• Applied Biological Chemistry
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• v.47 no.4
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• pp.390-395
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• 2004

In order to characterize ion channels present in tomato roots, microsomes were incorporated into an artificial lipid bilayer arranged for electrophysiological analysis. Of the five different ion channels that could be found, a channel of 450 pS conductance was found most frequently. This channel displayed subconductance states of 450, 257 and 105 pS. All subconductance states showed linear current-voltage relationships. At positive holding potentials, high frequency of transient channel openings was observed; however, at negative potentials, the open times were long and open probability high. Po was 0.83 at -40 mV. When an additional 50 mM $K^+\;or\;Na^+$ was added to the cis side of bilayer, the reversal potentials shifted in the negative direction to near -10 mV. Thus, the 450 pS cation channel selects poorly between $K^+\;and\;Na^+$. In the presence of $100\;{\mu}M$ metal ions, the channel activity was severely inhibited by $La^{3+},\;Ba^{2+},\;and\;Zn^{2+}$, and Po was decreased to 0.2 or even less. However, $Al^{3+}\;and\;Cd^{2+}$ decreased the activity by only 20%. Interestingly, each metal ion showed different kinetics of channel inhibition. While $500\;{\mu}M\;La^{3+}$ inhibited the activities of all subconductance state, 1 mM $Zn^{2+}$ inhibited all except the 105 pS state. $Cd^{2+}$ changed the gating of the channel from a long-opening state to brief transient openings even at negative holding potentials. These data represent that the metal ions may have different binding sites on the channel protein and could be useful modulators and probes to investigate structural characteristics as well as the functional roles of the 450 pS channel on the root physiology.

• Journal of Oral Medicine and Pain
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• v.30 no.2
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• pp.277-285
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• 2005

The purpose of this study was to evaluate photothermal effect of laser, which eliminates and reduces bacteria causing periodontal disease, on treatment of periodontal disease. This study included subjects with moderate periodontitis who visited the Department of Oral Medicine, College of dentistry, Yonsei University. The subjects were divided into experimental group, where Argon laser treatment was used, and control group, where conventional subgingival curettage was used. Gingival fluids from each subject were collected prior and after 1 week of the treatment, and changes in number of bacterial colonies cultured from aerobic as well as anaerobic bacteria responsible for the periodontal disease, and changes in clinical indices related to the periodontal disease, such as plaque index, gingival index, sulcus bleeding index, were analysed. As a result, the number of bacterial colonies of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria reduced after 1 week of the treatment in both groups, especially the bacterial colonies of anaerobic bacteria which showed statistically significant reduction(p<0.1). However, there was no significant difference between the experimental group and the control group. Clinical indices including plaque index, gingival index, sulcus bleeding index were reduced after 1 week of the treatment in both groups. In the experimental group, gingival index(p<0.1) and sulcus bleeding index(p<0.01) showed significant reduction, and, in the control group, sulcus bleeding index(p<0.01) showed significant reduction. However, there were no significant differences in each indices between the two groups. The above results suggest that Argon laser could be used as a substitute of conventional subgingival curettage, or in combination with subgingival curettage which would increase the effect of the treatment. Although the possibility of clinical application of Argon laser was observed in this study, more randomized-controlled research, including acquirement of sufficient samples as well as long-termed follow up, would be necessary before clinically effective application of Argon laser.

• Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition
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• v.42 no.5
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• pp.759-765
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• 2013

In this study, we investigated the quality characteristics of Sikhye, a traditional Korean drink, made with various amounts (0.5, 1, 2, and 3%) of powder from the roots of Doraji (RPD), for different storage periods (1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 13, or 15 days). The pH and Hunter's L value of Sikhye decreased with higher amounts of added RPD, while saccharinity as well as "a" and b values increased. During storage, pH and Hunter's L value of Sikhye tended to decrease while "a" and b values increased. The saccharinity of Sikhye with 0.5% and 1% RPD reached its maximum values on the tenth storage day and continuously decreased during the storage period. In contrast, the saccharinity of Sikhye with 2% and 3% RPD increased during the storage period, and had its maximum saccharinity on the fifteenth storage day. During the storage of Sikhye the total microbial cell count, typically $3.19{\sim}0.35{\times}10^2$ CFU/mL on the third storage day, was undetected in Sikhye with 3% RPD. The total microbial cell count of Sikhye without RPD increased to $1.91{\times}10^9$ CFU/mL by the fifteenth storage day, while Sikhye with 0.5, 1, 2, and 3% RPD added contained $8.43{\times}10^8$, $9.77{\times}10^7$, $2.10{\times}10^7$, and $7.21{\times}10^6$ CFU/mL, respectively. Thus, the total cell count was lower with higher additions of RPD. In sensory tests, the Sikhye control, or with 0.5% and 1% RPD added, didn't show significant differences in the texture of rice granules, plumpness of rice granules, floating of rice granules, taste, flavor, and sweetness values. The overall preference was highest (5.38) for Sikhye with 0.5% RPD, followed by the control, 1% RPD, 2% RPD and 3% RPD. In conclusion, according to preference tests, we recommended the addition of 0.5% or 1% RPD in Sikhye.

• Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition
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• v.35 no.9
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• pp.1139-1145
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• 2006

In this study, antioxidant activities of enzymatic and methanolic extracts from E. cava stem and leave were evaluated by measuring the scavenging activities on 1,1 diphenyl 2 picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl radical, hydrogen peroxide and the inhibitory effects on DNA damage induced by oxidative stress of cells. Enzymatic extracts were prepared by enzymatic hydrolysis of both stem and leave using food grade five different carbohydrases (Viscozyme, Celluclast, AMG, Termamyl, Ultraflo) and five proteases (Protamex, Kojizyme, Neutrase, Flavourzyme, Alcalase). The enzymatic extracts were lower than methanolic extracts in polyphenol contents, but higher in extraction yield by approximately 30%. The enzymatic extracts were superior to methanolic extracts in DPPH and H2O2 scavenging activities and DNA damage protective effect. There were no significant antioxidant activity difference between stem and leave, but the extracts of leave were relatively better than those of stem. In this study it is suggested that E. cava stem as well as its leave would be a good raw materials for antioxidants compound extraction and enzymatic hydrolysis would be a good strategy to prepare antioxidant extracts from seaweeds.

• Korean Journal of Heritage: History & Science
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• v.52 no.2
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• pp.20-37
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• 2019

Three Inter-Korea summits and a North Korea-USA summit that were previously unexpected provide a basis for an optimistic outlook for the future development of Korean archaeology. While Korean archaeology has witnessed a great advance since the mid-20th century, it also exhibits significant weaknesses in explaining cultural changes in prehistory and the early historical period in the Korean Peninsula due to the paucity of information on archaeological evidence of North Korea. Recent development of favorable conditions for research and excavations of North Korean cultural heritage could be a valuable opportunity for Korean archaeology to overcome the current adversity. Especially, given the expected large-scale SOC industrial project in North Korea, we need to prepare for the systematic research and excavation of archaeological materials. The present essay attempts to provide a suggestion for the joint archaeological expeditions to excavate and manage cultural resources in North Korea based on a critical review of previous salvage excavations in South Korea, such as those conducted before the construction of the Korean rapid transit railway system (KTX). We suggest that professional archaeologists should be included in the project and oversee the planning and design of road and railway constructions and other SOC projects in order to minimize the cost of trial and error processes that were well exemplified by the KTX salvage excavations. The Korean Archaeological Society and North Korean Archaeological Society may organize a common association that will supervise joint archaeological expeditions. Importantly, The Korean Archaeological Society and other related institutions should prepare to build an organization that conducts impending archaeological excavation in North Korea. While we likely face challenges and difficulties during the various stages of archaeological research and excavations in North Korea, only through thorough and systematic preparation can we avoid the destruction of valuable cultural heritage and find an opportunity for the further development of Korean archaeology.

• Korean Journal of Heritage: History & Science
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• v.46 no.4
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• pp.108-125
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• 2013

This study examined the actual reconstruction drawing, composite mineral, particle size and property test, fine organic matters, color differences and main ingredients of the earthen mold excavated in Dongcheon-dong, Gyungju. The cross-section of the inner mold and outer mold divides into inside (1st layer) and outside (2nd layer), with organic matters mixed outside. The cross-section has been altered due to heat and form removal agent. X-ray analysis revealed that the layer was made of minerals with high transmissivity and only quartz particles were observed through a polarizing microscope. The inside of cross-section in SEM observation identified enlarged air gap, with crack developed in the center, but no changes observed on the outside. The particle size of the composites is almost the same for the inner mold and outer mold and is silt clay loam. The ratio between silt clay and silt clay loam was about 2.7:1 and 2.9:1 respectively. In the property test, the density and absorption rate of inner mold and outer mold were similar, but porosity was different, with inner mold of 27.36% and outer mold of 31.09%. The color difference of cross-section seems to have been caused by the spread of soot on the 1st layer surface for removal of form or by the covering of ink to protect the 1st layer. Composite mineral analysis revealed the same composition for the inner mold and outer mold, except for the magnetite that was detected in the inner mold alone. As for the main ingredient analysis, the average content of $SiO_2$ was 71.64% and that of $Al_2O_3$ was 14.59%. As for the sub-ingredients, $Fe_2O_3$ was 4.51%, $K_2O$ 3.06%, $Na_2O$, MgO, CaO, $TiO_2$, $P_2O_5$ and MnO was less than 2%.

• KOREAN JOURNAL OF CROP SCIENCE
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• v.68 no.4
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• pp.392-401
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• 2023

Corn (Zea mays L.) is one of the world's most important crops, along with wheat and rice, with a global corn production expected to reach 1,154.5 million tons in 2023. Considering this grain production, The generation of corn cob is expected to reach approximately 207.8 million tons in 2023. However, as an agricultural by-product, corn cobs are often considered waste and remain underutilized. Phytosterols, which are abundant in vegetable oils such as corn oil, provide a number of health benefits, including liver health, cholesterol reduction, and protection against chronic diseases such as diabetes. In this study, we investigated the potential of Kwangpyeongok ears, which are commonly used as grain and silage corn in Korea. We also examined the variation in phytosterol content with the maturity of corn ears to identify the optimal time for utilization. At the beginning of physiological maturity, corn cobs had 113.3 mg/100g DW of total phytosterols, which was highest phytosterol abundance during the growth stage. Corn kernels also had the highest phytosterol content at the beginning of physiological maturity. While previous studies on corn bioactive compounds have mainly focused on the kernels, the results of this study highlight that cobs are an excellent source of these compounds. Furthermore, phytosterol levels were influenced by genetic factors and developmental stages, suggesting the to increase the use of cobs as a source of bioactive compounds.

• KOREAN JOURNAL OF CROP SCIENCE
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• v.68 no.4
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• pp.422-430
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• 2023

The nutrient-rich and climate-resilient finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.) is a relatively new crop on the agricultural landscape. The present study explores the agronomic characteristics and antioxidant activities of grains and cookies produced from 'Finger1ho,' which was the first finger millet variety developed in South Korea. With heightened calcium content (314 mg/100 g) and polyphenol levels, 'Finger1ho' exhibited superior radical scavenging activities compared to other millets. The investigation assessed the impact of whole finger millet flour at varying concentrations (0, 10, 30, 50, and 100%) on cookie properties. Increasing the substitution of finger millet flour in the cookie formulation resulted in a notable rise in calcium content, ranging from 1.8 times at 10% to an impressive 10.8 times at 100%, surpassing the levels found in conventional wheat cookies. Conversely, the sodium (Na) levels in finger millet cookies demonstrated minimal variations, presenting a potentially favorable aspect in addressing the high Na intake prevalent in the South Korean diet. Notably, the antioxidant activity, assessed through ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging assays, exhibited a significant elevation compared to the control. This increase in antioxidant activity was directly proportional to the quantity of finger millet incorporated (p<0.001), indicating the potential health benefits associated with higher levels of finger millet in the cookie formulation. This study highlights finger millet's potential as a beneficial ingredient, enhancing both consumer acceptability and the functional attributes of cookies. Notably, cookies with 10% to 50% added finger millet exhibited significantly superior quality characteristics compared to controls, suggesting promising avenues for health-functional cookie development.

• Journal of Agricultural Extension & Community Development
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• v.7 no.1
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• pp.155-166
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• 2000

When the marcher visited Korea in fall 1994, he was shocked to see high rise apartment buildings around the capitol region including Seoul and Suwon, resulting from rising demand of housing because of urban migration followed by second and third industrial development. After 6 years in March 2000, the researcher witnessed more apartment buildings and vinyl house complexes, one of the evidences of continued economic progress in Korea. Korea had to receive the rescue finance from International Monetary Fund (IMF) because of financial crisis in 1997. However, the sign of recovery was seen in a year, and the growth rate of Gross Domestic Products (GDP) in 1999 recorded as high as 10.7 percent. During this period, the Korean government has been working on restructuring of banks, enterprises, labour and public sectors. The major directions of government were; localization, reducing administrative manpower, limiting agricultural budgets, privatization of public enterprises, integration of agricultural organization, and easing of various regulations. Thus, the power of central government shifted to local government resulting in a power increase for city mayors and county chiefs. Agricultural extension services was one of targets of government restructuring, transferred to local governments from central government. At the same time, the number of extension offices was reduced by 64 percent, extension personnel reduced by 24 percent, and extension budgets reduced. During the process of restructuring, the basic direction of extension services was set by central Rural Development Administration Personnel management, technology development and supports were transferred to provincial Rural Development Administrations, and operational responsibilities transferred to city/county governments. Agricultural extension services at the local levels changed the name to Agricultural Technology Extension Center, established under jurisdiction of city mayor or county chief. The function of technology development works were added, at the same time reducing the number of educators for agriculture and rural life. As a result of observations of rural areas and agricultural extension services at various levels, functional responsibilities of extension were not well recognized throughout the central, provincial, and local levels. Central agricultural extension services should be more concerned about effective rural development by monitoring provincial and local level extension activities more throughly. At county level extension services, it may be desirable to add a research function to reflect local agricultural technological needs. Sometimes, adding administrative tasks for extension educators may be helpful far farmers. However, tasks such as inspection and investigation should be avoided, since it may hinder the effectiveness of extension educational activities. It appeared that major contents of the agricultural extension service in Korea were focused on saving agricultural materials, developing new agricultural technology, enhancing agricultural export, increasing production and establishing market oriented farming. However these kinds of efforts may lead to non-sustainable agriculture. It would be better to put more emphasis on sustainable agriculture in the future. Agricultural extension methods in Korea may be better classified into two approaches or functions; consultation function for advanced farmers and technology transfer or educational function for small farmers. Advanced farmers were more interested in technology and management information, while small farmers were more concerned about information for farm management directions and timely diffusion of agricultural technology information. Agricultural extension service should put more emphasis on small farmer groups and active participation of farmers in these groups. Providing information and moderate advice in selecting alternatives should be the major activities for consultation for advanced farmers, while problem solving processes may be the major educational function for small farmers. Systems such as internet and e-mail should be utilized for functions of information exchange. These activities may not be an easy task for decreased numbers of extension educators along with increased administrative tasks. It may be difficult to practice a one-to-one approach However group guidance may improve the task to a certain degree.

• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.43 no.1
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• pp.63-68
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• 1996

Background: Interferon-$\gamma$ has various biologic effects, including antiviral effect, antitumor proliferative effect, activation of macrophage and B lymphocyte, and increased expression of major histocompatibility complex. Especially, antitumor proliferative effect of interferon-$\gamma$ has already been proved to be important in vivo as well as in vitro. And, clinical studies of interferon-$\gamma$ have been tried in lung cancer patients. However, the mechanism of antitumor effect of interferon-$\gamma$ has not yet been established despite of many hypotheses. "Necrosis" is a type of cell death which is well known to occur in the circumstances of severe stresses. In contrast, "apoptosis" is another type of cell death which occurs in such biological circumstances as embryonic development, regression of organs, and self-tolerance of lymphocytes. And, apoptosis is an active process of cell death in which cells are dying with fragmentations of their cytoplasms and nuclei. And, in the process of apoptosis the DNAs of cells are cleaved between nucleosomes by unidentified endonuclease and therefore DNAs of apoptotic cells result in a typical electrophoresis pattern known as DNA ladder pattern. Recently it has been suggested that cytotoxic effect of interferon-$\gamma$ occurs via apoptosis. To elucidate the mechanism of antitumor cytotoxic effect of interferon-$\gamma$, we microscopically observed a lung cancer cell line, A549 which was treated with interferon-$\gamma$. We observed A545 treated with interferon-$\gamma$ was dying fragmented. And so, we performed this study to find out that the mechanism of antitumor cytotoxic effect of interferon-$\gamma$ be apoptosis. Method: We treated A549, human lung cancer cell line with various concentration of interferon-$\gamma$ and quantified its cytotoxic effect of various periods, 24 hours, 72 hours and, 120 hours by MTT(dimethylthiazolyl diphenyltetrazolium bromide) bioassay. Also, after we treated A549 with 100 units/mi of interferon-$\gamma$ for 120 hours, we observed the pattern of cell death with inverted microscope and we extracted DNAs from the dead A549 cells and observed the pattern of 1.5% agarose gel electrophoresis with ethidium bromide staining. Result: 1) Cytotoxic effect of interferon-$\gamma$ on A549: For the first 24 hours, threre was little cytotoxic effect and for between 24 hours and 72 hours, there was the beginning of cytotoxic effect and for 120 hours there was increased cytotoxic effect. 2) Pattern of A549 cell death by interferon-$\gamma$: We observed with inverted microscope that A549 cells were dying fragmented. 3) DNA ladder pattern of gel electrophoresis: We observed DNA ladder pattern of gel electrophoresis of extracted DNAs from dead A549 cells. Conclusion: We concluded that the mechanism of interferon-$\gamma$induced cytotoxicity on lung cancer cell line, A549 be via apoptosis.