bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MR spectroscopy of hepatic fat and adiponectin and leptin levels during testosterone therapy in type 2 diabetes: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Magnussen L V , Andersen P E , Diaz A , Ostojic J , Højlund K , Hougaard D M , Christensen A N , Nielsen T L , Andersen M
Published: May 2017

Background

Men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) often have lowered testosterone levels and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Ectopic fat increases the risk of CVD, whereas subcutaneous gluteofemoral fat protects against CVD and has a beneficial adipokine-secreting profile.

Hypothesis

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may reduce the content of ectopic fat and improve the adipokine profile in men with T2D.

Design and methods

A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study in 39 men aged 50–70 years with T2D and bioavailable testosterone levels <7.3 nmol/L. Patients were randomized to TRT (n = 20) or placebo gel (n = 19) for 24 weeks. Thigh subcutaneous fat area (TFA, %fat of total thigh volume), subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue (SAT, % fat of total abdominal volume) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT, % fat of total abdominal volume) were measured by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Hepatic fat content was estimated by single-voxel MR spectroscopy. Adiponectin and leptin levels were measured by in-house immunofluorometric assay. Coefficients (b) represent the placebo-controlled mean effect of intervention.

Results

TFA (b = −3.3 percentage points (pp), P = 0.009), SAT (b = −3.0 pp, P = 0.006), levels of adiponectin (b = −0.4 mg/L, P = 0.045), leptin (b = −4.3 µg/mL, P < 0.001), leptin:adiponectin ratio (b = −0.53, P = 0.001) and HDL cholesterol (b = −0.11 mmol/L, P = 0.009) decreased during TRT compared with placebo. Hepatic fat content and VAT were unchanged.

Conclusions

The effects of TRT on cardiovascular risk markers were ambiguous. We observed potentially harmful changes in cardiovascular risk parameters, markedly reduced subcutaneous fat and unchanged ectopic fat during TRT and a reduction in adiponectin levels. On the other hand, the decrease in leptin and leptin:adiponectin ratio assessments could reflect an amelioration of the cardiovascular risk profile linked to hyperleptinaemia in ageing men with T2D.
PRKAR1A mutation causing pituitary-dependent Cushing disease in a patient with Carney complex
Authors: Kiefer Florian W , Winhofer Yvonne , Iacovazzo Donato , Korbonits Márta , Wolfsberger Stefan , Knosp Engelbert , Trautinger Franz , Höftberger Romana , Krebs Michael , Luger Anton , Gessl Alois
Published: May 2017

Context

Carney complex (CNC) is an autosomal dominant condition caused, in most cases, by an inactivating mutation of the PRKAR1A gene, which encodes for the type 1 alpha regulatory subunit of protein kinase A. CNC is characterized by the occurrence of endocrine overactivity, myxomas and typical skin manifestations. Cushing syndrome due to primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease (PPNAD) is the most frequent endocrine disease observed in CNC.

Case description

Here, we describe the first case of a patient with CNC and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-dependent Cushing disease due to a pituitary corticotroph adenoma. Loss-of-heterozygosity analysis of the pituitary tumour revealed loss of the wild-type copy of PRKAR1A, suggesting a role of this gene in the pituitary adenoma development.

Conclusion

PRKAR1A loss-of-function mutations can rarely lead to ACTH-secreting pituitary adenomas in CNC patients. Pituitary-dependent disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of Cushing syndrome in CNC patients.
11β-HSD1 suppresses cardiac fibroblast CXCL2, CXCL5 and neutrophil recruitment to the heart post MI
Authors: Mylonas Katie J , Turner Neil A , Bageghni Sumia A , Kenyon Christopher J , White Christopher I , McGregor Kieran , Kimmitt Robert A , Sulston Richard , Kelly Valerie , Walker Brian R , Porter Karen E , Chapman Karen E , Gray Gillian A
Published: May 2017

We have previously demonstrated that neutrophil recruitment to the heart following myocardial infarction (MI) is enhanced in mice lacking 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β-HSD1) that regenerates active glucocorticoid within cells from intrinsically inert metabolites. The present study aimed to identify the mechanism of regulation. In a mouse model of MI, neutrophil mobilization to blood and recruitment to the heart were higher in 11β-HSD1-deficient (Hsd11b1−/−) relative to wild-type (WT) mice, despite similar initial injury and circulating glucocorticoid. In bone marrow chimeric mice, neutrophil mobilization was increased when 11β-HSD1 was absent from host cells, but not when absent from donor bone marrow-derived cells. Consistent with a role for 11β-HSD1 in ‘host’ myocardium, gene expression of a subset of neutrophil chemoattractants, including the chemokinesCxcl2andCxcl5, was selectively increased in the myocardium ofHsd11b1−/−mice relative to WT. SM22α-Cre directed disruption ofHsd11b1in smooth muscle and cardiomyocytes had no effect on neutrophil recruitment. Expression ofCxcl2andCxcl5was elevated in fibroblast fractions isolated from hearts ofHsd11b1−/−mice post MI and provision of either corticosterone or of the 11β-HSD1 substrate, 11-dehydrocorticosterone, to cultured murine cardiac fibroblasts suppressed IL-1α-induced expression ofCxcl2andCxcl5. These data identify suppression of CXCL2 and CXCL5 chemoattractant expression by 11β-HSD1 as a novel mechanism with potential for regulation of neutrophil recruitment to the injured myocardium, and cardiac fibroblasts as a key site for intracellular glucocorticoid regeneration during acute inflammation following myocardial injury.
Maternal Use of Opioids During Pregnancy and Congenital Malformations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lind Jennifer N. , Interrante Julia D. , Ailes Elizabeth C. , Gilboa Suzanne M. , Khan Sara , Frey Meghan T. , Dawson April L. , Honein Margaret A. , Dowling Nicole F. , Razzaghi Hilda , Creanga Andreea A. , Broussard Cheryl S.
Published: May 2017

CONTEXT:

Opioid use and abuse have increased dramatically in recent years, particularly among women.

OBJECTIVES:

We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the association between prenatal opioid use and congenital malformations.

DATA SOURCES:

We searched Medline and Embase for studies published from 1946 to 2016 and reviewed reference lists to identify additional relevant studies.

STUDY SELECTION:

We included studies that were full-text journal articles and reported the results of original epidemiologic research on prenatal opioid exposure and congenital malformations. We assessed study eligibility in multiple phases using a standardized, duplicate review process.

DATA EXTRACTION:

Data on study characteristics, opioid exposure, timing of exposure during pregnancy, congenital malformations (collectively or as individual subtypes), length of follow-up, and main findings were extracted from eligible studies.

RESULTS:

Of the 68 studies that met our inclusion criteria, 46 had an unexposed comparison group; of those, 30 performed statistical tests to measure associations between maternal opioid use during pregnancy and congenital malformations. Seventeen of these (10 of 12 case-control and 7 of 18 cohort studies) documented statistically significant positive associations. Among the case-control studies, associations with oral clefts and ventricular septal defects/atrial septal defects were the most frequently reported specific malformations. Among the cohort studies, clubfoot was the most frequently reported specific malformation.

LIMITATIONS:

Variabilities in study design, poor study quality, and weaknesses with outcome and exposure measurement.

CONCLUSIONS:

Uncertainty remains regarding the teratogenicity of opioids; a careful assessment of risks and benefits is warranted when considering opioid treatment for women of reproductive age.
¿Es la cárcel violenta en sí misma? Violencia y legitimación de la dinámica institucional en el Centro de Formación Juvenil Zurquí, Heredia, Costa Rica
Authors: Araya-Pérez Mario
Published: May 2017

El siguiente artículo tiene como objetivo la comprensión de la violencia en el Centro de Formación Juvenil Zurquí (CFJZ), como un emergente del conjunto de relaciones establecido por los diferentes actores involucrados en el funcionamiento diario de este; los cuales se encuentran mutuamente imbricados en el proceso de constitución de un entorno carcelario en el que cada uno ocupe un lugar y adquiera un sentido. La investigación se desarrolló a partir de una metodología cualitativa que consistió en un trabajo de campo directo en los espacios de convivencia de la población, por un periodo de ocho meses durante el 2015, el cual estuvo dividido en tres fases. Se logró determinar la participación de los diferentes actores en el ejercicio de diversas manifestaciones de violencia con miras a la ficcionalización de la persona en el entorno carcelario, el cual posibilita mostrar una cierta regularidad en los valores, actitudes y comportamientos para mantenerse encajados en la dinámica social y, por lo tanto, asegurar su supervivencia tanto a nivel material como simbólico en dicho contexto. Se llega a la conclusión de que la producción y reproducción de la violencia es el proceso mediante el cual se legitima la posición social de cada uno de los actores en los centros penales, al igual que la función de la institución penitenciaria en la sociedad en general.
Radiation Induced Microstructural Evolution in Reactor Pressure Vessel Steels
Authors: Odette G. R.
Published: May 2017

The evolution of the fine scale microstructural features leading to irradiation embrittlement of reactor pressure vessel steels is described. Copper rich phases undergo accelerated precipitation from supersaturated solution due to radiation enhanced diffusion. In steels with significant trace quantities of copper the precipitates, characterized by high concentrations and small sizes, are the dominant embrittling feature. Precipitate concentrations, sizes, volume fractions and compositions are consistent with thermodynamic and kinetic models that rationalize the effects of a number of irradiation and metallurgical variables. Phosphide and carbonitride phases may also develop along with new manganese nickel rich precipitates, promoted by high nickel contents. These features may lead to severe embrittlement at high fluence even in low copper steels. While their detailed identity and characteristics are not known, defect cluster-solute complexes with a range of thermal stability are important both directly and indirectly; for example, in mediating flux and temperature effects. In conjunction with the application of state-of-the-art characterization methods, development of advanced modeling tools will be needed to address a number of outstanding issues.
Optoelektronic Properties of CuGaSe2 Thin Films Studied by Time-resolved Microwave Conductivity
Authors: Meeder A. , Marrón D. Fuertes , Lux-Steiner M. Ch. , Kunst M.
Published: May 2017

Applying the (contactless) time-resolved microwave conductivity technique (TRMC) to CVD- and PVD-grown device grade CuGaSe2 thin films experimental data of hole mobility and lifetime are obtained. TRMC data of stoichiometric and Gallium-rich, front and back side illuminated thin films are presented. In the Gallium-rich samples an extended decay over several orders of magnitude is observed. In the stoichiometric samples the majority of excess carriers decays nearly instantaneously. Differences in charge carrier transport at the front and the back side are discussed in the framework of a two layer defect model, previously reported in such absorber layers.
Fabrication and Characterization of Wafer-Bonded GaInAsSb Epitaxy for Monolithically Interconnected Thermophotovoltaic Devices
Authors: Wang C.A. , Shiau D.A. , Murphy P.G. , O'Brien P.W. , Huang R.K. , Connors M.K. , Anderson A.C. , Depoy D.M. , Nichols G. , Palmisiano M.N.
Published: May 2017

The fabrication, characterization, and performance of wafer-bonded (WB) GaInAsSb thermophotovoltaic (TPV) devices for monolithically series-interconnected cells are reported. TPV epilayers were bonded to GaAs handle wafers with SiOx/Ti/Au. This dielectric/metal layer is multi-functional in that it is used as the adhesive to bond the epilayers; it provides electrical isolation; and it is an internal back surface reflector. Considerations were made to minimize residual stress and provide high reflectivity. Excellent structural and optical properties of WB TPV structures are observed. The external quantum efficiency of WB and unbonded TPV cells is comparable. TPV cells were monolithically series interconnected, and a 10-junction device exhibited linear voltage building with an open-circuit voltage of 1.8 V.
Electrical and Structural Characterization of the Interface of Wafer Bonded InP/Si
Authors: Morral A. Fontcuberta i , Zahler J. M. , Atwater Harry A. , Frank M. M. , Chabal Y. J. , Ahrenkiel P. , Wanlass M.
Published: May 2017

A study of the interfacial properties of wafer bonded InP/Si is presented. The electrical properties are measured by bonding InP to Si with different doping concentrations and by measuring the current voltage characteristics of the bonded pairs. Two different kinds of structures are studied: 1) n+InP doped to 3×1018 cm-3 bonded with n+Si doped to 1×1019 cm-3, and 2) n+InP doped to 3×1018 cm-3 bonded with p-Si doped to 6×1014 cm-3. After a 350°C anneal, structure 1 shows low resistive ohmic behavior while structure 2 is rectifying due to its higher sensitivity to interfacial chemistry. Indeed, both the reverse and forward current are reduced by annealing in structure 2, suggesting the formation of an interfacial barrier during annealing. This hypothesis is supported by High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy combined with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, which indicate the formation of an amorphous interfacial oxide from the reaction of adsorbed water trapped at the InP/Si interface.
Formation of CdxHg1-xTe Layers on CdTe after NP-Etching and HgTe-Graphite Pasting
Authors: Yan Yanfa , Jones K.M. , Wu X. , Al-Jassim M.M.
Published: May 2017

We report on our investigation of the microstructure and chemical composition at the CdTe/Te-rich interfaces generated by NP-etching polycrystalline and single-crystalline CdTe films and followed with HgTe-graphite pasting and thermal annealing. We find that after this process, a thin layer of CdxHg1-xTe forms between CdTe and Te-rich layers, giving a structure like CdTe/CdxHg1-xTe/Te. High-resolution electron microscopy reveals that the CdxHg1-xTe layer has an epitaxial relationship with the CdTe. No CdxHg1-xTe layer has been observed in bromine/methanol-etched samples or samples with intentionally deposited Te layers.
Chemical and Electronic Properties of Metal/Sb2Te3/CdTe Contacts for CdTe Thin Film Solar Cells Studied by Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Kraft D. , Späth B. , Thißen A. , Klein A. , Jaegermann W.
Published: May 2017

Formation of low resistance back contacts in CdTe thin film solar cells has been a research issue for many years. Ohmic contacts to the absorber layer are typically prepared using the diffusion of dopant atoms from the back contact material into the CdTe forming a thin space charge layer that can be easily tunnelled. Stable CdTe solar cells with reasonable back contact characteristics have been prepared using metal/Sb2Te3 layer sequences. In this study the chemical and electronic properties of such layer systems have been investigated using photoelectron spectroscopy. The vacuum deposited Sb2Te3 layers do not react with the CdTe substrate. Band alignment does not indicate the formation of a good back contact. By subsequent deposition of metals a chemical reaction is induced forming metal-tellurides, a metal/Sb-alloy and elemental Sb. Although an Sb diffusion into the CdTe absorber is observed, no increase of p-doping in the surface region is evident.
Analysis of the ZnTe:Cu Contact on CdS/CdTe Solar Cells
Authors: Gessert T.A. , Romero M.J. , Dhere R.G. , Asher S.E.
Published: May 2017

We report on the recent use of cathodoluminescence (CL) to probe the depth-dependent changes in radiative recombination that occur in CdTe devices during ZnTe:Cu contacting procedures. These types of CL measurements may be useful to assist in linking impurity diffusion (e.g., Cu) from the contact with depth-dependent variation in electrical activation within the CdTe layer. Variable-energy CL suggests that diffusion from the ZnTe:Cu contact interface may assist in reducing effects of shallow donors in the CdTe bulk, and yield higher acceptor levels in the region near the contact. CL analysis near abrupt metal discontinuities provides estimates of diffusion lengths for carriers associated with both excitonic and donor-to-acceptor pair recombination. Finally, CL measurements at increasing excitation levels (i.e., increasing electron-beam current) provides estimates of the defect state density, as well as providing evidence that discrete multiple defect bands may exist in CdTe prior to contacting.
Cu K-edge XAFS in CdTe before and after treatment with CdCl2
Authors: Liu Xiangxin , Compaan Alvin D. , Leyarovska Nadia , Terry Jeff
Published: May 2017

We have used the fine structure in the Cu K-edge x-ray absorption spectrum to help elucidate the lattice location of Cu in polycrystalline, thin-film CdTe solar cells. In particular, we have studied how the typical CdCl2 vapor treatment in dry air changes the local environment of the Cu in CdTe. We find the Cu absorption spectrum to be similar to that of Cu2Te in the as-deposited CdTe film but to convert to a spectrum similar to Cu2O environment after the vapor CdCl2 treatment.
Magnetron Sputtering for Low-temperature Deposition of CdTe-based Photovoltaics
Authors: Compaan Alvin D.
Published: May 2017

Although the deposition over large areas of polycrystalline thin-film semiconductors such as CdTe is possible by a variety of methods including close spaced sublimation, vapor transport deposition, physical vapor deposition, organometallic chemical vapor deposition, and electrodeposition, the use of a plasma-based method such as magnetron sputtering can have significant advantages. In this paper I review recent results from our group in the fabrication of CdS/CdTe cells using rf magnetron sputtering and discuss some of the advantages that appear possible from the use of sputtering methods in this class of materials. Some of these advantages are particularly relevant as the polycrystalline thin-film community address issues related to the challenges of fabricating high efficiency tandem cells with efficiencies over 25%. Recently we have achieved: improvements in sputtered cell performance with cells based on commercial SnO2:F as well as on substrates with our own sputtered ZnO:Al, progress in the use of reactive sputtering for the deposition of oxygen alloys of CdS and N-doped layers of ZnTe, and progress in the sputtering of wider and narrower bandgap alloys of CdTe with Zn, Mn, and Hg. Details of the sputtering process and some of the recent achievements are discussed below.
Characterization of Transparent and Conductive ZnO:Ga Thin Films Produced by Rf Sputtering at Room Temperature
Authors: Fortunato E. , Assunçāo V. , Marques A. , Ferreira I. , Águas H. , Pereira L. , Martins R.
Published: May 2017

Gallium-doped zinc oxide films were prepared by rf magnetron sputtering at room temperature as a function of the substrate-target distance. The best results were obtained for a distance of 10 cm, where a resistivity as low as 2.7×10-4 Ωcm, a Hall mobility of 18 cm2/Vs and a carrier concentration of 1.3×1021 cm-3 were achieved. The films are polycrystalline presenting a strong crystallographic c-axis orientation (002) perpendicular to the substrate. The films present an overall transmittance in the visible part of the spectra of about 85 %, in average. The low resistivity, accomplished with a high growth rate deposited at RT, enables the deposition of these films onto polymeric substrates for flexible applications.
Explanation of Light/Dark Superposition Failure in CIGS Solar Cells
Authors: Gloeckler Markus , Jenkins Caroline R. , Sites James R.
Published: May 2017

CIGS solar cells in many cases show a failure of light/dark superposition of their current-voltage (J-V) curves. Such failure generally becomes more pronounced at lower temperatures. J-V measurements under red light may also show an additional distortion, known historically as the “red kink”. The proposed explanation is that a secondary barrier results from the conduction band offset between CIGS and the commonly employed CdS window layer. This barrier produces a second diode with the same polarity and in series with the primary photodiode. The secondary-diode barrier height is modified by photoinduced changes of trap occupancy in the CdS layer, hence creating a voltage shift between dark and light conditions. Numerical modeling of the proposed explanation, including a band offset consistent with experimental and theoretical values, gives a very good fit to measured light and dark J-V curves over a wide temperature range. It also predicts the observed difference between illuminated J-V curves with photon energy above the CdS band gap, and those with sub-band-gap illumination.
Vapor Transport Deposition and Characterization of Polycrystalline CdTe Solar Absorbers
Authors: Kestner James M. , McElvain Sarah , Wolden Colin A. , Kelly Stephen , Ohno Tim R. , Woods Lawrence M. , Ribelin Rosine
Published: May 2017

Vapor transport deposition is being developed for high-rate synthesis of CdTe thin films. Films have been deposited at rates in excess of 20 μm/min. Thegrowth ratedependenceon source temperature yielded an apparent activation energy of 42 kcal/mol, in good agreement with the theoretical value for CdTe sublimation (45.7 kcal/mol). For substrate temperatures greater than 400°C the rate limiting step was resublimation. This phenomenon had a dramatic influence on morphology, although x-ray diffraction of all films indicated a strong (111) orientation. A preliminary device optimization investigating the effect of CdTe deposition temperature, post-deposition CdCl2 anneal parameters, alternative back contacts, and high-resistance buffer layers yielded a best cell with efficiency of 9.8% (704 mV Voc, 21.0mA/cm2 Jsc, 66% FF).
A Barrier to Trap Filling in CuIn1-xGaxSe2
Authors: Young David L. , Ramanathan Kannan , Contreras Miguel , Abushama Jehad , Crandall Richard S.
Published: May 2017

Voltage pulses of variable length were applied to CuIn1-xGaxSe2/CdS (0 < x < 1) junction solar cells. The resulting transient capacitance emission signal was recorded for several minutes. The amplitude of the capacitance emission signal increased linearly with the log of pulse time. These data do not follow the standard model for trap capture and emission of carriers. Instead they follow a simple electrostatic model based on electrostatic charging of traps.
Photoluminescence Fatigue in CdTe Photovoltaics
Authors: Shvydka Diana , Verzella C. , Karpov V. G.
Published: May 2017

Junction photoluminescence intensity (PL) in polycrystalline CdTe/CdS solar cells gradually decreases over time, similar to the PL fatigue in chalcogenide glasses. We discriminate between the fatigue per se and concomitant short-time PL drop due to the laser heating. The fatigue is more profound at higher temperatures and laser beam powers and can be as large as 80 percent in two hours. We attribute the observed phenomenon to defect creation by the light-generated electrons and holes. The defects provide additional non-radiative recombination channels. Simultaneously, this negative feedback makes the defect-generation rate slowing down, so that the PL fatigue saturates.
Diffusion of Ga and In in Sequentially Prepared Cu(In, Ga)S2 Thin Films for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Neisser Axel , Klenk Reiner , Lux-Steiner Martha Ch.
Published: May 2017

This contribution investigates the diffusion of In and Ga in Cu(In1-xGax)S2 thin film absorbers for photovoltaic applications. Sequentially prepared Cu-rich CuGaS2/CuInS2thin film diffusion couples have been annealed at temperatures in the range of 500°C to 600°C. Annealed samples have been examined by XRD and SNMS depth profiling. It was found that despite significant interdiffusion of Ga and In the bilayer retains its two phase structure of two layers of almost homogeneous composition, where the composition of these layers depends on the annealing temperature. Furthermore the interdiffusion process is less effective if the binary copper-sulfide phase is removed before annealing. On the basis of a tentative two dimensional diffusion model, which includes rapid diffusion along path ways of high diffusivity, the Ga-depth distribution could be modeled by numerical fits of calculated XRD-spectra to the experimental data. CuS is proposed as a possible pathway for rapide In-Ga interdiffusion.
High-Quality Transparent Conducting Oxide Films Deposited by a Novel Ion Plating Technique
Authors: Sakemi T. , Shirakata S. , Iwata K. , Matsubara K. , Tampo H. , Fons P. , Niki S. , Awai K. , Yamamoto T.
Published: May 2017

A novel ion plating technique that has the attributes of both superb controllability of the high density plasma used as well as ion beam shape has been developed and applied to the deposition of transparent conducting oxides. The advantages of this technique include reduced ion damage, scale-up capability, in-plane uniformity, the use of low growth temperatures and fast deposition rates suggesting that the technique is very promising for a variety of applications such as solar cells and organic device fabrication. Gallium doped zinc oxide films have been deposited on glass substrates at 200°C. Resistivities as low as ρ∼2.7×10-4 Ω-cm with high transparency have been demonstrated. In addition, this technique has been successfully applied to large area deposition such as 65 cm × 55 cm-sized glass substrates.
Real-Time Fault Diagnosis of Sensors for Fault-Tolerant Control of Thin-Film CIGS Photovoltaics Process
Authors: Joshi Bharat , Beck Markus E. , Britt Jeffrey S. , Chaffin Michael , Gomez Nicholas , Muha John , Simpson L.J. , Wiedeman Scott
Published: May 2017

ITN Energy Systems, Inc., (ITN) and Global Solar Energy, Inc., (GSE) have continued the advancement of copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) production technology through the development of a number of activities, including fault-tolerant control, in-situ sensors, and process improvements, with the goal of enabling uninterrupted continuous manufacturing of high quality CIGS materials that are very sensitive to processing conditions. In this paper real-time sensor fault detection and diagnosis strategies developed by ITN and GSE to enable fault-tolerant controllers for thin-film CIGS deposition process are presented. The results indicate that these strategies are very effective and they would play a major role in improving system reliability, thereby also improving yield, throughput, and efficiency. Sensing process reconfiguration methodologies that lead to fault-tolerant controllers also are briefly discussed.
Modeling of Flux Composition for Thermal CdCl2:O2 Annealing of Polycrystalline CdTe
Authors: Hiie Jaan , Valdna Vello , Taklaja Andres
Published: May 2017

Differential thermal analysis (DTA) measurements were carried out in order to investigate thermal properties of model flux compositions of CdTe-CdCl2 with CdTeO3, the last recognized as a main oxidation product of CdTe. The composition of the flux was chosen to obtain larger quantity of residual flux phases for analyses and the presence of solid CdTe phase (about 20 mol%) at the fusion temperature 520 °C in a vacuum-closed isothermal quartz ampoule. Quantity of CdTeO3 constituted 20 mol % of the whole sample mass. DTA curves taken in the 300-700°C interval reveal considerable lowering of melting and solidification temperatures for the flux with addition of CdTeO3. The fused batches were vacuum annealed at 470 °C in a long narrow quartz tube for separation and deposition of volatile components CdCl2 and Te at the room temperature part of the tube. After vacuum annealing the residual CdTe phase on the batch with tellurite was coated with transparent platelike crystals morphologically typical to the CdTeO3, while oxide-free batch had no alien phases. In the flux, CdCl2 has a role of catalytic agent forming low melting point composition with native oxides and CdTe. After processing, CdCl2 can be separated by vacuum annealing.
Effect of Growth Interruption on the Properties of GaInAsSb/AlGaAsSb/GaSb Heterostructures and the Performance of Thermophotovoltaic Devices
Authors: Wang C.A. , Shiau D.A. , Connors M.K. , Danielson L.R. , Nichols G. , Donetsky D. , Anikeev S. , Belenky G.
Published: May 2017

The effect of growth interruption on the properties of GaInAsSb/(Al)Ga(As)Sb heterostructures and on the performance of GaInAsSb/AlGaAsSb/GaSb thermophotovoltaic (TPV) devices grown by organometallic vapor phase epitaxy is reported. In-situ reflectance monitoring is shown to be sensitive for observation of surface degradation during growth interruption, and this data was correlated with materials characterization by high-resolution x-ray diffraction and 4K photoluminescence (PL). Minority-carrier lifetime by time-resolved PL was used to determine interfacial recombination velocity of GaInAsSb/AlGaAsSb and GaInAsSb/GaSb double heterostructures grown with and without interruption, respectively. GaInAsSb/AlGaAsSb TPV devices grown without growth interruption have a slightly higher performance compared to those grown with interruption.
Electrodeposition of CIGS on Metal Substrates
Authors: Kampmann A. , Rechid J. , Raitzig A. , Wulff S. , Mihhailova M. , Thyen R. , Kalberlah K.
Published: May 2017

The development of a low cost roll-to-roll production process for CIGS remains an attractive goal. In the present approach, the absorber is prepared by electrodeposition techniques, while molybdenum, copper or stainless steel (SS) are used as flexible substrates. Two electrodeposition routes are evaluated: sequential plating of Cu, In and Ga followed by Se evaporation is compared to simultaneous (= ternary) electrodeposition of Cu, In and Se. Ternary electrodeposition yields 7.5 % efficiency on stainless steel. The sequential process leads to 9.0 % cell efficiency on copper and on stainless steel substrates.
Oxygenated CdS Window Layer for Sputtered CdS/CdTe Solar Cells
Authors: Gupta Akhlesh , Allada Karthikeya , Lee Sung Hyun , Compaan Alvin D.
Published: May 2017

It is known that carriers photogenerated in the polycrystalline CdS layer of a CdS/CdTe cell are not collected. Thus, the short-circuit current (JSC) of CdS/CdTe devices should be improved if the bandgap of CdS is increased to permit better blue response. Wu, et al, showed that alloying of CdS with oxygen can increase the absorption edge of the layer. We report here on studies of this ‘oxygenated’ CdS and its use in sputtered cells. We find that at a deposition temperature of 250°C the addition of O2 to the sputter gas results in a red shift of the absorption edge (from 2.35 eV to 1.94 eV), but that room temperature deposition gives a blue shift (from 2.36 eV to 3.28 eV). The Raman spectra of the room temperature deposited films show a considerable broadening of LO phonon peaks suggesting a micro- to nano- to amorphous transition as the O2 fraction increases. XRD measurements of these films confirm the formation of an amorphous structure at high O2 fractions. The quantum efficiency measurements of CdS/CdTe device with room temperature deposited oxy-CdS show an improvement in blue response and hence increased JSC, but are accompanied by poorer junction quality so that the overall efficiency is not increased.
Defects in Copper Indium Aluminum Diselenide Films and their Impact on Photovoltaic Device Performance
Authors: Heath Jennifer T. , Cohen J. David , Shafarman William N.
Published: May 2017

The electronic properties of polycrystalline CuIn1-xAlxSe2 (CIAS) films, which are incorporated as the absorber layer in photovoltaic devices, have been studied to better understand limitations on device performance. These studies have shown that compared to lower Al content films and to CuIn1-yGaySe2films, films with x ≥ 0.29 are relatively intrinsic, spatially nonuniform, and have broader bandtails characterized by much higher Urbach energies. This indicates that the CIAS films with x ≥ 0.29 are significantly more disordered than lower Al content CIAS or corresponding CIGS films, which likely negatively impacts the resulting photovoltaic device performance.
The Study of Deep Levels in CdS/CdTe Solar Cells Using Admittance Spectroscopy and its Modifications
Authors: Gilmore A.S. , Kaydanov V. , Ohno T.R.
Published: May 2017

Measurements of an admittance over a wide frequency range were used to detect the defect electronic states and evaluate their properties in CdTe based solar cells. Cells prepared in various ways, from various facilities all exhibited a high defect state density (>1014cm-3, and often >1015cm-3). Two distinct energy levels or bands were observed at approximately 0.37eV and 0.61eV above the valence band. These were tentatively attributed to CuCd- and VCd-- respectively. Various post-CdTe deposition treatments, as well as stress tests, were applied to alter the defect state densities. The high defect concentration measured was not observed to inhibit cell performance in any way.
Evaluation of fly ash reactivity potential using a lime consumption test
Authors: McCarthy Michael J. , Yakub Hamza I. , Strompinis Nikolaos , Csetenyi Laszlo J.
Published: May 2017

The reactivity of fly ash (FA), for use in concrete, is normally evaluated in the UK/EU by means of the activity index test (on mortars at 28 and 90 d (BS EN 450-1)). This paper reports on the application of a lime consumption test, based on BS EN 196-5 (pozzolanic cement test), to determine FA reactivity more rapidly. The method uses a Portland cement (PC)/FA slurry, stored for 8 or 15 d at 40°C, and measures hydroxyl ion (OH−) and calcium oxide (CaO) concentrations of the filtrate. Seven FAs, including those produced using modern power station techniques (e.g. co-combustion, low nitrogen oxide emissions), and three PCs with different characteristics were tested. Early experiments gave acceptable repeatability for the test and revealed that pozzolanic reactions mainly occur during the initial 8 to 15 d storage. Similar behaviour for FA to that in thermogravimetric analysis and activity index tests from related studies was noted. Strong correlations were obtained for FA fineness and calcium oxide consumed (difference in calcium oxide content between PC and PC/FA with respect to that in PC). While there was general agreement for calcium oxide consumed and activity index, the correlations were poor. Similar types of effect were found to occur for mortar (activity index) and concrete. The lime consumption test can assess FA reactivity, but should be combined with measurements of the material's fineness.
Non–target effects of insecticides on the abundance of predators in Soybean
Authors: Motaphale A. A. , Bhosle B. B. , Gaikwad B. B.
Published: May 2017

Highest population of Coccinella septempunctata after first spray was observed in untreated control (1.92) followed by Bt (1.70), Beauveria bassiana (1.66) whereas during second spray more number of C. septempunctata observed in untreated control (2.01) followed by Azadirachtin 1500 ppm (1.77) and NSKE 5% (1.74). The population of Chrysoperla arabica was highest in untreated control (1.47) followed by NSKE 5% (0.99) and Beauveria bassiana (0.96 ) during first spray and after second spray observed in untreated control (1.30) followed by Beauveria bassiana (0.94) and Nomuraea rileyi (0.93).
Microbial defense systems in foods and feeds
Authors: Fatima Djadouni
Published: May 2017

Bacteriocins are proteinaceous substances having antigenic and developed by some microbial strains having the ability and effectiveness against pathogenic bacteria and spoilage, harmless to the consumer, and have no adverse effect on the organoleptic product quality. Bacteriocins are rendered inactive by the action of proteolytic enzymes present in the gastrointestinal tract, thy can resist high temperatures, are non-toxic and does not compromise the immune system in experimental animals. Bacteriocins as microbial defense systems has been widely researched and documented. However, though the diversity and abundance of bactrocins is very high, indicating their use as microbial weapons, research on ecological and evolutionary significance needs elaborate studies. More advanced studies are needed to unfold reasons for their success as toxins.
Biological Control of Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae) Larvae
Authors: Brahman Lavkush Kumar , Chandra Ramesh
Published: May 2017

Local larvivorous fish Aphanius dispar has potential for regulating vector mosquitoes. The consumption of larvae of the mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae) by Rasbora daniconius, Puntius ticto and Puntius conchonius was evaluated in the presence of different prey densities under simple habitat conditions. The number of mosquito larvae consumed in fresh and ditch water at three seasons was observed. Only third and fourth instars of Culex larvae were used on a particular prey density of 1 to 10 (increase 100). The maximum and minimum value of larvae eating per day in ditch and fresh water were observed to 267 to 876 and 277 to 880 respectively. The comparisons for the pair using Tukey-Kramer HSD indicated the fact that there was non-significant difference. The respective mean values in fresh and ditch water were observed 525 and 493 respectively. The analysis of water (ditch and fresh) was nonsignificant (F = 1.0116). Rasbora daniconius species of fish played a dominating role in eating the Culex larvae in ditch and fresh water.
Efficacy of Two Entomopathogenic Nematode Species as Potential Biocontrol Agents against the Diamondback Moth, Plutella xylostella (L.)
Authors: Zolfagharian Masaaod , Saeedizadeh Ayatollah , Abbasipour Habib
Published: May 2017

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) is an important pest of cruciferous crops in Iran. The susceptibility of P. xylostella larvae to two species of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) (Steinernema carpocapsae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora) was examined under laboratory conditions. Leaf bioassays were conducted to evaluate the nematode's capability to reach the larvae and kill them. High larval mortality (72.6-96%) was observed in laboratory experiments. The ET50 of H. bacteriophora was higher than that of S. carpocapsae. The ET50 of entomopatpgenic nematodes, H. bacteriophora and S. carpocapsae tested ranged from 21 to 139.7 and 11.3 to 71.4 hours, respectively. The effect of both factors infective juveniles (IJs) and exposure time of 50% (ET50) on the larval mortality was significant (df = 6; P < 0.001) and (df = 2; P < 0.001), respectively. This study revealed that entomopatogenic nematodes (EPNs) have great potential that should be exploited in diamondback moth, P. xylostella management.
The suburbs of Cordoba, Spain
Authors:   University of Cordoba, Vaquerizo Desiderio , Murillo Juan ,   University of Cordoba
Published: May 2017

Más allá de los imperativos ideológicos que en cada momento han definido las diferencias jurídicas entre el espacio intramuros y el extramuros, la historia evidencia que Córdoba ha trascendido desde su fundación los límites estrictos impuestos por sus murallas para configurar una unidad funcional en la que no es posible entender a la ciudad sensu stricto sin su espacio extra moenia, sus suburbia: realidad cambiante que establece un primer ámbito de transición vertebrado por la red viaria. Ésta se erige a su vez en garantía de acceso a una segunda franja de carácter periurbano (carente de funciones urbanas, pero fácilmente accesible y marco preferente para la actividad cotidiana de sus habitantes), y, por fin, al territorio dependiente, en el que se cimentaba la base económica, el poder político y el prestigio de la urbe. Los suburbios funcionaron así, para bien y para mal, como espejos de la misma.
Build the city: modernity and neo-rationalism between symbolism and functionality. A view from Europe to the architecture of Latin America
Authors:   Universidad del País Vasco, Vivas Ziarrusta Isusko
Published: May 2017

Este artículo de reflexión tiene por objeto advertir, partiendo de lo indagado acerca de las estéticas determinadas del racionalismo constructivo y el movimiento moderno internacional de arquitectura, cuestiones concordantes y discordantes, encuentros y desencuentros, coincidencias y disimilitudes que hacen despertar nuestra curiosidad desde el contexto del sur de Europa hacia América latina. Nuestra mirada se enfoca así por medio de unas re-visitaciones que desearíamos no encadenadas a tópicos y terciando una metodología que enuncia sintéticamente consideraciones previas que, si bien reflejan lugares comunes estimamos sirven para encauzar problemas suscitados en la traslación intercontinental de modelos, cuya viabilidad puede encontrarse más en la variabilidad que la rigidez. Traslación que se concluirá no mimética sino traducción problematizada por aspectos socioculturales significativos más allá de la arquitectura, pero que inciden en la construcción y configuración de la ciudad como forma funcional y simbólica. Ejemplos de urbe central y periférica, plaza pública y reasignación simbólico-funcional del neo-racionalismo nos ayudan a descubrir correspondencias con las capitales del nuevo-viejo mundo.
The public space dedicated to leisure in the century XXI and the search of Urban Oasis
Authors:   Ciencias en Arquitectura y Urbanismo de la ESIA - Unidad Tecamachalco - Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ipiña García Orlando
Published: May 2017

Las plazas, parques y jardines, representan puntos de encuentro social; dedicados a diferentes actividades recreativas, lúdicas y de esparcimiento. Estas deben brindar a los usuarios un momento de relajamiento, disfrute y despreocupación. Actualmente, existen intervenciones más preocupadas por los aspectos físicos del lugar, que de las actividades socio-culturales que ocurren en ellas. La falta de accesibilidad, seguridad, oferta y una experiencia de conocimiento, han colocado al espacio público en franca desventaja con los espacios privados dedicados al satisfacer las actividades lúdicas.Es necesario el análisis y la identificación de factores físicos, sociales y culturales para fomentar la espacialidad de los usuarios por medio de una oferta lúdica y una sensación de seguridad y bienestar; con el objetivo de crear una experiencia vivida en la percepción de los usuarios. El presente artículo expone una propuesta metodológica para el diagnóstico, consolidación o restructuración del espacio público.
Towards a new epistemology of urban and architectural theory
Authors:   Universidad de Cuenca, Contreras Escandón Christian
Published: May 2017

El presente artículo de reflexión es una revisión teórica sobre colonialidad y modernidad. Algunos autores del llamado pensamiento crítico latinoamericano, plantean que tras el fin del colonialismo y las administraciones coloniales, se ha consolidado un sistema-mundo, donde la colonialidad y la modernidad son dos caras de una misma moneda, y la epistemología occidental domina sobre el resto de epistemologías. Con el fondo de ésta posición crítica, se plantea la necesidad de revisar los planteamientos urbanos desde una perspectiva decolonial, y se propone debatir la teoría urbana y arquitectónica contemporánea desde la perspectiva de la modernidad/colonialidad. A manera de conclusión se plantea trasladar a las áreas específicas de la enseñanza del diseño urbano/arquitectónico, en las universidades Latinoamericanas, el análisis acerca de la crisis de legitimidad del conocimiento moderno y su impacto mundial.
Agreed Statements of the Workshop-Seminar: “Sustainable Architecture” A Bioclimatic Strategies Approach: The Ecuadorian Case
Authors:   Universidad de Cuenca, Alvear Calle Alexandra , Sánchez Hernán ,   Universidad de Cuenca, Tapia Abril Emilia ,   Universidad de Cuenca, Ordoñez Alvarado Gabriela ,   Universidad de Cuenca
Published: May 2017

El presente artículo expone los resultados obtenidos en el Primer Seminario-Taller Arquitectura Sostenible: Caso Ecuador como derivación parcial del proyecto de investigación Criterios para la Evaluación de la Sostenibilidad de los Edificios en Países Emergentes: El Caso del Ecuador; esto, con el objetivo de desarrollar una herramienta de evaluación que permita valorar las características de sostenibilidad en edificaciones orientadas a estrategias de diseño bioclimático. La zonificación de pisos climáticos permite una interpretación realista de los conceptos bioclimáticos analizados. Cinco casos de estudio, expuestos al juicio de expertos, presentan estrategias de diseño a ser contempladas en etapas iniciales de la concepción de las edificaciones. El punto partida de este proceso de investigación son los conceptos que surgen de la experiencia profesional y académica de los participantes. Como resultado de ese análisis, se consigue una propuesta de validación a los hallazgos obtenidos en el proyecto de investigación principal.
Election methodology of chemical stabilizers for earth blocks
Authors:   Universidad de Cuenca, Guzmán Sebastián , Iñiguez Mateo ,   Universidad de Cuenca
Published: May 2017

En la década de los 70 surgió una crisis energética que propició la búsqueda de alternativas ecológicas que solucionen el desmedido consumo energético de la construcción alrededor del mundo, como consecuencia de esto la construcción en tierra alcanzó mayor notoriedad. Con esta publicación se pretende apoyar al desarrollo y revalorización de las técnicas constructivas en tierra tomando en cuenta como parte importante para el desarrollo el impacto ambiental de sus materiales. En la actualidad existe una gran variedad de estabilizantes químicos que permiten mejorar las características técnicas de los bloques de tierra cruda, sin embargo, existen pocas publicaciones que indiquen un método para elegir uno de estos compuestos para condiciones específicas. Se desarrolla una metodología que ayuda a la elección objetiva de un estabilizante químico por medio de una calificación ponderada basada en distintos parámetros a los que se les da diferente importancia, estos son: mejora de la resistencia a la compresión e impermeabilidad, impacto ambiental y economía. Posteriormente se prueba dicha metodología para la elección de un estabilizante óptimo en una región del austro ecuatoriano, más concretamente Cuenca, Ecuador.
From quote to the theoretical reflection
Authors:   Universidad Central de Venezuela, Gómez José
Published: May 2017

Este artículo es una síntesis de nuestra reciente investigación sobre una forma alterna de estudiar la teoría de la arquitectura mediante el uso de frases y párrafos conocidos cuyo sentido didáctico mejoran la aprehensión de los principales conceptos y fundamentos de nuestra disciplina. Nuestra perspectiva supone que el análisis extendido de una idea excepcional sacada de su prosa originaria puede dar lugar a debates y reflexiones con alto valor teórico y didáctico. Así, nuestra intención es la de acercarnos a esos otros pequeños discursos, esas otras formas de decir y de enseñar adoptando una estrategia, abierta y fresca de acercamiento tanto al contenido como al ejercicio teorético.