• Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology
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• v.34 no.3
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• pp.259-270
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• 2020

Plants Social Network (PSN) was first used in recent studies to incorporate the plant sociology methods for the understanding of plant society with the social network analysis methods that have recently attracted attention in the social science and visualize and analyze a PSN. The process of construction and analysis on PSN proceeds in the order of setting up the survey area, investigating the appearance plants species on plots of 100㎡, analyzing the interspecific association, building the sociogram, and analyzing the network structure and centrality. This study established a PSN by investigating the appearance species after installing 708 plots to include various dominant vegetational physiognomies in Busan Metropolitan City, where coastal and inland vegetation could be observed simultaneously. The survey found a total of 195 species, including 42 species of evergreen, 151 species of deciduous trees, and 2 species of semi-evergreen trees. The interspecies binding analysis was performed with the focus on the total number of species. It showed the number of friendly species in the order of Eurya japonica (47 species), Trachelospermum asiaticum (46 species), Linder glauca (44 species), Sorbus alnifolia (44 species), and Ligustrum japonicum (41 species). Based on it, we generated a sociogram using Gephi 0.9.2 program. The sociogram was divided into groups that appeared mostly on the coast and those that did not, reflecting the geographical distribution characteristics of forest vegetation in Busan. The analysis of the network structured showed 1,709 links and an average of 17.5 species having interspecies binding with a species. The density was 0.09, the diameter was 5, and the average path distance was 2.268. We concluded that various PSNs should be established in the future for precise comparative analysis of network characteristics in the social science field. In the PSN of Busan Metropolitan City, Eurya japonica, Linder glauca, Ligustrum japonicum, and Trachelospermum asiaticum showed high centrality.

• Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology
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• v.34 no.3
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• pp.249-258
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• 2020

This study aims to provide reference material for effective forest management techniques at the catchment scale, based on the field investigation of large woody debris (LWD) in 11 streams within a third-order forest catchment in Gangwon Province, Korea. To achieve this aim, we analyzed the morphological features of LWD pieces, and the storage and distribution status of LWD by stream order throughout the entire investigation. As a result, a total of 1,207 individual pieces of LWD were categorized into three types as follows: (ⅰ) 1,142 pieces (95%) as only trunk and 65 pieces (5%) as a trunk with root wad, (ⅱ) 1,015 pieces (84%) as non-thinned and 192 pieces (16%) as the thinned, and (ⅲ) 1,050 pieces (87%) as conifer and 157 pieces (13%) as broadleaf. Additionally, in-stream LWD loads (㎥/ha) decreased with increasing stream order, yielding 105.4, 71.3, and 35.6 for first-, second-, and third-order streams, respectively. On the other hand, the ratio of LWD jams to the total LWD volume increased with increasing stream order, yielding 11%, 43%, and 49% for first-, second-, and third-order streams, respectively. Finally, a comparison of the in-stream LWD load with previous studies in several countries around the world indicated that in-stream LWD load was positively correlated with forest stand age even though the climate, topography, forest soil type, forest composition, stand growth rate, disturbance regime, and forest management practices were different. These results could contribute to understanding the significance of LWD as a by-product of forest ecosystems and an indicator of riparian forest disturbance. Based on this, we conclude that advanced forest management techniques, including treatment of thinning slash and stand density control of riparian forest by site location (hillslope and riparian zone, or stream order), should be established in the future, taking the forest ecosystem and the aquatic environment from headwater streams to low land rivers into consideration.

• Korean Journal of Environment and Ecology
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• v.30 no.6
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• pp.1022-1031
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• 2016

Relationships of standing biomass with biodiversity and structural diversity were examined in the Quercus mongolica-dominated forest in Mt. Jeombong, Gangwon-do. We examined the standing biomass of the Q. mongolia community ($311.1ton{\cdot}ha^{-1}$) from 2004 to 2013, and the observed major species were Q. mongoilca, Carpinus cordata, Tilia amurensis whose standing biomasses were $206.3ton{\cdot}ha^{-1}$ (66.3%), $36.9ton{\cdot}ha^{-1}$ (11.9%), and $30.6ton{\cdot}ha^{-1}$ (9.8%), respectively. Although the number of Q. mongolica individuals was very small compared with total density, the reason that Q. mongolica showed the most biomass than other species is due to greater average diameter at breast height (DBH) and the higher number of $DBH{\geq}50cm$ individuals. We calculated the range of Shannon index (H') and Shannon evenness (J') in the Q. mongolica community, and they were gradually increased in time, showing 2.015~2.166, 0.673~0.736, respectively. Their H' and J' showed positive linear relationships with their standing biomass. This indicates that the spatial distribution of the standing biomass in Q. mongoilca community becomes more homogeneous with time and this homogenization appears in various species in the community. In addition, we estimated biomass-species index (BS) and abundance-biomass-speciesdiversity (ABS) and they also showed gradual increase in time, ranging from 3.746 to 3.811 and from 4.781 to 5.028, respectively. Their indices showed positive linear relationships with the standing biomass. This can be explained from the observations of variations in standing biomass with tree diameters as the differences in the average standing biomass in the community have reduced gradually in time. Moreover, it is expected that increase in the structure diversity of the Q. mongoilca community enhances the efficiency in carbon sequestration and productivity, so the community can be developed to a more sustainable ecosystem with more abundant resources. Thus, applications of uneven-aged plantations with considerations of local ecological properties can be a very efficient reforestation method to ensure stable support of biodiversity and productivity.

• Analytical Science and Technology
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• v.28 no.6
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• pp.453-459
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• 2015

Split-flow thin cell fractionation (SPLITT fractionation, SF) is a particle separation technique that allows continuous (and thus a preparative scale) separation into two subpopulations based on the particle size or the density. In SF, there are two basic performance parameters. One is the throughput (TP), which was defined as the amount of sample that can be processed in a unit time period. Another is the fractionation efficiency (FE), which was defined as the number % of particles that have the size predicted by theory. Full-feed depletion mode (FFD-SF) have only one inlet for the sample feed, and the channel is equipped with a flow stream splitter only at the outlet in SF mode. In conventional FFD-mode, it was difficult to extend channel due to splitter in channel. So, we use large scale splitter-less FFD-SF to increase TP from increase channel scale. In this study, a FFD-SF channel was developed for a large-scale fractionation, which has no flow stream splitters (‘splitter less’), and then was tested for optimum TP and FE by varying the sample concentration and the flow rates at the inlet and outlet of the channel. Polyurethane (PU) latex beads having two different size distribution (about 3~7 µm, and about 2~30 µm) were used for the test. The sample concentration was varied from 0.2 to 0.8% (wt/vol). The channel flow rate was varied from 70, 100, 120 and 160 mL/min. The fractionated particles were monitored by optical microscopy (OM). The sample recovery was determined by collecting the particles on a 0.1 µm membrane filter. Accumulation of relatively large micron sized particles in channel could be prevented by feeding carrier liquid. It was found that, in order to achieve effective TP, the concentration of sample should be at higher than 0.4%.

• Journal of Radiation Protection and Research
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• v.41 no.1
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• pp.71-79
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• 2016

Background: It is necessary to analyze radioactivity of naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) in products to ensure radiological safety required by Natural Radiation Safety Management Act. The pretreatments for the existing analysis methods require high technology and time. Such destructive pretreatments including grinding and dissolution of samples make impossible to reuse products. We developed a rapid and simple procedure of radioactivity analysis for thorium series in the products containing NORM. Materials and Methods: The developed method requires non-destructive or minimized pretreatment. Radioactivity of the product without pretreatment is initially measured using gamma spectroscopy and then the measured radioactivity is adjusted by considering material composition, mass density, and geometrical shape of the product. The radioactivity adjustment can be made using scaling factors, which is derived by radiation transport Monte Carlo simulation. Necklace, bracelet, male health care product, and tile for health mat were selected as representative products for this study. The products are commonly used by the public and directly contacted with human body and thus resulting in high radiation exposure to the user. Results and Discussion: The scaling factors were derived using MCNPX code and the values ranged from 0.31 to 0.47. If radioactivity of the products is measured without pretreatment, the thorium series may be overestimated by up to 2.8 times. If scaling factors are applied, the difference in radioactivity estimates are reduced to 3-24%. Conclusion : The developed procedure in this study can be used for other products with various materials and shapes and thus ensuring radiological safety.

• Korean Journal of Ecology and Environment
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• v.44 no.3
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• pp.253-263
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• 2011

This study was conducted to gain preliminary data for restoration and management of constructed small-scale ponds in paddy fields through analysis of their physicochemical and biological properties. A field survey was performed at 13 small-scale ponds located in paddy fields from August 2009 to October 2010. Structural properties, water quality, soil characteristics and fish fauna were measured. Results showed that small-scale ponds without frames might lose their function over time because of crumbling walls. Therefore, it is necessary for these ponds to have frames for soil protection and sustainable maintenance. Chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) concentration were higher than the water quality standard for agricultural water in small-scale ponds. In particular, TN concentration was 8.03 mg $L^{-1}$ and over 8 times the water quality standard because of the presence of livestock such as cows and pigs in the study areas. Sand, organic matter and available phosphorus contents of soil in small-scale ponds was 53.4${\pm}$16.6%, 21.8${\pm}$9.74 g $kg^{-1}$ and 12.8${\pm}$7.59 mg $kg^{-1}$, respectively indicating that sand and available phosphorus contents were suitable for plants in small-scale ponds, but organic matter contents was somewhat low in newly constructed small-scale ponds, and would take some time to stabilize for plant growing. Fish fauna was not diverse with only 4 species at all sites surveyed. Collected fishes share a common feature that they all inhabit paddy fields or canals with shallow water depth. In this study, all ponds were not linked to the streams and canals around them. It appears that connection to adjacent streams was the major factor controlling fish fauna in small-scale ponds. The results of statistical analysis were classified into three groups. Factor 1 was 26.3%, which shows a structural properties such as area and depth of small-scale pond. As for factor 2, it appears on 20.1%, showing water quality like a TP, suspended solids (SS) and COD. Small-scale ponds were classified into three groups by factor scores. Group I consisted of 6 small-scale ponds, which were larger than the others. Group III had higher water quality than the others. We conclude that the most important points to be considered for restoration and management of small-scale ponds is connection with adjacent streams or ditches and depth and size of the small-scale pond.

• The Sea:JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF OCEANOGRAPHY
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• v.16 no.2
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• pp.97-105
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• 2011

This study investigated the community structure and spatio-temporal variation of macrobenthic assemblages around Gijang Province, East Sea of Korea. Macrobenthos collected seasonally using a modified van Veen grab sampler from March to November 2006. A total of 157 macrobenthic fauna were collected. The overall average macrobenthos density were $552 \;ind/m^2$. The species number of macrobenthos was in the range from 62 in winter and spring to 122 in autumn. On the other hand, abundance fluctuated between 6,540 (in spring) and 17,920 (in autumn) inds./$18m^2$. Cluster analysis and non-metric multi-dimensional scaling (nMDS) were applied to assess the spatio-temporal fluctuation in the macrobenthic assemblages. Cluster analysis and nMDS ordination analysis based on the Bray-Curtis similarity identified 3 station groups. The group 1 (station 8~10, 12, 13, 17 and 18) was characterized by high abundance of the polychaete Lumbrineris longifolia, the bivalve Ennucula tenuis and the Amphipoda spp., with mean phi range from $6.2{\Phi}$ to $7.1{\Phi}$ (above 50m water depth). The group 2 (station 5~7, 11, 14~16) was numerically dominated by the po1ychaete Ampharete arctica and the bivalve Theorafragilis (mean phi: $6.0{\sim}7.0{\Phi}$; within 40 m water depth). Finally group 3 (station 1~4) was characterized by high density of the polychaetes Magelona japonica and Sternaspis scutata, with mean phi range from $3.5{\Phi}$ to $6.9{\Phi}$ (below 30 m water depth). In conclusion, the Macrobenthic community structure showed a distinct spatial and temporal trend, which seemed to be related to the water depth and sediment composition.

• Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition
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• v.12 no.1
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• pp.30-38
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• 2009

Purpose: To investigate the physical and biochemical parameters related with elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in obese children. Methods: One hundred forty-two obese or overweight children who visited the out-patient clinics of Chungnam National University Hospital between January 2006 and August 2008 were enrolled. Physical measures and biochemical tests were performed in all patients. Liver sonography was performed in 43 patients. They were divided into the following 2 groups based on ALT levels: group I, normal ALT levels (n=65); and group II, elevated ALT levels (n=77). We compared the physical measures, biochemical results, and ultrasonographic findings of the livers in both groups. Other causes of elevated serum ALT levels were ruled out. Results: The male-to-female ratios were 1.6:1 in group I and 7.6:1 in group II. Among physical parameters, the waist circumference-to-height ratio and hip circumference-to-height ratio were significantly higher in group II (p=0.001 and 0.046, respectively). Among biochemical parameters, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), ${\gamma}$-glutamyltransferase (${\gamma}$-GT), and total cholesterol levels were significantly higher in group II (p<0.001, 0.001, and 0.001, respectively). The AST/ALT ratio was <1 (mean, 0.55) and statistically lower in group II. There was a positive correlation between the serum ALT level and ${\gamma}$-GT (p<0.001, r=0.750), and a positive correlation between the serum ALT level and the waist circumference-to-height ratio in group II (p<0.001, r=0.401). Conclusion: The results suggest that the waist circumference-to-height ratio and ${\gamma}$-GT may be associated with elevated alanine aminotransferase activity in obese children.

• Korean Journal of Remote Sensing
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• v.34 no.2_1
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• pp.237-248
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• 2018

The vertical distribution of hydrometeor before precipitation near the cloud base has been analyzed using a scanning lidar, rawinsonde data, and Cloud-Resolving Storm Simulator (CReSS). This study mostly focuses on 13 Desember 2016 only. The typical synoptic pattern of lake-effect snowstorm induced easterly in the Yeongdong region. Clouds generated due to high temperature difference between 850 hPa and sea surface (SST) penentrated in the Yeongdong region along with northerly and northeasterly, which eventually resulted precipitation. The cloud base height before the precipitation changed from 750 m to 1,280 m, which was in agreement with that from ceilometer at Sokcho. However, ceilometer tended to detect the cloud base 50 m ~ 100 m below strong signal of lidar backscattering coefficient. As a result, the depolarization ratio increased vertically while the backscattering coefficient decreased about 1,010 m~1,200 m above the ground. Lidar signal might be interpreted to be attenuated with the penetration depth of the cloud layer with of nonspherical hydrometeor (snow, ice cloud). An increase in backscattering signal and a decrease in depolarization ratio occured in the layer of 800 to 1,010 m, probably being associated with an increase in non-spherical particles. There seemed to be a shallow liquid layer with a low depolarization ratio (<0.1) in the layer of 850~900 m. As the altitude increases in the 680 m~850 m, the backscattering coefficient and depolarization ratio increase at the same time. In this range of height, the maximum value (0.6) is displayed. Such a result can be inferred that the nonspherical hydrometeor are distributed by a low density. At this time, the depolarization ratio and the backscattering coefficient did not increase under observed melting layer of 680 m. The lidar has a disadvantage that it is difficult for its beam to penetrate deep into clouds due to attenuation problem. However it is promising to distinguish hydrometeor morphology by utilizing the depolarization ratio and the backscattering coefficient, since its vertical high resolution (2.5 m) enable us to analyze detailed cloud microphysics. It would contribute to understanding cloud microphysics of cold clouds and snowfall when remote sensings including lidar, radar, and in-situ measurements could be timely utilized altogether.

• The Journal of Engineering Geology
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• v.13 no.3
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• pp.293-308
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• 2003

New results about the crustal structure down to a depth of 60 km beneath North Korea were obtained using the seismic tomography method. About 1013 P- and S-wave travel times from local earthquakes recorded by the Korean stations and the vicinity were used in the research. All earthquakes were relocated on the basis of an algorithm proposed in this study. Parameterization of the velocity structure is realized with a set of nodes distributed in the study volume according to the ray density. 120 nodes located at four depth levels were used to obtain the resulting P- and S-wave velocity structures. As a result, it is found that P- and S-wave velocity anomalies of the Rangnim Massif at depth of 8 km are high and low, respectively, whereas those of the Pyongnam Basin are low up to 24 km. It indicates that the Rangnim Massif contains Archean-early Lower Proterozoic Massif foldings with many faults and fractures which may be saturated with underground water and/or hot springs. On the other hand, the Pyongyang-Sariwon in the Pyongnam Basin is an intraplatform depression which was filled with sediments for the motion of the Upper Proterozoic, Silurian and Upper Paleozoic, and Lower Mesozoic origin. In particular, the high P- and S-wave velocity anomalies are observed at depth of 8, 16, and 24 km beneath Mt. Backdu, indicating that they may be the shallow conduits of the solidified magma bodies, while the low P-and S-wave velocity anomalies at depth of 38 km must be related with the magma chamber of low velocity bodies with partial melting. We also found the Moho discontinuities beneath the Origin Basin including Sari won to be about 55 km deep, whereas those of Mt. Backdu is found to be about 38 km. The high ratio of P-wave velocity/S-wave velocity at Moho suggests that there must be a partial melting body near the boundary of the crust and mantle. Consequently we may well consider Mt. Backdu as a dormant volcano which is holding the intermediate magma chamber near the Moho discontinuity. This study also brought interesting and important findings that there exist some materials with very high P- and S-wave velocity annomoalies at depth of about 40 km near Mt. Myohyang area at the edge of the Rangnim Massif shield.