• Environmental Engineering Research
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• 제23권4호
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• pp.383-389
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• 2018

Microbial fuel cell (MFC) is an innovative environmental and energy system that converts organic wastewater into electrical energy. For practical implementation of MFC as a wastewater treatment process, a number of limitations need to be overcome. Improving cathodic performance is one of major challenges, and introduction of a current collector can be an easy and practical solution. In this study, three types of current collectors made of stainless steel (SS) were tested in a single-chamber cubic MFC. The three current collectors had different contact areas to the cathode (P $1.0cm^2$; PC $4.3cm^2$; PM $6.5cm^2$) and increasing the contacting area enhanced the power and current generations and coulombic and energy recoveries by mainly decreasing cathodic charge transfer impedance. Application of the SS mesh to the cathode (PM) improved maximum power density, optimum current density and maximum current density by 8.8%, 3.6% and 6.7%, respectively, comparing with P of no SS mesh. The SS mesh decreased cathodic polarization resistance by up to 16%, and cathodic charge transfer impedance by up to 39%, possibly because the SS mesh enhanced electron transport and oxygen reduction reaction. However, application of the SS mesh had little effect on ohmic impedance.

• 한국환경과학회지
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• 제28권1호
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• pp.75-84
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• 2019

Cytochrome c oxidase subunit II gene(CO II gene) is subunit of cytochrome oxidase, which is complex IV of mitochondria electron transport system. It has been frequently used in molecular phylogenetic studies because the speed of its DNA variation is faster than that of nucleus. It is especially useful in phylogenetic study of molecular biology in insects. In this study, we cloned and sequenced CO II gene of mitochondria DNA from Rhabditidae family nematode. Our results showed that this gene is comprised of 696 base pairs(bp). In the analysis of similarity of this gene with other known genes of 14 species of nematodes in Rhabditida order, we identified that this gene has high similarity with that of Caenorhabditis briggsae(86.0%) and C. elegans(85.6%) in Rhabditidae family. On the meanwhile, it has very low similarity with that of Angiostrongylus cantonensis(31.8%) in Angiostrongylidae family and Metastrongylus salmi(31.6%) in Metastrongylidae family. Based on the results of this study, we suggest that this nematode is closely related with that of Caenorhabditis genus in Rhabditidae family.

• Molecules and Cells
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• 제42권4호
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• pp.292-300
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• 2019

Immunometabolism, defined as the interaction of metabolic pathways with the immune system, influences the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases. Metformin and carbon monoxide (CO) are two pharmacological agents known to ameliorate metabolic disorders. There are notable similarities and differences in the reported effects of metformin and CO on immunometabolism. Metformin, an anti-diabetes drug, has positive effects on metabolism and can exert anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects via adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-dependent and AMPK-independent mechanisms. CO, an endogenous product of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), can exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects at low concentration. CO can confer cytoprotection in metabolic disorders and cancer via selective activation of the protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum (ER) kinase (PERK) pathway. Both metformin and CO can induce mitochondrial stress to produce a mild elevation of mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) by distinct mechanisms. Metformin inhibits complex I of the mitochondrial electron transport chain (ETC), while CO inhibits ETC complex IV. Both metformin and CO can differentially induce several protein factors, including fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and sestrin2 (SESN2), which maintain metabolic homeostasis; nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a master regulator of the antioxidant response; and REDD1, which exhibits an anticancer effect. However, metformin and CO regulate these effects via different pathways. Metformin stimulates p53- and AMPK-dependent pathways whereas CO can selectively trigger the PERK-dependent signaling pathway. Although further studies are needed to identify the mechanistic differences between metformin and CO, pharmacological application of these agents may represent useful strategies to ameliorate metabolic diseases associated with altered immunometabolism.

• Journal of Ginseng Research
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• 제46권3호
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• pp.408-417
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• 2022

Background: Korean Red Ginseng extract (KRGE) has been used as a health supplement and herbal medicine. Astrocytes are one of the key cells in the central nervous system (CNS) and have bioenergetic potential as they stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis. They play a critical role in connecting the brain vasculature and nerves in the CNS. Methods: Brain samples from KRGE-administered mice were tested using immunohistochemistry. Treatment of human brain astrocytes with KRGE was subjected to assays such as proliferation, cytotoxicity, Mitotracker, ATP production, and O₂ consumption rate as well as western blotting to demonstrate the expression of proteins related to mitochondria functions. The expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) was diminished utilizing siRNA transfection. Results: Brain samples from KRGE-administered mice harbored an increased number of GFAP-expressing astrocytes. KRGE triggered the proliferation of astrocytes in vitro. Enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis induced by KRGE was detected using Mitotracker staining, ATP production, and O₂ consumption rate assays. The expression of proteins related to mitochondrial electron transport was increased in KRGE-treated astrocytes. These effects were blocked by HIF-1α knockdown. The factors secreted from KRGE-treated astrocytes were determined, revealing the expression of various cytokines and growth factors, especially those related to angiogenesis and neurogenesis. KRGE-treated astrocyte conditioned media enhanced the differentiation of adult neural stem cells into mature neurons, increasing the migration of endothelial cells, and these effects were reduced in the background of HIF-1α knockdown. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that KRGE exhibits prophylactic potential by stimulating astrocyte mitochondrial biogenesis through HIF-1α, resulting in improved neurovascular function.

• 센서학회지
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• 제32권3호
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• pp.131-139
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• 2023

Ascorbic acid plays a crucial role in the regulation of neurotransmitters and enzymes in the central nervous system. Maintaining an optimal level of ascorbic acid, which is between 0.6-2 mg/dL, is vital for preventing oxidative stress and associated health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, and liver disease. Therefore, the detection of ascorbic acid is of the utmost importance. Electrochemical sensing has gained significant attention among the various detection methods, owing to its simplicity, speed, affordability, high selectivity, and real-time analysis capabilities. However, conventional electrodes have poor signal response, which has led to the development of modified electrodes with better signal response and selectivity. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and their composites have emerged as promising materials for the electrochemical detection of ascorbic acid. CNTs possess unique mechanical, electrical, and chemical properties that depend on their structure, and their large surface area and excellent electron transport properties make them ideal candidates for electrochemical sensing. Recently, various CNT composites with different materials and nanoparticles have been studied to enhance the electrochemical detection of ascorbic acid. Therefore, this review aims to highlight the significance of CNTs and their composites for improving the sensitivity and selectivity of ascorbic acid detection. Specifically, it focuses on the use of CNTs and their composites in electrochemical sensing to revolutionize the detection of ascorbic acid and contribute to the prevention of oxidative stress-related health conditions. The potential benefits of this technology make it a promising area for future research and development.

• 한국패류학회지
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• 제32권1호
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• pp.45-54
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• 2016

환경오염 평가를 위한 생물지표로 세포내 에너지할당(CEA) 의 적용성을 검토하기 위해 바지락 (Ruditapes philippinarum) 조직을 대상으로 에너지 함량과 에너지 소비율을 분석하였다. 원유를 인위적으로 오염시킨 퇴적물에 바지락을 1, 2, 4, 7, 10 일간 노출 후 일부 조직 (발, 입출수공, 아가미 그리고 몸통) 내 지질, 글루코오스, 단백질 함량, 그리고 전자전달계 (electron transport system, ETS) 활성을 측정하였다. 바지락의 체내 지질, 글루코오스, 단백질 에너지 함량(energy available, EA)은 오염의 수준과 노출시간이 증가함에 따라 감소하였으나, 이와 대조적으로 ETS 활성은 그 반대의 경향을 보였다. 바지락의 조직별 EA는 발 > 입출수공 > 아가미 > 몸통 순이었다. EA와 EC의 분석에서 통계적으로 유의한 차이는 노출 최고 농도 (58.3 mg TPAHs/kg DW) 에서만 발견되었다. 노출 1 일째 발과 아가미에서, 노출 2, 7 일째 몸통에서 EA가 감소하였고, 노출 4 일째 몸통에서 EC가 증가하였다. CEA는 EA 또는 EC 보다 오염에 더 민감하게 반응하였다. 특히, 노출 1-7 일 기간 동안 몸통에서 CEA는 오염 수준이 낮은 (6.5 mg TPAHs/kg DW) 범위에서도 크게 감소하였다. CEA는 급성독성이 나타나지 않는 낮은 수준의 퇴적물오염 평가에서 EA 또는 EC보다 더 민감하였다. 바지락을 이용한 오염 퇴적물 평가시 노출은 4 일간, 그리고 몸통부위에서 CEA를 측정하는 것이 가장 민감하고 신뢰할 수 있을 것으로 여겨진다.

• 한국수산과학회지
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• 제31권6호
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• pp.920-926
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• 1998

본 연구는 C. polykrikoides 적조 구제로 살포한 황토가 저층에 퇴적된 후, 적조생물이 분해되는 동안 미생물군집과 호흡 전자전달계 활성에 미치는 영향을 알아보기 위하여 마산만과 진해만의 퇴적물로 배양실험을 행한 결과이다. 종속영양세균수는 두 개 정점의 실험구 모두 황토첨가와 무관하게 $10^7$ cells/dry g의 범위로 12시간만에 최고 치에 도달하였고 유사한 변동을 보여주었다. 종조성의 변동 또한 황토첨가로 인한 뚜렷한 영향을 보여주지 않았으며, Vibrio spp.는 배양기간 동안 계속 출현하였다. 그러나 황산염환원세균은 배양 8일째 마산만의 황토를 첨가하지 않은 퇴적물에서 $3.8\times10^7$cells/dry g로 1:1(1:2) 비율의 황토첨가 실험구에 비하여 120 (350)배 정도 높았고, 진해만의 퇴적물에서는 $5.5\times10^6$cells/dry g로 1:1 (1 : 2) 비율의 황토첨가 실험구보다 160(420)배 정도 높았다. 또한, ETA는 두 개의 정점 모두 호기적 조건에서는 각 실험구의 평균치가 6.8$\~$7.6 $\mu$g formazan $h^{-1}$ dry $g^{-1}$ 의 범위로서 황토의 첨가와 무관하게 비슷한 활성을 나타내었지만, 혐기적조건의 정점 A의 퇴적물에서 황토를 첨가하지 않은 실험구는 평균 10.4$\mu$g formazan $h^{-1}$ dry $g^{-1}$ 로 황토첨가 비율이 높을수록 7.3 (1:1), 3.4(1 : 2) $\mu$g formazan $h^{-1}$ dry $g^{-1}$으로 낮은 활성을 나타내었고, 정점 B의 퇴적물도 황토를 첨가한 비율이 높을수록 활성이 낮았다. 따라서 황토첨가가 해양환경에 나쁜 영향을 미치는 혐기적분해 및 황산염환원세균의 성장을 저지하는 효과가 있는 것으로 사료된다. 본 실험 결과는 모델실험에 의한 것으로 보다 자세한 황토의 영향을 알기 위해서는 현장에서 미생물군집의 변동과 활성의 조사가 필요할 것이다.

• 한국재료학회지
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• 제20권11호
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• pp.606-610
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• 2010

Films consisting of a silicon quantum dot superlattice were fabricated by alternating deposition of silicon rich silicon nitride and $Si_3N_4$ layers using an rf magnetron co-sputtering system. In order to use the silicon quantum dot super lattice structure for third generation multi junction solar cell applications, it is important to control the dot size. Moreover, silicon quantum dots have to be in a regularly spaced array in the dielectric matrix material for in order to allow for effective carrier transport. In this study, therefore, we fabricated silicon quantum dot superlattice films under various conditions and investigated crystallization behavior of the silicon quantum dot super lattice structure. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra showed an increased intensity of the $840\;cm^{-1}$ peak with increasing annealing temperature due to the increase in the number of Si-N bonds. A more conspicuous characteristic of this process is the increased intensity of the $1100\;cm^{-1}$ peak. This peak was attributed to annealing induced reordering in the films that led to increased Si-$N_4$ bonding. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis showed that peak position was shifted to higher bonding energy as silicon 2p bonding energy changed. This transition is related to the formation of silicon quantum dots. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron spin resonance (ESR) analysis also confirmed the formation of silicon quantum dots. This study revealed that post annealing at $1100^{\circ}C$ for at least one hour is necessary to precipitate the silicon quantum dots in the $SiN_x$ matrix.

• 한국진공학회:학술대회논문집
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• 한국진공학회 2016년도 제50회 동계 정기학술대회 초록집
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• pp.171.2-171.2
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• 2016

The 2-dimensiona electron gas (2DEG) layers have opened tremendous interests in the heterooxide interfaces formed between two insulating materials, especially between LaAlO3 and $SrTiO_3$. The 2DEG layers exhibit extremely high mobility and carrier concentrations along with metallic transport phenomena unlike the constituent oxide materials, i.e., $LaAlO_3$ and $SrTiO_3$. The current work inserted artificially the interfacial layer, $Sr_xCa_{1-x}TiO_3$ between $LaAlO_3$ and $SrTiO_3$, with the aim to controlling the 2-dimensional transports. The insertion of the additional materials affect significantly their corresponding electrical transports. Such features have been probed using DC and AC-based characterizations. In particular, impedance spectroscopy was employed as an AC-based characterization tool. Frequency-dependent impedance spectroscopy have been widely applied to a number of electroceramic materials, such as varistors, MLCCs, solid electrolytes, etc. Impedance spectroscopy provides powerful information on the materials system: i) the simultaneous measurement of conductivity and dielectric constants, ii) systematic identification of electrical origins among bulk-, grain boundary-, and electrode-based responses, and iii) the numerical estimation on the uniformity of the electrical origins. Impedance spectroscopy was applied to the $LaAlO_3/Sr_xCa_{1-x}TiO_3/SrTiO_3$ system, in order to understand the 2-dimensional transports in terms of the interfacial design concepts. The 2-dimensional conduction behavior system is analyzed with special emphasis on the underlying mechanisms. Such approach is discussed towards rational optimization of the 2-dimensional nanoelectronic devices.

• 대한조선학회논문집
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• 제58권4호
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• pp.262-270
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• 2021

Consumption of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) has increased due to environmental pollution; therefore, the need for LNG carriers can efficiently transport large quantities of LNG, is increased. In various types of LNG Cargo Containment System (CCS), Membrane-type MARK-III composed of composite materials is generally employed in the construction of an LNG carrier. Among composite materials in a Mark-III system, glass-fiber composites act as a secondary barrier to prevent the inner hull structure from leakage of LNG when the primary barrier is damaged. Nevertheless, several cases of damage to the secondary barriers have been reported and if damage occurs, LNG can flow into the inner hull structure, causing a brittle fracture. To prevent those problems, this study conducted the applicability assessment of composite material manufactured by bonding glass-fiber and aluminum with epoxy resin and increasing layer from three-ply (triplex) to five-ply (pentaplex). Tensile tests were performed in five temperature points (25, -20, -70, -120, and -170℃) considering temperature gradient in CCS. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) analyses were carried out to evaluate the microstructure and thermos-mechanical properties of the pentaplex. The results showed epoxy resin and increasing layer number contributed to improving the mechanical properties over the whole temperature range.