A versatile microfluidic intermediate delivery reservoir for isolating fluid dynamics in serially interconnected microfluidic networks

Background: Serially interconnected microfluidic devices enable advanced applications such as multi-step chemical processing and multi-organ-on-chip systems. However, managing these systems presents challenges due to interdependent fluid dynamics in their connecting channels, where even minor disturbances can propagate throughout the network, affecting overall system performance. Methods: This study introduces a microfluidic-based intermediate delivery reservoir (mIDR) designed to decouple flow interdependencies between serially connected devices while preserving essential microfluidic features, such as consistent liquid residence time. When integrated with a pneumatic pump, the mIDR enables precise liquid pressure regulation and independent control of both inlet and outlet flow rates. Its wedge-shaped open-channel structure generates capillary force gradients, enhancing liquid transfer efficiency. Experimental validation using time-sensitive enzymatic reactions confirms its ability to maintain laminar flow characteristics, isolate crosstalk, and stabilize interconnected microfluidic device operation. Significant findings: The open-channel design of the mIDR expands its versatility, allowing for additional functionalities such as debubbling and direct accessibility, which combine the advantages of both open and closed microfluidic systems. This innovation provides a robust and flexible solution for controlling fluid dynamics in complex microfluidic networks, offering improved reliability and efficiency for multi-step (bio)chemical processes

Next generation multi-element monolithic Germanium detectors for spectroscopy : First integration at ESRF facility

The XAFS-DET work package of the European LEAPS-INNOV project is developing high-purity Germanium detectors for synchrotron applications requiring spectroscopic-grade response. The detectors integrate three key features: (1) newly designed monolithic Germanium sensors optimized to mitigate charge-sharing events, (2) an improved cooling and mechanical design structure supported by thermal simulations, and (3) complete electronic chain featuring a low-noise CMOS technology based preamplifier, enabling high X-ray count rate capability over a broad energy range (5–100 keV). This paper discusses the first integration and characterization of one of the two multi-element Ge detectors at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF). The integration phase included validating high-throughput front-end electronics, integrating them with the Ge sensor, and operating them at liquid nitrogen temperature, in addition to the experimental characterization, which consists of electronics noise study and spectroscopic performance evaluation

Co-adsorption of p-mercaptobenzoic acid on silver nanoparticles enhances the plasmon-mediated coupling reaction of p-ethynylaniline

The enhancement of the electromagnetic field elicited by localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) is conducive to the generation of charge carriers, which have an important effect in driving many kinds of chemical reactions. Nonetheless, the short lifespan of charge carriers generated by plasmon (typically femtoseconds to nanoseconds) limits their effectiveness in promoting chemical reactions. Here, we have applied surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy to probe the plasmon-mediated coupling reaction of p-ethynylaniline (PEAN) on silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). The use of p-mercaptobenzoic acid (PMBA) as a co-catalyst facilitated the transfer and separation of hot electrons produced by the plasmon at its interface with the Ag NPs. This process accelerated the PEAN coupling reaction by extending the lifespan of hot carriers, which was achieved by matching hot electrons produced by the plasmon with the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy distribution of co-adsorbed PMBA molecules. These survey results indicate the potential for effective acceleration or inhibition of plasmon-mediated chemical reactions (PMCR) through the introduction of molecular co-catalysts, offering a simple, cost-effective, and efficient strategy for preparing plasmon catalysts

Core and periphery in the EU legal space

This chapter aims to establish a conceptual framework for analyzing the EU legal space and its core-periphery dynamics, notably the extension of EU legal frameworks and policies beyond the territorial borders of the Union. It investigates how the EU legal space is defined, how its cores and peripheries are structured, and how they interact, evolve, and influence each other. The chapter argues that the EU legal space is not homogeneous but consists of multiple legal, geographical, and policy-based layers. It explores how legal norms extend beyond the EU’s borders, the role of third countries in norm adoption, and the fluidity of core-periphery relationships in shaping European legal integration

For the Price of Freedom – Perceptions of Car Use

This interview-based study seeks to gain insight into the varying motivations behind car usage across different societal groups, alongside their attitudes towards travel behavior and transportation options. Its overarching goal is to delve deeper into the factors and constraints that influences individuals’ car use and mode choice. The research methodology involves collecting one-month travel data and considering individual characteristics while selecting a diverse cross-section of the Swedish population. The study is underpinned by the ontological viewpoint of time geography and the concept of “constraints”, forming the foundation for the analysis. The findings suggest that the connection between individuals and their cars represents freedom of mobility but also a dependence to a varying degree between different life stages and level of car orientation. The primary influencing factor for modal choice appears to be individuals’ perceptions of alternative transportation options and their practical viability. The outcome of the study indicates the value of analyzing individual and external constraints of different groups in order to further understand the perception of transportation options

Multi-input/multi-output switched-linear system identification from input–output data

In this paper, we propose a scheme to identify discrete-time, multi-input/multi-output switched-linear systems (MIMO-SLSs) from input-output measurements. The key step is an observer-based transformation to a switched auto-regressive with exogenous input (SARX) model. This transformation converts the state-space (SS) identification problem into a MIMO-SARX identification problem by compressing infinite strings of system Markov parameters into finite strings of observer Markov parameters. We study switch and discrete state (submodel) identifiability and derive persistence of excitation conditions for hybrid inputs to recover discrete-states. Switching sequence and discrete-states are estimated in the observer domain by solving a convex-sparse optimization problem followed by two different subspace algorithms. Local-mode clustering then reveals discrete-states. A detailed numerical example illustrates performance of the proposed scheme

Simulated warmer winter reduces the effectiveness of insecticides in oilseed rape, but has little effect on pollinator activity

Climate change may affect the yield of mass-flowering crops by altering the interplay between pest pressure and service delivery by pollinators, but realistic predictions need to account for the frequent use of insecticides in conventional farming. We tested the interactive effects of insecticide use and warmer winter conditions on oilseed rape (Brassica napus) production, pest pressure, and the activity of Bombus terrestris, an important bumblebee pollinator. We evaluated the effects of three different insecticides at two different concentrations. We found that winter warming reduced the effectiveness of two insecticides against pollen beetles in comparison to the control (no insecticides), likely due to the dilution of insecticides on plants with increased plant size. Additionally, plots treated with reduced concentrations of insecticides generally had similar levels of pollen beetles as those with standard concentrations. There were no interactive effects of insecticide application and winter warming on pollinator activity or oilseed rape yield. However, yield quality was negatively affected by winter warming. Under current winter conditions, reduced insecticide applications may provide pest control comparable to standard applications and could therefore serve as an integrated pest management strategy. Under future winter conditions, such strategies will likely need to consider the effects of climate change on plant development, because the overall effectiveness of insecticide treatment against pests could decrease

The Supreme Administrative Court and the Legislature in Sweden

This contribution discusses relations between the Swedish SAC and the legislature (Riksdag), focusing on how Sweden balances popular sovereignty with judicial independence. The analysis focuses on the legislature's influence on the SAC and – on the other hand – the SAC and its judges’ impact on the legislature, especially the constitutional control of draft legislation carried out by the Council on Legislation, as well as the SAC performing judicial review of legislation. The contribution thoroughly presents the Cementa case, a recent legal dispute highlighting the interplay between judicial review and legislative supremacy. This case illustrates the judiciary's restrained role in challenging legislative decisions. The study concludes that while judicialisation has increased the SAC's prominence, Swedish constitutional law remains grounded in popular sovereignty. This dynamic creates a delicate balance between democratic decision-making and the rule of law, with courts exhibiting cautious deference to legislative authority