Generation of Directly Reprogrammed Human Endothelial Cells.

Direct reprogramming provides a novel breakthrough for generating functional endothelial cells (ECs) without the need for intermediate stem or progenitor states, offering a promising resource for cardiovascular research and treatment. ETV2 is a key transcription factor that has been identified as a pioneering factor for specifying endothelial lineage. Achieving precise ETV2 induction is essential for effective endothelial reprogramming, and maintaining the reprogrammed cellular phenotype relies on a specific combination of growth factors and small molecules. Thus, we hereby provide a straightforward and comprehensive protocol for generating two distinct types of reprogrammed ECs (rECs) from human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). Early rECs demonstrate a robust neovascularization property but lack the mature EC phenotype, while late rECs exhibit phenotypical similarity to human postnatal ECs and have a neovascularization capacity similar to early rECs. Both cell types can be derived from human somatic source cells, making them suitable for personalized disease investigations, drug discovery, and disease therapy.

Designing Ambient Narrative-Based Interfaces to Reflect and Motivate Physical Activity.

Numerous technologies now exist for promoting more active lifestyles. However, while quantitative data representations (e.g., charts, graphs, and statistical reports) typify most health tools, growing evidence suggests such feedback can not only fail to motivate behavior but may also harm self-integrity and fuel negative mindsets about exercise. Our research seeks to devise alternative, more qualitative schemes for encoding personal information. In particular, this paper explores the design of data-driven narratives, given the intuitive and persuasive power of stories. We present WhoIsZuki, a smartphone application that visualizes physical activities and goals as components of a multi-chapter quest, where the main character's progress is tied to the user's. We report on our design process involving online surveys, in-lab studies, and in-the-wild deployments, aimed at refining the interface and the narrative and gaining a deep understanding of people's experiences with this type of feedback. From these insights, we contribute recommendations to guide future development of narrative-based applications for motivating healthy behavior.