• The Journal of Advanced Prosthodontics
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• v.16 no.3
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• pp.174-188
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• 2024

PURPOSE. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of surface treatments, liquids, and aging on color, translucency, and surface properties of monolithic ceramics. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Lithium disilicate (LDS) and zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS) ceramics (n = 135 each) were cut and divided into three groups [crystallization+glaze (single stage), crystallization-glaze (two stages), and crystallization-polish (two stages)]. One sample from each group was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Remaining samples were divided into four subgroups (distilled water, coffee, grape juice, and smoothie) (n = 11 each), stored for 12 d in the respective liquids, and thermally aged. One sample from each subgroup was analyzed using SEM. The color, gloss, and roughness values of the samples were analyzed after surface treatment (initial) and storage under different liquids+aging conditions. The initial data and both the aged data and data change values were analyzed using robust two- and three-way analyses of variance. RESULTS. The glazed groups exhibited smoother surfaces. Ceramic type and ceramic-surface treatment interactions affected the initial translucency parameter (TP) (P < .001) and the initial and aged roughness values (P ≤ .001). Surface treatment type affected the color change (P < .001), and ceramic type affected the aged TP values (P < .001). Type of ceramic, surface treatment, and their interactions affected both the initial and aged gloss (P ≤ .001) and TP change values (P ≤ .015). Surface treatment type and ceramic-surface treatment interactions affected the gloss change values (P ≤ .001). CONCLUSION. Although both ceramics and all surface treatments are clinically applicable, crystallization-glaze is recommended. When gloss and smoothness are important or when translucency is important, ZLS or LDS may be preferred, respectively.

• Geomechanics and Engineering
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• v.36 no.3
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• pp.205-215
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• 2024

Manually mapping fractures in construction stone mines is challenging, time-consuming, and hazardous. In this method, there is no physical access to all points. In contrast, digital image processing offers a safe, cost-effective, and fast alternative, with the capability to map all joints. In this study, two methods of detecting the trace of discontinuities using image processing in construction stone mines are presented. To achieve this, we employ two modified Hough transform algorithms and the degree of neighborhood technique. Initially, we introduced a method for selecting the best edge detector and smoothing algorithms. Subsequently, the Canny detector and median smoother were identified as the most efficient tools. To trace discontinuities using the mentioned methods, common preprocessing steps were initially applied to the image. Following this, each of the two algorithms followed a distinct approach. The Hough transform algorithm was first applied to the image, and the traces were represented through line drawings. Subsequently, the Hough transform results were refined using fuzzy clustering and reduced clustering algorithms, along with a novel algorithm known as the farthest points' algorithm. Additionally, we developed another algorithm, the degree of neighborhood, tailored for detecting discontinuity traces in construction stones. After completing the common preprocessing steps, the thinning operation was performed on the target image, and the degree of neighborhood for lineament pixels was determined. Subsequently, short lines were removed, and the discontinuities were determined based on the degree of neighborhood. In the final step, we connected lines that were previously separated using the method to be described. The comparison of results demonstrates that image processing is a suitable tool for identifying rock mass discontinuity traces. Finally, a comparison of two images from different construction stone mines presented at the end of this study reveals that in images with fewer traces of discontinuities and a softer texture, both algorithms effectively detect the discontinuity traces.

• Journal of Advanced Navigation Technology
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• v.28 no.2
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• pp.201-209
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• 2024

This study investigates the operational facets of low-density urban air mobility (UAM) from an airline's perspective amid burgeoning concerns about urban congestion in megacities. UAM, employing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology, emerges as a potential remedy to the challenges of traffic gridlock and environmental degradation. As the UAM market progresses from initial stages to maturity, tailored traffic control systems become paramount. Focused on the context of low-density environments during UAM's inception, this research scrutinizes operational frameworks, essential infrastructure, and likely scenarios. It aims to bolster the safety and efficiency of UAM operations by delving into the specifics of traffic control concepts designed for these unique settings. The study seeks to significantly contribute to optimizing UAM's initial phases, providing insights into crucial operational dynamics for a smoother integration of urban air mobility into contemporary urban landscapes.

• Korean Journal of Materials Research
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• v.34 no.8
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• pp.400-407
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• 2024

The reversible metal electrodeposition (RME) process is used to prepare electrochromic mirrors with reflective-transparent optical states, by depositing metal particles on transparent conductive substrates. These RME based devices can be used in smart windows to regulate indoor temperatures and light levels, serving dual purposes as lighting elements. Commercialization efforts are focused on achieving large-scale production, long-term durability, and a memory effect that maintains coloration without applied voltage. Enhancing durability has received particular attention, leading to the development of electrochromic mirrors that employ gel electrolytes, which are expected to reduce electrolyte leakage and improve mechanical stability compared to traditional liquid electrolyte devices. The gel electrolytes offer the additional advantage of various colors, by controlling the metal particle size and enabling smoother, denser formations. In this study, we investigated improving the durability of RME devices by adding polyvinyl butyral (PVB) to the liquid electrolyte and optimizing the concentration of PVB. Incorporating 10 % PVB resulted in excellent interfacial properties and superior electrochromic stability, with 92.6 % retention after 1,000 cycles.

• Journal of the korean academy of Pediatric Dentistry
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• v.48 no.4
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• pp.467-475
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• 2021

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of sodium fluoride(NaF) varnish and potassium iodide(KI) on remineralization efficacy of silver diamine fluoride(SDF) by measuring microhardness and evaluating surface morphology by scanning electron microscope(SEM). Artificial caries lesions were induced on extracted primary molars and vickers microhardness was measured. Specimens were randomly separated into 4 groups for treatment. The specimens in group I were treated with SDF, group II with NaF varnish after SDF, group III with KI after SDF and group IV with distilled water. After 8 days of pH cycling, vickers microhardness was measured and difference before and after treatment was calculated. For SEM, 2 samples were evaluated respectively after enamel polishing, lesion formation and after pH cycling. Group III showed highest increase in microhardness. Group I showed higher increase in microhardness than Group II but without statistical difference. Group IV showed lowest increase in microhardness value among 4 groups. On SEM image, group I, II and III showed smoother and less irregular surface compared to group IV. Amorphous crystal pellicles were observed in group III. In conclusion, SDF, SDF and NaF, SDF and KI groups showed smoother surface and increase in microhardness suggesting the possibility that remineralization effect might take place in oral conditions. In addition, in limited conditions of this study, applying NaF varnish after SDF did not increase the remineralization efficacy of SDF while KI significantly increased the remineralization efficacy of SDF. However, additional study considering various conditions that might affect demineralization and remineralization in clinical situations need to be conducted.

• Journal of the korean academy of Pediatric Dentistry
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• v.30 no.3
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• pp.520-529
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• 2003

Proper finishing and polishing of tooth restorations enhance the esthetics and the longevity of the restored tooth. The aims of this study were to identify an appropriate polishing system for each esthetic restorative material(Z250, Heliomolar, Dyract AP, Fuji II LC), and to compare the efficiency of polishing systems(Enhance, Sof-Lex, Composite). The control group remains untouched. The results were as follows: 1. There was no significant difference of surface roughness among the materials, while a roughness value of Z250 was the lowest of all. 2. The smoothest surface was produced by Mylar sheet on all materials. The polishing procedures, however, increased a roughness value. 3. The smoothest surfaces were produced by Sof-Lex, and there was significant difference of surface roughness between Sof-Lex and Enhance systems. 4. The smoother surfaces on the control group showed many scratches after the polishing procedures in the SEM findings.

• Korean Journal of Ecology and Environment
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• v.45 no.3
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• pp.302-313
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• 2012

Long-term trends (e.g. 1997~2010) of chlorophyll a and water quality properties of the Yeongsan River were analyzed by using water quality monitoring data collected by the water information system, ministry of environment. Nine monitoring stations were selected along the main channel of the river, and parameters of BOD, COD, TN, TP, conductivity, TSS and chlorophyll a were collected for surface water monthly through the monitoring system. Trends of water quality and chlorophyll a were analyzed by the Seasonal Mann-Kendall Test and LOWESS (Locally Weighted Scatter-plot Smoother). The results showed that the water quality parameters, including chlorophyll a, were improved in all stations except Station WC in the most-upper region, where water quality data for the determined parameters were increased, indicating a reduction in water quality. Based on the results from LOWESS analysis, chlorophyll a (algal blooms), BOD and COD recently began to increase after 2007 suggesting that an additional study on the cause of these increases in organic pollution, as well as a better management system for the region are required.

• Therapeutic Science for Rehabilitation
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• v.7 no.3
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• pp.79-88
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• 2018

Objective : Localized vibration has been shown to have a positive effect on recovery of upper-limb motor function in patients with hemiparetic stroke, but there has been little research on kinematic analysis for qualitative changes in movement. This study investigated kinematic changes in elbow motion during reaching after localized vibration in persons with hemiparetic stroke. Methods : This study used a one-group, cross-over trial design. Ten chronic stroke patients randomly received localized vibrations on the affected biceps brachii for 5, 10, or 20 min, at 70 Hz. Kinematic analysis of reaching was measured using a 3-D motion analysis system. Variables included peak angular velocity, time to peak angular velocity, and movement units during elbow motion. Result : Affected side elbow motion during reaching was faster, smoother, and more efficient after 20 min localized vibration. Peak angular velocity increased (p<0.05), and time to peak angular velocity (p<0.05) and the movement unit were significantly decreased (p<0.05) during elbow motion for reaching. Conclusion : Localized vibration can improve kinematic components during reaching motion in persons with hemiparetic stroke.

• Korean Journal of Materials Research
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• v.11 no.7
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• pp.575-579
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• 2001

GaN buffer layer and epilayer have been grown on sapphire (0001) by metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). GaN buffer layer ranging from 26 nm to 130 nm in thickness was grown at 55$0^{\circ}C$ prior to the 4 $\mu\textrm{m}$ thick GaN epitaxial deposition at 110$0^{\circ}C$. After GaN buffer layer growth, buffer layer surface was examined by atomic force microscopy (AFM). As the thickness of GaN buffer layer was increased, surface morphology of GaN epilayer was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Double crystal X-ray diffraction (DCXRD) and Raman spectroscopy were employed to study crystallinity of GaN epilayers. Optical properties of GaN epilayers were measured by photoluminescence (PL). The epilayer grown with a thin buffer layer had rough surface, and the epilayer grown with a thick buffer layer had mirror-like surface of epilayer. Although the stress on the latter was larger than on the former, its crystallinity was much better. These results imply that the internal free energy is decreased in case of the thick buffer layer. Decrease in internal free energy promotes the lateral growth of the GaN film, which results in the smoother surface and better crystallinity.

• The korean journal of orthodontics
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• v.40 no.4
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• pp.212-226
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• 2010

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of remineralization and inhibition to demineralization after fluoride gel (acidulated phosphate fluoride, APF) or hydroxyapatite (HAp) paste application on interdentally stripped teeth. Methods: After interdental stripping, 1.23% APF or 5%, 10% HAp paste were applied for 7 days for remineralization. Afterwards, teeth were exposed to lactate carbopol buffer solution for demineralization. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used to compare change in surface contents and crystal structures after remineralization, and then after demineralization. Results: EDS analysis indicated that calcium (p < 0.001) and phosphate (p < 0.01) contents were increased after 10% HAp paste application on stripped enamel, calcium (p < 0.05) and phosphate (p < 0.01) contents were increased after 5% HAp paste application, and fluoride (p < 0.01) contents were increased after 1.23% APF application. SEM image showed that enamel surfaces became smoother and crystal structures became small and compact after APF or HAp application. After demineralization, calcium (p < 0.05) and phosphate (p < 0.05) contents remained increased on the enamel remineralized with 10% HAp paste, and phosphate (p < 0.05) contents remained increased on the enamel remineralized with 5% HAp paste. After demineralization, surfaces looked less destroyed in the enamel remineralized beforehand than those of the control, and small pores between crystal structures, formed by remineralization were remained. Conclusions: Hydroxyapatite paste and fluoride gel were helpful to remineralize and inhibit deminerlization on stripped enamel.