bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical Role for TWIST1 in the Induction of Human Uterine Decidualization
Authors: Schroeder Jennifer K. , Kessler Cherie A. , Handwerger Stuart
Published: September 2011

The importance of the transcription factor TWIST1 for uterine decidualization was examined in human uterine fibroblast (HUF) cells decidualized in vitro with medroxyprogesterone, estradiol (E2), and prostaglandin E2. TWIST1 mRNA levels increased by 6.0- to 6.8-fold during the first 1–2 d of decidualization and remained above predecidualization levels for up to 15 d. Pretreatment of HUF cells with a TWIST1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) for 3 d before the induction of decidualization resulted in less morphologic differentiation than HUF cells pretreated with a nonsilencing control RNA. In addition, the cells pretreated with TWIST1 siRNA expressed 75–95% less IGF binding protein 1, LEFTY2, fibromodulin, laminin, and several other mRNA during decidualization, including the mRNA for the transcription factors forkhead box protein O1 and v-ets-erythroblastosis virus E26, both of which were previously shown to be critical for the induction of decidualization. The HUF cells pretreated with the TWIST1 siRNA also underwent less apoptosis during decidualization than the control cells, as evidenced by a 20% decrease in DNA fragmentation (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase 2′-deoxyuridine, 5′-triphosphate nick end labeling assay) and a 43–48% decrease in caspase 3, BCL2-associated X protein, and TNF receptor superfamily member 6 mRNA levels. Although the knockdown of TWIST1 expression markedly attenuated the induction of decidualization, overexpression of TWIST1 alone was insufficient to induce the decidualization of HUF cells. Taken together, these findings strongly implicate an essential role for TWIST1 in the initiation of human decidualization and uterine stromal cell apoptosis that occurs upstream of the induction of forkhead box protein O1 and v-ets-erythroblastosis virus E26 mRNA.
A multi-system approach to reducing insulin errors
Authors: Grant Paul
Published: September 2011

Background

Insulin prescribing and administration errors are consistently high with respect to hospital in-patients. There is no straightforward solution to the problem as there are multiple causative factors and system failures. We describe the implementation of a multi-system approach which looks at changes across the board to avoid the risk of serious harm in a teaching hospital setting.

Methods

Organizational level changes included addressing the development of a culture of safety and promoting management buy in. Clinical level changes relate to the labelling and storage of insulin and the provision of accessible information for clinical staff in several different formats. Patient level changes were directed at improving the prescription charts with their own specific insulin section as well as empowering patients to retain the control of their own insulin administration.

Results

Following the initial phase of the project the number of clinical incidents relating to insulin administration and prescribing increased by 18%.

Discussion

The surprising initial outcome was felt to reflect an increased awareness of the issues surrounding insulin problems and the fact that they were previously under-reported. The project has had strong support and good feedback from a wide array of healthcare professionals within the hospital trust. The national diabetes in-patient audit will allow an opportunity for further analysis and a longer time frame for the multi-system changes to bed in.
Incidents within community pharmacies across Japan: An analysis of the newly launched incident collecting project among community pharmacies and a comparison of causes between hospital pharmacies and community pharmacies
Authors: Iijima Hisako , Ishizuka Aya , Maeda Shoichi
Published: September 2011

In April 2009, Japan Council for Quality Health Care (JCQHC) launched the Project to Collect Incidents within Community Pharmacies, a national project of self-and-voluntary reporting of incidents among community pharmacies. While there have been several studies and projects to collect and analyze incident reports among a set number of community pharmacies across the globe, it is still rare for an incident collecting project to exist at a national level. This paper introduces the new project in Japan. A retrospective analysis of community pharmacy participation across the country and cause of reported incidents based on the data released by JCQHC. Among the total number of reported incidents (1,460 cases), the most frequently reported incidents were related to the task of filling out prescriptions (92.0%). The most frequently answered cause of the incident was due to a “failure to check thoroughly” with 1,293 (96.3) out of 1,343 reported cases of incidents from community pharmacies. In a comparison of incidents reported between hospital pharmacies and community hospitals, both types of pharmacies reported a “failure to check thoroughly” as the leading cause of incidents. In hospital pharmacies, however, only 3,265 (84.7%) cases out of 3,857 were reported with “failure to check thoroughly” as the cause of incident. The rates between hospital pharmacy and community pharmacy for this cause differed significantly ( P < 0.05). As the main cause of incidents was due to “the failure to check thoroughly”, the need for confirmation systems within community pharmacies has become ever more evident.
Structural and functional role of bases 32 and 33 in the anticodon loop of yeast mitochondrial tRNAIle
Authors: Montanari Arianna , De Luca Cristina , Di Micco Patrizio , Morea Veronica , Frontali Laura , Francisci Silvia
Published: September 2011

Previous work has demonstrated the usefulness of the yeast model to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying defects due to base substitutions in mitochondrial tRNA genes, and to identify suppressing molecules endowed with potential clinical relevance. The present paper extends these investigations to two human equivalent yeast mutations located at positions 32 and 33 in the anticodon loop of tRNAIle. Notwithstanding the proximity of the two T>C base substitutions, the effects of these mutations have been found to be quite different in yeast, as they are in human. The T32C substitution has a very severe effect in yeast, consisting in a complete inhibition of growth on nonfermentable substrates. Conversely, respiratory defects caused by the T33C mutation could only be observed in a defined genetic context. Analyses of available sequences and selected tRNA three-dimensional structures were performed to provide explanations for the different behavior of these adjacent mutations. Examination of the effects of previously identified suppressors demonstrated that overexpression of the TUF1 gene did not rescue the defective phenotypes determined by either mutation, possibly as a consequence of the lack of interactions between EF-Tu and the tRNA anticodon arm in known structures. On the contrary, both the cognate IleRS and the noncognate LeuRS and ValRS are endowed with suppressing activities toward both mutations. This allows us to extend to the tRNAIle mutants the cross-suppression activity of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases previously demonstrated for tRNALeu and tRNAVal mutants.
Stutter Exacerbated by Lithium in a Pediatric Patient with Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Gulack Brian C , Puri Neil V , Kim Wun J
Published: September 2011

Objective:

To report the first known case of a lithium-exacerbated stutter in a pediatric patient.

Case Summary:

A 10-year-old male with a history of developmental stuttering, bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (NOS), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and conduct disorder was admitted to the psychiatric hospital because of recurrent suicidal ideations and increased physical aggression toward staff at his residential facility. The patient was being treated with lithium at initial dose of 150 mg/day at bedtime for bipolar disorder NOS. When the lithium dose was increased to 900 mg twice daily to better control the bipolar symptoms, his developmental stutter worsened intensely. When the lithium dose was reduced to 60 mg in the morning and 900 mg at night, the stutter returned to baseline. No other medication changes were made during this interval. His serum lithium concentration was 0.62 mEq/L at baseline, 1.24 mEq/L during the height of his exacerbated stutter, and returned to 0.64 mEq/L after dose reduction.

Discussion:

To our knowledge, only 1 case lithium-exacerbated stutter has been reported to the literature, and this was in an adult. The developmental stutter of our pediatric patient worsened when he was treated with higher doses of lithium. He was on stable doses of his other medications during the adjustments to the lithium dose, malding it less likely that the stutter was due to one of these medications. However, it is possible that the exacerbation involved an interaction between lithium and one or several of the other medications. Based on the Naranjo probability scale, this case represents a probable adverse drug reaction.

Conclusions:

Clinicians should be aware that an additional adverse effect of lithium may be an exacerbation of stutter.
Synthesis and Characterization of BaTiO3/CoFe2O4 thin films
Authors: Andrade Helen R. C. S. , Seara Luciana M. , Mohallem Nelcy D. S.
Published: September 2011

Nanocomposites formed by ferrimagnetic and ferroelectric materials are multiferroic material in which magnetoelectric coupling occurs via piezoelectricity and magnetostriction phenomena. These nanocomposites have a variety of applications in tunable microwave devices using electric control of spin wave propagation or new magnetic memories in which the magnetic response is controlled by electric field.

In this work, transparent and homogeneous thin films of barium titanate interleaved with cobalt ferrite were prepared by sol–gel method using dip-coating process. Films of pure barium titanate and cobalt ferrite were also prepared for comparison. The nanocomposite films were deposited onto clean quartz substrates, where a coating of each material was deposited interleaved, where the cobalt ferrite film formed the last layer. The films were dried in air after each dipping and heated at 900 oC for 1 hour to convert the amorphous films into crystalline ones. The samples were characterized by low angle X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) and UV-Vis spectroscopy.
High Efficiency, Large Area, Nanocrystalline Silicon Based, Triple-Junction Solar Cells
Authors: Banerjee A. , Su T. , Beglau D. , Pietka G. , Liu F. , Yan B. , Yang J. , Guha S.
Published: September 2011

We have fabricated large-area, thin-film multijunction solar cells based on hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) and nanocrystalline silicon (nc-Si:H) made in a large area batch reactor. The device structure consisted of an a-Si:H/nc-Si:H/nc-Si:H stack on Ag/ZnO back reflector coated stainless steel substrate, deposited using our proprietary High Frequency (HF) glow discharge technique. For the nc-Si:H films, we investigated two deposition rate regimes: (i) low rate <1 nm/s and (ii) high rate >1 nm/s. We optimized the deposition parameters, such as pressure, gas flow, dilution, and power. We did SIMS analysis on the optimized films, and found the impurity concentrations were one order of magnitude lower than the films made with the conventional RF process. In particular, the oxygen concentration is reduced to ~1018 cm-3. This value is among the lowest oxygen concentration reported in literature. The low impurity content is attributed to proprietary cathode hardware and the optimized deposition process. During the initial optimization and investigative phase, we fabricated small-area (0.25 cm2 and 1.1 cm2) cells. The information obtained from the initial phase was used to fabricate large-area (aperture area 400 cm2) cells, and encapsulated the cells using the same flexible encapsulants that are used in our commercial product. We have light soaked the low-rate and high-rate encapsulated modules. The highest initial efficiency of the low-rate modules is 12.0% as confirmed by NREL. The highest corresponding stable efficiency attained for the low-rate samples cells is 11.35%. For the high-rate small-area (1.1 cm2) cells, the highest initial active-area efficiency and corresponding stable efficiency attained are 13.97% and 12.9%, respectively. We present the details of the research conducted to develop the low- and high-rate cells and modules.
Microscopic Characterizations of Nanostructured Silicon Thin Films for Solar Cells
Authors: Fejfar Antonín , Klapetek Petr , Zlámal Jakub , Vetushka Aliaksei , Ledinský Martin , Kočka Jan
Published: September 2011

Microscopic characterization of mixed phase silicon thin films by conductive atomic force microscopy (C-AFM) was used to study the structure composed of conical microcrystalline grains dispersed in amorphous matrix. C-AFM experiments were interpreted using simulations of electric field and current distributions. Density of absorbed optical power was calculated by numerically solving the Maxwell equations. The goal of this study is to combine both models in order to simulate local photoconductivity for understanding the charge photogeneration and collection in nanostructured solar cells.
High-Efficiency Microcrystalline Silicon and Microcrystalline Silicon-Germanium Alloy Solar Cells
Authors: Matsui Takuya , Kondo Michio
Published: September 2011

This paper presents our material studies on hydrogenated microcrystalline silicon (μc-Si:H) and microcrystalline silicon-germanium alloy (μc-Si1-xGex:H) thin films for the development of high efficiency p-i-n junction solar cells. In μc-Si:H solar cells, we have evaluated the structural properties of the intrinsic μc-Si:H layers grown by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition at high deposition rates (>2 nm/s). Several design criteria for the device grade μc-Si:H are proposed in terms of crystallographic orientation, grain size and grain boundary passivation. Meanwhile, in μc-Si1-xGex:H solar cells, we have succeeded in boosting the infrared response of solar cell upon Ge incorporation up to x∼0.2. Nevertheless, a degradation of solar cell parameters is observed for large Ge contents (x>0.2) and thick i-layers (> 1 μm), which is attributed to the influence of the Ge dangling bonds that act as acceptorlike states in undoped μc-Si1-xGex:H. To improve the device performance, we introduce an oxygen doping technique to compensate the native defect acceptors in μc-Si1-xGex:H p-i-n solar cells.
The Role of H-Plasma in Aluminum Induced Crystallization of Amorphous Silicon
Authors: Luo Chong , Li Juan , Li He , Meng Zhiguo , Huang Qian , Xu Shengzhi , Sing Kwok Hoi , Xiong Shaozhen
Published: September 2011

A technique to improve and accelerate aluminum induced crystallization (AIC) by hydrogen plasma is proposed in this paper. Raman spectroscopy and Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry of crystallized poly-Si thin films show that hydrogen plasma radicals reduce the crystallization time of AIC. This technique shortens the annealing time from 10 hours to 4 hours and increases the Hall mobility from 22.1 cm2/V·s to 42.5 cm2/V·s. The possible mechanism of AIC assisted by hydrogen radicals will also be discussed.
Charge-transfer doped intrinsic diamond electrochemical electrodes
Authors: Chen Waileong , Li Chiuan-Yi , Yeh Shoupu , Yei Shin-Hung , Tzeng Yonhua
Published: September 2011

We report electrochemical characteristics of hydrogen terminated charge-transfer doped intrinsic microcrystalline diamond films. Microcrystalline diamond was synthesized by Direct- Current Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (DC-PECVD) in methane diluted by hydrogen. The diamond films were subjected to further treatment by microwave plasma in pure hydrogen to increase the hydrogen termination of the diamond surfaces and their negative electron affinity. When the diamond is exposed to the ambient moisture, valance electrons tend to tunnel from the first few atomic layers of the diamond surface to the adsorbed water adlayer. This charge transfer process results in the surface of hydrogen-terminated diamond behaving like a p-type semiconductor.

Electrochemical characteristics of hydrogen-terminated diamond films were exposed to an air plasma for depleting the surface hydrogen atoms and then re-hydrogenated the same diamond films with atomic hydrogen. Cyclic voltammetry in 0.1M H2S04 aqueous solution and 0.01M Fe(CN)6-4/-3+0.1M KCl aqueous solution was applied to reveal high current density and wide potential window for hydrogen-terminated diamond grown on silicon substrates. The faceted surface morphology has been observed by SEM. The crystalline characteristics and carbon phases in the diamond film were examined by Raman spectroscopy.
Ellipsometric characterization of thin nanocomposite films with tunable refractive index for biochemical sensors
Authors: Petrik P. , Egger H. , Eiden S. , Agocs E. , Fried M. , Pecz B. , Kolari K. , Aalto T. , Horvath R. , Giannone D.
Published: September 2011

Creating optical quality thin films with a high refractive index is increasingly important for waveguide sensor applications. In this study, we present optical models to measure the layer thickness, vertical and lateral homogeneity, the refractive index and the extinction coefficients of the polymer films with nanocrystal inclusions using spectroscopic ellipsometry. The optical properties can be determined in a broad wavelength range from 190 to 1700 nm. The sensitivity of spectroscopic ellipsometry allows a detailed characterization of the nanostructure of the layer, i.e. the surface roughness down to the nm scale, the interface properties, the optical density profile within the layer, and any other optical parameters that can be modeled in a proper and consistent way. In case of larger than about 50 nm particles even the particle size can be determined from the onset of depolarization due to light scattering. Besides the refractive index, the extinction coefficient, being a critical parameter for waveguiding layers, was also determined in a broad wavelength range. Using the above information from the ellipsometric models the preparation conditions can be identified. A range of samples were investigated including doctor bladed films using TiO2 nanoparticles.
“Graphene-Like” Exfoliation of Quasi-2D Crystals of Titanium Ditelluride: A New Route to Charge Density Wave Materials
Authors: Khan Javed M. , Teweldebrhan Desalegne , Nolen Craig M. , Balandin Alexander. A.
Published: September 2011

We used a “graphene-like” mechanical exfoliation to obtain atomically thin films of TiTe2. The building blocks of titanium ditelluride are atomic tri-layers separated by the van der Waals gaps. The exfoliation procedure allows one to obtain the few-atom-thick films with strong confinement of charge carriers and phonons. We have verified the crystallinity of the exfoliated films and fabricated the back-gated field-effect devices. The current – voltage characteristics of the TiTe2devices revealed strong non-linearity, which suggests the charge-density wave effects. The obtained results are important for the proposed application of TiTe2for the charge-density wave devices and thermoelectric energy conversion.
Crystallographic Processing of Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Images of Cobalt Phthalocyanines on Silver and Graphite
Authors: Moeck P. , Straton J. , Toader M. , Hietschold M.
Published: September 2011

Monolayers of cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc) and fluorinated cobalt phthalocyanine (F16CoPc) on silver (111) and on highly (0001) oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) were imaged with a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) at cryogenic temperatures (around 30 K) at Chemnitz University of Technology. Domains of regular arrays with periodicity in two dimensions (2D) and a variety of plane symmetries were observed. Crystallographic image processing (CIP) was used to quantify deviations from the plane symmetry groups and to obtain symmetrized versions of the content of the average unit cells of some of these arrays. Conclusions on the point symmetry of the CoPc and F16CoPc molecules within the arrays were drawn.
Measurement of Piezoelectric Transverse and Longitudinal Displacement with Atomic Force Microscopy for PZT Thick Films
Authors: Kashiwagi Yuta , Iijima Takashi , Aiso Toru , Yamamoto Takashi , Nishida Ken , Funakubo Hiroshi , Nakajima Takashi , Okamura Soichiro
Published: September 2011

The actual transverse and longitudinal displacement of PZT thick film was measured using a newly developed atomic force microscopy (AFM). The AFM is attached a feedback circuit named “torsion feedback”. The torsion and Z-height feedback circuits control an AFM cantilever to follow piezoelectric deformation of the sample. To measure transverse displacement, the cantilever contacts the edge of sample. The transverse displacement is determined from the torsion feedback signal absolutely. To measure longitudinal displacement, the cantilever contacts the center of sample. The longitudinal displacement is determined from Z-height feedback signal absolutely. A 5-μm-thick PZT film was prepared on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrates. The film sample was shaped square pillar. The side electrode length (L) of square pillar shaped sample was ranged from 1000 μm to 10 μm. The relation between side electrode length and the transverse or the longitudinal displacements were investigated. With decreasingL, the transverse displacement decreased nonlinearly, and the longitudinal displacement increased nonlinearly. The finite element method (FEM) simulation suggests that the substrate clamped PZT film behaved nonlinearly. The effective -d31andd33were calculated from the measured displacement, and these values increase with decreasingL. The effectived33and -d31showed correlation, and the ratio wasd33: -d31= 5.3 : 1 , whereas the bulk ratioisd33: -d31= 2.4 : 1.This result suggests that the substrate clamping effect of the transverse displacement was larger than that of the longitudinal displacement.
The Local Structure and I-V Characteristics of Chromium Doped Semiconducting Boron Carbide
Authors: Liu Jing , Dowben P. A. , Luo Guangfu , Mei Wai-Ning , Rajapitamahuni Anil Kumar , Sokolov Andre , Karki Sudarshan , Caruso Anthony N.
Published: September 2011

The local spin configuration and band structure of chromium doped boron carbide calculated by density functional theory suggests local magnetic ordering. While the long range dopant position appears random in the boron carbide semiconductor, the local position and initial empirical/computational results suggest the promise of large magneto-resistive effects. The chromium doped boron carbide thin films, fabricated by boron carbide-chromium co-deposition, were studied by current-voltage (I-V) characteristics measurements. The results provide some reason to believe that magneto-resistive effects are indeed present at room temperature.
Ab InitioStructure Characterization for the Amorphous Assembly of Si Clusters Encapsulating Transition Metal
Authors: Miyazaki Takehide , Uchida Noriyuki , Kanayama Toshihiko
Published: September 2011

We present a first-principles lattice dynamics for the assembly of the transition-metal (M)-encapsulated Sinclusters in amorphous phase (a-MSin), which has been proposed as a potential candidate for the channel material of the next-generation thin-film transistors (TFTs) [N. Uchidaet al.,Appl. Phys. Express1, 121502 (2008)]. The shape of calculated vibrational density of states (VDOS) curve of a-MoSi10is similar to the counterpart of the high pressure phase of a-Si (HPA-Si) although the present systems are obtained as a result of pressure relaxation. Its radial distribution function (RDF) among Si themselves is characterized by the absence of a gap between the first and second shells, which is also the case in . We further present the VDOS of a-WSi10, whose curve shape is again similar to that of HPA-Si. A difference between a-MoSi10and a-WSi10is that the W-atom displacement components extracted from the vibration eigenvectors are mainly distributed over a lower frequency range (< ~ 150 cm-1) than the Mo counterpart (~ 150 cm-1to ~ 300 cm-1). This may be attributed to a larger atomic mass of W than Mo.
Application of a Dual-spectral-range, Divergent-beam Spectroscopic Ellipsometer for High-Speed Mapping of Large-area, Laterally-inhomogeneous, Photovoltaic Multilayers
Authors: Fried M. , Juhasz G. , Major C. , Nemeth A. , Petrik P. , Polgar O. , Salupo C. , Dahal Lila R. , Collins R. W.
Published: September 2011

We have developed a prototype spectroscopic ellipsometer for imaging/mapping purposes requiring only one measurement cycle (one rotation period of a polarizer or analyzer) for the acquisition of a two-dimensional array of data points. Our new measurement technique serves as a novel form of imaging ellipsometry, using a divergent (uncollimated, diffuse) source system and a detection system consisting of an angle-of-incidence-sensitive pinhole camera. By incorporating broad-band sources and wavelength dispersion optics, the instrument provides continuous high-resolution spectra along a line image of the sample surface. As a result, information on multilayer photovoltaics stacks can be obtained over large areas (several dm2) at high speed. The technique can be expanded to even larger areas by scaling-up the optical geometry. The spatial resolution of the line image is limited by the minimum resolved-angle as determined by the detection system. Small-aperture polarizers (25 mm diameter) are incorporated into the instrument, which reduces its cost. Demonstration mapping measurements have been performed ex situ on a multilayer sample deposited on a polymer substrate, including an intentionally graded 80-350 nm thick hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) layer and an intended uniform 400-500 nm thick transparent conducting ZnO:Al layer, both on opaque silver. Alternative commercial instruments for ex situ SE mapping must translate the sample in two dimensions. Even a 15 x 15 cm2 sample requires > 200 measurements with cm-resolution and at least 15 min. By collecting ex situ data in parallel along one dimension through imaging, the divergent-beam system can measure with similar spatial resolution in < 2 min. In situ measurements on both roll-to-roll polymer and rigid glass will be possible in the future.
Development of lead-free materials for piezoelectric energy harvesting
Authors: Rai R. , Coondoo I. , Lopes R. P. , Bdikin I. , Ayouchi R. , Bhattacharaya S. , Schwarz R. , Kholkin A. L.
Published: September 2011

Mechanical energy harvesting from ambient vibrations is an attractive renewable source of energy for various applications. Prior research was solely based on lead-containing materials which are detrimental to the environment and health. Therefore, lead-free materials are becoming more attractive for harvesting applications. The present work is focused on the development of lead-free piezoelectric materials based on solid solution having composition (KNa)NbO3-xABO3, (where A = Li, and B = Nb; x = 0, 5, 5.5, 6, and 6.5 wt%). The solid solutions of the above ceramics were prepared by using solid-state reaction method. The X-ray diffraction spectra exhibited single phase formation and good crystallinity with LiNbO3 addition up to x = 6.5 wt%. Dielectric studies reveal that the composition with LiNbO3 = 6.5 wt% exhibits superior properties suitable for piezoelectric energy harvesting applications. The nanoscale piezoelectric data obtained with piezoresponse force microscopy provide a direct evidence of strong piezoelectricity with LN doping. The best piezoelectric properties are obtained for the composition K0.5Na0.5NbO3 – 6.5%LiNbO3.
Deposition of P-Type Nanocrystalline Silicon Using High Pressure in a VHF-PECVD Single Chamber System
Authors: Zhang Xiaodan , Wang Guanghong , Zheng Xinxia , Xu Shengzhi , Wei Changchun , Sun Jian , Geng Xinhua , Xiong Shaozhen , Zhao Ying
Published: September 2011

In this article, we present a study of boron-doped hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon (nc-Si: H) films by very high frequency-plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (VHF-PECVD) using high deposition pressure. Electrical, structural and optical properties of the films were investigated. Dark conductivity as high as 2.75S/cm of p-type nc-Si: H prepared at 2.5Torr pressure has been achieved at a deposition rate of 1.75Å/s for 25nm thin film. By controlling boron and phosphorus contamination, single junction nc-Si: H solar cells incorporated p-layers prepared under high pressure and low pressure, respectively, were deposited. It has been proven that nanocrystalline silicon solar cells with incorporation of p layer prepared at high pressure has resulted in enhanced open circuit voltage, short circuit current density and subsequently high conversion efficiency. Through the optimization of the bottom solar cell and application of ZnO/Al back reflector, 10.59% initial conversion efficiency of micromorph tandem solar cell (1.027cm2) with an open circuit voltage of 1.3864V, has been fabricated, where the bottom solar cell using a high pressure p layer was deposited in a single chamber.
Adolescentes autores de atos infracionais: psicologia moral e legislação
Authors: Monte Franciela Félix de Carvalho , Sampaio Leonardo Rodrigues , Rosa Filho Josemar Soares , Barbosa Laila Santana
Published: September 2011

Este trabalho tem o objetivo de discutir o Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente - ECA, e o Sistema Nacional de Atendimento Socioeducativo - SINASE, os quais dispõem sobre a proteção integral dos direitos fundamentais de crianças e adolescentes. Foca-se a discussão nas diretrizes do atendimento a adolescentes em cumprimento de medidas socioeducativas, especialmente em instituições de ressocialização, destacando-se como características imprescindíveis para o desenvolvimento integral dos adolescentes: o estímulo à negociação, à autonomia, e à democracia, especialmente no relacionamento entre profissionais e adolescentes. Estes documentos são analisados à luz das contribuições teóricas de Piaget para o campo da Psicologia do Desenvolvimento, bem como de achados atuais sobre o desenvolvimento sociomoral de crianças e adolescentes autores de atos infracionais.
Simulação computacional integrada para a consideração da luz natural na avaliação do desempenho energético de edificações
Authors: Didoné Evelise Leite , Pereira Fernando Oscar Ruttkay
Published: September 2011

A luz natural é uma importante estratégia para redução do consumo de energia em edificações. Para sua previsão, recomenda-se a utilização de programas de simulação que empregam arquivos climáticos e processam as simulações com o conceito do Daylight Coefficients. O EnergyPlus, programa para simulação termoenergética, é uma dessas ferramentas. Porém, este software possui limitações no módulo de iluminação natural que superestimam a luz natural em ambientes internos. Para contornar essas limitações, o presente trabalho propõe uma metodologia para avaliação da eficiência energética, considerando o aproveitamento da luz natural, através da utilização de dois programas. A metodologia consiste na avaliação do desempenho luminoso e energético através de simulação com os programas Daysim e EnergyPlus. O Daysim produz um relatório que descreve o controle da iluminação artificial que é utilizado na simulação energética do EnergyPlus, que calcula o consumo energético final dos ambientes analisados. Os resultados indicam que a metodologia proposta mostrou-se adequada para suprir as limitações do EnergyPlus e para a avaliação da eficiência energética em edificações, considerando o aproveitamento da luz natural. Este trabalho mostra um caminho alternativo e confiável para a consideração do aproveitamento da iluminação natural na avaliação da eficiência energética de edificações.
The Value of a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment for Patient Care in Acutely Hospitalized Older Patients with Cancer
Authors: Hamaker Marije E. , Buurman Bianca M. , van Munster Barbara C. , Kuper Ingeborg M.J.A. , Smorenburg Carolien H. , Rooij Sophia E.
Published: September 2011

Introduction.

A comprehensive geriatric assessment systematically collects information on geriatric conditions and is propagated in oncology as a useful tool when assessing older cancer patients.

Objectives.

The objectives were: (a) to study the prevalence of geriatric conditions in cancer patients aged ≥65 years, acutely admitted to a general medicine ward; (b) to determine functional decline and mortality within 12 months after admission; and (c) to assess which geriatric conditions and cancer-related variables are associated with 12-month mortality.

Methods.

This was an observational cohort study of 292 cancer patients aged ≥65 years, acutely admitted to the general medicine and oncology wards of two university hospitals and one secondary teaching hospital. Baseline assessments included patient characteristics, reason for admission, comorbidity, and geriatric conditions. Follow-up at 3 and 12 months was aimed at functional decline (loss of one or more activities of daily living [ADL]) and mortality.

Results.

The median patient age was 74.9 years, and 95% lived independently; 126 patients (43%) had metastatic disease. A high prevalence of geriatric conditions was found for instrumental ADL impairment (78%), depressive symptoms (65%), pain (65%), impaired mobility (48%), malnutrition (46%), and ADL impairment (38%).

Functional decline was observed in 8% and 33% of patients at 3 and 12 months, respectively. Mortality rates were 38% at 3 months and 64% at 12 months. Mortality was associated with cancer-related factors only.

Conclusion.

In these acutely hospitalized older cancer patients, mortality was only associated with cancer-related factors. The prevalence of geriatric conditions in this population was high. Future research is needed to elucidate if addressing these conditions can improve quality of life.
Continuous Re-Exposure to Environmental Sound Cues During Sleep Does Not Improve Memory for Semantically Unrelated Word Pairs
Authors: Donohue Kelly C. , Spencer Rebecca M. C.
Published: September 2011

Two recent studies illustrated that cues present during encoding can enhance recall if re-presented during sleep. This suggests an academic strategy. Such effects have only been demonstrated with spatial learning and cue presentation was isolated to slow wave sleep (SWS). The goal of this study was to examine whether sounds enhance sleep-dependent consolidation of a semantic task if the sounds are re-presented continuously during sleep. Participants encoded a list of word pairs in the evening and recall was probed following an interval with overnight sleep. Participants encoded the pairs with the sound of “the ocean” from a sound machine. The first group slept with this sound; the second group slept with a different sound (“rain”); and the third group slept with no sound. Sleeping with sound had no impact on subsequent recall. Although a null result, this work provides an important test of the implications of context effects on sleep-dependent memory consolidation.
Efficacy of an appropriate point-of-use water treatment intervention for low-income communities in India utilizing Moringa oleifera, sari-cloth filtration and solar UV disinfection
Authors: Ali Syed Imran , MacDonald Morgan , Jincy J. , Sampath K. Arun , Vinothini G. , Philip Ligy , Hall Kevin , Aronson Kristan
Published: September 2011

This study investigated the efficacy of a POU water treatment system featuring sari-cloth filtration and/or Moringa oleifera coagulation as pre-treatments for solar disinfection (SODIS). Surface water from a peri-urban slum in Chennai, India, was treated and analysed for turbidity, organic content via chemical oxygen demand (COD) and microbiological quality via most probable number (MPN) enumeration of total coliforms. Pre-treatment with both moringa coagulation and sari-cloth filtration significantly improved the turbidity of raw water compared to no pre-treatment controls (P = 0.0002). Optimal moringa coagulation did not outperform sari-cloth filtration (P = 0.06), but combining optimal moringa coagulation with sari-cloth filtration significantly outperformed either pre-treatment independently with respect to turbidity (P = 0.016 and P = 0.0001, respectively). The addition of moringa was found to increase COD in treated water, with greater doses of moringa resulting in higher COD levels (P = 0.04). Increased organics may have encouraged the re-growth of coliform bacteria that was observed in those jars receiving moringa coagulant such that, with respect to MPN, those jars which were subject to optimal moringa coagulation did not outperform those undergoing sari-cloth filtration alone (P = 0.41). Sari-cloth filtration is recommended as a pre-treatment for SODIS whereas moringa is not, as further investigation on the relationship between organics and bacterial re-growth is necessary.
Effect of genotype and pre-sowing fertilization on yield of garden pea
Authors: Dozet Gordana , Boskovic Jelena , Galonja-Coghill Tamara , Zecevic Veselinka , Cvijanovic Gorica , Jovicevic Dragan , Djukic Vojin
Published: September 2011

During the two-year study on the influence of presowing fertilization on
growth and development of garden pea (Pisum sativum L.) in three different
experimental setups, five genotypes of peas were used, two of Dutch origin
and three that were created at the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops.
The aim of the study was to determine the extent to which different genotypes
and complex NPK fertilizer influence the yield per plant. The average yield
per plant for both years was 16.86 g. The influence of genotype on grain
yield per plant was statistically significant (p<0.01). Tamish cultivar
showed significantly lower yields during both study years, in comparison with
other genotypes tested, except when compared with the Danube cultivar in year
2007. There was no regularity in the influence of pre-sowing fertilization on
grain yield per plant. Regression analysis of the pea genotypes, revealed a
slight reduction in yield per plant as a function of increased use of complex
fertilizer. Grain yield per plant was in high positive correlation (p<0.01)
with yield components, and with the length of the stem. The number of pods
was in strong correlation with grain numbers and weight of pods. Number of
grains and the absolute weight were in highly statistically significant
correlation with the mass of pods.
Variability, heritability and association analysis in plant traits of swiss chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla)
Authors: Eşiyok Dursun , Bozokalfa Kadri , Kaygisiz-Aşçioğul Tansel
Published: September 2011

Plant breeders mainly interested in improvement agronomic properties of
desirable trait accompanied with genetic architecture of major characters and
their interrelationship. Genetic variability and character association are
prime importance and provide essential contribution for successful breeding
programme. In the present research genetic variability, heritability,
phenotypic and genotypic correlations of several agronomic characters were
studied in fifty-four swiss chard accessions and cultivars. Analysis of
variance observed highly significant variations among accessions, and
phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was higher magnitude of genotypic
coefficient of variation (GCV) for all agronomic characters. The lamina
length, lamina width, petiole thickness, petiole width, lightness, chroma and
leaf dry matter observed high magnitude broad sense heritable characters
accompanied with high genetic advance. Genotypic correlation coefficient
showed higher than phenotypic correlation coefficient which could be
explained by low environmental effect on investigated agronomic traits.
Positive correlation was revealed between petiole length, lamina length,
lamina width, petiole thickness and petiole width which comprise total yield
in swiss chard.
Path analysis of the productive traits in Sorghum species
Authors: Ikanovic Jela , Glamoclija Djordje , Maletic Radojka , Popovic Vera , Sokolovic Dejan , Spasic Marija , Rakic Sveto
Published: September 2011

This research studied the phenotypic correlation coefficients between three
Sorghum species, namely forage sorghum S. bicolor Moench. (c. NS-Dzin), Sudan
grass S. sudanense L. (c. Zora) and interspecies hybrid S. bicolor x S.
sudanense (c. Siloking). The analyses were performed on plant material
samples taken from the first cutting, when plants were in the beginning phase
of tasseling. The following morphologic traits were studied: plant height,
number of leaves per plant, stem leaf weight and mean stem weight.
Additionally, their direct and indirect effect on dependent variable green
biomass yield was analyzed, for which path coefficients were calculated. This
method enables more quality and full insight into relations existing among
the studied traits, more precise establishment of cause-effect connections
among them, as well as to separate direct from indirect effects of any
particular trait on dependent variable, being biomass yield in this case. The
analysis of phenotypic coefficients revealed differences in direct and
indirect effect of certain traits on dependent variable. Sudan grass had the
highest stem (2.281 m) and most leaves per plant (7.917). Forage sorghum had
the largest leaf weight per plant (49.05 g), while interspecies hybrid had
the highest mean stem weight (80.798 g). Variations of these morphologic
traits among species were found to be significant and very significant.
Morphologic traits - stem height and weight significantly affected sorghum
green biomass yield. Leaf number and leaf portion in total biomass were
negatively correlated with yield. Cultivars differed significantly regarding
morphologic and productive traits. Sudan grass had the lowest green biomass
yield, while forage sorghum and interspecies hybrid had significant yield
increase.
Line X tester analysis for yield components in sunflower and their correlations with seed yield (Helianthus annuus L.)
Authors: Hladni Nada , Skoric Dragan , Kraljevic-Balalic Marija , Jocic Sinisa , Dusanic Nenad
Published: September 2011

The creation of new sunflower hybrids with high genetic potential for seed
yield on the basis of interspecies hybridization requires a possession of the
information about the mode of inheritance and the combining abilities of the
created inbreed lines for the total seed number per head and the mass of 100
seeds. Apart from this the research of interdependence between yield
components and seed yield allows the defining of traits which have the
biggest influence on the yield formation. Significant differences were found
among the A lines, Rf testers and their F1 hybrids in total seed number per
head and the mass of 100 seeds. Analysis of variance of the combining
abilities revealed highly significant differences for GCA and SCA. Highly
significant positive value GCA was demonstrated by A-line NS-GS-5 for both
traits. Hybrid NS-GS-5xRHA-R- PL-2/1 has the highest significant value SCA
for both traits. The main role in inheritance of the total seed number per
head and the mass of 100 seeds is played by non additive component of the
genetic variance which is confirmed by the GCA/SCA relation in F1 generation
that is less than one (0.11, 0.24). Rf-testers had the highest average
contribution in the expression of the total seed number per head (55.8%)
while for the mass of 100 seeds a more significant contribution was given by
A-line (70.6%). A strong positive interdependence has been determined between
seed yield and total seed number per head (0.376
Evaluation of phenotypic diversity of apple (Malus sp.) germplasm through the principle component analysis
Authors: Mratinic Evica , Fotiric-Aksic Milica
Published: September 2011

A wide range of apple cultivars representing Malus sp. germplasm were
collected from southern part of Serbia, where this specie has been in
cultivation for a long time. Data for twelve traits were collected for 18
cultivars for three consecutive years. Cultivars differed in phenology, fruit
weight, yield and chemical composition were evaluated. Correlations were
identified among phenological and compositional traits. Principal component
analysis (PCA) was performed to study correlation among variables in set of
apple cultivars evaluated and to interpret relationships among genotypes as a
tool for germplasm characterization. Dulabija, intended for table
consumption, and Stambolka, suitable for the processing, were identified as
promising. Because of the large diversity identified, data should be
collected for additional local apple cultivars.
Inheritance of ear yield and its components in sweet corn (Zea mays L. saccharat)
Authors: Srdic Jelena , Pajic Zorica , Filipovic Milomir , Babic Milosav , Secanski Mile
Published: September 2011

Sweet corn is mutation of field corn in which greater accumulation of sugars
and water soluble polysaccharides provide specific taste and texture. It is
consumed in the milky stage of the endosperm, so the product?s quality and
its appearance are important as well as ear yield. That is why breeders pay
the same attention to these traits in breeding process. In this paper we
analyzed combining ability and mode of inheritance of ear yield and yield
components in sweet corn, such as kernel-row number, and ear length, by the
use of diallel crosses of six sweet corn inbred lines. ANOVA showed that
estimates of general (GCA) and specific (SCA) combining abilities were highly
significant (p<0.01) for all observed traits. Nonaditive gene effects were
more significant in the expression of ear yield and ear length, while
additive gene effects were more important for kernel-row number. Analysis of
components of genetic variance was in agreement with the results of ANOVA of
combining ability. The mode of inheritance of kernel-row number was partial
dominance, while overdominance was of greater importance for ear yield, and
ear length. Inbred line L4 was indicted as the most desirable, among the
examined set of inbreds, in the further sweet corn breeding programs, due to
its significant GCA effects concerning ear yield and number of kernels per
ear, and ear yield performances of the hybrids in which one of the components
was this inbred, according to SCA and hetrosis estimates.
Arthroscopic partial medial meniscectomy
Authors: Dasic Zarko , Radoicic Dragan
Published: September 2011

Background/Aim. Meniscal injuries are common in professional or recreational
sports as well as in daily activities. If meniscal lesions lead to physical
impairment they usually require surgical treatment. Arthroscopic treatment of
meniscal injuries is one of the most often performed orthopedic operative
procedures. Methods. The study analyzed the results of arthroscopic partial
medial meniscectomy in 213 patients in a 24-month period, from 2006, to 2008.
Results. In our series of arthroscopically treated medial meniscus tears we
noted 78 (36.62%) vertical complete bucket handle lesions, 19 (8.92%)
vertical incomplete lesions, 18 (8.45%) longitudinal tears, 35 (16.43%)
oblique tears, 18 (8.45%) complex degenerative lesions, 17 (7.98%) radial
lesions and 28 (13.14%) horisontal lesions. Mean preoperative International
Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score was 49.81%, 1 month after the
arthroscopic partial medial meniscectomy the mean IKDC score was 84.08%, and
6 months after mean IKDC score was 90.36%. Six months after the procedure 197
(92.49%) of patients had good or excellent subjective postoperative clinical
outcomes, while 14 (6.57%) patients subjectively did not notice a significant
improvement after the intervention, and 2 (0.93%) patients had no subjective
improvement after the partial medial meniscectomy at all. Conclusion.
Arthroscopic partial medial meniscetomy is minimally invasive diagnostic and
therapeutic procedure and in well selected cases is a method of choice for
treatment of medial meniscus injuries when repair techniques are not a viable
option. It has small rate of complications, low morbidity and fast
rehabilitation.