VoroCrack3d: An annotated semi-synthetic 3d image data set of cracked concrete.

Sustainability is an important topic in the field of materials science and civil engineering. In particular, concrete, as a building material, needs to be of high quality to ensure its durability. Damage and failure processes such as cracks in concrete can be evaluated non-destructively by micro-computed tomography. Cracks can be detected in the images, for example via edge-detection filters or machine learning models. To study the goodness, robustness, and generalizability of these methods, annotated 3d image data are of fundamental importance. However, data acquisition and, in particular, its annotation is often tedious and error-prone. To overcome data shortage, realistic data can be synthesized. The data set described in this article addresses the lack of freely available annotated 3d images of cracked concrete. To this end, seven concrete samples without cracks were scanned via micro-computed tomography. Realizations of a dedicated stochastic geometry model are discretized to binary images and morphologically transformed to mimic real crack structures. These are superimposed on the concrete images and simultaneously yield the label images that distinguish crack from non-crack regions. The data set contains 1 344 of such image pairs and includes a large variety of crack structures. The data set may be used for training machine learning models and for objectively testing crack segmentation methods.

Image quality evaluation for FIB-SEM images.

Focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) tomography is a serial sectioning technique where an FIB mills off slices from the material sample that is being analysed. After every slicing, an SEM image is taken showing the newly exposed layer of the sample. By combining all slices in a stack, a 3D image of the material is generated. However, specific artefacts caused by the imaging technique distort the images, hampering the morphological analysis of the structure. Typical quality problems in microscopy imaging are noise and lack of contrast or focus. Moreover, specific artefacts are caused by the FIB milling, namely, curtaining and charging artefacts. We propose quality indices for the evaluation of the quality of FIB-SEM data sets. The indices are validated on real and experimental data of different structures and materials.

[How Successful is the Participation of People with Mental Illness and Family Members in the Development of Evidence- and Consensus-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines? Results of a Survey in Psychiatry]. / Wie gelingt die Einbindung von Betroffenen- und Angehörigenvertreter:innen in die Entwicklung von evidenz- und konsensbasierten Behandlungsleitlinien? Ergebnisse einer Umfrage im Fachbereich Psychiatrie.

OBJECTIVE: The study examines how successful the participation of people with mental illness and family members is currently in the development of psychiatric guidelines. METHODS: Survey results of N=561 (Response 37%) guideline developers are analyzed. RESULTS: Involvement of affected individuals succeeds more often than that of family members (61% vs. 55%). 68% felt that this participation was central to successful guideline development. 51% perceived discrepancies between empirical evidence and experience perspective. 33-36% perceived a lack of appreciation of experience expertise, 37% an insufficient representation and 46% an inequality in consensus building. 45% did not see barriers effectively removed. CONCLUSION: There remain challenges in the participation of people with mental illness and family members. There is an increasing awareness that their participation is central.

Tuning Mesopore Accessibility of Ce0.18Zr0.64Y0.15La0.03O2-δ by Hydrothermal Post-treatment─A Case Study for Ceria-Based Oxidation Storage Materials.

The connectivity and thermal stability of pores in heterogeneous, mesoporous metal oxide catalysts are key properties controlling their (long-term) efficacy. In this study, we investigate the influence of pH and temperature during a common hydrothermal aftertreatment step in the synthesis of mesoporous CexZr1-x-y-zYyLazO2-δ oxides obtained from molecular precursors via hydrothermal synthesis. This study has a strong focus on the methodological approach, elucidating whether and how even the smallest changes in morphology and connectivity may be unraveled and related to the underlying chemical processes to uncover key parameters for the ongoing improvement of material properties. Deep insights into the mesopore space were obtained by state-of-the-art physisorption (including hysteresis scanning), electron tomography, and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) analysis. We also provide a simple tool to simulate SAXS curves from electron tomography data that allow direct comparison to experimentally obtained SAXS curves. Furthermore, the impact on surface-bound nitrate groups and the development during calcination were studied in detail by thermogravimetric analysis coupled with mass spectrometry. The key observations indicate a significant increase in thermal stability at temperatures as high as 1050 °C and improved mesopore accessibility with an increase in pH of the aftertreatment solution. The combined observations from the employed methods suggest a pH-dependent removal of surface-bound nitrate groups as well as a dissolution and reprecipitation-based fusing of the primary particles that constitute the mesopore skeleton. This transformation yields a mechanically and thermally stronger mesopore space with the capability to endure high temperatures.

Experiencing (Shared) Decision Making: Results from a Qualitative Study of People with Mental Illness and Their Family Members.

(1) Background: There is a fundamental shift in healthcare toward shared decision making (SDM). This study explores SDM from the perspective of individuals affected by mental illness and their family members and investigates factors which promote and hinder the process. (2) Methods: We conducted N = 15 telephone interviews (n = 4 adults affected by mental illness, n = 5 family members, n = 6 both applicable, the majority reporting experiences with affective and anxiety disorders). Data were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed according to procedures established by Mayring. (3) Results: Individuals affected by mental illness and their family members have a strong desire to be involved in treatment decisions and to participate in finding a diagnosis. Often these stakeholders are denied the opportunity to participate; sometimes enabling behaviors impede participation. The stigmatization of mental illnesses is a major barrier. There are also structural barriers to SDM within the healthcare system. Peer support, self-help associations, and psychosocial counseling services are important to empowering individuals and promoting SDM. (4) Conclusions: SDM has the potential to improve the quality of mental healthcare. Barriers can be mitigated and new approaches for interventions in the psychiatric sector have been identified. This study has also shown the importance of understanding SDM as a process that should begin at the diagnostic phase.

Effectiveness of internet-based and mobile-based interventions for adults with overweight or obesity experiencing symptoms of depression: a systematic review protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Internet-based and mobile-based interventions (IMIs) provide innovative low-threshold and cost-effective prevention and self-management options for mental health problems complementary to standard treatment. The objective of this systematic review is to summarise the effectiveness and to critically evaluate studies on IMIs addressing comorbid depressive symptoms in adults with overweight or obesity. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: The study authors will systematically search the databases MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Embase and Google Scholar (for grey literature) for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of IMIs for individuals with overweight or obesity and comorbid depressive symptoms without restrictions on publication date (planned inception 1 June 2023 to 1 December 2023). Two reviewers will independently extract and evaluate data from studies eligible for inclusion by assessing quality of evidence and qualitatively synthesising results. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards and the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool in RCTs (RoB 2) will be applied. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval is not required as no primary data will be collected. Study results will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal and presentations on conferences. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42023361771.

[Expectations of guideline developers on living guidelines]. / Erwartungen der Leitlinienentwickler*innen an "living guidelines".

BACKGROUND: Guidelines are central pillars of high-quality care and care planning. The quality requirements for the development of guidelines and the associated effort are very high. Therefore, more efficient approaches are being forced. OBJECTIVE: The opportunities and challenges in the introduction of a dynamic updating concept within the framework of the digitalization of guidelines were explored from the perspective of guideline developers in the field of psychiatry. This perspective should be included in the implementation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between January and May 2022 a cross-sectional survey was conducted among guideline developers (N = 561, response 39%) based on a questionnaire developed and tested in advance. Data were analyzed descriptively. RESULTS: A total of 60% were familiar with the concept of living guidelines. A large proportion endorsed a dynamic updating (83%) and digitalization (88%) of guidelines; however, various challenges are associated with the concept of living guidelines: the risk of inflationary changes (34%), the need for continuity of all actors (53%), involvement of patient and family representatives (37%) and definition of criteria regarding the decision what to change (38%). The vast majority (85%) thought it necessary that guideline development should be followed by implementation projects. CONCLUSION: German guideline developers are very receptive regarding the implementation of living guidelines; however, they named numerous challenges, which need to be addressed in this approach.

Effects of Hydrothermal Treatment on Mesopore Structure and Connectivity in Doped Ceria-Zirconia Mixed Oxides.

Pore size and pore connectivity control diffusion-based transport in mesopores, a crucial property governing the performance of heterogeneous catalysts. In many cases, transition-metal oxide catalyst materials are prepared from molecular precursors involving hydrothermal treatment followed by heat treatment. Here, we investigate the effects of such a hydrothermal aftertreatment step, using an aqueous ammonia solution, on the disordered mesopore network of CexZr1-x-y-zYyLazO2-δ mixed oxides. This procedure is a common synthesis step in the preparation of such ceria-based oxygen storage materials applied in three-way catalysis, employed to improve the materials' thermal stability. We perform state-of-the-art Ar-physisorption analysis, especially advanced hysteresis scanning, to paint a detailed picture of the alterations in mesopore space caused by the hydrothermal aftertreatment and subsequent aging at 1050 °C. Furthermore, we investigate the network characteristics by electron tomography in combination with suitable statistical analysis, enabling a consistent interpretation of the desorption scans (physisorption). The results indicate that the hydrothermal aftertreatment enhances the mesopore connectivity of the continuous 3D network by widening pores and especially necks, hence facilitating accessibility to the particles' internal surface area and the ability to better withstand high temperatures.

Demands on Health Information and Clinical Practice Guidelines for Patients from the Perspective of Adults with Mental Illness and Family Members: A Qualitative Study with In-Depth Interviews.

(1) Background: "Patient health information" promote health literacy. "Patient guidelines" as a sub group reflect the current evidence about illnesses and treatment options adapted to the needs of laypersons. Little is known about factors promoting and hindering their use by people affected by mental illness and their relatives. (2) Methods: Telephone interviews (N = 15; n = 4 adults affected by mental illness, n = 5 relatives, n = 6 both applicable) were conducted according to the Sørensen model of health literacy. Data were recorded, transcribed and content-analyzed following Mayring. (3) Results: Health information is used regularly by individuals affected by mental illness and their relatives, but "patient guidelines" are largely unknown. Yet, there is a great willingness to use them. Main barriers are a lack of statistical knowledge, the complexity of health-related topics and cognitive impairment sometimes accompanying mental illnesses. Target group-oriented adaptation as well as transparent and even-handed presentation of (dis-)advantages of treatment options can increase trust. (4) Conclusions: Health information and guidelines can help affected persons and relatives to make treatment decisions by conveying unbiased, up-to-date knowledge. Target group-specific adaptations should be made for psychiatric illnesses and features specific to mental illnesses compared to physical illnesses should be included. Clinical practice guidelines must be distributed more widely to increase their impact.

Gender Specifics of Healthy Ageing in Older Age as Seen by Women and Men (70+): A Focus Group Study.

(1) The rising proportion of older adults in the population represents a challenge for the healthcare system. Women and men age differently. This study aims to examine gender-specific characteristics of health in old age from male and female perspectives. (2) Two focus groups were formed in this qualitative study of older (70+) women (n = 10) and men (n = 8) in accordance with the theoretical framework of the World Health Organization (WHO) on healthy ageing determinants. The data were audio recorded and fully transcribed. Qualitative content analysis was performed using MAXQDA. (3) In both focus groups (average age: women 77.1 years, men 74.9 years), gender-specific characteristics regarding healthy ageing were discussed. Women focused on healthy eating, while men focused on an active lifestyle and meaningful activities. Physical and social activities were considered as important for healthy ageing in both groups. (4) Important gender-specific characteristics of health in old age were identified and recommendations for gender-unspecific and gender-specific recommendations were derived. The results provide important information for promoting and maintaining health in old age. Women and men show both similarities and differences in terms of health-related needs and individual experiences. We suggest gender-specific features in nutrition and health programs for older adults.

Reconstructing porous structures from FIB-SEM image data: Optimizing sampling scheme and image processing.

Nano-porous materials can be imaged spatially by focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM). This method generates a stack of SEM images that has to be segmented (or reconstructed) to serve as basis for structural characterization. To this end, we apply two state-of-the-art algorithms. We study the influence of the original image's voxel size on estimates of morphological characteristics and effective permeabilities. Special attention is paid to analyzing anisotropies due to the FIB-SEM typical anisotropic sampling. Quantitative comparison of morphological descriptors and flow properties of reconstructed data is enabled by the use of synthetic FIB-SEM sets for which a ground truth is available. Moreover, in that case, reconstruction parameters can be chosen optimally, too.

Simulation of Leather Visco-Elastic Behavior Based on Collagen Fiber-Bundle Properties and a Meso-Structure Network Model.

Simulation-based prediction of mechanical properties is highly desirable for optimal choice and treatment of leather. Nowadays, this is state-of-the-art for many man-made materials. For the natural material leather, this task is however much more demanding due to the leather's high variability and its extremely intricate structure. Here, essential geometric features of the leather's meso-scale are derived from 3D images obtained by micro-computed tomography and subsumed in a parameterizable structural model. That is, the fiber-bundle structure is modeled. The structure model is combined with bundle properties derived from tensile tests. Then the effective leather visco-elastic properties are simulated numerically in the finite element representation of the bundle structure model with sliding contacts between bundles. The simulation results are validated experimentally for two animal types, several tanning procedures, and varying sample positions within the hide. Finally, a complete workflow for assessing leather quality by multi-scale simulation of elastic and visco-elastic properties is established and validated.

[Health-related consequences of social isolation: a qualitative study on psychosocial stress and resources among older adults in the COVID-19 pandemic]. / Gesundheitliche Folgen sozialer Isolation: Qualitative Studie zu psychosozialen Belastungen und Ressourcen älterer Menschen im Zusammenhang mit der COVID-19-Pandemie.

BACKGROUND: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic led to a general uncertainty about risk and consequences of the disease. Older adults are specifically vulnerable with regard to severe courses of the disease and have been particularly encouraged to self-isolate during the pandemic. Subsequently, expressions of concern have been raised regarding the negative impact of disease risk and quarantine on the mental health of older people. OBJECTIVES: Assessment of psychosocial stress, coping strategies, need for support, and sense of coherence of older people during the COVID-19 pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study follows a qualitative research design. Between May and June 2020 N = 11 guided telephone interviews were conducted with older adults (70+ years). Telephone interviews were recorded by audio tape and fully transcribed. A qualitative content analysis was performed according to Mayring and Fenzl (2019) using MAXQDA. RESULTS: Participants were 74.8 years old on average. Participants showed predominantly good psychosocial health and functional coping strategies. Life experience, an optimistic attitude, understanding of the necessity of restrictions, and previous crises that have been mastered were the most important resources during the COVID-19 pandemic for older adults. Offers of support were rarely used. Participants were critical of the closing of centers or meeting points for older people. CONCLUSION: Older adults appear to be able to preserve their mental wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The relevance of mental resources of older adults for supporting younger generations seems to be unrecognized.

3D analysis of microvasculature in murine liver fibrosis models using synchrotron radiation-based microtomography.

Cirrhosis describes the development of excess fibrous tissue around regenerative nodules in response to chronic liver injury and usually leads to irreversible organ damage and end-stage liver disease. During the development of cirrhosis, the formation of collagenous scar tissue is paralleled by a reorganization and remodeling of the hepatic vascular system. To date, macrovascular remodeling in various cirrhosis models has been examined using three-dimensional (3D) imaging modalities, while microvascular changes have been studied mainly by two-dimensional (2D) light microscopic and electron microscopic imaging. Here, we report on the application of high-resolution 3D synchrotron radiation-based microtomography (SRµCT) for the study of the sinusoidal and capillary blood vessel system in three murine models of advanced parenchymal and biliary hepatic fibrosis. SRµCT facilitates the characterization of microvascular architecture and identifies features of intussusceptive angiogenesis in progressive liver fibrosis in a non-destructive 3D manner.

[Grief and loss in elderly people: A qualitative study regarding the user acceptance of an internet-based self-help program from user and expert perspective]. / Trauer und Verlust bei älteren Menschen: Eine qualitative Studie zur Nutzungsakzeptanz eines internetbasierten Selbsthilfeprogramms aus Betroffenen - und Expertenperspektive.

INTRODUCTION: The loss of a significant other is a stressful life event, especially for older people. The aim of this study was to investigate user acceptance of an internet-based self-help program for mourners aged 60 years and above. Potential access paths as well as barriers of use were to be identified from both users' and experts' perspectives. METHODS: This study is following a qualitative design. Two focus groups were formed consisting of elderly people (60+) with loss experience (N=12) and of experts from the medical care system (N=8). The focus groups were conducted using a discussion guide related to the model of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Focus group data were recorded by audio tape and fully transcribed. Qualitative content analysis according to Mayring (2015) was applied using MAXQDA. RESULTS: The mean age of elderly participants with loss experience was 64.5 years, 50 % were women. From the user's perspective, an internet-based self-help program should comprise information regarding grieving, suggestions and motivation for behavioral activation, strengthening self-esteem, and suggestions for dealing with other feelings related to grief (such as guilt). Directions for relatives of mourners as well as faith and spirituality were important topics for users. Elderly participants felt confident to be able to use an internet-based self-help program. Processing time and topic selection should be flexible for the user. Potential access paths included general practitioners and specialists, mourning cafés, or local media. A potential barrier was seen for people who prefer a personal relationship. The average age of participants in the expert focus group was 40.1 years, 87.5 % were female. There was a high user acceptance from the perspective of health care experts with regard to the target group of elderly people (60+). Access paths were seen across all specialist groups working with elderly people (e.g., physicians, occupational therapists, nursing facilities). Lack of guidance was discussed as a potential barrier. DISCUSSION: A key aspect and prerequisite for the use and effectiveness of an internet-based self-help intervention for mourners is user acceptance. Judgments from potential users and experts showed a high user acceptance, but also the need to address age group-specific topics for coping with grief. CONCLUSION: Internet-based self-help interventions can be a promising add-on treatment option for elderly bereaved people. The implementation of such programs should take the access paths mentioned into account in order to inform users and experts about the intervention.

Simulation of FIB-SEM images for analysis of porous microstructures.

Focused ion beam nanotomography-scanning electron microscopy tomography yields high-quality three-dimensional images of materials microstructures at the nanometer scale combining serial sectioning using a focused ion beam with SEM. However, FIB-SEM tomography of highly porous media leads to shine-through artifacts preventing automatic segmentation of the solid component. We simulate the SEM process in order to generate synthetic FIB-SEM image data for developing and validating segmentation methods. Monte-Carlo techniques yield accurate results, but are too slow for the simulation of FIB-SEM tomography requiring hundreds of SEM images for one dataset alone. Nevertheless, a quasi-analytic description of the specimen and various acceleration techniques, including a track compression algorithm and an acceleration for the simulation of secondary electrons, cut down the computing time by orders of magnitude, allowing for the first time to simulate FIB-SEM tomography.

Statistical analysis of intramembranous particles using freeze fracture specimens.

We studied the point processes of intramembranous particles of mitochondrial membranes from HeLa cells using the freeze fracture technique. Three groups - under normal conditions, after exposition with rotenone, and after exposition with sodium acid - were compared. First, we used several summary statistics in order to study the two-dimensional point patterns of intramembranous particles within each group. Then, we compared the patterns in different groups by bootstrap tests using the K-function and the nearest neighbour distance function G(r). Estimation of the G-function provided significant results but no significant differences between groups were found using the classical K-function; estimation of G(r) should therefore not be omitted when studying observed planar point patterns.