• Journal of Korean Society of Forest Science
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• v.85 no.2
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• pp.210-224
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• 1996

The SLODSVAT consists of interrelated submodels that simulate : the transfer of radiation, water vapour, sensible heat, carbon dioxide and momentum in two canopy layers determined by environmental conditions and ecophysiological properties of the vegetation ; uptake and storage of water in the "root-stem-leaf" system of plants ; interception of rainfall by the canopy layers and infiltration and storage of rain water in the four soil layers. A comparison of the results of modeling experiments and field micro-climatic observations in a spruce forest(Picea abies [L].Karst) in the Soiling hills(Germany) shows, that the SLODSVAT can describe and simulate the short-term(diurnal) as well as the long-term(seasonal) variability of water vapour and sensible heat fluxes adequately to natural processes under different environmental conditions. It proves that it is possible to estimate and predict the transpiration and evapotranspiration rates for spruce forest ecosystems on the patch and landscape scales for one vegetation period, if certain meteorological, botanical and hydrological information for the structure of the atmospheric boundary layer, the canopy and the soil are available.

• Journal of Korean Society of Coastal and Ocean Engineers
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• v.32 no.1
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• pp.55-68
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• 2020

In order to investigate the hydraulic characteristics of a boundary layer streaming over the beach cusps appeared in swells prevailing mild seas, we numerically simulated the shoaling process of Edge waves over the beach cusp. Synchronous Edge waves known to sustain the beach cusps could successfully be duplicated by generating two obliquely colliding Edge waves in front of beach cusps. The amplitude A_B and length L_B of Beach Cusp were elected to be 1.25 m and 18 m, respectively based on the measured data along the Mang-Bang beach. Numerical results show that boundary layer streaming was formed at every phase of shoaling process without exception, and the maximum boundary layer streaming was observed to occur at the crest of sand bar. In RUN 1 where the shortest waves were deployed, the maximum boundary layer streaming was observed to be around 0.32 m/s, which far exceeds the amplitude of free stream by two times. It is also noted that the maximum boundary layer streaming mentioned above greatly differs from the analytical solution by Longuet-Higgins (1957) based on wave Reynolds stress. In doing so, we also identify the recovery procedure of natural beaches in swells prevailing mild seas, which can be summarized such as: as the infra-gravity waves formed in swells by the resonance wave-wave interaction arrives near the breaking line, the sediments ascending near the free surface by the Phase II waves orbital motion were carried toward the pinnacle of foreshore by the shoreward flow commenced at the steep front of breaking waves, and were deposited near the pinnacle of foreshore due to the infiltration.

• Journal of Korea Water Resources Association
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• v.31 no.3
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• pp.253-267
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• 1998

In this study, ILLUDAS and SWMM were applied for Dongsucheon basin, Incheon and Test basin, Cheongju. The main parameters (II, IA, IS, SI, SR, SS) which are included in those of each model depending on runoff results were determined, and sensitivity ratios were estimated in order to evaluate and compare the characteristics of each modEL. Total runoff ratio for almost parameters turned out to have a linear relation to the rainfall durations and the scale of basin area but have nothing to do with rainfall distributions. Sensitivity ratios turned out to have a linear relation for the infiltration and soil parameters of ILLUDAS as well as all parameters of SWMM. ronoff sensitivity ratios for almost parameters were smaller than 1.0 because the impacts of total runoff were bigger than those of peak runoff. And runoff sensitivity ratio was equal to 1.0 for the roughness coefficient of SWMM. Total runoff ratio, peak runoff ratio and runoff sensitivity ratio for the selected parameters of those models were presented asthe tables and figures according to the scale of basin area, rainfall durations such as 60, 120, and 180 minutes and Huff's 4th quartiles rainfall distributions. Keywords : ILLUDAS, SWMM, parameter, sensitivity analysis, sensitivity ratio.

• Journal of Applied Biological Chemistry
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• v.64 no.4
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• pp.383-389
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• 2021

Obesity is associated with impaired intestinal epithelial barrier function, which contribute to host systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. Korean traditional foods, fiber-rich bean products, have been various biological activities in anti-inflammatory responses, but has not reported the large intestinal health. In this study, we investigated the intestinal health promoting effect of cooked soybeans (CSB) on high fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity model. SD rat were fed either a HFD or HFD supplemented with 10.6% CSB (HFD+CSB) for animal experimental period. CSB treatment significantly decreased the HFD-induced weights of body and fat. Also, CSB treatment improved HFD-reduced tight junction components (ZO-1, Claudin-1, and Occludin-1) mRNA expression in large intestine tissue. Additionally, histopathological evaluation showed that CSB treatment attenuated the HFD-increased inflammatory cells infiltration and epithelial damages in large intestine tissue. At the genus level, effects of CSB supplement not yet clear, while dietary effects showed differential abundance of several genera including Lactobacillus, Duncaniella, and Alloprevotella. NMDS analysis showed significant microbial shifts by HFD, while CSB did not shift gut microbiota. CSB increased the abundance of the genera Anaerotignum, Enterococcus, Clostridium sensu stricto, and Escherichia/Shigella by linear discriminant analysis effect size analysis, while reduced the abundance of Longicatena and Ligilactobacillus. These findings indicate that CSB supplement improves HFD-deteriorated large intestinal health by the amelioration of tight junction component, while CSB did not shift gut microbiotas.

• Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology
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• v.28 no.12
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• pp.2095-2105
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• 2018

In our previous studies, we have identified several in vivo-induced antigens and evaluated their potential as subunit vaccine candidates in a murine model, in which the recombinant protein GalT showed the most potent immunogenicity and immunoprotective efficacy against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. To exploit a more efficient way of delivering GalT proteins, in this study, we employed the widely studied E. coli outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) as a platform to deliver GalT protein and performed the vaccine trial using the recombinant GalT-OMVs in the murine model. Results revealed that GalT-OMVs could elicit a highly-specific, IgG antibody titer that was comparable with the adjuvant GalT group. Significantly higher lymphocyte proliferation and cytokines secretion levels were observed in the GalT-OMVs group. 87.5% and 50% of mice were protected from a lethal dose challenge using A. pleuropneumoniae in active or passive immunization, respectively. Histopathologic and immunohistochemical analyses showed remarkably reduced pathological changes and infiltration of neutrophils in the lungs of mice immunized with GalT-OMVs after the challenge. Taken together, these findings confirm that OMVs can be used as a platform to deliver GalT protein and enhance its immunogenicity to induce both humoral and cellular immune responses in mice.

• Journal of Korean Medicine Rehabilitation
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• v.31 no.1
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• pp.33-46
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• 2021

Objectives The aim of this study is to evaluate anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects of Sogyunghwalhyel-tang-gamibang (SGHHTGB) in cell and animal models and also to suggest one of putative mechanisms underlying its anti-arthritic effects. Methods Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was applied to measure the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in culture medium and blood serum and nitric oxide (NO) was assayed by Griess reagent. The expressions of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were analyzed by Western blot method. Results In a cell model using RAW264.7 macrophages stimulated with the endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the drug, at its non-cytotoxic concentrations, inhibited the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. In addition, it suppressed the expression of the inflammatory enzyme iNOS and COX-2, and reduced the synthesis of the enzyme product NO (as stable nitrite) and PGE2 in activated macrophages. Meanwhile, in an animal model using rheumatic arthritis (RA) mice induced with injection of type II collagen antibody (CAb) and LPS, the drug improved clinical symptom of arthritis and reduced paw thickness and inflammatory cell infiltration. In blood of RA mice, the drug reduced serum levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, nitrite, and PGE2, all inflammatory mediators produced by activated macrophages. Conclusions SGHHTGB may ameliorate CAb and LPS-induced RA in mice, presumably by inactivating macrophages that are capable of initiating joint inflammation by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines and expressing inflammatory enzymes.

• Journal of the Korean Geotechnical Society
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• v.38 no.4
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• pp.33-45
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• 2022

A series of model tests were performed in this study to demonstrate the clogging mechanism created during the installation of a compaction pile to improve soft ground. The application of an air-jet to extrude sand or aggregates from a casing during the installation of a compaction pile imposes a remarkably high-pressure difference between the composite soil layers of clay and sand (or aggregates), resulting in severe clogging. Therefore, a one-dimensional testing system was developed to simulate composite soil layers consisting of clay and sand (or aggregates) and to apply a high-pressure differential at both boundaries, thus replicating the extrusion process used in compaction pile installation. Herein, the performance of two construction materials for compaction piles of crushed stone and grading-controlled aggregates was compared. A series of one-dimensional model tests were performed under multiple pressure settings, with clogging depth and permeability measured in each case. Results indicate that, blinding clogging mechanisms and blocking defined by previous studies were observed for crushed stone, and a new mechanism of "infiltration" was revealed and defined. Whereas, the controlled aggregates performed excellently against clogging because only blinding was observed.

• BMB Reports
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• v.55 no.6
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• pp.275-280
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• 2022

The treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) is challenging due to its complex etiology. From epidermal disruption to chronic inflammation, various cells and inflammatory pathways contribute to the progression of AD. As with immunosuppressants, general inhibition of inflammatory pathways can be effective, but this approach is not suitable for long-term treatment due to its side effects. This study aimed to identify a plant extract (PE) with anti-inflammatory effects on multiple cell types involved in AD development and provide relevant mechanistic evidence. Degranulation was measured in RBL-2H3 cells to screen 30 PEs native to South Korea. To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of Parasenecio auriculatus var. matsumurana Nakai extract (PAE) in AD, production of cytokines and nitric oxide, activation status of FcεRI and TLR4 signaling, cell-cell junction, and cell viability were evaluated using qRT-PCR, western blotting, confocal microscopy, Griess system, and an MTT assay in RBL-2H3, HEK293, RAW264.7, and HaCaT cells. For in vivo experiments, a DNCBinduced AD mouse model was constructed, and hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid-Schiff, toluidine blue, and F4/80-staining were performed. The chemical constituents of PAE were analyzed by HPLC-MS. By measuring the anti-degranulation effects of 30 PEs in RBL-2H3 cells, we found that Paeonia lactiflora Pall., PA, and Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) Libosch. ex Steud. show an inhibitory activity of more than 50%. Of these, PAE most dramatically and consistently suppressed cytokine expression, including IL-4, IL-9, IL-13, and TNF-α. PAE potently inhibited FcεRI signaling, which mechanistically supports its basophil-stabilizing effects, and PAE downregulated cytokines and NO production in macrophages via perturbation of toll-like receptor signaling. Moreover, PAE suppressed cytokine production in keratinocytes and upregulated the expression of tight junction molecules ZO-1 and occludin. In a DNCB-induced AD mouse model, the topical application of PAE significantly improved atopic index scores, immune cell infiltration, cytokine expression, abnormal activation of signaling molecules in FcεRI and TLR signaling, and damaged skin structure compared with dexamethasone. The anti-inflammatory effect of PAE was mainly due to integerrimine. Our findings suggest that PAE could potently inhibit multi-inflammatory cells involved in AD development, synergistically block the propagation of inflammatory responses, and thus alleviate AD symptoms.

• Parasites, Hosts and Diseases
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• v.61 no.1
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• pp.60-71
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• 2023

Cockroaches can cause allergic sensitization in humans via contact with their feces or frass. Antibiotics can affect concentration of major allergen and total bacteria production in German cockroaches (Blattella germanica). This study examined the ability of antibiotic-treated German cockroaches to induce allergic airway inflammation and the effect of antibiotics on their lipopolysaccharide and Bla g1, 2, and 5 expression levels. Specifically, we measured the ability of German cockroach extract (with or without prior antibiotic exposure) to induce allergic inflammation in human bronchial epithelial cells and a mouse model of asthma. Bacterial 16S rRNA and lipopolysaccharide levels were lower in ampicillin-treated cockroaches than in the control group. The Bla g1, Bla g2, and Bla g5 expression in ampicillin-treated cockroaches decreased at both the protein and RNA levels. In human bronchial epithelial cell lines BEAS-2B exposed to the ampicillin-treated extract, expression levels of interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 were lower than that in the control group. The total cell count and eosinophil count in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was also lower in mice exposed to the ampicillin-treated extract than in those exposed to normal cockroach extract. Mouse lung histopathology showed reduced immune cell infiltration and mucus production in the ampicillin group. Our results showed that ampicillin treatment reduced the symbiont bacterial population and major allergen levels in German cockroaches, leading to reduced airway inflammation in mice. These results can facilitate the preparation of protein extracts for immunotherapy or diagnostics applications.

• Journal of Veterinary Science
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• v.24 no.3
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• pp.44.1-44.17
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• 2023

Background: Antibiotic resistance is a significant public health concern around the globe. Antimicrobial peptides exhibit broad-spectrum and efficient antibacterial activity with an added advantage of low drug resistance. The higher water content and 3D network structure of the hydrogels are beneficial for maintaining antimicrobial peptide activity and help to prevent degradation. The antimicrobial peptide released from hydrogels also hasten the local wound healing by promoting epithelial tissue regeneration and granulation tissue formation. Objective: This study aimed at developing sodium alginate based hydrogel loaded with a novel antimicrobial peptide Chol-37(F34-R) and to investigate the characteristics in vitro and in vivo as an alternative antibacterial wound dressing to treat infectious wounds. Methods: Hydrogels were developed and optimized by varying the concentrations of crosslinkers and subjected to various characterization tests like cross-sectional morphology, swelling index, percent water contents, water retention ratio, drug release and antibacterial activity in vitro, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa infected wound mice model in vivo. Results: The results indicated that the hydrogel C proved superior in terms of cross-sectional morphology having uniformly sized interconnected pores, a good swelling index, with the capacity to retain a higher quantity of water. Furthermore, the optimized hydrogel has been found to exert a significant antimicrobial activity against bacteria and was also found to prevent bacterial infiltration into the wound site due to forming an impermeable barrier between the wound bed and external environment. The optimized hydrogel was found to significantly hasten skin regeneration in animal models when compared to other treatments in addition to strong inhibitory effect on the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α). Conclusions: Our results suggest that sodium alginate -based hydrogels loaded with Chol-37(F34-R) hold the potential to be used as an alternative to conventional antibiotics in treating infectious skin wounds.