CONTROL CONCEPT FOR A DIGITALLY CONTROLLED MAGNETIC SUPPLY DEVICE

A method and a device control a magnetic supply device. The method includes the steps of executing a base structure of a control as a two-loop control having a voltage control loop for a magnetic voltage and a current control loop for the magnetic current, wherein the two control loops or circuits are preferably combined into one controller. The voltage control loop is executed as a status controller, wherein the return parameters for the status controller are adaptively adjusted as necessary to the behavior of a current converter, an output filter and a load. The behavior of the current converter, the output filter and the load are modeled by an observer (e.g. Luenberger observer, Kaiman filter) and the observer adapted to the effective behavior of the current converter, the output filter and the load is tracked. Finally, the current control loop is implemented as an adaptive PI controller. 112-. (canceled)13. A method for controlling a magnet power-supply device , which comprise the steps of:implementing a basic structure of a control means as a two-loop control means having a voltage control loop for a magnet voltage and a current control loop for a magnet current;implementing the voltage control loop as a status controller, with feedback parameters for the status controller being adaptively adjusted as necessary to behavior of a current converter, an output filter, and a load;modeling a behavior of the current converter, the output filter, and the load by means of an observer and adjusting the observer to match an effective behavior of the current converter, the output filter, and the load; andimplementing the current control loop as an adaptive PI controller.14. The method according to claim 13 , which further comprises identifying the output filter and the load on a fully installed magnet power-supply device for calculating and adapting control coefficients.15. The method according to claim 14 , which further comprises performing the identifying step in a ...

LOW DOSE SINGLE STEP GRATING BASED X-RAY PHASE CONTRAST IMAGING

Phase sensitive X-ray imaging methods provide substantially increased contrast over conventional absorption based imaging, and therefore new and otherwise inaccessible information. The use of gratings as optical elements in hard X-ray phase imaging overcomes some of the problems impairing the wider use of phase contrast in X-ray radiography and tomography. To separate the phase information from other contributions detected with a grating interferometer, a phase-stepping approach has been considered, which implies the acquisition of multiple radiographic projections. Here, an innovative, highly sensitive X-ray tomographic phase contrast imaging approach is presented based on grating interferometry, which extracts the phase contrast signal without the need of phase stepping. Compared to the existing phase step approach, the main advantage of this new method dubbed “reverse projection” is the significantly reduced delivered dose, without degradation of the image quality. 121-. (canceled)24. The imaging set-up according to claim 22 , wherein said analyzer grating has a one-dimensional grating structure with high X-ray absorption contrast and is placed in front of said position sensitive detector with its lines parallel to those of said beam splitter grating.25. The imaging set-up according to claim 22 , wherein said analyzer grating has a one-dimensional grating structure with high X-ray absorption contrast claim 22 , its period is a same as that of a self image of said beam splitter grating claim 22 , is placed in front of said position sensitive detector with its lines parallel to those of said beam splitter grating.28. The imaging set-up according to claim 22 , wherein said beam splitter grating is a line phase grating with low X-ray absorption and made from a material selected from the group consisting of silicon and a polymer.29. The imaging set-up according to claim 22 , wherein said analyzer grating is either placed front of said position sensitive detector or ...

METHOD FOR EVALUATING RADIATION MODEL DATA IN PARTICLE BEAM RADIATION APPLICATIONS

A method for evaluating radiation model data in particle beam radiation applications, in particular in proton beam therapy of a determined target volume of malignant tissue within a patient, includes the following steps: a) gaining diagnostic data for a determined target volume to be irradiated; b) calculating a particle range in the predetermined target volume based on the diagnostic data for the determined target volume; c) designing a radiation model with particle beam characteristics based on the calculated particle range and optionally on a calculated dose depth distribution; d) applying a single pencil beam shot to the determined target volume at an elevated beam energy as compared to the particle beam characteristics of the radiation model; e) measuring the beam range of the single pencil beam shot downstream of the determined target volume; and f) comparing the measured beam range to a reference beam range calculated on the basis of the radiation model. 16-. (canceled)7. A method of evaluating radiation model data in a particle beam radiation application , the method which comprisesa) gaining diagnostic data for a determined target volume to be irradiated;b) calculating a particle range in a predetermined target volume based on the diagnostic data for the determined target volume;c) designing a radiation model having particle beam characteristics based on the calculated particle range and optionally on a calculated dose depth distribution;d) applying a single pencil beam shot to the determined target volume at an elevated beam energy, elevated in comparison with the particle beam characteristics of the radiation model;e) measuring a beam range of the single pencil beam shot downstream of the determined target volume; andf) comparing the measured beam range to a reference beam range calculated on the basis of the radiation model.8. The method according to claim 7 , wherein the particle beam radiation application is a proton beam therapy of a determined target ...

X-RAY DETECTOR WITH INTEGRATING READOUT CHIP FOR SINGLE PHOTON RESOLUTION

An X-ray detector contains a layer of photosensitive material and an N×M array of photo-detector diodes disposed in the photosensitive material. Each of the diodes has a bias potential interface and a diode output interface. The bias potential interface is connected to a bias potential. The X-ray detector further has an N×M array of high gain, low noise readout unit cells, one readout unit cell for each diode. Each cell contains an input interface connected to the diode output interface, a high-gain voltage amplifying device having an integration capacitor, a first switch in parallel to the integration capacitor and a sample/hold capacitor disposed between a second switch and third switch. The sample/hold capacitor is connectable to the voltage amplifying device via the second switch and is connectable to a signal output line. A multiplexer contains a row select and a column select circuit allowing access to each readout cell unit. 113-. (canceled)14. An X-ray detector , comprising:a layer of photosensitive material;an N×M array of photo-detector diodes disposed in said layer of photosensitive material, each of said photo-detector diodes having a bias potential interface and a diode output interface, said bias potential interface of each of said photo-detector diodes being connected to a bias potential;an N×M array of high gain, low noise readout unit cells, one of said readout unit cells provided for each of said photo-detector diodes, each of said readout unit cells containing:an input interface connected to said diode output interface;a high-gain voltage amplifying device having an integration capacitor and an output;a first switch disposed in parallel to said integration capacitor;a second switch;a third switch;a signal output line;a sample/hold capacitor disposed between said second switch and said third switch, said sample/hold capacitor connectable to said output of said high-gain voltage amplifying device via said second switch and connectable to said signal ...

METHOD OF STUDYING CHIRALITY CONTROLLED ARTIFICIAL KAGOME SPIN ICE BUILDING BLOCKS

A method is provided for achieving low energy states for the study of chirality kagome spin ice structures, the method having the steps of providing a silicon substrate; spin coating a polymethyl acrylate resist on said silicon substrate; providing an electron beam writer; exposing said coated substrate to an electron beam from said electron beam writer; positioning more than one thin island ferromagnetic island structure along a honeycomb lattice of said kagome spin ice component, wherein said positioning being along a determined magnetization direction of said lattice and wherein said island structures providing a mechanism in which chirality is controlled. 1. A method for achieving low energy states of functionally coupled islands of a functional material , said functionally coupled island being places within a chirality kagome spin ice structure comprising a honeycomb lattice ring structure , each ring structure having six axis declined by an angle of about 60° one axis to the other , comprising the steps of;a) providing a silicon substrate;b) coating a photoresist material, such as a polymethyl acrylate resist, on said silicon substrate;c) providing an electron beam writer or a photon beam writer;d) exposing said coated substrate to an electron beam from said electron beam writer or to a photon beam of said photon beam writer, whereby said exposing forms geometric configuration being a kagome ring component having at least one ring structure; thereby breaking monomer chains of the polymethyl acrylate resist in said exposed region;e) removing the broken monomer chains in order to achieve void islands and positioning in a variety of said void islands more than one functionally coupled island, each of the functionally coupled islands being oriented along one of the six axis of the honeycomb lattice ring structure of said kagome spin ice component,wherein the functionally coupled islands are substantially identical in length but differ in width;f) said functionally ...

METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE STATES AND VORTEX CHIRALITY IN HEXAGONAL RING STRUCTURES COMPRISING NANOSCALE MAGNETIC ELEMENTS

A method is provided for achieving specific magnetic states with a given vortex chirality in artificial kagome spin ice building block structures containing one or more hexagonal rings of ferromagnetic islands created with electron beam lithography, where a subgroup of the ferromagnetic islands have a smaller width and therefore higher switching field than the other normal (wider) islands and are placed at specific positions in each of the rings. The positioning of the islands determines the magnetic state of the building block structure during magnetization reversal, and determines the chirality of the magnetic vortices that occur in each ring. 1. A method for achieving specific states of functionally coupled islands of a functional material , said functionally coupled island being placed within a chirality-controlled kagome spin ice structure , each ring structure having six islands with their long axis at 120° to their neighbors and created , for example , by lithographic means; each of the functionally coupled islands being oriented along one of the six sides of the hexagonal ring structure of said kagome spin ice component , wherein the functionally coupled islands are substantially identical but differ in a given physical property; said functionally coupled island structures providing a mechanism in which the energy state and vortex chirality is controlled according to the physical property of the functional material in the functionally coupled islands.2. The method of wherein said physical property of the functional material is selected from a group consisting of:a) magnetic dipole orientation within the islands with a magnetic dipolar coupling between the islands;b) electric dipole orientation within the islands with an electric dipolar coupling between the islands;c) ferroelectric orientation within the islands with a ferroelectric coupling between the islands;d) filled vesicles interlinked by springs with tunable spring constants providing a mechanical ...

SINGLE PHOTON COUNTING READOUT CHIP WITH NEGLIGIBLE DEAD TIME

A single photon counting pixel detector chip has a negligible dead time and consequentially high frame rates. The detector chip contains: a) a layer of photosensitive material; b) an N×M array of photo-detector diodes arranged in the layer of photosensitive material; and c) a N×M array of readout unit cells. The readout unit cell contains an input interface connected to a diode output interface, a high-gain charge to voltage amplifying device and a pixel counter being connected to an output of the high-gain voltage amplifying device. The pixel counter is split into a first number of nibble counters. The basic counter cell contains a counting element, a switch, a temporary storage element and an output stage. Additionally, the detector chip has a side shift register to read out the nibble counters row-wise with a predetermined number of nibble row selections. 19-. (canceled)10. A single photon counting pixel detector chip , comprising:a layer of photosensitive material;an N×M array of photo-detector diodes disposed in said layer of photosensitive material, each of said photo-detector diodes having a diode output interface; an input interface connected to one of said diode output interfaces;', 'a high-gain charge to voltage amplifying means having an output;', 'a pixel counter connected to said output of said high-gain voltage amplifying means, said pixel counter being split into a first number of nibble counters, each of said nibble counters having an individual number of bits, wherein for each of said bits, said nibble counters have a basic counter cell, said basic counter cell containing a counting element, a switch, a temporary storage element and an output stage, wherein said basic counter cells are cascaded; and, 'a N×M array of readout unit cells, one of said readout unit cells being provided for each of said photo-detector diodes, each of said readout unit cells containinga side shift register to read out said nibble counters row-wise with a predetermined ...

FLEXIBLE ENERGY FILTER FOR ION BEAM THERAPY

An energy filter allows, particularly at lower beam energies, a determined spread of the beam energies in order to preserve the beam edges and to spread the Bragg peak at each individual beam energy. The energy filter behaves similarly to a ridge filter and spreads out the Bragg peak of a low energy proton beam (70-100 MeV) so that energy modulation of the beam can be done with steps of 5 mm in one go over the full range of 235-70 MeV. Due to its mechanical flexibility, the energy filter can be placed on the skin of the patient which minimizes the effect of scattering in the filter due to the short distance behind a layer of a plurality of metal particles within a flexible soft plastic sheet to the skin of the patient. 17-. (canceled)8. An energy filter for particle beam therapy , the energy filter comprising:a flexible carrier formed of a cushion of plastic or water equivalent material or a stack of two or more soft flexible sheets of plastic or water equivalent material; anda layer of a plurality of metal particles in or on said flexible carrier, said layer being attached to a surface of, or embedded in, the cushion or the soft sheet of plastic or water equivalent material;said layer having a cross sectional area corresponding at least to a cross section of a beam scanning area at an outlet of the particle beam equipment prior to an entry into a patient's tissue.9. The energy filter according to claim 8 , wherein said layer is embedded in a soft sheet or between said two soft sheets of plastic or water equivalent material.10. The energy filter according to claim 8 , wherein said metal particles are metal spheres.11. The energy filter according to claim 8 , wherein the cushion or the soft sheet of plastic or water equivalent material has a thickness in a range from 2 to 15 mm claim 8 , preferable 3 to 8 mm claim 8 , and said metal particles have a maximum size of less than 2 mm.12. The energy filter according to claim 11 , wherein the cushion or the soft sheet of ...

TRACKING TYPE LASER INTERFEROMETER FOR OBJECTS WITH ROTATIONAL DEGREES OF FREEDOM

A laser interferometer and a method for operating a laser interferometer perform a differential position measurement by laser interferometry of two elements while offering a rotational degree of freedom to one of the elements using a reflecting sphere as a mirror for the laser beam. The laser interferometer and method do not require the object to be aligned with the rotation axis, but instead can track the object in off-centered geometries. This is achieved by employing the pointing of the reflected beam from the sphere as a feedback signal to realign the interferometer which then has a constant beam pointing to the center of the sphere in all cases. The laser interferometer and method keep the direction of the measurement constant. The laser interferometer and method are suitable for homodyne and heterodyne types of laser interferometer technology. 1. (canceled)2. A laser interferometer , comprising:a) a coherent light source emitting a source laser beam;b) interferometer optics forming a laser interferometer module configured to split the source laser beam into two beam parts propagating with orthogonal polarization;c) a flat first reference surface and a quarter-wave retarding wave-plate, one of the two beam parts being reflected by said first flat reference surface and passing said quarter-wave retarding wave-plate twice while propagating back to said interferometer module, to rotate the polarization of the one beam part by 90 degrees and then transmit the one beam part by said beam splitting optics;d) imaging optics, a reflecting sphere or reflecting cylinder forming a second reference surface and another quarter-wave retarding wave plate, the other of the two beam parts being imaged to said reflecting sphere or reflecting cylinder by said imaging optics and during propagation passing said other quarter-wave retarding wave plate twice to rotate the polarization of the other beam part by 90 degrees and then reflect the beam by said interferometer optics yielding ...

METHOD FOR X-RAY PHASE CONTRAST AND DARK-FIELD IMAGING USING AN ARRANGEMENT OF GRATINGS IN PLANAR GEOMETRY

An X-ray arrangement is suitable to record absorption, phase contrast, and dark field images of an object. The visibility of low absorbing specimens is improved and required radiation dose is reduced. The assembly includes an X-ray source; two or more gratings; a position-sensitive detector with spatially modulated detection sensitivity; a recorder for recording the images; an evaluator for evaluating the intensities for each pixel to identify the characteristic of the object for each individual pixel as an absorption and/or a differential phase contrast and/or an x-ray scattering dominated pixel. Images are collected by rotating from 0 to n or 2n either the sample or the assembly. The gratings are produced with planar geometry. The X-rays pass through the gratings parallel to the substrate. The grating structures extend along the X-ray path which determines the phase shift. The attenuation of the X-rays caused by the grating structures is no longer given by the thickness, but by the length of the grating structures. 118-. (canceled)19. An X-ray arrangement for obtaining quantitative X-ray images from a sample , comprising:a) an X-ray source (x-ray);{'b': 0', '1', '2', '1', '2, 'b) a set of at least two gratings (G, G and G and G, G resp.);'}c) a position-sensitive detector (PSD) with spatially modulated detection sensitivity having a plurality of individual pixels;d) a recorder connected to said detector (PSD) for recording images of said detector (PSD);e) evaluation means for evaluating respective intensities for each pixel in a series of images in order to identify a characteristic of the object for each individual pixel as one or more of an absorption-dominated pixel or a differential phase contrast dominated pixel or an x-ray scattering dominated pixel;f) wherein the series of images is collected by continuously or stepwise rotating from 0 to π or 2π either the sample or the X-ray source relative to the sample;{'b': 0', '1', '2, 'g) said set of gratings (G (if ...

Enzymatic conjugation of polypeptides

The present application relates to methods for the functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Bilayer electrolyte membrane and a redox flow battery comprising a bilayer electrolyte membrane

An electrolyte membrane and method for generating the membrane provide a resistance as low as possible to minimize ohmic losses. The membrane has a low permeability for redox-active species. If redox-active species still cross the membrane, this transport is balanced during charge and discharge preventing a net vanadium flux and associated capacity fading. The membrane is mechanically robust, chemically stable in electrolyte solution, and low cost. A family of ion exchange membranes including a bilayer architecture achieves these requirements. The bilayer membrane includes two polymers, i) a polymer including N-heterocycles with electron lone pairs acting as proton acceptor sites and ii) a mechanically robust polymer acting as a support, which can be a dense cation exchange membrane or porous support layer. This bilayer architecture permits a very thin polymer film on a supporting polymer to minimize ohmic resistance and tune electrolyte transport properties of the membrane.

SINGLE PHOTON COUNTING DETECTOR SYSTEM HAVING IMPROVED COUNTER ARCHITECTURE

A single photon counting detector system has a layer of photosensitive material and an N×M array of photo-detector diodes. Each photo-detector diode has a bias potential interface and a diode output interface. The bias potential interface is connected to bias potential. An N×M array of high gain, low noise readout unit cells is provided, one readout unit cell for each photo-detector diode. Each readout unit cell has an input interface connected to the diode output interface, a high-gain voltage amplifier with an integration capacitor at least two parallel lines of digital counters, each having a comparator with an individually selectable threshold and a gateable section to determine the counting intervals of the digital counters. A multiplexer allows access to the readout cell unit either on a per pixel basis or for several pixels in parallel to read out the digital counter to a data processor transferring the data off chip. 17-. (canceled)8. A single photon counting detector system , comprising:a) a layer of photosensitive material;b) an N×M array of photo-detector diodes arranged in said layer of photosensitive material, each of said photo-detector diodes having a bias potential interface and a diode output interface, said bias potential interface of each of each of said photo-detector diode being connected to a bias potential;c) an N×M array of high gain, low noise readout unit cells, one of said readout unit cells for each one of said photo-detector diodes; d1) an input interface connected to said diode output interface, a high-gain voltage amplifier with an integration capacitor;', 'd2) at least two parallel lines of digital counters;', 'd3) each of said lines including a comparator having an individually selectable threshold and a gateable section for determining a counting interval of said digital counters individually for each line of digital counters; and, 'd) each readout unit cell havinge) a multiplexer device connected to allow access to said readout ...

Method for image fusion based on principal component analysis

An image fusion method combines absorption, differential phase contrast and dark-field (scattering) signals obtained with X-ray phase contrast sensitive techniques, such as an arrangement of gratings. The process fuses the absorption and dark-field signals by principal component analysis. Further the differential phase contrast is merged into the PCA fused image to obtain an edge enhancement effect. Due to its general applicability and its simplicity in usage, the proposed process is usable as a standard method for image fusion scheme using phase contrast imaging, in particular on medical scanners (for instance mammography), inspection at industrial production lines, non-destructive testing, and homeland security.

System for the delivery of proton therapy by pencil beam scanning of a predeterminable volume within a patient

A system and a method improve a quality of beam delivery in proton therapy by pencil beam scanning of a predeterminable volume within a patient that minimizes beam position errors. The system has a proton source generating a proton beam, a number of proton beam bending/focusing units, a beam nozzle having an outlet for the proton beam to penetrate the predetermined volume, a beam bending magnet, and a couple of sweeper magnets to sweep the proton beam in both lateral directions. A position-sensitive detector is aligned with the nozzle to control the position of the proton beam and control logic controls the position and the energy of the proton beam and has a beam steering data set. A correction logic is aligned with the control logic for correcting beam position errors by comparing an expected beam position with the actual beam position detected and generates beam position correction data.

Quantitative x-ray radiology using the absorption and scattering information

A quantitative radiographic method uses X-ray imaging. The method uses a ratio of the absorption signal and the (small-angle) scattering signal (or vice-versa) of the object as a signature for the materials. The ratio image (dubbed R image) is independent from the thickness of the object in a wide sense, and therefore can be used to discriminate materials in a radiographic approach. This can be applied to imaging systems, which can record these two signals from the underlying object (for instance, an X-ray grating interferometer). Possible applications could be in material science, non-destructive testing and medical imaging. Specifically, the method can be used to estimate a volumetric breast density. The use of the R image and the corresponding algorithm are also presented hereafter.

SEMICONDUCTOR COMPONENT COMPRISING MICRO-BRIDGES FOR ADJUSTING A TENSILE STRAIN STATE AND METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF

A tensile strain state in semiconductor components is adjusted. A pretensioned (tensile strain) layer is applied to a substrate (FIG. (A)). Bridge structures (FIG. (B)) are introduced in the layers by lithography and etching. The bridges are connected to the layer on both sides and are thus continuous. The geometric shape of the bridges, formed with a cross-section modulation, is determined by the windows (FIG. (C)) in the layer. When the substrate is etched selectively, the bridge is undercut through the windows. The geometric structuring of the cross-section (FIG. (D)) causes a redistribution of the originally homogeneous strain when the bridges are detached from the substrate, with the larger cross-sections relaxing at the expense of the smaller cross-sections, where the pretension is increased. Only a multiplication of stresses (or strain) originally present in the sample is possible, with the multiplication factor determined by lengths, widths and depths, and/or the relationships thereof. 19-. (canceled)10. A semiconductor component , comprising:a substrate and a freestanding bridge structure detached from the substrate;said bridge structure having a cross-section modulation defining a strain state relevant to a functionality of the semiconductor component, said cross-section modulation being formed in the freestanding and bilaterally connected bridge structure detached from said substrate in a pre-strained layer on said substrate.11. The semiconductor component according to claim 10 , wherein said bridge structure is a germanium bridge on a silicon substrate and/or a silicon or germanium bridge on an insulator substrate (e.g. SOI or GOI) claim 10 , and wherein a laser is configured for monolithic integration into a silicon architecture.12. The semiconductor component according to claim 10 , wherein a pre-strained silicon and/or germanium layer is provided on an insulator substrate claim 10 , thereby implementing a transistor structure having a pre-strained ...

Fabrication of blazed diffractive optics by through-mask oxidation

A method for manufacturing a low-angle blazed grating on a semiconductor or silicon substrate, includes spin-coating the substrate with resist layer or hydrogen or polysilsesquioxane, being 100-1000 nm or few hundred nanometers thick, applying grayscale irradiation lithography exposure to the resist layer, generating a dose modulated pattern therein, varying in response to absorbed energy density from irradiation lithography exposure. The coated, irradiated substrate is developed in solution, such as TMAH or NaOH, enabling a blazed profile having structures of thickness-dependent diffusion barriers or SiO2, with 0-1000 nm height to emerge. Thermal oxidation in oxygen atmosphere at elevated temperature with the developed substrate, converts the upper silicon substrate layer into SiO2 to a depth depending on the thickness of the pattern in the resist layer above. Hydrofluoric acid fluid removes the SiO2, creating low-angle low-roughness blazed grating structure on silicon substrate.

GANTRY FOR PARTICLE THERAPY AS AN ARM ROTATING IN THE LONGITUDINAL PLANE

A system for particle beam therapy has an adjustable gantry for beam delivery to a patient site. The gantry has a beam coupling section, a first beam bending section with beam deflection and/or focusing magnets. A beam transport section receiving the particle beam from the first beam bending section and guiding the particle beam to a second beam bending section. The beam exits at a window of a beam nozzle. A patient table/chair is rotatable in the horizontal plane or in a plane being parallel to the horizontal plane and optionally being adjustable vertically. The gantry is supported by a tilting mechanism allowing the gantry to be tilted vertically by an angle Φε[−90°; +90°]. A rotation mechanism is disposed in a way that the second beam bending section and the beam nozzle are rotatable by an angle Φε[−180°; +180°] around a direction given by the angle Φ 17-. (canceled)8. A system for particle beam therapy , the system comprising , as seen in a flow direction of a particle beam: a1) a beam coupling section for an incoming particle beam, the incoming particle beam being oriented substantially horizontally and defining a horizontal plane;', 'a2) a first beam bending section having a plurality of beam deflection and/or focusing magnets, said first beam bending section being configured to either bend the particle beam with an adjustable angle into a vertical plane, or with 90 degrees in the horizontal plane, but with mechanical rotatability about an adjustable angle along an axis of the incoming particle beam;', 'a3) a beam transport section disposed to receive the particle beam leaving said first beam bending section and guiding the particle beam to a second beam bending section;', 'a4) said second beam bending section having a plurality of beam deflection magnets and/or beam focusing magnets; and', 'a5) a beam nozzle formed with a window for an exit of the particle beam; and, 'a) an adjustable gantry for beam delivery to a target volume (i.e., malignant tissue of a ...

Fibronectin-binding peptides for use in tumor or fibrosis diagnosis and therapy

The present invention is directed to a composition comprising at least one fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP) linked to at least one diagnostic or therapeutic agent, a nucleic acid encoding a fusion polypeptide comprising at least one fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP) linked to at least one diagnostic or therapeutic polypeptide agent as well as a corresponding recombinant vector and host cell comprising such a nucleic acid and preferably expressing said fusion polypeptide. The invention also relates to a kit of parts comprising at least one fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP), at least one diagnostic or therapeutic agent, and optionally one or more chemical agents for linking the fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP) to the diagnostic or therapeutic agent. In addition, the present invention intends said composition, nucleic acid, vector, host cell and kit for use in the therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of a disease, preferably a disease associated with abnormal fibronectin accumulation such as cancer, fibrosis or immune diseases.

MINI-GASTRIN ANALOGUE, IN PARTICULAR FOR USE IN CCK2 RECEPTOR POSITIVE TUMOUR DIAGNOSIS AND/OR TREATMENT

A gastrin analogue shows high uptake in CCK-2 receptor positive tumors and simultaneously a very low accumulation in the kidneys. This is achieved by a mini-gastrin analogue PP-F11 having the formula: PP-F11-X-DGlu-DGlu-DGlu-DGlu-DGlu-DGlu-Ala-Tyr-Gly-Trp-Y-Asp-Phe-NH, wherein Y is an amino acid replacing methionine and X is a chemical group attached to the peptide for diagnostic and/or therapeutic intervention at CCK-2 receptor relevant diseases. Very suitable compounds with respect to a high tumor to kidney ratio are mini-gastrin analogues with six D-glutamic acids or six glutamines. These compounds still possess a methionine which can be oxidized easily which is a disadvantage for clinical application under GMP due to the forms which may occur. The elimination of the methionine leads to a lower affinity to oxidation which in general favors the tumor-kidney-ratio. Ideally, the methionine is replaced by norleucine. This PP-F11N mini gastrin exhibits currently the best tumor-kidney-ratio and is the most promising candidate. 19.-. (canceled)10. A method of treating CCK-2 receptor associated diseases in a subject in need thereof , wherein the method comprises the step of administering a mini-gastrin analogue having the formula:{'sub': '2', 'X-DGlu-DGlu-DGlu-DGlu-DGlu-DGlu-Ala-Tyr-Gly-Trp-Y-Asp-Phe-NH,'}wherein Y is an amino acid replacing methionine and X is a chemical group attached to the peptide for the purpose of therapeutic intervention at CCK-2 receptor associated diseases, to the subject, and wherein the CCK-2 receptor associated disease is selected from CCK-2 receptor positive tumors.11. The method according to claim 10 , wherein the CCK-2 receptor positive tumor is selected from medullary thyroid carcinomas (MTC) claim 10 , small cell lung cancers (SCLC) claim 10 , astrocytomes and stromal ovarial tumors.12. The method according to claim 10 , wherein Y is a methionine isosteric amino acid with no oxidation potential.13. The method according to claim 10 , ...

System for taking wide-field beam-eye-view (bev) x-ray-images simultaneously to the proton therapy delivery

The present invention discloses a proton gantry layout, which offers the possibility to take wide-field (pictures not masked by collimators) diagnostic X-ray pictures along the nominal beam axis simultaneously to the delivery of the scanned proton beam used for proton therapy. The on-line analysis of such images can be used for detecting possible motions of the target volume in the patient body and for correcting the errors due to this movement by gating the irradiation or by using an active steering of the beam (tracking).

Apparatus and method to obtain phase contrast x-ray images

An apparatus (2) for generating a phase contrast x-ray image (4) comprising in an optical path (6) as seen in the direction of the light flow: a) an incoherent x-ray source (8); b) a first beam splitter grating (12) for splitting the light beams (14) of said x-ray source (8); c) a second beam recombiner grating (20) for recombining the splitted beams (16, 18) in a recombination distance from the second beam recombiner grating (20); d) an optional third analyzer grating (22) in order to offer an adsorption lines grating matching the interference lines downstream of said second beam recombiner grating (20) in an analyzer plane (a); e) an image detector (30) disposed downstream of the analyzer plane (a); and f) a means for introducing a sample (24) into said optical path (6) upstream or downstream of the second beam recombiner grating (20).

Interferometer for quantitative phase contrast imaging and tomography with an incoherent polychromatic x-ray source

An x-ray interferometer arrangement is disclosed comprising only one phase grating (G1) and one amplitude grating (G2). This interferometer can be used to obtain phase contrast images with a standard x-ray tube. Additionall, the new type of interferometer may use a source consisting of an array of individual sub-sources. Each of the sub-sources is individually coherent but mutually incoherent to the other sub-sources. The array of sub-sources may be generated by placing an array of slits, i.e. an additional amplitude grating (G0) close to the source. Such an arrangement makes it possible to use this type of interferometer with a source that provides no spatial or temporal coherence. The setup can therefore be used with larger sources placed at shorter distance of the detector resulting in higher flux densities and thus shorter exposure times. This is of special importance for tomography which requires to acquire images of an object under many (hundreds) viewing angles.

Method and apparatus for internal humidification of the membrane of a fuel cell

A gimbal mount device for supporting a functional element

It is the aim of the present invention to provide a compliant (weak-link) mechanisms that avoids the complexity in manufacturing and assembling. This aim is achieved according to the invention by a preferably monolithic device for supporting a functional element, such as a deflecting element for deflecting electromagnetic radiation, i.e. a mirror for deflecting a laser beam, comprising: a) a first holder member (102) for the functional element (200, 216) being pivotable along a first pivot axis (104); said first pivot axis (104) being disposed in the plane of the functional element (200, 216); b) a second holder member (108) for the first holder member (102); said second holder member (108) being pivotable along a second pivot axis (110), said second pivot axis (110) being disposed in the plane of the deflecting element (200); and c) a supporting member (112) for the second holder member (108); wherein d) a first joint (114) is disposed between said first holder member (102) and said second holder member (108) and a second joint (116) is disposed between said second holder member (108) and said supporting member (112)); and wherein e) pivoting the first and/or the second holder member (102 and 108 resp.) is achieved by an elastic deflection of the first and the second joint (114, 116) respectively.

Focus detector arrangement for generating phase-contrast x-ray images and method for this

The invention relates to a focus detector arrangement of an X-ray apparatus (1) for generating projective or tomographic phase-contrast images of an examination object (7, P), wherein a bundle of coherent X-rays (Si) is generated by an anode (12) that has areas (13) of different radiation emission arranged in strips and extending parallel to the grid lines of the phase grid (G1) of the focus detector arrangement. In addition, the invention also relates to a method for generating projective or tomographic X-ray phase-contrast images of an examination object with the aid of such a focus detector arrangement, wherein a bundle of coherent radiation is generated by an anode (12) that has areas (13) of different radiation emission arranged in strips and extending parallel to the grid lines of the phase grid (G1).

Method for obtaining methane and/or methane hydrate from biomass

The production of methane or methane hydrates from biomass involves placing the biomass pulp under pressure and liqeufying the biomass solids during heating. The biomass is heated to a critical temperature for the mixture and the solids are separated from the fluid phase under pressure and raised temperature. The fluid phase releases methane rich gas under the high pressure and temperature conditions.

Enzymatic conjugation of polypeptides

The present application relates to methods for the functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Screening of conjugated antibodies

Recognition tags for TGase-mediated conjugation

The present application relates to methods for the functionalization of antibodies using transglutaminase, in particular antibodies lacking Fc regions. Also disclosed herein are peptide tags for transglutaminase, linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, multi-specific antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Enzymatic conjugation of polypeptides

The present application relates to methods for the enzymatic functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

System for taking wide-field beam-eye-view (bev) x-ray-images simultaneously to the proton therapy delivery

The present invention discloses a proton gantry layout, which offers the possibility to take wide-field (pictures not masked by collimators) diagnostic X-ray pictures along the nominal beam axis simultaneously to the delivery of the scanned proton beam used for proton therapy. The on-line analysis of such images can be used for detecting possible motions of the target volume in the patient body and for correcting the errors due to this movement by gating the irradiation or by using an active steering of the beam (tracking).

System for taking wide-field beam-eye-view (bev) x-ray-images simultaneously to the proton therapy delivery

The present invention discloses a proton gantry layout, which offers the possibility to take wide-field (pictures not masked by collimators) diagnostic X-ray pictures along the nominal beam axis simultaneously to the delivery of the scanned proton beam used for proton therapy. The on-line analysis of such images can be used for detecting possible motions of the target volume in the patient body and for correcting the errors due to this movement by gating the irradiation or by using an active steering of the beam (tracking).

System for taking wide-field beam-eye-view (BEV) x-ray-images simultaneously to the proton therapy delivery

A system for an intensity-modulated proton therapy of a predetermined target volume within an object includes a proton source to generate a proton beam, a number of proton beam forming units and a beam nozzle having an outlet for the proton beam to penetrate the predetermined target volume of the object, thereby defining a cross sectional scanning exit area. The system includes further a beam bending magnet disposed upstream of the nozzle, and an x-ray tube and an x-ray imager. The x-ray tube is associated with an irradiation channel within the beam bending magnet, wherein the irradiation channel is oriented along the prolongation of the nominal proton beam direction thereby delivering the x-ray beam along the proton beam direction.

A system that captures X-ray images by Beams Eye View (BEV) with a wide field of view at the same time as proton therapy

SYSTEM FOR SIMULTANEOUS RECORDING OF FIELD BEV (BEAM-EYE-VIEW) X-RAY IMAGES AND ADMINISTRATION OF PROTON THERAPY

A method for evaluating radiation model data in particle beam radiation applications

A method for evaluating radiation model data in particle beam radiation applications, in particular in proton beam therapy of a determined target volume of malign tissue within a creature, is disclosed, comprising the steps of: a) gaining diagnostic data for a determined target volume to be irradiated; b) calculating a particle range in the predetermined target volume based on the diagnostic data for the determined target volume; c) designing a radiation model comprising particle beam characteristics based on the calculated particle range and optionally on a calculated dose depth distribution; d) applying a single pencil beam shot to the determined target volume at an elevated beam energy as compared to the particle beam characteristics of the radiation model; e) measuring the beam range of the single pencil beam shot downstream of the determined target volume; and f) comparing the measured beam range to a reference beam range calculated on the basis of the radiation model.

Device for performing proton therapy

A system for delivery of proton therapy

A system for an intensity-modulated proton therapy of a predetermined volume (T) within an object (M) is disclosed, comprising: a) a proton source in order to generate a proton beam (B) being adjustable with respect to the beam intensity; b) a degrader being optionally disposable in the proton beam (B) in order to attenuate the energy of the protons in the proton beam (B) to a desired proton energy in the proton beam (B); c) a number of proton beam bending and/or focusing units; d) a beam nozzle (N) having an outlet for the proton beam (B) to penetrate the predetermined volume (T) of the object (M); e) a beam bending magnet (A3) being disposed upstream of the nozzle (N); and f) a couple of sweeper magnets (WT, WU) being disposed upstream of said beam bending magnet (A3) in order to sweep the proton beam (B) in both lateral directions (T, U) before the proton beam (B) enters into the beam bending magnet (A3), g) said beam nozzle (N) is defining a cross-sectional scanning area (SF) substantially perpendicular to the proton beam (B) in the range of 10 to 30 cm 2 , and h) said sweeper magnets (WT, WU) and said beam bending magnet (A3) are controlled in order to guarantee a parallel beam orientation over the complete cross-sectional scanning area (SF).

A method for evaluating radiation model data in particle beam radiation applications

A method for evaluating radiation model data in particle beam radiation applications, in particular in proton beam therapy of a determined target volume of malign tissue within a creature, is disclosed, comprising the steps of: a) gaining diagnostic data for a determined target volume to be irradiated; b) calculating a particle range in the predetermined target volume based on the diagnostic data for the determined target volume; c) designing a radiation model comprising particle beam characteristics based on the calculated particle range and optionally on a calculated dose depth distribution; d) applying a single pencil beam shot to the determined target volume at an elevated beam energy as compared to the particle beam characteristics of the radiation model; e) measuring the beam range of the single pencil beam shot downstream of the determined target volume; and f) comparing the measured beam range to a reference beam range calculated on the basis of the radiation model.

System for Taking Wide-Field Beam-Eye-View (Bev) X-Ray-Images Simultaneously to the Proton Therapy Delivery

A system for an intensity-modulated proton therapy of a predetermined target volume within an object includes a proton source to generate a proton beam, a number of proton beam forming units and a beam nozzle having an outlet for the proton beam to penetrate the predetermined target volume of the object, thereby defining a cross sectional scanning exit area. The system includes further a beam bending magnet disposed upstream of the nozzle, and an x-ray tube and an x-ray imager. The x-ray tube is associated with an irradiation channel within the beam bending magnet, wherein the irradiation channel is oriented along the prolongation of the nominal proton beam direction thereby delivering the x-ray beam along the proton beam direction.

System for the Delivery of Proton Therapy

A process for an intensity-modulated proton therapy of a predetermined volume within an object includes discretising the predetermined volume into a number of iso-energy layers each corresponding to a determined energy of the proton beam. A final target dose distribution is determined for each iso-energy layer. The final target dose distribution or at least a predetermined part of this final target dose distribution is applied by parallel beam scanning by controlling the respective beam sweepers, thereby scanning one iso-energy layer after the other using an intensity-modulated proton beam while scanning a predetermined iso-energy layer.

Enzymatic conjugation of polypeptides

The present application relates to methods for the functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Enzymatic conjugation of polypeptides

The present application relates to methods for the enzymatic functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Screening of conjugated antibodies

Provided is a method for the functionalization of immunoglobulins through the use of transglutaminase, including methods for screening functionalized antibodies for characteristics of interest, antibody compositions comprising a plurality of functionalized antibodies, and functionalized antibodies with rodent constant regions.

Enzymatic conjugation of polypeptides

The present application relates to methods for the functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Enzymatic conjugation of antibodies

The present application relates to methods for the functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Enzymatic conjugation of antibodies

The present application relates to methods for the functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Enzymatic conjugation of antibodies

The present application relates to methods for the functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Recognition tags for tgase-mediated conjugation

The present application relates to methods for the functionalization of antibodies using transglutaminase, in particular antibodies lacking Fc regions. Also disclosed herein are peptide tags for transglutaminase, linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, multi-specific antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Enzymatic conjugation of polypeptides

The present application relates to methods for the enzymatic functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Screening of conjugated antibodies

The present invention relates to a method for the functionalization of immunoglobulins through the use of transglutaminase, including methods for screening functionalized antibodies for characteristics of interest, antibody compositions comprising a plurality of functionalized antibodies, and functionalized antibodies with rodent constant regions.

Method and plant for converting solid biomass into electricity

A method and plant for converting solid biomass into electricity by means of a gasifier/fuel cell combination comprising: introducing solid biomass and a gasification medium into the gasifier, introducing a product gas from the gasifier into a particle separator to produce a product gas with low particulate content, introducing the product gas into a reactor for catalytic conversion, introducing the product gas into a sulfur absorber, and then introducing the product gas into a fuel cell for generating electrical energy, wherein the particle separator and reactor are in a single apparatus and a by-pass control is used for adjusting the catalytic conversion in respect of the product gas with low particulate content. In a plant, the particle separator apparatus includes catalytically coated or active monoliths wherein the full or partial catalytic conversion of the gas that has been freed of particulates proceeds.

Method and Plant for Converting Solid Biomass into Electricity

A self-contained system for the generation of electrical energy from biomass by gasification combines several process units in one self-contained system. The global properties are greater than the sum of the individual properties of the process units.

Fibronectin-binding peptides for use in tumor or fibrosis diagnosis and therapy

The present invention is directed to a composition comprising at least one fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP) linked to at least one diagnostic or therapeutic agent, a nucleic acid encoding a fusion polypeptide comprising at least one fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP) linked to at least one diagnostic or therapeutic polypeptide agent as well as a corresponding recombinant vector and host cell comprising such a nucleic acid and preferably expressing said fusion polypeptide. The invention also relates to a kit of parts comprising at least one fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP), at least one diagnostic or therapeutic agent, and optionally one or more chemical agents for linking the fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP) to the diagnostic or therapeutic agent. In addition, the present invention intends said composition, nucleic acid, vector, host cell and kit for use in the therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of a disease, preferably a disease associated with abnormal fibronectin accumulation such as cancer and fibrosis.

Fibronectin-binding peptides for use in tumor or fibrosis diagnosis and therapy

The present invention is directed to a composition comprising at least one fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP) linked to at least one diagnostic or therapeutic agent, a nucleic acid encoding a fusion polypeptide comprising at least one fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP) linked to at least one diagnostic or therapeutic polypeptide agent as well as a corresponding recombinant vector and host cell comprising such a nucleic acid and preferably expressing said fusion polypeptide. The invention also relates to a kit of parts comprising at least one fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP), at least one diagnostic or therapeutic agent, and optionally one or more chemical agents for linking the fibronectin binding polypeptide (FnBP) to the diagnostic or therapeutic agent. In addition, the present invention intends said composition, nucleic acid, vector, host cell and kit for use in the therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of a disease, preferably a disease associated with abnormal fibronectin accumulation such as cancer, fibrosis or immune diseases.

Apparatus and method to obtain phase contrast x-ray images

Apparatus and method to obtain phase contrast x-ray images

An apparatus (2) for generating a phase contrast x-ray image (4) comprising in an optical path (6) as seen in the direction of the light flow: a) an incoherent x-ray source (8); b) a first beam splitter grating (12) for splitting the light beams (14) of said x-ray source (8); c) a second beam recombiner grating (20) for recombining the splitted beams (16, 18) in a recombination distance from the second beam recombiner grating (20); d) an optional third analyzer grating (22) in order to offer an adsorption lines grating matching the interference lines downstream of said second beam recombiner grating (20) in an analyzer plane (a); e) an image detector (30) disposed downstream of the analyzer plane (a); and f) a means for introducing a sample (24) into said optical path (6) upstream or downstream of the second beam recombiner grating (20). This apparatus is significantly improved insofar as virtually no longitudinal coherence is required and simultaneously spatially incoherent x-rays (i.e. radiation stemming from a relatively large source placed at a relatively short distance) can be used. This properties means that this set-up now is perfectly suited for use with a standard x-ray tube, opening this technique to a wide spread of medical and/or commercial applications.

Focus detector arrangement for generating phase-contrast X-ray images and method for this

本发明涉及一种用于产生检查对象(7，P)的相位对比照片的X射线设备的焦点-检测器装置(F 1 ，D)，其包括：-设置在检查对象第一侧的具有用于产生扇形或锥形射束(S i )的焦点(F 1 )的辐射源(2)，-至少一个在射线途径中设置的X射线光学光栅(G 0 ，G 1 ，G 2 )，其中，至少一个在检查对象(7、P)相对的第二侧在射线途径中设置的相位光栅(G 1 )，其产生一个在X射线的优选预定能量区域内X射线的干涉图形，以及-分析检测系统(G 2 ，D 1 )，其至少分辨位置地针对相位移检测由相位光栅(G 1 )产生的干涉图形，-其中，按照本发明，至少一个X射线光学光栅(G 0 ，G 1 ，G 2 )具有在所述扇形或锥形射束(S i )的射线途径中没有形成遮挡的悬幕的栅条。

Focus-detector system on X-ray equipment for generating projective or tomographic X-ray phase-contrast exposures of an object under examination uses an anode with areas arranged in strips

A bundled electron beam (BEB) (14) is controlled regarding its excursion in its direction by two pairs of plate electrodes (17.1,17.2;18.1,18.2) that operate vertically to each other. The BEB can use appropriate control of these plate electrodes to scan an anode (16) like scanning a TV picture line by line with a desirable gap and, as a result, can generate desired X-rays. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) An X-ray system for generating projective phase-contrast exposures; (2) A method for generating projective or tomographic X-ray phase-contrast exposures of an object under examination with the help of a focus-detector system.

X-ray radiographic grating of a focus-detector arrangement of an X-ray apparatus for generating projective or tomographic phase-contrast images of an examination subject

Die Erfindung betrifft ein röntgenoptisches Durchstrahlungsgitter (G<SUB>x</SUB>) einer Fokus-Detektor-Anordnung (F, D) einer Röntgenapparatur (1) zur Erzeugung projektiver oder tomographischer Phasenkontrastaufnahmen von einem Untersuchungsobjekt (7, P), mit einer Vielzahl von periodisch auf mindestens einer Oberfläche mindestens eines Wafers angeordneten Gitterstegen (S) und Gitterlücken (L), wobei das röntgenoptische Durchstrahlungsgitter (G<SUB>x</SUB>) aus mindestens zwei in Strahlungsrichtung unmittelbar hintereinander angeordneten Teilgittern (G<SUB>x1</SUB>, G<SUB>x2</SUB>) zusammengesetzt ist. The invention relates to an X-ray optical transmission grating (G <SUB> x </ SUB>) of a focus-detector arrangement (F, D) of an X-ray apparatus (1) for producing projective or tomographic phase-contrast images of an examination subject (7, P), with a A plurality of grid bars (S) and grid gaps (L) arranged periodically on at least one surface of at least one wafer, wherein the X-ray optical transmission grid (G <SUB> x </ SUB>) comprises at least two partial gratings (G <SUB> x1 </ SUB>, G <SUB> x2 </ SUB>).

Focus / detector system of an X-ray apparatus for producing phase contrast recordings, X-ray system with such a focus / detector system and associated storage medium and method

Fokus/Detektor-System eines CT-Systems zur Erzeugung projektiver oder tomographischer Phasenkontrastaufnahmen, aufweisend: 1.1. eine Strahlenquelle (2) mit einem Fokus (F1) und einem fokusseitigen Quellengitter (G0), welches im Strahlengang angeordnet ist und ein Feld von strahlweise kohärenten Röntgenstrahlen (Si) erzeugt, 1.2. eine Gitter/Detektoranordnung mit einem Phasengitter (G1), wobei zwischen dem fokusseitigen Quellengitter (G0) und der Gitter/Detektoranordnung ein abzutastendes Untersuchungsobjekt (7) angeordnet ist, die Gitter/Detektoranordnung parallel zum Quellengitter (G0) angeordnete Gitterlinien zur Erzeugung eines Interferenzmusters und einen Detektor (D1) mit einer Vielzahl von flächig angeordneten Detektorelementen (Ei) zur Messung der ortsabhängigen Strahlungsintensität hinter dem Phasengitter (G1) aufweist, 1.3. wobei die Detektorelemente (Ei) aus einer Vielzahl von länglichen Szintillationsstreifen (SSi) gebildet werden, die parallel zu den Gitterlinien des Phasengitters (G1) ausgerichtet sind, und eine kleine Periode (pSS) aufweisen, deren ganzzahliges Vielfaches der mittleren großen Periode (p2) des Interferenzmusters entspricht, die vom Phasengitter (G1) gebildet wird, und 1.4. innerhalb jeder großen Periode (p2) mindestens zwei Szintillationsstreifen (SSi, SSi+1, SSi+2) aus unterschiedlichem Szintillationsmaterial, die Licht unterschiedlicher Frequenz (λ1, λ2, λ3) erzeugen, angeordnet sind und deren Reihenfolge über das Detektorelement (Ei) gleich bleibt. Focus / detector system of a CT system for producing projective or tomographic phase-contrast images, comprising: 1.1. a radiation source (2) having a focus (F1) and a focus-side source grating (G0), which is arranged in the beam path and generates a field of beamwise coherent X-rays (Si), 1.2. a grating / detector arrangement with a phase grating (G1), wherein between the focus side source grating (G0) and the grating / detector arrangement a scanned object (7) is arranged, the grid / ...

Focus-detector arrangement of an X-ray apparatus for producing projective or tomographic phase contrast recordings and X-ray system, X-ray C-arm system and X-ray CT system

Fokus-Detektor-Anordnung (F1, D1) einer Röntgenapparatur (1) zur Erzeugung projektiver oder tomographischer Phasenkontrastaufnahmen eines Untersuchungsobjektes (7, P), mindestens bestehend aus: 1.1 einer auf einer ersten Seite des Untersuchungsobjektes (7, P) angeordneten Strahlungsquelle (2) mit einem Fokus (F1) zur Erzeugung eines fächerförmigen oder konusförmigen Strahlenbündels (Si), 1.2 mindestens einem im Strahlengang angeordneten röntgenoptischen Gitter (G0, G1, G2), wobei zumindest ein auf der gegenüberliegenden zweiten Seite des Untersuchungsobjektes (7, P) im Strahlengang angeordnetes Phasengitter (G1) vorliegt, welches ein Interferenzmuster der Röntgenstrahlung, vorzugsweise in einem vorbestimmten Energiebereich, erzeugt, 1.3 einem Analyse-Detektor-System (G2, D1), welches zumindest das vom Phasengitter (G1) erzeugte Interferenzmuster ortsaufgelöst bezüglich seiner Phasenverschiebung detektiert, und 1.4 einem Quellengitter (G0) zur Erzeugung eines Bündels quasi-kohärenter Strahlen, welches zwischen Fokus (F1) und Untersuchungsobjekt (P, 7) angeordnet ist, wobei 1.5 mindestens ein röntgenoptisches Gitter (G0, G1, G2) Stege (14) aufweist, die im Strahlengang des fächerförmigen oder konusförmigen Strahlenbündels (Si) frei von Abschattungen bildenden Überhängen sind, wobei 1.6 das mindestens eine röntgenoptische Gitter (G0, G1, G2) zumindest in einer ersten Schnittebene um den Fokus (F1) gekrümmt ausgebildet ist, und 1.7 die Krümmung des mindestens einen Gitters durch Mittel zur Druckbeaufschlagung auf das Gitter (G0, G1, G2) erreicht wird, ... Focus-detector arrangement (F1, D1) of an X-ray apparatus (1) for generating projective or tomographic phase-contrast images of an examination subject (7, P), at least consisting of: 1.1 a radiation source (2) arranged on a first side of the examination subject (7, P) ) with a focus (F1) for producing a fan-shaped or cone-shaped beam (Si), 1.2 at least one arranged in the beam path X-ray grating (G0, G1, G2), wherein ...

Measuring system with a phase-contrast contrast agent and its use for the non-invasive determination of properties of an examination subject

Mess-System zur nicht-invasiven Bestimmung von Eigenschaften eines Untersuchungsobjektes und/oder von Vorgängen und/oder Zuständen in einem Untersuchungsobjekt durch Bestimmung der relativen Phasenverschiebung mindestens zweier benachbarter kohärenter Röntgenstrahlen, die das Untersuchungsobjekt auf einem definierten Weg durchdringen, mit: 1.1. einer Röntgenquelle, welche mittelbar oder unmittelbar die mindestens zwei zueinander kohärenten Röntgenstrahlen mit einer Wellenlänge λ erzeugt, 1.2. einem Detektorsystem, welches in einem Abstand z1 vom Untersuchungsobjekt angeordnet ist und geeignet ist, die relative Phasenverschiebung Φ der mindestens zwei Röntgenstrahlen zu bestimmen, 1.3. einem Phasenkontrast-Kontrastmittel (Suspension), bestehend aus einer Basisflüssigkeit und einer Vielzahl darin befindlicher Partikel, wobei sich der Brechungsindex der Basisflüssigkeit nB vom Brechungsindex der Partikel nP unterscheidet, und 1.4. dem Untersuchungsobjekt, welches einen zu beobachtenden Raum aufweist, der eine lichte Weite L in Ausbreitungsrichtung der Mess-Strahlen besitzt, wobei 1.5. die Partikel im Phasenkontrast-Kontrastmittel einen mittleren Radius r aufweisen, der die folgenden geometrischen Beziehungen erfüllt:undwobei κ einen Wertebereich von 1% bis 99% annehmen kann und δP beziehungsweise δB dem reellen Dekrement des Brechungsindex nP beziehungsweise nB entspricht, wobei 1.6 die Partikel einen äußeren Mantel und einen Kern, jeweils mit unterschiedlichem Brechungsindex, aufweisen. Measuring system for the non-invasive determination of properties of an examination object and / or of processes and / or conditions in an examination subject by determining the relative phase shift of at least two adjacent coherent X-rays which penetrate the examination subject in a defined way, comprising: 1.1. an X-ray source which directly or indirectly produces the at least two mutually coherent X-rays having a wavelength λ, 1.2. a detector system which is arranged at a distance ...

Dual phase grating interferometer for x-ray phase contrast imaging

Since the very first experiments with phase-contrast imaging at synchrotrons, X-ray scientists were quite excited by the potential of this novel approach, as the "holy-grail" of boosting the contrast of soft and radiation sensitive materials under dose-control seemed to be finally at reach. The features of gratings-based interferometry (GI) are well suited for transferring this exciting technology from the exclusive synchrotron's community to a much wider basin of potential users. Particularly for medical applications, the relation between image contrast and dose has triggered tremendous efforts in the development of novel imaging devices. Such systems essentially operate near to the photon-starvation limit to cope with the fundamental dilemma of providing sufficient diagnostic sensitivity and sensibility at an acceptable, as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) risk for the patient. If a new imaging modality were to be implemented in a clinical environment, it is needless to say that it has to be compliant with the very strict regulatory directives. The present invention proposes a system based exclusively on X-ray phase shifting components, i.e. without the use of an absorption grating, or a mask or a high-resolution detector. The novel approach is applicable at all imaging relevant energies and can be easily scalable to large field of views. The invention solves in one shot most the major limitations so far which were preventing a broad dissemination of phase contrast X-ray imaging on conventional sources.

Interferometer for quantative phase contrast imaging and tomography with an incoherent polychromatic x-ray source

An x-ray interferometer arrangement is disclosed comprising only one phase grating (Gl) and one amplitude grating (G2). This interferometer can be used to obtain phase contrast images with a standard x-ray tube. Additionall, the new type of interferometer may use a source consisting of an array of individual sub-sources. Each of the sub-sources is individually coherent but mutually incoherent to the other sub-sources. The array of sub-sources may be generated by placing an array of slits, i.e. an additional amplitude grating (GO) close to the source. Such an arrangement makes it possible to use this type of interferometer with a source that provides no spatial or temporal coherence. The setup can therefore be used with larger sources placed at shorter distance of the detector resulting in higher flux densities and thus shorter exposure times. This is of special importance for tomography which requires to acquire images of an object under many (hundreds) viewing angles.

Interferometer for quantitative phase contrast imaging and tomography with an incoherent polychromatic x-ray source

An interferometer for X-rays, in particular hard X-rays, for obtaining quantitative phase contrast images, includes a standard polychromatic X-ray source, a diffractive optical beam splitter other than a Bragg crystal in transmission geometry, and a position-sensitive detector with spatially modulated detection sensitivity.

Interferometer for quantative phase contrast imaging and tomography with an incoherent polychromatic x-ray source

公开了一种X射线干涉仪装置，其仅包括一个相栅(G1)和一个振幅光栅(G2)。这种干涉仪可以被用于利用标准X射线管获得相衬图像。另外，新型干涉仪可以使用由单独的子源的阵列组成的源。每个子源单独相干但是与其他子源互不相干。子源阵列可以通过将狭缝阵列、即附加的振幅光栅(GO)靠近源放置来产生。这种装置使得将这种类型的干涉仪与不提供空间或时间相干的源一起使用成为可能。因此，该装置可以和被置于检测器的较短距离处的较大源一起使用，从而导致较高的通量密度和因此较短的曝露时间。这对于要求在多个(数百个)视角下捕获物体图像的断层照相术特别重要。

Focus / detector system of an X-ray apparatus for producing phase-contrast images, associated X-ray system and storage medium and method for producing tomographic images

Fokus/Detektor-System (F, D) einer Röntgenapparatur (1) zur Erzeugung projektiver oder tomographischer Phasenkontrastaufnahmen, mindestens bestehend aus:1.1. einer Strahlenquelle (2) mit einem Fokus (F) und einem fokusseitigen Quellengitter (G) , welches im Strahlengang angeordnet ist und ein Feld von strahlweise kohärenten Röntgenstrahlen erzeugt,1.2. und einer Detektoranordnung mit einer Vielzahl von nebeneinander angeordneten Gitter/Detektor-Modulen (GD) mit seitlichen Wandungen (14), jeweils wobei die Gitter/Detektor-Module (GDx) in Strahlrichtung hintereinander angeordnet aufweisen:1.2.1. mindestens ein Phasengitter (G), zur Erzeugung eines ersten Interferenzmusters,1.2.2. ein Analysengitter (G), zur Erzeugung eines weiteren Interferenzmusters,1.2.3. wobei auf einer Seite zwischen dem Phasengitter (G) oder dem Analysengitter (G2x) und der Wandung (14) ein Piezoelement (12) angeordnet ist und auf der gegenüberliegenden Seite ein Federelement (13) vorliegt,1.2.4. und flächig angeordnete Detektorelemente (D) ,1.2.5. wobei die einzelnen Gitterlinien aller Gitter (G, G, G) parallel zueinander ausgerichtet sind,1.2.6. und wobei ein Untersuchungsobjekt (P, 7) zwischen dem Quellengitter (G) und dem Phasengitter (G) anzuordnen ist. Focus / detector system (F, D) of an X-ray apparatus (1) for generating projective or tomographic phase-contrast images, at least consisting of: 1.1. a radiation source (2) having a focus (F) and a focus-side source grating (G), which is arranged in the beam path and generates a field of beam-wise coherent X-rays, 1.2. and a detector arrangement having a multiplicity of juxtaposed lattice / detector modules (GD) with lateral walls (14), in each case the lattice / detector modules (GDx) being arranged one behind the other in the beam direction: 1.2.1. at least one phase grating (G), for generating a first interference pattern, 1.2.2. an analysis grid (G), to generate another interference pattern, 1.2.3. wherein on one side between the phase ...

Interferometer for quantative phase contrast imaging and tomography with an incoherent polychromatic x-ray source

Production43Sc radionuclide and its radiopharmaceutical are used for positron emission tomography

根据本发明以商业显著产率以及适当的比活性和放射性核素纯度生产放射性核素 43 Sc，所述比活性和放射性核素纯度适合用于放射性诊断剂，例如正电子发射断层显像成像剂。在本发明的方法和系统中，将在惰性基质上制备的具有同位素富集靶标层的固体靶标放置在特别设计的靶标容纳器中并且用质子或氘核的带电粒子束辐照。所述束使用加速器如生物医学回旋加速器在3至约22MeV的能量下产生。本发明包括使用三种不同的核反应：a)在核反应 43 Ca(p，n) 43 Sc中用质子辐照经富集 43 Ca靶标以产生放射性核素 43 Sc，b)在核反应 42 Ca(d，n) 43 Sc中用氘核辐照经富集 42 Ca靶标以产生放射性核素 43 Sc，以及c)在核反应 46 Ti(p，a) 43 Sc中用质子辐照经富集 46 Ti靶标以产生放射性核素 43 Sc。

FUEL CELL WITH INTEGRATED FLUID MANAGEMENT FACILITY

Pile à combustible (FC) comportant un empilage (A) de plaques bipolaires et de membranes échangeuses d'ions disposées en alternance, l'empilage (A) étant enserré entre deux plaques d'extrémité (B et C), l'empilage (A) comportant des canalisations d'alimentation et de retour pour les fluides nécessaires au fonctionnement de la pile, lesdits fluides comprenant au moins un gaz combustible, les canalisations communiquant avec une installation de gestion des fluides comportant des éléments pour contrôler certains paramètres de fonctionnement, des éléments pour recycler les gaz non consommés par la pile et des éléments pour éliminer l'eau produite par la pile, ladite installation comportant des raccordements pour alimenter la pile en gaz, dans laquelle l'installation de gestion des fluides est intégrée au moins en partie à l'intérieur de l'une des plaques d'extrémité. Fuel cell (FC) comprising a stack (A) of bipolar plates and ion exchange membranes arranged alternately, the stack (A) being sandwiched between two end plates (B and C), the stack ( A) comprising supply and return lines for the fluids necessary for the operation of the cell, said fluids comprising at least one combustible gas, the lines communicating with a fluid management installation comprising elements for controlling certain operating parameters, elements for recycling the gases not consumed by the cell and elements for eliminating the water produced by the cell, said installation comprising connections for supplying the cell with gas, in which the fluid management installation is integrated at least in part inside one of the end plates.

CUTTING DEVICE FOR ELECTRIC CIRCUIT WITH PILOT TRIP

Apparatus for generating fine bubbles of gas in a liquid

The present invention discloses an apparatus (2) and a method for generating a two-phase flow (BJF) comprising a first tube (4) for directing a first fluid flow (AF), a second tube (8) for directing a second fluid flow (IWF) and a third tube (6) for directing a third fluid flow (EWF), wherein the first, second and third tube (4, 6, 8) are disposed essentially parallel to each other, said first tube (4) is inserted at least partially and essentially symmetrically within the second tube (8) which extends over the orifice of the first tube (4) as seen in the flow direction of the first fluid flow (AF), and the second tube (8) is aligned within the third tube (6) which extends over the orifice of the second tube (8), whereby the second and the third tube (6, 8) have respective fluid supply means (12, 14) disposed upstream which control the second fluid flow (IWF) and the third flow (EWF) separately.

STOPPING A FUEL CELL SUPPLIED WITH PURE OXYGEN

Procédure d'arrêt d'un système de fourniture d'électricité comportant une pile à combustible, la pile étant alimentée en oxygène pur comme comburant et délivrant une tension électrique sur une ligne électrique de puissance, le système comportant un circuit d'alimentation en gaz carburant côté anodes, un circuit d'alimentation en oxygène côté cathodes, le circuit d'alimentation en oxygène comportant des moyens permettant la mise à l'atmosphère dudit circuit d'alimentation en oxygène, des moyens pour délivrer à ladite unité de contrôle de la pile à combustible un signal d'arrêt, la procédure d'arrêt étant activée à réception d'un signal d'arrêt et comprenant une étape initiale pendant laquelle l'alimentation en oxygène est interrompue, une étape intermédiaire pendant laquelle un courant de maintien est prélevé à la pile à combustible, une étape de neutralisation pendant laquelle le circuit d'alimentation en oxygène est mis à l'atmosphère et une étape d'arrêt pendant laquelle l'alimentation en hydrogène est interrompue. Stopping procedure of an electricity supply system comprising a fuel cell, the cell being supplied with pure oxygen as an oxidant and delivering an electric voltage on an electric power line, the system comprising a gas supply circuit anode-side fuel supply, a cathode-side oxygen supply circuit, the oxygen supply circuit comprising means for venting said oxygen supply circuit, means for supplying said control unit with the oxygen, fuel cell a stop signal, the stop procedure being activated upon receipt of a stop signal and comprising an initial step during which the supply of oxygen is interrupted, an intermediate step during which a holding current is taken from the fuel cell, a neutralization step during which the oxygen supply circuit is vented and a stopping step during which the hydrogen supply is interrupted.

Site-specific conjugation to antibody lysine residues by solid-phase immobilized microbial transglutaminase MTG and MTG in solution

Dual phase grating interferometer for x-ray phase contrast imaging

Since the very first experiments with phase-contrast imaging at synchrotrons, X-ray scientists were quite excited by the potential of this novel approach, as the "holy-grail" of boosting the contrast of soft and radiation sensitive materials under dose-control seemed to be finally at reach. The features of gratings-based interferometry (GI) are well suited for transferring this exciting technology from the exclusive synchrotron' s community to a much wider basin of potential users. Particularly for medical applications, the relation between image contrast and dose has triggered tremendous efforts in the development of novel imaging devices. Such systems essentially operate near to the photon-starvation limit to cope with the fundamental dilemma of providing sufficient diagnostic sensitivity and sensibility at an acceptable, as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) risk for the patient. If a new imaging modality were to be implemented in a clinical environment, it is needless to say that it has to be compliant with the very strict regulatory directives. The present invention proposes a system based exclusively on X-ray phase shifting components, i.e. without the use of an absorption grating, or a mask or a high-resolution detector. The novel approach is applicable at all imaging relevant energies and can be easily scalable to large field of views. The invention solves in one shot most the major limitations so far which were preventing a broad dissemination of phase contrast X-ray imaging on conventional sources.

A method for preparing a membrane to be assembled in a membrane electrode assembly and membrane electrode assembly

A method for preparing a membrane to be assembled in a membrane electrode assembly is disclosed, comprising the steps of: a) irradiating sections (4) of a polymer film (2) with electromagnetic and/or particle radiation with a predetermined irradiation profile in order to both define irradiated sections (4) and to form reactive centers, i.e. radicals, in said irradiated sections (4) of the membrane; thereby separating the irradiated sections (4) from each other by separation bands (6) of un-irradiated membrane sections; b) exposing the film (2) comprising the irradiated sections (4) to a monomer or a mixture of monomers amenable to radical polymerization in order to achieve the formation of a graft copolymer in said irradiated sections (4). This method and the respective assembly yield a membrane that has, due to the profile of the irradiation, separated regions of distinct and appropriate properties to serve as a fuel cell electrolyte. It is therefore possible to generate within the same membrane layer or membrane film sections which have in its swollen state proton-conductive properties adjacent to the separation band sections which are the remaining original insulating starting material. This allows to generate within a single layer a plurality of separate fuel cells. Furthermore, this method allows to achieve additional property gradients, such as conductivity, water uptake, etc., within the same "activated" section and also over the thickness of the membrane for the purpose of asymmetric grafting.

Method for producing metal or covalent organic frameworks

The present invention discloses a method for producing a metal organic framework or a covalent organic framework, comprising the steps of: a) mixing precursor components (4, 6, 8) of the metal or covalent organic framework in order to achieve a reaction mixture; b) conveying the reaction mixture continuously into a continuous flow reactor (16) having a reaction path (14); c) heating the reaction mixture in the continuous flow reactor by (16) microwave irradiation (18) that is subjected to the reaction mixture along the reaction path (14) in order to induce the reaction of the precursor components (4, 6, 8) to the desired metal or covalent organic framework; and d) continuously drawing the so-generated metal or covalent organic framework from the continuous flow reactor (16); and e) separating the so-generated metal or covalent organic framework from unreacted remaining reaction mixture. The method now yields rather low reaction times thereby offering high space-time yield which will enable the bigscale production of metal-organic frameworks as shown in the examples below.

Fuel cell with integrated fluid management

一种包括交替布置的双极板和离子交换膜的堆(A)的燃料电池(FC)，所述堆(A)被夹紧在两端板(B，C)之间，堆(A)包括用于电池运行所需流体的进给和返回管，所述流体包括至少一种燃料气体，与流体管理系统连通的所述管包括控制某些运行参数的元件、再循环电池未消耗气体的元件、以及去除电池所产生水的元件，所述装置包括为电池进给气体的连接，其中流体管理系统至少部分地集成在一个端板中。

Hot electron emission array for e-beam photolithography and display screens

This invention relates to a device for emitting addressable locations comprises parallel spaced-apart first conductors (10) intersecting with parallel spaced-apart second conductors (11). The intersecting first and second conductors define addressable locations where electrons (12) are emitted in response to the application of an energizing voltage. One face of the first conductors is covered with an insulating layer (13) against which the second conductors (11) are applied, this insulating layer (13) forming a tunnel barrier for hot electrons (12) that travel ballistically through and are emitted from the second conductors (11) in response to the application of the energizing voltage. The emitted electrons impinge a target (30, 40, 50) which can be a light-emitting screen of a flat panel display, such as an electroluminescent polymer of a flat panel screen, or an electroluminescent phosphorous screen, or a target wafer bombarded by the electrons emitted from a flexible e-beam lithography mask. The intersecting conductors (10, 11) can be Al wires, or can be produced by C-MOS technology.

A method for x-ray phase contrast and dark-field imaging using an arrangement of gratings in planar geometry

An X-ray arrangement is suitable to record absorption, phase contrast, and dark field images of an object. The visibility of low absorbing specimens is improved and required radiation dose is reduced. The assembly includes an X-ray source; two or more gratings; a position-sensitive detector with spatially modulated detection sensitivity; a recorder for recording the images; and evaluator for evaluating the intensities for each pixel to identify the characteristic of the object for each individual pixel as an absorption and/or differential phase contrast and/or an x-ray scattering dominated pixel. Images are collected by rotating from 0 to n or 2n either the sample or the assembly. The gratings are produced with planar geometry. The X-rays pass through the gratings parallel to the substrate. The grating structures extend along the X-ray path which determines the phase shift. The attenuation of the X-rays caused by the grating structures is no longer given by the thickness, but by the length of the grating structures.

Enzymatic conjugation of polypeptides

Device for hosting a probe solution of molecules in a plurality of independent cells

The present invention discloses a device (2) to host a crystallization medium, such as a solution (12), for crystal growth including a plurality of cells (3) and a system (70, 120) for X-ray diffraction experiments of said crystal (28) in a sample holder (9) in said cell (3) to determine the atomic structure of crystals (28). Said cell (3) comprising a well (4), a sample holder (9) comprising thin-plates (10, 11) that are placed in said well (4), and a top plate (5) and a bottom plate (6). The solution (12) is hosted in the sample holder (9) between said thin-plates (10, 11) or just on one thin-plate. At least one of a top plate (5) and/or a bottom plate (6) is equipped with an opening (7) with a cap (8) that seals said opening (7). Each sample holder (9) can be extracted independently from each well (4) by removing the cap (8) that can be reused again. Further, the present invention discloses the system (70, 120) of the automated X-ray diffraction experiments for small crystals (28, 94, 134) contained in the sample holder (9) extracted from the wells of the device (2) utilising the ultrasonic acoustic levitator (76, 126) to determine the crystal structure at atomic resolution. Each sample holder (9) is remotely harvested from the device (2) and loaded into the acoustic levitator by using automated apparatus (101,102,103). During the data collection of the X-ray diffraction images, the X-ray beam (82,122 ) is scanned over the said levitated sample holder (85, 125) along a spiral trajectory by way of rotating the sample holder around an axis perpendicular to the disc plane of the sample holder, and moving in the direction perpendicular to the X-ray beam and the rotation axis at the same time. The serial crystallography X-ray diffraction dataset of said crystals is collected by continuously recording the X-ray diffraction images (84, 124) by using a fast frame rate pixelated X-ray image detector (83, 123) during the scanning of said X-ray beam over said sample holder. ...

A method for x-ray phase contrast and dark-field imaging using an arrangement of gratings in planar geometry

An X-ray set-up can be suitable to record absorption, phase contrast, and dark field images of an object. The arrangement improves the visibility of low absorbing specimens and reduces the required radiation dose. The arrangement includes: a) an X-ray source; b) a set of at least two gratings; c) a position - sensitive detector with spatially modulated detection sensitivity; d) means for recording the images of the detector; e) means for evaluating the intensities for each pixel to identify the characteristic of the object for each individual pixel as an absorption and/or a differential phase contrast and/or an x-ray scattering dominated pixel; f) wherein the series of images is collected by continuously or stepwise rotating from 0 to n or 2n either the sample or the arrangement relative to the sample g) wherein the gratings are manufactured according to a novel planar geometry where the X-rays pass through the gratings parallel to the substrate, h) whereby the grating structures extend along the x-ray path which determines the phase shift and attenuation that these grating structures cause to the x-rays, being no longer given by the thickness of the structures, but by the length of the grating structures.

A flexible energy filter for ion beam therapy

It is the objective of the present invention to provide an energy filter that allows particularly at lower beam energies a determined spread of the beam energies in order to preserve the beam edges and to spread the Bragg peak at each individual beam energy. This objective is achieved according to the present invention by a flexible energy filter (2) for particle beam therapy, comprising: a) a cushion of plastic or water equivalent material (4) or a stack of at least two soft sheets of plastic or water equivalent material (4); and b) attached to the surface of the cushion or to the surface of a soft sheet of plastic or water equivalent material, or embedded in the cushion or embedded in the soft sheet or between the two soft sheets of plastic or water equivalent material (4), a layer (6) of a plurality of metal particles (8), preferably metal spheres; said layer (6) having a cross sectional area corresponding at least to a cross section of a beam scanning area at an outlet of the particle beam equipment prior to its entry into a tissue. This energy filter behaves similar to a ridge filter and spreads out the Bragg peak of a low energy proton beam (70-100 MeV) so that energy modulation of the beam can be done with steps of 5 mm in one go over the full range of 235 - 70 MeV. Due to its mechanical flexibility, the energy filter can be placed on the skin of the patient which minimizes the effect of scattering in the filter due to the short distance behind the layer of the plurality of metal particles within the flexible soft plastic sheet (the flap) to the skin of the patient.

Fast readout method and switched capacitor array circuitry for waveform digitizing

Production of 43Sc radionuclide and radiopharmaceuticals thereof for use in positron emission tomography

根据本发明以商业显著产率以及适当的比活性和放射性核素纯度生产放射性核素 43 Sc，所述比活性和放射性核素纯度适合用于放射性诊断剂，例如正电子发射断层显像成像剂。在本发明的方法和系统中，将在惰性基质上制备的具有同位素富集靶标层的固体靶标放置在特别设计的靶标容纳器中并且用质子或氘核的带电粒子束辐照。所述束使用加速器如生物医学回旋加速器在3至约22MeV的能量下产生。本发明包括使用三种不同的核反应：a)在核反应 43 Ca(p，n) 43 Sc中用质子辐照经富集 43 Ca靶标以产生放射性核素 43 Sc，b)在核反应 42 Ca(d，n) 43 Sc中用氘核辐照经富集 42 Ca靶标以产生放射性核素 43 Sc，以及c)在核反应 46 Ti(p，a) 43 Sc中用质子辐照经富集 46 Ti靶标以产生放射性核素 43 Sc。

Disposal of radioactive materials

The invention relates to a method for the disposal of radioactive materials, whereby the loading material in a binding agent/loading material/additive mixture for the production of casting compound, mortar, casting resin and the like is at least partially substituted by the material to be eliminated. In said operation, it is essential for the fine fraction < 250 νm of the material to be eliminated to be less than 30 % by weight in relation to the weight of the material to be eliminated, preferably less than 15 % by weight. Said binding agent/loading material/additive mixture can be used as mortar or casting compound for casting or encapsulating additional material to be eliminated in a receptacle or container. Said binding agent/loading material/additive mixture is particularly suitable for the disposal of reactor graphite.

A method and a system for image integration using constrained optimization for phase contrast imaging with an arrangement of gratings

The present invention yields high-quality, artifact free phase contrast images from an object using an arrangement of gratings. The new method suppresses the need of direct image integration and significantly improves the quality of phase contrast images. In comparison with existing techniques, our approach does not need additional alignment work nor increased exposure time. On the other hand it delivers excellent, direct interpretable information about the phase projection within a radiographic experiment. Due to its general applicability and its simplicity in usage, the suggested invention is expected to become a standard method for a variety of 2D imaging applications using gratings arrangements in particular on medical scanners (for instance mammography), inspection at industrial production lines, non-destructive testing, and homeland security.

Method for image fusion based on principal component analysis

本发明提出了一种融合吸收、微分相位对比度和暗场(散射)信号的方法，上述信号采用x射线相位对比度灵敏技术获得，如光栅装置。该新的方法通过主成分分析(PCA)融合吸收和暗场信号；进一步地，微分相位对比度被合并至该PCA融合图像中，以获得边缘增强效应。由于其普遍的可应用性以及其在使用中的简单性，所提出的发明期望变成用于使用相位对比度成像的图像融合方案的标准方法，特别是在医学扫描仪(例如人体乳房x射线照相设备)、工业生产线上的检查、非破坏的测试以及国土安全方面。

STOPPING A FUEL CELL SUPPLIED WITH PURE OXYGEN

Memory element, method for structuring a surface, and storage device

The invention is essentially characterized in that in a first step a substrate is provided, which is coated with defined pattern of protrusions of a coating layer of a different material, so that an interface is defined between the substrate and the coating layer. As an example, the patterned coating layer can be applied by first forming an essentially homogeneous coating layer, which is then partially removed by means of photolithographic and etching techniques, leaving nanometer sized protrusions in that layer. As a next step, the surface provided with these structures is modified by selectively removing protrusions by means of a micro-device. Such a micro-device can be formed in a similar way to a scanning probe microscope (SPM) tip. The presence or absence of a protrusion represents a readable data bit information.

X-ray interferometer for phase contrast imaging

本发明涉及一种用于从目标获得定量的x射线影像的x射线干涉仪，尤其是硬x射线干涉仪，包含：a)x射线源，优选的是标准多色x射线源，b)非布喇格晶体的衍射分束光栅，最好采用透射几何，c)拥有多个单独像素的空间调制探测灵敏度的位置灵敏探测器；d)用于记录相位步进法中探测器影像的装置；e)用于在一系列的影像中评估每个像素强度以把每个单独的像素的目标特性鉴别为吸收主导的像素和/或差分相衬主导的像素和/或x射线散射主导的像素的装置。

Enzymatic conjugation of polypeptides

The present application relates to methods for the functionalization of immunoglobulins, in particular with drugs. Also disclosed herein are linking reagents, functionalized antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions, and method of treating disease and/or conditions.

Method for determining mutateable ligand-gpcr binding at single amino acid resolution and pairs of mutated ligand and gpcr

Method of determining GPCR and mutateable ligand binding ability, includes providing a well microtiter plate with well array having rows and columns, GPCR or rhodopsin in wells, and parent ligand mutant binding to GPCR when GPCR resides in conformation, contacting parent ligand mutants in wells with GPCR, coupling parent ligand to GPCR, and determining mutant ligand binding strength compared to standard parent ligand and GPCR by determining coupled mutant-GPCR complex in wells. Rhodopsin binding 403 mutants covering arrestin sequence provides functional 4th dimension arrestin crystal structures. Resulting single amino acid resolution functional maps reveal critical interactions in arrestin polar core and C-tail interrupted during activation. Amino acid patches reduce binding and act as direct binding rhodopsin interfaces. This and computational molecular docking active arrestin 4 and light-activated rhodopsin develop arrestin-rhodopsin complex model. Combined mutants allow binding affinity modification and GPCR-ligand complex stability for diagnostics or intervention.

Degrader comprising boron carbide

It is the objective of the present invention to provide a degrader that has excellent degrading capabilities with, for the same energy loss in the degrader, a lower emittance increase as currently used materials, without generating a strong neutron flux and without having severe toxic characteristics. This objective is achieved according to the present invention by a degrader (2) for use in the field of the application of a particle beam (6), comprising degrading active material wherein the degrading active material comprises Boron Carbide B 4 C. This degrader has an amount of multiple scattering that is lower than in graphite for the same energy loss. The use of B 4 C increases the transmission by at typically 35% for the beam degradation to low energies, which is a significant and useful amount of beam intensity increase in particle therapy. The B 4 C-material does not become more radio-active than graphite, so that there will be no additional problems at service activities. Further, B 4 C as degrading active material does not have severe toxic properties.

End plate for fuel cell, has recirculation body mounted inside chamber wall, at which supply channel reaches, to separate chamber into gas supply part reaching one orifice and gas recirculation part reaching other orifice

An end plate has a structural block with a chamber (P1h) delimited by the block`s walls, and extending between orifices of an inner side (B10) of the block. The chamber is associated to a supply channel opening on an outer side (B11). A recirculation body (E6h) is mounted inside the chamber wall, at which the channel reaches, to separate the chamber into a gas supply part (P12h) reaching one orifice and a gas recirculation part (P11h) reaching the other orifice. The body has a mixing element to mix new gas from the channel and recirculation part and to transport the mixture to the latter orifice.

Stopping a fuel cell supplied with pure oxygen