• Membrane Journal
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• v.25 no.1
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• pp.48-59
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• 2015

This paper reports a fabrication of poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) scaffold membranes through phase separation process using pure and mixed solvents. Chloroform and 1,4-dioxane were used as pure solvents and mixed solvents were obtained by mixing the pure solvents together. Morphologies, mechanical properties and mass transfer characteristics of the scaffold membranes were investigated through SEM, stress-strain test and glucose diffusion test. Scaffold membranes from the solution with pure chloroform showed solid-wall pore structure. In contrast, nano-fibrous membranes were fabricated from the solution with pure 1,4-dioxane. In case of mixed solvents, the scaffold membranes showed various structures with changing composition of the solvents. When 1,4-dioxane content was lower than 20 wt% in the solvent, scaffold membrane showed solid-wall pore structure. When the content was 20 wt%, scaffold membranes with macropores with the maximum size of $100{\mu}m$ was obtained. In the concentration range of 1,4-dioxane over 25 wt%, the scaffold membranes showed nano-fibrous structures. In this range, the fibers showed different diameters with changing composition of the solvent. The minimum fiber diameter was about $15{\mu}m$, when 1,4-dioxane composition was 80 wt%. These results indicate that the composition of the solvent showed a significant effect on the structure of scaffold membrane.

• Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
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• v.28 no.2
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• pp.111-117
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• 2006

An area of current research is investigating the app1ication of human mesenchymal stem cells or hMSCs as a cell-based regenerative therapy. In order to achieve effective bone regeneration, appropriate matrices functioning as cell-carriers must be identified and optimized in terms of function, efficacy and biocompatibility. Two methods of approaching optimization of matrices are to facilitate adhesion of the donor hMSCs and furthermore to facilitate recruitment of host progenitor cells to osteoblastic differentiation. Pleiotrophin is an extracellular matrix protein that was first identified in developing rat brains and believed to be associated with developing neuronal pathways. A recent publication by Imai and colleagues demonstrated that transgenic mice with upregulated pleiotrophin expression developed a greater volume of cortical as well as cancellous bone. The proposed mechanism of action of pleiotrophin is demonstrated here. Through either environmental stresses and/or intracellular regulation, there is an increase in pleiotrophin production. The pleiotrophin is released extracellularly into areas requiring bone deposition. A receptor-mediated process recruits host osteoprogenitor cells into these areas. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the osteoconductive properties of pleiotrophin. We wanted to determine if pleiotrophin coating facilitates cellular adhesion and furthermore if this has any effect on hMSCs derived bone formation in an animal model. The results showed a dose dependent response of cellular adhesion in fibronectin samples, and cellular adhesion was facilitated with increasing pleiotrophin concentrations. Histologic findings taken after 5 weeks implantation in SCID mouse showed no presence of bone formation with only a dense fibrous connective tissue. Possible explanations for the results of the osteogenesis assay include inappropriate cell loading.

• Journal of the Korean Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
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• v.26 no.6
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• pp.581-590
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• 2000

Alterations in the cellular genome affecting the expression or function of genes controlling cell growth and differentiation are considered to be the main cause of cancer. Over 30 oncogenes can be activated by insertional mutagenesis, single point mutations, chromosomal translocations and gene amplification. The ras oncogenes have been detected in $15{\sim}20%$ of human tumors that include some of the most common forms of human neoplasia and are known to acquire their transforming properties by single point mutations in two domains of their coding sequences, most commonly in codons 12 and 61. The ras gene family consists of three functional genes, N-ras, K-ras and H-ras which encode highly similar proteins of 188 or 189 amino acid residues generically known as P21. ras proteins have been shown to bind GTP and GTP, and possess intrinsic GTPase activity. Experimental study was performed to observe the mutational change of the ras gene family and apply the results to the clinical activity. 36 Golden Syrian Hamster each weighing $60{\sim}80g$ were used and painted with 0.5% DMBA by 3 times weekly on the right buccal cheek(experimental side) for 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 weeks. Left buccal cheek (control side) was treated with mineral oil as the same manner of the right side. The hamsters were sacrificed on the 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 & 16 weeks. Normal and tumor tissues from paraffin block were completely dissected by microdissection and DNA from both tissue were isolated by proteinase K/phenol/chloroform extraction. Segments of the K-ras and H-ras gene were amplified by PCR using the oligonucleotide primers corresponding to the homologous region (codon 12 and 61) of the hamster gene, and then confirmational change of ras genes was observed by SSCP and autosequencing analysis. The results were as follows : 1. Malignant lesion could be found in the experimental side from the experimental six weeks. 2. One hamster among six showed point mutation of the H-ras codon 12($G{\rightarrow}A$ transition) at the experimental 10 and 14 weeks. 3. One of six at 6 weeks, two of six at 8 weeks and one of six at 12 weeks revealed the confirmational change of the H-ras codon 61($A{\rightarrow}T$ transversion). 4. The incidence of point mutation of H-ras codon 12 and 61 were 5.5%(2 of 36) and 11%(4 of 36) respectively. 5. Point mutation of the K-ras could not be seen during the whole experimental period. Form the above results, these findings strongly support the concept that H-ras oncogenes may have the influence of the DMBA induced carcinoma of hamster buccal pouch.

• Journal of Technologic Dentistry
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• v.30 no.1
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• pp.25-31
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• 2008

Cp-Ti and Ti-6Al-4V alloys commonly used dental implant materials, particularly for orthopaedic and osteosynthesis because of its suitable mechanical properties and excellent biocompatibility. This alloys have excellent corrosion behavior in the clinical environment. The first factor to decide the success of dental implantation is sufficient osseointegration and high corrosion resistance between on implant fixture and its surrounding bone tissue. In this study, in order to increase corrosion resistance and biocompatibility of Cp-Ti and Ti-6Al-4V alloy that surface of manufactured alloy was coated with TiN by RF-magnetron sputtering method. The electrochemical behavior of TiN coated Cp-Ti and Ti-6Al-4V alloy were investigated using potentiodynamic (EG&G Co, PARSTAT 2273. USA) and potentiostatic test (250mV) in 0.9% NaCl solution at 36.5 $\pm$ 1$^{\circ}C$. These results are as follows : 1. From the microstructure analysis, Cp-Ti showed the acicular structure of $\alpha$-phase and Ti-6Al-4V showed the micro-acicular structure of ${\alpha}+{\beta}$ phase. 2. From the potentiodynamic test, Ecorr value of Cp-Ti and Ti-6Al-4V alloys showed -702.48mV and -319.87mV, respectively. Ti-6Al-4V alloy value was higher than Cp-Ti alloy. 3. From the analysis of TiN and coated layer, TIN coated surface showed columnar structure with 800 nm thickness. 4. The corrosion resistance of TiN coated Cp-Ti and Ti-6Al-4V alloys were higher than those of the non-coated Ti alloys in 0.9% NaCl solution from potentiodynamic test, indicating better protective effect. 5. The passivation current density of TiN coated Cp-Ti and Ti-6Al-4V alloys were smaller than that of the noncoated implant fixture in 0.9% NaCl solution, indicating the good protective effect resulting from more compact and homogeneous layer formation.

• Journal of the Korean Ceramic Society
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• v.45 no.10
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• pp.618-624
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• 2008

Various calcium phosphate bioceramics are distinguished by their excellent biocompatibility and osteoconductivity. Especially, the exceptional biodegradability of $\beta$-TCP makes it a bone graft substitute of choice in many clinical applications. The activation of osteoclasts, differentiated from macrophage precursor cells, trigger a cell-mediated resorption mechanism that renders $\beta$-TCP biodegradable. Based on this evidence, we studied the biodegradation process of granular-type $\beta$-TCP bone graft substitute through in vitro and in vivo studies. Raw 264.7 cells treated with RANKL and M-CSF differentiated into osteoclasts with macrophage-like properties, as observed with TRAP stain. These osteoclasts were cultured with $\beta$-TCP nano powders synthesized by microwave-assisted process. We confirmed the phagocytosis of osteoclasts by observing $\beta$-TCP particles in their phagosomes via electron microscopy. No damage to the osteoclasts during phagocytosis was observed, nor did the $\beta$-TCP powders show any sign of cytotoxicity. We also observed the histological changes in subcutaneous tissues of rats implanted with granule-type $\beta$-TCP synthesized by fibrous monolithic process. The $\beta$-TCP bone graft substitute was well surrounded with fibrous tissue, and 4 months after implantation, 60% of its mass had been biodegraded. Also, histological findings via H&E stain showed a higher level of infiltration of lymphocytes as well as macrophages around the granule-type $\beta$-TCP. From the results, we have concluded that macrophages play an important role in the biodegradation process of $\beta$-TCP bone graft substitutes.

• The Journal of Korean Academy of Prosthodontics
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• v.32 no.1
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• pp.148-169
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• 1994

The concept of biologic attachment of load-bearing implants has developed over the past decades as an alternative to the difficulties associated with long term implantation using mechanical fixation and bone cement. The choice of implant material is also as critical an element as site preparation or insertion procedure. The properties of implants that affect host tissue responses are not limited to chemical composition alone, but also include shape, surface characteristics, site of implantation, and mechanical interaction with host tissues. Initial mechanical interlocking prevents micromotion and may be a prerequisite for direct bone apposition. A hard tightening of screws does not necessarily mean a stronger fixation and final tightening of the fixtures is dependent on the experience of the operator. Removal torque is lower than insertion torque. The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in the removal torques at the bone-implant interface of polished and sandblasted Titanium. This experiment will give insight into important factors that must be considered when interpreting in vivo screwing forces on implants during the connection of the transmucosal abutments. We evaluated the significance of different surface textures by comparison of the withdrawal forces necessary for removal of otherwise identical rough and polished implants of Titanium and also evaluated interfacial response on the light microscopic level to implant surface. And the priority of the area of insertion on osseointegration were evaluated. 9 Titanium implants - among them, 3 were for the developmental - of either a smooth or rough surface finish were inserted in the dog mandible in the right side. 3 months later Kanon Torque Gauge was used to unscrew the implants. The results were as follows : 1. No significant difference was seen in the removal torque due to variation in surface treatment, 23 Ncm for the sandblasted and 23.33 Ncm for the polished surface (p>0.05). 2. Implants in the anterior (25 Ncm) mandible showed better resistance to unscrewing in comparison to ones in the posterior (18 Ncm) region (p<0.05). 3. Developmental fixtures (22 Ncm) had similar pullout strength to the control group (p>0.05).

• Journal of Periodontal and Implant Science
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• v.26 no.4
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• pp.1013-1021
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• 1996

There are many important factors in periodontal inflammation. $IL-1{\beta}$, $PGE_2$ and collagenase are predorminantly key factors. These inflammatory mediators induce gingival tissue and alveolar bone destruction. For the prevention and treatment of periodontal disease, it is necessary to inhibit $IL-1{\beta}$, $PGE_2$ production and collagenase activity. Ursodeoxycholic acid(UDCA) has immunomodulatory properties, and there is evidence that some natural extracts show antiinflammatory activity to some degree. The purpose of this study was to assess the inhibitory effect of UDCA and its mixture with natural extracts on $IL-1{\beta}$, $PGE_2$ production and collagenase activity. Accordingly we assessed the effect of UDCA and its mixture combined with some natural extracts on inhibition of $IL-1{\beta}$, $PGE_2$ production and collagenase activity. For the $IL-l{\beta}$ inhibition study, cultured cells were exposed to $25{\mu}g/ml$ LPS. $IL-1{\beta}$ activity was measured by $IL-1{\beta}$ enzyme immunoassay system. Human gingival fibroblasts were prepared and cells (l05/well) were seeded into culture plates. $rhIL-1{\beta}$ was added to induce $PGE_2$. The amount of $PGE_2$ in sample media was measured using enzyme immunoassay system. Crude collagenase was prepared from Porphyromonas gingivalis and collagenolytic activity was determined using a Collageno kit CLN-100. The test inhibitor was added to the assay mixture consisting of 0.1ml of 50mM Tris buffer(pH 7.5) and 0.2ml of substrate solution. UDCA and UDCA combined with natural extracts generally inhibited $IL-1{\beta}$ production. groups above 0.01% UDCA strongly inhibited $IL-l{\beta}$ synthesis. Both groups inhibited $IL-1{\beta}-induced$ synthesis of $PGE_2$. In low concentration, the degree of inhibition was as same as prednisolone. In high concentration, each group was superior to prednisolone. UDCA group and UDCA mixture group exerted a moderate inhibition of collagenolytic enzyme. The present study suggested that UDCA and its mixture with natural extracts could be further investigated as antiinflammatory drug for periodontal disease.

• Journal of Periodontal and Implant Science
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• v.44 no.5
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• pp.242-250
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• 2014

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fibronectin and oxysterol immobilized on machined-surface dental implants for the enhancement of cell attachment and osteogenic differentiation, on peri-implant bone healing in the early healing phase using an experimental model in dogs. Methods: Five types of dental implants were installed at a healed alveolar ridge in five dogs: a machined-surface implant (MI), apatite-coated MI (AMI), fibronectin-loaded AMI (FAMI), oxysterol-loaded AMI (OAMI), and sand-blasted, large-grit, acid-etched surface implant (SLAI). A randomly selected unilateral ridge was observed for 2 weeks, and the contralateral ridge for a 4-week period. Histologic and histometric analyses were performed for the bone-to-implant contact proportion (BIC) and bone density around the dental implant surface. Results: Different bone healing patterns were observed according to the type of implant surface 2 weeks after installation; newly formed bone continuously lined the entire surfaces in specimens of the FAMI and SLAI groups, whereas bony trabecula from adjacent bone tissue appeared with minimal new bone lining onto the surface in the MI, AMI, and OAMI groups. Histometric results revealed a significant reduction in the BIC in MI, AMI, and OAMI compared to SLAI, but FAMI demonstrated a comparable BIC with SLAI. Although both the BIC and bone density increased from a 2- to 4-week healing period, bone density showed no significant difference among any of the experimental and control groups. Conclusions: A fibronectin-coated implant surface designed for cell adhesion could increase contact osteogenesis in the early bone healing phase, but an oxysterol-coated implant surface designed for osteoinductivity could not modify early bone healing around implants in normal bone physiology.

• Biomolecules & Therapeutics
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• v.22 no.4
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• pp.347-354
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• 2014

Larrea nitida is a plant that belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family and is widely used in South America to treat inflammatory diseases, tumors and menstrual pain. However, its pharmacological activity remains unclear. In this study we evaluated the property of selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) of Larrea nitida extracts (LNE) as a phytoestrogen that can mimic, modulate or disrupt the actions of endogenous estrogens, depending on the tissue and relative amount of other SERMs. To investigate the property of SERM of LNE, we performed MCF-7 cell proliferation assays, estrogen response element (ERE)-luciferase reporter gene assay, human estrogen receptor (hER) binding assays and in vivo uterotrophic assay. To gain insight into the active principles, we performed a bioassay-guided analysis of LNE employing solvents of various polarities and using classical column chromatography, which yielded 16 fractions (LNs). LNE showed high binding affinities for $hER{\alpha}$ and $hER{\beta}$ with $IC_{50}$ values of $1.20{\times}10^{-7}$ g/ml and $1.00{\times}10^{-7}$ g/ml, respectively. LNE induced $17{\beta}$-estradiol (E2)-induced MCF-7 cell proliferation, however, it reduced the proliferation in the presence of E2. Furthermore, LNE had an atrophic effect in the uterus of immature rats through reducing the expression level of progesterone receptor (PR) proteins. LN08 and LN10 had more potent affinities for binding on $hER{\alpha}$ and ${\beta}$ than other fractions. Our results indicate that LNE had higher binding affinities for $hER{\beta}$ than $hER{\alpha}$, and showed SERM properties in MCF-7 breast cancer cells and the rat uterus. LNE may be useful for the treatment of estrogen-related conditions, such as female cancers and menopause.

• Korean Journal of Food Science and Technology
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• v.28 no.4
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• pp.786-789
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• 1996

An image processing system was built to evaluate the color properties of apple and meat. The system consisted of video camera, video card, 32 bit microcomputer and an optical illuminator. The operating software was developed to carry out capturing, analyzing, displaying and storing of the 8 bit digitized images of food. The images of apples at various maturing stages were investigated to obtain the color histogram of R, G, B and Hunter value. RGB histogram showed a major difference in G value, 35.01, the minor change in R value, 6.16, and the negligible difference in B value. The image of beef cut was separated into two parts, fat and lean tissue, by applying threshold value method based on the digital value of color. The threshold value for fat was over 240 and for lean under 230 in R value, respectively. The resulting non fat image showed 2% decreased color difference value, ${\Delta}E$, than whole meat cut.