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Rational Design of ZnO/Sc2CF2 Heterostructure with Tunable Electronic Structure for Water Splitting: A First-Principles Study
No full textHeterostructures are highly promising photocatalyst candidates for water splitting due to their advanced properties than those of pristine components. The ZnO/Sc2CF2 heterostructure was designed in this work, and its electronic structure was investigated to explore its potential for water splitting. The assessments of binding energy, phonon spectrum, ab initio molecular dynamics, and elastic constants provide strong evidence for its stability. The ZnO/Sc2CF2 heterostructure has an indirect band gap of 1.93 eV with a type-Ⅰ band alignment. The electronic structure can be modified with strain, leading to a transition in band alignment from type-Ⅰ to type-Ⅱ. The heterostructure is suitable for water splitting since its VBM and CBM stride over the redox potential. The energy barrier and built-in electric field, resulting from the charge transfer, facilitate the spatial separation of photogenerated carriers, enhancing their utilization efficiency for redox processes. The photogenerated carriers in the heterostructures with lattice compression greater than 6% follow the direct-Z transfer mechanism. The ZnO/Sc2CF2 heterostructure is confirmed with high photocatalytic activity by a Gibbs free energy change of HER, which is 0.89 eV and decreases to −0.52 eV under an 8% compressive strain. The heterostructure exhibits a remarkable enhancement in both absorption range and intensity, which can be further improved with strains. All these findings suggest that the ZnO/Sc2CF2 heterostructure is an appreciated catalyst for efficient photocatalytic water splitting.ye
Tailoring hydrogel structures: investigating the effects of multistep cellulose defibrillation on polyvinyl alcohol composites
No full textDefibrillating cellulose through various grinding steps and incorporating it into hydrogels
introduces unique properties that warrant thorough exploration. This study investigates cellulose
defibrillation at different steps (15–120) using an ultra-fine friction grinder, blended with highmolecular-
weight polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and crosslinked via freeze–thawing. A critical discovery
is the influence of defibrillation on the hydrogel structure, as evidenced by reduced crystallinity,
thermal degradation, and the enhanced swelling of PVA chains. Despite an increased elastic modulus
of up to 120 steps, the synthesized material maintains remarkable strength under hydrated conditions,
holding significant promise in biomaterial applications.ye
Comparative evaluation of vat photopolymerization and steel tool molds on the performance of injection molded and overmolded tensile specimens
No full textThis study explores the use of vat polymerization stereolithography (SLA) for fabricating
mold tooling, subsequently utilized in injection molding (IM) and overmolding
of tensile specimens and directly compared to those produced using
metal molds. The results first find the manufacturing time for an SLA-fabricated
mold is remarkably short, approximately 6 h, presenting a substantial improvement
over traditional methods. Mechanical testing revealed that the tensile specimens
from the SLA-fabricated molds exhibited the highest tensile strength among
all overmolding batches. This performance was consistent with the tensile bars
produced using metal molds, demonstrating the viability of SLA-fabricated molds
for overmolding applications and highlighting the potential of FDM to customize
the properties of final products. However, variations in mold types impacted the
dimensional tolerance and tensile strength of the final specimens. Metal moldfabricated
tensile bars exhibited superior dimensional accuracy and maximum
tensile strength (50.6–61.7 MPa) compared to those produced with SLA-fabricated
molds (46.9–55.9 MPa). These differences are attributed to the rougher surface finish
inherent to the layer-by-layer construction of SLA and the internal stresses
and defects resulting from lower thermal conductivity and uneven cooling. In conclusion,
this study underscores the promising future applications of SLAfabricated
molds in overmolding, offering reduced manufacturing costs and
enhanced design freedom. The findings support the potential of SLA to revolutionize
mold fabrication, thereby extending its utility and optimizing the production
of polymer components with customized propertiesye
A novel ML-driven test case selection approach for enhancing the performance of grammatical evolution
Full text linkComputational cost in metaheuristics such as Evolutionary Algorithm (EAs) is often a major concern, particularly with their ability to scale. In data-based training, traditional EAs typically use a significant portion, if not all, of the dataset for model training and fitness evaluation in each generation. This makes EA suffer from high computational costs incurred during the fitness evaluation of the population, particularly when working with large datasets. To mitigate this issue, we propose a Machine Learning (ML)-driven Distance-based Selection (DBS) algorithm that reduces the fitness evaluation time by optimizing test cases. We test our algorithm by applying it to 24 benchmark problems from Symbolic Regression (SR) and digital circuit domains and then using Grammatical Evolution (GE) to train models using the reduced dataset. We use GE to test DBS on SR and produce a system flexible enough to test it on digital circuit problems further. The quality of the solutions is tested and compared against state-of-the-art and conventional training methods to measure the coverage of training data selected using DBS, i.e., how well the subset matches the statistical properties of the entire dataset. Moreover, the effect of optimized training data on run time and the effective size of the evolved solutions is analyzed. Experimental and statistical evaluations of the results show our method empowered GE to yield superior or comparable solutions to the baseline (using the full datasets) with smaller sizes and demonstrates computational efficiency in terms of speed.ye
Sexual, Domestic, and Gender-based Abuse A collection of experience and opinion
Full text linkThe following five contributions, collectively, offer an exploration of various facets of societal challenges and public health issues, highlighting the need for awareness, research, and targeted interventions. The five commentaries for this special section, address the hugely important frequently invisible and secret topic, of sexual, domestic and gender-based abuse. The World Health Organization identifies violence against women, in particular intimate partner, and sexual violence as a major public health problem (1). They estimate that globally 30% of women have been subjected to either physical or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime. Violence can negatively affect women’s physical, mental, sexual, and
reproductive health, and can lead to femicide and increased risk of suicide (2). In her commentary on the topic of Technology-Facilitated Domestic Abuse (TFDA) Dr Lisa O’Rourke Scott underscores the dark side of increasing global technology use for facilitating domestic abuse. The prevalence of cyber violence and technology-facilitated sexual harassment reveals the urgency of addressing this emerging threat. The nature of TFDA allows abusers to exert control remotely, presenting unique challenges for victims and necessitating continual awareness and research. Jennifer Moran Stritch's commentary delves into the intersection of disenfranchised grief and domestic abuse, emphasizing the hidden impact of loss experienced by survivors. By recognizing the layers of secrecy in domestic abuse, Stritch advocates for professionals to acknowledge and address disenfranchised grief, contributing to a more empathic and understanding response to the complex experiences of victims. Frank Houghton's analysis of The Sale of Alcohol Bill, 2022 in Ireland reveals potential conflicts with the Public Health (Alcohol) Act, 2018. The article highlights the tension between economic interests and public health goals, with the alcohol industry's influence on legislation raising concerns. His commentary emphasizes the importance of recognizing alcohol's role in issues like domestic violence and advocates for policies that align with public health objectives.Hazel Katherine Larkin's commentary focuses on "The Lilac Programme" and brings attention to a targeted initiative for parents with a history of childhood sexual abuse. This innovative program acknowledges the specific challenges faced by these parents during critical life events, providing structured support and fostering a transformative experience. Larkin's work sheds light on the healing potential of community-focused programs tailored to the unique needs of abuse survivors. Melinda Heinz's exploration of the alarming tolerance for sexual violence in the U.S. unpacks the societal acceptance of such behavior, especially among political leaders and athletes. The commentary critically examines the revictimization process within legal systems and points to the challenges posed by right-wing authoritarianism. Heinz calls for cultural change and increased public awareness to challenge ingrained norms that perpetuate sexual violence.
While each article addresses a distinct subject, the common thread lies in the recognition of hidden, nuanced, or evolving problems that demand attention, understanding, and concerted efforts. Collectively, these articles paint a detailed picture of contemporary challenges in public health, urging a multidimensional and collaborative approach. They underscore the importance of tailored interventions, awareness campaigns, and ethical research practices to address the evolving landscape of societal issues and ensure the well-being of communities.ye
Implementation of the GAA 'healthy clubs project' in Ireland: a qualitative study using the consolidated framework for implementation research.
Full text linkThe sports clubs’ role in promoting health has been acknowledged by policy makers and researchers, but there is little evidence
on how sports clubs implement health-related interventions. The present article investigates the Gaelic Athletic Association
Healthy Club Project (HCP) implementation process (mechanisms, barriers, leverages) over a 10-year timeframe. A case study
design helped to produce and compare a data synthesis for five clubs involved since 2013. A qualitative iterative data collection,
including document analysis was conducted through 20 focus groups with Healthy Club Officers, coaches, participants and
members. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was used in the deductive analysis process, conducted
by the first author. Results have shown the success of the HCP in placing health promotion on the agenda of sports clubs
leading to informal policy for health promotion, even if activities and recognition are directed toward and coming from the community.
This study also underlines the virtuous cycle of the settings-based approach in enhancing membership and volunteer
recognition through health promotion actions, and the importance of social good and corporate social activities for sports clubs.
Nevertheless, the HCP still relies on limited human resources, is not recognized by competitive oriented adult playing members.
and acknowledged as a resource by some coaches, limiting its rootedness in the core business of sports clubs. Future research
should empower the HCP community to focus on organizational changes and develop outcomes for individuals, for the club as a
whole as well as for the local community.ye
Ireland's Sugar Tax: A Case Study In How Not to Build An Evidence Base for Health Policy
No full textIreland introduced a Sugar Sweetened Drinks Tax (SSDT) on the 1st May 2018, with a subsequent expansion of the beverages covered in 2019. This measure was introduced in an attempt to combat rising levels of obesity and overweight. Five years later Ireland’s Department of Health invited applications for an evaluation of the impact of the SSDT. This investigation was designed to determine if the SSDT was successful in realising two key objectives: (1) that individuals reduce consumption of sugar sweetened drinks by reducing the amount consumed or switching to healthier choices; (2) that industry reformulates products to reduce (not necessarily remove) levels of added sugar in the drinks products. However, no baseline information on consumption, prices, beverage availability, or beverage composition was collected. This deficit critically weakened attempts at evaluation of the impact of the SSDT. Government-funded ongoing cross-sectional and longitudinal health surveys were not optimised to support an evaluation of the SSDT, and relevant survey questions changed during this 5-year post tax implementation period, thus preventing their meaningful incorporation in any evaluation of the SSDT. Future health interventions must be accompanied by careful evaluation plans based on robust data collection and analysis.ye
Methods of Characterization of 3-Printed Objects
No full textThe popularity of 3D printers has increased in the past decade, partially attributed to
the expiration of significant patents and the availability of cost-effective equipment.
The utilisation of 3D printing technology offers numerous benefits, including cost
efficiency, expedited prototyping, minimised waste production, the ability to create
lightweight structures, and decreased energy consumption, among others. According
to a recent study, the global market for 3D printing products and services reached
an estimated value of approximately 12.6 billion USD in the year 2020. Projections
indicate that this market is poised to have a compound annual growth rate of 17%
throughout the period spanning 2020 to 2023 [1]. The utilisation of 3D printing technology
has been observed in various domains, including but not limited to medical
devices and the automobile industry, electronics sector, construction field, and
aerospace sector. This chapter will elucidate the primary techniques employed for
characterising three-dimensional printed objects.n
"Post or perish"? An early career researcher's guide to using social media
Full text linkSocial media usage has soared in the last decade, with the majority of adults having an account on at least one platform. Sites such
as LinkedIn, X, and TikTok allow users to share content using different forms, for example, written or video, long form or short
form. Social media can be used by researchers to forge collaborations, rapidly disseminate new research, and demonstrate societal
impact. This opinion piece aims to highlight the value of social media, in particular for early career researchers, and offer
suggestions on how early career researchers can strategically use social media to build a network and an online presence. We
reflect on our own experiences of social media and include some of the reasons we have been deterred from it in the past, such as
fear of making a mistake, being misunderstood, or painted as being an overconfident “know it all.” As the demonstration of
impact and engagement becomes ever more important in grant applications and job security, social media competency is a
powerful professional skill that will be important for all scientists.ye
Comprehensive analysis and assessment of exposure to enteric viruses and bacteria in shellfish
No full textShellfish species, including oysters, clams, and mussels, are extensively cultured in coastal waters. Its location is
determined by factors such as nutrient availability, water temperature, tidal cycle, and the presence of contaminants
such as Escherichia coli and enteric viruses. With the expansion and intensification of human activities
at vicinities, the presence of anthropogenic contaminants has increased, threatening shellfish farms and consumer
safety give the prevalent consumption of raw shellfish. This literature review aims to provide a
comprehensive analysis of the dietary exposure and assess the risk associated with enteric viruses and bacteria
detected in shellfish. The predominant bacteria and viruses detected in shellfish are reported, and the potential
interrelation is discussed. The main characteristics of each contaminant and shellfish were reviewed for a more
comprehensive understanding. To facilitate a direct estimation of exposure, the estimated daily intake (EDI) of
bacteria was calculated based on the average levels of E. coli in shellfish, as reported in the literature. The mean
daily ingestion of seafood in each of the five continents was considered. Asia exhibited the highest intake of
contaminants, with an average of ±5.6 E. coli units/day.kg body weight in cockles. Simulations were conducted
using recommended shellfish consumption levels established by state agencies, revealing significantly lower (p
< 0.01) EDI for all continents compared to estimations based on recommended levels. This indicates a higher risk
associated with healthy shellfish ingestion, potentially leading to increased intoxication incidents with a change
in dietary habits. To promote a healthier lifestyle through increased shellfish consumptions, it is imperative to
reduce the exposure of shellfish species to bacteria and enteric viruses. The conventional use of E. coli as the sole
indicator for consumption safety and water quality in shellfish farms has been deemed insufficient. Instances
where shellfish met E. coli limits established by state agencies were often found to be contaminated with human
enteric viruses. Therefore, a holistic approach considering the entire production chain is necessary to support the
shellfish industry and ensure food safety.ye