bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Introduction of a New EBAC Technique with Lamella-like Sample in DRAM Devices
Authors: Choi HaYoung , Choi InChang , Kang Christopher H. , Kim EuiSeok , Lee JaeYun , Kim Muryeong 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
In this paper, we approach three Nanoprobing EBAC (Electron Beam Absorbed Current) applications for DRAM metal lines. Typically, more than 70-80% of metal lines in DRAM devices experienced invisible EBAC imaging, due to high-gain EBAC amplifier becoming saturated. This overloaded case typically occurs when the signal probe lands on a contact connected to the well, source, or drain of the substrate. One of the ways to overcome this limit, a new EBAC analysis approach on lamella-like sample, is introduced in this paper. We introduce a large lamella-like sample by using Xe+ PFIB for EBAC analysis technique on DRAM metal line as well as to compare it with the conventional EBAC technique. Delayering technique also used by plasma FIB for uniform sample surface to target metal layer.
SYSFID—System-Aware Fault-Injection Attack Detection for System-In-Package Architectures
Authors: Shuvo Amit Mazumder , Sami Md Sami Ul Islam , Rahman Md Latifur , Zhou Jingbo , Azar Kimia Zamiri , Farahmandi Farimah , Tehranipoor Mark 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
A system-in-package (SiP) design takes advantage of cutting-edge packaging technology and heterogeneous integration (HI) in response to the growing need for aggressive time-to-market, high-performance, less expensive, and smaller systems. However, aggregating dies with different functionalities introduces new attack vectors with fault-injection attacks (FIA) that can effectively alter a circuit's data and control flow maliciously to cause disruptions of secure communication or sensitive information leakage. Additionally, traditional threat models associated with FIA on a 2D monolithic system-on-chip (SoC), and the corresponding mitigation techniques may not be compatible with modern 2.5D and 3D SiP architectures. To address these limitations, we propose system-aware fault injection attack detection for SiP architectures (SYSFID), a real-time and on-chip sensor-based fault monitoring approach integrated into a system-level design. SYSFID detects any fault-induced anomalous alterations in path delays of the components of inter-chiplet networks by strategically placing on-chip fault-to-time converter (FTC) sensors and controlling them efficiently to safeguard overall system security. To demonstrate the effectiveness of SYSFID, we detect several fault injection attempts on the FPGA implementation of a network-on-chip (NoC) based architecture during secure network packet transfers. Our experiments also illustrate that the SYSFID framework reliably senses both global and local FIAs with minimal overheads.
Development of Novel Methods for Grinding and Polishing of 3DHI Devices
Authors: Hasan Ahmed , Silverman Scott 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Novel sample preparation techniques have been developed for Three-Dimensional Heterogeneously Integrated (3DHI) devices to enable precise failure analysis while protecting adjacent components. Traditional grinding and polishing methods risk damaging surrounding areas when tool bits extend beyond the target region. Using the VarioMill system's high-precision stages (±1µm accuracy), we introduce three key innovations: a helical grinding approach for accessing die centers, an extended tool bit technique for processing rectangular corners, and enhanced polishing protocols. These methods allow for targeted sample preparation of individual dies or specific die regions while completely preserving adjacent components. The techniques are particularly valuable for complex, densely packed 3DHI devices where conventional preparation methods pose significant risks of collateral damage.
The Impact of Varying TEM Accelerating Voltage on Elemental Analysis of Semiconductor Defects
Authors: Levenson Jacob , Subramanian Swaminathan , Ly Khiem , Chrastecky Tony , Yi Eric 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
In the field of failure analysis (FA) for semiconductor devices, the transmission electron microscope (TEM) as an analytical tool is integral to finding visible evidence of defects and their root cause. Especially as device features shrink, imaging and analyzing increasingly subtle defects requires detailed elemental analysis. In this work, elemental analysis using an aberration-corrected TEM at different accelerating voltages (200 kV and 80 kV) is discussed. The impact of accelerating voltage on elemental analysis with regards to Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS) is of central focus. Two case studies involving TEM samples of different thicknesses are presented that clearly indicate important differences in the analytical data collected at different accelerating voltages. The work revealed that for elemental analysis of thick TEM samples (100 nm and over) 200 kV is preferred, and for thin samples, 80 kV provides superior signal in EDS and EELS.
Evaluation of the Analyzability of Complex Secure Intellectual Property Using Fault Isolation Techniques versus the Hardware Security Threat They Pose
Authors: Sampath Amrutha , Dickson Kristofor , Lange George W. , Wu Carey , Serrels Keith A. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Secure edge devices and the need for hardware security are of paramount importance due to the growing demand for cybersecurity. Hardware security has been strengthened using complex architecture to provide uncompromisable security and prevent malicious cybersecurity attacks. To prevent unauthorized access using even the most advanced failure analysis (FA) techniques, the Hardware Security Module (HSM) implements cryptographic algorithms and data obfuscation using many raw combinational logic and state machines. When a newly taped-out device fails to operate or fails to come out of its secure boot-up sequence, how can we know whether a defect is present or if the security block reacted to a design error? This paper discusses various real-world examples of FA challenges related to first silicon debug, including secure IP. We explore the unique approaches required to make sense of collected Laser Voltage Probe (LVP), Photon Emission Microscopy (PEM), and Laser Logic State Mapping (LLSM) data. We discuss some of the most advanced FA techniques' strengths and weaknesses and illustrate how system architecture related to securing data can be modified to alter the effectiveness of each. We explain in detail why specific FA techniques can be defeated by built-in security and where FA techniques can be enabled by clever triggering schemes or looping on areas of code while looking for specific behaviors. This paper also talks about the limitations of analyzing complex architecture being good from a security point of view. We conclude by summarizing the threat FA tools present to secure IP and comment on steps that could be taken to further protect internal state machines and sensitive logic areas from even the most well-equipped FA labs. Thus, this work gives an introspective thought as to how Optical Fault Isolation (OFI) techniques could be perceived as a threat to various security applications and points to trade-offs between the ability to analyze versus hardware security.
Electrostatic Force Microscopy Technique for Understanding Failures in Polyimide Insulation Barriers
Authors: Kolagatla Srikanth , Diaham Sombel , Lambkin Paul , Anthony Ricky , McCarthy Megan , Lakshmanan Subha , Lakshmanan Ramji , O’Sullivan Jer 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Inductive coupling devices have emerged as superior alternatives to traditional optocouplers, offering improved performance, smaller size, and lower power consumption. However, these devices rely critically on a polyimide isolation barrier that can fail through high-voltage breakdown at its edges. We present a systematic study using electrostatic force microscopy to characterize charge injection and dissipation behavior in polyimide layers of varying thicknesses under different DC bias conditions. By correlating charge injection characteristics and dissipation times with layer thickness, we establish optimal barrier specifications to minimize product-level failures. This analysis provides crucial guidance for polyimide barrier design in inductive coupling applications.
Removal of Highly Doped Silicon for Backside Fault Isolation with Fluorine-Based Etches
Authors: Distelhurst Kevin , Densmore Jim , Tang Jiaqi 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
III-V power electronic devices are a growing industry as electric vehicles (EVs), power-demanding servers, and other high-power electronics become more prominent. The design of these devices can alter a failure analysis lab’s process flow typically used on traditional silicon-based logic devices. One such obstacle is backside fault isolation (FI) through highly doped silicon wafers used in GaN-on-Si technologies. Backside fault isolation is critical for many electrical failure analyses so finding several approaches to enable this technique that fits current FA flows is desirable. Chemical and Focused Ion Beam (FIB) based approaches have been used to enable backside FI [1], [2]. This paper considers a plasma-based approach with two separate machines, a Microwave Induced Plasma spot etcher and a chamber based Reactive Ion Etch (RIE). Both utilize a Fluorine-based chemistry which is highly selective to the silicon vs the underlying GaN. The etches are used to selective remove the silicon to form a window to the underlying GaN material. Subsequent backside FI analyses are successfully followed by several other analyses.
Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Islamic Higher Education: Comparative Responses between Indonesia and Thailand
Authors: Syukur Fatah , Maghfurin Ahmad , Marhamah Uswatun , Phaosan Jehwae  
Published: October 2024

This study aims to compare the responses of Islamic Universities in Indonesia and Thailand to the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Islamic education learning. This comparative qualitative research collected data from in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and analysis of relevant documents at UIN Walisongo Semarang (Indonesia) and Darul Maarif Islamic College Patani (Thailand). The collected data were analyzed thematically using triangulation, member checking, and audit trail validation models. The findings of this study show similarities and differences; both institutions have not specifically incorporated AI into the formal curriculum as a course, only integrating it implicitly in the hidden curriculum such as research, workshops, and seminars. Indonesian Islamic universities view AI as an important tool for modernizing Islamic education, especially in distance learning and the digitalization of Qur'anic teaching. In contrast, although AI is not explicitly banned in Thailand, there are concerns about its impact on the role of traditional teachers and Islamic cultural values. Regarding ethics, Indonesian students are less likely to consider the potential bias of AI towards Islamic religious information. In contrast, Thai students are more wary of the impact of technology on their religious values. Mastery of AI technology also showed significant differences, with Indonesian students being more advanced.
Magnetic protein aggregates generated by supramolecular assembly of ferritin cages - a modular strategy for the immobilization of enzymes
Authors: Ölçücü Gizem , Wollenhaupt Bastian , Kohlheyer Dietrich , Jaeger Karl-Erich , Krauss Ulrich 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionEfficient and cost-effective immobilization methods are crucial for advancing the utilization of enzymes in industrial biocatalysis. To this end, in vivo immobilization methods relying on the completely biological production of immobilizates represent an interesting alternative to conventional carrier-based immobilization methods. This study aimed to introduce a novel immobilization strategy using in vivo-produced magnetic protein aggregates (MPAs).MethodsMPA production was achieved by expressing gene fusions of the yellow fluorescent protein variant citrine and ferritin variants, including a magnetically enhanced Escherichia coli ferritin mutant. Cellular production of the gene fusions allows supramolecular assembly of the fusion proteins in vivo, driven by citrine-dependent dimerization of ferritin cages. Magnetic properties were confirmed using neodymium magnets. A bait/prey strategy was used to attach alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) to the MPAs, creating catalytically active MPAs (CatMPAs). These CatMPAs were purified via magnetic columns or centrifugation.ResultsThe fusion of the mutant E. coli ferritin to citrine yielded fluorescent, insoluble protein aggregates, which are released upon cell lysis and coalesce into MPAs. MPAs display magnetic properties, as verified by their attraction to neodymium magnets. We further show that these fully in vivo-produced protein aggregates can be magnetically purified without ex vivo iron loading. Using a bait/prey strategy, MPAs were functionalized by attaching alcohol dehydrogenase post-translationally, creating catalytically active magnetic protein aggregates (CatMPAs). These CatMPAs were easily purified from crude extracts via centrifugation or magnetic columns and showed enhanced stability.DiscussionThis study presents a modular strategy for the in vivo production of MPAs as scaffold for enzyme immobilization. The approach eliminates the need for traditional, expensive carriers and simplifies the purification process by leveraging the insoluble nature and the magnetic properties of the aggregates, opening up the potential for novel, streamlined applications in biocatalysis.
Changes functional prediction of ear canal flora in chronic bacterial otitis externa
Authors: Duan Tingting , Li Zhiqun , Han Xiaoyong , Hong Qichao , Yang Yunan , Yan Jinren , Xing Chengliang 
Published: October 2024

ObjectiveTo investigate ear canal microflora’s structure, composition and function in patients with chronic bacterial otitis externa.MethodsA case-control study design method was used to collect the ear canal secretions from 14 patients with chronic bacterial external otitis (CB group) and 14 healthy controls (H group) treated in the Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery in the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University. 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing technology was used to sequence the ear canal microflora’s V3 ~ V4 region gene amplification products in the participating population. The α diversity of ear canal microflora in 2 groups was analyzed. Based on the weighted Unifrac distance, principal coordinate analysis was performed to compare the β diversity of ear tract microflora between the two groups. The differences in ear microflora at phylum and genus levels were analyzed. PICRUSt2 function prediction and BugBase phenotype prediction were also performed.Resultsα diversity analysis showed that the diversity and richness of auricular microflora in the CB group were significantly lower than those in the H group. β diversity analysis showed that there were some differences between the two groups. At the phylum level, the relative abundance of Bdellovibrionota, Campylobacterota, and WPS-2 in the microbiota of patients in the CB group was significantly lower than that in the H group, and the differences were statistically significant. At the genus level, the relative abundance of Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, Pelomonas, Sphingomonas, Bradyrhizobium, Brevundimonas, Enhydrobacter, Actinomyces, Paracoccus and Chryseobacterium in the ear canal of Group H is significantly higher than that of Group CB. Functional prediction of PICRUSt2 suggests that amino acid biosynthesis and bacterial microbiota may be related. In BugBase phenotypic prediction, the contribution of aerobic phenotype in group CB was significantly lower than that in group H.ConclusionThe diversity and abundance of the ear canal flora of patients with chronic bacterial otitis externa were significantly lower than those of the healthy population, and their bacterial colony structure was significantly altered. Dysbiosis of the ear canal flora may be an important cause of chronic bacterial otitis externa.
Target antigen screening and development of a multi-component subunit vaccine against Mycoplasma synoviae in chickens
Authors: Sun Xiaomei , Deng Mingyong , Cheng Chuxing , Zhao Ya , Liu Zuqing , Yang Yu , Xu Qiaoxia , Yao Rong , Hu Min , Jin Meilin , Kang Chao 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionMycoplasma synoviae (MS) is a globally important avian pathogen causing infectious synovitis and respiratory diseases in poultry, leading to significant economic losses. Despite advances in vaccine development, a commercially viable subunit vaccine against MS remains elusive.MethodsWe sequenced whole genomes of six clinical MS strains isolated from different Chinese provinces. Common genes were analyzed using Biopython software, identifying those with high copy numbers in virulent strains and shared among all strains. Vaxign2 and IEDB Antibody Epitope Prediction were used to analyze protein properties. We assessed immune protective effects of candidate proteins and developed a multivalent subunit vaccine.ResultsTen candidate vaccine proteins were initially selected. A multivalent subunit vaccine composed of MSPB, Ppht, Cfba, and EF-G displayed the best protective effect. The optimal immunization dosage was 20μg, with each protein accounting for 25%. The immune production period was determined to be 28 days post-first immunization, lasting 180 days. The immune protection rate against highly virulent strains reached 90%∼100%.DiscussionThis study provides a new approach for screening vaccine antigens and develops an effective candidate vaccine for MS prevention. The multivalent subunit vaccine shows promising results in protecting against MS infections, potentially offering a solution to reduce economic losses in the poultry industry.
The correlation between stable angina and inflammatory factors and blood lipids: a case-control study
Authors: Xiang Lei 
Published: October 2024

ObjectiveIn this study, we aimed to compare the levels of inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, CRP; procalcitonin, PCT) and blood lipids (total cholesterol, TC; triglyceride, TG; high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, HDL-C; low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, LDL-C) between patients with stable angina and control group, and to explore the correlation between these parameters and the severity and prognosis of stable angina.MethodsWe retrospectively selected 113 patients with stable angina and 128 control group from the medical record system, and compared their inflammatory factors and blood lipids. We also assessed the severity of angina using the Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) classification and followed up the patients for 1 year to record any cardiovascular events.ResultsWe found that patients with stable angina had significantly higher levels of CRP, TC, TG, and LDL-C, and lower levels of HDL-C than control group. Moreover, CRP, TC, TG, and LDL-C were positively correlated with the severity of angina, while HDL-C was negatively correlated. During the follow-up period, 37 patients with stable angina experienced cardiovascular events, and they had higher levels of CRP, TC, TG, and LDL-C, and lower levels of HDL-C than those who did not.ConclusionOur study suggests that inflammation and dyslipidemia are closely related to stable angina, and that inflammatory factors and blood lipids can be used as indicators of the severity and prognosis of stable angina.
A nonlinear inversion method for Young’s modulus and shear modulus based on the exact Zoeppritz equations
Authors: Cheng Yao , Song Sha , Li Dan 
Published: October 2024

IntroductionYoung’s modulus and shear modulus are essential mechanical parameters for evaluating subsurface rocks, playing a pivotal role in the exploration and development of unconventional resources. Young’s modulus indicates the brittleness of the reservoir, while shear modulus determines the ease of fracturing rock layers.MethodsTraditional methods estimate these moduli through indirect calculations and approximate expressions, which are prone to cumulative errors and rely on multiple assumptions, reducing inversion accuracy. This paper presents a direct inversion method for acquiring of Young’s modulus and shear modulus using the exact Zoeppritz equations, integrated within a Bayesian framework for pre-stack inversion. The quantum particle swarm optimization (QPSO) algorithm is introduced to achieve a nonlinear solution to the objective function.ResultsTests on synthetic and actual field data demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method, yielding more accurate inversion results compared to traditional methods.DiscussionThese findings provide valuable insights for predicting reservoir brittleness and characterizing reservoirs in unconventional shale gas exploration and development.
Causal associations between the insulin-like growth factor family and sarcopenia: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Jili , Chen Meng , Xia Xin , Wang Zhaolin , Wang Yanqin , Xi Ling 
Published: October 2024

ObjectiveInsulin-like growth factor (IGF) is closely associated with sarcopenia, yet the causal relationship of this association remains unclear. This study aims to explore the potential causal relationship between members of the IGF family and sarcopenia from a genetic perspective through bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using two-sample datasets.MethodsFive genetically predicted factors of the IGF family (IGF-1, IGF-1R, IGF-2R, IGFBP-3, IGFBP-7) as one sample, while four relevant features of sarcopenia (low hand grip strength, appendicular lean mass, whole body fat-free mass, and walking pace) as another sample, in conducting a two-sample MR analysis.ResultsThe forward MR results of the relationship between IGF and sarcopenia showed that elevated levels of IGF-1 reduced the risk of low hand grip strength (OR = 0.936, 95% CI=0.892-0.983, P = 0.008) and increased appendicular lean mass of the extremities and whole body fat-free mass (OR = 1.125, 95% CI=1.070-1.182,P = 0.000; OR =1.076, 95% CI=1.047-1.106, P=0.000), reduced the risk of sarcopenia. Elevated IGF-1R also favored an increase in whole body fat-free mass (OR=1.023, 95% CI=1.008-1.038, P =0.002), and the appendicular lean mass trait was more pronounced with elevated IGFBP-3 and IGFBP-7 (OR=1.034, 95% CI=1.024-1.044, P =0.000; OR=1.020, 95% CI=1.010-1.030, P=0.000). Inverse MR results of the effect of sarcopenia on IGF showed that decreased hand grip strength may elevate IGF-1 levels (OR=1.243, 95% CI=1.026-1.505,P =0.027), whereas improvements in appendicular lean mass, whole body fat-free mass traits, and increased walking pace decreased IGF-1 levels (OR=0.902, 95% CI: 0.877-0.927, P = 0.000; OR=0.903, 95% CI=0.859-0.949,P = 0.000; OR=0.209, 95% CI=0.051-0.862,P = 0.045). Also decreased hand grip strength may elevate IGF-1R levels (OR=1.454, 95% CI=1.108-1.909, P =0.007), and appendicular lean mass stimulated high expression of IGFBP-1 (OR=1.314, 95% CI=1.003-1.722, P =0.047). Heterogeneity and pleiotropy were not detected in all results, and the results were stable and reliable.ConclusionThere is a bi-directional causal association between IGF family members and the risk of sarcopenia, which provides a more adequate basis for early biological monitoring of sarcopenia and may provide new targets for early intervention and treatment of sarcopenia.