• Proceedings of the Korea Water Resources Association Conference
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• 2015.05a
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• pp.228-228
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• 2015

Water reuse plays significant role in water saving and water environmental protection, and it helps alleviate the shortage of water resources. China's water reuse was put into practice since 1980s by means of pilot and promotion in National Fifth-year Plan and other strategies. The effects of water reuse is beneficial in both economic, social and environmental aspects. But some shortcomings still undermine future development of water reuse in China. To overcome and boost water reuse, Ministry of Water Resources conducted a successive survey across China. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the current condition of water reuse in China in construction, funds, legislation, planning, policy aspects, to summarize problems and its reasons underneath, to make suggestions for further development. Basically, in 2010, China's water reuse is 2.83 billion cubic meters and the utilization rate is 10.35%. Water reuse in China has four major characteristics: the first one is water reuse differences in amount occur national-widely and North of China has the main percentage as 47.3%; the second one is water reuse is mainly in environment maintenance (42.1%) and industry cooling (29.8%); the third one is funds for water reuse station and pipe construction is main in non-fiscal budget which take percentage as 56.8%; the fourth one is progresses of administrative system, political system, price management, standard system and technologies go rapidly recently. The problems of water reuse such as lack in water reuse station, delay in pipe constriction and limits on water reuse amount still exist due to some reasons. As a think tank of Ministry of Water Resources, we give some suggestions: firstly, water reuse needs to be integrated with traditional water resources allocation; secondly, public budgets need to be strengthened and income mechanism should also be constructed; thirdly, water resources integrated administrative of city and county should be boosted and roles as water reuse need to be clear and precise; fourthly, national, provincial and regional water reuse planning should be made in time; fifthly, regulations on water reuse should be programmed as soon as possible.

• Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences
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• v.32 no.11
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• pp.1705-1714
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• 2019

Objective: Reducing roughage feeding without negatively affecting rumen health is of interest in ruminant nutrition. We investigated the effects of roughage sources and concentrate types on growth performance, ruminal fermentation, and blood metabolite levels in growing cattle. Methods: In this 24-week trial, 24 Hanwoo cattle ($224{\pm}24.7kg$) were fed similar nitrous and energy levels of total mixed ration formulated using two kinds of roughage (timothy hay and ryegrass straw) and two types of concentrate mixes (high starch [HS] and high fiber [HF]). The treatments were arranged in a $2{\times}2$ factorial, consisting of 32% timothy-68% HS, 24% timothy-76% HF, 24% ryegrass-76% HS, and 17% ryegrass-83% HF. Daily feed intakes were measured. Every four weeks, blood were sampled, and body weight was measured before morning feeding. Every eight weeks, rumen fluid was collected using a stomach tube over five consecutive days. Results: The mean dry matter intake (7.33 kg) and average daily gain (1,033 g) did not differ among treatments. However, significant interactions between roughage source and concentrate type were observed for the rumen and blood parameters (p<0.05). Total volatile fatty acid concentration was highest (p<0.05) in timothy-HF-fed calves. With ryegrass as the roughage source, decreasing the roughage inclusion rate increased the molar proportion of propionate and decreased the acetate-to-propionate ratio; the opposite was observed with timothy as the roughage source. Similarly, the effects of concentrate types on plasma total protein, alanine transaminase, Ca, inorganic P, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and creatinine concentrations differed with roughage source (p<0.05). Conclusion: Decreasing the dietary roughage inclusion rate by replacing forage neutral detergent fiber with that from non-roughage fiber source might be a feasible feeding practice in growing cattle. A combination of low-quality roughage with a high fiber concentrate might be economically beneficial.

• Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences
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• v.32 no.12
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• pp.1923-1932
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• 2019

Objective: We investigated visual marbling level (VML) influence on pork loin physicochemical traits, consumer palatability responses, VML liking, purchase intent, and their relationships. Methods: For each of five slaughtering dates, at 24-h postmortem, nine paired Duroc castrated male boneless Longissimus dorsi (LD) muscles were categorized into low (LM, score 1 to 2, n = 3), medium (MM, score 3 to 4, n = 3), and high (HM, score 5 to 6, n = 3) VML. Meat physicochemical quality traits and consumer responses (n = 389) on palatability and VML liking, and purchase intent were evaluated. The experiment was in randomized complete block design. Analysis of variance, Duncan's multiple mean comparisons, and correlation coefficients were determined. Results: VML correspond to crude fat (r = 0.91, p<0.01), but both were reversely related to moisture content (r = -0.75 and -0.91, p<0.01, respectively). As VML increased, ash (p<0.05) and protein (p = 0.072) decreased, pH and $b^{\star}$ increased (p<0.05), but drip, cooking (p<0.05) and thawing (p = 0.088) losses decreased. Among treatments, muscle fiber diameter, sarcomere length, total and insoluble collagen contents, $L^{\star}$, and $a^{\star}$ did not differ (p>0.05). Compared to the others, HM had lower collagen solubility percentage (p<0.05), but similar (p>0.05) Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF). No differences (p>0.05) were found in juiciness, overall flavor, oiliness, and overall acceptability, but HM was more tender (p<0.05) than the others. Based on VML, consumers preferred MM to HM (p<0.05), while LM was similar to MM and HM (p>0.05). Corresponding to VML preference (r = 0.45, p<0.01), consumers (83%) would (p<0.01) definitely and probably buy MM, over LM (74%), and HM (68%), respectively. Conclusion: Increasing VML in pork LD altered its chemical composition, slightly increased pH, and improved water holding capacity, thereby improving its tenderness acceptability. Marbling might reduce chewing resistance, as lower collagen solubility in HM did not impact tenderness acceptability and WBSF. While HM was rated as most tender, consumers visually preferred and would purchase MM.

• Korean journal of applied entomology
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• v.60 no.3
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• pp.323-329
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• 2021

This study investigated the seasonal distribution of ticks in Boeun, Chungbuk, South Korea, from 2016 to 2020. Over the five-year period, ticks were collected annually from four different sites. A total of 17,704 ticks belonging to three tick species (Haemaphysalis longicornis, Haemaphysalis flava, and Ixodes nipponensis) were collected. H. longicornis was the dominant species across all four sites with the highest density of 68.40% of the total collected specimens, followed by H. flava (3.53%) and I. nipponensis (0.06%). The larvae of unidentified species were also collected: 11.81 T.I. (28.01%). The H. longicornis population peaked during the spring season (May-June), whereas the larval population peaked during August and September. H. longicornis was collected the most from four sites (coniferous forest, broad-leaf forest, mountain path, and copse), with the exception of the larvae, which was collected the most in grassland and grave. H. flava was collected from all sites, but in a small proportion. The SFTS virus was not found in any of the 828 pools of ticks during 2016-2020. Based on the results of this study, the continuous surveillance of the tick population is recommended to mitigate the spread of diseases by these vectors.

• Journal of Korean Foot and Ankle Society
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• v.24 no.4
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• pp.129-134
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• 2020

Purpose: This study compared the results of proximal and distal chevron osteotomy in patients with severe hallux valgus. Several recent studies have shown that the indications for distal metatarsal osteotomy with a distal soft-tissue procedure could be extended to include severe hallux valgus. Materials and Methods: This study analyzed 127 severe hallux valgus surgeries. Of these, 76 patients (76 feet) were excluded for lack of adequate follow-up and additional procedures (Akin procedure), leaving 51 patients (51 feet) in the study. The mean age of the patients was 58 years (21~83 years), and the mean follow-up duration was 18 months (12~32 months). The patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 underwent distal chevron osteotomy, and group 2 underwent proximal chevron osteotomy performed sequentially by a single surgeon. The patients were interviewed for the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score before and one year after surgery. The anteroposterior weight-bearing radiography of the foot was taken before and one year after surgery. Results: There were no significant differences in pain and function after one year in either group. Both groups experienced significant pain reduction and an increase in the AOFAS score. Significant improvement of the hallux valgus and intermetatarsal angle corrections was observed in both groups, and the sesamoid position was similar in each group. More improvement in radiographic correction of intermetatarsal angle was noted in group 2. Both procedures gave similar good clinical and radiological outcomes. Conclusion: This study suggests that a distal chevron osteotomy with a distal soft-tissue procedure is as effective and reliable a means of correcting severe hallux valgus as a proximal chevron osteotomy with a distal soft-tissue procedure.

• Current Photovoltaic Research
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• v.9 no.3
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• pp.75-83
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• 2021

The tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) structure got more consideration for development of high performance solar cells by the introduction of a tunnel oxide layer between the substrate and poly-Si is best for attaining interface passivation. The quality of passivation of the tunnel oxide layer clearly depends on the bond of SiO in the tunnel oxide layer, which is affected by the subsequent annealing and the tunnel oxide layer was formed in the suboxide region (SiO, Si₂O, Si₂O₃) at the interface with the substrate. In the suboxide region, an oxygen-rich bond is formed as a result of subsequent annealing that also improves the quality of passivation. To control the surface morphology, annealing profile, and acceleration rate, an oxide tunnel junction structure with a passivation characteristic of 700 mV or more (V_oc) on a p-type wafer could achieved. The quality of passivation of samples subjected to RTP annealing at temperatures above 900℃ declined rapidly. To improve the quality of passivation of the tunnel oxide layer, the physical properties and thermal stability of the thin layer must be considered. TOPCon silicon solar cell has a boron diffused front emitter, a tunnel-SiO_x/n⁺-poly-Si/SiN_x:H structure at the rear side, and screen-printed electrodes on both sides. The saturation currents J_o of this structure on polished surface is 1.3 fA/cm² and for textured silicon surfaces is 3.7 fA/cm² before printing the silver contacts. After printing the Ag contacts, the J_o of this structure increases to 50.7 fA/cm² on textured silicon surfaces, which is still manageably less for metal contacts. This structure was applied to TOPCon solar cells, resulting in a median efficiency of 23.91%, and a highest efficiency of 24.58%, independently. The conversion efficiency of interdigitated back-contact solar cells has reached up to 26% by enhancing the optoelectrical properties for both-sides-contacted of the cells.

• Korean Journal of Environmental Agriculture
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• v.38 no.2
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• pp.83-88
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• 2019

BACKGROUND: In recent years, studies on microplastics have focused on their decomposition in the ocean. However, no studies have been reported on the interaction between microplastics and metal ions in aqueous solutions. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the adsorption capacity of cadmium(Cd) by polypropylene (PP) in aqueous solution. METHODS AND RESULTS: Cadmium adsorption characteristics of PP in aqueous solution were evaluated through various conditions including initial Cd concentration(1.25-25 mg/L), contact time(0.5-24 h), initial pH(2-6) and temperature($20-50^{\circ}C$). Cadmium adsorption fit on PP was well described by Freundlich isotherm model with adsorption capacity(K) of 0.028. The adsorption amount of Cd by PP increased with increasing contact time, indicating that adsorption of PP by Cd was dominantly influenced by contact time. Especially, the removal efficiency of Cd by PP was highest at high temperature. However, the surface functional groups of PP before and after adsorption of Cd were similar, suggesting that adsorption of Cd by PP is not related to surface functional groups. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that PP affects the behavior of Cd in aqueous solution. However, in order to clarify the specific relationship between microplastics and metal ions, mechanism research should be carried out.

• Therapeutic Science for Rehabilitation
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• v.8 no.2
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• pp.43-53
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• 2019

Objective : This study aimed to identify the characteristics of hand function according to age and sex in older adults. Methods : This study included 103 healthy adults aged ${\geq}60$ years. The Korean version of TEMPA was used to assess hand function and a Jamar dynamometer and pinch gauge were used to assess hand and pinch strength in all participants. Results : The results of hand function assessment showed that speed of task execution (mean = 121.32 s, SD = 18.07 s in subjects aged 60-69; mean = 144.97 s, SD = 28.43 s in subjects aged 70-79; and mean = 160.93 s, SD = 38.33 s in subjects aged ${\geq}80$, p < .001) and fine movement (mean score = -.14, SD = .40 in subjects aged 60-69; mean score = -.63, SD = 1.07 in subjects aged 70-79; and mean score = -.57, SD = .65 in subjects aged ${\geq}80$, p = .01) decreased significantly with age. The male group showed better speed of task execution (mean = 133.54, SD = 22.83 in males vs. mean = 150.55, SD = 39.89 in females, p < .01) and fine movement (mean score = -.16, SD = .37 in males vs. mean score = -.46, SD = .58 in females, p < .01) than the female group. Hand strength also decreased significantly with age (p < .05, to p < .001). Conclusion : Occupational therapists should be aware of the decline in hand function (especially speed of task execution and fine movement) and strength in older adults, as well as the need to provide interventions to treat this decline.

• Asian Journal for Public Opinion Research
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• v.7 no.2
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• pp.94-112
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• 2019

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare the quality of life (QOL) of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) between patients receiving hemodialysis (HD) and patients receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) and to compare personal characteristic factors relating to the quality of life in patients with ESRD. Method: This study used a descriptive research design. The sample was recruited using purposive sampling that included 76 ESRD patients receiving either HD or CAPD at a dialysis clinic in Phraphutthabat Hospital, Saraburi Province, Thailand. Data was collected using the Quality of Life Questionnaire for Chronic Kidney Disease ($KDQOL-SF^{TM}$) version 1.3. Independent t-test and ANOVA procedures were used to analyze study data. Results: The results revealed that the HD patients had a moderate level of QOL. The highest scoring dimension of QOL was the encouragement of staff at the dialysis unit and patient satisfaction with the treatment (${\bar{X}}=100$, SD=.00), followed by social support (${\bar{X}}=89.29$, SD =16.88) and cognitive function (${\bar{X}}=88.57$, SD=11.82). On the other hand, the lowest scoring QOL dimension was physical problems (${\bar{X}}=50$, SD=51.89), and pain (${\bar{X}}=50$, SD=39.03), followed by work status (${\bar{X}}=53.57$, SD=45.84) and burden from kidney disease (${\bar{X}}=58.48$, SD=31.07). The CAPD patients also had a moderate QOL. The highest scoring QOL dimension was the encouragement of staff in the renal unit and patient satisfaction with the treatment (${\bar{X}}=100$, SD=.00), followed by social support (${\bar{X}}=95.61$, SD=14.20) and cognitive function (${\bar{X}}=88.83$, SD=13.52). The worst scoring QOL dimensions were work status (${\bar{X}}=44.44$, SD=42.72), general health (${\bar{X}}=53.61$, SD=39.05), and pain (${\bar{X}}=62.70$, SD=41.14). The difference overall and in each dimension of QOL in ESRD patients who were treated with HD and CAPD was not statistically significantly different. The QOL was not significantly different among patients with different personal characteristics except for income and duration of treatment; in those cases, the difference in QOL was statistically significant (p=.05). Conclusion: The overall QOL and life expectancy of patients with ESRD treated with HD and CAPD are not affected by gender, age, marital status, education, occupation, or type of health coverage. QOL was not significantly different, except for patients with different incomes and duration of renal replacement therapy, whose QOL was significantly different. The QOL of patients receiving dialysis should be studied to develop a QOL program for patients with chronic kidney disease who receive dialysis.

• Clinical and Molecular Hepatology
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• v.24 no.4
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• pp.384-391
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• 2018

Backgrounds/Aims: The objective of our study was to determine the epidemiological, laboratory, and serological characteristics of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and normal transaminases. The study also aimed to evaluate liver damage by measuring the liver fibrosis (LF) grade and to identify possible factors associated with the presence of fibrosis. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted in patients with chronic HBV infection and classified as inactive carriers or immune-tolerant. Epidemiological variables of age, sex, immigrant, alcohol consumption, and body mass index (BMI), as well as virological variables (HBV DNA) and transaminase level were collected throughout the follow-up. The LF grade was evaluated by transient elastography. The cutoff value for significant fibrosis (SF) was liver stiffness ${\geq}7.9kPa$. Results: A total of 214 patients were included in the analysis, and 62% of them had a BMI ${\geq}25kg/m^2$. During follow-up, 4% of patients showed transaminase elevation (<1.5 times normal). Most patients had a viral DNA level <2,000 IU/mL (83%). Data on LF were available in 160 patients; of these, 14% had SF, 9% F3, and 6% F4. The variables associated with the presence of SF were transaminase alteration during follow-up, as 23% of patients with SF had elevated transaminases versus 3% of patients without SF (P<0.005), and BMI, as the vast majority of patients with SF (88%) had a BMI ${\geq}25kg/m^2$ versus 56% of patients without SF (P<0.05). Conclusions: In patients with chronic HBV infection and normal transaminases, liver damage does not seem to be related to DNA levels, alcohol consumption, or immigrant status. SF seems to be associated with transaminase alteration during follow-up and elevated BMI. It is therefore recommended to measure LF grade with validated non-invasive methods in such patients.