• Asian Spine Journal
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• v.12 no.6
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• pp.1060-1068
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• 2018

Study Design: Retrospective study. Purpose: Lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration is an important cause of low back pain. Overview of Literature: Spinal fusion is often reported to have a good course for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, many studies have reported that adjacent segment degeneration is accelerated after lumbar spinal fusion. Radiography is a simple method used to evaluate the orientation of the vertebral column. magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the method most often used to specifically evaluate intervertebral disc degeneration. The Pfirrmann classification is a well-known method used to evaluate degenerative lumbar disease. After spinal fusion, an increase in stress, excess mobility, increased intra-disc pressure, and posterior displacement of the axis of motion have been observed in the adjacent segments. Methods: we retrospectively secured and analyzed the data of 15 patients (four boys and 11 girls) with AIS who underwent a spinal fusion surgery. We studied the full-length view of the spine (anterior-posterior and lateral) from the X-ray and MRI obtained from all patients before surgery. Postoperatively, another full-length spine X-ray and lumbosacral MRI were obtained from all participants. Then, pelvic tilt, sacral slope, curve correction, and fused and free segments before and after surgery were calculated based on X-ray studies. MRI images were used to estimate the degree to which intervertebral discs were degenerated using Pfirrmann grading system. Pfirrmann grade before and after surgery were compared with Wilcoxon signed rank test. While analyzing the contribution of potential risk factors for the post-spinal fusion Pfirrmann grade of disc degeneration, we used generalized linear models with robust standard error estimates to account for intraclass correlation that may have been present between discs of the same patient. Results: The mean age of the participant was 14 years, and the mean curvature before and after surgery were 67.8 and 23.8, respectively (p<0.05). During the median follow-up of 5 years, the mean degree of the disc degeneration significantly increased in all patients after surgery (p<0.05) with a Pfirrmann grade of 1 and 2.8 in the L2-L3 before and after surgery, respectively. The corresponding figures at L3-L4, L4-L5, and L5-S1 levels were 1.28 and 2.43, 1.07 and 2.35, and 1 and 2.33, respectively. The lower was the number of free discs below the fusion level, the higher was the Pfirrmann grade of degeneration (p<0.001). Conversely, the higher was the number of the discs fused together, the higher was the Pfirrmann grade. Conclusions: we observed that the disc degeneration aggravated after spinal fusion for scoliosis. While the degree of degeneration as measured by Pfirrmann grade was directly correlated by the number of fused segments, it was negatively correlated with the number of discs that remained free below the lowermost level of the fusion.

• Journal of the Korea Institute of Building Construction
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• v.18 no.6
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• pp.507-515
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• 2018

The purpose of this research is to develop a slurry-type accelerator that contains various beneficial properties such as reduction of dust generation, lower alkalinity, early age strength development, etc., and uses such slurry type accelerator to produce high performance shotcrete that present excellent resistant against chloride ion penetration. In this work, shotcrete mixtures of 0.44 and 0.338 water-to-binder ratio (w/b) were produced at construction site using slurry-type accelerator. The mechanical properties and chloride ion penetration resistance of such shotcrete (including base concrete) were evaluated. According to the experimental results, the slurry-type accelerator was successfully used to produce both w/b 0.44 and 0.338 shotcretes. The 1 day and 28 day compressive strength of shotcrete were found to be closer to or higher than 10MPa and 40MPa, respectively. The w/b 0.338 shotcrete that used 40% replacement of blast furnace slag showed lower compressive strength than w/b 0.44 shotcrete without any mineral admixture at 1 day. However, the compressive strength with 40% blast furnace slag increased significantly at 28 day. Moreover, there was more than 50% increase in chloride ion penetration resistance with blast furnace slag, showing its strong potential for higher performance shotcrete application.

• Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences
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• v.32 no.2
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• pp.201-208
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• 2019

Objective: The aim of the present study was to identify the impact of early weaning of lambs at approximately seven weeks of age onto a herb-clover mix on the liveweight gain of lambs and their dams. Methods: In 2015, twin-born lambs that weighed a minimum of 16 kg (n = 134) were randomly allocated to one of three treatments: i) Early-weaned (58 days after the midpoint of lambing) onto an unrestricted allowance (>1,200 kg dry matter/ha) of herb-clover mix (HerbEW); ii) Lambs+dams unweaned onto an unrestricted allowance of herb-clover mix until conventional weaning (95 days after the midpoint of lambing) (HerbCW); iii) Lambs+dams unweaned onto an unrestricted allowance of grass-clover pasture until conventional weaning (GrassCW). In 2016, twin-born lambs that weighed a minimum of 16 kg (n = 170) were randomly allocated to one of four treatments: i), ii), iii) (similar to 2015) and iv) Lambs+dams unweaned onto a restricted allowance (<1,200 kg dry matter/ha) of grass-clover pasture until conventional weaning (93 days after the midpoint of lambing) (Restricted-GrassCW). Results: In 2015, liveweight gain from L58 to L95 of HerbCW and GrassCW lambs did not differ (p>0.05), but were greater than HerbEW lambs. In 2016, HerbCW lambs had greater (p<0.05) liveweight gains from L51 to L93 than GrassCW followed by HerbEW and Restricted-GrassCW lambs. In 2015, liveweight gain from L58 to L95 of HerbEW ewes were greater than both GrassCW and HerbCW ewes while in 2016, liveweight gain of from L51 to L93 GrassCW and HerbCW ewes did not differ (p>0.05) but were greater (p<0.05) than those of HerbEW and Restricted-GrassCW ewes. Conclusion: These results indicate that when grass-clover pasture supply can be maintained at unrestricted intake level, there may be no benefit of weaning lambs early. However, at restricted pasture conditions lambs can achieve greater liveweight gains when weaned early onto a herb-clover mix.

• Korean Journal of Heritage: History & Science
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• v.44 no.1
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• pp.122-137
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• 2011

The purpose of this study was to present the characteristics of tree growth and the status of the ecosystem in Yeongdeok Docheon-ri Docheon forest, which was designated as Natural Monument No. 514. Results showed that most of the soil properties were generally within desirable levels except for some properties. The forest was composed of 503 trees. Major trees included Zelkova serrata, Celtis sinensis, Cornus walteri, Diospyros lotus, Hemiptelea davidii, and Evodia daniellii. In particular, trees such as Zelkova serrata, Celtis sinensis, and Cornus walteri showed D.B.H ranging from 10cm to 70cm. These trees appeared to be major tree species since the beginning of Docheon forest's existence. The wild birds observed from the site were from 18 families, 20 species, and 95 individuals. Also were found 1 mammal species, 1 reptile species, and 1 amphibian species. A dead Aix galericulata (designated Natural Monument No. 327) was found in the forest. The annual tree diameter growth of the sample trees was 2.3mm per year on average. The average age of the overstory trees was approximately 101 years, and the oldest tree was estimated to be 300~400 years old.

• Science of Emotion and Sensibility
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• v.22 no.2
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• pp.59-69
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• 2019

The present study explored consumer's perception and preference on providing information of fashion products by using QR code and suggested the possibility for consumer-to-consumer and consumer-to-company connection. A survey was conducted on males and females in their 20s-a population among whom the rate of smart phone penetration is higher than in any other age group and who tend to exchange information online. The results showed that consumers are dissatisfied with the amount of information, terms of instructions, and ambiguous washing symbols currently provided. Therefore, the study identified the need for better methods of providing information and found that QR code, which is able to deliver high-quality information on fashion products, can be an efficient alternative. Moreover, respondents felt the need for detailed washing instructions, information on handling, and functionality of material on high-involvement fashion products such as outdoor, padding, suit, and underwear worn next to the skin. They also desire styling tips or purchasing information such as SNS OOTD (Outfit Of The Day) utilizing the product, other products that may go well with the one purchased, and similar products on casual wear and coat used on a daily basis. Therefore, QR code used as a link to information web pages or a social network can help consumers to satisfy information needs and to use the products effectively.

• Science of Emotion and Sensibility
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• v.22 no.2
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• pp.83-100
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• 2019

The purposes of this study are to identify the meaning of the geometrical patterns preferred by ancient Korean peoples and to classify them into some groups by their similarity. We investigated various patterns found on clothing and relics from GoJoseon to Goguryeo period, and utilized secondary sources such as history articles, Internet materials and photo and analyzed the associations of the varied patterns found in pottery, handicrafts, and clothing with the ancient cultures. We found the letters (ㅇ, ㅁ, and ㅅ of Korean alphabet, Hangul) preferred by ancestors who worshipped nature to identify the significations attached by them to particular patterns. The results confirm the following: first, the circle pattern indicated the sun, moon, stars in the sky, a bronze mirror, and a man's face. Circles and ovals were also observed to represent the individual souls of the clan or community. Second, square patterns symbolized the land and the patterns that signified the wellbeing of family and the country. Oblique rectangles were more frequently used as they represented a double use of the triangle, a shape that implied mystic power. Third, triangle symbolized regeneration, power, and humanity. While the Neolithic Age jade remnants of hair combs appear not to be irrelevant to the process of comb-shaped pottery production of the time, many fine comb-like lines may be found on bronze mirrors. Through its review of the glorious designs inherited from and established by ancient ancestors, the present research endeavor may help in identifying the spirits and traditions of Korean history.

• Biomedical Science Letters
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• v.25 no.3
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• pp.218-226
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• 2019

In old age, measures to cope with the natural phenomenon of aging and various diseases of the elderly due to the deterioration of physical function are also a challenge for this society. While interest in systematic health is increasing, it is true that awareness and interest in oral-related diseases is relatively lacking. This study aims to present basic data necessary to improve the quality of life for senior citizens aged 65 or older by improving the oral dryness caused by systemic health. By research method, improve oral dryness caused by whole-body health with the elderly over 65 and promote their oral health, inducing the increase of the salivary flow rate through oral health care education, oral exercise, and salivary gland massage. First, on the DMSQ according to the general characteristics of the elderly, the recognition of the whole body and oral health status, independent sample t-test and One-way ANOVA were conducted. Second, on changes in the salivary flow rate and saliva pH according to the general characteristics of the elderly, recognition of oral and whole-body health status, and whole-body health, paired samples t-test was conducted. Studies have shown that salivary gland flow increased significantly after oral exercise and salivary gland massage, the salivary flow rate significantly increased. In all variables of the recognition of the oral health status, the salivary flow rate increased after oral exercise and salivary gland massage, and in the whole-body health, regardless of hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and osteoporosis, the salivary flow rate increased after oral exercise and salivary gland massage, and the salivary flow rate increased after oral exercise and salivary gland massage if the subjects responded that they did not have thyroid abnormality, anemia, abnormalities of breathing, hypotension, gastrointestinal disturbance, or kidney diseases. As a comprehensive analysis of this study, many felt oral dryness when they had a problem with the whole-body health, and many felt oral dryness when they had a problem with oral health cognition. After applying oral exercise and salivary gland massage as intervention methods in the oral health care for the elderly, the salivary flow rate significantly increased, and it is judged that the methods were very effective for controlling oral dryness. Furthermore, it is judged that the factors affecting oral health, whole-body health, and oral dryness would be identified, which would be helpful for the promotion of whole-body health and oral health. It is judged that continuous research would be needed so that measures for the application of the oral care program and system for the elderly would be prepared in the future.

• Convergence Security Journal
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• v.19 no.2
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• pp.91-104
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• 2019

In this paper, we present a novel local descriptor, Local Prominent Directional Pattern (LPDP), to represent the description of facial images for gender recognition purpose. To achieve a clearly discriminative representation of local shape, presented method encodes a target pixel with the prominent directional variations in local structure from an analysis of statistics encompassed in the histogram of such directional variations. Use of the statistical information comes from the observation that a local neighboring region, having an edge going through it, demonstrate similar gradient directions, and hence, the prominent accumulations, accumulated from such gradient directions provide a solid base to represent the shape of that local structure. Unlike the sole use of gradient direction of a target pixel in existing methods, our coding scheme selects prominent edge directions accumulated from more samples (e.g., surrounding neighboring pixels), which, in turn, minimizes the effect of noise by suppressing the noisy accumulations of single or fewer samples. In this way, the presented encoding strategy provides the more discriminative shape of local structures while ensuring robustness to subtle changes such as local noise. We conduct extensive experiments on gender recognition datasets containing a wide range of challenges such as illumination, expression, age, and pose variations as well as sketch images, and observe the better performance of LPDP descriptor against existing local descriptors.

• Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society
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• v.62 no.4
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• pp.442-449
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• 2019

Objective : Bone mineral density (BMD) is an important consideration during fusion surgery. Although dual X-ray absorptiometry is considered as the gold standard for assessing BMD, quantitative computed tomography (QCT) provides more accurate data in spine osteoporosis. However, QCT has the disadvantage of additional radiation hazard and cost. The present study was to demonstrate the utility of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithm for assessing osteoporosis using Hounsfield units (HU) of preoperative lumbar CT coupling with data of QCT. Methods : We reviewed 70 patients undergoing both QCT and conventional lumbar CT for spine surgery. The T-scores of 198 lumbar vertebra was assessed in QCT and the HU of vertebral body at the same level were measured in conventional CT by the picture archiving and communication system (PACS) system. A multiple regression algorithm was applied to predict the T-score using three independent variables (age, sex, and HU of vertebral body on conventional CT) coupling with T-score of QCT. Next, a logistic regression algorithm was applied to predict osteoporotic or non-osteoporotic vertebra. The Tensor flow and Python were used as the machine learning tools. The Tensor flow user interface developed in our institute was used for easy code generation. Results : The predictive model with multiple regression algorithm estimated similar T-scores with data of QCT. HU demonstrates the similar results as QCT without the discordance in only one non-osteoporotic vertebra that indicated osteoporosis. From the training set, the predictive model classified the lumbar vertebra into two groups (osteoporotic vs. non-osteoporotic spine) with 88.0% accuracy. In a test set of 40 vertebrae, classification accuracy was 92.5% when the learning rate was 0.0001 (precision, 0.939; recall, 0.969; F1 score, 0.954; area under the curve, 0.900). Conclusion : This study is a simple machine learning model applicable in the spine research field. The machine learning model can predict the T-score and osteoporotic vertebrae solely by measuring the HU of conventional CT, and this would help spine surgeons not to under-estimate the osteoporotic spine preoperatively. If applied to a bigger data set, we believe the predictive accuracy of our model will further increase. We propose that machine learning is an important modality of the medical research field.

• Journal of the Society of Disaster Information
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• v.15 no.1
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• pp.109-120
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• 2019

Purpose: This study is the analysis of the relationship between the physical safety of the urban spaces and the aging in place tendency of the elderly. Method: For analysis, the physical safety of the urban space is divided into four elements: outdoor space and building safety, pedestrian safety, transportation safety and living safety, and for aging in place, the 5-point Likert scale was used. A questionnaire survey was conducted for 411 elderly people aged 65 or older living in Seoul for each of the five urban community in Seoul. Results: 78.6% of the respondents answered that they are good at continuing to live in the present living area, the elderly living in Seoul has the high tendency of aging in place. The ratio of respondents who answered that good at living continuedly is in the order of southeast, northwest, southwest, northeast, and downtown. Conclusion: When the percentage of respondents who answered that they are good at staying in the current living area is high, not only the overall physical safety but also the average of the physical safety factors of the urban space are also high, physical safety of urban spaces is a factor affecting aging in place. Based on the results of the study, it can be applied as a method to create a safe city in the process of city development or urban renewal in the future.