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Context:Allium senescens Linn. (Liliaceae) (ASL) has been traditionally used in Korea and other Asian countries for improving digestive and liver functions. Objective: The anti-hepatofibrosis effect of ASL ethanol extract in cellular and experimental fibrosis rat model was investigated. Materials and methods:In vitro cell viability, cell cycle and apoptosis in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were studied using MTT assay, flow cytometry and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining. Thioacetamide (TAA; 200 mg/kg, i.p.)-induced liver fibrosis model using Sprague Dawley rats (n = 10) was developed in vivo by injecting TAA twice per week for 13 weeks. ASL (25 and 100 mg/kg) and silymarin (50 mg/kg) were administered through oral gavage 2 times per week from 7th to 13th week. Specific fibrotic-related biomarkers such as aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), glutathione and hydroxyproline levels in serum were analyzed by spectrophotometer using commercial kits. Morphological, histopathological and fibrotic-related gene expression such as TGF-β, Col1α1 and α-SMA in liver tissues was estimated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, Picrosirius red stain and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Results: ASL (0.1 mg/mL) and silymarin (0.05 mg/mL) treatment induced apoptosis (4.06% and 8.67%) in activated HSC-T6 cells, compared with control group (3.7%). The altered morphology in activated primary HSCs was also restored by ASL (0.1 mg/mL) treatment. Further, ASL (100 and 25 mg/kg) ameliorated the TAA-induced altered fibrotic-related biomarkers, histopathological changes and fibrotic-related gene expression significantly (p

The absorption range of Si is extended to essential wavelength range of lidar sensor for self-driving car via strain engineering., Silicon has been widely used in the microelectronics industry. However, its photonic applications are restricted to visible and partial near-infrared spectral range owing to its fundamental optical bandgap (1.12 eV). With recent advances in strain engineering, material properties, including optical bandgap, can be tailored considerably. This paper reports the strain-induced shrinkage in the Si bandgap, providing photosensing well beyond its fundamental absorption limit in Si nanomembrane (NM) photodetectors (PDs). The Si-NM PD pixels were mechanically stretched (biaxially) by a maximum strain of ~3.5% through pneumatic pressure–induced bulging, enhancing photoresponsivity and extending the Si absorption limit up to 1550 nm, which is the essential wavelength range of the lidar sensors for obstacle detection in self-driving vehicles. The development of deformable three-dimensional optoelectronics via gas pressure–induced bulging also facilitated the realization of unique device designs with concave and convex hemispherical architectures, which mimics the electronic prototypes of biological eyes.

Hemoglobin (Hb) includes oxygen-bound oxyhemoglobin (HbO2), oxygen-free deoxyhemoglobin (deoxyHb), and methemoglobin (metHb), which underwent protein denaturation by heat. The absorption curve of HbO2 reaches a peak at 418 nm, reaches a small peak at 542 and 577 nm, then decreases, and finally forms a smaller peak at 940 nm. DeoxyHb reaches peaks at 430 and 555 nm and reaches a peak once again between 800 and 1200 nm (Fig. 6.1) [1, 2].

Background/Aims: Sofosbuvir plus ribavirin is a standard treatment for patients infected with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 2 in Korea. The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of this treatment in Korean patients with chronic HCV genotype 2 infection. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed clinical data of patients treated with sofosbuvir plus ribavirin for chronic HCV genotype 2 from May 2016 to December 2017 at eight hospitals located in the Daejeon-Chungcheong area. Results: A total of 172 patients were treated with sofosbuvir plus ribavirin. Of them, 163 patients completed the treatment, and 162 patients were tested for sustained virologic response 12 weeks after treatment discontinuation (SVR12). Mean age was 59.6±12.3 years (27-96), and 105 (64.4%) patients were female. Of the total patients, 49 (30.1%) were diagnosed with cirrhosis, and 31 of them were treated for 16 weeks. Sofosbuvir plus ribavirin was the first-line treatment for 144 (88.3%) patients. Eleven (6.7%) patients were intolerant to previous interferon-based treatment. Eight (5.0%) patients relapsed after interferon-based treatment. HCV RNA non-detection rate at 4, 8, and 12 weeks was 97.5%, 99.1%, and 99.3%, respectively, and SVR12 was 98.8% (161/163). During treatment, 18 (11.0%) patients had to reduce their administrated dose of ribavirin because of anemia. One patient stopped the treatment because of severe anemia. Other adverse events, including dizziness, indigestion, and headache, were found in 26 (16.0%) patients. Conclusions: A 12-16 week treatment with sofosbuvir plus ribavirin is remarkably effective and well tolerated in Korean patients with chronic HCV genotype 2 infection. (Clin Mol Hepatol 2018;24:311-318)

We report on the thickness-dependent Raman spectroscopy of ultrathin silicon (Si) nanomembranes (NMs), whose thicknesses range from 2 to 18 nm, using several excitation energies. We observe that the Raman intensity depends on the thickness and the excitation energy due to the combined effects of interference and resonance from the band-structure modulation. Furthermore, confined acoustic phonon modes in the ultrathin Si NMs were observed in ultralow-frequency Raman spectra, and strong thickness dependence was observed near the quantum limit, which was explained by calculations based on a photoelastic model. Our results provide a reliable method with which to accurately determine the thickness of Si NMs with thicknesses of less than a few nanometers.

Context: Ampelopsis brevipedunculata Maxim (Vitaceae) is a traditional medicinal herb used for treating liver disorders. Objective: The hepatoprotective effects of A. brevipedunculata ethanol extract (ABE) was investigated in experimental models of fibrosis. Materials and methods: Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) system in vitro and thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver fibrosis rat model in vivo were used. Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into five groups of eight each (control, TAA, TAA with ABE 10 mg/kg, ABE 100 mg/kg and silymarin 50 mg/kg groups, respectively). Fibrosis was induced except to the control group by TAA (200 mg/kg, i.p.) twice per week for 13 weeks. ABE and silymarin was administered orally six times per week from the 7th week to the 13th week. Results: In HSC-T6 cells, ABE (0.1 mg/mL) and silymarin (0.05 mg/mL) significantly (p

We demonstrated the apoptotic effect of bee venom (BV) on human MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells using Raman spectroscopy and principal component analysis (PCA). Biochemical changes in cancer cells were monitored following BV treatment; the results for different concentrations and treatment durations differed markedly. Significantly decreased Raman vibrations for DNA and proteins were observed for cells treated with 3.0 µg/mL BV for 48 h compared with those of control cells. These results suggest denaturation and degradation of proteins and DNA fragmentation (all cell death-related processes). The Raman spectroscopy results agreed with those of atomic force microscopy and conventional biological tests such as viability, TUNEL, and western blot assays. Therefore, Raman spectroscopy, with PCA, provides a noninvasive, label-free tool for assessment of cellular changes on the anti-cancer effect of BV.

In the present study, we investigated the quality, sensory characteristics and commercialization potential of a rice collet snack made with the addition of dried shrimp. “Mild” and “spicy” snack products were produced with an edible oil coating and mixed seasoning powder coating, respectively. The approximate composition of the mild and spicy snacks, respectively, were 2.44% and 2.24% for moisture, 8.52% and 8.64% for crude protein, 18.36% and 26.54% for crude lipids, 1.28% and 1.38% for ash, 1.1% and 1.2% for salt, and 0.61 and 0.62 for pH. The L (lightness), a (redness), b (yellowness), and ⊿E (color difference) values were higher for the mild snack than the spicy snack. The mild and spicy snack had values of 7,776.4 and 7,655.8 mg/100 g for total amino acids, and 221.6 and 253.5 mg/100 g for total free amino acids, respectively. The TBA (thiobarbituric acid) value did not differ significantly between the two types of snack. The hardness value of the spicy snack was higher than that of the mild snack, but there were no significant differences in flavor between the two products. The sensory evaluation score of the spicy snack was slightly higher than that of the mild snack. Organoleptic inspection indicated that both snacks had a favorable, unique taste.

This study was performed to obtain basic data regarding the development of fish steak products using olive flounder and pork leg. Olive flounder and pork leg were ground separately in a chopper. The methods used for processing were as follows. Chopped olive flounder (100 g) and other ingredients (bread crumbs, 13 g; onion, 12 g; garlic, 4 g; egg wash, 18 g; salt, 0.05 g; pepper, 0.05 g) were mixed in a chopper. The mixture was molded into a steak shape () and roasted in an oven at for 12 min (OF). FP consisting of a mixture of olive flounder (70 g) and pork leg meat (30 g) and OP consisting of pork leg meat alone (100 g) were processed according to the same procedure as described for OF. Various factors (viable bacterial count, chemical composition, pH, salinity, hardness value, color value, total amino acid content, free amino acid content, fatty acid composition, mineral content) were measured, and sensory evaluation was conducted. Based on the results of the sensory evaluation and hardness value, OP was deemed to be the most desirable, followed in order by FP and OF. There was a slight but significant difference between OP and FP.

This study was undertaken to investigate the quality changes of salted-fermented anchovy meat made by varying the amount of salt during fermentation at 15℃. Anchovy (11.0-14.0 cm of length, 10.7-17.5 g of weight) added with 15-25% of salt was filled in a round form plastic container (i.d. 10.5x11 cm), and then fermented at 15℃ for 110 days. The factors such as proximate composition, pH, color value (L, a, b), TBA value, amino-N content, salinity, hardness value, free amino acid content and sensory evaluation of salted-fermented anchovy meat were measured. Ash content, color value (redness), TBA value, amino-N content. salinity and hardness value of salted-fermented anchovy meat were increased, but color value (lightness), and moisture content were decreased during fermentation at 15℃. A salted-fermented anchovy meat added with 15% of salt was shown higher content of moisture, amino-N content and free amino acid, TBA value than those of 20 or 25% of salt. Ash content, salinity and hardness value were highest in a product added with 25% of salt. From the result of sensory evaluation, Addition amount of 15% salt and fermentation periods of 110 days were determined to be the most desirable palatability of salted-fermented anchovy meat. Key words : Anchovy, Salt concentration, Fermenting temperature, Salted-fermented anchovy meatCorresponding author : 055-772-9141, kimjg@gnu.ac.kr

Background Hesperidin is a flavonoid with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune modulatory activities. Photoaging is a consequence of chronic exposure to the sun and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of hesperidin against photoaging of dorsal skin in hairless mice. Methods Hairless male mice (6-week-old) were divided into three groups (n = 7): control, UVB-treated vehicle, and UVB-treated hesperidin groups. UVB-irradiated mice from hesperidin group were orally administered 0.1 mL of water containing 100 mg/kg body weight per day hesperidin. Results The mean length and depth of wrinkles in the UVB-treated hesperidin group significantly improved after the oral administration of hesperidin, which significantly inhibited the increase in epidermal thickness and epidermal hypertrophy (P < 0.05). UVB irradiation of mice induced epidermal barrier dysfunction including an increase in the transepidermal water loss (TEWL); however, hesperidin decreased the TEWL. UVB irradiation increased the expression of MMP-9 and pro-inflammatory cytokines whereas UVB-treated hesperidin group showed reduced expression. These results indicate that hesperidin showed anti-photoaging activity in the UVB-irradiated hairless mice. In conclusion, hesperidin inhibited the UVB-induced increase in skin thickness, wrinkle formation, and collagen fiber loss in male hairless mice. Conclusions These results suggest that hesperidin shows potent anti-photoaging activity by regulating MMP-9 expression through the suppression of MAPK-dependent signaling pathways.

Aquaculture of olive flounder started in the middle of 1980's and now farming has been taken place in many places along the coastal line in Korea. The taste of olive flounder has a good chewy texture because of high collagen content, low fat content, so it is popular for sliced raw fish. Olive flounder is popular among Koreans but the consumption pattern is uniformly so as to be used as sliced raw fish but not other ways. So, now there needs to develop high valued-processed food using olive flounder.This study was set to investigate the processing of terrine by using olive flounder, in which terrine is French style meat loaf that is well favored around the world. In this study, terrine was prepared by chopping olive flounder meat with 39 g egg white and 10 mL fresh cream (per 50 g fillet) and then seasoned with 5 mL lemon juice, 5 mL brandy, 0.05 g salt and 0.05 g pepper. The 25 g of dough was placed on a vinyl wrap, put with 2 g cheese, and layered an another 25 g dough, and then rolled up and wrapped by aluminium foil. Two different cooking methods were used for terrine processing in this study. Terrine-1 was cooked by vacuum sealed in polyethylene film (20×30×0.05 mm) after boiling for 5 min and stored at -20℃ for 7 days. Terrine-2 was prepared by vacuum sealed in polyethylene film (20×30×0.05 mm) and stored at -20℃ for 7 days. After 7 days, Terrine-1 was thawed and then heated up in microwave for 2 min (Sample-1), while Terrine-2 was thawed and then boiled in water for 5 min (Sample-2). Viable bacterial count, chemical composition, pH, salinity, hardness, TBA, free amino acid content, and sensory evaluation were measured for both Sample-1 and Sample-2. Especially, the scores of sensory evaluation of Sample-2 is slightly higher than that of Sample-1. On the other hand, there were no significant differences on color, odor, taste, texture, and overall acceptance between Sample-1 and Sample-2.Key words : Terrine, Olive flounder, Sensory evaluation, BoilingCorresponding author : 055-772-9141, kimjeonggyun@nate.com

Open coordination sites (OCSs) in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) often function as key factors in the potential applications of MOFs, such as gas separation, gas sorption, and catalysis. For these applications, the activation process to remove the solvent molecules coordinated at the OCSs is an essential step that must be performed prior to use of the MOFs. To date, the thermal method performed by applying heat and vacuum has been the only method for such activation. In this report, we demonstrate that methylene chloride (MC) itself can perform the activation role: this process can serve as an alternative "chemical route" for the activation that does not require applying heat. To the best of our knowledge, no previous study has demonstrated this function of MC, although MC has been popularly used in the pretreatment step prior to the thermal activation process. On the basis of a Raman study, we propose a plausible mechanism for the chemical activation, in which the function of MC is possibly due to its coordination with the Cu(2+) center and subsequent spontaneous decoordination. Using HKUST-1 film, we further demonstrate that this chemical activation route is highly suitable for activating large-area MOF films.

Pachymic acid (PA) is a lanostane-type triterpenoid derived from Poria cocos mushroom that possess various biological effects such as anti-cancer, antiinflammatory and anti-metastasis effects. In this study, we investigated the anti-cancer effects of PA in EJ bladder cancer cells. The results showed that PA significantly inhibited proliferation of EJ cells in a dose-dependent manner. PA induced accumulation of sub-G1 DNA content (apoptotic cell population), apoptotic bodies and chromatin condensation and DNA fragmentation in EJ cells in a dose-dependent manner. PA also induces activation of caspase-3, -8 and -9, and subsequent cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, and significantly suppressed the inhibitor of apoptosis protein family proteins in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, PA activates Bid and induced the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm ) with up-regulated pro-apoptotic proteins (Bax and Bad), down-regulated anti-apoptotic proteins (Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL) and cytochrome c release. In turn, PA increased the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS); also, the ROS production was blocked by N-acetyl-L-cysteine. The expressions of TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand and death receptor 5 were up-regulated by PA in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting extrinsic pathway also involved in PA-induced apoptosis. This study provides evidence that PA might be useful in the treatment of human bladder cancer.

A primitive version of a ruthenium complex [Ru(bpy)3(2+)] was employed for the first time as a new conceptual "single-component redox shuttle" for dye-sensitized solar cells. This single shuttle led to a large enhancement of the open-circuit photovoltage (VOC) to ∼940 mV relative to that of conventional iodine-based shuttle and greatly increased the efficiency of the solar-to-electric energy conversion at lower illumination levels by a factor of ca. 5.6.

Oysters, especially are excellent source of several mineral including iron, zinc and selenium, which are often low in the mordern diet. They are also an excellent source of glycogen, vitamin B12 and considered the healthiest when eaten raw on the half shell in good tasted season from November to March.This study was investigated for the purpose of obtaining basic data which can be applied to processing of two kinds of canned boiled oyster (canned boiled oyster, canned boiled oyster in bamboo salt). Shucked oyster meat was cooked in steam (15min) after washing with water, filled 90g into can (301-3), added with salt solution and then precooked for 10 min. at 100℃. Canned boiled oyster was added 1.5% salt solution 60mL. Canned boiled oyster in bamboo salt was added 0.5% salt solution 30mL and 0.7% bamboo salt solution 30mL. The cans were seamed using a vacuum seamer, and then sterilized for various Fo values (Fo 8~12 min.) in a steam system retort at 116℃, 118℃. Viable bacterial count, proximate composition, pH, salinity, yield, VBN, amino-N, TBA, mineral, color value, free amino acid, hardness and sensory evaluation of two kinds of canned boiled oyster produced at various sterilization condition (Fo 8~12 min.) were measured after divide to meat and juice. The results showed that canned boiled oyster in bamboo salt sterilized at Fo 8 min. was the most desirable because this condition is the most economical and tasty.Key words : Oyster, Canned boiled oyster, Canned boiled oyster in bamboo salt, Sterilization, Fo value Corresponding author : 055-772-9141, kimjeonggyun@nate.com

To develop an effective use for poor-quality individually quick-frozen (IQF) oysters Crassostrea gigas stored for a long period, the extract conditions, quality characteristics, and optimum reaction flavoring (RF) conditions of a complex extract from these IQF oysters were investigated. The moisture, pH, and volatile basic nitrogen contents of IQF oysters stored for 18 months (18M-IQFO) were 77.9%, 6.32, and 17.9 mg/100 g, respectively. Three different kinds of extract were prepared from 18M-IQFO: a hot-water extract (HE), scrap enzymatic hydrolysate (EH), and complex extract (CE). The respective extracts contained 5.5, 8.6, and 6.6% crude protein and 281.7, 366.0, and 343.0 mg/100 g amino nitrogen, and had 811, 359, and 1,170 mL/kg extraction yields. The CE was superior to the traditional HE in terms of the extraction yield, amino-nitrogen content, and organoleptic qualities, except for the odor. To improve flavor via the Maillard reaction, the reaction system used to produce a desirable flavor comprised CE (Brix 30°), 0.4 M glucose, 0.4 M glycine, and 0.4 M cysteine solution (4:2:1:1, v/v). The reaction time and pH were the independent variables, and the sensory scores for baked potato odor, masking shellfish odor, and boiled meat odor were the dependent variables. The surface response methodology (RSM) analysis of the multiple responses optimization gave a reaction time of 120.6 minutes and pH 7.33 at 120°C. The reaction improved the flavor of CE considerably, as compared to that of the unreacted extract.

과메기는 조선시대 부터 생선의 보존성을 향상시키기 위해 경 북 동해안 일대에서 건조시켜서 만든 대표적인 전통·향토식품 으로 알려져 있다(Oh and Kim, 1995). 과메기는 1960년 이전 에는 주로 청어를 동절기에 자연건조 하여 만들었으나 어획량 의 감소와 기온의 상승으로 최근에는 청어보다 건조가 용이한 꽁치를 이용하여 제조하고 있다(Oh and Kim, 1998; Oh et al., 1998a). 꽁치나 청어는 고등어, 방어, 정어리, 전갱이, 다랑어 등 과 함께 등푸른 생선으로 불리며, 고도불포화지방산인 eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) 함량이 높아 심근경색, 뇌경색, 고혈압 등 주요 성인병 예방의 생리적 기능을 가지고 있는 것으로 알려져 있다(Oh et al., 1998a). 또 한 어린이 성장촉진 및 두뇌발달에 효과적인 성분과 여성피부 에 효과가 있는 성분이 다량 들어 있다는 연구가 발표되어 있다 (Uhei et al., 1990). 과메기에 관하여 1995년 이후부터 현재까지 많은 발표 논문 이 발표되어 있다. 즉, 과메기의 제조조건에 관한 연구로는 Oh and Kim (1995)이 꽁치 자연동결건조(과메기) 중 지방함량과 지방산조성의 변화, Oh et al. (1998a)이 과메기 제조 시 건조 조건에 따른 꽁치 근육의 성분변화, Oh et al. (1998b)이 꽁치 과메기의 건조조건에 따른 amine의 변화, Oh and Kim (1998) 이 핵산류 및 유리아미노산의 변화, Oh et al. (1996)이 콜레스 테롤 함량 변화에 대하여 보고하였으며, 과메기의 저장조건에 초고추장첨가 과메기통조림의 제조 및 특성

The activation of open coordination sites (OCSs) in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), i.e., the removal of solvent molecules coordinated at the OCSs, is an essential step that is required prior to the use of MOFs in potential applications such as gas chemisorption, separation, and catalysis because OCSs often serve as key sites in these applications. Recently, we developed a "chemical activation" method involving dichloromethane (DCM) treatment at room temperature, which is considered to be a promising alternative to conventional thermal activation (TA), because it does not require the application of external thermal energy, thereby preserving the structural integrity of the MOFs. However, strongly coordinating solvents such as N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), N,N-diethylformamide (DEF), and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) are difficult to remove solely with the DCM treatment. In this report, we demonstrate a multiple coordination exchange (CE) process executed initially with acetonitrile (MeCN), methanol (MeOH), or ethanol (EtOH) and subsequently with DCM to achieve the complete activation of OCSs that possess strong extracoordination. Thus, this process can serve as an effective "chemical route" to activation at room temperature that does not require applying heat. To the best of our knowledge, no previous study has demonstrated the activation of OCSs using this multiple CE process, although MeOH and/or DCM has been popularly used in pretreatment steps prior to the TA process. Using MOF-74(Ni), we demonstrate that this multiple CE process can safely activate a thermally unstable MOF without inflicting structural damage. Furthermore, on the basis of in situ

Context: Cuscuta chinensis Lam. (Convolvulaceae) has been used as a traditional herbal remedy for treating liver and kidney disorders. Objective: Anti-fibrotic effects of C. chinensis extract (CCE) in cellular and experimental animal models were investigated. Materials and methods: HSC-T6 cell viability, cell cycle and apoptosis were analysed using MTT assay, flow cytometry and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining techniques. Thioacetamide (TAA)-induced fibrosis model was established using Sprague Dawley rats (n = 10). Control, TAA, CCE 10 (TAA with CCE 10 mg/kg), CCE 100 (TAA with CCE 100 mg/kg) and silymarin (TAA with silymarin 50 mg/kg). Fibrosis was induced by TAA (200 mg/kg, i.p.) twice per week for 13 weeks. CCE and silymarin were administered orally two times per week from the 7th to 13th week. Fibrotic related gene expression (α-SMA, Col1α1 and TGF-β1) was measured by RT-PCR. Serum biomarkers, glutathione (GSH) and hydroxyproline were estimated by spectrophotometer using commercial kits. Results: CCE (0.05 and 0.1 mg/mL) and silymarin (0.05 mg/mL) treatment significantly (p

상온에서 저장이 용이하고 기호도가 우수한 토마토페이스트소스첨가 과메기통조림을 제조하기 위하여 절단한 시판과메기( $3cm{\times}2.5cm$ 크기) 90 g을 301-3호관에 넣고 $100^{\circ}C$ 의 레토르트내에서 10분간 예비 탈기하였다. 상층부의 물을 부어서 버리고 토마토페이스트 소스(토마토페이스트 42%, 식염 2%, 구아검 1%, 물 52%, 물엿 2%, 맛술 1%) 60 g을 넣은 후 이중밀봉기로 탈기, 밀봉하여 $121^{\circ}C$ 에서 Fo 값이 8-12분이 되도록 살균하여 토마토페이스트소스첨가 과메기통조림을 제조하였으며, 각 살균 조건별로 제조한 시료에 대하여 내용물의 이화학적 성질의 변화 및 관능적 변화에 대하여 살펴보았다. Fo 값이 8-12분이 되도록 살균한 토마토페이스트소스첨가 과메기통조림의 경우 모든 살균조건에서 생균수가 검출되지 않았으며, Fo 값이 증가함에 따라 일반성분 중 수분함량은 감소하였고 조단백질 및 조지방함량은 증가하였다. 살균조건의 차이에 따른 pH의 변화는 거의 없었으며, VBN, 아미노질소량 및 조직감은 Fo 값이 증가할수록 그 값이 증가하였으나 TBA 값은 오히려 감소하였다. 색조의 경우 명도는 감소하였고 적색도 및 황색도는 거의 차이가 없었으며 색차( ${\Delta}E$ )는 증가하였다. 주요 무기질 성분은 Na, P, K, Ca 및 Mg이었으며 Fo 값의 차이에 따른 함량 변화는 거의 없었다. 총아미노산 및 유리아미노산은 Fo 값이 증가할수록 약간씩 증가하였으며, 총아미노산의 주요 아미노산은 glutamic acid, proline, aspartic acid 및 lysine이었으며, 주요 유리아미노산은 histidine 및 glutamic acid이었다. 관능검사 결과 색조, 냄새, 맛 및 조직감은 Fo 값에 따른 차이가 거의 나지 않았고, 관능검사원들이 관능적 차이를 구별하기 힘들다는 의견이 지배적이었다. 따라서 살균원가가 가장 저렴하고 상업적 살균 조건에도 만족되는 Fo 값 8분인 제품을 생산하는 것이 바람직하다고 판단되었다. 【Kwamaegi is made from the flesh of Pacific saury, Cololabis Saira, which is traditional Korean seafood. It is well-recognized as a valuable health food containing EPA(eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA(docosahexaenoic acid) to be known ${\omega}$ -3 fatty acid. This study was conducted to obtain basic data which can be applied to process of canned Kwamaegi using tomato paste sauce. Commercial Kwamaegi was cut into $2{\times}3cm$ lengths, filled 90 g into can (301-3), added with 60 g water and then precooked for 10 min. at $100^{\circ}C$ . After precooking, water was drained. The precooked Kwamaegi was packed into the can, and added with 60 g of tomato paste sauce(tomato paste 42%, gum guar 1.0%, salt 2.0%, starch syrup 2.0%, cooking wine 1%, water 52%). The cans were seamed using a vacuum seamer, and then sterilized for various Fo values (Fo 8~12 min.) in a steam system retort at $121^{\circ}C$ . pH, VBN, amino-N, total amino acid, free amino acid, color value (L, a, b), texture profile, TBA value, mineral, sensory evaluation and viable bacterial count of the canned Kwamaegi using tomato paste sauce produced at various sterilization condition(Fo 8~12 min.) were measured. There was no remarkable difference between sterilization conditions and sensual characteristics. The results showed that the product sterilized at Fo 8 min. was the most desirable because this condition is the most economical and tasty.】

We investigated the effect of galangin, a natural flavonoid, on osteoclastic bone destruction in collagen-induced arthritis and examined the molecular mechanisms by which galangin affects osteoclastogenesis in bone marrow derived macrophages. In mice with collagen-induced arthritis, administration of galangin significantly reduced the arthritis clinical score, edema and severity of disease without toxicity. Interestingly, galangin treatment during a later stage of collagen-induced arthritis, using mice with a higher clinical arthritis score, still significantly slowed the progression of the disease. Extensive cartilage and bone erosive changes as well as synovial inflammation, synovial hyperplasia and pannus formation were dramatically inhibited in arthritic mice treated with galangin. Furthermore, galangin-treated arthritic mice showed a significant reduction in the concentrations of IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-17. We found that galangin inhibited osteoclastogenic factors and osteoclast formation in bone marrow-derived macrophages and osteoblast co-cultured cells, and increased osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels in osteoblasts. Galangin and NF-κB siRNA suppressed RANKL-induced phosphorylation of the c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), but not AKT and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2). Also, the JNK inhibitor SP600125 and p38 inhibitor SB203580 reduced RANKL-induced expressions of phospho-c-Jun, c-fos and NFATc1 genes during osteoclast development. In addition, galangin suppressed RANKL-induced phosphorylation of NF-κB, phospho-IκBα, inflammatory cytokines and osteoclast formation in bone marrow-derived macrophages. Our data suggest that galangin prevented osteoclastic bone destruction and osteoclastogenesis in osteoclast precursors as well as in collagen-induced arthritis mice without toxicity via attenuation of RANKL-induced activation of JNK, p38 and NF-κB pathways.

Melittin (1) is a major polypeptide in honey bee venom that has been used traditionally against chronic inflammation and cancer. However, its molecular mechanism has not been determined. In this study, the antitumor effect of 1 was compared with that of NS398, a cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor, in vivo and in vitro. Subcutaneous injection of 1 at 0.5 and 5 mg/kg suppressed significantly vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A-transfected highly metastatic Lewis lung cancer (VEGF-A-hm LLC) tumor growth by 25% and 57%, respectively. Also, 1 inhibited significantly the number of vessels around VEGF-A-hm LLC cells. The results were superior to those obtained in the mice treated with NS398. Compound 1 dose-dependently inhibited proliferation and tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (VEGF-A-HUVECs), without affecting cell viability in native HUVECs. In addition, 1 decreased the expression of VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2), COX-2, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in VEGF-A-transfected HUVECs. These effects were accompanied by a reduction of the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and c-jun N-terminal kinase, whereas it increased the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). SB203580 abolished the downregulation of COX-2 and VEGFR-2 and the inhibition of cell proliferation by 1. The antitumor activity of 1 may be associated with antiangiogenic actions via inhibiting VEGFR-2 and inflammatory mediators involved in the MAPK signaling pathway.

Chitosan, a natural polysaccharide, has been reported to possess biologically beneficial properties, including antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and immune-enhancing effects. However, the precise molecular mechanism of the anticancer activity of chitosan is poorly understood. In this study, we investigated whether water-soluble chitosan (WSC) has pro-apoptotic activity on the human leukemia cells (U937, K562, HL60 and THP-1). Our results showed that treatment with WSC for 24 h inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in leukemic cells via the mitochondria-dependent pathway. This effect was accompanied by a marked increase in caspase activation and the cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. In addition, WSC decreased Bcl-2 expression in all leukemic cells and reversed the ectopic expression of Bcl-2 in U937 cells. WSC also suppressed the phosphorylation of Akt, thereby inhibiting cell proliferation. Taken together, these data suggest that WSC inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in leukemia cells through the suppression of Bcl-2- and the Akt-dependent signaling pathways. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Chitosan is a linear polysaccharide obtained from deacetylated chitin. Usage of this compound is significantly increasing because of its immunomodulating, anticancerous, antibacterial and antiviral activity. However, application of chitosan is limited because chitosan is a weak base and is insoluble in water and organic solvent. Water-soluble chitosan (WSC) is allowed to be used for more convenient administration and might provide new strategy to prevent cancer growth. These attempts give possibilities for the applications of WSC in economic markets.

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene and sodium-independent Cl?/HCO₃? anion exchanger (AE) genes are expressed in a wide variety of mammalian tissues including cholangiocytes. They play an important role in the regulation of intracellular pH (pHi) as well as in transepithelial acid/base transport necessary for biliary bicarbonate secretion. The aim of this study was to examine the expression level of CFTR gene and AE genes (AE1, AE2 and AE3) in the cholangiocytes and the hepatocytes, and also measure AE2 gene expression level after bile duct ligation (BDL). As we previously described, isolated hepatocytes and cholangiocytes from the liver of normal and BDL rats were prepared and gene expression levels were measured by using RT-PCR. We found that AE1, AE2, and AE3 genes were expressed in both hepatocytes and cholangiocytes, but CFTR was only in cholangiocytes. AE2 gene expression level was higher in the BDL hepatocytes than normal hepatocytes, which was significantly different between two groups. AE2 gene expression level was lower in the BDL cholangiocytes than normal cholangiocytes. However, AE2 gene expression level in both hepatocytes and cholangiocytes were not changed with a longer duration of BDL. These results suggest that CFTR and AE2 may play an important role in the pathogenetic mechanism of biliary cholestatic liver disease.

Probiotics have many effects such as antihypertensive, prevention of cancer, antioxidation, reduction of dermatitis symptoms, improvement of mineral absorption, reduction of allergic symptoms, and decrease of cholesterol, However, the main role of probiotics is that they balance intestinal microbials proportion. L. acidophilus is one of probiotics and microflora in intestine. It has an acidification activ-ity, aroma production, texture formation and probiotics properties. We studied on the roles of L. acid-ophilus in mice. In this study, body weights of mice were decreased when administration of L. acid-ophilus (1×10 10 CFU) and swimming ability has been raised than a normal group after feeding on L. acidophilus (1×10 10 CFU). After taking L. acidophilus (1×10 10 CFU), total white cells were increased than a normal group; hemoglobin and thrombocytes were increased. The level of cholesterol and tri-glyceride were decreased in blood analysis. We knew L. acidophilus is related to innate immune system. We found out the secretion of cationic peptide was increased in the Lysoplate assays as a re-sult of

Cordycepin (3'-deoxyadenosin), a specific polyadenylation inhibitor, is the main functional component in Cordyceps militaris, one of the top three renowned traditional Chinese medicines. Cordycepin has been shown to possess many pharmacological activities including immunological stimulation, and anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-tumor effects. However, the mechanisms underlying its anti-cancer mechanisms are not yet understood. In this study, the apoptotic effects of cordycepin were investigated in human leukemia cells. Treatment with cordycepin significantly inhibited cell growth in a concentration-dependent manner by inducing apoptosis but not necrosis. This induction was associated with generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial dysfunction, activation of caspases, and cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase protein. However, apoptosis induced by cordycepin was attenuated by caspase inhibitors, indicating an important role for caspases in cordycepin responses. Administration of N-acetyl-l-cysteine, a scavenger of ROS, also significantly inhibited cordycepin-induced apoptosis and activation of caspases. These results support a mechanism whereby cordycepin induces apoptosis of human leukemia cells through a signaling cascade involving a ROS-mediated caspase pathway.

The present study aims to evaluate Cordyceps militaris water extract (CMWE) with a view to develop melanogenesis inhibitors. Inhibitory activities of CMWE against tyrosinase, L-DOPA(L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine) oxidation, and melanin biosynthesis in B16 mouse melanoma cells were investigated. CMWE, at 5000 μg/ml, inhibited tyrosinase activity of 71% and DOPA oxidation of 40% as reacting with L-DOPA. Furthermore, B16 mouse melanoma cell survived over 50% from low to high dose on MTT assay, and CMWE markedly inhibited (>50%) melanin synthesis at 5000 μg/ml. The inhibitory effect of CMWE on melanogenesis was attributed to enhancement of tyrosinase degradation. Key enzyme of melanin biosynthesis is tyrosinase which catalyses a beginning step from tyrosine to DOPA quinine and melanin formation step, respectively. These results indicated that CMWE may be a potential source of novel whitening agents for cosmetic or therapeutic application.

Biodiesel has been recommended as an environmentally benign alternative fuel because it emits a comparatively small amount of air pollutants. Biodiesel can be processed from canola oil, which has a low liquefaction temperature owing to its high unsaturated fatty acid content, which also limits its engine-clogging effects. In this study, optimum conditions such as the amount of methanol, the alkali catalyst, and the reaction temperature were determined for production of biodiesel from canola oil. A maximum biodiesel yield was shown at an oil/methanol mole ratio of 1:6. The optimum amount of catalyst was 1 wt% of potassium hydroxide. The biodiesel yield and the methyl ester content were high when the reaction temperature was 55 °C. The consolute temperature for determining the maximum biodiesel yield was proposed in consideration of the boiling point of methanol. The energy density was analyzed for the final products of biodiesel in comparison to the raw canola oil and other plant oil based biodiesels.

Ethnopharmacological relevance : Lonicera japonica Thunb and Anemarrhena asphodeloides BUNGE have been used for the treatment of a variety of inflammatory diseases, cold and infective diseases in many countries, including Korea and China. Aim of the study : This study aimed to assess the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of n-butanol fraction (WIN-34B) prepared from dried flowers of Lonicera japonica and dried roots of Anemarrhena asphodeloides as potential novel treatment of osteoarthritis. Materials and methods : Anti-nociceptive activities of WIN-34B (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) were measured using acetic acid-induced writhing response, formalin-induced paw licking, hot plate, radiant heat tail-flick, carrageenan-induced paw pressure, and Hargreaves tests, respectively. Anti-inflammatory activities of WIN-34B (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) were assessed using acetic acid-induced vascular permeability, carrageenan-induced paw edema, and croton oil-induced ear edema. Anti-osteoarthritis effect of WIN-34B was analyzed using monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis animal model. Results : WIN-34B exhibited better anti-inflammatory activity than that of celecoxib in carrageenan at the dose of 200 mg/kg and croton oil-induced paw edema and ear edema at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg. WIN-34B exhibited significant anti-inflammatory effects on vascular permeability. WIN-34B also exhibited significant anti-nociceptive activities in the late phase of formalin-induced paw licking and writhing response model in mice. In radiant heat tail-flick and carrageenan-induced paw pressure tests, WIN-34B at the dose of 400 mg/kg and at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg presented similar activities to indomethacin and celecoxib. Compared to indomethacin WIN-34B at 400 mg/kg showed similar or better anti-nociceptive activities after 1 and 2 h of theraphy in the hot plate test and better anti-nociceptive activity than that of celecoxib in Hargreves test. In the MIA-induced osteoarthritis animal models, WIN-34B at 400 mg/kg exhibited similar or better anti-nociceptive property than that of celecoxib throughout the pain measurement periods. Conclusion : When compared to celecoxib, WIN-34B exhibited similar or better anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in osteoarthritic animal models, which may become a potential novel treatment for osteoarthritis.

Bee venom (BV) treatment is the therapeutic application of honeybee venom (HBV) for treating various diseases in Oriental medicine. In the present work, the authors investigated the functional specificity of BV as an angiogenesis inhibitor using in vitro models and in vivo mouse angiogenesis and lung metastasis models. BV significantly inhibited the viability of Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells but did not affect peripheral blood mononuclear lymphocytes (PBML) cells. BV also inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced proliferation, migration and capillary-like tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Western blotting analysis showed that BV inhibited AKT and MAPK phosphorylation in LLC cells and HUVECs and down regulated expression of VEGF and VEGFR-2 of LLC cells and HUVECs. Also, BV effectively disrupted VEGF-induced neovascularization in Matrigel plugs in our in vivo angiogenesis assay. When given subcutaneously, BV also significantly suppressed tumor angiogenesis through inhibition of VEGF and VEGFR-2 in LLC model. Mice bearing subcutaneous LLC tumors were treated with 1mug/ml or 10mug/ml of BV. They showed reductions ranging between 49% and 62% in primary tumor volume and reduction of spontaneous pulmonary metastasis occurrences. Furthermore, BV treatment in the spontaneous lung metastases model after primary tumor excision prolonged their median survival time from 27 to 58days. These results suggest that the tumor-specific anti-angiogenic activity of BV takes effect during different stages of tumor progression by blocking the tyrosine phosphorylation of VEGFR-2, and validate the application of BV in lung cancer treatment.

The concentration of phenolics in Phellinus pini (CY001) extracts, expressed as mg of GAEs per g of P. pini fractions, and the EtOAc fraction (436.5 ㎎ GAEs/g) of P. pini had a higher phenolic content than other fractions. Several biochemical assays were used to screen antioxidant properties such as reducing power, 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging capacity, NBT/XO superoxide system and inhibition of DCF/AAPH peroxyl radicals. Among the six mushroom extracts, the EtOAc fraction from P. pini (CY001) showed the most potent DPPH radical, superoxide radical, and peroxyl radical scavenging activities, with IC 50 values of 11.49 ㎍/ml, 8.32 ㎍/㎖, and 1.91 μg/㎖, respectively. The EtOAc fraction of P. pini (CY001) significantly inhibited enzymatic lipid peroxidation and effectively attenuated LPS-induced NO production of RAW 264.7 cells without cytotoxicity. We also found that the EtOAc fraction had a significant hepato-protectant effect on tacrine-induced cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells. These findings suggest that P. pini (CY001) may have potential as a natural antioxidant, which contains compound(s) with radical scavenging activity.

The aim of this study was to determine the in vitro anti-inflammatory effect of hot water extract from Cordyceps militaris fruiting bodies (CMWE) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated nitric oxide (NO) production, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) release in RAW 264.7 cells. The treatment of macrophages with various concentrations of hot CMWE significantly reduced LPS-induced production as well as NO, TNF-α and IL-6 secretion in a concentration-dependent manner. These results suggest that CMWE have potent inhibitory effects on the production of these inflammatory mediators.

The stacking order in layered transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) induces variations in the electronic and interlayer couplings. Therefore, controlling the stacking orientations when synthesizing TMDCs is desirable but remains a significant challenge. Here, we developed and showed the growth kinetics of different shapes and stacking orders in as-grown multi-stacked MoS2 crystals and revealed the stacking-order-induced interlayer separations, spin–orbit couplings (SOCs), and symmetry variations. Raman spectra in AA(A…)-stacked crystals demonstrated blueshifted out-of-plane (A1g) and in-plane (E2g1) phonon frequencies, representing a greater reduction of the van der Waals gap compared to conventional AB(A…)-stacking. Our observations, together with first-principles calculations, revealed distinct excitonic phenomena due to various stacking orientations. As a result, the photoluminescence emission was improved in the AA(A…)-stacking configuration. Additionally, calculations showed that the valence-band maxima (VBM) at the K point of the AA(A…)-stacking configuration was separated into multiple sub-bands, indicating the presence of stronger SOC. We demonstrated that AA(A…)-stacking emitted an intense second-harmonic signal (SHG) as a fingerprint of the more augmented non-centrosymmetric stacking and enabled SOC-induced splitting at the VBM. We further highlighted the superiority of four-wave mixing-correlated SHG microscopy to quickly resolve the symmetries and multi-domain crystalline phases of differently shaped crystals. Our study based on crystals with different shapes and multiple stacking configurations provides a new avenue for development of future optoelectronic devices. A method for investigating the relative alignment of stacks of two-dimensional layers has been developed by researchers in Korea. Two-dimensional materials, those just a single atom thick, have a host of unusual electronic and optical properties. Placing two-dimensional materials on top of each other to create thicker films offers a way to engineer further novel materials, but the properties of these stacks depend crucially on the relative orientation of each layer. Jong-Hyun Ahn from Yonsei University and colleagues synthesized stacks of molybdenum disulfide monolayers with various angular alignments using a technique called atmospheric-pressure chemical vapor deposition. They then characterized the structures optically and measured a gradual spectroscopic evolution induced by the varying the arrangement. This insight will be useful for designing future optoelectronic devices based on molybdenum disulfide monolayers. NaCl-assisted APCVD technique to synthesize multi-stacked MoS2 crystals with different stacking orientations and shape has been developed. We found that the stacking orientation of multi-stacked MoS2 crystals shows the underlying variation in the crystalline phases, symmetry inversion, spin–orbit coupling and interlayer interactions through intensive optical study based on Raman spectroscopy, PL spectroscopy and nonlinear technique of FWM correlated SHG imaging technique. Our study based on the crystals with different shape and multiple stacking configurations provide a new avenue for the possibilities of future optoelectronic devices.

The objective of this study was to determine the anticancer effects of the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) in vitro. For this study, the lipid extracts of C. gigas were prepared using several organic solvents: methanol, chloroform, hexane, methanol:chloroform=1:1, chloroform: hexane=1:1. The anticancer activity of the extracts was evaluated using cell cycle and apoptosis assays analyzed by a flow cytometry. Of all the extracts, the hexane extracts exhibited the highest anticancer activity compared to the other extracts. The hexane extracts were further separated and purified using thin layer chromatography. The final isolated lipid compounds were identified their components as palmitic acid, margaric acid, and stearic acid. These results indicate that this combination of lipids effectively inhibit in vitro human prostate tumor growth by inducing apoptosis of cancer cells.

Hydrogen has been attracting much interest recently as a source of clean and sustainable energy. However, the volatility of hydrogen, its tendency to explode at concentrations as low as 4 % in air, requires a reliable sensing technology for safe hydrogen utilization. An optical hydrogen safety sensor based on gasochromic thin films can detect a change in color of the film upon exposure to hydrogen gas in an area where a hydrogen leak is suspected. In this study, we compared the sensitivity and the durability of hydrogen sensor films of Pd/WO3, Pt/WO3, and Pt/Pd/WO3. The change in the optical transmittance of the films was measured as these films were repeatedly exposed to hydrogen and air.

We have used Pd–Pt alloy as the catalyst in the hydrogen sensor thin film. Palladium and platinum were co-sputtered on top of a tungsten oxide layer grown by reactive sputtering. Both the sensitivity and the durability were dramatically improved over the case of a palladium single-component catalyst. The fractional change in the optical absorption on exposure to 1% hydrogen gas was increased by a factor larger than 2, and the fractional change decreased only a little after more than 1000 cycles of repeated exposure to 1% hydrogen and air. Moreover, the sensor film exhibited good selectivity to other organic vapors.

Telomerase, a ribonucleoprotein that plays an important role in neoplastic immortality, is up-regulated in approximately 85% of cancers, especially in leukemia. The polyphenol, butein, has potent effects against various types of cancer cells, but its effects on telomerase activity have not been well characterized. In this study, we show that butein causes a down-regulation of hTERT gene expression and a concomitant decrease of telomerase activity. Butein also suppresses expression of c-Myc at the transcriptional level and down-regulates DNA-binding activity, regardless of cell type specificity, in leukemia cells. DNA-binding activities of c-Myc to the hTERT core promoter were decreased in butein-treated cells, as seen by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Treatment with butein also suppressed the activation of Akt, thereby inhibiting hTERT phosphorylation and translocation into the nucleus. In this process, butein also up-regulated the surface expression of CD11b in leukemia cells. Inhibition of telomerase activity by butein was followed by loss of proliferative capacity, induction of apoptosis, and differentiation. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of butein at inhibiting telomerase activity by down-regulating hTERT gene expression in human leukemia cells.

The C. militaris belongs to entomopathogenic fungi, which have their specific sequences in internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS1 and ITS2) depending on species. In this study, to identify the phylogenetic relationship of the strain hybrided by mating of C. militaris, we compared DNA sequences of ITS regions and 5.8S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) repeat unit of hybrid strain and its parental strains. The result revealed that hybrid strains are C. militaris species. In addition, cordycepins produced by hybrid strains and other strains of C. militaris were analyzed by HPLC with 20mM of mobile phase and C-18 columns. The result indicated that the strain hybrided by mating produce higher concentration of phytochemical cordycepin than other C. militaris strains.

Oriental herbal medicines have been widely used for the prevention or treatment of various diseases including cancer in Asia. However, to prove their chemo preventive efficacies in modern times, scientific evidence for those herbal medicines is required. Thus, in the present study, an effective herbal cocktail Bojungbangdocktang (BJBDT) was investigated to elucidate antiangiogenic mechanism in vitro and in vivo. BJBDT significantly inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) induced proliferation in HUVECs at nontoxic concentrations, despite weak cytotoxicity against human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). BJBDT also significantly suppressed VEGF-induced migration and tube formation of HUVECs. Furthermore, BJBDT treatment resulted in pale color and low hemoglobin level in Matrigel plugs, as well as dark red color and high hemoglobin level in untreated control. Interestingly, BJBDT specifically inhibited the binding of VEGF to vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), but not VEGFR1. In addition, friedelin, formononetin, ginsenoside Rb1, naringin, atractyloside, diosgenin, and allantonin were identified from BJBDT by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis as a quality of control. Taken together, these results suggest that BJBDT is a potent angiogenesis inhibitor blocking the VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling pathway in HUVECs.

Pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and nitric oxide (NO), and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6, and TNF-alpha, play pivotal roles in brain injuries. The anti-inflammatory properties are known to be associated with significant reductions in pro-inflammatory mediators in brain injuries. In the present study we investigate whether the effects of curcumin on the production of pro-inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV2 microglia.Curcumin were administered and their effects on LPS-induced pro-inflammatory mediators were monitored by Western blotting and RT-PCR.Curcumin significantly inhibited the release of NO, PGE2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines in a dose-dependent manner. Curcumin also attenuated the expressions of inducible NO synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 mRNA and protein levels. Moreover, curcumin suppressed NF-kappaB activation via the translocation of p65 into the nucleus. Our data also indicate that curcumin exerts anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing the transcription of proinflammatory cytokine genes through the NF-kappaB signaling pathway.Anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin may be useful for treating the inflammatory and deleterious effects of microglial activation in response to LPS stimulation.

Bee venom (BV), well known as a traditional Oriental medicine, has been shown to exhibit anti-arthritic and anti-carcinogenic effects. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity of BV have not been elucidated in microglia. In the present study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of BV and its major component, melittin (MEL), on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV2 microglia. Our results indicate that BV and MEL suppress LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) expression in a dose-dependent manner, without causing cytotoxicity in BV2 microglia. Moreover, BV and MEL suppressed LPS-induced activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB) by blocking degradation of IkappaBalpha and phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and Akt, which resulted in inhibition of iNOS expression. Our data also indicate that BV and MEL exert anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing the transcription of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 genes and proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha. BV and MEL also attenuated the production of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)). These results demonstrate that BV and MEL possess a potent suppressive effect on proinflammatory responses of BV2 microglia and suggest that these compounds may offer substantial therapeutic potential for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases that are accompanied by microglial activation.

Immunostimulating factor (ISTF) isolated from Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans which has been described previously, is distinct from lipopolysaccharide and induces proliferation of B cells. This study was undertaken to investigate whether ISTF might enhance the stimulation of other immune cells. Immunohistochemically, ISTF exhibited a profound stimulating effect on macrophages and dendritic cells as well as B cells in the spleen of BALB/c mice. ISTF was also recognized for its capacity to induce direct activation of mouse macrophages to produce IL-6, TNF-alpha, and NO and MHC class II expression. Therefore, it is postulated that ISTF stimulates macrophages and possibly other cells to produce a wide variety of proinflammatory mediators, which may be involved in the chronicity and tissue destruction of periodontal disease.

Although Fursarium oxysporum causes diseases in economically important plant hosts, identification of F. oxysporum formae speciales has been difficult due to confusing phenotypic classification systems. To resolve these complexity, we evaluated genetic relationship of nine formae speciales of F. oxysporum with random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP), and translation elongation factor-1 alpha (EF-1α) gene. In addition, the correlation between mycotoxin content of fusaric acid and isolates based on molecular marker data was evaluated using the modified Mantel's test. According to these result, these fusaric acid-producing strains could not identify clearly, and independent of geographic locations and host specificities. However, in the identification of F. oxysporum formae speciales, especially, AFLP analysis showed a higher discriminatory power than that of a the RAPD and EF-1α analyses, all three techniques were able to detect genetic variability among F. oxysporum formae speciales in this study.

Puerariae radix (PR) is a traditional medicine herb used for enhancing body resistance against various diseases. The aim of this study was to identify whether Puerariae radix extract induces osteogenic activity in human osteoblast-like SaOS-2 cells. Puerariae radix had no effect on the viability of osteoblastic cells, and dose-dependently increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. Puerariae radix markedly increased mRNA expression for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), osteocalcin (OCN), osteopontin (OPN), and type I collagen (Col I) in SaOS-2 cells. Extracellular accumulation of proteins such as VEGF and Col I was increased in a dose-dependent manner. Also, Puerariae radix significantly induced mineralization in the culture of SaOS-2 cells. In conclusion, this study showed that Puerariae radix had no effect on viability, but enhanced ALP activity, VEGF, bone matrix proteins such as OCN, OPN, and Col I, and mineralization in SaOS-2 cells. These results propose that Puerariae radix can play an important role in osteoblastic bone formation, and may possibly lead to the development of bone-forming drugs.