• The Korean Journal of Pain
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• v.37 no.1
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• pp.51-58
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• 2024

Background: The rise in national health care costs has emerged as a global problem given the ever-aging population and rapid development of medical technology. The utilization of interventional pain management has, similarly, shown a continued rise worldwide. This study evaluates the differences in the medical costs in the field of interventional pain treatment (IPT) between two countries: Korea and Japan. Methods: Korean medical insurance costs for 2019 related to pain management focused on IPT were compared to those of Japan. Purchasing power parity (PPP) was used to adjust the exchange rate differences and to compare prices in consideration of the respective societies' economic power. Results: The cost of trigger point injections in Japan was 1.06 times higher than that of Korea, whereas the perineural and intraarticular injection prices were lower in Japan. The cost of epidural blocks was higher in Japan compared to Korea in both cervical/thoracic and lumbar regions. As for blocks of peripheral branches of spinal nerves, the cost of scapular nerve blocks in Japan was lower than that in Korea, given a PPP ratio 0.09. For nerve blocks in which fluoroscopy guidance is mandatory, the costs of epidurography in Japan were greater than those in Korea, given a PPP ratio 1.04. Conclusions: This is the first comparative study focusing on the medical costs related to IPT between Korea and Japan, which reveals that the costs differed along various categories. Further comparisons reflecting more diverse countries and socio-economic aspects will be required.

• The Journal of Engineering Geology
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• v.34 no.1
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• pp.67-105
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• 2024

This study compares the quartzites of four quartzite units: The Fagfog Quartzite, Dunga Quartzite (member of the Robang Formation), Pandrang Quartzite (member of the Kalitar Formation) and the Chisapani Quartzite. The analysis shows variations in flakiness and elongation, as the Fagfog Quartzite displays low flakiness whereas the Pandrang and the Chisapani have moderate and the Dunga Quartzite has shown variations. The density values of the four quartzite units remain consistent, indicating uniform physical properties and porosity levels. However, bulk density values differ among the quartzites, suggesting variations in particle arrangement, porosity, and density. Regarding strength measures, the Pandrang and the Chisapani Quartzite have higher strength characteristics as compared to the Fagfog and the Dunga Quartzites. The Pandrang Quartzite has the highest average point load strength index, classifying it as "Extremely Strong". The resistance to impact and crushing forces varies among the quartzites, with lower Aggregate Impact Value (AIV) and Aggregate Crushing Value (ACV) indicating higher strength and durability. Durability tests show that the Fagfog Quartzite has high durability against slaking, with a slight decrease observed after the fifth cycle. The Dunga Quartzite shows varying degrees of weathering, while the Pandrang and the Chisapani Quartzite have minimal weight changes, indicating strong resistance to weathering. Magnesium sulfate soundness tests indicate high durability and resistance to degradation for all four units. The Los Angeles abrasion value (LAAV) tests indicate favorable resistance to abrasion for the majority of the Fagfog, Dunga, and the Pandrang Quartzites samples, while Chisapani Quartzite shows more variability in LAAV values. The Pandrang Quartzite shows a higher proportion of elongated particles but lower flakiness index values as compared to Fagfog and Dunga Quartzites while Chisapani Quartzite stands out with a significantly higher presence of flaky particles and lower elongation index values. Mechanically, the Fagfog and Dunga Quartzite show higher strength and better resistance to abrasion and freeze and thaw. The Pandrang Quartzite shows moderate resistance to crushing and sudden effect, while the Chisapani Quartzite has variable resistance to effect. This comparative study emphasizes the diversity and complexity of quartzite rock types, showing the need for comprehensive characterization and assessment to determine their suitability for specific applications.

• Geomechanics and Engineering
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• v.36 no.2
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• pp.111-119
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• 2024

In the realm of rock excavation projects, precise estimation of the drilling rate index stands as a pivotal factor in strategic planning and cost assessment. This study introduces and evaluates two pioneering computational intelligence models designed for the prognostication of the drilling rate index, a pivotal parameter with direct implications for cost estimation in rock excavation projects. These models, denoted as the Relevance Vector Regression (RVR) optimized with the Invasive Weed Optimization algorithm (IWO) (RVR-IWO model) and the RVR integrated with the Shuffled Frog Leaping algorithm (SFL) (RVR-SFL model), represent a groundbreaking approach to forecasting drilling rate index. The RVR-IWO and RVR-SFL models were meticulously devised to harness the capabilities of computational intelligence and optimization techniques for drilling rate index estimation. This research pioneers the integration of IWO and SFL with RVR, constituting an unprecedented effort in forecasting drilling rate index. The primary objective of this study was to gauge the precision and dependability of these models in forecasting the drilling rate index, revealing significant distinctions between the two. In terms of predictive precision, the RVR-IWO model emerged as the superior choice when compared to the RVR-SFL model, underscoring the remarkable efficacy of the Invasive Weed Optimization algorithm. The RVR-IWO model delivered noteworthy results, boasting a Variance Account for (VAF) of 0.8406, a Mean Squared Error (MSE) of 0.0114, and a Squared Correlation Coefficient (R²) of 0.9315. On the contrary, the RVR-SFL model exhibited slightly lower precision, yielding an MSE of 0.0160, a VAF of 0.8205, and an R2 of 0.9120. These findings serve to highlight the potential of the RVR-IWO model as a formidable instrument for drilling rate index prediction, particularly within the framework of rock excavation projects. This research not only makes a significant contribution to the realm of drilling engineering but also underscores the broader adaptability of the RVR-IWO model in tackling an array of challenges within the domain of rock engineering. Ultimately, this study advances the comprehension of drilling rate index estimation and imparts valuable insights into the practical implementation of computational intelligence methodologies within the realm of engineering projects.

• The Research Journal of the Costume Culture
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• v.32 no.2
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• pp.247-259
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• 2024

This study assessed the effectiveness of brand image communication on consumer perceptions of cruelty-free fashion brands. Brand messaging data were gathered from postings on the official Instagram accounts of three cruelty-free fashion brands and consumer perception data were gathered from Tweets containing keywords related to each brand. Web crawling and natural language processing were performed using Python and sentiment analysis was conducted using the BERT model. By analyzing Instagram content from Stella McCartney, Patagonia, and Freitag from their inception until 2021, this study found these brands all emphasize environmental aspects but with differing focuses: Stella McCartney on ecological conservation, Patagonia on an active outdoor image, and Freitag on upcycled products. Keyword analysis further indicated consumers perceive these brands in line with their brand messaging: Stella McCartney as high-end and eco-friendly, Patagonia as active and environmentally conscious, and Freitag as centered on recycling. Results based on the assessment of the alignment between brand-driven images and consumer-perceived images and the sentiment evaluation of the brand confirmed the outcomes of brand communication performance. The study revealed a correlation between brand image and positive consumer evaluations, indicating that higher alignment of ethical values leads to more positive consumer assessments. Given that consumers tend to prioritize search keywords over brand concepts, it's important for brands to focus on using visual imagery and promotions to effectively convey brand communication information. These findings highlight the importance of brand communication by emphasizing the connection between ethical brand images and consumer perceptions.

• Nuclear Engineering and Technology
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• v.55 no.12
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• pp.4576-4582
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• 2023

The Korea retrospective dosimetry (KREDOS)-electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) group undertook an intercomparison investigation utilizing hydroxyapatite. This analysis involved four institutions: the Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Dongnam Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences, Korean Association for Radiation Application, and Radiation Health Institute of Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power. Following the irradiation of the hydroxyapatite sample, the recorded build-up was analyzed. To validate the reliability of the EPR dosimetry findings and enhance its operational performance, a hydroxyapatite dose-response curve was plotted and dosimetry was performed for a blind sample. The proficiency of each laboratory was assessed by employing an interlaboratory comparison methodology. This involved a comparative analysis of the measurement results by calculating the relative bias, z-score, and En value. The results submitted by the participating laboratories demonstrated satisfactory ratings for doses of 1.006, 3.999, and 6.993 Gy. Following the second intercomparison, efforts to optimize their hydroxyapatite-EPR dosimetry systems are underway in the participating laboratories. The current assessment of hydroxyapatite dose yielded the foundational data required to establish the parameters of dental dosimetry. In future, the third intercomparison experiment will be conducted for exploring other materials.

• Journal of Dental Anesthesia and Pain Medicine
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• v.24 no.2
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• pp.119-128
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• 2024

Background: In pediatric dentistry, fear and anxiety are common among children. Local anesthetics (LA) are widely used to control pain and reduce discomfort in children during dental treatment. Topical anesthetics play a vital role in reducing pain and the unpleasant sensation of a needle puncture in children. Peppermint oil has been extensively used for various diseases. However, its anesthetic properties remain unknown. Peppermint oil, used in mouthwashes, toothpastes, and other topical preparations has analgesic, anesthetic, and antiseptic properties. This study aimed to compare and evaluate pain perception following the topical application of peppermint oil versus lignocaine spray before an intraoral injection in children, aged 8-13 years. Method: Fifty-two children, aged between 8-13 years, who required local anesthesia for dental treatment were divided into two groups of 26 each by simple random sampling (Group 1: 0.2% peppermint oil and Group 2: lignocaine spray). In both groups, physiological measurements (e.g., heart rate) were recorded using pulse oximetry before, during, and after the procedure. Objective pain measurement (Sound Eye Motor (SEM) scale) during administration and subjective measuremeant (Wong-Baker Faces Pain Rating Scale (WBFPRS)) after LA administration were recorded. This was followed by the required treatment of the child. Physiological parameters were compared between the two groups using an independent t-test for intergroup assessment and a paired t-test and repeated-measures ANOVA for intragroup comparisons. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to analyze the pain scores. Results: Intragroup mean heart rates, before, during, and after treatment were statistically significantly different (P < 0.05). However, the intergroup mean pulse rates did not differ significantly between the two groups. The mean WBFPS score in the lignocaine spray group was 4.133 ± 2.06 was statistically different from that of the peppermint oil group (0.933 ± 1.03; P < 0.001^*). The mean SEM score was significantly lower in the peppermint oil group than that in the lignocaine spray group (P = 0.006). No negative effects were observed in this study. Conclusion: 0.2% peppermint oil was effective in reducing pain perception.

• Journal of Radiation Industry
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• v.18 no.2
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• pp.133-140
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• 2024

The Korean 2^nd basic plan for management of high-level radioactive waste presented a plan to manage spent nuclear fuel through dry storage facilities in NPP on-site. For the construction and operation of the facility, it is necessary to develop the monitoring system of the integrity of spent nuclear fuel before operation. NUREG-1536 recommends that the theoretical cask array, typically in the 2×10 array, should account for shadowing effect among the dry storage casks. The objective of this study was to evaluate neutron flux accounting for shadowing effect among dry storage casks. The neutron release rate was evaluated using ORIGEN based on the design basis fuel condition. And the simulation of dry storage casks and evaluation of the shadowing effect were performed using MCNP. Shadowing effect of other dry storage casks was the highest at the center of the dry storage facility of the 2×10 array compared with the outside of the cask. The shadowing effect of neutron flux on the surface among the metal casks was approximately 18% at point 1, 23% at point 2, and 43% at point 3. For the concrete casks, the shadowing effect of neutron flux on the surface was approximately 46% at point 1, 51% at point 2, and 52% at point 3. This means that correction is necessary to monitor the integrity of spent nuclear fuel in each dry storage cask through evaluation of shadowing effect. The results of this study will be used for comparative analysis of neutron measurement data from spent nuclear fuels in dry storage cask. Additionally, the neutron flux evaluation procedure used in this study could be used as the basic data of safety assessment of dry storage cask and development of safety guide.

• Mass Spectrometry Letters
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• v.15 no.2
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• pp.95-106
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• 2024

Taraxacum coreanum, known as the native Korean white dandelion, has been historically used in traditional medicine due to its various therapeutic properties. However, the specific benefits and mechanisms of white dandelion in alleviating particular symptoms or diseases remain uncertain due to the complexity of its phytochemical profile. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the phytochemical profiles of methanolic extracts of different parts of the white dandelion (flower, leaf, stem, and root) using hybrid ion-mobility Q-TOF MS. Using the trapped ion mobility-based PASEF technique, 3715 and 2114 molecular features with MS2 fragments were obtained in positive and negative ion modes, respectively, and then a total of 360 and 156 phytochemical compounds were annotated by matching with a reference spectral library in positive and negative ion modes, respectively. Subsequent feature-based molecular networking analysis revealed the phytochemical differences across the four different parts of the white dandelion. Our findings indicated that the methanolic extracts contained various bioactive compounds, including lipids, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and sesquiterpenes. In particular, lipids such as linoleic acids, lysophosphatidylcholines, and sesquiterpenoids were predominantly present in the leaf, while flavonoid glycosides and lysophosphoethanolamines were notably enriched in the flower. An assessment of the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) of the methanolic extracts revealed that the majority of phytochemicals were concentrated in the flower. Interestingly, despite the root extract displaying the lowest TPC and TFC values, it exhibited the highest radical scavenging rate when normalized to TPC and TFC, suggesting a potent antioxidant effect. These findings and further investigations into the biological activities and medicinal potential of the identified compounds, particularly those exclusive to specific plant parts, may contribute to the development of novel therapeutic agents derived from white dandelion.

• Hip & pelvis
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• v.36 no.1
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• pp.37-46
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• 2024

Purpose: The prognosis of total hip replacement (THR) after open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) versus THR following non-operative treatment of acetabular fractures is unclear. Few studies have been conducted in this regard. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to perform an assessment and compare the functional outcomes for study subjects in the ORIF and non-ORIF groups during the follow-up period compared to baseline. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal comparative study, which included 40 patients who underwent THR for either posttraumatic arthritis after fixation of an acetabular fracture or arthritis following conservative management of a fracture, was conducted for 60 months. Twenty-four patients had undergone ORIF, and 16 patients had undergone nonoperative/conservative management for acetabular fractures. Following THR, the patients were followed up for monitoring of functional outcomes for the Harris hip score (HHS) and comparison between the ORIF and non-ORIF groups was performed. Results: The HHS showed significant improvement in both ORIF and non-ORIF groups. At the end of the mean follow-up period, no significant variation in scores was observed between the groups, i.e., ORIF group (91.61±6.64) compared to non-ORIF group (85.74±11.56). A significantly higher number of re-interventions were required for medial wall fractures and combined fractures compared to posterior fractures (P <0.05). Conclusion: THR resulted in improved functional outcome during follow-up in both the groups; however, the ORIF group was observed to have better functional outcome. Re-intervention was not required for any of the posterior fractures at the end of the mean follow-up period.

• Journal of Society of Preventive Korean Medicine
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• v.28 no.2
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• pp.67-83
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• 2024

Background : Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has profoundly impacted all aspects of life, from disease prevalence to the utilization of medical services. In Republic of Korea, there exists both a duty and a right for Korean Medicine to treat epidemic diseases. However, no studies have been conducted to examine changes in the utilization of Korean Medicine during the pandemic. This study aims to identify the differences in the utilization of Korean Medicine before and after COVID-19. Method : This study analyzed data from the Health Insurance Statistics of the National Health Insurance Service and the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service from 2016 to 2022. To compare the utilization of Korean Medicine with Western medicine, the analysis was limited to the clinic level. Results : The top 10 most frequently treated conditions in Korean Medicine from 2016 to 2022 remained consistent, primarily involving musculoskeletal diseases, with the exception of functional dyspepsia. Visits to Korean Medicine clinics have declined, while visits to Western Medicine clinics recovered. Despite the overall decline in visits, certain Korean Medicine services increased in frequency, especially in precipitator-simulated acupuncture, indirect moxibustion (moxa burner), pricking cupping (two areas), warming meridian sinew, and complex Chuna therapy (80% as out-of-pocket expenses). Although the relative value units in Korean Medicine services varied, the fees for all services, except for precipitator-simulated acupuncture, increased. Conclusion : These findings indicate that COVID-19 has affected the utilization of Korean Medicine. Further studies are needed to explore the broader impact of epidemics on medical services and to develop policies to address these changes.