bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of A Group Counselling Program Using Humanities Images and Its Effect Validation for Establishment of Ego Identity of Middle School Students
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Oh Myungae , Kim Sung Bong , Cho Sook
Published: May 2023

This study was conducted to develop a group counseling program for the establishment of the ego identity using the humanities images from “Hope for the flowers” and to validate for the middle school first year students. The final program was confirmed through the process of planning, organizing, preparatory and evaluation based on the 4-step program development model by Kim et al. The final program consisted of a total of 10 sessions with contents of humanities images and play activities tailored to Marcia's ego identity status. The program was scheduled to be held twice a week for 45 minutes per session. With the goal of ego identity establishment of middle school students, Marcia's four identity status were linked to the humanistic images of four developmental stages of butterfly and the contents were composed of customized play activities. The ego identity formation of the middle school students was significantly increased by applying our developed counseling program.
A Study on the Digital Literacy Capacity and Perception of New College Students
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Yeonjeong
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study is to present a liberal arts education plan that considers digital literacy capabilities by examining the digital literacy capabilities and perceptions of college students. First, students' ability to solve problems related to digital devices is low. The ability to solve access failures or treat malicious code was very high with a negative response rate of around 47%. Second, college students' perception of digital ethics, such as the ability to test report plagiarism, was generally low. Third, it was found that students like video materials, but prefer paper books to e-books. Fourth, compared to the preference for YouTube media, the ability to edit videos using professional programs was found to be poor. Fifth, it was found that the experience of taking liberal arts courses related to digital literacy did not reach the major subjects. Through these results, it is necessary to change the direction of literacy ability so that information and knowledge can be obtained through e-books, establish digital citizenship and ethical awareness more thoroughly, and develop the ability as a producer, not a digital consumer.
A Demythization of the Main Character, Meursault in Camus’s The Stranger
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Soungsu
Published: May 2023

Albert Camus is revered as one of the giants of 20th century literature in most countries including the West. However, Algeria, which was a French colony during Camus' lifetime, does not recognize Camus, who did not recognize Algeria as important. As if to actively reflect this, Meursault, the main character in The Stranger, was portrayed as a Frenchman who killed an Algerian but lacked feelings of guilt or regret for him. Why did Camus have to create a main character called Meursault? Isn't the public opinion about Meursault and Camus absurd? This article is an exploration on this. I think that Meursault as a stranger can be regarded as a 'problematic character' from the perspective of cultural contents. I want to examine in detail the significance and limitation of Meursault, the main character in the novel created by Camus, who was an atheistic existentialist.
FPBL(Flipped Project Based-Learning) Applied to Fashion Study Curriculum Design: The History of Modern Fashion Culture and Art Using Film and Video Media
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Kyu Jin
Published: May 2023

The purpose of the study is to derive the educational achievement that can increase learning effect by presenting a systematic class model for the major of 'Fashion study' that learns the culture and arts of modern fashion using movies and videos which based on the FPBL flipped project. For the research methods, the study was verified through the process of theoretical consideration of the curriculum using movies and videos, flipped learning, and project-based learning, and the achievement presentation on design and operation of the FPBL flipped project-based fashion study curriculum, satisfaction survey for learners, and class reflection. First grade of universities in the metropolitan area participated for this study and the time range was a total 15 weeks of major classes in the second semester of 2022. As the results, learners increased the learning participation and ability of empathy, creativity and problem-solving skills, cooperative learning skills, and reflection skills. Furthermore, the educational significance and effect of FPBL flipped project-based fashion study curriculum are confirmed in this study. Thus, the study has a responsibility for suggesting the foundations of curriculum design for the design and operation of FPBL flipped project-based fashion study.
Effectiveness Analysis of School Violence Prevention Program Based on Curriculum Convergence in Elementary School
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Hyoungsoon , Park Sunghee
Published: May 2023

In this study, we tried to develop a school violence prevention program for elementary school students through curriculum convergence and to verify its effectiveness by operating a program in a content and form suitable for school age. A curriculum convergence school violence prevention program was developed and operated for 100 students in four classes in the sixth grade. To verify the effectiveness of the curriculum convergence school violence prevention program between the two groups of experimental and control, we conducted ANCOVA, and repeated measures ANOVA was conducted on the pre-post-extraction test to verify its continuity. As a result, the curriculum convergence school violence prevention program implemented in this study was confirmed to have a desirable effect on school violence attitude and school life adaptation, and it is meaningful to confirm that the curriculum convergence school violence prevention program has a continuous effect on school violence attitude and school life adaptation.
Distributions and Characteristics on the Resources of the Five Senses expressed in Elementary School Songs in the Island Area of Jeollanam-do
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Han Myungho
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine the distributions and characteristics of emotional resources of the five senses expressed in elementary school songs located in the island region of Jeollanam-do. 81 elementary schools in the island region and 87 elementary schools in the inland region in Jeollanam-do were analyzed for the emotional elements of the five senses expressed in the lyrics of school songs, school trees, and school flowers. Topography and water have the highest appearance rate of visual elements, and mountains have the highest frequency among the elements of topography. As for the visual elements of water, the frequency of the sea and waves in island regions and the frequency of rivers/streams in inland regions are prominent. The auditory elements are natural, human, and artificial elements, and the prominent elements are the sound of waves in the sea and the sound of water in rivers/streams in natural sound, the sound of singing and children in human sound, and the sound of a bell in artificial sound. The main element of the sense of smell is the scent of flowers and trees, and the hibiscus flower is a representative. The tactile elements are water, wind, rainstorm, and snowstorm, and the warm elements are warmth and light.
A Qualitative Study on the Experience of Non-face-to-face Group Counseling to Improve Interpersonal Skills of Organization Members: Utilizing Humanities Convergence Therapy
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Jinsun
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study is to understand the experiences of members of the organization who participated in non-face-to-face group counseling for interpersonal relationships. This study collected works performed during the group counseling process of participants, SNS texts written after each session counseling, and interviewed data after the consultation, and analyzed the contents inductively through open coding. As a result of the study, first, participants felt difficult and uncomfortable with their colleagues before participating in group counseling, and were afraid of communication. Second, participants experienced empathy and coexistence by focusing on colleagues through the advantages of non-face-to-face contact and the use of humanities convergence therapy. Third, participants felt close to the organization and experienced that their relationship-building capabilities were increasing. The results of this study suggest that group counseling for all team members of the organization can be used as basic data for future research on non-face-to-face group counseling programs by analyzing their participation experiences in-depth and analyzing the process of non-face-to-face group counseling using humanities convergence therapy. Limitations and suggestions for follow-up studies were discussed.
The Analysis of Differences among Academic Performance and Academic Motive by Gender and Physical Activity Participation using Panel Study on Korean School Age Children
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Han Gunsoo
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of gender and physical activity on the academic achievement and academic motive. 2019 Panel Study on Korean Children published was used for the analysis, and the subjects of the study were 1,412 children aged 11 years. By using SPSS 20.0 statistics program with dummy variable complex sample multiple regression, following results were deduced. First, girls showed higher level of academic performance than boys, boys showed higher level of academic motive overall. Therefore, specialized education program is needed for girls to increase the academic motive and for boys to increase the learning skill. Second, student participating in physical activity showed higher level of academic performance and academic motive than student who does not participate in physical activity. Based on the results, the importance of physical education in school education curriculum and sport vitalization policy for school age children are required to be emphasized.
A Qualitative Research on the the Experience of Harmonic Interpersonal Relation Program of People with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Baek Yumi
Published: May 2023

This is a qualitative case study to examine the changes of recognition on harmony in interpersonal relationship in intellectual disabilities after experiencing the group counseling program. To address the goal, this researcher selected 15 Intellectual disabilities aged 20 to 22 attending the special-education school located in D City, collected data after providing 10 sessions of the group counseling program, and analyzed them with the case study approach. As a result of the analysis of qualitative changes, intellectual disabilities’s recognition on interpersonal relationship is observed as ‘active self-expression’, ‘recognition on positive emotion, consciousness, behavior, or practice’, ‘effective communication’, and ‘the improvement of skills to control feelings’. The findings are meaningful in that they tell us the fact that group counseling targeting intellectual disabilities can change their recognition
A Study on the Mediating Effect of Emotional Intelligence in the Relationship between Hair Care Behavior and Self-efficacy of MZ Generation
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lim Miyun
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of MZ generation's hair care behavior on self-efficacy and to discuss the verification of the mediating effect of emotional intelligence. As a research method, to verify the mediating effect of emotional intelligence, descriptive statistical analysis, correlation analysis, and regression analysis were conducted using the SPSS 25.0 program, and a three-step mediation regression analysis was conducted to analyze the statistical significance of the mediating effect. The results of the study showed a statistically significant positive (+) effect on hair care behavior, self-efficacy, and emotional intelligence, and emotional intelligence, a parameter, had a mediating effect in the relationship between hair care behavior and self-efficacy. there was. Therefore, the higher the hair management behavior, the higher the self-efficacy and emotional intelligence. In addition, it was found that self-efficacy increased as the sub-factors of emotional intelligence, self-emotional understanding and others' emotional understanding, were higher.
Improving the ‘Studies in Teaching Korean as a Foreign Language’ Items on the Test of Teaching Korean as a Foreign Language: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Min Jinyoung , Hwang Myunghwan
Published: May 2023

The study aims to seek ways to improve the quality of items in the ‘Studies in Teaching Korean as a Foreign Language(STKFL)’ section of the Test of Teaching Korean as a Foreign Language by exploring both item characteristics and the item development process. For this purpose, a mixed research method was used. Specifically, item difficulty and discrimination were calculated based on item response theory. In-depth interview was conducted with a panel of experts in the field of Korean Language Teaching and Learning. Outcomes from the study are as follows. First, a high proportion of items with extremely easy or difficult levels of difficulty were confirmed. A high distribution of items with low discrimination was also ascertained. Second, the major problems identified in the item development process were hasty item writing practices, lack of expertise of item writers, lack of details on item writing and selection guidelines, poor treatment for item writers, and non-standardized management during the writers’ retreat. This study proposes strategies to improve item quality in the STKFL section.
A Case Study of Poetry Creative Activity Education Program in Youth Space
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kwon Hyeonji
Published: May 2023

This study analyzes the case of operation of a poetry creation education program conducted in 'Youth Space' for youth, and reveals the effect of 'Youth Space' on student continuous participation in poetry creation education. The purpose of this study is to accumulate the basis of the model of creation education program of poetry. This can be used as basic data for follow-up research on the development of an educational model that can contribute to strengthen youth capacity and social integration. According to the result of the study, first, the perceived value of the poetry creation education program conducted at the  had a significant effect on the satisfaction with the poetry creation activity education program and the continuous participation intention. Second, the poetry creation activity education program in the youth space had an impact on the formation of the youth's identity, the establishment of a world view, and newly construct the directivity of life.
A Study on the Role of Women in Modern Korean Residential Culture: Construction of Basic Materials for Korean Teacher Education
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Choi Younghee
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this paper is to understand changes in women in Korean residential culture of the Korean Language Education. Korean housing has undergone many changes along with the Korean economy over the past century. Women's lives in traditional houses in the late Joseon Dynasty in Korea had to heat and prepare meals in the kitchen, setting fire to the furnace. Korean people found the country with flowering period, Japanese colonial era, and Liberation, but soon had to start again in the ruins of the three-year Korean War. The most urgent problem at the time was eating and sleeping. With the development of housing, more than 50% of Korea currently lives in apartments now. Women have brought about many changes in housing as well as changes in housing. Changes in Korean women were discussed according to these changes.
Greenhouse-Grown Tomatoes: Microbial Diseases and their Control Methods: A Review
Authors: Ally Nooreen M. , Neetoo Hudaa , Ranghoo-Sanmukhiya Vijayanti M. , Coutinho Teresa A.
Published: May 2023

The cultivation of tomatoes in greenhouse structures is becoming increasingly common as a crop production system. However, the environmental conditions inside a greenhouse favour the development of microbial diseases. These diseases have an adverse effect on the tomato yield and can lead to serious economic losses. This review will give an insight into the major diseases affecting greenhouse-grown tomatoes, the respective causal agents and recommended control strategies. Some of the major diseases are of a bacterial, fungal, viral or nematode origin and include bacterial spot and speck, bacterial canker, early blight, gray mold, leaf mold, powdery mildew, tomato mosaic virus, tomato big bug and root knot. For each disease, the symptoms and risk factors responsible for disease development are described. In addition, the different structural designs and set-ups of tomato greenhouses are covered along with their advantages and limitations, especially any adverse effects on yield and susceptibility to disease. Although conventional control measures are discussed, greater emphasis is laid on the use of alternative biocontrol measures that include Effective Microorganisms, natural antimicrobials and nanobiopesticides. Moreover, information gathered in this review is based on a combination of available literature and expert guidance. This compilation is hoped to be instructive for tomato growers opting for greenhouse farming and assist them in the application of timely and more effective control measures
PEMANFAATAN BAHAN PENGASAP TERHADAP NILAI SENSORI DAN KIMIA IKAN TERBANG (Hirundichtys oxycephalus) ASAP
Authors: Titin Titin , Ibrahim Mohamad Nuh , Nadia Laode Muhamad Hazairin
Published: May 2023

ABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui manfaat bahan pengasap (tongkol jagung : tempurung kelapa) terhadap nilai sensori dan kimia ikan terbang asap. Metode penelitian menggunakan analisis ragam dan Duncans Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Hasil menunjukkan nilai sensori kenampakan tertinggi pada kombinasi bahan pengasap 3 kg sebesar (8,0), bau tertinggi pada kombinasi bahan pengasap 3 kg sebesar (8,0), rasa tertinggi pada kombinasi bahan pengasap 3 kg sebesar (8,3) dan tekstur tertinggi pada kombinasi bahan pengasap 5 kg sebesar (8,1). Nilai uji kimia kadar air tertinggi pada kombinasi bahan pengasap 2 kg sebesar (60,5%), kadar abu tertinggi pada kombinasi bahan pengasap 5 kg sebesar (3,0%), kadar protein tertinggi pada kombinasi bahan pengasap 4 kg sebesar (36,5%) dan kadar lemak tertinggi pada kombinasi bahan pengasap 4 kg sebesar (6,4%). Jumlah bahan pengasap berpengaruh nyata terhadap kenampakan, bau, rasa, kadar air, dan kadar protein, sedangkan pada tekstur, kadar abu, dan kadar lemak berpengaruh tidak nyata.Kata Kunci: Ikan Terbang, Kombinasi Bahan Pengasap (Tongkol Jagung : Tempurung Kelapa), Sensori dan Kimia.
Moving From “Doing to” to “Doing With”: Community Participation in Geoenergy Solutions for Net Zero—The Case of Minewater Geothermal
Authors: Roberts Jennifer J. , Gooding Luke , Ford Rebecca , Dickie Jen
Published: May 2023

Low carbon geoenergy technologies are anticipated to occupy a range of roles in the transition to a net zero carbon future, and there is growing acknowledgment and awareness of the importance of societal considerations and community participation in the development and implementation of such technologies. Here, we use the example of minewater geothermal to explore the potential to enhance societal benefits of energy transition developments. Minewater geothermal uses the water in abandoned and flooded coal mines to provide low carbon heating and cooling of homes and businesses and thermal energy storage. Many towns and cities worldwide have potential minewater geothermal resource, offering significant potential for technology scale up, and there are a number of projects in development and operation. We outline how such projects could occupy a role beyond technological implementation given factors including the local dimension of the resource, together with its links with a community’s mining and cultural history, and social, political and environmental impacts of coal mine abandonment. We argue that working with communities to deliver these projects is paramount, and outline five key principles and recommendations for community participation to ensure a fair and sustainable net zero transition. While tailored to minewater geothermal projects, the nuances of these recommendations are relevant to other geoenergy developments.
A multi-sensor wearable system for the assessment of diseased gait in real-world conditions
Authors: Salis Francesca , Bertuletti Stefano , Bonci Tecla , Caruso Marco , Scott Kirsty , Alcock Lisa , Buckley Ellen , Gazit Eran , Hansen Clint , Schwickert Lars , Aminian Kamiar , Becker Clemens , Brown Philip , Carsin Anne-Elie , Caulfield Brian , Chiari Lorenzo , D’Ascanio Ilaria , Del Din Silvia , Eskofier Bjoern M. , Garcia-Aymerich Judith , Hausdorff Jeffrey M. , Hume Emily C. , Kirk Cameron , Kluge Felix , Koch Sarah , Kuederle Arne , Maetzler Walter , Micó-Amigo Encarna M. , Mueller Arne , Neatrour Isabel , Paraschiv-Ionescu Anisoara , Palmerini Luca , Yarnall Alison J. , Rochester Lynn , Sharrack Basil , Singleton David , Vereijken Beatrix , Vogiatzis Ioannis , Della Croce Ugo , Mazzà Claudia , Cereatti Andrea , for the Mobilise-D consortium
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Accurately assessing people’s gait, especially in real-world conditions and in case of impaired mobility, is still a challenge due to intrinsic and extrinsic factors resulting in gait complexity. To improve the estimation of gait-related digital mobility outcomes (DMOs) in real-world scenarios, this study presents a wearable multi-sensor system (INDIP), integrating complementary sensing approaches (two plantar pressure insoles, three inertial units and two distance sensors).

Methods: The INDIP technical validity was assessed against stereophotogrammetry during a laboratory experimental protocol comprising structured tests (including continuous curvilinear and rectilinear walking and steps) and a simulation of daily-life activities (including intermittent gait and short walking bouts). To evaluate its performance on various gait patterns, data were collected on 128 participants from seven cohorts: healthy young and older adults, patients with Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, and proximal femur fracture. Moreover, INDIP usability was evaluated by recording 2.5-h of real-world unsupervised activity.

Results and discussion: Excellent absolute agreement (ICC >0.95) and very limited mean absolute errors were observed for all cohorts and digital mobility outcomes (cadence ≤0.61 steps/min, stride length ≤0.02 m, walking speed ≤0.02 m/s) in the structured tests. Larger, but limited, errors were observed during the daily-life simulation (cadence 2.72–4.87 steps/min, stride length 0.04–0.06 m, walking speed 0.03–0.05 m/s). Neither major technical nor usability issues were declared during the 2.5-h acquisitions. Therefore, the INDIP system can be considered a valid and feasible solution to collect reference data for analyzing gait in real-world conditions.
Application of microalgae Scenedesmus acuminatus enhances water quality in rice-crayfish culture
Authors: Yuan Danni , Wang Lan , Wang Hongxia , Miao Rongli , Wang Yulu , Jin Hu , Tan Lu , Wei Chaojun , Hu Qiang , Gong Yingchun
Published: May 2023

Improper management of aquatic environments substantially restricts the development of the aquaculture industry. The industrialisation of the crayfish Procambarus clarkii, for example, is currently being limited by poor water quality. Research suggests that microalgal biotechnology has a great potential for water quality regulation. However, the ecological effects of microalgal applications on aquatic communities in aquaculture systems remain largely unknown. In the present study, 5 L Scenedesmus acuminatus GT-2 culture (biomass 120 g L-1) was added to an approximately 1,000 m2 rice-crayfish culture to examine the response of aquatic ecosystems to microalgal application. The total nitrogen content decreased significantly as a result of microalgal addition. Moreover, the microalgal addition changed the bacterial community structure directionally and produced more nitrate reducing and aerobic bacteria. The effect of microalgal addition on plankton community structure was not obvious, except for a significant difference in Spirogyra growth which was inhibited by 81.0% under microalgal addition. Furthermore, the network of microorganisms in culture systems with the added microalga had higher interconnectivity and was more complex, which indicating microalgal application enhance the stability of aquaculture systems. The application of microalgae was found to have the greatest effect on the 6th day of the experiment, as supported by both environmental and biological evidence. These findings can provide valuable guidance for the practical application of microalgae in aquaculture systems.
Prophylactic and therapeutic potential of magnolol-loaded PLGA-PEG nanoparticles in a chronic murine model of allergic asthma
Authors: Wang Junyi , Xian Mo , Cao Hui , Wu Lei , Zhou Libo , Ma Yihe , Fan Long , Lin Lin , Li Guoping , Huang Qinmiao , Huang Shau-Ku , Xiao Xiaojun
Published: May 2023

Magnolol is a chemically defined and active polyphenol extracted from magnolia plants possessing anti-allergic activity, but its low solubility and rapid metabolism dramatically hinder its clinical application. To improve the therapeutic effects, magnolol-encapsulated polymeric poly (DL-lactide-co-glycolide)–poly (ethylene glycol) (PLGA-PEG) nanoparticles were constructed and characterized. The prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy in a chronic murine model of OVA-induced asthma and the mechanisms were investigated. The results showed that administration of magnolol-loaded PLGA-PEG nanoparticles significantly reduced airway hyperresponsiveness, lung tissue eosinophil infiltration, and levels of IL-4, IL-13, TGF-β1, IL-17A, and allergen-specific IgE and IgG1 in OVA-exposed mice compared to their empty nanoparticles-treated mouse counterparts. Magnolol-loaded PLGA-PEG nanoparticles also significantly prevented mouse chronic allergic airway mucus overproduction and collagen deposition. Moreover, magnolol-encapsulated PLGA-PEG nanoparticles showed better therapeutic effects on suppressing allergen-induced airway hyperactivity, airway eosinophilic inflammation, airway collagen deposition, and airway mucus hypersecretion, as compared with magnolol-encapsulated poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles or magnolol alone. These data demonstrate the protective effect of magnolol-loaded PLGA-PEG nanoparticles against the development of allergic phenotypes, implicating its potential usefulness for the asthma treatment.
Sequential extraction of compounds of interest from yeast biomass assisted by pulsed electric fields
Authors: Berzosa Alejandro , Delso Carlota , Sanz Jorge , Sánchez-Gimeno Cristina , Raso Javier
Published: May 2023

One strategy to reduce cost and improve feasibility of waste-yeast biomass valorization is to obtain a spectrum of marketable products rather than just a single one. This study explores the potential of Pulsed Electric Fields (PEF) for the development of a cascade process designed to obtain several valuable products from Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast biomass. Yeast biomass was treated by PEF, which affected the viability of 50%, 90%, and over 99% of S. cerevisiae cells, depending on treatment intensity. Electroporation caused by PEF allowed access to the cytoplasm of the yeast cell without causing total breakdown of the cell structure. This outcome was an essential prerequisite to be able to perform a sequential extraction of several value-added biomolecules from yeast cells located in the cytosol and in the cell wall. After incubating yeast biomass previously subjected to a PEF treatment that affected the viability of 90% of cells for 24 h, an extract with 114.91 ± 2.86, 7.08 ± 0.64, and 187.82 ± 3.75 mg/g dry weight of amino acids, glutathione, and protein, respectively, was obtained. In a second step, the extract rich in cytosol components was removed after 24 h of incubation and the remaining cell biomass was re-suspended with the aim of inducing cell wall autolysis processes triggered by the PEF treatment. After 11 days of incubation, a soluble extract containing mannoproteins and pellets rich in β-glucans were obtained. In conclusion, this study proved that electroporation triggered by PEF permitted the development of a cascade procedure designed to obtain a spectrum of valuable biomolecules from S. cerevisiae yeast biomass while reducing the generation of waste.
The dynamical organization of the core pluripotency transcription factors responds to differentiation cues in early S-phase
Authors: Oses Camila , Francia Marcos Gabriel , Verneri Paula , Vazquez Echegaray Camila , Guberman Alejandra Sonia , Levi Valeria
Published: May 2023

DNA replication in stem cells is a major challenge for pluripotency preservation and cell fate decisions. This process involves massive changes in the chromatin architecture and the reorganization of many transcription-related molecules in different spatial and temporal scales. Pluripotency is controlled by the master transcription factors (TFs) OCT4, SOX2 and NANOG that partition into condensates in the nucleus of embryonic stem cells. These condensates are proposed to play relevant roles in the regulation of gene expression and the maintenance of pluripotency. Here, we asked whether the dynamical distribution of the pluripotency TFs changes during the cell cycle, particularly during DNA replication. Since the S phase is considered to be a window of opportunity for cell fate decisions, we explored if differentiation cues in G1 phase trigger changes in the distribution of these TFs during the subsequent S phase. Our results show a spatial redistribution of TFs condensates during DNA replication which was not directly related to chromatin compaction. Additionally, fluorescence fluctuation spectroscopy revealed TF-specific, subtle changes in the landscape of TF-chromatin interactions, consistent with their particularities as key players of the pluripotency network. Moreover, we found that differentiation stimuli in the preceding G1 phase triggered a relatively fast and massive reorganization of pluripotency TFs in early-S phase. Particularly, OCT4 and SOX2 condensates dissolved whereas the lifetimes of TF-chromatin interactions increased suggesting that the reorganization of condensates is accompanied with a change in the landscape of TF-chromatin interactions. Notably, NANOG showed impaired interactions with chromatin in stimulated early-S cells in line with its role as naïve pluripotency TF. Together, these findings provide new insights into the regulation of the core pluripotency TFs during DNA replication of embryonic stem cells and highlight their different roles at early differentiation stages.
Distinct patterning responses of wing and leg neuromuscular systems to different preaxial polydactylies
Authors: Luxey Maëva , Stieger Gabriela , Berki Bianka , Tschopp Patrick
Published: May 2023

The tetrapod limb has long served as a paradigm to study vertebrate pattern formation and evolutionary diversification. The distal part of the limb, the so-called autopod, is of particular interest in this regard, given the numerous modifications in both its morphology and behavioral motor output. While the underlying alterations in skeletal form have received considerable attention, much less is known about the accompanying changes in the neuromuscular system. However, modifications in the skeleton need to be properly integrated with both muscle and nerve patterns, to result in a fully functional limb. This task is further complicated by the distinct embryonic origins of the three main tissue types involved—skeleton, muscles and nerves—and, accordingly, how they are patterned and connected with one another during development. To evaluate the degree of regulative crosstalk in this complex limb patterning process, here we analyze the developing limb neuromuscular system of Silkie breed chicken. These animals display a preaxial polydactyly, due to a polymorphism in the limb regulatory region of the Sonic Hedgehog gene. Using lightsheet microscopy and 3D-reconstructions, we investigate the neuromuscular patterns of extra digits in Silkie wings and legs, and compare our results to Retinoic Acid-induced polydactylies. Contrary to previous findings, Silkie autopod muscle patterns do not adjust to alterations in the underlying skeletal topology, while nerves show partial responsiveness. We discuss the implications of tissue-specific sensitivities to global limb patterning cues for our understanding of the evolution of novel forms and functions in the distal tetrapod limb.
The application of artificial intelligence in glaucoma diagnosis and prediction
Authors: Zhang Linyu , Tang Li , Xia Min , Cao Guofan
Published: May 2023

Artificial intelligence is a multidisciplinary and collaborative science, the ability of deep learning for image feature extraction and processing gives it a unique advantage in dealing with problems in ophthalmology. The deep learning system can assist ophthalmologists in diagnosing characteristic fundus lesions in glaucoma, such as retinal nerve fiber layer defects, optic nerve head damage, optic disc hemorrhage, etc. Early detection of these lesions can help delay structural damage, protect visual function, and reduce visual field damage. The development of deep learning led to the emergence of deep convolutional neural networks, which are pushing the integration of artificial intelligence with testing devices such as visual field meters, fundus imaging and optical coherence tomography to drive more rapid advances in clinical glaucoma diagnosis and prediction techniques. This article details advances in artificial intelligence combined with visual field, fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography in the field of glaucoma diagnosis and prediction, some of which are familiar and some not widely known. Then it further explores the challenges at this stage and the prospects for future clinical applications. In the future, the deep cooperation between artificial intelligence and medical technology will make the datasets and clinical application rules more standardized, and glaucoma diagnosis and prediction tools will be simplified in a single direction, which will benefit multiple ethnic groups.
Short-chain fatty acids directly exert anti-inflammatory responses in podocytes and tubular epithelial cells exposed to high glucose
Authors: Li Yan Jun , Ma Jin , Loh Yik Wen , Chadban Steven J. , Wu Huiling
Published: May 2023

Aims: Gut-microbiome derived short-chain fatty acids exert anti-inflammatory effects and delay progression of kidney disease in diabetic nephropathy. The aim of this study was to examine the impact in vivo and in vitro of short-chain fatty acid treatment on cellular pathways involved in the development of experimental diabetic nephropathy.

Methods: To determine the effect of short-chain fatty acids in diabetic nephropathy, we compared wildtype, GPR43−/− and GPR109A−/− mice diabetic mice treated with acetate or butyrate and assessed variables of kidney damage. We also examined the impact of short-chain fatty acid treatment on gene expression in renal tubular cells and podocytes under high glucose conditions.

Results: Short-chain fatty acid treatment with acetate or butyrate protected wild-type mice against development of diabetic nephropathy, exhibiting less glomerular hypertrophy, hypercellularity and interstitial fibrosis compared to diabetic controls. Acetate and butyrate treatment did not provide the same degree of protection in diabetic GPR43−/− and GPR109A−/− diabetic mice respectively. Consistent with our in vivo results, expression of pro-inflammatory genes in tubular epithelial cells exposed to high glucose were attenuated by acetate and butyrate treatment. Acetate did not reduce inflammatory or fibrotic responses in glucose stimulated GPR43−/− TECs. Butyrate mediated inhibition of pro-fibrotic gene expression in TECs through GPR109A, and in podocytes via GPR43.

Conclusion: SCFAs protect against progression of diabetic nephropathy and diminish podocyte and tubular epithelial injury and interstitial fibrosis via direct, GPR-pathway dependent effects on intrinsic kidney cells. GPR43 and GPR109A are critical to short-chain fatty acid mediated reno-protection and have potential to be harnessed as a therapeutic target in diabetic nephropathy.
Characterization of bipolar plates manufactured with various Pb/C ratios for unitized regenerative fuel cell system
Authors: Jo Chanmin , Lim Yoongu , Moon Dae Jun , Yoo Seungryul , Seok Dong Chan , Jung Seon Yeop , Jung Seunghun , Jung Ho-Young , Sim Uk
Published: May 2023

The weight reduction of the bipolar plate (BP) is essential for commercializing unitized regenerative fuel cells (URFCs). In order to lighten the weight of the bipolar plate, we have used Pb/C composite powder as a cost-effective primary material, which is a mixture of low-density graphite and lead. Further, varied lead-carbon weight ratios (1: 8, 1:4, 1:1, 4:1, and 8:1) were investigated for fabricating the bipolar plate by hot-pressing process adding styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) as a binder. The specific surface area, porosity, and microstructure characteristics corresponding to the varied lead-graphite ratio of the prepared bipolar plates were studied. The relative difference in conductivity upon the compressibility of the plates is also examined. Finally, the wettability and electrochemical properties of the prepared bipolar plates were evaluated through water contact angle and cyclic voltammetry analysis.
Biodegradable polycarbonates from lignocellulose based 4-pentenoic acid and carbon dioxide
Authors: Wang Weiliang , Qu Rui , Suo Hongyi , Gu Yanan , Qin Yusheng
Published: May 2023

The production of biodegradable polycarbonate by copolymerizing CO2 with epoxides has emerged as an effective method to utilize CO2 in response to growing concerns about CO2 emissions and plastic pollution. Previous studies have mainly focused on the preparation of CO2-based polycarbonates from petrochemical-derived propylene oxide (PO) or cyclohexene oxide (CHO). However, to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, the development of 100% bio-based polymers has gained attention in polymer synthesis. Herein, we reported the synthesis of glycidyl 4-pentenoate (GPA) from lignocellulose based 4-pentenoic acid (4-PA), which was further copolymerized with CO2 using a binary catalyst SalenCoCl/PPNCl to produce bio-based polycarbonates with vinyl side chains and molecular weights up to 17.1 kg/mol. Introducing a third monomer, PO, allows for the synthesis of the GPA/PO/CO2 terpolymer, and the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the terpolymer can be adjusted from 2°C to 19°C by controlling the molar feeding ratio of GPA to PO from 7:3 to 3:7. Additionally, post-modification of the vinyl side chains enables the production of functional polycarbonates, providing a novel approach to the preparation of bio-based materials with diverse side chains and functions.
Sustainable synthesis of L-phenylalanine derivatives in continuous flow by immobilized phenylalanine ammonia lyase
Authors: Roura Padrosa David , Lehmann Hansjoerg , Snajdrova Radka , Paradisi Francesca
Published: May 2023

The application of phenylalanine ammonia lyases (PALs) for the amination of a variety of cinnamic acids has been shown to be a cost-efficient method to produce a variety of phenylalanine analogues. Nonetheless, as many other biocatalytic tools, the process intensification, especially due to the high equivalents of ammonia needed, and the cost-efficiency of the catalyst production and use have been key points to further prove their usefulness. Here, we investigated the use of previously characterized PALs (AvPAL and PbPAL) for the amination of a series of substituted cinnamic acids. To enhance the process scalability and the reusability of the catalyst, we investigated the use of covalent immobilization onto commercially available supports, creating a heterogeneous catalyst with good recovered activity (50%) and excellent stability. The immobilized enzyme was also incorporated in continuous flow for the synthesis of 3-methoxy-phenyl alanine and 4-nitro-phenylalanine, which allowed for shorter reaction times (20 min of contact time) and excellent conversions (88% ± 4% and 89% ± 5%) respectively, which could be maintained over extended period of time, up to 24 h. This work exemplifies the advantages that the combination of enzyme catalysis with flow technologies can have not only in the reaction kinetics, but also in the productivity, catalyst reusability and downstream processing.
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance findings in Danon disease: a case series of a family
Authors: Liu Xiaolong , Zhai Ning , Wang Xiaoqiang , Wang Jiehuan , Jiang Mengchun , Sun Zhanguo , Chen Yueqin , Xu Jingjing , Cui Yinghua , Li Lu
Published: May 2023

Background

Cardiac involvement constitutes the primary cause of mortality in patients with Danon disease (DD). This study aimed to explore the cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) features and progressions of DD cardiomyopathies in a family with long-term follow-up.

Methods

Seven patients (five females and two males), belonging to the same family and afflicted with DD, were enrolled in this study between 2017 and 2022. The cardiac structure, function, strain, tissue characteristics on CMR and their evolutions during follow-up were analyzed.

Results

Three young female patients (3/7, 42.86%) exhibited normal cardiac morphology. Four patients (4/7, 57.14%) displayed left ventricle hypertrophy (LVH), and mostly with septal thickening (3/4, 75%). A single male case (1/7, 14.3%) showed decreased LV ejection fraction (LVEF). Nonetheless, the global LV strain of the four adult patients decreased in different degree. The global strain of adolescent male patients was decreased compared to the age-appropriate female patients. Five patients (5/7, 71.43%) exhibited late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), with proportion ranging from 31.6% to 59.7% (median value 42.7%). The most common LGE location was the LV free wall (5/5, 100%), followed by right ventricle insertion points (4/5, 80%) and intraventricular septum (2/5, 40%). Segmental radial strain (rs = −0.586), circumferential strain (r = 0.589), and longitudinal strain (r = 0.514) were all moderately correlated with the LGE proportions of corresponding segments (P < 0.001). T2 hyperintense and perfusion defect foci were identified, overlapping with the LGE areas. During follow-up, both the young male patients exhibited notable deterioration of their cardiac symptoms and CMR. The LVEF and strain decreased, and the extent of LGE increased year by year. One patient underwent T1 mapping examination. The native T1 value was sensitively elevated even in regions without LGE.

Conclusions

Left ventricular hypertrophy, LGE with sparing or relatively less involved IVS, and LV dysfunction are prominent CMR features of Danon cardiomyopathy. Strain and T1 mapping may have advantages in detecting early-stage dysfunction and myocardial abnormalities in DD patients, respectively. Multi-parametric CMR can serve as an optimal instrument for detecting DD cardiomyopathies.
One-stop interventional procedure for bicuspid aortic stenosis in a patient with coexisting aortic coarctation: a case report
Authors: He Xingwei , Dhuromsingh Menaka , Liu Wanjun , Zhou Qiang , Zeng Hesong
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Coarctation of the aorta (CoA) is usually diagnosed and corrected early in life. Most untreated patients with CoA usually die before 50 years of age. Adult patients with concomitant CoA and severe bicuspid aortic stenosis are relatively rare and present complex management challenges without standard guidelines.

Case summary

A 63-year-old female patient with uncontrolled hypertension was admitted due to chest pain and dyspnea upon exertion (NYHA grades III). Echocardiogram showed a severely calcified and stenotic bicuspid aortic valve (BAV). A severe stenotic calcified eccentric aortic coarctation 20 mm distal to the left subclavian artery (LSA) was discovered by computed tomography (CT) angiography. Following consultation with the cardiac team and patient willingness, we performed a one-stop interventional procedure to repair both defects. First, a cheatham-platinum (CP) stent was implanted via the right femoral access, immediately distal to the LSA. Due to the markedly twisted and angled descending aortic arch, we chose to perform transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) via the left common carotid artery. The patient was discharged and followed up for 1 year without symptoms.

Discussion

Although surgery is still the main treatment for these diseases, it is not suitable for high-risk surgical patient. Transcatheter intervention for patients with severe aortic stenosis complicated with CoA simultaneously is rarely reported. The success of this procedure depends on the patient's vascular condition, the skills of the heart team, and the availability of the technical platform.

Conclusion

Our case report demonstrates the feasibility and efficacy of a one-stop interventional procedure in an adult patient with concurrent severely calcified BAV and CoA via two different vascular approaches. Transcatheter intervention, in contrast to traditional surgical approaches or two-stop interventional procedures, as a minimally invasive and novel method, offers a wider range of therapeutic methods for such diseases.