bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on the Characteristics of Chinese Ethnic Opera: With Special Focus on Uyghurs
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Li Jing
Published: October 2023

Works depicting ethnic minority groups have comprised a major component of Chinese opera. After the 1950s, composers in Xinjiang inherited ethnic musical traditions while exploring ways to integrate Uyghur folk literature and music into opera, drawing upon Western musical techniques. As a result, many operas with unique characteristics were produced. Ethnic minority Chinese opera is a principal constituent of Chinese opera, exhibiting regional and individual traits while retaining operatic performance forms. This paper focuses on investigating characteristics of Uyghur opera in terms of material, character setting, musical language, and stage presentation in order to explore the distinctiveness of ethnic minority Chinese opera. By analyzing representative works, it aims to elucidate various artistic attributes conveyed in Uyghur opera and reflect historical perspectives, contributing to comprehending ethnic minority Chinese opera.
A Study on Influence of Learning Satisfaction in Capstone Design Subject on Career-Readiness Behavior of Undergraduates
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kang Jiyeon
Published: October 2023

this study aims to explore and discover how the learning satisfaction in the capstone design subject influences career-readiness behavior of the undergraduates. The subjects of the study were students attending universities in Korea who had taken a capstone design course in the previous semester or were currently taking it. We distributed 350 questionnaires consisting of 7 questions on satisfaction with learning in capstone design subjects, 17 questions on 3 factors for career preparation behavior, and 6 questions on the relationship between satisfaction with learning in capstone design subjects and career preparation behavior. Of the collected questionnaires, 7 were insincere. The 325 copies excluded were analyzed. Research findings show that the learning satisfaction in the capstone design subject has significant (B=.870, t=23.019, p<.001) impact on association with the career-readiness behavior.
A Study on Poetry Creation Education Method Using Abject
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Park hanra
Published: October 2023

This paper proposed a poetry creation education method using Kristeva’s ‘abject’ theory, which deals with the dual emotions of ‘disgust’ and ‘fascination’ simultaneously. When the abject as an object of disgust becomes an object of fascination, the fact that an already constructed identity can be newly sublimated creates the possibility of ‘poetry creation.’ The teaching method for creating poetry using abject is 'Write experiential elements about the elements you hate to form your identity → Write a poem that is fascinated by the elements you hate → Write a poem that accepts the elements you hate → Write the two poems written earlier. It consists of 'naturally connecting → evaluating'. In this paper, we applied this teaching method to students taking , a required first-year subject. As a result, even students who did not major in literature were able to create poetry that deviated from existing meanings through the universal emotions of ‘disgust’ and ‘fascination’ that must be experienced to form an identity.
A Study on Multicultural Literature Education Using  by Min Jin Lee
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Yoonjoo
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this paper is to design a reading class for multicultural literature using the novel  by Min Jin Lee, a 1.5th generation Korean-American author. In Chapter 2, reviews were conducted, and in Chapter 3, the author and the outline of the work were first examined, and the characteristics, narrative structure, and content development flow were examined. It also discussed what essential characteristics and elements of  can be used as materials for multicultural literature education. Chapter 4 established a theoretical foundation for multicultural literature education and discussed the principles and points of instructional design. Finally, actual classes were designed and learning activities for each class were devised. After designing the entire class by dividing it into six classes by considering the goals and contents of the class and the narrative development of the work, the class goals and learning activities for each class were organized. Unlike previous studies on , this paper is meaningful in that it explored the possibility of use as a multicultural education material and prepared practical instructional design plans.
A Study on Job Analysis of Project Manager of Cultural Foundation in the Metropolitan Area
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Choi Jeehye , Kim Jungwon
Published: October 2023

This study is aimed to identify the duties and tasks of the project manager of regional culture foundations in the metropolitan area using the DACUM technique. Through this study, the importance, difficulty, and frequency of each task were derived and core tasks were identified. The results of this study are as follows. First, the job of the project manager consists of 11 duties and 81 tasks. Second, it was confirmed that the tasks of project managers in the regional culture foundations was performed based on the competence necessary as a local cultural expert defined in the “Regional Culture Promotion Act”. Third, it was found that it is important to have expertise in planning and on-site management to the project managers. This study is expected to contribute to providing materials that can be a basic data of the competence required for the project manager of the regional culture foundation, and to providing a framework for the efficiency of the work system.
A Study on Grammar Categorization and Grammar Terms in TOEIC Textbooks
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Ji-Yeoun
Published: October 2023

This paper examines the grammar classification of the TOEIC textbooks, which classify grammar based on five types of sentence patterns and eight word classes according to traditional grammar, and proposes to analyze sentences by introducing 'complement' for essential elements and 'adjunct' for optional elements in the grammatical function category, and to classify determinative as an independent word class. This has the advantage of improving learners' understanding of sentences by making it easier to analyze sentences for obligatory and optional elements, and reducing the confusion of describing grammatical function categories with terms from word classes such as adverbs (phrases) for optional elements. In addition, by categorizing determinative as an independent word class, it is possible to explain the definite and quantitative features of determinative and indicate the finiteness and indefiniteness of noun phrases. Through the study of determinative, learners can understand the finiteness of nouns and avoid grammatical errors. Also, the grammatical explanations in the TOEIC textbooks have explanatory validity through their congruence with modern descriptive and theoretical grammars.
GENETIC PROGRAMMING AND OBJECT MODELING OF MANIPULATION ROBOTS
Authors:   Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation, KRAKHMALEV O.N.
Published: October 2023

The application of a genetic algorithm to solve the inverse kinematics problem of manipulative robots is considered. The basic concepts of the method of finding solutions using a genetic algorithm are defined. A block diagram of a simple genetic algorithm is presented. It is justified to use multiprocessor computing systems (transputers) to calculate genetic operators. This will greatly increase the efficiency of genetic algorithms. Manipulation systems with three and four links are selected as examples. The problem statement consisted in determining the hinge coordinates of an industrial robot by the specified Cartesian coordinates of the position of the center of the tool (TCP - Tool Center Point) installed on its final link. The results obtained confirm the effectiveness of genetic algorithms in solving inverse kinematics problems of industrial (manipulation) robots. Based on graph theory, the genetic programming procedure is defined as a way to find optimal kinematic structures of robot manipulation systems. The use of genetic programming for modification of object models of manipulation robots is shown. The object representation of the dynamic model of manipulation robots is considered. It is noted that the recombination of objects corresponding to mathematical expressions having mechanical meaning requires kinematic correspondence of the objects used. It is proposed to draw up object diagrams using computer programs that automate this process based on the principle of visual programming (Low-code).
PROSPECTS FOR THE USE OF FILM-CERAMIC PHOTOCATALYSTS FOR THE CULTIVATION OF MICROALGAE
Authors:   Institute of Materials Science of the SPA “Physics-Sun” of the Academy of Science of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan, RAKHIMOV R.KH. , YERMAKOV V.P. , SAIDVALIEV T.S.
Published: October 2023

There are many types of microalgae that can grow in sea and fresh water, having a high lipid content in their composition. Lipids in microalgae are used for the production of biofuels, cosmetics, medicines and other products. This article is devoted to the assessment of optimal growing conditions for such microalgae, taking into account their individual spectral sensitivity in the maximum use of sunlight. This will make it possible to create film-ceramic composites that provide the greatest increase in biomass with minimal water consumption and time.
INTEGRATED APPROACH OF PERSONNEL TRAINING FOR CYBERSECURITY: CHALLENGES AND PROBLEMS
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation, SEVERIN V.A.
Published: October 2023

In the context of the “digital turnover” of intellectual property, the need for professional personnel to ensure cybersecurity has increased, which, taking into account the general shortage of information security specialists, significantly affects the efficiency of economic activity. The fundamental Decree of the President of the Russian Federation No. 250 dated 01.05.2022 “On additional measures to ensure information security of the Russian Federation” was adopted. The Government of the Russian Federation has approved the legal status of the responsible person and the regulations on the structural subdivision of the body (organization) in the field of cybersecurity, as well as regulatory legal acts of the FSB of Russia and the FSTEC of Russia, which have changed the idea of the role of the head and the place of cybersecurity in ensuring the digital economy in an information war. The question arises, how to prepare personnel quickly and efficiently? The analysis of the results of scientific research in this area confirms the trends of the departmental and corporate approach to the processes of personnel training. The decree establishes a unified state approach to the organization of cybersecurity of state and commercial structures related to the subjects of critical information infrastructure, as well as personnel training, taking into account uniform qualification requirements for employees. In this regard, the author suggests a number of measures to implement the Decree, in particular, involving the teaching staff in this work at the expense of budgetary funding of universities and scientific institutions for interdisciplinary research and network implementation of educational activities in this area. The solution to this problem is seen in the development of the program “Intersectoral technical, humanitarian and legal problems of information security in the conditions of ’digital turnover’ of intellectual property”. The directions of development of scientific and educational activities in order to train professional personnel to ensure the information security of the “digital turnover” of intellectual property and information protection are substantiated.
ON THE ISSUE OF THE STAGE OF INITIATION OF A CRIMINAL CASE: IT’S TIME FOR THE LEGISLATOR TO DOT THE DOTS
Authors:   Federal State Educational Institution of Higher Education “Academy of Management of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia”, Moscow, Russian Federation, GAVRILOV B.YA.
Published: October 2023

The publication discusses issues related to the assessment of the genesis and current state of the rules for the adoption by an investigator, inquirer, body of inquiry of a procedural decision to refuse to initiate a criminal case, the legality and validity of making such decisions based on the results of a procedural check of an application, a report on a crime and the negative impact of these decisions on the implementation of the right of citizens to access provided for in Article 52 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation access to justice and compensation for the damage caused by them, and is also one of the reasons for the distortion of statistical data on the state of crime.
CYBER VIOLENCE - ISSUES OF CONCEPT AND CRIMINALIZATION
Authors:   Orenburg State University, Orenburg, Russian Federation, VOLOSOVA N.YU.
Published: October 2023

The article raises the issues of unification of the concept of violence in the Internet space. The author proposes to consider this concept through the prism of an integrative (interdisciplinary) approach. This approach will make it possible to use new and borderline knowledge about violence in the Internet space, developed in other industries, to define the legal concept of such violence. The paper notes that the legislator has developed sufficiently effective measures of criminal and administrative responsibility for offline violence. At the same time, violence in the Internet space remains outside the scope of legal regulation of responsibility, which does not provide effective protection for victims of such an abundance.
Equation of Prolate Spheroid in Spherical Polar Coordinate System
Authors: Soltani Abolfazl
Published: October 2023

Here we obtain the equation of Prolate Spheroid in Spherical Polar Coordinate system.
Binomial Geometric Series
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: October 2023

This paper introduces a binomial geometric series in this article. This new idea can enable the scientific researchers for further involvement in research and development.
The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle
Authors: LOH Kok Choy
Published: October 2023

The Heisenberg equation may not be as well-known as Einstein’s e=mc^2. But the Heisenberg equation’s implications that there is an irreducible uncertainty with regard to the position of an object are no less intriguing than the implications of Einstein’s relativity equation that time slows to a stop when the relative velocity of an object approaches the speed of light. Using elementary mathematics and science, this paper begins by examining the physics of motion of an everyday object such as a tennis ball. The paper shows that the same physics that applies to everyday objects in fact also applies when it comes to subatomic particles, such as an electron in motion. And by taking gradual incremental steps in developing the mathematics of the underlying physics, the paper leads to the conclusion that the universe is inherently uncertain, that it is impossible to know the exact position of any object.
Cracking the code of hatchery-based mass production of mola (Amblypharyngodon mola) seed for nutrition-sensitive aquaculture
Authors: Rajts Francois , Dubey Sourabh Kumar , Gogoi Kalpajit , Das Rashmi Ranjan , Biswal Saurava Kumar , Padiyar Arun Panemangalore , Rajendran Suresh , Thilsted Shakuntala Haraksingh , Mohan Chadag Vishnumurthy , Belton Ben
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Small indigenous fish species (SIS) can be particularly rich in micronutrients and make a crucial contribution toward improving human nutrition. The introduction of mola (Amblypharyngodon mola), an SIS, which is particularly rich in vitamin A, into smallholder carp aquaculture systems has been widely promoted over the past decade as a promising nutrition-sensitive innovation. However, standardized techniques for the hatchery mass production of mola do not yet exist. We hypothesized that the lack of commercial hatchery mass-production techniques for mola seed is the key barrier limiting potential for widespread adoption of carp–SIS polyculture.

Methods

To address this gap, we conducted breeding trials at a private hatchery in Odisha, India, from July to September 2022, to identify standardized methods for the hatchery-based mass production of mola seed. Breeding was induced using a synthetic gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog (SGnRHa) at 0.5 mL and 0.25 mL per kg of body weight of female fish and male fish, respectively. Fish spawned in double hapas in breeding tanks.

Results

The average fertilization, spawning, and hatching rates over 10 breeding cycles were 81%, 82%, and 85%, respectively. A total of 8.5 million fertilized eggs and 6.4 million hatchlings were produced. The survival of fry during larval rearing trials at a stocking rate of 500 hatchlings/m2 was 58% after 22 days. The mola hatchlings and fry were sold to 29 farmers at prices comparable to those of Indian major carp.

Discussion

This article makes a unique contribution to the literature by documenting the entire process of hatchery-based mass mola seed production, including broodfish collection and maintenance, hormone dose optimization, breeding arrangements, breeder characteristics, breeding behavior and performance fecundity, larval rearing, and seed sales to farmers. This information is intended to serve as a protocol to be followed by any individual or institution with an interest in mola breeding and represents an important contribution to the development of nutrition-sensitive aquaculture.
Investigating sources for variability in volunteer kinematics in a braking maneuver, a sensitivity analysis with an active human body model
Authors: Larsson Emma , Iraeus Johan , Davidsson Johan
Published: October 2023

Occupant kinematics during evasive maneuvers, such as crash avoidance braking or steering, varies within the population. Studies have tried to correlate the response to occupant characteristics such as sex, stature, age, and BMI, but these characteristics explain no or very little of the variation. Therefore, hypothesis have been made that the difference in occupant response stems from voluntary behavior. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect from other sources of variability: in neural delay, in passive stiffness of fat, muscle tissues and skin, in muscle size and in spinal alignment, as a first step towards explaining the variability seen among occupants in evasive maneuvers. A sensitivity analysis with simulations of the SAFER Human Body Model in braking was performed, and the displacements from the simulations were compared to those of volunteers. The results suggest that the head and torso kinematics were most sensitive to spinal alignment, followed by muscle size. For head and torso vertical displacements, the range in model kinematics was comparable to the range in volunteer kinematics. However, for forward displacements, the included parameters only explain some of the variability seen in the volunteer experiment. To conclude, the results indicate that the variation in volunteer vertical kinematics could be partly attributed to the variability in human characteristics analyzed in this study, while these cannot alone explain the variability in forward kinematics. The results can be used in future tuning of HBMs, and in future volunteer studies, when further investigating the potential causes of the large variability seen in occupant kinematics in evasive maneuvers.
Human resilience and cultural change in the construction industry: communication and relationships in a time of enforced adaptation
Authors: Aasen Audun Flaget , Klakegg Ole Jonny
Published: October 2023

The construction industry will need to change to enhance performance and deliver more with less. This paper investigates how social science perspectives may help addressing challenges associated with enforced transformation. We turned to a leading construction company in Norway to study the role of human resilience and cultural understanding in the construction industry’s ability to adapt to new technologies and practices. Results from a comprehensive survey with 541 respondents are analyzed and discussed against three concepts from literature: culture, resilience, and psychological safety. The results show that the consequences of enforced changes are perceived differently by different groups in the organization. Management teams found stronger impact of COVID-19, and they are more likely to carry forward changes into the future. We found confirmation that older employees and those with long experience found the effect to be stronger and more detrimental than younger. We also found that experienced individuals perceived communication and collaboration to worsen over the enforced change. However, the organizational culture represents a stabilizing force and individuals demonstrated resilience facing uncertainty. Team role affiliations also influence how people perceive the consequences. Therefore, organizations should carefully consider team dynamics and individual experience levels in their change management strategies. New technologies can enhance collaboration and communication if the organization also strengthen psychological safety, trust, and involvement. The resulting effect might be the best path for project-based organizations to adapt and reshape for the digital era.
Continuous flow catalysis with CuBTC improves reaction time for synthesis of xanthene derivatives
Authors: Thai Jonathan E. , Roach Madeline C. , Reynolds Melissa M.
Published: October 2023

The copper-based metal-organic framework (MOF) CuBTC (where H3BTC = benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylate) has been shown to be an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the generation of 1,8-dioxo-octa-hydro xanthene derivatives, which are valuable synthetic targets for the pharmaceutical industry. We have applied this catalytic capability of CuBTC to a continuous flow system to produce the open chain form of 3,3,6,6-tetramethyl-9-phenyl-3,4,5,6,7,9-hexahydro-1H-xanthene-1,8(2H)-dione, a xanthene derivative from benzaldehyde and dimedone. An acid work-up after producing the open chain form of the xanthene derivative was used to achieve ring closure and form the final xanthene product. The CuBTC used to catalyze the reaction under continuous flow was confirmed to be stable throughout this process via analysis by SEM, pXRD, and FT-IR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and XPS. The reaction to produce the open-chain form of the xanthene derivative produced an average yield of 33% ± 14% under the continuous flow (compared to 33% ± 0.12% of performing it under batch conditions). Based on the data obtained from this work, the continuous flow system required 22.5x less time to produce the desired xanthene derivative at comparable yields to batch reaction conditions. These results would allow for the xanthene derivative to be produced much faster, at a lower cost, and require less personal time while also removing the need to perform catalyst remove post reaction.
Stem cell proliferation and differentiation during larval metamorphosis of the model tapeworm Hymenolepis microstoma
Authors: Montagne Jimena , Preza Matías , Koziol Uriel
Published: October 2023

Background

Tapeworm larvae cause important diseases in humans and domestic animals. During infection, the first larval stage undergoes a metamorphosis where tissues are formed de novo from a population of stem cells called germinative cells. This process is difficult to study for human pathogens, as these larvae are infectious and difficult to obtain in the laboratory.

Methods

In this work, we analyzed cell proliferation and differentiation during larval metamorphosis in the model tapeworm Hymenolepis microstoma, by in vivo labelling of proliferating cells with the thymidine analogue 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU), tracing their differentiation with a suite of specific molecular markers for different cell types.

Results

Proliferating cells are very abundant and fast-cycling during early metamorphosis: the total number of cells duplicates every ten hours, and the length of G2 is only 75 minutes. New tegumental, muscle and nerve cells differentiate from this pool of proliferating germinative cells, and these processes are very fast, as differentiation markers for neurons and muscle cells appear within 24 hours after exiting the cell cycle, and fusion of new cells to the tegumental syncytium can be detected after only 4 hours. Tegumental and muscle cells appear from early stages of metamorphosis (24 to 48 hours post-infection); in contrast, most markers for differentiating neurons appear later, and the detection of synapsin and neuropeptides correlates with scolex retraction. Finally, we identified populations of proliferating cells that express conserved genes associated with neuronal progenitors and precursors, suggesting the existence of tissue-specific lineages among germinative cells.

Discussion

These results provide for the first time a comprehensive view of the development of new tissues during tapeworm larval metamorphosis, providing a framework for similar studies in human and veterinary pathogens.
Analysis on innovation management of power financial transaction strategy integrating BO-BERT-GRNN model
Authors: Zhang Mengzhu , Shen Ling , Guo Jiaqi
Published: October 2023

This paper addresses the innovation management problem of financial trading strategies for power system planning through the utilization of the BO-BERT-GRNN model. The BO-BERT-GRNN model, which combines Bayesian optimization, BERT model, and gated recurrent neural network, is divided into three parts to optimize hyperparameters, extract features from historical data, and model and predict power system planning. The objective is to achieve electricity asset allocation, market risk management, and revenue maximization. Experimental analysis demonstrates that the BO-BERT-GRNN model outperforms in power system planning price prediction, energy transaction risk management, and energy asset allocation, showcasing its potential for practical application. This paper addresses the innovation management problem of financial trading strategies for power system planning through the utilization of the BO-BERT-GRNN model. The BO-BERT-GRNN model, which combines Bayesian optimization, BERT model, and gated recurrent neural network, is divided into three parts to optimize hyperparameters, extract features from historical data, and model and predict power system planning. The objective is to achieve electricity asset allocation, market risk management, and revenue maximization. Experimental analysis demonstrates that the BO-BERT-GRNN model outperforms in power system planning price prediction, energy transaction risk management, and energy asset allocation, showcasing its potential for practical application.
Integrating bioplastics into the US plastics supply chain: towards a policy research agenda for the bioplastic transition
Authors: Shah Kalim U. , Gangadeen Isaiah
Published: October 2023

Bioplastics have the potential to fill the role of conventional plastics but with lowered environmental and ecological impacts. But bioplastic production suffers from high production costs and as an immature technology, it proves less competitive than its petrol-based counterpart. Debates about the social versus private benefits of bioplastics are also cited. The literature argues that various bio-feedstock sources can produce high-quality drop-in plastics and that scaling up bioplastic production will provide the cost competitiveness needed to transition away from petroplastics. However, the market remains uncoordinated and lacks a strategic and comprehensive plan for the plastic transition. Moreover, the science-to-policy literature on bioplastics is very limited, providing scarce evidence or analysis to policymakers attempting to argue for bioplastics industrialization and integration. In this study we highlight this missing link particularly in the North American context in order to encourage further inquiry on these matters. Using Stern’s policy framework gap analysis approach, our evaluation identifies gaps in existing policy frameworks pertinent to bioplastics supply chains. On this basis we identify and prioritize five pointed areas for policy focus to advance bioplastics sector growth and integration. These are developing a strategy to sustainably coordinate and promote biomass production; incentivizing bioplastic investments and production; incentivizing bioplastic substitution; and enhancing the end-use management. Additionally, research is needed to support the technical performance of bioplastics, industrialization methods, supply chain integration, and the impact of exogenous factors.
Genomic variation associated with cardiovascular disease progression following preeclampsia: a systematic review
Authors: Krishnamurthy Gayathry , Nguyen Phuong Tram , Tran Bao Ngoc , Phan Hoang T. , Brennecke Shaun P. , Moses Eric K. , Melton Phillip E.
Published: October 2023

Background

Women with a history of preeclampsia (PE) have been shown to have up to five times the risk of developing later-life cardiovascular disease (CVD). While PE and CVD are known to share clinical and molecular characteristics, there are limited studies investigating their shared genomics (genetics, epigenetics or transcriptomics) variation over time. Therefore, we sought to systematically review the literature to identify longitudinal studies focused on the genomic progression to CVD following PE.

Methods

A literature search of primary sources through PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase via OVID was performed. Studies published from January 1, 1980, to July 28, 2023, that investigated genomics in PE and CVD were eligible for inclusion. Included studies were screened based on Cochrane systematic review guidelines in conjunction with the PRISMA 2020 checklist. Eligible articles were further assessed for quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale.

Results

A total of 9,231 articles were screened, with 14 studies subjected to quality assessment. Following further evaluation, six studies were included for the final review. All six of these studies were heterogeneous in regard to CVD/risk factor as outcome, gene mapping approach, and in different targeted genes. The associated genes were RGS2, LPA, and AQP3, alongside microRNAs miR-122-5p, miR-126-3p, miR-146a-5p, and miR-206. Additionally, 12 differentially methylated regions potentially linked to later-life CVD following PE were identified. The only common variable across all six studies was the use of a case-control study design.

Conclusions

Our results provide critical insight into the heterogeneous nature of genomic studies investigating CVD following PE and highlight the urgent need for longitudinal studies to further investigate the genetic variation underlying the progression to CVD following PE.
Applications of CRISPR-Cas9 for advancing precision medicine in oncology: from target discovery to disease modeling
Authors: Ravichandran Mirunalini , Maddalo Danilo
Published: October 2023

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) (CRISPR/Cas9) system is a powerful tool that enables precise and efficient gene manipulation. In a relatively short time, CRISPR has risen to become the preferred gene-editing system due to its high efficiency, simplicity, and programmability at low costs. Furthermore, in the recent years, the CRISPR toolkit has been rapidly expanding, and the emerging advancements have shown tremendous potential in uncovering molecular mechanisms and new therapeutic strategies for human diseases. In this review, we provide our perspectives on the recent advancements in CRISPR technology and its impact on precision medicine, ranging from target identification, disease modeling, and diagnostics. We also discuss the impact of novel approaches such as epigenome, base, and prime editing on preclinical cancer drug discovery.
Blimp-1 signaling pathways in T lymphocytes is essential to control the Trypanosoma cruzi infection-induced inflammation
Authors: Benevides Luciana , Sacramento Lais A. , Pioto Franciele , Barretto Gabriel Dessotti , Carregaro Vanessa , Silva João S.
Published: October 2023

In many infectious diseases, the pathogen-induced inflammatory response could result in protective immunity that should be regulated to prevent tissue damage and death. In fact, in Trypanosoma cruzi infection, the innate immune and the inflammatory response should be perfectly controlled to avoid significant lesions and death. Here, we investigate the role of Blimp-1 expression in T cells in resistance to T. cruzi infection. Therefore, using mice with Blimp-1 deficiency in T cells (CKO) we determined its role in the controlling parasites growth and lesions during the acute phase of infection. Infection of mice with Blimp-1 ablation in T cells resulted failure the cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and in marked Th1-mediated inflammation, high IFN-γ and TNF production, and activation of inflammatory monocyte. Interestingly, despite high nitric-oxide synthase activation (NOS-2), parasitemia and mortality in CKO mice were increased compared with infected WT mice. Furthermore, infected-CKO mice exhibited hepatic lesions characteristic of steatosis, with significant AST and ALT activity. Mechanistically, Blimp-1 signaling in T cells induces cytotoxic CD8+ T cell activation and restricts parasite replication. In contrast, Blimp-1 represses the Th1 response, leading to a decreased monocyte activation, less NOS-2 activation, and, consequently preventing hepatic damage and dysfunction. These data demonstrate that T. cruzi-induced disease is multifactorial and that the increased IFN-γ, NO production, and dysfunction of CD8+ T cells contribute to host death. These findings have important implications for the design of potential vaccines against Chagas disease.
Case Report: Immune dysregulation associated with long-lasting regression of a (pre)leukemic clone
Authors: Koedijk Joost B. , van Beek Thomas B. , Vermeulen Marijn A. , Kester Lennart A. , Schweighart Elizabeth K. , Nierkens Stefan , Belderbos Mirjam E. , Zwaan C. Michel , Heitink-Pollé Katja M. J. , Heidenreich Olaf
Published: October 2023

Regression of leukemia in the absence of disease-modifying therapy remains poorly understood, although immunological mechanisms are thought to play a role. Here, we present a unique case of a 17-year-old boy with immune dysregulation and long-lasting regression of a (pre)leukemic clone in the absence of disease-modifying therapy. Using molecular and immunological analyses, we identified bone marrow features associated with disease control and loss thereof. In addition, our case reveals that detection of certain fusion genes with hardly any blasts in the bone marrow may be indicative of an accompanying oncogenic fusion gene, with implications for disease surveillance- and management in future patients.
Promoting intestinal antimicrobial defense and microbiome symbiosis contributes to IL-22-mediated protection against alcoholic hepatitis in mice
Authors: Yue Ruichao , Wei Xiaoyuan , Hao Liuyi , Dong Haibo , Guo Wei , Sun Xinguo , Zhao Jiangchao , Zhou Zhanxiang , Zhong Wei
Published: October 2023

Background

The hepatoprotective effect of interleukin 22 (IL-22) has been reported in several models of liver injuries, including alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). However, the intestinal role of IL-22 in alcoholic hepatitis remains to be elucidated.

Methods

Intestinal IL-22 levels were measured in mice fed with alcohol for 8 weeks. IL-22 was then administered to alcohol-fed mice to test its protective effects on alleviating alcoholic hepatitis, focusing on intestinal protection. Acute IL-22 treatment was conducted in mice to further explore the link between IL-22 and the induction of antimicrobial peptide (AMP). Intestinal epithelial cell-specific knockout of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) mice were generated and used for organoid study to explore its role in IL-22-mediated AMP expression and gut barrier integrity.

Results

After alcohol feeding for 8 weeks, the intestinal levels of IL-22 were significantly reduced in mice. IL-22 treatment to alcohol-fed mice mitigated liver injury as indicated by normalized serum transaminase levels, improved liver histology, reduced lipid accumulation, and attenuated inflammation. In the intestine, alcohol-reduced Reg3γ and α-defensins levels were reversed by IL-22 treatment. IL-22 also improved gut barrier integrity and decreased endotoxemia in alcohol-fed mice. While alcohol feeding significantly reduced Akkermansia, IL-22 administration dramatically expanded this commensal bacterium in mice. Regardless of alcohol, acute IL-22 treatment induced a fast and robust induction of intestinal AMPs and STAT3 activation. By using in vitro cultured intestinal organoids isolated from WT mice and mice deficient in intestinal epithelial-STAT3, we further demonstrated that STAT3 is required for IL-22-mediated AMP expression. In addition, IL-22 also regulates intestinal epithelium differentiation as indicated by direct regulation of sodium-hydrogen exchanger 3 via STAT3.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that IL-22 not only targets the liver but also benefits the intestine in many aspects. The intestinal effects of IL-22 include regulating AMP expression, microbiota, and gut barrier function that is pivotal in ameliorating alcohol induced translocation of gut-derived bacterial pathogens and liver inflammation.
Paleoproductivity and deep-sea oxygenation in Cosmonaut Sea since the last glacial maximum: impact on atmospheric CO2
Authors: Hu Liangming , Zhang Yi , Wang Yizhuo , Ma Pengyun , Wu Wendong , Ge Qian , Bian Yeping , Han Xibin
Published: October 2023

The paleoproductivity in the Southern Ocean plays a crucial role in controlling the atmospheric CO2 concentration. Here, we present the sediment record of gravity core ANT37-C5/6-07, which was retrieved from the Cosmonaut Sea (CS), Indian Ocean sector of the Southern Ocean. We found that the change in the oxygen concentration in the CS bottom water is strongly correlated with the atmospheric CO2 fluctuations since the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Based on the change in the export production, we reconstructed the evolution history of the deep-water ventilation/upwelling in the study area. During the LGM, a large amount of respiratory carbon was stored in the deep Southern Ocean due to the effect of the low export productivity and restricted ventilation. The oxygen concentration was also low at this time. Despite the increase in paleoproductivity, the biological pump efficiency remained at a low level during the Last Deglaciation. Vast quantities of CO2 were released into the atmosphere through enhanced upwelling. The recovery of ventilation during this period facilitated the supply of oxygen-rich surface water to the deep ocean. Moreover, signals were identified during the transitions between the Heinrich Stage 1 (HS1), Antarctic Cold Reverse (ACR), and Younger Drays (YD) periods. During the Holocene, the productivity increased overall, and the oxygen in the bottom water was consumed but still remained at a high level. This may have been caused by the enhanced ventilation and/or the prevalence of East Cosmonaut Polynya (ECP) near Cape Ann.
Increasing taxonomic and functional characterization of host-microbiome interactions by DIA-PASEF metaproteomics
Authors: Gómez-Varela David , Xian Feng , Grundtner Sabrina , Sondermann Julia Regina , Carta Giacomo , Schmidt Manuela
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Metaproteomics is a rapidly advancing field that offers unique insights into the taxonomic composition and the functional activity of microbial communities, and their effects on host physiology. Classically, data-dependent acquisition (DDA) mass spectrometry (MS) has been applied for peptide identification and quantification in metaproteomics. However, DDA-MS exhibits well-known limitations in terms of depth, sensitivity, and reproducibility. Consequently, methodological improvements are required to better characterize the protein landscape of microbiomes and their interactions with the host.

Methods

We present an optimized proteomic workflow that utilizes the information captured by Parallel Accumulation-Serial Fragmentation (PASEF) MS for comprehensive metaproteomic studies in complex fecal samples of mice.

Results and discussion

We show that implementing PASEF using a DDA acquisition scheme (DDA-PASEF) increased peptide quantification up to 5 times and reached higher accuracy and reproducibility compared to previously published classical DDA and data-independent acquisition (DIA) methods. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the combination of DIA, PASEF, and neuronal-network-based data analysis, was superior to DDA-PASEF in all mentioned parameters. Importantly, DIA-PASEF expanded the dynamic range towards low-abundant proteins and it doubled the quantification of proteins with unknown or uncharacterized functions. Compared to previous classical DDA metaproteomic studies, DIA-PASEF resulted in the quantification of up to 4 times more taxonomic units using 16 times less injected peptides and 4 times shorter chromatography gradients. Moreover, 131 additional functional pathways distributed across more and even uniquely identified taxa were profiled as revealed by a peptide-centric taxonomic-functional analysis. We tested our workflow on a validated preclinical mouse model of neuropathic pain to assess longitudinal changes in host-gut microbiome interactions associated with pain - an unexplored topic for metaproteomics. We uncovered the significant enrichment of two bacterial classes upon pain, and, in addition, the upregulation of metabolic activities previously linked to chronic pain as well as various hitherto unknown ones. Furthermore, our data revealed pain-associated dynamics of proteome complexes implicated in the crosstalk between the host immune system and the gut microbiome. In conclusion, the DIA-PASEF metaproteomic workflow presented here provides a stepping stone towards a deeper understanding of microbial ecosystems across the breadth of biomedical and biotechnological fields.
Non-classical functions of nuclear pore proteins in ciliopathy
Authors: Chen Yan , Zhang Yuan , Zhou Xiangyu
Published: October 2023

Nucleoporins (NUPs) constitute integral nuclear pore protein (NPC) elements. Although traditional NUP functions have been extensively researched, evidence of additional vital non-NPC roles, referred to herein as non-classical NUP functions, is also emerging. Several NUPs localise at the ciliary base. Indeed, Nup188, Nup93 or Nup205 knockdown results in cilia loss, impacting cardiac left–right patterning in models and cell lines. Genetic variants of Nup205 and Nup188 have been identified in patients with congenital heart disease and situs inversus totalis or heterotaxy, a prevalent human ciliopathy. These findings link non-classical NUP functions to human diseases. This mini-review summarises pivotal NUP interactions with NIMA-related kinases or nephronophthisis proteins that regulate ciliary function and explores other NUPs potentially implicated in cilia-related disorders. Overall, elucidating the non-classical roles of NUPs will enhance comprehension of ciliopathy aetiology.
Multimodal intelligent logistics robot combining 3D CNN, LSTM, and visual SLAM for path planning and control
Authors: Han Zhuqin
Published: October 2023

Introduction

In today's dynamic logistics landscape, the role of intelligent robots is paramount for enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and ensuring safety. Traditional path planning methods often struggle to adapt to changing environments, resulting in issues like collisions and conflicts. This research addresses the challenge of path planning and control for logistics robots operating in complex environments. The proposed method aims to integrate information from various perception sources to enhance path planning and obstacle avoidance, thereby increasing the autonomy and reliability of logistics robots.

Methods

The method presented in this paper begins by employing a 3D Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to learn feature representations of objects within the environment, enabling object recognition. Subsequently, Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) models are utilized to capture spatio-temporal features and predict the behavior and trajectories of dynamic obstacles. This predictive capability empowers robots to more accurately anticipate the future positions of obstacles in intricate settings, thereby mitigating potential collision risks. Finally, the Dijkstra algorithm is employed for path planning and control decisions to ensure the selection of optimal paths across diverse scenarios.

Results

In a series of rigorous experiments, the proposed method outperforms traditional approaches in terms of both path planning accuracy and obstacle avoidance performance. These substantial improvements underscore the efficacy of the intelligent path planning and control scheme.

Discussion

This research contributes to enhancing the practicality of logistics robots in complex environments, thereby fostering increased efficiency and safety within the logistics industry. By combining object recognition, spatio-temporal modeling, and optimized path planning, the proposed method enables logistics robots to navigate intricate scenarios with higher precision and reliability, ultimately advancing the capabilities of autonomous logistics operations.
Altered expression of circular RNA in patients with cervical artery dissection
Authors: Wang Yifan , Dong Zhaofei , Li Jie , Li Yudi , Mai Jianyi , Tan Wenru , Yang Siqi , Ling Li , Liu Yajie
Published: October 2023

Cervical artery dissection (CeAD), a special cerebrovascular disease and the main cause of stroke in young people, can present with ischemic stroke, headache, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and other symptoms, increasing the possibility of misdiagnosis. As a special class of non-coding RNAs, circRNAs are commonly found in organisms and can play regulatory roles in transcription and post-transcription processes, affecting gene expression.CircRNAs have reported to be associated with neurological diseases; however, their role in CeAD has not been discerned. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the pathophysiological changes in patients with CeAD and identify biomarkers. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with CeAD and healthy controls were sequenced using high-throughput sequencing. We detected 460 differently expressed circRNAs in patients with CeAD (p < 0.5, fold difference ≥ 2), of which 240 were upregulated and 220 were downregulated. Four circRNAs showed significant differences in expression, which were validated using qRT-PCR. These results suggested that three circRNAs were consistent with high-throughput sequencing results. Bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that these differentially expressed circRNAs were involved in protein metabolism, regulation, synapses, and other pathophysiological processes during CeAD-induced stroke. Additionally, various pathways related to inflammation were closely associated with circRNAs. Based on our results, we suggest that the aberrant expression of circRNAs in CeAD may serve as a biomarker for its diagnosis and as a potential therapeutic target.