• Journal of Ginseng Research
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• 제43권4호
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• pp.676-683
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• 2019

Background: Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) is widely used for strengthening the immune system and fighting fatigue, especially in people with deficiency syndrome. However, there is concern that the long-term application or a high dose of KRG can cause "fireness" (上火 in Chinese) because of its "dryness" (燥性 in Chinese). The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a 4-week treatment with KRG in participants with deficiency syndrome. Methods: This was a 4-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. A total of 180 Chinese participants were randomly allocated to three groups: placebo control group, participants were given a placebo, 3.6 g/d; KRG 1.8 g and 3.6 g groups. The primary outcomes were the changes in fireness and safety evaluation (adverse events, laboratory tests, and electrocardiogram). The secondary outcomes were the efficacy of KRG on fatigue, which include the following: traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) symptom scale and fatigue self-assessment scale. Results: Of the 180 patients, 174 completed the full study. After 4 weeks of KRG treatment, the Fire-heat symptoms score including Excess fire-heat score and Deficient fire-heat score showed no significant change as compared with placebo treatment, and no clinically significant changes in any safety parameter were observed. Based on the TCM syndrome score and fatigue self-assessment score, TCM symptoms and fatigue were greatly improved after treatment with KRG, which showed a dose- and time-dependent effect. The total effective rate was also significantly increased in the KRG groups. Conclusion: Our study revealed that KRG has a potent antifatigue effect without significant adverse effects in people with deficiency syndrome. Although a larger sample size and longer treatment may be required for a more definite conclusion, this clinical trial is the first to disprove the common conception of "fireness" related to KRG.

• Geomechanics and Engineering
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• 제12권1호
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• pp.161-183
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• 2017

This paper investigates the damage identification of the concrete pile element through axial wave propagation technique using computational and experimental studies. Now-a-days, concrete pile foundations are often common in all engineering structures and their safety is significant for preventing the failure. Damage detection and estimation in a sub-structure is challenging as the visual picture of the sub-structure and its condition is not well known and the state of the structure or foundation can be inferred only through its static and dynamic response. The concept of wave propagation involves dynamic impedance and whenever a wave encounters a changing impedance (due to loss of stiffness), a reflecting wave is generated with the total strain energy forked as reflected as well as refracted portions. Among many frequency domain methods, the Spectral Finite Element method (SFEM) has been found suitable for analysis of wave propagation in real engineering structures as the formulation is based on dynamic equilibrium under harmonic steady state excitation. The feasibility of the axial wave propagation technique is studied through numerical simulations using Elementary rod theory and higher order Love rod theory under SFEM and ABAQUS dynamic explicit analysis with experimental validation exercise. Towards simulating the damage scenario in a pile element, dis-continuity (impedance mismatch) is induced by varying its cross-sectional area along its length. Both experimental and computational investigations are performed under pulse-echo and pitch-catch configuration methods. Analytical and experimental results are in good agreement.

• Wind and Structures
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• 제30권2호
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• pp.181-198
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• 2020

In the traditional buffeting response analysis method, the spanwise incomplete correlation of buffeting forces is always assumed to be same as that of the incident wind turbulence and the action of the signature turbulence is ignored. In this paper, three typical bridge decks usually adopted in the real bridge engineering, a single flat box deck, a central slotted box deck and a two-separated paralleled box deck, were employed as the investigated objects. The wind induced pressure on these bridge decks were measured via a series of wind tunnel pressure tests of the sectional models. The influences of the wind speed in the tests, the angle of attack, the turbulence intensity and the characteristic distance were taken into account and discussed. The spanwise root coherence of buffeting forces was also compared with that of the incidence turbulence. The signature turbulence effect on the spanwise root coherence function was decomposed and explained by a new empirical method with a double-variable model. Finally, the formula of a sum of rational fractions that accounted for the signature turbulence effect was proposed in order to fit the results of the spanwise root coherence function. The results show that, the spanwise root coherence of the drag force agrees with that of incidence turbulence in some range of the reduced frequency but disagree in the mostly reduced frequency. The spanwise root coherence of the lift force and the torsional moment is much larger than that of the incidence turbulence. The influences of the wind speed and the angle of attack are slight, and they can be ignored in the wind tunnel test. The spanwise coherence function often involves several narrow peaks due to the signature turbulence effect in the high reduced frequency zone. The spanwise coherence function is related to the spanwise separation distance and the spanwise integral length scales, and the signature turbulence effect is related to the deck-width-related reduced frequency.

• Journal of Ginseng Research
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• 제30권3호
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• pp.106-111
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• 2006

Adverse changes in individual's biochemistry under heavy metal stress are directly linked with its metabolic activity and health status. The present investigation highlights the differences in protecting role of Panax ginseng extract against mercuric chloride induced alterations in serum proteins. The assessment was based on dividing fifty albino rats into two sets, one for acute and the other for sub-acute study. All the sets had five groups with five albino rats in each i.e. control group, mercuric chloride treated group, Panax ginseng extract treated group, mercuric chloride followed by Panax ginseng extract treated group and Panax ginseng extract followed by mercuric chloride treated group. Mercuric chloride was given orally 0.926 mg/kg body weight for acute set and 0.044 mg/kg body weight for sub-acute set after LD50 (9.26 mg/kg body weight) determination by probitt analysis. 10 mg/kg body weight Panax ginseng extract was given in both acute and sub-acute sets after incorporating safety trials. The control group received tween-20 and distilled water only. The result exhibited significantly reduction (P<0.01) in serum protein, albumin and globulin following mercuric chloride intoxication whereas significant (P<0.01) enhancement in other groups with Panax ginseng extract as an ingredient confirming its protective role. All serum samples were also electrophoresed in 10% SDS with standard marker using discontinuous buffering system. Gradual disappearance of alpha-2 and beta-1 globulin bands from electrophoretic pattern was observed, while a single sharp band was observed between beta-2 and gamma globulin in serum protein pattern of acutely mercuric chloride treated rats. However, this band could not be visualized in sub-acute studies. Panax ginseng extract exhibits a better protection after acute intoxication.

• 대한의생명과학회지
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• 제22권4호
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• pp.199-206
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• 2016

Pesticides are widely used to prevent loss of agricultural production but extensive exposure can induce health problems to pesticide operators. This study was performed to evaluate the health risk of highly produced pesticides used in fruit growing farm land by comparison of estimated exposure level with AOEL using KO-POEM program. AOEL was driven based on NOAEL of each pesticide evaluated by JMPR, EFSA or KRDA. In calculation of exposure level, types of formulation, dilution factors, spraying duration and motor type and exposure protection device were allocated according to actual condition of use. Dermal absorption rate was differently applied among EFSA default values (25% or 75%), general default value (10%) or real test result values to know the plausibility of default values and safety of pesticide to operators in outline. Twenty pesticide ingredients (fungicides and insecticides) were produced more than 30 tons per year, which were mancozeb, chlorothalonil, imidaclopirid and etc in order. Dermal absorption rates obtained from studies were various from 0.07 to 81% but mostly under 10%. The estimated exposure levels showed big differences more than 10 times higher when using EFSA default rate and up to 5 times higher when using general rate of 10% comparing using rates of test results. Mancozeb, chlorthalonil, diazinon and chlorpyrifos presented still higher exposure level than AOEL even when using test absorption rate from study, which suggests that re-evaluation of AOEL or dermal exposure absorption rate or strict management are required for health protection of operators who use those four pesticides in farm land.

• 한국산업보건학회지
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• 제24권2호
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• pp.229-237
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• 2014

Objectives: This study intends to determine the current status of management of personal protective equipment fume hoods in university laboratories. Methods: A walk-through survey of 402 labs in Gyeongbuk Province and Daegu Metropolitan City were carried out between May 2009 and July 2010. Respectively, 348 and 54 laboratories were examined in Gyeongbuk Province and Daegu. Results: In size, labs serving over 15,000 student made up the majority with 276(66.4%). In terms of major, engineering labs were the highest in number with 100(24.9%). As to personal protective equipment, a gas mask and a dust mask were available in 17.8% and 14.3% of the labs, respectively, but 68.9% of labs were equipped with protective goggles. Meanwhile, only 12.7% of labs had separate protective equipment storage boxes. About 60% of the labs had installed a fume hood, of which the average capture velocity was 0.37 m/sec. Conclusions: For toxic substances, the labs are obliged to provide personal protective equipment in in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act. In addition, the capture velocity of fume hoods must be in strict compliance in order to prevent occupational diseases due to toxic chemicals.

• Journal of Veterinary Science
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• 제22권3호
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• pp.31.1-31.12
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• 2021

Background: Blackened intestines in slaughtered pigs have been commonly observed in China in recent years. However, no cause has been reported. Objectives: We attempted to determine whether the blackening of the pig intestine was related to an excess of copper (Cu) in their feed. Methods: In this study, we observed and collected porcine intestines in small- and large-scale pig slaughterhouses in Shandong province from May to October 2018. Twelve types of metal ions were detected in the black intestinal samples. Results: The Cu level in the intestine samples was mostly higher than the Chinese national limit for food. Further study showed that Cu supplementation in most commercial porcine feed also exceeded the national standard. An animal model (mouse) that could mimic the intestinal blackening in pigs was established. Compared to control mice, Cu accumulated in the liver and intestines of mice fed an excessive Cu level, confirming the excessive Cu in the feed may be considered the major cause of blackened porcine intestines. Microscopic examination revealed that black intestines had many particles containing Cu in the lamina propria of the intestinal mucosa, and the intestinal mucosal epithelial cells showed degeneration and necrosis. Conclusions: In conclusion, overuse of Cu in animal feed can lead to animal poisoning and Cu accumulation in animal products. Such overuse not only harms the health of livestock but can also affect public health.

• Parasites, Hosts and Diseases
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• 제61권3호
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• pp.304-309
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• 2023

Intestinal parasitic infections are a public health burden and a major cause of illness in developing countries. The diseases lead to various health threats, including growth retardation and mental health-related disorders, especially in children. We assessed the risk factors for intestinal parasitic infections among children aged 12-59 months residing in Nyamasheke District, Rwanda. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using secondary data from 1,048 children aged 12-59 months whose stool samples were examined for the presence of intestinal parasites and whose results were registered in the laboratory information system in 2020. The prevalence of intestinal parasites in children aged 12-59 months was 53.2%. The dominant parasites were Ascaris lumbricoides (13.1%), followed by Giardia lamblia (10.9%), Entamoeba histolytica (7.9%), Trichuris trichiura (6.5%), hookworms (1.7%), and Taenia species (1.4%). A significant association was observed between intestinal parasites and the literacy of mothers or children's caregivers (odds ratio (OR)=5.09, P<0.001). Children from farming households were 2.8-fold more likely to contract intestinal parasitic infections than those from nonfarming households (OR=2.8, P<0.001). A significant association was also observed between intestinal parasites and food safety (OR=4.9, P<0.001). Intestinal parasitic infections were significantly associated with hand hygiene practices after using the toilet and washing fresh fruits before eating (P<0.001). The information gathered will help public health providers and partners develop control plans in highly endemic areas in Rwanda.

• 한국환경보건학회:학술대회논문집
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• 한국환경보건학회 2005년도 국제학술대회
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• pp.240-248
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• 2005

To implement a globally harmonized system of classification and labeling of chemicals (GHS) in Korea, an interminsterial GHS working group involving 6 ministries established an expert working group composed of 7 experts from relevant organizations and one private consultant to prepare an officialKorean GHS version by March, 2005. As such, the translation and review of the official Korean GHS version, including annexes, started in October, 2004 and was completed on March 15, 2005. The official Korean GHS version has now been posted on the websites of the relevant ministries and organizations to solicit public opinions. The official Korean GHS version will be finalized after a public hearing scheduled forMay, 2005. Collaborative efforts as regards implementing and disseminating the GHS in Korea will be continued to avoid any confusion or duplication and for effective use of resources. The globally harmonized system of classifying and labeling chemicals (GHS) was originally adopted in 1992 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), as subsequently reflected in Agenda 21 chapter 19. The work was coordinated and managed under the auspices of the Interorganization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals(IOMC) Coordinating Group for the Harmonization of Chemical Classification Systems (UNCEGHS). The technical focal points for completing the work were the International Labour Organization (ILO); Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD); and United Nations Economic and Social Council's Subcommittee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (UNSCETDG). The work was finalized in October 2002, and the World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg on 4 September 2002 encouraged countries to implement the new GHS as soon as possible with a view to having the system fully operational by 2008 (UN, 2003). Implementation has already started with pilot countries introducing the system to their national practices in different regions of the world. The GHS text, called the purple book, becameavailable as a W publication in early 2003. The GHS text, called the purple book, becameavailable as a UN publication in early 2003. The GHS system will be kept dynamic, and regularly revised and made more efficient as experience is gained in its implementation. While national or regional governments are the primary audiences for this document, it also contains sufficient context and guidance for those in industry who will ultimately be implementing the national requirements that will be introduced (UN, 2003). The Japanese government published their official Japanese GHS version, the first in Asia, in April 2004 after starting work in January 2003 based on an interministerial chemical coordination committee involving 7 ministries, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, and Ministry of Environment (MOE, 2004). Accordingly, similar to the Japanese GHS efforts, this paper presents the interministerial efforts involved in publishing the official Korean GHS version.

• 자원환경지질
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• 제47권5호
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• pp.497-505
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• 2014

본 연구는 석면형태와 비석면형태의 구분을 위하여 충청북도 제천시에 소재한 한 폐석면광산 지역의 토양 중 트레모라이트와 악티노라이트 섬유의 크기 특성을 파악하였다. 폐석면광산 주변지역의 토양과 트레모라이트 석면 암석을 채취하고, 투과전자현미경으로 길이 $5{\mu}m$ 이상이며 길이대너비 비율이 3:1 이상인 섬유의 크기를 측정하여 알려진 석면형태와 비석면형태를 보이는 트레모라이트의 크기 분포와 비교하였다. 연구 결과 섬유의 너비는 기하평균으로 토양시료 $1.2{\mu}m$, 석면 암석 $0.3-0.6{\mu}m$, NIST 트레모라이트 $1.3{\mu}m$, HSL 트레모라이트 $0.2{\mu}m$ 이었다. 길이대너비 비율은 기하평균으로 토양시료 7.3, 석면 암석 13.7-30.1, NIST 트레모라이트 7.2, HSL 트레모라이트 37.8 이었다. 토양시료는 알려진 석면형태의 트레모라이트 뿐만 아니라 비석면형태의 트레모라이트에 비해서도 가늘고 길이대너비 비율이 큰 섬유를 적게 함유하였다. 따라서 연구 대상 토양시료 중의 트레모라이트-악티노라이트는 전형적 석면형태로 분류할 수 없으며, 대부분은 광산 및 채석장으로부터 바람에 의해 비산된 석면으로 인한 오염의 결과가 아닌 것으로 추정된다. 토양 중 석면의 관리를 위해서 석면 오염 여부를 조사 시에는 감섬석의 크기 분포가 함께 고려되어야 한다.