Electronic Devices Research Articles

Research of Graphene Electronics and its Applications

Imagine a material as thin as a single atom, yet stronger than steel and more conductive than copper. This is graphene, a two-dimensional wonder material with a unique monolayer hexagonal honeycomb lattice structure. Its exceptional electrical properties, particularly its high carrier mobility, have sparked widespread interest in the scientific community for potential applications in electronics.However, because its conduction and valence bands intersect at the Dirac point, it behaves as a zero-bandgap semimetal, limiting its use in electronic devices. Therefore, opening a bandgap has become a focal research task in the scientific community. This paper explains the inherent conductivity of intrinsic graphene and summarizes how doping can theoretically further enhance its conductivity. Through further research on the development of graphene doping methods, this article primarily introduces how adsorption doping and lattice doping techniques can open the bandgap of graphene. It analyzes the stability of different doping types to achieve their application in nanoelectronic devices.

An Overview of the Future of Memory Cells: Advances in SSD Technology

This paper explores the topic of Solid-State Drives (SSDs) and NAND flash memory. Information of this paper is mainly obtained from authoritative academic websites and papers related to SSDs and flash memory. Memory cells are fundamental components in various electronic devices. In the field of data storage, SSDs represent the latest generation of storage devices, offering significantly better performance and functionality than traditional hard disk drives (HDDs). NAND flash memory chips are crucial component of SSDs, particularly 3D NAND, which exhibits exceptional performance and holds significant potential for future advancements. This paper will commence by providing an overview of SSDs and HDDs, followed by a comparison between NAND flash and NOR flash, and ultimately analysing the future of NAND flash memory technology employed in SSDs, with a focus on elucidating the advantages of 2D NAND over 3D NAND. Additionally, this paper explains a few challenges that NAND technology faces currently, as well as some possible solutions.

Health Catch-UP!: a realist evaluation of an innovative multi-disease screening and vaccination tool in UK primary care for at-risk migrant patients

BackgroundMigrants to the UK face disproportionate risk of infections, non-communicable diseases, and under-immunisation compounded by healthcare access barriers. Current UK migrant screening strategies are unstandardised with poor implementation and low uptake. Health Catch-UP! is a collaboratively produced digital clinical decision support system that applies current guidelines (UKHSA and NICE) to provide primary care professionals with individualised multi-disease screening (7 infectious diseases/blood-borne viruses, 3 chronic parasitic infections, 3 non-communicable disease or risk factors) and catch-up vaccination prompts for migrant patients.MethodsWe carried out a mixed-methods process evaluation of Health Catch-UP! in two urban primary healthcare practices to integrate Health Catch-UP! into the electronic health record system of primary care, using the Medical Research Council framework for complex intervention evaluation. We collected quantitative data (demographics, patients screened, disease detection and catch-up vaccination rates) and qualitative participant interviews to explore acceptability and feasibility.ResultsNinety-nine migrants were assessed by Health Catch-UP! across two sites (S1, S2). 96.0% (n = 97) had complete demographics coding with Asia 31.3% (n = 31) and Africa 25.2% (n = 25), the most common continents of birth (S1 n = 92 [48.9% female (n = 44); mean age 60.6 years (SD 14.26)]; and S2 n = 7 [85.7% male (n = 6); mean age 39.4 years (SD16.97)]. 61.6% (n = 61) of participants were eligible for screening for at least one condition and uptake of screening was high 86.9% (n = 53). Twelve new conditions were identified (12.1% of study population) including hepatitis C (n = 1), hypercholesteraemia (n = 6), pre-diabetes (n = 4), and diabetes (n = 1). Health Catch-UP! identified that 100% (n = 99) of patients had no immunisations recorded; however, subsequent catch-up vaccination uptake was poor (2.0%, n = 1). Qualitative data supported acceptability and feasibility of Health Catch-UP! from staff and patient perspectives, and recommended Health Catch-UP! integration into routine care (e.g. NHS health checks) with an implementation package including staff and patient support materials, standardised care pathways (screening and catch-up vaccination, laboratory, and management), and financial incentivisation.ConclusionsClinical Decision Support Systems like Health Catch-UP! can improve disease detection and implementation of screening guidance for migrant patients but require robust testing, resourcing, and an effective implementation package to support both patients and staff.

Reassessing the transition from paper to electronic bills of lading: regulatory impediments and prospective reforms in Nigeria’s maritime sector

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to re-evaluate the legal barriers surrounding the implementation of electronic billing systems and to propose potential reforms aimed at facilitating their efficient and widespread adoption in Nigeria. Since the 16th century, bills of lading have been integral to global trade, evolving in response to the practical exigencies and technological advancements of their respective eras. Despite their historical significance, the traditional paper-based bill of lading has increasingly been recognised as a hindrance to contemporary maritime commerce. The inherent vulnerabilities of physical documents such as susceptibility to damage and the logistical delays associated with their manual transfer have underscored the inefficiencies of this conventional system. These limitations have catalysed the development of electronic bills of lading (e-bills of lading) as a digital counterpart, a transition particularly pertinent within Nigeria’s maritime sector. Nevertheless, the adoption of e-bills of lading has engendered considerable apprehension, largely due to uncertainties surrounding their legal validity and operational efficacy. Design/methodology/approach This paper conducts a comprehensive desk-based study to examine the historical evolution and current concerns surrounding e-bills of lading as a substitute for traditional paper forms. Findings Specifically, the paper advocates for the enactment of clear and robust legislation that would grant e-bills of lading the same legal status as their paper counterparts. Originality/value This paper offers an original contribution to the academic and legal discourse on the subject, providing a novel analysis of the regulatory gaps while proposing practical recommendations for the effective adoption of e-bills of lading in Nigeria’s maritime industry.

Research on Techniques for Enhancing the Speed of Low-Power Operational Amplifier

In the context of low utilization, this paper explores various techniques for enhancing the speed of operational amplifier (OA). The main text delves into three methods to gain equilibrium: fully differential operational amplifier (FDA), twostage operational transconductance amplifier (OTA), and a novel high-speed calculation system architecture employing a “rhombus crystal tube.” The FDA improves speed by minimizing noise and enhancing bandwidth and output voltage swing, without increasing power consumption. The design of the two-stage OTA combines the characteristics of a differential amplifier and a telescopic amplifier, optimizing gain and slew rate through Miller compensation and noise gain manipulation, thereby achieving high-speed performance. A novel high-speed operational amplifier structure employs diamond transistors to supply substantial current for capacitor charging, enhancing the slew rate and overall speed. Throughout the text, these methods are presented as a means to jointly promote high speed, low power consumption, and the handling of a significant number of transistors. To further increase the speed, the size of the microcrystalline tube is crucial. The research direction is outlined, and while the design equipment is in the foreground, there remains room for progress, especially in applications for large-scale electrical models. Future research aims to enhance the power efficiency of circuits, making them more practical and efficient. This study provides valuable insights into balancing power consumption and speed in advanced electronic devices.

Thermally conductive, mechanically robust alumina-incorporated polyurethane films prepared by ultraviolet light curing

Abstract The development of heat dissipating composite materials for electronic systems can be expedited using alumina particles as modifiable polymer-matrix fillers. However, these composites are difficult to synthesize given the tradeoffs between thermal conductivity, insulating characteristics, and conduciveness to processing. To that end, the present study is focused on synthesizing environmentally friendly polyurethane films that could be cured by ultraviolet light within minutes, without requiring high-temperature heat treatment. Through the optimization of alumina modification, hybridization of thermally conductive fillers, filler content, and stirring time on the thermal conductivity of the polyurethane composites, this study improves the process for sustainability, low-cost, and convenient preparation. The experimental results confirmed that the use of surface modification and hybrid fillers is effective for enhancing the thermal conductivity, with the value of the polyurethane integrated with 50 wt% Al2O3 and 5 wt% Al2O3–poly (catechol/polyamine) being 76.40 wt% higher than that of pure PU (0.44 W/mK). Additionally, the use of hybrid fillers resulted in superior mechanical and thermal properties (such as tensile strain, tensile strength, thermal expansion coefficient, and temperature resistance) compared with those of pure PU and films incorporated with only a single filler.

Public trust in national electronic health record systems: A scoping review of qualitative studies

Abstract Background Having public trust in national electronic health record systems (EHRs) is essential for the successful implementation of electronic health records within a country’s healthcare system. Without trust, people are less likely to consent to sharing their health data through an EHR and government stakeholders will have difficulties promoting uptake and facilitation of EHRs. Research investigating public trust in EHRs is limited, however. In response, we conducted a scoping review in order to gain clarity on the influences and themes behind public trust in EHRs, which can support the implementation of EHRs. Methods We reviewed 27 qualitative studies focusing on public trust in EHRs. Studies were identified between January 2022 and June 2022 and were ascertained using an inclusive search method and guided by the PRISMA-ScR checklist. In an iterative process, conceptual themes were derived, and detail the promoters and outcomes of public trust in EHRs. Results Three major themes that describe the promoters of public trust in EHRs and two major themes that detail the outcomes once public trust in EHRs exists were ascertained from the literature. Additional findings bring forth the consequential role of healthcare actors in the public trust building process. Conclusions Results show comprehension, autonomy, and data protection are key concepts that help build and consolidate public trust in EHRs, while the public and the healthcare system benefit from public trust in EHRs. Furthermore, health system actors can be supportive or detrimental to the implementation of EHRs. Their effect is dependent on their activities within the health care system and how the public perceives those activities. Based on: Papadopoulos K, von Wyl V, Gille F. What is public trust in national electronic health record systems? A scoping review of qualitative research studies from 1995 to 2021. DIGITAL HEALTH. 2024;10. doi:10.1177/20552076241228024 Key messages • This research clarifies the conceptualizations that make up the trust relationship between the public and EHRs. • The findings can assist researchers, policymakers, and other health system actors in attaining a better understanding of the intricacies of public trust in EHRs.

Two decades of electronic nicotine delivery systems discussions in Türkiye: AI-driven text analysis

Abstract Background As Turkiye ranks second in cigarette consumption in Europe, the increasing shift to Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) presents emerging public health concerns. This study aims to introduce a hybrid approach by combining AI-driven large language models (LLM) with traditional thematic analysis to explore 20 years of ENDS discourse on Eksisozluk, a popular Turkish social media platform, using the Health Belief Model (HBM). Methods This mixed-methods study, analyzed 5,907 comments about ENDS from 2003 to 2023, sourced from a renowned online user-generated forum in Turkiye. Utilizing an LLM, comments were first categorized according to the HBM. Subsequently, the LLM’s generative capabilities were employed to identify sub-themes through thematic analysis. A temporal analysis was then conducted to examine the evolving trends over the 20-year span. Results ENDS popularity peaked in 2017, dipped during the COVID-19 pandemic, and later rebounded. Using an LLM with 70% accuracy, validated by a manually labeled sample, we discerned two main themes: perceived benefits (40.5%) - primarily using ENDS as for harm reduction (32.8%) and smoking cessation tools (21.6%)- and perceived barriers (27.7%), with cost and accessibility (21.9%) being the most significant throughout the period. Initially, the focus was on cessation, but shifted to harm reduction post-pandemic. Conclusions Our study indicates that consumers in Turkiye initially used ENDS for cessation but recognized their ineffectiveness over time. During the COVID-19 pandemic, usage shifted towards harm reduction, likely influenced by the rhetoric of the Tobacco Industry. Despite a national ban, ENDS remain widely used in Turkiye. Key messages • Turkiye should develop a social marketing strategy to raise awareness that ENDS is not a valid tool for harm reduction. • Although the sale of ENDS is prohibited in Turkiye, enforcement of bans should be strengthened as part of an effective control strategy.

Advancing sustainable development: Introducing a novel fast charging technique for Li-ion batteries with supercapacitor integration

Li-ion batteries play a vital role in today's world for their wide range of applications in electrical vehicles, mobile phones, electronic gadgets etc. Applying fast charging to Li-ion batteries is crucial for increasing consumer convenience, productivity, energy efficiency, and stimulating technical innovation across various industries. With the wide-spread usage of Li-ion batteries, it is critical to consider the environmental degradation caused by their decomposition. Therefore, solutions for fast charging Li-ion batteries must not only be reliable but also sustainable to meet future demands. This paper presents a novel Li-ion battery fast charging technology with an integrated supercapacitor and battery, for quick charging without shortening the battery's life cycle. The advantage of the proposed charger is that the supercapacitor assists the Li-ion battery while charging, thereby fast charging and improving the efficiency and longevity of the battery. The utilization of supercapacitor-assisted charging diminishes the burden on lithium-ion batteries, enhancing their lifespan and consequently reducing environmental harm. To validate the performance of the proposed charging technology, an experimental investigation has been carried out. The obtained results through the investigation show the increased performance of 82 % efficiency and 40 % longevity more than the conventional method. The proposed supercapacitor-based fast charging technique is not only efficient but also sustainable and reliable.

Report of cardiac electronic device implant complications over a 7-year study period

Abstract Background The global placement of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) is on the rise. Complications linked to device implantation present a substantial burden on healthcare systems and patients alike. It is imperative to comprehend the complication rates associated with CIED procedures, enabling informed decision-making and strategic planning for patients, thereby enhancing the overall quality of care. Purpose We sought to determine post CIED implantation complication rates and provide operator specific complication data for quality assurance at our institution. Methods A comprehensive audit of all procedures completed between April 2016 to March 2023 by 14 high volume operators at a single academic center was completed. Complications and device data were extracted using electronic medical records. Complications evaluated include pneumothorax, infections, hematomas, venous thrombosis, lead perforation, and dislodgement using standardized definitions. Results During the 7-year period, a total of 9,467 procedures were completed. Among the cohort, 62% were male, with an average age of 74.6 ± 15.2 years. The procedural breakdown comprised 60% pacemakers, 19% ICDs, 16% CRTs and 3% ILRs. A total of 11,616 leads were implanted (3,644 RA leads and 1,110 LV leads). The overall complication rate was 3.1% (n=316): device pocket infection 0.68%, superficial infection 0.19%, lead dislodgement 0.53%, lead perforation 0.24%, pericardial effusion 0.1%, pneumothorax 0.15%, pocket hematoma 0.83%, DVT 0.36%, and hemothorax 0.02%. Complication rates per operator are shown in Figure-1. Conclusion Our findings indicate that the overall complication rates for CIED implants are lower than previously reported rates, and there is no significant difference between operators in overall rates of complication. This observation can be attributed to operator experience, advancements in peri-operative care and guideline-directed post-operative protocols. However, notable variations exist among operators in rates of pocket infection. The ongoing monitoring of CIED complications as a quality indicator remains a crucial benchmark, meriting annual assessments for ongoing evaluation.

Atomic Fabrication of 2D Materials Using Electron Beams Inside an Electron Microscope

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have garnered increasing attention due to their unusual properties and significant potential applications in electronic devices. However, the performance of these devices is closely related to the atomic structure of the material, which can be influenced through manipulation and fabrication at the atomic scale. Transmission electron microscopes (TEMs) and scanning TEMs (STEMs) provide an attractive platform for investigating atomic fabrication due to their ability to trigger and monitor structural evolution at the atomic scale using electron beams. Furthermore, the accuracy and consistency of atomic fabrication can be enhanced with an automated approach. In this paper, we briefly introduce the effect of electron beam irradiation and then discuss the atomic structure evolution that it can induced. Subsequently, the use of electron beams for achieving desired structures and patterns in a controllable manner is reviewed. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of atomic fabrication on 2D materials inside an electron microscope are discussed.

Clinical features of infective endocarditis affecting cardiac implantable electronic devices

Abstract Introduction Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious condition with high rates of serious complications and mortality. Furthermore, implantation of cardiac electronic devices (peacemakers, ICD, CRT) has been increasing in recent years, with technique-associated infections being one of the main adverse events. Our goal was to analise clinical features of IE as associated with cardiac implantable electronic devices (IE-CIED) and its prognostic impact. Methods Prospective study of a cohort of patients diagnosed with IE in our centre from 1987 to 2022. A comparative analysis was performed between patients with IE not associated with cardiac implantable electronic devices (group 1) and those who did (group 2). Clinical, microbiological, echocardiographic and therapeutic variables were analysed and the prognostic impact was evaluated in terms of mortality. Results 569 patients were analysed, of which 540 (94,9%) belonged to group 1, while 29 (5,1%) belonged to group 2. The mean age was higher in group 2 (65,1 years ±12,9 vs 55,7 years ± 18,7; p=0,011) with male predominance in both populations (67.5% overall). Patients with IE-CIED had a higher proportion of staphylococcus aureus (48.3% vs 19.7%; p<0.001) and staphylococcus epidermidis (34.5% vs 15.6%; p<0.001) infections; nosohusial endocarditis (56.5% vs 20.9%; p<0.001); and underlying heart disease (89.7% vs 67.3%; p=0.012). Furthermore, these patients had a higher proportion of tricuspid valve involvement (18.2% vs 81.8%; p<0.001). Regarding the approach, a higher percentage of surgery was performed in patients with IE-CIED (75.9% vs52.7%; p=0.015). On the other hand, patients with IE not associated to cardiac implantable electronic devices had a higher prevalence of cardiac complications (51.5%vs25.7%;p=0.003), defined as valvular rupture or perforation, pseudoaneurysm, abscess or intracardiac fistula; and central nervous system complications (17.2%vs2.9%;p=0.29). No significative differences were found in terms of echocardiographic findings compatibles with IE, nor were there any differences in severe complications or early, late or total mort ality. Conclusions Infective endocarditis affecting cardiac implantable electronic devices is associated to higher prevalence of staphylococci, underlying heart disease and less involvement of the left heart chambers. Surgery was used to a greater extent in this patients. This entity does not imply a worse prognosis in terms of severe complications or mortality.Table 1.Proportion of IE-CIEDTable 2.Microbiology, mortality

Bamboo-Based Carbon/Co/CoO Heterojunction Structures Based on a Multi-Layer Periodic Matrix Array Can Be Used for Efficient Electromagnetic Attenuation

With the popularization of wireless communication, radar, and electronic devices, the hidden harm of electromagnetic radiation is becoming increasingly serious. The design of green biomass carbon-based interface heterojunctions based on lightweight porous materials can effectively protect against electromagnetic radiation hazards. In this work, we constructed an anisotropic heterojunction interface with magnetic and dielectric coupling based on a honeycomb-like periodic matrix multi-layer array repeating unit. The removal of lignin components from bamboo through oxidation enriches the impregnation pores and uniform adsorption sites of the magnetic medium. Further, in situ pyrolysis promotes the formation of a large number of electric dipoles at the interface between the magnetic medium and dielectric coupling inside the periodic cell carbon skeleton, enhancing interface polarization and relaxation. Local carrier traps and uneven electromagnetic density enhance dielectric and hysteresis losses, resulting in excellent impedance matching. Therefore, the obtained bamboo-based carbon multiphase composite absorbent has satisfactory electromagnetic loss characteristics. At a thickness of 1.55 mm, the effective absorption bandwidth reaches 5.1 GHz, and the minimum reflection loss (RL) value reaches −54.7 dB. In addition, the far-field radar simulation results show that the sample has an excellent RCS (radar cross-section) reduction of 33.3 dB·m2. This work provides new directions for the diversified development of green biomass and the optimization of the design of magnetic and dielectric coupling in periodic array structures.

Implementation Of IoT-Based Sense Plug Design On The Prototype Of The FTTH Network Of The UPI Campus Transmission Laboratory In Purwakarta

The increasing demand for energy presents challenges in efficient energy management. This study aims to develop and implement an Internet of Things (IoT)-based energy monitoring system called SENSE Plug, integrated with a Fiber To The Home (FTTH) network at the Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia campus laboratory. The system is designed to monitor real-time electricity consumption, detect voltage anomalies, and manage the electrical usage of connected electronic devices. The research uses an experimental approach by designing and testing the system in the laboratory. Data was collected using the PZEM-004T sensor connected to the NodeMCU ESP8266 microcontroller, with the measurements displayed on an OLED screen and sent to the IoT Cloud for remote monitoring. The system was tested on various electronic devices to measure voltage, current, active power, and power factor. The results indicate that the SENSE Plug system achieved high accuracy, with an average error of 0.44% for voltage and 0.41% for current. The system can also detect voltage anomalies and automatically disconnect the power supply to prevent damage to devices. In conclusion, SENSE Plug contributes to improving energy efficiency and offers a solution applicable to smart labs and other building environments

Future of nicotine pouches – users’ perspective

Abstract Background Nicotine pouches (NPs) are gaining popularity. They are a rapidly developing category with little research or regulatory oversight. Studies have shown that the descriptor ‘tobacco-free’ may impact risk perceptions and the appeal of nicotine pouches among young adults and thus shape their position on the market. The aim of the study was to broaden the knowledge on NP users’ perspective about the future of this products. Methods Qualitative approach was utilized. In December 2022 there were seventeen structured In-depth Interviews (IDIs) conducted. The sample included of adults aged 18-22, both male and female. The respondents were asked how they see NPs in the context of aim group and competition with other nicotine products. Results We found that from NPs users’ perspective, these products are aimed at those who want give up smoking, do not want to play with electronic devices (such us e-cigarettes of heated tobacco products) or just seek for discretion (such as office workers who do want to go outside for a smoke or vape). Special aim group are children who want to hide their nicotine product use. Respondents believe that they will not force traditional cigarettes out of the market but will be a popular alternative for young people. Some suggest they need popularization to help exclude products that produce smelly smoke or vape. Conclusions Nicotine pouches as smokeless products will probably fill the market space with product aimed at young people who seek discretion of their nicotine addiction as well as those who do not want to inhale smoke. Key messages • Nicotine pouches users see value of these products. • Nicotine pouches future seems to be bright unless regulations disrupt their market development.

Legal Protection of Buyers in Sales Contracts via Electronic Systems

The Inquire about on Buyer Lawful Security within the deal and buy assention through an electronic framework points to discover out how the legitimacy of the deal assention through an electronic framework and how the shape of legitimate assurance of buyers for misfortunes due to harm to merchandise obtained through an electronic. By the assention between the seller and the buyer within the deal and buy understanding, they have the rights and commitments. This investigate strategy utilize Library Research Strategy and the inquire about carried out within the library, where information is gotten from availeble information by perusing, considering books, laws and relations, magazines, logical paper, lawful word references and so on. Based on the strategy utilized, the comes about of this think about demonstrate that the legitimacy of the deal and purchaseagreement through an electronic framework still considers the legitimacy of the assention as Article 1230 KUHP of the Respectful Code, specifically assention of both parties, where both parties are able in doing lawful activity and cause-effect which is lawfull. Buyer's legitimate security for misfortunes due to harm to merchandise obtained through electronic frameworks is preventive assurance and oppressive security, the buyer who endured the misfortune casue for loss or claim the substitution of the harmed merchandise with products of the same brand.

Crystallite size and phase purity in Pb1-xSrxTiO3 ferroelectric perovskites for biomedical applications via controlled sintering

ABSTRACT Lead strontium titanate (Pb1-xSrx)TiO3 (PST) is a ferroelectric perovskite material with tunable properties, including Curie temperature, spontaneous polarization, and high dielectric permittivity, making it promising for advanced biomedical applications, such as biosensors, bioimaging, and light-activated therapeutics. This study investigates the effect of varying sintering temperatures on the crystallite size and phase purity of PST, aiming to optimize its performance for biomedical devices. PbCO3, SrCO3, and TiO2 powders were processed via ball milling for 58 hours, followed by sintering at temperatures ranging from 500°C to 1100°C. Laser diffraction particle size analysis and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to assess the particle size and crystal phase transformations. The results demonstrate that higher sintering temperatures improve the PST phase composition, reducing impurities and enhancing crystallite growth. The most significant crystal growth was observed at 900°C, while the optimal phase purity and crystallite size (91.5 nm) were achieved at 1100°C, producing 100% single-phase PST. These findings emphasize the critical role of sintering temperature in tailoring PST’s properties, enhancing its suitability for electronic and microelectronic biomedical devices. Controlled sintering in perovskite materials opens new pathways for their application in medical diagnostics and therapeutic technologies.

Carbon nanostructures for high-frequency line-filtering supercapacitors

Supercapacitors (SCs) are considered one of the front-runner energy storage devices for future electronic and automobile device applications. Even though their high-power densities, fast charge/discharge, and long cycling stabilities make them promising for future applications, their charge-discharge takes place below 1 Hz, a major issue for using them as capacitors for line filtering applications. Therefore, developing ultrafast electrochemical supercapacitors with alternating current (AC) line filtering functions has gained research attention to replace conventional aluminum electrolytic capacitors (AEC). Most available SCs possess resistive features rather than capacitive at 120 Hz because of the electrode geometry and configurations, which is a bottleneck in the research of line-filtering SCs. Addressing this challenge could be possible by developing novel electrode materials using hybrid nanostructures to meet the critical requirements for line filtering functions. This mini-review focuses on the advancement and challenges of carbon nanostructure-based electrode materials for AC line filtering applications and the future directions of this growing research area.

Experiences from the European Region: case studies and scenarios to inform ways forward in digital health

Abstract Member States in the WHO European Region face similar challenges when it comes to strengthening their HIS and implementing digital health solutions. From WHO/Europe’s work with its Member States, several important preconditions have become apparent for successful and sustainable digital transformation. Firstly, the importance of recognising that implementing digital tools is not a one-off investment, but that this takes a long-term vision including long-term budgeting. Having business continuity plans also is a key element of sustainable implementation of digital tools, that is often not adequately addressed in practice. Secondly, the importance of comprehensive strategic planning. Implementing digital tools is not only about software and hardware, but also about people and processes. Here it is also crucial for policymakers to understand that, to be able to harvest the benefits of data that are gathered by means of digital tools, resources for data processing and analysis also need to be made available. Last but not least, an important precondition for successful digital transformation is stakeholder involvement. Often, new software is developed without adequately involving the end-user, resulting in for example apps that do not meet patients’ needs. Or in electronic health record systems that are not user-friendly for the healthcare staff that need to enter the data, with incomplete and low quality information as a consequence. Stakeholder involvement is essential in strategic planning for digital health as well. Think for example about standardization and accreditation agencies, and institutes that will be secondary users of data for statistics and research. In this presentation, several case studies from across the European Region will be presented, illustrating how digital transformation in health can be successfully and sustainably implemented.

Large scale public health system transformation: Germany

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic was a stress test for public health services in Germany. Decision making was complex (party lengthy and inconsistent) due to the divided responsibilities within the federal system. Some improvements on the public health system were already enacted during the pandemic. A “pandemic radar” was established to bundle up relevant infectious disease indicators with indicators of health services use. The national electronic notification and information system for infectious diseases was extended. Digital improvements were made in the public health offices. Laboratory capacity was strengthened, so was inter-science modelling to forecast pathogen spread. A nation-wide collaborative mechanism, the cloverleaf system, was introduced between regions to avoid the overburdening of hospitals. It is now established for times of excess need for inpatient services. In 2020, a 4 billion euros investment program, the “Pact of Public Health Services”, was adopted to strengthen and modernize the German public health service institutions. The pact is implemented until 2026. The human resources component is the largest. Further priorities include digitalization, improvement of the infrastructure (of designated ports and airports) for the implementation of the International Health Regulations, research and the creation of agile and resilient public health structures. Outputs so far include the establishment of more than 4800 new public health positions, the appointment of new professorships for public health services, the initiation of several research projects, and the roll-out of more than 300 digitalization projects. A new federal institute for prevention is planned. It aims to foster networking between public health services, strengthen health communication, data use, and evidence for public health services. In this process, WHO advised the federal ministry e.g. on behavioral insights; heat health action; prevention on noncommunicable diseases and others. Many public health actors have provided opinions. However, consensus building on how Germany can overcome fragmentation in public health is ongoing.