Background : There has been renewed interest in complementary alternative medicine around the world far a decade. On the other hand, the issue of safety of herbal medicine in Korea has been continuously questioned. Issues raised have included not only chemical residue or heavy metals caused by pollution, but also the toxicity of herbal medicine itself. Objectives : The purpose of this study was to review some herbal medicines subject to controversy of toxicity and figure out what kind of problems they evidence. Methods : In this review, PubMed was used to search medical journals. Keywords such as 'herb, or herbal medicine', 'safety, or adverse events, or adverse effect, or toxicity, or liver injury' were applied. Journals were selected by four inclusion criteria, as objectives should be human, researchers should be medical doctors, literature written in the English language, and types of journals should be meta-analysis or practice guideline or reviews. Finally, 9 cases from 60 journals were included in this review. Results : We reviewed 13 herbal medicines for controversy of toxicity such as ephedra(Mahuang), Arisolochia fangchi, Aristolochia manshuriensis, licorice, skullcap , germander, Syo-saiko-to(Xiao-chai-hu-tang), Chelidonium majus, mistletoe, Dictamnus dasycarpus and madder. Conclusions : It suggested that 'who it is prescribed for' is one of the most important factors to identify the causes of toxicity in herbal medicine and dietary supplements, under specific conditions in Korea.

Objectives : Hemiplegic shoulder pain is one of the common sequelae of stroke. Although many different methods of treatment are applied, none have yet been proved to be effective. In this study we assessed the effectiveness of bee venom in patients with shoulder pain after stroke. Methods : This study was a double blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. All subjects received either 0.6 ml bee venom injection (venom:saline = 1:10000) or 0.6ml physiological saline solution (placebo) at three acupoints. The effectiveness was assessed by visual analogue scale, pain rating score, Fugl-Meyer assessment and passive external rotation. Results : There were 24 patients in the venom group and 22 patients in the placebo group. The venom group5,hewed more effectiveness in VAS and PRS than the placebo group. Conclusions : This study suggests that bee venom injection has significant analgesic effect on hemiplegic shoulder pain. Further study based on multi-centers, larger population, and long term 1311ow-up is needed to confirm this suggestion.

Objectives : The present study was carried out to provide basic information necessary for the prevention and efficient treatment of stroke through a comparison between thr patients of the first attack and those of recurrence. Methods : The observation f3r the current study was made on 210 cases of stroke that were confirmed through brain CT-scan. The patients were hospitalized at one of two oriental medical hospitals in Seoul during 2006. Result : The main results were as follows. First, the male-to-female ratio of stroke patients were 1:1.26, with more primary stroke far females and more recurrent stroke for males. Second, in the age distribution, seventies was the top, and sixties, fifties, and forties were next in the order of frequency. A large city was the most frequent residential site and unemployment was the most frequent occupation to have stroke. The incidence of stroke became higher as patients had a taste for spicy and salty food. Third, the most common preceding disease was hypertension. In the relationship of diastolic blood pressure with recurrence, there was significance in the test of independence. Fourth, the most important precipitating conditions at the onset of stroke were rest and steeping. The most common precedent symptoms were verbal disturbance, numbness, and dizziness. In the stroke patients with hemiparesis, male and female patients usually showed It. hemiparesis. Fifth, as a result of brain CT-scan, cerebral hemorrhage was inclined to reduce but cerebral infarction was inclined to increase due to senility and change of lifestyle. Finally, total cholesterol findings disclosed that 22.4% were hypercholesteremia, 18.6 % were hyperlipemia in triglyceride findings, and 19.0% were glycosemia in glucose findings. Conclusions : The above results suggested avoidance of meat and salty fDod and positive control of hypertension and diabetes mellitus in order to prevent stroke.

Objectives : To gain better insights on the characteristics of stroke patients admitted to oriental medical hospitals, we analyzed the data of 363 consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke from Hanbang Stroke Registry supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology of Korea. Methods : Subjects' enrollment was in the oriental medical hospitals of 3 universities located in the metropolitan region from October 2005 to October 2006. We assessed the subjects' general characteristics, risk factors, and etiology of stroke. Each patient's TOAST classification type was confirmed by two independent specialists. Those were small vessel occlusion (SVO), large artery atherosclerosis (LAA), cardioembolism (CE), stroke with other determined etiology (SOE), and stroke with undetermined etiology (SUE).Results 'The distribution of the subjects' general characteristics and risk factors for stroke were similar with result storm previous reports. However, in the TOAST classification, SVO was the major type occupying 78.5% in the total subjects, which is the highest share compared with other research with similar methods. These results imply that patients with more severe symptoms rarely visit oriental medical hospitals. Conclusion : Assuming that this research will continue adding patient's data continuously, this work will help us to understand the features of stroke patients at oriental medical hospitals, and contribute to expansion of the Korean Hanbang Stroke Data Bank.

Objectives . This study was to assess the Korean Traditional Medicine forecast subjects that had been expected to be accomplished by 2005. The result will help the Korean medical society plan far policies and studies on Korean Traditional Medicine. Methods : Assessed targets were 64 subjects (expected to be studied until 2005) of the total 93 subjects from the 'Mid- to Long-Term Forecast and Plan Study for Korean Traditional Medicine'. The subjects were classified into two types : political subjects and research and development (R&D) subjects. These were determined by the quantity and contents of related political reports, political research projects, thesis, patent, placing products on sale, etc. Results :1) 5 items of a total 12 political subjects were accomplished or partially accomplished (41.7%), and 9 items of a total 46 R&D subjects were accomplished or partially accomplished (9.5%). 2) While the accomplishment percentage (accomplished or partial accomplished) in literature arrangement and D/B construction field was 100%, it was under 10% in product or system development field. Thus, it seems that practical subjects were less accomplished than academic subjects. 3) On 8 subjects of 'Forecast Research on Future of Oriental Medicine' which had been performed in Japan, the Korean expected dates when the subjects would be realized were earlier than the Japanese ones, but no subjects were realized. Conclusion · Political and academic subjects weir accomplished more than R&D and practical subjects.

Objectives . The types of Sasang constitutional medicine (SCM) have definite effect on response to herbal drugs. The majority of human P45O dependent xenobiotic metabolism is carried out by polymorphic enzymes which can cause abolished, altered or enhanced metabolism. Therefore, we evaluated the relation of major CYP2C19, 2D6 polymorphism with Sasang types. Methods : 214 healthy subjects were recruited with informed consent; 172 among them had Sasang diagnosis by QSCC2. CYP2D6, 2C19 polymorphism were determined by PCR-RFLP method. Results : None of the Sasang types showed significant difference in CYP2D6, 2C19 polymorphism. However, the Tae-um type showed relatively low frequency of CYP2D6 $^{*}$10/$^{*}$10 polymorphisms with low activity (p=0.110). In the So-yang type, specific $^{*}$3/$^{*}$3 genotype which is a poor metabolizer of CYP2C19$^{*}$3 was detected (p=0.078).Conclusion . These results suggest that the Tae-um type which is said to have high liver function in SCM has the tendency of high drug-metabolizing enzyme activity. With further study, the CYP polymorphism could serve as a scientific tool for SCM diagnosis.

Objectives : To provide an objective assessment of the effectiveness for weight loss of Mahuang. Methods : Effects were assessed by measuring changes in body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat (kg, %),body muscle, and abdominal f3t ratio. The subjects of this study were healthy adults who agreed to participate in this study. Eligibility requirements include age between 20 and 50 and BMI more than 18.5 kg/m2. One hundred subjects were randomly assigned to two groups (control and Mahuang group) in a double-blind manner. Mahuang group subjects took 8g of Mahuang capsule/day for two weeks; control subjects took the same amount of indistinguishable placebo. We analyzed the body weight, body mass index, body fat, abdominal fat, body muscle and BMR (basal metabolic rate) before and after the study. Result After two weeks of clinical trial, body weight and BMI decreased in both groups, but the Mahuang group showed more significant decrease. On body fat, the Mahuang group showed significant decrease. while it increased in the placebo group. Although body muscle, body fat ratio and basic metabolic rate showed differences between the two groups, there was no statistical significance. Conclusion : It is suggested that intake of Mahuang may induce weight loss and body f3f decrease in healthy adults.

Objectives : The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the cost-effectiveness of Eastern, Western, and collaborative treatments and suggest a cost-effective approach for patients with frozen shoulder pain. Methods : Using the data of fifty-two patients, treatment effectiveness was measured by CSA, SPABI, and ROM scales and changes from the baseline score were evaluated. Data source for cost estimation was based on the national health insurance (NHI) payment system. Because the price in NHI was differentiated by health care institutions, five collaborative types were considered in assessing costs. Cost-effective ratios were computed for economic evaluation. Results : Compared with Eastern treatment, collaborative and Western treatments showed better effects on CSA scale after 4 weeks' treatment. The collaborative approach was also the most effective treatment on SPADI and ROM scales. The direct cost per patient receiving Eastern treatment was less than other treatments. In general, collaborative treatment dominated Eastern and Western treatments in cost-effectiveness an analysis. However, the cost-effectiveness ratio of Eastern treatment resulted in \9,000 compared to \29,000 of collaborative treatment on SPADI. Four different indicators of ROM scales resulted in different approaches as the cost-effective treatment. Conclusions : Considering cost-effectiveness ratios, collaborative treatment was the best treatment on CSh and SPADI scales after 4 weeks' treatment. As for ROM scales, the recommended alternatives were Eastern treatment for patients with abduction and adduction disabilities, Western treatment for those with flexion disability, and collaborative approach fir those with extension disabiliry.

Objectives : This study was to assess the effectiveness of Oriental medical treatment on carpal tunnel syndrome, comparing its outcome with that of Western medical treatment. Methods : After being diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome by electromyography, subjects were enrolled in Kyung Hee Medical Center from March 2006 to January 2007. We prescribed Kejibokryung-hwan to the Oriental medical therapy group (OM group) and NSAIDS to the Western medical therapy group (WM group). Effectiveness was assessed by degree of pain using visual analog scale (VAS) before and after 3 weeks' treatment. Adverse effects were also monitored. Results : There were 21 patients in the OM group and 19 in the WM group. No statistical significant difference was detected at the baseline assessment. After 3 weeks of medication, pain was reduced about 26% in the OM group and 46% in the WM group. These findings might be explained by that more than half of the WM group received local steroid injection, which has been known to have more rapid analgesic effect that oral medication. Although pain reduction rate was higher in the WM group than in the OM group, we suggest that Oriental medical treatment is still effective, faking into consideration the fact that completely recovered cases were found only in the OM group. No adverse effect was found in either of the groups. Conclusion : This work could help us to understand the effectiveness of Oriental medical treatment on carpal tunnel syndrome.

Objectives : This study investigated the effects of teaching English medical journals to traditional Korean medical students as a way of integrated curriculum, focusing on evidence-based traditional Korean medicine (EBKM) in the light of globalization of traditional Korean Medicine. Methods : 232 students (l16 1st year and t 16 2nd year) were asked to complete a questionnaire at the end of the course in order to validate the course's efficacy on acquisition and utilization of the latest medical knowledge as well as change of attitude toward English itself. Results : The courses were very useful in reducing discomfort toward English journals and to applying the latest medical knowledge to academic reports, clinical practices, and finally to establish abilities for EBKM. The 1st year students who took the courses for two semesters consecutively showed more significant satisfaction than the 2nd year students with only one semester. Conclusion : The findings suggest that English medical journals are an essential curriculum f3r the advance of EBKM and globalization of traditional Korean Medicine and therefore developing adequate textbooks, teaching methods, and quality of instructors should be considered for successful achievements.

Objectives : Mahuang (Ephedra sinica), well known as an herbal medicine in the East and West, contains a relatively high percentage of ephedrine known as sympathomimetic alkaloid. We investigated the effects of Mahuang on sympathetic nervous system with heart rate variety (HRV). Time and frequency domain analysis of HRV is a noninvasive technique capable of providing information on autonomic modulation of the sinus node. Methods : We investigated 57 healthy volunteers consisting of 37 subjects in the Mahuang group and 20 subjects in the placebo group. Study form was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial. The 37 subjects in the Mahuang group took 3 Mahuang capsules (1 capsule equivalent to 2g herb Mahuang) twice a day at 10 a.m. and 2 p.,., while the 20 subjects in the placebo group took 3 placebo-capsules filled with glutinous rice powder at the same times. Mahuang medicine and placebo medicine were made into opaque capsules. We measured HRV at 3 p.m. 1 or 2 days before medication and at 3 p.m. after medication. Results : Mean-RR and SDNN of the Mahuang group significantly decreased compared with that of the placebo group, but the heart rate of the Mahuang group significantly increased compared with the placebo. HRV-Index, RMSSD and SDSD of the Mahuang group significantly decreased compared with that of the placebo group, but PNN50 of the Mahuang group significantly increased compared with placebo. Ln(TP), Ln(VLF), Ln(LF) and Ln(HF) of the Mahuang group significantly decreased compared with those of the placebo group. There were no significant differences in normalized LF, normalized HF and LF/HF ratio between the Mahuang and placebo groups. Conclusion : The results suggest that Mahuang in healthy adults tends to reduce the autonomic nervous system within the normal range.

Objectives : This study was to assess the Traditional chinese medicine forecast subjects that had been expected to be accomplished over 20 year (1990-2010). The result will help Korea medical society to compare the status of Korean Medicine with that of Traditional Chinese Medicine and to plan for polices and studies on Korean Traditional Medicine. Methods : Assessed targets were the subjects selected by the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, which are classified into 6 fields. These were assigned by the quantity of related theses. Reference source is CAJ（China academic Journal) of CNKI (China National Knowledge infrastructure). Results : 1) Forecast subject ratio by field was basic theory 31% / clinical research 17% / Chinese herbal drug 17% / acupuncture and moxa 17% / Tui-na(推拿) and Qi-gong(氣功) 9% / medical information, literature history 6%. 2) Accomplishment percentage (full accomplishment) by field was medical information, literature, history 60% / basic theory 50% / acupuncture and moxa 46% Tui-na(推拿) and Qi-gong(氣功) 38% / chinese herbal drug 25% / clinical research 23%. Conclusions : 78% of all forecast subjects were accomplished or partially accomplished. According to 'accomplishment percentage by field', while those in the medical information, literature, history field were most realized of all, those in the clinical research field were least realized.

Objectives : Bell's palsy in an acute peripheral facial nerve paralysis that usually affects only one side of the face. The seventh cranial nerve carries predominantly motor fibers, but also supplies some autonomic innervation, sensation to park of the ear, and taste to the anterior two thirds of the tongue. The aim of this study is to provide evidence of differences between facial skin temperature of the paralyzed side and normal side in Bell's palsy patients. Methods : the author studied 68 patients with Bell's palsy whose facial nerve function had been documented by the House-Brackmann grading system. We measured skin temperature of the forehead, zygoma, lower lip, temple and lower jaw area of the paralyzed side and those of the normal side. Results : there were significant facial skin temperature differences between the forehead area of paralyzed side and that of normal side of GrII(P<0.05) and III(P<0.05). The result also showed that the facial skin temperature difference according to the aflection period vanished when air temperature was calibrated (F=1.700, P=0.178). Conclusions : Thermography is a useful diagnostic tool in Bell's palsy if the air temperature is low enough to cool the facial skin temperature and the forehead area is evaluated as the sampling zone.

Objective : The objective of this study was to investigate the antioxidative effects of Carthami Flos extract. Methods : Total antioxidant status was examined by total antioxidant capacity(TAC) and total antioxidant response(TAR) against potent free radical reactions. The effect of Carthami Flos extract was examined far details of total phenolic content concentration at which 1,1-dipheny1-2-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH) radical scavenging activity was inhibited, the inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation, and the effect on reactive oxygen species(ROS) generation. Results : TAC of Carthami Flos extract at the concentration of 5 mg/ml was 1.84 mM Trolox equivalent. 2. TAR of Carthami Flos extract, on the other hand, couldn't be determined due to interference from unidentified compounds. 3. Total phenolic content of Carthami Flos extract at the concentration of 5 mg/ml was 2.01 mM gallic acid equivalent. 4. Concentration of Carthami Flos extract at which DPPH radical scavenging activity was inhibited by 50% was 6.43 mg/ml as compared to 100% by Pyrogallol solution as a reference. 5. The inhibitory effect of the extract on lipid peroxidation was examined using rat liver mitochondria induced by FeS04/ascorbic acid. Carthami Flos extract at the concentration of 10 ms/ml slightly but significantly decreased TBARS concentration. The extract continued to prevent lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent manner. 6. The effect of Carthami Flos extract on reactive oxygen species(ROS) generation was examined using a cell-free system induced by hydrogen peroxide/FeS04. Addition of 1 mg/ml of Carthami Flos extract significantly reduced dichlorofluorescein(DCF) fluorescence. Carthami Flos extract caused concentration-dependent attenuation of the increase in DCF fluorescence, indicating that the ektract significantly prevented ROS generation in vitro. Conclusion: : Antioxidant efffcts of Carffami ffor extract seem to be due, at least in part, to the prevention offree radical-induced oxidation, fellowed by inhibition of lipid peroxidation.

Objective : The objective of this study was to investigate the antioxidant effects of Mori Folium extract. Methods Total antioxidant status was examined by total antioxidant capacity(TAC) and total antioxidant response(TAR) against potent free radical reactions. The effect of Mori Folium extract was examined by measuring total phenolic content, concentration at which 1,1-dipheny1-2-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH) radical scavenging activity was inhibited, inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation, and the effect on reactive oxygen species(ROS) generation. Results : 1. TAC and TAR of Mori Folium extract at the concentration of 5 mg/ml were 1.61 and 1.24 mM Trolox equivalents, respectively. 2. Total phenolic content of Mori Folium extract at the concentration of 5 mg/Ml was 1.70 mM gallic acid equivalent. 3. Concentration of Mori Folium extract at which DPPH radical scavenging activity was inhibited by 50% was 2.29 m9/m4 as compared to 100% by Pyrogallol solution as a reference. 4. The inhibitory effect of the extract on lipid peroxidation was examined using rat liver mitochondria induced by FeSO$_4$/ascorbic acid. Mori Folium extract at the concentration of 10 mg/ml significantly decreased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances(TBARS) concentration. The extract prevented lipid peroxidation in a dose-dependent 5. The effect of Mori Folium extract on reactive oxygen species(ROS) generation was examined using a celt-free system induced by hydrogen peroxide FeSO$_4$. Addition of 1 mg/ml of Mori Folium extract significantly reduced dichlorofluorescein(DCf) fluorescence. The extract caused concentration-dependent attenuation of the increase in DCF fluorescence, indicating that the extract significantly prevented ROS generation in vitro. Conclusion ; The antioxidant effects of Mori Folium extract seem to be due, at least in part, to the prevention offree radical-induced oxidation, fllowed by inhibition of lipid peroxidation.

Objectives : This study investigated and made comparative studies of the aspect of VBT syndrome by Sasang constitutions, so that Korean medical doctors can manage and treat people who use the internet. Methods : Sasang constitutions were analyzed by using QSCCII. Questionnaires including VDT syndrome, internet usage trends and QSCCII were distributed to freshmen in a high school in Su-won city, Gyeonggi-do, and 600completed questionnaires were analyzed. Results : There were no significant differences among Sasang constitutions in the indexes of optic and mental problems in VDT syndrome. According to the indexes of total health problems. musculoskeletal problems, 'frequent fatigue', 'vacant head', 'dizziness', 'neck pain' and 'lower back pain' in VDT syndrome, Soeumin had the most problems and Taeumin had the least. In the index of 'back pain', in Soyangin had the most problems. Conclusions : There were some different trends of aspects of VDT syndrome among Sarang constitutions, so it is necessary to use the result of this study to make a plan to care for health problems related to using the internet through Korean medicine with additional studies.

Objective : No studies had been carried out to date on how Korean medicine practitioners recognize and treat postpartum diseases. Therefore, research on such issues by means of a questionnaire survey was expected to contribute to providing common ground and foundation far postpartum treatment. Methods : This study is based on a questionnaire survey administered to 200 doctors, consisting of 79 members of the Korean Society of Oriental Obstetrics & Gynecology and 121 Korean medicine practitioners, from May to September 2006. Items related to individual characteristics of Korean medicine practitioners and 20 objective items constituted the questionnaire, with every item of the questionnaire belonging to 6 greater categories that the author had categorized for the purpose of the study. Results : The result of the study showed what perspectives and clinical attitudes the majority of participating Korean medicine practitioners had in relation with postpartum diseases. On the basis of these findings, better common ground and systematic treatments can be developed to treat postpartum diseases.

Objectives : We examined the effect of Jiyutaug(JYT) on the experimental ulcerative colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium(DSS). Methods : Experimental colitis was induced in mice by daily treatment with 3% DSS in the drinking water for 5days. Afterward, the mice were divided into two groups: the control group was administered water and the sample group was administered JYT for 7 days. Results : The sample group provided JYT for 7 days demonstrated faster recovery of body weight compared with the control group. Histologic change showed faster regeneration of crypt and surface epithelial cells, decreased edema of the submucosa, and decreased Iymphatic follicles of mucosa compared with the control group. immunohistochemical stain using COX-2 gene was decreased. Regeneration of surface epithelial cells and goblet cells in mucosa was observed by transmission electron microscope. Conclusion : These results indicate therapeutic effect of JYT on DSS-induced colitis in mice.

Objectives : Nitric oxide(NO) is a reactive free radical and a messenger molecule in many physiological functions. However, excessive release NO of induces neurotoxicity. We investigated whether a mixture of red ginseng and paeonia radix prossesses a protective effect against sodium nitroprusside(SNP)-induced apoptosis in the human neuroblastoma cell line SK-N-MC. Methods : We performed 3- (4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide(MTT) assay, 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole(DAPD) staining, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase(TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labeling(TUNEL)assay, DNA fragmentation assay, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR), Western blot analysis, and caspase-3 enzyme activity assay in SK-N-HFC cells. Result : MTT assay showed that SNP treatment significantly reduced the viabilities of cells and that pre-treatment with the red ginseng and paeonia radix mixture alleviated SNP-induced cytotoxicity. The cells treated with SNP exhibited several apoptotic features, while those pre-treated fir 1 h with the mixture of red ginseng and paeonia radix 1 h prior to SNP expose showed reduced apoptotic features. In addition, the cells pre-treated with the red ginseng and paeonia radix mixture for 1 h prior to SNP expose increased bel-2 expressions, decreased Bax expressions, and decreased caspase-3 enzyme activity. Conclusions : These results show that the red ginseng and paeonia radix mixture exerts a protective effect against SNP-induced apoptosis in SK-N-MC cells.

Objectives : This study was performed to investigate the effects of Rhizoma Arisaematis water extract on lipid and glucose metabolism and histochemical change of obese rats. Methods and materials : 10 rats were divided into normal, control and RA (Rhizoma Arisaematis) groups. We fed the control group a high-fat diet and administered normal saline for 8 weeks. We fed the experimental group of rats a high-fat diet and administered an extract of Rhizoma Arisaematis for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, the rats were sacrificed to determine their chemical composition. The groups were examined for effects on blood serum lipids, blood sugar, blood insulin concentration and epididymal fat cells. Results : 1. Serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL-cholesterol and glucose of the RA group decreased compared with those of the control group. These decreased rates were significant(P<0.05). 2. Serum LDL-cholesterol, total lipid, free fatty acid and the average size of epididymal fat cells of the RA group decreased compared with those of the control group. These decreased rates were significant(p<0.01). Conclusions : These results suggest that RA may be used to prevent or cure the obesity iniduced by a high-fat diet.

Background : Chunghyul-dan is a combinatorial herbal medicine; previous studies reported it had therapeutic effects for microangiopathy, a major part in the progression of small vessel disease, as well as having anti-hypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative, and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefor, we examined the inhibitory effect of Chunghyul-dan on stroke recurrence in patients with small vessel disease. Methods : We prescribed Chunghyul-dan at 600 mg a day to patients with small vessel disease, and monitored stroke recurrence, drug compliances, and adverse effect for 1 year. We then performed follow-up brain MRI to find new vascular lesions after 1 year of Chunghyul-dan medication. For the subjects lost to follow-up, we assessed their prognosis after 1 year by telephone. Results : There were 73 subjects treated with Chunghyul-dan for 1 year; new vascular events were found in 3. Of the 85 subjects lost to follow-up, fifty four could be contacted, and eight of them had stroke recurrence. One year of Chunghyul-dan medication reduced the odds ratio of stroke recurrence by 75% compared to the subjects lost to follow-up and the rate increased to 88%, when adjusted for other relevant risk factors for stroke recurrence. These reductions were much higher than those of aspirin and other kinds of conventional anti-platelets. There was no adverse effect in any of the study subjects. Conclusions : We suggest Chunghyul-dan could be useful for inhibition of stroke recurrence. Further study with a randomized controlled trial is needed to confirm this suggestion.

Objectives : Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Etiological studies of diabetes and its complications showed that oxidative stress might play a major role. Therefore, many efforts have been tried to regulate free oxygen radicals for treating diabetes and its complications. Iksujisundan has been known to be effective for the treatment of diabetes. The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of Iksujisundan on renal function, peroxynitrite(ONOO-) scavenging activity and polyol pathway in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods : The crushed Iksujisundan was extracted 3 times, each time with 3 volumes of methyl alcohol at 60$^{\circ}C$ for 24 h. The extract was filtered and evaporated under a reduced pressure using a rotary evaporator to yield 87.8g. Iksujisundan extract was orally administreted at 100 mg per 1 kg of body weight for 20 days to the diabetic rats induced by streptozotocin(60mg/kg). The effects of Iksujisundan extract on the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were observed by measuring the serum level of glucose, insulin, lipid components, creatinine and BUN, and also the kidney levels of superoxide anion radical(${\cdot}$O2-), nitric oxide(NO) and ONOO-, and also the enzyme activities involved in the polyol pathway. Results : The effects of Iksujisundan on the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats with regards to body weight, blood glucose and indulin levels, creatinine and BUN levels, total cholesterol and triglyceride lavels, and HDL-cholesterol levels were all shown to be good enough to prevent and cure the diabetes and its complications. Iksujisundan inhibited the generation of ${\cdot}$O2-,NO and ONOO- in the kidney of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Renal aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase activities were increased in the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were reversed toward natural activities. Conclusions : Iksujisundan might inhibit the development of diabetes and its complications by scavenging reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, thereby by reducing oxidative stresses and also by regulating the activities of polyol pathway enzymes, all of which could help to recover kidney function.

Objectives : We performed this study to analyze correlation among hair tissue minaral ratio, autonomic function and obesity. Methods : Subjects were gathered from January 2005 to March 2007. This study was carried out on 263 subjects who had visited Garosero oriental clinic and had no previous cardiovascular disease and thyroid disease. Heart rate variability (HRV) parameters, tissue mineral ratio and obesity degree were statistically compared with correlation and T-test analysis. Results : The results of this study are summarized as follows : 1. Normal group were predominant over obesity group in HRV parameters(SDNN, RMSSD, VLF, LF, HF). 2. Ca/P, Ca/K, Na/K and Fe/Cu, Na/Mg ratio in hair tissue mineral ratio have correlation with BMR, BMI and waist circumference. 3. Ca/P ratio has correlation with LF norm in HRV, and Na/K with HF, Na/Mg with LF, equally. Conclusions : Taken together these results may suggest that there are significant relationships between hair tissue mineral analysis and HRV.