X-ray and neutron scattering

Abstract:

Abstract The topology of amorphous materials can be affected by mechanical forces during compression or milling, which can induce material densification. Here, we show that densified amorphous silica (SiO2) fabricated by cold compression of siliceous zeolite (SZ) is permanently densified, unlike densified glassy SiO2 (GS) fabricated by cold compression although the X-ray diffraction data and density of the former are identical to those of the latter. Moreover, the topology of the densified amorphous SiO2 fabricated from SZ retains that of crystalline SZ, whereas the densified GS relaxes to pristine GS after thermal annealing. These results indicate that it is possible to design new functional amorphous materials by tuning the topology of the initial zeolitic crystalline phases

Abstract:

The cubic phase of Li 7 La 3 Zr 2 O 12 shows fast diffusion of the lithium ions. Combining total scattering measurements analysed by the RMC method with molecular dynamics simulations gives a detailed picture of the distribution of the Li + ions.

Abstract:

OBJECTIVE: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted the importance of robust infection prevention and control (IPAC) practices to maintain patient and staff safety. However, healthcare workers (HCWs) face many barriers that affect their ability to follow these practices. We identified barriers affecting HCW adherence to IPAC practices during the pandemic in British Columbia, Canada. DESIGN: Cross-sectional web-based survey. SETTING: Acute care, long-term care or assisted living, outpatient, mental health, prehospital care, and home care. PARTICIPANTS: Eligible respondents included direct-care providers and IPAC professionals working in these settings in all health authorities across British Columbia. METHODS: We conducted a web-based survey from August to September 2021 to assess respondent knowledge and attitudes toward IPAC within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Respondents were asked to rate the extent to which various barriers affected their ability to follow IPAC practices throughout the pandemic and to make suggestions for improvement. RESULTS: The final analysis included 2,488 responses; 36% of respondents worked in acute care. Overall, perceptions of IPAC practice among non-IPAC professionals were positive. The main self-perceived barriers to adherence included inadequate staffing to cover absences (58%), limited space in staff rooms (57%), multibed rooms (51%), and confusing messages about IPAC practices (51%). Common suggestions for improvement included receiving more support from IPAC leadership and clearer communication about required IPAC practices. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings highlight frontline HCW perspectives regarding priority areas of improvement for IPAC practices. They will inform policy and guideline development to prevent transmission of COVID-19 and future emerging infections.