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Purpose: This paper aims at examining the potentiality of using Hibiscus sabdariffa L. calyces' (Hs) aqueous extract to remove soot stains from the surface of fire-damaged silver gelatin prints. It further studies the cleaning efficiency and impact of both a contact method and a noncontact method with argon dielectric barrier discharge plasma (DBD Ar. plasma) on the different properties of silver gelatin prints. Accordingly, it prompts using economic, eco-friendly materials and methods in the photograph conservation field. Design/methodology/approach: To achieve the aims of this paper, four silver gelatin prints were stained with soot and treated with the Hs aqueous extract as a contact method and DBD Ar. plasma combined with the aqueous extract as a noncontact method. The assessment was carried out using digital microscopy, atomic force microscopy and spectrophotometer to study the efficiency of the tested treatments and their impact on the surface of the photographs. Fourier transform infrared was used to monitor the state of the binder after cleaning. Furthermore, the pH and the mechanical properties were measured. Findings: The contact method resulted in lower concentrations of Hs extract that efficiently cleaned the surface without causing any stains or damage to the treated photographs. The noncontact method (plasma with an aqueous extract) proved to be less effective in cleaning and made the binder more susceptible to deterioration. Originality/value: This paper reveals the success of Hs aqueous extract in cleaning soot on vulnerable photographs' surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A self-consistent numerical model is presented in which a self-consistent spatial distribution of plasma potential is calculated near isolated dust particles whose shape represents an ellipsoid of revolution. In this model, self-consistent electric plasma potential is calculated with the help of Legendre polynomial expansion of a spatial space charge, while ion trajectories are calculated in the mean field approximation. This article demonstrates a large-scale study of self-consistent distributions of space charge density and plasma potential in the presence of an external electric field. The dependencies of "the ion cloud–dust particle" system on various dusty plasma parameters are calculated. The parameters are dust particles shapes and sizes, the external electrostatic field strength, and the ion mean free path. The dependencies of the dipole moment, wake local maximum, and position of the wake local maximum on these parameters are reduced to a simple analytical expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air discharge plasma is a potential method for the removal of the toxic rocket propellant unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine ((CH3)2NNH2, UDMH for abbreviation). Combining density functional theory calculation and transition state theory, this paper presents theoretical investigation of the degradation pathways of UDMH under the influence of O3 in aqueous environment, which is the main reactive species generated by air plasma. The neutral, protonated and deprotonated forms of UDMH are included in our study considering the effect of pH. The results show that the UDMH degradation by O3 usually initials with the oxygen addition to the N atom, and the reaction positions would change with the pH variation. The main reaction position of neutral and protonated forms of UDMH are the N atom of primary ammonia of UDMH, where UDMH will be converted into N-nitrosodimethylamine and NH2OH through multi-step reactions. For deprotonated UDMH, its main reaction position changes to the N atom of secondary ammonia of UDMH, and it finally decomposes to (CH3)2NN and OH with the rate constant of 8.26 × 103 M−1 s−1. The pH value also largely influences the degradation processes, where the rate constants of corresponding reactions would vary by up to 12 orders of magnitude for different forms of UDMH. Based on our calculation, the main byproducts of UDMH degradation and their subsequent degradation pathways are summarized. This work is helpful to lay the theoretical basis of UDMH degradation by plasma ozonation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop technologies for the stable operation of electric propulsion systems, the effects of charge exchange (CEX) on the exhaust plume of a Hall thruster were studied using the particle-in-cell direct simulation Monte Carlo (PIC-DSMC) method. For the numerical analysis, an OpenFOAM-based code, pdFOAM, with a simple electron fluid model was employed. In an example problem using the D55 Hall thruster exhaust plume, the results showed good agreement with experimental measurements of the plasma potential. In the results, CEX effects enhanced Xe+ particle scattering near the thruster exit. However, due to the increase in the plasma potential with CEX effects, fewer Xe2+ particles were near the thruster exit with CEX effects than without CEX effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: For the purpose of doping control, this is the first report of accurate quantification of four critical structural isomers of nicotine metabolites (trans‐3′‐hydroxycotinine, cis‐3′‐hydroxycotinine, 5′‐hydroxycotinine, and N′‐hydroxymethylnorcotinine) in equine plasma and urine for the establishment of their elimination profiles. Besides, the pharmacokinetic studies of trans‐3′‐hydroxycotinine and N′‐hydroxymethylnorcotinine in equine plasma and urine are also presented for the first time. Methods: The accurate quantification methods of the aforementioned four structural isomers in horse plasma and urine were successfully developed and validated using the solid‐phase extractions followed by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry analysis. Baseline chromatographic separation was achieved to completely differentiate these isomers, which shared the same selected reaction monitoring transition. Such methods were applied to post‐administration samples obtained from the nicotine and tobacco leaf administration studies for the establishment of pharmacokinetic profiles. Results: N′‐Hydroxymethylnorcotinine could be quantified for the longest period, ranging from 48 to 72 h in plasma and 96 h in urine after a single administration of 250 mg of nicotine and an equivalent amount of nicotine in tobacco leaves. In terms of detection, both N′‐hydroxymethylnorcotinine and trans‐3′‐hydroxycotinine could be detected up to the last sample collection time point (96 h), indicating that they are the most appropriate biomarkers for nicotine exposure. Conclusions: N′‐Hydroxymethylnorcotinine and trans‐3′‐hydroxycotinine were detected longest in plasma and urine samples after both nicotine and tobacco leaf administrations, and N′‐hydroxymethylnorcotinine was deemed most appropriate as a monitoring target due to its relatively higher abundance and slower elimination rate. These two biomarkers could also be used to differentiate sample contamination by tobacco products and genuine nicotine exposure to horse regardless of intentionality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We use a quasi-particle picture and the hard-loop approximation to study collective modes in anisotropic plasmas. We study a general class of anisotropic distribution functions and derive and solve the dispersion equations. We focus on imaginary modes because of their potential influence on plasma dynamics, and we study their dependence on the parameters that characterize the anisotropy of the system. We show that the strength of the imaginary modes is related to the oblateness of the distribution, and the size of the azimuthal Fourier coefficients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arcing is a ubiquitous phenomenon and a crucial issue in high-voltage applied systems, especially low-temperature plasma (LTP) engineering. Although arcing in LTPs has attracted interest due to the severe damage it can cause, its underlying mechanism has yet to be fully understood. To elucidate the arcing mechanism, this study investigated various signals conventionally used to analyze arcing such as light emission, arcing current and voltage, and background plasma potential. As a result, we found that light emission occurs as early as 0.56 μs before arcing current initiation, which is a significant indicator of the explosive development of arcing as well as other signals. We introduce an arcing inducing probe (AIP) designed to localize arcing on the tip edge along with multiple snapshot analysis since arcing occurs randomly in space and time. Analysis reveals that the prior light emission consists of sheath and tip glows from the whole AIP sheath and the AIP tip edge, respectively. Formation mechanisms of these emissions based on multiple snapshot image analysis are discussed. This light emission before arcing current initiation provides a significant clue to understanding the arcing formation mechanism and represents a new indicator for forecasting arcing in LTPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Actinometry optical emission spectroscopy (AOES), single cylindrical Langmuir, probe and electrostatic planar probe were used to characterize oxygen microwave plasma, at two distances from the plasma source (Z1 = 15 cm and Z2 = 25 cm), using three values of applied microwave power (800, 1000, and 1400 W) at a constant pressure of 70 Pa, involving different parameters, which are electron density (ne), effective electron temperature (Teff), plasma potential (Vp), floating potential (Vf), positive ion flux (Гi), negative ion ratio (α = n−/ne, n− is the negative ion density), and atomic oxygen density (AO: [O]). The electron density and the effective electron temperature were deduced from (I‐V) Langmuir probe characteristics. The atomic oxygen density was measured using actinometry method. Positive ion flux was evaluated from the positive ion saturation current (Isat) of the planar probe. The combination of both single Langmuir probe and the planar one enabled the calculation of electronegativity of the oxygen plasma. An application of this oxygen plasma is presented, which is the silicon surface oxidation. The formed SiO2 layer has been characterized by both scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elimination of microbiological contamination of food products is predominant for consumer food safety. Cold plasma (CP) technology has evolved as a unique, cost‐effective, and environmentally friendly solution to microbial decontamination that is gaining popularity due to its great efficacy in ensuring food safety. As increasing the demand of food industries to produce and supply the safe food with minimal processing. Cold plasma application is being used to sanitize the food surface to be used for different food industry sectors for microbial inactivation. The rapid microbial inactivation obtained by cold plasma has sparked a surge in interest in the field. The current review will give a critical snapshot of the potential application of cold plasma in microbial safety, including food safety, quality, and enzyme inactivation. The rapid microbiological inactivation achieved with cold plasma has led to an interest in this subject. Further, factors affecting, that is, food composition, PH, water activity, and microorganism type for microbial inactivation by cold plasma, are summarized and discussed. There is an increasing demand for food industries to produce and supply safe food with minimal processing. Cold plasma has the potential to sanitize the food surface to be used in different food industry sectors for microbial inactivation. Novelty impact statement: This review discussed the principle, equipment, and process mechanism of cold plasma. The mechanism of microbial inactivation by cold plasma was summarized. Also, the effect of cold plasma on factors including food composition, pH, water activity, microorganism type, and enzyme inactivation was explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical signals are generated and transmitted through plants in response to stimuli caused by external environment factors, such as touching, luminosity, and leaf burning. By analyzing a specific plant's electrical responses, it is possible to interpret the impact of external aspects in the plasma membrane potential and, thus, determine the cause of the electrical signal. Moreover, these signals permit the whole plant structure to be informed almost instantaneously. This work presents a brief discussion of plants electrophysiology theory and low-cost signal conditioning circuits, which are necessary for the acquisition of plants' electrical signals. Two signal conditioning circuits, which must be chosen depending on the signal to be measured, are explained in detail and electrical simulation results, performed in OrCAD Capture Software are presented. Furthermore, Monte Carlo simulations were performed to evaluate the impact of components variations on the accuracy and efficiency of the signal conditioning circuits. Those simulations showed that, even after possible component variations, the filters' cut-off frequencies had at most 4% variation from the mean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy Ion Beam Probing (HIBP) diagnostic is a powerful tool for electric field studies in the hot dense plasma of modern-day toroidal magnetic confinement devices. On the TUMAN-3M tokamak, the HIBP have been used in regimes with improved plasma confinement to clear up the role of the radial electric field in the transition to good confinement regimes. Recently, a modernization of the TUMAN-3M HIBP diagnostics was performed, aiming to reconfigure it for a work with a reversed plasma current direction and improvement of the overall stability of the diagnostic. The results of the first measurements of the plasma potential in the co-NBI scenario are reported and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aβ oligomers (AβO) are a dominant biomarker for early Alzheimer's disease diagnosis. A fluorescent aptasensor coupled with conformational switch–induced hybridization was established to detect AβO. The fluorescent aptasensor is based on the interaction of fluorophore-labeled AβO-specific aptamer (FAM-Apt) against its partly complementary DNA sequence on the surface of magnetic beads (cDNA-MBs). Once the FAM-Apt binds to AβO, the conformational switch of FAM-Apt increases the tendency to be captured by cDNA-MBs. This causes a descending fluorescence of supernatant, which can be utilized to determine the levels of AβO. Thus, the base-pair matching above 12 between FAM-Apt and cDNA-MBs with increasing hybridizing free energies reached the ascending fluorescent signal equilibrium. The optimized aptasensor showed linearity from 1.7 ng mL−1 to 85.1 (R = 0.9977) with good recoveries (79.27–109.17%) in plasma. Furthermore, the established aptasensor possesses rational selectivity in the presence of monomeric Aβ, fibrotic Aβ, and interferences. Therefore, the developed aptasensor is capable of quantifying AβO in human plasma and possesses the potential to apply in clinical cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold plasma is a novel nonthermal technology that has been used for preserving and maintaining the quality of food materials. Researchers developed numerous cold plasma equipment to study the effect of plasma on food materials; however, the degree of processing such as flow of plasma species from the source of plasma to the food material and their interaction/diffusion into the food, differs with respect to the equipment. The computational study can simulate the flow dynamics of plasma which in turn can improve the efficiency of processing and design aspects. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is the most reliable, cost-effective, and robust numerical tool used for simulating various high-end food processing technologies. In cold plasma processing, computational study aids in revealing the distribution of reactive species and their flow dynamics on the target surface. As CFD studies on plasma interaction with food materials are not available, this review is focused on covering the basics of using CFD in cold plasma simulation. It also explores the significant use of CFD in cold plasma simulation in various sectors along with its possible and futuristic applications in food processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Postmenopausal women with osteoporosis (PMOP) are prone to fragility fractures. Osteoporosis is associated with alterations in the levels of specific circulating metabolites. Objectives: To analyze the metabolic profile of individuals with PMOP and identify novel metabolites associated with bone mineral density (BMD). Methods: We performed an unsupervised metabolomics analysis of plasma samples from participants with PMOP and of normal controls (NC) with normal bone mass. BMD values for the lumber spine and the proximal femur were determined using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Principal component analysis (PCA) and supervised partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were performed for metabolomic profile analyses. Metabolites with P < 0.05 in the t-test, VIP > 1 in the PLS-DA model, and SNR > 0.3 between the PMOP and NC groups were defined as differential abundant metabolites (DAMs). The SHapley additive explanations (SHAP) method was utilized to determine the importance of permutation of each DAM in the predictive model between the two groups. ROC analysis and correlation analysis of metabolite relative abundance and BMD/T-scores were conducted. KEGG pathway analysis was used for functional annotation of the candidate metabolites. Results: Overall, 527 annotated molecular markers were extracted in the positive and negative total ion chromatogram (TIC) of each sample. The PMOP and NC groups could be differentiated using the PLS-DA model. Sixty-eight DAMs were identified, with most relative abundances decreasing in the PMOP samples. SHAP was used to identify 9 DAM metabolites as factors distinguishing PMOP from NC. The logistic regression model including Triethanolamine, Linoleic acid, and PC(18:1(9Z)/18:1(9Z)) metabolites demonstrated excellent discrimination performance (sensitivity = 97.0, specificity = 96.6, AUC = 0.993). The correlation analysis revealed that the abundances of Triethanolamine, PC(18:1(9Z)/18:1(9Z)), 16-Hydroxypalmitic acid, and Palmitic acid were significantly positively correlated with the BMD/T score (Pearson correlation coefficients > 0.5, P < 0.05). Most candidate metabolites were involved in lipid metabolism based on KEGG functional annotations. Conclusion: The plasma metabolomic signature of PMOP patients differed from that of healthy controls. Marker metabolites may help provide information for the diagnosis, therapy, and prevention of PMOP. We highlight the application of feature selection approaches in the analysis of high-dimensional biological data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the interaction potential of dense plasma particles, which takes into account the effect of quantum non‐locality as well as electronic correlations, was used to solve the Schrödinger equation for the hydrogen atom. Energies of bound states were calculated. The results obtained are in good agreement with the results of other authors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the relevant tasks of nuclear power industry is the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel. Such processing implies the separation of actinides from uranium fission products. One of the processing methods can be plasma mass separation. In the last 10 years, research aimed at the development of various aspects related to plasma mass separation has been actively conducted at the Joint Institute for High Temperatures of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The article provides an overview of the main results of these studies in four areas: numerical calculations and analysis of separation schemes; generation of background plasma and formation of plasma potential distribution; plasma source for injection of a mixture of separated substances; and demonstration of the model substances separation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Neurofilament light in plasma is a potential biomarker of central nervous system involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus" published in the Journal of Neurology. The correction states that there was an error in Table 4 of the original article, specifically regarding the inclusion of SLEDAI NP items. The mistake was due to incorrect scoring of patients with neuropsychiatric manifestations in the SLEDAI. The corrected version of Table 4 is provided in the correction notice. The authors apologize for the oversight. [Extracted from the article]

Without the Fluorinert solution and proper pad design, the high–voltage (HV) transistor used during the DC breakdown voltage (Vbk) measurement might be damaged by the partial discharge (PD) in the air if its Vbk is close to one thousand volts or more. From the waveform measurement, the PD in the air occurred at 650 V HV GaN HEMTs during the Vbk measurement, it is ignited by the unipolar arc, and it is not ignited by the avalanche breakdown. This is based on the fact that the current falls below zero ampere to become a negative current, and the voltage rises so that it is higher than the setting voltage of the DC meter at the onset of the PD, thus corresponding with the electrons, leaving the plasma to cathode, and enabling a build–in potential to exist in the plasma. Then, the PD ignites because the current starts to rise in order to allow for a positive spike current; the voltage level subsequently falls and a lower voltage reading is obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a neutrophil-derived pro-inflammatory protein, co-localizes with amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Anti-dementia treatment may facilitate efflux of Aβ and associated plaque proteins from the brain to the peripheral circulation, therefore providing potential biomarkers for the monitoring of donor response to drug treatment.Objective: We investigated the diagnostic utility of MPO as a biomarker of AD, and how anti-dementia treatment alters plasma MPO concentration.Methods: Thirty-two AD patients were recruited, and plasma collected pre-drug administration (baseline), and 1- and 6-months post-treatment. All patients received cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs). At baseline and 6 months, patients underwent neuropsychological assessment. Forty-nine elderly healthy individuals with normal cognitive status served as controls. Plasma MPO concentration was measured by ELISA.Results: AD drug naïve patients had similar plasma MPO concentration to their control counterparts (p > 0.05). Baseline MPO levels positively correlated with Neuropsychiatric Inventory score (r = 0.5080; p = 0.011) and carer distress (r = 0.5022; p = 0.012). Following 1-month ChEI treatment, 84.4% of AD patients exhibited increased plasma MPO levels (p < 0.001), which decreased at 6 months (p < 0.001). MPO concentration at 1 month was greatest in AD patients whose memory deteriorated during the study period (p = 0.028), and for AD patients with deterioration in Cornell assessment score (p = 0.044).Conclusion: Whereas baseline MPO levels did not differentiate between healthy and AD populations, baseline MPO positively correlated with initial Neuropsychiatric Inventory evaluation. Post-treatment, transient MPO upregulation in ChEI-treated patients may reflect worse therapeutic outcome. Further studies are required to assess the potential of plasma MPO as an AD therapeutic biomarker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mass separation of chemical element mixtures is a relevant task for numerous applications in the nuclear power industry. One of the promising approaches to solve this problem is plasma mass separation. In a recent study, the efficiency of plasma mass separation in a configuration with a potential well and a homogeneous magnetic field was experimentally demonstrated. This article examines the possibility of increasing the distance between the deposition regions of charged particles with different masses by varying the profile of the electric field potential. Such correlation can be considered as the control in a system of active particles. A cylindrical coordinate system is used. The electric field is axially symmetrical, and the magnetic field is directed along the axis of the symmetry. The corresponding mathematical problem was solved in a general way. The criteria for increasing the distance between the deposition areas of the "light" and "heavy" components of the mixture have been formulated. A high sensitivity of particle trajectories to the electric field potential in the region of the pericentres of the trajectories of charged particles was detected. Recommendations for the practical implementation of the optimal spatial separation of ion fluxes are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review comes at the time when ALMA successfully obtained the first regular observations of both a prominence and a filament. These observations have a spatial resolution of 1-2 arcsec, far better than previous prominence observations in the mm/sub-mm radio domain. The achieved resolution is compatible with the cotemporal ground-based coronagraphic observations in the hydrogen Hα line that accompany the ALMA Band 3 prominence observations. A core part of this review is the description and analysis of these pioneering ALMA observations of a quiescent prominence, focusing on various physical and geometrical properties of the observed prominence fine structures. We also summarize the basic physical processes behind the formation of mm/sub-mm continua under prominence conditions and describe the plasma diagnostics potential of ALMA solar observations. Finally, we discuss future prospects of ALMA prominence observations and the value of coordinated optical and UV spectra and images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structure was considered of the plasma column in the L-2M stellarator under different discharge conditions. The structure of perturbations was analyzed using a set of electrostatic (Langmuir) and magnetic probes spaced in the toroidal and poloidal directions. Time evolutions were analyzed of disturbances of the magnetic and electric fields in shots with short-duration transport transitions, and the data obtained before and after the transient processes was compared. Based on the spectral analysis of correlations between the signals, it was concluded that during the transient processes in plasma, the frequency and spatial structure of the modes changes. The high coherence between the fluctuations of the magnetic and electric fields observed before the transition suggests that, before the transition, the currents excited at the edge rational magnetic surfaces of the stellarator excite plasma fluctuations that results in the escape of electrons and occurrence of positive plasma potential. A decrease in turbulence occurring after the transition results in the reduction of electrons escape and drop of the positive potential. It was ascertained that during the discharge, plasma potential is positive, and during the transport transition, a decrease in the potential amplitude is observed. After the transition, two effects can arise: the improvement of electron confinement and a sharp increase in the ion loss at the plasma edge. The improvement of electron confinement can be associated with a decrease in fluctuations, while the rapid escape of ions can occur due to the effect of plasma–wall interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microRNAs (miRNAs) are potential biomarkers for complex pathologies due to their involvement in the regulation of several pathways. Alzheimer Disease (AD) requires new biomarkers in minimally invasive samples that allow an early diagnosis. The aim of this work is to study miRNAS as potential AD biomarkers and their role in the pathology development. In this study, participants (n = 46) were classified into mild cognitive impairment due to AD (MCI-AD, n = 19), preclinical AD (n = 8) and healthy elderly controls (n = 19), according to CSF biomarkers levels (amyloid β42, total tau, phosphorylated tau) and neuropsychological assessment. Then, plasma miRNAomic expression profiles were analysed by Next Generation Sequencing. Finally, the selected miRNAs were validated by quantitative PCR (q-PCR). A panel of 11 miRNAs was selected from omics expression analysis, and 8 of them were validated by q-PCR. Individually, they did not show statistically significant differences among participant groups. However, a multivariate model including these 8 miRNAs revealed a potential association with AD for three of them. Specifically, relatively lower expression levels of miR-92a-3p and miR-486-5p are observed in AD patients, and relatively higher levels of miR-29a-3p are observed in AD patients. These biomarkers could be involved in the regulation of pathways such as synaptic transmission, structural functions, cell signalling and metabolism or transcription regulation. Some plasma miRNAs (miRNA-92a-3p, miRNA-486-5p, miRNA-29a-3p) are slightly dysregulated in AD, being potential biomarkers of the pathology. However, more studies with a large sample size should be carried out to verify these results, as well as to further investigate the mechanisms of action of these miRNAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In both humans and cats, pancreatic carcinoma is an aggressive cancer with a grave prognosis. Proteomics techniques have successfully identified several blood‐based biomarkers of human pancreatic neoplasia. Thus, this study aims to investigate whether similar biomarkers can be identified in the plasma of cats with FePAC by using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). To facilitate evaluation of the low abundance plasma proteome, a human‐based immunodepletion device (MARS‐2) was first validated for use with feline plasma. Marked reduction and/or complete removal of albumin and immunoglobulins was confirmed by analysis of electrophoretograms and mass spectral data. Subsequently, plasma collected from 9 cats with pancreatic carcinoma (FePAC), 10 cats with symptomatic pancreatitis, and 10 healthy control cats was immunodepleted and subjected to LC–MS/MS. Thirty‐seven plasma proteins were found to be differentially expressed (p <.05 in one‐way ANOVA, FC >2 in fold change analysis). Among these proteins, ETS variant transcription factor 4 (p <.05) was overexpressed, while gelsolin (p <.01), tryptophan 2,3‐dioxygenase (p <.05), serpin family F member 1 (p <.01), apolipoprotein A‐IV (p <.01) and phosphatidylinositol‐glycan‐specific phospholipase D (p <.05) were down‐regulated in cats with FePAC. Further studies on these potential biomarkers are needed to investigate their diagnostic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By solving the current balance equations, the effect of the supra-thermal electrons on the surface potential of a negatively charged dust particle in a fusion plasma is studied based on the orbital motion limited theory. A non-Maxwellian plasma is modeled by employing a q-non-extensive velocity distribution, where a decreased q-parameter (q < 1) yields increased population of supra-thermal electrons. It is found that with the decrease in the q-parameter, the surface potentials of tungsten and carbon dust particles become more negative. When the ion temperature or ion flow velocity is increased, the dust surface potential changes non-monotonically, which is first decreasing and then increasing. For a small q-parameter, the non-monotonic variation is more pronounced and the minimum value of surface potential moves toward higher values of the ion temperature or ion flow velocity. Due to the dependence of the dust particle surface potential on the supra-thermal electrons, the increased proportion of supra-thermal electrons causes the increase in the ion drag force and the decrease in the dust particle lifetime. Here, lifetime refers to the time taken for the dust surface temperature to increase from its initial value to the sublimation temperature (for carbon) or the melting temperature (for tungsten). The decrease in lifetime caused by supra-thermal electrons is significant as the dust particle radius is increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virial relations are traditionally considered as providing the diamagnetic parameter, poloidal beta β p , and internal inductance ℓ i through the integrals determined by the plasma shape and poloidal magnetic field at the plasma–vacuum interface. This gives rise to discussions of their potential applications for diagnostic purposes. Recently, this concept was analyzed in the numerical study of Bongard et al. [Phys. Plasmas 23, 072508 (2016)]. Here, we analytically calculate three main virial integrals (traditionally denoted as S 1 , S 2 , and S 3 ) for the plasma with elliptical cross section. The results are expressed through the plasma elongation, its radial derivative, and a similar derivative Δ ′ of the Shafranov shift, all taken at the plasma boundary. The geometry of magnetic surfaces inside is not constrained, which guaranties the applicability of the results in a wide area. It is shown that S 1 must be a constant, S 3 weakly depends on ℓ i , and only S 2 is a sensitive function of the plasma state through Δ ′. This makes S 2 the quantity most suitable for diagnostics, while independence of S 1 on the plasma shape, β p , and ℓ i can be good for calibrations. The difficulties of inferring ℓ i from the measured S 3 are now shown explicitly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MicroRNA (miRNA) plays an important role in the control of gene expression and is implied in many biological functions, including embryo implantation and development. The aim was to assess plasma miRNA profiles during the periimplantation and ascertain potential candidate miRNA markers for early pregnancy diagnosis in ovine plasma. The plasma samples were obtained from a total of 24 ewes on days 12 (pre-implantation; P12, n = 4), 16 (implantation; P16, n = 4) and 22 (post-implantation; P22, n = 4) after mating, and on their corresponding days of 12 (Pre-C; C12, n = 4), 16 (Imp- C; C16, n = 4) and 22 (Post-C; C22, n = 4) of the estrous cycle. The miRNA profiles in plasma were assessed by microarray technology. We detected the presence of 60 ovine-specific miRNAs in plasma samples. Of these miRNAs, 22 demonstrated a differential expression pattern, especially between the estrous cycle and early pregnancy, and targeted 521 genes. Two miRNAs (oar-miR-218a and oar-miR-1185-3p) were confirmed using RT-qPCR in the ovine plasma samples. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of target genes established six functional modules, of which modules 1 and 3 were enriched in the common GO terms, such as inflammatory response, defense response, and regulation of immune response. In contrast, module 2 was enriched in the developmental process involved in reproduction, embryo development, embryonic morphogenesis, and regulation of the developmental process. The results indicate that miRNAs profiles of plasma seemed to be modulated during the peri-implantation stage of pregnancy in ewes. Circulating miRNAs could be promising candidates for diagnosis in early ovine pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As low-temperature plasma plays an important role in semiconductor manufacturing, plasma diagnostics have been widely employed to understand changes in plasma according to external control parameters, which has led to the achievement of appropriate plasma conditions normally termed the process window. During plasma etching, shifts in the plasma conditions both within and outside the process window can be observed; in this work, we utilized various plasma diagnostic tools to investigate the causes of these shifts. Cutoff and emissive probes were used to measure the electron density and plasma potential as indicators of the ion density and energy, respectively, that represent the ion energy flux. Quadrupole mass spectrometry was also used to show real-time changes in plasma chemistry during the etching process, which were in good agreement with the etching trend monitored via in situ ellipsometry. The results show that an increase in the ion energy flux and a decrease in the fluorocarbon radical flux alongside an increase in the input power result in the breaking of the process window, findings that are supported by the reported SiO2 etch model. By extending the SiO2 etch model with rigorous diagnostic measurements (or numerous diagnostic methods), more intricate plasma processing conditions can be characterized, which will be beneficial in applications and industries where different input powers and gas flows can make notable differences to the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The aim of the current paper is to introduce technology for the generation of high‐power density surface plasma by a diffuse coplanar surface barrier discharge (DCSBD) plasma unit. The diffuse and uniform plasma generated in low‐cost gases such as open air enables easy integration into novel or existing roll‐to‐roll (R2R) lines. We briefly discuss the history of the development of dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs) toward the most advanced plasma sources based on the coplanar arrangement of electrodes. Moreover, we present and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the effect of volume and coplanar DBD treatments performed in R2R mode on the surface of polyamide. The paper also discusses the potential of R2R plasma treatments for next‐generation applications of novel flexible and printed electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excitation of toroidicity-induced Alfvén eigenmodes (TAEs) using prescribed external electromagnetic perturbations (hereafter ‘antenna’) acting on a confined toroidal plasma, as well as its nonlinear couplings to other modes in the system, is studied. The antenna is described by an electrostatic potential resembling the target TAE mode structure along with its corresponding parallel electromagnetic potential computed from Ohm’s law. Numerically stable long-time linear simulations are achieved by integrating the antenna within the framework of a mixed representation and pullback scheme (Mishchenko et al 2019 Comput. Phys. Commun. 238 194). By decomposing the plasma electromagnetic potential into symplectic and Hamiltonian parts and using Ohm’s law, the destabilizing contribution of the potential gradient parallel to the magnetic field is cancelled in the equations of motion. Besides evaluating the frequencies and the growth/damping rates of excited modes compared to referenced TAEs, we study the interaction of antenna-driven modes with fast particles and indicate their margins of instability. Furthermore, we show the first nonlinear simulations in the presence of a TAE-like antenna exciting other TAE modes, as well as global Alfvén eigenmodes with different toroidal wave numbers from that of the antenna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comparison between the Maxwell demon and a planar electrode has been revisited with an in-depth analysis of whether the angular momentum trap of the Maxwell demon indeed provides better energy selectivity than a small planar electrode that absorbs electrons indiscriminately. The evolutions of the EEDF under the influence of these heating techniques is directly analyzed, as well as the resultant plasma parameters. Experimental results show that the Maxwell demon indeed provides better energy selectivity as shown by its better retention of hot electrons than an indiscriminative absorption surface, which in turn results in smaller disturbance to the plasma potential a smaller reduction of the plasma density in the heating process. Experimental result also shows no electron heating when the demon is replaced by an ion-sheath forming large electrode, this is consistent with Mackenzie’s original results (MacKenzie et al 1971 App. Phys. Lett. 18 529). While it is possible to obtain the exact same plasma parameters replacing the Maxwell demon with a suitably sized planar plate and additional plasma parameters control, for experiments sensitive to the exact processes from which plasma parameters are formed, one should not overlook the physical differences of these heating methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite therapeutic improvements in recent years, breast cancer remains an often fatal disease. In addition, breast cancer ulceration may occur during late stages, further complicating therapeutic or palliative interventions. In the past decade, a novel technology received significant attention in the medical field: gas plasma. This topical treatment relies on the partial ionization of gases that simultaneously produce a plethora of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS). Such local ROS/RNS overload inactivates tumour cells in a non‐necrotic manner and was recently identified to induce immunogenic cancer cell death (ICD). ICD promotes dendritic cell maturation and amplifies antitumour immunity capable of targeting breast cancer metastases. Gas plasma technology was also shown to provide additive toxicity in combination with radio and chemotherapy and re‐sensitized drug‐resistant breast cancer cells. This work outlines the assets of gas plasma technology as a novel tool for targeting breast cancer by summarizing the action of plasma devices, the roles of ROS, signalling pathways, modes of cell death, combination therapies and immunological consequences of gas plasma exposure in breast cancer cells in vitro, in vivo, and in patient‐derived microtissues ex vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The atmospheric pulsed dielectric barrier discharges have been studied extensively for their huge potential in plasma applications. In this paper, a comprehensive study of discharge characteristics in atmospheric He and CO2 discharges driven by pulsed voltages is carried out by experimental measurements and numerical simulation. The computational data indicate that during a plateau phase in the pulsed CO2 discharge, a strong electric field of 2.6 kV/cm always sustains to drive the heavy ions of CO 2 + and CO 3 − to the surfaces of dielectric material, forming a discharge current density of about 2.5 mA / c m 2 . The experimental measurements and simulation data show that the duration of the plateau phase has a significant influence on the discharge characteristics of pulsed CO2 discharges but only slightly affects on the discharge evolution in pulsed He discharge. By increasing the duration of the plateau phase, the surface charges accumulated on the dielectric materials are also enhanced, and then, a stronger induced electric field is established in the discharge region, resulting in a larger discharge current density during the pulse fall phase, which is not observed in the pulsed He discharge. In this study, the different discharge behaviors of pulsed He and CO2 discharges are compared in detail, which can enhance the understanding of the underpinning discharge physics, suggesting the optimized ways to utilize pulsed discharges with various plasma-forming gases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The atmospheric pulsed dielectric barrier discharges have been studied extensively for their huge potential in plasma applications. In this paper, a comprehensive study of discharge characteristics in atmospheric He and CO2 discharges driven by pulsed voltages is carried out by experimental measurements and numerical simulation. The computational data indicate that during a plateau phase in the pulsed CO2 discharge, a strong electric field of 2.6 kV/cm always sustains to drive the heavy ions of CO 2 + and CO 3 − to the surfaces of dielectric material, forming a discharge current density of about 2.5 mA / c m 2 . The experimental measurements and simulation data show that the duration of the plateau phase has a significant influence on the discharge characteristics of pulsed CO2 discharges but only slightly affects on the discharge evolution in pulsed He discharge. By increasing the duration of the plateau phase, the surface charges accumulated on the dielectric materials are also enhanced, and then, a stronger induced electric field is established in the discharge region, resulting in a larger discharge current density during the pulse fall phase, which is not observed in the pulsed He discharge. In this study, the different discharge behaviors of pulsed He and CO2 discharges are compared in detail, which can enhance the understanding of the underpinning discharge physics, suggesting the optimized ways to utilize pulsed discharges with various plasma-forming gases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to identify potential plasma biomarkers for hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related liver diseases. High‐throughput transcriptome sequencing analysis was performed on five patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), five patients with HBV‐associated liver fibrosis/liver cirrhosis (LF/LC), and four healthy participants. By short time‐series expression miner and functional analysis, aquaporin 1 (AQP1), dystroglycan 1 (DAG1), and hemoglobin subunit beta (HBB) were identified as potential biomarkers. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the expression levels of AQP1, DAG1, and HBB were upregulated in the three groups. Subsequent enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay tests on the training cohort (n = 150) indicated that the plasma levels of AQP1 and DAG1 were highest in LF/LC patients, followed by those in CHB patients, and the lowest in healthy controls. APAD model, a diagnostic panel incorporating age, platelet, AQP1, and DAG1 levels, exhibited the strongest stratification ability to distinguish LF/LC patients from CHB patients, and to differentiate CHB patients from healthy controls. Furthermore, the diagnostic accuracies of the biomarkers and APAD model were verified in an independent cohort consisting of 230 participants. In conclusion, both AQP1 and DAG1 have good diagnostic values and APAD model greatly enhances the diagnostic accuracy for HBV‐related hepatic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long term deposition of aluminum oxide by reactive magnetron sputtering results in a drift of the discharge voltage. A similar drift of the floating potential is observed. The latter observation is further investigated and it is shown that the change of the floating potential can be linked to a change of the electric properties of the vacuum chamber walls. Optimization of the floating potential probe is performed to use the difference between the discharge voltage and the floating potential as a parameter for process control. The best results were obtained with a planar probe sufficiently far positioned opposite to the magnetron, and close enough to the chamber wall facing the magnetron. This choice can be understood in terms of the ability of the probe to sense the discharge while being protected from deposition. The usage of the aforementioned difference to control the process is demonstrated with the measurement of process curves, more specifically IV-characteristics and hysteresis experiments. The shown reproducibility of these measurements opens a pathway for more precise quantification of reactive sputter deposition simulations and enhanced process control. • Compensation of the voltage drift due to oxide deposition onto chamber walls. • Correct measurement of the process curves for reactive sputtering. • Optimization of the floating potential probe design and positioning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of different pH incubation values and K+ on yeast plasma membrane potential (PMP) were studied both by the fluorescence changes and the accumulation of thioflavin T (ThT), a method that has been shown most adequate for both procedures. By the changes in fluorescence of ThT, the qualitative observation of PMP at the 3 evaluated pHs indicated that cells at pH 4.0 maintain a PMP lower, but close to the observed at pH 6.0 and 7.0. By measuring the accumulation of ThT and applying the Nernst equation on the different concentrations in and out, the values of PMP could also be estimated at the different pHs, resulting in values in mV, in agreement with our observations by following the fluorescence. Yeast cells at their native niches, or during fermentations must cope with low pHs, so the importance to maintain a robust PMP to survive. The contribution of bicarbonate, derived from the fermentation to the establishment of the PMP is also described. The experiments showed once more the efficacy of the methods used with this dye. [Display omitted] • Yeast Plasma Membrane Potential (PMP) was estimated by the accumulation of Thioflavin T. • Significant PMP values were found at low pH. • Bicarbonate from fermentation contributes to the yeast PMP. • Yeast keep robust PMP at low pH to survive in natural environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Exosomal miRNAs from plasma in O. viverrini -associated CCA via NGS. • miR-192–5p was upregulated in both CCA and O. viverrini. • miR-194–5p was upregulated in O. viverrini but downregulated in CCA. • Combining miR-192–5p and miR-194–5p could be biomarkers for screening CCA. Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a life-threatening disease that impacts patients worldwide. In Southeast Asian countries, the liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini plays a major role in inducing carcinogenesis of the bile ducts. Due to its asymptomatic nature, O. viverrini infections are rarely treated, consequently leading to the development of advanced stages of CCA before diagnosis. Despite the current use of exosomal microRNAs (miRNA) as diagnostic biomarkers for the early detection of many types of cancer, the applications for miRNA remain limited with CCA. Circulating exosomes, membranous vesicles essential for intercellular communication, were found to contain unique miRNA. In this study, we conducted next-generation sequencing (Ion Torrent PGM) and bioinformatics to characterize and compare the contents of exosomal miRNA derived from the plasma of CCA patients, O. viverrini -infected patients, and healthy individuals, as well as to identify and validate key molecules as markers for screening the diagnosis of CCA and O. viverrini infection. The obtained results showed the success of using NGS technology in discovering exosomal miRNAs, specifically miR-194–5p and miR-192–5p, both of which were upregulated in the O. viverrini -infected group. Interestingly, miR-192–5p was upregulated while miR-194–5p was downregulated in CCA, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers for screening CCA and O. viverrini infection, especially in O. viverrini -endemic areas. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging pharmaceutical micropollutant: ampicillin-degradation in water using atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJs) is examined, and its environmental impact is evaluated. To this end, comprehensive plasma characterization techniques, including electrical and optical analyses, are used, to supplement existing research that primarily focused on degradation outcomes. The results of these techniques provide deeper insights into the degradation process. Additionally, the solution properties are assessed by examining the treated liquids and quantifying the corresponding hydrogen peroxide and nitrite concentrations, clarifying the role of reactive species in the degradation process. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis provides essential insights into degradation kinetics and rate constants. A comprehensive framework is developed for understanding the degradation of ampicillin by APPJs, combining plasma diagnostics, solution characterization, chemical assays, degradation kinetics, and toxicity analysis. Our study, grounded in these multidisciplinary approaches, contributes to both the fundamental understanding of plasma-based degradation and optimization of plasma plume length. Our findings highlight the potential of plasma jet technologies in addressing pharmaceutical pollution and promoting sustainable wastewater management practices. This research can advance efforts to enhance the efficiency of pharmaceutical waste treatment, ultimately safeguarding the health and well-being of aquatic ecosystems and human populations. [Display omitted] • Longer atmospheric pressure plasma jet (J L) offers enhanced treatment efficiency. • J L can promote green management of pharmaceutical waste. • J L treatment shows minimize energy consumption, promoting economic viability. • J L treatment demonstrates minimal toxicity, ensuring effective ampicillin removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomarkers that give quantifiable information about disease development are valuable diagnostic indicators providing opportunities to thwart adverse outcomes through timely detection and initiation of countermeasures. Whereas human medicine already relies extensively on biomarker analysis, their application in the diagnostics of fish diseases is still at a tentative beginning. However, the increased utilisation of broad-range analytical approaches such as untargeted proteomics enhances the chances to discover changes in the levels of proteins, which are connected to fish health and could serve as novel biomarkers. In the present study, proteomic analysis accompanied by biostatistical data processing was employed with the aim of identifying plasma biomarker candidates for the onset of heart and skeletal muscle inflammation (HSMI) caused by Piscine orthoreovirus (PRV)-1 infection in Atlantic salmon. HSMI is a common viral disease and threat to fish welfare and productivity in Norwegian aquaculture, so that the early detection of HSMI development would allow a timely intervention to limit the damage. In the search for biomarker candidates, salmon plasma was sampled five and eight weeks after a PRV-1 cohabitation challenge experiment and from adequate control fish, and analysed by mass spectrometry-based proteomics. The proteome dataset contained 695 proteins with >90% probability of correct identification according to the set cut-off criteria for peptide quality. Time- and condition-related differences in protein abundance levels were revealed by multivariate analysis. Comparison of the proteins identified as significant using three different biostatistical models resulted in a short list of four potential biomarkers: galectin-3-binding protein (Gal-3BP), fucolectin-6, urokinase plasminogen activator surface receptor and ryanodine receptor 3. The physiological functions described for these proteins in mammals designate them as interesting indicators of inflammatory diseases also in other species, such as PRV-1 pathogenesis in salmon. In situ -hybridisation targeting Gal-3BP and PRV-1 mRNA in heart tissue sections from the same challenge trial showed a significant upregulation of Gal-3BP mRNA in infected salmon hearts as compared to controls, supporting the findings of the proteomic analysis and suggesting a role in the onset of heart- and skeletal muscle inflammation. • PRV-1 infection and HSMI affect the plasma proteome of Atlantic salmon. • Biostatistics revealed significant time- and condition-related proteome changes. • Four potential biomarkers for the onset of HSMI were identified. • Relevance of galectin-3-binding protein was confirmed by in situ -hybridisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urbanization has instigated a high demand for nutritious, high-quality products that meet rigorous safety standards and have an extended shelf life. This increasing demand has stirred research on the development of innovative food preservation techniques that can effectively replace rigorous thermal treatments such as sterilization and pasteurization. In response to this challenge, non-thermal techniques such as cold plasma and pulsed light are gaining attention as promising solutions to enhance the shelf-life of processed foods. In this article, we reviewed studies focusing on the germicidal efficacy of cold plasma and its effect on the nutritional and organoleptic characteristics of food products. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanism and diverse applications of the cold plasma technique within the food processing sector. It has been observed that cold plasma offers multifaceted applications in food packaging, elimination of pesticides and food allergens, enhancement of antimicrobial activity, surface decontamination, and equipment disinfection. Cold plasma can be effectively used individually or as a hurdle to improve the efficiency of any preservation technique. It can be concluded that cold plasma has the potential to reshape and revolutionize food preservation practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore potential novel plasma protein biomarkers for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). A plasma proteomics analysis was carried out and candidate protein biomarkers were validated in 102 LUAD cases and 102 matched healthy controls. The same LUAD tumor tissues were detected to explore the correlation between the expression of candidate proteins in tissues and plasma and vascular normalization. A LUAD active metastasis mice model was constructed to explore the role of candidate proteins for lung metastasis. GPI and PGD were verified to be upregulated in plasma from LUAD patients, and the expression of GPI in tumor tissue was positively correlated with the expression of GPI in plasma and negatively correlated with the normalization of tumor blood vessels. Meanwhile, a negative correlation between the expression of GPI and PGD in plasma and tumor vascular normalization was discovered. In the LUAD active metastasis model, the lowest levels of vascular normalization and the highest expression of GPI and PGD were found in mice with lung metastases. This study found that GPI and PGD may be potential plasma biomarkers for LUAD, and monitoring those may infer the risk of metastasis and malignancy of the tumor. We identified GPI and PGD as potential novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for LUAD. PGD and GPI can be used as diagnostic biomarkers in combination with other available strategies to assist in the screening and diagnosis of LUAD, and as prognostic biomarkers aid in predict the risk of tumor metastasis and malignancy in patients with LUAD. [Display omitted] • Select plasma proteins with the consistent direction of differential expression in both plasma and tissues. • Maintain the consistency of differential protein expression at the transcriptomic and proteomic levels. • Correlation analysis of various indicators for the same individual to reduce errors. • Construct LUAD active metastasis model to explore possible regulatory mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The remediation of diesel-contaminated soil is a critical environmental concern, driving the need for effective solutions. Recently, the methodology of Non-thermal Atmospheric Plasma (NTAP) technology, which is equipped with a Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) electrode and has become a feasible approach, was proven to be viable. The reactive species from the plasma were exposed to the contaminated soil in this investigation using the NTAP technique. The reacted soil was then extracted using dichloromethane, and the amount of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) removed was assessed. Investigation into varying power levels, treatment durations, and hydrogen peroxide integration revealed significant findings. With an initial concentration of 3086 mg of diesel/kg of soil and a pH of 5.0, 83% of the diesel was removed from the soil at 150 W in under 20 min. Extended exposure to NTAP further improved removal rates, highlighting the importance of treatment duration optimization. Additionally, combining hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) with NTAP enhanced removal efficiency by facilitating diesel breakdown. This synergy offers a promising avenue for comprehensive soil decontamination. Further analysis considered the impact of soil characteristics on removal efficacy. Mechanistically, NTAP generates reactive species that degrade diesel into less harmful compounds, aiding subsequent removal. Overall, NTAP advances environmental restoration efforts by offering a quick, economical, and environmentally benign method of remediating diesel-contaminated soil especially when used in tandem with hydrogen peroxide. [Display omitted] • This study identifies Non-thermal Atmospheric Plasma (NTAP) technology with a DBD electrode as a solution for TPH remediation. • At optimum experimental condition studied, NTAP was able to remove 83% of diesel from soil at a pH level of 5.0. • NTAP with hydrogen peroxide offers a rapid, cost-effective, and eco-friendly method for cleaning diesel-contaminated soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in plasma and fecal metabolomes in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression (normal-adenoma-CRC) remain unclear. Here, plasma and fecal samples were collected from four independent cohorts of 1,251 individuals (422 CRC, 399 colorectal adenoma [CRA], and 430 normal controls [NC]). By metabolomic profiling, signature plasma and fecal metabolites with consistent shift across NC, CRA, and CRC are identified, including CRC-enriched oleic acid and CRC-depleted allocholic acid. Oleic acid exhibits pro-tumorigenic effects in CRC cells, patient-derived organoids, and two murine CRC models, whereas allocholic acid has opposing effects. By integrative analysis, we found that oleic acid or allocholic acid directly binds to α-enolase or farnesoid X receptor-1 in CRC cells, respectively, to modulate cancer-associated pathways. Clinically, we establish a panel of 17 plasma metabolites that accurately diagnoses CRC in a discovery and three validation cohorts (AUC = 0.848–0.987). Overall, we characterize metabolite signatures, mechanistic significance, and diagnostic potential of plasma and fecal metabolomes in CRC. [Display omitted] • Altered plasma and fecal metabolites in CRC and colorectal adenoma are identified • CRC-enriched oleic acid and CRC-depleted allocholic acid are key metabolites in CRC • Metabolites bind to tumor cell receptor to modulate downstream oncogenic pathways • Plasma metabolites are potential diagnostic biomarkers of CRC and adenoma Sun et al. reveal signature plasma and fecal metabolites across colorectal cancer (CRC) progression including CRC-enriched oleic acid and CRC-depleted allocholic acid, and decipher their mechanistic role in colorectal tumorigenesis. Sun et al. also demonstrate the diagnostic potential of plasma metabolites in CRC or adenoma patients from four independent cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of the insulator of a cylindrical Langmuir probe on the results of the plasma potential, electric field, electron energy distributions and their concentration measurements in a discharge in helium at a pressure of 3 mbar maintained by a hollow cathode was studied. The measurements were carried out using moving probes with spatial resolution along the cathode-anode axis. Two probes with the same geometry of the conductive part and different diameters of the insulators were used. It was determined that the effect of the insulator is different for different plasma parameters. An increase in its diameter leads to a decrease in the measured value of plasma potential and to an increase in the electron concentration and the average electron energy. The degree of this influence is different in various regions of inhomogeneous plasma and correlates with the local values of the average electron energy. Under experimental conditions, the differences are maximum near the cathode, weaken as the electron energy decreases with distance from it, and are negligible at average energies less than 1.5 eV. • The influence of the size of the insulator of a cylindrical Langmuir probe on the results of measurements was studied. • The effect of insulator size is found to be different for different plasma parameters. • An increase in the diameter of the insulator leads to a decrease in the measured value of the plasma potential and to an increase in the average energy and concentration of electrons. • The depth of influence of the insulator is different in different regions of the space of an inhomogeneous plasma and correlates with the local values of the average electron energy. • In a hollow cathode discharge, the differences in the parameters measured using probes with widely different insulator sizes are greatest near the cathode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to measure the mediation effect of plasma proteins and to clarify their mediating role in the relationship between stroke risk and particulate matter 2.5 (PM 2.5) exposure. The possible mediating role of plasma proteins on the causative link between PM 2.5 exposure and stroke incidence were examined using a two-step Mendelian randomization (MR) approach based on two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR). The findings revealed a significant positive causal relationship between PM 2.5 exposure and stroke, with an inverse variance weighted odds ratio of 1.219 (95 % CI: 1.002 – 1.482, P < 0.05). Additionally, a positive causal association was identified between PM 2.5 exposure and several plasma proteins, including FAM134B, SAP, ITGB7, Elafin, and DCLK3. Among these, FAM134B, ITGB7, Elafin, and DCLK3 also demonstrated a positive causal association with stroke, whereas only SAP was found to be negatively causally associated with stroke. Remarkably, four plasma proteins, namely DCLK3, FAM134B, Elafin, and ITGB7, were identified as mediators, accounting for substantial proportions (14.5 %, 13.6 %, 11.1 %, and 9.9 %) of the causal association between PM 2.5 and stroke. These results remained robust across various sensitivity analyses. Consequently, the study highlights the significant and independent impact of PM 2.5 on stroke risk and identifies specific plasma proteins as potential targets for preventive interventions against PM 2.5 -induced stroke. [Display omitted] • Significant positive causal relationship found between PM 2.5 exposure and stroke. • Two-step Mendelian randomization shows plasma proteins mediate PM 2.5 -stroke risk link. • LDSC reveals genetic correlation between PM 2.5 and stroke. • Proteins DCLK3, FAM134B, Elafin, ITGB7 mediate PM 2.5 -stroke link significantly. • Identified plasma proteins as potential targets for preventing PM 2.5 -induced stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a Heavy Ion Beam Diagnostic (HIBD), the plasma potential is obtained by measuring the energy of the secondary ions resulting from beam-plasma collisions by an electrostatic energy analyzer with split-plate detector (SPD), which relates the secondary ion beam energy variation to its position determined by the difference in currents between the split plates. Conventionally, the data from SPD are analyzed with the assumption that the secondary beam current is uniform. However, the secondary beam presents an effective projection of the primary beam, the current of which, as a rule, has a bell-like non-uniform profile. This paper presents: (i) the general features of the secondary beam profile formation, considered in the simplistic approximation of the circular primary beam and the secondary ions that emerge orthogonal to the primary beam axis, (ii) details of spit-plate detection and the influence of the secondary beam non-uniformity on plasma potential measurements, (iii) supported experimental data from the tokamak ISTTOK HIBD for primary and secondary beam profiles and the SPD transfer characteristic, obtained for the 90° cylindrical energy analyzer (90° CEA) and (iv) the implementation of a multiple cell array detector (MCAD) with dedicated resolution for the measurements of secondary beam profile and MCAD operation in multi-split-plate detection mode for direct measurements of the SPD transfer characteristic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For low-frequency kHz) plasma electric potential oscillations, measured in two toroidally spaced vertical cross sections of the TJ-II stellarator ( m, m, T) using double heavy ion beam probe diagnostics, long-range correlations are observed, as well as their toroidal and poloidal symmetry . It is shown that long-range correlations do not have a magnetic or density component. Thus, the low-frequency symmetric structures of the electric potential found in the hot plasma area are zonal flows. Their quantitative characteristic is the square coherence coefficient . A two-dimensional map of zonal flows (long-range correlations) in the low-density m–3 regime with ECR heating has been plotted for the first time and their ballooning structure (dominance on the low field side of the vessel) has been found. The decrease in the level of electrostatic turbulence ( kHz) observed in this region is consistent with the theoretically predicted suppression of broadband turbulence due to zonal flows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seminal plasma (SP) plays a crucial role in reproduction and contains a large number of proteins, many of which may potentially modify sperm functionality. To evaluate the effects of SP identity and its protein composition on human sperm function, we treated the sperm of several males with either their own or multiple foreign SPs in all possible sperm–SP combinations (full-factorial design). Then we recorded sperm motility and viability in these combinations and investigated whether the sperm performance is dependent on sperm and SP identity (or their interaction). Finally, we studied whether the above-mentioned sperm traits are affected by the abundance of three SP proteins, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4), neutral endopeptidase (NEP), and aminopeptidase N (APN). The identity of the SP donor affected sperm swimming velocity, viability, and the proportion of hyperactivated sperm, but males' own SP was not consistently more beneficial for sperm than foreign SPs. Furthermore, we show that sperm performance is also partly affected by the interaction between sperm and SP donor. Finally, we found that DPP4 and NEP levels in SP were positively associated with sperm swimming velocity and hyperactivation. Taken together, our results highlight the importance of seminal plasma as a potential source of biomarkers for diagnostics and therapeutic interventions for male-derived infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis has been called the graveyard of pharmaceutical companies due to the numerous failed clinical trials. The lack of tools to monitor the immunological status in sepsis constrains the development of therapies. Here, we evaluated a test based on whole plasma peptidome acquired by MALDI-TOF-mass spectrometer and machine-learning algorithms to discriminate two lipopolysaccharide-(LPS) induced murine models emulating the pro- and anti-inflammatory/immunosuppression environments that can be found during sepsis. The LPS group was inoculated with a single high dose of LPS and the IS group was subjected to increasing doses of LPS, to induce proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory/immunosuppression profiles respectively. The LPS group showed leukopenia and higher levels of cytokines and tissue damage markers, and the IS group showed neutrophilia, lymphopenia and decreased humoral response. Principal component analysis of the plasma peptidomes formed discrete clusters that mostly coincided with the experimental groups. In addition, machine-learning algorithms discriminated the different experimental groups with a sensitivity of 95.7% and specificity of 90.9%. Data reveal the potential of plasma fingerprints analysis by MALDI-TOF-mass spectrometry as a simple, speedy and readily transferrable method for sepsis patient stratification that would contribute to therapeutic decision-making based on their immunological status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]