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Thrombin is the pivotal enzyme in the biochemistry of secondary hemostasis crucial to maintaining homeostasis of hemostasis. In contrast to routine coagulation tests (PT or aPTT) or procoagulant or anticoagulant factor assays (e.g. fibrinogen, factor VIII, antithrombin or protein C), the thrombin generation assay (TGA), also named thrombin generation test (TGT) is a so-called "global assay" that provides a picture of the hemostasis balance though a continuous and simultaneous measurement of thrombin formation and inhibition. First described in the early 1950s, as a manual assay, efforts have been made in order to standardize and automate the assay to offer researchers, clinical laboratories and the pharmaceutical industry a versatile tool covering a wide range of clinical and non-clinical applications. This review describes technical options offered to properly run TGA, including a review of preanalytical and analytical items, performance, interpretation, and applications in physiology research and pharmacy.

Determining patient's coagulation profile, i.e. detecting a bleeding tendency or the opposite, a thrombotic risk, is crucial for clinicians in many situations. Routine coagulation assays and even more specialized tests may not allow a relevant characterization of the hemostatic balance. In contrast, thrombin generation assay (TGA) is a global assay allowing the dynamic continuous and simultaneous recording of the combined effects of both thrombin generation and thrombin inactivation. TGA thus reflects the result of procoagulant and anticoagulant activities in blood and plasma. Because of this unique feature, TGA has been widely used in a wide array of settings from both research, clinical and pharmaceutical perspectives. This includes diagnosis, prognosis, prophylaxis, and treatment of inherited and acquired bleeding and thrombotic disorders. In addition, TGA has been shown to provide relevant information for the diagnosis of coagulopathies induced by infectious diseases, comprising also disturbance of the coagulation system in COVID-19, or for the assessment of early recurrence in breast cancer. This review article aims to document most clinical applications of TGA.

Background: The association of raised serum uric acid levels with various cardiovascular risk factors has often led to the debate of whether raised serum uric acid levels could be an independent risk factor in essential hypertension. Hence, the present study was conducted for assessing the serum uric acid levels in cases of essential hypertension and comparing them with normal healthy, non-hypertensive controls. Materials & Methods: Sixty patients visiting in the department of general medicine, MMIMSR with newly diagnosed cases of essential hypertension [according to the Indian guidelines on Hypertension(IGH) III-2013] , fullling the inclusion criteria and after verifying the exclusion criteria were nally taken up for the study. Sixty controls of age and sex matched were taken from the same catchment area. Results: The mean age of the subjects of the essential hypertension group and control group was found to be 45.75 years and 47.8 years respectively. Mean systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure among the subjects of the essential hypertension group was 161.3 and 102.3 mm of Hg. Mean systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure among the subjects of the control group was 116.8 and 77.4 mm of Hg. Mean serum uric acid levels among the subjects of the essential hypertension group and control group was found to be 6.45 mg/dL and 5.57 mg/dLrespectively. Signicant results were obtained while comparing the mean serum uric acid levels among the subjects of the essential hypertension group and the control group. Hyperuricemia was present in 38.33 percent of the patients (23 patients) of the essential hypertension group and 13.33 percent of the patients (8 patients) of the control group. Signicant results were obtained while comparing the prevalence of hyperuricemia in between the two study groups.Conclusion: An independent relationship of elevated serum uric acid levels with hypertension and indicates the signicance of maintaining normal serum uric acid concentration to prevent hypertension.

Professional portfolios are widely used in continuing professional development (CPD), despite limited evidence of their effectiveness for improving practice and professional competence. Occupational therapy regulatory organizations in Canada have implemented professional portfolios as tools that support engagement in CPD. To advance research and practice on the use of portfolios, we conducted a critical analysis of their format, content, and embedded learning process. This paper aims to describe and compare the portfolios’ characteristics when they are used as a tool to facilitate engagement in CPD. A document review approach was used to analyze documents describing continuing competence programs and portfolios and to compare their characteristics. Data was retrieved from documents using a coding scheme and content was compared to the literature. In Canada, seven out of 10 regulatory organizations have implemented a portfolio. They are similar in their content and proposed self-directed learning approach. Their strength is that they all promote self-assessment, reflection, and development of a CPD plan. However, the tools provided can be improved to help engage in more genuine reflection and integration of learning into practice. Our review of the content, tools, and proposed learning process of portfolios revealed avenues for improvement and future research.

Ultrasound imaging, using either an inline or an external transducer, is a standard method for extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) monitoring. This study investigates whether image distortions caused by the low sound speed of fatty tissue could lead to incorrect stone positioning such that disintegration is affected.To define the accuracy needed for SWL monitoring, the dependency of fragmentation efficiency on the distance between stone center and SWL focus was examined by in vitro model stone tests. In a clinical study, 15 patients with kidney stones were treated with a Dornier Sigma FarSight. This lithotripter was equipped with both an inline and an external transducer. They were operated alternately to check for inconsistencies, which would indicate ultrasound image distortions. In addition, the ultrasound paths from the transducer to the SWL focus were analyzed for error estimation.In the model stone tests, the number of shock waves required for complete fragmentation doubled if the stone was about 7.5 to 10 mm off focus in lateral direction. In the clinical trial, the stone positions obtained from an inline and an external transducer coincided within a 5 mm range of tolerance, but that approach suffered from some practical difficulties, resulting in measurement imprecision. The sound path analysis showed that the lengths through fatty tissue were too short to result in significant image distortion. The body mass index (20-31 kg/m(2)) was representative, except for very obese patients. Additional confirmation of correct stone positioning could be achieved quite easily by looking for pixel movement in the B-mode image or employing Doppler hit/miss monitoring.Within the study group, no image distortion caused by fatty tissue that could be clinically relevant for SWL was observed.

Formoterol, a long-acting beta (2)-agonist with a rapid onset of bronchodilation, is available in various delivery devices. However, differences in the size and uniformity of drug particles generated by different devices may result in variable clinical effects. The present study compared in vitro the aerodynamic particle size distribution, emitted dose and device resistance of formoterol delivered via Foradil Aerolizer (Foradil P) with those a non-proprietary single-dose capsule inhaler (ratiopharm), using an 8-stage Andersen Cascade Impactor set at a flow of 60 L/min. Relative to the formoterol ratiopharm capsule inhaler, Foradil Aerolizer produced particles with a smaller mass median aerodynamic diameter (3.5 vs. 4.1 microm, p = 0.018) and a smaller measured particle diameter distribution (geometric standard deviation 2.2 vs. 2.5, p = 0.048). The Foradil Aerolizer produced a 44% higher fine particle dose than the single-dose capsule inhaler (2.6 vs. 1.8 microg, p = 0.0001). Although the single-dose capsule inhaler produced a higher total emitted dose than that from Foradil Aerolizer (11.2 vs. 10.0 microg, p = 0.155, not significant), the respirable fraction from Foradil Aerolizer was 58% higher (25.7 vs. 16.3%, p = 2 x 10(8)). Both devices had a similarly low airflow resistance. These relative particle size profiles suggest that the Aerolizer may provide a more clinically effective delivery of formoterol to the lungs at the high inspiratory flows such as are typically achieved using this device.

Background Only monopolar systems have thus far been available for radiofrequency ablation of liver tumors, whose application is restricted because of the incalculable energy flow, reduction of electrical tissue conduction, and limited lesion size. The aim of this study was to evaluate a novel internally cooled bipolar radiofrequency application device under in vivo conditions and to compare the effect of this system on lesion size when combined with hepatic arterial microembolization or complete hepatic blood flow occlusion. Materials and methods In a porcine liver model, RFA (60 W, 12 min) was performed with either normal (n = 12), partially interrupted (arterial microembolization via a hepatic artery catheter n = 12) or completely interrupted hepatic perfusion (Pringle’s maneuver, n = 12). RFA parameters (impedance, power output, temperature, applied energy) were determined continuously during therapy. RFA lesions were macroscopically assessed after liver dissection. Results Bipolar RFA induced clinical relevant ellipsoid thermal lesions without complications. Hepatic inflow occlusion led to a 4.3-fold increase in lesion volume after arterial microembolization and a 5.8-fold increase after complete interruption (7.4 cm3versus 31.9 cm3versus 42.6 cm3, P < 0.01). Conclusions The novel bipolar RFA device is a safe and effective alternative to monopolar RFA-systems. Interrupting hepatic perfusion significantly increases lesion volumes in bipolar RFA. This beneficial effect can also be achieved in the percutaneous application mode by RFA combined with arterial microembolization via a hepatic artery catheter.

A new technology for grid production by electroforming is found to improve grid properties and thus, to increase cycle-life, save costs, and increase the ecological efficiency of lead–acid batteries beyond the corresponding features of competing designs. The particular aspects of the superior corrosion behaviour of the new grids are addressed with respect to the effects of chemical and anodic processes, microstructure, corrosion-induced creep and grid growth, and adherence of the positive active-mass. Along with each of these factors of influence, the prospects for improving battery behaviour and lowering cost is also discussed. The properties achievable by using electroformed grids are presented in terms of experimental results from a comparison with the properties of conventional grids, and by modelling and simulation.

The examples from various “industrial” applications demonstrate that the concept of the ScrewLine vacuum pumps is well proven even under the hardest conditions. The pump is a real “universal pump” and due to its accessories it may also be adapted to many processes in the fringe area of the chemical industry or the semiconductor industry. In all cases, the very low cost of ownership and the extreme ruggedness of the pump are convincing. Moreover, it presents itself as a very modern product and regarding vacuum performance, noise level and maintenance friendliness it sets new standards. Leybold Vacuum offers through the ScrewLine SP 630 and ScrewLine SP 250 thus also true “workhorses” again thereby seamlessly continuing the tradition of products like TRIVAC, SOGEVAC and RUVAC.

The paper presents a brief history of ring rolling development at the Dresden University of Technology (DUT) from the 70s to the present. The technological scope covers the techniques explored at the DUT: Tangential profile ring rolling, axial profile tube rolling/roll plunging and the TRENPRO® method to produce shaped rings. Starting from the state of the art, technological principle, range of application and machine-oriented implementation of these techniques are described. Furthermore, other common ring rolling variants, such as axial profile ring rolling, skew-rolling and radial-axial ring rolling, are taken into consideration. Finally, the authors provide a summary of problems still to be solved and ways to refine and disseminate the "ring rolling" discipline, assessing the rolling methods' potential as extremely forward-looking.

The objective of this study was to investigate spectral Doppler ultrasound (US) for monitoring extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy (ESWL). In vitro experiments with model stones showed that Doppler spectra acquired after a shock wave hit result in a high peak followed by a decaying signal. The duration of decay was dependent on shock-wave energy, stone size, gas content of the water and the level of disintegration. It typically ranged from 30 ms to 150 ms. It was found, by comparison with optical high-speed imaging and US B-scan imaging, that the signal originated from fragments released by the stone and cavitation. If the monitored volume contained no target, the signal duration was significantly shorter. By this means, hits were reliably distinguished from misses. The results of clinical treatments were highly consistent with those of in vitro experiments. Therefore, spectral Doppler US is an excellent tool for hit/miss monitoring in ESWL.

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are formed during the nonenzymatic reaction of sugars with proteins. Conventional peritoneal dialysis fluids (PDFs) lead to the formation of AGEs in the peritoneal membrane that are associated with histopathologic changes and loss of ultrafiltration. PDFs may cause AGE formation because of a high glucose concentration or reactive glucose degradation products (GDPs), which are formed during heat sterilization of PDFs. This formation of GDPs is strongly pH dependent, which is exploited in newly developed double-chamber bag PDFs. Accordingly, 3-deoxyglucosone levels in double-chamber bag PDFs are reduced by approximately 80%, and levels of the GDPs acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, and methylglyoxal are less than the detection limit. Using an in vitro model that mimics regular changes in PDFs during continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis treatment, the contribution of high glucose versus GDP concentrations to AGE formation was investigated. The latter was determined by measuring protein bound N ϵ -(carboxymethyl)-lysine (CML) and imidazolone by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. In this model, more than 85% of imidazolone and more than 70% of CML were formed by GDPs, whereas only a minor part resulted from a high glucose concentration per se. New in vivo investigations suggest that GDPs from PDFs also can exert systemic effects after absorption into the blood circulation. Imidazolone levels in blood serum decrease significantly after switching from single- to double-chamber PDFs. In summary, the use of double-chamber PDFs may decrease not only local, but also systemic AGE formation. Am J Kidney Dis 41(S1):S57-S60. © 2003 by the National Kidney Foundation, Inc.

The Catamaran - Measuring Dolphin (MESSIN) is an unmanned and independently operated craft having been designed for carrying out multiple measuring tasks in the field of marine research and water monitoring especially in shallow waters. An introduction to the navigation, steering and safety systems is given. Furthermore the main components of the track control system and the electronic chart system used here are shown. Results of manoeuvring tests of the MESSIN are represented. This paper gives a contribution to the field of research„ autonomous and full automated vehicle“.

The Catamaran - Measuring Dolphin (MESSIN) is an unmanned and independently operated craft having been designed for carrying out multiple measuring tasks in the field of marine research and water monitoring especially in shallow waters. An introduction to the navigation, steering and safety systems is given. Furthermore the main components of the track control system and the electronic chart system used here are shown. Results of manoeuvring tests of the MESSIN are represented. This paper gives a contribution to the field of research „autonomous and full automated vehicle“.

The evaluation of regional myocardial blood flow (RMBF) during cardiac catheterization is of particular diagnostic interest. The purpose of this investigation was to validate x-ray densitometric parameters for the evaluation of RMBF. In five anesthetized dogs, arterial flow in the circumflex coronary artery was measured continuously with an electromagnetic flowmeter, and RMBF was determined by colored microspheres. Five different perfusion levels were created by mechanical obstruction of the coronary artery or by intravenous infusion of adenosine. At each steady-state perfusion level, digital subtraction coronary angiograms were obtained for densitometric analysis. Results documented a close correlation between the related time parameters 1/Mean Transit Time (1/MTT, r2 = 0.969), and 1/Rise Time (1/RT, r2 = 0.965) and RMBF over a wide range between 0.36 ml/(min x g) and 11.16 ml/(min x g). Maximum myocardial contrast density (Imax) also showed a good, but inverse correlation (r2 = 0.889) with RMBF and, therefore, did not reflect vascular volume. Contrast medium Appearance Time (AT) showed no correlation to RMBF (r2 = 0.017). Repeat densitometric measurements for different perfusion levels revealed a good reproducibility for MTT (accuracy: 0.001 s; precision: 0.447 s or 6.7 %) and RT (accuracy: 0.014 s; precision: 0.202 s or 10.4 %), while AT (accuracy: 0.072 s; precision: 0.420 s or 68.5%) and Imax (accuracy: 0.022 GL; precision: 1.197 GL or 44.5%) showed substantial variation. Myocardial perfusion reserve (MPR) calculated from RT (r2 = 0.90) or MTT (r2 = 0.94) showed better correlations to RMBF reserve than MPR calculated from AT (r2 = 0.04). In conclusion, only 1/MTT and 1/RT showed a good reproducibility and a close correlation to RMBF. Therefore, only these parameters can be recommended for calculations of RMBF and its reserve under clinical conditions.

A new low power integrated pressure sensor system with digital output (1 bit PDM signal) for medical applications is presented. The absolute pressure sensor comprising 400 nm thick surface micromachined polysilicon membranes for capacitive pressure detection and a monolithic integrated 2nd order sigma–delta-modulator including voltage reference and timing generator is extremely miniaturized on an area of approximately 3 mm 2 . For protection and biocompatibility reasons the sensor is coated with a silicone elastomer of up to 100 μm thickness, which does not influence the sensor's performance. The sensor system was tested in vitro in physiological NaCl solution, showing excellent results compared to a commercial available reference sensor. The sensor system is working well down to a supply voltage of 2.2 V with a power consumption of 0.5 mW. The resolution is better than 12 bit. Due to the small chip area, low power consumption and cost effective production process, the sensor is ideal for medical applications, e.g., in combination with telemetric power and data transmission [J. Zacheja, B. Clasbrummel, J. Binder, U. Steinau, Implantable Telemetric Endosystem for Minimal Invasive Pressure Measurements, MedTech95, Berlin, Germany, (1995)] as an implantable sensor to reduce the mortality risk of intensive care patients.

After the introduction of the basic concepts of Classical IP over ATM (CLIP), this paper presents an extension to this standard as well as a full analysis of the technical viability of the extension proposal. One of the major drawbacks of CLIP is the co-existence of IP and ATM without Quality of Service (QoS) support. By extending the functionality of CLIP and redefining the mapping of IP and ATM addresses, QoS can be brought to IP-based applications without requiring any specific definition or implementation changes at the IP layer or above. QACLIP (QoS for Applications using CLIP), the newly defined extension, allows applications to request specific QoS for their data transfer use.

We report a novel process for the full integration of surface-micromachined pressure-sensor cells into a standard BiCMOS process. Only the standard layers of the BiCMOS process are used to build up the sensor and only one additional photolithography step is necessary to achieve the micromachined structures. The application of the process is demonstrated by means of an integrated pressure-sensor system at a working range of 0.1 to 1.1 bar of absolute pressure. The influence of process parameters and tolerances of the VLSI process on the sensor performance are examined. To examine the long-term stability, the sensors are electrically deflected at the resonance frequency applying 4 × 10 11 load cycles. The measurements do not show any changes in the mechanical behaviour, so a very high long-term stability can be proven. In contrast to all integrated micromechanical systems presented so far, neither prenor post-processing of the system is necessary. Compared to conventional surface micromachining, the additional processing effort for the sensor realization is reduced dramatically to about 5% of the BiCMOS process.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES A new ultrasound contrast agent (SH U 563 A), consisting of hollow biodegradable polymeric microparticles, and a new imaging technique (stimulated acoustic emission) were used for delineation of experimental liver tumors. After intravenous injection, these microparticles are phagocytosed by cells of the reticuloendothelial system (RES) and create a color-coded signal using color Doppler. Because of the different distribution of phagocytic cells in healthy liver tissue and tumors, the delineation of focal lesions was to be tested. METHODS Sixteen rabbits with VX2 liver tumors received doses of 0.15-mL SH U 563 A per kilogram of body weight intravenously. Liver investigations (UM9, HD1, L10.5, ATL, Bothell, USA) were performed in vivo before and after SH U 563 A application in B and color Doppler modes. Additionally, the liver and spleen of these rabbits were examined ex vivo in color Doppler. The sonographic diagnosis was confirmed by pathology. RESULTS After application of SH U 563 A, the healthy liver tissue of all rabbits was characterized by a typical mosaic color pattern in vivo and ex vivo, using color Doppler. Entire VX2 liver tumors were detectable exclusively in color Doppler after SH U 563 A application. This was possible in 14 of 16 rabbits in vivo and in all 16 livers ex vivo. Furthermore, all ex vivo investigated spleens were color enhanced homogeneously. Sonographic diagnoses were in accordance with pathologic findings. CONCLUSIONS SH U 563 A, combined with stimulated acoustic emission, provides potential for delineation of small isoechogenic liver lesions by sonography.

A 22-stage axial flow compressor with a pressure ratio 35:1 has been designed, built and successfully tested for a heavy-duty gas turbine application. Advanced technology and aero engine design tools have been used. The compressor has been designed using an “arbitrary” airfoil blading including 3D design features, like leading edge re-camber, lean, sweep and flowpath contouring. The compressor performance and part load behavior have been improved by accurate stage matching based on whole compressor 3D analyses. The new compressor has been tested in a scaled down rig and validated in the Alstom Test Power Plant (ATPP).The compressor met all design objectives and demonstrated excellent performance. This paper describes the aerodynamic design and test results.

The electrical properties of a Switchable Flux-Flow Resistor (SFFR) have been investigated. The maximum superconducting current in the channel can reversibly be varied by gate voltages in the range 2.5–7 V. Gate voltages above a threshold voltage yield a depression of the pinning force in the channel. The SFFR allows for three different operation modes, which have been characterized by static and transient measurements. A special layout for transient measurements with high resolution was developed. Possible applications of superconducting three-terminal devices are discussed.

The supervised working FuzzyARTMAP pattern recognition algorithm has been applied to automated identification of post-consumer plastics by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Experimentally, a remote operating parallel multisensor device, based on a rapid InGaAs diode array detector combined with new collimation optics, has been used. The laboratory setup allows on-line identification of more than 100 spectra per second. Internal parameter settings of FuzzyARTMAP were varied to explore their influence on the classifier’s behavior. Discrimination results obtained were better than those from an optimized multilayer feedforward backpropagation artificial neural network (MLF-BP) and significantly better than those provided by the partial least squares method (PLSZ). Additional advantages of FuzzyARTMAP compared to these two classifiers are a significantly higher speed of calibration, the chemical interpretability of network weight coefficients and a built-in detector against extrapolations.

Results on a new approach for the monolithic integration of micromechanics and electronics are presented. The same process steps and layers can be used for both the mechanical and the electronic elements. This is a promising process concept for integrated microelectromechanical systems with a minimum of additional costs compared to the standard electronics process. Results on the fabrication of micromechanical structures using the process steps of a 0.8 μm CMOS process are given. The sublimation technique is used to dry the released surface-micromachined structures and different sublimating chemicals are compared. The influences of polycrystalline and amorphous deposition as well as diffusion doping and ion implantation on the strain gradients of the structural layers are presented. A fabricated electrostatically deflectable and capacitively detectable cantilever is presented and the dependence of the capacitance on the drive voltage is shown. By using the presented theory and fitting calculations to the measured non-linear characteristic, a value of 170 GPa for Young's modulus of the polysilicon film is extracted.

An optical set-up consisting of a high-throughput NIR spectrometer with an InGaAs array (800 nm to 1700 nm) and a specially designed collection optics was used to record spectra from post consumer packages (PE, PET, PP, PS and a cardboard–plastic compound) located on an industrial conveyor belt with an integration time of 6.3 milliseconds per sample. The spectra were classified by neural networks with an identification rate of better than 98%. The set-up is, hence, regarded as suitable for the on-line identification of package materials.

Purpose : We describe how stereo photogrammetry can be used to determine immobilization and repositioning accuracies of head holder systems used for fractionated radiotherapy of intracranial lesions. Methods and Materials : The apparatus consists of two video cameras controlled by a personal computer and a bite block based landmark system. Position and spatial orientation of the landmarks are monitored by the cameras and processed for the real-time calculation of a target point's actual position relative to its initializing position. The target's position is assumed to be invariant with respect to the landmark system. We performed two series of 30 correlated head motion measurements on two test persons. One of the series was done with a thermoplastic device, the other one with a cast device developed for stereotactic treatment at the German Cancer Research Center. Immobilization and repositioning accuracies were determined with respect to a target point situated near the base of the skull. The repositioning accuracies were described in terms of the distributions of the mean displacements of the single motion measurements. Results : Movements of the target in the order of 0.05 mm caused by breathing could be detected with a maximum resolution in time of 12 ms. The data derived from the investigation of the two test persons indicated similar immobilization accuracies for the two devices, but the repositioning errors were larger for the thermoplastic device than for the cast device. Apart from this, we found that for the thermoplastic mask the lateral repositioning error depended on the order in which the mask was closed. Conclusion : The photogrammetric apparatus is a versatile tool for accuracy measurements of head holder devices used for fractionated radiotherapy.

The article contains sections titled: 1. Introduction to Graphic Arts 2. Flow Scheme of Graphic Prepress Processes 3. Photographic Materials for Prepress 4. Color Proofing 5. Printing Forms 5.1. Lithography (Planographic Printing, Offset) 5.1.1. Lithographic Printing Process 5.1.2. Lithographic Substrates 5.1.3. Coating and Finishing 5.1.4. Imaging and Processing of Lithographic Plates 5.1.5. UV-Sensitive Plates for Contact Exposure 5.1.6. Lithographic Printing Based on Electrophotography 5.1.7. Silver Halide-Based Lithographic Plates 5.1.8. IR-Sensitive Positive-Working Plates 5.1.9. Negative-Working Laser-Sensitive Plates 5.1.10. Other Principles of Imaging 5.1.11. Waterless Lithographic Printing 5.1.12. Future of Lithographic Printing Plate 5.2. Letterpress and Flexography 5.2.1. Structure of Photopolymer Letterpress and Flexographic Plates 5.2.2. Chemistry of Photopolymer Relief Printing Plates 5.2.3. Processing and Application of Letterpress and Flexographic Plates 5.2.4. Direct Laser Engraving of Flexographic Printing Forms 5.2.5. Future Developments 5.3. Gravure Printing 5.3.1. Process Overview 5.3.2. Electromechanical Cylinder Engraving 5.3.3. Etching with Laser-Generated Masks 5.3.4. Direct Laser Engraving 5.3.5. Important Vendors 5.3.6. Outlook 5.4. Screen Printing 5.4.1. The Screen 5.4.2. The Stencil 5.4.3. Developments

SKiN technology comprises the sintering of power chips to a substrate (i.e. DBC), a top side sintering of the power chips to a flexible circuit board, and the sintering of the substrate to a pin-fin heat sink. The resulting power device has a very low volume and weight and demonstrates unprecedented thermal, electrical, and reliability performance. Therefore, this technology is ideally suited to provide better power electronic solutions for a range of applications, i.e. electric vehicles, renewable energies and variable speed motor drives. The process to manufacture a 400 Amp, 600 V Dual IGBT, sintered to an aluminum pin-fin heat sink will be described in detail and electrical, thermal and reliability results will be shown.

When inhaling medication, it is essential that drug particles are delivered to all sites of lung inflammation, including the peripheral airways. The aim of this study was to assess the lung deposition and lung distribution of beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP)/formoterol (100/6 microg), both dissolved in hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) and delivered by pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI) in healthy subjects, asthmatic, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients, to investigate how the in vitro characteristics of the formulation translate into the in vivo performance in diseases with different airway obstruction.Healthy volunteers (n = 8), persistent asthmatics (n = 8), and patients with stable COPD (n = 8) completed this open-label, single-dose parallel-group study. Each patient received one single treatment of four puffs of (99 m)Tc-labeled BDP/formoterol formulation. The correlation between particle size distribution of radioactivity and of the drugs in the radiolabeled formulation was validated. Intra- and extrapulmonary deposition, amount of exhaled drug, and the central to peripheral ratio (C/P) were calculated immediately after inhalation. Patients' lung function and pharmacokinetic parameters were also assessed up to 24 h post-dose.The average lung deposition of BDP/formoterol was 34.08 +/- 9.30% (relative to nominal dose) in healthy subjects, 30.86 +/- 8.89% in asthmatics, and 33.10 +/- 8.90% in COPD patients. Extrathoracic deposition was 53.48% +/- 8.95, 57.64% +/- 9.92 and 54.98% +/- 7.01, respectively. C/P ratios of 1.42 +/- 0.32 in healthy subjects, 1.96 +/- 0.43 in asthmatics, and 1.94 +/- 0.69 for COPD patients confirmed drug distribution to all regions of the lungs. Forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV(1)) increased in all groups after BDP/formoterol inhalation, but was more evident in the patient groups. No significant correlation between baseline lung function and drug deposition was observed. Formoterol, BDP, and beclomethasone 17 monopropionate (B17MP) plasma profiles were comparable between groups.Inhalation of BDP/formoterol HFA (100/6 microg) produces high and homogeneous deposition of BDP and formoterol in the airways, regardless of pathophysiological condition.

We describe an integrated microdosage system for controlled drug delivery to the human buccal mucosa, with emphasis on the microfluidic components. The system is designed to be part of a dental prosthesis and can thus be inserted, worn, removed, and re-inserted in the oral cavity enabling refill without the need for surgery. An additional advantage is the high bioavailability obtained by trans-mucosal drug administration. The challenges for such a system are the limited space requirement (volume of two back teeth) and the harsh environment in the oral cavity regarding chemical stability and mechanical loads up to 250 N. The main target application is the treatment of chronic diseases and addiction. In-vitro testing resulted in a delivery rate of 8 µl/h of the anti-addiction drug naltrexone solution. In the first human study for oral drug delivery devices, simplified systems without valve have been tested in-vivo. The bioavailability showed to be up to 25 times higher after delivery with the microsystem compared to swallowing of standard tablets.

This paper focuses on the interaction of labyrinth seal leakage flows within two stages of a HP and an IP steam turbine. Numerical studies have been carried out with the DLR in-house code TRACE [1] to show the impact of the labyrinth seal leakage flow on the total loss generation in both steady and time accurate simulations. CFD results are verified by the in-house 2D through-flow method of Siemens Energy. The investigations are divided into five steps: 1. Real gas effects, 2. Steady simulations of the core flow alone and its interaction with the cavity flow to provide insights about loss production contributed by the mixing process of the re-entering leakage flow into the main flow, 3. Understanding and modeling of unsteady phenomena within such interacting flows, 4. Effects of reduction of the axial distance between the two stages on the mixing process in time accurate simulations. 5. Comparison of blade loads calculated by Siemens’ CAE tools and predicted by TRACE.Copyright © 2009 by ASME

A fully integrated 4-channel automotive radar transceiver chip, integrated in a 200-GHz SiGe:C production technology, is presented. With a typical transmit power of 2 x +7 dBm at the antenna ports and all functions active, the chip draws a current of about 600 mA from a single 5.5 V supply. The design permits FMCW operation in the 76 to 77 GHz band at chip-backside temperatures from -40degC to +125degC.

Dental drug delivery systems have been used for a long time, in particular for the local therapy of diseases affecting the oral cavity. Research today concentrates on the design of formulations to increase their retention time. Even today, however, prosthetic devices incorporating drug delivery are rarely used. Mainly, they are focused on prophylaxis and the release of antibacterial agents. However, as buccal delivery, because of its undeniable advantages, has become popular for systemic drug delivery, and prolonged well-controlled release has been identified as beneficial, especially for chronic diseases, a new class of delivery systems is evolving: highly miniaturized computerized delivery systems, integrated into a dental appliance. Dental delivery systems today are used in two ways: the main application is the local treatment of diseases affecting the oral cavity itself like periodontitis or fungal infections. The second is for systemic drug delivery.

A new monosaccharide microparticle based echocardiographic contrast agent (SH U 508) was injected intravenously into five healthy male volunteers following which the heart was imaged in an apical four-chamber view. Volumes of 2, 4, 8, and 16 mL of SH U 508 were incrementally injected into each volunteer. Concentrations of 50, 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg microparticles per mL of suspension were used in five successive examinations. Left heart opacification of diagnostic value was obtained during the whole cardiac cycle with concentrations of 300 and 400 mg/mL. There was no interference in imaging of the left ventricular walls due to increased attenuation. SH U 508 showed a good tolerance. No side effect was observed and no clinical relevant changes were observed in the heart rate, blood pressure, ECG, blood chemistry, hematology or urinalysis findings. This new agent may greatly extend the role of cardiac ultrasound and may also permit the examination of the arterial circulation in other organs.

A modified concept using a movable fiber with radial light dispersion was developed for combining mechanical balloon dilatation and intraluminal circumferential Nd-Yag laser irradiation of the arterial wall. The aims of the study were the technical feasibility and the acute and chronic vascular tissue effects of laser-assisted balloon dilatation. The carotid arteries (n = 9 dogs) and femoral arteries (n = 5 dogs) of dogs were mechanically dilated and simultaneously circumferentially irradiated through the balloon by 1,064 nm Nd-Yag laser (20-25 W). Temperature at the adventitial surface was kept constant at 50 degrees C, 60 degrees C, 70 degrees C, or 80 degrees C for either 8 or 15 seconds by a computerized feedback system for temperature control. Angiographic and histological results were available acutely, subacutely (2 days), and at 3 months. Angiographically, stable and smooth enlargement of the lumen was demonstrated acutely. At 3 months, occlusions, probably thrombotic in origin, had occurred in 5 of the carotid arteries and none of the femoral arteries. Histologically, laser-induced coagulation of the arterial wall with loss of cellular elements was demonstrated. Collagen and elastic fibers remained relatively intact. In two carotid arteries intimal proliferation was observed at the treated site. Thus, this technique appears to be technically feasible, yet further study is needed to assess its potential to reduce or repair acute vascular complications (dissections) and to reduce restenoses after percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). However, the clinical value of this technique appears to be limited in view of the thromboses and reactive proliferations observed in this preliminary study.

Many high-throughput methods for the rapid screening and testing of catalysts were developed in the past years. But tools for a high-throughput preparation of heterogeneous catalyst were still lacking, in particular with regard to a further commercialization of the developed catalysts. At Degussa's Business Line Catalysts preparation systems and methods were developed that allow the parallel preparation of heterogeneous catalysts. A major aspect of this development was the adaptation of production procedures and capabilities in small scale in order to prepare catalysts that represent as many features as possible of commercially produced ones. Different samples of the successful miniaturization will be given.

Inline ultrasound monitoring requires good image quality for accurate stone localization, as well as low shockwave shadowing and a robust transducer. In general, conventional transducers designed for another purpose, such as abdominal scanning, are employed. The distance between the transducer and the SWL focus can be varied by a mechanical drive. The drawback is reduced fragmentation at short distances and poor imaging at long distances. This paper introduces a new approach using a specially designed transducer without a mechanical drive.A transducer prototype with optimized beam focusing (B-K Medical, Herlev, Denmark) was integrated into a modified Compact Delta II therapy head (Dornier MedTech, Wessling, Germany). Image quality was tested at two clinical sites, where 40 kidney and 14 ureteral stones were treated. The shockwave was characterized by model stone tests and fiberoptic hydrophone measurements.Both kidney and ureteral stone treatments could be monitored reliably. Despite the long distance to the SWL focus, the transducer could be operated with relatively high frequencies (3.5-6 MHz), so that high image resolution was obtained. Model stone tests yielded the same fragmentation as the standard Compact Delta II without a transducer.This study shows that the concept of an integrated transducer distant from the shockwave focus is feasible. Transducer elevation, which is accompanied by shockwave shadowing and early transducer failure, is avoided by employing a dedicated transducer design.

We report on the design and experimental results of monolithically integrated optoelectronic devices containing distributed feedback (DFB) laser, electroabsorption modulator (EAM), and semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA). Common InGaAlAs multiple quantum well (MQW) layers are used in all device sections. The incorporation of local lateral metal gratings in the DFB section enables device fabrication by single-step epitaxial growth. The emission wavelength is λ=1.3 micrometer. More than 2 mW single-mode fiber-coupled output power as well as 10 dB/2 V static extinction ratio have been achieved. Modulation experiments clearly show 10 Gbit/s capability.

Electroabsorption modulated lasers (EMLs) exploiting the quantum confined Stark effect need thermoelectric coolers to achieve stable output power levels and dynamic extinction ratios. Temperature-independent operation is reported between 20/spl deg/C and 70/spl deg/C for InGaAlAs-InP-based monolithically integrated 1550-nm EMLs exploiting a shared active area at 40 Gb/s by actively controlling the electroabsorption modulator bias voltage. Dynamic extinction ratios of at least 8 dB and fiber-coupled mean modulated optical power of at least 0.85 mW are obtained over the mentioned temperature range.

1. Abstract The usage of high-throughput preparation and screening tools is very beneficial for accelerating the development of heterogeneous catalysts. But a major point in industrial R&D is a smooth and trouble-free scale-up and commercialization after the catalyst is developed. Hence, the catalysts prepared in the high-throughput scale have to represent already the very complex structures and characteristics of commercial heterogeneous catalysts. Therefore, preparation methods and equipment had to be developed that take into account a high degree of parallelisation with reasonable sample amount to be representative for commercially produced catalysts. This development and its successful application to different types of industrially relevant catalysts are presented in this article.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo dose delivery characteristics of the AIR pulmonary delivery system over a range of flow rates. A 5-mg placebo powder of engineered particles with low densities (0.4 g/cc) and large geometric diameters (5 microm) was delivered via a simple, capsule based, passive dry powder inhaler. The emitted dose, geometric and aerodynamic particle size distributions (aPSDs) were obtained over a range of flow rates (15-60 LPM). The in vitro results demonstrated improved powder dispersion with increasing flow rate through the inhaler. The in vivo dose delivery characteristics were obtained by gamma scintigraphy. Twelve healthy subjects performed the following three inhalation maneuvers: (i) a targeted peak inspiratory flow rate (PIFR) of 20 +/- 10 LPM, (ii) a deep comfortable inhalation, and (iii) a deep forced inhalation. PIFR and inhaled volume were obtained during the inhalation of the dose using a spirometer. In vivo dose delivery was characterized by high and reproducible emitted doses (mean = 87%; inter and intra-subject CV = 5%) and high lung deposition (mean = 51% of the total dose), with low inter and intra-subject CVs (18% and 13%, respectively) across a range of PIFRs (12-86 LPM). Lung deposition of the total dose was shown not to be dependent on PIFR by analysis of variance across the range of inspiratory flow rates (p = 0.29). This was due to the competing effects of smaller aPSDs, increased extrathoracic deposition and higher emitted doses with increasing PIFR. Fully characterizing the effect of inspiratory flow rate requires analysis of the therapeutic response, as well as in vitro dose delivery and lung deposition.

This paper discusses improvements in manufacturing of coated infrared optical components. Such components often have key functions in defence, security or space applications and must withstand severe environmental conditions. Therefore, very durable coatings are desired. As a consequence of its radioactivity the formerly used low refractive index material thorium fluoride is substituted. Examples for beam splitter cubes contacted with novel infrared transparent cement, interference filters, mirrors and AR coatings are presented.

The integration of 3D-imaging functionality into C-arm systems combines advantages of interventional X-ray systems, e.g. good patient access and live fluoroscopy, with 3D imaging capabilities similar to those of a CT-scanner. To date 3D-imaging with a C-arm system has been mainly used to visualize high contrast objects. However, the advent of high quality flat panel detectors improves the low contrast imaging capabilities. We discuss the influence of scattered radiation, beam hardening, truncated projections, quantization and detector recording levels on the image quality. Subsequently, we present algorithms and methods to correct these effects in order to achieve low contrast resolution. The performance of our pre- and post-reconstructive correction procedures is demonstrated by first clinical cases.

Within the EC framework 5 programme LOPOCOTEP Rolls-Royce Deutschland (RRD) continues to develop Lean Premix (Partially Pre-vaporized) (LP(P)) combustion systems to implement the ACARE goals to achieve further NOx reductions compared with the best combustor technology currently available. The results from the previous EC framework 4 programme LowNOx III had been used to calculate DpNOx/Foo values for an ICAO LTO cycle. The result showed that 40% from the CAEP II limit can be achieved for a medium size fan engine. Cycle and mission calculations have risen the hope that total NOx emissions can be reduced by more than 70% for a 800 NM medium range flight. The objective of the current programme is to further reduce the NOx emissions (30% CAEP II) for a more severe engine cycle and therefore a larger burner size compared to the LowNOx III programme. Flash-back and auto-ignition under all operation conditions have to be prevented. A scaling law was derived from the existing database and applied on an LP(P) module which was then tested at pressures of up to 35 bar and temperatures of up to 900 K in a single sector test rig. The applicability of the scaling laws was confirmed. Testing at take-off conditions showed single digit EINOx between 2 and 4 g/kg depending on the actual swirl-generator configuration. However, poor weak extinction was observed and gave concern regarding operability. The decision was taken to redirect the development efforts to improve operability and to increase the lean blow out (LBO) air-fuel-ratio (AFR). This led to the integration of an internal, centrally arranged pressure-swirl atomizer as pilot diffusion burner into the LP(P) burners. Due to an optimization of the aerodynamics of the LP(P) module which was performed at the same time the dimensions of the burner could be reduced while the effective area was kept constant. This burner was then initially tested at atmospheric conditions to address ignition and LBO limit. This burner showed excellent ground ignition capability at air temperatures as low as 350 K. In the best configuration one spark was sufficient. The testing of the lean extinction limit was repeatedly verified. At 350 K the LBO was always in the range between 110–130 OAFR. More detailed investigations on emissions, flash-back and auto-ignition characteristics will be performed at ONERA and Lund University.Copyright © 2004 by ASME

New therapies, such as cell implants, will in future require teleoperators capable of repeatable positioning accuracy of 10 mm and better. This paper describes the design of a Stewart platform (hexapod robot system) which can be used for precision microsurgery in a number of different medical disciplines. The system design is discussed in detail and an overview of potential applications is given. Also, results are reported on the application in neuroendoscopy.