• Journal of Radiation Protection and Research
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• v.37 no.3
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• pp.149-158
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• 2012

In this paper, we measured the variations of radon concentrations in groundwater using low-level Liquid Scintillation Counter (LSC), an instrument for analyzing the alpha and beta radionuclides at its 10 sites around the Kumjung-Gu, north-western of Busan. Optimization of Pulse Shape Analyzer (PSA) to determinate the highest value of figure of merit (FM) was decided using Quantulus 1200 LSC with radium-226 source, the optimal PSA level was shown in the range of 100 to 110. The results show that the Minimum Detectable Activity (MDA) of radon concentrations is 0.61 $Bq{\cdot}L^{-1}$ for 20 minutes in PSA level. We find that the average radon concentration in groundwater is high in granitic rock area and low in volcanic rock area. (Biotite granite : 191.39 $Bq{\cdot}L^{-1}$, Micro graphic granite : 141.88 $Bq{\cdot}L^{-1}$, Adamellite : 92.94 $Bq{\cdot}L^{-1}$, Andesite (volcanic) : 35.35 $Bq{\cdot}L^{-1}$). No significant seasonal variation pattern is observed from the long-term variation analysis from 10 selected sites. We have not seen the significant correlation of radon concentration to groundwater temperature, atmospheric temperature, atmospheric pressure and rainfall. The concentration variation is probably caused by more complex factors and processes.

• The Journal of the Korea institute of electronic communication sciences
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• v.14 no.5
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• pp.887-892
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• 2019

In this study, after 20nm-thick $SiO_2$ thin film was deposited by PECVD method on the PES substrate, which is known to have the highest heat resistance among plastic substrates, as a buffer layer, ITZO thin films were deposited by RF magnetron sputtering method to investigate the electrical and optical properties according to the working pressure. The ITZO thin film deposited at the working pressure of 3mTorr showed the best electrical properties with a resistivity of $8.02{\times}10^{-4}{\Omega}-cm$ and a sheet resistance of $50.13{\Omega}/sq.$. The average transmittance in the visible region (400-800nm) of all ITZO films was over 80% regardless of working pressure. The Figure of merit showed the largest value of $23.90{\times}10^{-4}{\Omega}^{-1}$ in the ITZO thin film deposited at 3mTorr. This study found that ITZO thin films are very promising materials to replace ITO thin films in next-generation flexible display devices.

• Journal of radiological science and technology
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• v.44 no.2
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• pp.101-107
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• 2021

The purpose of this study was to evaluate optimal CT scan parameters to minimize patient dose to the irradiation and maintain satisfactory image quality in low-dose chest computed tomography (CT) scans. In a chest anthropomorphic phantom, chest CT scans were performed at different kVp and mA within reference of 3.4mGy in volume CT Dose Index (CTDI_vol). The following quantitative parameters had been statistically evaluated: image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and figure of merit (FOM). Nine radiographers conducted the blind test to select the optimal kVp-mA combination. Results indicated that the kVp-mA combination of 80kVp-90mA, 100kVp-50mA, 120kVp-30mA and 140kVp-30mA were obtained high SNR and CNR. The 120kVp-30mA combination offered good compromise in the FOM, which showed the quality and dose performance. In the blind test, an image of 80kVp-90mA obtained a high score with 4.7 points, and 120kVp-10mA or 140kVp-10mA with a low tube current were observed severe noise and poor image quality, thus resulting in decreased diagnostic accuracy. On the other hand, in the combination of high kVp and high mA(140kVp-90mA), the image quality was improved, but the radiation dose was also increased. the FOM value of 140kVp-90mA was lower than 120kVp-30mA. The application of appropriate scan parameters in low-dose chest CT scans produced satisfactory results in dose and image quality for the accuracy of the clinical diagnosis.

• The Journal of the Korea institute of electronic communication sciences
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• v.14 no.2
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• pp.297-302
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• 2019

In this study, we deposited ITO thin films on buffer layer of $Nb_2O_5(8nm)/SiO_2(45nm)$ using DC magnetron sputtering method and investigated its electrical and optical properties with various DC powers(100~400 W). The surface of the ITO thin film was observed by AFM. All thin films had defected free surface such as pinholes and cracks. The thin film deposited at DC power of 200 W exhibited the smallest surface roughness of 1.431nm. As a result of electrical and optical measurements, the ITO thin film deposited at DC power of 200 W which showed the lowest resistivity of $3.03{\times}10^{-4}{\Omega}-cm$. The average transmittance in the visible light region(400 to 800 nm) and the transmittance at the wavelength of 550nm were found to be 85.8% and 87.1%, respectively. The chromaticity(b*) was also a relatively good value as 2.13. The figure of merit obtained from the sheet resistance of the ITO thin film, the average transmittance in the visible light region and the transmittance at the wavelength of 550nm were the best values of $2.50{\times}10^{-3}{\Omega}^{-1}$ and $2.90{\times}10^{-3}{\Omega}^{-1}$ at a DC power of 200W, respectively.

• Journal of the Microelectronics and Packaging Society
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• v.28 no.4
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• pp.91-96
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• 2021

The enhancement of thermoelectric figure of merit was achieved by the simple processes of sieving and high energy ball milling, respectively, which are enable to reduce the grain size of n-type Bi₂Te₃ thermoelectric materials. By optimizing the grain size, the electrical conductivities and thermal conductivities were controlled. In this study, spark plasma sintering was employed for hindering the grain growth during the sintering process. The thermoelectric figure of merit was measured to be 0.78 in the samples with 30 min high energy ball milling process. Notably, this value was 40 % higher than that of pristine Bi₂Te₃ sample. This result shows the properties of thermoelectric materials can be readily controlled by optimization of grain size via simple ball milling process.

• Journal of Animal Science and Technology
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• v.65 no.3
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• pp.596-610
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• 2023

Focusing high marble deposition, Hanwoo feedlot system uses high-energy diet over the prolonged fattening period. However, due to the individual genetic variation, around 40% of them are graded into inferior quality grades (QG), despite they utilized the same resources. Therefore, focusing on development of a nutrigenomic based precision management model, this study was to evaluated the response to the divergent selection on genetic merit for marbling score (MS), under different dietary total digestible nutrient (TDN) levels. Total of 111 calves were genotyped and initially grouped according to estimated breeding value (high and low) for marbling score (MS-EBV). Subsequently, managed under two levels of feed TDN%, over the calf period, early, middle, and final fattening periods following 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. Carcasses were evaluated for MS, Back fat thickness (BFT) and Korean beef quality grading standard. As the direct response to the selection was significant, the results confirmed the importance of initial genetic grouping of Hanwoo steers for MS-EBV. However, dietary TDN level did not show an effect (p > 0.05) on the MS. Furthermore, no genetic-by-nutrition interaction for MS (p > 0.05) was also observed. The present results showed no correlation response on BFT (p > 0.05), which indicates that the selection based on MS-EBV can be used to enhance the MS without undesirable effect on BFT. Ultimate turnover of the Hanwoo feedlot operation is primarily determined by the QGs. The present model shows that the initial grouping for MS-EBV increased the proportion of carcasses graded for higher QGs (QG1⁺⁺ and QG1⁺) by approximately 20%. Moreover, there appear to be a potential to increase the proportion of QG 1⁺⁺ animals among the high-genetic group by further increasing the dietary energy content. Overall, this precision management strategy suggests the importance of adopting an MS based initial genetic grouping system for Hanwoo steers with a subsequent divergent management based on dietary energy level.

• Journal of Powder Materials
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• v.15 no.5
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• pp.352-358
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• 2008

The present study focused on the synthesis of a bismuth-antimony-tellurium-based thermoelectric nanopowders using plasma arc discharge process. The chemical composition, phase structure, particle size of the synthesized powders under various synthesis conditions were analyzed using XRF, XRD and SEM. The powders as synthesized were sintered by the plasma activated sintering. The thermoelectric properties of sintered body were analyzed by measuring Seebeck coefficient, specific electric resistivity and thermal conductivity. The chemical composition of the synthesized Bi-Sb-Te-based powders approached that of the raw material with an increasing DC current of the are plasma. The synthesized Bi-Sb-Te-based powder consist of a mixed phase structure of the $Bi_{0.5}Sb_{1.5}Te_{3}$, $Bi_{2}Te_{3}$ and $Sb_{2}Te_{3}$ phases. This powder has homogeneous mixing state of two different particles in an average particle size; about 100nm and about 500nm. The figure of merit of the sintered body of the synthesized 18.75 wt.%Bi-24.68 wt.%Sb-56.57 wt.%Te nanopowder showed higher value than one of the sintered body of the mechanically milled 12.64 wt.%Bi-29.47 wt.%Sb-57.89 wt.%Te powder.

• Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences
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• v.24 no.1
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• pp.130-136
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• 2011

Methane is known to be one of the major greenhouse gases. On a global scale, livestock farming may contribute 18% of total greenhouse gas emissions. Though methane contribution is less than 2% of all the factors leading to global warming, it plays an important role because it is 21 times more effective than carbon dioxide. Methane emission is a direct result of the fermentation process performed by ruminal microorganisms and, in particular, the archael methanogens. Reducing methane emission would benefit both ruminant production and the environment. Methane generation can be reduced by electron-sink metabolic pathways to dispose of the reducing moieties. An alternative way for methane control in the rumen is to apply inhibitors against methanogens. Generating methane from manure has considerable merit because it appears to offer at least a partial solution to two pressing problems-environmental crisis and energy shortage. An obvious benefit from methane production is the energy value of the gas itself. Control of methane emission by rumen microbes in Korea has mainly been focused on application of various chemicals, such as BES and PMDI, that inhibit the growth and activity of methanogens in the rumen. Alternatives were to apply long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids and oils with or without organic acids (malate and fumarate). The results for trials with methane reducing agents and the situation of biogas production industries and a typical biogas plant in Korea will be introduced here.

• Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences
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• v.24 no.5
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• pp.587-602
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• 2011

Improved efficiency in the use of natural resources, pragmatic production systems and environmental sustainability, justified by the need for improved land use systems and increased productivity, are discussed in the context of Asian integrated systems, diversification, and issues of sustainability. The importance of these are reflected by serious inadequate animal protein production throughout Asia, where available supplies cannot match current and projected human requirements up to 2050. Among the ruminant production systems, integrated tree crops-ruminant production systems are grossly underestimated and merit emphasis and expansion. As an example, integrated oil palm- based system is an important pathway for integration with ruminants (buffaloes, cattle, goats and sheep), and provides the entry point for development. The importance and benefits of integrated systems are discussed, involving animals with annual and perennial tree crops, integration with aquaculture, the significance of crop-animal interactions, stratification of the systems, production options, improved use of forages and legumes, potential for enhanced productivity, implications for improved livelihoods of the rural poor and the stability of farm households. The advances in research and development in South East Asia highlight demonstrable increased productivity from animals and meat offtakes, value addition to the oil palm crop, sustainable development, and distinct economic impacts. The results from 12 out of a total of 24 case studies concerning oil palm over the past three decades showed increased yield of 0.49-3.52 mt of fresh fruit bunches (FFB)/ha/yr; increased income by about 30%; savings in weeding costs by 47- 60% equivalent to 21-62 RM/ha/yr; and an internal rate of return of 19% based on actual field data. The results provide important socio-economic benefits for resource-poor small farmers. Potential increased offtakes and additional income exist with the integration of goats. Additionally, the potential for carbon sequestration with tree crops is an advantage. The reasons for low adoption of the syatems are poor awareness of the potential of integrated systems, resistance by the crop- oriented plantation sector, and inadequate technology application. Promoting wider expansion and adoption of the systems in the future is linked directly with coherent policy, institutional commitment, increased investments, private sector involvement, and a stimulus package of incentives.

• Applied Chemistry for Engineering
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• v.27 no.4
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• pp.353-357
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• 2016

Following the population growth and civilization, resulted in energy-mass consumption society, research efforts on enhancing efficiency of traditional energy sources has been investigated. Among many alternatives, thermoelectric power generation technologies are highlighted as one of solutions for high heat energy efficiencies. Currently, the research area of thermoelectric power generation has been achieved over two of ZT value, which seems to have enough competitiveness as following the development of nano-technologies, in particular, for waste heat recovery, and the development of thermoelectric materials is still ongoing to obtain higher energy efficiencies. In this review, the recent development of thermoelectric materials and module technologies categorized by different temperature regions was briefly introduced.