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A design for a millimeter wave RF probe card that removes resonance is proposed. The designed probe card optimizes the position of the ground surface and the signal pogo pins to resolve the resonance and signal loss issues that occur when connecting a dielectric socket and a PCB. At millimeter wave frequencies, the height of the dielectric socket and pogo pin matches the length of half a wavelength, allowing the socket to act as a resonator. When the leakage signal from the PCB line is coupled to the 2.9 mm high socket with pogo pins, resonance at a frequency of 28 GHz is generated. The probe card uses the ground plane as a shielding structure to minimize this resonance and radiation loss. The importance of the signal pin location is verified via measurements in order to address the discontinuity caused by field polarity switching. A probe card fabricated using the proposed technique exhibits an insertion loss performance of −8 dB up to 50 GHz and eliminates resonance. A signal with an insertion loss of −3.1 dB can be transmitted to a system-on-chip in a practical chip test.

A design for a pogo-pin probe card featuring a metallic socket is proposed to eliminate signal leakage and coupling loss in a multi-port environment. The proposed metallic pogo-pin socket includes a metal wall structure between adjacent pogo pins, ensuring complete isolation. This metal wall offers an advantage in removing coupling issues between pogo pins that can occur with typical dielectric pogo-pin sockets. The designed probe card is fabricated as a prototype and verified for its performance. Measurement results using a test through line show that coupled power is minimized, providing a low-loss transmission performance of −2.14 dB to an RF chip at 50 GHz, all within a compact size. Although the dielectric spacer used to secure the pogo pins allows for some leakage, it can maintain a low coupling performance of under −15 dB in the millimeter-wave band. The prototype probe card can deliver an RF signal to a 5G circuit with a low loss of −0.7 dB at 28 GHz and −1.9 dB at 39 GHz frequency. The designed probe card is capable of transmitting multiple RF signals to the RF system without signal distortion in a multi-port environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this present work, a highly damped deployable solar panel module was developed for application in the 3 U CubeSat. The solar panel proposed herein is effective in guaranteeing the structural safety of solar cells under a launch environment owing to the superior damping characteristics achieved using multilayered stiffeners with viscoelastic acrylic tapes. A holding and release action of the solar panel was achieved by a new version of spring-loaded pogo pin-based burn wire triggering mechanism. A demonstration model of high-damping solar panel assembly was fabricated and tested to validate the effectiveness of the design. The holding and release mechanism achieved using a pogo pin was functionally tested through solar panel deployment tests under ambient room temperature and a thermal vacuum environment. The design effectiveness and structural safety of the solar panel module were validated through qualification-level launch and in-orbit environment tests.

A design for a millimeter wave RF probe card that removes resonance is proposed. The designed probe card optimizes the position of the ground surface and the signal pogo pins to resolve the resonance and signal loss issues that occur when connecting a dielectric socket and a PCB. At millimeter wave frequencies, the height of the dielectric socket and pogo pin matches the length of half a wavelength, allowing the socket to act as a resonator. When the leakage signal from the PCB line is coupled to the 2.9 mm high socket with pogo pins, resonance at a frequency of 28 GHz is generated. The probe card uses the ground plane as a shielding structure to minimize this resonance and radiation loss. The importance of the signal pin location is verified via measurements in order to address the discontinuity caused by field polarity switching. A probe card fabricated using the proposed technique exhibits an insertion loss performance of −8 dB up to 50 GHz and eliminates resonance. A signal with an insertion loss of −3.1 dB can be transmitted to a system-on-chip in a practical chip test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CubeSats are revolutionary to the space industry and are transforming space exploration which enables the next generation of scientists and engineers to complete all phases of space missions. Deployable solar panels have been widely used for the generation of enough power in CubeSats due to their limited volume area for solar cell integration. In general, the cable cutting release mechanism have been used in 1U-3U small satellites because of its simplicity and low cost. However, this mechanism has a low constraint force and is unable to apply constraints along the in-plane and out-of-plane directions. In this study, for the improvement of the conventional cable cutting mechanism, a spring-loaded pogo pin-based nichrome burn wire holding and release mechanism (HRM) was proposed and fabricated. The pogo pin constitutes an immensely attractive function for the holding and release mechanism of solar panels because it works as an electrical interface to provide power, a separation spring to initiate the reaction force to deploy the panels, and a status switch to determine deployments. In addition, the proposed mechanism guarantees the loading capability along the in-plane and out-of-plane directions of solar panels, the synchronous release of multiple panels, and a handling simplicity that differentiates it from the conventional mechanism. The design feasibility, structural safety, and reliability of the mechanism were verified through functionality tests and launch and on-orbit environmental tests. The proposed pogo pin-based holding and release mechanism would be equally applicable for other CubeSat deployable appendages.

A spring-loaded pogo pin as a holding and release mechanism of solar panels for cube satellite applications is proposed which functions as an electrical interface, a separation spring, and a status switch. The proposed mechanism has many advantages, including an increased loading capability, negligible induced shock level, synchronous release of multiple panels, and handling simplicity during integration. A demonstration model of the mechanism was fabricated and functionally tested under various test conditions such as different input voltages, different numbers of tightened nylon wires, and different temperatures (ranging from −40°C to 70°C).

In this present work, a highly damped deployable solar panel module was developed for application in the 3 U CubeSat. The solar panel proposed herein is effective in guaranteeing the structural safety of solar cells under a launch environment owing to the superior damping characteristics achieved using multilayered stiffeners with viscoelastic acrylic tapes. A holding and release action of the solar panel was achieved by a new version of spring-loaded pogo pin-based burn wire triggering mechanism. A demonstration model of high-damping solar panel assembly was fabricated and tested to validate the effectiveness of the design. The holding and release mechanism achieved using a pogo pin was functionally tested through solar panel deployment tests under ambient room temperature and a thermal vacuum environment. The design effectiveness and structural safety of the solar panel module were validated through qualification-level launch and in-orbit environment tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CubeSats are revolutionary to the space industry and are transforming space exploration which enables the next generation of scientists and engineers to complete all phases of space missions. Deployable solar panels have been widely used for the generation of enough power in CubeSats due to their limited volume area for solar cell integration. In general, the cable cutting release mechanism have been used in 1U-3U small satellites because of its simplicity and low cost. However, this mechanism has a low constraint force and is unable to apply constraints along the in-plane and out-of-plane directions. In this study, for the improvement of the conventional cable cutting mechanism, a spring-loaded pogo pin-based nichrome burn wire holding and release mechanism (HRM) was proposed and fabricated. The pogo pin constitutes an immensely attractive function for the holding and release mechanism of solar panels because it works as an electrical interface to provide power, a separation spring to initiate the reaction force to deploy the panels, and a status switch to determine deployments. In addition, the proposed mechanism guarantees the loading capability along the in-plane and out-of-plane directions of solar panels, the synchronous release of multiple panels, and a handling simplicity that differentiates it from the conventional mechanism. The design feasibility, structural safety, and reliability of the mechanism were verified through functionality tests and launch and on-orbit environmental tests. The proposed pogo pin-based holding and release mechanism would be equally applicable for other CubeSat deployable appendages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A spring-loaded pogo pin as a holding and release mechanism of solar panels for cube satellite applications is proposed which functions as an electrical interface, a separation spring, and a status switch. The proposed mechanism has many advantages, including an increased loading capability, negligible induced shock level, synchronous release of multiple panels, and handling simplicity during integration. A demonstration model of the mechanism was fabricated and functionally tested under various test conditions such as different input voltages, different numbers of tightened nylon wires, and different temperatures (ranging from −40°C to 70°C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A prototype RF probe card is assembled to test the feasibility of Pogo-pins as robust probe tips for the automized testing of multiple-port millimeter-wave circuits. A custom-made ceramic housing machined from a low-loss dielectric holds an array of 157 Pogo-pins, each with 2.9 mm-length in fixed positions. The ceramic housing is then mounted onto a probe-card PCB for power-loss measurements on two signal-ground Pogo-pin connections arbitrarily selected from the array. The probing results on a test circuit with a simple thru-line indicate a successful power transfer with a small insertion loss of less than 0.5 dB per single Pogo-pin connection up to 25 GHz. A new probe card design using shorter Pogo-pins is being prepared to extend the operation frequency to beyond 40 GHz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Silicon Tracking System (STS) of the BM@N experiment will be based on modules with Double-Sided microstrip Silicon Detectors (DSSD) which have been initially developed for the CBM experiment at FAIR. Each module consists of a DSSD, two front-end boards with 8 ASICs each, and a set of low-mass aluminum microcables. During the module assembly the microcables are tab-bonded to the sensor and readout ASICs. The module has 1024 channels on each side of the sensor. For the quality assurance of the ultrasonic bonding process a dedicated procedure based on the noise per channel measurements with a Pogo Pin test device was developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new concept of compromise impedance match design is proposed for pogo pins with various signal-ground patterns. To begin with, the methodologies of equivalent circuit modeling for single-ended and differential pogo pins are described. A de-embedding technique is proposed to eliminate the effect of a specialized test fixture for the characterization of the pogo pins. Good agreement is found from the comparison between measured and simulated results, which validates the modeling and simulation methodologies. Then, the reflection of pogo pins with various signal-ground patterns is investigated and the optimal pin radius to pitch ratio is found to be 0.20–0.21, thereby achieving a return loss better than 15 dB for all these patterns in both single-ended and differential configurations from dc to 10 GHz. In addition, the effects of pin length are considered and a general design chart is constructed for determining the pogo pin geometry and the applicable impedance range to meet the specification on the return loss. Several compromise impedance design applications demonstrating the proposed methods are given. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A test probe is a component used to attach microchips to a semiconductor testing device. Pogo pins are one of the several types of probes available on the market. However, probes exhibit some drawbacks, such as high manufacturing costs, low test lifespan, and susceptibility to sticking. In this study, a dual-layer structure that can enhance the wear resistance and anti-sticking properties of gold (Au)-plated pogo pins, as well as overcome surface adhesion issues, is proposed. Oxygen plasma cleaning is first performed for 30 min. Subsequently, a direct current plasma of 250 W is applied to deposit a titanium (Ti) layer to enhance the adhesion of onion-like carbon (OLC) on the surface. The four thicknesses of the deposited Ti metal are 20, 30, 50, and 70 nm. Finally, extremely hard and conductive OLC with a thickness of 110 nm is deposited on the Ti/Au-plated pogo pin surface by physical vapor deposition. Results reveal that most of the area of OLC with the Ti adhesion layer remains on the substrates even after cycle testing at 200 K. Nanoindenter measurements reveal that with an increase in the Ti thickness, the probe hardness increases; in particular, at a thickness of 70 nm, the hardness is 121 % greater than that of the as-grown probe. Furthermore, under the 200 K wear test, the probe with 70 nm Ti exhibits ∼9 % reduction in surface wear in comparison with that of the as-grown probe. Finally, while the resistance of the dual-layer coated probe is greater than that of the as-grown probe at 0 K, its resistance becomes markedly less than that of the as-grown probe after undergoing a 200 K cycle test. On the basis of these results, a mechanism of adhesion, hardness, and wear resistance improvement by the OLC/Ti dual-layer structure is proposed. [Display omitted] • Intermetallic compound, TiAu 2 , formed between Ti and Au surface improves adhesion. • The OLC/Ti dual-layer pogo pins demonstrates 121 % higher hardness than the original. • Ti played a key role in enabling OLC adhesion and complete coverage on Au plating. • Wear resistance in IC testing is enhanced with dual-layer OLC/Ti film on pogo pin. • 70 nm Ti-coated probe exhibits ∼9 % less wear than the as-grown one in the 200 K test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes Agri-Snaps, an Internet of Things (IoT) agriculture monitoring system designed to improve farmers' acceptance of using IoT technology in their farm field. Agri-Snaps consists of four dedicated sensor circuit modules that integrate magnetic pogo pin connectors for easier assembly with the controller circuit module. This work investigated how such a design can enable the farmers to understand how 1) to assemble, 2) self-troubleshoot, and 3) maintain the monitoring system independently without requiring expertise on the farm site. Userexperience testing was conducted with ten participants to validate Agri-Snaps's viability. The results showed that those participants positively rated Agri-Snaps as attractive, easy to understand and assemble, exciting, and innovative compared to the typical agriculture monitoring systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although various sensors specifically developed for target analytes are available, affordable biosensing solutions with broad applicability are limited. In this study, a cost-effective biosensor for detecting human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) was developed using custom-made gold leaf electrodes (GLEs). A novel strategy for antibody immobilization on a gold surface, for the first time mediated by protein L and HER2-specific antibody trastuzumab, was examined using commercial screen-printed gold electrodes and GLEs. A self-assembled monolayer of 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA) was formed on the gold surface, which was used to covalently immobilize protein L. Further binding of trastuzumab to the protein L was employed and HER2 detection was achieved through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The HER2 detection was examined in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and supplemented cell culture medium. The modified GLEs showed good specificity and high sensitivity of HER2 detection without any enrichment steps, achieving a limit of detection (LOD) of 1 ng mL− 1 in PBS and 2.7 ng mL− 1 in cell culture medium, making the proposed immunosensor a cost-effective and sensitive solution for detection in complex biological matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have become a powerful tool in the treatment of human diseases. Currently, over 100 mAbs have received approval for therapeutic use in the US, with wide-ranging applications from cancer to infectious diseases. The predominant method of producing antibodies for therapeutics involves expression in mammalian cell lines. In the mAb production process, significant optimization is typically done to maximize antibody titres from cells grown in bioreactors. Therefore, systems that can miniaturize and automate cell line testing (e.g., viability and antibody production assays) are valuable in reducing therapeutic mAb development costs. Here we present a novel platform for cell line optimization for mAb production using digital microfluidics. The platform enables testing of cell culture samples in 6–8 μL droplets with semi-automated viability, media pH, and antibody production assays. This system provides a unique bridge between cell growth and productivity metrics, while minimizing culture volume requirements for daily testing. We propose that this technology and its future iterations has the potential to help reduce the time-to-market and development costs of antibody-producing cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is challenging for obese individuals to effectively manage their condition, as weight-loss methods require significant physical effort, lifestyle changes, and a high level of patient commitment. Gastric phase regulation and satiety are influenced by the activation of volume-dependent vagal signaling through gastromechanical receptors, which also monitor gas formation in the body. This method for stimulating the luminal cell membrane precisely activates these receptors, inducing stretch responses within the stomach and triggering a vagal reflex equivalent to mechanical distension. This study, the Buzzing Ingestible Bio-Electronic Stimulator (VIBES) pill, is an easily ingestible device that activates the body's sensors and stimulates mucosal receptors using gentle vibrations. This process promotes the production of serotonin and induces hormonal responses that mimic a satiated metabolic state. This study evaluated the effectiveness of VIBES using 109 hog meals, which resulted in significant therapeutic outcomes, including a ~40% reduction in dietary intake (P < 0.0001) and reduced weight gain (P < 0.05) compared to untreated control animals. Mechanoreceptor biology offers promising opportunities to improve dietary management for individuals with metabolic and dietary challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we present the Diverse Holding and Release Mechanism Can Satellite (DHRM CanSat) platform developed by the Space Technology Synthesis Laboratory (STSL) at Chosun University, South Korea. This platform focuses on several types of holding and release mechanisms (HRMs) for application in deployable appendages of nanosatellites. The objectives of the DHRM CanSat mission are to demonstrate the design effectiveness and functionality of the three newly proposed HRMs based on the burn wire triggering method, i.e., the pogo pin-type HRM, separation nut-type HRM, and Velcro tape-type HRM, which were implemented on deployable dummy solar panels of the CanSat. The proposed mechanisms have many advantages, including a high holding capability, simultaneous constraints in multi-plane directions, and simplicity of handling. Additionally, each mechanism has distinctive features, such as spring-loaded pins to initiate deployment, a plate with a thread as a nut for a high holding capability, and a hook and loop fastener for easy access to subsystems of the satellite without releasing the holding constraint. The design effectiveness and functional performance of the proposed mechanisms were demonstrated through an actual flight test of the DHRM CanSat launched by a model rocket. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Droplet microarrays (DMAs) leveraging wettability differences are instrumental in digital immunoassays, single-cell analysis, and high-throughput screening. This study introduces an enhanced Teflon lift-off process to fabricate hydrophilic–hydrophobic patterns on a digital microfluidic (DMF) chip, thereby integrating DMAs with DMF technology. By employing DMF for droplet manipulation and utilizing wettability differences, the automated generation of high-throughput DMAs was achieved. The volume of the microdroplets ranged from picoliters to nanoliters. For droplets with a diameter of 150 μm, the array density reached up to 1282 cm−2. We systematically investigated the influence of various DMF parameters on the formation of DMAs and applied this technique to particle distribution, achieving a single-cell isolation rate of approximately 30%. We believe that this method will be a potent tool to enhance the capabilities of DMAs and DMF technology and extend their applicability across more fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Akin to the impact that digital microelectronics had on electronic devices for information technology, digital microfluidics (DMF) was anticipated to transform fluidic devices for lab-on-a-chip (LoC) applications. However, despite a wealth of research and publications, electrowetting-on-dielectric (EWOD) DMF has not achieved the anticipated wide adoption, and commercialization has been painfully slow. By identifying the technological and resource hurdles in developing DMF chip and control systems as the culprit, we envision democratizing DMF by building a standardized design and manufacturing platform. To achieve this vision, we introduce a proof-of-concept cloud platform that empowers any user to design, obtain, and operate DMF chips (https://edroplets.org). For chip design, we establish a web-based EWOD chip design platform with layout rules and automated wire routing. For chip manufacturing, we build a web-based EWOD chip manufacturing platform and fabricate four types of EWOD chips (i.e., glass, paper, PCB, and TFT) to demonstrate the foundry service workflow. For chip control, we introduce a compact EWOD control system along with web-based operating software. Although industrial fabrication services are beyond the scope of this work, we hope this perspective will inspire academic and commercial stakeholders to join the initiative toward a DMF ecosystem for the masses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brain and gut are sensory organs responsible for sensing, transmitting, integrating, and responding to signals from the internal and external environment. In‐depth analysis of brain–gut axis interactions is important for human health and disease prevention. Current research on the brain–gut axis primarily relies on animal models. However, animal models make it difficult to study disease mechanisms due to inherent species differences, and the reproducibility of experiments is poor because of individual animal variations, which leads to a significant limitation of real‐time sensory responses. Organ‐on‐a‐chip platforms provide an innovative approach for disease treatment and personalized research by replicating brain and gut ecosystems in vitro. This enables a precise understanding of their biological functions and physiological responses. In this article, we examine the history and most current developments in brain, gut, and gut–brain chips. The importance of these systems for understanding pathophysiology and developing new drugs is emphasized throughout the review. This article also addresses future directions and present issues with the advancement and application of gut–brain‐on‐a‐chip technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photonics plays a pivotal role in propelling space exploration forward, providing innovative solutions to address the challenges presented by the unforgiving and expansive realm of outer space. Photonic-based devices, encompassing technologies such as lasers, optical fibers, and photodetectors, are instrumental in various aspects of space missions. A notable application is in communication systems, where optical communication facilitates high-speed data transfer, ensuring efficient transmission of information across vast interplanetary distances. This comprehensive review unveils a selection of the most extensively employed photonic devices within the realm of space exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new isolation structure is integrated in the test socket to reduce the crosstalk between pogo pins with various pin patterns and different signal to ground (S/G) ratios. It comprises inserted vias to shield the signal coupling and two metal planes to connect the inserted vias with the ground pogo pins. The crosstalk between pogo pins with and without the isolation structure is simulated and investigated by 3-D full wave analysis. A systematic design methodology is established to determine various structural parameters. It is found that the optimal pin radius to pitch ratio is about 0.2, thereby achieving crosstalk and reflection both smaller than -20 dB for all considered patterns from dc to 10 GHz. Experimental results are in good agreement with the simulation and both validate the proposed design. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

As a demand for electrical systems with a wide data bandwidth has increased, high-performance packages ensuring high data rates, such as low power double data rate series, have become common. The need for high-performance test sockets has also emerged to test these packages. However, a conventional pogo pin socket has a limited test bandwidth due to the parasitic components arising from its spring. On the other hand, a silicone rubber socket satisfies the wide bandwidth requirement because it has low parasitic components due to high-density conductive metal powders in an elastic silicone rubber. In this paper, we propose an RLGC equivalent circuit model of a silicone rubber socket and first experimentally verify it. The proposed model is experimentally verified in the frequency domain by comparing the insertion loss obtained from the proposed model to the measurement up to 20 GHz. The proposed model is experimentally verified in the time domain by comparing the eye diagrams obtained from the proposed model to the measurement at a data rate of 12.5 Gb/s. Also, the insertion loss of the sockets with varied height, diameter, and pitch is analyzed using the proposed model. The proposed model provides physical insight of a silicone rubber socket, and it allows to determine whether a socket is reliable for testing high performance packages in a short time. It also gives us the idea how to design a high-performance test socket. Furthermore, we discuss the current capacity and life cycle of the silicone rubber socket in terms of signal integrity as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the age of information explosion, the exponential growth of digital data far exceeds the capacity of current mainstream storage media. DNA is emerging as a promising alternative due to its higher storage density, longer retention time, and lower power consumption. To date, commercially mature DNA synthesis and sequencing technologies allow for writing and reading of information on DNA with customization and convenience at the research level. However, under the disconnected and nonspecialized mode, DNA data storage encounters practical challenges, including susceptibility to errors, long storage latency, resource-intensive requirements, and elevated information security risks. Herein, we introduce a platform named DNA-DISK that seamlessly streamlined DNA synthesis, storage, and sequencing on digital microfluidics coupled with a tabletop device for automated end-to-end information storage. The single-nucleotide enzymatic DNA synthesis with biocapping strategy is utilized, offering an ecofriendly and cost-effective approach for data writing. A DNA encapsulation using thermo-responsive agarose is developed for on-chip solidification, not only eliminating data clutter but also preventing DNA degradation. Pyrosequencing is employed for in situ and accurate data reading. As a proof of concept, DNA-DISK successfully stored and retrieved a musical sheet file (228 bits) with lower write-to-read latency (4.4 min of latency per bit) as well as superior automation compared to other platforms, demonstrating its potential to evolve into a DNA Hard Disk Drive in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The out-of-control action plan (OCAP) is crucial in the wafer probing process of semiconductor manufacturing as it systematically addresses and corrects deviations, ensuring the high quality and reliability of semiconductor devices. However, the traditional OCAP involves many redundant and complicated processes after failures occur on production lines, which can delay production and escalate costs. To overcome the traditional OCAP's limitations, this paper proposes a novel OCAP aimed at enhancing the wafer probing process in semiconductor manufacturing. The proposed OCAP integrates proactive measures such as preventive maintenance and advanced monitoring technologies, which are tested and verified through a comprehensive experimental setup. Implementing the novel OCAP in a case company's production line reduced machine downtime by over 24 h per week and increased wafer production by about 23 wafers per week. Additionally, probe test yield improved by an average of 1.1%, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed method. This paper not only explores the implementation of the novel OCAP but also compares it with the traditional OCAP, highlighting significant improvements in efficiency and production output. The results underscore the potential of advanced OCAP to enhance manufacturing processes by reducing dependency on human judgment, thus lowering the likelihood of errors and improving overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorescence flow cytometry is a powerful instrument to distinguish cells or particles labelled with high-specificity fluorophores. However, traditional flow cytometry is complex, bulky, and inconvenient for users to adjust fluorescence channels. In this paper, we present a modular fluorescence flow cytometry (M-FCM) system in which fluorescence channels can be flexibly arranged. Modules for particle focusing and fluorescence detection were developed. After hydrodynamical focusing, the cells were measured in the detection modules, which were integrated with in situ illumination and fluorescence detection. The signal-to-noise ratio of the detection reached to 33.2 dB. The crosstalk among the fluorescence channels was eliminated. The M-FCM system was applied to evaluate cell viability in drug screening, agreeing well with the commercial cytometry. The modular cytometry presents several outstanding features: flexibility in setting fluorescence channels, cost efficiency, compact construction, ease of operation, and the potential to upgrade for multifunctional measurements. The modular cytometry provides a multifunctional platform for various biophysical measurements, e.g., electrical impedance and refractive-index detection. The proposed work paves an innovative avenue for the multivariate analysis of cellular characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrospray thrusters are a promising electric micropropulsion technology which could be used to meet the propulsion needs of nanosatellites, or for fine attitude control of larger spacecraft. Multimodal propulsion is the integration of two or more propulsion modes into a system which utilizes a common propellant. Indeed, spacecraft mission simulations and models have shown that this type of multimode propulsion capacity is exciting because of the flexibility and adaptability it provides mission designers and planners. A single spacecraft would have potential to execute drastically different mission profiles, and the exact mission could even be determined post-launch. The current paper investigates a micro-propulsion system which combines a droplet and ion mode electrospray emitter into a unified multimodal system (using an ionic liquid as the common propellant for both systems). The high relative thrust droplet mode emitter was fabricated from P3 borosilicate glass while the high efficiency ion mode emitter, Carbon Xerogel dense porous substrate, was fabricated in-house. To characterize the multimodal thruster, a full beam and time-of-flight (ToF) experimental setup were developed at the RMC Advanced Propulsion and Plasma Exploration Laboratory (RAPPEL) and experiments were conducted using a custom vacuum chamber. The ion mode emitter, with a beam comprised purely of ions had an onset voltage around 1400 V with an estimated thrust performance of 0.14 μ N and specific impulse of 4040 s. For droplet mode, with a mixed beam comprised of around 17 % droplets and 83 % ions, an onset voltage of 1375 V with an estimated performance of thrust at 14 μ N and specific impulse of 140 s were measured. The prototype thruster demonstrates how various electrospray emitters could be combined into a multimodal system to provide flexibility and adaptability in providing effective thrust for small satellites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital microfluidics (DMF), is an emerging liquid-handling technology, that shows promising potential in various biological and biomedical applications. However, the fabrication of conventional DMF chips is usually complicated, time-consuming, and costly, which seriously limits their widespread applications, especially in the field of point-of-care testing (POCT). Although the paper- or film-based DMF devices can offer an inexpensive and convenient alternative, they still suffer from the planar addressing structure, and thus, limited electrode quantity. To address the above issues, we herein describe the development of a laser-induced graphene (LIG) based digital microfluidics chip (gDMF). It can be easily made (within 10 min, under ambient conditions, without the need of costly materials or cleanroom-based techniques) by a computer-controlled laser scribing process. Moreover, both the planar addressing DMF (pgDMF) and vertical addressing DMF (vgDMF) can be readily achieved, with the latter offering the potential of a higher electrode density. Also, both of them have an impressively low cost of below $1 ($0.85 for pgDMF, $0.59 for vgDMF). Experiments also show that both pgDMF and vgDMF have a comparable performance to conventional DMF devices, with a colorimetric assay performed on vgDMF as proof-of-concept to demonstrate their applicability. Given the simple fabrication, low cost, full function, and the ease of modifying the electrode pattern for various applications, it is reasonably expect that the proposed gDMF may offer an alternative choice as a versatile platform for POCT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) failure is a major reliability problem for all forms of microelectronics products. ESD protection is required for all integrated circuits (ICs). As dimension scaling-down approaches its physical limit, heterogeneous integration (HI) emerges as a main pathway towards the age beyond Moore's Law to facilitate advanced microsystem chips with extreme performance and rich functionalities. Advanced packaging is a key requirement for HI-enabled integrated systems-on-chiplets (SoIC) that require robust ESD protection solutions. This article outlines key emerging technical challenges associated with smart future SoIC microsystem superchips in the context of advanced packaging technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]