bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutrition Support Protocols and Their Influence on the Delivery of Enteral Nutrition: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lottes Stewart Melissa
Published: May 2014

Background

Malnutrition remains prevalent in critically ill adults and is associated with poor outcomes and increased cost of hospitalization.

Aim

To (a) determine whether implementation of a nutrition support protocol improves delivery of nutrients in critically ill patients, and (b) evaluate whether patients receiving nutrition support based on a protocol have better outcomes than those who do not.

Methods

CINHAL and PUBMED databases were searched utilizing keywords “model,” “nutrition,” intensive care,” “algorithm,” “critical care,” “protocol,” and “feeding guidelines.” Selection criteria included original studies published in English with publication date between January 1, 2005, and December 31, 2010; a critically ill adult population; and level 1 or 2 studies. Studies were collected and reviewed by a single reviewer. Data extraction and quality assessment were assured utilizing a standardized form. A narrative description of results was provided due to variability in methods and outcome measures of included studies.

Results

Ninety‐nine studies emerged and 22 studies were considered for inclusion. Four studies were selected. Use of a nutrition support protocol was found to lead to increased efficacy in the delivery of nutrients via the enteral route.

Linking Evidence to Action

The use of a nutrition support protocol appears to increase the efficacy of enteral nutrition delivery. Further research is needed to determine the effect of increased enteral nutrition adequacy on patient outcomes. The use of an evidenced‐based protocol is recommended to improve protein and energy delivery in the critically ill.
Capacity Development for Knowledge Translation: Evaluation of an Experiential Approach through Secondment Opportunities
Authors: Gerrish Kate , Piercy Hilary
Published: May 2014

Background

Experiential approaches to skills development using secondment models are shown to benefit healthcare organizations more generally, but little is known about the potential of this approach to develop capacity for knowledge translation (KT).

Aim

To evaluate the success of KT capacity development secondments from the perspective of multiple stakeholders.

Methods

A pluralistic evaluation design was used. Data were collected during 2011–2012 using focus group and individual interviews with 14 clinical and academic secondees, and five managers from host and seconding organizations to gain insight into participants’ perceptions of the success of secondments and the criteria by which they judged success. Six After Action Reviews were undertaken with KT project teams to explore participants’ perceptions of the contribution secondees made to KT projects. Semistructured interviews were undertaken with three healthcare managers on completion of projects to explore the impact of secondments on the organization, staff, and patients. Qualitative content analysis was used to identify criteria for success. The criteria provided a framework through which the overall success of secondments could be judged.

Results

Six criteria for judging the success of the secondments at individual, team, and organization level were identified: KT skills development, effective workload management, team working, achieving KT objectives, enhanced care delivery, and enhanced education delivery. Benefits to the individual, KT team, seconding, and host organizations were identified.

Implications for Practice

Hosting teams should provide mentorship support to secondees, and be flexible to accommodate secondees’ needs as team members. Ongoing support of managers from seconding organizations is needed to maximize the benefits to individual secondees and the organization.

Linking Evidence to Action

Experiential approaches to KT capacity development using secondments can benefit individual secondees, project teams, seconding, and host organizations.
The State of European Nursing Research: Dead, Alive, or Chronically Diseased? A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Richards David A. , Coulthard Vania , Borglin Gunilla ,   on behalf of the REFLECTION review team
Published: May 2014

Background

Reviews of nursing research have suggested that most is descriptive; with no more than 15% providing strong evidence for practice. No studies have examined this from the perspective of nursing research conducted in Europe.

Objective

The aim of this study was to review reports of European clinical nursing research in the top 20 nursing journals in 2010 to establish a baseline of nursing research activity in the year immediately prior to the launch of a European Science Foundation network to increase the proportion of intervention research in Europe.

Methods

We identified eligible reports that were then data‐extracted by two independent reviewers. Disagreements were resolved through pair discussion and independent arbitration. We appraised and synthesized topics, methods, and the extent to which studies were programmatic. We synthesized data as proportions of study reports meeting our a priori categorization criteria.

Results

We identified 1995 published reports and included 223 from 21 European countries, of which 193 (86.6%) reported studies of primary research only, 30 (13.5%) secondary research, and three (1.4%) a mix of primary and secondary. Methodological description was often poor, misleading, or even absent. One hundred (44.8%) articles reported observational studies, 87 (39.0%) qualitative studies. We found 26 (11.7%) articles reporting experimental studies, 10 (4.5%) of which were randomized controlled trials. We found 29 (13.0%) reports located within a larger program of research. Seventy‐six (34.1%) articles reported studies of nursing interventions.

Linking Evidence to Action

European research in nursing reported in the leading nursing journals remains descriptive and poorly described. Only a third of research reports concerned nursing interventions, and a tiny proportion were part of a programmatic endeavor. Researchers in nursing must become better educated and skilled in developing, testing, evaluating, and reporting complex nursing interventions. Editors of nursing journals should insist on systematic reporting of research designs and methods in published articles.
Digital Delivery Methods of Parenting Training Interventions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Breitenstein Susan M. , Gross Deborah , Christophersen Rebecca
Published: May 2014

Background

Alternative delivery methods to implement evidence‐based parent training programs are emerging to address barriers related to parent attendance in face‐to‐face administration. The purpose of this systematic review is to summarize and critically evaluate the research on the use of technology and digital delivery methods for parenting training and offer recommendations for advancing the science and practice of parent training using digital delivery methods.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, PsychInfo, CINAHL, Scopus database, and ERIC to identify articles published between 2000 and 2012 reporting studies using digital methods to deliver parent training. Eleven studies were included in the review and were analyzed related to the digital delivery methods used, participant rates of intervention completion (dose), and the efficacy for improving parent and child outcomes.

Findings

The final sample of papers (n = 11) represent seven parent training interventions and nine digital delivery methods. Six of the nine used the Internet as the primary delivery method. The proportion of digitally delivered content completion ranged from 41.7% to 99.2%. Of the studies (n = 4) that reported behavioral outcomes of the interventions, the average effect size (Cohen's d) for child outcomes was .61 and for parent outcomes .46.

Linking Evidence to Action

Findings from this review indicate that the use of technology and digital delivery is a growing and emerging method of delivering parent training interventions with high potential for increasing reach and sustainability as we implement interventions in real world settings. Gaps in the studies reviewed highlight the need for consistency of dose calculations using digital methods, more research related to efficacy and comparative effectiveness studies of delivery methods.
The Effectiveness of Psychosocial Interventions for Cognitive Dysfunction in Cancer Patients Who Have Received Chemotherapy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hines Sonia , Ramis Mary‐Anne , Pike Shannon , Chang Anne M.
Published: May 2014

Background

Chemotherapy‐related cognitive dysfunction (CRCD) refers to problems with memory, attention span, or concentration, experienced by patients with cancer who have had chemotherapy. CRCD can have a significant negative effect on a patient's quality of life. The exact cause of CRCD is unknown but is presumed to be multifactorial.

Objective

To conduct a systematic review of the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions designed to treat CRCD.

Methods

Participants of interest to the review were over 18 years of age, diagnosed with cancer, and receiving chemotherapy or had received chemotherapy in the past. Interventions of interest were methods to improve cognitive function. Included study designs were randomized controlled trials, quasi‐experimental trials, and quantitative observational studies. The primary outcome of interest was level of cognitive function. A three‐step search strategy was utilized to identify studies published from 1985 to 2011 from a wide range of databases. Joanna Briggs Institute systematic review methods were used but findings were analyzed using the Cochrane Collaboration Review Manager 5.1 program. Weighted mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were calculated from the continuous data.

Results

Searching identified 3,109 potentially relevant articles and 120 full‐text articles were retrieved. Two further papers were sourced from reference lists of retrieved articles. From 122 papers, six were suitable for critical appraisal and six were included in the analysis. Meta‐analysis was conducted on two cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) trials for the outcome of inability to concentrate. Significant effect was seen for one CBT intervention at 20 weeks (p = .004). Significant effect from CBT on quality of life was seen at 6‐month follow‐up (p < .05).

Conclusions

Despite some evidence of an effect, there is insufficient evidence at this stage to strongly recommend any of the interventions to assist in decreasing the effects of CRCD, except in terms of improving quality of life.
Rational functions with maximal radius of absolute monotonicity
Authors: Lóczi Lajos , Ketcheson David I.
Published: May 2014

We study the radius of absolute monotonicity $R$ of rational functions with numerator and denominator of degree $s$ that approximate the exponential function to order $p$. Such functions arise in the application of implicit $s$-stage, order $p$ Runge–Kutta methods for initial value problems, and the radius of absolute monotonicity governs the numerical preservation of properties like positivity and maximum-norm contractivity. We construct a function with $p=2$ and $R>2s$, disproving a conjecture of van de Griend and Kraaijevanger. We determine the maximum attainable radius for functions in several one-parameter families of rational functions. Moreover, we prove earlier conjectured optimal radii in some families with two or three parameters via uniqueness arguments for systems of polynomial inequalities. Our results also prove the optimality of some strong stability preserving implicit and singly diagonally implicit Runge–Kutta methods. Whereas previous results in this area were primarily numerical, we give all constants as exact algebraic numbers.
Burns from acetylene gas: more than skin deep
Authors: Al-Hassani Fawaz , Amin Kavit , Lo Steven
Published: May 2014

Oxyacetylene welding torches are commonly used in industry, yet serious burns are fortunately rare. When dealing with the sequelae of these burn injuries, one must be aware of the high pressure component of these flame burns, which can penetrate and dissect the subcutaneous tissue. Appropriate initial assessment and preoperative planning are, therefore, essential to exclude and identify problems such as, compartment syndrome, subcutaneous emphysema and acute carpal tunnel syndrome. We present a case in which an innocuous palmar burn revealed a penetrating flame injury into the carpal tunnel.
Atypical presentation of thoracic spondylodiscitis caused byStreptococcus mitis
Authors: Cariati Vincent P , Deng Wu
Published: May 2014

Spondylodiscitis, which is most commonly caused byStaphylococcus aureus, is an uncommon infection in adults. The diagnosis of spondylodiscitis is often delayed by its vague and non-specific presentations. As part of the normal flora in human mouth and sinuses,Streptococcus mitisis a very rare cause of spondylodiscitis. We report a case of thoracic spondylodiscitis caused byS. mitisin a patient with chronic sinusitis. The patient atypically presented with a sharp chest pain that radiated to the back and the imaging studies were initially negative. He failed outpatient pain management and the diagnosis of spondylodiscitis was confirmed by bone biopsy 6 weeks later. Treatment with antibiotics completely alleviated the pain. Increased awareness and a high index of suspicion are essential for early diagnosis of spondylodiscitis with an atypical presentation.
Adenocarcinoma of the duodenojejunal flexure presenting as a stricturous lesion
Authors: Prabhu Raghunath , Kumar Neha , Krishna Sunil , Shenoy Rajgopal
Published: May 2014

A 50-year-old woman was referred with a colicky upper abdominal pain of 3 months duration. She experienced an increase in pain 2 weeks prior to presentation. This was associated with bilious vomiting about 5–6 times/day with no change in bowel habits. She had no history of any abdominal pathology. A review of systems showed she had a weight loss of 20 kg over a period of 4 months with recent onset of loss of appetite. Physical examination revealed a soft distended upper abdomen with non-radiating pain in the epigastrium. CT of the abdomen showed a heterogeneously enhancing stricturous growth in the proximal part of the jejunum with gross dilation of the stomach and duodenum. She underwent resection and anastomosis of the proximal jejunum. Histopathology revealed the lesion to be an adenocarcinoma.
Airway obstruction in congenital central hypoventilation syndrome
Authors: Reverdin Alexandra K , Mosquera Ricardo , Colasurdo Giuseppe N , Jon Cindy K , Clements Roya M
Published: May 2014

Congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS) is the failure of the autonomic system to control adequate ventilation while asleep with preserved ventilatory response while awake. We report a case of a patient with CCHS who presented with intrathoracic and extrathoracic airway obstruction after tracheostomy tube decannulation and phrenic nerve pacer placement. Nocturnal polysomnography (NPSG) revealed hypoxia, hypercapnia and obstructive sleep apnoea, which required bilevel positive airway pressure titration. Airway endoscopy demonstrated tracheomalacia and paretic true vocal cords in the paramedian position during diaphragmatic pacing. Laryngeal electromyography demonstrated muscular electrical impulses that correlated with diaphragmatic pacer settings. Thus, we surmise that the patient's upper and lower airway obstruction was secondary to diaphragmatic pacer activity. Thorough airway evaluation, including NPSG and endoscopy, may help identify the side effects of diaphragmatic pacing, such as airway obstruction, in patients with CCHS.
Secondary pure erythroid leukaemia in relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: lineage switch or chemotherapy effect?
Authors: Gupta Sanjeev Kumar , Kumar Rajive , Chharchhodawala Taher , Kumar Lalit
Published: May 2014

Pure erythroid leukaemia is a rare subtype of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and its occurrence at acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) relapse has not been reported earlier. A 39-year-old man received chemotherapy for Philadelphia-negative B cell ALL. Subsequently, he developed pure erythroid leukaemia with >80% immature erythroid precursors in bone marrow showing block positivity on periodic acid-Schiff stain, expressing CD71, CD34 but lacking CD235a. The interval between exposure to multidrug chemotherapy including cyclophosphamide and AML diagnosis was 2 years and 9 months. No cytogenetic abnormality was detected at the time of relapse. The patient died 2 weeks after starting AML chemotherapy. The relatively narrow time interval (usually 5–10 years) between chemotherapy and AML development and normal karyotype at relapse raises a possibility of lineage switch besides therapy-related AML as the likely pathogenesis. Further exploration of such cases may unravel the pathways responsible for lineage assignment in pluripotent stem cells.
A malignant eccrine spiradenoma of the scalp
Authors: Chow Whitney , Griffiths Mat
Published: May 2014

Malignant eccrine spiradenoma (MES) is an extremely rare but aggressive tumour, resulting in high mortality. We report the first case in the UK of metastatic MES on the scalp of a 37-year-old man who initially presented with a raised nodular mass which had grown rapidly over a few months. Excision biopsy of the lesion was performed and histology confirmed MES with evidence of cytological atypia and necrosis. A further wide local excision of the lesion with a 1 cm surgical margin was performed and full clearance was achieved. At 10-month follow-up another similar lesion had developed close to the previously excised area. A CT scan demonstrated metastatic lesions in the lungs, liver and pelvis, and subsequently chemotherapy was initiated. Although MES is uncommon, it has a high propensity to metastasise, therefore prompt identification, treatment and close follow-up of these tumours is essential.
Hand, foot and scrotal blisters in a patient with cancer receiving oral chemotherapy
Authors: Guerra Jose Rodolfo , Suelves Ana M , Bella Archie , Lolo Delatre
Published: May 2014

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors are novel antineoplastic drugs that make use of the molecular abnormalities that have been discovered in certain types of tumours. These agents are associated with important dermatological side effects. This case report discusses an atypical presentation of the hand–foot syndrome in one patient treated with sorafenib. A 78-year-old man, recently started on sorafenib for the treatment of hepatocarcinoma with lung metastasis, presented to the emergency room with painful blistering lesions on the palms, soles and scrotum for 1 week. A punch biopsy was performed and sorafenib was withheld. Direct immunofluorescence study was negative for an autoimmune blistering disorder and histopathology stains did not show any microorganisms. A diagnosis of hand–foot syndrome was made. After 2 weeks, the patient showed marked improvement and the plan was to restart sorafenib at a lower dosage.
Calvarial and cutaneous metastasis as the primary presentation of a renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Jindal Tarun , Sinha Rajan Kumar , Mukherjee Subhabrata , Karmakar Dilip
Published: May 2014

Renal cell carcinoma is an aggressive urological malignancy. Metastases from the lesion are encountered late in the course of the disease and most often involve the lung and the liver. It is rare that metastatic lesions are the primary presentation of an otherwise clinically silent renal cell carcinoma. We report a case who presented with calvarial and cutaneous lesions which were later found to be metastases from an asymptomatic renal cell carcinoma.
Acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) in a patient with Crohn's disease and exposure to infliximab: a rare clinical presentation and review of the literature
Authors: Mohammad Farhan , Vivekanandarajah Abhirami , Haddad Housam , Shutty Christopher M , Hurford Matthew T , Dai Qun
Published: May 2014

With the introduction of potent immunosuppressive and chemotherapeutic medications for various diseases, there is an increased incidence of therapy-related myeloid neoplasms. They are the result of mutational rearrangement and historically, have a grave prognosis compared with de novo myeloid neoplasms. We did a short review on various types of myeloid leukaemias reported after therapy with antitumour necrosis factor and also report, to the best of our knowledge, one among the very few cases of therapy-related acute promyelocytic leukaemia in a patient on infliximab therapy for refractory Crohn's disease. The patient responded well to the traditional treatment and is in complete remission for more than 5 years.
Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis due toCampylobacter rectusinfection
Authors: Leo Qi Jie Nicholas , Bolger Dennis Thomas
Published: May 2014

We report a case of cavernous sinus thrombosis in a 55-year-old Chinese man who presented with headache, ophthalmoplegia and ptosis.Campylobacter rectuswas eventually isolated from the blood cultures. He was treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics, anticoagulation and steroids with improvement in his condition. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of septic cavernous sinus thrombosis caused byC. rectus.
A complication to be aware of: hyperkalaemia following propranolol therapy for an infant with intestinal haemangiomatozis
Authors: Belen Burcu , Oguz Aynur , Okur Arzu , Dalgic Buket
Published: May 2014

Infantile haemangiomas, benign vascular tumours seen in 4–10% of infants are characterised by their spontaneous remission following a 3–9 month period of dynamic growth. Propranolol has been reported to be used as a successful treatment of severe symptomatic infantile haemangiomas. Hyperkalaemia has not been recognised as a serious effect of propranolol since recently. Here, we would like to portray a 2-year-old male patient with intestinal haemangiomatosis who presented with severe hyperkalaemia and was successfully managed with hydration, loop diuretics, potassium binding granules, inhaler β-2 agonists and insulin. To date, this is the first case of intestinal haemangiomatosis complicated with severe hyperkalaemia. Our case suggested the idea of close monitorisation of potassium levels as well as haemodynamic status at the initialisation of the propranolol treatment.
Myoparasitism mimicking parotid swelling: a rare presentation of cysticercosis
Authors: Tewari Sandeep , Singh Saumya , Jaiswal Vaibhav , Mishra Anand Kumar
Published: May 2014

Muscular infestation with larval stage ofTaenia soliumis a well-recognised entity but cysticercosis of the head and neck region is a rarity. We present a case of 35-year-old young man with diffuse swelling of 3.5×4 cm in the parotid region on the right side of the face with signs of inflammation. Diagnosis was established on high-resolution ultrasonography which revealed it to be of parasitic origin. The patient was managed with antihelminthic pharmacotherapy and improved within a month. Thus cysticercosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of subcutaneous swellings of the head and neck region, especially in endemic zones and it must be investigated well with appropriate imaging modalities so that inadvertent surgery can be avoided.
Cat eye syndrome
Authors: Sharma Deepak , Murki Srinivas , Pratap Tejo , Vasikarla Madhavi
Published: May 2014

A full-term female baby, a product of non-consanguineous marriage, was born at 37 weeks of gestation with a birth weight of 2.08 kg. Antenatal scan at 31 weeks revealed complex congenital heart disease with a hypoplastic right ventricle, pulmonary atresia and an intact septum. Immediately after birth, the infant was shifted to the nursery and was started on intravenous fluids and infusion prostaglandin E1 (Alprostidil). On examination, she had microcephaly, periorbital puffiness, a long philtrum, a broad nasal bridge and retrognathia, up slanting palpebral fissures, widely spaced nipples, a sacral dimple and right upper limb postaxial polydactyly. Postnatal echocardiography confirmed a large ostium secundum atrial septal defect with left to right shunt, right ventricle hypoplasia, pulmonary atresia with an intact septum and a large vertical patent ductus arteriosus. Ophthalmological examination showed a bilateral chorioretinal coloboma sparing disc and fovea. Karyotyping showed an extra small marker chromosome suggestive of the Cat eye syndrome.
Tranexamic acid-induced ligneous conjunctivitis with renal failure showed reversible hypoplasminogenaemia
Authors: Song Youngseok , Izumi Naohiro , Potts Luke Benjamin , Yoshida Akitoshi
Published: May 2014

Ligneous conjunctivitis is a rare severe conjunctivitis characterised by fibrin-rich, ‘woody’, pseudomembranes on the tarsal conjunctiva complicated by congenital hypoplasminogenaemia. A previous report suggested that ligneous conjunctivitis may result from tranexamic acid (TA)-induced ‘secondary’ hypoplasminogenaemia. However, the serum plasminogen level has not been confirmed in that scenario. We report for the first time a case of TA-induced ligneous conjunctivitis with reversible hypoplasminogenaemia. A 70-year-old woman developed a gastric ulcer that was treated with oral TA. After 5 weeks of treatment, the patient presented with bilateral pale yellow pseudomembranes on the palpebral conjunctivae. Haematological analysis showed hypoplasminogenaemia. We diagnosed ligneous conjunctivitis. TA was discontinued after 14 weeks after the gastric ulcer symptoms resolved. Six weeks after discontinuation of therapy, the pseudomembranes regressed and the serum plasminogen level returned to the normal range. TA should be considered a possible aetiology in the setting of unresolving ligneous conjunctivitis.
A usual cause of tumoural mass of the index finger
Authors: Atik Aziz , Ozyurek Selahattin , Meric Gokhan
Published: May 2014

We present a case of an unusual appearance of a tumoural mass on the right index finger. A 52-year-old farmer was administered to our outpatient clinic due to a large tumoural mass in his right index finger. He has been reporting of the mass for 32 years. Upon examination there was a rubbery soft, fixed, painless tumoural mass on the right index finger, covering all proximal phalanx volar and dorsal causing no surface skin reaction. The entire mass was excised and sent for pathological examination. The pathological result was a fatty degenerated fibroma. This kind of tumour may easily be misinterpreted as a lipoma even radiologically. So it is believed that any surgeon should always be suspicious of the diagnosis of long-term masses of any kind.
Characterization of Carbon Nanotube Growth via CVD Synthesis from a Liquid Precursor
Authors: Jenkins Carol , Cruz Melissa , Depalma Jen , Conroy Michael , Benardo Barbara , Horbachuk Michael , Sadowski Tom , Broadbridge Christine , Schwendemann Todd C.
Published: May 2014

As novel theories and uses of carbon nanotubes (CNT) advance, it becomes increasingly important to characterize the methods of production. One such method of CNT production uses a liquid phase precursor (hydrocarbon with nanoparticle catalyst mix) that is injected into a tube furnace with a flowing carrier gas. The CNTs are grown in high purity and are collected on the surface of the quartz tube. The system allows for a number of variables to be tested such as growth temperatures, flow rate of the carrier gas, precursor injection rates and variations of precursor mix however, here only thermal effects are considered. Under thermal conditions ranging from 500 to 850°C, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are synthesized and characterized to determine inner and outer diameter as well as tube thickness.
Novel Hybrid Polymer Dielectrics Based on Group 14 Chemical Motifs
Authors: Wang Chenchen , Ramprasad Rampi
Published: May 2014

The present contribution provides a strategy to enhance the dielectric constant of polyethylene by chemical modification while not overly compromising its large band gap. Isolated polyethylene chains are considered and the CH2 motifs in the backbone are allowed to be substituted by a number of Group 14 motifs, including SiF2, SiCl2, GeF2, GeCl2, SnF2, and SnCl2, in a systematic, progressive, and exhaustive combinatorial manner. Our results indicate that consecutive SnF2 or GeF2 motifs in the polyethylene backbone are most desirable, which can lead to systems with dielectric constant as high as 47.
Controlled Nucleation of Ge Islands on Si and Self-Assembly of Nanoscale Island Clusters
Authors: Gherasimova Maria , Chee See Wee , Hull Robert , Reuter Mark C. , Ross Frances M.
Published: May 2014

Germanium nucleation on a silicon surface typically proceeds via spontaneous formation of nanoscopic islands, or quantum dots (QDs), at random locations. However, potential applications of epitaxial QDs, such as quantum cellular automata, require precise control of Ge island positions on Si in clusters with the individual islands' separation of tens of nanometers or less. Controlled Ge island placement with an inter-island separation down to 100 nm can be reliably obtained by depositing Ge onto a Si(001) surface modified with a low dose focused ion beam (FIB) pattern to create preferred nucleation sites for individual islands. Here we investigate QD self-assembly of multiple islands on single topographical features intended to obtain clusters of QDs with smaller separations. We observe formation of 50 nm clusters on a single location defined by the FIB patterning of a larger and shallower feature, where cluster formation is promoted by reduced surface diffusion. We also discuss cluster formation on single sites defined by residual trenches on a footprint of a larger island that has been desorbed. We propose that controlled placement of islands during the first deposition may result in greater control over subsequent cluster size and placement fidelity due to improved uniformity of target features.
Threading Dislocations in S-Graded ZnSxSe1-x/GaAs (001) Metamorphic Buffer Layers
Authors: Kujofsa Tedi , Ayers John E.
Published: May 2014

Metamorphic semiconductor devices are commonly fabricated with linearly-graded buffer layers, but equilibrium modeling studies suggest that S-graded buffers, following a normal cumulative distribution function, may enable lower threading defect densities. The present work involves a study of threading dislocation density behavior in S-graded ZnS x Se 1-x buffer layers for metamorphic devices on mismatched GaAs (001) substrates using a kinetic model for lattice relaxation and misfit-threading dislocation interactions. The results indicate that optimization of an S-graded buffer layer to minimize the surface threading dislocation density requires adjustment of the standard deviation parameter and cannot be achieved by varying the buffer thickness alone. Furthermore, it is possible to tailor the design of the S-graded buffer layer in such a way that the density of mobile threading dislocations at the surface vanishes. Nonetheless, the threading dislocation behavior in these heterostructures is quite complex, and a full understanding of their behavior will require further experimental and modeling studies.
Characterization of a Protein Using Saw Resonator
Authors: Kahl Jonathan , Dhagat Vishal M. , Kalonia Devendra , Jain Faquir C.
Published: May 2014

Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) propagation on the surface of a piezoelectric crystal is used as a carrier of information. SAW Sensors are micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) in which high frequency acoustic waves travel close to the surface of a piezoelectric substrate. Because of confined acoustic energy near the surface within the range of one acoustic wavelength, SAW devices are highly sensitive for surface perturbation such as molecular absorption or adsorption and change of viscoelastic properties. Surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices are very promising in providing a high-performance sensing platform with wireless and remote operational capabilities. Research focus is on studying methods to characterize conductance, susceptance, viscosity, and other properties of protein samples, like albumin using SAW related resonator devices quickly and inexpensively using quantities of less than one Nano-liter. Applied pressure or bending of the quartz sets up a condition where a separation of charge occurs (due to change in dipole moment density). The potential difference is proportional to the magnitude of stress. When a mass is deposited on the electrode the resultant decrease in resonant frequency can detect mass changes at nanogram level. We propose to advance the sensitivity of the characterization by use of quartz SAW resonators since they can operate at much higher frequency than bulk wave oscillators.
Integrated Photonic Circuits in Gallium Nitride and Aluminum Nitride
Authors: Xiong Chi , Pernice Wolfram , Schuck Carsten , Tang Hong X.
Published: May 2014

Integrated optics is a promising optical platform both for its enabling role in optical interconnects and applications in on-chip optical signal processing. In this paper, we discuss the use of group III-nitride (GaN, AlN) as a new material system for integrated photonics compatible with silicon substrates. Exploiting their inherent second-order nonlinearity we demonstrate and second, third harmonic generation in GaN nanophotonic circuits and high-speed electro-optic modulation in AlN nanophotonic circuits.
Fast Digital to Analog Convertor using Spatial Wave Switched FETs
Authors: Gogna Pawan , Lingalugari Murali , Chandy John , Heller Evan , Jain Faquir
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we are presenting fast digital to analog convertor designs using Spatial Waveform Switched FETs (SWSFET). SWSFET was introduced by Jain et.al. These FETs have multiple channels stacked vertically. The Carrier wavefunction switches from one channel to another with the application of different gate voltages. Designs of multi-bit SRAM, logic and sequential cells using SWSFETs have been demonstrated. Here we are introducing the use of SWSFET in mixed signal architectures. Single cycle architectures for two-bit, four-bit and eight-bit analog to digital converters are presented. Four bit architecture has been simulated and results are discussed. SWSFET presents the opportunity with its multiple stacked channel features to extend the Moors law using next generation of devices.
Numerical Modeling of Thermoelectric Thomson Effect in Phase Change Memory Bridge Structures
Authors: Dirisaglik Faruk , Bakan Gokhan , Faraclas Azer , Gokirmak Ali , Silva Helena
Published: May 2014

Phase change memory is a non-volatile memory technology that utilizes the electrical resistivity contrast between resistive amorphous and conductive crystalline phases of phase change materials. These devices operate at high current densities and high temperature gradients which lead to significant thermoelectric effects. We have performed numerical modeling of electrothermal effects in p-type Ge2Sb2Te5 phase change memory structures suspended on TiN contact pads using COMSOL Multiphysics. Temperature dependent material parameters are used in the model. Strong asymmetry is observed in temperature profiles in all cases: the hottest spot appears closer to the higher potential end suggesting that the thermal profile can be significantly altered by the thermoelectric effects during device operation. Hence, thermoelectric effects need to be considered for device designs for lower power and higher reliability devices.
Compact Low-Power Analog-to-Digital Converters using Multi-State Spatial Wavefunction-Switched (SWS) FETs
Authors: Lingalugari Murali , Chandy John , Jain Faquir , Hasaneen El-Sayed , Heller Evan
Published: May 2014

In this paper, we propose a new architecture for analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) using multistate spatial wavefunction-switched field-effect transistors (SWSFETs). SWSFETs are multiple quantum coupled well devices, where the wells are stacked vertically and the electron wavefunction switches from one well to another with the change in gate voltage. Quantum mechanical simulations of 3-well InGaAs-AlInAs SWSFET structures are presented. The designs and simulations of 2-bit and 3-bit ADCs using SWSFETs result in low power consumption and reduced device count which improves the speed of the data conversion.
Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanofiber based Biosensor Platform for Glucose Sensor
Authors: Al Mamun Khandaker A. , Tulip Fahmida S. , MacArthur Kimberly , McFarlane Nicole , Islam Syed K. , Hensley Dale
Published: May 2014

Vertically aligned carbon nanofibers (VACNFs) have recently become an important tool for biosensor design. Carbon nanofibers (CNF) have excellent conductive and structural properties with many irregularities and defect sites in addition to exposed carboxyl groups throughout their surfaces. These properties allow a better immobilization matrix compared to carbon nanotubes and offer better resolution when compared with the FET-based biosensors. VACNFs can be deterministically grown on silicon substrates allowing optimization of the structures for various biosensor applications. Two VACNF electrode architectures have been employed in this study and a comparison of their performances has been made in terms of sensitivity, sensing limitations, dynamic range, and response time. The usage of VACNF platform as a glucose sensor has been verified in this study by selecting an optimum architecture based on the VACNF forest density.
Magnetotaxis as a Means for Nanofabrication
Authors: Macwan Isaac , Zhao Zihe , Sobh Omar , Rho Jinnque , Mahmood Ausif , Patra Prabir
Published: May 2014

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB), discovered in early 1970s contain single-domain crystals of magnetite ( Fe 3 O 4) called magnetosomes that tend to form a chain like structure from the proximal to the distal pole along the long axis of the cell. The ability of these bacteria to sense the magnetic field for displacement, also called magnetotaxis, arises from the magnetic dipole moment of this chain of magnetosomes. In aquatic habitats, these organisms sense the geomagnetic field and traverse the oxic-anoxic interface for optimal oxygen concentration along the field lines. Here we report an elegant use of MTB where magnetotaxis of Magnetospirillum magneticum (classified as AMB-1) could be utilized for controlled navigation over a semiconductor substrate for selective deposition. We examined 50mm long coils made out of 18AWG and 20AWG copper conductors having diameters of 5mm, 10mm and 20mm for magnetic field intensity and heat generation. Based on the COMSOL simulations and experimental data, it is recognized that a compound semiconductor manufacturing technology involving bacterial carriers and carbon-based materials such as graphene and carbon nanotubes would be a desirable choice in the future.
Equilibrium Strain and Dislocation Density in Nitride Based Heterostructures
Authors: Raphael Johanna E. , Bertoli Brandon , Ayers John E.
Published: May 2014

This work presents a computational approach for the determination of equilibrium strain and dislocation density in nitride-based heterostructures. Verification of this approach is demonstrated in the calculation of critical layer thickness for In x Ga 1-x N / GaN (0001) as compared to other work. The present modeling approach can also be applied to heterostructures of varying compositional profiles and structure. To demonstrate this, we studied the equilibrium strain and misfit dislocation density profiles for metamorphic In x Ga 1-x N / GaN (0001) heterostructures containing uniform layers on top of linearly-graded buffers. These structures were also compared to similar arsenide-based heterostructures involving In x Ga 1-x As / GaAs (001) with the zinc blende crystal structure. The generalized energy minimization modeling tool presented here can be readily extended to arbitrarily graded nitride heterostructures with polar, semi-polar, or non-polar orientations.
A Low-Power Miniaturized Microelectronic System for Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Croce Robert A. , Vaddiraju Santhisagar , Legassey Allen , Papadimitrakopoulos Fotios , Jain Faquir C.
Published: May 2014

The design and fabrication of miniaturized, implantable, low-power wireless systems for continuous glucose monitoring hold great promise for diabetes mellitus inflicted patients. This involves addressing a variety of issues including extreme circuit miniaturization, robust electrochemical sensors as well as counteracting negative tissue response and biofouling following sensor implantation. In this contribution, we present a highly miniaturized microelectronic sensor platform that fits through a hypodermic needle and holistically addresses all aforementioned tribulations. For this, a custom designed complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor electronic device employing the 0.35 µm design rule has been integrated with a high performance amperometric electrochemical glucose sensor. The fabricated electrochemical sensor utilizes the stratification of five functional layers resulting in linear amperometric response within the physiological glucose range (2 – 22mM). The sensor is encased with a thick polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel containing poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres which provides continuous, localized delivery of dexamethasone utilized to combat inflammation and fibrosis subsequent to implantation. In vivo evaluation in a rat has shown that this system accurately tracks glycemic events. Such miniature size and low power operation (0.665 mm2 and 140 µW, respectively) of the electronic system render it an ideal platform for continuous glucose monitoring and other metabolic sensing applications.
Production of techni-dilaton associated with a top quark at the LHC
Authors: Yu You , Yue Chong-Xing , Zeng Qing-Guo , Yang Shuo
Published: May 2014

One kind of walking technicolor (WTC) theories predict the existence of a new scalar particle called techni-dilaton (TD) which can explain the current Higgs data at the CERN Large Hadron Collider (LHC). We calculate the cross-sections for the production of the TD in association with single top quark (tϕj production) in the framework of the one-family model (1FM) at the LHC. Our numerical results show that their values are at the level of several tens fb over the mass range 100 GeV < Mϕ < 600 GeV with the center-of-mass (c.m.) energy [Formula: see text]. We further analyze the signal induced by the tϕj production and the relevant Standard Model (SM) backgrounds.
Ψ and ϒ production in pp collisions at 8.0 TeV
Authors: Kisslinger Leonard S. , Das Debasish
Published: May 2014

This is an extension of recent studies for ϒ(nS), n = 1, 2, 3, and J/Ψ(1S), Ψ(2S) production at the LHC in pp collisions, and with the ALICE detector at 7.0 TeV, with new predictions at 8.0 TeV.
Remark on Majorana CP phases in neutrino mixing and leptogenesis
Authors: Kitabayashi Teruyuki , Koizumi Naoto
Published: May 2014

We estimate Majorana CP phases for a simple flavor neutrino mixing matrix which has been reported by Qu and Ma. Sizes of Majorana CP phases are evaluated in the study of the neutrinoless double beta decay and a particular leptogenesis scenario. We find the dependence of the physically relevant Majorana CP phase on the mass of lightest right-handed neutrino in the minimal seesaw model and the effective Majorana neutrino mass which is related with the half-life of the neutrinoless double beta decay.
Superconductivity in titanium-based pnictide oxide compounds
Authors: Lorenz Bernd , Guloy Arnold M. , Chu Paul C. W.
Published: May 2014

Superconductivity in a novel class of layered materials, Ti -based pnictide oxides, was recently discovered. These compounds have attracted interest since they combine features of copper oxide and iron pnictide superconductors. Here the transition metal (titanium) forms two-dimensional Ti 2 O layers (anti structure to the CuO 2 planes), capped by pnictogen ions (similar to Fe 2 As 2 layers). The pnictide oxide compounds show a spin or charge density wave phase which coexists with superconductivity in some members of the family. Unlike the cuprates, but similar to iron pnictides, the parent compounds of pnictide oxides are metals with specific nesting properties of the Fermi surface which leads to the density wave instability. The nature of the superconductivity, coexisting with the density wave order, and the possible competition or mutual interaction between both states is one of the central questions of recent studies. This short review summarizes the current knowledge from an experimental as well as theoretical point of view and discusses some of the open questions and possible future developments.
Characteristics of a-SiC:H/a-SiGe:H hetero-junction thin film solar cells with and without a-Si:H buffer layer at the p/i interface
Authors: Son Won-Ho , Lee Si-Hun , Choi Sie-Young
Published: May 2014

This article shows the characteristics on a - SiGe:H based solar cells with various structures. Based on these results, we proposed the a - SiC:H / a - SiGe:H hetero-junction thin film solar cells with a - Si:H buffer layer at the p/i interface to improve the performance of pin-type a - SiGe:H based solar cell. All films of amorphous materials were deposited by 13.56 MHz PECVD method. The effects of deposited parameters on the characteristics of a - SiC:H and a - SiGe:H films have been investigated by ultraviolet–visible–near infrared (UV–VIS–NIR) spectrophotometer. The various values of V oc , J sc , FF and η were measured under 100 mW/cm2 (AM 1.5) solar simulator irradiation. In the proposed structure, we achieved a higher conversion efficiency than general a - SiGe:H solar cell and a - SiC:H / a - SiGe:H hetero-junction thin film solar cells without a - Si:H buffer layer at the p/i interface. Based on results obtained from this study, we discuss the roles of a - Si:H buffer layer in a - SiC:H / a - SiGe:H hetero-junction thin film solar cells.
Resistive characteristics of LSMO/LCMO bi-layers and temperature switching effect of magnetoresistance
Authors: Blagoev Blagoy S. , Nurgaliev Timerfayaz C. , Bineva Irina E. , Vasileva Elmira D. , Štrbik Vladimir , Mateev Emil S.
Published: May 2014

Ferromagnetic La 0.7 Sr 0.3 MnO 3/ La 0.7 Ca 0.3 MnO 3 ( LSMO / LCMO ) bi-layers of submicron thickness were deposited by magnetron sputtering on SrTiO 3 ( STO ) and Al 2 O 3 ( ALO ) substrates and temperature dependence of their resistances were investigated. The samples grown on ALO substrates demonstrated lower metal–insulator transition temperatures and higher resistances. The maximum magnetoresistance (MR) of bi-layer grown on STO substrate reached -56% at 184.6 K and magnetic field of 1 T. At temperatures below 150 K a "switching" of MR from negative to positive values (+ 1.7% at 110 K) and a hysteretic behavior of the resistance at low magnetic fields were observed as well.
Experimental observation of heat wave cloak
Authors: Zeng Lunwu , Tang Zhongliang , Li Hua , Zhao Yanyan , Dai Cunli , Song Runxia
Published: May 2014

According to the heat conduction theory and effective medium theory, we fabricated a six-layer cylinder heat diffusion cloak by mixing heat conduction materials. We measured the time-dependant heat wave at the iso-temperature lines and the heat flux lines with a self-made heat wave device. The experiment results show that the iso-temperature lines are parallel outside the outer circle, the heat fluxes are parallel and equal outside the outer circle, and the heat fluxes in the inner circle are much smaller than those outside the outer circle, namely, the heat fluxes are guided outside the cloaking region.
THE ROLE OF GENERATIONAL COHORTS: COMPARING APPROACHES TO INNOVATION USING INTERNAL NETWORKS
Authors: FARR-WHARTON ROD , FARR-WHARTON BEN , BRUNETTO YVONNE , BRESOLIN FERRUCCIO
Published: May 2014

This paper uses a range of theories to compare the use of internal networks for seeking the next innovative idea by two countries experiencing different examined the effect of variation in macroeconomic conditions to determine motivational differences between SME owners/managers in Australia and Italy. The paper used interviews from SME owner/managers from Italy and Australia. The findings confirm a small generational cohort impact across the two countries in affecting how SMEs owner/managers perceive information from their employees. However, the strongest predictor of whether information from employees was perceived as a potential innovation is the norms of the SME owner/manager, irrespective of the country.