bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of tunneling and oscillation in a GaAs/〖Al〗_(0.3) 〖Ga〗_(0.7) As superlattice: using transfer matrix method
Authors: Shrestha S , Bhusal N , Byahut S. , Sarkar C. K.
Published: January 2021

The study of superlattice (SL) system in lower dimensions, which shows tunneling and oscillation of particles, is very interesting from the point of view of fundamental physics and is important for devices. Here, we present results of our calculations related to tunneling/oscillations in a general SL system using a Symmetrical Quadruple Well (SQW) potential. This class of problems is handled using a transfer matrix (T-matrix), which is obtained by taking the solution of Schroedinger equation with appropriate boundary conditions on either side of SQW and then repeatedly applying it for the SL system. The electron wave functions in the system are found to be either in a symmetric or an anti-symmetric state with a very small energy difference between the two, leading to oscillations between these states. In this study, probability density and period of oscillation of the particle in SQW is calculated. The result is useful for high frequency operations in devices using SL.

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 91-99
Surface modification of polyamide by 50 Hz dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) produced in air at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Guragain Rajesh Prakash , Baniya Hom Bahadur , Dhungana Santosh , Pandey Bishnu Prasad , Joshi Ujjwal Man , Subedi Deepak Prasad
Published: January 2021

Industrial applications of the dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) have a long tradition. However, lack of understanding in some of its fundamental issues, such as the stochastic behaviors, is still a challenge for DBD researchers. The work was carried out at line frequency, 15 kV and at atmospheric pressure. This work focuses on the study of the electrical and optical characteristics of DBD at atmospheric pressure to determine a suitable condition for utilization of the device for surface modification of polyamides (PA) (Nylon 6/6). In this work, films were treated by dielectric barrier discharge and the effects on the morphology and chemistry of the material was studied. Surface characteristics were examined via contact angle measurements and SEM. The wettability tests revealed the improvement of the hydrophilic character of the surface of polyamide films as the water contact angle measured after the plasma treatments significantly decreased. The corresponding changes of the total surface energy revealed a significant increase in its polar component. The improvement of the wettability of PA strongly depends on the treatment time. The outcomes of the experiments proved that the modification of surface properties via plasma treatment reach to its saturation point after certain treatment time thus reducing the necessity of further treatment.

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 19-25
Fabrication of open type carbonizer for the preparation of activated carbon from rice husk
Authors: Dhami A Kumari , Rajbhandari Nyachhyon A
Published: January 2021

Activated carbon has been prepared from rice husk using laboratory fabricated open type carbonizer. The raw rice husk powder was named as RRH whereas chemically activated rice husk was named as CARH. Both samples were characterized by methylene blue number (MBN), iodine number (IN) and surface area. The MBN and IN of RRH was found to be 83 mg/g and 415 mg/g whereas CARH was 99 mg/g and 716 mg/g respectively which indicate the presence of mesoporosity and microporosity of the samples. The surface area of RRH was found to be  206 m2/g while CARH was found to be 531 m2/g. XRD analysis showed that the prepared materials were amorphous with some crystalline state while FTIR spectra showed the presence of different functional groups such as hydroxyl, carbonyl, Si-O-Si bond and aromatic group on the material. The adsorption properties of prepared samples were studied by using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. Langmuir adsorption isotherm model was found to be best fitted. It showed that prepared materials have homogenous surface with monolayer type of adsorption. The maximum monolayer coverage (Qm) for RRH was found to be 55 mg/g and for CARH 143 mg/g. Thus, results revealed that laboratory fabricated low cost open type carbonizer is suitable for the preparation of activated carbon.

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 10-18
Spatial orientations of angular momentum vectors of galaxies in Supercluster S [173+014+0082]
Authors: Malla Janak Ratna , Saurer Walter , Aryal B
Published: January 2021

The spin vector orientation of 1302 SDSS (Sloan Digital Sky Survey) galaxies in Supercluster S[173+014+0082] having redshift 0.076 to 0.091 has been analysed. The positions, position angles and inclination angles of galaxies are used to convert two-dimensional observed parameters into three-dimensional angular momentum vectors of the galaxy using the `position angle-inclination' method. The expected isotropic distribution curves are determined performing numerical simulation by generating 107 virtual galaxies. The observed distribution is compared with the expected isotropic distribution curves using three statistical tools namely Chi-square test, auto-correlation test and Fourier test. Redshift map is studied and found that the distributions fit with the Gaussian. No preferred alignment of angular momentum vectors is noticed, supporting Hierarchy model of galaxy formation.

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 26-32
Modulation frequency and velocity variation of ions in a magnetized plasma sheath for different obliqueness of the field
Authors: Adhikari Bhesha Raj , Lamichhane Hari Prasad , Khanal Raju
Published: January 2021

The understanding of ion dynamics in magnetized plasma sheath is crucial for all applications of plasma. The velocity variation as well as modulation frequency of ions in a magnetized plasma sheath has been studied for different obliqueness of the magnetic field. The governing Lorentz force equation has been solved numerically for the given boundary conditions as applicable in the kinetic simulation of the sheath. For different obliqueness of the magnetic field, the average values, maximum amplitude, damping factor as well as frequency of oscillation are studied. The oscillating velocity components change at different rates depending on their orientation with respect to the field direction. Significant changes in the damping factor and modulation frequency has been observed for all components of velocity; however, the frequency of oscillation remains the same. As the obliqueness increases, shoulder natures in the components of velocity are observed.

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 134-139
Prediction of daily global solar radiation using different empirical models on the basis of meteorological parameters at Trans Himalaya Region, Nepal
Authors: Joshi Usha , Karki I B , Chapagain N P , Poudyal K N
Published: January 2021

Global Solar Radiation (GSR) is the cleanest and freely available energy resource on the earth.  GSR  was measured for six years (2010 -2015) at the horizontal surface using calibrated first-class CMP6 pyranometer at Kathmandu (Lat. 27.70o N, Long. 85.5oE and Alt. 1350m). This paper explains the daily, monthly, and seasonal variations of GSR and also compares with sunshine hour, ambient temperature, relative humidity, and precipitation to GSR. The annual average global solar radiation is about 4.16 kWh/m2/day which is a significant amount to promote solar active and passive energy technologies at the Trans-Himalaya region. In this study, the meteorological parameters are utilized in the regression technique for four different empirical models and finally, the empirical constants are found. Thus obtained coefficients are utilized to predict the GSR using meteorological parameters for the years to come. In addition, the predicted GSR is found to be closer to the measured value of GSR. The values are justified by using statistical tools such as coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), mean percentage error (MPE), and mean bias error (MBE). Finally, the values of R2, RMSE, MPE, and MBE are found to be 0.792, 1.405, -1.014, and 0.011, respectively for the model (D), which are based on sunshine hour, temperature and relative humidity. In this model, the empirical constants, a = 0.155, b = 0.134, c = 0.014 and d = 0.0007 are determined which can be utilized at the similar geographical locations of Nepal.

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 159-169
Effect of electron temperature in a magnetized plasma sheath using kinetic trajectory simulation
Authors: Chalise R , Pandit S K , Thakur G , Khanal R
Published: January 2021

The understanding of the properties of magnetized plasma sheath has been various beneficial applications in surface treatment, electron emission gun, ion implantation, and nuclear fusion, etc. The effect of electron temperature on the magnetized plasma sheath has been studied for a fixed magnetic field and ion temperature. It has been observed that various plasma sheath parameters can be prominently altered by the varying temperature of the electron. The density of ion is influenced more by the change in electron temperature rather than the electron density. The temperature of the electron has a great effect at the wall, when electron temperature increases, the ion and electron densities at the wall decreases. This shows the potential at the wall also decreases follows the Poisson’s equation. Similarly, the electric field also decreases but total charge density increases when the electron temperature is increased.

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 58-66
An overview on the non-destructive in-depth surface analysis of corrosion-resistant films: A case study of W-xCr deposits in 12 M HCl solution
Authors: Bhattarai Jagadish
Published: January 2021

Non-destructive in-depth analysis of the surface films formed on the sputter-deposited binary W-xCr (x = 25, 57, 91 at %) alloys in 12 M HCl solution open to air at 30 °C was investigated using an angle-resolved X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (AR-XPS) technique to understand the synergistic corrosion resistance effects of showing very low corrosion rates, even lower than both alloying metals of the deposits. The average corrosion rates of these three tungsten-based sputter deposits found to be more than five orders of magnitude (between 3.1 × 10−3 and 7.2 × 10−3 mm/y) to that of chromium and also nearly one order of magnitude lower than that of tungsten metals. Such high corrosion resistance of the sputter-deposited W-xCr alloys is due to the formation of homogeneous passive double oxyhydroxide film consisting of Wox and Cr4+ cations without any concentration gradient in-depth after immersion in 12 M HCl solution open to air at 30 °C from the study of the non-destructive depth profiling technique of AR-XPS. Consequently, both alloying elements of tungsten and niobium are acted synergistically in enhancing high corrosion resistance properties of the alloys in such aggressive electrolyte.

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 201-213
Facile methods of preparing pure hydroxyapatite nanoparticles in ordinary laboratories
Authors: Pandey Gokarna , Dhakal Kedar Nath , Singh Ajaya Kumar , Dhungel Suresh Kumar , Adhikari Rameshwar
Published: January 2021

The present work features some simple methods of preparing pure hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (nano-HAp), a useful biomaterial, via various wet chemical methods and using biogenic sources such as eggshells and animal bone. The nano-HAp hence prepared was subsequently characterized by FTIR spectroscopy and XRD technique. The FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of PO43- and OH- ions as major functional groups in the prepared material, with some additional peaks implying the presence of CO3- ions and adsorbed water molecules. The XRD patterns, in agreement with the JCPDS 09-432 data, demonstrated the crystalline nature of the nano-HAp and confirmed the phase as being apatite. The average grain diameter of the nanocrystallites was found in the range of 15-30 nm. The preparatory methods depicted herein can be easily employed in ordinary high school laboratories having basic facilities such as availability of distilled water, some handy glasswares, common laboratory chemicals and instruments such as balance, hot air oven and furnace.

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 83-90
Schiff base metal complex as a potential therapeutic drug in medical science: A critical review
Authors: Chaudhary Narendra Kumar , Guragain Biswash , Chaudhary Siyanand Kumar , Mishra Parashuram
Published: January 2021

The discovery of new chemotherapeutics with novel bioactivities and functionalities to fight current emerging diseases has become the most significant research in pharmaceutical science. Schiff bases are versatile pharmacophores that can form complexes by chelation with metals of different oxidation states. Over a few decades of intensive research on metal-based drugs, Schiff base metal complexes have been considered as the active field of research in coordination chemistry, owing to their valuable applications in various fields of science. As therapeutic drugs, they have potential applications as antibiotic, antimicrobial, antitumor, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antifungal, and many more. There has been a global threat of drug resistance in medical science in recent years because most of the pathogenic organisms are developing the ability to deactivate drug substances. For this reason, it requires urgent attention from chemical and pharmaceutical scientists to address the severe challenges of multidrug resistance. This review summarizes the current developments in the last few decades' research on the chemotherapeutic activities of Schiff base metal complexes.

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 214-230
Study of aerosol optical properties at different tourist places of Nepal
Authors: Jha Rejeena , Adhikari Binod , Singh Dharmendra
Published: January 2021

The comparative study of aerosol optical properties at different tourist places of Nepal has been performed. Langtang BC, Lumbini, Pokhara, Kathmandu-bode, EVK2-CNR, Jomsom and Kyanjin_Gompa were the places chosen for observation. We have analyzed the monthly and seasonal variation of aerosol optical properties for a different year of the above-mentioned places. AOD was found to be maximum in spring due to vegetation fire and land clearing for crop cultivation and, then in winter due to biomass burning, heating needs, pollution from bricks kilns, factories, and vehicles that contribute to winter haze. It consequently decreases in summer and was found to be minimum in autumn as summer constituent both dry and wet days and autumn starts with the ending of monsoon. But it was quite different in the case of Pokhara where it was minimum in summer than in autumn as Pokhara is the only city where maximum rainfall occurs in summer. We have also studied the relation between AOD and the corresponding wavelength. It was acclaimed that the AOD of shorter wavelength is more than the longer one which is because of the angstrom exponent. The relation between AOD and precipitated water has been observed and noticed one to one correspondence except July and August. The cross-correlation between these two factors found to be very high indicating a time lag of approximately 2 months with the presence of aerosol on cloud condensation nuclei (CCN).

BIBECHANA 18 (2021) 170-183
Minimizing the Discrepancy between the Clinical Knowledge and Performance of Medical Graduates for Improvement of the Quality of our Health Care System
Authors: Badhu Badri P
Published: December 2020

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Effect of Frozen Storage on the Water- Holding Capacity and pH of Broiler Chicken cut-up Parts (Gallus gallus domesticus)
Authors: Ghimire Arjun , Parajuli Pawan
Published: January 2021

Broiler chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) were collected from local chicken suppliers of Dharan (26.8065° N, 87.2846° E), Nepal, and slaughtered to prepare the cut-up parts (breast, drumstick, dorso, wings, and thigh). They were vacuum packed in polythene bags and frozen stored (-21.5 ±3.5ºC) for 45 days to study the effect of frozen storage on the water holding capacity (WHC) of meat. Cooking loss, drip loss, and pH changes were analyzed at 5 days intervals during storage and the data were analyzed using Genstat® v 12.1.The cut-up parts showed a significant change (p<0.05) in pH, cooking loss, and drip loss during 45 days of frozen storage. The pH decreased while the drip loss and the cooking loss increased gradually upon storage. The pH was found to be varied among the cut-up parts with a minimum pH scale of 5.25 for wings, followed by 5.3 for thigh, at the end. The highest drip loss of 6.11% was observed in wings after 5 days of storage which ended up to 8.97% after 45 days of frozen storage while drumstick and thigh samples showed significantly lower drip loss of 6.02%, and 5.43% respectively. The change in cooking loss showed a similar pattern as that of drip loss with a significantly higher value of 37.36% in the breast while it showed no significant difference in drumstick, dorso, and thigh meat. Thus, the study reveals that freezing of broiler chicken meats for a prolonged period adversely affects the WHC of meat
Ethnomedicinal Knowledge of Kisan Community - A Case Study
Authors: KC Manisha , Singh Nanda Bahadur
Published: January 2021

In the context of depleting indigenous knowledge and their values in the Kisan Community, they seem unaware of their culturally rich traditional practices of using animals and plants for medicinal purpose. It has been essential to document those knowledge of practices for future references. The paper tried to explore and document those knowledge and practices by the Kisan community of Mechinagar 9 and 11 of Jhapa, Nepal. For this purpose, the data were collected through interviews with key informants including conjurer (Dhami/Jhakri), elders of the society and also focal group discussions with the local people. Analysis of the data has shown that 29 animal species belonging to 24 families are used to treat 29 ailments and 57 plant species belonging to 37 families are used for treating 39 different ailments. The commonly treated ailments were common cold, cuts, wounds, diarrhoea, dysentery, etc.
Geological and Geotechnical State of the Nisane Khola Landslide, Dharan, Sunsari, Nepal: a case study
Authors: Adhikari Drona , Silwal Champak Babu , Giri Suraj
Published: January 2021

Geological and landslide mapping was carried out in order to delineate the geological and geotechnical state of the Nisane landslide, situated in Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City, Sunsari, Nepal, which has been obstructing the Koshi Highway time and again. The affected area bears metasedimentary and sedimentary rock sequences of the Lesser Himalaya and the Siwalik, respectively. The Dharapani Thrust separates the Chiuribas Formation and the Tamrang Formation of the Lesser Himalaya whereas the Main Boundary Thrust separates the Tamrang Formation and the Siwalik. The Nisane landslide is an old landslide situated in the structurally weak zone having variable activation period. Recently, the landslide reactivated as intense slide after the Gorkha Earthquake, 2015 and is occasionally obstructing the Koshi Highway. The subsidence in highway indicates the landmass is creeping along the tension crack. Kinematic analysis, Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and Slope Mass Rating (SMR), based on the field observation, measurement and laboratory testing, was carried out in eight different slopes of the slide. The results suggested majority of slopes suffers the wedge and plain failures along the major joint sets. The rock masses are of fair class and the slopes are unstable to partially stable. The slopes of major slide are vulnerable and seeks for immediate sustainable treatment.
Microbiological Quality and Adulteration of Pasteurized and Raw Milk Marketed in Dharan, Nepal
Authors: Limbu Dhiren Subba , Bantawa Kamana , Limbu Dil Kumar , Devkota Mandira , Ghimire Monika
Published: January 2021

This study was aimed to evaluate the quality of raw and pasteurized milk marketed in Dharan. Milk may be contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms and a mixture of several adulterants and such milk pose a risk to consumers. The study was carried out from September 2019 to January 2020. Collected samples were tested for adulterants (starch, formalin, neutralizer and table sugar) as well as microbial quality (Total Coliform count, Total Viable Count, Thermoduric Count, Escherichia. coli and Staphylococcus aureus) as per standard guideline. The adulterants starch, formalin and neutralizer were not detected in both raw and pasteurized milk. However, table sugar was present in 45% (9 out of 20) raw milk and 90% (18 out of 20) pasteurized milk. The average Total Viable Count, Total Coliform Count and Thermoduric Count of raw milk were, 59×105 CFU/ml, 14×104 CFU/ml and 5×103 CFU/ml respectively. Similarly, the average Total Viable Count, Total Coliform Count and Thermoduric Count of pasteurized milk were found to be 15×104 CFU/ml, 14×103CFU/ml and 4×103 CFU/ml respectively. E. coli was detected in 30% pasteurized milk whereas S. aureus was isolated from only 20%. Likewise, E.coli and S. aureus were found in 55% and 45% of raw milk respectively. The results of the study indicated that routine monitoring of dairy industries and raw milk vendors, awareness campaign and good hygienic practice should be promoted to upgrade the quality of raw and pasteurized milk.
Population Status, Menaces and Management of Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) and Tarai gray langur (Semnopithecus hector) in the Forest of Dharan and its Vicinities
Authors: Tamang Ganesh , Thapa Ganesh Bahadur , Kharel Milan , Subba Asmit , Pradhan Ashish
Published: January 2021

The present study was conducted in 28 spots of 10 sampling sites including forest and urban areas of northern part of Dharan, Sunsari District (26.7944° N, 87.2817° E, 349 m msl) and its vicinities in the Province No. 1 of Nepal. The scan sampling method was applied to count the monkey population and their menace was surveyed through the questionnaires and direct field observations. In present study, 69.31% (n=558) Rhesus monkeys species and 30.68% (n=247) Tarai gray langurs were counted within 192.6 km2 of the study site. In 14 troops of Rhesus monkeys and 9 troops of Tarai gray langurs, the gender dominance of female Rhesus monkey and female Tarai grey langur were found to be 40.32% and 58.74% respectively. Whereas, the average male-female ratio was found to be 1:8.3 and 1:5.1 for Rhesus monkey and Tarai gray Langur respectively. The largest single troop recorded was of Rhesus monkey (n=125). A total of 25.2 quintals crops was damaged by both monkeys from the study area this year. Maize (42%) was found to be major crop damaged by Rhesus monkeys. Management of non-human primates through further research is urgently required to minimize their menace and to protect people from the risk of transmission of possible zoonotic diseases. The result of this study can be implied practically for the management of monkey's menaces not only to the Dharan but also to other monkey affected areas of the country.
Theoretical assessment on hetero-coordination of Alloys Silver-Antimony at Molten State
Authors: Panthi Narayan , Bhandari Indra Bahadur , Koirala Ishwar
Published: January 2021

The thermodynamic and structural properties of binary alloy Ag- Sb at temperature 1250K have been reported theoretically using quasi lattice model. The interchange energy has been considered a function of a temperature and thus various thermodynamic quantities are calculated at elevated temperature. The theoretical values of free energy of mixing, heat of mixing, entropy of mixing and chemical activity are reasonable agreement with experimental values in all concentrations of antimony from 0.1 to 0.9. The theoretical analysis tells that the alloy shows both ordering nature in Ag rich end and segregating nature in Sb rich end .The study reveals that the properties of alloy are asymmetric around equi-atomic composition. The Ag_3 Sn complexes are most likely to exist in the liquid state and are moderately interacting.
Antibiogram Profiling and Thermal Inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli Isolated from Milk of Dharan, Nepal
Authors: Phattepuri Susmita , Subba Prince , Ghimire Arjun , Sah Shiv Nandan
Published: January 2021

Milk is an excellent medium for the growth of many bacteria. This study aimed to determine antibiotic profiling and thermal inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli isolated from raw milk of Dharan. Total viable count, total Staphylococcal count, and total coliform count were carried out by conventional microbiological methods. Identification was done on the basis of Gram staining and biochemical tests. The antibiotic susceptibility test of the isolates carried out by the modified Kirby-Baur disc diffusion method. Thermal inactivation of S. aureus and E. coli were carried out by subjecting to thermal treatment in a water bath. Total plate count ranged from 204×104 CFU/mL to 332×105 CFU/mL. Total staphylococcal count and total coliform count ranged from 14×105 CFU/mL to 8×106 CFU/mL and 11×104 CFU/mL to 3×106 CFU/mL respectively. S. aureus showed an increasing resistance patterns towards Ampicillin, Cefotixin, Carbenicillin and Cefotaxime. Ciprofloxacin, Erythromycin, Amikacin, Gentamycin, Azithromycin, and Chloramphenicol were found to be effective against S. aureus. All the E. coli isolates were resistant to Ampicillin and least resistant to Cefotixin. Chloramphenicol, Amikacin, Azithromycin, and Nalidixic acid were found highly effective to E. coli. The D-values for S. aureus at 56°C, 58°C and 60°C were 1.36 min, 1.19 min, and 1.09 min respectively. The Z-value was 14.92°C. While D-values were obtained as 0.98 min, 0.75 min, and 0.57 min for E. coli at 56° C, 58° C and 60° C respectively, and Z-value was 9.75° C. Hence, S. aureus was found to be more heat resistant than E. coli.
Short Review on Types of Heat Shock Proteins and Their Fundamental Characters for Body Maintenance Together With Role in Cancer
Authors: Muneeb Muhammad , Ali Moazam , Sarfaraz Tahir , Ali Wajid , Bhutta Zeeshan Ahmad
Published: January 2021

Body of living thing is a complex machine that works on multifunctional processes and needs maintenance. Heat shock protein is a specific type of protein that cares about many normal functions of the body. These proteins have many dynamic occupations to shield the body from various diseases and also a key role in the coiling and uncoiling of proteins, prevent from apoptosis and transportation of proteins. Along with these all properties, the foremost function of these proteins is prevention from cancer and a significant role in cancer diagnosis. Commonly heat shock protein known as chaperones and a wide range of their types have been discovered with their functions as well. Recently many scientists are working on additional investigation of heat shock proteins. This review concludes some basic types of heat shock proteins and their elegant purposes and also providing an open eye for new scientist about a further investigation of heat shock protein.
Common Pitfalls in using Online Platforms for Data collection in COVID times and its implications
Authors: Solanki Hariom Kumar , P Giridara Gopal , Rath Rama Shankar
Published: January 2021

In recent COVID-19 times conducting online research is the only feasible type of research for many authors. However, like other methods of data collection this method also bears some inherent issues linked to method of the study. The authors must understand the common pitfalls related to online data collection before planning and before interpreting the results. This letter mainly deals with the issues related to the online data collection.
The relevance of digital mental healthcare during COVID-19: Need for innovations
Authors: Kar Sujit Kumar , Saxena Shailendra K. , Kabir Russell
Published: January 2021

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COVID-19 and Artificial Intelligence: the pandemic pacifier
Authors: Banerjee Indrajit , Robinson Jared , Kashyap Abhishek , Mohabeer Poornasha , Sathian Brijesh
Published: January 2021

COVID-19 remains a threat to the entire world. In an attempt to curb its spread and facilitate its treatment, the technological tool that is Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being researched as a potential alternative to conventional methods. Industrial Revolution 4.0 marks the dawn to the combination of digital, physical and biological systems, by application of digital skills such as Blockchain, Internet of things, Artificial Intelligence and Big data. AI tools in SARS-COV-2 pandemic are highly competitive to human performance, such as rapid screening and diagnosis of the disease, surveilling the efficacy of the treatment, keeping record and depicting active cases and mortality, inventions of medications and vaccines, relieving the workload of healthcare workers and extinguishing the spread of the disease. Contact tracing platforms like Aarogya Setu App, implemented by the Government of India, Australian Government's COVID Safe app, Trace Together- a Bluetooth-based contact tracing app developed in Singapore; based on syndromic mapping/surveillance technology. Artificial intelligence will become a mainstay in both the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 as well as similar pandemics in future. The application and system development will be challenging; the accuracy and rapidity of its use far outweigh this drawback. The current global technological leaders have proven that the retro modification of current data systems and applications have been indispensable in the war on COVID-19, thus permanently securing their development and application in future.
Предизвиците на преводот на Киберијадата од Станислав Лем
Authors: Tanuševska Lidija
Published: December 2020

This article is about the specific language that the translator is faced with translating The Cyberiad by Stanisław Lem and some of the difficulties that are caused by the conception of the whole book. Considering that it is a science-fiction, it is natural that the main problems are neologisms made by Lem, but it appears that it is not the only one. We are trying to make an outline of the whole process of translating The Cyberiad, underlining some of the difficulties that the translator in Macedonian language could have come upon. Analyses contains of problems with word formation, poetic language, phraseology, archaisms and neologisms.
Red Sea studies: a historiographical sketch
Authors: Seland Eivind Heldaas
Published: January 2021

Historiographical sketch of Red Sea studies through 2017
New evidence of metallurgical production during the Ptolemaic period in the ancient harbor of Berenike (Eastern Desert) in Egypt
Authors: Oller Guzmán Joan
Published: January 2021

This paper tries to explain the first results obtained on trench 102, located on the southwestern area of the ancient harbour of Berenike. Chronologically the trench runs from the Late Hellenistic to Roman Period, showing different uses of this area during Antiquity. Some of the data recovered are quite interesting in order to understand the evolution of this scarcely known area of Berenike’s harbor. The identification of a metallurgical furnace related to the Late Hellenistic Period is especially remarkable, as it provides some insights about the structure of this zone under the last Ptolemaic rulers. So, the main objective of the paper is to offer new data about the productive structure of this site during the Ptolemaic period with special focus on the metallurgical production.
Kohl kit
Authors: Philips Jacke
Published: January 2021

Although rather distant from the Western Indian Ocean basin, Southern Levant can be considered fairly included into trading dynamics regulating the movement and use of exotic goods, especially luxury raw materials, frequently representing the final destination for this kind of items.
During the Late Bronze Age, Southern Levantine jewelry enumerates a wide eclectic group of differentiated artifacts, witnessing a remarkable level of artistic talent and technical expertise. The most part of the products is manufactured in gold and silver, using the decorative shares of precious and semiprecious stones originating from eastern Africa and the Indus Valley.
The wealth of jewelry’s arts, and in particular the large use of stones, has given rise to a number of hypothesis that will be briefly discussed in the paper, analyzing raw materials’ origins, finished products’ archaeological contexts, and specialized production of personal ornaments, with particular attention to the actors and the ultimate goal of their production.
"Whither sailest thou?" Origins and destinations in the archaeosphere of the Red Sea
Authors: Pedersen Ralph K.
Published: January 2021

The Red Sea is a deep rift between Africa and Asia, yet asan aquatic “highway” it links Europe to the Indian Oceanworld. While the existence of Greco-Roman trade downthe Red Sea to the wider eastern world is relatively wellknown,we are still investigating the harbors and destinationpoints along the shores of the Red Sea. Understandingthe geographical, and indeed geological, aspect ofthe sea is a key factor in the finding of ancient harborsand anchorages. Coupled with this is the need to discernthe technology of the maritime tools — navigation, ship-building technology, sailing practices — of the variouseras and cultures of the Red Sea.This paper explores these aspects through the growingbody of evidence and theory of Red Sea maritime endeavors, as well as by the author’s own archaeologicalinvestigations in Eritrea and Saudi Arabia.
Textile material from Old Dongola: preliminary observations on trade and sartorial practices in the Ottoman period
Authors: Woźniak Magdalena M.
Published: January 2021

The paper presents the textile material retrieved from the so-called House of the Mekk, which appears as one of the most important compounds (by size and intricate plan) of the Funj period, established in the Old Dongola citadel. The general typology of the textiles, representative of an urban settlement, is presented and two study-cases (piece-dyed blue cottons and fabrics decorated with plaid-effect pattern in white and blue) are further discussed. The textile analysis is complemented by written sources of various kinds (court registers, traveler's accounts) to provide information about trade routes and goods and also to offer a preliminary picture of the sartorial practices of the elite at Old Dongola during the Ottoman period.
Establishment, maintenance and ordering of grapevine traits collections (Vitis vinifera L.)
Authors: Kovaljova I. A.
Published: December 2020

Based on the grapevine genotypes of NSC “Tairov Research Institute of Viticulture and Wine-Making” analysis, traits collections have been created and registered, representing genotypes for breeding programs to obtain new varieties resistant to abiotic and biotic environmental factors (frost and phytopathogens) under conditions implementation of climate change scenarios, varieties with improved quality traits and seedless varieties. Genetic ordering of traits collections has begun on the basis of varieties molecular identification using microsatellite DNA markers (from 5 to 9 MC loci) and identification using DNA markers of genes of interest or gene complexes (primarily a trait of seedlessness). Microsatellite analysis made it possible to identify a total of about 80 genotypes, mainly the varieties breeded at the NSC “Tairov Research Institute of Viticulture and Wine-Making”, belonging to the traits collections of resistance and quality. Visual sanitary control of three traits collections showed a practical absence of virus diseases and grapevine crown gall disease symptoms. Sometimes symptoms similar to the phytoplasma infection manifestation were found. The data of virus diseases agents identification by ELISA showed the absence the most harmful viruses — grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV) and grapevine leafroll virus 1 (GLRaV I) on 19 samples tested. From samples of resistance traits collection one sample was positive on grapevine leafroll virus 3 and two were positive on grapevine fleck virus (GfkV). These samples should be eliminated from further propagation and genetic material moving between germplasm repositories. The causative agent of grapevine crown gall disease (Agrobacterium vitis) was not detected on 14 samples of 3 traits collections tested by PCR. It has been determined that the sanitary status of grapevine traits collections practically corresponds to the European minimum sanitary requirements, genetic ordering of characteristic collections will be continued.
Single Point PICA Probing with an Avalanche Photo-Diode
Authors: Bruce Mike , Goruganthu Rama R. , McBride Shawn , Bethke David , Chin J.M.
Published: December 2020

For time resolved hot carrier emission from the backside, an alternate approach is demonstrated termed single point PICA. The single point approach records time resolved emission from an individual transistor using time-correlated-single-photon counting and an avalanche photo-diode. The avalanche photo-diode has a much higher quantum efficiency than micro-channel plate photo-multiplier tube based imaging cameras typically used in earlier approaches. The basic system is described and demonstrated from the backside on a ring oscillator circuit.
A Methodology to Reduce Ion Beam Induced Damage in TEM Specimens Prepared by FIB
Authors: Liu Chin Kai , Jen. Chen Chi , Yan.Chiou Jeh , Su David
Published: December 2020

Focused ion beam (FIB) has become a useful tool in the Integrated Circuit (IC) industry. It is playing an important role in Failure Analysis (FA), circuit repair and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) specimen preparation. In particular, preparation of TEM samples using FIB has become popular within the last ten years [1]; the progress in this field is well documented. Given the usefulness of FIB, “Artifact” however is a very sensitive issue in TEM inspections. The ability to identify those artifacts in TEM analysis is an important as to understanding the significance of pictures In this paper, we will describe how to measure the damages introduced by FIB sample preparation and introduce a better way to prevent such kind of artifacts.
Leakage Isolation of Mixed-Signal Devices at Operating Modes
Authors: Xia William
Published: December 2020

Marginal internal leakage in mixed-signal devices at operating mode was isolated using a system evaluation board (SEB) and a highly sensitive infrared detector. Focused ion beam cross-section revealed a thin Ti/TiN metal residue (stringer) over two narrowly spaced metal lines. This is a quick and effective technique in isolating small leaky nets for integrated devices.
High Power Testing of Optical Connectors
Authors: Furcas Paola , Pastorelli Rosanna , Salmini Giulia , Vanzi Massimo
Published: December 2020

High optical power is considered as the source of failures in passive optical elements. Optical connectors, in particular, have been studied because of the unavoidable exposure of their optical interfaces to environmental issues during insertion and extraction. Cleaning and insertion/extraction procedures are investigated. Evidence for burn-out, depending on the different procedures, calls for new suitable rules for handling during equipment operation and testing.
Site Specific 2-D Implant Profiling Using FIB Assisted SCM
Authors: Jarausch Konrad , Richards John F. , Denney Lloyd , Guichard Alex , Russell Phillip E.
Published: December 2020

Advances in semiconductor technology are driving the need for new metrology and failure analysis techniques. Failures due to missing, or misregistered implants are particularly difficult to resolve. Two-dimensional implant profiling techniques such as scanning capacitance microscopy (SCM) rely on polish preparation, which makes reliably targeting sub 0.25 um structures nearly impossible.[1] Focused ion beam (FIB) machining is routinely used to prepare site-specific cross-sections for electron microscopy inspection; however, FIB induced artifacts such as surface amorphization and Ga ion implantation render the surface incompatible with SCM (and selective etching techniques). This work describes a novel combination of FIB machining and polish preparation that allows for site-specific implant profiling using SCM.
Enhancements of Non-contact Measurements of Electrical Waveforms on the Proximity of a Signal Surface Using Groups of Pulses
Authors: Du Fenglei , Bridges Greg , Thomson D.J. , Goruganthu Rama R. , McBride Shawn , Santana Mike
Published: December 2020

With the ever-increasing density and performance of integrated circuits, non-invasive, accurate, and high spatial and temporal resolution electric signal measurement instruments hold the key to performing successful diagnostics and failure analysis. Sampled electrostatic force microscopy (EFM) has the potential for such applications. It provides a noninvasive approach to measuring high frequency internal integrated circuit signals. Previous EFMs operate using a repetitive single-pulse sampling approach and are inherently subject to the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) problems when test pattern duty cycle times become large. In this paper we present an innovative technique that uses groups of pulses to improve the SNR of sampled EFM systems. The approach can easily provide more than an order of magnitude improvement to the SNR. The details of the approach are presented.
Making Failure Analysis a Value Add Proposition in Today’s High Speed Low Cost PC environment
Authors: Lane Michael , Bjork Roger , Birdsley Jeff
Published: December 2020

This paper describes the Failure Analysis (FA) challenges that exist in today’s Personal Computer (PC) environment. The development and advancement in analytical tools and techniques have advanced the understanding and identification of failures, however economic and cost pressures have brought about a significant shift in the evaluation of Failure Analysis as a value add proposition as measured by the bottom line. This paper examines the factors and conditions that must be considered when assessing the FA scope and role, and its establishment as a critical value add requirement to maintain quality leadership and product performance expectations. The need for “Timely Actionable Information” becomes essential as part of the FA approach and a necessity to remain effective and competitive. This paper defines an approach by which this can be accomplished in the dynamic and high speed PC environment where product life cycles are consistently shrinking and the need for analytical techniques that yield “high confidence” answers quickly are becoming necessary. The changing conditions of the PC environment are driving the PC Failure Analysis groups to respond and adapt by establishing an Integrated Failure Analysis framework. This framework may span multiple organizations or companies and must deliver proactive information in a timely manner throughout the product life cycle (PLC). The information is proactive in the sense that FA is now identifying issues and prioritizing which of those to analyze, versus the historical model of waiting for a request by another organization.
Characterization of Reactive Ion Etching of Silicon Substrate for Backside Failure Mode Analysis
Authors: Wu Huixian , Cargo James
Published: December 2020

With technology scaling down to sub 0.16um and metalization exceeding 7 levels, the development of reproducible backside silicon sample preparation techniques becomes increasingly important to accurately localize defects. Bulk silicon thinning is a critical step in the backside sample preparation process. This paper will discuss two different ways for silicon thinning: reactive ion etching (RIE) alone, and RIE in conjunction with mechanical milling. In addition, the characterization and optimization of the RIE process for backside silicon thinning will be discussed in this paper. We have found mechanical milling works well for many package types; however, we have had difficulty reproducibly thinning certain package types such as very small die or packages where the wire bonds are in the plane of the silicon die and are in very close proximity to the edge of the die. In these cases, we have found that reactive ion etching (RIE) can be used successfully. We have also found that for package types where mechanical milling works, the combination of mechanical milling and reactive ion etching process is a useful technique for accurately controlling the final thickness of the silicon. This technique combines the speed of mechanically milling and the advantage of RIE process to accurately control the etch rate and etch process in the final stages of thinning the silicon die.
The Influence of Optical Beams on Semiconductor Devices During Failure Analysis
Authors: Zhang Charles , Thayer Matt , Herlinger Lowell , Dabney Greg , Gonzalez Manuel
Published: December 2020

A number of backside analysis techniques rely on the successful use of optical beams in performing backside fault isolation. In this paper, the authors have investigated the influence of the 1340 nm and 1064 nm laser wavelength on advanced CMOS transistor performance.
Wet Delineation of SEM Samples Having Cu Interconnects
Authors: Lai J.B. , Wang Y.P. , Kung J.Y. , Fu Y.C. , Hwang R.L. , Su David
Published: December 2020

For both FSG or C-doped oxide samples containing copper (Cu) metallization, Cu was often dissolved during wet delineation steps for cross-sectional SEM samples. Length effect was the important factor for avoiding Cu dissolution during wet delineation process. This paper presents practical methods to prevent Cu damage for FIB cross-sectional and mechanical polished SEM samples.
Obtaining Low Contact Resistance for Physical Sub-Micron Fault Isolation
Authors: Waggoner C. A. , Smith D.
Published: December 2020

The continued application and extension of Moore’s is Law driving semiconductor development into the deep submicron range. 90nm processes are pushing the limits of current technology, and announcements for 65nm and even smaller process developments are common place. Inspection and deprocessing tools are pacing these developments with moderate levels of success [1]. Fault isolation, however, and particularly physical fault isolation at these levels represents perhaps the most daunting of challenges facing today’s semiconductor companies. Possibly the most important failure analysis step, physical fault isolation of sub-micron devices, is growing increasingly more challenging. Traditional probe stations find limitation below 500nm feature sizes. Recent approaches to probing smaller geometries, such as AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy), have come up short in flexibility and applicability. Deposition of FIB pads can change circuit characteristics, is costly and time consuming, and is becoming increasingly more difficult as proximities decrease. Successful probing of structures smaller than 300nm require careful consideration to reduce and stabilize contact resistance (RC). A NANO-100TM probe station with SEM optics was used to analyze characteristics of, and the process needed to obtain stable, low RC for physical submicron fault isolation. Main discussion topics include probe tip oxidation, test timing and sample preparation. Probe tip selection, probe scrub, and attack angle are also mentioned. Recommendations and findings are presented for immediate application. It is shown that if the proper steps and considerations are made, stable RC of less than 10V is possible when probing sub-micron devices.
MIM Capacitor Reliability Fault Identification Using IR Microthermography and Automated De-processing: A Case Study
Authors: Steele J. , Remmel T. , Wilson S. , Nair M. , Sanders P. , Kiefer S. , Sutton M. , Paulson W. , Bigelow S. , Qualls D. , Gajewski D. , Martin M. , Walls J.
Published: December 2020

Advanced RF IC’s incorporate numerous components along with the CMOS circuitry. One component is a metal-insulator-metal (MIM) capacitor. Test capacitors have been stressed using accelerated voltage and temperature conditions to assess the long-term reliability. This paper describes a methodology for evaluating the MIM capacitors that have failed during reliability testing. IR microthermography was developed to detect leakage locations in areas that are not visible to optical inspection or standard emission microscopes. These areas were deprocessed to correlate the IR emission and physical defect locations. This information is utilized to understand the failures and improve the reliability.