This study developed and implemented an elementary English writing program using image-generative AI to examine its effects on students’ writing abilities and affective domains. The program was designed following the ADDIE model and aligned with the 2022 Revised English National Curriculum. It used Padlet’s ‘I Can’t Draw,’ allowing students to create images based on their prompts. Eighty sixth-grade students participated, with data collected through pre- and post-writing tests, affective domain surveys, student work, reflections, and teacher interviews. A mixed-methods analysis, combining ANCOVA and content analysis, revealed the following: (1) The program improved the syntactic and lexical complexity and fluency of students’ writing, but not accuracy. (2) Students’ situational interest significantly increased, but individual interest did not. Additionally, students’ engagement and motivation in learning English improved. These findings indicate that image-generative AI is an effective tool for enhancing English writing lessons and providing feedback. The study also emphasizes the critical role of teacher competence in successfully integrating AI into language instruction.

In a previous study, beverages containing Centella asiatica extracts (CAE) that exhibited anti-inflammatory effects were prepared. This study aimed to establish the optimal extraction conditions for CAE to enhance its anti-inflammatory activity in functional labeling beverages (FLB-CCS) containing Aloe vera gel powder and Codonopsis lanceolata extract, and to determine their effects on intestinal epithelial cells. Initially, FLB-CCS 1 (containing 3% CAE) and FLB-CCS 2 (containing 1% CAE), which had varying CAE extraction ratios, displayed no significant cytotoxicity in IL-1β-induced inflammatory intestinal epithelial (Caco-2) cells. FLB-CCS 1 significantly more effectively inhibited the production of inflammatory factors, such as IL-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), compared to FLB-CCS 2. FLB-CCS 1 also reduced the mRNA expression of genes encoding IL-6 and MCP-1. Additionally, FLB-CCS 1 regulated the expression of IL-1 receptor type 1 by inhibiting the nuclear translocation of the NF-κB transcription factor p65. In conclusion, these results suggest that an increased CAE extraction ratio (FLB-CCS 1) could enhance the anti-inflammatory activity and serve as materials in functional labeling beverages for intestinal health.

This study analyzed the status of agrifood consumer competencies and the factors influencing them to provide useful information to improve the quality of life by strengthening the agrifood consumer competencies. The raw data of the 2022 Consumer Behavior Survey for Food collected by the Korea Rural Economic Research Institute were used. The data from 3,321 responses were used for the final analysis. Among the competencies, the average score of the cognitive and practical competencies were 3.543 and 3.459 points, respectively. In addition, the average scores of the specific areas within cognitive competency were 3.587 points for dietary competency, 3.557 points for civic competency, and 3.489 points for purchasing competency. Within practical competency, the average scores of the specific areas were 3.569 points for dietary competency, 3.422 points for civic competency, and 3.392 points for purchasing competency. Gender, age, monthly household income, marital status, administrative district, interest in health, and interest in food safety issues were the significant factors affecting the specific areas within cognitive competency. On the other hand, gender, age, educational level, monthly household income, marital status, administrative district, interest in food safety issues, and each of the areas within cognitive competency had a significant impact on the specific areas of practical competency.

The mammalian testis is a highly organized organ essential for male reproduction. Its structure comprises seminiferous tubules lined with Sertoli cells, which support spermatogenesis, surrounded by peritubular myoid cells. Within the connective tissue framework lie the Leydig cells, which synthesize testosterone in response to luteinizing hormone. Research has highlighted the importance of various ion channels and proteins in testicular function. The TWINK-related acid-sensitive potassium channel 1 (TASK-1), a two-pore channel, is vital for several physiological functions in the testis. Furthermore, Leydig cells uniquely express several key proteins, including c-kit, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor α. The co-expression of these proteins, including TASK-1, in Leydig cells suggest the presence of complex regulatory mechanisms critical for modulating testosterone production, release, and overall testicular function. Transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 (TRPV1), a member of the transient receptor potential channel family, also plays a crucial role in testicular function, influencing processes such as sensory function, steroidogenesis, and sperm function. Hormonal fluctuations and aging affect both the presence and function of TRPV1. This channel is thought to contribute programmed cell death within the testes, particularly impacting Leydig cell survival. Notably, testosterone appears to counteract these detrimental effects by downregulating TRPV1 expression, indicating a complex interplay between TRPV1, testosterone, and overall testicular function. Therefore, we aim to discuss the critical role of ion channels, specifically focusing on TASK-1 and TRPV1 channels, in the physiological and pathophysiological functions of testicular cells.

목적: 본 연구는 우세안에 10%의 부등상을 유발한 상태에서, 대비감도, 입체시, 조절용이성, 폭주근점을 측정하고 안구운동과 독서 능력, 주시데이터를 정량적으로 평가하고자 하였다. 방법 : 교정시력이 양안 1.0 이상인 20대 성인 남녀 40명을 대상으로 하였다. 완전 교정한 후 우세안에 10% 부 등상 유발렌즈를 가입하고, 40 cm 거리에서 대비감도(Adult Near Contrast Test #587700), 입체시(Titmus fly test), 조절용이성(±2.00 D 플리퍼), 폭주근점을 측정하였다. 안구운동과 독서 능력 평가는 아이트래커를 이용하 여 측정하였다. 피검자와 디스플레이거리는 70 cm로 두었고, 주시 횟수, 주시시간, 평균주시시간, 홱보기 수, 홱보 기 폭, 눈 깜빡임 및 동공크기를 측정하였다. 독서 능력은 총 읽기 시간과 독서오류를 측정하였다. 결과 : 등상시와 10% 유발부등상시 상태에서 대비감도가 25, 5, 2.5%에서 유의하게 감소하였다(p<0.050). 입 체시, 조절용이성, 폭주근점 모두 유발부등상시 때에 유의하게 증가 및 감소하였다(p<0.050). 안구 운동 변수 중 주시 횟수만 유발부등상시에 유의하게 증가되었다(p<0.050). 결론 : 안구 운동 평가에서는 주시, 독서오류가 유의하게 증가하였다. 10% 유발부등상시는 독서 능력을 저하시 키는 것으로 나타났다. 향후 연구에서는 자각적으로 느끼는 독서 어려움에 대한 설문이 필요할 것으로 사료된다.

Ectopic ureter refers to a congenital anomaly in which one or both ureters do not connect to the urinary bladder at the correct anatomical site. This case report discusses the case of a 6-year-old female mixed-breed dog diagnosed with chronic urinary incontinence, systemic hypertension, pancreatitis, and sepsis resulting from an ectopic ureter. Treatment involved an initial nephro-ureterectomy to address severe pyonephrosis, followed by ureteroneocystostomy for the remaining functional kidney. Post-surgical outcomes showed notable improvements in clinical symptoms, laboratory findings, and blood pressure. This report emphasizes the need for early diagnosis and appropriate surgical treatment in cases of ectopic ureter. Additionally, it aims to present the clinical symptoms and conditions resulting from prolonged disease progression, as well as the corresponding treatment methods and prognosis.

This study investigated the seasonal variations and environmental factors influencing soil respiration in Quercus mongolica forests at three distinct sites in South Korea: Mt. Jeombongsan, Mt. Namsan, and Mt. Jirisan. Monthly soil respiration rates were measured from 2009 to 2010 using a closed chamber method, alongside assessments of soil temperature, moisture, and organic matter. Results revealed significant seasonal and spatial variability, with the highest respiration rates recorded during summer months. Soil temperature was identified as the primary driver of respiration, showing strong positive correlations across all sites (R2=0.64 - 0.88). The temperature sensitivity (Q10) values ranged from 2.7 at Mt. Namsan to 5.7 at Mt. Jeombongsan, underscoring the heightened vulnerability of cooler, high-altitude forests to warming. Soil moisture had a dual role, promoting respiration at moderate levels but inhibiting it under saturated conditions, particularly at Mt. Jirisan. Soil organic matter content exhibited an inverse relationship with respiration rates, indicating that substrate quality, rather than quantity, predominantly governs microbial activity. Plant-soil interactions, including root respiration and litterfall decomposition, further modulated respiration patterns, with site-specific differences reflecting variations in vegetation density and ecosystem structure. These findings highlight the complexity of soil carbon dynamics in temperate forests and the critical influence of environmental factors and plant-soil processes. The study provides essential insights for improving carbon cycling models and informs climate-resilient forest management strategies. Future research should prioritize long-term monitoring and experimental manipulations to better predict soil respiration under changing climatic conditions.

In Cambodia, rubber is an important agricultural industry crop that produces latex and rubber wood. Cambodia exports most of its natural rubber to Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, China, and Spain. This study aimed to assess export competitiveness of Cambodian rubber using Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) and Trade Specialization Index (TSI) and to explore strategies for enhancing exports. This research analyzed secondary data from Trade Map and the General Directorate of Rubber (GDR) from 2002 to 2022. Findings show that Cambodia has a significant comparative advantage globally in natural rubber, with an RCA of 18. Particularly, Cambodia demonstrates substantial comparative advantages in its rubber exports to Vietnam, Malaysia, and China. Additionally, it has a high TSI, indicating a strong potential for expanding exports to these markets. However, Cambodia’s reliance on Vietnam for its rubber exports is high, highlighting the need for efforts to diversify its export markets.

This study evaluated the feasibility of integrating the carbon storage of grasslands in Gangwon province into the InVEST carbon storage and sequestration model using large-scale digital land cover maps. Land cover maps from 1980, 1990, 2000, and 2010, obtained from the Environmental Geographic Information Service, were analyzed, with 28 maps examined for each year. Grassland carbon storage in Gangwon province was estimated through the InVEST software. The findings indicated that the grassland area showed an increase in 1990, followed by a declining trend, contrasting with the continuous reduction observed in actual managed grassland areas. Discrepancies between mapped and managed grassland areas were attributed to the classification criteria of the land cover maps, which included non-forage land uses such as golf courses, ski resorts, and green spaces, resulting in overestimations of grassland areas. To enhance accuracy, the adoption of land cover maps with refined grassland classification criteria is necessary. Accurate representation of grassland areas in land cover maps is critical for reliable estimation of grassland carbon storage using the InVEST software.

This study examined consumer perceptions and market trends of Korean food products sold on Amazon, focusing on keyword and review analysis. As Korean cuisine gains global attention, particularly in the U.S., it is essential to understand how international consumers perceive these products. Data were collected from Amazon, encompassing product details and customer reviews of Korean food categories. Frequently mentioned keywords in the reviews were identified, and customer sentiments were explored using Python-based data analysis. The results suggest that taste, especially spiciness and sweetness, is a key determinant of consumer satisfaction. Although Korean food was generally well-received, packaging and delivery issues were common complaints. These findings provide strategic insights for Korean food manufacturers aiming to expand globally, emphasizing the need for tailored product development and enhanced logistics.

A red-crowned crane (Grus japonensis) from Seoul Zoo died with mild anorexia and sudden respiratory distress. A white globoid mass in the abdominal cavity and multifocal nodules in the kidneys were identified on the necropsy. Histologic examination showed anaplastic, solid patterned neoplastic cells in the kidneys and the mass. Immunohistochemistry for pancytokeratin and PAX8 was positive, while heterogeneous antigen expression was present in poorly differentiated neoplastic cells. Overall, the neoplastic changes in the kidneys and the mass were consistent with a renal origin. This case highlights the possibility of further discoveries of metastatic renal cell carcinomas in cranes.

목적: 본 연구에서는 HMD VR을 사용하며 발생한 사이버 멀미와 멀미 민감성이 상관관계를 보이는지 알아보고자 하였다. 방법 : 건강한 젊은 성인 남녀 총 52명을 대상으로 VR 콘텐츠 이용 전 탈것에 대한 멀미 민감도를 측정하기 위 한 설문인 멀미 민감성 설문(Motion sickness susceptibility questionnaire)을 시행하였다. 광학 흐름 요소로 구 분한 두 가지 VR 콘텐츠를 선정하여 대상자에게 사용하도록 하고 사이버 멀미를 평가하기 위해 보편적으로 사용되 는 Simulator sickness questionnaire, SSQ 설문지를 통해 VR 콘텐츠 이용 전과 후의 사이버 멀미를 측정하였 다. VR 콘텐츠를 사용할 때 발생한 사이버 멀미와 피험자의 멀미 민감성에 대한 상관분석을 실시하였다. 결과 : VR 콘텐츠 A와 B를 사용 후 발생한 사이버 멀미와 멀미 민감성 상관분석에서 콘텐츠 A의 SSQ 요인 중 메스꺼움, 방향감각상실에서 유의한 상관관계를 보였다. 그중 메스꺼움 요인은 만 12세 이전 어린 시절, 최근 10년 간 성인 시절, 그리고 전체 멀미 민감성 항목 모두에서 유의한 상관관계가 나타났다. 반면 콘텐츠 B에서는 모든 항 목에서 유의한 상관관계를 보이지 않았다. 결론 : VR 콘텐츠를 사용하며 발생하는 사이버 멀미는 사용자에게 자기 움직임 착각을 유발하는 화면 구성 요 소가 많을 때 크게 나타났다. 두 콘텐츠 모두 게임을 진행할 때 전경의 움직임을 통해 플레이어의 이동 속도와 방 향을 가늠하게끔 구성되어있는데, 그중에서도 사용자의 평소 자세 움직임과 VR 환경에서 예상되는 자세 움직임이 일치하지 않은 콘텐츠에서 기존 멀미 민감성과 상관관계가 나타났다. 이를 분석하고 더 나아가 사이버 멀미를 저감 하기 위해서는 VR 콘텐츠의 시각적인 화면 구성 요소를 사용자들의 평소 움직임 패턴과 유사하게 제작하는 등 과 도한 vection을 제한할 필요성이 있다.

This case report discusses a 15-year-old female poodle with multifocal degenerative myelopathy, who achieved significant clinical improvement through intensive acupuncture and rehabilitation therapy. The patient presented with ataxia in both hind limbs, and imaging studies revealed multiple regions of disc protrusion. Rather than surgical intervention, conservative treatment was chosen, which included acupuncture, medication, and laser therapy. Following treatment, notable improvements in neurological symptoms and pain reduction were observed. This case highlights the potential effectiveness of non-surgical approaches in managing degenerative myelopathy.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a zeolite and sulfuric acid mixture (ZS) as an air filter to mitigate the emissions of ammonia (NH3), nitrous oxide (N2O), and methane (CH4) during the composting of cattle manure. Compared to the control group (blank), ZS reduced NH3 emissions by 91.4%, N2O emissions by 33.6%, and CH4 emissions by 20.0% over the 100-day composting period. Additionally, sulfuric acid in the ZS reacted with NH3, storing it as ammonium sulfate [(NH4)2SO4], which can serve as a source of nutrients such as nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S). To evaluate the fertilizing efficiency of [(NH4)2SO4] in ZS for maize growth, we applied four treatments: control (non-N fertilizer), collected ZS (cZS), cattle manure (organic fertilizer, OF), and urea (chemical fertilizer, CF). Compared to the control, cZS increased total dry weight (DW) by 48%, total digestible nutrients (TDN) by 7.3%, and crude protein (CP) by 77.8%. No significant differences were found among the applications of cZS, OF, and CF. These results suggest that the zeolite mixed with sulfuric acid effectively reduces hazardous gas emissions such as NH3, CH4, and N2O during cattle manure composting. Furthermore, the collected zeolite can potentially be reused as fertilizer, suggesting a positive opportunity for resource recycling to mitigate environmental pollution.

Background: With the growing interest in the health of companion dogs, their average lifespan has increased, leading to an increase in the proportion of elderly dogs. As elderly dogs are vulnerable to various diseases, there is a need for alternatives to predict the risk of major diseases in senior dogs, prevent them in advance, and manage their health effectively. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify candidate genes and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) influencing primary angle-closure glaucoma, a major disease in elderly dogs, using the Axiom Canine HD Array and establishing foundational data. Methods: Samples from 95 dogs of 26 breeds from South Korea were analyzed using an SNP chip. Ultimately, two SNPs were selected. To assess the impact of non-synonymous SNP (nsSNPs), functional analysis of candidate genes, Hazard Assessment, and protein structure prediction were conducted. Sequencing for SNP validation involved samples from 95 dogs of ten breeds with reported domestic and international glaucoma cases. Results: The candidate gene TNS1 was associated with the integrin signaling pathway. The selected nsSNP was found to cause a mutation at the ninth position of the amino acid sequence, changing serine to leucine and resulting in alterations to the overall protein structure. Sequencing analysis results for SNP validation revealed differences in frequency among breeds. Conclusions: The identified SNP markers are potential risk prediction tools. Utilizing genotype frequency data by breed and individual could aid in disease management and contribute to advancements in the medical industry.

This article aims to compile key information to describe the current production situation of potatoes f or c onsumption and v irus- free s eed potatoes i n Paraguay, and to identify the main challenges for developing a self-sufficient production system. The study describes the climatic conditions of the production of potatoes and the national production and distribution situation, highlighting the dependence on imports for more than 90% of market demand. It analyzed the issues surrounding the production and supply of virus-free seed potatoes, which depend on imports from Argentina, averaging 799.9 tons per year. Additionally, this study collects information on virus detection in local potatoes and the risks associated with introducing viruses through imported seeds. To address these issues, the Korea Partnership for Innovation of Agriculture (KOPIA) and the Paraguayan Institute of Agricultural Technology (IPTA) cooperation project promoted the production of virus-free seed potatoes for their distribution to smallholder farmers across various country regions, strengthening the foundations for future virus-free seed potato production and distribution systems. Improving self-sufficiency in potato production in Paraguay requires an integrated strategy that includes analyzing suitable regions for seed potato production, implementing advanced technologies, and strengthening farmers’ technical capacity. Establishing virus-free seed potato production areas and securing governmental and legal support are crucial steps toward achieving sustainable seed potato production and reducing dependence on imports.

In story writing, interjections are used in dialogue to enhance the emotional tone of the text. However, crafting realistic dialogues that effectively incorporate interjections can be a challenging task for young learners with developing writing skills. This study examines how young learners utilize interjections in their story writing. The study analyzed the narratives of 242 students from three different English proficiency groups: lower and higher level EFL elementary school students and native English speakers in seventh to twelfth grade. The analysis aimed to understand the relationship between interjection frequency and writing qualities. The findings revealed a negative correlation between the occurrence of interjections and both content quality and vocabulary diversity. Additionally, comparisons across proficiency groups indicated that certain types of interjections were more prevalent in specific groups. These results suggest that learners should use interjections judiciously in story writing. Although interjections may seem peripheral, they warrant closer attention as they can subtly detract from writing qualities.

An 8-month-old, neutered male, Korean short hair cat was referred for a closed locked jaw. Physical examination and computed tomography(CT) revealed an old trauma fracture with the absence of synovium at the left temporomandibular joint suggestive of left temporomandibular joint ankylosis. Gap arthroplasty successfully eliminated clinical signs, aided by the 3D printed model of the patient’s skull and piezosurgical unit. The major complication, temporal ipsilateral facial paralysis and reankylosis, were auspiciously managed through constant ocular lubrication and early rehabilitation.

This study reassessed two KBA sites in the Republic of Korea following the KBA guidelines. Both sites met the sub-criteria A1a, A1b, and D1a, confirming their status as KBA. These assessments provide a scientific foundation for discussions on designating new protected areas or expanding existing ones. Through this study, we confirmed that continuous biodiversity conservation is essential for Geum-gang river and estuary and Yubu-do to maintain their KBA status. This KBA reassessment provides an important scientific foundation for discussions on the designation of new protected areas or the expansion of existing ones. Furthermore, this study was based on a previously evaluated taxonomic group, birds, highlighting the need for future assessments to include other biological taxa and evaluation criteria, such as Criteria B or E, for a more comprehensive analysis.

This study aimed to estimate the rumen fermentation characteristics and greenhouse gas emissions of major domestic feed sources for Hanwoo. Five feed sources mainly used in South Korea were selected: corn meal (CM), soybean meal (SM), wheat flour (WF), palm kernel cake (PKC), and corn distiller’s dried grains with soluble (DDGS). These feed sources were purchased from a commercial feed company. For 24 h rumen incubation, each feed source (0.3 g) was placed into the incubation bottle with the rumen mixture (30 mL) in quadruplicates. After incubation, total gas production was measured and sub-sampled for CO2 and CH4 analyses, and the bottle content was centrifuged for rumen fermentation characteristics and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). Crude protein content was highest in SM and lowest in CM. Ether extract content was highest in DDGS and lowest in SM, while neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber contents were highest in PKC and lowest in CM. Propionate content was highest in DDGS, and butyrate and A:P ratio contents were highest in PKC (p<0.05). Total gas emission (mL/g DMD) was lowest in SM and DDGS, while CH4 emission (mL/g DMD) was lowest in DDGS (p<0.05). Therefore, this study concluded that DDGS could be an alternative feed source to reduce methane emissions.