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Impact behavior of plywood core laminated with flax-epoxy composite skin
No full textThe introduction of sandwich structures made from materials that are environmentally friendly, light, and strong enough to carry the applied loads is one way of reducing the carbon footprint of the transport industry. This work investigates the impact behaviour of a structure composed of a plywood core and flax/epoxy composite skins, as a proposal for a sandwich structure that takes advantage of the high longitudinal strength of raw timber along the transverse direction across the grain. The variation of peak force, indentation, impact bending stiffness and absorbed energy over a wide range of impact energies is studied, comparing the sandwich structure with the plywood alone. The failure modes (matrix in tension, matrix in compression and delamination) that occur in both the plywood and the sandwich structure have also been studied. The sandwich structure shows superior impact resistance, making it a promising alternative to conventional sandwich structures that is both sustainable and lightweight.Open Access funding provided by the IReL Consortium. This work is part of the R&D&I project PID2021-12717OB-100, funded by MCIN/ AEI/https://doi.org/10.13039/501100011033 and by European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) A Way for Europe
A comprehensive review of various environmental factors’ roles in remote sensing techniques for assessing surface water quality
No full textThe aim of the research was to evaluate the existing remote sensing (RS) products, various tools and techniques, and their limitations in retrieving the optically active (OA) Chlorophyll-a (CHL) concentration from transitional, coastal and inland waters. In recent decades, satellite RS technique has emerged as a vital tool for assessing surface water quality (WQ) in a cost-effective and timely manner. Initially used in the 1970s to study ocean color (OC), RS techniques have advanced significantly, enabling the retrieval of key WQ indicators like CHL, colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM), total suspended matter (TSM), turbidity (TURB), and more from satellite images. Among these indicators, CHL is particularly important as it directly signifies eutrophication. While RS technique has been reliable in estimating CHL concentrations in open waterbodies (case1 water) such as oceans, it’s application in shallow, turbid waters (case2 water) like coastal and inland areas faces challenges. Interference from other OA-WQ indicators like CDOM and TSM, coupled with environmental factors such as atmospheric components, sun-glint, and adjacency effects (AE), complicate the accurate CHL estimation. To address these challenges, researchers have developed four categories of CHL retrieval algorithms: empirical, semi-empirical, hybrid and data-driven models. Empirical and data-driven methods are straightforward but require regional calibration for accuracy, whereas semi-empirical approaches, rooted in solid theoretical foundations, demand extensive ancillary optical measurements. To harness the potential of RS in WQ assessment fully, it is essential to optimize these algorithms regionally, tailoring them to the specific optical characteristics of diverse waterbodies. This optimization process is vital for integrating RS technique as a complementary data source alongside traditional monitoring approach. By addressing the impact of environmental factors and fine-tuning CHL retrieval methods according to regional nuances, satellite RS technique can significantly enhance the reliability and effectiveness of surface WQ evaluation, thereby contributing to more informed and efficient water resource management strategies. This review emphasizes the impact of these factors, categorizes CHL retrieval algorithms into empirical, semi-empirical, hybrid and data-driven methods and applicability in terms of tools/models’ reliability and challenges for the further advancement of this approaches for monitoring transitional, coastal and inland waters. To optimize the reliability of remotely sensed CHL data, regional configuration(s) of retrieving algorithms is vital. By addressing these challenges and tailoring methods to specific regions, integrating satellite RS into traditional monitoring approaches can significantly enhance surface WQ assessment.This research was funded by the Hardiman Research Scholarship of the University of Galway, which funded the first author as part of his PhD program. The authors would like to acknowledge support from MaREI, the SFI Research Centre for Energy, Climate, and Marine research. The authors also thank the Eco- HdroInformatics Research Group (EHIRG), School of Engineering, College of Science and Engineering, University of Galway, Ireland for providing computational laboratory facilities to complete this research. The research was also supported by the Environmental Protection Agency, Ireland for the AquaCop project [Grant Ref No: 2022-NE-1128].peer-reviewe
Participation in practice in child welfare: processes, benefits and challenges
No full textInternationally, there has been a significant focus in policy and practice on the participation of children and young people in decisions that affect them, underpinned by respect for their rights under Article 12 of the UNCRC. While children’s participation has become a core focus for practice improvement in child welfare services, there is a dearth of practical examples of how participation is implemented in organisations. In this paper, we provide a reflective case study of participation in practice in the Youth Advocate Programme (YAP) in Ireland, a large non-profit child welfare organisation. YAP Ireland works with young people who are considered ‘high risk’ using a strength-based approach in a wraparound service that is family-driven and youth-guided. Drawing on qualitative interviews and focus groups with young people, parents, advocates, and staff and management, we describe and critically analyse YAP’s approach to participation. Critical factors in practice include a commitment to participation in policy, practice and culture at all levels of the organisation and scaffolding of participation by staff. Challenges include ensuring that participation principles are upheld consistently across the organisation and resourcing participation.peer-reviewe
Design of novel multi-component cocrystals with a special focus on the use of green methods
No full textWith the introduction of cocrystals into the pharmaceutical market and increasing reliance on cocrystals for improving the physicochemical properties of drug compounds, there is a need for efficient and sustainable methods of cocrystal production. A key objective towards successful formulation of higher order cocrystals is the identification of new synthons and understanding their preferences, with the aim of enhancing the functionality and performance of pharmaceutical materials. This thesis investigates the design and synthesis of higher-order multicomponent pharmaceutical cocrystals, addressing the increasing demand for innovative, environmentally friendly methods in the pharmaceutical industry.
The focus of the first study was on two key Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), trimethoprim (tmp) and pyrimethamine (pyr), both known for their therapeutic applications in the treatment of bacterial and parasitic infections. Both APIs share a 2,4-diaminopyrimidine ring, a structure that offers multiple hydrogen bonding sites, mainly a Donor-Acceptor (DA) and a Donor-Acceptor-Donor (DAD) binding site, making them excellent candidates for cocrystal formation. Through extensive screening of the two APIs with a range of dicarboxylic acids and sulfa drug coformers, distinct synthon preferences and hydrogen bonding motifs were identified, highlighting the variability in cocrystal formation despite structural similarities between the APIs. This revealed that tmp and pyr interact differently with coformers, even when their chemical properties are nearly identical.
The versatility of tmp and pyr in forming multicomponent cocrystals was demonstrated in the second study, highlighting the role of coformers such as trimesic acid in facilitating robust synthon interactions. Binary, ternary, and quaternary cocrystals were successfully synthesized, revealing complex interactions and binding site behaviours in higher-order systems. In addition to solution crystallization, which is considered the most common method of forming cocrystals, liquid-assisted grinding was explored as a greener and more efficient alternative. This method allowed for the reliable synthesis of higher-order cocrystals in a controlled stoichiometric manner. Notably, six ternary and three quaternary salt cocrystals involving tmp, pyr, and various bipyridine and trimesic acid coformers were successfully prepared, with mechanochemistry consistently yielding phase-pure products.
Detailed investigation of synthon interactions and hydrogen bonding patterns in the cocrystals of 2,4-diaminopyrimidines showed that, despite the presence of two distinct hydrogen bonding sites in the APIs, simultaneous interaction with two different coformers at both sites proved to be unfavourable. This prompted investigating how proton transfer affects synthon preferences at the second binding site of tmp. A detailed screening experiment led to the formation of ternary molecular ionic cocrystals with tmp and two carboxylic acid coformers, one of which was a Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). Computational analysis, including Molecular Electrostatic Potential (MEP) surface analysis and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, confirmed that upon salt formation, the hydrogen bond donor ability of tmp's donor groups increased while the acceptor strength sharply decreased. This explained the difficulty of accommodating two coformers at both sites, with further support from Hunter’s interaction site pairing energy calculations and Hirshfeld surface analysis.
Finally, sublimation was investigated as a green, solvent-free method for both crystal growth and thermal transformation reactions. This technique was expanded beyond traditional crystal growth to include one-step thermal transformations, leading to the synthesis of key pharmaceutical intermediates such as organosulfones. Through sublimation of bis(arylsulfone) triene and its derivatives, phenylsulfinic acid elimination was achieved, resulting in the crystallization of 4-(phenylsulfonyl)biphenyl. Pixel analysis, coupled with DSC and TGA data, revealed that the transformations occurred in the gas phase and that sublimation is kinetically and energetically feasible for such reactions
Frailty and comorbidity in older adults with and withoutdiabetes and chronic leg ulcer: A cross-sectional study
No full textThis descriptive, cross-sectional study aimed to identify whether having a chronic leg ulcer (CLU), in addition to diabetes, contributed to frailty in individuals ≥65 years old. It also explored the associations between frailty, pre-frailty and other factors. 125 participants aged ≥65 attending outpatient clinics in Ireland were categorised into three groups: (1) diabetes-only and no CLU, (2) CLU-only and no diabetes, and (3) diabetes and CLU. Frailty status was identified using the Groningen Frailty Indicator (GFI) and the Physical Frailty Phenotype (PFP). The mean age was 76.09 ± 7.31. Overall, 90 (72%) had diabetes, and 89 (71.2%) had CLU in the past 6 months. While 124 (99.2%) were frail according to the GFI, 122 (97.6%) were either physically frail (n = 40, 32%) or pre-frail (n = 82, 65.6%) based on the PFP. There was no difference between the three groups regarding general frailty status (p > 0.05). However, being aged ≥75, having CLU and having CLU in addition to diabetes were associated with frailty severity (p < 0.05). Slow gait, inability to go to the toilet and dress/undress independently were the common factors contributing to frailty. Age, comorbidities and CLU were associated with frailty severity. Incorporating multidimensional frailty screening into regular clinic visits for older adults with CLU is recommended.This study was funded by the University of Galway, School of Nursing and Midwifery (during pilot phase, providing funding for research equipment, running costs and research support staff) and the European Wound Management Association (EWMA) (for the full study, providing funding for running costs and research support staff ).peer-reviewe
Nano- and meso-scale aggregation of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) below the lower critical solution temperature: A wide-angle dynamic light scattering study
No full textPoly-N-isopropylacrylamide (PNIPAm), a thermorresponsive polymer, highly soluble in water below its lower critical solution temperature (LCST), is widely used in biomedical applications like drug delivery. Being able to measure PNIPAm size and aggregation state in solution quickly, inexpensively, and accurately below the LCST is critical when stoichiometric particle or molecular ratios are required. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is probably the most widely available, and inexpensive nanoparticle sizing technique, but there are limitations with respect to sample polydispersity. Here, we first investigated factors governing the ability of DLS to accurately measure PNIPAm size in solution at 25 °C as part of a quality study of five different molecular weight, commercially sourced PNIPAm.
All samples were polydisperse and accurate particle size distribution (PSD) data was only obtained from distribution fitting, being consistent and accurate down to ∼ 0.1 wt%. In water at 1 wt%, Rh, extracted from distribution fitting: 12.4 ± 0.6 nm (55 kDa), 10.0 ± 0.22 nm (38 kDa), 6.2 ± 0.15 nm (28.5 kDa), and 9.7 ± 0.14 nm (20–25 kDa) were significantly higher than that expected for single PNIPAm chains in solution. Measurements in different buffers of varying pH (7.4–5.0) yielded similar sizes (Rh of 6–15 nm) and polydispersity indicating that these were stable aggregates. These aggregates could be broken down with Triton-X but not with sodium dodecyl sulphate, ultrasound, or by heating above the LCST and then cooling. We suggest that this nanoscale aggregation and increased polydispersity was caused a variety of factors including by solid-state aging during prolonged storage (>5 years) induced by water adsorption, and/or manufacturing processes.
Stirring was found to produce larger, meso-scale (Rh > 150 nm), soluble aggregates and the rate of formation of these meso-particles was linear with stirring time (with a concomitant linear decrease in the faction of original nanoscale aggregates). Meso-particle formation was not correlated with MW, but was inversely correlated to polymer concentration suggesting that aggregation was driven by adsorption at air/liquid interfaces rather than solution phase collisions. In conclusion, PNIPAm particle size and distribution was highly dependent on multiple factors including source, storage conditions, and exposure to air–water interfaces. Standard wide angle DLS is however an effective and rapid method for identifying and quantifying PNIPAm aggregation.This publication has emanated from research supported in part by a Hardiman scholarship from the University of Galway to MdC. Sara Delgado and Felix Schlosser are thanked for their assistance with some of the DLS measurements.peer-reviewe
The global, regional, and national disease burden of colorectal cancer attributable to low physical activity from 1990 to 2021: an analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
No full textObjectives
This study aims to estimate the spatiotemporal variation in the burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) attributable to low physical activity (LPA) at global, regional, and national levels from 1990 to 2021.
Study design
Cross-sectional study.
Methods
Annual data on deaths of CRC related to LPA, age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR), disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and the age-standardized DALYs rate (ASDR) for 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2021 was extracted from the Global Health Data Exchange website. They were retrieved by age (5-year age groups from 25 to 94 years, and 95+ years), gender (male and female), and Socio-demographic Index (SDI). The association between age-standardized rates and SDI values was assessed by Spearman’s correlation.
Results
Between 1990 and 2021, there was nearly a twofold increase in DALYs and mortality globally for CRC related to LPA, despite decreases in ASMR and ASDR (EAPC: −0.82% and −0.83%, respectively). However, on a national scale, ASMR and ASDR increased in more than half of the world’s countries and territories. Moreover, a greater burden of CRC related to LPA was observed in older populations, females, and those residing in regions with an SDI near 0.77.
Conclusion
These findings indicate the critical need to raise awareness about the preventive role of physical activity in CRC. Policymakers should prioritize developing and implementing strategies that ensure equitable access to sports resources, enabling more people to meet the World Health Organization guidelines.peer-reviewe
A review of best international life cycle assessment (LCA) practices in wood construction: Challenges for Ireland
No full textUnder the dual pressure of carbon-neutral commitments by 2050 and increasing housing demands, the Irish construction industry is responsible for a 50% reduction in carbon emissions relative to 2018 levels. Timber has been identified as an excellent material choice for embodied carbon reduction. However, the widespread adoption of timber in construction is limited by several factors, including established practices and supply chains, and lack of public policy and incentives to quantify and reduce embodied carbon. The latter needs to be supported by accurate quantitative life cycle assessment (LCA). To identify gaps and challenges faced by LCA development for timber construction, this paper reviews various up-to-date Irish and international LCA practices. At the product level, 26 environmental product declaration (EPD) databases and 35 EPDs covering five wood product types are analysed. At the building level, 29 national and international building LCA methodologies worldwide are compared. Due to varying availability of Irish-customised data, disparities exist between the lifecycle inventory data used in current Irish timber product EPDs and other Irish-focused statistics. The challenges identified include a lack of mandatory regulations on embodied carbon disclosure and thresholds, a limited number of wood product EPDs in Ireland, and incomplete lifecycle inventory data.The authors would like to express their gratitude for the support and funding received from the The authors would like to express their gratitude for the support and funding received from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine's Competitive Research Funding Programmes, Project Ref: 2021R543 (SAOLWood).'s Competitive Research Funding Programmes, Project Ref: 2021R543 (SAOLWood).peer-reviewe
In-vacuum dry launching of silica microparticles using an array of custom MEMS devices
No full textTo test the validity of the quantum superposition principle at unprecedented macroscopic scales, near-field matter-wave interferometry of free-falling massive 100nm silica nanospheres from an optically cooled laser trap has been proposed [Nat. Commun. 5, 4788 (2014) [CrossRef] ]. This could be realized with available technology, providing the emerging technical challenge of in-vacuum dry loading the optical trap with single 100nm silica particles, in a deterministic, repetitive, and clean manner, is addressed. Here, for the first time to our knowledge, we demonstrate, both theoretically and experimentally, a 3×3 array of custom micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) storage and release devices for this objective. The fabricated MEMS devices are square ultrasonic flexural silicon membranes, 400μm in side length and 8μm in thickness, monolithically integrated with a 1μm thick aluminium nitride piezoelectric transducer. The ability of the MEMS array to launch 9.98μm, 4.23μm, and 900nm silica particles in vacuum was tested experimentally using our recently developed GRIN lens-based digital holographic 3D imaging system integrated into a vacuum chamber. The minimum particle size released from the current devices is ∼4μm in diameter with the average lateral release speed in the range of 3-35 cm/s. The experimental results obtained are in good agreement with the theoretical predictions.European Space Agency (4000131569/20/NL/BW); Irish Research eLibrary.peer-reviewe
Computation of viscoelastic shear shock waves using finite volume schemes with artificial compressibility
No full textThe formation of shear shock waves in the brain has been proposed as one of the plausible explanations for deep intracranial injuries. In fact, such singular solutions emerge naturally in soft viscoelastic tissues under dynamic loading conditions. To improve our understanding of the mechanical processes at hand, the development of dedicated computational models is needed. The present study concerns three-dimensional numerical models of incompressible viscoelastic solids whose motion is analysed by means of shock-capturing finite volume methods. More specifically, we focus on the use of the artificial compressibility method, a technique that has been frequently employed in computational fluid dynamics. The material behaviour is deduced from the Fung–Simo quasi-linear viscoelasiticity (QLV) theory where the elastic response is of Yeoh type. We analyse the accuracy of the method and demonstrate its applicability for the study of nonlinear wave propagation in soft solids. The numerical results cover accuracy tests, shock formation and wave focusing.This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement TBI-WAVES—H2020-MSCA-IF-2020 project No 101023950. Open access funding provided by IReL.peer-reviewe