• Food Science of Animal Resources
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• v.44 no.1
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• pp.132-145
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• 2024

Sarcopenia, the age-related muscle atrophy, is a serious concern as it is associated with frailty, reduced physical functions, and increased mortality risk. Protein supplementation is essential for preserving muscle mass, and horse meat can be an excellent source of proteins. Since sarcopenia occurs under conditions of oxidative stress, this study aimed to investigate the potential anti-muscle atrophy effect of horse meat hydrolysate using C2C12 cells. A horse meat hydrolysate less than 3 kDa (A4<3kDa) significantly increased the viability of C2C12 myoblasts against H₂O₂-induced cytotoxicity. Exposure of C2C12 myoblasts to lipopolysaccharide led to an elevation of cellular reactive oxygen species levels and mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin 6, and these effects were attenuated by A4<3kDa treatment. Additionally, A4<3kDa activated protein synthesis-related proteins through the protein kinase B/mechanistic target of rapamycin pathway, while decreasing the expression of activity and degradation-related proteins, such as Forkhead box O3, muscle RING finger protein-1, and Atrogin-1 in dexamethasone-treated C2C12 myotubes. Therefore, the natural material A4<3kDa has the potential of protecting against muscle atrophy, while further in vivo study is needed.

• IMMUNE NETWORK
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• v.23 no.3
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• pp.29.1-29.23
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• 2023

Cholesterol (CL) is required for various biomolecular production processes, including those of cell membrane components. Therefore, to meet these needs, CL is converted into various derivatives. Among these derivatives is cholesterol sulfate (CS), a naturally produced CL derivative by the sulfotransferase family 2B1 (SULT2B1), which is widely present in human plasma. CS is involved in cell membrane stabilization, blood clotting, keratinocyte differentiation, and TCR nanocluster deformation. This study shows that treatment of T cells with CS resulted in the decreased surface expression of some surface T-cell proteins and reduced IL-2 release. Furthermore, T cells treated with CS significantly reduced lipid raft contents and membrane CLs. Surprisingly, using the electron microscope, we also observed that CS led to the disruption of T-cell microvilli, releasing small microvilli particles containing TCRs and other microvillar proteins. However, in vivo, T cells with CS showed aberrant migration to high endothelial venules and limited infiltrating splenic T-cell zones compared with the untreated T cells. Additionally, we observed significant alleviation of atopic dermatitis in mice injected with CS in the animal model. Based on these results, we conclude that CS is an immunosuppressive natural lipid that impairs TCR signaling by disrupting microvillar function in T cells, suggesting its usefulness as a therapeutic agent for alleviating T-cell-mediated hypersensitivity and a potential target for treating autoimmune diseases.

• Journal of The Korea Institute of Healthcare Architecture
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• v.30 no.2
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• pp.35-46
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• 2024

Purpose: It is the responsibility of public healthcare to respond quickly to infectious disease outbreaks and disasters such as MERS, COVID-19, the Syrian earthquake, and the Miryang Sejong Hospital fire accident. It is very important to secure safe medical facilities and protect lives through emergency medical support and disaster response systems. The purpose of this study is to investigate the safety status of regional medical facilities that play a central role in the event of a disaster. Methods: The target was 41 local public hospitals, including 35 regional medical centers and 6 Red Cross hospitals nationwide. We delivered a questionnaire to 41 medical facilities and collected data from 32 regional public hospitals that received responses. Results: In order to respond to safety accidents, a survey was conducted on infections, falls, patient identification, and incorrect connections for medical accidents, and for in-hospital accidents, a survey was conducted on entrapment, collision, water leaks, falling objects, and crime prevention. For natural disasters, we investigated the response environment for typhoons, floods, and snow damage, and for social disasters, we investigated the response environment for fire, power outages, and radiation damage. Implications: We hope that it will be used as basic data for developing standards and creating hospital facilities and environments that are safe for everyone to respond to various disasters and prevent patient safety accidents in the future.

• International Journal of Internet, Broadcasting and Communication
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• v.16 no.2
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• pp.267-277
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• 2024

This paper explores the use of machine learning in game production to create goal-oriented, realistic animations for skeleton monsters. The purpose of this research is to enhance realism by implementing intelligent movements in monsters within game development. To achieve this, we designed and implemented a learning model for skeleton monsters using reinforcement learning algorithms. During the machine learning process, various reward conditions were established, including the monster's speed, direction, leg movements, and goal contact. The use of configurable joints introduced physical constraints. The experimental method validated performance through seven statistical graphs generated using machine learning methods. The results demonstrated that the developed model allows skeleton monsters to move to their target points efficiently and with natural animation. This paper has implemented a method for creating game monster animations using machine learning, which can be applied in various gaming environments in the future. The year 2024 is expected to bring expanded innovation in the gaming industry. Currently, advancements in technology such as virtual reality, AI, and cloud computing are redefining the sector, providing new experiences and various opportunities. Innovative content optimized for this period is needed to offer new gaming experiences. A high level of interaction and realism, along with the immersion and fun it induces, must be established as the foundation for the environment in which these can be implemented. Recent advancements in AI technology are significantly impacting the gaming industry. By applying many elements necessary for game development, AI can efficiently optimize the game production environment. Through this research, We demonstrate that the application of machine learning to Unity and game engines in game development can contribute to creating more dynamic and realistic game environments. To ensure that VR gaming does not end as a mere craze, we propose new methods in this study to enhance realism and immersion, thereby increasing enjoyment for continuous user engagement.

• The Korean Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology
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• v.28 no.1
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• pp.73-81
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• 2024

The substantia gelatinosa (SG) within the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (Vc) is recognized as a pivotal site of integrating and modulating afferent fibers carrying orofacial nociceptive information. Although naringenin (4',5,7-thrihydroxyflavanone), a natural bioflavonoid, has been proven to possess various biological effects in the central nervous system (CNS), the activity of naringenin at the orofacial nociceptive site has not been reported yet. In this study, we explored the influence of naringenin on GABA response in SG neurons of Vc using whole-cell patch-clamp technique. The application of GABA in a bath induced two forms of GABA responses: slow and fast. Naringenin enhanced both amplitude and area under curve (AUC) of GABA-mediated responses in 57% (12/21) of tested neurons while decreasing both parameters in 33% (7/21) of neurons. The enhancing or suppressing effect of naringenin on GABA response have been observed, with enhancement occurring when the GABA response was slow, and suppression when it was fast. Furthermore, both the enhancement of slower GABA responses and the suppression of faster GABA responses by naringenin were concentration dependent. Interestingly, the nature of GABA response was also found to be sex-dependent. A majority of SG neurons from juvenile female mice exhibited slower GABA responses, whereas those from juvenile males predominantly displayed faster GABA responses. Taken together, this study indicates that naringenin plays a partial role in modulating orofacial nociception and may hold promise as a therapeutic target for treating orofacial pain, with effects that vary according to sex.

• Biomolecules & Therapeutics
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• v.32 no.1
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• pp.162-169
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• 2024

Particulate matter (PM) constitutes a hazardous blend of organic and inorganic particles that poses health risks. Inhalation of fine airborne PM with a diameter of ≤ 2.5 ㎛ (PM_2.5) can lead to significant lung impairments. (+)-afzelechin (AZC), a natural compound sourced from Bergenia ligulata, boasts a range of attributes, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, and cardiovascular effects. However, knowledge about the therapeutic potential of AZC for patients with PM_2.5-induced lung injuries remains limited. Thus, in this study, we investigated the protective attributes of AZC against lung damage caused by PM_2.5 exposure. AZC was administered to the mice 30 min after intratracheal instillation of PM_2.5. Various parameters, such as changes in lung tissue wet/dry (W/D) weight ratio, total protein/total cell ratio, lymphocyte counts, levels of inflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), vascular permeability, and histology, were evaluated in mice exposed to PM_2.5. Data demonstrated that AZC mitigated lung damage, reduced W/D weight ratio, and curbed hyperpermeability induced by PM_2.5 exposure. Furthermore, AZC effectively lowered plasma levels of inflammatory cytokines produced by PM_2.5 exposure. It reduced the total protein concentration in BALF and successfully alleviated PM_2.5-induced lymphocytosis. Additionally, AZC substantially diminished the expression levels of Toll-like receptors 4 (TLR4), MyD88, and autophagy-related proteins LC3 II and Beclin 1. In contrast, it elevated the protein phosphorylation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Consequently, the anti-inflammatory attribute of AZC positions it as a promising therapeutic agent for mitigating PM_2.5-induced lung injuries by modulating the TLR4-MyD88 and mTOR-autophagy pathways.

• The Journal of Bigdata
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• v.9 no.1
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• pp.49-60
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• 2024

This study aims to provide insights for developing innovative products, based on reviews from females aged 30 to 70 who bought cosmetic cushions via TV home shopping. Analyzing 200,000 reviews with Selenium and NLP techniques, we found the main audience is in their 50s and 60s, prioritizing radiance, blemish and wrinkle coverage, and adherence. Notably, products with appealing designs were preferred, especially for gifting among relatives and friends. The proposed innovation is Korea's first AI-recommended cushion, utilizing NLP to match customer needs. Key ingredient recommendations include S.Acamella extract and AHA components, chosen for their perceived benefits and consumer preference. The research also highlights the importance of product aesthetics and gift potential, suggesting marketing strategies should emphasize these aspects to appeal to the target demographic. This approach aims to guide product development and marketing towards meeting consumer expectations in the cosmetic cushion industry, making products more personalized and gift-worthy.

• Economic and Environmental Geology
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• v.37 no.1
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• pp.61-72
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• 2004

The soil samples were collected from the paddy field near the mine tailing dumps in the abandoned Duckum mine in Korea. In the laboratory, the soil solution was extracted from the soil using centrifuge, and analysed for the chemical composition. Physical and chemical soil properties were also analysed. Kaolinite is the main clay minerals in the paddy soil and the CEC value is therefore relatively low. Nearly all soil samples show enrichment in their trace elemental concentrations(Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn) compared with natural background level. Some soil samples exceed the soil remediation intervention values for Cd, Pb and Zn and target value for Cu, when compared with Dutch standard, whereas As, Ni and Cr are in normal range. Lead concentrations in some samples near the mine tailing dumps also exceed the standard for remediation act for agricultural area set by Korean soil conservation law. The trace elemental concentrations are higher in the paddy soil nearer the mine tailing dumps and lower for the samples from distance. Similar trend with distance is found for the soil solution chemistry but the decrease with distance from the mine tailing dumps are sharper than the changes in soil chemistry. Cadmium, Cu and Pb concentrations in the soil solution are very low, ranging from a tenth and hundredths to a maximum of several mg/l, whereas their concentrations in soils are highly enriched for natural background. Most of the trace elements are thought to be either removed by reduced iron sulphides or iron oxides, depending on the redox changes. Geochemical equilibrium modelling indicate the presence of solubility controlling solid phases for Cd and Pb, whereas Zn and Cu might have been controlled by adsorption/desorption processes. Although pollutants migration through solution phase are thought to be limited by adsorption onto various Fe, Mn solid phases, the pollutants exist as easily releasable fractions such as exchangeable site. In this case, the paddy soil would act as pollutant pool, which will supply to plants in situ. whenever the geochemical conditions favour.

• Korean Journal of Weed Science
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• v.17 no.3
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• pp.314-324
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• 1997

This study was conducted to investigate whether 1) photosynthetic pigments(chlorophylls and carotenoids) are formed in dodder plant(Cuscuta australis), 2) there are any characteristics in the pigment biosynthesis, compared to that of other normal plants, and 3) dodder responds to some herbicides having target site on chloroplast. 1. Chlorophyll content of dodder tendrill grown under a natural daylight was 9 times and 50 times lower than that of field bindweed stem and leaf, respectively. 2. The photosynthetic pigment contents varied in different tissues, being higher in a apical region than in a lower region of seedling or tendrill. Chlorophyll wasn't almost observed below the 4th internode from the upper. 3. Pigment contents were greatly dependent on light intensity so that there were 4 to 6 times difference among light conditions. When the shoot containning low pigment contents under natural light, was incubated in growth chamber with various light intensities, the pigment contents were increased by 3 times of initial contents at about 97${\mu}E$ $m^{-2}s^{-1}$PAR. While the change in pigment contents was not observed at above 450${\mu}E$ $m^{-2}s^{-1}$PAR 4. Exogenous supply of 5mM 5-aminolevulinic acid increased protochlorophyllide by 7 times and 1.4 times in the etiolated shoot from field bindweed rhizome and in dodder stem, respectively, showing that dodder relatively has a low response to 5-aminolevulinic acid. 5. Pigment loss was observed in the treatment of paraquat, norflurazon, oxyfluorfen and diuron, and protoporphyrin IX was accumulated by oxyfluorfen as in normal plants Based on above results, several chracteristics of pigment biosynthesis in dodder seem to be summerized as follows. Photosynthetic pigment biosynthesis in Cuscuta australis runs even in low level. The pigment contents is differentially distributed in different regions and their contents seem significantly to be controlled by light intensities. Especially, chloroplast rapidly tends to degenerate with the development of tissue. Some herbicides having target site on chloroplast induce damage to dodder stem but are unlikely to control it well in field, except paraquat, due to low chloroplast activity and parasitic mode of nutrition.

• Journal of Bio-Environment Control
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• v.26 no.2
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• pp.87-99
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• 2017

Recently the increase in an abnormal climate events and meteorological disasters which causes a great damage to greenhouse facilities. To minimize and evaluate the expected damages it is necessary to prepare countermeasures and a management system in advance. For this purpose, a quantitative analysis of weather and abnormal climate are needed to investigate protected cultivation areas which are vulnerable to natural disasters. This study focused on protected cultivation areas in Jeolla province, South Korea. Surrogate variables were calculated to analyze the vulnerable areas to meteorological disasters, and spatial distribution analysis was also performed by using GIS to present vulnerable areas on map. The map thus created and was compared with actual data of damages by meteorological disasters which occurred in target areas. The result of the comparison is as follows: About 50% of the target areas showed an agreement between the map created in this study and the actual data, these areas includes Gwangju metropolitan city, Naju city, Yeongam County, Jangseong County, Hampyeong County, and Haenam County. On the other hand, other areas, including Gunsan city, Mokpo city, and Muan County, suffered low damage in spite of high levels of vulnerability to meteorological disasters. This result was considered to be affected by such variables as different structural designs and management systems of greenhouses by region. This study carried out an analysis of meteorological data to find out more detailed vulnerability to protected cultivation area and to create a map of vulnerable protected cultivation areas. In addition, the map was compared with the record of natural disasters to identify actual vulnerable areas. In conclusion, this study can be utilized as basic data for preventing and reducing damages by meteorological disasters in terms of design and management of greenhouses.