bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of transition metals (Fe, Ru and Os) on the elastic, thermodynamic, electronic, magnetic and thermoelectric properties of three Nd-filled arsenide skutterudites based on first-principles computations
Authors: Chaki Tanmay , Mandal Pradip Kumar 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Elastic, electronic, magnetic, thermodynamic, and thermoelectric properties of three neodymium-filled skutterudites NdT4As12 (T = Fe, Ru and Os) have been investigated using density functional theory. The bulk moduli increase with the atomic numbers of the transition metals. All materials are stiff, while the Os compound is the stiffest. A considerable ionic contribution is seen in their inter-atomic bonding. The Fe compound possesses the highest Debye temperature, while the Os compound has the highest melting temperature. GGA+U formalism predicts the semimetallic nature of all the compounds, but their total DOS differs near the Fermi level in both spin channels. The contributions of the Nd-f and T-d electrons differ in the three compounds and two methods. GGA+U predicts the highest magnetic moment in the Fe compound, followed by the Ru and Os compounds. The thermoelectric figure of merit shows no systematic variation with z of the transition metals and in the high temperature region it increases with temperature pretty fast. The highest value of ZT is 0.32 in the Ru compound in the spin-down channel while it is 0.24 in the spin-up channel in the Fe compound, both at 1000 K.
Thermodynamic and dielectric properties of hexagonal barium titanate near the phase transitions
Authors: Yurtseven Hamit , Kiraci Ali 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The critical behavior of the thermodynamic quantities is studied for the two phase transitions near the transition temperatures (74 K and 222 K) in the hexagonal (h) BaTiO3. A linear relationship has been established between the variations of the frequency shifts and of the dielectric constant by using the literature data in h-BaTiO3. Temperature and pressure dependence of the mode Grüneisen parameters (

γ

p

and

γ

T

) are also described by a power-law formula as the other thermodynamic parameters near Tpt in h-BaTiO3. Our results show that they explain the observed behavior adequately, in particular soft-mode frequency, dielectric constant, thermal expansion, the excess specific heat and the entropy near Tpt in h-BaTiO3. Temperature dependence of the isobaric mode Grüneisen parameter (

γ

p

), enthalpy and the Gibbs free energy, which we have evaluated, can be compared with experiments in h-BaTiO3.
SPICE Simulation Assisted-Dynamic Rds(on) Characterization in 200V Commercial Schottky p-GaN HEMTs Under Unstable Phases
Authors: Liu Xinzhi , Shafie Suhaidi , Amran Mohd Radzi Mohd , Azis Norhafiz 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of dynamic and static RDS(ON) in Schottky p-GaN High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs), highlighting the impact of off-state and hot electron trapping on device performance. The authors observed significant hysteresis in the transfer characteristics of a 200V commercial Schottky p-GaN, attributing this to charge trapping effects. A novel experimental setup, employing a multi-pulse test synchronous buck converter circuit with additional gate control and a clamping circuit, enabled precise characterization of dynamic RDS(ON) under varying conditions, including unstable phases with overcurrent. This method effectively mimics solar PV input scenarios, exposing the device to high dv/dt and di/dt stresses, which are critical for evaluating GaN device stability under transient conditions. This research also reveals that increased gate resistance reduces energy losses, challenging traditional expectations by demonstrating the nuanced gate charge dynamics of GaN HEMTs. This study overall contributes to the understanding of GaN device behavior, offering a novel approach for accurately characterizing dynamic RDS(ON) under unstable stages, furtherly advances the GaN device in complex renewable energy power converter applications.
FT-IR Analysis Results of Rolling and Temperature Effects on Flexible Substrate
Authors: Choi S Y , Moon S J , Lee J M , Lee K Y , Bae B S 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
This research investigates the complexities of molecular structural analysis applied to film substrates post the rolling process, concentrating specifically on characterizing flexible substrate materials, particularly polyimide (PI) film. By deliberately adjusting the number of rolling cycles and temperature parameters, a meticulous series of scratch tests was conducted. Following this, comprehensive sample analyses were carried out employing Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, enabling a thorough exploration of the molecular composition and structural integrity of the substrates. Our experimental findings confirm that molecules with weaker bonds tend to dissociate under physical stresses like rolling. While the dissociation of bonds does not strictly correlate proportionally with the frequency of stress application, a weakening of bonds is observed, particularly after repeated stress applications, indicating the susceptibility of molecular bonds to external stress.
Effect of polymer coating on magnetocaloric properties of garnet
Authors: Sultana Jolaikha , Chhetri Santosh Karki , Hu Jin , Pollard Shawn , Mishra Sanjay R 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
In this study, Gd3Fe5O12 nanoparticles were synthesized using the sol–gel autocombustion method and subsequently coated with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) polymer. The study focuses on understanding the influence of PVP coating on garnet particles’ magnetic and magnetocaloric properties. The crystallite size upon PVP-coating remained unaltered, but the grain size and surface area of coated particles increased. The magnetization of PVP-coated particles decreased by around 11% as compared to the uncoated particles at 5 K. Mössbauer and photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed the presence of a paramagnetic phase Fe3+ in the PVP-coated nanoparticles responsible for the reduction in magnetization value. The maximum value of magnetic entropy change (−ΔS
m
) for uncoated Gd3Fe5O12 was 3.78 Jkg−1 K−1 at 37.5 K with a 5T applied field, accompanied by a relative cooling power (RCP) of 382 Jkg−1. On the other hand, for PVP-coated Gd3Fe5O12, the maximum −ΔS
m
was 3.38 Jkg−1 K−1 at 57.5 K with a 5T applied field, and the RCP was 308 Jkg−1. The observed maximum magnetic entropy changes at higher temperatures for the PVP-coated Gd3Fe5O12 sample are noteworthy. This characteristic indicates that the PVP-coated garnet may have an advantage in terms of usability over a wider temperature range compared to the uncoated counterpart, which can potentially be a promising material for applications in cryogenic temperature magnetic refrigeration.
Thrust estimate method of an on-orbit Hall thruster using Hall drift current
Authors: REN 任 Ziying 姿颖 , WEI 魏 Liqiu 立秋 , LIU 刘 Zexin 泽欣 , HU 扈 Yanlin 延林 , HAN 韩 Liang 亮 , LI 李 Hong 鸿 , DING 丁 Yongjie 永杰 , ZHONG 钟 Xiufeng 秀峰 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
In order to realize the thrust estimation of the Hall thruster during its flight mission, this study establishes an estimation method based on measurement of the Hall drift current. In this method, the Hall drift current is calculated from an inverse magnetostatic problem, which is formulated according to its induced magnetic flux density detected by sensors, and then the thrust is estimated by multiplying the Hall drift current with the characteristic magnetic flux density of the thruster itself. In addition, a three-wire torsion pendulum micro-thrust measurement system is utilized to verify the estimate values obtained from the proposed method. The errors were found to be less than 8% when the discharge voltage ranged from 250 V to 350 V and the anode flow rate ranged from 30 sccm to 50 sccm, indicating the possibility that the proposed thrust estimate method could be practically applied. Moreover, the measurement accuracy of the magnetic flux density is suggested to be lower than 0.015 mT and improvement on the inverse problem solution is required in the future.
The Impact of Age on Emergency Department Stay and Hospital Outcomes in Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Davey Naomi , Keating Donal , Farrelly Angelina , Noonan Claire , Chacko Sherry Theckanath , Soh Josephine 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Nursing home residents (NHR) often face challenges receiving appropriate care in acute settings. The national Urgent And Emergency Care Daily Situation Report highlights the number of individuals aged over 75 awaiting hospital beds in the Emergency Department (ED), potentially influencing care decisions based on age over individual needs.

Methods
A six-month retrospective analysis of NHR admissions used hospital records to gather key metrics such as biographical data, pressure ulceration rates, instances of non-oral intake (NPO), length-of-stay (LOS) and inpatient mortality.

Results
Of the 128 admitted NHR, 22 were under 75 (mean 70.41 years; 66-74) and 106 were aged 75 and over (mean 84.98 years; 75-99). For the medically admitted under 75 cohort, the average ED stay lasted 1.14 days (0.36-3.72) with a hospital LOS of 11.54 days (3.54-24.9). Those under 75 admitted by the acute medical unit (AMU) spent an average of 0.62 days (0.02-1.14) in ED with a LOS of 6.52 days (0.34-11.86). For the over 75 cohort, those medically admitted spent an average of 0.8 days (0.18-2.17) in ED with a hospital LOS of 9.02 days (0.83-43.53), compared to 0.54 days in ED (0.06-1.45) with a LOS of 8.3 days (1.28-20.27) for those admitted by AMU. Pressure ulceration was found in 32% of the under 75 group and 27% of the over 75 group, with uncertain origins in 9% and 2%, respectively. Additionally, 13.6% of those under 75 and 7.5% of those over 75 were made NPO. The overall mortality rate was 18.5% (18% in the under 75 group and 15% in the over 75 group).

Conclusion
The study highlights significant differences in the care and outcomes of NHR attending the ED with younger NHR experiencing longer stays and worse outcomes. This underscores the need for age-specific strategies to enhance emergency care for NHR, ensuring that interventions are appropriately aligned with individual needs.
A Study To Investigate Fear Of Falling On An Age-Related Rehabilitation Unit
Authors: Walker Vicky , Collins Rónán , Ryan Dan , Smyth Hannah , Fitzgerald Michelle , Brennan Michael , Browne Louise , Belton Anne , Doran Edwina , Flood Eimear , Kavanagh David , Keegan Michael 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Fear of falling (FOF) is a lasting concern about falling that can lead an individual to avoid activities that he/she remains capable of preforming. Due to a FOF many older adults restrict their activities and subsequently increase their risk of falls. The aim of this study was to 1. Obtain a profile of FOF in an age-related inpatient population 2. Determine the severity of their FOF 3. Collect mobility status and falls history.

Methods
All current inpatients on two age-related rehabilitation units (age &gt;/= 65 years) with sufficient communication were included. Patients were facilitated to complete The Falls Efficacy Scale International (FES-I) which is a 16-point scale that is valid and reliable. A score of 16-19 indicates a low concern, 20-27 moderate concern and 28-64 a high concern about falling. A two-point convenience sampling at summer and winter period was used. Data was anonymized and recorded using Microsoft excel.

Results
68 questionnaires were collected. 40% of patients were independently mobile (+/- a walking aid), 16% required supervision, 26% assistance of one and 18% assistance of two. 100% of patients had a FOF (FES-I score &gt;16). 80% (N=54) of patients had a high FOF, 13% (N=9) had a medium FOF, and 7% (N=5) a low FOF. 75% (N=51) of patients had a documented falls history. 80% (N=41) of people with a falls history had a high FOF. 76% (N=13) of those with no falls history had a high FOF.

Conclusion
This the first profile of FOF in our age-related rehabilitation unit. 93% of patients reported a high or medium FOF with high rates reported independent of a history of falling. Addressing FOF with evidence-based interventions and psychological support may reduce length of stay and increase successful discharges from older person rehabilitation units.
Debulking the Myth of the ‘Social’ Admission – A Retrospective Review of Acutely Admitted Medical Patients in Wexford General Hospital
Authors: Geraghty Timothy , Kelly Rosie , Pollock Ailis , Farrell Luke , Khalid Iffat , Reardon Michael 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
“Acopia”, “social admission” and other synonymous terms are frequently provided reasons requiring admission to acute hospitals and represent a common encounter for the Geriatric clinician. These cases are usually so called when the patient’s social circumstances are felt to need urgent attention, yet their medical health has not acutely deteriorated. Such non-diagnostic labels often mask underlying complex medical issues which can have detrimental health outcomes if not addressed appropriately. Despite this, they persist in the vernacular of modern medicine with almost half of doctors, junior and senior, finding the term useful (43.5%) and acceptable as a diagnosis (30.9%)1. We sought to examine what percentage of adult medical patients admitted to an acute hospital did not have an appreciable medical cause for their presentation.

Methods
We conducted a retrospective review of 191 patients admitted under medical teams in Wexford General Hospital across a 13-day period. Inclusion criteria included adult patients admitted under a medical team from the Emergency Department. Exclusion criteria applied to any patient admitted from OPD or by non-medical specialities.

Results
191 cases were analysed. The average age was 65.8, median age was 70 and majority were male (n=105, 55%). There were only 2 patients (1%) who had no acute medical concerns following medical review. In one, the patient’s home oxygen supply had run out and the intended delivery of oxygen had been delayed. Another patient required increased home care supports however their medical status had not changed.

Conclusion
Our findings suggest that most patients presenting to acute hospitals following a robust medical review will evidence an acute medical issue. Dismissive phrases such as “acopia” and “social admission” need to be challenged for the superficial assessment that they are, and this reductive approach must be expunged from clinical practice to avoid misdiagnosis and malpractice in the care of the older adult.
The Prevalence of Frailty Among People Experiencing Homelessness Attending a Primary Care Clinic: A Service Evaluation and Quality Improvement Initiative
Authors: Travers John , Cronin Thomas , O'Carroll Austin , Smith Susan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Frailty is traditionally considered a geriatric syndrome though can present at a younger chronological age among people experiencing homelessness (PEH) due to risk factors such as poor nutrition, addiction and loneliness. Our walk-in primary care clinic for PEH has not previously recorded frailty status or prevalence among attendees, which would provide an opportunity to offer effective, evidence-based interventions. As part of a quality improvement initiative (QI), we evaluated frailty prevalence to improve our service to PEH.

Methods
The frailty status of adults presenting consecutively to a general practitioner at an urban, walk-in primary care clinic in Ireland dedicated to PEH was measured each Monday during a service evaluation in the first two months of 2024. Frail Scale (criteria: fatigue, resistance, ambulation, illness and weight loss; 0=robust, 1-2=pre-frail, 3-5=frail)) and the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) were used.

Results
73 adults presented (median age 41.5), 21 female (28.8%)). 24 were frail on the Frail Scale (32.9% of total presenting), of which 4 were female (19.0% of females presenting) and 20 were male (38.5% of males presenting). 43 were pre-frail on the Frail Scale (58.9% of total presenting), of which 15 were female (71.4% of females presenting) and 28 were male (53.8% of males presenting). The median CFS was 4 (vulnerable). The most common frailty indicators were fatigue (68.5%) and weight loss (64.4%).

Conclusion
Frailty and pre-frailty were highly prevalent among PEH at our primary care clinic. A third were frail and over half pre-frail. The prevalence of this reversible syndrome had not previously been evaluated. Our findings underline the opportunity to improve our service by screening for frailty among PEH and offer appropriate interventions to reverse frailty and build resilience. Service evaluation and QI initiatives can enable application of research evidence and improvement of real-world clinical care.
Experiences And Preferences Of People With Stroke And Caregivers, Around Supports Provided At The Transition from Hospital to Home
Authors: O'Callaghan Geraldine , Fahy Martin , OMeara Sigrid , Lindblom Sebastian , von Koch Lena , Langhorne Peter , Galvin Rose , Horgan Frances 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Transitioning home from organised stroke services poses many challenges for people with stroke (PWS) and their caregivers (CGs), requiring them to navigate through complex uncertainties. There are gaps in our understanding of appropriate support interventions for managing the transition home. In this qualitative study, we explored the perspectives of PWS and their CGs regarding their support experiences and preferences during this period.

Methods
Between November 2022 and March 2023, and within six months of hospital discharge, audio-recorded, semi-structured interviews were conducted with PWS and their CGs. All interviews were transcribed, imported into NVivo software, and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results
Sixteen interviews were conducted, nine with PWS and seven with CGs. Four themes relevant to their collective experiences and preferences were identified: (i) Need for tailored information-sharing, at the right time, and in the right setting; (ii) The importance of emotional support; (iii) Left in limbo, (iv) Inequity of access. Experiences depict issues such as insufficient information-sharing, communication gaps, and fragmented and inequitable care; while a multi-faceted approach is desired to ease anxiety and uncertainty, minimise delays, and optimise recovery and participation during transition.

Conclusion
Our findings highlight that regardless of the discharge route, and even with formal support systems in place, PWS and families encounter challenges during the transition period. There is a need for more personalised and timely information-sharing to support individuals and caregivers effectively. A multi-faceted approach is recommended to alleviate anxiety, reduce delays, and provide equitable care for all involved.
The Impact of Introducing Generic Therapy Assistants to an Acute Occupational Therapy Stroke Service
Authors: Grehan Orla , Meehan Claire , Shinners Dylan , Concannon Emma , Lennon Roisin , Flattery Valerie , O'Connell Kevin 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
It has been recommended that patients post-Stroke should receive 45 minutes of Occupational Therapy (OT) input on at least five days per week to evoke meaningful and significant improvements in patient-centred outcomes. However, service capacity cannot always meet recommended levels. Generic Therapy Assistants (GTAs) offer opportunities to bolster staffing and increase intensity and quality of OT input. This pilot aims to investigate the impact of the recruitment of two GTAs upon OT services in an acute Stroke unit.

Methods
Two GTAs were recruited to the service and underwent tailored training, followed by in-service training and supervision support. Data was collected prior to their recruitment for a four-week period (Timepoint 1) and again following their appointment (Timepoint 2). Duration of OT sessions were categorised as High (&gt;36 minutes), Moderate (23-36 minutes) and Low Intensity (&lt;23 Minutes). Key metrics were the number of sessions that took place, the proportion of sessions deemed low, moderate and high intensity and a functional measure of included patients using the Functional Independence Measure (FIM).

Results
Total sessions increased from 113 to 184 from Timepoint 1 to 2, and sessions deprioritized reduced from 116 to 71, with greater contact time per day during Timepoint 2. The proportion of sessions described as High Intensity increased from 45% to 63%. Twelve patients from each cohort had functional changes measured, with scores recorded on initial assessment and on discharge. Average increases of 3.75 points were observed during Timepoint 1, and 8 points at Timepoint 2.

Conclusion
The addition of two GTAs to the Stroke service in this acute hospital facilitated positive changes to the OT service capacity and delivery. Increased numbers of sessions and session duration were observed, alongside a greater proportion of sessions being of High Intensity, and greater functional improvements when compared to similar data collection prior to their recruitment.
Long-Term Outcomes of Older Adults in Ireland after Geriatric Rehabilitation for COVID-19: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: McCarthy Aoife , Robinson Katie , Dockery Frances , McLoughlin Kara , O'Connor Margaret , Milos Antonella , Corey Gillian , Carey Leonora , Steed Fiona , Haaksma Miriam , Whiston Aoife , Tierney Audrey , Galvin Rose 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by the Sars-CoV-2 virus. Disease presentation and severity has evolved since its emergence in 2019. In May 2023, the World Health Organization declared the end of the COVID-19 pandemic but described it as an established and ongoing health issue. Studies to date have focused on disease presentation, prevalence and evolution and the immediate rehabilitation outcomes for older adults. There is a paucity of research reporting the long-term outcomes of older adults who have completed geriatric rehabilitation. The primary aim of this study was to describe the long-term functional outcomes of a cohort of older adults with acute COVID-19 who have completed inpatient geriatric rehabilitation.

Methods
This is a subgroup analysis of Irish data gathered as part of a pan-European prospective cohort study. Patients were recruited from two acute hospitals in the Republic of Ireland: Beaumont Hospital and University Hospital Limerick. Patients with a confirmed case of COVID-19 infection and accepted for geriatric rehabilitation in the hospital setting were eligible for recruitment. Functional ability, patient reported symptoms and quality of life were measured using the Barthel Index, the COVID-19 Yorkshire Rehabilitation Screen and the EQ-5D-5L respectively.

Results
Thirty patients were included in the subgroup analysis. The rate of mortality was 23.3% at six months after discharge from rehabilitation. Patients achieved a return to pre-admission functional ability but reported a significant increase in patient reported symptoms and their quality of life did not return to pre-admission levels when assessed at six months after discharge from rehabilitation.

Conclusion
Multidisciplinary rehabilitation for older adults with acute COVID-19 infection can assist patients to return to their premorbid functional ability. On discharge from rehabilitation, ongoing follow up of older adults is recommended to assist them to negotiate and manage ongoing symptomatology such as breathlessness or fatigue.