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Optical and electrochemical properties of vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) films prepared by sol-gel method from organic and inorganic precursors were studied. The organic gel was obtained by hydrolysis and polycondensation of vanadium isopropoxide dissolved in isopropanol. The inorganic gel was prepared from aqueous solution of sodium vanadate. Lithium insertion in LiyV2O5 films (0<y≤2.0) was investigated by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical potential spectroscopy, showing good reversibility up to y∼2.0 and structure transitions from α phase to ε phase and δ phase in the range 0<y≤1.0. Highest values for chemical diffusion coefficient were about 3×10−10 cm2/s at y∼0.8, as determined from complex impedance measurements.

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A novel glassy ionic conductor, lithium niobium oxynitride, was prepared in form of thin films and characterized. Thin-film deposition was carried out by rf magnetron sputtering of LiNbO3 target in nitrogen-containing atmosphere. These films exhibit ionic conductivity of two orders higher than that of LiNbO3 films, the room-temperature conductivity being about 5×10−7 S cm−1. Film structure is highly cross linked, leading to activation energy as low as 0.5 eV. Film transmittance is higher than 85% in both the visible and solar ranges, making them also suitable for use in electrochromic devices.

Abstract:The objective of this study was to explore health-seeking behaviors and barriers faced in accessing care among homeless youth living in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Twelve in-depth interviews were conducted with homeless youth aged 18 to 25. Participants were identified using purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using constructivist grounded theory techniques. Interviews with youth revealed that while living on the streets, they had to balance their need for security with attending to their daily survival needs, which led to a disconnection from thinking about their health. When faced with a major health issue, youth turned to their informal networks of support instead of seeking immediate medical care. To manage their basic health needs, youth obtained medicine and health advice from local pharmacies and sought advice from social workers. Homeless youth interviewed in this study relied on an informal network of peers, social workers, and pharmacies when engaging with the health care system. They also faced several barriers to accessing health services, many of which are tied specifically to policies that make homelessness discriminated against in Vietnam. Within Vietnam's unique political and social context, there is a need for increased collaboration between service providers such as health clinics, local pharmacies, and social workers to provide appropriate health services to this vulnerable population.