Nanosensor-Based Real-Time Monitoring of Stress Biomarkers in Human Saliva Using a Portable Measurement System.

Small molecules with no or little charge are considered to have minimal impact on signals measured by field effect transistor (FET) sensors. This fact typically excludes steroids from the family of analytes, detected by FETs. We present a portable multiplexed platform based on an array of nanowire sensors for label-free monitoring of daytime levels of the stress hormone cortisol in saliva samples, obtained from multiple donors. To achieve an effective quantification of the cortisol with FETs, we rely on the specific DNA aptamer sequences as receptors, bringing the complex "target-receptor" closer to the nanowire surface. Upon binding, cortisol induces conformational changes of negatively charged aptamers, wrapping it into a close proximity to the silicon nanowires, to efficiently modulate their surface potential. Thus, the sensors allow for a real-time assessment of the steroid biomarkers at low nanomolar concentration. The measurement platform is designed in a building-block concept, consisting of a modular measuring unit and a customizable biochip board, and operates using a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor-integrated multiplexer. The platform is capable of continuous and simultaneous measurement of samples from multiple patients. Cortisol levels detected with the presented platform agreed well with the results obtained with a commercial high-sensitivity immunoassay.

Approach for the production chain of printed polymer optical waveguides-an overview.

Research for new production chains in the field of waveguide fabrication is a challenging task. Realizing a cost efficient manufacturing process allows integrating optical data communication in arbitrary structures, for example, the wing of an airplane or the body of a car. The production chain described in this paper contains the design, simulation, and fabrication process of printed polymer optical waveguides (POWs).

Characterization of ionic permeability and water vapor transmission rate of polymers used for implantable electronics.

Biocompatible polymers used as encapsulation and packaging materials for implantable electronic devices have to comply with numerous requirements. Especially their barrier properties against water molecules and ions are of particular interest regarding the reliability of the encapsulation as well as functional integrity of the electronic components since water and ions on the circuit board may evoke corrosion, leakage current and finally the failure of the device. This paper describes a measurement setup to investigate the ionic permeability under in vitro conditions of polymeric membranes manufactured from various biocompatible polymers. Ionic permeability and water vapor transmission rate representing the barrier properties of these membranes were investigated. First results were obtained for polyimide, silicone, polyether ether ketone and polyamide, whereas polyimide evinced the best properties.