• Journal of Korean Society of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene
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• v.21 no.2
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• pp.116-122
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• 2011

Human occupational exposure to n-hexane has been associated with neurobehavioral symptoms such as depression, irritablity, acute irritation symptom, concentration disturbance and fatigue. Effects of monoamine oxidase (MAO) B and serotonin transporter receptor (5-HTTR) polymorphisms on the neurobehavioral symptoms were investigated in 70 male workers from TV and computer monitor manufacturing plants exposed to n-hexane. Neurobehavioral symptoms were assessed through a self-reported questionnaire and ambient level of n-hexane was measured by NIOSH method. Blood and urine were collected from each workers to determine the MAO(B), 5-HTTR and urinary 2,5-hexanedione(2,5-HD). The mean concentration of volatile n-hexane was $18.8{\pm}28.8ppm$ and that of urinary 2,5-HD was $1.07{\pm}1.47mg/g$ creatinine. Statistically significant associations with sexual disturbance were age and smoking. The frequencies of MAO(B) AA, AG and GG were 18.6%, 45.7% and 35.7%, respectively, and the frequencies of 5-HTTR ll, ls and ss genotype were 82.9%, 15.7% and 1.4%, respectively. MAO (B) gene polymorphisms had susceptibility to the neurobehavioral symptoms such as fatigue, concentration disturbance, irritability and acute irritation symptom and 5-HTTR gene polymorphism had susceptibility to the sleep disturbance and acute irritation symptom. On multiple logistic regression analysis for the neurobehavioral symptoms, memory disturbance was significantly associated with smoking(OR=6.752, 95% CI=37.46) and drinking(OR=4.033, 95% CI=1.252-12.98), emotional lability was MAO(B) genotype(OR=0.412, 95% CI=0.170-0.996), fatigue (OR=1.011, 95% CI=1.000-1.021) and acute irritation(OR=0.990, 95% CI=0.981-1.000) were working duration and sexual disturbance were significantly associated with age(OR=1.208, 95% CI=1.042-1.399), ambient n-hexane(OR=1.077, 95% CI=1.005-1.154) and 2,5-HD(OR=0.186, 95% CI=0.041-0.841). This finding implies that the MAO (B) and 5-HTTR polymorphisms may affect susceptibility for specific neurobehavioral symptoms associated with n-hexane exposure in workers.

• Journal of Environmental Health Sciences
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• v.47 no.2
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• pp.131-143
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• 2021

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the atmospheric concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the urinary concentration of biomarkers in residents near the Shinpyeong·Jangrim Industrial Complex to compare them with those of residents in a control area. Methods: Hazardous air pollutants (PAHs and VOCs) were measured in an exposure area (two sites) and a control area (one site). Urine samples were collected from residents near the industrial complex (184 persons) and residents in the control area (181 persons). Multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify which factors affected the concentration of PAHs and VOCs metabolites. Results: The average atmospheric concentration of PAHs in Shinpyeong-dong and Jangrim-dong was 0.45 and 0.59 ppb for pyrene, 0.15 and 0.16 ppb for benzo[a]pyrene, and 0.29 and 0.35 ppb for dibenz[a,h]anthracene. The average atmospheric concentration of VOCs was 1.10 and 0.99 ppb for benzene, 8.22 and 11.30 ppb for toluene, and 1.91 and 3.05 ppb for ethylbenzene, respectively. The concentrations of PAHs and VOCs in residents near the Shinpyeong·Jangrim Industrial Complex were higher than those of residents in the control area. Geometric means of urinary 2-hydroxyfluorene, 1-hydroxypyrene, methylhippuric acid, and mandelic acid concentrations were 0.45, 0.22, 391.51, and 201.36 ㎍/g creatinine, respectively. Those levels were all significantly higher than those in the control area (p<0.05). In addition, as a result of multiple regression analysis, even after adjusting for potential confounding factors such as gender and smoking, the concentration of metabolites in urine was high in residents near the Shinpyeong·Jangrim Industrial Complex. Conclusion: The results of this study show the possibility of human exposure to VOCs in residents near the Shinpyeong·Jangrim Industrial Complex. Therefore, continuous monitoring of the local community is required for the management of environmental pollutant emissions.

• Childhood Kidney Diseases
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• v.13 no.1
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• pp.56-62
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• 2009

Purpose : The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical usefulness of measurement of ${\beta}_2$ microglobulin (${\beta}_2$ MG), N-acetyl-$\beta$-D-glucosaminidase (NAG) of spot urine samples as indices of renal tubular damage and microalbumin of spot urine samples as a parameter of glomerular damage in children with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) or renal defects. Methods : We studied 91 children with previous UTI. The children were classified as 62 children without VUR and renal defects (group I), 10 children with VUR, without renal defects (group II), and 19 children with VUR and renal defects (group III). Patients having VUR were separated according to the degree of VUR (mild VUR: VUR grade I-III, severe VUR: VUR grade IV-V). Urinary excretion of ${\beta}_$ microglobulin (${\beta}_2$ MG), microalbumin, N-acetyl-$\beta$-D-glucosaminidase (NAG), creatinine were measured in samples of morning urine specimens. Children with VUR or renal defects detected by voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and DMSA renal scan were investigated. Results : Microalbumin/Cr ratio of spot urine was significantly increased in group III compared group I ($42.3{\pm}27.2\;mg/gCr$ vs $25.2{\pm}10.9\;mg/gCr$, P<0.05). NAG/Cr ratio of spot urine was significantly increased in group II compared group I ($3.70{\pm}23.4\;mg/gCr$ vs $18.7{\pm}12.7\;mg/gCr$, P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference of ${\beta}_2$ MG/Cr ratio among three groups. Conclusion : Urinary microalbumin excretion of morning urine sample may be a simple and reliable clinical indicators for early identification of renal damage in children with VUR and renal defects. Urinary microalbumin excretion may be useful marker to predict the the severity of VUR.

• Journal of the Korean Home Economics Association
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• v.24 no.2
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• pp.37-50
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• 1986

A nutrition survey of 128 perschool children, 4 to 6 years old, in the Saemaul Youlgok day care center, located in one uplane, overpolulated, poor area of the city of Seoul, sponsered by the Korean Red Cross Society, was undertaken between August 21 and 31, 1984, to investigate dietary and nutritional status. RESULTS: Mean values of height, weight, arm circumference, girth of chest, and head circumference ranged from 95 to 100% of KIST mean. However, 4.8~14.2% of the subjects were assessed as undernourished in terms of 'weight for height'. Mean hemoglobin vcalue was 12.1±0.7gm%, and mean hematocrit value was 38.5±2.2%; 4.1% of the subjects were proven to be anemic according to the criterion of hemoglobin established by the ICNND. Mean urinary urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio was 11.4±3.8. Regarding mean energy and nutrient intake, the following percentages had intakes below two-thirds of the 1985 RDAs: 28.8% of children, for protein; 48.8% of children, for iron; and 28.8% of children, for calcium. About 25% of children had vitamin A intake below one-third of the recommended allowance. Carbohydrate provided 71% of total energy intake; protein accounted for 13%; fat provided 16%. Energy intake was divided among breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks in a percentage ration of 19:26:21:34. The lunch, and snacks which were served at the day care center provided 36.5~79.1% of daily energy and nutrient intake. The survey clarified that the day care feding largely supplemented the inadequate dietary intakes of these young children at home. According to factor analysis of energy and nutrient intake, there were two factor groups : the first factor group, for energy, protein, carbohydrate, iron and niacin, mainly provided by grains; and the second factor group, for calcium, vitamin A, thamin, riboflavin and ascorbic acid, provided by vegetables, fruits, milk and milk products. The survey also revealed significant correlation coefficients between family factors such as family income, educational level of parents, and number of children; and dietary or nutritional status of the subjects.

• Journal of Acupuncture Research
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• v.19 no.4
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• pp.152-166
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• 2002

Objective : This study was undertaken to determine whether Hominis Placenta(HP) aqua-acupuncture exerts renoprotective effect on diabetic nephropathy induced by streptozotocin(STZ) in rats. Methods : In order to study the renoprotective effect of HP aqua-acupuncture, experimental animals were divided into 5 groups and treated for 2 weeks as follows: control group was injected subcutaneously by saline aqua-acupuncture into Sinsu(BL23) in STZ induced diabetic rats, 5% HP aqua-acupuncture group was injected subcutaneously by 5% HP aqua-acupuncture into Sinsu(BL23) in STZ induced diabetic rats, 10% HP aqua-acupuncture group was injected subcutaneously by 10% HP aqua-acupuncture into Sinsu(BL23) in STZ induced diabetic rats, normal group was injected subcutaneously by saline aqua-acupuncture into Sinsu(BL23) in normal rats, and Captopril group was administrated with captopril at a dose of 50mg/kg in STZ induced diabetic rats. Results : While HP aqua-acupuncture did not reduce any body weight, index of kidney hypertrophy, the plasma glucose concentration and BUN respectively, HP aqua-acupuncture showed lowering urinary albumin excretion rate and serum creatinine as compared with the control group. Gene and protein expressions of $TGF-{\beta}1$ and fibronectin in kidney, one of the extracellular matrix proteins were investigated. There were significant differences in expression levels in HP aqua-acupuncture group as compared with the control group, and $100{\mu}g/m{\ell}$ and $500{\mu}g/m{\ell}$ of HP depressed apoptosis, showing in a dose dependent manner. In the HE staining, HP aqua-acupuncture inhibited the injury of glomerulus and proximal convoluted tubule. Conclusions : HP aqua-acupuncture showed the renoprotective effect possibly through suppressions of $TGF-{\beta}1$ and fibronectin expressions in kidney.

• Korean Journal of Acupuncture
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• v.26 no.1
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• pp.61-77
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• 2009

Objective : This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Dianthi Semen Herba herbal-acupuncture (DS-HA) at KI10 (Umgok) on nephritis induced by LPS in rat. Methods : Rats were injected with LPS and treated with DS-HA at KI10 3 times for a week(DS-HA), N.P. group was treated 26 gauge needle at KI10, saline group was treated with normal saline at KI10. To estimate the effects of DS-HA at KI10 on nephritis in rats, WBC, neutrophils in blood, BUN, creatinine TNF-${\alpha}$, CINC-1 in serum, urinal volume and creatinean and total protein in urine, reanl TNF-${\alpha}$, renal MPO were measured and histological analysis of renal tissue was performed. Results : DS-HA at KI10 significantly decreased WBC and neutrophil in blood and BUN and creatinin in serum, MPO in kidney, and significantly increased urinary volume in LPS-stimulated rats. DS-HA at KI10 reduced accumulation of neutrophil in renal tissue of LPS-stimulated rats. Conclusions : Taken together, DS-HA at KI10 has a protective or therapeutic effect for nephritis in LPS-stimulated rat. Therefore, it is suggested that DS-HA at KI10 may be an useful therapeutics in clinical field after further researches.

• BMB Reports
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• v.39 no.4
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• pp.400-405
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• 2006

A 16-month old boy was referred to our hospital for evaluation of recurrent generalized tonic clonic seizures. Metabolic evaluation revealed significant hyperammonemia ($1,112\;{\mu}g/dl$). Amino acid/acylcarnitine screening using tandem mass spectrometry showed markedly increased plasma levels of citrulline ($1,350\;{\mu}M/l$) with undetectable levels of arginine and arginosuccinic acid. Urinary excretion of citrulline was markedly increased ($38,617\;{\mu}M/g$ creatinine). Brain MRI findings showed diffuse high-signal intensity lesions, that involved gray and white matter in both frontal lobes and insula with edematous changes; these findings were consistent with the acute stage of citrullinemia (CTLN). Mutation analysis of the argininosuccinate synthetase (ASS) gene, in this patient, showed a Gly324Ser mutation in exon 13, and a 67-bp duplication mutation in exon 15 (c.1128-6_1188dup67). The patient was confirmed as having late-onset CTLN1 and treated with anticonvulsants, lactulose enema, protein restricted diet and arginine. Here we describe a case of late-onset CTLN1 in a patient by biochemical analyses and ASS gene mutation confirmation. This is the first report of a Korean patient with late-onset CTLN1 confirmed by ASS gene mutation identification.

• Korean Journal of Pharmacognosy
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• v.12 no.1
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• pp.31-43
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• 1981

In order to determine the effect of Oryeongsan reputed to have diuretic action since Han Dynasty and possible synergetic action of Dianthi Semen, Polygonum avicularis Herba, Kochiae Fructus and Akebiae Lignum, herbs with similar reputation, when added to the above prescription, their decoction powders were solved into distilled water and injected into rabbits through the ear vein. Upon the treatment, the excretion of sodium, potassium and chloride ion together with urine volume was kinetically determined. At the same time the clearance of plasma creatinine and sodium ion was determined and the following results were obtained. Every experimental group demonstrated diuretic action, though feable, of relatively long duration. The diuretic mechanism in the case of Oryeongsan made up by mixing the seperate extracts of individual components and Oryeongsan(A) plus Dianthi Semen was found to be inhibitory effect of renal tubular reabsorption in contrast to the case of Oryeongsan(A) plus Polygonum avicularis Herba, Kochiae Fructus or Akebiae Lignum in which case the diuretic mechanism was found to be glomerular vascular dilatation. The urinary excretion of potassium ion was increased in the case of Oryeongsan(A) plus Dianthi Semen, Kochiae Fructus of Akebiae Lignum whereas in the other cases no similar change was registered. The diuretic action was most remarkable in the case of Oryeongsan(A) plus Polygonum avicularis Herba followed by Oryeongsan(A) plus Kochiae Fructus, Oryeongsan(A) plus Dianthi Semen, extract mixture of individual component of Oryeongsan, Oryeongsan(A) and Oryeongsan(A) plus Akebiae Lignum decreasing order. The duration of diuretic action was found to be 90 minutes in the case of Oryeongsan and mixture of individual component of Oryeongsan, and 60 minutes in the case of Oryeongsan(A) plus Dianthi Semen, Kochiae Fructus or Akebiae Lignum in contrast to the case of Oryeongsan(A) plus Polygonum avicularis Herba which lasted up to 120 minutes.

• Journal of Yeungnam Medical Science
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• v.33 no.1
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• pp.59-63
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• 2016

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a rare and severe drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome characterized by hematological abnormalities and multiorgan involvement. Liver involvement is the most common visceral manifestation. However, renal failure has been rarely described. The common culprit drugs are anticonvulsants and allopurinol. We experienced a patient with DRESS syndrome with acute interstitial nephritis caused by concomitant administration of quinolone and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). A 41-year-old man presented with a diffuse erythematous rash and fever which developed after administration of quinolone and NSAIDs for a month due to prostatitis. He was diagnosed with DRESS syndrome. Skin rash, fever, eosinophilia, and elevations of liver enzymes improved with conservative treatment and discontinuation of the causative drugs. However, deterioration of his renal function occurred on day 8 of admission. The levels of blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine increased and oliguria, proteinuria and urinary eosinophils were observed. Ultrasonography showed diffuse renal enlargement. The clinical features were compatible with acute interstitial nephritis. Despite intravenous rehydration and diuretics, renal function did not improve. After hemodialysis, his renal function recovered completely within 2 weeks without administration of systemic corticosteroid.

• Journal of Nutrition and Health
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• v.40 no.5
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• pp.419-427
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• 2007

This study explored the effects of dietary calcium level and Hijikia fusiforme supplementation on bone indices and serum lipid levels using 36 female Sprague-Dawley rats as a model. Rats received low Ca diet for 3 weeks after ovariectomy. The rats were then divided into six dietary groups and fed low (0.1% Ca), normal (0.5% Ca) and high (1.5% Ca) Ca diets (CaL, CaN, CaH) and low, normal, high Ca diets with Hijikia fusiforme supplementation (CaLH, CaNH, CaHH) for 3 weeks. After each experimental periods, 24 hour urine and/or blood samples, left and right femurs were collected for analysis. Serum Ca concentration showed no significant difference by dietary Ca levels and Hijikia fusiforme supplementation. Alkaline phosphatase activity was significantly higher in normal and high Ca group compared to low Ca group. Serum total cholesterol, triglyceride and total lipid were not significantly different among groups. HDL-cholesterol showed no significant difference by Hijikia fusiforme supplementation. However, the normal and high Ca groups showed significantly higher HDL-cholesterol compared to the low Ca group. Urinary hydroxyproline and hydroxyproline/creatinine ratio were not significantly different among groups. The wet weight of the femur was significantly higher in low Ca group compared to normal or high Ca group. The dry weight, wet weight/body weight, length and breaking force of the femur were not significantly different among groups. Ash contents/wet weight of the femur was significantly increased as dietary Ca levels up and significantly higher in Hijikia fusiforme supplementation groups. The Ca content of the femur were significantly higher in the normal and high Ca groups than the low Ca group. However, there was no significant difference in Ca content by Hijikia fusiforme supplementation.