bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complexities in the Case Management of Unaccompanied Minors: Perceptions of Social Workers Practicing in the Polokwane Child and Youth Care Centres
Authors:   Univeristy of Limpopo, Asha Aklilu
Published: April 2022

Post-apartheid South Africa has become a preferred destination for migrants and refugees from across different parts of the globe, particularly the African and Asian continents. The influx of foreign nationals into the country has contributed to an increase in the number of unaccompanied minors as they either travel alone or become separated from caregivers or parents once they entered the country. This situation has complicated the management aspects of the cases of unaccompanied minors at the local level. The purpose of this article is to explore the experiences of social workers in the management of the cases of unaccompanied minors in the Children and Youth Care Centers (CYCCs) in Polokwane area. Qualitative data were collected by employing face-to-face interviews as well as observation techniques and data were analysed applying qualitative thematic approach. The finding highlights that most of the unaccompanied minors were in dire need and lack proper documentation. It was also revealed that a number of perilous child protection challenges existed in the management of the cases of unaccompanied minors. A limited capacity of social workers, lack of intersectoral integration and collaboration, and insufficient allocation of resources to tackle the multiple dilemmas that affect unaccompanied minors in the CYCCs. It is concluded that despite the solid international legal framework and South Africa having a relatively well developed legal and policy framework governing child protection, there are a number of critical child protection gaps that exist in terms of the implementation of these frameworks for unaccompanied or separated foreign children by government officials.
The Link between Documentation Status, Occupation Status, and Healthcare Access for African migrants
Authors:   Centre for Rural Development, University of Humboldt in Berlin, Asquith Paul , Neetzow Richard , von Freeden Julia , Schütze Paul
Published: April 2022

The link between migrants’ legal and employment status, access to health and health outcomes is widely explored in the academic literature on migration and health. However, there are few, if any, studies examining this link within African states. In this article we present survey data collected from refugees and people in refugee-like situations in Kenya, regular (labor) migrants in Nigeria, and irregular migrants in South Africa to examine the link between registration status, employment or occupation status, gender, and (perceptions of) access to healthcare. A range of statistical tests and models were applied to examine the effects of these different characteristics. A consistent finding throughout the three sample countries is that access for people without any documentation is lower than different other groups, not only by means but also within the linear models. This strongly suggests that extending regularization pathways in African states, even if on a temporary basis, would be an effective policy lever to improve migrants’ access to healthcare, and by extension migrants’ health. However, the effects of employment status and gender on access to healthcare were more ambiguous, and further research in African contexts is required to clarify their impact.
Economic and Risk Perceptions Motivating Illegal Migration Abroad: Port Harcourt City Youths, Nigeria
Authors:   Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences, Inyama Joseph
Published: April 2022

This study contributes to the understanding of the economic and risk perceptions that motivate illegal migration among youths. Using the Theory of Reasoned Action and the Cultural Theory of Risk Perception, this study investigates the economic and risk perceptions related to the livelihood of male and female youths of Port Harcourt City about migration to Europe through the Sahara Desert and across the Mediterranean Sea. Qualitative research techniques were used to source data from Port Harcourt City youths on the lived experiences of irregular migrants in selected countries abroad. A thematic content analysis of the data revealed that the perception of many of the participants on opportunities for decent work abroad is informed by what they see in western films and read on social media platforms. The anticipation of a better life and the hope of earning a stable income motivate them to undertake unsafe migration journeys abroad, regardless of the risks. The study further established that the majority of the youths who embark on dangerous journeys lack in-depth knowledge of the associated risks of traveling through the desert and across the sea, including the dangers of living abroad as undocumented migrants. Based on these findings, the study recommends the need for more awareness-creation and enlightenment of the youths to fully understand the risks and negative aspects of the illegal movement. It also recommends that government agencies and stakeholders in the international community collaborate towards implementing sustainable interventions that will build the resilience capabilities of youths against illegal migration.
Investigation in physicochemical characteristics of jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) extract cake
Authors: GHARAVI Hojjat , DAVOODI Mehdi , GHAVIDELl Reihaneh Ahmadzadeh
Published: April 2022

In spite of freshly eaten, Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) might be dried or processed into confectionary recipes in cakes, as one of the important products in food industries. The experiment was conducted based on complete randomized design with three replications. Treatments were control and three levels of jujube extraction (2, 4, and 6 percent) which added to cake’s formulation and sampling in different time periods. In the present study, the process of baking was in four steps. First of all, dried jujube fruit was mixed with water and its brix was reached 15 using direct heat. In the second step, a final brix of 60 was obtained by rotary evaporator. Then, appropriate amounts of egg, sugar, yogurt, oil, 2, 4, or 6 % jujube extract was mixed using a blender. Finally, baking powder, flour, and vanilla were mixed and the mixture was placed in the oven set at 160 °C for 20 minutes. Physicochemical analysis showed that the cakes containing 4 and 6 % of jujube extract were the best treatments at all time periods. However, analyze of sensational test results revealed that especially panelists evaluations that 6 percentage extract sample was significantly different from the others.
Performance and genetic diversity of some sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) accessions based on morpho-agronomic traits and seed proximate composition in Kwara State of Nigeria
Authors: ANIMASAUN David Adedayo , OYEDEJI Stephen , MUSA Latifat Bukola , ADEDIBU Peter Adeolu , ADEKOLA Olabisi Fatimo
Published: April 2022

This study evaluates eleven sesame accessions in Nigeria for performance and genetic diversity using morpho-agronomic traits, chlorophyll contents and nutrient composition in a complete randomized experimental design with five replicates. The results showed ‘Igboho Black’, ‘02M’ and ‘Kenan 4’ had the best growth attributes. Although ‘NGB0090’ and ‘Exsudan’ matured early, ‘E8’, ‘Bogoro Local’ and ‘Kenan 4’ had the best yield attributes. Seeds produced were predominantly milky-white, an accession had black seeds, while three produced white seeds. Plant height positively correlated with number of leaves and leaf area as well as peduncle length. Days to 50 % flowering positively correlates with days to maturity. So also the number of capsule per plant, capsule dimension and seeds per capsule. The moisture content in seeds of the accessions was < 3.5 %, ash (4.5-5.9 %), crude protein (5.3-7.4 %), fat and oil (53.6-60.5 %), and carbohydrate < 30 %. Out of the eight components that accounted for the observed variations, the PC-1 and PC-2 contributed 65.42 %. The dendrogram revealed that ‘NGB00960’ and ‘NGB00963’ which had ‘’Kenan 4’ as a distant member are the closest relatives, while ‘NGB00390’ and ‘01M’ are the most diverse. The study concludes that the accessions are genetically and phenotypically varied and the existing diversity can be harnessed for selecting high yielding and adaptable variety for the development of improved cultivars.
Urban green service equity in Xiamen based on network analysis and concentration degree of resources
Authors: Yang Qiuxia , Zhan Huanqi , Huang Jian
Published: April 2022

This article considers Xiamen’s two districts as examples to help identify the supply and demand of green services by focusing on the spatial equity of green space in microregions. Based on network and concentration methods, the results show there are great differences in equity enjoyed by residents. The equity value of Tong’an is generally higher than that of Jimei district, and the value of the periphery of the central urban area is generally higher than that of the inner area. Jimei relies more on traffic facilities than Tong’an. This study finds that the carrying capacity of rail transit cannot be ignored in accessibility. By measuring under three travel modes, the distribution density of green space in Jimei and Tong’an is basically similar. The main reason why Jimei’s accessibility perform better than Tong’an district is traffic. Based on the service coverage rate (C) and the recreation opportunity index (R), this article obtained the regional evenness index, and found the overall characteristics of “high in the south and low in the north.” This study suggests differences in spatial performance at the micro level are often complex, and consideration of different explanatory variables such as population may provide directions for policymaking.
Experimental and simulation studies of a continuous reactive distillation for an esterification process
Authors: Mekala Mallaiah
Published: April 2022

Esterification of acetic acid and methanol to produce methyl acetate and water has been studied in a continuous packed bed catalytic reactive distillation column. Indion 180, an ion-exchange resin solid catalyst has loaded in an equivalent Katapak-S into the reactive section of the column. The experiments were conducted under different operating conditions of reboiler temperature, total feed flow rate of the reactants, methanol to acetic acid mole ratio, feed location of acetic acid and methanol with respect to reactive section, reflux ratio and catalyst amount to investigate the composition of distillate and reboiler respectively. The maximum methyl acetate composition and acetic acid conversion is obtained at reboiler temperature of 80 °C, reflux ratio of 2, total feed flow rate of 16.3 g/min, catalyst loading of 60 g and mole ratio of methanol to acetic acid is 1. From the experimental investigations, it is found that the composition of the methyl acetate in the distillate is 95% by mole at an optimized experimental condition. The experimental data has been compared with equilibrium and non-equilibrium model predictions and found that non-equilibrium model is able to predict the experimental data reasonably good. The calculated error from equilibrium model relative to experimental data is 4.71% and rate based model relative to experimental data is 0.61%. It is observed that the error is less in rate based model compared to equilibrium model.
A survey of approximate arithmetic circuits and blocks
Authors: Chen Ke , Yin Peipei , Liu Weiqiang , Lombardi Fabrizio
Published: April 2022

Approximate computing has become an emerging research topic for energy-efficient design of circuits and systems. Many approximate arithmetic circuits have been proposed, therefore it is critical to summarize the available approximation techniques to improve performance and energy efficiency at a acceptable accuracy loss. This paper presents an overview of circuit-level techniques used for approximate arithmetic. This paper provides a detailed review of circuit-level approximation techniques for the arithmetic data path. Its focus is on identifying critical circuit-level approximation techniques that apply to computational units and blocks. Approximate adders, multipliers, dividers, and squarer are introduced and classified according to their approximation methods. FFT and MAC are discussed as computational blocks that employ an approximate algorithm for implementation.
Comprehensive review of the properties of fly ash-based geopolymer with additive of nano-SiO2
Authors: Han Qiaoyi , Zhang Peng , Wu Jingjiang , Jing Yuting , Zhang Deng , Zhang Tianhang
Published: April 2022

Nano-SiO2is a non-toxic, tasteless, and pollution-free material with hydroxyl groups that facilitate the adsorption of water on its surface. Nano-SiO2is characterized by small particle size, high purity, low density, large surface area, and good dispersion properties. In addition, nano-SiO2has excellent stability, reinforcement, thixotropy, and optical and mechanical properties. The additive of nano-SiO2can enhance the mechanical properties and microstructure of concrete. Therefore, nano-SiO2is widely used as an additive in the field of building materials. Geopolymers have excellent mechanical properties, acid–alkali resistance, fire resistance, and high-temperature resistance. In addition, mineral waste and construction waste can be used as raw materials for geopolymers. Therefore, geopolymers have the potential to substitute ordinary Portland cement and have good prospects for application as construction materials. The application of nanomaterials in geopolymer products has shown that nano-SiO2is effective in increasing the rate of geopolymerization reaction and reducing the setting time of geopolymers in a controlled quantity. Related results indicate that an appropriate quantity of nano-SiO2can make the microstructure of fly ash-based geopolymers denser and produce higher mechanical strength. In this study, based on the mechanism of geopolymerization, the effects of nano-SiO2on the properties of fly ash-based geopolymers including compressive strength, microstructure, hardening properties, shear bond strength, durability, and practical applications have been summarized. This study can provide a basis for understanding the effects of nano-SiO2on the mechanical properties and durability of fly ash-based geopolymers.
Selection of high-yield maize hybrid under different cropping systems based on stability and adaptability parameters
Authors: Ruswandi Dedi , Azizah Elia , Maulana Haris , Ariyanti Mira , Nuraini Anne , Poppy Indriani Nyimas , Yuwariah Yuyun
Published: April 2022

The intercropping of maize with other food crops is a current solution to problems in food crop production and crop failures. The objectives of the study were to (i) select adaptive maize hybrids in intercropping as well as sole-cropping systems, and (ii) test the ideal cropping system to evaluate best hybrids for intercropping. This study used 12 maize hybrids with different genetic backgrounds. Planting was carried out for two seasons using four cropping systems. Hybrids were selected according to their adaptability and stability based on parametric, nonparametric, and multivariate analyses. The results showed that G10 had high yield for all cropping systems. G10 was also selected as an adaptive hybrid for sole-cropping, whereas G9 was selected as an adaptive hybrid for intercropping. The L5 and L4 were ideal environments for evaluating hybrids under different cropping systems. The selected hybrids should be evaluated and disseminated for small-holder farmers in Indonesia.
Bampur 14: a late fourth- to early second-millennium BC cemetery in south-eastern Iran
Authors: Saeidpour Yazdan , Alibaigi Sajjad , Rahbar Mehdi
Published: April 2022

South-eastern Iran flourished during the Bronze Age and several important settlements from this period have been excavated. Few contemporaneous cemeteries, however, have been investigated. Excavations at Bampur 14 have revealed 10 graves dating from the late fourth to early second millennium BC. Finds include a copper-bronze seal and a stone column, demonstrating connections with north-eastern Iran and Central Asia.
Insights from genomic studies on the role of sex steroids in the aetiology of endometriosis
Authors: Saunders Philippa T K
Published: April 2022

Endometriosis is a chronic neuro-inflammatory disorder the defining feature of which is the growth of tissue (lesions) that resembles the endometrium outside the uterus. Estimates of prevalence quote rates of ~10% of women of reproductive age, equating to at least 190 million women world-wide. Genetic, hormonal and immunological factors have all been proposed as contributing to risk factors associated with the development of lesions. Twin studies report the heritable component of endometriosis as ~50%. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that appear over-represented in patients with endometriosis, particularly those with more extensive disease (stage III/IV). In different sample populations, there has been replication of SNPs near genes involved in oestrogen and other steroid regulated pathways including ESR1 (oestrogen receptor alpha), GREB1, HOXA10, WNT4 and MAPK kinase signalling. Comparisons with GWAS conducted on other patient cohorts have found links with reproductive traits (age at menarche) and disorders (fibroids, endometrial and ovarian cancer) and common co-morbidities (migraine, depression, asthma). In summary, genetic analyses have provided new insights into the hormone-regulated pathways that may contribute to increased risk of developing endometriosis some of which may act in early life. New studies are needed to clarify the relationship between the many SNPs identified, the genes that they regulate and their contribution(s) to development of different forms of endometriosis. We hope that more advanced methods allowing integration between GWAS, epigenetic and tissue expression data will improve risk analysis and reduce diagnositic delay.

Lay summary

Endometriosis is a debilitating reproductive disorder affecting ~10% of reproductive-age women, and those assigned female at birth, which causes a range of symptoms including chronic pain and infertility. The reason why some, but not all these individuals, develop the lesions that characterise the disease are poorly understood, but recently attention has focused on genetic risk factors to explain why the incidence is higher in some families. Studies on large cohorts of patients with comparison of their DNA to women without endometriosis or with other disorders have documented changes in genes associated with steroid hormone production or action. The results provide further evidence that endometriosis shares genetic risk factors with other disorders of the reproductive system and a platform for new ideas related to risk, biomarkers and therapies.
Floración algal nociva del dinoflagelado Blixaea quinquecornis en el Perú
Authors: Romero Liz , Huamaní Alexis , Sánchez Sonia , Hernández-Becerril David U.
Published: April 2022

En el presente trabajo, se registra por primera vez floraciones algales nocivas del dinoflagelado Blixaea quinquecornis (Abé) Gottschling, 2017 para aguas costeras del mar peruano. La determinación taxonómica de esta especie se realizó mediante microscopia de luz, electrónica de barrido y contraste interferencial diferencial (DIC). La fórmula tecal encontrada fue: pp, 3’, 2a, 7’’,5c, 5”’ y 2’’’ 4s. Blixaea quinquecornis fue registrada en las bahías Sechura, Miraflores y Paracas entre el 2014 y 2017, usualmente con altas densidades de 3.2 x105 cel.L-1 (Miraflores) y 2.11x105 cel.L-1 (Paracas) en verano y 4.11 x104 (Paracas) en otoño 2016. Blixaea quinquecornis estuvo alternando con floraciones algales del dinoflagelado atecado Akashiwo sanguinea. El florecimiento de B. quinquecornis se observó con TSM entre 18.5 a 26.6 °C, salinidades entre 34.70 y 35.32 ups, pH entre 7.32 y 8.82 y oxígeno disuelto entre 3.8 y 12.5 mL/L. En Bahía Miraflores, la floración de B. quinquecornis fue asociado positivamente con el incremento de la TSM, salinidad y negativamente con la concentración de nitratos, mientras que las floraciones algales de A. sanguinea se correlacionó positivamente con la concentración de fosfatos y oxígeno disuelto. El registro de la floración de B. quinquecornis en las bahías de Miraflores y Paracas, coincidió con eventos de inusual calentamiento del mar asociado con el evento cálido El Niño 2015-2016
Aves de la cordillera del Kutukú, Morona Santiago, sureste de Ecuador
Authors: Pozo-Zamora Glenda M. , Krabbe Niels , Mena-Valenzuela Patricio , Nilsson Jonas , Brito Jorge
Published: April 2022

La cordillera del Kutukú está ubicada al sureste de Ecuador y se encuentra parcialmente aislada de la cordillera de los Andes. Realizamos cinco expediciones a este macizo, donde obtuvimos de manera directa información referente a la riqueza de aves. Además, con el fin de generar un listado más completo, realizamos una recopilación de registros publicados y revisamos colecciones de museos ecuatorianos. En total registramos 501 especies de aves, en un rango entre 500 – 2300 m de altitud. Encontramos trece especies con nuevas ampliaciones de distribución altitudinal y/o latitudinal. Veintiséis especies de aves (5.2%) están en alguna categoría de amenaza a su conservación, a nivel mundial y nacional. Las escasas vías de acceso, sumadas a las políticas de ingreso al territorio, por parte de la etnia Shuar, han favorecido la preservación de los bosques, especialmente aquellos por encima de los 1800 m. Es así que, el conocimiento biológico de esta área queda aún por descubrir. Esta zona remota protege una importante diversidad, así como poblaciones de aves amenazadas, recursos hídricos, además del territorio y cultura de las comunidades que la habitan. Desafortunadamente la totalidad de la cordillera se encuentra concesionada para exploraciones de proyectos mineros. Por tanto, se requiere la atención de las autoridades regionales y nacionales para aunar esfuerzos que aseguren su conservación y exploración biológica.
Scorpions from Ceará State, Brazil: Distribution and ecological comments
Authors: Braga Jacqueline Ramos Machado , Dias Ramalho Relrison , Cândido de Sousa José Cleidvan , De Almeida Ivan Luiz
Published: April 2022

Scorpions are venomous synanthropic arachnids, in 2019 they were responsible for more than 37000 cases of envenomation in the state of Ceará, Northeastern Brazil. To update the knowledge about the scorpiofauna in Ceará, a distribution list of scorpions collected/received by municipal agents of the Health Surveillance Service was performed in 165 municipalities (89%) of Ceará (2018 – 2019) and deposited in the Dr. Thomaz Corrêa Aragão Entomology Laboratory scientific collection, including species distribution maps and ecological data. This study included a total of 999 scorpions from two families (Buthidae and Bothriuridae) and eleven species. The most abundant species were: Tityus stigmurus (40.1%), Jaguajir rochae (37.2%), Bothriurus asper (8.3%) and Bothriurus rochai (6.7%), mainly inhabiting municipalities in the Caatinga biome. The first record of Tityus confluens and Tityus maranhensis in the Sobral mesoregion is herein presented, expanding the distribution of these species in Brazil.
Patrones de distribución de las especies de Senecio L. (Asteraceae) en el Perú
Authors: Beltrán Hamilton , Galán de Mera Antonio
Published: April 2022

En el presente trabajo se analiza la distribución de las especies peruanas del género Senecio, a partir de 4342 pliegos de herbario con localidades y coordenadas geográficas disponibles. Para conocer cómo están relacionadas con el clima se usó el método de los pisos bioclimáticos de Rivas-Martínez, y el modelo de Köppen-Geiger para observar su comportamiento frente a cambios climáticos a 50 y 100 años. Para observar cómo es la distribución departamental de las especies y la relación entre departamentos en cuanto a su presencia-ausencia, se recurrió a un clúster (UPGMA, coeficiente de Sørensen). Un Análisis de Componentes Principales (ACP) reveló la correlación de cada especie con la altitud media, variables climáticas medias e Índice de Termicidad medio de las localidades de una especie, estableciendo 10 grupos ordenados por pisos bioclimáticos. Diferentes modelos de distribución fueron cartografiados correspondiéndose con pisos bioclimáticos y provincias biogeográficas del Perú. La Cordillera Blanca se configura como una auténtica barrera biogeográfica separando numerosas localidades del N del Perú del resto de las posiciones de Senecio.
Cistudinella inanis (Boheman, 1854), a new country record from Paraguay (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae: Ischyrosonychini)
Authors: Bezark Larry , Westerduijn Rob , Chaboo Caroline S.
Published: April 2022

This note reports Paraguay as a new country record for Cistudinella inanis (Boheman, 1854) based on one adult specimen, that is currently deposited in the Larry Bezark collection which eventually reside in the Bohart Museum of Entomology, University of California, Davis, USA.
Iron status of sickle cell children in Libreville, Gabon: prevalences and associated factors
Authors: Minto’o Steeve , Kuissi Kamgaing Eliane , Mimbila-Mayi Mylène , Claire Loembet, Fifi , Abang Ekouaghe Leatitia , Ategbo Simon
Published: April 2022

Background: Iron is essential for a child's growth. In the Gabonese general pediatric population, iron deficiency is the most widespread nutrient deficiency. Quid of the sickle cell children in Libreville, Gabon? Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study including sickle cell children aged from 6 months to 15 years, with haemoglobin SS confirmed. Subjects included were examined in steady-state. Data collected were about the socioeconomic background of the families, medical history of the children. To determine iron status, we used: CRP, Ferritin, serum iron, Transferrin, total blood count cell and erythrocytic parameters. Results: We included 247 children; 128 boys (51.8%) and 119 girls (48.2%). The median age of the children was 8 years [1 year - 15 years]. Following definition criteria we found: 9% (95% CI [18.6% - 29.2%]) of iron deficiency, 67.6% (95% CI [62.2% - 73.8%]) of normal iron status, and 8.1% (95% CI [4.7% - 11.5%]) of iron overload. Iron deficiency was associated with a child’s rank >2, OR=2.1 (95%IC [1.2-6], p<0.001). Iron overload was associated with age >11 years OR=2.5 (95%IC [1.7-9], p<0.001); mothers’ low educational level OR=3.6 (945% IC [1.4-9], p=0.03); transfusion OR=10,5 (95%IC [1,9 – 53], p =.0.025); a last transfusion between 4 and 6 months OR=9.1 (95%IC [3.1-21], p<0.001). Conclusion: The majority of sickle cell children in our context has a normal iron status. Iron deficiency and iron overload should be monitor and treated according to associated factors, and greater studies are required to determine algorithms to assess and treat and iron imbalance.
REGULARITIES OF 137CS MIGRATION ON GEOCHEMICAL BARRIERS OF MARGINAL ZONE OF MEZOTROPHIC BOG IN UKRAINIAN POLISSYA
Authors:   State Institution “The Institute of Environmental Geochemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Orlov O.O.
Published: April 2022

It was shown that in the narrow marginal zone (about 6-8 m wide) of a mezotrophic bog, typical for the northern part of Ukrainian Polissya, a transsuperaquatic landscape is formed between transacumulative and superaquatic landscapes. In the transsuperaquatic landscape a complex biogeochemical barrier has been formed. Here, at a short distance, barriers of different types are spatially connected – physico-chemical (sorption, gley etc.) and phytocenotic (all vegetation layers), lateral and radial. It was found that due to lateral 137Cs redistribution among the geochemically connected landscapes of the catena, there was observed the concentration of the radionuclide on the investigated complex biogeochemical barrier. Three biogeochemical barriers were found in the soil – layers of semi-decomposed residuals of mosses, trees and grasses (H0dt), peat (Т1-Т5) and iluvial humic-ferruginous gley horizon (Ihgl), which slow down 137Cs migration both in lateral and radial directions. Generalization of datа on 137Cs radial distribution in the soil of the geochemical barrier shows that analogs of the forest litter (H0 non-decomposed and layer of H0dt – semi-decomposed plant residuals) contained 8.16% of the total 137Cs activity in the soil; peat (0-25 cm) – 17.14%, and the mineral horizons (Ihgl and Pigl) – 74.7%. This distribution testifies about high speed of radial 137Cs migration in the studied soil, insofar as the main part of the total activity of 137Cs has already migrated beyond the boundaries of the peat layers to the mineral horizons. The calculations showed that the main part of the total stock of 137Cs in biogeocenosis on the biogeochemical barrier in the transsuperaquatic landscape was retained in soil – 86.59%, accordingly phytocenosis contained 13.41% of the total stock of the radionuclide. The geochemical transfer coefficient was 0.16, which was close to the corresponding values for the superaquatic landscapes. Significant interspecific differences in 137Cs accumulation were observed in all layers of vegetation. The migration ability of 137Cs in the chains «soil – plant» and «soil – fungi» in the transsuperaquatic landscape was evaluated based on the mean 137Cs transfer factor (TF) values to be 2-20 times higher than that for the eluvial and transeluvial landscapes. This leads to significant excess of the permissible levels of the 137Cs specific activity in medicinal plants, wild berries and edible mushrooms at soil contamination density with 137Cs which is not officially regarded as radiationally hazardous (about two times less than 37 kBq·m-2).
PROSPECTS OF URANIUM MINERALIZATION OF THE SOUTH-WESTERN SLOPE OF THE UKRAINIAN SHIELD
Authors:   State Institution “The Institute of Environmental Geochemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Yaroshchuk M. , Vaylo O. , Ganevich A.
Published: April 2022

The geological position, composition and genesis of uranium mineralization of ore occurrences on the southwestern slope of the Ukrainian Shield are considered. In the Precambrian basement metamorphic rocks of the Dniester-Bug, Bug and ultrametamorphic rocks of the Golovanev, Pobuzh, Berdichev and Kirovograd complexes were established. On the southwestern slope of the Ukrainian Shield, 4 uranium occurrences and 4 radioactive anomalies have been discovered, studied and prospected. The uranium occurrences are localized along the regional unconformity surface of the Precambrian basement and platform cover. They are often confined to the nodes of the intersection of faults. The uranium occurrences are installed simultaneously both in the rocks of the basement and in the platform cover. The ore deposits form stockwork and vein segregations among the tectonized rocks of the Precambrian. In the rocks of the sedimentary cover they are discontinuous lenticular, subconcordant with the bedding of rocks. The uranium mineralization is vein-disseminated, represented by uraninite, pitchblende, coffinite, uranium black, casolite, etc. The uranium mineralization was caused by both endogenous and exogenous processes; several stages of uranium concentration have been established. The main source of uranium and associated elements was the low-temperature hydrothermal fluids of the “unconformity zone” faults of the Precambrian basement and sedimentary cover. A comparison is given and the similarity of the uranium mineralization of these occurrences with the rich uranium ores of the "zones of unconformity" of the Canadian and North Australian shields is given, which determines the significant prospects for uranium mineralization of the southwestern slope of the Ukrainian shield for the development of the uranium resource base of Ukraine.
QUANTITATIVE DYNAMISM OF CHEMICAL COMPOSITION INDICATORS AS A MARKER OF QUALITATIVE GROUNDWATER DIFFERENTIATION (ON THE EXAMPLE OF SYNYCHAN WATER INTAKE)
Authors:   V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Udalov I.V. , Piatash D.R.
Published: April 2022

The article presents the physical and geographical characteristics of the Synychan water intake section of the Izium water intake, which is located 8 km southeast of the city of Izium, Kharkiv region. Hydrogeological features of aquifers operated by 4 wells are considered. Geomorphological features of the studied territory are analyzed. Aspects of the geological structure of the site are also reflected. The analysis of indicators of chemical composition of underground waters of the Synychan water intake site since 2003 is presented. Among the most relevant to the task of chemical compounds, the values of nitrates, chlorides and sulfates content, as well as data on total hardness and mineralization were selected. An increase in performance is observed in all wells. The intensity of the increase is different for each production well and the corresponding chemical compound. This indicates at least the heterogeneity of influencing factors and processes occurring in the aquifers of this water intake area. Among such factors and processes, taking into account the shallow depths of wells, we can consider the technogenesis. Since Synychan water intake is used to supply a significant number of residential areas of Izyum, a detailed analysis of the dynamics of the presented data is appropriate. The study of the dynamics of the distribution of chemical indicators of groundwater composition over different periods using mathematical and graphical methods will not only allow to inductively study the dynamics in previous years, but also quantitatively predict future trends in water composition of interstratal aquifers in the region. Considering the growing and growing shortage of quality water resources in Ukraine, the analysis of data from water intake areas of Izyum can give a representative picture of the real local situation in the field of water management, hydrogeology and hydrogeochemistry of Izyum district in general and town of Izyum in particular.
DISINFECTION OF DRINKING WATER BY ELECTRIC DISCHARGE PLASMA
Authors:   State Institution “The Institute of Environmental Geochemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Charny D. , Yaroshchuk D. , Puhach O. , Smirnova G.F. , Musich O. , Stokolos M. , Nikolenko V. , Tishchenko I. , Chernova N.
Published: April 2022

For today, taking into account the low efficiency of the disinfection technologies using chlorine-containing compounds and the growing number of chlorine-resistant microorganisms, the question of introducing alternative methods of disinfection in the field of water supply and drainage is relevant. One such alternative method is the treatment of liquids with plasma of electric discharge. This article describes our experiments on the treatment of different types of water from surface sources in Kyiv and water intentionally infected with Escherichia coli (E. coli). The experiments were performed on a laboratory installation with a circulating pump and an ejector-type reactor with integrated electrodes. In the reactor a water-air mixture is formed, in which an electric discharge takes place. The disinfection reactor and at the same time the device for the formation of a heterogeneous water-air environment is an ejector with electrodes inserted into it, which receive pulses of electric current. Discharges initiate a range of different physicochemical phenomena, such as a strong electric field, intense ultraviolet radiation, shock waves of excess pressure and, in particular, the formation of various highly active chemicals such as radicals (OH •, H •, O •) and molecules ( H2O2, H2, O2, O3). All these physicochemical processes occur during the discharge itself, for example, the formation and action of short-lived radicals, as well as the action of relatively long-lived oxidants. The effect of the concentration of microorganisms on the rate and completeness of water disinfection was studied in technical (tap) water with the introduction into the reaction tank of the washoff from two test tubes. This provided an initial concentration of E. coli of 3.4 ∙ 106 CFU / cm3. Water treatment for 30 seconds reduced the concentration of microorganisms by two orders of magnitude (up to 5.4 ∙ 104). After 1 minute of treatment, this figure decreased to 1.7 ∙ 102, and after 3 minutes to 5.2 CFU / cm3, i.e., the treated water corresponded to norms for almost pure water. Experiments have proven the effectiveness of plasma disinfection, even for liquids with a concentration of microorganisms significantly exceeding the maximum allowable concentrations. The content of microorganisms before and after treatment was determined by the method of limiting dilution of samples with subsequent sowing on a nutrient medium in Petri dishes
The free path and generation rate of fast-moving electron interacting with dielectric media
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko Kyiv National University, 64, Volodymyrska str., 01601 Kyiv, Ukraine, Yelisieiev M.E.
Published: April 2022

In the framework of macroscopic continuous medium approach, we have studied interaction between a fast-moving charged particle and dielectric or semiconducting media with low energy electrically active excitations. The excitations contribute to frequency dispersion of the media dielectric permittivity. Two types of processes induced by a moving charged particle have been considered: electron-hole generation under interband transitions and excitation of polar optical phonons. For both processes, we calculated and analyzed the time- and space-dependent electric potential generated by the charged particle, polarization of the media, energy losses of the particle and other important constituents of the interaction patterns. Obtained results can contribute to deeper understanding of the charged particle beams interaction with a semiconducting medium, as well as may be useful for versatile applications of charged beams.
Preparation, electronic structure and optical properties of Na2GeSe3 crystals
Authors:   Uzhhorod National University, 54, Voloshin str., 88000 Uzhhorod, Ukraine, Bletskan D.I. , Vakulchak V.V. ,   Uzhhorod National University, 54, Voloshin str., 88000 Uzhhorod, Ukraine, Mykaylo I.L. ,   Uzhhorod National University, 54, Voloshin str., 88000 Uzhhorod, Ukraine, Mykaylo O.A. ,   Uzhhorod National University, 54, Voloshin str., 88000 Uzhhorod, Ukraine
Published: April 2022

From the first principles, in the framework of the density functional theory in LDA and LDA+U approximations, the band structure, total and partial densities of electronic states, spatial distribution of the electron charge density, also the optical functions: dielectric constant, refractive and absorption indices, reflection and absorption coefficients of Na2GeSе3 crystal have been calculated. According to the calculation results, Na2GeSе3 is a direct-gap crystal with the top of valence band and the bottom of conduction band at the point Г of Brillouin zone. The calculated band gap is Egd = 1.7 eV LDA and Egd = 2.6 eV in the LDA+U approximations. Based on the data of total and partial densities of electronic states, contributions of atomic orbitals to the crystalline ones have been determined. Also, the data of chemical bond formation in the crystals under discussion have been obtained.
Small signal analysis of an infrared imaging device based on equivalent circuit model
Authors:   Radiation Engineering Dept. National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt, Eladl Sh. M. , Saad M. H. ,   Radiation Engineering Dept. National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Cairo, Egypt
Published: April 2022

This paper presents an analytical model of an infrared thermal imaging device. This device is composed of a Quantum Well Infrared Photodetector (QWIP), a Heterojunction Bipolar transistor (HBT) and a Light Emitting Diode (LED). It is called as QWIP-HBT-LED Optoelectronic Integrated Device. The device is modeled based on its equivalent circuit by considering a nonlinear gain HBT, early effect. Analytical expressions describing the current time response, rise time, and output derivative as a measure of device speed have been derived. The numerical results show that the transient performance of this device version is enhanced by the injected current from QWIP to the base of HBT, also the output current is increased with the increase of the gain and early coefficient of HBT, on the other hand, it degrades when the base recombination factor of HBT or the load resistance is increased. Also, the rise time increases when the current gain or the early coefficient is increased. This type of models can be exploited as a pixel in thermal image processing applications.
The silicon model photonic structure for a full-function thermal photodetector
Authors:   V. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 41, prosp. Nauky, 03680 Kyiv, Ukraine, Andrieieva K.V. , Karachevtseva L.A. ,   V. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 41, prosp. Nauky, 03680 Kyiv, Ukraine, Konin K.P. ,   V. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 41, prosp. Nauky, 03680 Kyiv, Ukraine, Liptuga A.I. ,   V. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 41, prosp. Nauky, 03680 Kyiv, Ukraine, Lytvynenko O.O. ,   V. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 41, prosp. Nauky, 03680 Kyiv, Ukraine, Morozovska D.V. ,   V. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 41, prosp. Nauky, 03680 Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: April 2022

The out-of-plane optical properties of a combined one-two-dimensional comb-type photonic structure based on macroporous silicon under illumination with polarized normally incident light have been experimentally investigated. Technologically simple quasi-periodic structure with parallel air grooves in the form of mutually overlapping macropores (i.e., one-dimensional air/Si type structure) together with macropores arbitrarily distributed over the crystal surface (two-dimensional air/Si structure) was studied in comparison with the calculated one-dimensional periodic metal lattice on silicon. It is shown that this combined air/Si photonic structure has significant polarization selectivity and can serve as a basis for developing the full-function out-of-plane thermal photodetector on macroporous silicon.
Pediatric Asthma: A Clinical Support Chart
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

This convenient reference provides clinicians with point-of-care guidance on the assessment and treatment of chronic and acute asthma in infants, toddlers, school-aged children, and young adults. Available for purchase at https://shop.aap.org/pediatric-asthma-a-clinical-support-chart-paperback/
Coding Basics
Authors: Bradley Joel
Published: April 2022

Using Evaluation and Management documentation guidelines
Denial Den
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Modifier 25 for vaccines
You Code It!
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Coding of IV hydration and IV infusion that is therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic
Q&A
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Using code 69210 (removal of imparted cerumen); and codes 99051 and 99053 (services that are an adjunct to the basic service provided)
Preparing for ICD-10-CM
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

The new ICD-10-CM coding system will become effective in October 2013. This articler provides tips for preparing and understanding the basics.
History of Medicare Conversion Factors
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Chart depicting the conversion factor changes 1992-2012
Coding for Pretravel Counseling
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Charging the patient at the time of the visit for counseling about travel precautions, immunization, management of existing conditions, and other services typically not covered by health benefit plans
History of Present Illness: A Key Element of a Key Component (Online Exclusive)
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Documenting HPI elements for problem-focused history, such as location, quality, severity, timing, duration, associated signs and symptoms, modifying factors, and context
Transitioning to 10: Summertime Diagnoses
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Coding in ICD-10-CM for common summertime diagnoses such as sunburn, swimmer’s ear, heat exhaustion, and insect bites
Transitioning to 10: 2014 General Equivalence Mappings (Online Exclusive)
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

GEMs to map common codes from ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM, inclduing encounter examinations and ADHD
Q&A (Online Exclusive)
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Questions regarding aspects of the Vaccines for Childrens program and asked and answered.
New HCPCS Modifiers: Say Good-bye to Modifier 59?
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

New HCPCS modifiers may affect the long-standing use of CPT modifier 59.
Transitioning 10: Pediatric Anemia
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Guidelines for coding for Pediatric Anemia are explored in light of the upcoming switch to ICD-10.
Q&A
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Childhood obesity; Ultrasound for hip dysplasia; Category III codes for adaptive behavior
Diagnosis Coding: Inherent or Clinically Significant Symptoms
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

How and when to code signs and symptoms that appear routine but may be integral to a dissease process.
Transitioning to 10: A Closer Look at Seventh Characters
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Hand quick reference table for many of the new codes in ICD-10 which require a 7th character.
Newborn Coding in the Office or Outpatient Setting
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Coding for services provided after discharge from the birth admission often fall into the preventive evaluation and management service categories, but coding may become more complicated when a well-baby visit includes abnormal findings or concerns about the neonate’s health.
Subspecialty Corner: Laryngoplasty (Online Exclusive)
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Current Procedural Terminology (CPT®) codes for laryngoplasty will be substantially revised for services on and after January 1, 2017. This article identifies the CPT 2017 revisions.
Coding Challenge: Putting 2017 Code Changes Into Practice
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

In recent newsletters, new and revised codes and guidelines for 2017 have been reviewed. Test your knowledge of the code changes for 2017 by reading several scenarios and answering the coding questions.
You Code It! Asthma Care and Preventive Service
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

An example scenario intended to illustrate documentation and coding for a patient with asthma who has increased asthma symptoms that interfere with moderate activity.
Coding Compliance: Tips for Keeping Payments
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Proper documentation of medical records can make a prepayment or post-payment audit go smoothly. A timely response to the request is important. Here are some tips for creating a process that can help your practice avoid unnecessary loss of payments based on some common audit findings in a sampling of published audit results.
CPT® 2018 Changes: Pediatric Surgical Services
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Update on pediatric surgical services coding changes for 2018.
CPT® 2018 Changes: Code Changes for Chest and Abdomen Radiographs
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

Update on code changes for chest and abdomen radiographs for 2018.
Update: Category III Emerging Technology/Services (Online Exclusive)
Authors:   American Academy of Pediatrics
Published: April 2022

A review of new Category III CPT® codes for 2018.