• Journal of Life Science
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• v.32 no.2
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• pp.135-141
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• 2022

Thymosin β-4 (TB4) is a small peptide composed of 43 amino acids. To obtain sufficient biologically active mouse TB4 economically, we cloned and overexpressed this gene in an Escherichia coli system. With the isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside induction of the E. coli transformant, TB4 fusion protein with intein- and chitin-binding domain was successfully expressed in the soluble fraction within the E. coli cell. The TB4-intein - chitin-binding domain fusion protein was purified from the soluble fraction of E. coli cell lysate. The affinity chromatography with chitin beads and dithiothreitol-mediated intein self-cleavage reaction releases the TB4 peptide into the stripping solution. Sodium dodecyl sulphate - polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Western blot analyses were used to confirm that the recombinant TB4 peptide was produced with the expected size of 5 kDa. We found that the recombinant TB4 stimulated cell migration in the transwell plate chamber assay. After 18 hr of the treatment of the recombinant TB4 with 1 ng/ml concentration, the migration of the HT1080 cell was increased by 20% compared with that of the chemically synthesized TB4. The recombinant TB4 was also observed to promote the healing of a wound area in C57BL/6 mice by as high as 35% compared with that of the chemically synthesized TB4. These results suggest that the recombinant TB4 has better biological activity for cell migration and wound healing than that of the chemically synthesized TB4 peptide.

• Journal of Science Education
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• v.46 no.1
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• pp.93-108
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• 2022

The purpose of this study is to develop a STEAM program that can be used in the high school credit system to be fully implemented in 2025, and to examine its validity and effectiveness. The STEAM program analyzed the 2015 revised curriculum centering on science, technology, and engineering through the 2015 revised curriculum analysis, and then selected the five latest issues: hydrogen fuel, climate crisis, data science, appropriate technology, and barista. In accordance with this self-developed program development format (frame), it was developed for seven months through a process of group deliberation. The draft of the STEAM program for 29 sessions of five types, developed to indirectly experience the career path and occupation of high school students, was verified through consultation with 2 STEAM education experts. It was applied at five different high schools for a pilot implementation. As a result of the pilot application, it was confirmed that the students' STEAM attitude significantly improved in the post-test than the pre-test, and the students' high satisfaction with the program was confirmed. In addition, through an interview with the pilot application teacher, it was positively evaluated that 'the content and level of the program are suitable and through experience solving real-life problems, you can apply the content knowledge of related subjects and have an opportunity to experience careers.' Based on the results of the pilot application, the high school credit system STEAM program for students and teachers was finally completed in 29 lessons of five types. Through this study, the development and operation of the next-generation STEAM program that can be applied in the high school credit system should be actively developed, and a plan to improve teachers' professionalism so that the high school credit system can be established and operated properly for blended classes triggered by COVID-19. The necessity of design was suggested. This study is expected to be used as basic data for the development and operation of STEAM programs in the high school credit system, which will be fully implemented in 2025.

• Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology
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• v.36 no.2
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• pp.150-164
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• 2022

The objective of this study is to analyze the biodiversity changes and characteristics of the benthic macroinvertebrate community in the Nakdong River with eight weirs, which was constructed as one of the Four Major River Restoration Projects from May to October 2020. The study also includes the analysis of changes in the major groups of benthic macroinvertebrates for about ten years, from 2010 to 2020. The surveys collected 97 species of benthic macroinvertebrates belonging to 83 genera, 52 families, 18 orders, five classes, three phyla, and 128.1 individuals/m². Chironomidae sp. and Tubificidae spp., which are pollutant indicators, dominated throughout the sections. The community analysis result shows the average dominant index and the diversity index of 0.62±0.20 and 1.87±0.63, respectively, and indicated the most stability of the freshwater ecosystem in the upper stream of the Nakdong River. The survey showed dominance by Chironomidae sp. at the center of the Nakdong River weir and the most unstable community in Chilgok and Gangjeong Goryeong weirs. The results of the community stability analysis showed a high distribution of the characteristic group I with high resilience and resistance and small distribution of characteristic group III with low resistance and resilience, indicating a very unstable condition of communities in the Nakdong River weir section. Predators were relatively abundant among the functional feeding groups (FFGs), whereas shredders, gathering-collectors, and filtering-collectors were relatively lower. Among the habitat orientation groups (HOGs), burrowers and climbers were dominant, indicating a wide distribution of groups in ecosystems with low dissolved oxygen. An endangered species level II of Macromia daimoji was found in Sangju and Nakdan weirs. The analysis results for 10 years from 2010 showed that the number of species and populations increased immediately after the dam construction but plummeted in 2016 and are now stabilizing. Chironomidae spp. has been dominant in all sections over the past 10 years, and they are currently maintained at a rate of about 50%. The EPT groups have decreased significantly since 2011, and the Plecoptera and Trichoptera of the group have not yet been restored. The population of Tubificidae spp. showed an increase after construction was completed in 2012 and drastically increased in 2015 and 2020. The species of Cristaria plicata, designated as endangered species level I, has not been observed since 2011 in Hapcheon Changnyeong weir. Moreover, Macromia daimoji was rarely observed in seven weirs until 2015, and it has been confirmed that the current distribution habitat has decreased rapidly.

• 지역과문화
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• v.7 no.2
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• pp.133-154
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• 2020

In this study, we reviewed the preparation process and the main Uimul involved in the procession of Gyeongsang Gamsa Doim in the late Joseon Dynasty. We reviewed the Yeongyeong- Ilgi, written by Cho, Jae-ho, and the Miam-Ilgicho, wtitten by Yoo Hee-chun. Those who had been appointed as a Gamsa by the Sammang System went through the Saeun and Sajo procedures to thank and say goodbye to the king before leaving for his assignment. The Gyoseo and Yuseo were usually received from the king at this time, but in some cases, they were received in the Seungjeongwon, or the Seori of Seungjeongwon brought them directly to the place where the Gamsa works. The Milbu with the Eoab was received along with the Yuseol, and the principle was to return the Milbu later. The procession of Gamsa is divided into the pre-and post-Gyoinsik procession and the Sunryeok procession. It was confirmed that the pre-Gyoinsik procession was made more compact than the post-Gyoinsik procession. In the study, we reviewed Ilsan, which is necessary for the officials' procession, and also examined the Gyoseo, Yuseo, Jeol·Wol, and Milbu received from the king. We also looked at the Gwan-in and Byeongb given by the former Gamsa at the the Gyoinsik. The Jeol, which means the command and the Wol, which means killing power, were given to the Gamsa. And unlike previous studies, it was confirmed that the Jeol was a perforated hexagon and and the Wol was a trident. Also, it was found that Ilsan is white, and there are two rows of Yuso on each of the six ribs of the umbrella. It is thought that the results of this study, which looked at the Doim process and Uimul by dividing the Gyeongsang-Gamsa Doim procession in the late Joseon Dynasty pre-and post-Gyoinsik, will be helpful in understanding the process of Gasmsa Doim. In addition, it is expected that it can be used as basic data for reproduction event of traditional culture related to Gwana, such as the reproduction of Gyeongsang-Gamsa Doim-Sunlyeok procession and Gyoinsik.

• Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association
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• v.56 no.1
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• pp.51-60
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• 2021

Purpose: Radiocarpal dislocation (RCD), which is caused by high-energy trauma, often involves radial styloid fractures and short radiolunate ligament (SRLL) injuries. Although SRLL injuries may occur as a simple rupture at the attachment site of radius, it may occur with a relatively large avulsed-fragment in the volar rim of the lunate facet of the radius. This study aimed to differentiate the injury type of SRLL and assess the differences in the treatment results depending on the treatment methods that have been applied in RCD with radial styloid fractures. Materials and Methods: Eighteen patients managed surgically with RCD were enrolled in this study. The patients were classified as Group 1 and Group 2 by using the Dumontier method. In this study, Group 2 was subdivided into 2A (purely ligamentous or small avulsion fracture of the volar rim of lunate facet) and 2B (large avulsed-fragment enough to internal fixation) according to the injury type of SRLL. Groups 2A and 2B were treated with direct repair and screw fixation, respectively. Pain, range of motion of the wrist joint, grip strength, and complications on final radiographs were examined. The outcomes were evaluated using patient-rated wrist evaluation (PRWE), and modified Mayo wrist score (MMWS). Results: All patients were Group 2 (six and twelve patients in 2A and 2B, respectively). The mean flexion to extension arch recovered 79%,and the mean grip strength was 72.9% of the uninjured side. Group 2A showed better recovery in extension, flexion and pronation than Group 2B, but there was no difference in radial deviation, ulnar deviation, supination, grip strength and pain. No differences in the PRWE and MMWS were observed between two groups. Complications included traumatic arthritis in seven patients and residual instability in five patients. Conclusion: When the SRLL was injured, the involvement of a large avulsion fracture on the anterior plane of the radiolunate did not affect the test results. On the other hand, it should be observed cautiously because avulsion fractures tend to disturb the joint's reduction through rotation or displacement. In addition, anatomical reduction and sturdy internal fixation are important for restoring the function of the SRLL.

• Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association
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• v.55 no.2
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• pp.162-168
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• 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to suggest an appropriate treatment method by comparing nonsurgical treatment and surgical treatment for enchondroma in the hands and feet. Materials and Methods: Seventy four cases with enchondroma of the hands and feet from January 1996 to March 2017 were selected to evaluate the functional outcomes. Thirty cases were treated with nonsurgical treatment, and 44 cases were treated with surgical treatment, such as curettage only or curettage with a bone graft. The mean follow-up period was 18.1 months. The functional results were analyzed using the Wilhelm and Feldmeier formula. Results: The mean age was 38 years, and the age range was between eight and 69 years. According to the Wilhelm and Feldmeier formula, the mean score of hand enchondroma was 3.09±0.85 and 3.20±0.91 in the non-operative and operative group, respectively. The mean scores of the foot except for the grip strength were 2.57±0.79 and 2.75±0.50, respectively. No significant difference was observed according to the functional results. Among the 18 cases of enchondroma with pathological fractures, nine cases were treated non-surgically and nine cases were treated by surgically. In all 18 cases, complete bone healing was observed at the final follow-up. Conclusion: Relatively satisfactory results were obtained in both surgical and nonsurgical treatment and there was no significant difference in functional outcomes. In cases of enchondroma in the hands and feet, nonsurgical treatment can also be a good treatment option.

• Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association
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• v.56 no.1
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• pp.61-67
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• 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the prognostic factors affecting poor functional outcomes in patients with retear after rotator cuff repair. Materials and Methods: From January 2013 to December 2018, among 631 patients who underwent arthroscopic repair of a rotator cuff tear, 42 patients, who could be followed-up for more than one year and showed a retear of the repaired cuff on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), were collected retrospectively. The preoperative demographic data, range of motion, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, fatty degeneration, and tear progression on postoperative MRI, as well as other factors that could affect the clinical outcomes, were analyzed. Patients who scored <80 points on the ASES score were allocated to the poor function group. The risk factors for poor clinical outcomes were compared with the group with ASES scores of 80 or above. Results: The postoperative functional results in the group with retear (n=42) after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair showed significant improvement. Univariate analysis revealed the preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score and tear progression to have associations with a poor shoulder function. In addition, subscapularis repair was found to be associated with a good shoulder function. The preoperative VAS score and tear progression except for subscapularis repair were independent factors associated with poor clinical outcomes according to multivariate logistic regression analysis. Conclusion: In patients with retear after rotator cuff repair, the preoperative VAS and tear progression in postoperative MRI are factors predicting a poor functional outcome.

• Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association
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• v.56 no.6
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• pp.484-490
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• 2021

Purpose: A rheumatoid forefoot deformity includes severe hallux valgus and claw toe of the four lateral toes. The authors intended to analyze the mid-term results of the modified Hoffman procedure for a rheumatoid forefoot deformity. Materials and Methods: Twenty-two feet of eighteen patients were followed up for more than two years after the modified Hoffman procedure. The mean age was 54.7 years, and the mean follow-up period was three years and four months. Clinically visual analogue scale (VAS) and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) MP-IP score were analyzed preoperatively and postoperatively. The postoperative complications, the satisfaction of patients, and the presence of plantar callosity were also analyzed. Radiographically, the hallux valgus angle, the 1st intermetatarsal angle, the 1st interphalangeal angle, the 1st interphalangeal joint arthritic change after the operation, and the dorsiflexion angle and the time to union of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint were analyzed. Results: Clinically, the VAS and AOFAS score were respectively improved from 7.1 points and 30.3 points preoperatively to 1.5 points and 83.1 points postoperatively (p<0.001). All patients were satisfied with the results. Plantar callosity disappeared in all cases. Radiographically, the mean hallux valgus angle, the 1st intermetatarsal angle, and the 1st interphalangeal angle changed from 52.8°, 13.3°, and 7.5° preoperatively to 16.2°, 8.7°, and 14.6° postoperatively (p<0.001). The mean dorsiflexion angle of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint was 17.2° postoperatively. The mean time to radiographic union of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint was 11.1 weeks. There were two cock-up deformities of the lesser toe, one wound problem, and two hallux interphalangeal joint arthritis as a complication. There were no cases of nonunion of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint. Conclusion: The modified Hoffman procedure appears to be a safe and satisfactory procedure for a rheumatoid forefoot deformity.

• Journal of Life Science
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• v.32 no.12
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• pp.971-978
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• 2022

Sulfur-oxidizing, ammonium-oxidizing, and nitrogen-oxidizing media were used to isolate bacteria to degrade malodor gas effectively in piggery manure or soil. Twelve different strains were isolated: Paenibacillus amylolyticus, Rhodococcus jostii, Rhodococcus qingshengii, Rhodococcus opacus, Alcaligenes faecalis, Alcaligenes faecalis, Kastia adipate, Kastia adipata, Microbacterium oxydans, Halomonas campisalis, Acinetobacter oleivorans, and Micrococcus luteus. By inoculating each strain in the piggery liquid manure by 1%, the pH in most strain treatments was maintained at 8.0. Total bacterial counts were maintained at 7.3~7.9 log CFU/ml until 15 days, and then they dropped dramatically down to 5.1~5.5 log CFU/ml. On the 30th day, the treatment group inoculated with Rhodococcus opacus SK2659 showed a relatively high level of ammonium nitrogen removal, which was 39% of that of the control group. When Rhodococcus opacus SK2659 was inoculated, H2S concentration after 100 days was 3.23% compared with the control (no inoculation), suggesting that Rhodococcus opacus SK2659 is an excellent strain for removing malodor gas. The gas production of the treatments was lower than that of the control. The total accumulated amount of gas production in most strain treatments was a quarter of the gas production compared to the control throughout the experimental periods. Acinetobacter oleivorans SK2675 showed the lowest level at 12.39% compared to the control in gas production. In conclusion, the use of mixture strains, such as Rhodococcus opacus SK2659 and Acinetobacter oleivorans SK2675 isolated in this study could increase the efficacy of malodor gas reduction in the biological treatment of piggery manure.

• Journal of Life Science
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• v.32 no.12
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• pp.919-928
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• 2022

As seen in the COVID-19 pandemic, unexpected emergence of new viruses presents serious concern on public health. Especially, the absence of effective vaccines or antiviral drugs against emerging viruses significantly increases the severity of disease and duration of viral circulation among population. Natural products have served as a major source for safe and effective antiviral drugs. In this study, we examined the virucidal activity of medical herb extracts with a view to discover novel antiviral agents with desired levels of safety and antiviral efficacy. Ethanol extracts of ten selected medical herbs were tested for antioxidant activity and in-vitro cytotoxicity in various animal cell lines. Of note, the herbal extracts showed broad and potent virucidal activities against rotavirus, hepatitis A virus, and influenza A virus. The extracts of Sorbus commixta and Glycyrrhiza uralensis showed strong virucidal activities against influenza A virus. We also examined whether the extracts of Sorbus commixta and Glycyrrhiza uralensis can be used as inactivating agents to prepare an inactivated viral vaccine. In a mouse model, influenza A virus inactivated by the extracts elicited high levels of neutralizing antibodies, and the vaccination provided complete protection against lethal challenge. These results suggest that herb-derived natural products can be developed to antiviral drugs as well as inactivating agents for preparation of inactivated viral vaccines.