• Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention
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• v.13 no.5
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• pp.1869-1872
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• 2012

Background: To assess the diagnostic potential of tumor-associated high molecular weight DNA in stool samples of 32 colorectal cancer (CRC) patients compared to 32 healthy Malaysian volunteers by means of polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Methods: Stool DNA was isolated and tumor-associated high molecular weight DNA (1.476 kb fragment including exons 6-9 of the p53 gene) was amplified using PCR and visualized on ethidium bromide-stained agarose gels. Results: Out of 32 CRC patients, 18 were positive for the presence of high molecular weight DNA as compared to none of the healthy individuals, resulting in an overall sensitivity of 56.3% with 100% specificity. Out of 32 patients, 23 had tumor on the left side and 9 on the right side, 16 and 2 being respectively positive. This showed that high molecular weight DNA was significantly (p = 0.022) more detectable in patients with left side tumor (69.6% vs 22.2%). Out of 32 patients, 22 had tumors larger than 1.0 cm, 18 of these (81.8%) being positive for long DNA as compared to not a single patient with tumor size smaller than 1.0 cm (p <0.001). Conclusion: We detected CRC-related high molecular weight p53 DNA in stool samples of CRC patients with an overall sensitivity of 56.3% with 100% specificity, with a strong tumor size dependence.

• Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society
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• v.59 no.5
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• pp.442-448
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• 2016

Objective : Increased expression of angiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), is associated with the pathogenesis of cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs). The purpose of this study was to investigate plasma levels of VEGF in normal subjects and in patients with CCM and to evaluate change in these levels following stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Methods : Peripheral venous blood was collected from 6 patients with CCM before SRS using Gamma Knife and at the 1 week, 1 month, 3month, and 6 month follow-up visits. Plasma VEGF levels were measured using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from 10 healthy volunteers as controls. Results : Mean plasma VEGF level of 41.9 pg/mL (range, 11.7-114.9 pg/mL) in patients with CCM at baseline was higher than that of the healthy controls (29.3 pg/mL, range, 9.2-64.3 pg/mL), without significant differences between CCM patients and controls (p=0.828). Plasma VEGF level following SRS dropped to 24.6 pg/mL after 1 week, and decreased to 18.5 pg/mL after 1 month, then increased to 24.3 pg/mL after 3 months, and 32.6 pg/mL after 6 months. Two patients suffering from rebleeding after SRS showed a higher level of VEGF at 6 months after SRS than their pretreatment level. Conclusion : Plasma VEGF levels in patients with CCM were elevated over controls at baseline, and decreased from baseline to 1 month after SRS and increased further for up to 6 months. Theses results indicated that anti-angiogenic effect of SRS might play a role in the treatment of CCMs.

• Korean Journal of Oriental Medicine
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• v.13 no.3
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• pp.97-103
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• 2007

The object of this study is to evaluate confounding effect of sleeping behavior on heart rate variability (HRV) in healthy volunteers during a randomized clinical trial. From 6 healthy volunteer, we acquired circadian electrocardiography(ECG) with a Holter monitoring device(DigiTrak Plus, Philips). The compatible analytical program, Zymed, was used for calculation of RR intervals of 24h ECG signal. Then, we generated HRV signals and calculated 9 HRV parameters in time domain and frequency domain for every 30 minute with Matlab 6.x software. We also encoded participants' activities as follows; stable condition(1), sleeping behavior(2), eating behavior(3), and undefined condition(4). Using SPSS 12.0, we tested if there was any difference between HRV parameters of day-time and night-time and between those of a subject in stable condition and in sleeping behavior. As a result, one of the most important parameter-LF/HF ratio, which indicates the autonomic balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, as same the other parameters, showed large inter-individual variations in circadian profiles. And, the mean LF/HF ratio of each participant was different between in stable condition and in sleeping behavior (p<.05). Consequently, the effect of sleeping behavior must be considered when one or more of HRV parameters, especially LF/HF ratio, are used as assessment index in clinical studies.

• The Journal of Internal Korean Medicine
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• v.27 no.4
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• pp.836-844
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• 2006

Background: Mahuang (Ephedra sinica STAPF) is well known as an herbal medicine and has been widely used to reduce body weight and increase athletic ability. However, as a result of reporting many cases of adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, use of dietary supplements containing ephedra was prohibited by the FDA. Objectives : The object of this study was to find the effectiveness of ephedra on weight loss without severe adverse effect. Methods : 16 healthy volunteers consisting of an ephedra group (N=8) and a placebo group (N=8) were investigated. Study form was a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial. The ephedra group took 12g of ephedra while the placebo group took 12g of glutinous rice powder. Both groups were measured with BCA (body composition analysis) on weight loss and with HRV (heart rate variability) on its adverse effect before and after medication. Results : The following results were obtained after taking 12g of ephedra for 14 days. In the ephedra group, body weight reduced significantly. In the placebo group, there were no significant differences of body weight between before and after placebo treatment. There was a slight increase of heart beat rate and deactivation of cardiac activity. Parasympathetic nerves were deactivated, but balances of autonomic nervous system were well maintained. Conclusions : The results suggest that ephedra in healthy adults tends to reduce body weight and deactivation of autonomic nervous system and cardiac activity.

• Physical Therapy Korea
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• v.12 no.1
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• pp.111-119
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• 2005

The purpose of this study was to compare the differences of hip and thigh muscle activities between subjects with increased and decreased femoral anteversion during stair ascent. Twelve healthy female volunteers participated in this study. The subjects were divided into two groups (group 1 with increased anteversion of the hip, group 2 with decreased anteversion of the hip). This study analyzed differences in each mean peak gluteus maximus (GM), gluteus medius (GD) and tensor fascia lata (TLF) EMG amplitude: composite mean peak hip muscles (GM, GD, TFL) EMG amplitude ratios and in each mean peak vastus medialis oblique (VMO), vastus lateralis (VL), biceps femoris (HM) and semitendinosus (HL) EMG amplitude: composite thigh muscles (VMO, VL, HM, HL) EMG amplitude ratios among subjects with decreased or increased relative femoral anteversion. EMG ratios were compared in the stance and swing phase of stair ascent. Group 1 showed an increased standardized mean GM and GD EMG amplitude and decreased standardized mean TFL to composite mean hip muscles EMG amplitude ratios in stair ascent during both stance and swing phase. Also, group 1 showed an increased standardized mean HL EMG amplitude and decreased standardized mean VL and HM to composite mean thigh muscles EMG amplitude ratios in stair ascent during both stance and swing phases. There was no statistically significant difference in vastus medialis oblique between subjects with increased or decreased relative femoral anteversion. In order to provide rehabilitation professionals with a clearer picture of the specific requirements of the stair climbing task, further research must be expanded to include a wider range of age groups that represent the general public, such as including middle-aged healthy persons.

• Journal of Sasang Constitutional Medicine
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• v.16 no.3
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• pp.76-84
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• 2004

1. Objectives This paper is intended to find out Sasang Constitutional difference on Autonomous Function after Acupuncture stimulation in healthy subjects. 2. Methods of Research Nineteen healthy volunteers(Soyangin 6, Taeumin 7, Soeumin 6) had acupunctured perpendicularly into the Hapkok point(LI4) and the Taechung point(Liv3). Heart Rate Variability, Mean Heart Rate and Blood Pressure were checked 4 times(before and after Acupuncture stimulation) to evaluate Autonomous Function. 3. Results & Conclusions The conclusions were as follows 1. There was no statistically significant Sasang Constitutional difference on sympathetic activity and parasympathetic activity before Acupuncture stimulation. 2. Acupuncture stimulation caused a statistically significant increase in the parasympathetic activity in the whole subject. 3. After Acupuncture stimulation, there was a statistically significant increase in the parasympathetic activity in Soeumin and a tendency of increase in the parasympathetic activity in Soyangin. But there was a tendency of increase in the Sympathetic activity in Taeumin.

• The Journal of Korean Medicine
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• v.26 no.1 s.61
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• pp.123-133
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• 2005

Objective : We investigated the sasang constitutional difference of physiological and psychological response in various thermal environmental conditions. Methods: Among 210 volunteers, 30 healthy subjects were selected through the QSCC II (a questionnaire for constitutional discrimination) and the manual examination of a specialist in sasang constitution. Subjects consisted of 10 each Soyang(少陽), Soeum(少陰), and Taeum(太陽). Experimental environments were set by six different conditions to be $23^{\circ}C,\;50\%\;RH,\;0.lm/s;\;25^{\circ}C,\;25\%\;RH,\;0.lm/s;\;25^{\circ}C,\;50\%\;RH,\;0.lm/s;\;25^{\circ}C,\;50\%\;RH,\;0.4m/s;\;25^{\circ}C,\;75\%\;RH,\;0.1m/s;\;and\;27^{\circ}C,\;50\%\;RH,\;0.1m\s$ (respectively temperature, relative humidity, and wind velocity). Skin temperature, core temperature, heart rate variability (HRV), and galvanic skin response (GSR) were measured for each subject Additionally, subjects were asked about comfort through the questionnaire. Results: From the viewpoint of external temperature sensibility, in all experimental environments, generally the Taeum type feels hotter and the Soeum feels colder than other types. In relative comfort, Soeum types were most sensitive to wind velocity change. From the viewpoint of body temperature, Taeum type was lower and Soyang was higher than other types. The measurements of HRV and GSR showed no difference between the types. Conclusion : The four sasang constitution types showed different responses to various thermal environmental conditions. Accordingly, our research could provide basic data for building the optimal thermal conditions for individuals based on sasang constitution. Consequently, it will help to build a healthy environment for everyday life.

• Korean Journal of Biological Psychiatry
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• v.17 no.1
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• pp.44-48
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• 2010

Objectives : Social phobia is frequently accompanied with autonomic nerve system symptoms. QT dispersion(QTd) is the maximum inter-lead difference in QT interval, an indicator of the autonomic nerve system(ANS) disparity of the heart itself. The objective of this study is to investigate the ANS disparity, which is measured by QTd, is associated with pathophysiology of social phobia. Methods : This research have compared QT dispersion of 25 physically healthy social phobia outpatients(16 men, 9 women, the average age $35.5{\pm}12.9$) and age and sex matched control group of mentally and physically healthy 25 volunteers(16 men, 9 women, the average age $34.83{\pm}12.7$). QTd was measured by previously described method. Results : QTd and rate-corrected QTd were significantly higher on the patient group than the control group[QTd(patients vs. controls : $52.60{\pm}27.63ms$ vs. $27.53{\pm}14.29ms$, p<0.0001), QTd(patients vs. controls : $55.79{\pm}27.98ms$ vs. $29.10{\pm}14.24ms$, p<0.0001)]. Conclusion : Our study showed that the patients with social phobia have higher QTd than the normal controls. These results suggest that the ANS disparity, which is measured by QTd, is associated with pathophysiology of social phobia.

• Journal of the Korean Institute of Landscape Architecture
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• v.29 no.1
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• pp.113-123
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• 2001

The purpose of this study is to help out the settlement of the Green Map in Korea, and to suggest how to map, and help community people and environmental planner systematically take care of their own towns. This study is also to introduce the green mapping and its usefulness, based on the Green Map Movement, which originated from Net York City and has been expanding through the World. Environmental elements shown on the Green map vary between countries and for the Seocho-Gu Green Map, we have decided to indicate the places that we are proud of, and dishonored of. Especially, this paper is focused on finding the hidden environmental resources in our daily lives. Seocho-Gu, one of 25 self-governmental resources. Since the citizens and government officials are open-minded in their environments, it is a suitable area to start the first Green Map in Korea. As a method of locating the environmental resources, the "Foot Sensing Method" by which residents directly research, is the main difference from typical maps by the "Remote Sensing" which focused on the variety participation of the residents such as questionnaires, investigation with youth volunteers, users interviews which may be more meaningful than the Green Map itself. The purpose of application plan is to preserve the environmental resources through the smooth feedback with the residents. Thus, it must be acted as a opening window linking them with the local circumstances. In line with this, this study proposed the trial-version Web Green Map and Green tour plan. Recently, a need for an environmental map has been reflected in the environmental policies of Seoul Metropolitan City, and it is in place now. If environmental experts of different disciplines use the Green Map for landscape architecture, design, and city planning, it will help them make a better understanding of the needs of the community and to practice the user-centered design. Eventually, the Seocho-Gu Green Map will help its residents, tourists, government, and environmental planners continue establishing the healthy city environments. It is expected that the green map will be employed as a useful method for establishing healthy city and town through right way of use and contents.of use and contents.

• The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy
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• v.28 no.6
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• pp.349-354
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• 2016

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to investigate the thickness of deep neck flexors (DNF) and sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) bilaterally during deep neck flexor endurance test using ultrasonography images. Methods: Healthy volunteers (n=22), 20-25 (mean 22.2) years old, were recruited for the study. Participants were asked to perform the craniocervical flexion test (CCFT) in a seated position to measure deep neck flexor endurance. The thickness of DNF and SCM was assessed bilaterally and was measured using ultrasonography images at resting, contracted, pre-terminal and terminal phases of the neck muscle endurance test. Muscle contraction pattern was also observed along with the changes in muscle thickness from the resting phase to the terminal phase. Repeated-measure ANOVA was employed to compare muscle thickness bilaterally at each phase. Results: The thickness of right and left muscles was found to be significantly different in DNF both at resting and contracted phases (p=0.02, p<0.01, respectively), whereas no significant difference was observed in SCM at resting or contracted phases (p=0.59, p=0.18, respectively). Thickness changes from resting to contracted phase were not significantly different both in DNF and SCM (p=0.18, p=0.22, respectively). Muscle contraction patterns in right and left muscles were shown to be similar. Conclusion: The current study, performed on (with) healthy subjects, significantly detected different right and left muscle thickness in DNF, but the muscle contraction patterns were similar in DNF and SCM bilaterally. Further study is required to investigate DNF and SCM muscle size and function in people with neck pain.