a method is presented where aluminium absorbers of different thickness are used to produce images with different cut-off energies. By subtracting images pixel-by-pixel one can generate images representing certain ranges of β-particle energies. The method is applied to the measurement of irradiated reactor graphite samples containing several radionuclides to determine the spatial distribution of these radionuclides within pre-defined energy windows. The process was repeated under fixed parameters after thermal treatment of the samples. The greyscale images of the distribution after treatment were subtracted from the corresponding pre-treatment images. Significant changes in the intensity and distribution of radionuclides could be observed in some samples. Due to the thermal treatment parameters the most significant differences were observed in the ³H and ¹⁴C inventory and distribution.
Kosten- und Verfahrensvergleiche können dabei zur Ermittlung des für die Aufgabe geeignetsten Bauverfahren führen. Für die sich daran anschließende Ablaufplanung werden die verschiedenen graphischen sowie rechnerischen Instrumente (Terminliste und Taktplan, Balkenplan, Weg-Zeit-Diagramm und Netzplan) erläutert und anhand von Beispielen vertieft. Schließlich wird ein im Rahmen der Arbeits- und Nachkalkulation vorzunehmender Soll-Ist-Vergleich mit Hilfe des Bauarbeitsschlüssels (BAS) zur Überprüfung der Aufwands- und Leistungswerte dargestellt.
Boden, Baugrube, Verbau
(2016)
Die Lösung den Baugrund betreffender Fragestellungen beginnen i. d. R. mit der Durchführung von Baugrunderkundungen, um alle notwendigen Parameter zu erhalten, die für die Planung und Durchführung von Bauvorhaben notwendig sind. Im Folgenden werden die wichtigsten Erkundungen in Abhängigkeit der erforderlichen Güteklasse der Proben beschrieben und vorgestellt.
Neben dem durch Unfälle und Krankheiten entstehenden menschlichen Leids und der daraus resultierenden moralischen Verpflichtung, sich und seine Mitmenschen vor Schaden zu bewahren, ist der Arbeits- und Gesundheitsschutz auch ein Gebot wirtschaftlichen Handelns, da Arbeitsunfälle und Berufskrankheiten Ausfallzeiten und Kosten verursachen. So gehören Arbeits- und Gesundheitsschutz zu den wichtigen Aufgaben eines Unternehmens.
Light-addressable potentiometric sensor as a sensing element in plug-based microfluidic devices
(2016)
A plug-based microfluidic system based on the principle of the light-addressable potentiometric sensor (LAPS) is proposed. The LAPS is a semiconductor-based chemical sensor, which has a free addressability of the measurement point on the sensing surface. By combining a microfluidic device and LAPS, ion sensing can be performed anywhere inside the microfluidic channel. In this study, the sample solution to be measured was introduced into the channel in a form of a plug with a volume in the range of microliters. Taking advantage of the light-addressability, the position of the plug could be monitored and pneumatically controlled. With the developed system, the pH value of a plug with a volume down to 400 nL could be measured. As an example of plug-based operation, two plugs were merged in the channel, and the pH change was detected by differential measurement.
Vermessung
(2016)
Bauwirtschaft und Baurecht
(2016)
Die Leistungen der Bauwirtschaft und deren wirtschaftliche Bedeutung in Deutschland werden anhand einer Vielzahl statistischer Daten verdeutlicht. Die im Vergleich zu anderen Wirtschaftsbereichen auftretenden branchenspezifischen Besonderheiten der Bauwirtschaft werden anhand von verschiedenen Kriterien herausgearbeitet. Das Zusammenspiel der einzelnen Akteure des Sektors und die dabei sich ergebenden bzw. zu beachtenden Rechts- und Vertragsgrundlagen werden dargestellt. Aufgrund der meist erheblichen Höhe des eingesetzten Kapitals aufseiten der Auftraggeber, aber auch seitens der Bauunternehmen während der Bauausführung sowie der besonderen Verantwortung der Beratenden Ingenieure werden auch notwendige Formen der Risikoabsicherungen und der in der Branche üblichen und teilweise vorgeschriebenen Versicherungsmöglichkeiten angesprochen. Intensive Beachtung finden auch die Auswirkungen des Öffentlichen Baurechts (Baugesetzbuch, Bauordnung NRW, Baunutzungsverordnung) auf Planung, Bau und Betrieb baulicher Anlagen und der dabei verwendeten Bauprodukte.
Baukosten und Finanzierung
(2016)
Das Gesetz gegen Wettbewerbsbeschränkungen bildet die Grundlage für die Verordnung über die Vergabe öffentlicher Aufträge, aus der sich die Vergabe- und Vertragsordnungen für Freiberufliche Leistungen (VOF), für Lieferungen und Leistungen (VOL) und für Bauleistungen (VOB) ableiten. Die dabei in Frage kommenden Vergabeverfahren und die einzelnen Schwellenwerte gemäß EU-Recht werden detailliert aufbereitet und im Zusammenhang dargestellt.
Die für die Ausgestaltung von Bauverträgen notwendigen Grundlagen des Werkvertragsrecht nach BGB sowie die branchenspezifischen Allgemeinen Geschäftsbedingungen in Form der Vertragsordnung für Bauleistungen (VOB) mit ihren Zusätzlichen und Besonderen Vertragsbedingungen werden intensiv aufbereitet. Das Zustandekommen eines Bauvertrages ergibt sich dann aus der notwendigen Leistungsbeschreibung mit einem Leistungsverzeichnis und verschiedenen Positionen oder in Form einer Funktionalen Leistungsbeschreibung (Beschreibung mit Leistungsprogramm).
Das Auslandsgeschäft der Baubranche (Bauausführende Unternehmen sowie Beratende Ingenieure und Consultants) wird von den jeweils vorliegenden Internationalen Wettbewerbsbedingungen bestimmt, deren Zusammenhänge anhand umfangreicher statistischer Daten und anhand von Beispielen dargestellt werden.
Mit der vorliegenden, parallel entsprechend in 10 weiteren Verfahren ergangenen Entscheidung behandelte der BGH zum wiederholten Male das Geschäftsmodell der Accessio Wertpapierhandelshaus AG („A AG“, früher: Wertpapierhandelshaus Driver & Bengsch AG). Die klagenden Anleger, zunächst nur akquiriert durch ein Tagesgeldkonto mit besonders attraktiven Zinsen, schlossen im Weiteren mit dieser einen Vermögensverwaltungsvertrag ab. Zur Abwicklung der Wertpapiergeschäfte eröffneten sie über die A AG zugleich ein Depotkonto bei der beklagten Discount-Brokerin. Für dieses erhielt die A AG eine Transaktionsvollmacht. Die Discount-Brokerin schuldete nach den Vertragsdokumenten über die gesetzlichen Aufklärungs- und Erkundigungspflichten bei Auftragsausführung hinaus keine Anlageberatung („execution-only-business“). Durch nach ihrer Behauptung fehlerhafte Anlageberatung der A AG erlitten die Anleger einen Schaden. In dem Rechtsstreit verlangten sie dessen Ersatz von der Discount-Brokerin, da die A AG zwischenzeitlich insolvent wurde.
Mice that have been genetically humanized for proteins involved in drug metabolism and toxicity and mice engrafted with human hepatocytes are emerging and promising in vivo models for an improved prediction of the pharmacokinetic, drug–drug interaction and safety characteristics of compounds in humans. The specific advantages and disadvantages of these models should be carefully considered when using them for studies in drug discovery and development. Here, an overview on the corresponding genetically humanized and chimeric liver humanized mouse models described to date is provided and illustrated with examples of their utility in drug metabolism and toxicity studies. We compare the strength and weaknesses of the two different approaches, give guidance for the selection of the appropriate model for various applications and discuss future trends and perspectives.
This work presents a methodology for automated
damage-sensitive feature extraction and anomaly
detection under multivariate operational variability
for in-flight assessment of wings. The
method uses a passive excitation approach, i. e.
without the need for artificial actuation. The
modal system properties (natural frequencies and
damping ratios) are used as damage-sensitive
features. Special emphasis is placed on the use
of Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensing technology
and the consideration of Operational and
Environmental Variability (OEV). Measurements
from a wind tunnel investigation with a composite
cantilever equipped with FBG and piezoelectric
sensors are used to successfully detect an impact
damage. In addition, the feasibility of damage
localisation and severity estimation is evaluated
based on the coupling found between damageand
OEV-induced feature changes.
Der Beitrag fokussiert die Frage nach dem Stand des durch die Bologna-Reform angestoßenen Kulturwandels im Hinblick auf Kompetenzorientierung am Beispiel der Technischen Universität Hamburg (TUHH). An der TUHH wird bereits seit einigen Jahren daran gearbeitet, die Lehre grundlegend neu auszurichten. Hierfür setzt das hochschuldidaktische "Zentrum für Lehre und Lernen" (ZLL) verschiedene Maßnahmen ein, wie z.B. eine finanzielle und didaktische Unterstützung von Lehrenden bei der Umstellung ihrer Veranstaltungen, Weiterqualifizierungsangebote und Informationsmaterial. Die Maßnahmen ebenso wie die innovierten Veranstaltungen werden von Lehrenden und Studierenden gut evaluiert. Nach dem Ansatz des Constructive Alignments lässt sich jedoch davon ausgehen, dass der Bereich der Prüfungen für eine Einschätzung des Status Quo der Kompetenzorientierung besonders relevant ist. Dieser wird deshalb anhand der beiden Kriterien Prüfungsformate und Schwierigkeitsstufen von Prüfungsaufgaben näher beleuchtet, die eng mit der Kompetenzorientierung zusammen hängen. Ergebnisse hierzu aus einer universitätsweiten Datenbank zur Studienorganisation sowie aus einer Online-Umfrage unter Studierenden weisen darauf hin, dass das Prüfungsformat "Klausur" nach wie vor am stärksten verbreitet ist; zugleich sind die Studierenden nach einer Selbsteinschätzung in Prüfungen vorrangig mit Aufgaben auf den Taxonomieniveaus "Wiedergeben" und "Anwenden" konfrontiert. Dies lässt sich als Hinweis darauf interpretieren, dass es im Hinblick auf eine Kompetenzorientierung in den Prüfungen noch weiteren Veränderungsbedarf gibt.
The potential of SMART climbing robot combined with a weatherproof cabin for rotor blade maintenance
(2016)
[⁶⁸Ga(DOTATATE)] has demonstrated its clinical usefulness. Both Fe³⁺ and Cu²⁺, potential contaminants in Gallium-68 generator eluent, substantially reduce the radiochemical (RC) yield of [⁶⁸Ga(DOTATATE)] if the metal/ligand ratio of 1:1 is exceeded. A variety of compounds were examined for their potential ability to reduce this effect. Most had no effect on RC yield. However, addition of phosphate diminished the influence of Fe³⁺ by likely forming an insoluble iron salt. Addition of ascorbic acid reduced Cu²⁺ and Fe³⁺ to Cu⁺ and Fe²⁺ respectively, both of which have limited impact on RC yields. At low ligand amounts (5 nmol DOTATATE), the addition of 30 nmol phosphate (0.19 mM) increased the tolerance of Fe3⁺ from 4 nmol to 10 nmol (0.06 mM), while the addition of ascorbic acid allowed high RC yields (>95%) in the presence of 40 nmol Fe³⁺ (0.25 mM) and 100 nmol Cu²⁺ (0.63 mM). The effect of ascorbic acid was highly pH-dependant, and gave optimal results at pH 3.
The Monte Carlo code FLUKA is used to simulate the production of a number of positron emitting radionuclides, ¹⁸F, ¹³N, ⁹⁴Tc, ⁴⁴Sc, ⁶⁸Ga, ⁸⁶Y, ⁸⁹Zr, ⁵²Mn, ⁶¹Cu and ⁵⁵Co, on a small medical cyclotron with a proton beam energy of 13 MeV. Experimental data collected at the TR13 cyclotron at TRIUMF agree within a factor of 0.6 ± 0.4 with the directly simulated data, except for the production of ⁵⁵Co, where the simulation underestimates the experiment by a factor of 3.4 ± 0.4. The experimental data also agree within a factor of 0.8 ± 0.6 with the convolution of simulated proton fluence and cross sections from literature. Overall, this confirms the applicability of FLUKA to simulate radionuclide production at 13 MeV proton beam energy.
Divided government is often thought of as causing legislative deadlock. I investigate the link between divided government and economic reforms using a novel data set on welfare reforms in US states between 1978 and 2010. Panel data regressions show that, under divided government, a US state is around 25% more likely to adopt a welfare reform than under unified government. Several robustness checks confirm this counter-intuitive finding. Case study evidence suggests an explanation based on policy competition between governor, senate, and house.