Search Results (35)

The precise identification and non-destructive measurement of structural features and defects in semiconductor wafers are essential for ensuring process integrity and sustaining high yield in advanced manufacturing environments. Unlike conventional measurement techniques, scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) is an advanced method that provides detailed visualizations of both surface and internal wafer structures. However, in practical industrial applications, the scanning time and image quality of SAM significantly impact its overall performance and utility. Prolonged scanning durations can lead to production bottlenecks, while suboptimal image quality can compromise the accuracy of defect detection. To address these challenges, this study proposes LinearTGAN, an improved generative adversarial network (GAN)-based model specifically designed to improve the resolution of linear acoustic wafer images acquired by the breakthrough rotary scanning acoustic microscopy (R-SAM) system. Empirical evaluations demonstrate that the proposed model significantly outperforms conventional GAN-based approaches, achieving a Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR) of 29.479 dB, a Structural Similarity Index Measure (SSIM) of 0.874, a Learned Perceptual Image Patch Similarity (LPIPS) of 0.095, and a Fréchet Inception Distance (FID) of 0.445. To assess the measurement aspect of LinearTGAN, a lightweight defect segmentation module was integrated and tested on annotated wafer datasets. The super-resolved images produced by LinearTGAN significantly enhanced segmentation accuracy and improved the sensitivity of microcrack detection. Furthermore, the deployment of LinearTGAN within the R-SAM system yielded a 92% improvement in scanning performance for 12-inch wafers while simultaneously enhancing image fidelity. The integration of super-resolution techniques into R-SAM significantly advances the precision, robustness, and efficiency of non-destructive measurements, highlighting their potential to have a transformative impact in semiconductor metrology and quality assurance. Full article

In RNA-seq data analysis, condensing the gene count matrix size is pivotal for downstream investigations, particularly pathway analysis. For this purpose, harnessing machine learning attracts increasing interest, while conventional methodologies depend on p-value comparisons. In this study, 20 tissue samples from real-world cervical cancers were subjected to sequencing, followed by the application of the Mclust algorithm to delineate an optimal cluster. By stratifying tumor budding into high and low groups and quantifying the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) score to scrutinize tumor budding, we discerned 24 EMT-related genes, with 5 showing strong associations with cervical cancer prognosis. Our observations elucidate a biological flow wherein EMT, Matrix Metallopep-tidase 2 (MMP2), and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation are interconnected, ultimately leading to collagen type VI and exacerbating the prognosis of cervical cancer. The present study underscores an alternative method for selecting useful EMT-related genes by employing an appropriate clustering algorithm, thereby avoiding classical methods while unveiling novel insights into cervical cancer etiology and prognosis. Moreover, when comparing high and low tumor budding, collagen type VI emerges as a potential gene marker for the prognosis of cervical cancer. Full article

A scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) system is a common non-destructive instrument which is used to evaluate the material quality in scientific and industrial applications. Technically, the tested sample is immersed in water during the scanning process. Therefore, a robot arm is incorporated into the SAM system to transfer the sample for in-line inspection, which makes the system complex and increases time consumption. The main aim of this study is to develop a novel water probe for the SAM system, that is, a waterstream. During the scanning process, water was supplied using a waterstream instead of immersing the sample in the water, which leads to a simple design of an automotive SAM system and a reduction in time consumption. In addition, using a waterstream in the SAM system can avoid contamination of the sample due to immersion in water for long-time scanning. Waterstream was designed based on the measured focal length calculation of the transducer and simulated to investigate the internal flow characteristics. To validate the simulation results, the waterstream was prototyped and applied to the TSAM-400 and W-FSAM traditional and fast SAM systems to successfully image some samples such as carbon fiber-reinforced polymers, a printed circuit board, and a 6-inch wafer. These results demonstrate the design method of the water probe applied to the SAM system. Full article

Lymphovascular space invasion (LVSI) is the presence of tumor emboli in the endothelial-lined space at the tumor body’s invasive edge. LVSI is one of three Sedlis criteria components—a prognostic tool for early cervical cancer (CC)—essential for indicating poor prognosis, such as lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, or shorter survival rate. Despite its clinical significance, an in-depth comprehension of the molecular mechanisms or immune dynamics underlying LVSI in CC remains elusive. Therefore, this study investigated tumor-immune microenvironment (TIME) dynamics of the LVSI-positive group in CC. RNA sequencing included formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) slides from 21 CC patients, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed. Functional analysis and immune deconvolution revealed aberrantly enriched PI3K/Akt pathway activation and a heterogenic immune composition with a low abundance of regulatory T cells (Treg) between LVSI-positive and LVSI-absent groups. These findings improve the comprehension of LSVI TIME and immune mechanisms, benefiting targeted LVSI therapy for CC. Full article

Uterine cervical cancer (CC) is a complex, multistep disease primarily linked to persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV). However, it is widely acknowledged that HR-HPV infection alone cannot account for the formation and progression of CC. Emerging evidence suggests that the cervicovaginal microbiome (CVM) also plays a significant role in HPV-related CC. Certain bacteria, such as Fusobacterium spp., Porphyromonas, Prevotella, and Campylobacter, are currently being considered as potential microbiomarkers for HPV-positive CC. However, the composition of the CVM in CC is inconsistent; thus, further studies are needed. This review comprehensively discusses the complex interplay between HPV and the CVM in cervical carcinogenesis. It is postulated that the dynamic interaction between HPV and the CVM creates an imbalanced cervicovaginal microenvironment that triggers dysbiosis, enhances HPV persistence, and promotes cervical carcinogenesis. Moreover, this review aims to provide updated evidence on the potential role of bacteriotherapy, particularly probiotics, in the treatment of CC. Full article

In recent years, bone tissue engineering (BTE) has made significant progress in promoting the direct and functional connection between bone and graft, including osseointegration and osteoconduction, to facilitate the healing of damaged bone tissues. Herein, we introduce a new, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective method for synthesizing reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and hydroxyapatite (HAp). The method uses epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG) as a reducing agent to synthesize rGO (E-rGO), and HAp powder is obtained from Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus). The physicochemical analysis indicated that the E-rGO/HAp composites had exceptional properties for use as BTE scaffolds, as well as high purity. Moreover, we discovered that E-rGO/HAp composites facilitated not only the proliferation, but also early and late osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Our work suggests that E-rGO/HAp composites may play a significant role in promoting the spontaneous osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs, and we envision that E-rGO/HAp composites could serve as promising candidates for BTE scaffolds, stem-cell differentiation stimulators, and implantable device components because of their biocompatible and bioactive properties. Overall, we suggest a new approach for developing cost-effective and environmentally friendly E-rGO/HAp composite materials for BTE application. Full article

In this work, we studied the Galactic Center supermassive black hole (SMBH), Sagittarius A* (Sgr A${}^{*}$), with the KVN and VERA Array (KaVA)/East Asian VLBI Network (EAVN) monitoring observations. Especially in 13 May 2019, Sgr A${}^{*}$ experienced an unprecedented bright near infra-red (NIR) flare; so, we find a possible counterpart at 43 GHz (7 mm). As a result, a large temporal variation of the flux density at the level ∼15.4%, with the highest flux density of 2.04 Jy, is found on 11 May 2019. Interestingly, the intrinsic sizes are also variable, and the area and major-axis size show marginal correlation with flux density with ≳2 $\sigma$. Thus, we interpret that the emission region at 43 GHz follows the larger-when-brighter relation in 2019. The possible origins are discussed with an emergence of a weak jet/outflow component and the position angle change of the rotation axis of the accretion disk in time. Full article

The East Asian VLBI Network (EAVN) is an international VLBI facility in East Asia and is operated under mutual collaboration between East Asian countries, as well as part of Southeast Asian and European countries. EAVN currently consists of 16 radio telescopes and three correlators located in China, Japan, and Korea, and is operated mainly at three frequency bands, 6.7, 22, and 43 GHz with the longest baseline length of 5078 km, resulting in the highest angular resolution of 0.28 milliarcseconds at 43 GHz. One of distinct capabilities of EAVN is multi-frequency simultaneous data reception at nine telescopes, which enable us to employ the frequency phase transfer technique to obtain better sensitivity at higher observing frequencies. EAVN started its open-use program in the second half of 2018, providing a total observing time of more than 1100 h in a year. EAVN fills geographical gap in global VLBI array, resulting in enabling us to conduct contiguous high-resolution VLBI observations. EAVN has produced various scientific accomplishments especially in observations toward active galactic nuclei, evolved stars, and star-forming regions. These activities motivate us to initiate launch of the ’Global VLBI Alliance’ to provide an opportunity of VLBI observation with the longest baselines on the earth. Full article

Tumor budding (TB) is a small cluster of malignant cells at the invasive front of a tumor. Despite being an adverse prognosis marker, little research has been conducted on the tumor immune microenvironment of tumor buddings, especially in cervical cancer. Therefore, RNA sequencing was performed using 21 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded slides of cervical tissues, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed. Immune Pathway and Gene Database (IMPAGT) was generated for immune profiling. “Pathway in Cancer” was identified as the most enriched pathway for both up- and downregulated DEGs. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes Mapper and Gene Ontology further revealed the activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. An IMPAGT analysis revealed immune dysregulation even at the tumor budding stage, especially in the PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis, with a high efficiency and integrity. These findings emphasized the clinical significance of tumor buddings and the necessity of blocking the overactivation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway to improve targeted therapy in cervical cancer. Full article

Tumor budding (TB) histology has become a critical biomarker for several solid cancers. Despite the accumulating evidence for the association of TB histology with poor prognosis, the biological characteristics of TB are little known about in the context related to the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in uterine cervical cancer (CC). Therefore, this study aimed to identify the transcriptomic immune profiles related to TB status and further provide robust medical evidence for clinical application. In our study, total RNA was extracted and sequenced from 21 CC tissue specimens. As such, 1494 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the high- and low-TB groups were identified by DESeq2. After intersecting the list of DEGs and public immune genes, we selected 106 immune-related DEGs. Then, hub genes were obtained using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression. Finally, the correlation between the hub genes and immune cell types was analyzed and four candidate genes were identified (one upregulated (FCGR3B) and three downregulated (ROBO2, OPRL1, and NR4A2) genes). These gene expression levels were highly accurate in predicting TB status (area under the curve >80%). Interestingly, FCGR3B is a hub gene of several innate immune pathways; its expression significantly differed in the overall survival analysis (p = 0.0016). In conclusion, FCGR3B, ROBO2, OPRL1, and NR4A2 expression can strongly interfere with TB growth and replace TB to stratify CC patients. Full article

In this study, we report an advanced fabrication technique to develop a miniature focused needle transducer. Two different types of high-frequency (100 MHz) transducers were fabricated using the lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-0.3PT) and lithium niobate (LiNbO₃) single crystals. In order to enhance the transducer’s performance, a unique mass–spring matching layer technique was adopted, in which gold and parylene play the roles of the mass layer and spring layer, respectively. The PMN-0.3PT transducer had a 103 MHz center frequency with a −6 dB bandwidth of 52%, and a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 42 dB. The center frequency, −6 dB bandwidth, and SNR of the LiNbO₃ transducer were 105 MHz, 66%, and 44 dB, respectively. In order to compare and evaluate the transducers’ performances, an ultrasonic biomicroscopy (UBM) imaging on the fish eye was performed. The results showed that the LiNbO₃ transducer had a better contrast resolution compared to the PMN-0.3PT transducer. The fabricated transducer showed an excellent performance with high-resolution corneal epithelium imaging of the experimental fish eye. These interesting findings are useful for the future biomedical implementation of the fabricated transducers in the field of high-resolution ultrasound imaging and diagnosis purpose. Full article

Monitoring the vital signs and physiological responses of the human body in daily activities is particularly useful for the early diagnosis and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Here, we proposed a wireless and flexible biosensor patch for continuous and longitudinal monitoring of different physiological signals, including body temperature, blood pressure (BP), and electrocardiography. Moreover, these modalities for tracking body movement and GPS locations for emergency rescue have been included in biosensor devices. We optimized the flexible patch design with high mechanical stretchability and compatibility that can provide reliable and long-term attachment to the curved skin surface. Regarding smart healthcare applications, this research presents an Internet of Things-connected healthcare platform consisting of a smartphone application, website service, database server, and mobile gateway. The IoT platform has the potential to reduce the demand for medical resources and enhance the quality of healthcare services. To further address the advances in non-invasive continuous BP monitoring, an optimized deep learning architecture with one-channel electrocardiogram signals is introduced. The performance of the BP estimation model was verified using an independent dataset; this experimental result satisfied the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, and the British Hypertension Society standards for BP monitoring devices. The experimental results demonstrated the practical application of the wireless and flexible biosensor patch for continuous physiological signal monitoring with Internet of Medical Things-connected healthcare applications. Full article

The sulfur on the sulfur-assisted reduced graphene oxide (SrGO) surface provides the origin of poly(phenylene sulfide) PPS-grafting via S_NAr mechanism. In-situ polymerization from sulfur on SrGO afforded surface modification of SrGO, resulting in enhanced dispersibility in PPS. The tensile strength, electrical and thermal conductivities, and flame retardancy of PPS-coated SrGO were efficiently enhanced using highly concentrated SrGO and masterbatch (MB) for industrial purposes. Three-dimensional X-ray microtomography scanning revealed that diluting MB in the PPS resin afforded finely distributed SrGO across the PPS resin, compared to the aggregated state of graphene oxide. For the samples after dilution, the thermal conductivity and flame retardancy of PPS/SrGO are preserved and typically enhanced by up to 20%. The proposed PPS/SrGO MB shows potential application as an additive for reinforced PPS due to the ease of addition during the extrusion process. Full article

Hypothalamic hamartoma (HH) is a rare, congenital, and benign lesion of the tuber cinereum, typically presenting with central precocious puberty (CPP), gelastic seizure, and developmental delay. This study aimed to investigate CPP in HH patients and compare clinical features between before and after gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist treatment. A total of 30 HH patients under 18 years of age who visited Severance Children’s Hospital between January 2005 and May 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Fourteen patients were male (46.7%) and sixteen (53.3%) were female, with a mean age at diagnosis was4.2 ± 2.9 years. During follow-up, 24 patients (80.0%) were diagnosed with CPP, 15 patients (50.0%) had gelastic seizure, and 13 patients (43.3%) had developmental delay. The gelastic seizure was significantly associated with sessile type HH rather than pedunculated type HH (85.7% vs. 18.8%, p = 0.001). After GnRH agonist treatment, discrepancies between bone age and chronological age decreased (3.3 ± 1.3 years to 2.0 ± 1.7 years, p = 0.002). Additionally, height standard deviation score for bone age was increased, and predicted adult height increased significantly in females, while males showed an increasing trend. Clinical symptoms of HH were closely associated with the location of HH, and GnRH agonist treatment was safe and effective in the management of CPP caused by HH. Full article

The association between serum testosterone levels and type 1 diabetes (T1D), especially in adolescents and young adults, has not been fully investigated. We aimed to compare testosterone levels between adolescents/young men with T1D and controls and to determine the factors affecting testosterone levels. We enrolled 47 men with T1D and 32 controls aged 15–29 years. We evaluated anthropometric measurements, lipid profiles, diabetic complications, and levels of serum luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, hemoglobin A1c, 24-h urine albumin, insulin autoantibody, and total serum testosterone. We assessed the correlation between serum testosterone levels and clinical characteristics. Total testosterone levels were higher in T1D patients than in controls (694.6 ± 182.2 vs. 554.1 ± 147.3 ng/dL, p = 0.001), and 24-h urine albumin level positively correlated with total testosterone levels (correlation coefficient 0.415, p = 0.004). T1D patients with nephropathy showed higher total testosterone levels than those without nephropathy (778.4 ± 198.9 vs. 655.4 ± 162.5 ng/dL, p = 0.029). However, diabetic nephropathy and testosterone levels were not significantly associated after adjusting for confounders (β ± SE 77.5 ± 55.2, p = 0.169). Further longitudinal studies are imperative to confirm a causal relationship between testosterone levels and T1D. Full article