bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tangential extreme ultraviolet and soft x-ray diagnostic system for time-resolved temperature measurement on the High Beta Tokamak-Extended Pulse
Authors: Li Boting , Levesque J. P. , Wei Y. , Saperstein A. , Chandra R. N. , Navratil G. A. , Mauel M. E. , Hansen C.
Published: October 2023

The High Beta Tokamak-Extended Pulse has recently incorporated a tangential multi-energy extreme ultraviolet and soft x-ray diagnostic system. This system enables measurements of the electron temperature and the examination of mode dynamics within the tokamak. While other systems have been built for poloidal views over similar temperature ranges, this is the first multi-energy tangential-view system designed to work in a temperature range below 200 eV in a tokamak. To facilitate these measurements, a filter wheel comprising five distinct groups of dual-filters has been developed and implemented. By employing a combination of 0.1 μm aluminum and 0.2 μm titanium filters, the system allows estimation of electron temperature profiles through reconstruction of the emission profile using the standard “double-foil” technique. The influence of impurities and filter oxide layers on measurement outcomes is examined. Results reveal that, while the absolute electron temperature values may exhibit some deviations, key characteristics like the electron temperature profile shape and inversion radius during sawtooth events remain consistent. This consistency confirms the system’s suitability for core plasma studies. This system has proven effective in detecting and analyzing internal magnetohydrodynamic phenomena, such as sawteeth.
Measurement of inkjet droplet size based on Fraunhofer diffraction
Authors: Shin Dong Yeol , Moon Yoon Jae , Kim Jun Young , Kang Kyung-Tae
Published: October 2023

Inkjet printers have started to manufacture OLED/QLED pixel arrays for the display industry, and the precise measurement and control of ink droplet volume during the printing process has become important. We investigated the feasibility of Fraunhofer diffraction analysis as a volume measurement tool for fast-moving inkjet droplets. To confirm the basic idea, two Fraunhofer diffraction-based methods were used to calculate the wire diameters of well-known sized and steady-positioned metal wires. The first method was to curve-fit the whole measured diffraction intensity curve with the extensive Fraunhofer diffraction equation. The second one was to use the simple approximate diameter calculation equation with the measured position data of minimum diffraction intensity. The metal wire diameters calculated by the two methods showed less than 1.17% error. For the size measurement of fast-moving inkjet droplets, the first method showed 24.5 µm diameter and 7.7 pL volume, while the second method showed 25.4 µm diameter and 8.58 pL volume. We found that the second method was more suitable for real-time inkjet monitoring because its average computer calculation time was 33 ms, and the first method took an average of 34 ms, about 1000 times more CPU time. Hence, Fraunhofer diffraction analysis as an inkjet droplet volume measurement tool was feasible with a good balance of measurement time and measurement accuracy.
Electrode durability and sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch fusion energy
Authors: Thompson M. C. , Simpson S. C. , Beers C. J. , Dadras J. , Meier E. T. , Stoltz P. H.
Published: October 2023

The sheared-flow-stabilized (SFS) Z-pinch concept is on a path to commercialization at Zap Energy. Recent experiments on the Fusion Z-pinch Experiment (FuZE) and newly commissioned FuZE-Q devices are advancing the state of the art in pinch current, stable plasma duration, and deuterium–deuterium fusion neutron production. The SFS Z-pinch configuration offers the promise of a compact fusion device owing to its simple geometry, unity beta, and absence of external magnetic field coils. In addition to a robust experimental program pushing plasma performance toward breakeven conditions, Zap Energy has parallel programs developing power handling systems suitable for future power plants. Technologies under development include high-repetition-rate pulsed power, high-duty-cycle electrodes, and liquid metal wall systems. The issue of electrode durability in future SFS Z-pinch power plants is elaborated on and compared with plasma material interaction regimes in other industrial processes and fusion energy systems.
Anatomy of path integral Monte Carlo: Algebraic derivation of the harmonic oscillator’s universal discrete imaginary-time propagator and its sequential optimization
Authors: Chin Siu A.
Published: October 2023

The direct integration of the harmonic oscillator path integral obscures the fundamental structure of its discrete, imaginary time propagator (density matrix). This work, by first proving an operator identity for contracting two free propagators into one in the presence of interaction, derives the discrete propagator by simple algebra without doing any integration. This discrete propagator is universal, having the same two hyperbolic coefficient functions for all short-time propagators. Individual short-time propagator only modifies the coefficient function’s argument, its portal parameter, whose convergent order is the same as the thermodynamic energy. Moreover, the thermodynamic energy can be given in a closed form for any short-time propagator. Since the portal parameter can be systematically optimized by matching the expansion of the product of the two coefficients, any short-time propagator can be optimized sequentially, order by order, by matching the product coefficient’s expansion alone, without computing the energy. Previous empirical findings on the convergence of fourth and sixth-order propagators can now be understood analytically. An eight-order convergent short-time propagator is also derived.
Unsteady cavitation dynamics and pressure statistical analysis of a hydrofoil using the compressible cavitation model
Authors: Zhao Xiaotao , Wang Ziyang , Bai Xiaorui , Cheng Huaiyu , Ji Bin
Published: October 2023

A compressible cavitation model is developed in this paper, in which the bubble wall velocity is obtained by solving the compressible Rayleigh–Plesset (R–P) equation. Additionally, vapor compressibility is also included during evaporation/condensation to correct the phase change rate. The predicted results around a National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) 66 (mod) hydrofoil are compared with the available experimental data, and a satisfied agreement is obtained. By (mod), we mean the NACA 66 hydrofoil modified by Brockett [“Minimum pressure envelopes for modified NACA-66 sections with NACA a = 0.8 camber and BuShips type I and type II sections,” Technical Report No. 1780 (David Taylor Model Basin Washington DC Hydromechanics Lab, 1966)] and Valentine [“The effect of nose radius on the cavitation-inception characteristics of two-dimensional hydrofoils,” Technical Report No. 3813 (Naval Ship Research and Development Center, 1974)]. Several crucial flow properties, e.g., fluid compressibility, cavitation evolution features, and pressure statistical characteristics, are studied in detail. The results suggest that the developed compressible cavitation model is better suited for predicting the collapse behavior of cavitation. Moreover, our work captures the liquid re-entrant jet and bubbly shock waves well and reveals that these two mechanisms jointly dominate the cavity shedding dynamics. Shock-induced pressure pulses play a more important role in flow features, with a maximum amplitude exceeding 200 kPa, significantly larger than the pressure pulse caused by liquid re-entrant jets. Finally, the statistical analysis indicates that the pulsating pressure presents non-Gaussian nature with positive skewness, and shock waves exhibit high-frequency and high-energy characteristics.
Destruction of a magnesium alloy film in the condensed state by an ultrashort laser-driven shock wave
Authors: Ashitkov S. I. , Komarov P. S. , Romashevskiy S. A. , Struleva E. V. , Evlashin S. A.
Published: October 2023

Laser-driven shock wave phenomena in a sub-micrometer Mg–4Al–2Zn alloy film are studied using spectral interferometry with spatial and temporal (1 ps) resolution. Upon irradiating the film through a glass substrate by 500 fs laser pulses, the ultrashort elastic compression pulses with the peak stress up to 4.6 GPa at a propagation distance of 0.5 μm were generated. Depending on the laser fluence, either spall fracture near the rear surface in the solid state or cavitation near the metal–glass interface in the liquid state was observed. The spall strength of the solid Mg alloy and the upper limit of the cavitation threshold in the melt at the strain rate of ∼109 s−1 were extracted from the free surface velocity history. The depth of fracture initiation was retrieved from the instant of the spall pulse exit, and the thickness of the molten layer was estimated to be 100–160 nm depending on laser fluence. The investigation of the residual morphology by scanning electron and atomic force microscopies revealed the presence of melting and nucleation within the irradiated area. The experimental findings are of interest for predicting the behavior of magnesium alloys in the condensed state at extremely high strain rates, for studying the physics of metastable states and for simulating the interaction of ultrashort laser pulses with thin film materials.
The oocyte: the key player in the success of assisted reproduction technologies
Authors: Fair Trudee , Lonergan Pat
Published: October 2023

The ovulation of a mature oocyte at metaphase II of meiosis, with optimal potential to undergo fertilisation by a sperm cell, complete meiosis and sustain the switch to mitotic division, and support early embryo development, involves a protracted and disrupted/delayed series of processes. Many of these are targeted for exploitation in vivo, or recapitulation in vitro, by the livestock industry. Reproductive technologies, including AI, multiple ovulation embryo transfer, ovum pick-up, in vitro embryo production, and oestrus and ovulation synchronisation, offer practitioners and producers the opportunity to produce offspring from genetically valuable dams in much greater numbers than they would normally have in their lifetime, while in vitro oocyte and follicle culture are important platforms for researchers to interrogate the physiological mechanisms driving fertility. The majority of these technologies target the ovarian follicle and the oocyte within; thus, the quality and capability of the recovered oocyte determine the success of the reproductive intervention. Molecular and microscopical technologies have grown exponentially, providing powerful platforms to interrogate the molecular mechanisms which are integral to or affected by ART. The development of the bovine oocyte from its differentiation in the ovary to ovulation is described in the light of its relevance to key aspects of individual interventions, while highlighting the historical timeline.
From fertilised oocyte to cultivated meat – harnessing bovine embryonic stem cells in the cultivated meat industry
Authors: Zehorai Eldar , Maor-Shoshani Ayelet , Molotski Natali , Dorojkin Anastasya , Marelly Nitzan , Dvash Tami , Lavon Neta
Published: October 2023

Global demand for animal protein is on the rise, but many practices common in conventional production are no longer scalable due to environmental impact, public health concerns, and fragility of food systems. For these reasons and more, a pressing need has arisen for sustainable, nutritious, and animal welfare–conscious sources of protein, spurring research dedicated to the production of cultivated meat. Meat mainly consists of muscle, fat, and connective tissue, all of which can be sourced and differentiated from pluripotent stem cells to resemble their nutritional values in muscle tissue. In this paper, we outline the approach that we took to derive bovine embryonic stem cell lines (bESCs) and to characterise them using FACS (fluorescence-activated cell sorting), real-time PCR and immunofluorescence staining. We show their cell growth profile and genetic stability and demonstrate their induced differentiation to mesoderm committed cells. In addition, we discuss our strategy for preparation of master and working cell banks, by which we can expand and grow cells in suspension in quantities suitable for mass production. Consequently, we demonstrate the potential benefits of harnessing bESCs in the production of cultivated meat.
Deficiency of orexin signaling during sleep is involved in abnormal REM sleep architecture in narcolepsy
Authors: Ito Hiroto , Fukatsu Noriaki , Rahaman Sheikh Mizanur , Mukai Yasutaka , Izawa Shuntaro , Ono Daisuke , Kilduff Thomas S. , Yamanaka Akihiro
Published: October 2023

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder caused by deficiency of orexin signaling. However, the neural mechanisms by which deficient orexin signaling causes the abnormal rapid eye movement (REM) sleep characteristics of narcolepsy, such as cataplexy and frequent transitions to REM states, are not fully understood. Here, we determined the activity dynamics of orexin neurons during sleep that suppress the abnormal REM sleep architecture of narcolepsy. Orexin neurons were highly active during wakefulness, showed intermittent synchronous activity during non-REM (NREM) sleep, were quiescent prior to the transition from NREM to REM sleep, and a small subpopulation of these cells was active during REM sleep. Orexin neurons that lacked orexin peptides were less active during REM sleep and were mostly silent during cataplexy. Optogenetic inhibition of orexin neurons established that the activity dynamics of these cells during NREM sleep regulate NREM–REM sleep transitions. Inhibition of orexin neurons during REM sleep increased subsequent REM sleep in “orexin intact” mice and subsequent cataplexy in mice lacking orexin peptides, indicating that the activity of a subpopulation of orexin neurons during the preceding REM sleep suppresses subsequent REM sleep and cataplexy. Thus, these results identify how deficient orexin signaling during sleep results in the abnormal REM sleep architecture characteristic of narcolepsy.
Cultivation of sustainability in a discourse of change
Authors: Weder Franzisca
Published: October 2023

Sustainability has been well used (and abused) as “buzz-word”, label or language token for certain behavior and action in political, organizational and increasingly in individual communication. Based on critical approaches in language, discourse and communication studies, the paper explores potential processes of normalization of sustainability as a new norm, discusses new theories and methodological variations that can be applied to better understand sustainable development, and offers a theoretical concept for cultivation of sustainability as a dialectic process of questioning and stabilization in transformation and change processes. Complemented by a communication for development and social change perspective, the paper lays the theoretical foundation for an understanding of sustainability as organizing principle in socio-ecological change processes, which is further elaborated in the contributions of this Special Issue, which are introduced at the end.
The Gravitational Pull Hypothesis and imperfective/perfective aspect in Catalan translation
Authors: Borillo Josep Marco , Martínez Gemma Peña
Published: October 2023

This article aims to test the Gravitational Pull Hypothesis on the imperfective/perfective aspect distinction in
the language pairs English-Catalan and French-Catalan. It draws on the corresponding corpora in COVALT. The GPH posits three
cognitive causes of translational effects: source or target language salience and connectivity. Different configurations of these
causes, or factors, are expected to result in over- or under-representation of target language features. The
imperfective/perfective aspect distinction was chosen as a testing ground for the GPH because it is morphologically marked in
Catalan and French but not in English. That may give rise to different configurations of factors and, therefore, to different
translational effects. It is predicted that the preterite, which conveys perfective aspect in Catalan, will be over-represented in
Catalan translations from English as compared to translations from French and to Catalan non-translations. On the other hand, the
imperfect, which conveys imperfective aspect, will be under-represented. Results confirm these predictions. For translations from
French, both adherence to the patterns observed in Catalan non-translations and over-representation of the preterite are possible
outcomes. Results lend support to the second alternative ― over-representation of the preterite. These results highlight the
importance of relying on frequency and other sources of evidence when formulating hypotheses in the framework of
the GPH. Research from the field of second language acquisition proved particularly significant in this respect.
Spanish heritage speakers as pre-departure conversation partners
Authors: Marijuan Silvia
Published: October 2023

Drawing on previous research showing the centrality of pre-departure interventions in the success of a study
abroad (SA) program and on a translingual practice framework (Canagarajah, 2013), the
current study addresses the implementation of a pre-departure conversation exchange between peers from diverse
racial/ethnic/cultural/linguistic background as an integral part of a four-week SA program in Spain. Reflections and survey data
were collected from a mixed group of SA participants, both second language learners (n = 14) and Spanish heritage
speakers (SHSs; n = 4), as well as from their SHS conversation partners (n = 5) to determine:
(a) the perceived goals and challenges of the mixed SA cohort for studying abroad; (b) the perceived benefits of the pre-departure
conversation exchange with SHSs on SA learners’ performative competence; and (c) the perceived benefits for SHS conversation
partners on their identity formation, heritage language maintenance, and agency.
“A mí no me gusta España mucho” vs.“Yo quiero ir a toda España, me encanta
España”
Authors: Peace Meghann M.
Published: October 2023

Research on heritage speakers abroad constitutes a growing field. Of particular interest is linguistic
accommodation by heritage speakers in Spain. Previous work suggests that such accommodation may be affected by participants’
social networks and Spanish fluency. Most work, however, has not directly examined interactions with local peers, nor has it
considered participants’ receptiveness to Spain as a possible factor. This study analyzes the linguistic choices of four heritage
speakers in interaction with Spanish peers at the midpoint of a semester-long program in central Spain. Spain was the desired
destination of two participants, while the other two would have preferred Latin America. However, all showed minimal
accommodation. Receptiveness to Spain does not seem to explain their choices; rather, their language use in interaction was likely
driven by their identity stances and their desire to create relationships of either closeness or distance with their particular
Spanish interlocutors.
“Being myself in Spanish”
Authors: Pozzi Rebecca , Escalante Chelsea , Quan Tracy
Published: October 2023

This case study examines the pragmatic development of address forms of a US-based Spanish heritage speaker of Mexican descent, Juan, during an 11-week abroad program in Argentina. Instruments included a background questionnaire, a pre/post-written elicitation task, four interviews, and 16 naturalistic recordings during host family dinners and service encounters. Findings indicate that Juan decreased his use ofvoson elicitation tasks and did not usevosat all in naturalistic recordings. There was an increase, however, in his metapragmatic awareness, or his understanding of the ways variable forms index social meaning, specifically regarding address forms. These results were related to Juan’s bicultural identity construction, investment, and evolving withdrawal from or participation in the host community. This study highlights the importance of triangulating elicited and naturalistic data with qualitative information and moving away from appropriate-based models that compare heritage speakers’ pragmatic choices to those of monolingual native speakers.
The changing landscape of heritage language learners abroad
Authors: George Angela
Published: October 2023

This special issue highlights current research on topics related to linguistic and identity development of
heritage language learners (HLLs) who participate in study abroad programs. With the steady increase of study abroad, it is
becoming more common for HLLs to study in the country of their heritage or in one where the heritage language is spoken. The
issues and challenges faced by HLLs often differ from their second language counterparts. While research on the linguistic
development of HLLs abroad is increasing, much work remains. This introduction will highlight the importance of researching HLLs
abroad, the growing amount of research conducted on HLLs, and identity work on HLLs abroad. In addition to these topics, several
ideas are provided for future research on HLLs abroad. Following this, the articles in the special issue are presented,
emphasizing how they contribute to the topics presented in this introductory section.
On the connection between Lenz’s law and relativity
Authors: Rodrigues Thales B S F , Rizzuti Bruno F
Published: October 2023

In this work, we demonstrate explicitly the unified nature of electric and magnetic fields, from the principles of special relativity and Lorentz transformations of the electromagnetic field tensor. Using an operational approach we construct the tensor and its corresponding transformation law, based on the principle of relativity. Our work helps to elucidate concepts of advanced courses on electromagnetism for primary-level learners and shows an alternative path to derive Lenz’s law based on the connection between relativity arguments and a standard electromagnetism experiment.
Investigation of electric field distribution on dielectric exposed to DC-pulsed He plasma jet with shielding gas
Authors: Liu Guoqiang , Xia Yang , Shang Kefeng , Liu Dongping
Published: October 2023

Atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJs) produce reactive species and electric fields for biomedical applications. Gas shields control plasma plume-surrounding gas interactions, regulating reactive species generation and electric field strength. However, the surface electric field distribution is still unclear and needs urgent attention. Here, the electric field distribution on the surface exposed to a helium APPJ with shielding gas is investigated using the Pockels technique. This study considers the influence of the type of shielding gas (ambient air, dry air, nitrogen, oxygen, nitrogen-oxygen mixture) and the flow rate (2000–6000 sccm). The results show that the surface electric field develops in three phases: establishment, maintenance, and dissipation. Both flow rate and oxygen content of the shielding gas significantly influence surface discharge behavior and the maximum electric field value. The analysis suggests that the establishment phase of the electric field results from charge transfer by ionization waves to the dielectric, while the maintenance of the electric field depends on pulse duration. During the dissipation phase, the positive surface charge attracts negatively charged species to the surface (electrons and negative ions), which causes charge neutralization at the surface. The oxygen content in the shielding gas impacts the electric field establishment phase, with a low oxygen content leading to lower photo-ionization rates and, consequently, surface discharges with branching. Shielding gas flow rates affect the amount of shielding gas mixed into the helium channel. Mixing less oxygen into the APPJ increases the electric field strength, as the ionization potential is lower than nitrogen. Excessive oxygen mixing traps more free electrons due to electronegativity, causing fewer ionized collisions and more negative ions in APPJ, ultimately lowering the electric field strength. This study shows that shielding gas type and flow rates can adjust surface charging, aiding in optimizing biomedical APPJ.
Defect detection of ferromagnetic rail using EMAE-based peak-to-peak method and confidence probability indicator
Authors: Chang Yongqi , Shen Yi , Zhang Xin , Song Shuzhi , Zhao Zhenyu , Jie Huamin , Song Qinghua
Published: October 2023

Rail defect detection holds a vital role in bolstering the safety, improving operational efficiency, and optimizing the lifespan of infrastructures in railway transportation systems. This paper proposes an electromagnetic acoustic emission-based peak-to-peak (EMAE-PTP) method along with a dedicated confidence probability indicator (CPI) for ferromagnetic rail defect detection. Firstly, a comprehensive simulation model that blends Lorentz forces with magnetostrictive effects is built up, affirming the theoretical practicability of the proposed EMAE-PTP method in ferromagnetic rail defect detection. Taking into consideration of the contingency and difference in actual signals acquisition, a special indicator, namely CPI, is formulated as the defect evaluation threshold. Based on the Chebyshev inquality and the time-domain characteristic of acquired signals, this CPI delineates the range of peak-to-peak amplitudes related to non-defective state, with a confidence level up to 96%. By doing so, the numerically segregation of defect signals can be accomplished with ease. In addition, according to the detection coefficient calculated from CPI, the suitable excitation conditions for electromagnetic acoustic emission application are determined. In conclusion, the efficacy of the proposed approach for ferromagnetic rails defect detection is substantiated, encompassing a holistic assessment of both its theoretical underpinnings and experimental manifestations.
Time dynamics of the dose deposited by relativistic ultra-short electron beams
Authors: Horváth D , Grittani G , Precek M , Versaci R , Bulanov S V , Olšovcová V
Published: October 2023

Ultra-short electron beams are used as ultra-fast radiation source for radiobiology experiments aiming at very high energy electron beams (VHEE) radiotherapy with very high dose rates. Laser plasma accelerators are capable of producing electron beams as short as 1 fs and with tunable energy from few MeV up to multi-GeV with compact footprint. This makes them an attractive source for applications in different fields, where the ultra-short (fs) duration plays an important role. The time dynamics of the dose deposited by electron beams with energies in the range 50–250 MeV have been studied and the results are presented here. The results set a quantitative limit to the maximum dose rate at which the electron beams can impart dose.
Efficient post-processing of electromagnetic plane wave simulations to model arbitrary structured beams incident on axisymmetric structures
Authors: Kingsley-Smith J J , Rodríguez-Fortuño F J
Published: October 2023

The study of an optical beam interacting with material structures is a fundamental of nanophotonics. Computational electromagnetic solvers facilitate the rapid calculation of the scattering from material structures with arbitrary geometry and complexity, but have limited efficiency when employing structured excitation fields. We have developed a post-processing method and package that can efficiently calculate the full three-dimensional electric and magnetic fields for any optical beam incident on a particle or structure with at least one axis of continuous rotational symmetry, called an axisymmetric body (such as a sphere, cylinder, cone, torus or surface). Provided an initial batch of plane wave simulations is computed, this open-source package combines data from computational electromagnetic solvers in a post-processing fashion using the angular spectrum representation to create arbitrarily structured beams, including vector vortex beams. Any and all possible incident beams can be generated from the initial batch of PWSs, without the need for further simulations. This allows for efficiently performing parameter sweeps such as changing the angle of illumination or translating the particle position relative to the beam, all in post-processing, with no need for additional time-consuming simulations. We demonstrate some applications by numerically calculating optical force and torque maps for a spherical plasmonic nanoparticle in a tightly focused Gaussian beam, a plasmonic nanocone in an azimuthally polarised beam and compute the fields of a non-paraxial Laguerre–Gaussian vortex beam reflecting on a multilayered surface. We believe this package, called BEAMS, is a valuable tool for rapidly quantifying electromagnetic systems that are beyond traditional analytical methods.
Investigating surface and wettability properties of Na2Ti3O7/Na2Ti6O13/PVA composites
Authors: Aguilera Dominguez Lianet , Pereira da Silva Juliana , Ramos Glenda Quaresma , Matos Robert Saraiva , da Cunha Mendes Otoniel , Marques da Silva Paula Marcos , Ruiz Yurimiler Leyet , Duarte da Fonseca Filho Henrique
Published: October 2023

Ceramics-polymer composites have garnered significant interest in recent years due to their unique combination of properties and potential applications. This study presents an in-depth analysis of the surface and wettability properties of new Na2Ti3O7/Na2Ti6O13/PVA composite, aiming to uncover their unique characteristics. The analysis revealed notable changes in the morphology and 3D spatial patterns of the films upon incorporating heated and unheated Na2Ti3O7/Na2Ti6O13 into the PVA matrix. The PVA film containing heated ceramics displayed hierarchical topographic roughness (3.71±1.13 nm) similar to those of pure PVA films (2.28±0.13 nm), contrasting with the film containing unheated ceramics (12.31±2 nm). The surface texture of all films exhibited comparable isotropies (without significant difference at a p-value = 0.05), indicating that their physical properties remained largely unaffected by the heat treatment imposed on the ceramics. The surface microtexture similarity between the PVA film and the one containing heated ceramics can be attributed to their comparable spatial complexity (FD = 2.41–2.44). Contact angle measurements further demonstrated similar surface wettability between pure PVA (54.5±1.4°) and PVA containing heated Na2Ti3O7/Na2Ti6O13 ceramics (58.6±2.6°), which can be attributed to the resemblances in their surface microtextures. These findings highlight the pivotal role of heat treatment in the formation of Na2Ti3O7/Na2Ti6O13/PVA composites with surface and wettability properties akin to those of pure PVA films. This research contributes to the understanding of composite materials and their potential for various applications, including anticorrosive coatings, sensor devices, and surface engineering.
Response to Letter to the Editors regarding ‘A Meta-Regression of Trial Features Predicting the Effects of Alcohol Use Disorder Pharmacotherapies on Drinking Outcomes in Randomized Clinical Trials: A Secondary Data Analysis’
Authors: Grodin Erica N , Donato Suzanna , Du Han , Green ReJoyce , Bujarski Spencer , Ray Lara A
Published: October 2023

Short Summary: The Letter to the Editors regarding our article was reviewed. The take-home message is that substantively, the authors of the letter are referencing a paper that asks a different research question in a different set of studies. When we ask different questions, we are not surprised when we reach different answers.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of the platelet-rich plasma compared to the injectable platelet-rich fibrin on the rate of maxillary canine retraction: a three-arm randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ammar Ali Mohsen , Al-Sabbagh Rabab , Hajeer Mohammad Younis
Published: October 2023

Background

Blood-derived materials have been used recently to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement, but there are conflicting reports on their effectiveness.

Objective

To evaluate the potential effect of local injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) on the rate of orthodontic tooth movement.

Trial design

A single-center, three-arm, parallel-group randomized controlled trial.

Materials and Methods

The sample consisted of 60 patients aged between 18 and 25 years (mean age: 21.1 ± 2.2 years) with Class II division 1 malocclusion requiring anterior retraction. Using a computer-generated list of random numbers, patients were assigned to three groups of canine retraction: (i) assisted with PRP injection (PRP group), (ii) assisted with i-PRF group, and (iii) conventional treatment with no injections (Cont. group). In the interventional groups, injections were done immediately and at 8 weeks after the onset of canine. Transpalatal arches (TPAs) were used to reinforce anchorage. The upper canines were distalized on 0.019 × 0.025-inch stainless archwires using coil springs with a force of 150 g. The primary outcome was the amount of canine retraction, whereas the secondary outcomes were canine rotation and anchoring loss. Assessment was done at five-time points: the beginning of tooth movement (T0) and at 4, 8, 12, and 16 weeks following T0 on three-dimensional superimposed digital models

Results

Sixty patients were randomized and included in this study (20 patients in each group), there were no dropouts. The rate of canine retraction was faster in the experimental groups. The PRP group showed a significantly slower movement in the second and fourth months than the i-PRF group while in the first and third months, there were nonsignificant differences between the two experimental groups.

Limitations

Blinding was not possible during the clinical stage of this trial.

Conclusions

PRP and i-PRF were found to be effective in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement during canine retraction. However, the effect of i-PRF was longer than that of PRP.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT05335824).
We can do it - Empowering learning
Authors: Fahnert Beatrix
Published: October 2023

We all need to adapt constantly in order to thrive in our ever-changing complex world. Thus, education and educators need to empower learners to develop a mindset and skills set of lifelong and lifewide learning. Papers from around the globe, reflecting the current drivers in education, were published in the FEMS Microbiology Letters virtual Thematic Issue ‘Empowering learning’ in October 2023. Its content is reviewed here to provide the context for further discussions within the professional community. The focus is on being inclusive, on lowering and removing barriers to learning, and fostering a sense of belonging. So learning communities can be established and connected in support of learning with and from each other for societal benefit, and this is discussed. Authentic learning approaches are highlighted with respect to the inherent opportunities for learners to take ownership for their learning, yet learn collaboratively, and develop resilience over time. Supporting learners in becoming self-regulated and realizing their full potential is truly worthwhile.
Global diversity and inferred ecophysiology of microorganisms with the potential for dissimilatory sulfate/sulfite reduction
Authors: Diao Muhe , Dyksma Stefan , Koeksoy Elif , Ngugi David Kamanda , Anantharaman Karthik , Loy Alexander , Pester Michael
Published: October 2023

Sulfate/sulfite-reducing microorganisms (SRM) are ubiquitous in nature, driving the global sulfur cycle. A hallmark of SRM is the dissimilatory sulfite reductase encoded by the genes dsrAB. Based on analysis of 950 mainly metagenome-derived dsrAB-carrying genomes, we redefine the global diversity of microorganisms with the potential for dissimilatory sulfate/sulfite reduction and uncover genetic repertoires that challenge earlier generalizations regarding their mode of energy metabolism. We show: (i) 19 out of 23 bacterial and 2 out of 4 archaeal phyla harbor uncharacterized SRM, (ii) four phyla including the Desulfobacterota harbor microorganisms with the genetic potential to switch between sulfate/sulfite reduction and sulfur oxidation, and (iii) the combination as well as presence/absence of different dsrAB-types, dsrL-types and dsrD provides guidance on the inferred direction of dissimilatory sulfur metabolism. We further provide an updated dsrAB database including > 60% taxonomically resolved, uncultured family-level lineages and recommendations on existing dsrAB-targeted primers for environmental surveys. Our work summarizes insights into the inferred ecophysiology of newly discovered SRM, puts SRM diversity into context of the major recent changes in bacterial and archaeal taxonomy, and provides an up-to-date framework to study SRM in a global context.
Current complementary and alternative therapy forgastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Jiang Dianxuan , Zhuang Qianjun , Jia Xingyu , Chen Songfeng , Tan Niandi , Zhang Mengyu , Xiao Yinglian
Published: October 2023

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a widely prevalent gastrointestinal disorder, affecting ∼13.3% of the global population. There are shortages and limitations of current GERD treatment modalities, and complementary and alternative therapy (CAT) is a promising option to fill in the gap. Dietary and lifestyle modifications might play an important and complementary role in alleviating GERD symptoms. Traditional Chinese medicine and brain–gut behavior therapy, particularly transcutaneous electrical acustimulation and diaphragmatic breathing therapy were shown to be useful adjuncts or alternatives in treating GERD. CAT may help to relieve GERD symptoms, minimize medication dosage, and slow the demand for surgery. The aim of this review was to summarize the existing evidence of some common CATs in treating symptomatic GERD, including dietary modification, lifestyle change, traditional Chinese medicine, and brain–gut behavior therapy.
Convection and segregation in heterogeneous orogenic crust with a VOF method – II: how to form migmatite domes
Authors: Louis-Napoléon Aurélie , Gerbault Muriel , Bonometti Thomas , Vanderhaeghe Olivier , Martin Roland , Maury Nathan
Published: October 2023

Migmatites and granitic-gneisses exhumed in Archean to Phanerozoic segments are former partially molten crustal roots, display typical domes structures ranging in size from kilometres to decakilometres, and are often interpreted as resulting from the development of diapiric or convective gravitational instabilities. In previous work (part I), we determined various regimes of gravity-driven segregation, by considering a thick continental crust heated from below and containing melt related heterogeneities. These heterogeneities, represented by inclusions of distinct densities and viscosities with respect to the ambient partially molten material, can be entrained into convection cells (in the ‘suspension’ and ‘layering’ regimes) and/or accumulate as clusters (in the ‘layering’ and ‘diapirism’ regimes). Here we further investigate the specific conditions that allow for the formation and preservation of domes resulting from diapirism at the top of convective cells. We show that both the cessation of basal heating and the freezing of the buoyant inclusions density favour their stacking and preservation at ca. 15 km depth, within about 10 Myr. The buoyant inclusions form domes, 5–20 km in size, that also record several convective cycles at velocities ranging from 0.5–4 cm yr−1. 3-D models demonstrate their radial geometrical nature. The influence of the size and concentration of the inclusions is also assessed, complementing the characteristics of crustal heterogeneity in driving its differentiation and the formation of migmatite domes.
Telomere-to-telomere assembly of cassava genome reveals the evolution of cassava and divergence of allelic expression
Authors: Xu Xin-Dong , Zhao Ru-Peng , Xiao Liang , Lu Liuying , Gao Min , Luo Yu-Hong , Zhou Zu-Wen , Ye Si-Ying , Qian Yong-Qing , Fan Bing-Liang , Shang Xiaohong , Shi Pingli , Zeng Wendan , Cao Sheng , Wu Zhengdan , Yan Huabing , Chen Ling-Ling , Song Jia-Ming
Published: October 2023

Cassava is a crucial crop that makes a significant contribution to ensuring human food security. However, high-quality telomere-to-telomere cassava genomes have not been available up to now, which has restricted the progress of haploid molecular breeding for cassava. In this study, we constructed two nearly complete haploid resolved genomes and an integrated, telomere-to-telomere gap-free reference genome of an excellent cassava variety, ‘Xinxuan 048’, thereby providing a new high-quality genomic resource. Furthermore, the evolutionary history of several species within the Euphorbiaceae family was revealed. Through comparative analysis of haploid genomes, it was found that two haploid genomes had extensive differences in linear structure, transcriptome features, and epigenetic characteristics. Genes located within the highly divergent regions and differentially expressed alleles are enriched in the functions of auxin response and the starch synthesis pathway. The high heterozygosity of cassava ‘Xinxuan 048’ leads to rapid trait segregation in the first selfed generation. This study provides a theoretical basis and genomic resource for molecular breeding of cassava haploids.
Kinetics and Prognostic Significance of Laboratory Markers in Patients With Severe Fever With Thrombocytopenia Syndrome: Insight From a Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Hou Hongyan , Zou Siyu , Wei Wei , Wang Ting , Wang Yun , Wu Shiji , Wang Feng , Liu Weiyong , Huang Ming , Peng Jing
Published: October 2023

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging infectious disease with significant mortality. Identifying prognostic factors that influence patient outcomes is crucial for effective clinical management. In this study, we assessed the dynamic changes of laboratory markers and their association with outcomes in 93 SFTS patients. We found that age and hypertension were significantly associated with poor outcomes in SFTS patients. The deceased group exhibited lower platelet counts, elevated liver and kidney function markers, coagulation profiles, inflammatory markers, and cytokines compared to the survival group. Kinetic analysis showed that these markers gradually normalized in the survival group, while they remained persistently abnormal in the deceased group. Furthermore, hypertension, elevated aspartate aminotransferase, procalcitonin, and interleukin 10 were identified as independent risk factors for predicting poor prognosis of SFTS patients. These findings provide valuable insights into the prognostic significance of laboratory markers and highlight the importance of early identification of high-risk SFTS patients.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus–Associated Hospital Admissions by Deprivation Levels Among Children and Adults in Scotland
Authors: Osei-Yeboah Richard , Zhu Fuyu , Wang Xin , Nair Harish , Campbell Harry
Published: October 2023

Background

Socioeconomic deprivation may predispose individuals to respiratory tract infections. We estimated RSV-associated hospitalizations by socioeconomic deprivation in Scotland.

Methods

Using national routine health care records and virological surveillance from 2010 to 2016, we used a time-series linear regression model and a direct measurement based on ICD-10 coded diagnoses to estimate RSV-associated hospitalizations by Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) quintile and age in comparison to influenza-associated hospitalizations.

Results

We estimated an annual average rate per 1000 people of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.43–0.90) in the least deprived group to 1.51 (1.03–1.79) for the most deprived group using model-based approach. The rate ratio (RR) was 1.96 (1.23–3.25), 1.60 (1.0–2.66), 1.35 (0.85–2.25), and 1.12 (0.7–1.85) in the 1st to 4th quintile versus the least deprived group. The pattern of RSV-associated hospitalization rates variation with SIMD was most pronounced in children 0-2y. The ICD-10 approach provided much lower rates than the model-based approach but yielded similar RR estimates between SIMD. Influenza-associated hospitalization rate generally increased with higher deprivation levels among individuals 1y+.

Conclusions

Higher RSV and influenza hospitalization rates are related to higher deprivation levels. Differences between deprivation levels are most pronounced in infants and young children for RSV, and are more apparent among individuals 1y+ for influenza.
Protein Dose-Sparing Effect of AS01B Adjuvant in a Randomized Preventive HIV Vaccine Trial of ALVAC-HIV (vCP2438) and Adjuvanted Bivalent Subtype C gp120
Authors: Chirenje Zvavahera Mike , Laher Fatima , Dintwe One , Muyoyeta Monde , deCamp Allan C , He Zonglin , Grunenberg Nicole , Laher Omar Faatima , Seaton Kelly E , Polakowski Laura , Woodward Davis Amanda S , Maganga Lucas , Baden Lindsey R , Mayer Kenneth , Kalams Spyros , Keefer Michael , Edupuganti Srilatha , Rodriguez Benigno , Frank Ian , Scott Hyman , Stranix-Chibanda Lynda , Gurunathan Sanjay , Koutsoukos Marguerite , Van Der Meeren Olivier , DiazGranados Carlos A , Paez Carmen , Andersen-Nissen Erica , Kublin James , Corey Lawrence , Ferrari Guido , Tomaras Georgia , McElrath M Juliana
Published: October 2023

Background

HVTN 120 is a phase 1/2a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vaccine trial that evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of ALVAC-HIV (vCP2438) and MF59- or AS01B-adjuvanted bivalent subtype C gp120 Env protein at 2 dose levels in healthy HIV-uninfected adults.

Methods

Participants received ALVAC-HIV (vCP2438) alone or placebo at months 0 and 1. At months 3 and 6, participants received either placebo, ALVAC-HIV (vCP2438) with 200 μg of bivalent subtype C gp120 adjuvanted with MF59 or AS01B, or ALVAC-HIV (vCP2438) with 40 μg of bivalent subtype C gp120 adjuvanted with AS01B. Primary outcomes were safety and immune responses.

Results

We enrolled 160 participants, 55% women, 18–40 years old (median age 24 years) of whom 150 received vaccine and 10 placebo. Vaccines were generally safe and well tolerated. At months 6.5 and 12, CD4+ T-cell response rates and magnitudes were higher in the AS01B-adjuvanted groups than in the MF59-adjuvanted group. At month 12, HIV-specific Env-gp120 binding antibody response magnitudes in the 40 μg gp120/AS01B group were higher than in either of the 200 μg gp120 groups.

Conclusions

The 40 μg dose gp120/AS01B regimen elicited the highest CD4+ T-cell and binding antibody responses.

Clinical Trials Registration . NCT03122223.
Construction of a T7 phage random peptide library by combining seamless cloning with in vitro translation
Authors: Higashi Katsuaki , Oda Sakiho , Fujii Mai , Nishida Fumiya , Matsumoto Hayato , Morise Jyoji , Oka Shogo , Nonaka Motohiro
Published: October 2023

T7 phage libraries displaying random peptides are powerful tools for screening peptide sequences that bind to various target molecules. The T7 phage system has the advantage of less biased peptide distribution compared to the M13 phage system. However, the construction of T7 phage DNA is challenging due to its long 36 kb linear DNA. Furthermore, the diversity of the libraries depends strongly on the efficiency of commercially available packaging extracts. To address these issues, we examined the combination of seamless cloning with cell-free translation systems. Seamless cloning technologies have been widely used to construct short circular plasmid DNA, and several recent studies showed that cell-free translation can achieve more diverse phage packaging. In this study, we combined these techniques to construct four libraries (CX7C, CX9C, CX11C and CX13C) with different random regions lengths. The libraries thus obtained all showed diversity > 109 plaque forming units (pfu). Evaluating our libraries with an anti-FLAG monoclonal antibody yielded the correct epitope sequence. The results indicate that our libraries are useful for screening peptide epitopes against antibodies. These findings suggest that our system can efficiently construct T7 phage libraries with greater diversity than previous systems.