This study investigated the wetland plant community in Mije Reservoir, Gunsan City, during September and October 2024, emphasizing its ecological significance as a primary producer and habitat provider within agricultural reservoir ecosystems. The reservoir was divided into 14 distinct sectors to comprehensively assess spatial plant distribution patterns. Aquatic plants were sampled using collection anchors deployed at the water’s edge, while hygrophytes and emergent macrophytes were surveyed along transects extending from the water’s edge to the embankment. A total of 192 vascular plant species were identified, of which 73 were classified as wetland plant species, encompassing diverse life forms: 36 hygrophytes, 17 emergent macrophytes, 6 floating-leaf species, 3 free-floating species, and 11 submerged species. Notably, the survey documented the presence of two endangered species, Euryale ferox and Cicuta virosa, alongside eight invasive alien plant species. A comparative analysis with a prior survey conducted in 2008 revealed a substantial increase of 54 wetland plant species. Currently, Mije Reservoir is subject to intensive aquatic plant removal management due to observed excessive proliferation and cyanobacterial bloom. However, the presence of endangered species underscores the critical need for a more nuanced reservoir vegetation management strategy that integrates the spatial distribution and conservation status of these ecologically important wetland plants.

Various cystic diseases or benign tumors can occur in the jaw, and diagnosis through accurate analysis is essential. In clinical examination, objective tests such as palpation, percussion, and pulp vitality tests are mainly performed on the patient's subjective symptoms, and differential diagnosis is performed by combining radiological and histopathological examinations. This study aims to analyze the incidence rate, location, and recurrence rate of cystic diseases and benign tumors that appear as radiolucent lesions in the jaw. From 2016 to 2020, 1,293 patients diagnosed with cystic diseases or benign tumors with radiolucent radiographic features in Pusan National University Hospital were identified. Under general anesthesia, patients were subjected to cyst enucleation or excision, and the masses were sent for pathohistological examination at the Department of Pathology, Pusan National University Hospital for definitive diagnosis. The incidence rate, location, and recurrence rate of the diseases mentioned above were analyzed. 1,293 patients were diagnosed, with dentigerous cysts being the most common, followed by radicular cysts, odontogenic keratocysts (OKC), and ameloblastomas. Most ameloblastomas, dentigerous cysts, and OKCs were located in the mandibular posterior region, whereas radicular cysts were predominantly observed in the maxillary anterior region. Recurrence was most notable in ameloblastomas and OKCs. Dentigerous cysts are the most common radiolucent jaw lesions, while ameloblastomas and OKCs show high recurrence rates, thus requiring careful management. The lesions vary in their predominant locations, with ameloblastomas, dentigerous cysts, and OKCs commonly occurring in the mandibular posterior region, and radicular cysts in the maxillary anterior region. Given the differences in recurrence rates and site predilections, it is crucial to differentiate these lesions accurately based on their characteristics and provide appropriate treatment tailored to each type.

This study investigated the distribution and growth performance of Bolboschoenus planiculmis under varying estuarine environmental conditions. We aimed to determine the optimal planting methods and environmental conditions with respect to salinity, soil texture, and tidal regimes on its growth performance. Our findings revealed a significant reduction in B. planiculmis coverage, shrinking to 955,393 m2 in 2024, representing only 38.59% of that compared to 2004. The plant’s survival rate exhibited a clear salinity gradient: 0 ppt (89±8.01%)>5 ppt (64±4.56%)>15 ppt (37±4.25%)>30 ppt (0±0.00%). Planting density significantly influenced growth, with 24 tubers m-2 yielding the highest number of plants per tuber (14.67±0.33). A planting depth of 5 cm proved optimal for tuber germination and growth. Soil texture analysis demonstrated that a lower sand content promoted growth, with the highest density observed in soil containing 10% sand (435±6.96 plants m-2). Tidal influence also played an important role, with areas experiencing regular tidal fluctuations fostering the most successful growth. Planting tubers or young plants with attached tubers in these tidal zones led to the highest survival rates and biomass.

Busan and Gyeongsangnam-do region host numerous significant wetlands, including the Nakdong River Estuary, one of the largest migratory bird habitats in East Asia, making it an essential habitat for waterbirds. However, issues such as wetland area reduction have arisen due to accelerated industrialization and urbanization since the 1980s. This study analyzed annual and monthly changes in waterbird populations and examined habitat use patterns and interrelationships among four wetlands in Busan and Gyeongsangnam-do: the Nakdong River Estuary (NRE), Lower Nakdong River (LNR), Junam Reservoir (JUR), and Upo Wetland (UPO), using waterbird data collected from 1999 to 2024. The results showed a decreasing trend in waterbirds at the NRE and UPO, while an increasing trend was observed at the LNR and JUR. Notably, populations of Anatidae decreased at the NRE and UPO but increased at the LNR and JUR, indicating that changes in Anatidae significantly influenced waterbird population trends. Monthly population fluctuations were particularly pronounced at the NRE and LNR. While the population decreased at the NRE after November, it increased at the LNR. This suggests that waterbirds moved to the LNR due to habitat and food resource reductions in the NRE. In contrast, the JUR and UPO exhibited weaker associations with the other sites. This study aims to contribute to future wetland management and waterbird conservation strategies in the Busan and Gyeongsangnam-do region.

This study investigated the annual change and distribution of flora, including endangered species, Korean Red List species, and invasive plants, in the Nakdong River Estuary Ecological Park over a 10-year period (2013~2023). The park was established in 2009 as part of the Four Major Rivers Restoration Project. The investigation identified a total of 704 taxa, comprising 137 families, 401 genera, 631 species, 18 subspecies, 38 varieties, 11 forms, and 6 hybrids. Eulsukdo Ecological Park exhibited the highest plant diversity with 531 taxa, followed by Hwamyeong (404 taxa), Samnak (387 taxa), Daejeo (369 taxa), and Maekdo (356 taxa). The endangered wildlife survey identified three endangered plant species (Class II): Euryale ferox, Brasenia schreberi, and Saururus chinensis. Following the endangered species restoration project, E. ferox has been consistently observed both within the restoration area and the riparian of main channel. The Urbanization Index (UI) was highest in Eulsukdo Ecological Park (24.1%), followed by Hwamyeong (20.0%), Samnak (18.1%), Maekdo (17.8%), and Daejeo Ecological Parks (16.7%). Twelve invasive plants were identified: Sicyos angulatus, Lactuca scariola, Ambrosia trifida, Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Solanum carolinense, Aster pilosus, Hypochaeris radicata, Rumex acetosella, S. altissima, Paspalum disticum, Paspalum distichum var. indutum, and Humulus japonicus. Notably, S. altissima showed a significant decrease in its total distribution area, shrinking from 741,092 m2 in 2021 to 241,396 m2 in 2024. Continuous monitoring and management are necessary to prevent invasive plants, including ecosystem-disturbing species, from forming large colonies and hindering the growth of native plants.

This study investigated the spatial distribution of dissolved organic carbon and the changes in tidal flat soil characteristics following the flooding season in the closed estuary of the Geumgang River basin. We found that after the flooding season, a brackish water area expanded due to increased river discharge, which also introduced low concentrations of dissolved organic carbon from the river. Dissolved inorganic carbon predominantly originated from the sea in proportion to salinity, indicating that in the closed estuary area, dissolved carbon supplied from the sea remained a significant source even after the flooding season. Additionally, a substantial amount of tidally transported silt and clay was deposited near the estuary dam after the flood, and its effects continued to influence the sediment characteristics downstream in the intertidal zone. As an empirical study in the closed estuary, our results are expected to contribute to conservation measures for the World Heritage Site in the area.

Ceramic materials have become essential due to their high durability, chemical stability, and excellent thermal stability in various advanced industries such as aerospace, automotive, and semiconductor. However, high-performance ceramic materials face limitations in commercialization due to the high cost of raw materials and complex manufacturing processes. Aluminum borate (Al₁₈B₄O₃₃) has emerged as a promising alternative due to its superior mechanical strength and thermal stability, despite its simple manufacturing process and low production cost. In this study, we propose a method for producing Al₁₈B₄O₃₃ spherical powder with increased uniformity and high flowability by controlling the particle size of B₂O₃. The content ratio of the manufactured Al18B4O33 spherical powder was Al2O3: B2O3 = 87:13, and it exhibited a 17% reduction in the Hausner ratio (1.04) and a 29% decrease in the angle of repose (23.9°) compared to pre-milling conditions, demonstrating excellent flowability.

In this study, 41 individuals in 7 locations within CP, MG, UC, and DN map sheets were observed. The MG map sheet had the highest number (n=13) of individuals, while the CP-3 site on the CP map sheet had the lowest number (n=1) of individuals. Land use analysis indicated that the MG site with the highest number of individuals had a high percentage (70.56%) of forest land areas with a small percentage (12.63%) of farmland areas. The CP-3 site with the lowest number of individuals had a small percentage (26.47%) of farmland areas. It also had the highest percentage (32.13%) of residential and commercial areas, covering 19,616 m2. Measurement results of the physical habitat environment for B. karubei indicated a mean substrate of -2.1 (Φm), an average water depth of 63.0 cm, and a flow velocity of 0.2 m s-1. The association rule analysis for co-occurring species revealed that Semisulcospira coreana, Ecdyonurus kibunensis, and Goera japonica had the highest associations among lotic species, while Limnodrilus gotoi and Calopteryx japonica demonstrated the highest association among lentic species.

잠자리목은 습지 생태계의 환경의 질을 나타내는 생물 지표로 알려져 있으며, 이들의 분포와 풍부도는 습지 생태계 평가 및 생물다양성의 척 도로 활용된다. 본 연구는 환경부에서 지정·관리하는 습지보호지역 25개소를 대상으로 습지 유형별 잠자리목 분포 현황을 분석하여 서식지 보전 및 기후변화에 따른 종의 분포 변화에 관한 자료를 제공하기 위해 수행되었다. 조사 결과, 총 10과 67종이 확인되었으며, 잠자리과(Libellulidae) 24종 으로 가장 많이 관찰되었고 하천습지 52종, 산지습지 50종, 호수습지 30종, 인공습지 32종이 확인되었다. 기후변화 생물지표종인 푸른아시아실잠 자리(Ischnura senegalensis)와 연분홍실잠자리(Ceriagrion nipponicum)는 서식지가 점차 북쪽으로 확장되고 있는 것으로 나타났다. 고유종인 꼬마 측범잠자리(Nihonogomphus minor)와 산측범잠자리(Asiagomphus melanopsoides)는 개체군 크기가 작아 지속적인 모니터링을 통한 관리 방안이 필요할 것으로 보인다. 본 연구결과는 습지보호구역에 분포하는 잠자리의 생태적 특성을 조사하여 습지 생태계의 보전과 관리를 위한 기초자료로 활용될 것이다.

This review paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the measurement and distribution of microplastics in the atmosphere and their role in the adsorption and transport of organic and inorganic pollutants. Due to their small size, large surface area, and hydrophobic nature, microplastics can adsorb a wide range of pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals. These pollutants, strongly bound to the surface of microplastics, can remain suspended in the atmosphere for extended periods, facilitating the widespread distribution of contaminants. Building on existing research, this paper systematically reviews the sampling, pretreatment, and analytical methodologies applied to study microplastics in the air. Furthermore, it examines the influence of environmental factors on the adsorption and desorption dynamics of pollutants associated with microplastics. Various studies indicate that microplastics can interact with pollutants such as heavy metals, organic compounds, and microorganisms to form complex contaminants. These complexes can be transported and redistributed across long distances in the atmosphere, amplifying their environmental and health impacts. This review highlights that microplastics are not merely a pollutant themselves but serve as a vehicle for the migration and dispersion of other contaminants. This dual role emphasizes the significant risks microplastics pose to public health and the environment, necessitating further research and effective mitigation strategies.

This study was conducted to collect data from various regions of Jejudo Island, Korea to establish a more accurate and complete academic listing of mushrooms on the island by identifying and organizing them using base sequence analysis. The investigation was performed over five years, from 2019 to 2023, and included a total of nine sites in the southern, western, and eastern areas of Jejudo Island. In total, 481 unique mushroom varieties were collected during the study. These mushrooms included 387 specimens that were classified into 6 classes, 18 orders, 55 families, 118 genera, and 201 species, and 94 unclassified specimens for which the precise species was not known. The collected mushrooms classified by ecotype consisted of 148 species of saprophytes, 47 species of symbionts, and 6 species of parasites. Differences in occurrence patterns were also observed depending on topographical characteristics and vegetation. Finally, three climate-sensitive biological indicator species and two candidate species were also collected, as well as the tropical mushroom Macrocybe gigantea. This study identified 91 species of mushrooms that were previously unreportedon the Jejudo Island. According to the current findings and those previously reported, 7 classes, 26 orders, 123 families, 399 genera, and 1,102 species of mushrooms have been compiled on Jejudo Island to date.

This study aims to prepare reference data that can be used to improve the size suitability of elderly men’s casual wear. The sizes of men aged 65–84 from the 8th Size Korea were analyzed and compared with those aged 45–54. First, as a result of classifying their body types according to Syzing systems for male adult’s garments (KS K 0050), more than 50% of the drop body types were “a protruding belly type (BB),” and more than 95% of the lower body types were “a thick waist type (B).” Additionally, elderly men with type BB or B were 3–5cm shorter in height, waist height, chest circumference, and hip circumference than middle-aged men. As there are currently only a few brands for elderly men, this means that the following problems may arise: If an elderly man wears a middle-aged man’s top based on his chest size, the chest and hip circumferences are adequate, but the length is insufficient, the waist circumference is insufficient, and the shoulder width is considered to be excessive. Similarly, pants designed to fit a waist size designation for middle-aged individuals will be larger than intended in terms of length, hip circumference, and thigh circumference.

This study determined the minimum size of a representative molecular structure for use in future dynamic analyses of asphalt binders. The minimum representative size, considering factors such as aging, additive types, and temperature variations, was established using density and radial distribution functions. This approach ensures that the structure reflects temperature-dependent property changes, which are critical characteristics of asphalt binders. In this study, the structure of asphalt-binder molecules was generated using the composition proposed by Li and Greenfield (2014) for AAA1. To assess the appropriateness of the molecular structure size, we generated additional structures, X2 and X3, maintaining the same composition as X1, but with two and three times the number of molecules, respectively, as suggested by Li and Greenfield (2014). Silica and lignin were considered as additives, and the aging conditions examined included unaged, short-term aging, and long-term aging. In addition, 11 temperature conditions were investigated. The density and radial distribution functions were plotted and analyzed. The variables influencing the density and radial distribution functions were set as the aging degree of the asphalt binder (unaged, short-term aging, long-term aging), 11 temperature conditions ranging from 233 to 433 K in 20 K intervals, structure size (X1, X2, and X3), and the presence of additives (no additives, silica, and lignin). For density, clear differences were observed based on the degree of aging, temperature conditions, and presence of additives, whereas the structure size did not significantly affect the density. In terms of radial distribution functions, the X1 structure reflected differences based on the degree of aging and the presence of additives but was limited in exhibiting temperature-dependent variations. In contrast, the X3 structure effectively captured temperature-dependent trends, indicating that the size of the molecular structure is crucial when evaluating energy calculations or physical tensile strength, necessitating careful assessment.

This study analyzed the catch data of Chionoecetes japonicus in the offshore trap fishery from 2009 to 2022 to investigate the spatial distribution changes of fishing grounds in the East Sea. The results showed that the center of the fishing grounds consistently shifted offshore and northward from 2009 to 2020, but moved back towards the coastal areas since 2020. When comparing the catch of C. japonicus from the offshore trap fishery between 2009-2015 and 2016-2022, statistically significant differences were found (p<0.01). Analysis of the center of the fishing grounds revealed that they gradually shifted offshore while the fishing grounds were initially concentrated in the coastal areas of the East Sea. This suggests that the center of the fishing grounds moved offshore and northward as the C. japonicus in the coastal fishing grounds decreased. The shift of the fishing grounds back towards the coastal areas since 2020 is attributed to the increased operational costs due to the soaring fuel prices and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a decline in consumer demand for live seafood consumed in restaurants. Consequently, the offshore trap fishery for C. japonicus shifted their focus from offshore areas, which required higher operational costs due to increased fuel consumption and longer fishing times, to coastal areas, that were relatively less costly. This study is the first scientific results of its kind to investigate the formation of fishing grounds and annual changes in the fishing grounds of C. japonicus caught in offshore trap fishery in the East Sea from 2009 to 2022.

The number, size, and material distribution of microplastics (MPs) sized 20-200 μm in the raw water and water treatment processes were analyzed using FT-IR in three water treatment plants in Jeju Province. The number of MPs was detected at 0.075-0.620 MP/L in raw water and 0.040-0.047 MP/L in filtered water, which is relatively lower than the results of other studies. Regarding the size of the MPs, particles sized 20-50 μm in both the raw water and the treated water accounted for the highest proportion, representing 65.6% and 56.3% of the total, respectively. In terms of MP type distribution, polypropylene (PP) was identified as the main type at 58.7%. In the water purification process, the MPs removal efficiency was the highest at 93.5% in the sedimentation and rapid filtration process, followed by 58.4% in membrane filtration and 40.0% in slow filtration. Continuous monitoring of the distribution of MPs in raw water and water treatment processes is recommended.

Effective mixing of different-sized aggregates in mobile asphalt plant dryers is crucial for ensuring high-quality, consistent asphalt production. This study explores the application of spatial analysis techniques, particularly the Discrete Element Method (DEM), to understand and optimize the mixing process of aggregates in drum dryers. The research emphasizes the importance of proper mixing to achieve uniform moisture removal and heating across various aggregate sizes. Larger aggregates heat more slowly, while finer particles risk overheating or being carried away by air currents, necessitating careful management of the mixing process. Using LIGGGHTS, an open-source simulation framework, we conducted DEM simulations to analyze the spatial distribution and behavior of aggregates within a 3D model of a drum dryer. The study considered multiple factors affecting mixing efficiency, including drum inclination, rotational speed, and aggregate feeding frequency. Results indicate that the rotational speed of the drum dryer has the most significant impact on mixing effectiveness. The DEM simulations provided valuable insights into particle movement, heat transfer, and potential segregation issues within the dryer. Further investigations into additional factors that may influence aggregate mixing in drum dryers is recommended, paving the way for improved efficiency and quality in asphalt manufacturing.

본 연구는 스트론튬 이온(Sr²⁺) 처리가 수화 시멘트 복합체의 공극분포 특성에 미치는 영향을 실험적으로 평가하였다. 물- 시멘트비(w/c) 0.3, 0.4, 0.5로 제조된 시멘트 페이스트 시편을 21일간 탈 이온수에서 수중 양생한 후, 각각 두 개의 그룹 으로 나누었다. 첫 번째 그룹은 탈 이온수에서 추가로 7일간 양생하였고, 두 번째 그룹은 30% 질산스트론튬(Sr(NO3)2) 수 용액에서 동일기간 동안 추가 양생하였다. 양생기간 및 조건에 따른 각 시편에 대하여 수은압입법(MIP: Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry)을 사용하여 공극률 및 공극 크기 분포를 분석하였다. 실험 결과, 물-시멘트비가 낮을수록 공극률이 감소하는 것을 확인하였다. 21일과 28일간 탈 이온수에서 양생한 시편 간에는 공극률 차이가 유의미하지 않았으나, 21일 수중양생 후 스트론튬 이온에 7일간 처리된 시편은 공극률이 유의미하게 감소한 것으로 분석되었다. 특히, 물-시멘트비 0.3인 경우 에는 공극률이 33% 이상 감소하는 결과를 보였다. 또한, 공극 크기 분포 특성 분석 결과, 모든 물-시멘트비 조건에서 21 일 양생된 시편에 비해 7일간 추가 양생된 시편은 큰 공극의 양이 줄어들면서 작은 공극의 양이 증가하는 경향을 확인 하였다. 특히, 스트론튬 이온에 처리된 시편의 경우 50nm 이하의 매우 작은 공극의 양이 크게 증가하였다. 이로써 스트 론튬 이온 처리에 의해 수화 시멘트 복합체의 미세조직이 치밀해짐을 확인하였으며, SEM 분석을 통해 이러한 결과를 시 각적으로 확인하였다. 본 연구는 스트론튬 이온을 활용한 시멘트 콘크리트 표면처리 기법이 노후 시멘트 콘크리트 구조 물에 대하여 수분 침투 저항성을 향상시키는 유지관리 기술로서 잠재력을 지니고 있음을 보여준다.