Search Results (220)

Diamond, renowned for its exceptional electrical, physical, and chemical properties, including ultra-wide bandgap, superior hardness, high thermal conductivity, and unparalleled stability, serves as an ideal candidate for next-generation high-power and high-temperature electronic devices. Among diamond-based devices, Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) have garnered significant attention due to their simple architecture and superior rectifying characteristics. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in diamond SBDs, focusing on both metal–semiconductor (MS) and metal–interlayer–semiconductor (MIS) configurations. For MS structures, we critically analyze the roles of single-layer metals (including noble metals, transition metals, and other metals) and multilayer metals in modulating Schottky barrier height (SBH) and enhancing thermal stability. However, the presence of interface-related issues such as high densities of surface states and Fermi level pinning often leads to poor control of the SBH, limiting device performance and reliability. To address these challenges and achieve high-quality metal/diamond interfaces, researchers have proposed various interface engineering strategies. In particular, the introduction of interfacial layers in MIS structures has emerged as a promising approach. For MIS architectures, functional interlayers—including high-k materials (Al₂O₃, HfO₂, SnO₂) and low-work-function materials (LaB₆, CeB₆)—are evaluated for their efficacy in interface passivation, barrier modulation, and electric field control. Terminal engineering strategies, such as field-plate designs and surface termination treatments, are also highlighted for their role in improving breakdown voltage. Furthermore, we emphasize the limitations in current parameter extraction from current–voltage (I–V) properties and call for a unified new method to accurately determine SBH. This comprehensive analysis provides critical insights into interface engineering strategies and evaluation protocols for high-performance diamond SBDs, paving the way for their reliable deployment in extreme conditions. Full article

To improve the efficiency and accuracy of microseismic event extraction from time-series data and enhance the detection of anomalous events, this paper proposes a Multi-scale Fusion Convolution and Dilated Convolution Autoencoder (MDCAE) combined with a Constraint Shape-Based Distance algorithm incorporating volatility (CSBD-Vol). MDCAE extracts low-dimensional features from waveform signals through multi-scale fusion and dilated convolutions while introducing the concept of waveform volatility (Vol) to capture variations in microseismic waveforms. An improved Shape-Based Distance (SBD) algorithm is then employed to measure the similarity of these features. Experimental results on a microseismic dataset from the 802 working faces of a mining site demonstrate that the CSBD-Vol algorithm significantly outperforms SBD, Shape-Based Distance with volatility (SBD-Vol), and Constraint Shape-Based Distance (CSBD) in classification accuracy, verifying the effectiveness of constrained time windows and volatility in enhancing performance. The proposed clustering algorithm reduces time complexity from $O\left(n^2\right)$ to $O(nlogn)$, achieving substantial improvements in computational efficiency. Furthermore, the MDCAE-CSBD-Vol approach achieves 87% accuracy in microseismic time-series waveform classification. These findings highlight that MDCAE-CSBD-Vol offers a novel, precise, and efficient solution for detecting anomalous events in microseismic systems, providing valuable support for accurate and high-efficiency monitoring in mining and related applications. Full article

In this study, a novel silicon carbide (SiC) double-trench MOSFET (DT-MOS) combined Schottky barrier diode (SBD) and MOS-channel diode (MCD) is proposed and investigated using TCAD simulations. The integrated MCD helps inactivate the parasitic body diode when the device is utilized as a freewheeling diode, eliminating bipolar degradation. The adjustment of SBD position provides an alternative path for reverse conduction and mitigates the electric field distribution near the bottom source trench region. As a result of the Schottky contact adjustment, the reverse conduction characteristics are less influenced by the source oxide thickness, and the breakdown voltage (BV) is largely improved from 800 V to 1069 V. The gate-to-drain capacitance is much lower due to the removal of the bottom oxide, bringing an improvement to the turn-on switching rise time from 2.58 ns to 0.68 ns. These optimized performances indicate the proposed structure with both SBD and MCD has advantages in switching and breakdown characteristics. Full article

Hemolytic anemias (HAs) encompasses a heterogeneous group of disorders with either congenital or acquired etiologies. We present a complex case of a 27-year-old woman with hemolytic anemia of multifactorial origin, involving both inherited RBC membrane defects and multiple autoimmune comorbidities. Genetic testing identified heterozygous variants in SPTA1 and SBDS, consistent with carrier status for hereditary elliptocytosis and Shwachman–Diamond syndrome. The patient was also diagnosed with Caspr2-positive Isaacs syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, seronegative antiphospholipid syndrome, and anti-aquaporin-4 antibody-positive optic neuritis. Despite extensive immunosuppressive and immunotherapic treatment and splenectomy, the clinical course was marked by recurrent hemolytic crises, thrombotic complications, and progressive neurological involvement, ultimately leading to death. Our experience highlights the challenges posed by the diagnosis and management of HAs, underlining the relevance of a multidisciplinary and personalized approach. Full article

This paper proposes a novel image encryption and decryption scheme, called Square Block Division-Fibonacci (SBD-Fibonacci), which dynamically partitions any input image into optimally sized square blocks to enable efficient encryption without resizing or distortion. The proposed encryption scheme can dynamically adapt to the image dimensions and ensure compatibility with images of varying and high resolutions, while it serves as a yardstick for any symmetric-key image encryption algorithm. An optimization model, combined with the Lagrange Four-Square theorem, minimizes trivial block sizes, strengthening the encryption structure. Encryption keys are generated using the direct sum of generalized Fibonacci matrices, ensuring key matrix invertibility and strong diffusion properties and security levels. Experimental results on widely-used benchmark images and a comparative analysis against State-of-the-Art encryption algorithms demonstrate that SBD-Fibonacci achieves high entropy, strong resistance to differential and statistical attacks, and efficient runtime performance—even for large images. Full article

This research investigates the integration of quantum hardware-assisted security into critical applications, including the Industrial Internet-of-Things (IIoT), Smart Grid, and Smart Transportation. The Quantum Physical Unclonable Functions (QPUF) architecture has emerged as a robust security paradigm, harnessing the inherent randomness of quantum hardware to generate unique and tamper-resistant cryptographic fingerprints. This work explores the potential of Quantum Computing for Security-by-Design (SbD) in the Industrial Internet-of-Things (IIoT), aiming to establish security as a fundamental and inherent feature. SbD in Quantum Computing focuses on ensuring the security and privacy of Quantum computing applications by leveraging the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, which underpin the quantum computing infrastructure. This research presents a scalable and sustainable security framework for the trusted attestation of smart industrial entities in Quantum Industrial Internet-of-Things (QIoT) applications within Industry 4.0. Central to this approach is the QPUF, which leverages quantum mechanical principles to generate unique, tamper-resistant fingerprints. The proposed QPUF circuit logic has been deployed on IBM quantum systems and simulators for validation. The experimental results demonstrate the enhanced randomness and an intra-hamming distance of approximately 50% on the IBM quantum hardware, along with improved reliability despite varying error rates, coherence, and decoherence times. Furthermore, the circuit achieved 100% reliability on Google’s Cirq simulator and 95% reliability on IBM’s quantum simulator, highlighting the QPUF’s potential in advancing quantum-centric security solutions. Full article

Background and objectives: Brachial plexus block is one of the most effective anesthesia and analgesia methods for upper extremity surgeries across different age groups. However, the number of studies on this block in children is insufficient. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze and discuss the efficacy and safety of ultrasound (US)- and Ultrasound with nerve stimulator (US + NS)-guided infraclavicular brachial plexus block (ICB) in pediatric patients. Materials and Method: In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the data of 240 pediatric patients admitted to our clinic between October 2020 and April 2023, 120 of whom underwent US-guided ICB and 120 who underwent US + NS-guided ICB. Results: Demographic data of both groups who underwent US and US + NS-guided ICB were similar. The mean procedure time was 6.1 ± 0.8 min for the US group and 8.31 ± 0.82 min for the US + NS group (p < 0.001). The mean operative time was 62.4 ± 11.3 min in the US group and 62.4 ± 9.5 min in the US + NS group (p = 0.73). Intraoperative and postoperative opioid and additional analgesia use and pain scores at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, and 24 h were recorded in both groups. The mean duration of the motor block (MBD) was 6.20 ± 0.95 h in the US group and 6.29 ± 0.88 h in the US + NS group (p = 0.46). The mean duration of sensory block (SBD) was 9.38 ± 2.13 h in the US group and 9.53 ± 2.05 h in the US + NS group (p = 0.38). Conclusions: In pediatric patients, US and US + NS-guided ICB applications are effective and safe in ease of application, prolonged analgesia, and low complication rates. In skilled hands, US-guided ICB can be as effective as US + NS-guided ICB. Further prospective studies with more significant patient populations are needed to validate these findings. Full article

Improving the aqueous solubility of poorly soluble pharmaceuticals is essential for accurate pharmacotoxicological testing, but the biological safety of solubilizers and hydrotropic agents used for this purpose requires careful evaluation. This study assessed the acute toxicity, physiological parameters (heart rate, claw and appendage movement), behavioral responses (swimming speed), and embryotoxicity of 15 commonly used solubilizers and hydrotropes using Daphnia magna as a biological model. Compounds included surfactants (polysorbate 20 (Tween 20), polysorbate 80 (Tween 80), sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)), sulfonated hydrotropes (sodium xylene sulfonate (SXS), sodium benzenesulfonate (SBS), sodium p-toluenesulfonate (PTS), sodium 1,3-benzenedisulfonate (SBDS)), and solubilizing solvents (dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), glycerol (GLY), propylene glycol (PDO), dimethylformamide (DMF), N,N’-Dimethylbenzamide (DMBA), N,N-Diethylnicotinamide (DENA), N,N-Dimethylurea (DMU), urea). Acute lethality was evaluated across concentration ranges appropriate to each compound group (e.g., 0.0005–0.125% for surfactants; up to 5% for less toxic solvents). Surfactants exhibited extreme toxicity, with Tween 20 and SLS causing 100% lethality even at 0.0005%, while Tween 80 induced 40–50% lethality at that concentration. In contrast, DMSO, GLY, and PDO showed low acute toxicity, maintaining normal heart rate (202–395 bpm), claw and appendage movement, and swimming speed at ≤1%, though embryotoxicity became evident at higher concentrations (≥1–2%). SXS, SBS, PTS, and SBDS displayed clear dose-dependent toxicity but were generally tolerated up to 0.05%. DMBA, DENA, and DMU caused physiological suppression, including reduced heart rate (e.g., DMBA: 246 bpm vs. control 315 bpm) and impaired mobility. Behavioral assays revealed biphasic effects for DMSO and DMBA, with early stimulation (24 h) followed by inhibition (48 h). Embryotoxicity assays demonstrated significant morphological abnormalities and developmental delays at elevated concentrations, especially for DMSO, GLY, and PDO. Overall, DMSO, GLY, PDO, SXS, and DMF can be safely used at tightly controlled concentrations in Daphnia magna toxicity assays to ensure accurate screening without solvent-induced artifacts. Full article

This work employs a deep learning method to develop a high-precision model for predicting the breakdown voltage (V_br) and forward I-V characteristics of silicon carbide Schottky barrier diodes (SiC SBDs). The model significantly reduces the testing costs associated with destructive experiments, such as breakdown voltage testing. Although the model requires a certain amount of time to establish itself, it supports linear variations in related variables once developed. A predicted model for V_br with an accuracy of up to 99% was successfully developed using 600 sets of input data after 200 epochs of training. After training for 1000 epochs, the deep learning-based model could predict not only point values like V_br but also curves, such as forward I-V characteristics, with a mean squared error (MSE) of less than 10⁻³. Our research shows the applicability and high efficiency of introducing deep learning into device characteristic prediction. Full article

Background: Segmental bone defects (SBDs) pose significant clinical challenges, often requiring complex reconstructive procedures. Degradable bone substitutes loaded with antibiotics have emerged as promising tools for infection control. However, their impact on bone healing remains uncertain. This study investigates antibiotic-loaded biodegradable scaffolds in infected defects using an in vivo rabbit model. Methods: Thirty New Zealand white rabbits were divided into three groups—antibiotic-loaded GreenBone scaffolds, non-loaded GreenBone scaffolds, and allografts. A critical-size femoral defect was surgically created and inoculated with Staphylococcus epidermidis. Radiographic evaluations were performed over 16 weeks, followed by histological and microbiological analyses. Bone union, infection rates, and callus maturation were assessed. Results: Eight rabbits were excluded for technical errors. Bone union was significantly lower in the antibiotic-loaded group (two rabbits out of seven; 28.6%) compared to the non-loaded scaffold (13 rabbits out of 15; 86.7%; p = 0.006). The antibiotic-loaded group exhibited a higher incidence of chronic osteomyelitis (100%) versus non-loaded implants (60%; p < 0.05). Histological evaluation revealed delayed bone maturation in the antibiotic-loaded group (22.2% HOES grade 3) compared to non-loaded scaffolds (69.5%; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Despite their infection-fighting potential, antibiotic-loaded biodegradable scaffolds may impair bone healing, leading to higher non-union rates and delayed maturation. These findings highlight a critical trade-off between local antibiotic therapy and bone regeneration, warranting careful clinical consideration and further research to optimize treatment strategies for infected bone defects. Full article

The development of small-molecule drugs targeting growth factors for cancer therapy remains a significant challenge, with only limited successful cases. We attempted to identify hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) inhibitors as novel anti-cancer small-molecule drugs. To identify compounds that bind to the β-chain of HGF and inhibit signaling through HGF and its receptor Met interaction, we performed a hierarchical in silico drug screen using a three-dimensional compound structure library (Chembridge, 154,118 compounds). We experimentally tested whether 10 compounds selected as candidates for novel anticancer agents exhibit inhibition of HGF activity. Compounds 6 and 7 potently inhibited Met phosphorylation in the human EHEMES-1 cell line, with IC₅₀ values of 20.4 and 11.9 μM, respectively. Molecular dynamics simulations of the Compound 6/7–HGF β-chain complex structures suggest that Compounds 6 and 7 stably bind to the interface pocket of the HGF β-chain. MM-PBSA, MM-GBSA, and FMO analyses identified crucial amino acid residues for inhibition against the HGF β-chain. By interfering with the HGF/Met interaction, these compounds may attenuate downstream signaling pathways involved in cancer cell proliferation and metastasis. Further optimization and comprehensive evaluations are necessary to advance these compounds toward clinical application in cancer therapy. Full article

This paper presents a preliminary investigation into the total dose effects and displacement damage effects on β-Ga₂O₃ Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) induced by X-rays with an average energy of 8–20 keV and 1 MeV reactor neutrons. The electrical performance of the devices before and after irradiation was evaluated through direct current (I-V) and capacitance–voltage (C-V) measurements. The results indicate that under X-ray irradiation, as the irradiation fluence increases, the forward current density, leakage current, and reverse current density of the devices increase, suggesting a progressive degradation of device performance with higher irradiation fluence. In the case of neutron irradiation, the forward current density decreases, while the leakage current and reverse current density increase with rising irradiation fluence. By employing techniques such as low-frequency noise (LFN) and deep-level transient spectroscopy (DLTS), changes in defect concentrations before and after irradiation were analyzed. It was found that the primary causes of device performance degradation are the interface defects induced by X-ray irradiation and the increased bulk defect concentration caused by neutron irradiation. These findings were further validated through two-dimensional numerical simulations using TCAD tools, providing significant theoretical insights and experimental data to enhance reliability and optimize the design of such devices. Full article

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus is a serious problem in healthcare due to its lethal severe infections and resistance to most antimicrobial agents. The number of new approved antimicrobial agents is declining, and combined with the spread of drug-resistant bacteria, it is predicted that effective antimicrobial agents against multidrug-resistant bacteria will be exhausted. We conducted in silico and in vitro discovery of novel antimicrobial small molecules targeting the SaMurB enzyme involved in cell wall synthesis in Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). We performed hierarchical structure-based drug screenings to identify compounds and their analogues using a library of approximately 1.3 million compound structures. In vitro experiments with Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis) identified three compounds (SH5, SHa6, and SHa13) that exhibit antibacterial activity. These three compounds do not have toxicity against human-derived cells. SHa13 exhibited remarkable activity (IC₅₀ value =1.64 ± 0.01 µM). The active compound was predicted to bind to the active site of SaMurB by forming a hydrogen bond with Arg188 in both R and S bodies. These data provide a starting point for the development of novel cell wall synthesis inhibitors as antimicrobial agents targeting SaMurB. Full article

In this work, the electrical properties of the Ga₂O₃ Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) using W/Au as the Schottky metal were investigated. Due to the 450 °C post-anode annealing (PAA), the reduced oxygen vacancy defects on the β-Ga₂O₃ surface resulted in the improvement in the forward characteristics of the W/Au Ga₂O₃ Schottky diode, and the breakdown voltage was significantly enhanced, increasing by 56.25% from 400 V to 625 V after PAA treatment. Additionally, the temperature dependence of barrier heights and ideality factors was analyzed using the thermionic emission (TE) model combined with a Gaussian distribution of barrier heights. Post-annealing reduced the apparent barrier height standard deviation from 112 meV to 92 meV, indicating a decrease in barrier height fluctuations. And the modified Richardson constants calculated for the as-deposited and annealed samples were in close agreement with the theoretical value, demonstrating that the barrier inhomogeneity of the W/Au Ga₂O₃ SBDs can be accurately explained using the TE model with a Gaussian distribution of barrier heights. Full article

In recent years, several studies have examined the impact of sleep-disordered breathing (SBD) on the quality of life and prognosis of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Among these disorders, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and nocturnal hypoxemia (NH) are the most prevalent and extensively studied, whereas central sleep apnea (CSA) has only been documented in recent research. The mechanisms underlying the relationship between IPF and SBDs are complex and remain an area of active investigation. Despite growing recognition of SBDs in IPF, no standardized guidelines exist for their management and treatment, particularly in a population characterized by distinct structural pulmonary abnormalities. This review outlines the pathophysiological connections between sleep-breathing disorders (SBDs) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), as well as current therapeutic options. A comprehensive literature search using PubMed identified relevant studies, confirming the efficacy of CPAP in treating severe OSA and CSA. While high-flow oxygen therapy has not been validated in this patient cohort, it may offer a potential solution for select patients, particularly the elderly and those with low compliance. Conventional oxygen therapy, however, is limited to cases of isolated nocturnal hypoxemia or mild central sleep apnea. Full article