bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness and patient perspective on the use of intravesical gentamicin instillations to treat recurrent urinary tract infections in neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction
Authors: Cameron Anne P. , Castrodad Patricia Maymi , Troost Jonathan , Forchheimer Martin , Tate Denise G.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NGLUTD) who require catheterization either with clean intermittent catheters (CIC) or indwelling catheters suffer with frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs). This study assessed the efficacy, patient persistence, satisfaction, and the impact on quality of life (QoL) of gentamicin nightly bladder instillations with 15 mg.

Methods

This is a prospective survey of 36 patients with NGLUTD and recurrent UTIs prescribed long‐term gentamicin to prevent UTIs. Eligible patients completed a questionnaire about their use and satisfaction with gentamicin therapy, as well as survey questionnaires to address QoL. A retrospective chart review was also performed to obtain medical history, confirm drug persistence, and obtain accurate UTI data for the 12 months preceding and after starting instillations.

Results

The rate of laboratory proven symptomatic UTI requiring antibiotic treatment decreased from 3.9 to 1.1 infections per year with no increase in antibiotic resistance and no significant side effects reported by patients. Eight patients stopped therapy before a full year for various reasons, but the remaining 72% of patients have continued to use the therapy now with a mean of 4.2 years later. Satisfaction among those continuing the medication was very high.

Conclusion

Gentamicin bladder instillations with 15 mg nightly in patients with indwelling catheters or CIC with NGLUTD are very effective and safe with high patient satisfaction. This therapy can be maintained long‐term with continued efficacy.
Finite element approximation of stabilized mixed models in finite strain hyperelasticity involving displacements and stresses and/or pressure—An overview of alternatives
Authors: Codina Ramon , Castañar Inocencio , Baiges Joan
Published: June 2024

This paper presents mixed finite element formulations to approximate the hyperelasticity problem using as unknowns the displacements and either stresses or pressure or both. These mixed formulations require either finite element spaces for the unknowns that satisfy the proper inf‐sup conditions to guarantee stability or to employ stabilized finite element formulations that provide freedom for the choice of the interpolating spaces. The latter approach is followed in this work, using the Variational Multiscale concept to derive these formulations. Regarding the tackling of the geometry, we consider both infinitesimal and finite strain problems, considering for the latter both an updated Lagrangian and a total Lagrangian description of the governing equations. The combination of the different geometrical descriptions and the mixed formulations employed provides a good number of alternatives that are all reviewed in this paper.
‘I need support in becoming the leader I would like to be’ – A qualitative descriptive study of nurses newly appointed to positions of leadership
Authors: Skarstein Siv , Lysfjord Else Marie , Silseth Marit Helene , Leegaard Marit
Published: June 2024

Aim

The aim of the study was to understand the experiences of nurses who were newly appointed to a position of leadership including facilitators and barriers to success and what they considered important for the development of their role.

Methods

We used a qualitative descriptive research design. The study was conducted in Norway with 10 nurses who had been appointed to a leadership position within the last 2 years. Participants were interviewed with individual qualitative interviews which were transcribed and subsequently analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

The following four main themes were identified from the data: I feel lonely in the leadership position, I am not confident as a leader, I am unsure of the requirements and expectations of me, and I need support and supervision.

Conclusion

The results underscore the challenges reported by new leaders in nursing and their advocacy for mentorship as a facilitator for success. The qualifications of mentors were emphasised with a need for a comprehensive leadership skill set to address the multifaceted aspects of leadership development.
Establishing a course to train ICU nurses on prone position mechanical ventilation: A Delphi study
Authors: Jiang Yan , Lu Ye , Ge Jun , Yang Linlin , Wang Dongsheng , Cui Jingping
Published: June 2024

Aim

To develop a comprehensive training course for training ICU nurses in prone positioning.

Design

A mixed study combining semi‐structured interviews and two rounds of Delphi surveys.

Methods

We constructed a questionnaire after collecting data through a literature review and semi‐structured interviews. We used the Delphi expert correspondence method to conduct two rounds of research among 17 experts in the field of critical illness. Data collection took place between May and August 2022.

Results

The effective questionnaire recovery rate was 88.2%. The expert authority coefficient was 0.876; the Kendall coordination coefficient was 0.402; the average importance score for each index ranged from 4.00 to 4.93; and the coefficient of variation for each index ranged from 0.05 to 0.19. We established 13 second‐level indicators and 41 third‐level indicators on prone position ventilation training according to three aspects: training contents, training methods and training assessment. The training system of prone mechanical ventilation for ICU nurses established in this study will provide an effective framework for training and evaluating the practical ability of prone mechanical ventilation for ICU nurses.
Influence of various environments on the mechanical properties of nanoclay reinforced S‐glass/sisal hybrid polyester composites
Authors: Mallampati Somaiah Chowdary , Gujjala Raghavendra , Manne Anupama Ammulu , Kumar M. S. R. Niranjan , Suyambulinagm Indran , Siengchin Suchart , Bandaru Aswani Kumar
Published: June 2024

This investigation aims to study the influence of various environments, such as groundwater, seawater, mineral water and sub‐zero, on reinforced polyester/S‐glass/sisal composites with nano clay (NC). Composites with a configuration of S‐glass/sisal/sisal/S‐glass (GSSG) with different wt% of NC, such as 0, 2, 4, and 6, were manufactured using the hand lay‐up method. For 6 days, the composites were conditioned in different environments like seawater, mineral water, groundwater at room temperature, and sub‐zero environments at −17°C. The influence of these environments on the tensile and flexural properties of manufactured composites was studied. Composites with 4% NC displayed higher tensile strength, while composites with 2% NC exhibited maximum flexural strength for all the environments. It was perceived that the weight gain was maximum in seawater (0.1857 g) and minimum in mineral water (0.06 g) and sub‐zero (0.101 g) conditions for 6% NC condition. Tensile and flexural strengths were reduced by 27% and 24% when samples were submerged in seawater compared to other environments. TEM images for 4 wt% of NC and 6 wt% of NC were studied for dispersions of NC in Polyester, and the effect of NC mixing with polyester was understood for the hybrid polymer composites.

Highlights

A novel hybrid composites were fabricated using a double stirring process.

The ultra‐sonication led to uniform distribution of nanoparticles.

The mechanical properties and the effect of environments on these properties are studied.

SEM images revealed the aging due to various environments.

The hybrid composites can store mineral water and the sub‐zero environment.
Coffee grounds as sustainable filler for bio‐based rubber composites
Authors: Öncel Şehriban , Ünügül Tuba , Abacı Ufuk , Karaağaç Bağdagül
Published: June 2024

Using biological/renewable resources as filler or modifier in both thermoplastics and rubbers has been of a great interest in order to reduce negative effects of traditional petroleum/natural gas based fillers. In this study, the main goal was the use of spent (waste) coffee grounds as a natural alternative filler to carbon black in acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) based compounds. Carbon black (CB) was partially replaced with fresh as well as spent coffee grounds (SCG) in NBR compound formulation. Stabilization effect of fresh coffee grounds was also investigated. Cure characteristics, physico‐mechanical, thermal, morphological, and dielectric properties of the bio‐based composites were tested and compared with the control (reference) compounds. Processability has been affected positively in the case of using coffee grounds thanks to the presence of triacyl groups in coffee. Up to 20% higher elongation at break values were measured when coffee is partially replaced with CB. Abrasion loss and oil resistance could be retained for coffee containing compounds. In conclusion, SCG were found to be a good natural alternative filler for bio‐based NBR composites without a significant change in material properties.

Highlights

Spent coffee grounds ‐ a sustainable filler in bio‐based NBR composites

Both fresh and spent coffee grounds are successful stabilizers

Physico‐mechanical, thermal, and dielectric properties are comparable
Fabrication of pressure visual fiber based on liquid metal control thermochromic pigments
Authors: Wang Huabing , Yue Xinyan , Shen Xiuyu , Wang Xianlin , Zheng Riquan , Han Qinghe , Li Xiaoqiang , Jin Yang
Published: June 2024

In this study, pressure visual fibers (PVF) with a core‐shell structure were prepared using a coaxial wet spinning process. The fiber composite shell consists of a luminescent material (as a light source) and a thermochromic pigment (as a filter light source) mixed with a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) matrix. The fiber core layer, on the other hand, was made of gallium‐indium alloy liquid metal. In operation, the filter light source is activated by joule heat drive (resulting in the fading of the thermochromic pigment), and the PVF releases phosphorescence upon exposure to ultraviolet light. When a certain pressure is applied to the fiber shell, the liquid metal in the core layer is squeezed, resulting in a local cross‐sectional area reduction, an increase in local joule thermal power, and thus local discoloration. This localized compression, in combination with a small rated current and the presence of an ultraviolet light source, converts the mechanical force (strain and compression) into an optical response. The excellent electrical conductivity of the liquid metal, combined with its compatibility with the soft matrix, makes it a promising candidate for applications in smart textiles and flexible sensing.

Highlights

The technology of visual fiber controlled by current is presented.

The bendability and controllability of visual composites are improved.

The composite fiber can be visualized when stressed.
Enhancing high‐temperature mechanics and degradation for phthalonitrile resin via constructing rare earth oxide supported low melt‐point molten oxide
Authors: Fan Haizhou , Ren Zhiyi , Xun Lijiao , Guo Ying , Zheng Kun , Zou Renzhen , Li Min , Zhou Heng , Zhao Tong
Published: June 2024

In order to improve the comprehensive performance of thermosetting phthalonitrile resin (PN) composites, a novel molten hybrid (Nd2O3@DM35) was successfully prepared by loading Neodymium Oxide (Nd2O3) on the surface of low melt‐point molten oxide (DM35). In thermal gravimetric analysis, the addition of 30 wt% Nd2O3@DM35 postponed the temperature of 5% mass loss (T5%) of PN hybrid (PN‐NdD30) from 485 to 521°C. A series of thermal aging experiments were designed to prove the thermal stability of modified PN. The surface morphology of PN‐NdD30 was mostly maintained after thermal aging. Compared with pure PN, the flexural strength (FS) and interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of PN‐NdD30 composites at room temperature increased by 31.4% and 32.8%, respectively. After aging at 400°C for 20 min, the FS and ILSS retention rates of PN‐NdD30 composites were 78.4% and 91.5%, respectively. In this work, the introduction of novel hybrid improved the thermal stability of PN composites, while enhancing their mechanical properties at different temperatures. Based on all the results, the heat resistance and mechanical mechanism of PN‐NdD30 composites were carefully analyzed.

Highlights

A molten hybrid was prepared by Nd2O3 and low melt‐point molten oxide.

The novel hybrid can form a continuous protective layer at high temperatures.

In the aging test, the mass loss of PN‐NdD30 was significantly reduced.

Mechanical properties of PN composites at different temperatures were improved.

A novel molten concept was introduced in the heat resistance modification of PN.
Collaborative multi‐scale optimization of molding processes for thermosetting/quartz fiber composites based on balancing between efficiencies and mechanical properties
Authors: Yuan Jianyang , Chen Qihui , Gao Yong , Tai Jieyu , Liu Yaqing
Published: June 2024

In terms of the interplay between manufacturing cost and quality during the molding of fiber reinforced thermosetting composites, this study proposes a multi‐scale collaborative optimization strategy aimed at shortening molding time and reducing the diminishing defects generated during the process. Macro‐scale thermochemical and micro‐scale thermomechanical calculations are conducted on the composite molding to analyze the origins of temperature gradients and residual stresses. Then, the curing cycle, temperature gradient in the macro‐scale model, and residual stresses in the micro‐scale model are optimized by combining finite element analysis with the Non‐dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II. Several curing processes within the Pareto front were selected, and their impact on compressive performance was assessed through experimental analysis. Compared to the standard curing process (SCP), the optimal curing process exhibited a 41.4% reduction in maximum temperature gradient (∆Tmax), a 25.2% decrease in effective residual stress , and a 20.0% increase in compressive strength. Multi‐scale collaborative optimization strategies are integral to the advancement of production and application of fiber‐reinforced thermoset composites. Multi‐scale collaborative optimization strategies are integral to the advancement of production and application of fiber‐reinforced thermoset composites.

Highlights

Investigated of interactions among components in composites molding.

Optimization of composite molding process with Non‐dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II and finite element.

Examined the impact of composite molding process on compressive performance.
Delivery room and early postnatal management of neonates with congenital heart disease
Authors: Ali Noorjahan , Donofrio Mary T.
Published: June 2024

Advancements in prenatal detection have improved postnatal outcomes for patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). Detailed diagnosis during pregnancy allows for preparation for the delivery and immediate postnatal care for the newborns with CHD. Most CHDs do not result in hemodynamic instability at the time of birth and can be stabilized following the guidelines of the neonatal resuscitation program (NRP). Critical CHD that requires intervention immediately after birth is recommended to be delivered in facilities where immediate neonatal and cardiology care can be provided. Postnatal stabilization and resuscitation for these defects warrant deviation from the standardized NRP. For neonatal providers, knowing the diagnosis of fetal CHD allows for preparation for the anticipated instability in the delivery room. Prenatal detection fosters collaboration between fetal cardiology, cardiology specialists, obstetrics, and neonatology, improving outcomes for neonates with critical CHD.
Outcomes after surgical and nonsurgical treatment of pediatric cerebral cavernous malformation
Authors: Zhang Haohao , Yu Qishuai , Mao Zhiqi , Zhang Liang , Yu Xinguang
Published: June 2024

Importance

Pediatric cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) is a rarely encountered vascular entity. Comparative study on surgical excision and nonsurgical management outcomes of CCM in pediatrics is limited.

Objective

To determine the demographic characteristics, hemorrhage rate, and long‐term outcomes of pediatric patients with CCM.

Methods

A retrospective study of pediatric patients with CCM in Chinese PLA General Hospital was conducted between January 2004 and January 2019. We compared the clinical characteristics, radiological features, and outcomes of the surgical and nonsurgical groups.

Results

Seventy‐nine children were included, with 69.6% being boys, and the average age was 11.8 ± 5.5 years. The annual retrospective hemorrhagic rate was 5.7% per patient per year. Fifty‐six children (70.9%) underwent surgical excision, and they were more likely to present with seizure symptoms (P = 0.011), have a higher proportion of larger lesion size (P = 0.008), less likely to have durations ≤10 days (P = 0.048), and less likely to have supratentorial deep CCM (P = 0.014) compared to children who received nonsurgical management. Total resection was achieved in most surgical cases (55, 98.2%). During the 143.9 ± 50.8 months of follow‐up, 44 patients (78.6%) achieved improvement, 12 patients (17.8%) remained the same, and two (3.6%) experienced worsening. In the nonsurgical management group, 14 children (60.9%) experienced symptom improvement, eight (34.8%) remained the same, and one (4.3%) worsened, with a re‐hemorrhagic risk of 8.7%.

Interpretation

Surgical removal of pediatric CCM can eliminate the risk of hemorrhage and lead to satisfactory outcomes. For children undergoing nonsurgical management, long‐term close monitoring is essential due to the life‐long risk of hemorrhage.
An unusual case of persistent consolidation: Idiopathic lymphoid interstitial pneumonia
Authors: Caterson Harriet J. , Kim Sewon , Zaborowski Matthew , Harden Michael , Hibbert Michael
Published: June 2024

Lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia (LIP) is a rare but largely benign interstitial lung disease, most frequently associated with HIV and autoimmune conditions. It is infrequently found to be an idiopathic condition. Diagnosis is complex and can require numerous invasive tests as evidenced in the case presented. The diagnosis is made from a combination of clinical, radiological, and histological features but the unusual radiological and clinical features meant diagnosis in our case required surgical biopsy. There is minimal evidence around best treatment although largely involves targeting the underlying cause. There is a small risk of transformation to lymphoma and fibrosis. Immunosuppression with steroids is the most common therapeutic strategy however in our case the radiographic changes spontaneously resolved. We present a case of an immunocompetent male presenting with significant radiological and histopathological findings of LIP, without significant symptomatology, that spontaneously resolved without intervention suggesting a monitoring approach may be a valid management strategy.
Unravelling lung adenocarcinoma in an immunocompetent patient with endobronchial aspergilloma: A case report
Authors: Ng Khai Lip , Huan Nai‐Chien , Tan Wei Loon , Aminudin Nur Husna Mohd , Hassan Fazilah , Nordin Kasuma Mohamed
Published: June 2024

Inhalation of Aspergillus spp. can cause a wide spectrum of lung diseases. Endobronchial aspergilloma is an uncommon clinical entity that occurs because of Aspergillus spp. overgrowth in the airway lumen. We present a 73‐year‐old gentleman with a rare dual pathology of endobronchial aspergilloma and endobronchial adenocarcinoma. He initially presented with prolonged cough, dyspnoea, and haemoptysis. Bronchoscopy revealed an obstructed right main bronchus by a necrotic mass whereby histological examination showed evidence of Aspergillus spp. infection. The lesion however persisted despite treatment with anti‐fungal agents. Repeated bronchoscopy and biopsy eventually unravelled an underlying endobronchial adenocarcinoma. He received chemotherapy but ultimately passed away 3 months later.
Further results on fixed‐time stability of time‐varying hybrid systems
Authors: Chen Guopei , Yang Ying
Published: June 2024

The introduction of time‐varying factors makes it difficult and complex to study the stability of hybrid systems. How to improve the traditional stability analysis method to study the stability of time‐varying hybrid systems is a great challenge. In this paper, the fixed‐time stability (FxTS) of time‐varying hybrid systems is investigated. Starting with time‐varying nonlinear systems, two relaxed stability conditions are proposed to verify the FxTS of systems by using the time‐varying Lyapunov functions. Then, the obtained results are extended to study the FxTS of time‐varying hybrid systems, some improved stability conditions are given by combining the methods of minimum dwell time and multiple time‐varying Lyapunov functions. Compared with the existing results, the obtained conditions are less conservative and provide the more accurate estimations for the convergence time of systems. Two numerical examples are given to illustrate the theoretical results.
Being Human in the Age of Generative AI: Young People's Ethical Concerns about Writing and Living with Machines
Authors: Higgs Jennifer M. , Stornaiuolo Amy
Published: June 2024

The recent unveiling of chatbots such as ChatGPT has catalyzed vigorous debates about generative AI's impact on how learners read, write, and communicate. Largely missing from these debates is careful consideration of how young people are experiencing AI in their everyday lives and how they are making sense of the questions that these rapidly evolving cultural tools raise about ethics, power, and social participation. Engaging cultural‐historical perspectives on technology, the present study drew on student survey and focus group data from English language arts classes in two culturally and linguistically diverse high schools to answer the following questions: (1) How are young people using AI in their everyday lives, if at all?; (2) What do young people identify as key considerations related to AI‐mediated writing?; and (3) What ethical and critical considerations, if any, inform young people's sensemaking of and practices with AI? Young people reported using generative AI for diverse purposes in and out of school, including to accomplish routine organizational and information tasks, to entertain themselves through experimenting with AI technologies, and to catalyze their thinking and writing processes. Survey and focus group participants' responses suggested their regular navigation of ethical and critical dimensions of AI use and their contemplation of what it means to be human through and with advancing technologies. Young people also reported a lack of opportunity to examine AI practices and perspectives in school, suggesting the important role schools can play in supporting youths' development of AI ethics.
Effect of soil sample handling and storage on inorganic nitrogen determination: Implications for the presidedress nitrate test
Authors: Janovicek Kenneth , Wang Huaichun , McDonald Ian , Rosser Ben , Lauzon John , Sulik John , Susko Edward , Nasielski Joshua
Published: June 2024

The presidedress nitrate test (PSNT) is a nitrogen (N) fertilizer decision support system (DSS) that uses soil test nitrate (NO3−) to provide an N rate recommendation for corn. We studied the effect of soil sample storage and handling on soil test NO3−, ammonium (NH4+), and the N rate recommended by the PSNT. Soils from 35 agricultural fields located in southern Ontario, Canada, were collected in June and July and underwent two soil storage treatments and four soil handling treatments. Soils were either handled immediately or frozen (−15°C) for 3 months before handling. Soil handling included (1) immediate extraction in a moist state or oven‐drying for 24 h at (2) 35°C, (3) 65°C, or (4) 105°C. Samples were extracted with a 2.0 M KCl solution for inorganic N determination and immediate, fresh‐extracted samples served as baseline soil test values. Ammonium‐N was increased by freezing and drying at any temperature, while NO3− test values were significantly affected by freezing only. However, oven‐drying samples changed PSNT DSS N rate recommendations in 34%–43% of location‐years when handled immediately and 51%–68% of samples when initially frozen, depending on drying temperature. Most of these deviations were underapplications and relatively small when handled immediately (20 kg N ha−1) or frozen (37 kg N ha−1). We conclude that PSNT samples should not be frozen and that oven‐drying often alters PSNT‐based N rate recommendations.
Financial development and sustainable development: A review of literature
Authors: Akhtar Nayab , Rashid Abdul
Published: June 2024

In the contemporary world, the sustainability of the economic system and its related issues are of major concern for both policy makers and practitioners. The financial sector's role in this context has gained significant attention over the past decades. Although theoretical studies are on the rise, few scholars consolidate both theory and practice. This study addresses this gap through comprehensive bibliometric analysis, mapping the research landscape in the finance‐sustainability field, and encompassing both optimistic and skeptical perspectives. It reviews and synthesizes key theoretical and empirical literature focusing on most recent studies. Specifically, it emphasizes broader aspects of financial development—depth, access, efficiency, and stability—in critically analyzing the economic, environmental, and social pillars of sustainable development, which are distinct yet highly interconnected. It further provides a detailed analysis of sustainable development theories, highlighting their shortcomings and future prospects. Particularly, this study identifies different dimensions, significant factors, and important indicators of sustainability which are vital for achieving and understanding long‐term sustainable development. Some practical implications are also discussed.
The influence of coercive pressures on reporting on SDGs during the COVID‐19 pandemic: An international study
Authors: Sari Tiyas Kurnia , Sholihin Mahfud , Wijayana Singgih
Published: June 2024

The sustainable development goals (SDGs) are recognized as global development guidelines for 2030. The accounting profession can contribute to achieving these goals by encouraging reporting on SDGs at the company level. The increasing awareness of the contribution of businesses to the achievement of the SDGs is one of the reasons for the improvement in the practice of reporting by companies. This research is secondary data‐based accounting research that aims to analyze the quality of reporting on SDGs and whether coercive pressures in the form of regulatory quality, sustainability regulations, and the strength of audit and reporting standards were determinants of the quality of reporting on SDGs in the era of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The results of this study show that, on average, companies reported on 10 of the SDGs (56% of the 17) during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Further, this study found that coercive pressures in the form of regulatory quality, sustainability regulations, and the strength of audit and reporting standards positively affected the quality of reporting at the country and company levels. These results may imply that reporting on SDGs in the pandemic era was defensive reporting that sought to maintain legitimacy and was mainly driven by formal pressures.
Dismantling linear lock‐ins in the Australian AEC industry: A pathway to a circular economy
Authors: Hosseini M. Reza , Memari Sanaz , Martek Igor , Kocaturk Tuba , Bararzadeh Masoomeh , Arashpour Mehrdad
Published: June 2024

The architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry has struggled in its efforts to transition to a circular economy (CE) due to lock‐ins, where the industry remains entrenched in practices that resist this much‐needed transition. The solutions implemented so far have been unsuccessful. This failure can largely be attributed to the prevailing paradigm, which assumes that by sequentially removing barriers transition will naturally follow. However, this assessment overlooks the “lock‐in” effect of practices within the industry's linear model. A comprehensive, holistic “whole of industry” approach is essential to uncover these lock‐ins. In this context, O'Brien's “three transformational spheres framework” is introduced to examine how Australia's AEC sector is deterred from transitioning to a CE by three groups of lock‐ins, and provide viable recommendation to tackle them. Fifteen industry experts were interviewed, covering the three dimensions of the framework. The findings specify three levels of intervention that must be addressed in the industry and recommend an order for tackling them: first, political systems and structures; second, practical behavioral and technical responses; and finally, personal beliefs and values. This article contributes significantly to the field by outlining a comprehensive array of strategies for industry transition. Implementing these strategies in the discussed order has the potential to catalyze the long‐awaited transformation of the industry. This advances the theoretical framework concerning the adoption of a CE within the AEC sector and provides a reliable reference for policymakers, practitioners, and advocates who are orchestrating this transformative journey based on circular principles.
Towards sustainable development: Assessing social sustainability of Australian aged care system
Authors: Wang Kun , Ke Yongjian
Published: June 2024

The importance of social sustainability, one of the three pillars of sustainable development, is increasingly recognised. Its implementation in the aged care system enhances stakeholders' quality of life and supports sustainable societal development. However, there is limited global research on social sustainability in aged care. This study aims to assess the overall social sustainability of the Australian aged care system and propose measures for its improvement. A conceptual framework was developed and applied to analyse the Final Report: Care, Dignity and Respect by the Australian Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. The findings reveal that Australia's aged care system demonstrates significant deficiencies in social sustainability, with unequal access to care, services and facilities, and inadequate health and comfort for the elderly and their families. Employees contend with issues of unfair employment, insufficient compensation, unhealthy work environments, and inadequate education and training. Several measures are proposed to enhance social sustainability. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of social sustainability in the aged care system within a Western context. It enhances our understanding of the components of social sustainability in aged care, assesses its current status, identifies existing challenges, and provides possible directions for improvement. The insights from Australia's experience and potential solutions could inspire other countries to recognise the importance of social sustainability and reform their aged care systems towards sustainable development.
Reliable Low‐Current and Multilevel Memristive Electrochemical Neuromorphic Devices with Semi‐Metal Sb Filament
Authors: Zhuge Chenyu , Zhang Yukun , Jiang Jiandong , Li Xiang , Zhao Yanfei , Fu Yujun , Wang Qi , He Deyan
Published: June 2024

Memristors are used in artificial neural networks owing to their exceptional integration capabilities and scalability. However, traditional memristors are hampered by limited resistance states and randomness, which curtails their application. The migration of metal ions critically influences the number of conductance states and the linearity of weight updates. Semi‐metal filaments can provide subquantum conductance changes to the memristors due to the smaller single‐atom conductance, such as Sb (≈0.01 G0 = 7.69 × 10−7 S). Here, a memristor featuring an active electrode composed of semi‐metal Sb is introduced for the first time. This memristor demonstrates precise conductance control, a large on/off ratio, consistent switching, and prolonged retention exceeding 105 s. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations and characterization methods reveal the formation of Sb filaments during a set process. The interaction between Sb and O within the dielectric layer facilitates the Sb filaments' ability to preserve their morphology in the absence of electric fields.
A MOF‐Gel Based Separator for Suppressing Redox Mediator Shuttling in Li–O2 Batteries
Authors: Wang Baoxing , Liu Jiaheng , Mao Chenghui , Wang Fang , Yuan Shuai , Wang Xizhang , Hu Zheng
Published: June 2024

Redox mediators (RMs) are widely utilized in the electrolytes of Li‐O2 batteries to catalyze the formation/decomposition of Li2O2, which significantly enhances the cycling performance and reduces the charge overpotential. However, RMs have a shuttle effect by migrating to the Li anode side and inducing Li metal degradation through a parasitic reaction. Herein, a metal‐organic framework gel (MOF‐gel) separator is proposed to restrain the shuttling of RMs. Compared to traditional MOF nanoparticles, MOF gels form uniform and dense films on the separators. When using Ru(acac)3 (ruthenium acetylacetonate) as an RM, the MOF‐gel separator suppresses the shuttling of Ru(acac)3 toward the Li anode side and significantly enhances the performance of Li‐O2 batteries. Specifically, Li‐O2 batteries exhibit an ultralong cycling life (410 cycles) at a current density of 0.5 A g−1. Moreover, the batteries using the MOF‐gel/celgard separator exhibit significantly improved cycling performance (increase by ≈1.6 times) at a high current density of 1.0 A g−1 and a decreased charge/discharge overpotential. This result is expected to guide future development of battery separators and the exploration of redox mediators.
Ultrafast Unidirectional On‐Chip Heat Transfer
Authors: Yang Junbo , Liu Miao , Wang Tanhe , Meng Ge , Wang Zhaoyang , Guo Chunsheng , Lin Keng‐Te , Lin Han , Jia Baohua
Published: June 2024

Effective and rapid heat transfer is critical to improving electronic components' performance and operational stability, particularly for highly integrated and miniaturized devices in complex scenarios. However, current thermal manipulation approaches, including the recent advancement in thermal metamaterials, cannot realize fast and unidirectional heat flow control. In addition, any defects in thermal conductive materials cause a significant decrease in thermal conductivity, severely degrading heat transfer performance. Here, the utilization of silicon‐based valley photonic crystals (VPCs) is proposed and numerically demonstrated to facilitate ultrafast, unidirectional heat transfer through thermal radiation on a microscale. Utilizing the infrared wavelength region, the approach achieves a significant thermal rectification effect, ensuring continuous heat flow along designed paths with high transmission efficiency. Remarkably, the process is unaffected by temperature gradients due to the unidirectional property, maintaining transmission directionality. Furthermore, the VPCs' inherent robustness affords defect‐immune heat transfer, overcoming the limitations of traditional conduction methods that inevitably cause device heating, performance degradation, and energy waste. The design is fully CMOS compatible, thus will find broad applications, particularly for integrated optoelectronic devices.
Oxygen Vacancy‐Controlled CuOx/N,Se Co‐Doped Porous Carbon via Plasma‐Treatment for Enhanced Electro‐Reduction of Nitrate to Green Ammonia
Authors: Maeng Junbeom , Jang Daehee , Ha Jungseub , Ji Junhyuk , Heo Jaehyun , Park Yeji , Kim Subin , Kim Won Bae
Published: June 2024

The electrochemical nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR) is of significance in regards of environmentally friendly issues and green ammonia production. However, relatively low performance with a competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a challenge to overcome for the NO3RR. In this study, oxygen vacancy‐controlled copper oxide (CuOx) catalysts through a plasma treatment are successfully prepared and supported on high surface area porous carbon that are co‐doped with N, Se species for its enhanced electrochemical properties. The oxygen vacancy‐increased CuOx catalyst supported on the N,Se co‐doped porous carbon (CuOx‐H/NSePC) exhibited the highest NO3RR performance with faradaic efficiency (FE) of 87.2% and yield of 7.9 mg cm−2 h−1 for the ammonia production, representing significant enhancements of FE and ammonia yield as compared to the un‐doped or the oxygen vacancy‐decreased catalysts. This high performance should be attributed to a significant increase in the catalytic active sites with facilitated energetics from strategies of doping the catalytic materials and weakening the N─O bonding strength for the adsorption of NO3− ions on the modulated oxygen vacancies. This results show a promise that co‐doping of heteroatoms and regulating of oxygen vacancies can be key factors for performance enhancement, suggesting new guidelines for effective catalyst design of NO3RR.
Balancing performance and comfort in virtual reality: A study of FPS, latency, and batch values
Authors: Geris Ali , Cukurbasi Baris , Kilinc Murat , Teke Orkun
Published: June 2024

This manuscript investigates the relationships among various performance metrics in a virtual reality (VR), namely frames per second (FPS), latency, batches, and the number of triangles (tris) and vertices (verts). The study aims to uncover correlations and directional associations between these metrics, shedding light on their impact on VR performance. The findings reveal a significant correlation between FPS and latency, albeit in opposite directions. Higher FPS values are associated with reduced latency, indicating that a smoother visual experience is accompanied by shorter delays in the VR. Conversely, lower FPS values are linked to increased latency, suggesting a potential degradation in overall system responsiveness. Additionally, a strong correlation is observed between latency and batches processed. This finding implies that latency has a direct impact on the system's ability to efficiently process and render objects within VR. Furthermore, a positive correlation is identified between the number of batches and the values of tris and verts. This relationship suggests that higher batch counts are associated with larger quantities of triangles and vertices, reflecting a more complex scene rendering process. Consequently, the performance of VR may be influenced by the density and intricacy of the virtual environments, as indicated by these metrics.
New paradigms of water‐enabled electrical energy generation
Authors: Li Zhengtong , Yang Tao , Zhang Jia‐Han , Meng Taotao , Melhi Saad , You Jungmok , Eguchi Miharu , Pan Likun , Yamauchi Yusuke , Xu Xingtao
Published: June 2024

Nanotechnology‐inspired small‐sized water‐enabled electricity generation (WEG) has sparked widespread research interest, especially when applied as an electricity source for off‐grid low‐power electronic equipment and systems. Currently, WEG encompasses a wide range of physical phenomena, generator structures, and power generation environments. However, a systematic framework to clearly describe the connections and differences between these technologies is unavailable. In this review, a comprehensive overview of generator technologies and the typical mechanisms for harvesting water energy is provided. Considering the different roles of water in WEG processes, the related technologies are presented as two different scenarios. Moreover, a detailed analysis of the electrical potential formation in each WEG process is presented, and their similarities and differences are elucidated. Furthermore, a comprehensive compilation of advanced generator architectures and system designs based on hydrological cycle processes is presented, along with their respective energy efficiencies. These nanotechnology‐inspired small‐sized WEG devices show considerable potential for applications in the Internet of Things ecosystem (i.e., microelectronic devices, integrated circuits, and smart clothing). Finally, the prospects and future challenges of WEG devices are also summarized.
Photostimuli Reach a Selective Intermediate in a Microflow: One‐Shot Transformation from a Supramolecular Co‐Polymer to a Micro‐Disk Structure
Authors: Kaneyoshi Akira , Nomura Shota , Maeda Takato , Kusukawa Takahiro , Kikkawa Yoshihiro , Numata Munenori
Published: June 2024

In supramolecular chemistry, photostimulants are generally combined with a static solution under thermodynamic equilibrium with no time progression. After reaching the thermodynamic state, self‐assembly events contain various species–a mixture of component molecules, intermediate species, and completed assemblies–which light reaches uniformly. In this study, snapshot control of supramolecular polymerization was first combined with pinpoint photoirradiation using a microflow system. Employing the azobenzene derivative trans‐C3NO as a monomer, a snapshot moment of supramolecular polymerization along a microflow channel was selectively irradiated with UV light at 365 nm in a space‐resolved manner, so that the monomers, intermediates (oligomers), or extended supramolecular polymers were selectively exposed to light stimuli. We found that a pinpoint photostimulus to each snapshot moment had a pronounced effect on the kinetic pathway by tuning the timing at which the snapshot moment of cis‐C3NO was generated. Upon irradiation in the upstream region, in the very early stages before initiating polymerization, supramolecular polymerization was suppressed by generating a less reactive cis‐C3NO monomer. However, photoirradiation does not affect the supramolecular polymers in the downstream region because of their stiff nature. Remarkably, when irradiating the middle stream region involving a soft‐natured intermediate species, supramolecular copolymerization occurred through in situ conversion from trans‐ and cis‐C3NO inside the primitive supramolecular polymer. Loose monomer stacking in the primitive aggregate endows it with mechanoresponsiveness. Under the influence of shear force in a Hagen–Poiseuille flow, the resultant supramolecular copolymers containing geometrically different cis‐isomers were rolled up and transformed into a micrometer‐sized disk‐like structure. During the in situ supramolecular copolymerization and transformation to the disk structure, a liquid–liquid interface generated in the laminar flow acted as a template to fix the orientation of the monomers and supramolecular polymers, leading to the uniform disk formation. Furthermore, monomers’ orientation in the aligned supramolecular polymers are fixed on the interface, on which light is always irradiated in an anisotropic manner. This results in both complexity at the molecular level and long‐range structural order such as regular rolling up at the micrometer range over the molecular scale. By incorporating the photostimulus system, microflow extends its potential for supramolecular chemistry.
Nonlinear instability of surface waves between viscous–liquid and subsonic‐gas layers subject to uniform oblique magnetic field
Authors: Assaf Ahmed , Hafez Noha M.
Published: June 2024

Nonlinear instability of surface waves between viscous–liquid and inviscid‐gas layers is discussed. The two fluids are magnetic and subjected to uniform oblique magnetic field. The gas is subsonic and the viscosity is introduced by viscous potential approximation. The evolution equations near and on the marginal state are derived by means of multiple scales technique. The stability criteria of the waves are obtained by the modulation idea. Many special cases of dispersion equation as well as solvability conditions correspond well the similar ones in the literature. Various numerical applications have been investigated to reveal the parameters effects on the system stability. Linear results show dual influences for magnetic field, sum of inclination angles and permeability ratio whereas the wavelength, gas motion, and inclination angle in the liquid tend to destabilize the flow. Nonlinear applications reveal dual role for the gas thickness, while it has a linear stable‐role. Moreover, nonlinearity shows dual roles for viscosity and liquid thickness, which have no influences according to linear theory. The investigation of stability using nonlinear theory seems more accurate to describe the (un)stable influences comparing with the linear one. The current work may be useful to give more accurate comprehension of stability process as well as to obtain the required conditions of stability by designing suitable devices, which control the model parameters.
Emission Free Energy Carriers and the Impact of Trade to Achieve the 1.5 °C Target: A Global Perspective of Hydrogen and Ammonia
Authors: Lippkau Felix , Rupakula Ganesh Deepak , Blesl Markus
Published: June 2024

To achieve the global 1.5 °C target and realize a climate-neutral energy system, decarbonizing all sectors of final energy consumption is crucial. Green hydrogen and green ammonia emerge as pivotal in decarbonizing, particularly in the industrial sector by 2100, given their potential as emission-free energy carriers. These can be efficiently produced in regions abundant in renewable resources, with lower production costs and then exported to high-demand areas. This study explores the most cost-effective global trade routes for supplying these energy carriers, considering future electricity production, the role of renewables by 2100, global emissions, final energy consumption, and the subsequent production and logistics of hydrogen and ammonia. We introduce four scenarios: Business-as-Usual (BAU), a 1.5 °C scenario (1_5D) aligning with specific CO2 budgets, and two variants of the 1_5D scenario (SoS1 and SoS2) with varying restrictions on imports and domestic production. Employing the TIMES Integrated Assessment Model (TIAM), our findings suggest a future energy landscape dominated by the electricity sector, with solar PV contributing over 50% of green electricity by 2100. Hydrogen demand could reach 13,500 TWh compared to 155,000 TWh global energy demand. Without import constraints, Middle East Asia, due to its renewable resource richness and strategic location, could fulfill the global demand for green hydrogen and ammonia.
Net-Zero Transition in Ukraine: Implications for Sustainable Development Goal 7
Authors: Chepeliev Maksym , Diachuk Oleksandr , Podolets Roman , Semeniuk Andrii , Trypolska Galyna
Published: June 2024

In this study, we use a TIMES-Ukraine energy system-wide model to explore net-zero transition in Ukraine. The assessment considers the potential implications of the ongoing war in the country and analyzes how the achievement of ambitious mitigation goals could impact the indicators related to the Sustainable Development Goal on energy, SDG7 (Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy). Results suggest that the net-zero transition would help improve several SDG7 indicators, including increased share of renewables in total final energy consumption, and increased energy affordability in the long run. However, in the medium run, increasing energy prices and rising investment needs might challenge the net-zero transition in the country. Overall cumulative investment needs increase by around 23% over the analyzed time horizon with the major portion being concentrated within the 2030–2045 timeframe. Major efforts need to be made to ensure the availability of a wide range of options for clean and green energy financing in Ukraine, including a reduction of the bond yield rates, creation of the specialized funds to support the ‘green’ transition, as well as the creation of a more competitive domestic environment through increasing mitigation ambition. If successfully implemented, these will allow Ukraine to rebuild the domestic energy system in a more technologically advanced and climate-friendly way, at the same time further supporting the country’s sustainable development agenda.