During air-gap formation in interconnects, decomposition process of the sacrificial layer induces deformation of a low-k dielectric cap layer. For analysis of ensuing structural instability, a logistic kinetics model is introduced to describe the removal process of the sacrificial layer, and finite difference method (FDM) is applied to evaluate the deformation behavior of the cap layer. The ins...

Building upon the idea that humans may be a eusocial species (i.e., rely on multigenerational and cooperative care of young, utilize division of labor for successful survival), we conjecture that suicide among humans represents a derangement of the self-sacrificial aspect of eusociality. In this article, we outline the characteristics of eusociality, particularly the self-sacrificial behavior s...

In the present set of studies, the authors examine the idea that self-sacrificial leadership motivates follower prosocial behavior, particularly among followers with a prevention focus. Drawing on the self-sacrificial leadership literature and regulatory focus theory, the authors provide results from 4 studies (1 laboratory and 3 field studies) that support the research hypothesis. Specifically...

In this work, we describe a simple 1-mask sacrificial layer process that allows us to prototype a tuneable capacitor. The process is specially optimized to procure a dual picks profile of the sacrificial layer. The geometry design and the influence of the structural material stress were considered through the finite element analysis. The FEM simulation with Ansys was used to study in detail pro...

Hydrogels can promote desirable cellular phenotype by mimicking tissue-like stiffness or serving as a gene delivery depot. However, nonviral gene delivery inside three-dimensional (3D) hydrogels remains a great challenge, and increasing hydrogel stiffness generally results in further decrease in gene delivery efficiency. Here we report a method to enhance nonviral gene delivery efficiency insid...