• Safety and Health at Work
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• v.15 no.1
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• pp.42-52
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• 2024

Background: The lack of headforms that accurately reflect the head characteristics of Koreans and the demographic composition of the Korean population can lead to inadequate FFR testing and reduced effectiveness of FFRs. Method: Direct measurements of 5,110 individuals and 3D measurements of 2,044 individuals, aged between 9 and 69 years, were sampled from the data pool of Size Korea surveys based on the age and gender ratios of the Korean resident demographics. Seven head dimensions were selected based on the ISO 16976-2, availability of Size Korea measurements, and their relevance to the fit performance of FFRs. A principal component analysis (PCA) was performed using the direct measurements to extract the main factors explaining the head characteristics and then the main factors were standardized and remapped to 3D measurements, creating five size categories representing Korean head shapes. Lastly, representative 3D headforms were constructed by averaging five head shapes for each size category. Results: The study identified two main factors explaining Korean head characteristics by the PCA procedure specified in ISO 16976-2 and developed five representative headforms reflecting the anthropometric features of Korean heads: medium, small, large, short & wide, and long & narrow. Conclusion: This study developed representative headforms tailored to the Korean population for conducting total inward leakage (TIL) tests on filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs). The representative headforms can be used for TIL testing by employing robotic headforms to enhance the performance of FFRs for the Korean target population.

• Structural Engineering and Mechanics
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• v.90 no.1
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• pp.19-26
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• 2024

In recent years, an increasing number of experimental studies have shown that the practical application of mature active control systems requires consideration of robustness criteria in the design process, including the reduction of tracking errors, operational resistance to external disturbances, and measurement noise, as well as robustness and stability. Good uncertainty prediction is thus proposed to solve problems caused by poor parameter selection and to remove the effects of dynamic coupling between degrees of freedom (DOF) in nonlinear systems. To overcome the stability problem, this study develops an advanced adaptive predictive fuzzy controller, which not only solves the programming problem of determining system stability but also uses the law of linear matrix inequality (LMI) to modify the fuzzy problem. The following parameters are used to manipulate the fuzzy controller of the robotic system to improve its control performance. The simulations for system uncertainty in the controller design emphasized the use of acceleration feedback for practical reasons. The simulation results also show that the proposed H∞ controller has excellent performance and reliability, and the effectiveness of the LMI-based method is also recognized. Therefore, this dynamic control method is suitable for seismic protection of civil buildings. The objectives of this document are access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services, promotion of inclusive and sustainable urbanization, implementation of sustainable disaster-resilient construction, sustainable planning, and sustainable management of human settlements. Simulation results of linear and non-linear structures demonstrate the ability of this method to identify structures and their changes due to damage. Therefore, with the continuous development of artificial intelligence and fuzzy theory, it seems that this goal will be achieved in the near future.

• The Journal of the Institute of Internet, Broadcasting and Communication
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• v.24 no.2
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• pp.23-28
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• 2024

This study focuses on investigating and exploring solutions to problems related to the increase in the elderly population in modern society where aging is rapidly progressing. With the advent of an aging society the elderly population requires more attention and support. In response companies are attempting to provide elder care services using AI and robotic technology. These services can assist seniors not only with health management and daily life care but also with emotional health aspects. This paper analyzes various elder-related technologies available in the current market investigates their pros and cons and potential for development. The paper concludes that companies need to develop and provide more AI and robot-based elder care services to solve aging problems. Such services can alleviate social and emotional issues in an aging society enhancing the quality of life for seniors.

• Annals of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery
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• v.27 no.2
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• pp.141-150
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• 2023

Pancreatic carcinosarcoma is a very rare malignancy with a poor prognosis. Because of these characteristics, a treatment strategy for it has not been established yet. The aim of this study was to establish a therapeutic strategy for pancreatic carcinosarcoma. We reviewed data of a 65-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with pancreatic carcinosarcoma through endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy before surgery. For literature review, we searched PubMed using terms of "Pancreatic" or "Pancreas" and "carcinosarcoma" or "carcinosarcomatous". The patient received 11 cycles of neoadjuvant treatment with leucovorin, fluorouracil, irinotecan, oxaliplatin and pembrolizumab because the tumor was borderline resectable. She underwent stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) with 35 Gy in 5 fractions, followed by robotic pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy. After surgery, the patient received adjuvant chemotherapy in the same regimen as before surgery. She is alive without any recurrence. Among 48 patients within 33 available papers, the median survival time was 15 months. The survival rate of patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy tended to be higher than that of those who did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy, although the difference was not statistically significant (median survival, 47 vs. 15 months; p = 0.485). Three patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy had a survival period of 13-23.5 months. Surgery with lymphadenectomy, adjuvant therapy, and neoadjuvant therapy are thought to help improve survival outcomes. Modern treatment approaches for conventional pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma could be applied to pancreatic carcinosarcoma.

• Hip & pelvis
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• v.36 no.1
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• pp.26-36
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• 2024

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a frequently performed procedure; the objective is restoration of native hip biomechanics and achieving functional range of motion (ROM) through precise positioning of the prosthetic components. Advanced three-dimensional (3D) imaging and computed tomography (CT)-based navigation are valuable tools in both the preoperative planning and intraoperative execution. The aim of this study is to provide a thorough overview on the applications of CT scans in both the preoperative and intraoperative settings of primary THA. Preoperative planning using CT-based 3D imaging enables greater accuracy in prediction of implant sizes, leading to enhancement of surgical workflow with optimization of implant inventory. Surgeons can perform a more thorough assessment of posterior and anterior acetabular wall coverage, acetabular osteophytes, anatomical landmarks, and thus achieve more functional implant positioning. Intraoperative CT-based navigation can facilitate precise execution of the preoperative plan, to attain optimal positioning of the prosthetic components to avoid impingement. Medial reaming can be minimized preserving native bone stock, which can enable restoration of femoral, acetabular, and combined offsets. In addition, it is associated with greater accuracy in leg length adjustment, a critical factor in patients' postoperative satisfaction. Despite the higher costs and radiation exposure, which currently limits its widespread adoption, it offers many benefits, and the increasing interest in robotic surgery has facilitated its integration into routine practice. Conducting additional research on ultra-low-dose CT scans and examining the potential for translation of 3D imaging into improved clinical outcomes will be necessary to warrant its expanded application.

• Atmosphere
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• v.34 no.3
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• pp.233-255
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• 2024

This study analyzed the distribution of Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) Version 3 Level 2.0 data, spanning over two decades, across South Korea and its six administrative regions (Seoul metropolitan area, Chungcheong, Jeolla, Gangwon, Gyeongsang, and Jeju). The research assessed long-term trends in aerosol optical depth (AOD) and mass concentration of particulate matter (i.e., PM₁₀ and PM_2.5), using data from the AERONET direct sun product and AirKorea, respectively. Additionally, eight aerosol types were identified using the scattering Ångström exponent and absorption Ångström exponent from the AERONET inversion product. The study further explored their domestic and regional distributions. Findings indicated that AERONET data were predominantly concentrated in the western regions of South Korea, including the Seoul metropolitan area, Chungcheong, and Jeolla, with a higher frequency of data in spring, thus demonstrating spatial and temporal heterogeneity. The annual average AOD exhibited a declining trend of -0.006 yr^-1. Similarly, PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 mass concentrations decreased by -1.324 ㎍ m^-3 yr^-1 and -1.335 ㎍ m^-3 yr^-1, respectively. These trends in AOD and PM₁₀ (PM_2.5) demonstrated positive correlations, with correlation coefficients of 0.674 (0.753) and statistically significant low p-values of 0.00058 (0.03), respectively. The analysis also revealed that aerosols in South Korea predominantly consisted of black carbon (BC) or BC-mixed types (84.09%), with a notable presence of smaller, less absorbent aerosol types (13.11%).

• Journal of Bio-Environment Control
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• v.7 no.3
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• pp.226-236
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• 1998

If the lowest leaves of the cucumber were removed or training cultivable method was changed, a computer vision system could divide well the cucumber fruit from the others, and also an end-effector could reach and grip cucumber fruit and cut well its fruit stalk. Therefore, this study investigated whether removal leaves and training cultivable method of a cucumber could affect its growth and yield. They can help to be designed the vision system and the end-effector. A cucumber fruit grew by 6-l5cm long for 2 days regardless of removing leaves. Removal leaves didn't affect growth of cucumber fruit. Number of cucumber fruit was produced within 10% different values by three methods (A, B, C) of removal leaves. The first grade rate (best quality) of 4 B and C was 56.7%, 53.1%, 56.3% respectively. Consequently, proper removal leaves were better than traditional way, which does not remove a leaf, because they make cucumber plant ventilate more freely and absorb more light.

• Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences
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• v.13 no.11
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• pp.1619-1637
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• 2000

A review was undertaken to obtain information on the range of beak-trimming methods available or under development. Beak-trimming of commercial layer replacement pullets is a common yet critical management tool that can affect the performance for the life of the flock. The most obvious advantage of beak-trimming is a reduction in cannibalism although the extent of the reduction in cannibalism depends on the strain, season, and type of housing, flock health and other factors. Beak-trimming also improves feed conversion by reducing food wastage. A further advantage of beak-trimming is a reduction in the chronic stress associated with dominance interactions in the flock. Beak-trimming of birds at 7-10 days is favoured by Industry but research over last 10 years has shown that beak-trimming at day-old causes the least stress on birds and efforts are needed to encourage Industry to adopt the practice of beak-trimming birds at day-old. Proper beak-trimming can result in greatly improved layer performance but improper beak-trimming can ruin an other wise good flock of hens. Re-trimming is practiced in most flocks, although there are some flocks that only need one trimming. Given the continuing welfare scrutiny of using a hot blade to cut the beak, attempts have been made to develop more welfare friendly methods of beak-trimming. Despite the developments in design of hot blade beak-trimmers the process has remained largely unchanged. That is, a red-hot blade cuts and cauterises the beak. The variables in the process are blade temperature, cauterisation time, operator ability, severity of trimming, age of trimming, strain of bird and beak length. This method of beak-trimming is still overwhelmingly favoured in Industry and there appears to be no other alternative procedures that are more effective. Sharp secateurs have been used trim the upper beak of both layers and turkeys. Bleeding from the upper mandible ceases shortly after the operation, and despite the regrowth of the beak a reduction of cannibalism has been reported. Very few differences have been noted between behaviour and production of the hot blade and cold blade cut chickens. This method has not been used on a large scale in Industry. There are anecdotal reports of cannibalism outbreaks in birds with regrown beaks. A robotic beak-trimming machine was developed in France, which permitted simultaneous, automated beak-trimming and vaccination of day-old chicks of up to 4,500 chickens per hour. Use of the machine was not successful because if the chicks were not loaded correctly they could drop off the line, receive excessive beak-trimming or very light trimming. Robotic beak-trimming was not effective if there was a variation in the weight or size of chickens. Capsaicin can cause degeneration of sensory nerves in mammals and decreases the rate of beak regrowth by its action on the sensory nerves. Capsaicin is a cheap, non-toxic substance that can be readily applied at the time of less severe beak-trimming. It suffers the disadvantage of causing an extreme burning sensation in operators who come in contact with the substance during its application to the bird. Methods of applying the substance to minimise the risk to operators of coming in contact with capsaicin need to be explored. A method was reported which cuts the beaks with a laser beam in day-old chickens. No details were provided on the type of laser used, or the severity of beak-trimming, but by 16 weeks the beaks of laser trimmed birds resembled the untrimmed beaks, but without the bill tip. Feather pecking and cannibalism during the laying period were highest among the laser trimmed hens. Currently laser machines are available that are transportable and research to investigate the effectiveness of beak-trimming using ablasive and coagulative lasers used in human medicine should be explored. Liquid nitrogen was used to declaw emu toes but was not effective. There was regrowth of the claws and the time and cost involved in the procedure limit the potential of using this process to beak-trim birds.

• Korean Journal of Remote Sensing
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• v.37 no.6_1
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• pp.1767-1772
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• 2021

Global satellite observation surface albedo data over a long period of time are actively used to monitor changes in the global climate and environment, and their utilization and importance are great. Through the generational shift of geostationary satellites COMS (Communication, Ocean and Meteorological Satellite)/MI (Meteorological Imager sensor) and GK-2A (GEO-KOMPSAT-2A)/AMI (Advanced Meteorological Imager sensor), it is possible to continuously secure surface albedo outputs. However, the surface albedo outputs of COMS/MI and GK-2A/AMI differ between outputs due to Differences in retrieval algorithms. Therefore, in order to expand the retrieval period of the surface albedo of COMS/MI and GK-2A/AMI to secure continuous climate change monitoring linkage, the analysis of the two satellite outputs and errors should be preceded. In this study, error characteristics were analyzed by performing comparative analysis with ground observation data AERONET (Aerosol Robotic Network) and other satellite data GLASS (Global Land Surface Satellite) for the overlapping period of COMS/MI and GK-2A/AMI surface albedo data. As a result of error analysis, it was confirmed that the RMSE of COMS/MI was 0.043, higher than the RMSE of GK-2A/AMI, 0.015. In addition, compared to other satellite (GLASS) data, the RMSE of COMS/MI was 0.029, slightly lower than that of GK-2A/AMI 0.038. When understanding these error characteristics and using COMS/MI and GK-2A/AMI's surface albedo data, it will be possible to actively utilize them for long-term climate change monitoring.

• Korean Journal of Remote Sensing
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• v.37 no.3
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• pp.543-557
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• 2021

Because aerosols have different spectral characteristics according to the size and composition of the particle and to the satellite sensors, a comparative analysis of aerosol products from various satellite sensors is required. In South Korea, however, a comprehensive study for the comparison of various official satellite AOD (Aerosol Optical Depth) products for a long period is not easily found. In this paper, we aimed to assess the performance of the AOD products from MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer), VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite), Himawari-8, and Sentinel-3 by referring to the AERONET (Aerosol Robotic Network) sun photometer observations for the period between January 2015 and December 2019. Seasonal and geographical characteristics of the accuracy of satellite AOD were also analyzed. The MODIS products, which were accumulated for a long time and optimized by the new MAIAC (Multiangle Implementation of Atmospheric Correction) algorithm, showed the best accuracy (CC=0.836) and were followed by the products from VIIRS and Himawari-8. On the other hand, Sentinel-3 AOD did not appear to have a good quality because it was recently launched and not sufficiently optimized yet, according to ESA (European Space Agency). The AOD of MODIS, VIIRS, and Himawari-8 did not show a significant difference in accuracy according to season and to urban vs. non-urban regions, but the mixed pixel problem was partly found in a few coastal regions. Because AOD is an essential component for atmospheric correction, the result of this study can be a reference to the future work for the atmospheric correction for the Korean CAS (Compact Advanced Satellite) series.