bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing TRIZ Based Instructional Model to Improve Technological Problem-solving Competency: Applying STEP-ABC
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Changhyun , Park Suhong , Bai Jinho
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to develop an instructional model based on TRIZ to improve students' technological problem-solving competency in context of middle school technology subject. To achieve the purpose of the study, it was conducted as follows: analysis → design → development(drafting) → evaluation → analysis → finalization based on Richey and Klein(2012)'s development research method. To derive the model, it derived the core values, core activity processes, and supporting elements of the model through literature research, drafted the model, and developed STEP-ABC. To secure the content validity, it conducted member checking, expert formative evaluation FGI consisting of educational technology and TRIZ experts based on triangulation. In order to synthesize the feedback received through the evaluation and revise and supplement the draft model, it conducted a survey of in-service teachers as SME and supplemented the literature study to revise the core values and core activity processes to make them more intuitive, and derived the final model.
Teaching Calculus in Universities for Artificial Intelligence
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Jungkyung , Kim Hyunjin
Published: November 2023

This study investigates the relationship between calculus education in current universities and the mathematical knowledge required for artificial intelligence and examines ways to address topics related to mathematics required for artificial intelligence in calculus subjects. As technologies related to artificial intelligence become established in daily life, education related to artificial intelligence has become essential in secondary education and universities. However, in a reality where the barrier to entry to acquire knowledge related to artificial intelligence is very high, we provide a curriculum that allows students to obtain mathematical knowledge related to artificial intelligence in a relatively easy calculus course rather than a difficult class in a major subject. we will provide direction for improvement.
Research on Problem-Based Learning(PBL) Literature Class Method Using ChatGPT
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Jeong Raepil
Published: November 2023

The paper analyzed the results of learners' literary exploration activities performed with ChatGPT and proposed a problem-based learning(PBL) method using ChatGPT. Considering that ChatGPT can clarify and deepen problem awareness during communication, the paper explored how to utilize ChatGPT in the “problem discovery, problem exploration, and problemsolving”. As a result, the learner interacted with ChatGPT and proceeded with the task by verifying ChatGPT's answers with intertextuality, intermediality, and metacognition in mind. This paper proposed a PBL model using ChatGPT based on the learner's problem discovery and solution process shown in literature reading.
The Practical Practice of Book Review Writing Education for College Students: To Establish the Theory of Writing a Book Review
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee YeonJeong
Published: November 2023

This study aims to confirm the perception of college freshmen on book review writing and to design and apply book review writing education based on it. Book review writing is an essential writing required for all college students as a reading activity that is the foundation for cultivating learners' critical and analytical thinking. Even considering this, the establishment of the book review writing teaching theory is very urgent, and a book review writing curriculum that maximizes the unique identity of book reviews should be prepared. In addition, it is necessary to develop various investigative strategies that enrich the contents of book reviews, and to prepare an environment in which learners can develop an eye for good book reviews and write good book reviews. It is hoped that this study will contribute to the establishment of a system of book review writing teaching methods.
Validity Verification Research of Extracurricular Education Items for the University Life Adaptation of Foreign Students: Focusing on Foreign Students after They Have Entered Their University Major
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Seongjae
Published: November 2023

This research is focused on creating and validating extracurricular educational items to assist foreign students enrolled in Korean universities in adapting to their university life. An education program was formed through expert evaluations during the item selection process. Initially, 66 items were selected across four categories: university life, off-campus life, interpersonal relationships, and event activities. These items underwent two stages of verification where various indicators like convergence degree, agreement degree, content validity ratio (CVR), and expert opinions were considered for refinement. Consequently, three types and 25 educational items were identified that could assist foreign students in adapting to university life. These items were further detailed into learning objectives, content, and activities for practical application in education settings. The results of this study provide essential extracurricular education content to help foreign students adapt better to Korean university life while also aiding their understanding of Korean culture and society.
Recluses in Song Dynasty and Their Recluses Culture: History of Song Dynasty·Biography of Recluses
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Park Youngsoon
Published: November 2023

This paper is intended to study the recluses in the Song Dynasty in the range of “Characters -Text-Politics”, which subject would be the official history, i.e., “History of Song Dynasty·Biography of Recluses”, from the side of the relationship between the intellegent class and nation by recognizing the recluses as a special social class. This study covers largely following three parts: Biography of Recluses and the background where the recluses emerged; the characters in Biography of Recluses, the types of recluses; political and social meaning of the Biography of Recluses and recluses. We would get a systematic understandings on the characteristics of the Reclusive Culture in Song Dynasty by studying the relationship between the recluses and politics, the social role of the recluses, meaning of compilation of the official history, Biography of Recluses, reclusive respection, and the reclusive culture, etc. Through this, it was possible to understand the political and social implications of the recluses in the Song Dynasty as a unique group of special social class and what kind of seclusion(隱) and government official(仕) variations they formed in their relationship with the state.
A Study on the Transboundary Subjects and Possibility of Hybridization
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Han Hyejin
Published: November 2023

In this study, I will examine the process of hybridization along the path of the North Korean diaspora defection through the journey of “Roh,” a defector in the novel “I Met Roh Kiwan” by Hae Jin Jo. In the novel, Roh's face with several minority identities, such as defectors, stateless, refugees, strangers, and illegal immigrants, is also the face of me who wanders with its own wounds or Park who cannot settle in his hometown. Through the journey of exploring the spaces where Roh Kiwan stayed, I, as a speaker, realizes that Roh Kiwan's life, a stranger, has come into her life, and shares his diaspora situation and otherness. After all, the problems of the characters are not solved in detail, but the solidarity formed between them provides a clue to the solution as a hybrid transmodern liberation. Regarding the pains and human rights issues of minorities around the world that are constantly being raised, the author shows the pattern in which the solidarity and connection of trans-boundary subjects yields the possibility of various hybridization through the novel “I Met Roh Kiwan” and provides an answer It can be said that it is presenting.
A Study on the Elements of the Black Civil Rights Movement in American Popular Music: Centered around the 1960s
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Park Minho , Hong Seonggyu
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine the elements of the black civil rights movement in American popular music in the 1960s. Therefore, in order to help understand popular music and the black civil rights movement, the overall flow was examined, and the form of the black civil rights movement observed through this was observed through social background and lyrics analysis. The elements of the black civil rights movement in popular music were identified as four elements: abolition of racism and equality, demand for institutional change, identity and decision-making, cooperation and solidarity, and these elements are provided as basic data to prove the characteristics of popular music used as a means of the times and civic consciousness.
Budget Analysis for Culture and Arts Education: Focusing on Seventeen Metropolitan Culture and Art Education Support Centers in the Metropolitan Area
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Ji-Seol
Published: November 2023

This study aims to explore future development directions for revitalizing local culture and arts education by confirming the details of the regional culture and arts education budget and ordinance enactment. The data of the study were examined by referring to the current status of regional culture and arts education support centers in 17 metropolitan and provincial governments by year provided by the Korea Culture and Arts Education Promotion Agency. In addition, as a public institution, its influence was confirmed by grasping the timing, status, and details of the ordinance, which is the legal basis for the operation of the business of culture and art education support center. Through this, this paper has significance as an objective and quantitative data for future research on culture and arts education.
A Study of the Service Convergence Design for the Standardization of Alternative Investment Based on the NPL Process Analysis: Focusing on the Art Market
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Lee Cheoljin , Sul Sanghun , Park Geunseok , Kim Seohee
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to design an alternative investment standardization to resolve price opacity and information asymmetry, which are the specific characteristics of the alternative investment market, and to present a service design to improve communication. To this end, bad loans with real estate collateral, art distribution market characteristics, and price index models were examined, and service blueprints, one of the service design methodologies, were used to analyze the investment process of quantitative and qualitative assets, two forms of alternative investment, and to determine the value of stakeholders. Through this analysis, alternative investment standardization was designed, and based on this, a communication service design that can improve the user experience of art investment was presented.
A Study on Measures to Vitalize the Online Game Industry
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Jang Minsun , Yoon Junyoung
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to derive efficient measures for revitalizing the online game market through prior studies related to existing online games, and to provide basic data for follow-up research related to the online game industry based on the current status of online games in Korea and empirical analysis. The literature analysis of previous studies suggested the following activation measures. First, user churn is one of the important problems in the online game industry, and it is necessary to develop and apply a new churn prediction model to prevent it. Second, since the number of cases of using game bots to obtain economic benefits is increasing, a detection technique using motivation-based ERG theory is needed as a strategy to detect and prevent them. Third, the government should create an environment that provides opportunities to solve various online game-related problems autonomously. Fourth, Efforts should be made to leverage the OSMU strategy to provide new experiences. Fifth, gaming companies need to create new business opportunities to expand the market, such as developing the amateur e-sports market.
Understanding School Violence in Early Childhood Education: Kindergarten Teachers' Understanding and Perceptions about School Violence
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Han Sanseom
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to explore kindergarten teachers' understanding and perceptions of school violence in order to establish the use of ‘school violence’ in early childhood education and the direction of the perceptions about school violence that kindergarten teachers should have. Data were collected and analyzed through in-depth group interviews. As a result, first, there were 8 characteristics of school violence as perceived by kindergarten teachers. Second, considering the characteristics of children, there were difficulties in labeling violent problems that occur in relationships between children with ‘school violence’. Third, the violent problems that exist in relationships between children, which cannot be labeled as school violence, were thought to have a negative impact on all children. Fourth, it was found that violent problems between children are dealt with at the level of behavior guidance. This study suggests that school violence needs to be addressed in early childhood education, and that it is important to identify the level of kindergarten teachers’ perceptions and direction on school violence.
A Group Comparison of the Complicated Grief of Suicide Survivor Children, Spouses, and Parents
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Kim Kyunghee
Published: November 2023

This study divides suicide survivors into three groups according to family relationships and compares the level of complicated grief and risk factors in the groups. To this end, suicide survivor children, spouses, and parents, aged 19 years or older, were sampled; a total of 167 individuals were analyzed. The SPSS 26.0 program was used, and the main research results were as follows. There was a significant difference in the level of complicated grief in the child, spouse, and parent groups of Korean suicide survivors. The parent group had the highest level of complicated grief. Even after 10 years of bereavement, 75% of parents were at high risk of complicated grief. Complicated grief risk factors also differed between the three groups. Based on the study results, implications for the intervention and practice of complicated grief according to the characteristics of each family group of suicide survivors are proposed.
A Case Study of Convergence Class through Realistic Media: Focusing on Korean Traditional Music Education Using STEAM
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Jung Seongin
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to overcome the limitations of theoretical classes through convergence education, away from the boundaries of theory-centered classes of Korean traditional music. Accordingly, the background of STEAM, which is the predecessor of convergence classes, was examined and applied. Under the theme of “Daechwita.”, Korean traditional music classes were implemented through realistic media by introducing STEAM to Korean traditional music classes and video classes through cooperation with broadcasting videos and teachers. Based on this, through the convergence class conducted as the fourth Korean traditional music class and the third video class, students conducted the class with the aim of playing the fourth chapter of “Daechwita”. In particular, it was confirmed that interest and understanding improved the highest in Korean traditional music classes, and interest improved the highest in video classes. The development of the media went beyond just the joy of life and achieved the convergence of subjects that were felt to be their respective areas in the field of learning, thereby providing a more rich place for learning.
A Study on the Design of Nail Art by Converging Vincent van Gogh's Expression Techniques
Authors:   The Korean Society of Culture and Convergence, Jeon Youn Sug
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to derive unique nail art designs through the convergence of famous paintings and beauty design. Accordingly, theoretical and empirical studies were conducted at the same time. As a theoretical studies examined the expression techniques that appeared in Vincent van Gogh's paintings. For an empirical study, Vincent van Gogh's expression technique and nail art design were combined to derive designs on actual nail tips, and nail art designs according to line drawing, color techniques, and impasto techniques were derived. Through the use of repetitive lines, the shape was expressed using yellow, blue, green, and grayish brown Gogh's colors, and expressed as nail art designs using repeated colors and embossed gel by gel hand painting techniques. The convergence of famous paintings and nail art can be used as a way to improve artistic value and promote new design development.
Türkiye’de Yerel Yönetime Katılım: Büyükşehir Belediyelerinin Twitter Hesapları Üzerinden Bir Analiz
Authors: GÖÇOĞLU İpek Didem , AYDIN Mehmet Devrim
Published: November 2023

Yönetimlerden beklentileri artan vatandaşın memnuniyetini sağlayabilmek adına özellikle hizmet sunumunda kendine en yakın birim olan belediyelerin halkla ilişkiler olgusuna önem vermesi, katılımın sağlanması açısından önemli basamaklardan birini oluşturmaktadır. Sunduğu anlık ve çift yönlü iletişim ve etkileşim sayesinde sosyal medya, kamu kurumlarının vatandaşla iletişim kurmakta ve kamu politikalarına vatandaş katılımını sağlamakta kullandığı birincil mecralardan birisi haline gelmiştir. Bu çalışma, Türkiye’deki büyükşehir belediyelerinin kamu politikalarına halk katılımının sağlanmasında sosyal medya kullanımını Twitter özelinde incelemektedir. Çalışmada, Türkiye’deki büyükşehir belediyelerinin Twitter’da seçilen bir yıl içerisinde paylaştıkları toplamda 39.972 adet tweete içerik analizi uygulanmıştır. Araştırmanın öne çıkan sonucuna göre Türkiye’deki büyükşehir belediyeleri, Twitter’ı birincil boyutta kurumsal bilgilendirme amaçlı, halk katılımı boyutunda ise daha çok vatandaşlar ve aktörlerle iletişim kurarak katılımı sağlama fonksiyonunda kullanmaktadırlar.
X-Ray Structural Analysis of the Irradiated Basalt Composite
Authors:   Perm National Research
            Polytechnic University, Russia, Oniskiv Vladimir , Stolbov Valerii ,   Perm National Research
            Polytechnic University, Russia, Ibragimova Elvira ,   Institute of Nuclear Physics
            Academy of Sciences, Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan
Published: November 2023

A study of the microstructure and elemental composition of the components of a
composite material based on basalt after its gamma irradiation for the purpose of
mechanical hardening was carried out. For this, a scanning electron microscope and a
built-in energy-dispersive system were used. Local changes in morphology (nucleation of
bubbles and cracks), as well as the elemental composition of the epoxy binder and filler
(basalt fibers) were analyzed. Irradiation was carried out in the dose range: 5-15 Mrad.
It has been shown that at irradiation doses up to 10 Mrad, new intermolecular bonds are
formed and the material is strengthened. At high doses of irradiation, bond destruction
and the formation of a gas phase are observed, which leads to weakening of the
composite.
Control of Polyethylene’s Radiation Cross-Linking by Gamma Irradiation in Acetylene
Atmosphere
Authors:   Perm National Research
            Polytechnic University, Russia, Oniskiv Vladimir , Stolbov Valerii , Yakovlev Anton
Published: November 2023

To produce cross-linked polyethylene using the radiation method, a lengthy
procedure for irradiating the polyethylene is required. Reducing the time spent on
irradiation will increase the yield of finished products per unit time and increase
production efficiency. It has been experimentally confirmed that irradiation of
polyethylene in the presence of hydrocarbon gases (for example, in the presence of
acetylene) makes it possible to achieve the required degree of intermolecular
cross-linking in less time. The article presents a modified algorithm for the production
of cross-linked polyethylene, and identifies parameters whose changes can influence the
speed of the production process. The problem of managing the production process is
formulated in order to minimize the time spent on the production of cross-linked
polyethylene. A description of mathematical models is given that make it possible to
develop a control system for the production process of polyethylene modification using
radiation exposure.
Enhancing the mechanical properties and surface morphology of individualized Ti-mesh fabricated through additive manufacturing for the treatment of alveolar bone defects
Authors: Wang Lingxu , Wang Fangfang , Ayisen Saimi , Ren Tianshui , Luo Xiaoping , Wang Penglai
Published: November 2023

Titanium meshes are widely utilized in alveolar bone augmentation, and this study aims to enhance the properties of titanium meshes through heat treatment (HT) and the synergistic finishing technology of electric field and flow field (EFSF). Our findings illustrate that the titanium mesh exhibits improved mechanical properties following HT treatment. The innovative EFSF technique, in combination with HT, has a substantial impact on improving the surface properties of titanium meshes. HT initiates grain fusion and reduces surface pores, resulting in enhanced tensile and elongation properties. EFSF further enhances these improvements by significantly reducing surface roughness and eliminating adhered titanium powder, a byproduct of selective laser melting printing. Increased hydrophilicity and surface-free energy are achieved after EFSF treatment. Notably, the EFSF-treated titanium mesh exhibits reduced bacterial adhesion and is non-toxic to osteoblast proliferation. These advancements increase its suitability for clinical alveolar bone augmentation.
The linear framework II: using graph theory to analyse the transient regime of Markov processes
Authors: Nam Kee-Myoung , Gunawardena Jeremy
Published: November 2023

The linear framework uses finite, directed graphs with labelled edges to model biomolecular systems. Graph vertices represent chemical species or molecular states, edges represent reactions or transitions and edge labels represent rates that also describe how the system is interacting with its environment. The present paper is a sequel to a recent review of the framework that focussed on how graph-theoretic methods give insight into steady states as rational algebraic functions of the edge labels. Here, we focus on the transient regime for systems that correspond to continuous-time Markov processes. In this case, the graph specifies the infinitesimal generator of the process. We show how the moments of the first-passage time distribution, and related quantities, such as splitting probabilities and conditional first-passage times, can also be expressed as rational algebraic functions of the labels. This capability is timely, as new experimental methods are finally giving access to the transient dynamic regime and revealing the computations and information processing that occur before a steady state is reached. We illustrate the concepts, methods and formulas through examples and show how the results may be used to illuminate previous findings in the literature.
Fn14 and TNFR2 as regulators of cytotoxic TNFR1 signaling
Authors: Siegmund Daniela , Zaitseva Olena , Wajant Harald
Published: November 2023

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor 1 (TNFR1), TNFR2 and fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14 (Fn14) belong to the TNF receptor superfamily (TNFRSF). From a structural point of view, TNFR1 is a prototypic death domain (DD)-containing receptor. In contrast to other prominent death receptors, such as CD95/Fas and the two TRAIL death receptors DR4 and DR5, however, liganded TNFR1 does not instruct the formation of a plasma membrane-associated death inducing signaling complex converting procaspase-8 into highly active mature heterotetrameric caspase-8 molecules. Instead, liganded TNFR1 recruits the DD-containing cytoplasmic signaling proteins TRADD and RIPK1 and empowers these proteins to trigger cell death signaling by cytosolic complexes after their release from the TNFR1 signaling complex. The activity and quality (apoptosis versus necroptosis) of TNF-induced cell death signaling is controlled by caspase-8, the caspase-8 regulatory FLIP proteins, TRAF2, RIPK1 and the RIPK1-ubiquitinating E3 ligases cIAP1 and cIAP2. TNFR2 and Fn14 efficiently recruit TRAF2 along with the TRAF2 binding partners cIAP1 and cIAP2 and can thereby limit the availability of these molecules for other TRAF2/cIAP1/2-utilizing proteins including TNFR1. Accordingly, at the cellular level engagement of TNFR2 or Fn14 inhibits TNFR1-induced RIPK1-mediated effects reaching from activation of the classical NFκB pathway to induction of apoptosis and necroptosis. In this review, we summarize the effects of TNFR2- and Fn14-mediated depletion of TRAF2 and the cIAP1/2 on TNFR1 signaling at the molecular level and discuss the consequences this has in vivo.
Characteristics and metabolic potential of biliary microbiota in patients with giant common bile duct stones
Authors: Dai Chenguang , Xu Chunfang , Zheng Lu , Wang Min , Fan Zhining , Ye Jianxin , Su Dongming
Published: November 2023

Background

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an effective minimally invasive operation for the management of choledocholithiasis, while successful extraction is hampered by large diameter of stones. Emerging studies have revealed the close correlation between biliary microbiota and common bile duct stones (CBDS). In this study, we aimed to investigate the community characteristics and metabolic functions of biliary microbiota in patients with giant CBDS.

Methods

Eligible patients were prospectively enrolled in this study in First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from February 2022 to October 2022. Bile samples were collected through ERCP. The microbiota was analyzed using 16S rRNA sequencing. Metabolic functions were predicted by PICRUSTs 2.0 calculation based on MetaCyc database. Bile acids were tested and identified using ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

A total of 26 patients were successfully included into final analysis, 8 in giant stone (GS) group and 18 in control group. Distinct biliary microbial composition was identified in patients with giant CBDS, with a significantly higher abundance of Firmicutes at phylum level. The unique composition at genus level mainly consisted of Enterococcus, Citrobacter, Lactobacillus, Pyramidobacter, Bifidobacterium and Shewanella. Pyramidobacter was exclusively found in GS group, along with the absence of Robinsoniella and Coprococcus. The contents of free bile acids were significantly higher in GS group, including cholic acid (98.39μmol/mL vs. 26.15μmol/mL, p=0.035), chenodesoxycholic acid (54.69μmol/mL vs. 5.86μmol/mL, p=0.022) and ursodeoxycholic acid (2.70μmol/mL vs. 0.17μmol/mL, p=0.047). Decreasing tendency of conjugated bile acids were also observed. Metabolic pathways concerning cholelithiasis were abundant in GS group, including geranylgeranyl diphosphate biosynthesis, gluconeogenesis, glycolysis and L-methionine biosynthesis.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the community structure and metabolic potential of biliary microbiota in patients with giant CBDS. The unique biliary microbial composition holds valuable predictive potential for clinical conditions. These findings provide new insights into the etiology of giant CBDS from the perspective of biliary microbiota.
A knockdown gene approach identifies an insect vector membrane protein with leucin-rich repeats as one of the receptors for the VmpA adhesin of flavescence dorée phytoplasma
Authors: Canuto Francesca , Duret Sybille , Dubrana Marie-Pierre , Claverol Stéphane , Malembic-Maher Sylvie , Foissac Xavier , Arricau-Bouvery Nathalie
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The adhesion of flavescence dorée phytoplasma to the midgut epithelium cells of their insect vectors is partially mediated by the variable membrane protein A (VmpA), an adhesin which shows lectin properties. In order to identify the insect receptor for VmpA, we identified Euscelidius variegatus cell proteins interacting with recombinant VmpA-His6.

Methods

The E. variegatus proteins were identified by mass spectrometry analysis of VmpA-E. variegatus protein complexes formed upon in vitro interaction assays. To assess their impact in VmpA binding, we reduced the expression of the candidate genes on E. variegatus cells in culture by dsRNA-mediated RNAi. The effect of candidate gene knockdown on VmpA binding was measured by the capacity of E. variegatus cells to bind VmpA-coated fluorescent beads.

Results and discussion

There were 13 candidate proteins possessing potential N-glycosylation sites and predicted transmembrane domains selected. The decrease of expression of an unknown transmembrane protein with leucine-rich repeat domains (uk1_LRR) was correlated with the decreased adhesion of VmpA beads to E. variegatus cells. The uk1_LRR was more expressed in digestive tubes than salivary glands of E. variegatus. The protein uk1_LRR could be implicated in the binding with VmpA in the early stages of insect infection following phytoplasmas ingestion
Heart graft preservation technics and limits: an update and perspectives
Authors: Ughetto Aurore , Roubille François , Molina Adrien , Battistella Pascal , Gaudard Philippe , Demaria Roland , Guihaire Julien , Lacampagne Alain , Delmas Clément
Published: November 2023

Heart transplantation, the gold standard treatment for end-stage heart failure, is limited by heart graft shortage, justifying expansion of the donor pool. Currently, static cold storage (SCS) of hearts from donations after brainstem death remains the standard practice, but it is usually limited to 240 min. Prolonged cold ischemia and ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) have been recognized as major causes of post-transplant graft failure. Continuous ex situ perfusion is a new approach for donor organ management to expand the donor pool and/or increase the utilization rate. Continuous ex situ machine perfusion (MP) can satisfy the metabolic needs of the myocardium, minimizing irreversible ischemic cell damage and cell death. Several hypothermic or normothermic MP methods have been developed and studied, particularly in the preclinical setting, but whether MP is superior to SCS remains controversial. Other approaches seem to be interesting for extending the pool of heart graft donors, such as blocking the paths of apoptosis and necrosis, extracellular vesicle therapy, or donor heart-specific gene therapy. In this systematic review, we summarize the mechanisms involved in IRI during heart transplantation and existing targeting therapies. We also critically evaluate all available data on continuous ex situ perfusion devices for adult donor hearts, highlighting its therapeutic potential and current limitations and shortcomings.
Effect of community participation on sustainable development: an assessment of sustainability domains in Malaysia
Authors: Marzo Roy Rillera , Chen Hana W. Jun , Anuar Haryati , Abdul Wahab Mohamad Khairuddin , Ibrahim Mohd Hairulnizam , Ariffin Indang Ariati , Ahmad Azral Ismawy , Kawuki Joseph , Aljuaid Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Community participation is also one of the critical factors, in the success of coral reef conservation efforts in Malaysia. The key determinants of community participation in coral reef conservation in the country include awareness, understanding, benefits, and incentives.

Objectives: The study aimed to investigate the impact of community participation on sustainable development in Malaysia, specifically in coral reef conservation. The study assessed the relationships between sociodemographic variables and various sustainability domains, including community participation, ecotourism development, and economic, environmental, and social sustainability.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from July to October 2022 in Setiu, Terengganu and recruited 338 adult local villagers. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis for factors such as employment status, knowledge of coral reefs, practice of coral reef conservation and willingness to volunteer for conservation were analysed using SPSS version 26.

Results: An increase in community participation was associated with an increase in all four sustainability domains of ecotourism development, economic, environmental and social sustainability (Unadjusted B range = 0.46–0.77, all p-value <0.001). Participants with acceptable knowledge of coral reefs (AOR = 7.11, 95% CI: 3.84–13.15), good practice of coral reef conservation (AOR = 5.26, 95% CI: 2.54–10.91), and willing to volunteer for coral reef conservation (AOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.02–3.83) had higher odds of positive social sustainability, compared to those with low knowledge, poor practice and not willing to volunteer, respectively. However, those employed in marine-related jobs (AOR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.10–0.72) had less odds of positive social sustainability, compared to those who are not employed.

Conclusion: The study highlighted the importance of community participation in promoting sustainable development and the influence of socioeconomic factors and education on community participation. The importance of educational initiatives and engagement and the factors associated with positive economic, environmental and social sustainability have been highlighted. These findings can be used by policymakers and stakeholders to design and implement effective interventions for coral reef conservation, aimed at promoting sustainable development in Malaysia.
Enhancing waste resource efficiency: circular economy for sustainability and energy conversion
Authors: Elroi Hadad , Zbigniew Grzymala , Agnieszka Wójcik-Czerniawska , Piotr Szewczyk
Published: November 2023

This study explores optimizing waste resource efficiency through the Circular Economy (CE) framework. Motivated by the imperative to enhance resource efficiency and mitigate waste’s environmental impact, we examine the CE concept’s extension of product life cycles, while minimizing waste. We conduct a comprehensive review to explore the core CE principles across all stages of the product lifecycle and provide an in-depth analysis of waste treatment practices in Poland, emphasizing potential energy conversion methods like biogas production and incineration. Our findings underscore the importance of prioritizing waste incineration plant design for quicker payback, aligning with circular rational economic practices. Strategies such as improving biogas production, establishing solid bio-waste fermentation facilities, promoting sortable packaging, and incentivizing sustainable sorting emerge to optimize waste management. These findings highlight the pivotal role of economic, environmental, and energy considerations in shaping sustainable waste management strategies.
Clinicopathological characteristics, molecular landscape, and biomarker landscape for predicting the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in Chinese population with mismatch repair deficient urothelial carcinoma: a real-world study
Authors: Ma Yu-Ting , Hua Fang , Zhong Xiu-Ming , Xue Ying-Jie , Li Jia , Nie Yi-Cong , Zhang Xue-Dong , Ma Ji-Wei , Lin Cun-Hu , Zhang Hao-Zhuang , He Wei , Sha Dan , Zhao Miao-Qing , Yao Zhi-Gang
Published: November 2023

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) with deficient mismatch repair (dMMR) is a specific subtype of UC characterized by the loss of mismatch repair (MMR) proteins and its association with Lynch syndrome (LS). However, comprehensive real-world data on the incidence, clinicopathological characteristics, molecular landscape, and biomarker landscape for predicting the efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors in the Chinese patients with dMMR UC remains unknown. We analyzed 374 patients with bladder urothelial carcinoma (BUC) and 232 patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) using tissue microarrays, immunohistochemistry, and targeted next-generation sequencing. Results showed the incidence of dMMR UC was higher in the upper urinary tract than in the bladder. Genomic analysis identified frequent mutations in KMT2D and KMT2C genes and LS was confirmed in 53.8% of dMMR UC cases. dMMR UC cases displayed microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) (PCR method) in 91.7% and tumor mutational burden-high (TMB-H) in 40% of cases. The density of intratumoral CD8+ T cells correlated with better overall survival in dMMR UC patients. Positive PD-L1 expression was found in 20% cases, but some patients positively responded to immunotherapy despite negative PD-L1 expression. Our findings provide valuable insights into the characteristics of dMMR UC in the Chinese population and highlights the relevance of genetic testing and immunotherapy biomarkers for treatment decisions.
The transcription factor ELF4 alleviates inflammatory bowel disease by activating IL1RN transcription, suppressing inflammatory TH17 cell activity, and inducing macrophage M2 polarization
Authors: Cao Meiwan , Chen Peiyu , Peng Baoling , Cheng Yang , Xie Jing , Hou Ziang , Chen Huan , Ye Liping , Li Huiwen , Wang Hongli , Ren Lu , Xiong Liya , Geng Lanlan , Gong Sitang
Published: November 2023

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic immune-mediated disorder affecting millions worldwide. Due to the complexity of its pathogenesis, the treatment options for IBD are limited. This study focuses on ELF4, a member of the ETS transcription factor family, as a target to elucidate its role in IBD and investigate its mechanism of action in alleviating IBD symptoms by activating IL1RN transcription to suppress the activity of inflammatory TH17 cells.

Methods

Using the GEO database, this study examined LPS-induced intestinal inflammatory genes and their regulation mechanisms. We examined the colon length of LPS-treated mice and derived the Disease Activity Index (DAI). H&E staining, ELISA, and flow cytometry were used to detect mice colon tissue damage, inflammatory factor levels in mouse serum, mouse macrophage types and inflammatory TH17 cell activity. RT-qPCR and Western blot detected ELF4, IL1RN, M1, and M2 polarization markers. In Vitro, using dual-luciferase and ChIP assays, we tested mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) and mouse intestinal epithelial cells for IL1RN promoter activity and ELF4 enrichment.

Results

Bioinformatics showed that LPS-induced colitis animals have reduced ELF4 expression in their colon tissue. In vivo tests confirmed reduced ELF4 expression in mice with LPS-induced colitis. ELF4 overexpression reduced mouse intestinal inflammation. ELF4 activated IL1RN transcription in bioinformatics and in vitro tests. ELF4 promoted IL1RN transcription and macrophage M2 polarization to limit intestinal epithelial cell death and inflammation and reduce mouse intestinal inflammation in vitro. ELF4 also reduced the Th17/Treg ratio by increasing IL1RN transcription.

Conclusion

ELF4 activates IL1RN transcription, suppresses inflammatory TH17 cells, and induces macrophage M2 polarization to treat IBD.
A prospective randomized half-body study: 308 nm LED light vs. 308 nm excimer laser for localized psoriasis
Authors: Yu Yingyuan , Lu Jiajing , Zhang Yi , Shi Yuling
Published: November 2023

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease affecting approximately 3.2% of the population. The 308 nm light emitting diode (LED) is a novel, portable, and cost-effective light source, may have potential in the treatment of localized psoriasis patients in a home setting.

Objective

To compare the clinical and dermoscopic responses in localized psoriatic patients undergoing localized phototherapy with 308 nm LED light and excimer laser.

Methods

Twenty-two patients with mild-to-moderate psoriasis and symmetrical skin lesions were included in this prospective, randomized, left-to-right body trial. The target lesions were randomly treated with either LED light or excimer laser twice a week for 12 weeks. The responses were evaluated by the local psoriasis severity index (LPSI) scores, and dermoscopic features of the target lesions were examined and analyzed.

Results

Out of the 22 included psoriasis patients, 10 successfully completed the 12 weeks study. Both treatment sides showed similar clinical improvement in terms of clinical response, as evidenced by a LPSI 50 rate of 70% on the LED side and 80% on the excimer side, p > 0.05. Furthermore, the dermoscopic features also exhibited comparable improvement.

Conclusion

The efficacy and safety of 308 nm LED light therapy are comparable to 308 nm excimer laser therapy. Moreover, given the portability and cost-effectiveness of 308 nm LED light, it holds great promise as a home phototherapy in the treatment of psoriasis.
Prolonged survival of a patient with active MDR-TB HIV co-morbidity: insights from a Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain with a unique genomic deletion
Authors: Rubinstein Mor , Makhon Andrei , Losev Yelena , Valenci Gal Zizelski , Gatt Yair E. , Margalit Hanah , Fass Ephraim , Kutikov Ina , Murik Omer , Zeevi David A. , Savyon Michal , Tau Luba , Kaidar Shwartz Hasia , Dveyrin Zeev , Rorman Efrat , Nissan Israel
Published: November 2023

Coinfection of HIV and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) presents significant challenges in terms of the treatment and prognosis of tuberculosis, leading to complexities in managing the disease and impacting the overall outcome for TB patients. This study presents a remarkable case of a patient with MDR-TB and HIV coinfection who survived for over 8 years, despite poor treatment adherence and comorbidities. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of the infecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) strain revealed a unique genomic deletion, spanning 18 genes, including key genes involved in hypoxia response, intracellular survival, immunodominant antigens, and dormancy. This deletion, that we have called “Del-X,” potentially exerts a profound influence on the bacterial physiology and its virulence. Only few similar deletions were detected in other non-related Mtb genomes worldwide. In vivo evolution analysis identified drug resistance and metabolic adaptation mutations and their temporal dynamics during the patient’s treatment course.
Twelve protections evolved for the brain, and their roles in extending its functional life
Authors: Stone Jonathan , Mitrofanis John , Johnstone Daniel M. , Robinson Stephen R.
Published: November 2023

As human longevity has increased, we have come to understand the ability of the brain to function into advanced age, but also its vulnerability with age, apparent in the age-related dementias. Against that background of success and vulnerability, this essay reviews how the brain is protected by (by our count) 12 mechanisms, including: the cranium, a bony helmet; the hydraulic support given by the cerebrospinal fluid; the strategically located carotid body and sinus, which provide input to reflexes that protect the brain from blood-gas imbalance and extremes of blood pressure; the blood brain barrier, an essential sealing of cerebral vessels; the secretion of molecules such as haemopexin and (we argue) the peptide Aβ to detoxify haemoglobin, at sites of a bleed; autoregulation of the capillary bed, which stabilises metabolites in extracellular fluid; fuel storage in the brain, as glycogen; oxygen storage, in the haemoprotein neuroglobin; the generation of new neurones, in the adult, to replace cells lost; acquired resilience, the stress-induced strengthening of cell membranes and energy production found in all body tissues; and cognitive reserve, the ability of the brain to maintain function despite damage. Of these 12 protections, we identify 5 as unique to the brain, 3 as protections shared with all body tissues, and another 4 as protections shared with other tissues but specialised for the brain. These protections are a measure of the brain’s vulnerability, of its need for protection. They have evolved, we argue, to maintain cognitive function, the ability of the brain to function despite damage that accumulates during life. Several can be tools in the hands of the individual, and of the medical health professional, for the lifelong care of our brains.
CYP450 and drug efflux transporters polymorphism influence clinical outcomes of Thai osimertinib-treated non-small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Majam Teerapat , Sukasem Chonlaphat , Reungwetwattana Thanyanan , Chansriwong Phichai , Atasilp Chalirmporn , Trachu Narumol , Thamrongjirapat Thanaporn , Sukprasong Rattanaporn , Meanwatthana Jennis
Published: November 2023

Background: Osimertinib has shown greater efficacy than standard epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) and fewer grade 3 or higher adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. However, the clinical outcomes of osimertinib treatment vary depending on the patient’s ethnicity. Therefore, further research is necessary to evaluate the impact of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in cytochrome P450 (CYP450) and drug transporters on the therapeutic outcomes and ADRs to osimertinib in Thai patients, to provide improved pharmacological treatments for cancer patients.

Methods: This retrospective and prospective cohort study enrolled 63 Thai patients with NSCLC treated with 80 mg of osimertinib once daily as monotherapy. Seventeen SNPs in candidate genes related to drug metabolism and transport pathways were analyzed in each patient. Chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests were used to evaluate the associations between SNPs and clinical outcomes, including ADR incidence and objective response rate (ORR). In addition, the correlation between the genotype and median time to treatment failure (TTF) or progression-free survival (PFS) was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis and a log-rank test.

Results: We identified six SNPs (rs2231142 and rs2622604 in ABCG2, rs762551 in CYP1A2, rs1057910 in CYP2C9, rs28371759 in CYP3A4, and CYP2A6 deletion polymorphism (CYP2A6*4)) that significantly increased the incidence of ADRs. In addition, we found two SNPs (rs2069514 in CYP1A2 and rs1057910 in CYP2C9) that significantly decreased the median TTF, and two SNPs (rs28399433 in CYP2A6 and rs1057910 in CYP2C9) that significantly decreased the median progression-free survival (PFS). Specifically, we found that one of these SNPs (rs1057910 in CYP2C9) influenced ADRs, TTF, and PFS. Additionally, SNPs in the CYP2A6 heterozygous variant (non4/*4) significantly increased ADR incidence, leading to a high frequency of dose reduction (27.0%).

Conclusion: Our study demonstrated significant SNPs associated with increased ADR incidence, decreased PFS, and decreased TTF in Thai patients with NSCLC treated with osimertinib. The CYP2C9 (*3) and CYP2A6 (*4) allele frequencies differed between ethnicities and were associated with an increased incidence of ADRs. These findings highlight the importance of considering genetic factors in NSCLC treatment and may facilitate personalized medicine approaches. Moreover, our study showed a higher incidence of ADRs than the previous trials, including FLAURA and AURA2, and a higher frequency of dose reduction than reported in the AURA 3 trial, possibly due to genetic differences among the study populations.