In this paper we describe a new analytical physical model for thermoelectric generators (TEGs). The model includes the Thomson effect, the Peltier heat, a parameterization of the Joule heat, as well as all thermal and electrical resistances. Geometry optimization and investigations of the influence of Peltier heat and the heat source, as well as heat sink conditions and the load resistance, which affect the output power, are presented. The results are compared with measurements of commercially available thermoelectric generators and the fundamental thermodynamic limit. A comparison between the generators is performed.

Background and purpose The therapeutic landscape of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) has changed dramatically during the past 4 years, but treatment responses differ remarkably between individuals, and therapeutic decision‐making remains challenging, underlining the persistent need for validated biomarkers. Methods We applied untargeted proteomic analyses to determine biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples of SMA patients under treatment with nusinersen. Identified candidate proteins were validated in CSF samples of SMA patients by Western blot and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Furthermore, levels of peripheral neurofilament heavy and light chain were determined. Results Untargeted proteomic analysis of CSF samples of three SMA type 1 patients revealed the lysosomal protease cathepsin D as a candidate biomarker. Subsequent validation analysis in a larger cohort of 31 pediatric SMA patients (type 1, n = 12; type 2, n = 9; type 3, n = 6; presymptomatically treated, n = 4; age = 0–16 years) revealed a significant decline of cathepsin D levels in SMA patients aged ≥2 months at the start of treatment. Although evident in all older age categories, this decline was only significant in the group of patients who showed a positive motor response. Moreover, downregulation of cathepsin D was evident in muscle biopsies of SMA patients. Conclusions We identified a decline of cathepsin D levels in CSF samples of SMA patients under nusinersen treatment that was more pronounced in the group of "treatment responders" than in "nonresponders." We believe that our results indicate a suitability of cathepsin D levels as a possible biomarker in SMA also in older patients, in combination with analysis of peripheral neurofilament light chain in adolescents or alone in adult patients.

Indoor photovoltaic (ipv) is a growing market area due to increasing numbers of wireless sensor node networks in green and intelligent buildings. The sensor nodes should be powered without batteries or wiring in order to reduce cost. One of the most promising sources of energy is light. Results of radiometric measurements depend on the test environment. However, the expected irradiance is essential for the dimensioning of the required module area and a reliable operation. Ipv designers therefore need a tool to determine irradiance values for their applications. This paper presents a simulation method for indoor irradiance combining different models of user presence, and the ray tracing programs Radiance and DAYSIM. The authors analyze a best case and a worst case scenario. Typical values of irradiance for these scenarios, the influence of the latitude and of the orientation, of the contribution of electric light in dependence of user presence, and the required complexit y of a simulation model are discussed. Based on these studies, the authors provide expectable power densities for ipv devices