Patterning Technique Research Articles

Diabetes in India's North East Study: Prevailing Insulin Usage and Insulin Injection Practices amongst Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients.

Insulin therapy is mostly advised in patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, wide variation exists in insulin practice and usage across the Indian geography. In this cross-sectional study, a retrospective audit of the medical records of T2DM patients who were receiving insulin and attending an urban referral clinic in Northeast India during the period from 2006 to 2017 was conducted to analyze the insulin utilization pattern and injection technique variation. A total of 1,454 patients were included, 60% were male and 40% were female. At presentation, the mean duration of T2DM was 12.13 (7.45) years. Insulin with or without oral anti-diabetic (OADs) was received by 52.27% and 47.73% of patients, respectively. The majority (62.93%) used a pen device for insulin administration. The patient-reported reasons for insulin therapy initiation were OAD failure (33.15%), glucotoxicity (30.26%) and diabetesassociated complications (20.36%). The mean ± standard deviation (SD) total daily dose (TDD) of insulin was 33.05 ± 17.09 (0.53 ± 0.30 units/kg/day). The breakup for the number of injection(s) per day was one (234,16.09%), two (970,66.71%), three (166,11.42%), four (78, 5.36%), and five (6, 0.41%). The majority (67.88%) used premixed insulin, while 10.90% used basal insulin alone. Compared to those without lipohypertrophy (LH), patients with LH were less likely to rotate the site of injection (0.85 vs 17.90%; p = 0.000), space the injections (10.71 vs 23.91%; p = 0.000), injected less often in correct site (7.81 vs 29.0%; p = 0.000), more likely to use wrong angles (10.08 vs 22.73%; p = 0.000) and reuse the needles (5.63 vs 14.86%; p = 0.000). Also, 34.87% of patients were not storing their insulin device at the right temperature and 8.87% experienced at least one episode of a hypoglycemic event. This audit depicts important attributes of current injection practices amongst T2DM patients on insulin and suggests the possible benefits of adopting correct practices for avoiding complications such as LH and hypoglycemia.

Synthesis of Linear Sparse Array Using DNN-Based Machine-Learning Method

In this paper, a deep neural network (DNN)-based machine learning (ML) approach is presented to synthesize linear sparse arrays (LSAs). Due to the powerful fitting capability of neural networks, a DNN framework is established to map the relation between the desired array pattern and LSA geometry. In this manner, the array synthesis is accomplished by training a proper DNN that can generate the desired LSA geometry. To obtain better training, the density tapering (DT) technique is introduced to the training process as the prior domain knowledge to specify the varying boundaries of each element in the LSA. Consequently, an efficient DT-assisted DNN (D-DNN) synthesis method is developed. The proposed D-DNN method has the ability to simultaneously optimize the element positions and excitations, and directly constrain the inter-element spacings. Furthermore, by introducing the active element pattern (AEP) technique, the presented method can synthesize both ideal arrays and arrays with mutual coupling. Numerical results of a wide variety of synthesis scenarios are presented to demonstrate the validity, efficiency, and flexibility of the proposed method.

Sequence-Encoded Differences in Phase Separation Enable Formation of Resilin-like Polypeptide-Based Microstructured Hydrogels.

Microstructured hydrogels are promising platforms to mimic structural and compositional heterogeneities of the native extracellular matrix (ECM). The current state-of-the-art soft matter patterning techniques for generating ECM mimics can be limited owing to their reliance on specialized equipment and multiple time- and energy-intensive steps. Here, a photocross-linking methodology that traps various morphologies of phase-separated multicomponent formulations of compositionally distinct resilin-like polypeptides (RLPs) is reported. Turbidimetry and quantitative 1H NMR spectroscopy were utilized to investigate the sequence-dependent liquid-liquid phase separation of multicomponent solutions of RLPs. Differences between the intermolecular interactions of two different photocross-linkable RLPs and a phase-separating templating RLP were exploited for producing microstructured hydrogels with tunable control over pore diameters (ranging from 1.5 to 150 μm) and shear storage moduli (ranging from 0.2 to 5 kPa). The culture of human mesenchymal stem cells demonstrated high viability and attachment on microstructured hydrogels, suggesting their potential for developing customizable platforms for regenerative medicine applications.

Investigation of wet etching technique for selective patterning of ferroelectric zirconium-doped hafnium oxide thin films for high-frequency electronic applications

This paper presents the area-selective wet etching (ASWE) method as a novel approach to have a selective patterning of a 6.8 nm-thick zirconium-doped hafnium oxide (HZO) thin film, to improve the performance of a metal ferroelectric metal (MFM)-like structure. According to the electromagnetic simulations of microwave phase shifters with patterned HZO thin films, it is underlined the importance to have selectively targeted areas covered with HZO instead of full-coverage wafers, to gain a further increase in the microwave performance of low-voltage tunable high-frequency components. The impact of the ASWE method on the morpho-structural properties was studied using various investigation tools in a non-destructive manner. X-ray reflectivity (XRR) has been employed at different immersion times, up to 120 s. Based on the extended Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis, as well as from the simulation of the experimental curves in the framework of parallel-tempering algorithm, the determination of the etching rate became possible. X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) clearly indicated the complete removal of HZO after etching processes at 180 s. The method is fast, reliable, and low-cost, thus filling the actual gap in providing the necessary ferroelectric thin films exclusively in selected areas of interest.

Graphene quantum dots functionalized Ce-ZnO nanofibers with enriched oxygen vacancy sites morphology to improve the efficiency of selective electrochemical detection of Hg (II)

Herein, GQD functionalized Ce-ZnO hybrid nanofibers (GQD/Ce-ZnO NFs) towards selective Hg2+ ion detection through DPV technique was investigated. The hybrid NFs were synthesized via a facile electrospinning process and their physical properties were investigated through XRD, SEM-EDS, HR-TEM with SAED pattern, XPS, UV-DRS, and ESR techniques. Notably, the plane value, phase recognition, and purity of the GQD/Ce-ZnO NFs were examined through XRD analysis. The chemical states, chemical composition, and weight percentage of the elements were examined by the XPS and EDS analysis. Similarly, the width of the hybrid NFs and structural morphology were elucidated through SEM and HR-TEM analysis. The existence of oxygen vacancies (vo) was verified using UV-DRS and ESR techniques. The electrochemical characteristics of GQD/Ce-ZnO NFs-modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was investigated using diverse electrochemical methodologies like cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). Remarkably, DPV studies depict that GQD/Ce-ZnO NFs modified GCE achieved high anodic peak current 3.48 × 10−4 A upon successive addition of Hg2+ (0.1–100 μM). The anodic peak current was directly proportional to the mercury ions concentration throughout a wide range of 0.1 × 10−6 to 100 × 10−6 M with a LOD of 267 nM in an optimized experimental condition. The GQD/Ce-ZnO NFs modified GCE showed remarkable reproducibility, with an RSD value of 1.81 %. Additionally, it maintained a strong current retention rate of 71.5 % over 12 days, indicating commendable long-term stability.

Evaluation of the earthquake monitoring network in Taiwan

In this work, we perform an evaluation of the coverage of the earthquake monitoring network of Taiwan. The capability of a general network is a function of an adequate number of optimally distributed nodes. For this case study, the evaluation is performed with a statistical approach which includes descriptive spatial statistics in combination with point pattern techniques. The spatial distribution of the nodes of the earthquake monitoring network is analyzed in comparison with the distribution of seismicity, completeness magnitude, active seismogenic sources, seismic hazard, and population distribution. All these data can be put in relationship with the objectives of an earthquake monitoring network; therefore, they can be used, in turn, to retrieve information about the consistency of the network itself. In particular, we investigate the “Real-time Seismic Monitoring Network” and the “Strong-Motion Earthquake Observation Network,” each one characterized by its own objectives, and therefore respectively compared with external information related to their purposes such as seismicity, seismogenic sources, seismic hazard, and population distribution. This simple and reliable approach reveals the high quality of the networks established in Taiwan. In general, it is able to provide quantitative information on the coverage of any type of network, identifying possible critical areas and addressing their future development.

HYALURONIC ACID USING THE “FERN PATTERN TECHNIQUE” TECHNIQUE - SLEEP WRINKLES TREATMENT

The skin, due to its protective role, suffers from exogenous factors (ultraviolet radiation, pollution and trauma) and endogenous factors (endocrine-metabolic diseases, alcohol and tobacco use), a sequence of functional alterations and/or structural problems that could harm its integrity, leading to dyschromia, dehydration, loss of elasticity and microvascular alterations. Wrinkles are an indicator of facial aging, with fault lines occurring in the skin, due to skin distortions resulting from facial expression or mechanical movements and compressions during sleep. Expression and sleep wrinkles differ in etiology, location and anatomical pattern. The skin during sleep undergoes compression, shear and tension forces that act on the face when we are in lateral or prone sleeping positions. Hyaluronic acid, since the 1990s, has been employed as a favorable temporary filler option for facial augmentation and for the regulation of various biological processes, such as skin repair, wound healing, tissue regeneration, reaching the prominent place regarding the treatment of wrinkles. This work aims to report a case of treatment of sleep wrinkles, in a female patient, only treated with fillers based on hyaluronic acid, with the “Fern Pattern Technique” technique with evolution of 2 years and with a single application.

Nanoscale Vector Magnetometry with a Fiber‐Coupled Diamond Probe

AbstractA nanoscale vector magnetometer is demonstrated by integrating a microfabricated diamond probe with a nanopillar on top of a single‐mode optical fiber. Based on the recently developed self‐aligned patterning techniques, ≈80 nitrogen vacancies are concentrated at a 100 nm2 area at the center of nanopillars to maximize the excitation and collection efficiencies. The spatial resolution of such a fiber‐coupled diamond magnetometer can reach 100 nm for the first time with a sensitivity of 11.27 µT/ for DC magnetic field sensing. In addition, the probe can provide deterministic oriented diamond nanopillars for simplified vector magnetometry. This fiber‐coupled diamond probe is applied to demonstrate the magnetic field imaging of charged electrodes in a confined box. These results mark a decisive step toward fiber‐based applications with nanoscale vector magnetometry capabilities.

Investigating wet chemical oxidation methods to form SiO2 interlayers for self-aligned Pt-HfO2-Si gate stacks

Self-aligned metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) capacitors are studied with several low-temperature, wet chemical silicon dioxide (SiO2) interlayers to understand their impact on electrical performance. Self-aligned MOS capacitors are fabricated with a bottom-up patterning technique that uses a poly(methyl methacrylate) brush and dopant-selective KOH etch combined with area-selective atomic layer deposition of hafnium dioxide (HfO2) and Pt. The wet chemical pretreatments used to form the SiO2 interlayer include hydrofluoric acid (HF) etch, 80 °C H2O, and SC-2. Capacitance-voltage measurements of these area-selective capacitors exhibit a HfO2 dielectric constant of ∼19, irrespective of pretreatment. After a forming gas anneal, the average interface state density decreased between 1.8 and 7.5 times. The minimum observed Dit is 1 × 1011 eV−1 cm−2 for the HF-last treatment. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy shows an increase in stoichiometric SiO2 in the interfacial layer after the anneal. Additional carbon is also observed; however, comparison with capacitors fabricated in a nonselective process reveals minimal impact on performance.

Evaluation of marginal and internal fit of metal crowns made from wax patterns made by conventional technique and CAD CAM milling technique: An in vivo study

Introduction: Marginal and internal fit of a metal crown are very important for a successful metal crown prosthesis. This study will evaluate the marginal and internal fit of metal crowns produced from wax patterns that are formed by two different wax pattern fabrication procedures: conventional wax pattern fabrication and wax pattern milled using the computer-aided design and manufacture (CAD CAM) method. Objectives: To evaluate the marginal and internal fit of metal crowns over prepared tooth made from wax patterns made by conventional technique and CAD CAM technique. Methodology: A total of 21 participants with endodontically restored mandibular first molar will be selected. Two all-metal crowns will be made for each participant, thus 42 metal crowns in total will be made. These 42 metal crowns will be divided into two groups based on the method used to create wax patterns: metal crowns made using conventional hand-carved wax pattern technique (Group I, n=21) and metal crowns made using CAD CAM-milled wax pattern technique (Group II, n=21). Then, the marginal and internal fit of metal crowns from both groups will be compared. Expected results: It is expected that metal crowns made by CAD CAM milled wax pattern fabrication method will have better marginal and internal fit than those of conventional method. Conclusions: The clinical acceptability and success of the dental crown will be assessed by this study. Minimal marginal gap and better internal fit of all metal crown are key qualities.

Multi-Scale Structuring of CoCrMo and AZ91D Magnesium Alloys Using Direct Laser Interference Patterning

In this work, the technique of Direct Laser Interference Patterning (DLIP) was used to fabricate micrometric structures at the surface of Cobalt-Chromium-Molybdenum and AZ91D magnesium alloys. Line-like patterns with spatial periods of 5 μm were textured using an ultra-short pulsed laser (10 ps pulse duration and 1064 nm wavelength) with a two-beam interference setup. The surface topography, morphology, and chemical modifications were analysed using Confocal Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), respectively. Laser fluence and pulse overlap were varied to evaluate their influence on the final structure. Homogeneous structures were achieved for the CoCrMo alloy for every condition tested, with deeper structures (up to 0.85 μm) being achieved for higher energy levels (higher overlap and/or fluence). For high energy, sub-micrometric secondary structures, so-called LIPSS, could also be observed on the CoCrMo. The EDS analysis showed some oxidation after the laser texturing. Regarding the AZ91D alloy, deeper structures could be achieved (up to 2.5 μm), but more melting and oxidation was observed, forming spherical oxide particles. Nonetheless, these results bring new perspectives on the fabrication of microtextures on the surface of CoCrMo and AZ91D using DLIP.

Microfabrication Process Development for a Polymer-Based Lab-on-Chip Concept Applied in Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroelectrochemistry.

Micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) combining sensing and microfluidics functionalities, as are common in Lab-on-Chip (LoC) devices, are increasingly based on polymers. Benefits of polymers include tunable material properties, the possibility of surface functionalization, compatibility with many micro and nano patterning techniques, and optical transparency. Often, additional materials, such as metals, ceramics, or silicon, are needed for functional or auxiliary purposes, e.g., as electrodes. Hybrid patterning and integration of material composites require an increasing range of fabrication approaches, which must often be newly developed or at least adapted and optimized. Here, a microfabrication process concept is developed that allows one to implement attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and electrochemistry on an LoC device. It is designed to spatially resolve chemical sensitivity and selectivity, which are instrumental for the detection of chemical distributions, e.g., during on-flow chemical and biological reaction chemistry. The processing sequence involves (i) direct-write and soft-contact UV lithography in SUEX dry resist and replication in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers as the fluidic structure; (ii) surface functionalization of PDMS with oxygen plasma, 3-aminopropyl-triethoxysilane (APTES), and a UV-curable glue (NOA 73) for bonding the fluidic structure to the substrate; (iii) double-sided patterning of silicon nitride-coated silicon wafers serving as the ATR-FTIR-active internal reflection element (IRE) on one side and the electrode-covered substrate for microfluidics on the back side with lift-off and sputter-based patterning of gold electrodes; and (iv) a custom-designed active vacuum positioning and alignment setup. Fluidic channels of 100 μm height and 600 μm width in 5 mm thick PDMS were fabricated on 2" and 4" demonstrators. Electrochemistry on-chip functionality was demonstrated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) of redox reactions involving iron cyanides in different oxidation states. Further, ATR-FTIR measurements of laminar co-flows of H2O and D2O demonstrated the chemical mapping capabilities of the modular fabrication concept of the LoC devices.

Creating liquid crystal microdroplet arrays for multiplexed sensing by spatially-controlled molecular patterning

In this study, we presented a spatially-controlled molecular patterning technique to prepare liquid crystal (LC) microdroplet arrays on glass substrates. This technique utilizes an oxygen plasma activated PDMS stamp to remove the pre-coated dimethyloctadecyl 3-(trimethoxysilyl) propyl ammonium chloride (DMOAP) molecules from glass substrates, producing a surface with complementary patterns and specific hydrophobicity. When LC molecules are introduced onto this produced molecular pattern, a LC microdroplet array with uniform droplet size and positional order is formed. By using the LC microdroplet array doped with a Hg2+ selective ligand, the lowest detectable concentration of Hg2+ is 200-fold lower than that of conventional LC-based sensors. In addition, multiplexed detection of Hg2+, Al3+, Fe3+ and pH value in real water samples with a high recovery rate (∼100%) was demonstrated by using the LC microdroplet arrays doped with different molecular probes. Due to the specific arrangement of the LC microdroplet arrays, the collected optical signal of LC microarrays can be transformed into numerical symbols. The developed spatially controlled molecular patterning technique could be used to prepare highly uniform LC microdroplet arrays with consistent optical signals, providing a simple method to prepare the LC-based sensing platforms with improved sensing performance.

Closed Reduction Technique for Acetabular Fractures with Femoral Head Protrusion and Concomitant Superolateral Impaction: A Case Report.

Closed reduction of acetabular fractures with femoral head protrusion and superolateral femoral head impaction may be challenging because the intact acetabular roof may block anatomic reduction with traditional maneuvers. We report the use of a 5-step technique for this unique pattern: medializing force to disengage the femoral head, axial traction to clear the intact ilium, lateralizing force to center the head underneath the acetabular roof, confirmation of femoral head stability, and skeletal traction placement. Acetabular fractures with femoral head protrusion and concomitant superolateral impaction may be reduced with an initial medializing force followed by axial and lateralizing forces.

Oncoplastic Breast Reconstruction for Large Pediatric Breast Tumors: A Case Series.

Large breast fibroadenomas in pediatric females may cause discomfort, asymmetry, and psychological stress, and patients may elect for surgical excision. There are no criteria for reconstruction after the excision of these masses, and the research is limited in describing oncoplastic techniques in pediatric fibroadenoma excision. Nononcoplastic techniques, such as mastectomy with implant or flap reconstruction, have been used for pediatric fibroadenoma excision reconstruction. Oncoplastic techniques using Wise pattern or circumareolar incisions have shown to have efficacious outcomes. In addition, pediatric females undergoing breast surgery risk long-term complications such as continued breast asymmetry due to further breast growth, nipple and breast hypoesthesia, and future breastfeeding difficulty. This case series describes the oncoplastic techniques used for large benign mass excision and reconstruction of 3 pediatric females. A Wise pattern technique was used for all 3 patients, and 2 underwent a free-nipple graft. Oncoplastic techniques for pediatric breast mass excision provide satisfactory aesthetic outcomes with minimal surgical morbidity. Further research assessing the long-term effects of pediatric breast mass excision and reconstruction would be beneficial.

Exploring customers’ values from subscribing to a streaming service - The case of Netflix

Streaming services (music, movies) via the Internet has changed the entertainment habits of Vietnamese significantly and has a huge potential to develop. The penetration rate of video streaming services was 5.2% and it has been rising to reach roughly 7.4% by 2025. The competition in this service is also increasing with the participation of many domestic and international competitors, such as iFlix, Apple TV, FPT Play, and Zing TV. The purpose of this study is to explore the values of users when subscribing to one streaming service. The research context employs Netflix service provider to collect data with the following objectives: (1) to identify attributes of Netflix from the perceptions of users; (2) to identify the links between these attributes and personal values of users through consequences; and (3) to propose managerial implications for streaming service providers to attract more subscribers. The paper employs soft-laddering interviews to collect data from 24 respondents and is based on means-end chain theory. The research findings have explored 17 Attributes (A), 29 Consequences (C), and 08 Values (V). The extended association pattern technique APT is used to analyze data and Hierarchical Value Map (HVM) is constructed to show all A-C-V linkages. Finally, managerial implications are proposed to service providers to improve their services.

New Dimension of Lacquered Work

Thai artwork Kammalor patterns (Lacquered Work) are the national art of Thailand that indicate the prosperity of culture that shows Thai identity. Handicrafts in Thai art, therefore, represent a skill that is exquisite, delicate, and tactful. In the midst of the contemporary social trend, social changes in art are diverse in commercial art. There are modifications and developments of works of art. Making the art market, the addiction to commercial art has an alternative channel for people to consume art in a variety of ways and more freely. The result of this creative research, researchers study and collect data. The knowledge from theory and practice in fine arts, surreal art creation, contemporary Thai painting style, analysis of techniques and creative processes from Thai techniques, a black and gold lacquered pattern technique and ancient lacquered patterns, including materials to create works that are even more difficult to find nowadays. The process combines techniques, processes and styles from Vietnamese lacquered works, such as techniques for inlaying materials onto works, using materials from fishbones, crab shells and shells together with mixing techniques on ceramic works from technique Raku firing (The Art of Raku Firing) using the Kintsugi fusion technique in the form of mixed media creations. The result of creating this work will show emotional aesthetics, a feeling that reflects imagination in creating works from inspiration in the fishery profession and the concept that the researcher does not rely on surreal art, which emphasizes the transfer of stories through creativity, symbolic shape display, and artistic visual elements that modified new attitudes through conservative Thai art forms to reflect the image of Thai art in the "New Dimension of Kammalor" series for society in the 21st century to remain sustainable in the future.

Nonconformal Electrochemical Memristor through Vapor Phase Polymerization of Pyrrole

A nonvolatile organic synaptic memristor was fabricated utilizing a vapor phase polymerization technique for synthesizing polypyrrole. This synaptic memristor employed a bottom synaptic electrode in order to “read” the device’s conductance, termed the synaptic weight of this neuromorphic-capable device. Through a programming pulse of +1 V amplitude and a 1 s duration to the “writing” electrode, or top synaptic electrode, a resolution of 0.245 μS occurs per change for each programmed state. This organic synaptic memristor consumes a minimum programming power of 4.16 fJ mm–2 and can be further decreased via advanced patterning and layer deposition techniques. Operational applications are demonstrated for this organic synaptic memristor, including Boolean algebra (AND, NAND, OR, and NOR logic gates), as well as abacus calculations (addition, subtraction, and division).

Liquid-Metal-Assisted Synthesis of Patterned GaN Thin Films for High-Performance UV Photodetectors Array.

GaN's outstanding physical characteristics allow for a wide range of applications in numerous industries. Although individual GaN-based ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors are the subject of in-depth research in recent decades, the demand for photodetectors array is rising as a result of advances in optoelectronic integration technology. However, as a prerequisite for constructing GaN-based photodetectors array, large-area, patterned synthesis of GaN thin films remains a certain challenge. This work presents a facile technique for pattern growing high-quality GaN thin films for the assembly of an array of high-performance UV photodetectors. This technique uses UV lithography, which is not only very compatible with common semiconductor manufacturing techniques, but also enables precise patterning modification. A typical detector has impressive photo-response performance under 365nm irradiation, with an extremely low dark current of 40 pA, a high Ilight /Idark ratio over 105 , a high responsivity of 4.23 AW-1 , and a decent specific detectivity of 1.76 × 1012 Jones. Additional optoelectronic studies demonstrate the strong homogeneity and repeatability of the photodetectors array, enabling it to serve as a reliable UV image sensor with enough spatial resolution. These outcomes highlight the proposed patterning technique's enormous potential.

Energy Savings in Elevators by Using a Particular Permanent-Magnet Motor Drive

This paper presents the energy savings achieved by using a particular three-phase permanent-magnet motor drive control strategy in an elevator application. The proposed control methodology, based on a particular variable-amplitude variable-frequency voltage control pattern technique implemented in a permanent-magnet motor, is compared to a standard induction motor elevator case. By adopting appropriate simultaneous changes in the amplitude and frequency of the motor voltage, high speeds can be attained in conjunction with smooth starting and stopping actions involving a reduced supply current during the respective movement of the elevator. In addition, this method exhibits a high power factor with a good driving quality. The control technique introduced achieves the levelling-off of the floor and the group movement of the system using in the programmable memory a speed pattern that is generated targeting proportionality to the position of the lift. In that respect, significant energy savings can be obtained, which, depending on the type of motor implemented, can be up to 30% compared to the conventional techniques. These improvements can be attained with the appropriate handling of the applied pulse width modulation techniques. Various simulated and experimental results are given, illustrating the respective energy savings achieved with the proposed methodology.