bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total Unilateral Lung Atelectasis in a Child with Asthma and Its Rapid Resolution with Medical Management without Any Invasive Intervention: A Case Report
Authors: AlHamdani Sarmad Farook Yahya  , Nadeem Rashid
Published: November 2019

Asthma is the most common chronic lung condition of childhood affecting approximately 6 million children in the United States. Right middle lobe syndrome or atelectasis is common in children with asthma though whole unilateral lung collapse is rare; only case series are reported. Bronchoscopy is usually required in addition to medical management of asthma and treatment of infection. We present a case of unilateral lung atelectasis in a young child which resolved with intense medical management without any endoscopy.
РИЗИК УРАЖЕННЯ СЕРЦЕВО-СУДИННОЇ СИСТЕМИ У ХВОРИХ ІЗ РІЗНОЮ ТРИВАЛІСТЮ ЦУКРОВОГО ДІАБЕТУ 2 ТИПУ
Authors: Boiko A. O. , Zemlіachyk I. V. , Valihura Yu. B.
Published: November 2019

Мета роботи. Вивчити ризик виникнення патологій серцево-судинної системи залежно від тривалості ЦД 2 типу, індексу маси тіла (ІМТ), змін у ліпідограмі: ліпопротеїнів високої (ЛПВЩ) та низької щільностей (ЛПНЩ), триацилгліцеролів (ТГ) та рівня артеріального тиску (АТ).

Матеріали і методи. Ми проаналізували стаціонарні карти 30 хворих на цукровий діабет 2 типу, які перебували на лікуванні в терапевтичному відділенні КНП «Тернопільська комунальна міська лікарня № 2», визначили ІМТ та оцінили їх ліпідограму. Серед обстежених було 18 чоловіків (60 %) та 12 жінок (40 %) віком від 34 до 69 років з тривалістю хвороби від 1 до 21 року.​ Залежно від тривалості захворювання, стаціонарні карти хворих поділили на 3 групи: перша – тривалість ЦД 2 типу до 5 років (n=6), друга група – від 6 до 10 років (n=16), третя група – понад 11 років (n=8).

Результати й обговорення. У хворих першої групи ІМТ становив 26,5 (надмірна маса тіла). У пацієнтів другої групи відповідно 33,99 (ожиріння 2 ступеня). У третій групі ІМТ був 28 (ожиріння 1 ступеня). ​Аналіз показників ліпідограми дозволив виявити значне зростання ТГ та зниження ЛПВЩ у хворих із найтривалішим перебігом ЦД 2 типу (третя група), а більш виражене підвищення ЛПНЩ було у пацієнтів із тривалістю ЦД від 6 до 10 років. Аналізуючи показники АТ у групах хворих, ми виявили найвищі цифри гіпертензії у третій групі, виражені зміни на ЕКГ, порушення ритму, провідності. У 2-х пацієнтів було діагностовано інфаркт міокарда в анамнезі.

Висновки. У хворих на ЦД 2 типу з тривалістю захворювання від 6 до 10 років спостерігають зростання ІМТ(ожиріння 2 ступеня), підвищення рівня ЛПНЩ. В пацієнтів із ЦД 2 типу з тривалістю хвороби більше 11 років зростає рівень ТГ, збільшується ризик ускладнень збоку серцево-судинної системи (за даними ЕКГ).
ПОВТОРНА РЕВАСКУЛЯРИЗАЦІЯ РЕЦИДИВУ ХРОНІЧНОЇ АРТЕРІАЛЬНОЇ НЕДОСТАТНОСТІ У ПАЦІЄНТІВ ПІСЛЯ РЕКОНСТРУКЦІЇ АОРТО/КЛУБОВО-СТЕГНОВОЇ ЗОНИ
Authors: Venher I. K. , Kostiv S. Ya. , Husak M. O. , Herasymiuk N. I. , Vaida A. R. , Kolotylo O. B. , Kovalskyi D. V.
Published: November 2019

Мета роботи. Покращити результати повторної реваскуляризації артеріального русла нижніх кінцівок у пацієнтів із рецидивом хронічної артеріальної недостатності у віддаленому післяопераційному періоді після реконструкції аорто/клубово-стегнової зони.

Матеріали і методи. Протягом 2006–2019 рр. простежено віддалені результати хірургічного лікування 522 хворих. Оперативне втручання проведено 353 пацієнтам, з яких у 260 мало місце порушення кровотоку по стегно-підколінному сегменті. У вказані терміни прооперовано 159 пацієнтів із приводу оклюзивно-стенотичного ураження клубово-стегнової зони, з яких у 94 мало місце порушення кровоплину по стегно-підколінному артеріальному руслі. На час первинного хірургічного втручання у 228 пацієнтів діагностовано хронічну артеріальну недостатність (ХАН) ІІІА ст. (за класифікацією R. Fontaine з урахуванням критеріїв Європейської робочої групи (1992)), у 189 – ХКІНК ІІІБ–ІV ст., у 98 – ХАН ІІБ ст. У 92 (17,6 %) хворих був гемодинамічно значимий стеноз екстракраніальних артерій, з них 75 проведено оперативне втручання на судинах шиї в умовах хірургічного лікування атеросклеротичного ураження аорто/клубово-стегно-підколінного артеріального русла.

Результати й обговорення. У 78 пацієнтів із рецидивом хронічної артеріальної недостатності нижніх кінцівок у віддаленому післяопераційному періоді повторне оперативне втручання здійснювали з урахуванням особливостей первинної реваскуляризації артеріального русла, локалізації стенотично оклюзивного процесу, його поєднання та поширення атеросклеротичного процесу. Повторна реваскуляризація ускладнилася розвитком тромбозу сегмента реконструкції (10 випадків, що становить 12,8 % спостережень).

Висновки. Основним реваскулярним втручанням у пацієнтів із рецидивом хронічної артеріальної недостатності є нестандартні, технічно складні, багаторівневі решунтуючі операції. При реваскуляризації гомілкового артеріального сегмента використовували стегно/підколінно-гомілкове аутовенозне шунтування та ендоваскулярну ангіопластику.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ЗАХВОРЮВАНЬ НА ВНУТРІШНЬОЛІКАРНЯНІ ІНФЕКЦІЇ У ЗАКЛАДАХ ОХОРОНИ ЗДОРОВ’Я ПЕДІАТРИЧНОГО ПРОФІЛЮ (НА ПРИКЛАДІ ОДЕСЬКОЇ ОБЛАСНОЇ ДИТЯЧОЇ КЛІНІЧНОЇ ЛІКАРНІ)
Authors: Dikal S. H.
Published: November 2019

Мета роботи. Проаналізувати поширення і структуру внутрішньолікарняних інфекцій (ВЛІ) у закладах охорони здоров’я педіатричного профілю.

Матеріали і методи. Аналізували захворюваність дитячого населення шляхом аналізу обліково-звітної та медико-статистичної документацій про діяльність КУ «Одеська обласна дитяча клінічна лікарня» за 6 місяців 2018 р. і за 6 місяців 2019 р. Проаналізовано показники захворювання та поширення ВЛІ серед дітей, які перебували на стаціонарному лікуванні, та структуру ВЛІ.

Результати й обговорення. За перше півріччя 2019 р. було зареєстровано у відділеннях Одеської обласної дитячої клінічної лікарні 32 випадки ВЛІ, з них у 78,1 % хворих переважали інфекції, що виникли після хірургічного або терапевтичного втручань. Порівняно з аналогічним періодом 2018 р., за перше півріччя 2019 р. зареєстровано на 4 випадки менше інфекцій органів дихання.  За перше півріччя 2019 р., порівняно з аналогічним періодом 2018 р., відмічається збільшення реєстрації інфекцій ділянки хірургічного втручання (ІДХВ) у відділеннях: екстреної травматологічної та хірургічної допомоги, в урологічному, ЛОР-відділенні, серцево-судинної хірургії; зменшення – у відділенні загальної хірургії; не змінилася кількість випадків ІДХВ у гнійно-септичному відділенні; відсутня реєстрація ІДХВ у відділеннях ортопедії та нейрохірургії.

Висновки. У закладах охорони здоров’я педіатричного профілю переважають інфекції, що виникають унаслідок хірургічних та терапевтичних втручань. При цьому в структурі виявлення ІДОХВ переважають  відділення екстреної травматологічної та хірургічної допомоги, урологічне, оториноларингологічне та серцево-судинної хірургії. З метою удосконалення протиепідемічних та профілактичних заходів щодо внут­рішньолікарняної інфекції зростає роль старшої медсестри щодо управління персоналом в галузі підготовки і контролю за професійними знаннями персоналу.
КОМОРБІДНІСТЬ ХРОНІЧНОГО ОБСТРУКТИВНОГО ЗАХВОРЮВАННЯ ЛЕГЕНЬ З АРТЕРІАЛЬНОЮ ГІПЕРТЕНЗІЄЮ: СТАН СИСТЕМИ АНТИОКСИДАНТНОГО ЗАХИСТУ
Authors: Maksiv Kh. Ya. , Marushchak M. I.
Published: November 2019

Мета роботи. Оцінити стан антиоксидантної системи захисту в пацієнтів із коморбідним перебігом хронічного обструктивного захворювання легень й артеріальної гіпертензії.

Матеріали і методи. У дослідженні взяли участь 53 хворих на ХОЗЛ, 28 з яких мали артеріальну гіпертензію та перебували на стаціонарному лікуванні. Стан системи антиоксидантного захисту (АОЗ) оцінювали за активністю ензимів первинного захисту – супероксиддисмутази (СОД) і каталази, а також за вмістом церулоплазміну (ЦП).

Результати й обговорення. При аналізі показників системи антиоксидантного захисту відмічено порушення антиоксидантних резервів у пацієнтів із ХОЗЛ та при коморбідності ХОЗЛ і АГ. Так, активність СОД при коморбідному перебігу ХОЗЛ й АГ зменшувалася на 31,4 %, тоді як активність каталази була вдвічі нижча проти даних контролю. Вміст ЦП у хворих на ХОЗЛ й АГ був вищий на 94,3 % стосовно контрольних значень.

Висновки. Спільні фактори ризику ХОЗЛ та АГ, посилення системного запалення при загостренні ХОЗЛ супроводжують каскадом патофізіологічних механізмів, одним із яких є оксидативний стрес, який пов’язаний із виснаженням антиоксидантних резервів (вірогідне зниження активності супероксиддисмутази і каталази, підвищення вмісту церулоплазміну).
Pedro e o Lobo, de Prokofiev
Authors: Valenzuela Sandra Trabuco
Published: November 2019

O presente artigo estuda o poema sinfônico Pedro e o Lobo, composto por Serguei Prokofiev em 1936, com o objetivo pedagógico de apresentar às crianças os instrumentos musicais utilizados numa orquestra. Inicialmente, apresenta-se o compositor e sua trajetória; na sequência analisa-se o enredo original e como e em que circunstâncias se deu sua concepção; aborda-se a composição musical e o leitmotiv, e realiza-se a leitura comparativa do original de Prokofiev e a versão adaptada para a animação produzida pela Disney Productions.
Endothelial GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) Receptor Mediates Cardiovascular Protection by Liraglutide In Mice With Experimental Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Helmstädter Johanna , Frenis Katie , Filippou Konstantina , Grill Alexandra , Dib Mobin , Kalinovic Sanela , Pawelke Franziska , Kus Kamil , Kröller-Schön Swenja , Oelze Matthias , Chlopicki Stefan , Schuppan Detlef , Wenzel Philip , Ruf Wolfram , Drucker Daniel J. , Münzel Thomas , Daiber Andreas , Steven Sebastian
Published: November 2019

Objective:

Cardiovascular outcome trials demonstrated that GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) analogs including liraglutide reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetes mellitus. Whether GLP-1 analogs reduce the risk for atherosclerosis independent of glycemic control is challenging to elucidate as the GLP-1R (GLP-1 receptor) is expressed on different cell types, including endothelial and immune cells.

Approach and Results:

Here, we reveal the cardio- and vasoprotective mechanism of the GLP-1 analog liraglutide at the cellular level in a murine, nondiabetic model of arterial hypertension. Wild-type (C57BL/6J), global (
Glp1r
−/−
), as well as endothelial (
Glp1r

f
lox/floxxCdh5
cre

) and myeloid cell–specific knockout mice (

Glp1r
flox/flox
xLysM
cre

) of the GLP-1R were studied, and arterial hypertension was induced by angiotensin II. Liraglutide treatment normalized blood pressure, cardiac hypertrophy, vascular fibrosis, endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and vascular inflammation in a GLP-1R–dependent manner. Mechanistically, liraglutide reduced leukocyte rolling on the endothelium and infiltration of myeloid Ly6G
−
Ly6C
+
and Ly6G
+
Ly6C
+
cells into the vascular wall. As a consequence, liraglutide prevented vascular oxidative stress, reduced S-glutathionylation as a marker of eNOS (endothelial NO synthase) uncoupling, and increased NO bioavailability. Importantly, all of these beneficial cardiovascular effects of liraglutide persisted in myeloid cell GLP-1R-deficient (
Glp1r

flox/flox

xLysM

cre

) mice but were abolished in global (
Glp1r
−/−
) and endothelial cell–specific (
Glp1r

flox/flox

xCdh5

cre

) GLP-1R knockout mice.

Conclusions:

GLP-1R activation attenuates cardiovascular complications of arterial hypertension by reduction of vascular inflammation through selective actions requiring the endothelial but not the myeloid cell GLP-1R.
“In Compliance with the Old Register”: on Ottoman Documentary Depositories and Archival Consciousness
Authors: Burak Guy
Published: November 2019

The article examines multiple approaches to archived documents and documentary depositories in the Ottoman Empire. By exploring a range of views that reflect a sense of archival consciousness among different groups and individuals throughout the Ottoman lands, the essay seeks to better contextualize the Ottoman quite successful attempts to regulate the imperial paper trail and to promote a specific view of the archive. More generally, by tracing the emergence of a particular form of archival consciousness among members of the imperial administrative and judicial elites as well as Ottoman subjects, the article intends to offer a framework for a comparative study of the archival practices throughout the eastern Islamic lands.
Navigating Discretion: A Diplomatic Practice in Moments of Socio-political Rupture
Authors: Kuschnitzki Judit
Published: November 2019

In the wake of the 2011 uprisings, Tunisian, Egyptian and Yemeni diplomats faced unprecedented questions regarding their professional conduct. The foreign policy institutions of all three countries witnessed new forms of political agency, with diplomats beginning to question, debate and (re)define routine practices and norms. Combining diplomatic theory with the multidisciplinary literature on state bureaucracies, this article analyses the various strategies that diplomats developed during a time marked by radical politicisation, strong emotion and new opportunities. On a conceptual level, it emphasises the concept of ‘diplomatic discretion’, which remains under-theorised in diplomacy research today, but is crucial to the study of diplomatic practice. Empirically, this article draws on ethnographic data regarding diplomats’ lived experiences, treating their narratives surrounding the 2011 events as a starting point of analysis.
Function and three-dimensional structure of intervessel pit membranes in angiosperms: a review
Authors: Kaack Lucian , Altaner Clemens M. , Carmesin Cora , Diaz Ana , Holler Mirko , Kranz Christine , Neusser Gregor , Odstrcil Michal , Jochen Schenk H. , Schmidt Volker , Weber Matthias , Zhang Ya , Jansen Steven
Published: November 2019

Pit membranes in bordered pits of tracheary elements of angiosperm xylem represent primary cell walls that undergo structural and chemical modifications, not only during cell death but also during and after their role as safety valves for water transport between conduits. Cellulose microfibrils, which are typically grouped in aggregates with a diameter between 20 to 30 nm, make up their main component. While it is clear that pectins and hemicellulose are removed from immature pit membranes during hydrolysis, recent observations of amphiphilic lipids and proteins associated with pit membranes raise important questions about drought-induced embolism formation and spread via air-seeding from gas-filled conduits. Indeed, mechanisms behind air-seeding remain poorly understood, which is due in part to little attention paid to the three-dimensional structure of pit membranes in earlier studies. Based on perfusion experiments and modelling, pore constrictions in fibrous pit membranes are estimated to be well below 50 nm, and typically smaller than 20 nm. Together with the low dynamic surface tensions of amphiphilic lipids at air-water interfaces in pit membranes, 5 to 20 nm pore constrictions are in line with the observed xylem water potentials values that generally induce spread of embolism. Moreover, pit membranes appear to show ideal porous medium properties for sap flow to promote hydraulic efficiency and safety due to their very high porosity (pore volume fraction), with highly interconnected, non-tortuous pore pathways, and the occurrence of multiple pore constrictions within a single pore. This three-dimensional view of pit membranes as mesoporous media may explain the relationship between pit membrane thickness and embolism resistance, but is largely incompatible with earlier, two-dimensional views on air-seeding. It is hypothesised that pit membranes enable water transport under negative pressure by producing stable, surfactant coated nanobubbles while preventing the entry of large bubbles that would cause embolism.
In-Situ Mutation Detection by Magnetic Beads-Probe Based on Single Base Extension and Its Application in Genotyping of Hepatitis B Virus Pre-C Region 1896nt Locus Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms
Authors: Mou Xianbo , Sheng Danni , Chen Zhu , Liu Mei , Liu Yuan , Deng Yan , Xu Kui , Hou Ruixia , Zhao Jiyuan , Zhu Yabin , Li Song
Published: November 2019

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is closely related to occurrence and development of viral hepatitis. A mutation of 1896nt locus in its pre-C region can promote replication of HBV DNA and improve stability of pre-genome RNA structure, and can even help HBV evade immune clearance. In this study,
magnetic beads-probe (MBs@probe) method, combined with single base extension (SBE) technology, was developed for in-situ mutation detection of HBV pre-C region 1896nt locus. Before successfully completing the genotyping of 165 HBV samples, the crucial reaction conditions were first
optimized, such as SBE temperature, MBs size and amount, and probe concentration on the surface of MBs. Experimental results showed that these conditions had significant effects on MBs@probe in-situ mutation detection. Comprehensive considerations, such as 58 °C of SBE temperature,
high fluorescence intensity and signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) were obtained when MBs@probe complex was made by 100 μg of 300 nm-MBs and 3.0 μM of probes in the system. Finally, 1896nt locus mutation in pre-C region of 165 HBV samples was successfully genotyped, among which
71 HBV samples were wild types and the remaining 94 samples were mutant types. Meanwhile, 14 randomly chosen samples were taken to further analyze fluorescence intensity and SNRs respectively, and sequencing results for the first two samples were consistent with results from the MBs@probe
in-situ mutation detection method. Compared with two-color fluorescence hybridization (TCFH) genotyping technology, this method generally improves the SNRs to more than 10 (which is more than 2-fold), has higher reliability and is more suitable to detect SNPs for known sites.
Disordered Metabolism and Repair Mechanism: Mitochondria Influenced by Cationic and Neutral Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Ting , Deng Yu , Chen Yaozhong , Qu Guanwen , Feng Zhangqi , Shang Jing , Zheng Jie , He Nongyue
Published: November 2019

Limited understanding of mitochondria disorders that induced by nanoparticles is a stumbling block for anti-cancer drug delivery targeting strategy. In present study, C6 glioma cells were exposed to aminated and alkylated SiO2 nanoparticles for mitochondrion disordering and
cell metabolism study. Collective results showed that aminated nanoparticles tend to trigger the cell-repair mechanism in cancer cells while alkylated nanoparticles could cause irreversible damages on cancer cells, although both types of the particles were proved to damage mitochondrion. The
underlying mechanism show that aminated nanoparticles induced proton-stuck effect in mitochondrion and self-repairing in cancer cells by up-regulating p21. Otherwise, alkylated nanoparticles damaged mitochondrion and induced phosphorylated cyclin E accumulation lead to Fbw7 down-regulation
caused further S phase arrest and severe late apoptosis. This work can help us elucidate the mechanism of the clinic application of nano-drug carriers.
Highly Sensitive Gas-Sensing Films for Volatile Organic Acids from Imidazolium-Based Poly(ionic liquid)s
Authors: Zhang Yehao , Qiao Xu , Zhao Wenli , Sun Jiao , Tang Qin , Du Yang , Jia Hongbin , Ji Qingmin
Published: November 2019

Imidazolium-based poly(ionic liquid)s were synthesized and used as sensing film for the adsorption of volatile organic compounds. Based on a quartz crystal microbalance system, the sensing properties of the imidazolium-based poly(ionic liquid)s on volatile organic compounds was assessed
according to the position of imidazolium cation in the polymer chain (the main-chain or side-chain type) and the varied counterions. The results indicated that the imidazolium-based poly(ionic liquid)s films have much higher adsorption capability on volatile organic acids than other volatile
organic compounds, which is due to the strong affinity between imidazolium group and the carboxyl group. The position of imidazolium cation in the polymer chain and counterions of the imidazolium-based poly(ionic liquid)s was found to be able to influence the selectivity and sensitivity of
volatile organic acids. The main-chain imidazolium-based poly(ionic liquid)s were shown strengthen the adsorption of propionic acid vapor, while the counter ion of dicyanamide showed the highest selectivity on volatile organic acids. Based on the quartz crystal microbalance sensing system,
the imidazoliumbased poly(ionic liquid)s film was shown capable of detecting volatile organic acids with a theoretical detection limit of about 3.1 ppb and a quick recovery time less than 40 seconds. The sensing performance is also stable for repeated usage and after long-time storage.
Carbon Quantum Dots as Fluorescence Turn-Off-On Probe for Detecting Fe3+ and Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Zhang Yong , Xiao Yanteng , Zhang Yujuan , Wang Yingte
Published: November 2019

This work describes a “turn-off-on” fluorescence probe based on carbon quantum dots for sensing Fe3+ and ascorbic acid. The carbon quantum dots are prepared by hydrothermal method using a biocarbon source of black sesame. When excited at 355 nm, the carbon quantum
dots show a strong bright blue emission peak centered at 438 nm. Obviously, the decrease of the fluorescence intensity of carbon quantum dots can be seen upon addition of Fe3+. Interestingly, the fluorescence quenching can be regained after the addition of ascorbic acid. The mechanism
is that the added Fe3+ was destroyed by reductive ascorbic acid because of the redox reaction between ascorbic acid and Fe3+, making the fluorescence of the system recovered. The obtained curves are linear for Fe3+ and ascorbic acid over the range 50–1500
μM and 32.2–987.6 μM, respectively. The detection limits for Fe3+ and ascorbic acid are 2.78 μM and 0.0344 μM, respectively. Thus the carbon quantum dots can be used as a dual-function fluorescent sensor to achieve sensitive detection
of Fe3+ and ascorbic acid.
Characterization of a TiO2/Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotube Core–Shell Nanocomposite Synthesized by a Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Seo Moo-Hyun , Na Kyeong-Han , Yang Wan-Hee , Song Tae-Hyeob , Choi Won-Youl
Published: November 2019

TiO2 is a significant n-type semiconducting material because of its superior electric and photocatalytic properties. Although this material has been extensively studied as a semiconductor electrode for dye-sensitized solar cells for its inherent bandgap and its excellent
electrical and chemical properties, the photoelectric efficiency is nevertheless lower than that of the Si-based solar cells, which is generally reported as 13–27%. On the other hand, various carbon structures have been studied to increase the overall charge transport efficiency by reducing
the charge transport resistance in the cell while having high electric conductivity. These results are expected to improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency when applied to dye-sensitized solar cells. We fabricated a TiO2/multi-wall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) core–shell
structure by a hydrothermal method. The TiO2 anatase phase in the TiO2/MWCNT core–shell structure was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The core–shell nanostructure with a diameter of 127 nm to 211 nm was observed by field emission scanning electron microscope
(FE-SEM). The morphology of the TiO2/MWCNT core–shell nanocomposite was also analyzed by transmission electron microscope (TEM). The Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FT-IR) and Brunauer Emmett and Teller (BET) method were used to observe the chemical bonding and specific
surface area of the TiO2/MWCNT core–shell nanocomposite, respectively. The TiO2/MWCNT core–shell composites had a larger specific surface area of 92.00 m2/g, a larger pore volume of 0.33 cm3/g, and a larger pore size of 65.21 nm than
commercial TiO2 nanoparticles (P25). The TiO2/MWCNT core–shell structure may provide a high-speed path for photoelectrons to pass quickly and will be useful for various applications, such as solar cells and photocatalysts.
Effect on Morphology and Optical Properties of Inorganic and Hybrid Perovskite Semiconductor Thin Films Fabricated Layer by Layer
Authors: Kumar Ashwani , Singh K. L. , Tripathi S. K.
Published: November 2019

In recent time, organic–inorganic halide perovskite solar cells govern photovoltaic field, due to its remarkable development on the power conversion process. Still, large variations in device efficiency and basic physical properties are reported. This is due to variations during
film fabrications and consecutive treatments employed. Here, we report a layer by layer deposition of inorganic perovskite (CsBi3I10) and lead halide perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3) thin films. We find that the absorbance for corresponding thin
film goes on increasing dramatically. UV-vis spectrum of film recorded to find the band gap of films, ˜1.55 eV optical band gap have been obtained for the film fabricated layer by layer. We further study the fabrication of different perovskite layers impact on microstructure, surface
morphology and optical properties. The optical and structural characterization outcomes all suggests the perovskite films processed by using the layer by layer fabrication are well controlled, making this processes an auspicious technique to fabricate thin-films for numerous prospective device
applications and scientific studies.
Effects of Thermal Annealing Duration on the Film Morphology of Methylamine Lead Triiodide (MAPbI3) Perovskite Thin Films in Ambient Air
Authors: Kumar Ashwani , Soleimanioun Nazilla , Singh Navjot , Singh K. L. , Sandhu I. S. , Tripathi S. K.
Published: November 2019

In the present communication we have studied the effect of thermal annealing duration on morphology of methylamine lead triiodide (MAPbI3) perovskite (prepared using single step method) semiconductor that changes into lead iodide (PbI2). Furthermore, the effect
of annealing duration on thin films is investigated and correlated with its potential photovoltaic application. Thin films characteristics study by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy results indicate MAPbI3 degraded strongly by annealing duration. However, thin films
(about 1.25 micron-thick) annealed at 80 °C for 10 min in ambient conditions cause minimum degradation with smooth and uniform surface morphology. It also shows a higher absorption coefficient with the band gap of °1.5 eV rendering this perovskite suitable for practical applications.
Design and Analysis of Multi Junction Solar Photovoltaic Cell with Graphene as an Intermediate Layer
Authors: Chawla Rashmi , Singhal Poonam , Garg Amit Kumar
Published: November 2019

An efficacious Intermediate Layer (IML) is important for multi junction solar Photo Voltaic Cell (PVC) owing to its good electrical conductivity and optical transparency. In this research work, the use of Graphene as an IML with varied thickness on InGaP/GaAs/InGaAs multi-junction solar
PVCs is investigated using virtual fabrication TCAD tool SILVACO-Atlas. The detail absorption rate from wavelength 300 nm (ultraviolet)-2500 nm (middle infra-red region) is determined and the effected modelling stages are recounted. The results after simulation are further confirmed with experimental
data to prove accuracy of the research work proposed. The performance parameters with Jsc = 33.4 mA/cm2, Voc = 1.27 V, fill factor (FF) = 99.5% and conversion efficiency of 30.91% (1 sun) are obtained under AM1.5G illumination.
Cd-Free Zn(O,S) as Alternative Buffer Layer for Chalcogenide and Kesterite Based Thin Films Solar Cells: A Review
Authors: Gour Kuldeep S. , Parmar Rahul , Kumar Rahul , Singh Vidya N.
Published: November 2019

Cd is categorized as a toxic material with restricted use in electronics as there are inherent problems of treating waste and convincing consumers that it is properly sealed inside without any threat of precarious leaks. Apart from toxicity, band-gap of CdS is about 2.40–2.50
eV, which results significant photon loss in short-wavelength range which restricts the overall performance of solar cells. Thin film of Zn(O,S) is a favorable contender to substitute CdS thin film as buffer layer for CuInGaSe2 (CIGS), CuInGa(S,Se)2 (CIGSSe), Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4
(CZTSSe) Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe), Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) thin film absorber material based photovoltaic due to it made from earth abundant, low cost, non-toxic materials and its ability to improve the efficiency of chalcogenide and kesterite based photovoltaic
due to wider band-gap which results in reduction of absorption loss compared to CdS. In this review, apart from mentioning various deposition technique for Zn(O,S) thin films, changes in various properties i.e., optical, morphological, and opto-electrical properties of Zn(O,S) thin film deposited
using various methods utilized for fabricating solar cell based on CIGS, CIGSSe, CZTS, CZTSe and CZTSSe thin films, the material has been evaluated for all the properties of buffer layer (high transparency for incident light, good conduction band lineup with absorber material, low interface
recombination, high resistivity and good device stability).
Reinforcement-Learning Approach Guidelines for Energy Management
Authors: Rioual Yohann , Laurent Johann , Diguet Jean-Philippe
Published: November 2019

IoT and autonomous systems are in charge of an increasing number of sensing, processing and communications tasks. These systems may be equipped with energy harvesting devices. Nevertheless, the energy harvested is uncertain and variable, which makes it difficult to manage the energy
in these systems. Reinforcement learning algorithms can handle such uncertainties, however selecting the adapted algorithm is a difficult problem. Many algorithms are available and each has its own advantages and drawbacks. In this paper, we try to provide an overview of different approaches
to help designer to determine the most appropriate algorithm according to its application and system. We focus on Q-learning, a popular reinforcement learning algorithm and several of these variants. The approach of Q-learning is based on the use of look up table, however some algorithms use
a neural network approach. We compare different variants of Q-learning for the energy management of a sensor node. We show that depending on the desired performance and the constraints inherent in the application of the node, the appropriate approach changes.
Image Processing of Radar Mosaics for the Climatology of Convection Initiation in South China
Authors: Bai Lanqiang , Chen Guixing , Huang Ling
Published: November 2019

A dataset of convection initiation (CI) is of great value in studying the triggering mechanisms of deep moist convection and evaluating the performances of numerical models. In recent years, the data quality of the operationally generated radar mosaics over China has been greatly improved, which provides an opportunity to retrieve a CI dataset from that region. In this work, an attempt is made to reveal the potential of applying a simple framework of objective CI detection for the study of CI climatology in China. The framework was tested using radar mosaic maps in South China that were accessible online. The identified CI events were validated in both direct and indirect ways. On the basis of a direct manual check, nearly all of the identified CI cells had an organized motion. The precipitation echoes of the cells had a median duration of approximately 2.5 h. The CI occurrences were further compared with rainfall estimates to ensure physical consistency. The diurnal cycle of CI occurrence exhibits three major modes: a late-night-to-morning peak at the windward coasts and offshore, a noon-to-late-afternoon peak on the coastal land, and an evening-to-early-morning peak over the northwestern highland. These spatial modes agree well with those of rainfall, indirectly suggesting the reliability of the CI statistics. By processing radar mosaic maps, such a framework could be applied for studying CI climatology over China and other regions.
Impacts of Radiation and Cold Pools on the Intensity and Vortex Tilt of Weak Tropical Cyclones Interacting with Vertical Wind Shear
Authors: Rios-Berrios Rosimar
Published: November 2019

Idealized numerical simulations of weak tropical cyclones (e.g., tropical depressions and tropical storms) in sheared environments indicate that vortex tilt reduction and convective symmetrization are key structural changes that can precede intensification. Through a series of ensembles of idealized numerical simulations, this study demonstrates that including radiation in the simulations affects the timing and variability of those structural changes. The underlying reason for those effects is a background thermodynamic profile with reduced energy available to fuel strong downdrafts; such a profile leads to weaker lower-tropospheric ventilation, greater azimuthal coverage of clouds and precipitation, and smaller vortex tilt with radiation. Consequently, the simulations with radiation allow for earlier intensification at stronger shear magnitudes than without radiation. An unexpected finding from this work is a reduction of both vortex tilt and intensity variability with radiation in environments with 5 m s−1 deep-layer shear. This reduction stems from reduced variability in nonlinear feedbacks between lower-tropospheric ventilation, cold pools, convection, and vortex tilt. Sensitivity experiments confirm the relationship between those processes and suggest that microphysical processes (e.g., rain evaporation) are major sources of uncertainty in the representation of weak, sheared tropical cyclones in numerical weather prediction models.
Holographic Observations of Centimeter-Scale Nonuniformities within Marine Stratocumulus Clouds
Authors: Glienke Susanne , Kostinski Alexander B. , Shaw Raymond A. , Larsen Michael L. , Fugal Jacob P. , Schlenczek Oliver , Borrmann Stephan
Published: November 2019

Data collected with a holographic instrument [Holographic Detector for Clouds (HOLODEC)] on board the High-Performance Instrumented Airborne Platform for Environmental Research Gulfstream-V (HIAPER GV) aircraft from marine stratocumulus clouds during the Cloud System Evolution in the Trades (CSET) field project are examined for spatial uniformity. During one flight leg at 1190 m altitude, 1816 consecutive holograms were taken, which were approximately 40 m apart with individual hologram dimensions of 1.16 cm × 0.68 cm × 12.0 cm and with droplet concentrations of up to 500 cm−3. Unlike earlier studies, minimally intrusive data processing (e.g., bypassing calculation of number concentrations, binning, and parametric fitting) is used to test for spatial uniformity of clouds on intra- and interhologram spatial scales (a few centimeters and 40 m, respectively). As a means to test this, measured droplet count fluctuations are normalized with the expected standard deviation from theoretical Poisson distributions, which signifies randomness. Despite the absence of trends in the mean concentration, it is found that the null hypothesis of spatial uniformity on both spatial scales can be rejected with compelling statistical confidence. Monte Carlo simulations suggest that weak clustering explains this signature. These findings also hold for size-resolved analysis but with less certainty. Clustering of droplets caused by, for example, entrainment and turbulence, is size dependent and is likely to influence key processes such as droplet growth and thus cloud lifetime.
Estimation of Turbulent Heat Fluxes via Assimilation of Air Temperature and Specific Humidity into an Atmospheric Boundary Layer Model
Authors: Tajfar E. , Bateni S. M. , Margulis S. A. , Gentine P. , Auligne T.
Published: November 2019

A number of studies have used time series of air temperature and specific humidity observations to estimate turbulent heat fluxes. These studies require the specification of surface roughness lengths for heat and momentum (that are directly related to the neutral bulk heat transfer coefficientCHN) and/or ground heat flux, which are often unavailable. In this study, sequences of air temperature and specific humidity are assimilated into an atmospheric boundary layer model within a variational data assimilation (VDA) framework to estimateCHN, evaporative fraction (EF), turbulent heat fluxes, and atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) height, potential temperature, and humidity. The developed VDA approach needs neither the surface roughness parameterization (as it is optimized by the VDA approach) nor ground heat flux measurements. The VDA approach is tested over the First International Satellite Land Surface Climatology Project Field Experiment (FIFE) site in the summers of 1987 and 1988. The results indicate that the estimated sensible and latent heat fluxes agree fairly well with the corresponding measurements. For FIFE 1987 (1988), the daily sensible and latent heat fluxes estimates have a root-mean-square error of 25.72 W m−2(27.77 W m−2) and 53.63 W m−2(48.22 W m−2), respectively. In addition, the ABL height, specific humidity, and potential temperature estimates from the VDA system are in good agreement with those inferred from the radiosondes both in terms of magnitude and diurnal trend.
Suicides in Australia following media reports of the death of Robin Williams
Authors: Pirkis Jane , Currier Dianne , Too Lay San , Bryant Marc , Bartlett Sara , Sinyor Mark , Spittal Matthew J
Published: November 2019

Objective:

This study assessed the extent to which local reporting of Robin Williams’ suicide (on 11 August 2014) was associated with suicide in Australia. It followed several studies in the United States which showed that there were significant increases in suicide following media reports of Williams’ death and that those media reports were less than optimal in terms of adherence to best-practice guidelines. In a previous study, we demonstrated that Australian media reports of Williams’ suicide were largely adherent with our Mindframe guidelines on responsible reporting of suicide, so we speculated that there would be no increase in suicide following the reporting of Williams’ suicide in Australia.

Method:

We extracted data on Australian suicides from the National Coroners Information System for the period 2001 to 2016. We conducted interrupted time series regression analyses to determine whether there were changes in suicides in the 5-month period immediately following Williams’ suicide.

Results:

Our hypothesis that there would be no increase in suicides in Australia following Williams’ highly publicised suicide was not supported. There was an 11% increase in suicides in the 5-month period following Williams’ death, largely accounted for by men aged 30–64 and by people who died by hanging (the method Williams used).

Conclusion:

It may be that Australians were exposed to reports that contravened safe reporting recommendations, particularly via overseas media or social media, and/or that some Australian reports may have had unhelpful overarching narratives, despite largely adhering to the Mindframe guidelines. The Mindframe guidelines constitute international best practice but consideration should be given to whether certain recommendations within them should be further reinforced and whether more nuanced information about how stories should be framed could be provided. Future revision and augmentation of the Mindframe guidelines should, as always, involve media professionals.
A Single Sheet Pediatric Growth Chart
Authors: Kohler Elaine
Published: November 2019

A chart has been designed for simplified growth evaluation combining boys' and girls' measurements to give a “usual” 50th percentile and “limits of normal” 97th and 3rd percentile lines for height and weight. Head circumference limits and average low birthweight growth lines are included on the graph. The chart includes the entire pediatric age range from birth, even if premature, through 18 years. While meticulous statistical significance cannot be derived from plotting on such a chart, it is offered to simplify the recording of children's growth and the evaluation of the consistency and normalcy of that growth.
Economic Evaluation of Changes in Reimbursement for Medications Purchased Through the 340B Drug Pricing Program
Authors: Endriukaitis Lauren A. , Hayes Genevieve L. , Mills Jason
Published: November 2019

Background: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) implemented changes to the reimbursement scheme for 340B-acquired medications on January 1, 2018, reducing payments by approximately 25%. It was recognized that these changes would have a significant fiscal impact to Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Health. The purpose of this assessment was to review the financial impact of changes in Medicare reimbursement for clinic-administered medications. Methods: This study was a single-center, retrospective, financial evaluation of closed outpatient encounters for Medicare beneficiaries in calendar year 2018. Actual reimbursement was calculated for 2018. To better characterize the margin obtained, exploratory analyses were completed to identify best- and worst-case reimbursement outcomes. This exploratory analysis was conducted for both the new (ASP-22.5%) and old (ASP+6%) reimbursement schemes. Results: Overall, 10 973 encounters were reviewed for inclusion. Ultimately, 8028 encounters were included in the final analysis. Of all encounters, 88 unique medications were administered. Most of the drugs (55%) were associated with oncologic indications. An unfavorable variance was found in 3761 encounters (47%). The actual reimbursement margin for 2018 was $3 193 525. Conclusion: Changes to reimbursement outlined by the CMS at the start of 2018 resulted in decreased reimbursement for 340B-eligible, clinic-administered medications. Most of the unfavorable variances were associated with 340B acquisition prices that exceeded reimbursement. Although the original intent of the 340B Drug Pricing Program was to stretch federal resources, decreased payments could reduce institutional ability to fund programs that support medically vulnerable populations.
Enhancing the Legitimacy of Offices for Future Generations: The Case for Public Participation
Authors: Smith Graham
Published: November 2019

Independent offices for future generations are rare among institutional designs that aim to ameliorate short-termism in democracies. Drawing on the experience of offices for future generations in Israel, Hungary, and Wales, the article argues that such institutions face at least three challenges to their legitimacy: first, the capacity of an unelected agency to constrain government and law-making; second, the ability of a single office to adequately represent the plurality of interests within and across future generations; and third, their political fragility and vulnerability. The article develops the counterintuitive argument that offices for future generations can enhance their democratic legitimacy through embedding systematic public participation in their activities, in particular through the institutionalization of deliberative mini-publics.
Poured Out: A Kenotic Approach to Initiating Children at a Distance from the Church
Authors: Johnson Sarah Kathleen
Published: November 2019

A kenotic theology of infant initiation that emphasizes extending the self-giving of God through the sacraments is an alternative to a covenantal approach when celebrating Christian initiation in an American religious landscape characterized by declining participation in religious institutions, a growing population who identify as nonreligious, and increasing uncertainty about matters of faith. This study is anchored in twenty-one stories emerging from qualitative interviews with Protestant clergy about their experience of receiving requests for infant initiation. Analysis of interview data reveals five types of distance from the church (formal, relational, historic, theological, and moral), four primary motivations prompting families at a distance to request infant initiation (family celebration, cultural tradition, concern for salvation, and spiritual connection), and five approaches clergy take in responding to requests (safeguarding, hospitality, compassion, conviction, and evangelical opportunity). Engaging Chauvet, Belcher, Peirce, and Hughes, a kenotic approach invites the church to pour itself out, without expectation of reward, and with the risk of loss, as an extension of the self-giving of God. A kenotic approach invites participants with a range of relationships with the church to bring their own motivations and meanings which, through encounter and dialogue, may enrich the practice for all involved, including clergy and congregations, as a fusion of meaning is produced collaboratively.
Comparison of the mechanical properties between treated and untreated ham nets
Authors: Al-Amin Md , Shao Wenjie , Varadarajan Anandavalli , Freeman Charles , Campbell Yan L , Schilling Wes M , Kundu Santanu , Black Catherine
Published: November 2019

In this study, 100% polyester mesh fabrics were used as ham nets. The nets were treated with 40% propylene glycol (PG), 1% propylene glycol alginate (PGA), and 1% carrageenan. The treated and untreated nets were evaluated to determine any significant changes in terms of mechanical properties. Fabric weight (ASTM D3776), elastic properties (BS EN 14704-1:2005), abrasion resistance (ASTM D4966) and breaking strength (ASTM D5034-09) were tested. The morphology of 100% polyester fiber was also observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Surface morphology of both treated and untreated fabric was also observed. No significant changes occurred in the mechanical properties that would affect the dry-cured ham aging process. Treated samples were stronger than untreated samples with respect to abrasion resistance, weight of the fabric in unit area (GSM), and tensile strength. This study indicates that these nets could be used to age dry-cured hams as part of a methyl bromide replacement strategy.
A Second Look at Factors Associated with Employer Hiring Behavior Regarding People Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision
Authors: McDonnall Michele C. , Antonelli Karla
Published: November 2019

Introduction:

Although negative employer attitudes and reasons that employers do not hire people with disabilities have both been investigated, little research has focused on why employers do hire people with disabilities. The purpose of this study was to investigate factors associated with employer hiring behavior regarding people with visual impairments, including the opportunity to hire (i.e., application receipt).

Method:

Participants were a national sample of 388 hiring managers who completed an online survey that assessed their hiring experiences concerning people with visual impairments. Two logistic regression models were analyzed, one that included nine independent variables thought to be associated with hiring (Model 1) and one that included these nine variables plus application receipt (Model 2).

Results:

Variables that were significantly associated with hiring behavior in Model 1 were prior communication with vocational rehabilitation (VR) professionals, employer attitudes, company size, company policy, and personal relationship with someone with a visual impairment. Significant variables in Model 2 were received application, employer attitudes, and personal relationship.

Discussion:

As expected, application receipt was the most important predictor of hiring behavior, with odds of hiring increasing by more than 40 with receipt of an application. Despite this exceptionally strong relationship, employer attitudes and having a personal relationship remained significant predictors, indicating the robustness of attitudes as a determinant of why employers hire and the importance of personal connections to hiring behavior.

Implications for practice:

Employers cannot hire unless given the opportunity, and the first step to being hired is typically submitting an application. VR professionals should both encourage consumers to submit applications, providing support in this process as needed, and communicate with employers to encourage their consideration of these applications.