Purpose : This systematic review aimed to investigate the effects of dual-task training on cognitive and physical function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Methods : A literature search was performed to identify randomized controlled trials published between January 2016 and January 2025 using the Korean studies information service system for domestic studies and PubMed for international studies. The primary search terms included "dual-task", "intervention", "exercise", "rehabilitation" and "mild cognitive impairment". The PICO (patient, intervention, comparison, outcome) framework was applied to develop the literature search strategy and question. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool (RoB 2.0). Results : A total of 1,705 articles were initially identified. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 10 studies were included in the final analysis. The included studies showed that dual-task interventions significantly improved cognitive function in patients with MCI, particularly executive function, working memory, and attention. Measures such as the stroop test, trail making test A and B, and digit span forward and backward tests showed statistically significant improvements (p<.05). Additionally, dual-task training positively impacted physical function, including gait speed, balance, and mobility, as assessed by the timed up and go test, Berg balance scale, and GAITRite system. Neurophysiological assessments, including fNIRS, EEG, and MRI, revealed increased prefrontal cortex activation and cortical thickness, indicating enhanced neuroplasticity. However, the risk of bias assessment showed that 9 of the included studies had "some concerns," and the remaining study was rated "high risk." Furthermore, heterogeneity in task types, training intensity, duration, and combinations of cognitive and motor tasks limited the direct comparison of intervention effects and made it difficult to determine the optimal intervention strategy. Conclusions : Dual-task training is an effective nonpharmacological intervention for enhancing cognitive and physical function in patients with MCI. The findings of this study indicate that integrating cognitive and motor tasks can lead to better functional outcomes and neurophysiological improvements. Further studies with larger sample sizes and standardized protocols are needed to optimize dual-task interventions for patients with MCI.

Purpose : By identifying the relationship between demographic factors, physical fitness factors, and toe muscle strength in college students, this study aims to provide an objective basis for understanding the importance of toe muscle strength and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle in the future. Methods : Prior to measurement, participants were administered the PAR-Q (medical questionnaire) and the health fitness index (exercise and lifestyle), To determine the effects of demographic factors and health-related fitness on toe strength, we measured body composition and health-related fitness (strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, quickness, cardiorespiratory endurance, and toe strength) in 873 college students (421 males and 452 females). Results : First, we analyzed the effect of demographic factors on health-related fitness and found that gender was significant for strength, muscular endurance, and quickness. Grade level was significant for muscular endurance and cardiorespiratory endurance. For subjective health, strength, muscular endurance, and quickness were significant. Sports participation was significant for strength, muscular endurance, quickness, and flexibility. Second, the analysis of the effect of demographic factors on toe strength showed that gender, subjective health, and sports participation had a significant effect. Smoking status had a significant effect on toe strength (right). Third, the analysis of the effect of health-related fitness on toe strength showed that muscle strength, muscular endurance, quickness, and cardiorespiratory endurance had a significant effect on toe strength (left and right). Conclusion : It is important to understand their function in order to build total toe (left and right) strength through lifestyle exercise practices throughout the life cycle. Health-related fitness factors and toe strength decrease with age, so we need to take this into account in our exercise planning and exercise selection to ensure that we can make positive changes to our quality of life through a variety of exercises that incorporate our fitness goals and interests.

Purpose : The purpose of this study was to investigate and compare the therapeutic efficacy of silver spike point (SSP) therapy using a newly developed, customized conductive silicone electrode with that of the conventional SSP therapy utilizing a standard suction electrode, focusing on improvements in tension-type headache relief and temporomandibular joint function in individuals diagnosed with myogenous temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Methods : Thirty participants diagnosed with TMD were randomly assigned to two groups of 15 individuals each; the experimental group, which received SSP therapy four weeks using a conductive silicone electrode, and the control group, which received the conventional SSP therapy for the same period. To ensure double-blinding, an individual not involved in this study conducted both the intervention and the assessments. Both groups underwent interventions twice a week for 20 minutes per session over a period of four weeks, totaling eight sessions. The outcome were measured using the headache disability index, graded chronic pain scale 2.0, jaw functional limitation scale-20, maximum mouth opening, and patient health questionnaire-9. The degrees of stiffness of the masseter and temporalis muscles were measured using the MyotonPRO device before and after the intervention. Results : Both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements (p<.05) in headache disability, chronic pain perception, jaw functional limitation, and depressive symptoms. The experimental group showed a signific-ant increase in maximum mouth opening an a significant decrease in resting stiffness of the masseter and temporalis muscles post intervention. However, no significant differences between the two groups following the intervention. Conclusion : SSP therapy using a customized conductive silicone electrode appears to manage symptoms of myogenous TMD more effectively than conventional SSP therapy through more targeted reduction of muscle tension, potentially improving clinical outcomes in the treatment of tension-type headaches and TMD.

Purpose : This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of swallowing interventions for children with cerebral palsy (CP), focusing on improving their swallowing and oral motor functions. The goal was to analyze various intervention strategies and provide evidence-based recommendations for clinical practices. Methods : The review included 10 studies published between 2014 and 2024 that focused on swallowing interventions for children with CP. The selected interventions were oral motor function therapy (OMFT), kinesio taping (KT), neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), sensory oral motor stimulation (OMST), and the babiEAT program. The studies were analyzed using qualitative assessment models to evaluate the effectiveness of the interventions in improving swallowing and oral motor functions. Results : The interventions studied showed significant positive effects on improving swallowing abilities and oral motor functions in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Specifically, oral motor function therapy (OMFT) and kinesio taping (KT) were effective in reducing drooling and enhancing oral motor coordination. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and sensory oral motor stimulation (OMST) improved swallowing stability and reduced aspiration risk. Additionally, neurodevelopmental therapy (NDT) and the babiEAT program improved swallowing abilities, especially in infants, while also benefiting social development and quality of life. These findings demonstrate the positive effects of these interventions on both physical and developmental outcomes. Conclusion : Swallowing interventions for children with CP, including OMFT, KT, NMES, OMST, and babiEAT, were found to significantly improve swallowing efficiency, oral motor functions, and the overall quality of life. However, due to the diversity in study designs and intervention methods, generalization of the results is limited. Future research should focus on standardizing evaluation tools and conducting long-term studies to assess the sustained impact of these interventions. Early intervention and multidisciplinary approaches remain crucial in enhancing swallowing function and improving the well-being of children with CP.

Purpose : This study sought to conduct a keyword network analysis to investigate research trends for flatfoot. Methods : We searched PubMed for articles related to flatfoot using the term "flatfoot [mesh]". VOSviewer program was used to assess author keywords and co-occurrence relationships between keywords. Full counting method was used, with a minimum occurrence threshold of five for each keyword. Out of 1,545 keywords, 92 met the threshold. Bibliographic information was stored and collected as text files. Similar words were standardized by removing special symbols and unifying spaces into single terms. Abbreviations were modified to prerequisite terms to refine the data through text processing. Results : The number of studies published in the past five years has increased significantly, with an additional 200 studies primarily from the period 2020 to 2023 compared to the preceding five years. The analysis identified ten clusters of keywords. The first cluster included keywords related to anatomical structure and surgery. The second cluster focused on foot deformities and surgical methods. The third cluster encompassed keywords related to foot biomechanics and non-surgical methods. The fourth cluster was associated with biomechanics analysis and walking. The fifth cluster included keywords related to adult acquired foot and ankle arthritis. The sixth cluster focused on paediatric flatfoot and surgical methods, while the seventh cluster was related to flatfoot correction. The eighth cluster included keywords related to foot ligaments and image analysis diagnosis. The ninth cluster focused on foot alignment and osteotomy. The tenth cluster encompassed keywords related to foot deformities and other diseases. Conclusion : The results of this study provide valuable data from recent clinical studies on the frequency and trends of major keywords related to flatfoot, which can be used for future research.

Purpose : Forward head posture (FHP) causes changes in neck alignment and the overall postural alignment of the body. From the toes and soles to the head, every part of the body is connected. Currently, debates on the improvement of FHP are limited to the neck and adjacent areas. Considering that feet play a crucial role in maintaining postural balance, it is necessary to examine the role of feet when discussing FHP improvement. The purpose of this study is to evaluate how ankle and foot exercises affect FHP as they improve postural alignment in the sagittal plane and change body flexibility, toe strength, and neck function. Based on the results, this study provides ways to ameliorate and prevent FHP that can be easily applied in daily life. Methods : This study was conducted on 19 college students with FHP in their 20s. FHP was defined as a distance of 2.5 cm or more from the vertical line passing through the acromion to the vertical line passing through the tragus. Postural alignment, body flexibility, toe strength, and neck dysfunction index (NDI) were measured. The intervention consisted of relaxation, strengthening exercises of the toes, plantar fascia, calf muscles, and ankles. Results : Postural alignment in the sagittal plane showed a significant (p<.05) change in distance from the center of gravity to the tragus, shoulder, hip, and knee joints. A significant difference was observed in body flexibility, left and right toe muscle strength, and NDI (p<.05). Conclusion : The results of this study confirmed that exercises of the ankle and foot, which are located far from the neck, are an effective method for improving FHP. This suggests continuous application of ankle and foot exercises in daily life can improve and prevent FHP.

Purpose : The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of muscle energy technique applied to the ankle joint on ankle function, balance, and gait in stroke patients. Methods : Thirty stroke patients were selected and randomized to an experimental group of 15 patients who received general physical therapy and muscle energy technique and a control group of 15 patients who received general physical therapy and joint mobilization for 4 weeks, 5 times a week, 45 minutes per session. Ankle D/F-PROM, D/F muscle strength, functional reach test (FRT), and gait analyzer (G-walk) were used to assess ankle function, balance, and gait pre and post the intervention. Results : First, in within-group comparison ankle D/F-PROM and ankle D/F muscle strength all the two groups showed significant improvements post intervention (p<.05). In between-group comparison, there was significant difference in the change of ankle D/F-PROM and ankle D/F muscle strength pre and post intervention (p<.05). Second, in within-group comparison dynamic balance, all the two groups showed significant improvements post intervention (p<.05). In between-group comparison, there was significant difference in the change of FRT (p<.05). Third, in within-group comparison gait velocity all the two groups showed significant improvements post intervention (p<.05). In between-group comparison, there was significant difference in the change of gait velocity (p<.05). In within-group comparison gait cadence only the experimental group showed significant improvements post intervention (p<.05). In between-group comparison, there was significant difference in the change of gait cadence (p<.05). Conclusion : Therefore, the results of the present study suggest that muscle energy technique applied to the ankle joint can improve ankle function, balance, and gait in stroke patients and that muscle energy technique are a more effective intervention for improving range of motion, balance, and gait compared to joint mobilization.

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of the lift and carry test (LCT) in subacute stroke patients. Methods : A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving a total of 31 participants diagnosed with subacute stroke. The study focused on two main aspects of reliability: inter-rater and test-retest reliability. Inter-rater reliability was measured using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC_2,1), while test-retest reliability was assessed using ICC_3,1. To further examine the precision of measurements, the standard error of measurement (SEM) and the minimal detectable change (MDC) were calculated. The concurrent validity of the LCT was also investigated by analyzing its correlation with other widely used functional assessments, including the Fugl-Meyer assessment for upper and lower extremities (FMA-U·L/E), the 10-meter walk test (10 mWT), the Berg balance scale (BBS), and the timed up & go test (TUG). Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to assess these relationships. Results : The results demonstrated high inter-rater reliability (ICC= 0.907, 95 %CI: 0.807~0.955) and high test-retest reliability (ICC= 0.864, 95 %CI: 0.716~0.934) for the LCT completion time. Measurement error was within acceptable limits, with an MDC of 5.83 seconds for inter-rater reliability and 6.56 seconds for test-retest reliability. Furthermore, significant correlations were observed between LCT completion time and 10 mWT (r= -0.720, p<.001), BBS (r= -0.672, p<.001), and TUG (r= 0.753, p<.001), indicating strong associations with established mobility measures. Conclusion : The LCT demonstrated high inter-rater and test-retest reliability in subacute stroke patients, confirming its sensitivity as a clinical tool for assessing functional mobility. Additionally, the LCT completion time showed significant correlations with dynamic balance, functional mobility, and walking speed, which reflect stroke-specific impairments. Therefore, the LCT may serve as a valuable assessment tool for comprehensively evaluating various activities of daily living and overall physical function.

Purpose : This study aimed to assess the test-retest reliability and measurement error indices, including the standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC), and MDC (%) of the toe tap test (TTT) in subacute stroke patients, and to evaluate its concurrent validity in measuring tap counts. Methods : This cross-sectional study recruited 26 stroke patients. The test-retest reliability of the TTT was analyzed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC_2,1) based on a random raters design, a two-way random effects model, and absolute agreement. Measurement errors were assessed using SEM, MDC, and MDC (%). The concurrent validity of the TTT was examined by analyzing its correlation with the lower extremity motor coordination test (LEMOCOT), Fugl-Meyer assessment for the lower extremity (FMA-LE), 10-meter walk test (10 mWT), and timed up & go test (TUG) using Spearman's correlation coefficient. Results : TTT showed excellent reliability on the affected side (ICC= 0.90) and good reliability on the unaffected side (ICC= 0.76). The minimal detectable change (MDC) was 2.63 and 4.68 counts, respectively, indicating stable measurement error. TTT counts were significantly correlated with LEMOCOT (r= 0.79, 0.74), FMA-L/E (r= 0.55, 0.61), 10 mWT (r= 0.67, 0.59), and TUG (r= -0.67, -0.59), supporting its concurrent validity. Conclusion : TTT is a highly reliable and valid assessment tool for evaluating ankle joint control in the affected side of patients with subacute stroke. It is simple to administer and can be effectively utilized in clinical settings to assess motor function. These findings suggest that TTT not only yields consistent results across repeated measures, but also demonstrates strong concurrent validity through its significant correlations with established functional and motor coordination assessments. In particular, TTT serves as an accurate and sensitive measure of distal ankle joint control on the affected side, reinforcing its clinical utility in neurorehabilitation.

Purpose : When nerve damage occurs, it can lead to functional impairment and pain, often accompanied by changes in the surrounding tissues. Among the various treatment methods for neurogenic disorders, nerve mobilization has been widely used as a non-invasive physical approach. The purpose of this study is to compare and analyze changes in nerve excitability induced by proximal glide, distal glide, and stretch through nerve conduction velocity testing, in order to provide reference data for the application of nerve mobilization techniques. Methods : The sensory nerve conduction velocity of the median nerve was evaluated in 30 healthy adults in their 20s and 30s. Based on the median sensory nerve conduction velocity measured at rest, measurements were taken to assess changes in nerve excitability under the following conditions: supramaximal stimulus (baseline 1), resting phase (1/3 of the supramaximal stimulus, baseline 2), proximal glide (1/3 of the supramaximal stimulus), distal glide (1/3 of the supramaximal stimulus), and stretch (1/3 of the supramaximal stimulus). The measurements were performed in a random order using an electromyography (EMG) device (Keypoint, Danteck, Denmark). Results : There was a statistically significant difference in the proximal glide during the terminal latency than during the resting period; however, no clinically significant difference was observed. The results of the nerve conduction velocity test showed that the amplitudes were significantly increased in the distal glide and stretch of the nerve. Conclusion : Statistically significant differences in amplitude were observed during distal glide and stretch, suggesting a potential influence on nerve excitability. Furthermore, as these techniques may induce excessive nerve excitability, it is considered that careful attention should be paid in clinical settings when applying distal glide or nerve stretching to patients, in order to avoid overstimulation of the nerve.

Purpose : The descriptive secondary analysis survey was conducted to identify the determinants of a healthy lifestyle and mental health status on health-related quality of life in patients with ischemic heart disease. Methods : This study included 559 patients with ischemic heart disease using data from the second Korean healthcare panel from 2021 data (version 2.2). The data were analyzed through using t-tests, ANOVA, and logistic regression using the SPSS 27.0 software. Results : The quality of life score (Euro-QoL-5D index; EQ-5D index) was 0.87±0.11, with the highest percentage of "somewhat problematic" responses (49.7 %) reported in the pain and discomfort domain. Regarding demographic characteristics, being male, having a spouse, being economically active, having at least a high school education, and reporting fair or better subjective health were associated with a higher quality of life (p<.001). Conversely, being female, aged 70 years or older, unmarried, having less than a high school education, abstaining from alcohol, not exercising regularly, and not walking were associated with a lower quality of life (p<.001). Regular walking, particularly 4~6 days per week, was associated with the highest quality of life score improvements compared to no walking or daily walking (p<.001). Additionally, individuals who experienced stress, depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation had a significantly lower quality of life (p<.001). Conclusion : This study analyzed the key factors of healthy lifestyle and mental health status that influence the quality of life of patients with ischemic heart disease. However, the descriptive nature of the study limits the establishment of causality, and the lack of comparison with a healthy population restricts the generalizability of the findings. Future studies should include a multifaceted analysis including the type, frequency, and intensity of exercise, as well as comparisons with a healthy population.

Purpose : To investigate the effects of a combined treatment of spinal curvature support, closed kinetic chain exercise (CKC), and 3D spinal correction exercises on Cobb angle, postural alignment, and scoliosis research society-22r (SRS-22r) scores in patients with scoliosis. Methods : Twenty-four patients with scoliosis, aged between 10 and 40 years, participated in the study. After screening, participants were randomly assigned to the experimental group (n= 12) or the control group (n= 12) using Microsoft Excel. Participants in both groups underwent applied 3D spinal correction exercises, combined with CKC in the experimental group, and open kinetic chain exercise (OCK) in the control group. Both interventions consisted of two 40-minute sessions per week for 10 weeks, including 10 minutes of static stretching before and after the intervention. To compare the effect of the CKC intervention in the spinal curvature support state, Cobb angle, postural alignment, and SRS-22r were measured. Results : Both groups showed significant improvements in Cobb angle, pelvic angle, and SRS-22r before and after the intervention (p<.05), with additional improvements in shoulder angle observed only in the experimental group (p<.05). The experimental group demonstrated significantly greater improvements than the control group in Cobb angle, shoulder angle, and pelvic angle (p<.05). However, no significant between-group difference was observed in SRS-22r score improvements (p>.05). Conclusion : The results of this study suggest that, although both treatments spinal curvature support and 3D spinal correction exercises combined with either closed or open kinetic chain exercises were effective for patients with scoliosis, the combination including CKC may be more effective in improving Cobb angle and postural alignment. Therefore, this approach may serve as an effective treatment protocol for rehabilitating patients with scoliosis.

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate the correlations among body composition, pulmonary function, and quadriceps femoris muscle activity in healthy adults. By analyzing these interrelationships within a non-clinical population, this study sought to provide foundational data for early health assessments and the development of personalized exercise programs. Methods : A total of 79 healthy adults (48 males and 31 females) participated in this study. Body composition was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis (InBody 570), measuring body mass index (BMI), body water, protein, minerals, lean body mass, skeletal muscle mass, total muscle mass, body fat percentage, and basal metabolic rate. Pulmonary function was evaluated via spirometry and included forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and the FEV1/FVC ratio. Muscle activity of the vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateralis (VL), and rectus femoris (RF) was measured using surface electromyography. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted separately for males and females, with a significance level set at p<.05. Results : In males, FVC and FEV1 showed positive correlations with BMI, body water mass, protein mass, mineral mass, lean body mass, skeletal muscle mass, total muscle mass, and basal metabolic rate (p<.05). Additionally, VL activity correlated positively with muscle-related body composition variables (p<.05). In females, both FVC and FEV1 showed positive correlations with body composition variables, while the FEV1/FVC ratio showed negative correlations with protein, minerals, and lean body mass (p<.05). RF activity was positively correlated with BMI and body fat percentage (p<.05). Conclusion : This study confirmed significant associations between body composition, pulmonary function, and quadriceps femoris muscle activity in healthy adults, revealing sex-specific patterns. These findings provide foundational evidence that may contribute to the development of individualized rehabilitation or exercise programs based on body composition profiles.

Purpose : The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of the scientific exercise approach to scoliosis (SEAS) approach on spinal morphological assessments of the spine in patients with idiopathic scoliosis in their 20s. Methods : This study is a case report examining the effects of an 8 week scientific exercise approach to scoliosis (SEAS) program on a 20-year-old female diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The intervention consisted of one session per week, lasting two hours. To assess morphological changes associated with scoliosis, coronal imbalance (CI), the Lennie test (LT), and trunk aesthetic clinical evaluation (TRACE) were measured before and after the intervention using the same methodology. The intervention included 30 minutes of electrotherapy followed by 90 minutes of SEAS exercises. Results : In the seated position, the CI decreased from 22 to 0. For LT measurements, superior angle (SA) decreased from 78 to 55 on the left and from 80 to 49 on the right. Root of spine (RS) decreased from 80 to 55 on the left and from 80 to 50 on the right. Inferior angle (IA) decreased from 90 to 48 on the left and from 75 to 45 on the right. Regarding TRACE measurements, scapular decreased from 2 to 0, hemi thoracic (HT) from 1 to 0, and waist from 3 to 2. In the seated position with arms raised, the CI decreased from 24 to 0. For LT measurements, scapular decreased from 80 to 62 on the left and from 80 to 57 on the right. RS decreased from 65 to 45 on the left and from 72 to 52 on the right. IA decreased from 82 to 65 on the left. In TRACE measurements, SH decreased from 1 to 0, SC from 1 to 0, HT from 1 to 0, and WA from 3 to 2. Conclusion : Based on the results of this study, the SEAS exercise method appears to be effective in improving morphological outcomes in adults with idiopathic scoliosis. However, as this study is a single-case report, further in-depth research with a larger sample size is necessary to validate these findings.

Purpose : Cupping therapy is currently used in clinical practice for conditions such as hypertension, headaches, indigestion, and lower back pain. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness of both gyeonjeonghyeol (GB21) wet cupping therapy using heart rate variability (HRV). Methods : We included 44 patients who visited a local oriental clinic from January to May 2023. HRV was measured using the SA-3000P model. To minimize the influence of external factors on the test results, participants were asked to sit on a chair or lie still for approximately 10 minutes prior to the test to rest, and they were required to remove any jewelry. In the experimental group, the GB21 location was identified and disinfected with alcohol. A lancet was used to prick the area approximately 10 times, followed by pumping three times after wet cupping, with the cups remaining in place for three minutes. After removing the cups, the treatment area was thoroughly disinfected with an alcohol swab, and the patients rested for another 10 minutes before the second HRV measurement. The control group lay down on a bed and rested for 10 minutes without any treatment. Results : Wet cupping therapy at GB21 was found to be effective on the HRV test, as indicated by significantly increased stress resistance and autonomic nerve activity (ANA), significantly decreased stress index and mean heart rate, and significantly increased standard deviation normal to normal (SDNN) and total power (TP). Conclusion : GB21 wet cupping treatment can increase autonomic nerve activity and improve the body's stress control capabilities, making it a valuable therapy for stress-related health conditions.

Purpose : Melanin is a brown or black pigment that determines the colour of the skin and hair, which can protect the skin from UV. By the way, melanin can cause various disorders such as melasma, freckles, and even melanoma when it is overproduced. Therefore, many studies have been performed on natural products to improve these symptoms. In this study, four types of brown seaweeds, Saccharina japonica, Hizikia fusiforme, Undaria pinnatifida, and Sargassum fulvellum, were fermented using Lactobacillus sakei, and analysed for their whitening effects on B16F10 melanocytes. Methods : The cytotoxicity of fermented seaweeds extracts on RAW 264.7 cells and B16F10 cells was evaluated by the WST-1 assay. The Griess reaction was performed to measured the produced nitric oxide (NO) concentration. To identify the whitening activity of four kinds of seaweeds fermentation extracts, in vitro tyrosimase activity and melanin content were analyzed. Results : High concentrations of S. japonica and S. fulvellum induced mild cytotoxicity in RAW 264.7 cells, but the other samples showed no significant toxicity in both RAW 264.7 and B16F10 cells. The four fermented seaweed extracts significantly inhibited the production of LPS-induced NO in RAW 264.7 cells, with H. fusiforme and U. pinnatifida showing stronger anti-inflammatory activity than that of others. The inhibitory effect of in vitro tyrosinase activity was in the order of U. pinnatifida, S. fulvellum, H. fusiforme, S. japonica. The melanin synthesis induced by 𝛼-MSH was also inhibited by the four kinds of agents, which was in consistent with the tyrosinase assay. Conclusion : These results are thought to be due to the increased concentration of various active substances during the fermentation process, and it is necessary to analyse which substances were increased in this study in the future. Based on these results, four kinds of fermented seaweeds extracts have the potential to be used as whitening functional cosmetic ingredients.

Purpose : Kimchi, a traditional Korean food, is gaining global recognition for its health benefits. In response to the changing agricultural landscape, including climate change, decreasing farmland, and soil desertification, the efficient cultivation of golden napa cabbage (GC), radishes, and turnips is increasingly necessary for use as food ingredients. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the cultivation of napa cabbage and radish using nutrient-enhanced effective microorganism (EM) powder and assess its quantitative and qualitative effects, and potential effects on human health. Methods : A mixture extracted from fruit pomace, seaweed, perilla seed cake, and eggshells, combined with six types of EM, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus velezensis (GH-13), Lactobacillus plantarum, Rhodobacter sphaeroides (GT), Chlorella sp., and Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), was used to cultivate NC, GC, radishes, and turnips over 10 weeks as an alternative to chemical fertilizers. The weight of each crop was measured, while its active ingredients, inorganic compounds, and dietary fiber content were analyzed to predict the effects of cabbage and radish consumption on human health. Results : In GC, the content increased by 40 %. Potassium levels significantly increased in all crops, while magnesium showed the greatest increase in radish. Additionally, dietary fiber content generally increased. The experimental fertilizer group, which included nutrient-enhanced EM powder, demonstrated both quantitative and qualitative effects on NC, GC, radishes, and turnips. Vitamin C content exhibited the most significant increase in radish at 16 %. Calcium content in NC increased by 22 %. Conclusion : The results suggest that nutrient-enhanced EM powder supports the environmentally friendly production of high-quality cabbage and radish, highlighting its potential for organic farming. Furthermore, the active ingredients in these crops are expected to have positive effects on human health.

Purpose : In this study, we analyzed digital dentistry trends and developments using BigKinds data to understand its development direction, social acceptance, and impact on dental practice and industry. The goal was to provide a basis for proposing future directions in digital dentistry. Methods : Data from BigKinds (1990-2024) were collected using 10 keywords related to digital dentistry. After filtering out irrelevant data, such as advertisements, stock alerts, duplicates, and unrelated content, 1,368 articles were selected for analysis. Python 3.11 and various libraries, including Pandas, Scikit-learn, and pyLDAvis were utilized to perform various analyses. These included tterm frequency (TF), TF-inverse document frequency, degree centrality, N-gram analysis, and topic modeling. The findings were visualized using word clouds, N-gram networks, and topic modeling to provide clear insights into the trends and changes in digital dentistry. Results : The study identified three distinct periods in digital dentistry development. From 1999 to 2014, the initial introduction of technologies, such as CAD/CAM, became a major growth driver, laying the groundwork for digital transformation in dentistry. Between 2015 and 2019, the adoption of digital technologies, including oral scanners, increased throughout the dental industry, increasing social acceptance and integration. From 2020 to 2024, the convergence of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and 3D scanning, significantly enhanced precision and efficiency, driving global dental market growth. Conclusion : Digital technology has profoundly improved the precision, efficiency, and accessibility of dental diagnosis and treatment, transforming the dental industry and education. Integrating digital dentistry technologies into dental hygiene education is critical for meeting the field's evolving demands. Continued efforts are necessary to adapt to the dental industry's technological advancements and develop competitive professionals who can address emerging challenges.

Purpose : Moringa oleifera is widely distributed in Southeast Asia and has been traditionally used for food and medicinal purposes. Despite the many pharmacological effects of M. oleifera against wounds, pain, hepatic disorders, inflammation, and even cancer, the exact mechanisms related to the anti-inflammatory effect have not been evaluated yet. In this study, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of M. oleifera ethanol extract (MOEE) was analyzed by the Griess reaction and western blot analysis in the murine macrophage cell line, RAW 264.7 cells. Methods : Inflammation was successfully induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation in RAW 264.7 cells and various concentrations of MOEE treatment dose-dependently attenuated nitric oxide (NO) production, inducible NO synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expressions in LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. In addition, both inflammatory transcription factors, nuclear factor (NF)-κB and activator protein (AP)-1, were also significantly inhibited their phosphorylation by MOEE treatment. To investigate the effect of MOEE against upstream signaling molecules, the phosphorylated status of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt, were analyzed by western blot analysis. Results : The phosphorylated status of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), p38, and Akt was mitigated by MOEE treatment in a dose-dependent manner. Numerous lines of evidence indicate that intracellular antioxidative systems could play a role as a suppressor of inflammation. MOEE treatment significantly accelerated the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), one of the phase II enzymes, and its transcription factor, nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), in LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Conclusion : Consequently, these results suggest that MOEE effectively inhibited LPS-initiated inflammatory responses through the regulation of proinflammatory mediators and their signaling molecules as well as the antioxidative mechanism in RAW 264.7 cells, which might be a promising strategy to treat various inflammatory disorders.

Purpose : This study aimed to assess the usability and functionality of mobile application-based digital therapeutics (DTx) for overactive bladder (OAB) management. OAB affects approximately 43 % of women and 36 % of men over 40 years of age, significantly reducing the quality of life and inflicting economic and social burdens. Although behavioral therapy is a key non-pharmacological intervention, low adherence limits its effectiveness. DTx offers a scalable solution to enhance adherence and complement traditional treatments. Using mobile applications, wearables, and interactive tools, DTx provides evidence-based interventions such as bladder training, pelvic floor muscle exercises, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. Although early studies highlighted the potential of DTx to improve patient outcomes and engagement, further research is needed to validate its short-term efficacy and integrate it into routine OAB management. In this study, we developed a mobile application-based DTx tailored for patients with OAB. Methods : A mobile device application for OAB management was developed, and its feasibility and usability were assessed. Five female participants were randomly recruited to use the app for seven days. The application features two primary modes: "holding mode", which employs cognitive distraction techniques to reduce urgency, and "daily mode", which facilitates pelvic floor muscle training. Additional functions include urine output and fluid intake monitoring, statistical data visualization, an educational module providing exercise guidelines, and OAB-related information. After the study period, usability and feasibility were evaluated through individual post-study debriefing sessions using the mobile application rating scale (MARS), user experience questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews. Results : Five female participants (mean age: 50.40±2.73) used the app for a week and provided feedback. In the pilot study, participants found "holding mode" effective for short-term symptom relief, but patient feedback highlighted the need for enhanced long-term engagement and simplified features. Overall satisfaction was moderate, engagement-related aspects were rated low, and interest in purchasing the application was minimal. Conclusion : Despite some challenges, this application can be a supportive tool for OAB behavioral therapy bycombining urgent relief with long-term behavioral modifications. Further research is required to refine its features, validate its clinical utility, and develop scalable digital therapeutic solutions for OAB management.