Gyeongsang National University
Recent publications
Long‐term stability remains challenging due to persistent defects within the perovskite material, particularly at buried interfaces. Strategies to address these issues have focused on refining interfaces and managing residual lead iodide (PbI2), which impedes electron transport and compromises stability under prolonged light exposure. This study explores the impact of lead formate (PbFo2) treatment on SnO2 electron transporting layer (ETL) substrates and its subsequent influence on the performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The carboxylate functionality of Fo⁻ ions exerts multifaceted effects, influencing not only the electrical properties of the SnO2 ETL but also the morphological characteristics and crystallization mechanism of the overlying perovskite film. The ionized Fo⁻ ions aid in forming bulk perovskite as intermediate phases during the perovskite crystallization. By stabilizing intermediate phases, their incorporation suppresses indiscriminate phase transitions from δ‐phase to α‐phase perovskite, ensuring the production of highly crystalline pure α‐phase perovskite with alleviated tensile strain throughout the perovskite film, particularly near the buried interface. Consequently, the strategy showcases enhanced performance with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.69% and enables a refined buried interface, devoid of residual PbI2, ensuring long‐term stability under continuous light‐soaking for 1,000 h. Overall, PbFo2 treatment stands as a pioneering approach poised to expedite commercialization.
Stable lithium‐metal batteries (LMBs) with wide‐temperature‐range operability can be achieved through the rational design of electrolytes based on their physicochemical and electrochemical characteristics, such as their freezing behavior and functional integrity at battery heterointerfaces. This study demonstrates that succinonitrile (SN)‐dominated solvation chemistry and fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC)‐derived interface engineering can enable the wide‐temperature‐range operation of LMBs while optimally tuning the microstructures of the electrolyte for facile Li‐ion conduction. A mechanically and chemically stable LiF‐rich primary solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI) is constructed using FEC and 1,1,2,2‐tetrafluoroethyl 2,2,3,3‐tetrafluoropropyl ether (TTE). Subsequently, lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide and SN are utilized to produce ion‐conductive Li3N in the SEI. SN promoted the build‐up of an electron‐ and N‐rich C≡N based cathode–electrolyte interface that could mitigate transition metal‐ion dissolution, microcrack formation, and structural degradation in a LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) cathode. TTE, which exhibits low solvation power, enabled the formation of desirable Li‐ion conduction pathways, including a deep depression of the melting point of the electrolyte and low‐viscosity Li‐ion channels, for low‐temperature operation. The integration of interface engineering and electrolyte chemistry provides an efficient strategy for preparing Li|NCM811 full cells demonstrating stable operation under various temperature conditions.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation, synovial hyperplasia, and bone and cartilage destruction, which significantly impairs physical function and quality of life. Disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs, such as sulfasalazine (SSZ), are crucial for altering the course and progression of RA; however, their clinical use is hampered by poor water solubility and lack of specificity for the reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐rich environment typical of RA. To overcome these challenges, ROS‐sensitive SSZ‐loaded ferrocene nanoparticles are developed. The nanoparticles facilitate enhanced solubility and stability of SSZ and particularly enable precision targeting through the distinctive redox properties of ferrocene. Using a 3D synovial hyperplasia model with fibroblast‐like synoviocytes derive from RA patients and validate at both the protein and gene levels, these nanoparticles significantly reduce lactate dehydrogenase, ROS, and inflammatory cytokine levels. Further validation using a collagen‐induced arthritis model demonstrates therapeutic efficacy and cytokine modulation in vivo. These findings highlight the potential of ferrocene nanoparticles as a novel and effective therapeutic strategy for RA, offering improved drug delivery and reduced systemic toxicity.
Utilizing renewable biomass resources and biocatalytic conversion processes to develop advanced industrial biotechnology is of great significance for building a green, low-carbon and sustainable economy. Research on the preparation of bio-composites from natural hemp fibers and biodegradable plastics has attracted much attention. The resource utilization of agricultural waste is an effective way to improve the rural environment and develop the agricultural circular economy. At the same time, the research on the preparation of biomass composite materials by using wood fiber or wood powder and degradable materials has been carried out. Materials extracted from renewable resources such as plants have become the main force of future material science development. However, the research on the application of biotechnology in plant materials is still relatively small, and there is a lack of systematic reports. This paper reviews the research progress of biomaterials in plant materials. In order to provide reference for the development of plant materials.
Endophytic bacteria are bacteria that are designated to colonize various tissues and organs of healthy plants. Infected host plants do not exhibit external diseases, and heavy metal tolerant endophytic bacteria exist in various hyperaccumulating plants. In our study, the population density of endophytic bacteria is the highest in the root tissue, taken together, plant endophyte types are very rich in ramie. Our results showed that Proteobacteria are the primary microbial flora in the endophytic bacteria of all ramie varieties. The diversity of endophytic bacteria in two species of ramie, which is LSCM and 1407, was higher than that in other species. The results showed that there are differences among different species in ramie. There are differences in endophytic bacteria in different parts of the same species in ramie. provide support for Transfer patterns and persistence of endophytic bacteria after host plant colonization in the study. This paper expects to conduct simulation studies on the interaction between various endophytic bacteria and plant joint systems in natural environments, explore different endophytic bacteria and plant joint remediation systems, and provide guidance for practical applications.
This study aimed to clarify the pure synergistic effect of an adequate protein intake (1.5 g/kg body weight/day) and resistance exercise (RE) on muscle strength, body composition, and metabolic markers in sedentary adults, excluding confounders arising from excessive protein intake or impaired protein turnover. A double-blind randomized controlled trial was performed on apparently healthy sedentary adult participants (n = 34). RE was performed for 4 weeks in the placebo (PLA-EX, n = 17) and whey protein supplement groups (PRO-EX, n = 17). Body composition, isokinetic muscular function, resting metabolic rate, blood biochemical variables, and liver ultrasound findings were analyzed and compared before and after the intervention. Both the PLA-EX and PRO-EX groups experienced significantly reduced body weight (PLA-EX, p < 0.001; PRO-EX, p < 0.01), body mass index (PLA-EX, p < 0.01; PRO-EX, p < 0.01), and body fat percentage (PLA-EX, p < 0.01; PRO-EX, p < 0.0001) after the intervention. In addition, serum adiponectin (PLA-EX, p < 0.0001; PRO-EX, p < 0.001), leptin (PLA-EX, p < 0.05; PRO-EX, p < 0.0001), growth/differentiation factor 8 (PLA-EX, p < 0.05; PRO-EX, p < 0.01), albumin (PLA-EX, p < 0.05; PRO-EX, p < 0.01), total cholesterol (PLA-EX, p < 0.001; PRO-EX, p < 0.0001), triglycerides (PLA-EX, p < 0.0001; PRO-EX, p < 0.0001), and controlled attenuation parameters measured by liver ultrasound were significantly decreased (PLA-EX, p < 0.05; PRO-EX, p < 0.0001). The PRO-EX group showed no significant difference in circulating free fatty acid levels before and after the intervention, whereas PLA-EX levels decreased after the intervention (p < 0.01). Muscle mass (p < 0.05), muscle strength (p < 0.001), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (p < 0.05) were significantly increased by the intervention in the PRO-EX group but not in the PLA-EX group. Testosterone (p < 0.01), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (p < 0.01), aspartate aminotransferase (p < 0.0001), and alanine aminotransferase (p < 0.001) were significantly reduced in the PRO-EX group but not in the PLA-EX group. The combination of RE and adequate protein intake (1.5 g/kg body weight/day) synergistically increased fat metabolism, induced an increase in IGF-1 in the blood, and increased muscle mass and strength in sedentary adults. Clinical Trial: The clinical trial described in this paper was registered at https://cris.nih.go.kr under the registration number KCT-0008696 (first trial registered 09/08/2023).
Care farming can improve the well-being of patients with mental illnesses. While interest in care farms is increasing in Korea, the focus remains on the business aspect. Systematic applications that consider the characteristics of patients with mental illnesses are scarce. Therefore, this qualitative study applied focused ethnography to explore the experiences of individuals with schizophrenia engaged in a care farming program in Korea. Focus group interviews with six program participants with schizophrenia and in-depth individual interviews with three on-site staff were conducted. Using content analysis, three categories of participants' experiences were identified. The first category, "new nature-based approach," had "different from existing rehabilitation programs" and "harmonizing with nature" as sub-categories. The second category, "therapeutic elements of care farming," had "autonomous participation" and "customized operation" as sub-categories. The final category, "positive effects of care farming," had "manifestation of various positive emotions" and "social adaptation through small growth changes in various aspects" as sub-categories. The findings provide key information for the development of novel and tailored approaches in Korea, where effective rehabilitation programs to support persons with mental disorders or disabilities are inadequate.
This study explored the relationship between Big Five personality traits and nicotine use, integrating both variable-centered and person-centered approaches to capture the complexity of trait interactions. Data were drawn from a publicly available online survey of 1885 English-speaking adults, categorized as never users (n = 428), former users (n = 582), or current users (n = 875) based on nicotine use. Personality traits were assessed using the Five-Factor Personality Inventory, measuring neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness, with additional data on age, sex, and education. Multinomial logistic regression identified openness, conscientiousness, and agreeableness as significant predictors of nicotine use. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) revealed four personality profiles: “Ordinary,” “Expressive,” “Cautious,” and “Unstable,” with significant differences in nicotine use patterns. The “Unstable” and “Expressive” profiles were associated with current use, while the “Cautious” profile was linked to never use. Sociodemographic factors varied significantly across profiles. These findings underscore the importance of integrating both variable-centered and person-centered approaches to better understand the role of personality traits in nicotine use. Tailored interventions, considering the unique characteristics of each personality profile, may improve nicotine cessation and prevention efforts.
Citrus unshiu peel (CUP), rich in flavonoids, has been traditionally used for its health benefits. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of CUP flavonoid extract (CUPFE) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 cells through proteomics analysis. CUPFE significantly reduced the inflammatory mediators and cytokines (nitric oxide, IL-6, and CCL-2) production. Quantitative proteomics analysis using LC–MS/MS identified 140 differentially expressed proteins between the CUPFE and LPS groups, with 86 proteins upregulated and 54 downregulated. Notably, CUPFE negatively regulated 56 proteins induced by LPS. Functional enrichment analysis using gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes revealed that most of these proteins are involved in signal transduction pathways (TNF-α, NF-κB, PI3K-Akt, mTOR, and MAPK) regulating inflammatory processes. Further analysis showed that CUPFE interferes these signaling pathways in a dose-dependent manner, counteracting the LPS-induced effects. Collectively, this study reveals CUPFE’s anti-inflammatory effects, laying basis for future research on treating inflammation-related conditions.
Magnesium-based implants are highly valued in the biomedical field for biocompatibility and biodegradability, though their inherent low strength in body fluids is a limitation. This study addresses this by alloying magnesium with zinc and titanium to enhance its properties. Mechanical alloying was used to synthesize binary (Mg-Zn, Mg-Ti) and ternary (Mg-Zn-Ti) alloys, which were then compacted and sintered. The alloy powders, composed of 10 wt% Zn and 5 wt% Ti, were milled at 360 rpm for 10 h. Microstructural analysis revealed uniformly dispersed particles, with SEM confirming spherical and fine particles alongside laminates. XRD identified intermetallic compound formation. The ternary alloy demonstrated superior micro-hardness and Young’s modulus similar to human bone, making it particularly promising for biomedical applications. Incorporating zinc and titanium into the magnesium matrix resulted in a ternary alloy that outperformed its binary counterparts.
Research on concrete durability during prolonged use has been ongoing due to concrete’s widespread use in construction. Freeze–thaw cycles exert a significant impact on concrete durability, especially in regions with harsh climates. While existing studies primarily focus on material aspects, research on the performance degradation of reinforced concrete (RC) structures is limited. This limitation is attributed to the inadequacy of current freeze–thaw testing standards for large structures like RC structures. Therefore, there is a need to propose freeze–thaw testing methods tailored for RC members. This study investigates the influence of air content and freeze–thaw cycles on the material and structural properties of RC beams, proposing a novel rapid freeze–thaw testing method for RC members. The study compares this new method ( N test) with the conventional ASTM C666/C666M-15 rapid freeze–thaw testing procedure ( A test), aiming to establish a correlation between the two experiments. Concrete mixtures with air content ranging from 0 to 9% underwent two types of freeze–thaw tests, followed by flexural testing of RC beams. The results were analyzed for air content, slump, compressive strength, mass loss, crack patterns, and failure modes, and they offer insights into the relationship between air entrainment, freeze–thaw resistance, and the structural behavior of RC under diverse environmental conditions.
Objective To evaluate the accuracy of recalibrated TONOVET Plus (rTVP) and the newly released TONOVET Pro (TVPR) in measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) in ex vivo canine eyes compared to manometer and the established TONOVET (TV). Procedure Sixteen enucleated canine eyes were cannulated to establish manometric IOPs ranging from 5 to 80 mmHg. IOP measurements were obtained using TV, rTVP, and TVPR. Results All tonometers showed a strong correlation with the manometer ( R ² > 0.98). Measurements from rTVP and TVPR exhibited almost perfect agreement with the manometer (CCC = 0.9974 for both), whereas TV demonstrated lower agreement (CCC = 0.9874) associated with greater systematic bias. Specifically, TV showed a lower proportional bias (95% confidence interval [CI] of the slope = 0.987–1.006) but a larger systematic bias (intercept = −3.33 mmHg) compared to rTVP and TVPR (95% CI of the slope = 1.045–1.066 and 1.045–1.063; intercept = −2.532 and −2.633 mmHg, respectively). In accuracy analyses by range, rTVP and TVPR showed no significant difference from the manometer in the 30–70 mmHg and 35–80 mmHg IOP ranges, respectively. Conclusions Among the ICare rebound tonometers, rTVP and TVPR provided the most accurate IOP measurements in the ex vivo analysis and demonstrated particularly strong agreement in the high IOP range, suggesting their suitability for IOP measurement in glaucomatous patients.
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Suvendu Das
  • Institute of Agriculture and Life Science
Woe Yeon Kim
  • Department of Agricultural Chemistry
Akshat Goel
  • College of Agricultural and Life Science
Tae Sung Jung
  • College of Veterinary Medicine
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Chinju, South Korea