Landslides, resulting from disturbances in slope equilibrium, pose a significant threat to landscapes, infrastructure, and human life. Triggered by factors such as intense precipitation, seismic activities, or volcanic eruptions, these events can cause extensive damage and endanger nearby communities. A comprehensive understanding of landslide characteristics, including spatio-temporal patterns, dimensions, and morphology, is vital for effective landslide disaster management. Existing remote sensing approaches mostly use either optical or synthetic aperture radar sensors. Integrating information from both these types of sensors promises greater accuracy for identifying and locating landslides. This study proposes a novel approach, the ML-LaDeCORsat (Machine Learning-based coseismic Landslide Detection using Combined Optical and Radar Satellite Imagery), that integrates freely available Sentinel-1, Palsar-2, and Sentinel-2 imagery data in Google Earth Engine (GEE). The approach also integrates relevant spectral indices and suitable bands used in a machine learning-based classification of coseismic landslides. The approach includes a robust and reproducible training and validation strategy and allows one to choose between five classifiers (CART, Random Forest, GTB, SVM, and Naive Bayes). Using landslides from four different earthquake case studies, we demonstrate the superiority of our approach over existing solutions in coseismic landslide identification and localization, providing a GTB-based detection accuracy of 87–92%. ML-LaDeCORsat can be adapted to other landslide events (GEE script is provided). Transfer learning experiments proved that our model can be applied to other coseismic landslide events without the need for additional training data. Our novel approach therefore facilitates quick and reliable identification of coseismic landslides, highlighting its potential to contribute towards more effective disaster management. Full article

The phenomenon of bone metastases presents a significant challenge within the context of advanced cancer treatments, particularly pertaining to breast, prostate, and lung cancers. These metastatic occurrences stem from the dissemination of cancerous cells into the bone, thereby interrupting the equilibrium between osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Such disruption results in skeletal complications, adversely affecting patient morbidity and quality of life. This review discusses the intricate interplay between cancer cells and the bone microenvironment, positing the bone not merely as a passive recipient of metastatic cells but as an active contributor to cancer progression through its distinctive biochemical and cellular makeup. A thorough examination of bone structure and the dynamics of bone remodeling is undertaken, elucidating how metastatic cancer cells exploit these processes. This review explores the genetic and molecular pathways that underpin the onset and development of bone metastases. Particular emphasis is placed on the roles of cytokines and growth factors in facilitating osteoclastogenesis and influencing osteoblast activity. Additionally, this paper offers a meticulous critique of current diagnostic methodologies, ranging from conventional radiography to advanced molecular imaging techniques, and discusses the implications of a nuanced understanding of bone metastasis biology for therapeutic intervention. This includes the development of targeted therapies and strategies for managing bone pain and other skeletal-related events. Moreover, this review underscores the imperative of ongoing research efforts aimed at identifying novel therapeutic targets and refining management approaches for bone metastases. It advocates for a multidisciplinary strategy that integrates advancements in medical oncology and radiology with insights derived from molecular biology and genetics, to enhance prognostic outcomes and the quality of life for patients afflicted by this debilitating condition. In summary, bone metastases constitute a complex issue that demands a comprehensive and informed approach to treatment. This article contributes to the ongoing discourse by consolidating existing knowledge and identifying avenues for future investigation, with the overarching objective of ameliorating patient care in the domain of oncology. Full article

Congenital facial weakness (CFW) encompasses a heterogenous set of rare disorders presenting with decreased facial movement from birth, secondary to impaired function of the facial musculature. The aim of the present study is to provide an analysis of subject-reported oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in congenital facial weakness (CFW) disorders. Forty-four subjects with CFW and age- and sex- matched controls were enrolled in an Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved study. Demographic data, medical and surgical history, comprehensive oral examination, and the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) were obtained. Compared to unaffected controls, subjects with CFW had higher OHIP-14 scores overall (mean $\pm$ SD: 13.11 $\pm$ 8.11 vs. 4.46 $\pm$ 4.98, p < 0.0001) and within five of seven oral health domains, indicating decreased OHRQoL. Although subjects with Moebius syndrome (MBS) were noted to have higher OHIP-14 scores than those with Hereditary Congenital Facial Paresis (HCFP), there was no significant correlation in OHIP-14 score to age, sex, or specific diagnosis. An increase in OHIP-14 scores in subjects was detected in those who had undergone reanimation surgery. In conclusion, subjects with CFW had poorer OHRQoL compared to controls, and subjects with MBS had poorer OHRQoL than subjects with HCFP. This study provides better understanding of oral health care needs and quality of life in a CFW cohort and suggests that guidelines for dental treatment are required. Full article

Gut microbes thrive by utilising host energy and, in return, provide valuable benefits, akin to a symbiotic relationship. Here, metagenomic sequencing was performed to characterise and compare the community composition, diversity and antibiotic resistance of the gut microbiota of Relict gull (Larus relictus) and Anatidae species. Alpha diversity analysis revealed that the intestinal microbial richness of L. relictus was significantly lower than that of Anatidae, with distinct differences observed in microbial composition. Notably, the intestines of L. relictus harboured more pathogenic bacteria such as clostridium, which may contribute to the decline in their population and endangered status. A total of 117 strains of Escherichia coli were isolated, with 90.60% exhibiting full susceptibility to 21 antibiotics, while 25.3% exhibited significant biofilm formation. Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database data indicated that glycopeptide resistance genes were the most prevalent type carried by migratory birds, alongside quinolone, tetracycline and lincosamide resistance genes. The abundance of resistance genes carried by migratory birds decreased over time. This metagenomic analysis provides valuable insights into the intestinal microbial composition of these wild bird species, offering important guidance for their conservation efforts, particularly for L. relictus, and contributing to our understanding of pathogen spread and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Full article

Greg Lemke’s laboratory was one of the pioneers of research into the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). Not only was Tyro3 cloned in his laboratory, but his group also extensively studied mice knocked out for individual or various combinations of the TAM RTKs Tyro3, Axl, and Mertk. Here we primarily focus on one of the paralogs—MERTK. We provide a historical perspective on rodent models of loss of Mertk function and their association with retinal degeneration and blindness. We describe later studies employing mouse genetics and the generation of newer knockout models that point out incongruencies with the inference that loss of MERTK-dependent phagocytosis is sufficient for severe, early-onset photoreceptor degeneration in mice. This discussion is meant to raise awareness with regards to the limitations of the original Mertk knockout mouse model generated using 129 derived embryonic stem cells and carrying 129 derived alleles and the role of these alleles in modifying Mertk knockout phenotypes or even displaying Mertk-independent phenotypes. We also suggest molecular approaches that can further Greg Lemke’s scintillating legacy of dissecting the molecular functions of MERTK—a protein that has been described to function in phagocytosis as well as in the negative regulation of inflammation. Full article

Background: Total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy via minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has emerged as the standard of care for early-stage endometrial cancer (EC). Prior systematic reviews and meta-analyses have focused on outcomes reported solely from randomised controlled trials (RCTs), overlooking valuable data from non-randomised studies. This inaugural systematic review and network meta-analysis comprehensively compares clinical and oncological outcomes between MIS and open surgery for early-stage EC, incorporating evidence from randomised and non-randomised studies. Methods: This study was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020186959). All original research of any experimental design reporting clinical and oncological outcomes of surgical treatment for endometrial cancer was included. Study selection was restricted to English-language peer-reviewed journal articles published 1 January 1995–31 December 2021. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted. Results: A total of 99 studies were included in the network meta-analysis, comprising 181,716 women and 14 outcomes. Compared with open surgery, laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery demonstrated reduced blood loss and length of hospital stay but increased operating time. Compared with laparoscopic surgery, robotic-assisted surgery was associated with a significant reduction in ileus (OR = 0.40, 95% CrI: 0.17–0.87) and total intra-operative complications (OR = 0.38, 95% CrI: 0.17–0.75) as well as a higher disease-free survival (OR = 2.45, 95% CrI: 1.04–6.34). Conclusions: For treating early endometrial cancer, minimal-access surgery via robotic-assisted or laparoscopic techniques appears safer and more efficacious than open surgery. Robotic-assisted surgery is associated with fewer complications and favourable oncological outcomes. Full article

High-speed submerged marine vehicles, such as torpedoes, traveling at velocities of an order of 100 m/s and above, require powerful propulsion to overcome the tremendous hydrodynamic drag. This paper aims to investigate a marine hybrid-propellant water-breathing ram rocket (marine ramjet or ducted rocket) under various underwater cruise conditions. At high underwater cruise speeds, the ram rocket outperforms regular rocket motors, substantially increasing its specific impulse and thrust. This investigation utilized a unique test facility capable of dynamically testing the marine ramjet. Over 20 dynamic experiments have been conducted, revealing the submerged motor characteristics at different cruise speeds, water-to-propellant mass ratios, and oxidizer-to-fuel mass ratios, thereby creating a performance map of the marine ramjet. The results were compared with static firing data and theoretical calculations, showing a good agreement with standard specific impulse improvement of about 55% compared to a regular hybrid rocket, reaching a maximum value of 380 s. The significant increase in performance demonstrates the potential of the water-breathing ramjet for propelling high-speed underwater vehicles. Full article

Oil/water (O/W) emulsions were prepared using the complex of quarternized cellulose nanofiber (QCNF) and octanoyl gelatin (OC−Gel) as an emulsifier, and the effect of pH value on their stability was investigated. OC−Gel was prepared through a condensation reaction, confirmed by ¹H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT−IR) spectroscopy. It reduced air/water interfacial tension more effectively than unmodified gelatin. The complexation degree of OC−Gel and QCNF, measured by optical density, showed its maximum at a QCNF/OC−Gel mass ratio of 1/8 when the pH value of the medium was 7.4, and it increased in a saturated manner with increasing pH value. The signals of QCNF were found in the FT−IR and X−ray diffraction spectra of the complex, suggesting that the positively charged CNF were included in the OC−Gel−based complex. The complex formed a rough surface with smooth debris because the surface roughness of the complex aggregation reflected that of both QCNF and OC−Gel aggregation. QCNF could stabilize oil droplets to form a Pickering O/W emulsion. The complex of QCNF/OC−Gel was also a good emulsifier. QCNF and the complex were as potent as OC−Gel in emulsifying mineral oil in water. Most of the droplets fell within 5–25 µm, regardless of what the emulsifier was. The emulsion stabilized with OC−Gel increased in its oil droplet size more than two times in 20 days at all the pH vales tested (pH 3, 5, 7.4, 9), whereas the emulsion stabilized with QCNF remained almost constant in size during the same period regardless of the pH values. The droplet size of emulsion stabilized with the QCNF/OC−Gel complex did not change appreciably when the pH value was 5, 7.4, and 9. The complex seemed to act as a capsule wall and prevent the coalescence of the droplets. However, it increased dramatically due to the coalescence at pH 3, possibly because the complex could be dissolved under a strong acidic condition. Full article

Pervious planting concrete (PPC) is in line with the concept of ecological environmental protection. However, due to its own porous structure, it is difficult to obtain excellent mechanical properties and water permeability at the same time, which hinders its promotion and application. In this paper, natural gravel (NG), ordinary Portland cement (OPC), polyvinyl alcohol latex powder (PVAP) and polycarboxylate superplasticizer (PS) were used to prepare the PPC, and its mechanical properties and water permeability were studied. Three kinds of plants were planted in the PPC and their planting properties were studied. At the same time, the effect of Bacillus on the planting properties was studied. The results show that when the water–binder ratio (W/B) was 0.28 and the PVAP content was 0.8%, both the mechanical properties and water permeability of the PPC were optimal. The compressive strength and permeability coefficient were 14.2 MPa and 14.48 mm/s, respectively. The mechanical properties and water permeability of PPC prepared with 10~20 mm NG were better than those prepared with 5~10 mm NG. Among the three plants, the germination rate and growth of Elymus dahuricus Turcz (EDT) were the best. The incorporation of Bacillus can optimize its planting properties and promote the effective combination between plants and the PPC substrate. Full article

This study investigated the influence of high silicon (4.2 wt%) and varying aluminum (3.5–4.8 wt%) content on the high temperature oxidation behavior and thermophysical properties of SiMoAl vermicular graphite cast iron for hot-end exhaust components. Isothermal oxidation tests at 800 °C and nonisothermal oxidation tests in a dry-air atmosphere were conducted on SiMo nodular iron, along with two SiMoAl vermicular graphite cast iron variants alloyed with 3.5 wt% Al and 4.8 wt% Al. The investigations revealed the formation of a thin duplex layer of oxide scale, consisting of an iron-rich external oxide layer and continuous aluminum oxide at the metal/oxide interface. Although aluminum oxide acted as a protective barrier by impeding the solid-state diffusion of oxygen, severe subsurface oxidation was observed due to the interconnected vermicular graphite covered by aluminum oxides after decarburization. Furthermore, based on nonisothermal oxidation experiments, the effective activation energy of oxidation was found to be significantly increased by the addition of aluminum, even though the oxidation activation energies of SiMoAl samples exhibited small changes in comparison to each other. Additionally, thermophysical analysis demonstrated a substantial decrease in the thermal conductivity and a slight increase in the thermal expansion with the addition of aluminum. Full article

As climate change accelerates, urban areas are becoming increasingly inhospitable, with rising heat island effects and overall unhealthy environmental conditions. In this context, historic villages, due to their proximity to nature and lower population density, can represent a valuable alternative to unsustainable urban areas, providing better quality of life (i.e., through healthier environment, better work–life balance). They are “populated” by historic buildings characterized by high cultural value but are often in a state of abandonment. Nowadays, the adaptive reuse of cultural heritage represents an efficient strategy to adapt it to new needs/requirements and, at the same time, to preserve its historical and intrinsic values for present and future generations. In this framework, this study proposes a multidimensional evaluation framework for assessing cultural heritage adaptive reuse projects, covering all sustainability dimensions and capturing both tangible and intangible values. This framework, consisting of multiple criteria and multidimensional indicators, has been applied to evaluate alternative scenarios related to the regeneration of the abandoned Seminary in Sant’Agata de’ Goti (historic village), Benevento, Italy. In particular, three different scenarios have been evaluated by the SOCRATES (SOcial multi Criteria Assessment of European policies) method, a multicriteria decision method developed by the Joint Research Center (JRC) of the European Commission. Full article

Carbon dots (CDs), owing to their excellent photoluminescent features, have been extensively studied for physics preparation methods and for biomedical and optoelectronic device applications. The assessment of the applicability of CDs in the production of luminescent polymeric composites used in LEDs, displays, sensors, and wearable devices is being pursued. The present study reports on an original, environmentally friendly, and low-cost route for the production of carbon dots with an average size of 4 nm by laser ablation in liquid. Jointly, to prove the significance of the study for a wide range of applications, a free-standing flexible polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite containing photoluminescent carbon dots was manufactured. CDs were prepared using targets of porose charcoal with a density of 0.271 g/cm³ placed in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) liquid solution and irradiated for 30 min by pulsed IR diode laser. The optical properties of the obtained suspension containing carbon dots were studied with UV-ViS and FTIR spectroscopies. The photoluminescence of the produced carbon dots was confirmed by the emission peak at 480 nm in the luminescence spectrum. A narrow luminescence band with a full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of less than 40 nm could be an asset in spectral emission analysis in different applications. Atomic force microscopy confirms the feasibility of manufacturing CDs in clean and biocompatible environments, paving the way for an easier and faster production route, crucial for their wider applicability. Full article

The co-evolution between supermassive black holes and their environment is most directly traced by the hot atmospheres of dark matter halos. The cooling of the hot atmosphere supplies the central regions with fresh gas, igniting active galactic nuclei (AGN) with long duty cycles. The outflows from the central engine tightly couple with the surrounding gaseous medium and provide the dominant heating source, preventing runaway cooling. Every major modern hydrodynamical simulation suite now includes a prescription for AGN feedback to reproduce the realistic populations of galaxies. However, the mechanisms governing the feeding/feedback cycle between the central black holes and their surrounding galaxies and halos are still poorly understood. Galaxy groups are uniquely suited to constrain the mechanisms governing the cooling–heating balance, as the energy supplied by the central AGN can exceed the gravitational binding energy of halo gas particles. Here, we provide a brief overview of our knowledge of the impact of AGN on the hot atmospheres of galaxy groups, with a specific focus on the thermodynamic profiles of the groups. We then present our on-going efforts to improve on the implementation of AGN feedback in galaxy evolution models by providing precise measurements of the properties of galaxy groups. We introduce the XMM-Newton Group AGN Project (X-GAP), a large program on XMM-Newton targeting a sample of 49 galaxy groups out to $R_{500c}$. Full article

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a type of stroke caused by bleeding into the subarachnoid space. SAH is a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment to prevent complications such as seizures, stroke, or other brain damage. Treatment options may include surgery, medication, or a combination of both. 2-Cyano-3,12-dioxoolean-1,9-dien-28-oic acid (CDDO), a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, is currently being investigated as a potential treatment for various diseases, including chronic kidney disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension. In this study, the effects of CDDO on rats subjected to SAH were evaluated. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups (n = 6/group): (1) control group, (2) SAH group, (3) SAH + low-dose CDDO (10 mg/kg injected into the subarachnoid space at 24 h after SAH) group, and (4) SAH + high-dose CDDO (20 mg/kg) group. CDDO improved SAH-induced poor neurological outcomes and reduced vasospasm in the basal artery following SAH. It also decreased the SAH-induced expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in both the cerebrospinal fluid and serum samples as determined by ELISA. A Western blot analysis confirmed an increase in the p-NF-κB protein level after SAH, but it was significantly decreased with CDDO intervention. Immunofluorescence staining highlighted the proliferation of microglia and astrocytes as well as apoptosis of the neuronal cells after SAH, and treatment with CDDO markedly reduced the proliferation of these glial cells and apoptosis of the neuronal cells. The early administration of CDDO after SAH may effectively mitigate neuronal apoptosis and vasospasm by suppressing inflammation. Full article

The cider market has been significantly expanding and gaining momentum in Eastern Europe. As such, the aim of this study was to obtain sparkling cider via the Champenoise method using two Romanian apple varieties (Topaz and Red Topaz) alongside the employment of two fermentations. Four yeast strains were used in the first fermentation, while encapsulated Saccharomyces cerevisiae was used in the second fermentation. The resulting cider was subjected to a comprehensive investigation to quantitatively determine the carbohydrates, organic acids, volatile and phenolic compounds, and amino acids from all the cider samples. A trained panel evaluated the sensory profile of the samples, and a chemometric analysis was used to interpret the data. Secondary fermentation increased the accumulation of malic acid and lactic acid, as well as the volatile profile complexity. The total polyphenol content in the sparkling cider samples increased by almost 20% in the S. cerevisiae sample and over 217% in the P. kluyveri + S. cerevisiae sample compared to the base cider. Additionally, studying the production and consumption trends of sparkling cider offers valuable insights for both producers and consumers. By understanding consumer preferences and refining production techniques, the industry can deliver higher-quality products that better align with market demands. Full article

Advancements in cell culturing techniques have allowed the development of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models sourced directly from patients’ tissues and tumors, faithfully replicating the native tissue environment. These models provide a more clinically relevant platform for studying disease progression and treatment responses compared to traditional two-dimensional (2D) models. Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) and patient-derived xenograft organoids (PDXOs) emerge as innovative 3D cancer models capable of accurately mimicking the tumor’s unique features, enhancing our understanding of tumor complexities, and predicting clinical outcomes. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) poses significant clinical challenges due to its aggressive nature, propensity for early metastasis, and limited treatment options. TNBC PDOs and PDXOs have significantly contributed to the comprehension of TNBC, providing novel insights into its underlying mechanism and identifying potential therapeutic targets. This review explores the transformative role of various 3D cancer models in elucidating TNBC pathogenesis and guiding novel therapeutic strategies. It also provides an overview of diverse 3D cell culture models, derived from cell lines and tumors, highlighting their advantages and culturing challenges. Finally, it delves into live-cell imaging techniques, endpoint assays, and alternative cell culture media and methodologies, such as scaffold-free and scaffold-based systems, essential for advancing 3D cancer model research and development. Full article

The health status of Hungary’s population is unfavorable, with significant differences in health indicators not only compared to the EU15 but also to the Visegrad countries. Unfavorable health indicators can be disproportionate and particularly affect vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities. In this study, we set out to compare the health behavior of disabled youth and youth with typical development in Hungary. We also aimed to compare the health behavior of adolescents in the Visegrad countries. The eating habits of both groups of young people we examined are unfavorable. Adolescents with disabilities experience a significantly higher rate of school stress than children with typical development in Hungary. The prevalence of somatic complaints and parameters of poor mental well-being are significantly higher in Hungary than in the other Visegrad countries. The results indicate that additional interventions are needed in Hungary and that differentiated, professional health promotion is needed for young people with disabilities. The researchers recommend extending the study to disabled adolescents living in Visegrad countries, on the basis of which an injury-specific health promotion methodology could be developed with international interprofessional cooperation. Full article

Amid the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, the living conditions of the population were dramatically altered, with social distancing measures and the looming threat to public health leaving a profound impact on people’s lives. This study aims to assess the influence of COVID-19 on subjective well-being and overall quality of life in Mexico. A structural model with latent variables was used. Data were extracted from the National Self-Reported Well-being Survey (SWLS) from October 2020 and January 2021, featuring a robust sample size of 3615 residents from urban areas in Mexico, all aged 18 and above. Findings revealed that around 38% of the variance in overall life satisfaction in October 2020 and January 2021 could be attributed to Personal well-being (0.231), Personal satisfaction (0.320), Satisfaction with the environment (0.076), and Negative emotional states (−0.116). In comparison, October 2019 to January 2020 saw a lower 20% explained variance, primarily associated with Personal well-being (0.184), Personal satisfaction (0.270), and Satisfaction with the environment (0.052). Reliability assessments, including Cronbach’s Alpha coefficients, Rho_a, and Composite Reliability, all surpassed 0.70 for each subscale. In addition, our study confirmed convergent validity, as the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) consistently exceeded 0.50 across all subscales, while the discriminant coefficient exceeded 0.70. Full article

In order to shorten the length of satellite thermal testing and reduce the cost of satellite development, a new method of satellite thermal testing using a heat sink to simulate space heating flow has been proposed. First, based on the characteristics of low-orbit satellites and the current research of thermal tests, the necessity of studying high-efficiency thermal test methods for satellites is expounded, and the advantages of the heat sink equivalent thermal tests compared to conventional tests are explained. Then, the principle of the heat sink equivalent thermal tests is described, the formula to calculate the heat sink temperature is given, and an error analysis of the formula is conducted. It is found that when the emissivity of the heat sink surface is greater than 0.9 and the ratio of the heat sink’s surface area to the satellite’s is greater than 10, the error of the heat sink equivalent tests should be within 1 °C. Next, the application of the heat sink equivalent thermal test is described using the Jilin−1 GF02F satellite as an example. Finally, the test results and the flight temperature of the GF02F satellite are acquired and analyzed. The results show that the error of the heat sink equivalent thermal test is 0.9 °C, the test time is shortened by one-third compared to traditional thermal tests, and the cost of the thermal test is reduced by more than 70%. Full article

There is an essential clinical need to develop rapid process scaffolds to repair bone defects. The current research presented the development of calcium zirconium silicate/polycaprolactone for bone tissue engineering utilising melt extrusion-based 3D printing. Calcium zirconium silicate (CZS) nanoparticles were added to polycaprolactone (PCL) porous scaffolds to enhance their biological and mechanical properties, while the resulting properties were studied extensively. No significant difference was found in the melting point of the samples, while the crystallisation temperature points of the samples containing bioceramic increased from 36.1 to 40.2 °C. Thermal degradation commenced around 350 °C for all materials. According to our results, increasing the CZS content from 0 to 40 wt.% (PC40) in porous scaffolds (porosity about 55–62%) improved the compressive strength from 2.8 to 10.9 MPa. Furthermore, apatite formation ability in SBF solution increased significantly by enhancing the CZS percentage. According to MTT test results, the viability of MG63 cells improved remarkably (~29%) in PC40 compared to pure PCL. These findings suggest that a 3D-printed PCL/CZS composite scaffold can be fabricated successfully and shows great potential as an implantable material for bone tissue engineering applications. Full article

This paper aims to offer an interpretation of Ham Sok Hon’s views on the dynamic relationship between religion and politics. While considerable discussion has already taken place in the Korean academic community across various fields, including philosophy, theology, and political science, many of which propose ssial philosophy as the metaphysical foundation of his political thoughts, there still remains a need for a more systematic understanding of their relationship, which I argue is closely linked to his concept of jeonilhwa gwajeong (the process of unification/integration). By exploring Ham’s unique analysis, particularly in relation to the notion of ipcheseong (stereoscopic/multi-dimensional), this paper will underscore their shared roots and objectives across different spheres of life: one pertaining to salim (human affairs) seeking the pursuit of fairness and equality, and the other dealing with spirituality, aspiring to grasp the sublime aspects of human existence. Both religion and politics, as these movements are termed, are mutually dependent, with their culmination promising peace and harmony in historical reality. Through highlighting Ham’s integrated perspective on religion and politics, I will ultimately suggest a specific discourse—civil religion—as a theoretical framework to effectively unravels Ham’s viewpoints. Full article

Seed germination is a complex process that can be negatively affected by numerous stresses. Trichoderma spp. are known as effective biocontrol agents as well as plant growth and germination stimulators. However, understanding of the early interactions between seeds and Trichoderma spp. remains limited. In the present paper, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy were used to reveal the nature of tomato seed germination as stimulated by Trichoderma. A rapid response of tomato seeds to Trichoderma spp. was observed within 48 h on Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) substrate, preceding any physical contact. Raman analysis indicated that both Trichoderma species stimulated phenolic compound synthesis by triggering plant-specific responses in seed radicles. The impact of T. harzianum and T. brevicompactum on two tomato cultivars resulted in alterations to the middle lamella pectin, cellulose, and xyloglucan in the primary cell wall. The Raman spectra indicated increased xylan content in NA with T9 treatment as well as increased hemicelluloses in GZ with T4 treatment. Moreover, T4 treatment resulted in elevated conjugated aldehydes in lignin in GZ, whereas the trend was reversed in NA. Additionally, FTIR analysis revealed significant changes in total protein levels in Trichoderma spp.-treated tomato seed radicles, with simultaneous decreases in pectin and/or xyloglucan. Our results indicate that two complementary spectroscopic methods, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, can give valuable information on rapid changes in the plant cell wall structure of tomato radicles during germination stimulated by Trichoderma spp. Full article