With the rapid development of economic globalization and the shipping industry, seafarers have been working at sea for a long time, facing psychological problems such as loneliness, depression, and frustration, which pose serious threats to their physical and mental health. The occurrence of psychological symptoms among crew members during their service on board and during their vacations was analyzed through psychological surveys. Research has found that crew members are prone to psychological problems such as obsessive-compulsive symptoms, interpersonal sensitivity, depression, anxiety, hostility, and paranoia during their time on board. The two stages with a relatively high probability of developing psychological problems are: one month and 3-6 months after starting working on board. In response to these issues, some onboard management measures and shore-based support measures have been proposed.

The success of artificial insemination (AI) in the swine industry relies on conserving the quality of boar sperm during liquid storage, as boar spermatozoa are prone to oxidative stress due to the high polyunsaturated fatty acid content and lack of antioxidant defenses. Sperm motility, viability, acrosome integrity, and DNA stability are all affected by the increases in reactive oxygen species (ROS) during storage, which lowers fertility. Ethyl pyruvate (EP), a stable derivative of pyruvate, has good antioxidant properties and has been shown to protect sperm quality in vivo. Its effects on boar sperm during in vitro preservation have not yet been investigated. This study investigated the effect of different concentrations of EP (0.1–1 mM) in Beltsville thawing solution at 17°C on the sperm quality parameters of boar spermatozoa over five days. Changes in sperm motility, viability, acrosome integrity, chromatin stability, and ROS were observed. The results showed that boar spermatozoa stored with 0.25–0.75 mM EP showed a significant increase in sperm motility, viability, acrosome integrity, and chromatin stability compared with the control (without EP) and 1 mM EP for 5 days. Compared to the control and 1 mM EP, ROS levels statistically decreased in sperm stored in 0.25–0.75 mM EP on both storage days 3 and 5. Our findings demonstrated that 0.25–0.75 mM of EP could enhance the boar sperm quality and mitigate the oxidative stress during liquid storage, thus revealing a strategy to improve fertility rates during AI in pig production.

The primary objective of the study is to analyze and evaluate the situation and trends of inland waterway traffic accidents in Vietnam from 2017 to 2024. The study employs reliable secondary data sources, which are analyzed using statistical methods and heatmap applications to examine and assess trends in inland waterway traffic accidents in Vietnam. The results indicate a steady increase in both the number and scale of inland waterway accidents nationwide over the years. Additionally, the accident-prone areas in key inland waterways will be identified. Based on these findings, the research team has proposed recommendations and solutions aimed at improving traffic safety on Vietnam's inland waterways.

Three strains (KCOM 2191, KCOM 2668, and KCOM 2812) of Capnocytophaga sp. isolated from a Korean population were initially classified by 16S rDNA sequence comparison. This study aimed to resolve their species-level identity using whole genome sequencing and to assess their taxonomic characteristics. Genomes of the three strains were sequenced using PacBio RS II and Illumina platforms. Average nucleotide identity (ANI) analysis was employed for species-level identification. Cellular fatty acid (CFA) compositions were determined using the MIDI/Hewlett Packard Microbial Identification System. ANI values for KCOM 2191, KCOM 2668, and KCOM 2812 were 96.43%, 96.33%, and 96.33%, respectively, compared with the type strain Capnocytophaga ochracea DSM 7271T. CFA profiling showed a predominance of iso-C15:0 (57.9%, 67.2%, and 64.9%, respectively), consistent with DSM 7271T (51.5%). These findings confirm that KCOM 2191, KCOM 2668, and KCOM 2812 are strains of C. ochracea . These strains may serve as valuable models for investigating the role of C. ochracea in oral and systemic pathogenesis.

This study analyzes the terminological system and hierarchical structure of media art field, centering on the concept of 'Playable Art'. It explores how various media art terms that emerged with the development of digital technology are hierarchized and form interrelationships, particularly examining the position of interactivity and playability in contemporary art discourse. The research findings reveal that media art terminology forms a complex hierarchical structure based on technological media, interaction methods, and artistic intentions, with Playable Art functioning as a core concept that redefines the boundaries between games and art within this structure.

This study evaluated the effects of solid and water-soluble extracts derived from torrefied Pinus densiflora on lettuce (Lactuca sativa) germination and growth, as well as the cultivation efficiency of torrefied materials combined with plant nutrient solutions. Torrefied samples were prepared under various conditions (200°C, 220°C, 240°C for 20–80 minutes) and mixed with sand at ratios from 20% to 100%. Liquid extracts were formulated with macronutrients (N, P, K, Mg) and micronutrients (Mn, B, Fe, Cu) and applied to leafy and root vegetables. Germination tests showed that 60% and 80% torrefied treatments had the highest and most consistent rates, with torrefied samples promoting more rapid and stable germination than controls. A two-way ANOVA indicated a significant interaction between treatment and concentration (p = 0.043), suggesting concentration-specific effects. While shoot length showed no significant difference, root growth was marginally significant (p = 0.064), with washed torrefied material producing the longest roots. Physical analysis revealed that torrefied materials improved soil thermal retention and moisture-holding capacity. However, increasing torrefied content reduced porosity, likely due to fine particles filling soil pores. In conclusion, torrefied P. densiflora materials exhibit strong potential to enhance germination, root development, and soil condition. Optimal results were achieved with 40–60% solid mixtures for germination and 60–80% diluted extracts for rapid and consistent seedling growth. When optimally applied, they may serve as effective, sustainable amendments in cultivation systems.

Human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) play a critical role in maintaining skin integrity and promoting tissue repair, but are highly susceptible to apoptosis under stress conditions such as nutrient deprivation. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have emerged as a promising therapeutic option due to their regenerative potential and ability to secrete bioactive factors. In this study, we investigated the effect of ADSC-derived paracrine signaling on apoptosis in HDFs and explored the underlying molecular mechanisms. Using a Transwell co-culture system, we found that ADSCs significantly reduced apoptosis in HDFs subjected to low-serum stress, as confirmed by APOPercentage™ staining and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins. Among several soluble factors secreted by ADSCs, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) exhibited the most pronounced time-dependent increase in culture supernatants. The anti- apoptotic effect of ADSCs was abolished by neutralizing antibodies against HGF, indicating a key role of this factor in mediating fibroblast survival. Further, HDFs were found to express the HGF receptor c-Met at both the mRNA and protein levels. Inhibition of c-Met signaling reversed the cytoprotective effect of ADSCs, suggesting that HGF functions through this receptor. Mechanistically, only the PI3K/AKT pathway—among the major survival pathways tested—was selectively activated in HDFs by ADSC co-culture. Pharmacological inhibition of PI3K/AKT signaling using LY294002 abolished the protective effect, while inhibition of ERK or p38 MAPK had no significant impact. These findings demonstrate that ADSC-derived HGF protects HDFs from stress-induced apoptosis primarily through activation of the c-Met–PI3K/ AKT pathway. This mechanistic insight may provide a basis for the development of stem cell– based therapies aimed at enhancing skin regeneration and fibroblast viability in degenerative or wound-healing contexts.

This study explored the dual linguistic challenges experienced by Chinese international students enrolled in English-Medium Instruction (EMI) programs at South Korean universities. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with 20 undergraduate students from two leading private universities in Seoul, this study investigated how students navigate the linguistic demands of studying in English while simultaneously adjusting to Korean as the dominant campus language. The findings revealed that students encounter significant obstacles, including professors’ limited English proficiency, inconsistent classroom language policies, and marginalization in group work and class discussions. Despite these difficulties, many students gradually adapted through self-directed strategies and peer support, ultimately gaining academic and linguistic benefits. Some participants reported enhanced preparedness for further studies in English-speaking countries and developed bilingual competencies. The study highlights the complex realities of EMI implementation for non-Anglophone international students and calls for more transparent language policies, targeted support programs, and inclusive pedagogical practices to promote equitable learning environments.

This study structurally analyzes the algorithmic filtering process by which generative AI images are either selected or discarded before reaching users, and models this process through a visual similarity–based simulation. Images generated by Stable Diffusion are placed on a two-dimensional grid, and a modified version of Conway’s Game of Life algorithm is applied to update the state of each cell. The survival of each cell is determined based on a hybrid visual similarity metric combining CLIP and LPIPS. To prevent the rigidity of the simulation and sustain emergent dynamics, random image injections are periodically introduced. The simulation results reveal that visually similar images repeatedly form clusters, and a visual order gradually converges toward a structurally stabilized state. This suggests that specific visual orders can emerge solely from algorithmic selection criteria, independent of human interpretation. By shifting focus from semantic or symbolic analysis to the experimental conditions for the existence and persistence of images, this study proposes a new analytical perspective for understanding digital image environments.

The casting manufacturing process of aluminum automotive wheels often involves processing various wheel models during stages such as flow forming, machining, packaging, and delivery. Traditionally, separate equipment or production lines were required for each model, which led to higher facility investment costs and increased labor costs for classification. However, the implementation of machine learning-based model classification technology has made it possible to automatically and accurately distinguish between different wheel models, resulting in significant cost savings and enhanced production efficiency. Additionally, this approach helps prevent product mix-ups during the final inspection process and allows for the quick and precise identification of wheel models during packaging and delivery, reducing shipping errors and improving customer satisfaction. Despite these benefits, the high cost of machine learning equipment presents a challenge for small and medium-sized enterprises(SMEs) to adopt such technologies. Therefore, this paper analyzes the characteristics of existing machine learning architectures applicable to the automotive wheel manufacturing process and proposes a custom CNN(Convolutional Neural Network) that can be used efficiently and cost-effectively.

Loneliness, a well-established risk factor for mental health, has been strongly associated with low subjective well-being (SWB). However, less is known about potential boundary conditions that may ameliorate this ‘dark side’ of loneliness. Social connections are critical for SWB based on innate evolutionary traits; a lack of belonging was directly harmful to human survival in the past. In this study, we hypothesized that loneliness would exert a more pronounced influence on SWB when an individual’s need for others (i.e., a social resource) is perceived as high while simultaneously existing in a harsh environment. With a particular focus on urban residents in Seoul, who are presumed to be more vulnerable to loneliness, we examined whether feeling lonely matters less to SWB under favorable environmental conditions. As expected, a pilot study indicated that loneliness was less harmful to the SWB of individuals who perceived their surroundings as relatively secure and favorable. We then replicated the results in an experimental study by exposing people to cues of either a harsh (e.g., via scarcity cues) or a favorable environment.

This study examined the effects of pre-soaking solvents and repeated steaming-drying (SD) cycles on the antioxidant activity and active compound content of Rehmanniae Radix Preparata(RRP), the processed root of Rehmannia glutinosa Libosch. SD treatments were conducted for 1 to 9 cycles using four different pre-soaking solvents: Takju (a traditional rice wine), Spirits, Honey, and Sugar solution. The results showed no significant differences in DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities or in total polyphenol and flavonoid contents among the pre-soaking treatments, although samples pre-soaked in honey and Takju exhibited slightly higher levels. Polyphenol and flavonoid contents increased progressively with the number of SD cycles, reaching levels 2–3 times higher after nine cycles. Catalpol content remained relatively constant regardless of treatment, whereas aucubin content increased in all groups, with the highest accumulation observed in the Takju treatment. Similarly, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) content increased with the number of SD cycles, with the highest levels found in the honey group, followed by Takju, Sugar, and Spirits. In conclusion, while the type of pre-soaking solvent had minimal influence on antioxidant activities and catalpol content, both aucubin and 5-HMF contents increased with additional SD cycles, with Takju proving particularly effective in enhancing their accumulation.

In the context of higher education (HE) internationalization, English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) plays a crucial role in academic and interactive communication, often intersecting with local languages. This enables greater flexibility in language use and code-switching (CS) between English and the local language. While previous research on English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) has predominantly examined the perspectives of local stakeholders, the views of international students have been largely underexplored. To bridge this gap, this study investigates the perceptions of both local and international students regarding CS practices within EMI courses across specific classroom situations. The findings reveal that both groups support the conditional use of the local language to promote comprehension while ensuring inclusivity. Local students demonstrate a broader acceptance of CS compared to their international counterparts, particularly in relation to academic outcomes such as understanding instruction and assessment. In contrast, international students show greater receptiveness to CS during interactive classroom discussions, which reflects their attitudes toward engaging with local peers. These insights contribute to the development of more nuanced EMI policies and deepen our understanding of language dynamics in HE contexts where English is not the native language.

This study explores a church leader’s perceptions of language policy goals and cultural practices within a Korean-American church, as well as the changes prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on theories of ethnic churches, language planning and policy, and communicative frameworks of organizational identity, the study employs critical discourse analysis and thematic analysis. Data were collected through multiple qualitative methods, including participant observation of English and Korean worship services, two in-depth interviews, audio recordings, and artifact documentation. The findings highlight the dual role of first language and cultural practices in affirming both ethnic identity and Christian faith among Korean congregants. Furthermore, this research illuminates the integrative role of the church—both institutionally and socially—during a global crisis. The church leader’s motto, “Stay well and stay connected,” was expressed through linguistic and cultural adaptations that promoted a sense of belonging and positive identity amidst uncertainty.

Some scholars argue that after the Yuan and Ming dynasties, the function of the character "Dai"(埭) gradually diminished in real life, and the character itself slowly faded from people's view. In modern life, people may occasionally encounter the character "Dai"(埭) in some ancient place names or modern place names that inherit ancient traditions. Others suggest that the use of "Dai" (埭) in place names in Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, is influenced by the Min dialect. However, this paper holds a different view. In fact, in the provinces and cities south of the Yangtze River, including Zhejiang, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Anhui, and Fujian, the character "Dai"(埭) is very common as a place name, with a higher frequency of use compared to its function as a water conservancy facility. It is by no means "occasional." As a frequently used place name, including in Fujian, it has not faded from people's view at all. Through diachronic examination, it is found that the character "Dai"(埭) has been used as a place name at least since before the Tang Dynasty and has never been (埭) interrupted. It was not only used as a place name after the Yuan and Ming dynasties. The toponymic use of 'Dai' (埭) across Zhejiang, Shanghai, Jiangsu, Anhui, and Fujian can be regarded as a vestige of ancient Chinese linguistic heritage. Many dictionaries, including some well-known ones, have not included the meaning of "place name character" for "Dai," which seems inappropriate. These dictionaries have included the dialectal usage of "Dai"(埭) as a measure word but have overlooked its dialectal place name usage, which is a case of "focusing on one thing while neglecting another."

With the increasing demand for energy conservation and emissions reduction in the shipping industry, suctionbased turbine sails have emerged as a novel wind energy utilization technology and have become a research hotspot. This study focuses on the aerodynamic performance of suction-based turbine sails with the aim of investigating the effects of suction intensity and suction port position on their aerodynamic characteristics. By employing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) numerical simulations using the Re-Normalization Group (RNG) k–ε turbulence model and the SIMPLE algorithm, this study provides a detailed analysis of lift and drag coefficients, pressure distribution, and vorticity distribution under various combinations of suction intensity (γ) and suction port position (α). The results show that variations in suction intensity significantly affect the lift and drag characteristics of the turbine sail, while changes in the suction port position directly influence the attachment and separation behavior of airflow on the sail surface. Furthermore, a synergistic effect is observed between γ and α—their interaction not only alters the flow distribution but also plays a critical role in determining the overall performance of the turbine sail.By comprehensively considering the influence of these two factors, the study draws key conclusions for optimizing the design of suction-based turbine sail, providing valuable theoretical insights and technical guidance for their practical application in wind-assisted marine propulsion.

This study investigates the acute toxicity of sublethal tributyltin (TBT) exposure in the marine polychaetes Perinereis aibuhitensis by measuring changes in mortality, burrowing activity, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) function, and antioxidant defense mechanisms. The 96h-LC50 of TBT was established at 23.7 μg L⁻¹. Following exposure to 1 μg L⁻¹ of TBT led to a dose-dependent reduction in burrowing behavior and AChE activity in polychaetes. Elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and pronounced reduction of glutathione (GSH) contents explained significant oxidative stress. The major antioxidant enzymes, including GSH peroxidase, GSH reductase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase, were also significantly suppressed following TBT exposure. These findings indicate that TBT-induced acute toxicity compromises physiological functions and undermines antioxidant defense system in polychates.

Growth is a fundamental and vital characteristic of abalone, regulated by both cell number and size, and modulated by growth-related genes. The mollusk-like growth factor (MLGF) is a secreted protein that plays a key role in the growth and development of Pacific abalone. In this study, the growth-specific expression of Hdh-MLGF were analyzed under different conditions commonly encountered by Pacific abalone in aquaculture systems. The expression of Hdh-MLGF varied significantly with growth patterns, showed higher expression in rapid-growing individuals and lower expression in slow-growing abalone. Under starvation conditions, Hdh-MLGF expression was downregulated as the duration of starvation progressed. Under thermal stress, Hdh-MLGF expression increased during the first 12 hours at 25 °C stress. However, at 30 °C, the highest expression was recorded after 6 hours of thermal stress. These results provide valuable insights for future research on this growth factor in abalone and its aquaculture management.

본 연구는 우즈베키스탄 자동차 산업 발전에 있어 리버스 엔지니어링 의 역할을 탐구하며, 특히 노나카와 타케우치의 지식 창출 모델(SECI Model)과의 통합에 중점을 두고 있다. 우즈베키스탄이 경쟁력 있는 국내 산업을 구축하고자 노력함에 따라, 리버스 엔지니어링은 해외 기술의 습 득, 적용, 그리고 국산화를 가능하게 했다. 본 연구는 정성적 사례 연구 접근법을 활용하여 기업 보고서, 정책 문서, 학술 문헌을 바탕으로 1996 년부터 2024년까지의 발전 상황을 분석한다. 연구 결과에 따르면 리버스 엔지니어링은 지식 이전과 혁신을 지원해 왔지만, 제한된 R&D 역량, 수 입 부품 의존도, 그리고 취약한 지식재산권 보호 등의 과제가 여전히 남 아 있다. 이러한 장벽을 극복하기 위해 본 연구는 전략적 정책, 국내 혁 신에 대한 투자 확대, 그리고 AI 기반 설계 프로세스 도입을 권고한다.

The current US tariff policy has become a focal point of the global trade order, signaling a restructuring of the international economic system established after World War II. The global trade regime is shifting from multilateral cooperation to a landscape increasingly defined by economic and geopolitical competition. The US domestic law is increasingly replacing multilateral mechanisms such as the WTO as the primary legal point at issue and center of gravity influencing and shaping the global trade order. In this transitional phase of order reconstruction, East Asian enterprises should allocate resources to closely monitor geopolitical developments, the US domestic politics, legal frameworks, and ideological trends. They should also establish mechanisms for geopolitical risk management and prioritize risk management over business expansion as a core strategic principle. However, this is not entirely negative; the new research, understanding, and strategic adjustments undertaken by enterprises may lay a deeper foundation for the next wave of globalization.