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Porous silicon photoluminescence is characterized by a broad emission band that displays unusually long (tens to hundreds of micro-seconds), wavelength-dependent emissive lifetimes. The photoluminescence is associated with quantum confinement of excitons in silicon nanocrystallites contained within the porous matrix, and the broad emission spectrum derives from the wide distribution of nanocrystallite sizes in the material. The longer emissive lifetimes in the ensemble of quantum-confined emitters correspond to the larger nanocrystallites, with their longer wavelengths of emission. The quenching of this photoluminescence by aromatic, redox-active molecules aminochrome (AMC), dopamine, adrenochrome, sodium anthraquinone-2-sulfonate, benzyl viologen dichloride, methyl viologen dichloride hydrate, and ethyl viologen dibromide is studied, and dynamic and static quenching mechanisms are distinguished by the emission lifetime analysis. Because of the dependence of the emission lifetime on emission wavelength from the silicon nanocrystallite ensemble, a pronounced blue shift is observed in the steady-state emission spectrum upon exposure to dynamic-type quenchers. Conversely, static-type quenching systems show uniform quenching across all emission wavelengths. Thus, the difference between static and dynamic quenching mechanisms is readily distinguished by ratiometric photoluminescence spectroscopy. The application of this concept to imaging of AMC, the oxidized form of the neurotransmitter dopamine that is of interest for its role in neurodegenerative diseases, is demonstrated. It is found that static electron acceptors result in no ratiometric contrast, while AMC shows a strong contrast, allowing ready visualization in a 2-D imaging experiment.

Recent decades have shown phases of very rapid warming in the Canadian Arctic. This raises a concern, also in reference to potential changes in permafrost active layer deepening, enhancing the fact that seawater, snow and soils are becoming important secondary sources remobilizing persistent organic pollutants (POPs). This work investigates the potential influence of permafrost on POPs distribution in the soils of two small coastal catchments at the Canadian Beaufort coast. One catchment is located south of Herschel Island on the mainland and was covered by the Laurentide ice sheet during the last glacial maximum (LGM), the second catchment is located westerly at Komakuk Beach and was ice-free during the LGM.Soils were sampled by horizon in the Active Layer from an open soil pit and by coring into the permafrost, near the top of the permafrost table and at 90 cm depth from the soil surface (99 samples form Ptarmigan Bay and 89 from Komakuk Beach). The total sampling depth was 1,0 m (including Active Layer and Permafrost). A random distribution of the points over the areas guaranteed the sampling over different Landforms, aiming to understand the contaminant concentration and distribution. Quantification of PAHs, PCBs, HCB was performed using GC-MS technique, a 7890A gas chromatographer coupled with a 5975C MSD System, Agilent Technologies, at CNR-ISP Venice, Italy.Preliminary results confirm that the mechanism responsible for the transport of POPs into the soil are believed to be gravity drainage and capillary suction into fissures and cracks. An accumulation of PAHs has been detected in the permafrost transient layer. It is probably related, as demonstrate in literature, to the accumulation and transport of soil organic carbon influence, as well as the changing in hydraulic barriers. The role of cryoturbation in the vertical transport and accumulation of POPs is also considered and discussed.The study has been conducted thanks to Grant Agreement number: 773421 — Nunataryuk — H2020-BG-2016-2017/H2020-BG-2017-1 ‘Permafrost thaw and the changing arctic coast: science for socio-economic adaptation — Nunataryuk’

Background: Animal-assisted interventions (AAI) are increasingly applied for people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms albeit its effectiveness is unclear.Objectives: To examine the effectiveness of AAI for treating PTSD symptoms.Method: We searched 11 major electronic databases for studies reporting quantitative data on effects of AAI for children and adults with PTSD symptoms. Of 22ʹ211 records identified, we included 41 studies with 1111 participants in the systematic review comprising eight controlled studies with 469 participants in the meta-analysis. We conducted random-effects meta-analyses with all controlled studies based on standardized mean differences (SMD), and calculated standardized mean change (SMC) as effect sizes for studies with a pre-post one-group design. Two independent researchers assessed the quality of the included studies using the NIH Study Quality Assessment Tools. The primary outcome was PTSD or depression symptom severity measured via a standardized measurement at pre- and post-intervention assessments.Results: There was a small but not statistically significant superiority of AAI over standard PTSD psychotherapy (SMD = −0.26, 95% CI: −0.56 to 0.04) in reducing PTSD symptom severity while AAI was superior to waitlist (SMD = −0.82, 95% CI: −1.56 to 0.08). Getting a service dog was superior to waiting for a service dog (SMD = −0.58, 95% CI: −0.88 to −0.28). AAI led to comparable effects in reducing depression as standard PTSD psychotherapy (SMD = −0.03, CI: −0.88 to 0.83). Pre-post comparisons showed large variation for the reduction in PTSD symptom severity, with SMCs ranging from −0.38 to −1.64, and for depression symptom severity, ranging from 0.01 to −2.76. Getting a service dog lowered PTSD symptoms between −0.43 and −1.10 and depression with medium effect size of −0.74.Conclusions: The results indicate that AAI are efficacious in reducing PTSD symptomatology and depression. Future studies with robust study designs and large samples are needed for valid conclusions., HIGHLIGHTS We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis to provide an up-to-date summary on the state of evidence regarding the effectiveness of animal-assisted interventions in treating people with PTSD symptoms. Results are promising but high-quality research is lacking to date.

Background Spreading of manure on agricultural soils represents an important pathway by which veterinary medicinal and biocidal products enter the environment. To assess their environmental impact in the context of authorization processes, experimental testing of transformation of these compounds in manure is considered in regulatory guidance documents. However, there is no standardized experimental test method available so far. To fill this gap, an experimental test method was developed to examine transformation in liquid cattle and pig manure. Results To account for manure specifics and for a possible influence of manure parameters on transformation rates, a comprehensive data acquisition and statistical analysis were performed. To address the variability of liquid manure of different type and origin, 30 manures were sampled and characterized. Thereof, three cattle and three pig manures were selected to perform anaerobic transformation studies with two radiolabeled veterinary medicinal active substances (14C-salicylic acid and 14C-paracetamol) and a confidential radiolabeled “14C-biocide B” serving as test compounds. Spatial and seasonal variability of manure parameters was quantified, and a sampling technique to obtain homogenous manure samples was developed. Transformation studies with six replicates per sampling point were conducted to examine the influence of test setup, of manure storage conditions, and of parameter variations between manure of the same species and of different species on half-lives, formation of extractable and non-extractable residues and mineralization rates. Finally, a test design was established that yields reproducible results for transformation studies in liquid cattle and pig manure under anaerobic conditions. Conclusions Results give a reliable basis for an experimental test method to perform anaerobic transformation studies in liquid cattle and pig manure. The developed test method comprises detailed guidance on selection of sampling date and site, collection from manure tank, storage duration and temperature in the laboratory, duration of manure acclimation period, and the incubation system design. It proved to give reproducible results in a validation ring test performed in a follow-up project and is planned to be submitted as draft test guideline for approval by the OECD.

Purpose Posttraumatic partial or total iris defects often cause significant debilitating glare, photophobia, decreased vision and cosmetic problems. Currently, the best cosmetic results can be obtained with a customized silicone iris prosthesis. However, little is known about the functional results and the rate of complication if this type of iris prosthesis is implanted into severely traumatized eyes. The aim of this study is to analyse the functional and cosmetic outcomes as well as complications after Artificial Iris implantation. Methods A consecutive series of 34 patients who received a customized silicone iris prosthesis after severe globe injury with total or sub-total iris loss was analysed retrospectively. Additionally, patients were interviewed regarding change in subjective complaints. Results Median follow-up was 24 months (range 12.0–48.8). Mean visual acuity prior to Artificial Iris implantation was 1.1 logMAR (range 0.3–2.6). Five patients (15%) had pre-existing glaucoma and eight patients (24%) had pre-existing hypotony. Visual acuity 12 months after surgery was 1.4 logMAR (range 0.2–2.6). Complications included newly diagnosed glaucoma in three eyes (9%) and hypotony in three eyes (9%), persisting intraocular inflammation or macular oedema in seven patients (21%), and corneal endothelial decompensation requiring corneal transplantation in six patients (18%). Patients’ satisfaction increased by reducing glare and enhanced cosmetic appearance. Conclusion The customized silicone iris prosthesis is an individualized treatment approach with appealing cosmetic results. Therefore, especially traumatized eyes with highly different posttraumatic conditions could benefit. However, in some patients, the implantation of this device may cause an increase of intraocular pressure, corneal endothelial decompensation or persisting inflammation.

AIM Flexed knee gait can be treated with distal femoral extension osteotomy (DFEO) and additional patellar tendon advancement (PTA) in children with cerebral palsy (CP). This study assesses changes in hamstring muscle tendon length (MTL) and velocity after DFEO (+PTA). METHOD Nineteen children (mean age 13y [standard deviation 3y] at surgery) with CP and flexed knee gait who were treated with DFEO (15 limbs) or DFEO+PTA (10 limbs) were retrospectively included in this study. Gait analyses were performed preoperatively (E0), 1 year postoperatively (E1), and for 10 limbs additionally 2 to 5 years postoperatively (E2). Hamstring MTL and velocities were assessed at all examination dates using OpenSim. RESULTS Hamstring MTL and velocity did not change significantly over time. From E0 to E1, knee flexion in stance improved for both DFEO and DFEO+PTA (p

This paper focuses on the description of damage propagation around rivets in multiple joined single lap carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP)-steel structures due to loads as a consequence of different coefficients of thermal expansion. Materials and rivets were chosen according to automotive body shop applications. Specimens were evaluated non-destructively in ultrasonic C-scans to characterize damage behavior of blind and self-piercing rivets in CFRP-steel-connections before and after the application of thermal loads. An algorithm for an automated detection of damage size on ultrasonic C-scan images was developed as the basis for further damage classification. The results show that blind riveting (BR) causes crack-like initial damage that broadens to roundish plane defects due to heating. Initial extensive damage due to self-piercing riveting (SPR) propagates in elliptic shape. Additionally, tension tests revealed a loss in ultimate load by 10–15 % induced by thermal loads and associated with damage propagation. A correlation between initial damage, relative displacement, and thermal loads was observed.

State of the art for producing 3-dimensional formed plastic shields is the use of mould blocks that are milled on machining centers. This paper describes the replacement of traditional mould blocks by a novel automated reusable mould and tooling system that produces good forming results at low investment costs. The reconfigurable tooling system replaces commonly used mould blocks. Two major issues will be addressed. The first aim is to identify principles for low tooling costs, while the second focuses on the improvement of a forming process suitable for the system so that this can be used for a broad range of products.

Background The built environment plays a critical role in promoting physical activity and health. The association between parks, as a key attribute of the built environment, and physical activity, however, remains inconclusive. This project leverages a natural experiment opportunity to assess the impact of the Community Parks Initiative (CPI), a citywide park redesign and renovation effort in New York City, on physical activity, park usage, psychosocial and mental health, and community wellbeing. Methods The project will use a longitudinal design with matched controls. Thirty intervention park neighborhoods are socio-demographically matched to 20 control park neighborhoods. The study will investigate whether improvements in physical activity, park usage, psychosocial and mental health, and community wellbeing are observed from baseline to 3 years post-renovation among residents in intervention vs. control neighborhoods. Discussion This study represents a rare opportunity to provide robust evidence to further our understanding of the complex relationship between parks and health. Findings will inform future investments in health-oriented urban design policies and offer evidence for addressing health disparities through built environment strategies.

High mobility bipolar charge carrier transport in organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) can be enabled by a molecular passivation layer and selective electrode materials. Using tetratetracontane as passivation layer bipolar transport was realised in the organic semiconductors copper-phthalocyanine, diindenoperylene, pentacene, TIPS-pentacene and sexithiophene and mobilities of up to 0.1 cm2/V s were achieved for both electrons and holes. Furthermore, the trap and injection behaviour was analysed leading to a more general understanding of the transport levels of the used molecular semiconductors and their limitations for electron and hole transport in OFETs. With this knowledge the transistor operation can be further improved by applying two different electrode materials and a light-emitting transistor was demonstrated. Additionally, the effect of illumination on organic field-effect transistors was investigated for unipolar and bipolar devices. We find that the behaviour of photo-excited electrons and holes depends on the interface between the insulator and the semiconductor and the choice of contact materials. Whereas filling of electron traps by photo-generated charges and the related accumulation field are the reason for changes in charge carrier transport upon illumination without passivation layer, both types of charge carriers can be transported also in unipolar OFETs, if a passivation layer is present.

In organic photovoltaic (PV) cells, the well-established donor-acceptor (D/A) concept enabling photo-induced charge transfer between two partners with suitable energy level alignment has proven extremely successful. Nevertheless, the introduction of such a heterojunction is accompanied with additional energy losses as compared to an inorganic homojunction cell, owing to the presence of a charge-transfer (CT) state at the D/A interface. Based on the principle of detailed balance, a modified Shockley-Queisser theory is developed including the essential effects of interfacial CT states, that allows for a quantitative assessment of the thermodynamic efficiency limits of molecular D/A solar cells. Key parameters, apart from the optical gap of the absorber material, entering the model are the energy (ECT) and relative absorption strength (αCT) of the CT state. It is demonstrated how the open-circuit voltage (VOC) and thus the power conversion efficiency are affected by different parameter values. Furthermore, it is shown that temperature dependent device characteristics can serve to determine the CT energy, and thus the upper limit of VOC for a given D/A combination, as well as to quantify non-radiative recombination losses. The model is applied to diindenoperylene (DIP)-based photovoltaic devices, with open-circuit voltages between 0.9 and 1.4 V, depending on the partner, that have recently been reported.

It is not unusual for hospitals to purchase equipment, devices, and materials based on preferences expressed by staff, based on economics and the best offer, or based on the promise of improvement by a new version. However, routinely subjecting potential purchases to basic usability testing provides valuable information upon which to base the decisions. Responsible manufacturers are interested in knowing of needed improvements to their products. Usability testing will also guide training for implementation. Usability testing is included in an introductory human factors engineering (HFE) session as part of a patient safety training course for physicians. Clinicians equipped with this skill are able to build evidence to support purchase decisions, make demands for improved design, and encourage a more thorough HFE evaluation by experts. C � 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Small-molecule photovoltaic cells using diindenoperylene (DIP) as a new donor material in combination with the fullerene C 60 as an electron acceptor are demonstrated. In addition to the successful application in planar and bulk heterojunction devices, a comprehensive analysis including structural studies, the determination of the energy level alignment and electrical transport investigations is given, stressing the correlation between growth conditions, fi lm morphology, and device performance. Due to pronounced crystallinity and a large surface area of DIP fi lms grown at elevated temperature, exceptionally high fi ll factors of almost 75% are achieved in planar heterojunction cells. Bulk heterojunctions exhibit large-scale phase separation forming a bicontinuous network of both molecular species, which enables effi cient exciton dissociation and charge carrier transport. The high ionization potential of DIP and the favorable energy level alignment with the fullerene C 60 yield large open circuit voltages close to 1 V and comparable power conversion effi ciencies of about 4% in both cell architectures.

Blends of organic electron and hole conductive materials are widely used for ambipolar charge-carrier transport and donor/acceptor (DA) photovoltaic cells. Thereby, the efficiency of these excitonic solar cells is correlated to the morphology of the interface between the donor and the acceptor materials, which in turns depends on the preparation conditions, the crystallization of the particular materials, and the interaction between the donor and acceptor molecules. In this contribution, the influence of the morphology on the solar cell architecture and performance will be discussed using different molecular DA combinations.

Background: Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) cause substantial morbidity and incur excess costs. The use of a central line insertion bundle has been shown to reduce the incidence of CLABSI. Postinsertion care has been included in some studies of CLABSI, but this has not been studied independently of other interventions. Methods: Surveillance for CLABSI was conducted by trained infection preventionists using National Health Safety Network case definitions and device-day measurement methods. During the intervention period, nursing staff used a postinsertion care bundle consisting of daily inspection of the insertion site; site care if the dressing was wet, soiled, or had not been changed for 7 days; documentation of ongoing need for the catheter; proper application of a chlorohexidine gluconate-impregnated sponge at the insertion site; performance of hand hygiene before handling the intravenous system; and application of an alcohol scrub to the infusion hub for 15 seconds before each entry. Results: During the preintervention period, there were 4415 documented catheter-days and 25 CLABSIs, for an incidence density of 5.7 CLABSIs per 1000 catheter-days. After implementation of the interventions, there were 2825 catheter-days and 3 CLABSIs, for an incidence density of 1.1 per 1000 catheter-days. The relative risk for a CLABSI occurring during the postintervention period compared with the preintervention period was 0.19 (95% confidence interval, 0.06-0.63; P 5 .004). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that implementation of a central venous catheter postinsertion care bundle was associated with a significant reduction in CLABSI in a setting where compliance with the central line insertion bundle was already high.

In this profile article, we report what we consider to be a rich learning experience which intertwines pedagogy and research: a process of community-based action research which has initiated a transition towards the sustainability of the University of British Columbia’s (UBC) food system. We call this initiative the UBC Food System Project (UBCFSP). The UBCFSP is a jointly initiated project between the Faculty of Land and Food Systems and the UBC Sustainability Office, and includes nine UBC organizational partners and one collaborator. The project emerged out of the recognition that our global, national, regional, and local food systems are increasingly characterized as socially, ecologically, and economically insecure and unsustainable. As a result, these food systems are experiencing an array of vulnerabilities, particularly those that are demonstrated by profound disruptions in our ecosystem and in a worldwide epidemic of malnutrition. The overall objective of the project is to conduct a campus-wide UBC food system sustainability assessment, where barriers that hinder and opportunities to make transitions towards food system sustainability are being collaboratively identified and implemented. This article is part of a series intending to share the experiences gathered so far through the project. The purpose of this profile is to provide a brief overview of the UBC Food System Project, including the context and significance, both the pedagogical approach and research methods, and some accomplishments to date.

A 12-yr-old Kosovo-Albanian boy with insufficiently controlled type 1 diabetes since his second year of life developed severely increased intima-media thickness (IMT) and roughness (IMR) of the common carotid artery (CCA): max/mean IMT=0.81/0.68 mm and IMR=0.048 mm. Intima-media thickening, comparable with that in a 50- to 60-yr-old healthy adult, decreased within 41 months (max/mean carotid IMT=0.72/0.56 mm and IMR=0.036 mm) by intensive treatment of diabetes. Moyamoya disease (MMD), complicated by cerebral infarction, occurred coincidentally but regressed within 6 months. This case report points out that (i) chronic hyperglycemia in childhood may lead to adult-like increase of carotid IMT/IMR as early signs of subclinical atherosclerosis, (ii) increased carotid IMT/IMR may be regressive by intensive diabetes control, and (iii) a screening examination for carotid IMT/IMR should be considered in patients at high risk of atherosclerosis.

Purpose: To evaluate treatment of macular oedema due to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide. Methods: In a prospective case series, nine patients with macular oedema due to BRVO received an intravitreal injection of 4 mg triamcinolone acetonide. Examination included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) for distance and reading, intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement, fluorescein angiography and high resolution imaging by optical coherence tomography, preoperatively and at 1 week, 1 month, 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Results: Preoperative mean BCVAs were 1.3 ± 0.8 for distance vision, and 1.1 ± 0.3 for reading acuity, respectively. A significant improvement in reading acuity was observed until 1 month (0.7 ± 0.4, p = 0.02). No significant reduction in mean macular thickness was observed. Conclusions: Intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide led to a significant improvement in mean VA in patients with macular oedema due to BRVO. However, the significant effect was not permanent and persisted for only 1 month.

Purpose: To evaluate treatment of macular oedema due to central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide. Methods: In a prospective case series, 13 patients with macular oedema due to non-ischaemic CRVO received an intravitreal injection of 4 mg triamcinolone acetonide. Examination included assessment of best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) for distance and reading, measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP), fluorescein angiography and high resolution imaging by optical coherence tomography, preoperatively and 1 week, 1 month, 3, 6 and 9 months postoperatively. Results: Preoperative mean BCVA was 0.9 ± 0.4 for distance vision and 1.0 ± 0.3 for reading acuity, respectively. A significant improvement in distance VA (0.5 ± 0.3, p

Diabetic macular oedema is a frequent cause of visual loss in patients with diabetic retinopathy. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide in reducing diabetic macular oedema and improving visual acuity.In this prospective study 12 eyes of 12 patients with diabetic macular oedema unresponsive to prior laser treatment received an intravitreal injection of 4 mg triamcinolone acetonide. Examinations were performed 1 day preoperatively and at 1 week and 1, 3, 6, and 9 months after surgery and included slit-lamp examination, measurement of IOP, assessment of distance as well as reading visual acuity and assessment of macular thickness using optical coherence tomography (OCT).Mean age of the patients (mean+/-SD) was 66.6+/-8.6 years. Mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) for distance (LogMAR using ETDRS charts) improved from 1.0+/-0.4 preoperatively to 0.9+/-0.4 (p=0.01) 1 week and to 0.9+/-0.4 (p=0.02) 1 month postoperatively. Mean BCVA for reading vision (LogRAD using Radner Reading Charts) improved from 1.1+/-0.4 preoperatively to 0.9+/-0.4 (p=0.002) 1 month postoperatively. Mean macular thickness decreased from 450+/-190 (microm) preoperatively to 305+/-153 (p=0.02) 1 month postoperatively. No significant improvement in VA and no significant reduction of macular thickness could be observed 3, 6, and 9 months postoperatively. Mean intraocular pressure significantly increased from 14.7+/-2.7 mmHg preoperatively to 16.9+/-3.0 mmHg at 1 month (p=0.02).A single intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide led to a significant improvement in mean VA in patients with diabetic macular oedema. However, the significant effect was not permanent and persisted for only 1 month.

This case-control study describes the health situation, internal and external resources, and utilisation of healthcare facilities by a marginalised population consisting of homeless people in Vienna, Austria, compared with a non-homeless control population. Among the homeless group, participants lived in halfway houses (70%) or permanent housing (30%) in Vienna. Personal interviews were conducted in July 2010 with 66 homeless individuals, and their data were compared with data from non-homeless subjects from the Austrian Health Interview Survey using conditional logistic regression. Compared with the control group, homeless persons suffered more often from chronic diseases (P < 0.001) and rated their health considerably lower than the comparison group (P < 0.001). Homeless people suffered significantly more often from psychiatric disorders, respiratory diseases, hypertension (P < 0.001), digestive system diseases (P = 0.002) and heart diseases (P = 0.015) in comparison with the control group. Additionally, among homeless and non-homeless individuals, the former more often consulted a general practitioner in a period of 28 days (P = 0.002). A significantly greater proportion of homeless people did not have any teeth (P = 0.024) and smoked significantly more (P = 0.002). The results demonstrate deficits in the areas of health, health behaviour, and individual and social resources of homeless people, even though homeless people seek medical care at a higher rate than controls. Continuing health promotion projects for this high-risk group and the strengthening of social resources are recommended.

Aims This study explored the association of active acute anterior uveitis (AAU) with depressive feelings and patients’ general health. Methods This case-control study comprised 80 participants: 35 patients with an active case of AAU and 45 healthy peers were analysed to compare their depressive moods (Beck depression inventory (BDI), Zerssen Mood Scale (ZMS)) and general health (Short form-8 health survey (SF8)). Furthermore, patients were questioned regarding the presence of distress, occupational satisfaction and impairment in performing daily life tasks. Results During an acute attack, AAU patients were shown to suffer from depressive moods more often than their healthy peers (BDI 54% vs 9%, respectively; ZMS 2.7-fold shift in mood levels towards depression) and experienced a reduction in mental and physical scores (SF8). Patients felt impaired reading (94%), driving (69%) and working (69%). In all, 74% of the patients believed that distress was a probable trigger. Lack of occupational satisfaction was associated with a persistence of depressive feelings and a reduction in physical health. Conclusions AAU patients exhibited a significant psychopathology towards depression, a reduction of general health and impairment of performing daily life tasks. Patients who were unsatisfied at work seemed to suffer even more. The results underline the importance of offering psychological support to the patients and providing information to patients and close social contacts.

Objective. So far, little is known about potential links between subtypes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and sleep disturbances in childhood. Therefore, this study examined the association between sleep disorders and all three subtypes of ADHD.Methods. A total of 60 children showing attention deficit symptoms (aged 6–13 years; 88.3% boys) were diagnosed with regard to ADHD according to the DSM-IV-TR. The subtypes of ADHD diagnosed were then related to potential sleep disturbances as measured using a standardized parent-rated questionnaire (Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire, CSHQ-DE).Results. Clinically significant elevated scores in the CSHQ-DE’s Sleep Disturbance Scale were exhibited in all 60 children. Parents of the children with primarily hyperactive–impulsive subtype reported the highest scores. Children with this subtype displayed the highest rate of specific sleep disorders, e.g., increased daytime sleepiness and higher bedtime resistance.Conclusion. The assumption that children with ADHD show elevated scores of sleep disturbances was verified. In addition, it was possible to identify a unique pattern of sleep disturbances corresponding to the respective ADHD subtypes.

Efficiency of a photovoltaic cell is directly proportional to its open circuit voltage. This in turn is eventually set by the donor-acceptor energy gap, i.e. the energy of the intermolecular charge-transfer state in organic solar cells. In this letter we study diindenoperylene (DIP) as a new molecular acceptor. We show that planar heterojunctions of thiophene derivatives and DIP yield extraordinarily high open circuit voltages (V oc ) of approximately 1.2 V for poly(3-hexylthiophene) and almost 1.4 V for heat treated α-sexithiophene. Those values are close to the maximum V oc attainable for these material systems.

Impedance spectroscopy (IS) is a powerful method for characterizing the electrical properties of materials and their interfaces. In this study we use IS to investigate the charge carrier injection properties of different anodes and anode treatments in bottom-emitting organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). These are ITO-based (indium tin oxide) hetero-layer devices with TPD (N,N'-diphenyl-N,N'-bis(3-methylphenyl)-1,1'-biphenyl-4,4-diamine) as hole transporting layer (HTL) and Alq3 (tris-(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum) as emission and electron transporting layer (EML and ETL, respectively). A detailed analysis of the capacitance as function of frequency and DC bias yields information about trapped and interfacial charges as well as the dynamics of injected charges. Furthermore, we use IS to study degradation processes in OLEDs.

Background—When bound to mast cell FceRI, IgE serves as antigen receptor for allergic reactions, permitting specific identification of the allergen. Although the core of the classic antigen-binding site is heavy chain complementarity determining region 3 (CDR-H3), recent studies suggest that allergens might also bind IgE in a superantigen-like fashion outside the classic antigen-binding site. Objective—We sought to evaluate the contribution of the classic CDR-H3-centric antigenbinding site to the development of an allergic phenotype. Methods—Using a murine model of experimental asthma, we characterized a gene targeted mouse strain expressing an altered range of CDR-H3s (ΔD-iD mice) in response to the hydrophobic allergen ovalbumin. Mutant and wildtype (wt) mice were sensitized intraperitoneally with ovalbumin; non-sensitized mice served as controls. Results—We found the composition of the classic CDR-H3-centric antigen-binding site to be critical for the development of characteristic aspects of allergic asthma: (i) Compared to wt animals, ΔD-iD mice showed a significantly less pronounced ovalbumin-induced rise in allergenspecific IgE levels and hence in total serum IgE levels. (ii) In addition, ΔD-iD mice demonstrated a significant reduction in eosinophilic airway inflammation, as well as in IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 levels in BAL fluids. Conclusion—Allergic sensitization and airway inflammation depend on the composition of the predominant CDR-H3 repertoire, suggesting that the classic CDR-H3-centric antigen-binding site plays a crucial role in creating the immunological interface between allergen and IgE. Our results further emphasize a central role of IgE, not only in mediating but also in regulating the allergic immune response.

One material system of interest for photovoltaic cells is the combination of the p-conducting copper-phthalocyanine (CuPc) and the n-conducting fullerene (C60) as donor and acceptor materials, respectively. Therefore the transport properties for diodes containing neat and blended organic films are analysed in the space charge limited current regime. The charge carrier mobilities are found to decrease upon dilution of the respective conducting phase by the other species. Photovoltaic cells can be realised with bilayered or blended organic donor/acceptor films. The influence of both photo-active layer types on the electronic structure and the open circuit voltage is investigated. From photoelectron spectroscopy a higher open circuit voltage is predicted for bilayered solar cells. Due to mixing of the organic materials the intermolecular gap between the highest occupied molecular orbital of the donor and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital of the acceptor is reduced. This prediction is proven true by photocurrent measurements.

The aim of this study was to compare the percentage of contamination of multiuse eyedrops applied by glaucoma patients at home and by the medical personnel at the outpatient department, the ward, and the operating room of our Department of Ophthalmology. Eyedrops were collected over a period of 11 months. Samples were taken from the dropper tip (smear), drops, and the residual fluid inside the bottle and cultivated on blood agar. Colony forming units were counted and identified by mass spectrometry. The percentage of contamination was significantly higher in eyedrops applied by the patients (29/119; 24.4%, P

We have used ultraviolet and inverse photoemission spectroscopy to determine the transport gaps (Et) of C60 and diindenoperylene (DIP), and the photovoltaic gap (EPVG) of five prototypical donor/acceptor interfaces used in organic photovoltaic cells (OPVCs). The transport gap of C60 (2.5 ± 0.1) eV and DIP (2.55 ± 0.1) eV at the interface is the same as in pristine films. We find nearly the same energy loss of ca 0.5 eV for all material pairs when comparing the open circuit voltage measured for corresponding OPVCs and EPVG.

We investigate different parameters influencing the occurrence of s-shaped current voltage (j-V) characteristics in planar heterojunction organic solar cells. It is shown how substrate modification, purity of the active organic material as well as variation of the top contact can affect the shape of the j-V curves. The studies are performed on vacuum-evaporated planar heterojunction solar cells with diindenoperylene (DIP) as electron donor and fullerene C60 as acceptor. The focus is on the fill factor and forward current being the most direct indicators for s-shapes in j-V curves. We find that the main effect of substrate heating during film growth can be assigned to changes in energy barriers rather than to the modification of morphology and crystallinity, which is also influenced by elevated substrate temperatures. The decisive role of the barrier height between the anode work function and the HOMO (i.e., highest occupied molecular orbital) level of the donor is approved by comparing hole-injection laye...

A theme-based course focusing on the potential role of hydrogen as a future fuel is described. Numerous topics included in typical introductory courses can be directly related to the issue of hydrogen energy. Beginning topics include Avogadro's number, the mole, atomic mass, gas laws, and the role of electrons in chemical transformations. Reaction stoichiometry and exchange of electrons in a reaction are reinforced through discussions of using electrolysis or active metals to generate hydrogen. Molecular structure, molecular orbitals, and semiconductors are involved in using solar energy to generate electricity that can liberate hydrogen from water. Thermodynamics is applied in considering both gravimetric (energy per unit mass) and volumetric (energy per unit volume) energy density. Data are presented indicating that student performance is enhanced when introductory concepts are conveyed via this theme-based approach.

The achievement of bipolar transport is an important feature of organic semiconductors, both for a fundamental understanding of transport properties and for applications such as complementary electronic devices. We have investigated two routes towards organic field-effect transistors exhibiting bipolar transport characteristics. As a first step, ambipolar field-effect transistors are realized by mixtures of p-conducting copper-phthalocyanine (CuPc) and n-conducting buckminsterfullerene (C60). As a second step, bipolar transport in copper-phthalocyanine is achieved by a modification of the gate dielectric in combination with a controlled variation of the electrode materials used for carrier injection. The analysis involves the determination of charge-carrier mobilities and contact resistances by a single curve analysis and by the transfer length method. Comparison of both types of samples indicates that percolation is a crucial feature in mixtures of both materials to achieve ambipolar carrier flow, whereas in neat films of one single material suitable contact modification allows for bipolar charge-carrier transport. In the latter case, the obtained electron and hole mobilities differ by less than one order of magnitude.

Objective: Description and instruction of drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE). Differentiation of the distribution of vibrationand obstruction sites in habitual snorers and OSA-patients with the help of drug-induced sleep endoscopy. Introduction: Snoring and OSAS are caused by segmental narrowing across the upper airway due to reduced dilatory muscle activity during natural sleep. Different structures as uvula, velum, lateral pharyngeal walls, tongue base and epiglottis may be involved in vibration or collapse. Based on the experience of more than 3500 PSE the presentation includes performance, typical pathologic findings and the statistical distribution of sites of vibration and obstruction in OSAS and habitual snoring. Method: DISE findings of 110 habitual snorers (AHI < 10) and 170 patients with OSA (AHI P 10) have been analyzed. Differentiated were vibrations or obstructions at the velum, the lateral pharyngeal walls, the tongue base and the epiglottis. The statistical distribution is described in % of the respective group (habitual snorers n = 110 and OSA-patients n = 170).Results: Patients with OSA show, as expected, double the rate of obstruction in nearly all areas compared to habitual snorers. Excluding the lateral pharyngeal walls, where the rate of vibrations was about twice as high, the frequency of vibrations for OSA patients was only moderately higher than that of habitual snorers. At the tongue base, vibration rates were equal for both groups, but obstructions were considerably more for the OSA patients. The epiglottis is rarely involved in vibrations or obstructions, but in individual cases it can be a critical location. Localisation Habitual snorers OSA – patients