bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

ABSTRACT
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.
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

Summary

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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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 &gt; 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

Abstract
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

SUMMARY
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

AbstractBackgroundSocioeconomic deprivation may predispose individuals to respiratory tract infections. We estimated RSV-associated hospitalizations by socioeconomic deprivation in Scotland.MethodsUsing 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.ResultsWe 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+.ConclusionsHigher 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

Abstract

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.