Integration Of Electronic Systems Research Articles

A Review of Flexible Strain Sensors Based on Natural Fiber Materials

AbstractFlexible strain sensors with outstanding stretchability and sensitivity can be widely used in medical health, smart robot, intelligent garment, man‐machine interaction, and other fields. The use of natural fibers enables a green manufacturing pathway to design strain sensors within the context of increasingly serious environmental pollution. Commercialized natural fibers, including cellulose fibers (cotton and fibrilia), protein fibers (wool and silk), and their regenerated materials (viscose and silk fibroin) exhibit low cost, easy acquisition, and degradability as the basis materials. This paper reviews the preparation methods, performances, and applications of flexible strain sensors based on these natural fibers. Cellulose and protein fibers are carbonized or coated with conductive nanomaterials to form the strain sensing network, and then, elastic polymers are used to improve the sensor strain range. Regenerated natural fiber materials can be uniformly mixed with conductive materials to form conductive composites for sensors. The strain‐sensing performances and mechanisms are analyzed and compared. Natural fiber‐based strain sensors are studied to pave the way for practical integration in electronic systems.

Artificial Intelligence Based Approach for Classification of Human Activities Using MEMS Sensors Data.

The integration of Micro Electronic Mechanical Systems (MEMS) sensor technology in smartphones has greatly improved the capability for Human Activity Recognition (HAR). By utilizing Machine Learning (ML) techniques and data from these sensors, various human motion activities can be classified. This study performed experiments and compiled a large dataset of nine daily activities, including Laying Down, Stationary, Walking, Brisk Walking, Running, Stairs-Up, Stairs-Down, Squatting, and Cycling. Several ML models, such as Decision Tree Classifier, Random Forest Classifier, K Neighbors Classifier, Multinomial Logistic Regression, Gaussian Naive Bayes, and Support Vector Machine, were trained on sensor data collected from accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer embedded in smartphones and wearable devices. The highest test accuracy of 95% was achieved using the random forest algorithm. Additionally, a custom-built Bidirectional Long-Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) model, a type of Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), was proposed and yielded an improved test accuracy of 98.1%. This approach differs from traditional algorithmic-based human activity detection used in current wearable technologies, resulting in improved accuracy.

Van der Waals Layer Transfer of 2D Materials for Monolithic 3D Electronic System Integration: Review and Outlook.

Two-dimensional materials (2DMs) have attracted a great deal of interest due to their immense potential for scientific breakthroughs and technological innovations. While some 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDC) such as MoS2 and WS2 are considered as the ultimate channel materials in unltrascaled transistors as replacements for Si, there has also been increasing interest in the monolithic 3D integration of 2DMs on the Si CMOS platform or in flexible electronics as back-end-of-line transistors, memory devices/selectors, and sensors, taking advantage of 2DM properties such as a high current driving capability with low leakage current, nonvolatile switching characteristics, a large surface-to-volume ratio, and a tunable bandgap. However, the realization of both of these scenarios critically depends on the development of manufacturing-viable high-yield 2DM layers transfer from the growth substrate to the Si, since the growth of high-quality 2DM layers often requires a high-temperature growth process on template substrates. Motivated by this, extensive efforts have been made by the 2DM research community to develop various 2DM layer transfer methods, leveraging the van der Waals transfer capability of the layer-structured 2DMs. These efforts have led to a number of successful demonstrations of wafer-scale 2D TMDC layer transfer, while 2DM-enabled template growth/transfer of some functional bulk materials such as III-V, Ge, and AlN has also been demonstrated. This review surveys and compares different 2DM transfer methods developed recently, with a focus on large-area 2D TMDC film transfer along with an introduction of 2DM template-assisted van der Waals growth/transfer of non-2D thin films. We will also briefly present an outlook of our envisioned multifunctionalities in 3D integrated electronic systems enabled by monolithic 3D integration of 2DMs and III-V via van der Waals transfer and discuss possible technology options for overcoming remaining challenges.

Improving the handover of complex trauma patients by implementing a standardised process

BackgroundPatient handover continues to be an international health priority in the prevention of patient harm. Transitioning patients from the intensive care unit (ICU) to the ward is complex, particularly for trauma patients, due to the multifaceted aspects of their care requirements as a result of multiple injuries and different speciality teams. Objectives/aimTo design, implement, and evaluate the efficacy of a standardised handover process and tool for the transfer of ICU trauma patients. MethodsA multimethod before/after study design was used. This included observations before and after an implemented transfer process and semistructured interviews with ICU and ward nurses caring for trauma patients. Comparisons were made of data before and after the intervention. ResultsEleven patient handovers were observed, and 21 nurses (11 from the ICU and 10 from the ward) were interviewed. Patients and family members were included during the handover following the intervention (n = 0/10 [0%] vs n = 4/11 [36%]) and the ward nurses were asked if they had any concerns (n = 5/10 [50%] vs n = 10/11 [91%]). Improvements in patient observations handed over were reported following the intervention. However, omissions remained in some key areas including patient introduction, patient identity, fluid balance, and allergies/alerts. Thematic analysis of interviews revealed that the new handover process was perceived advantageous by both ICU and ward nurses because of its structured and comprehensive approach. Identified future improvements included the need for hospital service managers to ensure integration of ICU and ward electronic health record systems. ConclusionPrecise, accurate, and complete handover remains a patient safety concern. Improvements were achieved using a standardised process and handover tool for the transfer of complex trauma patients. Further improvements are required to reduce the failure to hand over essential patient information.

Failure Mechanism of pHEMT in Navigation LNA under UWB EMP.

With the development of microelectronic technology, the integration of electronic systems is increasing continuously. Electronic systems are becoming more and more sensitive to external electromagnetic environments. Therefore, to improve the robustness of radio frequency (RF) microwave circuits, it is crucial to study the reliability of semiconductor devices. In this paper, the temporary failure mechanism of a gallium arsenide (GaAs) pseudomorphic high electron mobility transistor (pHEMT) in a navigation low-noise amplifier (LNA) under the jamming of ultra-wideband (UWB) electromagnetic pulses (EMP) is investigated. The failure process and failure mechanism of pHEMT under UWB EMP are elaborated by analyzing the internal electric field, current density, and temperature distribution. In detail, as the amplitude of UWB EMP increases, the output current, carrier mobility, and transconductance of pHEMT decrease, eventually resulting in gain compression. The injection experiment on LNA, which effectively verified the failure mechanism, indicates that the gain of pHEMT is suppressed instantaneously under the jamming of UWB EMP and the navigation signal cannot be effectively amplified. When UWB EMP amplitude increases to nearly 10 V, the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) carrier signal is suppressed by nearly 600 ns. Experimental results accord well with the simulation of our model. UWB EMP jamming is a new and efficient type of electromagnetic attack system based on the device saturation effect. The performance degradation and failure mechanism analysis contribute to RF reinforcement design.

STATE: A Test Structure for Rapid and Reliable Prediction of Resistive RAM Endurance

Characterizing and quantifying the endurance of Resistive RAM devices is critical to assess their reliability for integration in electronic systems. This paper proposes a novel characterization methodology for rapid detection of RRAMs reliability issues during endurance tests. A test structure consisting of an array of non-addressable RRAM memory cells with parallel connection of all the memory elements is used for this purpose. The test structure fills the gap between isolated cells and circuit level endurance tests as it combines the test speed of an isolated cell while providing at the same time data from multiple devices. Endurance tests are conducted while monitoring RRAM electrical parameters of interest for each switching cycle. Experimental results show that most studies that claimed high endurance without capturing all switching cycles, or by considering an isolated cell, lead to an overestimation of the endurance. Finally, an endurance failures mitigation scheme based on RRAM current sensing in the RESET direction is presented to improve the endurance.

Polarization-multiplexed full-space metasurface simultaneously merging with an ultrawide-angle antireflection and a large-angle retroreflection.

Multifunctional electromagnetic (EM) metasurfaces are capable of manipulating electromagnetic waves with kaleidoscopic functions flexibly, which will significantly enhance integration and applications of electronic systems. However, most known design schemes only realize the reflection or transmission functions under a specific angle range, which wastes the other half EM space and restricts wider applications of multifunctional metadevices. Herein, an encouraging strategy of broadband and wide-angle EM wavefronts generator is proposed to produce two independent functions, i.e., antireflections for transverse electric (TE) waves and retroreflection for transverse magnetic (TM) waves, which utilizes band-stop and bandpass responses of the metasurface, respectively. As a feasibility verification of this methodology, a three-layer cascaded metasurface, composed of anisotropic crossbar structures patterned on the two surfaces of a dielectric substrate with sandwiched orthogonal metal-gratings, is designed, fabricated, and measured. Both the simulated and experimental results are in good accordance with theoretical analyses. This full-space metasurface opens up a new route to multifunctional metasurfaces and will further promote engineering applications of metasurfaces.

STORAGE MANAGEMENT OF NARCOTICS AND PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS

The storage management of narcotics and psychotropic drugs is a critical aspect of pharmaceutical practice, encompassing a set of stringent guidelines and protocols designed to ensure the safety, security, and regulatory compliance of these controlled substances. This abstract provides an overview of the key considerations in the storage of narcotics and psychotropic drugs, focusing on the challenges faced by healthcare professionals, regulatory frameworks governing storage practices, and emerging technologies that contribute to enhanced storage management. The article delves into the specific requirements for storing narcotics and psychotropic drugs, emphasizing the importance of controlled environments, secure storage facilities, and robust inventory control systems. It explores the impact of temperature, humidity, and light on the stability and efficacy of these substances, highlighting the need for precise environmental monitoring and control measures. Regulatory compliance is a cornerstone of storage management, and the abstract outlines the international and national regulations that govern the handling and storage of narcotics and psychotropic drugs. It discusses the role of regulatory bodies in setting standards, conducting inspections, and enforcing compliance to prevent diversion, theft, or misuse of these controlled substances. Furthermore, the abstract addresses the challenges faced by healthcare institutions and pharmacies in balancing the need for accessibility of these medications with the imperative to maintain strict security measures. It explores best practices in designing storage facilities, implementing access controls, and training personnel to ensure a seamless yet secure workflow. As technology continues to evolve, the abstract discusses innovative solutions that contribute to efficient storage management. This includes the integration of electronic monitoring systems, automation, and data analytics to enhance real-time tracking, reduce errors, and improve overall accountability in the storage of narcotics and psychotropic drugs.

Mesoscopic sliding ferroelectricity enabled photovoltaic random access memory for material-level artificial vision system

Intelligent materials with adaptive response to external stimulation lay foundation to integrate functional systems at the material level. Here, with experimental observation and numerical simulation, we report a delicate nano-electro-mechanical-opto-system naturally embedded in individual multiwall tungsten disulfide nanotubes, which generates a distinct form of in-plane van der Waals sliding ferroelectricity from the unique combination of superlubricity and piezoelectricity. The sliding ferroelectricity enables programmable photovoltaic effect using the multiwall tungsten disulfide nanotube as photovoltaic random-access memory. A complete “four-in-one” artificial vision system that synchronously achieves full functions of detecting, processing, memorizing, and powering is integrated into the nanotube devices. Both labeled supervised learning and unlabeled reinforcement learning algorithms are executable in the artificial vision system to achieve self-driven image recognition. This work provides a distinct strategy to create ferroelectricity in van der Waals materials, and demonstrates how intelligent materials can push electronic system integration at the material level.

Optical properties of self-assembled InAs quantum dots based P–I–N structures grown on GaAs and Si substrates by Molecular Beam Epitaxy

Extensive work on InAs quantum dots grown on GaAs substrates has been reported in the literature. However, research in the use of different substrate materials such as silicon to achieve an ideal and full integration of photonic and electronic systems is still a challenge. In this work we have investigated the effect of the substrate material (Si and GaAs) and strain reducing layer on the optical properties of InAs quantum dots for possible applications in laser devices grown by Molecular Beam Epitaxy. Two InAs quantum dots structures with similar active regions grown on GaAs and Si substrates using strain reducing layer consisting of InAs QDs/6 nm In0.15Ga0.85As have been investigated. Atomic Force Microscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, and photoluminescence have been used for the characterization of the samples. We have observed a red shift of the InAs QD photoluminescence peak energy for the sample grown on Si substrate as compared to the sample grown on GaAs substrate, which was associated with residual biaxial strain from the Si/GaAs heterointerface. This red-shift of the photoluminescence peak energy is accompanied by a broadening of the photoluminescence spectrum from ∼31 meV to a value of ∼46 meV. This broadening is attributed to the quantum dots size inhomogeneity increase for samples grown on Si substrate. This result open new insights for the controlling the emission of InAs quantum dots for photonic devices integration using Si substrates.

Enhanced damping and thermal conductivity of hBN/silicone rubber composites via strong interfacial action

High integration and miniaturization of electronic systems require thermal conductivity and mechanical damping materials. In this study, hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) particles were modified by vinyltrimethoxysilane (V171) and hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (N3116) for comparing, and described as V171-hBN and N3116-hBN, respectively. The pristine and surface modified hBN were filled in vinylmethylpolysiloxane (VMQ), and then vulcanized to fabricate hBN/silicone rubber composites. The damping properties of V171-hBN/silicone rubber composites were significantly higher than that of pristine hBN/silicone rubber composites, while N3116-hBN/silicone rubber composites were in contrast. The strong interfacial action in V171-hBN/silicone rubber composites came from the chemical bond by vinyl groups on the surface of V171-hBN taking part in the vulcanization of VMQ. This strong interfacial action led the deformation of hBN, and the internal friction between layers of hBN significantly increased to dissipate more energy. As a result, V171-hBN/silicone rubber composites with excellent damping and thermal conductivity as well as good mechanical properties were obtained.

Reconfigurable Electronic Platforms: A Top-Down Approach to Learn about Design and Integration of Electronic Systems.

This case report presents a real example of a study which introduces the use of reconfigurable platforms in the teaching of electronics engineering to establish a bridge between theory and practice. This gap is one of the major concerns of the electronics engineering students. Different strategies, such as simulation tools or breadboard implementations, have been followed so far to make it easier for students to practice what they study in lectures. However, many students still claim to have problems when they face real practical implementations. The use of reconfigurable platforms as a teaching tool is proposed to provide the students the possibility of fast experimentation, reducing both development time and the learning curve. In addition, reconfigurable platforms available on the market make this methodology suitable to be applied throughout the different courses of their curricula. The feasibility of this approach is demonstrated in a course at the M.Eng. level, where the objective is the study, design and development of electronic sensor nodes. We firmly consider, based on the students’ results and reflections collected during the course, that this methodology helps students to address the theoretical framework from a practical viewpoint, as well as to acquire some of the fundamental skills for their professional careers, such as the usage of communication protocols and embedded systems programming, in a more intuitive way when compared to traditional teaching methodologies.

Foreword: Special Section on Advances in Electronics System Integration Technology

Nowadays, while electronics are strongly embedded into the architecture of our society bringing more and more new efficiencies to our industries, businesses, and even lifestyles, the complexity for designing advanced systems is increasing at a similar pace. In this context, innovative research ideas are the heart of the new features coming out in the latest generation of applications such as cloud computing, the IoT, medical and health technologies, automotive, aerospace, consumer, and home.

Highly stretchable van der Waals thin films for adaptable and breathable electronic membranes.

The conformal integration of electronic systems with irregular, soft objects is essential for many emerging technologies. We report the design of van der Waals thin films consisting of staggered two-dimensional nanosheets with bond-free van der Waals interfaces. The films feature sliding and rotation degrees of freedom among the staggered nanosheets to ensure mechanical stretchability and malleability, as well as a percolating network of nanochannels to endow permeability and breathability. With an excellent mechanical match to soft biological tissues, the freestanding films can naturally adapt to local surface topographies and seamlessly merge with living organisms with highly conformal interfaces, rendering living organisms with electronic functions, including leaf-gate and skin-gate transistors. On-skin transistors allow high-fidelity monitoring and local amplification of skin potentials and electrophysiological signals.

Formative evaluation of Zero Suicide in the emergency department: Identifying strategies to overcome implementation barriers

BackgroundZero Suicide has been widely promoted as a comprehensive suicide prevention approach in healthcare systems, yet less is known about the barriers to implementing this approach in the emergency department. ObjectivesThis developmental evaluation aimed to assess emergency department providers’ perceived knowledge and self-efficacy regarding suicide prevention practices, as well as apply the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to explore potential facilitators and barriers to implementing Zero Suicide and identify strategies to overcome barriers. MethodsA sequential mixed methods approach was used, including a survey assessing emergency department providers’ perceived knowledge and attitudes and semi-structured interviews exploring potential determinants of implementation. ResultsSurvey respondents (n = 43) perceived that they have the knowledge and self-efficacy to implement clinical elements of Zero Suicide; however, interview participants (n = 18) revealed that some clinical elements are not implemented consistently and perceive implementation barriers across multiple levels, including limited training on suicide risk assessment and limited resources needed to engage and re-engage at-risk patients in their suicide care management plan and provide follow-up supportive contacts during patients’ transitions in care. ConclusionTo overcome identified barriers in this setting, targeted implementation strategies are needed, including integration in electronic health record systems, leadership advocacy, and ongoing staff training.

Joint communication interference system design based on parameter modulation.

In this paper, a joint communication interference integration signal waveform is proposed to satisfy the need of electronic system integration in civil and military uses, and mitigate the tension of spectrum resource. We design the system structure of the integrated signal model and propose the communication receiving processing flow of the integrated system. We utilize the dense false-target jamming style to raise the constant false alarm rate detection threshold via the delay superposition of multiple groups of frequency modulation (FM) slope mismatch jamming signals, which can play a role in protecting our target from being detected. Furthermore, linear frequency modulation (LFM) signals with different FM slopes and Doppler frequencies are obtained via the modulation mapping of communication data; thus, a single LFM signal can carry n bit data. Through correlation processing and frequency detection, code sequence information can be obtained to achieve communication function. The simulation results show that the integrated signal has the effect of shielding and jamming the pulse compression radar. Moreover, the system has a better bit error rate and a high communication rate, which can ensure that the communication task of sending accurate instructions is completed while implementing effective interference.

Effects of E-Government Policy on the Management of Healthcare Systems.

E-government began by addressing the challenges of new technologies by delivering e-services to its citizens and has since evolved to include a growing number of areas, such as citizen communication, macroeconomic projections, budget management, and e-healthcare services. E-government is known as the use of information technology to provide administrative services, communication transactions, information exchange, integration of various electronic systems, and autonomous services between the government and citizens, the government and business environment, and the government and government. This paper discusses the role of E-government policy in healthcare crises during COVID 19. Data collected from 435 employees in the tourism industry of Iraq was used to verify the abovementioned relationships via SPSS macro. The results indicate that E-government policy has a significant effect on healthcare crises; job insecurity negatively predicted healthcare crises. The results revealed that social support moderated the relationship between E-government policy and job insecurity. Results of the study contributed to the theory within this study by demonstrating that employees who enjoy a high level of social support show less job insecurity than those with a low level of social support.

The Digital Transformation of a Metropolitan New York Health System.

Digital transformation strategies in healthcare are presenting unique ways to support patient acquisition and retention efforts. Montefiore Health System is on a multiyear, multipronged digital transformation journey with interventions centered on improving access to care.Our patients can search for a provider, schedule a visit, get details about their visit, and check in through a welcoming digital front door. Asynchronous e-communication and video visits have also been implemented, and these added options are optimized by technologies including a new provider data management tool to support an enhanced provider directory, electronic health record system integration with online scheduling, telehealth/virtual care, and text message communications. Combined, these tactics support a positive patient experience. Happier patients are more likely to return for the care they need to improve their health and maintain wellness. In addition, digital solutions can alleviate administrative burdens, which can improve employee engagement and satisfaction.While the lack of access to technology as a social determinant of health can present challenges in our diverse market, Montefiore has developed a respectful process to meet patients where they are in an era of consumer-driven healthcare. The process sets forth various approaches to bridge healthcare's digital divide. The route is sequenced in a digital transformation road map to ensure that Montefiore remains competitive, provides value with operational efficiencies, and delivers the innovative care that is necessary in today's healthcare landscape.

Properties of AlN/GaN Heterostructures Grown at Low Growth Temperatures with Ammonia and Dimethylhydrazine

The integration of different electronic materials systems together has gained increasing interest in recent years, with the III-nitrides being a favorable choice for a variety of electronic applications. To increase flexibility in integration options, growing nitrides material directly on semi-processed wafers would be advantageous, necessitating low temperature (LT) growth schemes. In this work, the growth of AlN and GaN was conducted via metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) using both NH3 and DMHy as N-precursors. The relationships between growth rate versus temperature were determined within the range of 300 to 550 °C. The growth of AlN/GaN heterostructures was also investigated herein, employing flow modulation epitaxy MOCVD at 550 °C. Subsequent samples were studied via atomic force microscopy, X-ray diffraction, TEM, and Hall measurements. Two-dimensional electron gases were found in samples where the LT AlN layer was grown with NH3, with one sample showing high electron mobility and sheet charge of 540 cm2/V∙s and 3.76 × 1013 cm−2, respectively. Inserting a LT GaN layer under the LT AlN layer caused the mobility and charge to marginally decrease while still maintaining sufficiently high values. This sets the groundwork towards use of LT nitrides MOCVD in future electronic devices integrating III-nitrides with other materials.

The application of one-dimensional nanostructures in terahertz frequency devices

One-dimensional nanostructures commonly refer to nanomaterials with a large length-to-diameter ratio, such as nanowires, nanotubes, nanorods, and nanopillars. The nanoscale lateral dimensions and high aspect ratios of these (quasi) one-dimensional nanostructures result in fascinating optical and electrical properties, including strongly anisotropic optical absorption, controlled directionality of light emission, confined charge-carrier transport and/or ballistic transport, which make one-dimensional nanostructures ideal building blocks for applications in highly integrated photonic, electronic, and optoelectronic systems. In this article, we review recent developments of very high (terahertz) frequency devices based on these one-dimensional nanostructures, particularly focusing on carbon nanotubes and semiconductor nanowires. We discuss state-of-the-art nanomaterials synthesis, device-fabrication techniques, device-operating mechanisms, and device performance. The combination of nanotechnology and terahertz science is a nascent research field which has created advanced THz sources, detectors, and modulators, leading to terahertz systems with extended functionalities. The goal of this article is to present the up-to-date worldwide status of this field and to highlight the current challenges and future opportunities.