• Journal of Acupuncture Research
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• v.26 no.6
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• pp.101-110
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• 2009

Objectives : We developed and proposed a guideline for safety and performance assessment of electric cupping apparatus(Class 2 medical device). Methods : We drafted the guideline for safety and performance assessment of electric cupping apparatus by referring the existing standards and guideline, based on online questionnaire for Korean medical doctors and measurement data from commercially available products. Physical dimension of cups and inner vacuum pressure were acquired for the measurement in order to achieve the purposes. Results : This guideline only can be applied to electric cupping apparatus for enhancing blood circulation by employing negative pressure generated by electricity. Seven items of appearance and label, operation test of pump, variation test of input electricity, vacuum level test, vacuum sustain test, cup-size dependent test, noise level test are suggested for evaluation subjects and methods required for electric cupping devices. Requirements for the design and development of electric cupping devices are suggested: vacuum level indicator, vacuum generation rate, pressure control, valve detachment stability, cup comparability, safety measure, surge protection, user friendliness, instruction for use (IFU). Conclusions : We proposed a guideline for safety and performance assessment of electric cupping apparatus to improve the quality of relating products and aid the commercialization of them, by aiming higher industrial competitiveness of the medical device sectors in Korea. Discussion with related institutes such as industry, academy and government is further required. Public hearings also need to be held prior to the establishment of a final guideline and standard.

• Journal of Korea Water Resources Association
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• v.50 no.1
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• pp.29-35
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• 2017

A vehicle rainfall sensor is made to control the operating speed of wipers depending on rainfall. Therefore this is the apparatus to determine the velocity phase of the wipers roughly based on the amount of rainfall. However, the technology which can judge the size of rainfall amount besides determining speed level of the wipers is developing according to the development of the function of rainfall sensor due to the development of technology. In this study, a rainfall measurement by using light scattering by precipitation particles was used. This measurement is to use light signal reflection from front glass and the bigger particle is the less detection of light by light scattering. The detection area of the rainfall sensor and detection channel were extended sizes to increase the accuracy of the rainfall. Also the W-S-R relational expression was developed by using a relationship between the specific precipitation (R) and the amount of sensor detection (S) when there is speed change of the wipers (W) and an indoor rainfall apparatus was used to convert sensing signal to rainfall. The signal system of vehicle rainfall sensor can be converted to the actual rainfall amount by using this formula and if this is provided to users then the vehicle observation network can produce higher-resolution than actual observation network can be produced.

• Journal of the Korean Society of Environmental Restoration Technology
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• v.17 no.4
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• pp.57-67
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• 2014

The vigor condition of trees is an important indicator for the management of urban forested area. But difficulties in how to assess the tree vigor condition still remain. Previous efforts were limited in the 1) measurement of single indicator rather than using multiple indices, 2) purpose-oriented measurement such as for air-pollution effect or specific pathological symptom, and 3) ordinal-scale evaluations by field crews 4) despite human errors based on his/her experiences or prior knowledge. Therefore, this study attempted to develop a quantitative and objective methodology for assessing tree vigor condition, by measuring multiple modules and building the profile inventory. Furthermore, the possibility and limitations were discussed in terms of schematic frames describing tree vigor condition. The vigor condition of 56 flowering cherry plants in urban park were assessed by in-situ measurements of following eight items; growth of crown(Gc), growth of shoots, individual tree volume(Vol), plant area index, woody area index, leaf area index, leaf chlorophyll content(Lc) and leaf water content(Lw). For validation, these measurements were compared with the ranks of holistic tree vigor condition, which were visually assessed using a 4-point grading scale based on the expert's knowledge. As a result, the measures of each evaluation item successfully highlighted a variety of aspects in tree vigor condition, including the states of both photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic parts. The variation in the results depending on evaluated parts was shown within an individual tree, even though the broad agreement among the results was found. The result of correlation analysis between the tested measurements and 4-point visual assessment, demonstrated that the state of water-stressed foliage of the season (Lw) or the development of plant materials since sapling phase (Vol) could be better viewed from the outer appearance of trees than other symptoms. But only based on the visual assessment, it may be difficult to detect the quality of photosynthesis (Lc) or the recent trend in growth of trees (Gc). To make this methodology simplified for the broad-scale application, the tested eight measurements could be integrated into two components by principal component analysis, which was labelled with 'the amount of plant materials' and 'vigor trend', respectively. In addition, the use of these quantitative and multi-scale indicators underlies the importance of assessing various aspects of tree vigor condition, taking into account the response(s) on different time and spatial scale of pressure(s) shown in each evaluated module. Future study should be advanced for various species at diverse developing stages and environment, and the application to wide areas at a periodic manner.

• Journal of Nutrition and Health
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• v.36 no.6
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• pp.603-612
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• 2003

Postmenopausal women are at an increased risk of developing coronary artery disease. This is due to primarily dyslipidemia accompanying the loss of estrogen secretion. Soy isoflavones are known to have weak estrogenic effects. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether isoflavone supplement improves the risk of cardiovascular disease in hypercholesterolemic postmenopausal women. Subjects consisted of 39 Korean postmenopausal women with hypercholesterolemia (total cholesterol $\geq$ 200 mg/㎗ or LDL cholesterol $\geq$ 130 mg/㎗). Subjects were divided into 2 groups; placebo group (PG), isoflavone supplement group (IG). During 12 weeks, subjects were given placebo and 80mg isoflavone daily. Anthropometric measurement, blood sample analysis and dietary intake measurement were taken at baseline and after 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, systolic blood pressure was decreased significantly (p ＜ 0.01) and plasma HDL cholesterol level was increased significantly (p ＜ 0.05) in IG. But there were no significant changes in plasma total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels after isoflavone supplementation. There was a negative correlation between initial plasma HDL cholesterol level and the extent of plasma HDL cholesterol reduction in IG (r＝-0.572, p＝0.012). Atherogenic index (AI), total-/LDL- cholesterol ratio and LDL/HDL cholesterol ratio were improved significantly after isoflavone supplementation. In subjects whose initial plasma LDL cholesterol level were above 160 mg/㎗, plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) level were decreased and total antioxidant status (TAS) were increased significantly after isoflavone supplement (p ＜ 0.05). However there were no significant changes in flow-mediated dilator (FMD), the marker of endothelium-dependent vasodilation and nitroglycerine-mediated dilator (NMD), the marker of endothelium-independent vasodilation and the extent of DNA damage after isoflavone supplement. In conclusion, these results indicate that isoflavone supplement may decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease via improving blood pressure, HDL cholesterol level and AI in hypercholesterolemic postmenopausal women. Futhermore, in case of subjects with elevated LDL cholesterol level, isoflavone supplementation may have more antiatherogenic effects via improving antioxidant status.

• Asia-Pacific Journal of Business Venturing and Entrepreneurship
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• v.15 no.4
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• pp.1-15
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• 2020

As the entrepreneurial ecosystem turns out to be a leading factor in improving nation's entrepreneurship, many studies are underway in the country to develop the start-up ecosystem. Although the entrepreneurial ecosystem is receiving attention as an essential factor for the nation's economic growth as well as entrepreneurship due to its inter-relationship with start-ups, government agencies and investors, criticism of measurement indicators has been increasing due to the different institutional and political contexts of each country, including the various definition of start-up ecosystem. In this study, we develop indicators that are suitable for domestic conditions in Korea and that can measure the level of start-up ecosystems in each regional level. FGI and Delphi surveys by scholarly experts in each field of start-ups & entrepreneurship were conducted to verify how well existing indicators fit the domestic situation and to develop indicators that can measure the local entrepreneurial ecosystem in Korea through close examination. As a result, the local entrepreneurial ecosystem consisted of three to four sub-components and 38 sub-components, each consisting of seven indicators, including Policy, Investment, Culture, Market, Human Capital, Support and Knowledge. It is expected that this research will be used to diagnose local start-up ecosystems and to propose discriminatory policies that can complement regional strengths and weaknesses.

• Perspectives in Nursing Science
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• v.3 no.1
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• pp.35-45
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• 2006

In Korea, about 8.3% over aged 65 are suffering from Alzheimer's disease or other type of dementia. Among dementia-related behaviors, wandering is the one of strongest factors on burden and stress of caregivers. On Lee and Kwon's report with community living persons with dementia, upto 85% of caregivers reported wandering as a problem. Wandering is a frequently encountered problem in communities and long-term care facilities, but it is among least understood dementia. related behavior. Despite the prevalence of wandering, its significant adverse outcomes, and the increase in persons with dementia in Korea, no systematic research has been conducted in Korea. The purpose of this study is to review on literature related to wandering behavior among persons with dementia. The specific topics related to wandering are included: definition, the prevalence of dementia and wandering behavior, the influencing factor on wandering, outcomes of wandering behavior, and the measurement method. Wandering is defined as "aimless walking" and "Meandering, aimless or repetitive locomotion that exposes one to harm and is incongruent with boundaries, limits, or obstacles". Wandering is viewed as a problematic behavior, however, it has to be understood as need-driven compromised behavior. For example, wandering may be an expression of searching for familiar person and/or place. Recently, in Korea, there is an effort for establishing the therapeutic environment for elders who are wanderers in long-term-care facilities. Cognitive impairment of persons with dementia is found to be a consistent factor on wandering behavior through many national and international studies. The adverse outcomes of wandering are serious problem in persons with dementia as well as their caregivers. The adverse outcomes include falls, fractures, getting lost, use of restraints, or even death. In fact, wandering is one of the major reasons for a patient to be institutionalized. For measurement of wandering behavior, two methods are broadly used: observation using stop watch, and survey form. A revised instrument of the Korean version of Algase wandering scale (K_RAWS) is established the psychometric properties (Son, Song, & Lim, 2006) demonstrating valid and reliable instrument in measuring wandering behavior among persons with dementia who are residing in communities. K_RAWS has a 39 items with six subscales including persistent walking, repetitive walking, spatial disorientation, eloping behavior, negative outcome, and mealtime impulsivity. In conclusion, studies including the prevalence of wandering behavior and predictive factors on wandering should be conducted to understand wandering clearly before developing any types of intervention.

• Journal of the East Asian Society of Dietary Life
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• v.20 no.2
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• pp.328-339
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• 2010

This study was conducted to develop a service quality measurement scale suitable for the fast food restaurant segment. After reviewing the relevant literature, it was decided that the current service quality measurement scales (SERVQUAL, SERVPERF, DINESERV) are not appropriate for the fast food restaurant segment. Based on Cronin & Taylor's (1994) argument, perceived service quality is a form of attitude that represents a long-term overall evaluation of the company. Therefore, this study selected SERVPERF items for the initial pool of service quality items. Through a systematic scale development process, the SERVPERF instrument was then refined and a new concise scale was produced. Specifically, a focus group discussion with a group of patrons who are very familiar with fast food restaurants was conducted and the new service quality measure was refined so that it would be more realistic and closely describe service operation in the fast food industry. Moreover, the data collected from 112 college students who visit fast food restaurants frequently were used to statistically evaluate each of the items again via EFA (Exploratory Factor Analysis) and three sub-dimensions were derived: (1) responsiveness, (2) tangibles, and (3) reliability. Additionally, the data collected from 179 fast food restaurant consumers was used to conduct CFA (Confirmatory Factor Analysis). During this process, the convergent validity, discriminant validity, and internal consistency were double-checked. Overall, the newly developed scale achieved validity and reliability on a theoretical and statistical basis. Possible interpretations and managerial implications are also suggested.

• The Journal of Korean Obstetrics and Gynecology
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• v.23 no.1
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• pp.42-52
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• 2010

Purpose: This report aims to administer methodologic issues around recently conducted multicenter study for evaluating the effects of acupuncture on menopusal hot flashes and discuss practical issues for further implementation of acupuncture clinical trial for hot flashes. Methods: Study process were mentioned, and issues related to avoiding risk of bias, designing appropriate control group, optimal outcome measurement, potential different effects of menopausal status on study outcomes, and suggestions for developing future clinical trials are discussed. Results: Shortcomings of our multicenter study include lack of allocation concealment and assessor blinding, subjective outcome measurement, short-term follow-up, and fixed acupuncture regimen despite pragmatic purpose of this study. Improving trial design, using objective or validated outcomes, assessing long-term effects of acupuncture, and individualizing acupuncture regimen are needed in future clinical trials. Conclusion: We expect these practical discussions to enable researchers to plan and develop future well-designed clinical trials for evaluating the effects of acupuncture on hot flashes or other women's health issues.

• Journal of Korean society of Dental Hygiene
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• v.9 no.4
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• pp.633-643
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• 2009

Objectives : This study is aimed to help the dental hygiene department students to improve their adaptive ability to the field work by letting them know the performing levels required of the job world, by renovating the knowledge-centered curriculum, and by finding out the core competencies needed for successfully performing their duties and tasks in the work field. Methods : The survey tool was recomposed through the examination of the preceeding studies on basic vocational competencies and skills, and the survey has been done to 200 dentists in Seoul and Gyunggi provice. Results : 1. As for the job-getting routs, 35.1% of them finds their jobs through the job portal sites, and 21.3% through the recommendation by professors. So we can see the meaningful difference in the employment ways. 2. Dental hygiene clinics think that the purpose of their cooperation with the colleges is mainly to secure human resources by requiring the colleges to give field-centered education the colleges through. 3. The clinics for dental hygienic students' field learning have a great power for hiring the students. So it is necessary to set up a good management system of the clinics for dental hygienic students' field learning in order to reinforce the students' competitive power in getting jobs. 4. The priorities in basic working abilities needed for the task performance are in the order of vocational responsibility, self-managing & developing ability, interpersonal skill, and problem solving ability. 5. The core competencies required of those who graduate from dental hygiene school show the following scores by Likert measurement; good personality and vocational consciousness 2.16(${\pm}.677$), understanding power of major-related knowledge 2.19(${\pm}.723$), field adapting ability 2.31(${\pm}.748$), get-along-with ability 2.32(${\pm}.799$), interpersonal skill 2.42(${\pm}.768$), and self-development ability such as getting certificates 2.43(${\pm}.729$). Among the core competencies, the only meaningful factor which influences on their satisfaction measurement has been identified as the professional ability related to the major. Conclusions : The results suggest that the knowledge and skill related to the major are core competencies of able human resources and closely related with the professionality of the job, and so they are very important. However, job basic abilities are also proved to be important, which reinforce the students' activeness, self-regulation, and creativeness, and help them to pursue their lasting growth in their abilities.

• Korean Journal of Social Welfare
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• v.59 no.2
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• pp.197-222
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• 2007

The study aims to evaluate the outcomes of the Centers for Independent Living(CILs) demonstration program and to recommend future directions for CILs in 2006. The framework for the evaluation is a logic model, which facilitates outcome-based performance measurement. The measures associated with the logic model include input, activity, output, and outcomes. The data were collected by interviewing the executive directors of 10 CILs and conducting telephone survey with 231 consumers with disabilities. The study found that 69% consumers acquired new knowledge and skills for independent living. The study also revealed that 87% consumers experienced the positive changes in their lives and 83% consumers were satisfied with the services of the Centers. After using the services, consumers reported significant increases in self-confidence, and in the number and the level of involvement in the activities. In addition, the study found that the employment status of the consumers was improved, and the number of persons who were living in institutions was decreased. The study supports the advancement of policy to institutionalize Centers for Independent Living, and points to the importance of developing the capacity of the Association of Centers for Independent Living to ensure high quality services. In addition, it is suggested that the development of a manual for these services is necessary, and that services should be provided across disabilities and throughout the country, especially in rural areas.