Efficient shape optimization for certain and uncertain aerodynamic design

In this paper, we present novel developments in aerodynamic shape optimization based on shape calculus as well as the proper treatment of aleatoric uncertainties in the field of aerodynamic design.     

Electrolyte‐Gated n‐Type Transistors Produced from Aqueous Inks of WS2 Nanosheets

Solution‐processed, low cost thin films of layered semiconductors such as transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are potential candidates for future printed electronics. Here, n‐type electrolyte‐gated transistors (EGTs) based on porous WS₂ nanosheet networks as the semiconductor are demonstrated. The WS₂ nanosheets are liquid phase exfoliated to form aqueous/surfactant stabilized inks, and deposited at low temperatures (T < 120 °C) in ambient atmosphere by airbrushing. No solvent exchange, further additives, or complicated processing steps are required. While the EGTs are primarily n‐type (electron accumulation), some hole transport is also observable. The EGTs show current modulations > 10⁴ with low hysteresis, channel width‐normalized on‐conductances of up to 0.27 µS µm^?1 and estimated electron mobilities around 0.01 cm² V^?1 s^?1. In addition, the WS₂ nanosheet networks exhibit relatively high volumetric capacitance values of 30 F cm^?3. Charge transport within the network depends significantly on the applied lateral electric field and is thermally activated, which supports the notion that hopping between nanosheets is a major limiting factor for these networks and their future application.     

Three-dimensional segmentation and growth-rate estimation of small pulmonary nodules in helical CT images

Small pulmonary nodules are a common radiographic finding that presents an important diagnostic challenge in contemporary medicine. While pulmonary nodules are the major radiographic indicator of lung cancer, they may also be signs of a variety of benign conditions. Measurement of nodule growth rate over time has been shown to be the most promising tool in distinguishing malignant from nonmalignant pulmonary nodules. In this paper, we describe three-dimensional (3-D) methods for the segmentation, analysis, and characterization of small pulmonary nodules imaged using computed tomography (CT). Methods for the isotropic resampling of anisotropic CT data are discussed. 3-D intensity and morphology-based segmentation algorithms are discussed for several classes of nodules. New models and methods for volumetric growth characterization based on longitudinal CT studies are developed. The results of segmentation and growth characterization methods based on in vivo studies are described. The methods presented are promising in their ability to distinguish malignant from nonmalignant pulmonary nodules and represent the first such system in clinical use.     

Relaxor/Ferroelectric Composites: A Solution in the Quest for Practically Viable Lead‐Free Incipient Piezoceramics

Recently developed lead‐free incipient piezoceramics are promising candidates for off‐resonance actuator applications with their exceptionally large electromechanical strains. Their commercialization currently faces two major challenges: high electric field required for activating the large strains and large strain hysteresis. It is demonstrated that design of a relaxor/ferroelectric composite provides a highly effective way to resolve both challenges. Experimental results in conjunction with numerical simulations provide key parameters for the development of viable incipient piezoceramics.     

An Organoid for Woven Bone

Bone formation (osteogenesis) is a complex process in which cellular differentiation and the generation of a mineralized organic matrix are synchronized to produce a hybrid hierarchical architecture. To study the mechanisms of osteogenesis in health and disease, there is a great need for functional model systems that capture in parallel, both cellular and matrix formation processes. Stem cell-based organoids are promising as functional, self-organizing 3D in vitro models for studying the physiology and pathology of various tissues. However, for human bone, no such functional model system is yet available. This study reports the in vitro differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells into a functional 3D self-organizing co-culture of osteoblasts and osteocytes, creating an organoid for early stage bone (woven bone) formation. It demonstrates the formation of an organoid where osteocytes are embedded within the collagen matrix that is produced by the osteoblasts and mineralized under biological control. Alike in in vivo osteocytes, the embedded osteocytes show network formation and communication via expression of sclerostin. The current system forms the most complete 3D living in vitro model system to investigate osteogenesis, both in physiological and pathological situations, as well as under the influence of external triggers (mechanical stimulation, drug administration).     

Nanotechnology‐Enabled Closed Loop Insulin Delivery Device: In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Glucose‐Regulated Insulin Release for Diabetes Control

Recently, a new multifunctional, bio‐inorganic nanocomposite membrane with the ability to self‐regulate the release of insulin in response to blood glucose (BG) levels was reported. Herein, the application of this material as part of a small, implantable, closed‐loop insulin delivery device designed to continuously monitor BG concentrations and regulate insulin release is proposed. The insulin delivery device consists of a nanocomposite glucose‐responsive plug covalently bound to an insulin reservoir made of surface‐modified silicone. The plug is prepared with crosslinked bovine serum albumin (BSA) and enzymes (glucose oxidase (GOx) and catalase (CAT)), pH‐responsive hydrogel nanoparticles, and multifunctional MnO₂ nanoparticles. The plug functions both as a glucose sensor and controlled delivery unit to release higher rates of insulin from the reservoir in response to hyperglycemic BG levels and basal insulin rates at normal BG concentration. The surfaces of the device are modified by silanization followed by PEGylation to ensure its safety and biocompatibility and the stability of encased insulin. Our results show that insulin release can be modulated in vitro in response to glucose concentrations. In vivo experiments show that the glycemia of diabetic rats can be controlled with implantation of the prototype device. The glucose‐responsiveness of the device is also demonstrated by rapid drop in BG level after challenging diabetic rats with bolus injection of glucose solution. In addition, it is demonstrated that surface PEGylation of the device is necessary for reducing the immune response of the host to the implanted foreign object and maintaining insulin stability and bioactivity. With this molecular architecture and the bio‐inorganic nanocomposite plug, the device has the ability to maintain normal BG levels in diabetic rats.     

Supramolecular Order of Solution‐Processed Perylenediimide Thin Films: High‐Performance Small‐Channel n‐Type Organic Transistors

N,N′‐1H,1H‐perfluorobutyl dicyanoperylenecarboxydiimide (PDIF‐CN₂), a soluble and air stable n‐type molecule, undergoes significant reorganization upon thermal annealing after solution deposition on several substrates with different surface energies. Interestingly, this system exhibits an exceptional edge‐on orientation regardless of the substrate chemistry. This preferential orientation is rationalized in terms of strong intermolecular interactions between the PDIF‐CN₂ molecules. The presence of a pronounced π–π stacking is confirmed by combining near‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (NEXAFS), dynamic scanning force microscopy (SFM) and surface energy measurements. The remarkable charge carrier mobility measured in field‐effect transistors, using both bottom‐ and top‐contact (bottom‐gate) configurations, underlines the importance of strong intermolecular interactions for the realization of high performing devices.     

Pummelos as Concept Generators for Biomimetically Inspired Low Weight Structures with Excellent Damping Properties

Natural materials often exhibit excellent mechanical properties. An example of outstanding impact resistance is the pummelo fruit (Citrus maxima) which can drop from heights of 10 m and more without showing significant outer damage. Our data suggest that this impact resistance is due to the hierarchical organization of the fruit peel, called pericarp. The project presented in the current paper aims at transferring structural features from the pummelo pericarp to engineering materials, in our case metal foams, produced by the investment casting process. The transfer necessitates a detailed structural and mechanical analysis of the biological model on the one hand, and the identification and development of adequate materials and processes on the other hand. Based on this analysis, engineering composite foam structures are developed and processed which show enhanced damping and impact properties. The modified investment casting process and the model alloy Bi57Sn43 proved to be excellent candidates to make these bio‐inspired structures. Mechanical testing of both the natural and the engineering structures has to consider the necessity to evaluate the impact of the different hierarchical features. Therefore, specimens of largely varying sizes have to be tested and size effects cannot be ignored, especially as the engineering structures might be upscaled in comparison with the natural role model. All in all, the present results are very promising: the basis for a transfer of bio‐inspired structural hierarchical levels has been set.