bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lgr4 Governs a Pro-Inflammatory Program in Macrophages to Antagonize Post-Infarction Cardiac Repair
Authors: Huang Chun-Kai , Dai Daopeng , Xie Hongyang , Zhu Zhengbin , Hu Jian , Su Min , Liu Mingyao , Lu Lin , Shen Weifeng , Ning Guang , Wang Jiqiu , Zhang Ruiyan , Yan Xiaoxiang
Published: June 2020

Rationale:

Macrophages are critically involved in wound healing following myocardial infarction (MI). Lgr4, a member of LGR (leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor) family, is emerging as a regulator of macrophage-associated immune responses. However, the contribution of Lgr4 to macrophage phenotype and function in the context of MI remains unclear.

Objective:

To determine the role of macrophage Lgr4 in MI and to dissect the underlying mechanisms.

Methods and Results:

During early inflammatory phase of MI, infarct macrophages rather than neutrophils expressed high level of Lgr4. Macrophage-specific Lgr4 knockout mice had no baseline cardiovascular defects but manifested improved heart function, modestly reduced infarct size, decreased early mortality due to cardiac rupture, and ameliorated adverse remodeling after MI. Improved outcomes in macrophage-specific Lgr4 knockout mice subjected to MI were associated with mitigated ischemic injury and optimal infarct healing, as determined by reduction of cardiac apoptosis in the peri-infarct zone, attenuation of local myocardial inflammatory response, decrease of matrix metalloproteinase expression in the infarct, enhancement of angiogenesis, myofibroblast proliferation, and collagen I deposition in reparative granulation tissue as well as formation of collagen-rich scar. More importantly, macrophage-specific Lgr4 knockout infarcts had reduced numbers of infiltrating leukocytes and inflammatory macrophages but harbored abundant reparative macrophage subsets. Lgr4-null infarct macrophages exhibited a less inflammatory transcriptional signature. These findings were further supported by transcriptomic profiling data showing repression of multiple pathways and broad-spectrum genes associated with proinflammatory responses in macrophage-specific Lgr4 knockout infarcts. Notably, we discovered that Lgr4-mediated functional phenotype programing in infarct macrophages was at least partly attributed to regulation of AP (activator protein)-1 activity. We further demonstrated that the synergistic effects of Lgr4 on AP-1 activation in inflammatory macrophages occurred via enhancing CREB (cAMP response element-binding protein)-mediated
c-Fos
,
Fosl1
, and
Fosb
transactivation.

Conclusions:

Together, our data highlight the significance of Lgr4 in governing proinflammatory phenotype of infarct macrophages and postinfarction repair.
Taxonomic revision of the infraorder Proctotrupomorpha (Hymenoptera)

Authors: RASNITSYN ALEXANDR P. , ÖHM-KÜHNLE CHRISTOPH
Published: June 2020

The authors revise the taxonomy of infraorder Proctotrupomorpha. Although this revision is not meant as being complete, it is based on the most important structures of the infraorder. A new taxon in Proctotrupomorpha is being erected, Microprocta, taxon nov., as a new informal group (clade), comprising the superfamilies Chalcidoidea, Platygastroidea, Diaprioidea, Serphitoidea, and Mymarommatoidea, and families Jurapriidae, Trupochalcididae, and Chalscelionidae, fam. nov., based on five synapomorphic characters of their wing venation.
Systematics of a survivor: the Cambrian kingstoniid trilobite Blountia Walcott, 1916 across the Marjuman–Steptoean (Guzhangian–Paibian) extinction interval in Laurentian North America
Authors: ARMSTRONG MADISON , WESTROP STEPHEN R. , EOFF JENNIFER D.
Published: June 2020

The Cambrian (Marjuman–Steptoean; Guzhangian–Paibian) kingstoniid trilobite Blountia Walcott, 1916 is distributed widely in shelf strata of Laurentian North America. Species known from Marjuman formations were lost at the mass extinction at the end of that stage. New species entered the succession during and after the extinction interval, only to disappear within the Aphelaspis Zone of the lower part of the Steptoean Stage. Steptoean species and several uppermost Marjuman (Crepicephalus Zone) species are treated in this monograph. New collections and revision of type and other archival material increase the number of species in Steptoean strata from two to six. Phylogenetic analysis supports monophyly of Blountia and Maryvillia Walcott, 1916; Blountina Lochman, in Lochman & Duncan, 1944 is retained as a monotypic taxon. Steptoean species do not form a single subclade within the cladogram, so there is no evidence for a simple monophyletic radiation following the end-Marjuman extinction. New species are Blountia angelae, B. morgancreekensis, B. nevadensis, B. newfoundlandensis, and B. tennesseensis.
Effects of Plasma Damage Removal on Direct Contact Resistance and Hot-Electron-Induced Punch Through (HEIP) of PMOSFETs
Authors: Song Junhwa , Yoo Jinhyuk , Cho Youngseung , Kim Jihun , Oh Jeonghoon , Kim Ilgweon , Kim Hyoungsub , Choi Byoungdeog
Published: June 2020

In order to reduce contact resistance (Rc) of the source/drain region in nanoscale devices, it is essential to overcome the increasing leakage and hot-electron-induced punch through (HEIP) degradation. In this paper, we propose a simple in situ Si soft treatment technique
immediately after direct contact (DC) etching to reduce Rc and minimize HEIP degradation. We found by analysis with a transmission electron microscope, that 10 s of treatment reduced the plasma damaged layer by 19%, which resulted in 10.5% reduction of the P+ contact
resistance. For comparison, the P + Rc was reduced by 6.5% when the doping level of the plug implantation was increased by 25%, but the HEIP breakdown voltage (VHEIP) by AC stress was greatly reduced by more than 80 mV, increasing the standby leakage current of DRAM devices.
In the case of removing the plasma damage layer, not only did VHIEP not decrease until after 10 s, but also the reduction in Rc was larger than with the plug enhancement. The effect of the plasma damaged layer on HEIP was verified through the plug effect and gate induced
drain leakage measurement, based on the distance between the gate and DC for each process. This simple in situ technique not only removed byproducts and the plasma damaged amorphous layer, but it also affected the effective implantation of dopants in subsequent plug processes. It was
also cost effective because the process time was short and no extra process steps were added.
Analysis of a Schottky Barrier MOSFET for Synaptic Device Using Hot Carrier Injection
Authors: Jang Taejin , Baek Myung-Hyun , Kim Suhyeon , Hwang Sungmin , Chang Jeesoo , Min Kyung Kyu , Park Kyungchul , Park Byung-Gook
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we analyze the hot carrier injection (HCI) in an asymmetric dual-gate structure with a metallic source/drain. We propose a program/erase scheme where HCI occurs on the source side of the body. Owing to the large resistance of the Schottky barrier used, a large electric
field is formed around the Schottky barrier. Therefore, impact ionization occurs as the gate voltage is increased and hot carriers are injected into the source side, which is less influenced by the drain voltage. We also analyze the program and erase efficiency by adjusting the Schottky barrier
height or by using dopant segregation technique. We expect a small amount of current to flow and great efficiency of the program/erase operations to use as a synaptic device.
Parameterization of Dielectric Functions and Phase Transitions of SrTiO3 from 26 to 674 K
Authors: Kim Tae Jung , Le Van Long , Park Han Gyeol , Nguyen Hoang Tung , Nguyen XuanAu , Kim Young Dong
Published: June 2020

We present parameters that allow the dielectric function (ε = ε1 + iε2) of perovskite SrTiO3 (STO) to be calculated for spectral range from 0.74 to 6.42 eV and temperatures from 26 to 674 K. The ε data of STO were
reproduced from a previous report. We use the Tauc-Lorentz model to express ε of STO analytically for each temperature. The ε spectra are successfully parameterized with six Tauc-Lorentz components and a pole. To obtain ε data for arbitrary energies and temperatures
over the range given above, we interpolated the parameterized results using cubic polynomials. It is well known that STO has phase transitions near 40 and 105 K, which are reflected well in our modeling. Our data allow complex refractive indices to be calculated at any temperature for device
design.
Minimizing Residual Images of Amorphous Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide Thin-Film Transistor-Based Flexible Organic Light-Emitting Diode Displays by Controlling Oxygen Partial Pressure
Authors: Won Do Young , Kim Hyun Min , Oh Yun Ju , Nguyen Manh-Cuong , Choi Rino , Myoung Jae-Min , Yoon HoGyu
Published: June 2020

Plastic organic light emitting diode displays suffer from residual image, which is closely connected with the hysteresis of the driving thin-film transistor in the pixels. Therefore, in researching paper, we manufactured an OLED display comprise a polyimide substrate and an amorphous
indium gallium zinc oxide thin film transistor active layer. Paper proposed a solution for reducing hysteresis through oxygen partial pressure control and evaluated it using hysteresis analysis. The results showed that hysteresis is strongly dependent on the threshold voltage is settled by
the oxygen partial pressure while active layer deposition of the TFT. Moreover, hysteresis decreases with increasing temperature.
Residual Image Reduction Using Electric Field Shield Metal in Plastic Organic Light-Emitting Diode Display
Authors: Won Do Young , Nguyen Manh-Cuong , Kim Hyun Min , Tak Nam Kyun , Choi Jin Hyung , Choi Rino , Myoung Jae-Min , Yoon Ho Gyu
Published: June 2020

A plastic organic light-emitting diode display is a device that emits light in an organic layer in proportion to the amount of current applied from a thin film transistor, which constitutes a pixel. However, it was confirmed that the residual image was shown by the operation of the
thin film transistor. To suppress residual image, the effect of electric field was studied in operation of a-IGZO thin film transistor. The a-IGZO thin film transistor, in which a polyimide film was used as a substrate, was applied as a driving thin film transistor for pixel circuits in a
plastic organic light-emitting diode display, and the effect of the electric field behavior inside the film on residual images was studied. Residual images were strongly connection with the electric field distribution characteristics inside the polyimide substrate, and they were reduced by
introducing an electric field shield metal layer in the a-IGZO thin film transistor. The correlation between residual image generation and the operation of the a-IGZO thin film transistor was further explained through technology computer-aided design simulation (Silvaco Group Inc.).
Microstructural Evolution of Al–Zn–Mg–Cu Alloys in Accordance with Homogenization Time
Authors: An Woojin , Heo Jaewon , Jang Dongchan , Euh Kwang Jun , Jung Im Doo , Kim Sangshik , Sung Hyokyung
Published: June 2020

The microstructural evolution of Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloys has been investigated for the homogenization time effect on the texture, grain orientation and dislocation density. The Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloys were casted and homogenized for 4, 8, 16 and 24 hours. Electron
backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis was conducted to characterize the microstructural behavior. Micropillars were fabricated using focused ion beam (FIB) milling in grains of specific crystallographic orientations. Coarse precipitations in the grain boundaries are S (Al2CuMg)
and T (Al2Mg3Zn3) phases verified by scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) observation. With increasing homogenization time, equiaxed cell sizes increased. The volume fraction of S and T phases decreased with the diffusion of
atomic elements into matrix. The Vickers hardness and tensile strength values decreased with homogenization temperature. The micropillar compression analysis was compared to macro tensile test results to understand the size effect and strain burst phenomenon on the mechanical properties of
Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloys.
Lowering the Trap-State Density of Transparent Amorphous Oxide Semiconductor-Based Thin Film Transistors Through Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Cho Man-Ho , Cho Won-Ju
Published: June 2020

In this study, a low-thermal-budget microwave irradiation (MWI) technique was applied as a post-deposition annealing (PDA) process to lower the trap densities that exist in transparent amorphous oxide semiconductor thin film transistors (TAOS TFTs). As channel layers of TAOS TFTs, two
types of indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) with different compositions as well as aluminum zinc tin oxide (AZTO) and zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films were deposited with various thicknesses through radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering at 25°C. Cost-effective and energy-efficient MWI was
conducted to enhance the electrical performance of transistors by removing traps and defects. The electrical characteristics of IGZO (1:1:1 and 4:2:3)-, ZnO-, and AZTO-based TFTs treated by MWI were evaluated by measuring the transfer curves. In particular, the relation between the interface
trap density (Dit) and bulk trap density (Nt) of microwave-irradiated TFTs was quantitatively evaluated by the subthreshold swing (SS) variation based on channel thickness. The results indicated that of the four types of channel layers, the performance of IGZO (4:2:3) TFTs was the best
and that of AZTO TFTs was the worst, in terms of electrical properties such as on/off current ratio, mobility SS, and trap density. In particular, it was demonstrated that the trap density of MWI-treated TAOS TFTs was much lower than that of conventional furnace annealing (CFA)-treated devices.
Despite the short annealing duration of a few minutes, the MWI more effectively reduced the trap sites than did the furnace treatment, and significantly enhanced the electrical properties of the TAOS TFTs. It is expected that high-performance TAOS TFTs can be fabricated by applying MWI, which
is a highly efficient and low-thermal-budget annealing method, to the PDA process and can thus reduce trap density.
Nitrogen-Bearing Carbon Nanoparticles by Pyrolytic Decomposition of Piperazine Citrate Macromolecules for Cellular Imaging
Authors: Lee Jae Won , Kang Seong Hee , Kang Yoon Joon , Kim Young Sung , Boo Jin-Hyo , Kim Do Kyung
Published: June 2020

In this work, highly photoluminescent carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) are fabricated by pyrolytic decomposition of piperazine citrate at high pressure and high temperature. Piperazine serves as a hydrolytic, surface-passivating, and N-doping agent, facilitating the formation of a photopolymer.
The as-synthesized CNPs, without any surface protection/passivation, exhibit excellent photolumi-nescence and a maximum quantum yield of 84%. The average particle size of the N-doped CNPs is 0.89±0.05 nm. In addition, the N-doped CNPs exhibit uniform diameters and nearly spherical shapes.
The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results reveal that the CNPs are composed of carbon (64.4 wt%), oxygen (18.5 wt%), and nitrogen (17.1 wt%), indicating the presence of nitrogen-doped and carbon-rich moieties in the CNPs. Notably, the CNPs purified by the procedure developed in this work
exhibit more stable luminescence properties than those purified with the conventional dialysis membrane. In addition, the potential application of the CNPs as fluorescent bioimaging probes, which offer a broad dosing window and exhibit multicolor emission, is investigated by directly cultur-ing
A549 cells with the CNPs. The results reveal that the CNPs exhibit not only exceptional optical stability, but also outstanding biocompatibility and cell labeling capability. After incubating the A549 cells with CNPs, the CNPs are confined in perinuclear vacuole-similar shapes with a granulated
form in cytoplasm preserving the nucleus. Notably, no significant morphological deterioration such as nuclear contraction is detected.
Improvement of Heat Sink Effect Using Zinc Oxide Nanostructure
Authors: Li Yun Guang , Yoo Hyun Jin , Baek Changyoon , Min Junhong
Published: June 2020

Heat sinks that dissipate heat effectively play a significant role in devices with high-precision temperature control, such as thermal cyclers for polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This study was carried out to develop a heat sink with a high thermal conductivity to dissipate heat effectively.
To increase the surface area of the heat sink, zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures were fabricated on an aluminum plate. ZnO nanostructures were fabricated by hydrothermal method and confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. With the increase in the concentration of the
precursors, the length of the nanorods increased, and with longer reaction time, nanostructures connected with higher stability and larger surface area. Thermal conductivity is increased by ZnO nanostructures and is affected by the concentration of precursors and the reaction time. Thermal
conductivity of an optimal ZnO-coated Al plate is 2 times higher than that of a bare one. This technology can be applied to portable PCR devices to reduce weight, size, and power consumption.
Controlling the Voltage Window for Improved Cycling Performance of SnO2 as Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Heo Jungwon , Haridas Anupriya K. , Li Xueying , Saroha Rakesh , Lee Younki , Lim Du-Hyun , Cho Kwon-Koo , Ahn Jou-Hyeon
Published: June 2020

Transition metal oxide materials with high theoretical capacities have been studied as substitutes for commercial graphite in lithiumion batteries. Among these, SnO2 is a promising alloying reaction-based anode material. However, the problem of rapid capacity fading in SnO2
due to volume variation during the alloying/dealloying processes must be solved. The lithiation of SnO2 results in the formation of a Li2O matrix. Herein, the volume variation of SnO2 was suppressed by controlling the voltage window to 1 V to prevent the delithiation
reaction between Li2O and Sn. Using this strategy the unreacted Li2O matrix was enriched with metallic Sn particles, thereby providing a pathway for lithium ions. The specific capacity decay in the voltage window of 0.05–3 V was 1.8% per cycle. However, the specific
capacity decay was improved to 0.04% per cycle after the voltage window was restricted (in the range of 0.05–1 V). This strategy resulted in a specific capacity of 374.7 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C after 40 cycles for the SnO2 anode.
Preparation and Characterization of Sol–Gel-Driven LixLa3Zr2O12 Solid Electrolytes and LiCoO2 Cathodes for All-Solid-State Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Gwan Hyeon , Kim Min Ji , Kim Hae Been , Ryu Ji Heon , Lee Hee Chul
Published: June 2020

In the current study, we prepared a LixLa3Zr2O12 ((Al, Ta) LLZO) powder doped with 0.2 mol of Al and Ta using the sol-gel method and subsequently used it to fabricate solid electrolyte pellets. In pellets with lithium content of 6.2
and 6.82 mol, a cubic phase and a lithium-deficient pyrochlore mixed-phase were respectively observed. However, when the lithium content was 8.06 mol, a lithium-excess phase was also observed. Meanwhile, at 7.44 mol lithium, the (Al, Ta) LLZO ceramic pellets showed a pure cubic garnet phase
with no secondary phase. When lithium was added excessively, a non-granular morphology was observed at the (Al, Ta) LLZO fracture surface in which the grains were tightly bonded by the liquid phase formed during sintering. Nyquist plots of the pellets showed that the effect of grain boundaries
was eliminated and the pellets exhibited a high lithium ion conductivity of 4.26 × 10−4 S/cm. Using spin coating and multi-step heat treatment, we deposited LiCoO2 (LCO) thin films on (Al, Ta) LLZO pellets to form cathodes. There was no significant interdiffusion
between the LCO cathode and (Al, Ta) LLZO solid electrolyte and morphological analysis indicted that a thin interfacial layer (~10 nm) was formed between the LCO and the electrolyte. Finally, we demonstrated an all-solid-state rechargeable battery in the form of a coin cell comprising of an
LCO cathode, Li metal anode, and (Al, Ta) LLZO solid electrolyte, which could yield a discharge capacity of ~100 mAh/g.
Catalytic Decomposition of Energetic Liquid Solution Over Various Types of Hexaaluminate Catalysts
Authors: Choi Youngmin , Heo Sujeong , Kim Munjeong , Lee Jeongsub , Park Young Chul , Jeon Jong-Ki
Published: June 2020

A hexaaluminate support was prepared by a co-precipitation method, and a metal (Cu, Pt, or Ir) was impregnated on the support to prepare a powdered catalyst. After that, organic and inorganic binders were added to the powdery catalyst and then pellets were formed. The so-formed catalysts
were heat-treated at 1200°C, and their physicochemical properties were analyzed by N2-adsorption, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorenscence (XRF), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The decomposition activity of the catalysts on an ammonium dinitramide (ADN)-based liquid
propellant was evaluated repeatedly, and the effects of catalyst composition and morphology on low temperature decomposition activity and durability were investigated. It was confirmed that the Cu-hexa-pellet, Pt-hexa-pellet, and Ir-hexa-pellet catalysts could be recovered and reused as a
catalyst for decomposition of an ADN-based liquid monopropellant. The initial activity and the thermal stability of the Cu-hexa-pellet catalyst for the decomposition of ADN-based liquid monopropellants were better than for the other catalysts. The better activity of the Cu-hexa-pellet catalyst
seems to be because the dispersion of the copper was higher than the metal dispersion in the other two catalysts.
Characteristics of Perovskite Solar Cells According to Thickness of Doped ZnGa2O4 Down-Converting Thin Film
Authors: Lee Haram , Choi Hyung Wook
Published: June 2020

A ZnGa2O4:Eu3+ layer was deposited on the incident surface of a perovskite solar cell (PSC) to convert ultraviolet rays into current within the solar cell. The ZnGa2O4:Eu3+ layer was deposited using the sol–gel
method, and the thickness of the film was controlled using the number of spin coatings. When the coating was applied six times, a layer with almost no oscillation due to reflection was fabricated. It was confirmed that the efficiency of the PSC was not adversely affected by the coating. In
addition, generation of a current by converting ultraviolet radiation within the solar cell was confirmed.
Designing Noble Benzimidazole-Based Bipolar Hosts for Blue Organic Light-Emitting Diodes Using Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Materials
Authors: Lee Ja Min , Lee Sae Won , Kim Young Sik
Published: June 2020

We designed a novel thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) host molecules for blue elec-trophosphorescence by combining the electron acceptor benzimidazole (BI) unit and the electron donor acridine derivatives into a single molecular unit based on density functional theory
(DFT). We obtained the energies of the first singlet (S1) and the first triplet (T1) excited states of the TADF materials by performing DFT and time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT) calculations on the ground state using dependence on charge transfer amounts for the
optimal Hartree–Fock percentage in the exchange-correlation of TD-DFT. The DFT and TD-DFT calculations showed that the large separation between the highest occupied molecular orbital and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital caused a small difference in energy (ΔEST)
between the S1 and T1 states. The host molecules retained a high triplet energy and demonstrated a great potential for use in blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes. The results showed that these molecules are promising host materials for TADF
OLEDs because they have a low barrier to hole and electron injection, a balanced charge transport for both holes and electrons, and a small ΔEST.
Simulation of Structural Evolution Using Time-Dependent Density-Functional Based Tight-Binding Method
Authors: Lee Seung Mi , Niehaus Thomas A.
Published: June 2020

A faster and more efficient quantum mechanical simulation method for application to complicated issues of real systems beyond model cases has long been sought after. The density-functional based tight-binding (DFTB) method has successfully explained the atomistic and electronic properties
of semiconductors, surfaces, and nanostructures. In addition, the time-dependent formalism implemented in DFTB showed high efficiency in terms of computational cost. In this study, we demonstrated the structural and electronic evolution of small molecules induced by a laser pulse using the
time-dependent DFTB (TD-DFTB) method. We identified the critical fluence of the input laser for structural dissociations in carbon chains and fullerenes, which related to the structural stability. The excitation energies of several molecules calculated by TD-DFTB agreed with the experimental
values.
Computations on the Thermal Characteristics of SF6 and CO2 Switching Arcs on a Microscopic Scale
Authors: Kim Youn-Jea , Lee Jong-Chul
Published: June 2020

Pure sulfur hexafluoride is a colorless, odorless, non-toxic, inflammable, chemically inert and thermally stable gas and has proven its worth as an excellent interruption and dielectric medium. SF6 has been successfully used for interruption and insulation purposes as interrupters
and circuit-breakers in gas-insulated substations. Due to its long lifetime and high global warming potential, this gas was put on the list of fluorinated greenhouse gases in the Kyoto Protocol aimed at controlling the emission of man-made greenhouse gases. This factor makes the search for
an environmentally friendly alternative to SF6 all the more urgent. In this paper, we conducted computations on the thermal and aerodynamic behaviors of SF6 and an alternative CO2 switching arcs in a self-blast chamber in order to compare the switching phenomena
and the thermal reignition from an engineering point of view. Through the complete work, the 3,000 K isotherm of the remnant arc column within microseconds after a current zero was used to evaluate the thermal reignition of SF6 and CO2 switching arcs with the slope of
the tangential line of the transient recovery voltage on a microscopic scale.
The blurred line between the professional and the personal: Regulation of teacher behaviour on social media
Authors: Noakes Sandra , Hook Sarah
Published: June 2020

As demonstrated by recent media reports concerning the Australian Public Service Social Media Policy and the Australian Rugby Union’s dispute with Israel Folau, social media often blurs the line between our professional and personal lives, and means that employers want to control what we do and say on social media. This is an issue which directly affects Australian teachers, whose professional obligations have always extended beyond their immediate work environments. Does social media mean that teachers are never ‘off the clock’? This article examines the current law relating to control of teacher behaviour and comment on social media. It analyses the implied freedom of political communication discussed in the 2019 High Court decision of Comcare v Banerji, and its ramifications for teachers and their employers. Additionally, using case studies involving social media policies of authorities which control teacher professional conduct, it considers whether such policies constitute lawful and reasonable directions, or whether they could be challenged as infringing teachers’ rights to a personal life.
Feasibility of In‐office Fine‐Needle Aspiration for Base of Tongue Tumors
Authors: Reeder Allison , Aulet Ricardo , Sajisevi Mirabelle , Brundage William
Published: June 2020

We aim to demonstrate the feasibility of in‐office transcervical ultrasound (TCUS)–guided fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) of base of tongue (BOT) tumors in a single‐institution. Retrospective chart review was performed and 3 patients met criteria, with BOT tumors ≥3 cm. Two patients had no cervical adenopathy, while FNA of a cervical lymph node was inconclusive in patient 3. Two patients had multiple medical comorbidities rendering them high risk for general anesthesia, and 1 patient had a BOT tumor obscuring visualization of the glottis, which would have precluded intubation and potentially required tracheostomy to proceed. All patients underwent successful in‐office TCUS‐guided FNA, with results showing squamous cell carcinoma. There were no related complications. In‐office TCUS‐guided FNA can be used for diagnosis of BOT lesions that are evident on ultrasound. This is beneficial in cases where general anesthesia is considered high risk. Additionally, 1 patient safely continued anticoagulation, and another was able to avoid tracheostomy. This technique is cost‐effective as it avoids the expenses associated with operative intervention.
Olfactory and Gustatory Outcomes in COVID‐19: A Prospective Evaluation in Nonhospitalized Subjects
Authors: Paderno Alberto , Mattavelli Davide , Rampinelli Vittorio , Grammatica Alberto , Raffetti Elena , Tomasoni Michele , Gualtieri Tommaso , Taboni Stefano , Zorzi Silvia , Del Bon Francesca , Lombardi Davide , Deganello Alberto , Redaelli De Zinis Luca Oscar , Schreiber Alberto
Published: June 2020

Objective

To prospectively assess the rate and timing of recovery of olfactory (OD) and gustatory (GD) dysfunction in patients affected by COVID‐19.

Study Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Population‐based evaluation in a COVID‐19 high‐prevalence region.

Subjects and Methods

We analyzed the clinical course of OD and GD in a cohort of home‐quarantined SARS‐CoV‐2–positive patients from Northern Italy. Physicians administered a survey‐based questionnaire at recruitment (T0). During follow‐up, patients responded to online dedicated surveys modulated according to symptoms at T0.

Results

A total of 151 patients completed the follow‐up survey. OD and/or GD were observed in 83% and 89% of subjects, respectively. Resolution rates of OD and GD at 30 days from onset were 87% and 82%, respectively. Risk factors for late resolution were grade of dysfunction at onset (total vs partial), gender, and presence of nasal congestion. Three (2%) patients previously reporting complete resolution of symptoms complained of subsequent recurrence of OD and/or GD after a mean of 19 days from resolution of the previous episode.

Conclusion

COVID‐19–related OD and GD had high rate of resolution in the first month from onset of symptoms. However, in 10% to 15% of patients, these symptoms showed only partial improvement after this period.
Development and verification of a personalized immune prognostic feature in breast cancer
Authors: Wang HongLei , Wu Li , Wang HongTao
Published: June 2020

Immune-related genes have great potential as prognostic markers in many types of cancer. Therefore, we have attempted to develop immune-related gene markers to enhance the prognosis of breast cancer; 1159 samples of breast cancer gene expression data and clinical follow-up messages were downloaded from TCGA and GEO, which were classified into training set, test set, and validation set. In the training set, the gene pairs are established according to the relative expression levels between 320 immune genes, in which the prognosis-related gene pairs are screened, and Lasso is used for feature selection to screen the robust biomarkers. A prognostic model of immune gene correlation was set up and verified. Sixty-six IRGPs were obtained, and 17-IRGPs signature was established. 17-IRGPs signature is an independent prognostic indicator for BC patients, which can stratify the risk in the training set and testing series, and AUC of five years survival was greater than 0.7; 17-IRGPs signature had better classification performance in patients with advanced BC. In addition, we compared the prognostic characteristics of 17-IRGPs with four reported breast cancers and clinical stages; 17-IRGPs achieved the highest average C index (0.7, P < 0.05), and functional analysis found that the dysregulated immune environment may be the cause of the observed difference in survival between patient groups defined by our characteristics. 17-IRGPs signature was constructed as a newly developed prognostic indicator to calculate the survival of BC patients.

Impact statement

Breast cancer is among the highest prevalent malignant tumors worldwide with a low survival ratio. Immune-related genes have great potential as prognostic indicator in many types of tumors. Therefore, we have attempted to develop immune-related gene markers to enhance the prognosis of breast cancer. 17-IRGPs signature was constructed as a newly developed prognostic indicator to predict the survival of BC patients.
Extending Youth Voices in a Participatory Thematic Analysis Approach
Authors: Liebenberg Linda , Jamal Aliya , Ikeda Janice
Published: June 2020

Recent decades have seen a more thoughtful discussion regarding the inclusion of children and youth in research and decision making, challenging how we conduct child and youth-focused studies. Included is a focus on Youth Participatory Action Research approaches and how they facilitate engagement of child and youth voice. Similarly, there is a smaller yet equally important questioning of how we understand “voice,” drawing attention to the conceptualization of “voice,” and the need to account for its social positioning and construction. Despite these various advances, current discussions focus predominantly on research design and data gathering, with an emerging focus on the dissemination of findings. Discussions focused specifically on data analysis remain limited. This omission seems important, given the bridge analysis forms between data gathering and dissemination of findings, and how this impacts youth engagement in the research process overall. By not considering more thoughtfully the ways in which children do or do not engage in the analysis of their data, how are we impacting the positioning of their “voice” in the findings? Similarly, how does our analysis unintentionally strengthen or undermine the platform from which youth share their findings, especially with those in positions of power? In response to these questions, we use this article to consider data analysis in relation to voice and subsequent knowledge production. We also share our approach to participatory thematic analysis in the Spaces & Places research project, a participatory action research program with Indigenous youth in three communities of Atlantic Canada. Through the discussion and exemplar, we hope to contribute to how researchers consider “voice,” ours and those of child and youth collaborators, and the ways in which we can account for both in the analysis process, and enhance the voices of children and youth as knowledge brokers in the dissemination that follows.
Consistency of Hearing Aid Setting Preference in Simulated Real-World Environments: Implications for Trainable Hearing Aids
Authors: Walravens Els , Keidser Gitte , Hickson Louise
Published: June 2020

Trainable hearing aids let users fine-tune their hearing aid settings in their own listening environment: Based on consistent user-adjustments and information about the acoustic environment, the trainable aids will change environment-specific settings to the user’s preference. A requirement for effective fine-tuning is consistency of preference for similar settings in similar environments. The aim of this study was to evaluate consistency of preference for settings differing in intensity, gain-frequency slope, and directionality when listening in simulated real-world environments and to determine if participants with more consistent preferences could be identified based on profile measures. A total of 52 adults (63–88 years) with hearing varying from normal to a moderate sensorineural hearing loss selected their preferred setting from pairs differing in intensity (3 or 6 dB), gain-frequency slope (±1.3 or ± 2.7 dB/octave), or directionality (omnidirectional vs. cardioid) in four simulated real-world environments: traffic noise, a monologue in traffic noise at 5 dB signal-to-noise ratio, and a dialogue in café noise at 5 and at 0 dB signal-to-noise ratio. Forced-choice comparisons were made 10 times for each combination of pairs of settings and environment. Participants also completed nine psychoacoustic, cognitive, and personality measures. Consistency of preference, defined by a setting preferred at least 9 out of 10 times, varied across participants. More participants obtained consistent preferences for larger differences between settings and less difficult environments. The profile measures did not predict consistency of preference. Trainable aid users could benefit from counselling to ensure realistic expectations for particular adjustments and listening situations.
Changes in Bcl-2 members after ibrutinib or venetoclax uncover functional hierarchy in determining resistance to venetoclax in CLL
Authors: Haselager Marco V. , Kielbassa Karoline , ter Burg Johanna , Bax Danique J. C. , Fernandes Stacey M. , Borst Jannie , Tam Constantine , Forconi Francesco , Chiodin Giorgia , Brown Jennifer R. , Dubois Julie , Kater Arnon P. , Eldering Eric
Published: June 2020

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells cycle between lymph node (LN) and peripheral blood (PB) and display major shifts in Bcl-2 family members between those compartments. Specifically, Bcl-XL and Mcl-1, which are not targeted by the Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax, are increased in the LN. Because ibrutinib forces CLL cells out of the LN, we hypothesized that ibrutinib may thereby affect expression of Bcl-XL and Mcl-1 and sensitize CLL cells to venetoclax. We investigated expression of Bcl-2 family members in patients under ibrutinib or venetoclax treatment, combined with dissecting functional interactions of Bcl-2 family members, in an in vitro model of venetoclax resistance. In the PB, recent LN emigrants had higher Bcl-XL and Mcl-1 expression than did cells immigrating back to the LN. Under ibrutinib treatment, this distinction collapsed; significantly, the pretreatment profile reappeared in patients who relapsed on ibrutinib. However, in response to venetoclax, Bcl-2 members displayed an early increase, underlining the different modes of action of these 2 drugs. Profiling by BH3 mimetics was performed in CLL cells fully resistant to venetoclax due to CD40-mediated induction of Bcl-XL, Mcl-1, and Bfl-1. Several dual or triple combinations of BH3 mimetics were highly synergistic in restoring killing of CLL cells. Lastly, we demonstrated that proapoptotic Bim interacts with antiapoptotic Bcl-2 members in a sequential manner: Bcl-2 > Bcl-XL > Mcl-1 > Bfl-1. Combined, the data indicate that Bcl-XL is more important in venetoclax resistance than is Mcl-1 and provide biological rationale for potential synergy between ibrutinib and venetoclax.
Bimodal Whole-Mount Imaging of Tendon Using Confocal Microscopy and X-ray Micro-Computed Tomography
Authors: Marr Neil , Hopkinson Mark , Hibbert Andrew P. , Pitsillides Andrew A. , Thorpe Chavaunne T.
Published: June 2020

Background

Three-dimensional imaging modalities for optically dense connective tissues such as tendons are limited and typically have a single imaging methodological endpoint. Here, we have developed a bimodal procedure utilising fluorescence-based confocal microscopy and x-ray micro-computed tomography for the imaging of adult tendons to visualise and analyse extracellular sub-structure and cellular composition in small and large animal species.

Results

Using fluorescent immunolabelling and optical clearing, we visualised the expression of the novel cross-species marker of tendon basement membrane, laminin-α4 in 3D throughout whole rat Achilles tendons and equine superficial digital flexor tendon 5 mm segments. This revealed a complex network of laminin-α4 within the tendon core that predominantly localises to the interfascicular matrix compartment. Furthermore, we implemented a chemical drying process capable of creating contrast densities enabling visualisation and quantification of both fascicular and interfascicular matrix volume and thickness by x-ray micro-computed tomography. We also demonstrated that both modalities can be combined using reverse clarification of fluorescently labelled tissues prior to chemical drying to enable bimodal imaging of a single sample.

Conclusions

Whole-mount imaging of tendon allowed us to identify the presence of an extensive network of laminin-α4 within tendon, the complexity of which cannot be appreciated using traditional 2D imaging techniques. Creating contrast for x-ray micro-computed tomography imaging of tendon using chemical drying is not only simple and rapid, but also markedly improves on previously published methods. Combining these methods provides the ability to gain spatio-temporal information and quantify tendon substructures to elucidate the relationship between morphology and function.
Elevated vitreous Lipocalin-2 levels of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Wang Hui , Lou Hui , Li Yongrong , Ji Fengtao , Chen Wei , Lu Qianyi , Xu Guoxu
Published: June 2020

Background

Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) is a novel adipokine with potential roles in obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation. This study aims to assess the concentrations of LCN2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expressed in the vitreous humors of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).

Methods

The concentrations of LCN2 and VEGF were measured from the vitreous of 67 patients undergoing vitrectomy (20 controls and 47 PDR) via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Patients with non-ocular pathology that could elevate the LCN2 level in the vitreous were excluded. PDR activity and a history of panretinal photocoagulation were used for further grouping analysis.

Results

The vitreous concentration of LCN2 was statistically significantly higher in the PDR group compared to the control group (63,522 (30,009) pg/ml versus 1663 (1191) pg/ml, respectively; P < 0.001). VEGF level was also significantly higher in the PDR group than in the control group (1038 (1326) pg/ml versus 9 pg/ml, respectively; P < 0.001). The mean vitreous LCN2 and VEGF levels in active PDR patients were significantly higher than that of the inactive PDR patients. The mean LCN2 concentration in vitreous humor was significantly lower in the 28 PDR patients with a history of complete PRP (37,304 (16,651) pg/mL) in comparison with 19 PDR patients without preperformed panretinal photocoagulation or with preperformed incomplete panretinal photocoagulation (79,796 (24,391) pg/mL). A significant correlation between the vitreous LCN2 level and VEGF level was found in patients with PDR (R = 0.34; P = 0.019).

Conclusions

This report shows a significant increase of LCN2 in the vitreous fluid of patients with PDR and present a significant correlation between LCN2 and VEGF, suggesting LCN2 might be involved in the pathogenesis of PDR.
A comprehensive overview and qualitative analysis of government-led nutrition policies in Australian institutions
Authors: Rosewarne Emalie , Hoek Annet C. , Sacks Gary , Wolfenden Luke , Wu Jason , Reimers Jenny , Corben Kirstan , Moore Michael , Ni Mhurchu Cliona , Webster Jacqui
Published: June 2020

Background

Institutions are a recommended setting for dietary interventions and nutrition policies as these provide an opportunity to improve health by creating healthy food environments. In Australia, state and territory governments encourage or mandate institutions in their jurisdiction to adopt nutrition policies. However, no work has analysed the policy design across settings and jurisdictions. This study aimed to compare the design and components of government-led institutional nutrition policies between Australian states and territories, determine gaps in existing policies, and assess the potential for developing stronger, more comprehensive policies.

Methods

Government-led institutional nutrition policies, in schools, workplaces, health facilities and other public settings, were identified by searching health and education department websites for each Australian state and territory government. This was supplemented by data from other relevant stakeholder websites and from the Food Policy Index Australia website. A framework for monitoring and evaluating nutrition policies in publicly-funded institutions was used to extract data and a qualitative analysis of the design and content of institutional nutrition policies was performed. Comparative analyses between the jurisdictions and institution types were conducted, and policies were assessed for comprehensiveness.

Results

Twenty-seven institutional nutrition policies were identified across eight states and territories in Australia. Most policies in health facilities and public schools were mandatory, though most workplace policies were voluntary. Twenty-four included nutrient criteria, and 22 included guidelines for catering/fundraising/advertising. While most included implementation guides or tools and additional supporting resources, less than half included tools/timelines for monitoring and evaluation. The policy design, components and nutrient criteria varied between jurisdictions and institution types, though all were based on the Australian Dietary Guidelines.

Conclusions

Nutrition policies in institutions present an opportunity to create healthy eating environments and improve population health in Australia. However, the design of these policies, including lack of key components such as accountability mechanisms, and jurisdictional differences, may be a barrier to implementation and prevent the policies having their intended impact.
Incidental hepatic tuberculosis during planned resection of locally advanced ampullary carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Hoe Vee Chuan , Khairuddin Allim , Tan Jun Sam , Sharif Mohd Sharifudin , Azizan Nornazirah , Hayati Firdaus
Published: June 2020

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is classified according to the site of disease as pulmonary or extrapulmonary. Extrapulmonary TB is less common than its counterpart in which it can be found anywhere in the body including the liver. Similar to ampullary carcinoma, TB liver can manifest with jaundice and deranged liver function tests, particularly in the obstructed biliary systems.

Case presentation

A 43-year-old gentleman with locally advanced ampullary carcinoma was noticed to have multiple suspicious liver nodules intraoperatively during curative ampulla resection. The surgery was then abandoned after a biopsy. The histology was consistent with chronic granulomatous inflammation. He was then subjected to a Whipple pancreaticoduodenectomy procedure after initiation of anti-tubercular treatment. He recovered well with no evidence of tumour recurrence and worsening TB.

Conclusions

A high index of suspicion and quick decision making can help to diagnose a possible extrapulmonary TB masquerading as a malignant disease in a patient with curative intention of ampullary carcinoma.
Superselective embolization for high-flow priapism refractory to medical and surgical treatments
Authors: Bi Yonghua , Yi Mengfei , Yu Zepeng , Han Xinwei , Ren Jianzhuang
Published: June 2020

Background

This study aimed to report long-term outcome of superselective embolization in patients with high-flow priapism refractory to medical and surgical treatments.

Methods

From August 2011 until July 2016, 14 patients with high-flow priapism refractory to local treatments were treated and their charts were retrospective reviewed. Clinical evaluation, color Doppler ultrasonography, arteriography and selective embolization were performed. Follow up was performed in all patients. Fourteen men (18–63 years old) were enrolled, with priapism duration of 14 h to 28 days. Internal pudendal arteries or glutaea inferior arteriae were successfully embolized with gelatin sponge particles, polyvinyl alcohol particles or microcoils.

Results

Pseudoaneurysm in right femoral artery was found in one case after intervention. The follow-up 1 week later showed that 13 patients were in good condition, the priapism diminished 1–7 days (mean 3.2 ± 0.5 days) after intervention, and 1 patient received second intervention. Mean follow-up was (range 10.8–69.6) months. One patient had recurrent priapism months after embolization and had his penis surgically removed for severe necrosis.

Conclusions

Superselective embolization is safe and effective in high-flow priapism refractory local treatments, with a good long-term prognosis.