• The Korea Journal of Herbology
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• v.39 no.1
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• pp.39-47
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• 2024

Objectives : This study evaluates how various traditional Korean herbal medicines assess MUC5AC expression for esophageal mucosal defense and analyzes the associated mechanisms involved in inflammation. Methods : Forty types of traditional Korean herbal medicines were assessed for in vitro antioxidant activities, and the real-time PCR method was employed to analyze MUC5AC expression under pH 4.5 conditions in human esophageal epithelial cells (HET-1A). Eight types of Korean herbal medicines were evaluated for in vitro antioxidant activities, and Reactive oxygen specise (ROS) expression was analyzed under bile salt (480 𝜇M) and pH 5.5 conditions in human esophageal epithelial cells (HET-1A). Simulation experiments involving bile salts and acidity were conducted for one hour to assess the efficacy of four drugs, and the activities of Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase (MEK), Nuclear Factor Kappa B (NF-𝜅B), and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were detected through Western blot analysis. Results : Compared to the Normal group, the Control group exhibited higher ROS generation. Such increased ROS levels were significantly reduced by four extracts: Citrus Unshius Pericarpium (CUP), Cnidium officinale Rhizoma (CR), Ginseng Radix (GR), and Linderae Radix (LR). The protein expression of COX-2 decreased with the treatment of LR, CUP, and CR. Particularly, CUP and CR exhibited superior effects compared to other groups in inhibiting the phosphorylation of NF-𝜅B. Conclusion : Based on the results obtained, we have identified drugs that inhibit oxidative stress and inflammation caused by bile acid in esophageal epithelial cells. Our future plans involve comparing and analyzing the efficacy of these herbal medicines through animal experiments.

• Development and Reproduction
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• v.27 no.4
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• pp.205-211
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• 2023

INTS14/VWA9, a component of the integrator complex subunits, plays a pivotal role in regulating the fate of numerous nascent RNAs transcribed by RNA polymerase II, particularly in the biogenesis of small nuclear RNAs and enhancer RNAs. Despite its significance, a comprehensive mutation model for developmental research has been lacking. To address this gap, we aimed to investigate the expression patterns of INTS14 during zebrafish embryonic development. We generated ints14 mutant strains using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. We validated the gRNA activity by co-injecting Cas9 protein and a single guide RNA into fertilized zebrafish eggs, subsequently confirming the presence of a 6- or 9-bp deletion in the ints14 gene. In addition, we examined the two mutant alleles through PCR analysis, T7E1 assay, TA-cloning, and sequencing. For the first time, we used the CRISPR/Cas9 system to create a model in which some sequences of the ints14 gene were removed. This breakthrough opens new avenues for in-depth exploration of the role of ints14 in animal diseases. The mutant strains generated in this study can provide a valuable resource for further investigations into the specific consequences of ints14 gene deletion during zebrafish development. This research establishes a foundation for future studies exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying the functions of ints14, its interactions with other genes or proteins, and its broader implications for biological processes.

• Journal of Animal Science and Technology
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• v.66 no.5
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• pp.936-948
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• 2024

The Conical 9 well dish (C9 well dish) is characterized by a decreasing cross-sectional area towards the base. This design was hypothesized to enhance embryonic development by emulating the in vivo physical environment through density modulation. Comparative analyses revealed no significant difference in nuclear maturation rates between the C9 well dish and the 5-well dish. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was lower in the C9 well dish compared to the 5-well dish; however, this difference was not statistically significant. On the second day of in vitro culture, the cleavage rate in the C9 well dish was 4.66% higher, although not statistically significant, and the rates of blastocyst development were similar across both dishes. No significant differences were observed in the intracellular levels of glutathione (GSH) and ROS, as well as in the total cell number within the blastocysts between the dish types. The expression of mitogen-related factors, TGFα and IGF-1, in the blastocysts was consistent between the dishes. However, PDGFβ expression was significantly lower in the C9 well dish compared to the 35 mm petri dish. Similarly, the expression of the apoptosis factor Bax/Bcl2l2 showed no significant differences between the two dishes. Despite the marked difference in PDGFβ expression, its impact on blastocyst formation appeared negligible. The study also confirmed the feasibility of culturing a small number of oocytes per donor, collected via Ovum Pick-Up (OPU), with reduced volumes of culture medium and mineral oil, thus offering economic advantages. In conclusion, the present study indicates that the C9 well dish is effective for in vitro development of a small quantity of oocytes and embryos, presenting it as a viable alternative to traditional cell culture dishes.

• Journal of Web Engineering
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• v.14 no.14
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• pp.2853-2869
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• 2022

Allergy is an immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated process, and its incidence and prevalence have increased worldwide in recent years. Therapeutic agents for allergic diseases are continuously being developed, but side effects follow when used for a long-term use. Therefore, treatments based on natural products that are safe for the body are urgently required. Sword bean (Canavalia gladiata) pod (SBP) has been traditionally used to treat inflammatory diseases, but there is still no scientific basis for its anti-allergic effect. Accordingly, this study investigates the anti-allergic effect and its mechanism of SBP in vitro and in vivo. SBP reduced the nitric oxide production and decreased mRNA and protein expression of inflammatory mediates (inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)), and inhibited the phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), a major signaling molecule in the inflammatory response. Additionally, SBP extract treatment inhibited phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/mTOR) signaling activity to further inhibit degranulation and allergy mediator generation and control the balance of Th1/Th2 cells, which can induce an allergic reaction when disrupted. Furthermore, the SBP extract exhibited anti-allergic effects in anti-dinitrophenyl IgE-induced RBL-2H3 cells and ovalbumin-treated mice. These findings have potential clinical implications for the treatment as well as prevention of allergic diseases.

• Clinical and Experimental Reproductive Medicine
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• v.51 no.3
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• pp.247-259
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• 2024

Objective: Bis-[4-chlorophenyl]-1,1,1-trichloroethane (DDT), one of the most widely used synthetic pesticides, is an endocrine-disrupting chemical with the potential to interfere with the human reproductive system. The effects of DDT and one of its metabolites, p,p'-DDT, on human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) and health outcomes remain unknown. In this study, we investigated whether p,p'-DDT induces an imbalance in cell proliferation and apoptosis in human ESCs via oxidative stress. Methods: We assessed apoptosis in ESCs by quantifying the expression of markers associated with both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Additionally, we measured levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), antioxidant enzyme activity, and estrogen receptors (ERs). We also examined changes in signaling involving nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells. Results: Following treatment with 1,000 pg/mL of p,p'-DDT, we observed an increase in Bax expression, a decrease in Bcl-2 expression, and increases in the expression of caspases 3, 6, and 8. We also noted a rise in the generation of ROS and a reduction in glutathione peroxidase expression after treatment with p,p'-DDT. Additionally, p,p'-DDT treatment led to changes in ER expression and increases in the protein levels of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), phospho-protein kinase B (phospho-AKT), and phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (phospho-ERK). Conclusion: p,p'-DDT was found to induce apoptosis in human ESCs through oxidative stress and an ER-mediated pathway. The activation of the PI3K/AKT and ERK pathways could represent potential mechanisms by which p,p'-DDT prompts apoptosis in human ESCs and may be linked to endometrial pathologies.

• IMMUNE NETWORK
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• v.24 no.4
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• pp.25.1-25.14
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• 2024

Lupus is characterized by the autoantibodies against nuclear Ags, underscoring the importance of identifying the B cell subsets driving autoimmunity. Our research focused on the mitochondrial activity and CXCR4 expression in CD11c⁺ B cells from lupus patients after ex vivo stimulation with a TLR9 agonist, CpG-oligodeoxyribonucleotide (ODN). We also evaluated the response of CD11c⁺ B cells in ODN-injected mice. Post-ex vivo ODN stimulation, we observed an increase in the proportion of CD11c^hi cells, with elevated mitochondrial activity and CXCR4 expression in CD11c⁺ B cells from lupus patients. In vivo experiments showed similar patterns, with TLR9 stimulation enhancing mitochondrial and CXCR4 activities in CD11c^hi B cells, leading to the generation of anti-dsDNA plasmablasts. The CXCR4 inhibitor AMD3100 and the mitochondrial complex I inhibitor IM156 significantly reduced the proportion of CD11c⁺ B cells and autoreactive plasmablasts. These results underscore the pivotal roles of mitochondria and CXCR4 in the production of autoreactive plasmablasts.

• Journal of the Korean Crystal Growth and Crystal Technology
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• v.34 no.5
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• pp.156-162
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• 2024

Silicon carbide (SiC), known for its excellent mechanical and chemical properties, is widely used in key industries such as aerospace, defense, and nuclear power generation. Due to its rapid heating characteristics when exposed to microwaves, SiC is being researched as a highly efficient heating element. In this study, Polycarbosilane (PCS) was treated by a mechanochemical reaction with iodine, followed by pyrolysis to create a microwave heating material. The effects of pyrolysis temperature and iodine additive content on microwave heating performance were investigated. The results showed that the fabricated specimen rapidly heated to a maximum of 800℃ within approximately 60 sec and maintained a stable temperature of 700~750℃ for up to 120 min.

• Journal of Nutrition and Health
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• v.49 no.3
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• pp.135-143
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• 2016

Purpose: Ultraviolet (UV)-induced oxidative stress contributes to several adverse biological effects on skin. Many phenolic phytochemicals have been shown to have antioxidant properties and protect skin cells from UV-induced oxidative damage. In this study, we investigated whether or not Aralia elata (AE) has a protective effect against UVB-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), ultimately leading to photoaging. Methods: Phenolic content of dried AE and antioxidant properties of AE extract in 70% ethanol weredetermined by measuring DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The effect of AE extract on cellular ROS generation and expression levels of oxidative stress-response proteins such as superoxide dismutase (SOD)-1, catalase, nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf)-2, and heme oxygenase (HO)-1 in UVB-irradiated ($75mJ/cm^2$) human keratinocytes (HaCaT) were further determined by 2'-7'-dichlorofluoresceine diacetate assay and Western blotting, respectively. Results: The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of dried AE were 20.15 mg tannic acid/g and 18.75 mg rutin/g, respectively. The $IC_{50}$ of AE extract against DPPH radical was $98.5{\mu}g/mL$, and ABTS radical scavenging activity and FRAP upon treatment with $1,000{\mu}g/mL$ of AE extract were $41.8{\mu}g\;ascorbic\;acid\;(AA)\;eq./mL$ and $29.7{\mu}g\;AA\;eq./mL$,m respectively. Pretreatment with AE extract significantly reduced (p < 0.05) ROS generation compared to that in UVB-irradiated control HaCaT cells. Pretreatment with AE extract reversed reduction of Nrf-2 and SOD-1 protein expression and induction of HO-1 protein expression caused by UVB exposure in HaCaT cells, whereas it did not affect catalase expression. Conclusion: AE extract in 70% ethanol demonstrated a protective effect against UVB-induced oxidative stress and decreased expression of Nrf-2 and SOD-1 in human keratinocytes. These findings suggest that AE ethanol extract might have potential as a natural resource for a skin anti-photoaging product in the food and cosmetic industry.

• Nuclear Engineering and Technology
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• v.39 no.5
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• pp.603-616
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• 2007

Roy Huddle, having invented the coated particle in Harwell 1957, stated in the early 1970s that we know now everything about particles and coatings and should be going over to deal with other problems. This was on the occasion of the Dragon fuel performance information meeting London 1973: How wrong a genius be! It took until 1978 that really good particles were made in Germany, then during the Japanese HTTR production in the 1990s and finally the Chinese 2000-2001 campaign for HTR-10. Here, we present a review of history and present status. Today, good fuel is measured by different standards from the seventies: where $9*10^{-4}$ initial free heavy metal fraction was typical for early AVR carbide fuel and $3*10^{-4}$ initial free heavy metal fraction was acceptable for oxide fuel in THTR, we insist on values more than an order of magnitude below this value today. Half a percent of particle failure at the end-of-irradiation, another ancient standard, is not even acceptable today, even for the most severe accidents. While legislation and licensing has not changed, one of the reasons we insist on these improvements is the preference for passive systems rather than active controls of earlier times. After renewed HTGR interest, we are reporting about the start of new or reactivated coated particle work in several parts of the world, considering the aspects of designs/ traditional and new materials, manufacturing technologies/ quality control quality assurance, irradiation and accident performance, modeling and performance predictions, and fuel cycle aspects and spent fuel treatment. In very general terms, the coated particle should be strong, reliable, retentive, and affordable. These properties have to be quantified and will be eventually optimized for a specific application system. Results obtained so far indicate that the same particle can be used for steam cycle applications with $700-750^{\circ}C$ helium coolant gas exit, for gas turbine applications at $850-900^{\circ}C$ and for process heat/hydrogen generation applications with $950^{\circ}C$ outlet temperatures. There is a clear set of standards for modem high quality fuel in terms of low levels of heavy metal contamination, manufacture-induced particle defects during fuel body and fuel element making, irradiation/accident induced particle failures and limits on fission product release from intact particles. While gas-cooled reactor design is still open-ended with blocks for the prismatic and spherical fuel elements for the pebble-bed design, there is near worldwide agreement on high quality fuel: a $500{\mu}m$ diameter $UO_2$ kernel of 10% enrichment is surrounded by a $100{\mu}m$ thick sacrificial buffer layer to be followed by a dense inner pyrocarbon layer, a high quality silicon carbide layer of $35{\mu}m$ thickness and theoretical density and another outer pyrocarbon layer. Good performance has been demonstrated both under operational and under accident conditions, i.e. to 10% FIMA and maximum $1600^{\circ}C$ afterwards. And it is the wide-ranging demonstration experience that makes this particle superior. Recommendations are made for further work: 1. Generation of data for presently manufactured materials, e.g. SiC strength and strength distribution, PyC creep and shrinkage and many more material data sets. 2. Renewed start of irradiation and accident testing of modem coated particle fuel. 3. Analysis of existing and newly created data with a view to demonstrate satisfactory performance at burnups beyond 10% FIMA and complete fission product retention even in accidents that go beyond $1600^{\circ}C$ for a short period of time. This work should proceed at both national and international level.

• Research in Community and Public Health Nursing
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• v.14 no.2
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• pp.263-273
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• 2003

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify the family phenomenon and characteristics by ICNP such as family shape, life standard. area, and development stage. Method: 1. Sample size was 115. 2. Data analysis method included frequency analysis including ratio. Results: 1. On the distribution of the family phenomena by family shape, the nuclear family showed a higher ratio on the distribution in family communication and the unhealthy life style. The nuclear family was related to children andhad a higher ratio on the inadequate care management of the sick member. The extended family showed the highest ratio on the inadequate care management of sick member. 2. On the distribution of the family phenomena by family life standard, the family with medium life standard showed a higher ratio on the inappropriate family coping, whereas the family with lower life standard appeared to have a higher ratio on the inadequate care management of the sick member. 3. On the distribution of the family phenomena by area. the large city area showed the highest ratio on the inappropriate family coping, the medium and small city area appeared to have the highest ratio on the unhealthy life style. The county area showed the highest ratio on the inadequate care management of sick member. 4. On the distribution of the family phenomena by development stage, the family in rearing period showed a higher ratio on the inappropriate family coping and the lack of family intimacy. Families with preschool children showed a higher ratio on the unhealthy life style, and families with school age children showed the highest ratio on the inappropriate family coping. Families with adolescents appeared to have the highest ratio on the disturbance in family communication, and families with launching young adults showed the highest ratio on the inadequate care management of sick member. 5. On the distribution of the family characteristics by family shape, the nuclear family showed a higher ratio on the family characteristics such as less communication chances among family members and neglect of general child rearing, whereas the third generation family appeared to have a higher ratio on the characteristics such as overburden of housewife's role and short of caring among family members. 6. On the distribution of the family characteristics by family life standard, the family of medium life standard showed higher ratio on the family characteristics such as a few communication chance among family and overburden of housewife's role, and the family of lower life standard appeared to higher ratio on the family characteristics such as short of caring among family members. 7. On the distribution of the family characteristics by area. the large city area showed a higher ratio on the family characteristics such as overburden of housewife's role and neglect of general child rearing. The medium and small city area appeared to have a higher ratio on the family characteristics such as less communication chancec among family members. The county area showed a higher ratio on the family characteristics such as short-term care among family members. 8. On the distribution of the family characteristics by development stage, the family with rearing period showed a higher ratio on the family characteristics such as neglect of general child rearing. Families with preschool children showed a higher ratio on the family characteristics such as less communication chancec among family members. Families with school age children showed a higher ratio on the family characteristics such as overburden of housewife's role. Families with adolescents appeared to have a higher ratio on the family characteristics such as less communication chances among family members. Families with launching young adults showed a higher ratio on the family characteristics such as less communication chances and short-term care among family members.