Shape Modification Research Articles

The impact of pre-treatment aneurysm angulation. What happens with WEB devices at follow-up?

WEB shape modification has been analyzed in relation to the aneurysm occlusion outcome and techniques have been presented with one-dimensional measurements of the device to quantify the change after implantation. In this work, we present an analysis of pre-treatment vascular morphology and hemodynamics of cases treated with WEB devices, which were three-dimensionally quantified in morphology and position to detect modifications. Seventeen WEB-treated aneurysms with pre-treatment, post-treatment and follow-up 3D flat-panel CT were included. Three-dimensional measurements of the WEB morphology and position were made at post-treatment and at follow-up. Differences between acquisitions of all measured variables were statistically evaluated (Wilcoxon signed-rank paired test, P-value = 0.05). Pre-treatment aneurysm angles were three-dimensionally measured and CFD simulations were performed to evaluate the influence of flow on WEB changes. WEB height and diameter presented statistically significant changes. Modification of the angle between the WEB axis and parent artery was significantly higher in the group with WEB shape modification (Mann-Whitney U test, P < 0.05). In this group, the median pre-treatment aneurysm angle was smaller than in the group without shape modification (8.16° vs. 13.14°, P = 0.06). Inflow ratio was higher in the WEB shape modification group. An association between the magnitude of morphological changes of the WEB with the direction of its axis within the aneurysm was found. The analysis of pre-treatment morphological and hemodynamic conditions would allow the detection of aneurysm cases in which the WEB will undergo a more pronounced modification.

Particle production as a function of charged-particle flattenicity in pp collisions at s=13 TeV

This paper reports the first measurement of the transverse momentum (pT) spectra of primary charged pions, kaons, (anti)protons, and unidentified particles as a function of the charged-particle flattenicity in pp collisions at s=13 TeV. Flattenicity is a novel event shape observable that is measured in the pseudorapidity intervals covered by the V0 detector, 2.8&lt;η&lt;5.1 and −3.7&lt;η&lt;−1.7. According to QCD-inspired phenomenological models, it shows sensitivity to multiparton interactions and is less affected by biases toward larger pT due to local multiplicity fluctuations in the V0 acceptance than multiplicity. The analysis is performed in minimum-bias (MB) as well as in high-multiplicity events up to pT=20 GeV/c. The event selection requires at least one charged particle produced in the pseudorapidity interval |η|&lt;1. The measured pT distributions, average pT, kaon-to-pion and proton-to-pion particle ratios, presented in this paper, are compared to model calculations using 8 based on color strings and EPOS LHC. The modification of the pT-spectral shapes in low-flattenicity events that have large event activity with respect to those measured in MB events develops a pronounced peak at intermediate pT (2&lt;pT&lt;8 GeV/c), and approaches the vicinity of unity at higher pT. The results are qualitatively described by , and they show different behavior than those measured as a function of charged-particle multiplicity based on the V0M estimator. © 2025 CERN, for the ALICE Collaboration 2025 CERN

Analysis of Rounded Interceptor Effects on Ship Resistance of High-Speed Planing Vessel using Computational Fluid Dynamics

The primary objective of the interceptor is to control the trim of the vessel, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency and stability. However, at high speeds, the interceptor induces adverse effects. This research aims to mitigate these negative impacts by modifying the geometric configuration of the interceptor. The shape modifications of the rounded interceptor evaluated through numerical simulations include radii of R10.00, R12.50, and R15.00. This study aims to contribute to an enhanced understanding of the effects on drag, heave, and trim performance of the planing hull vessel. The methodology employs a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) approach using Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations. The simulation verification was conducted regarding prior experimental studies, and the simulation procedures adhered to the guidelines set by the International Towing Tank Conference (ITTC). The interceptor's height is a key factor in reducing trim, heave, and consequently, drag. The modified rounded interceptor effectively reduces drag at high speeds.

Is AI image generation a creative or optimize tool in product design process?—The usage of AI image generation tools for vehicle shape as an example

This study explores the shape thinking processes and decision-making factors of designers when using AI image generation tools for conceptualizing the shapes of two-wheeled vehicles through four design tasks. Eight designers were invited to create hand-drawn sketches based on a specific aesthetic direction (technological geometry), followed by a shape divergence exercise using two AI graphics tools, Stable Diffusion and Vizcom, to generate images from text prompts. After selecting the designs closest to their original concepts and their favorite designs, the designers used an iPad to explore different shape directions (technological biology) for partial shape modifications. Finally, retrospective interviews were conducted to understand whether there were differences in designers’ thinking process regarding the use of various AI tools for shape conceptualization, as well as their focal points regarding design modification and shape thinking at different stages of the process. The research findings indicate that current AI tools are more suitable for shape divergence. If designers wish to achieve shape convergence, they need to be more familiar with the various settings of AI image generation tools and understand which prompts significantly influence specific shape characteristics. Designers’ perceptions of shape modification primarily revolve around: 1. Outline contours, 2. Parting lines, 3. Variations in surface curvature, and 4. The resulting features (light and shadow effects). Furthermore, it is recommended that future AI image generation tools, if developed as professional assistive tools for product design, should provide two modes—shape divergence and convergence—focusing on both the main shape and details. Additionally, it is suggested that developing AI-3D technologies should address the four key aspects of shape manipulation presented in this study, offering adjustments for overall appearance and detailing the contour lines of parts, including the manipulation of surface curvature and shape positioning.

Platinum nanoparticles in cancer therapy: chemotherapeutic enhancement and ROS generation.

Platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) offer significant promise in cancer therapy by enhancing the therapeutic effects of platinum-based chemotherapies like cisplatin. These nanoparticles improve tumor targeting, reduce off-target effects, and help overcome drug resistance. PtNPs exert their anti-cancer effects primarily through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which induce oxidative stress and apoptosis in cancer cells. Additionally, PtNPs interact with cellular signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT and MAPK, sensitizing cancer cells to chemotherapy. Advances in PtNP synthesis focus on optimizing size, shape, and surface modifications to enhance biocompatibility and targeting. Functionalization with biomolecules allows selective tumor delivery, while smart release systems enable controlled drug release. In vivo studies have shown that PtNPs significantly inhibit tumor growth and metastasis. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating their safety and efficacy. This review explores PtNPs' mechanisms of action, nanotechnology advancements, and challenges in biocompatibility, with a focus on their potential integration into cancer treatments.

A review of innovative design strategies: Artificial antigen presenting cells in cancer immunotherapy.

Developing nanocarriers that can carry medications directly to tumors is an exciting development in cancer nanomedicine. The efficacy of this intriguing therapeutic approach is, however, compromised by intricate and immunosuppressive circumstances that arise concurrently with the onset of cancer. The artificial antigen presenting cell (aAPC), a micro or nanoparticle based device that mimics an antigen presenting cell by providing crucial signal proteins to T lymphocytes to activate them against cancer, is one cutting-edge method for cancer immunotherapy. This review delves into the critical design considerations for aAPCs, particularly focusing on particle size, shape, and the non-uniform distribution of T cell activating proteins on their surfaces. Adequate surface contact between T cells and aAPCs is essential for activation, prompting engineers to develop nano-aAPCs with microscale contact areas through techniques such as shape modification and nanoparticle clustering. Additionally, we explore recommendations for future advancements in this field.

A shape-reconfigurable electronic composite for stimulus customizable detection via neutral plane shifting.

Three-dimensional (3D) sensors selectively measure the applied force in a particular direction through the designed shape. However, such a fixed sensor design incurs a relatively low sensitivity and narrow measurement range to forces applied from other directions. Here, we report a shape-reconfigurable electronic composite based on a stiffness-tunable polymer and a crack-based strain sensor. The stiffness-tunable polymer allows a high degree of freedom (DOF) in modifying the shape of the electronic composite in its flexible state, enabling the formation of various 3D structures. This modification involves shifting the neutral plane toward the electrode to prevent fractures in the embedded sensors. After modifying the shape of the soft and flexible electronic composite, the dramatically increased stiffness of the stiffness-tunable polymer enables the maintenance of the reconfigured shape of the electronic composite and amplifies the mechanical signal from the external force of the targeted direction by returning the neutral plane to the original position. We validated the reversible modification of the shape of the electronic composite by demonstrating the increase in sensitivity and measured range for targeted external forces (bending, pressing, and stretching) via sequential changes in the designed shapes (wire, spiral, and spring) compared to the initial shape. This facile approach for shape modification will provide an opportunity to realize versatile shape changes in rigid electronics for user purpose.

Enhancing aerodynamic efficiency: shape modification of airfoils

Small wind turbines (SWTs) are essential for harnessing renewable energy, particularly in developing regions where energy demands are significant. They provide a sustainable solution to meet the critical energy needs of these areas. However, the low Reynolds number (Re) airflow characteristics can pose challenges, making optimising airfoil shapes essential for enhancing aerodynamic performance and energy capture. This study offers a thorough analysis of six different airfoil profiles within a Re range of 50k to 500k. Modifications to the thickness-to-camber ratio (t/c) were strategically targeted to improve aerodynamic efficiency and structural viability. Using QBLADE software, we evaluated these design alterations to optimise the lift coefficient ( C L ), drag coefficient ( C D ), stall angle of attack ( α stall ) and lift-to-drag coefficient ratio (L/D). The analysis revealed significant improvements in the maximum power coefficient ( C p . max ), with the modified BW-3 airfoil achieving a C p . max of 0.441 at a Re of 500k – a remarkable 40.5% increase over baseline values. This consistent enhancement across various Re emphasises the essential impact of aerodynamic design in enhancing energy capture and reinforcing the feasibility of SWT applications across diverse operating conditions, along with material savings that lead to lighter wind turbine (WT) blades.

Up-Conversion Photoluminescence Reconfiguration in Silicon by Inner Microstructure Control of Hybrid Plasmonic-Semiconductor Nanoparticles.

Hybrid metal-semiconductor nanostructures unifying plasmonic and high-refractive-index materials in a single resonant system demonstrate a wide set of unique optical properties. Such systems are a perspective for a broad palette of applications, but the link between their inner structure and optical properties is a very sensitive issue, which is still not revealed. Here, we describe the influence of internal microstructure of a hybrid gold-silicon nanoparticle (the gold nanoparticle with embedded silicon nanograins) on the up-conversion white-light photoluminescence. The evolution in the internal microstructure of the system during thermal treatment up to 500 °C is tracked in situ through the HAADF and EDS STEM techniques. The studies show the redistribution of the materials inside the hybrid nanoparticle and the reduction of the silicon nanograin numbers under heating without an external modification of the nanoparticle shape. We have established numerically that the dependence of the enhancement factor spectral width on the S/V ratio of the nanoparticle plasmonic component is close to the linear behavior. The shrinkage of the photoluminescence spectrum (up to 42%) of the hybrid nanoparticle reconfigured by laser exposure and thermal treatment is shown experimentally, which supports our numerical conclusions. The results shed light on the connection of optical properties of complex hybrid systems with their complex internal composition, providing a powerful tool to control their optical properties through microstructure rearrangement. They also open the way to the development of reconfigurable silicon-based up-conversion light nanosources for integrated optical devices and biophotonics.

Enhancing darrieus wind turbine performance through varied plain flap configurations for the solar and wind tree

Plain flaps (PFs) significantly increase camber, enhancing lift and aerodynamic performance when deployed. In Darrieus Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs), which perform efficiently in low-speed, turbulent wind conditions, structural modifications like PFs can improve efficiency. This study explores plain flaps with 10-20-degree deflections at different chord lengths to enhance the NACA 2412 aerofoil’s performance. Using Unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (URANS) equations and the Shear Stress Transport (SST) k-ω turbulence model, simulations were conducted across high (Re ≈ 2.71 × 105), medium (Re ≈ 1.35 × 105), and low (Re ≈ 5.4 × 104) Reynolds numbers (Re). The 0.7–10 and 0.8–10 configurations significantly improved torque and Cp. At a Tip Speed Ratio (TSR) of 2.5, the 0.8–10 configuration increased the Cp by 19.51% over the flapless NACA 2412 without PF. The 0.7–10 configuration achieved the highest Cp across all TSRs, while a three-blade setup improved Cp by 43% compared to four- and five-blade configurations. The modified blades demonstrated consistent torque gains across all Re, proving the effectiveness of blade shape modifications in enhancing VAWT efficiency, particularly under fluctuating wind conditions, indicating the potential of PF-modified blades in improving small-scale wind turbine performance in varied urban environments.

Optimization Across-The-Board: Centro-Arylated Push-Pull Tetraene Chromophores and Guest-Host Polymers for Electro-Optics.

The research and development of push-pull tetraene chromophores (PPT-phores) have contributed greatly to the field of organic electro-optic (EO) materials and devices since the inauguration of CLD-1 in 2001. This study is thus a systematic contribution to synthesize and characterize a series of centro-arylated PPT-phores based on strong electron-donating tetrahydroquinolinyl groups and variable strong electron-accepting tricyanofuran derivatives. In particular, we report the crystallographic data to show various packing modes of these PPT-phores with detailed information about bond length alternation and intermolecular interactions, the optical absorption edges of guest-host polymers by the Tauc model, and the anisotropy and dispersion of Pockels tensors for the poled polymers by attenuated total reflection spectroscopy. Such analyses have not been addressed to any significant extent previously and are fundamentally important to the future development of PPT-phore-based EO materials and devices. The poled films of several centro-arylated PPT-phores in polycarbonates exhibited large EO activities, excellent thermal stability, and tunable optical transparency at the telecom O- and C-band. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of π-bridge centro-arylation enabled by molecular shape modification and rigidity enhancement, over the relatively flexible and labile thioether or alkoxy groups, in rational design of hyperpolarizable PPT-phores for high-performance EO polymers.

In Vivo Screening of Barcoded Gold Nanoparticles Elucidates the Influence of Shapes for Tumor Targeting

AbstractGold nanoparticles (NPs) are promising for cancer therapy due to their versatile shapes, optical properties, adjustable sizes, and facile functionalization. However, their diverse physicochemical properties, complex in vivo environments, and cellular heterogeneity lead to markedly different interactions with cells, impacting reproducibility and application selection. To address this, we implemented a DNA barcoding system to label gold NPs with varying shapes, sizes, and surface modifications for tumor delivery optimization. Six NP species, comprising three shapes (sphere, rod, triangle) and two sizes (40 nm, 80 nm), were tagged with unique DNA barcodes. Barcodes demonstrated minimal detachment, no interference with cell interactions, and resistance to DNase digestion. Next‐generation sequencing revealed that sphere NPs exhibited poor in vitro uptake but superior in vivo tumor targeting, likely due to enhanced endothelial interactions and reduced macrophage clearance. Additionally, 80 nm nanotriangles displayed excellent tumor targeting both in vitro and in vivo. Supporting experiments validated these findings. To demonstrate practical utility, the NPs were applied in siRNA delivery and photothermal therapy in a breast tumor model. This study pioneers the integration of DNA barcoding with gold NPs to systematically explore shape, size, and surface modifications for in vivo delivery.

Demand Estimation with Flexible Income Effect: An Application to Pass‐Through and Merger Analysis*

This article proposes a semiparametric discrete choice model that incorporates a nonparametric specification for income effects. The model allows for the flexible estimation of demand curvature, which has significant implications for pricing and policy analysis in oligopolistic markets. Our estimation algorithm adopts a method of sieve approximation with shape restrictions in a nested fixed‐point algorithm. Applying this framework to the Japanese automobile market, we conduct a pass‐through analysis of feebates and merger simulations. Our model predicts a higher pass‐through rate and more significant merger effects than parametric demand models, highlighting the importance of flexibly estimating demand curvature.

The high-tech and effective method of strengthening reinforced concrete structures with CFRP materials with preliminary modification of the cross-section shape

It is known that the effectiveness of reinforcement with CFRP composite materials of reinforced concrete structures of round or oval sections is significantly higher than rectangular or square ones due to the uneven distribution of internal limiting pressure in the latter. This study is devoted to the study of the effectiveness of a new method of strengthenet based on a preliminary change in the shape of reinforced concrete and concrete columns of square section. The sharp corners of the columns create a concentrating internal limiting stress in the CFRP composite cage, while the amplification system collapses prematurely, and the amplification efficiency is greatly reduced. To comprehensively solve this problem, the authors have manufactured, strengthened and tested a number of reinforced concrete columns with different variants of CFRP composite reinforcement. For the purity of the experiment, reference racks were also made, not reinforced, and reinforced with CFRP composite clips without rounding. All prototypes were made of the same materials, as well as strengthened and tested using the same techniques. The paper describes the features of traditional and modern methods of composite strengthenet of reinforced concrete columns, analyzes the main disadvantages of existing strengthenet methods and, based on this, presents a new strengthenet method that allows more efficient use of composite materials in the transverse direction. The new strengthenet method is described in detail, the main schemes and procedure for performing strengthenet work are presented. The final stage of the work is the main results of an experimental study, where the characteristics of reference samples were compared with similar structures strengthened in the transverse direction with CFRP composite materials. The experimental results show that the proposed amplification method is highly effective. For the best effect, it is proposed that the material used for rounding has higher strength and less deformability compared to concrete columns.

Satiation-Based Theory of Frugal Materialism

Frugal materialism is a tendency of consumer demand to become more elastic in product durability in response to a tightening budget constraint. This paper proposes a value function-based model of frugal materialism and establishes a close theoretical link between frugal materialism and the slope of value satiation as defined in the decision analytic literature; for both their absolute and relative versions, frugal materialism and increasing value satiation are nearly equivalent to each other. Only some shapes of the value function are thus compatible with frugal materialism, and the shape restrictions involve concepts familiar from models of decision making under risk, even though the proposed model of frugal materialism does not involve any risk. Under the additional assumption of relative risk neutrality, the demand for risky assets of a frugally materialistic consumer should exhibit well-known behavioral patterns associated with increasing risk aversion, and there is only a narrow possibility for frugal materialism to coexist with precautionary saving behavior.

Radiological assessment of Sella Turcica morphology correlates with skeletal classes in an Austrian population: an observational study.

This study aimed to analyze variations in the sella turcica (ST) concerning its size, shape, and bridging, providing first reference values in Austrian individuals. Additionally, it assessed associations between these morphological and demographic parameters and their correlation with patients' skeletal class. 208 lateral cephalometric radiographs (154 female, 54 male; age 8-58 years) from DPU Dental Clinic (Austria) were included. Size, skeletal class, shape, age, and gender of ST were tested for significance in correlation using, (M)ANOVA, and chi-square. Linear dimensions of ST ranged from 11.1 to 12.9mm across readers, with a standard deviation of 2.0-2.2mm. Normal ST (49.76%) and round ST (58.77%) were the most frequent. ST bridging was detected in 6.97%. Skeletal class I appeared most frequently (54.8%). Statistical significance was observed between age, gender, and ST length, with further significant age effects on ST shape. Moreover, age showed significant modification of ST shape, while skeletal parameters appeared unaffected by other ST parameters. These preliminary findings define normal ST dimensions in an Austrian population, offering reference values for clinical interpretation and broadening the available European data. Clear associations between morphological and demographic parameters were detected. Additionally, these findings may contribute to diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in orthodontics and craniofacial pathology. Future studies employing cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) along a larger sample size could enhance the generalizability of these findings.

Enhancing wind turbine energy efficiency: Tribo-dynamics modeling and shape modification

The performance of wind turbine gearbox planetary bearing systems directly influences the turbine's reliability, energy production efficiency, and economy. However, the lack of a comprehensive model to accurately predict the dynamic meshing load of helical gears and temperature effects hinders a deeper understanding of the transient performance of gearbox planetary sliding bearings. Additionally, research on shape modification for gearbox planetary sliding bearings remains inadequate. This study develops a comprehensive tribo-dynamics model that considers the dynamic meshing forces of helical gears and temperature effects. The model's effectiveness is validated by the concordance between experimental data from a full-size test bench and simulation results on oil film thickness and temperature. Transient simulation analysis indicates insufficient lubrication, high-temperature rise, and severe contact that reduce electricity production efficiency and reliability, all of which occur at bearing axial edges. Therefore, three modified bearing designs (super-elliptical, trapezoidal, and quadratic shapes) are introduced, and their improved performance is thoroughly compared. The super-elliptical design increases the minimum oil film thickness by 2.60 μm. The trapezoidal design reduces cumulative friction energy losses by 4.34 %. Each modified design successfully reduces the edge wear and oil temperature. The underlying enhancing mechanisms are revealed to be oil film uniform redistribution and lubrication states' alteration. This work can contribute to the reliability, electricity production efficiency, and economy of global wind turbines and support the achievement of net-zero emission goals.

Integrating Compositional and Structural Diversity in Heterometallic Titanium Frameworks by Metal Exchange Methods.

The increasing use of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) in separation, catalysis, or storage is linked to the targeted modification of their composition or porosity metrics. While modification of pore shape and size necessarily implies the assembly of alternative nets, compositional changes often rely on postsynthetic modification adapted to the functionalization or exchange of the organic linker or the modification of the inorganic cluster by metal exchange methods. We describe an alternative methodology that enables the integration of both types of modification, structural and compositional, in titanium MOFs by metal exchange reaction of the heterometallic cluster Ti2Ca2. A systematic analysis of this reactivity with MUV-10 is used to understand which experimental variables are crucial to enable replacement of calcium only or to integrate metal exchange with structural transformation. The isoreticular expanded framework, MUV-30, is next used to template the formation of MUV-301, a titanium framework not accessible by direct synthesis that displays the largest mesoporous cages reported to date. Given that the interest of Ti MOFs in photoredox applications often meets the limitations imposed by the challenges of titanium solution chemistry to design concrete candidates, this soft strategy based on preassembled frameworks will help integrate specific combinations of metals into high porosity architectures.

Constrained Polynomial Likelihood

We develop a nonnegative polynomial minimum-norm likelihood ratio (PLR) of two distributions of which only moments are known. The sample PLR converges to the unknown population PLR under mild conditions. The methodology allows for additional shape restrictions, as we illustrate with two empirical applications. The first develops a PLR for the unknown transition density of a jump-diffusion process, while the second extracts a positive density directly from option prices. In both cases, we show the importance of implementing the non-negativity restriction.

Effect of Probiotics on Sperm Quality in the Adult Mouse.

The administration of probiotics for the treatment of different diseases has gained interest in recent years. However, few studies have evaluated their effects on reproductive traits. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of two mixtures of probiotics, a commercial probiotic (Vivomixx®) and a mix of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG and Faecalibacterium duncaniae A2-165, on sperm quality in a mouse model. Adult male mice (8months old) were used for two experimental and one control groups (n = 5 each). The probiotics or physiological serum (control) was administered orally, twice a week, during 5weeks. Sperm were collected from the cauda epididymis, and their total number, motility, kinematics, morphology, and acrosome integrity were assessed in recently collected samples and after a 60-min in vitro incubation. Results showed a higher percentage of normal sperm in both experimental groups, with fewer head abnormalities than in the control. Differences were found among groups in the morphometry of sperm heads, being more elongated in mice treated with probiotics. Sperm from probiotic-treated mice showed similar total motility when compared to the controls, although the proportion of progressively moving sperm and their vigor of motility were lower. Sperm swimming descriptors were measured with a CASA system. Velocity parameters were similar among groups whereas linearity was higher in mice treated with the commercial probiotic. These results suggest that the administration of probiotics may increase the proportion of sperm with normal morphology and lead to modifications in sperm head shape that may enhance sperm swimming. Studies using a longer administration period would be useful in further characterizing the effect of these probiotic mixtures on sperm quality and fertilization capacity.