A Coupled Field Multiphysics Modeling Approach to Investigate RF MEMS Switch Failure Modes under Various Operational Conditions

In this paper, the reliability of capacitive shunt RF MEMS switches have been investigated using three dimensional (3D) coupled multiphysics finite element (FE) analysis. The coupled field analysis involved three consecutive multiphysics interactions. The first interaction is characterized as a two-way sequential electromagnetic (EM)-thermal field coupling. The second interaction represented a one-way sequential thermal-structural field coupling. The third interaction portrayed a two-way sequential structural-electrostatic field coupling. An automated substructuring algorithm was utilized to reduce the computational cost of the complicated coupled multiphysics FE analysis. The results of the substructured FE model with coupled field analysis is shown to be in good agreement with the outcome of previously published experimental and numerical studies. The current numerical results indicate that the pull-in voltage and the buckling temperature of the RF switch are functions of the microfabrication residual stress state, the switch operational frequency and the surrounding packaging temperature. Furthermore, the current results point out that by introducing proper mechanical approaches such as corrugated switches and through-holes in the switch membrane, it is possible to achieve reliable pull-in voltages, at various operating temperatures. The performed analysis also shows that by controlling the mean and gradient residual stresses, generated during microfabrication, in conjunction with the proposed mechanical approaches, the power handling capability of RF MEMS switches can be increased, at a wide range of operational frequencies. These design features of RF MEMS switches are of particular importance in applications where a high RF power (frequencies above 10 GHz) and large temperature variations are expected, such as in satellites and airplane condition monitoring

IMPACT OF BIM ON BUILDING DESIGN QUALITY

During last decades, the aim of new technologies was to develop new information systems to automate manual processes. Large-scale projects in the field of construction industry need a different approach to organize and analyze data creating a database without any duplication or redundancy. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a teamwork process using advanced technologies to generate data modeling. Based on a literature review, the present research proposes a set of hypotheses that links BIM implementation with the enhancement of information sharing capability (ISC) and collaborative decision capability (CDC) in the construction sector of the building industry. Consequently, it relates the degree of BIM use to the design quality enhancement using ISC and CDC as mediators. Towards this end, the research adopts three sets of criteria namely, functionality, form and aesthetic values, and building construction quality as indicators to design quality improvement. Finally, the research proposes a new conceptual model to set the potential relations between the different variables included in the study. Hence it offers several implications for practitioners and decision makers concerning the importance of BIM to enhance the design quality

Clinicians were oblivious to incorrect logging of test dates and the associated risks in an online pathology application: a case study

Background UK primary care physicians receive their laboratory test results electronically. This study reports a computerised physician order entry (CPOE) system error in the pathology test request date that went unnoticed in family practices.Method We conducted a case study using a causation of risk theoretical framework; comprising interviews with clinicians and the manufacturer to explore the identification of and reaction to the error. The primary outcome was the evolution and  recognition of and response to the problem. The secondary outcome was to identify other issues with this system noted by users.Results The problem was defined as the incorrect logging of test dates ordered through a CPOE system. The system assigned the test request date to the results, hence a blood test taken after a therapeutic intervention (e.g. an increase in cholesterol-lowering therapy) would appear in the computerised medical record as though it had been tested prior to the increase in treatment. This case demonstrates that: the manufacturers failed to understand family physician workflow; regulation of medical software did not prevent the error; and inherent user trust in technology exacerbated this problem. It took three months before users in two practices independently noted the date errors.Conclusion This case illustrates how users take software on trust and suppliers fail to make provision for risks associated with new software. Resulting errors led to inappropriate prescribing, follow-up, costs and risk. The evaluation of such devices should include utilising risk management processes (RMP) to minimise and manage potential risk

Surgical management of fracture both bone forearm in pediatric using elastic stable intramedullary nail

Background: In children, forearm fractures are among the most prevalent types of fractures Operative procedures such as, pinning with K-wires, plate osteosynthesis as well as elastic-stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN) are necessary for these fractures.Objective: This study aimed to assess treating and outcomes of pediatric forearm fractures with elastic stable intramedullary nailing (ESIN).Patients and methods: At Orthopedic Departments of Zagazig University Hospital and Tripoli University Hospital, 8 skeletally immature patients with diaphyseal forearm fractures were studied in prospective cohort research. The study was carried out from November 2020 to May 2021. Pre-operative X-ray and CT were done and the patient was prepared for surgery. Elastic-stable intramedullary nailing technique was done to all patients, all patients were regularly followed clinically and radiographically for 1 week and then 2, 4, 6, 12 week after end of surgery.Results: we found that all patients progressed to union without the need for any further surgical intervention with good functional outcome as regards forearm rotation. One case had residual radius angulation more than 20 degree, no case had residual ulna angulation, 2 cases had superficial infection, 1 case had superficial radial nerve palsy and 1 case had elbow joint stiffness.Conclusion: Intramedullary fixation by flexible intramedullary nails (ESIN) is successful treatment option and recommended for pediatric patients with 4-14 years of age or older because it is simple safe and minimally invasive procedure and effective method of treatment that provides many biological and mechanical advantages

Design of Supply Chain Networks with Supply Disruptions using Genetic Algorithm

The design of supply chain networks subject to disruptions is tackled. A genetic algorithm with the objective of minimizing the design cost and regret cost is developed to achieve a reliable supply chain network. The improvement of supply chain network reliability is measured against the supply chain cost

Design of Supply Chain Networks with Supply Disruptions using Genetic Algorithm

The design of supply chain networks subject to disruptions is tackled. A genetic algorithm with the objective of minimizing the design cost and regret cost is developed to achieve a reliable supply chain network. The improvement of supply chain network reliability is measured against the supply chain cost

An algorithm to improve diagnostic accuracy in diabetes in computerised problem orientated medical records (POMR) compared with an established algorithm developed in episode orientated records (EOMR)

An algorithm that detects errors in diagnosis, classification or coding of diabetes in primary care computerised medial record (CMR) systems is currently available.  However, this was developed on CMR systems that are “Episode orientated” medical records (EOMR); and don’t force the user to always code a problem or link data to an existing one.  More strictly problem orientated medical record (POMR) systems mandate recording a problem and linking consultation data to them.

THE ADOPTED PROCUREMENT SYSTEMS IN THECONSTRUCTION PROCESSES OF THE INFORMAL SETTLEMENTSIN BEIRUT

Compared to other cities, the construction of informal settlements in the city of Beirut is caused by a range of interrelated factors including population growth, ruralurban migration and political intrigues. These settlements follow a reverse development process where people occupy the land, then build on it, install infrastructures, and finally, acquire ownership. The aim of this study is to identify the adopted procurement methods in the construction process of informal settlements in Beirut through the different construction phases of these settlements. The methodology used in this study is based on a qualitative analysis of the informal housing in Beirut as a case study. The analysis focuses on the role and the responsibilities of the main actors and stakeholders in the construction process while relating this process to the construction procurement systems categories: Separated and Cooperative System (Design/Bid/Build), Integrated System (Design/Build), and Management Oriented System. The results of this study help identify the gaps in the processes adopted in the construction of the dwelling units in the informal settlements, which lead to the unorganized development of these settlements impacting the image of the city as one that is permanently ‘under construction’

Identification of robust cardiac reference genes in a mouse model of cardiometabolic disease

Cardiovascular disease is linked to obesity, the metabolic syndrome, and altered 24hour (circadian) rhythms. Although the underlying mechanisms remain undefined, transcriptome analysis in the heart is beginning to provide important insights into the cardiometabolic pathogenesis. The reliability and accuracy of real-time quantitative PCR generated gene expression data is largely dependent on the selection of suitable reference genes (RG), which must be constitutively expressed regardless of cardio-metabolic disease state and time of day. However, many studies do not employ the appropriate selections strategies. In this study we determined the expression stability of seven candidate RGs (GAPDH, YWHAZ, B2M, EIF4A2, ATP5?, ACTB and CYC1) in a mouse model of diet-induced metabolic syndrome in both the day and night, using geNorm qBasePLUS software. RG expression varied in hearts of normal fed versus high fat fed mice, and was also dependant on the time of day. When all experimental variables were considered YWHAZ and ACTB were ranked the most stable and therefore the most suitable genes for generating comparative gene expression data in heart tissue from murine models of cardiometabolic disease. This study provides important information for reference gene selection, and will aid further transcriptome investigations into heart organ functio