• Journal of the Korean Society of Safety
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• v.38 no.4
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• pp.39-46
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• 2023

Pine trees, which account for 23% of the forested area of the Republic of Korea, are highly vulnerable to fire in comparison to broad-leaved trees due to the presence of consistent water tube sections throughout the year and resin that is composed of approximately 20% oil. In addition, the pattern of forest fires is determined by weather, topographic conditions, and fluctuation in moisture content. Therefore, when fire breaks out in pine tree forests during the dry season (January to March), it is difficult to extinguish, and it quickly spreads. In this study, the combustion characteristics of pine needles, pine cones, and pine branches in the water tube sections of living pine trees were compared and analyzed in accordance with the moisture content as per the ISO 5660-1. The monthly moisture content was analyzed from January to March, and it was found to be the lowest in March, with 53.6% for pine needles, 51.9% for pine branches, and 10.9% for pine cones. In particular, pine cones were more vulnerable to fire as compared to pine needles and pine branches because their moisture content was more than five times lower than that of pine needles and branches. The ignition time, which affects the speed of flame propagation, was the most rapid in March, and the fastest ignition time was for pine cones, at 19 seconds, followed by 34 seconds for pine needles, and 256 seconds for pine branches. The pine branches were the last to be ignited due to the effect of density, according to the thickness and specific gravity of the specimen. The peak heat release rate, which is a measurable index of fire intensity, was analyzed for pine cones and found to be 184.28 kW/m² , while the mean effective heat of combustion was 19.79 MJ/kg, and the total heat release rate was 39.7 MJ/m² , and these values were higher than those of pine branches and pine needles. Thus, we determined that the flame propagation speed and fire intensity according to the moisture content can be used to evaluate the risk of fire to the water tube section of pine trees. It is suggested that because of the combustion characteristics of the pine cone in March, that is when the forest is most vulnerable to fires.

• Journal of Life Science
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• v.33 no.4
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• pp.349-356
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• 2023

Gout, a chronic inflammatory arthritic disease, is characterized by hyperuricemia. Gout can be induced by an inflammatory response to monosodium urate (MSU) crystals mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokine release following activation of the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. Many sulfur-containing phytochemical compounds in garlic (Allium sativum L.) are considered active ingredients because of their potential pharmacological benefits for various diseases, but their efficacy in NLRP3 inflammasome activation-mediated gout has not been demonstrated. In this study, we investigated whether diallyl disulfide (DADS) and diallyl trisulfide (DATS), representative garlic-derived sulfur compounds, have an inhibitory effect on MSU-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Our results showed that under non-cytotoxic conditions, DADS and DATS significantly blocked nitric oxide production and interleukin (IL)-1β release in response to MSU in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-primed RAW 264.7 macrophages. DADS and DATS also attenuated enhanced expression of NLRP3 and its adapter protein, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein, which was associated with downregulation of and caspase-1 p20 and IL-1β expression, suggesting that MSU-induced LRP3 inflammasome activation was counteracted by DADS and DATS. Furthermore, DADS and DATS blocked oxidative stress, an upstream event for NLRP3 inflammasome activation, as evidenced by the fact that they scavenged reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that DADS and DATS suppressed NLRP3 inflammasome activation by inhibiting the ROS/NLRP3 pathway and that they have potential as treatments for NLRP3-dependent gouty arthritis.

• KOREAN JOURNAL OF PACKAGING SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
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• v.29 no.1
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• pp.1-7
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• 2023

Chlorine dioxide (ClO₂) is widely used for post-harvest sterilization treatment. However, there are limitations in the retail application of ClO₂ due to difficulties in handling, expensive facilities, and safety concerns. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a ClO₂ technology that can be easily applied and continuously released for a long period. In this study, a series of ClO₂ self-releasing sachets were developed. First, poly(ether-block-amide) (PEBAX) and polyethylene-glycol (PEG) composite films containing different ratios of citric acid (CA) were prepared using the solution casting method. The as-prepared PEBAX/PEG-CA composite films were evaluated using FT-IR, DSC, and TGA to confirm chemical structure and thermal properties. Subsequently, PEBAX/PEG-CA composite films were designed in the form of a sachet and NaClO₂ powder was transferred into the sachet to achieve a ClO₂ self-releasing system. The ClO₂-releasing behavior of the sachet was investigated by measuring the release amount of the gas using UV-vis. The release amount of ClO₂ increased with increasing CA contents owing to the existence of higher protons (trigger) in the polymer matrix. Further, ClO₂ gas was released for a longer time. Therefore, the as-prepared smart sachet can be tuned according to applications and packaging sizes to serve an optimal sterilization effect.

• Journal of Ecology and Environment
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• v.46 no.1
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• pp.1-7
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• 2022

Background: In this study, we proposed that the population dynamics of non-native red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) depends on the species' habitat extension and survivorship. We used a logistic equation with time-dependent habitat carrying capacity. In detail, the present carrying capacity depends on the red-eared slider population of the previous year. Anthropogenic activities such as the abandonment of previously captive red-eared sliders or the release due to religion customs would supply new habitats to the species. Therefore we assumed that anthropogenic spread increases the habitat carrying capacity. Based on the urbanization increase rate of 3% in Korea from 1980 to 2000, we assumed an annual spread of 3% to simulate the population dynamics of the red-eared slider. In addition, the effect on the population of an increase of natural habitats due to migration was simulated. Results: The close relationship between the distributions of non-native red-eared sliders and of urbanized areas demonstrates that urbanization plays an important role in providing new habitats for released individuals. Depending on the survivorship, the population of the red-eared slider in Korea increased 1.826 to 3.577 times between 1980 and 2000. To control population growth, it is necessary to reduce carrying capacity by reducing habitat expansion through prohibition of release into the wild ecosystem and careful managements of the wetland or artificial ponds. Changes in the habitat carrying capacity showed that the population fluctuated every other year. However, after several years, it converged to a consistent value which depended on the survivorship. Further, our results showed that if red-eared sliders expand their habitat by natural migration, their population can increase to a greater number than when they have a 99% survivorship in a fixed habitat. Conclusions: Further introductions of red-eared sliders into wetlands or artificial ponds should be prohibited and managed to prevent future spread of the species. Moreover, it is important to reduce the species' survivorship by restoring disturbed ecosystems and maintaining healthy ecosystems.

• The Korea Journal of Herbology
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• v.39 no.3
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• pp.57-67
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• 2024

Objectives : The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential biological activity of Veronica incana extracts (VIE) through in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo experiments. Methods : In vitro, we conducted analyses on the total polyphenol (TP) and total flavonoid (TF) levels, alongside DPPHand ABTS radical scavenging activities. Ex vivo evaluations on adipose tissue measured glycerol release as a marker of lipolysis. In LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells, we quantified nitric oxide (NO) production. Following H₂O₂ induction in U2OS cells, we performed mitochondrial assays such as MitoSox and MitoTracker. Moreover, Bodipy assays were conducted in 3T3-L1 cells. In vivo, we performed anti-osteoarthritis effect of VIE against monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis in rats. Results : The results presented encompass a myriad of models, from cell culture to animal experiments as well as ex vivo studies. VIE demonstrated high TP and TF contents, potent DPPH and ABTS scavenging activities, and regulated glycerol release. Moreover, the inhibition of NO production in LPS-induced inflammation was notably confirmed and the reduction of lipid droplets was distinctly shown. Furthermore, in H₂O₂-induced U2OS cells, MitoSox was effectively reduced while MitoTracker noticeably increased. In vivo assays confirmed a significant increase in hindpaw weight distribution (HWD) decreased by MIA after VIE treatment. Additionally, VIE inhibited serum inflammatory cytokines (TNF-𝛼, IL-6, and IL-1𝛽) and MDA levels in joint tissue. Conclusion : In conclusion, Veronica incana exhibited various pharmacological effects including antioxidant, anti-obesity, and anti-inflammatory properties.

• IMMUNE NETWORK
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• v.23 no.6
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• pp.48.1-48.21
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• 2023

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) possess immunoregulatory properties and their regulatory functions represent a potential therapy for acute lung injury (ALI). However, uncertainties remain with respect to defining MSCs-derived immunomodulatory pathways. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the mechanism underlying the enhanced effect of human recombinant bone morphogenic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) primed ES-MSCs (MSC^BMP2) in promoting Tregs in ALI mice. MSC were preconditioned with 100 ng/ml rhBMP-2 for 24 h, and then administrated to mice by intravenous injection after intratracheal injection of 1 mg/kg LPS. Treating MSCs with rhBMP-2 significantly increased cellular proliferation and migration, and cytokines array reveled that cytokines release by MSC^BMP2 were associated with migration and growth. MSC^BMP2 ameliorated LPS induced lung injury and reduced myeloperoxidase activity and permeability in mice exposed to LPS. Levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase were decreased while levels of total glutathione and superoxide dismutase activity were further increased via inhibition of phosphorylated STAT1 in ALI mice treated with MSC^BMP2. MSC^BMP2 treatment increased the protein level of IDO1, indicating an increase in Treg cells, and Foxp3⁺CD25⁺ Treg of CD4⁺ cells were further increased in ALI mice treated with MSC^BMP2. In co-culture assays with MSCs and RAW264.7 cells, the protein level of IDO1 was further induced in MSC^BMP2. Additionally, cytokine release of IL-10 was enhanced while both IL-6 and TNF-α were further inhibited. In conclusion, these findings suggest that MSC^BMP2 has therapeutic potential to reduce massive inflammation of respiratory diseases by promoting Treg cells.

• Food Science and Preservation
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• v.30 no.3
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• pp.502-513
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• 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the anti-adipogenic and anti-inflammation effects of extract from Maclura tricuspidata twig fermented with Ganoderma lucidum mycelium (EMFG) in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. 3T3-L1 adipocytes were treated with 100, 200, 300 ㎍/mL of EMFG. The result showed that EMFG dose-dependently inhibited the accumulation of intracellular lipid content in differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes and enhanced increase of adiponectin release and inhibition of leptin release. EMFG treatment reduced expression of adipogenic transcriptional factor such as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα). EMFG also decreased production of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory cytokine [tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1)] and the protein expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible NOS (iNOS) in differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The study demonstrated that EMFG inhibited adipogenesis and inflammation in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that EMFG may have potential as an anti-obesity and anti-metabolic disease agent that works by inhibiting adipogenesis and inflammation.

• Journal of Veterinary Clinics
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• v.27 no.6
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• pp.663-667
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• 2010

Experiments were undertaken to assess the antinociceptive effect of bee venom (BV) in rodent animal models. Comparison of antinociceptive efficacy between Korean BV and commercially available American BV was the primary interest of the study. Korean BV was collected using BV collector devices in which an electrical impulse is used to stimulate the worker bee (Apis mellfera L.) to sting and release venom. After collection, whole BV was evaporated until dry using the BV collector. Commercially available dried American BV was purchased from Sigma Company in USA. Korean and American sourced BVs were diluted and amounts of 6 mg/kg body weight (BW), 0.6 mg/kg BW and 0.06 mg/kg BW were tested. BV was subcutaneously injected to produce an antinociceptive effect and the antinociceptive efficacy was evaluated using a writhing test in mice and a formalin test in rats. The antinociceptive effects of the two BVs tested were similar in mice for visceral pain and showed a dose-dependent response. The antinociceptive effect of Korean BV was not significantly different compare to American BV. These results suggest that Korean BV may be used to achieve an antinociceptive effect for use in medical therapies.

• Journal of radiological science and technology
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• v.34 no.2
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• pp.149-156
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• 2011

This study is to identify perceptions and response degrees of anxiety for each factor, targeting patients for CT test and analyze the relations between factors. It is to provide scientific fundamental data to reduce anxiety by improving awareness of patients about CT test by analyzing relations between variables. The subjects of this study were surveyed in self-writing type, targeting 263 patients for CT test in the department of radiology at three University hospitals from July to September, 2010. This survey was executed once by a structured self-administered survey type. The targeting patients for CT test of anxiety will investigate for affect. Anxiety by each CT test variables depending on CT test-related features showed independent variable is Expense Responsibility, Economic burden, Sufficient explain, Explain agent, Endoscope, Biopsy, Pre treatment, Previous experience, CT side effect experience, Side effect of contrast medium and dependent variable is physical, Hospital staff, Hospital environment, Socioeconomic These used statistics program SPSS (ver. 13.0). Summarizing the above results of this study, awareness of anxiety and response to it in each variable under CT test appeared significant differences in economic burdens, state anxiety, pre-treatment anxiety, exposure anxiety to radiation, and anxiety of side effect. Therefore, pre-treatment before test and pre-training programs on chemical poison of contrast medium and side effect seem to be able to release patients' anxiety level for CT test. Ways to meditate these anxiety variables and reduce degree of anxiety are needed to be researched more and updated. In addition, impact of patients' economic burdens on CT test anxiety is required to be recognized and solved in society level.

• Food Industry And Nutrition
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• v.9 no.1
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• pp.36-45
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• 2004

Bamboo salt has been used for the purpose of prevention and treatment of various diseases in Korea. Present study was carried out to ascertain the effects of purple bamboo salt upon anti-allergic effect, anti-inflammatory activity and immune-enhance effect as well. Purple bamboo salt significantly inhibited the ear swelling response and histamine release induced by compound 48/80 in mice and rat peritoneal mast cells. Purple bamboo salt (0.01 ∼ lg/kg) also dose-dependently inhibited the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis by oral administration. Purple bamboo salt (1 mg/mL) in hibited phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate plus calcium ionophore A23187-stimulated tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-${\alpha}$, interleukin (IL)-1${\beta}$ and IL-6 secretion, by 67.04${\pm}$0.08%, 68.01${\pm}$1.85%, 69.48${\pm}$0.54%, respectively. In addition, purple bamboo salt inhibited the expression of TNF-${\alpha}$ mRNA in HMC-1 cells. Finally, we investigated the effect of purple bamboo salt in the forced swimming test (FST) and the change of purple bamboo salt-mediated cytokine production from MOLT-4 cells. At the 7th, immobility time was significantly decreased in the purple bamboo salt-administration group (35.4 ${\pm}$5.9 s for 1 g/kg) in comparison with the control group (93.2 ${\pm}$ 15.45). After FST, the content of glucose in the blood serum was increased and the levels of blood urea nitrogen, lactic dehydrogenase was decreased in purple bamboo salt-administration group. However, it had no effect on the elevation of CK and TP level. Purple bamboo salt (1 mg/mL) significantly increased the interferon (IFN)-${\gamma}$ and IL-2 level compared with media control (about 3.7-fold for IFN-${\gamma}$, about 3.5-fold for IL-2, p〈0.05) but did not affect the IL-4.