bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Characterization of Pore Filled Hybrid Composite Membrane Composed of Cation Exchange Materials and Polyethylene Support
Authors: Ko Tae Ho , Yun Jun Seong , Son Tae Yang , Nam Sang Yong
Published: June 2020

This study investigated ion exchange membranes for application to seawater desalination processes. This can provide better energy efficiency than the conventional reverse osmosis process. In this experiment, the problem of decreasing ion exchange performance when the ion exchange composite
membrane was prepared could be improved through nanoparticles. The nanoparticle added ion exchange hybrid membrane showed ion exchange capacity similar to that of the conventional pristine film. In addition, the polymer having a high ion exchange capacity has poor mechanical strength, but
has excellent mechanical strength of 30 MPa or more by the introduction of a polyethylene support.
Correlation Between Microstructure and Tensile Properties of STS 316L and Inconel 718 Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting (SLM)
Authors: Lee Jungsub , Lee Minshik , Jung Im Doo , Choe Jungho , Yu Ji-Hun , Kim Sangshik , Sung Hyokyung
Published: June 2020

The correlation between microstructure and tensile properties of selective laser melting (SLM) processed STS 316L and Inconel 718 were investigated at various heights (top, middle and bottom) and planes (YZ, ZX and XY). Columnar grains and dendrites were formed by directional
growth during solidification. The average melt pool width and depth, and scan track width were similar in both specimens due to fixed processing parameters. SLM Inconel 718 has moderate tensile strength (1165 MPa) and tensile elongation (11.5%), whereas SLM STS 316L has outstanding tensile
strength (656 MPa) and tensile elongation (75%) compared to other SLM processed STS 316L. Fine columnar diameter (0.5 μm) and dense microstructures (porosity: 0.35%) in SLM STS 316L promoted the enhancement of tensile elongation by suitable processing condition. Fractographic analysis
suggested that the lack of fusion pore with unmelted powder should be avoided to increase tensile properties by controlling processing parameters.
Ni–Cu Nanoparticles-Embedded Ag-Based Reflector for High-Efficiency Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Chu Eun-Kyung , Ha Kab , Noh Beom-Rae , Kwon Young-Ju , Oh Semi , Im Jaehyuk , Jang Junhwan , Cho Soohaeng , Kim Kyoung-Kook
Published: June 2020

We investigated the use of a silver reflector embedded with Ni–Cu nanoparticles to achieve low resistance and high reflectivity in GaN-based flip-chip light-emitting diodes. Compared to a single layer of Ag, the NC-NPs/Ag reflector exhibits a higher light reflectance of ~90% at
a wavelength of 450 nm, a lower contact resistance of 4.75 × 10−5 II cm2, and improved thermal stability after annealing at 400°C. The NC-NPs formed after the annealing process prevents agglomeration of the Ag layer, while also reducing the Schottky barrier
height between the p-GaN layer and metal reflector. The LED fabricated with a NC-NPs/Ag reflector exhibited a forward-bias voltage of 3.13 V and an improvement in light output power of 36.6% (at 20 mA), when compared with the LED composed of a Ag SL. This result indicates that the NC-NPs/Ag
reflector is a promising p-type reflector for high-intensity light-emitting diodes.
Enhanced Interfacial Adhesion of Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) by Control of the Crosslink Density
Authors: Shin Eun Ae , Lee Sang Bong , Kim Gye Hyeon , Jung Jeyoung , Lee Chang Kee
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we report a simple, fast, and one-step approach to improve the adhesion force of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) by incorporating inorganic nanoparticles that can control the physical, mechanical, and adhesion properties of the PDMS. An organic/inorganic PDMS-based composite
was fabricated by the hydrosilylation of vinyl-decorated silica nanoparticles (v-SNPs) and the PDMS. The v-SNP/PDMS composite showed a significantly decreased elastic modulus and increased elongation compared with that of pristine SNPs incorporated with the PDMS composite (SNP/PDMS) and pristine
PDMS. Furthermore, the v-SNP/PDMS composite exhibited a low glass-transition temperature and sharp crystallization and melting peaks in the differential scanning calorimetry curve compared with those of pristine PDMS and the SNP/PDMS composite. Moreover, the v-SNP/PDMS composite showed a high
swelling ratio and crosslinked molecular weight and low gel fraction. These results may originate from the suppression of the PDMS-curing networks as the addition of the v-SNPs creates a low curing density because of the chemical bonding between PDMS and the v-SNPs. Finally, the v-SNP/PDMS
composite showed an improvement of ~426% in the adhesion force compared with pristine PDMS and the SNP/PDMS composite. We anticipate that this v-SNP/PDMS composite could be used as a highly adhesive and hydrophobic coating material for various applications in industry.
Residual Image Suppression Through Annealing Process of Amorphous Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide Thin Film Transistor for Plastic Organic Light-Emitting Diode Display
Authors: Won Do Young , Kim Hyun Min , Nguyen Manh-Cuong , Myoung Jae-Min , Choi Rino , Yoon Ho Gyu
Published: June 2020

For the evaluation of the residual image suppression, the amorphous indium-gallium-zinc-oxide thin film transistor was manufactured with electric field shield metal on silicon oxide multi-buffer layer, without the need for a silicon crystallization process through the excimer laser
process, and is advantageous for the manufacture of large-scale plastic organic light-emitting display. We conducted a study on the propensity to suppress a residual image according to the temperature of the annealing process in amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide. The evaluation divided by
the ambient process temperature conditions to measure the change and restoration tendency of the gray current by the black/white current of thin film transistors, and for precise measurement of the current change intervals, the current was analyzed in 0.004 seconds per point. Through the study,
residual image of amorphous Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide transistor was found to be suppressed as the temperature of the annealing crystallization increased from 250°C to 325°C, and there was no improvement effect on the 325°C or higher. The trend of threshold voltage shift of thin
film transistors according to the two process temperature conditions, 250°C and 325°C, was analyzed by Two sample T analysis method, and the analysis confirmed that the trend of current deterioration is different through p-value 0.007.
Effect of Ultrasonic Shot Peening on the Microstructure of Austenitic Stainless Steel 316 and Super Duplex Stainless Steel UNS S32750
Authors: Liu Sijia , Shin Keesam
Published: June 2020

Shot peening for nanocrystallization of the surface region is a good way of improving corrosion-, fatigue-, and wear-resistance, etc. of metallic parts (Lu, K., 2014. Making strong nanomaterials ductile with gradients. Science, 345(6203), pp.1455–1456). The technique has
been widely used for various materials as a method of surface modification. SUS316 has excellent corrosion and oxidation resistance with good formability However, its application is limited by the low mechanical strength and hardness. S32750 (duplex stainless steel) is one of most used tubing
materials for oil/gas delivery systems in a corrosive environment under high pressure (Nilsson, J.O., 1992. Super duplex stainless steels. Materials Science and Technology, 8(8), pp.685–700). Thus, improving corrosion resistance is a key for the wider application and better maintenance
of S32750. In our study, the alloy S32750 was heat-treated at 1070°C to obtain a precipitation-free microstructure (γ and δ dual-phase structure). It was then ultrasonic shot peened and microstructures were analyzed for: (1) surface nanocrystallization, (2) effect
of the treatment processing parameters, and (3) the determination of microstructural evolution and the effect of the shot peening process.
Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-b-Poly(L-lysine)-b-Poly(L-histidine) Triblock Amphiphilic Copolymer Nanomicelles for Dual-Responsive Anticancer Drug Delivery
Authors: Augustine Rimesh , Kim Dae-Kyoung , Kim Ho An , Kim Jae Ho , Kim Il
Published: June 2020

A series of ABC triblock poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)75-block-poly(L-lysine)35-block-poly(L-histidine)n (p(NIPAM)75-b-p(Lys)35-b-p(His)N) (N = 35,50,75,100)
copolymer bio-conjugates were prepared by combining reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization and fast ring-opening polymerization of N-carboxyanhydride a-amino acid using 1,3-dicyclohexylimidazolium hydrogen carbonate as a catalyst. All the resulting triblock copolymers
self-assembled into spherical micellar aggregates in aqueous solution, irrespective of the chain length of the histidine block. The micellar aggregates encapsulated the anticancer drug doxorubicin (Dox) and exhibited high drug loading efficiency. Temperature and pH stimuli were applied to
investigate the controlled release of Dox. The non-cytotoxic nature of the polymers was investigated using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Cellular uptake of the Dox-loaded micelles revealed that the micelles successfully release Dox in cancer cells
in response to pH- and temperature-induced morphological change. In-vitro studies further confirmed that the Dox-loaded triblock copolymer micelle is an excellent platform for drug delivery.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of MoS2/rGO/S Composite as a Cathode Material for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Reddy Bhumi Reddy Srinivasulu , Premasudha Mookala , Lee Yeon-Ju , Ahn Hyo-Jun , Reddy Nagireddy Gari Subba , Ahn Jou-Hyeon , Cho Kwon-Koo
Published: June 2020

To develop the next-generation energy storage systems, lithium-sulfur batteries represent an attractive option due to its high theoretical capacity, and energy density. In this work, MoS2/rGO (reduced graphene oxide) was prepared by hydrothermal synthesis and sulfur added
by the melt diffusion method. The as-prepared MoS2/rGO has strong polysulfides entrapping, high conductivity, large surface area, and high catalytic activity, consequently resulting in enhanced rate performance and cycling capability of Li-S batteries. The coin cells were constructed
with the MoS2/rGO/S cathode material, exhibit a high reversible capacity of nearly 1380 mAh/g at 0.1 C, outstanding cycling stability with a low capacity fading rate. Present work reveals that the hierarchal MoS2/rGO/S cathodes are potential candidate materials for future
high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries.
Characterization of Bilayer Organic Solar Cells with Carbon Nanotubes Using Impedance Analysis
Authors: Han Kyeongman , Jun So-Yeon , Lim Hyuna , Bae Eunji , Park Seung Hun , Jung Donggeun , Kwon Namic , Yu SeGi
Published: June 2020

Four organic solar cell (OSC) devices with the bilayer heterojunction architecture were investigated, where carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were doped within the acceptor layer. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the CNT-incorporated device with a concentration of 0.004 wt% is approximately
20% point higher than that of the reference one. As the concentration of CNTs became higher, the PCE of the devices deteriorated; this could be caused by the percolative connection of CNTs within the layer. The voltage dependence on the effective lifetime of the charge carriers, determined
by Cole–Cole curves of the impedance analysis, was different for the reference and CNT-incorporating devices—the lifetime of the CNT-incorporated ones was shorter, possibly owing to the high local electric field near the CNTs. Controlling the concentration of CNTs below the critical
concentration of percolation is a key factor in achieving high photovoltaic performance.
Effect of Ordered Carbon Structures on Electrochemical Properties of Carbon/Sulfur Composites in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Liu Ying , Li Xueying , Heo Jungwon , Sun Yuanzheng , Lee Younki , Lim Du-Hyun , Ahn Hyo-Jun , Cho Kwon-Koo , Yang Rong , Ahn Jou-Hyeon
Published: June 2020

In this paper, the relationship between the pore spatial structures, pore sizes, and pore types of highly ordered mesoporous CMK-based carbons (CMK-1, CMK-3, and CMK-5) and their electrochemical performance in Li-S batteries is investigated. CMK-1 has a complex spatial structure and
small pores. The structure is good for limiting polysulfide in the pores, but not for rapid transfer of Li+ ions in the cell. CMK-3 and CMK-5 have similar spatial structures and pore sizes, but different pore types. Compared to the single pore structure of CMK-3, the bimodal pore
structure of CMK-5 not only improves the electrolyte accessibility, but also increases the number of reaction sites, resulting in better electrochemical performance. Studying the correlation between the physical structure of carbon-based materials and their electrochemical performance in Li-S
batteries will provide new insights for optimizing porous electrode materials.
Design of High-Power and High-Density Photovoltaic Modules Based on a Shingled Cell String
Authors: Park Ji-Su , Oh Won-Je , Joo Jang-Hun , Yi Jun-Sin , Hong Byung-You , Lee Jae-Hyeong
Published: June 2020

Building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) arrays, which are installed on the roofs of buildings as part of urban solar power generation, have created a demand for high-power and high-density photovoltaic (PV) modules to produce high-output power in a limited area. In this paper, a high-power
PV module using a shingles technology is designed. When the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the module were 201.78 cm × 96.75 cm in the same area as that of the conventional PV module, the number of cell strips reached 390. When six 65-interconnection shingled strings were connected
in series, the output power of 367.8 W was achieved. Compared with a conventional PV module of the same area, the output power was 8% greater.
Improvement of Oxygen Mobility with the Formation of Defects in the Crystal Structure of Red Mud as an Oxygen Carrier for Chemical Looping Combustion
Authors: Kwon Byung Chan , Kang Misook , Park No-Kuk , Lee Tae Jin , Baek Jeom-In , Kim Ui-Sik , Ryu Ho-Jung
Published: June 2020

Fe2O3 is the major component of red mud, which is a by-produced after eluting aluminum from bauxite in the Bayer process, and can be used as an oxygen carrier. On the other hand, red mud is unsuitable for using oxygen in the crystal lattice because of its low surface
area. In this study the red-mud sample was sulfidated at high temperatures to improve the lattice oxygen mobility by forming lattice defects in the iron oxide crystals. To form crystal defects on red mud, iron oxide was converted to iron sulfide with hydrogen sulfide, and then re-oxidized
by air to remove the sulfur components. In these processes, it was possible to generate defects could be generated in the crystal structure. Crystal defects are formed by the difference in the molar volume of oxygen and sulfur bound to the metal in the oxidation-sulfidation process. The surface
area of the defective red mud increased from approximately 25.9 m2/g to 122.1 m2/g, and the pore volume increased from 0.1714cc/g to 0.2803 cc/g. In addition, the formation of crystal defects increased the oxygen transfer capacity of red mud from 1.75% to 2.25% at 15
vol.% hydrogen. This means that the amount of oxygen transported during the reduction process could be enhanced approximately 1.29 fold.
Improvement of Characteristics of Metal Doped TiO2 Thin Film and Application to Perovskite Solar Cell
Authors: Shin Seong Gwan , Choi Hyung Wook
Published: June 2020

Over the past three decades, the development of renewable energy technologies has attracted significant attention to overcome both environmental pollution and global warming. Recently, a new type of solar cell based on an organic–inorganic halide perovskite material has been developed.
Perovskite solar cells (PSC) were first reported in 2009; their efficiencies increased rapidly from 3.8% to 22%. PSCs have many advantages owing to their use of simple processing technology and stable materials. Perovskite materials have a general formula of ABX, where A is generally methyl
ammonium CH3NH3+ (MA), B is a metal ion, such as Pb or Sn, and × represents a halogen ion. A distinct advantage of lead-based perovskites (i.e., MAPbX3) is that their band gaps can be easily tuned, from 1.2 to 2.3 eV, by varying their compositions and
anions. Titanium dioxide is as often used as an electron transport layer due to its high chemical and optical stability, non-toxicity, low cost, and resistance to corrosion. TiO2 films can be characterized by the defects in their preparation, such as density fluctuations, pinholes,
and cracks; these defects can reduce electrical conductivity and cause recombination. In this study, we have demonstrated that the electrical conductivity of TiO2 thin films is improved by its doping with Al3+. When applied to a PSC, the doped thin film improves the charge
transfer of the solar cell and increases its efficiency. Our results suggest that Al3+ nanoparticles in the TiO2 layer may contribute to the improvement of the PSC.
Technology Computer-Aided Design-Based Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis Model for Back-Channel-Etched Thin-Film Transistors with Floating Metal Components
Authors: Kim Kihwan , Kim Myungeon , Cho Hyunguk , Cho Youngmi , Kim Yongjo , Choi Byoungdeog
Published: June 2020

We report thin-film transistors (TFTs) with floating metal using a back-channel-etched (BCE) process. Since the BCE process reduces the active mask step compared to other processes, it has attracted attention as a back-plane process that could be used for mass production. To realize
the long channel in the BCE process, a floating metal is required; this acts as a bridge in the middle of the channel. We used TCAD (Technology computer-aided design) simulations (Atlas 3D) to predict the characteristics of a-Si TFTs with various active layer thicknesses and numbers of floating
metal components; simulation results were compared with real measurements. We explain why TFTs do not scale ideally when floating metals are used; this is related to the resistance and thickness of the active channel. If a thick and highly resistive active channel is used, a larger number
of floating metals will require greater correction for ideal scaling. Additionally, considering the capacitance between the source metal and channel, the channel influence under the floating metal should be about 89%. We also suggest a new SPICE (Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit
Emphasis) model for TFTs with floating metal based on TCAD simulations.
Computer‐Assisted Quantitative Analysis of Drug‐Induced Sleep Endoscopy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea/Hypopnea Syndrome
Authors: Lai Chi‐Chih , Lin Pei‐Wen , Lin Hsin‐Ching , Friedman Michael , Salapatas Anna M. , Chen Ju‐Pin , Chang Hsueh‐Wen , Juang Sin‐Ei , Wu Shao‐Chun , Lin Meng‐Chih
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To use computer‐assisted quantitative measurements of upper airway changes during drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) and to correlate these parameters with disease severities and physiologic changes in patients with obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSA).

Design

A retrospective study.

Setting

Tertiary academic medical center.

Patients and Methods

A total of 170 patients who failed continuous positive airway pressure therapy and then underwent upper airway surgery were enrolled. All patients received polysomnography and DISE preoperatively. We used ImageJ 1.48v to obtain maximal and minimal measurements, including cross‐sectional areas and anterior‐posterior and lateral diameters at 4 anatomic levels (retropalatal, oropharyngeal, retroglossal, and retroepiglottic) under DISE, and then computed the percentage changes. We analyzed the clinical values of DISE changes by computer‐assisted analysis in patients with OSA and any correlations between these changes and polysomnography parameters.

Results

The percentage changes of upper airway showed significant collapses at all 4 anatomic levels (all P <. 0001). We also found that the changes at retropalatal levels were significantly greater and that retroglossal levels were significantly smaller, while the changes of anterior‐posterior diameters at retroglossal levels showed a significant positive association with apnea‐hypopnea index and desaturation index. However, there were no statistically significant correlations between upper airway changes and obesity.

Conclusion

Computer‐assisted quantitative analysis could evaluate upper airway changes of OSA in an objective way and may help identify the sites of obstruction during DISE more accurately. Upper airway showed multilevel collapse with independent significant changes in patients with OSA, with the retropalatal and retroglossal levels playing important roles in particular.
Comparison of Endoscopic and Ultrasonographic Measurements of the Subglottic Airway in Children
Authors: Lambert Elton M. , Tran Huy D. , Ongkasuwan Julina
Published: June 2020

Objective

To compare measurements of the pediatric subglottis obtained by surgeon‐performed ultrasound and endoscopy.

Study Design

Prospective observational comparison‐of‐methods study.

Setting

Tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Thirty‐one patients who underwent direct laryngoscopy from May 2017 to July 2018 were recruited. Transcervical ultrasound was used to visualize the vocal folds, subglottis, and cervical trachea. The anterior‐posterior (AP) and transverse (TV) diameter of the subglottic space were measured endoscopically and via ultrasound by 2 independent evaluators. Measurements were compared for correlation, bias, and agreement. A clinically acceptable bias for subglottic diameter was assumed to be 0.5 mm or less.

Results

The median age of enrolled patients was 2.6 years (range, 4 months–13.3 years). Endoscopic subglottic AP and TV measurements ranged from 3.33 mm to 14.81 mm and from 4.44 mm to 11.65 mm, respectively, while ultrasonographic AP and TV measurements ranged from 4.57 mm to 9.85 mm and from 3.77 mm to 8.96 mm. Pearson coefficient showed strong a correlation for both endoscopic and ultrasound AP (R = 0.8081, P <. 0001) and TV (R = 0.8796, P <. 001) measurements of the subglottis. Bland‐Altman plots revealed a bias (average discrepancy) for AP measurements of 0.22 mm and 0.11 mm for TV measurements.

Conclusion

Endoscopic and ultrasonography measurements of the pediatric subglottic airway were strongly correlated. The discrepancy between AP and TV measurements was less than 0.5 mm. Ultrasound of the subglottis may be an alternative to endoscopic assessment of the airway for measurement of the subglottic airway in children in select cases.
Early Data From Case Series of Tracheostomy in Patients With SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Floyd Elizabeth , Harris Scott S. , Lim Jessica W. , Edelstein David R. , Filangeri Briana , Bruni Margherita
Published: June 2020

Thirty‐eight tracheostomies were performed on patients with respiratory failure secondary to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection over the month of April at North Shore University Hospital and Lenox Hill Hospital (members of Northwell Health System in Long Island and New York City). Follow‐up by May 14 revealed that 21 (55.2%) had been weaned from ventilators and 7 (18.4%) underwent decannulation. Two patients (5.3%) expired in the weeks following tracheostomy. Between the 2 institutions, 10 attending surgeons performed all of the tracheostomies using appropriate personal protective equipment, and none demonstrated seroconversion within 1 to 2 weeks of this article.
Supervision Satisfaction Among Social Work Students in Israel: Supervision Components, Peer Support, and Trauma-Related Factors
Authors: Reuven Even Zahav Ronit , Refaeli Tehila , Shemesh Shahar , Gottlieb Shelly , Ben-Porat Anat
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

Supervision is an essential part of social work education. Accordingly, supervision satisfaction plays an important role in the development of the students’ professional identity. However, the factors contributing to supervision satisfaction among social work students have rarely been examined. This study examined the contribution of supervision components, peer support, secondary traumatization, and vicarious post-traumatic growth (VPTG) to supervision satisfaction.

Method:

Self-report questionnaires were distributed to 259 undergraduate social work students. Correlation and hierarchical linear regression analyses were performed.

Results:

Higher supervision satisfaction was predicted by the educational and supportive components of supervision, peer support, and VPTG, whereas the administrative component of supervision satisfaction and secondary traumatization predicted lower supervision satisfaction.

Discussion:

The findings highlight the negative ramifications of secondary traumatization and the positive contribution that supportive and educational supervision, peer support, and VPTG can have on social work students’ supervision satisfaction. Practical implications for practice and policy are discussed.
High-pressure densification and hydrophobic coating for enhancing the mechanical properties and dimensional stability of soft poplar wood boards
Authors: Yu Yong , Li Aqiang , Yan Kaiya , Ramaswamy Hosahalli S. , Zhu Songming , Li Huanhuan
Published: June 2020

Effects of high-pressure (HP) treatment on densification of poplar sapwood boards and subsequent coatings were evaluated. Tung oil (TO) and epoxy resin (ER)-coated treatments were used to improve the dimensional stability of HP-densified wood. The density of the wood after HP densification increased from 450 ± 50 kg/m3 for the control to 960 ± 20 kg/m3 at 125 MPa. This process also resulted in the average thickness of HP-densified boards to reduce significantly from 29.7 ± 0.11 mm for the control to 18.8 ± 0.53 mm after HP densification at 25 MPa and 14.3 ± 0.10 mm after 125 MPa treatment for 30 s. The mechanical strength measured as the hardness of densified wood significantly increased from 35% at 25 MPa to 96% at 125 MPa treatment, compared to untreated wood. As expected both TO and ER-coated treatments significantly reduced set-recovery of densified wood when stored at four relative humidity environments. ER showed better anti-swelling performance than TO, and would be a better choice.
New quantitative trait locus (QTLs) and candidate genes associated with the grape berry color trait identified based on a high-density genetic map
Authors: Sun Lei , Li Shenchang , Jiang Jianfu , Tang Xiaoping , Fan Xiucai , Zhang Ying , Liu Jihong , Liu Chonghuai
Published: June 2020

Background

Berry color is an important trait in grapes and is mainly determined by the anthocyanin content and composition. To further explore the coloring mechanism of grape berries, the F1 population of Vitis vinifera ‘Red Globe’ × ‘Muscat Hamburg’ was used to map the color locus, and transcriptome analysis was performed to assist in screening candidate genes.

Results

A total of 438,407 high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were obtained from whole-genome resequencing (WGS) of the population, and 27,454 SNPs were selected to construct a high-density genetic map. The selected SNPs were clustered into 19 linkage groups (LGs) spanning a genetic distance of 1442.638 cM. Berry color was evaluated by color grade, chromatic aberration, total anthocyanin content and anthocyanin composition. The Pearson correlation coefficients of these phenotypes in 2017 and 2018 were significant at the 0.01 level. The major color locus of MYBA1 and MYBA2 on LG2 was identified, explaining between 26 and 63.6% of all phenotypic variance. Furthermore, 9 additional QTLs with smaller effects were detected on Chr2, Chr4, Chr6, Chr11 and Chr17. Combined with the gene annotation and RNA-seq data, multiple new candidate genes were selected from the above QTLs.

Conclusion

These results indicated that grape berry color is a quantitative trait controlled by a major color locus and multiple minor loci. Though the major color locus was consistent with previous studies, several minor QTLs and candidate genes associated with grape berry color and anthocyanin accumulation were identified in this study. And the specific regulatory mechanism still needs to be further explored.
Prevalence and risk factors for bone loss in Southern Chinese with rheumatic diseases
Authors: Hu Zhuoran , Xu Shuiming , Lin He , Ni Weifeng , Yang Qingyuan , Qi Jun , Du Keqian , Gu Jieruo , Lin Zhiming
Published: June 2020

Backgroud

This study is to explore the prevalence of different stages of bone loss and the potential risk factors in rheumatic patients.

Method

A cross-sectional study recruits 1398 rheumatic patients and 302 healthy subjects. Demographic data, blood, and bone mineral density (BMD) tests are collected. Risk factors for bone loss in rheumatic patients are analyzed by logistic regression.

Results

(1) Rheumatic patients are consisted of 40.0% rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 14.7% systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 14.2% osteoarthritis (OA), 9.2% ankylosing spondylosis (AS), 7.9% gout, 7.0% primary Sjogren syndrome (pSS), 3.8% systemic sclerosis (SSc), and 3.2% mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD). (2) In male patients aged under 50 and premenopausal female patients, the bone mineral density score of AS (53.9%, P < 0.001) and SLE (39.6%, P = 0.034) patients is lower than the healthy controls (18.2%). (3) Osteopenia and osteoporosis are more prevailing in male patients aged or older than 50 and postmenopausal female patients with RA (P < 0.001), OA (P = 0.02) and SLE (P = 0.011) than healthy counterparts. (4) Those with SLE, RA and AS gain the highest odd ratio of ‘score below the expected range for age’, osteopenia and osteoporosis, respectively. (5) Age, female, low BMI and hypovitaminosis D are found negatively associated with bone loss. Dyslipidemia and hyperuricemia could be protective factors.

Conclusion

Young patients with AS and SLE have a significant higher occurrence of bone loss, and older patients with RA, OA and SLE had higher prevalence than healthy counterparts. SLE, RA, SSc and AS were founded significant higher risks to develop into bone loss after adjustment. Age, BMI and gender were commonly-associated with bone loss in all age-stratified rheumatic patients. These findings were not markedly different from those of previous studies.
Serosurvey of arthropod-borne diseases among shelter dogs in the Cumberland Gap Region of the United States
Authors: Patterson Gilbert , Tanhauser Matthew , Schmidt Paul , Spangler Dawn , Faulkner Charles , Faulkner Vina , Kish Daniel , Gruszynski Karen , Naikare Hemant , Coarsey Michele D. , Verma Ashutosh
Published: June 2020

Background

The Cumberland Gap Region (CGR) of the United States is a natural corridor between the southeastern, northeastern, and midwestern regions of the country. CGR has also many species of ticks and mosquitos that serve as competent vectors for important animal and human pathogens. In this study, we tested dogs from six different animal shelters in the CGR for Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), anaplasmosis, Lyme disease, canine ehrlichiosis and canine heartworm disease.

Results

Sera from 157 shelter dogs were tested for antibodies to RMSF agent,Rickettsia rickettsii, using an indirect immunofluorescence assay. Sixty-six dogs (42.0%) were positive for either IgM or IgG, or both IgM and IgG antibodies toR. rickettsii. Moreover, the same set of sera (n = 157) plus an and additional sera (n = 75) from resident dogs at the same shelters were tested using the SNAP 4Dx Plus. Of 232 dogs tested, two (0.9%) were positive for antibodies toAnaplasma phagocytophilum/A. platys, nine (3.9%) were positive for antibodies toBorrelia burgdorferi, 23 (9.9%) for positive for antibodies toEhrlichia canis/E. ewingii, and 13 (5.6%) were positive forDirofilaria immitisantigen. Co-infection with two or more etiologic agents was detected in five animals. Three dogs had antibodies to bothB. burgdorferiandE. canis/E. ewingii, and two dogs were positive forD. immitisantigen and antibodies toB. burgdorferiandE. canis/E. ewingii.

Conclusions

Shelter dogs in the CGR are exposed to a number of important vector-borne pathogens. Further studies are required to ascertain the roles these animals play in maintenance and transmission of these pathogens.
Systematic review with network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of robotic-assisted arm training for improving activities of daily living and upper limb function after stroke
Authors: Mehrholz Jan , Pollock Alex , Pohl Marcus , Kugler Joachim , Elsner Bernhard
Published: June 2020

Background

The aim of the present study was to to assess the relative effectiveness of the various types of electromechanical-assisted arm devices and approaches after stroke.

Method

This is a systematic review of randomized controlled trials with network meta-analysis. Our primary endpoints were activities of daily living (measured e.g. with Barthel-Index) and hand-arm function (measured e.g. with the Fugl-Meyer Scale for the upper limb), our secondary endpoints were hand-arm strength (measured e.g. with the Motricity Index) and safety. We used conventional arm training as our reference category and compared it with different intervention categories of electromechanical-assisted arm training depending on the therapy approach. We did indirect comparisons between the type of robotic device. We considered the heterogeneity of the studies by means of confidence and prediction intervals.

Results

Fifty five randomized controlled trials, including 2654 patients with stroke, met our inclusion criteria.

For the primary endpoints activities of daily living and hand-arm function and the secondary endpoint hand-arm strength, none of the interventions achieved statistically significant improvements, taking into account the heterogeneity of the studies.

Safety did not differ with regard to the individual interventions of arm rehabilitation after stroke.

Conclusion

The outcomes of robotic-assisted arm training were comparable with conventional therapy.

Indirect comparisons suggest that no one type of robotic device is any better or worse than any other device, providing no clear evidence to support the selection of specific types of robotic device to promote hand-arm recovery.

Trial registration

PROSPERO 2017CRD42017075411
Uptake and predictors of direct-acting antiviral treatment for hepatitis C among people receiving opioid agonist therapy in Sweden and Norway: a drug utilization study from 2014 to 2017
Authors: Aas Christer F. , Vold Jørn Henrik , Skurtveit Svetlana , Odsbu Ingvild , Chalabianloo Fatemeh , Lim Aaron G. , Johansson Kjell Arne , Fadnes Lars Thore
Published: June 2020

Background

Treatment with direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) offers an opportunity to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) endemic among people who inject drugs (PWID) and people enrolled in opioid agonist therapy (OAT) programs. The objective of this study was to estimate and to compare HCV treatment uptake after the introduction of DAAs among patients receiving OAT in Sweden and Norway. We also aimed to evaluate predictors of DAAs treatment among OAT patients in both countries.

Methods

This observational study was conducted with data from The Swedish Prescribed Drug Register and The Norwegian Prescription Database. We studied dispensed medications to calculate HCV treatment among OAT patients from 2014 to 2017 in Sweden and Norway. HCV prevalence was estimated from primary and secondary sources. Dispensations of medicines from different therapeutic areas, which served as proxy for co-morbidities in 2017, were conditionally adjusted for age, gender, and OAT medications. Logistic regression was used to evaluate these parameters.

Results

In total 3529 individuals were identified with dispensed OAT in the Swedish cohort and 7739 individuals in the Norwegian cohort. HCV treatment was utilized by 407 persons in Sweden and 920 in Norway during the study period. Annual HCV and DAA treatment uptake increased in both countries. The estimated cumulative HCV treatment uptake at the end of 2017 was 31% in Norway and 28% in Sweden. DAA treatment was associated with increased age (aOR 1.8; 95% CI 1.0–3.2) and the dispensation of drugs used for diabetes (aOR 3.2; 95% CI 1.8–5.7) in Sweden. In Norway, lipid modifying agents and antibacterials were associated with decreased odds (aOR 0.4; 95%CI 0.2–0.9, aOR 0.8; 95%CI 0.6–1.0).

Conclusions

An increase in DAA treatment and HCV treatment uptake was observed among Swedish and Norwegian OAT patients whilst introducing new direct-acting antiviral treatment regimens. However, more than two thirds of the OAT population in Norway and Sweden were untreated at the beginning of 2018. A further scale-up is crucial in order to control and eliminate the HCV endemic among OAT patients.
Proton versus photon radiotherapy for primary hepatocellular carcinoma: a propensity-matched analysis
Authors: Cheng Jen-Yu , Liu Chieh-Min , Wang Yu-Ming , Hsu Hsuan-Chih , Huang Eng-Yen , Huang Tzu-Ting , Lee Ching-Hsin , Hung Sheng-Ping , Huang Bing-Shen
Published: June 2020

Background

Proton radiotherapy has a dosimetric advantage over photon radiotherapy. Many retrospective studies have shown promising results with proton radiotherapy in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, clinical evidence demonstrating the benefit of protons over photons is still limited. We therefore compared the clinical outcomes of the two modalities using medical research databases from our medical foundation.

Methods

We conducted a propensity score-matched cohort study based on our multi-institution medical organization research database. From January 2007 to January 2018, a total of 413 patients (photon: 349; proton: 64) who were diagnosed with HCC and primarily treated with radiotherapy with curative intent were enrolled. Overall survival (OS) and radiation-induced liver disease (RILD) were assessed. Stratified analysis was also performed to evaluate the heterogeneous effects of the two arms.

Results

A total of 110 patients (photon: 55; proton: 55) were analyzed in the propensity-matched series. The matched groups were balanced for baseline tumor risk factors. Cox regression analysis revealed a significant survival benefit in the proton group (p = 0.032, HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.33–0.96). The median overall survival in the proton group was not reached and that in the photon group was 17.4 months. The biological equivalent dose of radiotherapy was significantly higher in the proton group than in the photon group (median, 96.56 Gray [relative biological effectiveness] vs. 62.5 Gray, p < 0.001). The risk of RILD was significantly lower in the proton group (11.8% vs. 36%, p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Proton radiotherapy could deliver a higher radiation dose than photon radiotherapy without increasing the risk of RILD and result in a better overall survival rate for those diagnosed with HCC and treated with radiotherapy with curative intent.
PKU dietary handbook to accompany PKU guidelines
Authors: MacDonald A. , van Wegberg A. M. J. , Ahring K. , Beblo S. , Bélanger-Quintana A. , Burlina A. , Campistol J. , Coşkun T. , Feillet F. , Giżewska M. , Huijbregts S. C. , Leuzzi V. , Maillot F. , Muntau A. C. , Rocha J. C. , Romani C. , Trefz F. , van Spronsen F. J.
Published: June 2020

Background

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of phenylalanine metabolism caused by deficiency in the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase that converts phenylalanine into tyrosine.

Main body

In 2017 the first European PKU Guidelines were published. These guidelines contained evidence based and/or expert opinion recommendations regarding diagnosis, treatment and care for patients with PKU of all ages. This manuscript is a supplement containing the practical application of the dietary treatment.

Conclusion

This handbook can support dietitians, nutritionists and physicians in starting, adjusting and maintaining dietary treatment.
E-Freeze - a randomised controlled trial evaluating the clinical and cost effectiveness of a policy of freezing embryos followed by thawed frozen embryo transfer compared with a policy of fresh embryo transfer, in women undergoing in vitro fertilisation: a statistical analysis plan
Authors: Bell Jennifer L. , Hardy Pollyanna , Greenland Melanie , Juszczak Edmund , Cole Christina , Maheshwari Abha , Bhattacharya Siladitya , Linsell Louise
Published: June 2020

Background

The E-Freeze trial is a multi-centre randomised controlled trial of fresh versus frozen embryo transfer for women undergoing in vitro fertilisation. This paper describes the statistical analysis plan for the E-Freeze trial.

Methods and design

E-Freeze is a two-arm parallel-group, multi-centre, individually randomised controlled trial to determine if a policy of freezing embryos, followed by thawed frozen embryo transfer, results in a higher healthy baby rate when compared with the current policy of transferring fresh embryos. Couples undergoing their first, second or third cycle of in vitro fertilisation at fertility centres in the UK were randomised to either fresh or frozen embryo transfer. The primary outcome is a healthy baby, defined as a live singleton baby born at term with an appropriate weight for gestation. This paper describes the statistical analysis plan for the trial, including the analysis principles, definitions of outcomes, methods for primary analysis, pre-specified subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis. This plan was finalised prior to completion of recruitment to the trial.

Trial registration

ISRCTN registry: ISRCTN61225414. Registered on 29 December 2015.
Retrospective investigation of Echinococcus canadensis emergence in translocated elk (Cervus canadensis) in Tennessee, USA, and examination of canid definitive hosts
Authors: Dell BreeAnna , Newman Shelley J. , Purple Kathryn , Miller Brad , Ramsay Edward , Donnell Robert , Gerhold Richard W.
Published: June 2020

Background

Few reports of Echinococcus spp. have been described in the USA; however, the geographical distribution of Echinococcus spp. in wild hosts is increasing consequent to human activities. In the early 2000’s, 253 elk (Cervus canadensis) originating from Alberta, Canada were released into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area in an effort to re-establish their historical range.

Methods

We investigated the prevalence of Echinococcus spp. in re-established elk populations in the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park via a retrospective analysis of banked elk tissues and helminth examinations on intestinal contents from coyotes (Canis latrans) from the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area.

Results

Four elk were PCR and sequence positive for E. canadensis. Each sequence had 98% or greater coverage and identity to multiple E. canadensis genotypes on GenBank. Adult Echinococcus spp. were not detected in any of the coyotes examined in this study.

Conclusions

Continued surveillance of this disease in susceptible species in these areas is warranted, and these data further underscore the risk of zoonotic pathogen introduction secondary to wildlife translocation.
SHOX2 gene methylation in Egyptians having lung cancer
Authors: Rizk Mohamed Mostafa Mohamed Ahmed , Helal Suzan Mohamed Farouk , Gad Ahmed Youssef Shaaban , Younan Doreen Nazeih Assaad , Moemen Salma Abd El Maguid Mohamed Ramadan
Published: June 2020

Background

Lung cancer tumorigenesis is mainly due to accumulation of genetic and epigenetic events in the respiratory epithelium. Epigenetic alteration is more frequent than somatic mutation in lung cancer. CpG island methylation of homeobox-associated genes is commonly seen in most early stage tumors. This study aimed at examining the potential usefulness of DNA methylation biomarker SHOX2, in broncho-alveolar lavage, in the diagnosis of lung cancer. Broncho-alveolar lavage was obtained from 80 patients; 60 cases with lung masses (proved malignant by histopathology) and 20 age and gender matched patients with benign lung lesions (benign controls). SHOX2 methylation status was evaluated using methylation analysis by restriction endonuclease digestion and real-time PCR.

Results

SHOX2 methylation level ranged 3.90–77.16% in cases, and 3.52–7.86% in controls, (p ≤ 0.001). SHOX2 methylation levels in comparison to tissue biopsy pathology (the gold standard test) had 76.92% sensitivity, 70% specificity, 87% positive predictive value, and 53.8% negative predictive value in diagnosing lung cancer. Different methylation levels were noted in different lung pathologies, (p = 0.003), with the highest methylation levels in squamous cell carcinoma followed by adenocarcinoma and anaplastic carcinoma then lastly carcinoma in situ.

Conclusions

SHOX2 methylation levels could differentiate different varieties of lung cancer from benign lung lesions.
Tourism and heritage in the enhancement of Tianjin
Authors: Chauffert-Yvart Bruno , Ged Françoise , Lu Yue , Mengin Christine , Rousseau Émilie
Published: June 2020

This article examines what is being promoted about Tianjin’s rich heritage through its tourism and heritage practices. An industrial city traditionally known for its crafts and gastronomy, Tianjin has gradually begun to promote its Chinese heritage and, since the 2000s, its city centre, which is noteworthy for its former foreign concessions and 19th- and 20th-century architectural heritage. After long neglect, the city centre has become a major component in the promotion of the city. Based on the analysis of tourism materials and studies conducted since the mid-2000s, this article first discusses the development of tourism in Tianjin and the chronology and interweaving of the services involved in heritage development. Then, it focuses on the reception of the city’s tourism offerings and on urban development operations in two sectors, Wudadao (or ‘Five avenues’), located in the former British Concession, and the ‘I-Style Town’ in the former Italian Concession.