Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Gravitational Redshift for the Pleiad White Dwarf LB 1497

A new gravitational redshift of +84 ± 9 km s −1 is derived for the white WD 0349+247 in the Pleiades (LB 1497) using the Hale 5 m telescope and the MMT. For a carbon core this translates to a mass of 1.02 M ○. using the Hamada-Salpeter mass-radius relation. The effective temperature is derived from the Hα and Hβ line profiles and is found to be 32,000 ± 1000 K. Using 5.54 mag for the Pleiades distance modulus, this yields log (R/R ○. ) = −2.13 ± 0.03 for the star. This radius combined with the redshift gives 0.98 M ○. for the star's mass
The role of virtual reality as adjunctive therapy to spinal cord stimulation in chronic pain: A feasible concept?

Spinal cord stimulation and virtual reality therapy are established and promising techniques, respectively, for managing chronic pain, each with its unique advantages and challenges. While each therapy has been the subject of significant research interest, the prospect of combining the two modalities to offer a synergistic effect in chronic pain therapy is still in its infancy. In this narrative review, we assess the state of the field combining virtual reality as an adjunctive therapy to spinal cord stimulation in chronic pain. We also review the broader field of virtual reality therapy for acute and chronic pain, considering evidence related to feasibility in the Canadian healthcare system from cost and patient satisfaction perspectives. While early results show promise, there are unexplored aspects of spinal cord stimulation combined with virtual reality therapy, particularly long-term effects on analgesia, anxiolysis, and implications on the effectiveness and longevity of spinal cord stimulation. The infrastructure for billing virtual reality as a consult service or therapy must also catch up if it is eventually used to supplement spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain.
Phase transitions in the layered structure of diguanidinium tetraiodoplumbate

Sterical effects and the coupling between the cationic dynamics and the anionic-supralattice distortions lead to a series of phase transitions in the crystals of diguanidinium tetraiodoplumbate, $[\mathrm{C}({\mathrm{NH}}_{2}{)}_{3}{]}_{2}^{+}\ensuremath{\cdot}{\mathrm{PbI}}_{4}^{2\ensuremath{-}}. $ The crystals have been characterized by dielectric and calorimetric measurements at ambient and high hydrostatic pressures, as well as by single-crystal x-ray and neutron-powder diffraction at varied temperatures. At 287 K the crystal structure is monoclinic, but the strongly corrugated polyanionic sheets approximate the orthorhombic symmetry of the high-temperature phases. Guanidinium cations are enclosed in voids within the polyanions, and in channels between the neighboring sheets. At 0.1 MPa and 307 K the monoclinic phase undergoes a ferroelastic second-order transition to the orthorhombic phase, and at 356 K another continuous transition to the orthorhombic phase with the unit cell reduced four times in volume. The phase diagram reveals an unusual character of the pressure-induced transition with a critical point at 245 K and 270 MPa. Also a triple point at 358 K and 780 MPa has been detected. The mechanisms of the phase transitions have been postulated.
From Sub-Pectoral to Pre-Pectoral Implant Reconstruction: A Decisional Algorithm to Optimise Outcomes of Breast Replacement Surgery

Background: Innovations and advancements with implant-based breast reconstruction, such as the use of ADMs, fat grafting, NSMs, and better implants, have enabled surgeons to now place breast implants in the pre-pectoral space rather than under the pectoralis major muscle. Breast implant replacement surgery in post-mastectomy patients, with pocket conversion from retro-pectoral to pre-pectoral, is becoming increasingly common, in order to solve the drawbacks of retro-pectoral implant positioning (animation deformity, chronic pain, and poor implant positioning). Materials and Methods: A multicentric retrospective study was conducted, considering all patients previously submitted to implant-based post-mastectomy breast reconstruction who underwent a breast implant replacement with pocket conversion procedure at the University Hospital of Udine—Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Department—and “Centro di Riferimento Oncologico” (C.R.O.) of Aviano, from January 2020 to September 2021. Patients were candidates for a breast implant replacement with pocket conversion procedure if they met the following inclusion criteria: they underwent a previous implant-based post-mastectomy breast reconstruction and developed animation deformity, chronic pain, severe capsular contracture, or implant malposition. Patient data included age, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, smoking status, pre- or post-mastectomy radiotherapy (RT), tumour classification, type of mastectomy, previous or ancillary procedures (lipofilling), type and volume of implant used, type of ADM, and post-operative complications (breast infection, implant exposure and malposition, haematoma, or seroma). Results: A total of 31 breasts (30 patients) were included in this analysis. Just three months after surgery, we recorded 100% resolution of the problems for which pocket conversion was indicated, which was confirmed at 6, 9, and 12 months post-operative. We also developed an algorithm describing the correct steps for successful breast-implant pocket conversion. Conclusion: Our results, although only early experience, are very encouraging. We realized that, besides gentle surgical handling, one of the most important factors in proper pocket conversion selection is an accurate pre-operative and intra-operative clinical evaluation of the tissue thickness in all breast quadrants.
Effective Reversal of Macrophage Polarization by Inhibitory Combinations Predicted by a Boolean Protein–Protein Interaction Model

Simple Summary Understanding the effects of the tumor microenvironment is an essential step to advance treatments for cancer, but it is also one that is problematic to reproduce in vitro or study in vivo. When such approaches are difficult to implement, in silico methods are often able to help surmount these barriers. Network models of biological systems focus on the interactions of components (such as proteins or genes) and use available data about the parts of a system to predict emergent qualities. We focused our study on macrophages and how their environment affects their polarization. Thus, we built a Boolean control network model of the early response events going on in macrophages by collating information from a manual search of the literature that interprets the changes in the inner state of the cell. We used this model to simulate combinatorial treatment options that target multiple targets at the same time and have synergistic effects on macrophage polarization. Abstract Background: The function and polarization of macrophages has a significant impact on the outcome of many diseases. Targeting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) is among the greatest challenges to solve because of the low in vitro reproducibility of the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment (TME). To create a more comprehensive model and to understand the inner workings of the macrophage and its dependence on extracellular signals driving polarization, we propose an in silico approach. Methods: A Boolean control network was built based on systematic manual curation of the scientific literature to model the early response events of macrophages by connecting extracellular signals (input) with gene transcription (output). The network consists of 106 nodes, classified as 9 input, 75 inner and 22 output nodes, that are connected by 217 edges. The direction and polarity of edges were manually verified and only included in the model if the literature plainly supported these parameters. Single or combinatory inhibitions were simulated mimicking therapeutic interventions, and output patterns were analyzed to interpret changes in polarization and cell function. Results: We show that inhibiting a single target is inadequate to modify an established polarization, and that in combination therapy, inhibiting numerous targets with individually small effects is frequently required. Our findings show the importance of JAK1, JAK3 and STAT6, and to a lesser extent STK4, Sp1 and Tyk2, in establishing an M1-like pro-inflammatory polarization, and NFAT5 in creating an anti-inflammatory M2-like phenotype. Conclusions: Here, we demonstrate a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network modeling the intracellular signalization driving macrophage polarization, offering the possibility of therapeutic repolarization and demonstrating evidence for multi-target methods.
Formation control of a multi-agent system using non-linear servomechanism

In this brief article we consider the formation control problem of a system of M agents with general non-linear dynamics. We show that the problem of the agents moving in a formation along constant or periodic trajectories can be formulated as a non-linear output regulation (servomechanism) problem and solved using known techniques. Then, we consider the example of formation control of agents with point mass dynamics and apply the procedure. Few illustrative numerical simulation examples are also provided.
Asymptotic Normality and Consistency of the Least Squares Estimators for Families of Linear Regressions

with given constants Xkm and with error random variables Ek that are (a) uncorrelated or (b) independent. Let EEk = 0, 0 < EEk < oo for all k. The individual error distribution functions (d.f.'s) are not assumed to be known, nor need they be identical for all k. They are assumed, however, to be elements of a certain set F of d.f. 's. Consider the family of regressions associated with the family of all the error sequences possible under these restrictions. Then conditions on the set F and on the Xkm are obtained such that the least squares estimators (LSE) of the parameters f1 3, *. * *q are consistent in Case (a) (Theorem 1) or astmptotically normal in Case (b) (Theorem 2) for every regression of the respective families. The motivation for these theorems lies in the fact that under the given assumptions statements based only on the available knowledge must always concern the regression family as a whole. It will be noticed moreover that the conditions of the theorems do not require any knowledge about the particular error sequence occurring in (1.1). Most of the conditions are necessary as well as sufficient, with the consequence that they cannot be improved upon under the limited information assumed to be available about the model. Since the conditions are very mild, the results apply to a large number of actual estimation problems. We denote by f5 (F) the set of all sequences { fk} that occur in the regressions of a family as characterized above. Thus, f5 (F) comprises all sequences of uncorrelated (Case (a)) or independent (Case (b)) random variables whose d.f. 's belong to F but are not necessarily the same from term to term of the sequence. For each G E F the relations fx dG = 0 and 0 < fX2 dG < X hold. In this paper, f5 (F) may be looked upon as a parameter space. A parameter point then is a sequence of i(F). Correspondingly, we say that a statement holds on 5(F) (briefly on F) if it holds for all { EkI E 8 (F). The statements of Theorems 1 and 2 are of this kind. The proof of Theorem 1, as well as the proof of the sufficiency in Theorem
2D non-LTE modeling for axisymmetric winds : Method and test cases

Aims. This paper describes a code which is capable of modeling axisymmetric stellar winds. Methods. At present the code uses a short characteristic technique for the continuum transfer, while bound-bound transitions are treated using the Sobolev approximation. The simultaneous solution of the transfer equations, and the equations of statistical equilibrium, is achieved by a combination of preconditioning and linearization. Results. Extensive tests were performed which show that, in the extreme conditions of gray opacity or spherical symmetry, the code performs similar to other established codes. Simple 2D tests have been undertaken which confirm the performance of the code, and serve to illustrate simple effects that can occur in axisymmetric stellar winds. The code has been designed with flexibility in mind, with the radiation transport section treated, as far as possible, distinctly from the solution of the statistical equilibrium and energy balance equations. This will facilitate the inclusion of other transport solvers, and the treatment of more complex geometries.
Development and efficacy evaluation of remodeled canine parvovirus-like particles displaying major antigenic epitopes of a giant panda derived canine distemper virus

Canine parvovirus (CPV) and Canine distemper virus (CDV) can cause fatal diseases in giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). The main capsid protein of CPV VP2 can be self-assembled to form virus-like particles (VLPs) in vitro, which is of great significance for potential vaccine development. In the present study, we remodeled the VP2 protein of a giant panda-derived CPV, where the major CDV F and N epitopes were incorporated in the N-terminal and loop2 region in two combinations to form chimeric VLPs. The reactivity ability and morphology of the recombinant proteins were confirmed by Western blot, hemagglutination (HA) test and electron microscopy. Subsequently, the immunogenicity of the VLPs was examined in vivo. Antigen-specific antibodies and neutralizing activity were measured by ELISA, hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test and serum neutralization test (SNT), respectively. In addition, antigen specific T cell activation were determined in splenic lymphocytes. The results indicated that the VLPs displayed good reaction with CDV/CPV antibodies, and the heterologous epitopes do not hamper solubility or activity. The VLPs showed decent HA activity, and resembled round-shaped particles with a diameter of 22–26 nm, which is identical to natural virions. VLPs could induce high levels of specific antibodies to CPV and CDV, shown by the indication of neutralizing antibodies in both VP2N and VP2L VLPs group. In addition, splenic lymphocytes of mice immunized with VLPs could proliferate rapidly after stimulation by specific antigen. Taken together, the CPV VP2 VLPs or chimeric VLPs are highly immunogenic, and henceforth could function as CPV/CDV vaccine candidates for giant pandas.
Finite Element Modelling of a Gram-Negative Bacterial Cell and Nanospike Array for Cell Rupture Mechanism Study

Inspired by nature, it is envisaged that a nanorough surface exhibits bactericidal properties by rupturing bacterial cells. In order to study the interaction mechanism between the cell membrane of a bacteria and a nanospike at the contact point, a finite element model was developed using the ABAQUS software package. The model, which saw a quarter of a gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) cell membrane adhered to a 3 × 6 array of nanospikes, was validated by the published results, which show a reasonably good agreement with the model. The stress and strain development in the cell membrane was modeled and were observed to be spatially linear and temporally nonlinear. From the study, it was observed that the bacterial cell wall was deformed around the location of the nanospike tips as full contact was generated. Around the contact point, the principal stress reached above the critical stress leading to a creep deformation that is expected to cause cell rupture by penetrating the nanospike, and the mechanism is envisaged to be somewhat similar to that of a paper punching machine. The obtained results in this project can provide an insight on how bacterial cells of a specific species are deformed when they adhere to nanospikes, and how it is ruptured using this mechanism.
Heavy Metals Accumulation in Lettuce and Cherry
Tomatoes Cultivated in Cities

Vegetables cultivated in cities, carry the risk of absorbing pollutants generated by anthropogenic activities, increasing the health risk of those who consume them. Heavy metal concentrations (As, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb) were analyzed in water, soil and in plant parts of lettuce (roots and leaves) and cherry tomatoes (roots, stem, leaves and tomato fruit) lettuce and cherry tomatoes, cultivated in urban gardens in Mexico City. In none of the studied sites was the heavy metal concentration in the soil above the permitted limits. In irrigation water, Cr surpassed the permitted limit in 5 sites and that of Cd in one site. Ni surpassed the established limit for lettuce and cherry tomato in the rank among 0.7 and 31.15 mg kg -1 in 9 sites, Cr exceeded the allowed limits 1.45-38 mg kg -1 in 11 sites, As go beyond the established limits between 5-52 mg kg -1 in 4 sites and to a lesser extent, Pb was above the allowed limits between 15.5 and 26 mg kg -1 . According to the translocation factor, lettuce and cherry tomato could be an important phytoextractors of Cr and Cd respectively. The compound risk value for lettuce ( TTHQ ) was greater than one in three sites for lettuce and five sites for cherry tomato. Also, in gardens A, D, E and J, the Hazard Index ( HI ) showed a potential risk ( HI >1), which reveals the danger of consuming both vegetables given the conditions of soil, water and air and taking into account all paths of exposure.
Reproductive Suppression Caused by Spermatogenic Arrest: Transcriptomic Evidence from a Non-Social Animal

Reproductive suppression is an adaptive strategy in animal reproduction. The mechanism of reproductive suppression has been studied in social animals, providing an essential basis for understanding the maintenance and development of population stability. However, little is known about it in solitary animals. The plateau zokor is a dominant, subterranean, solitary rodent in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. However, the mechanism of reproductive suppression in this animal is unknown. We perform morphological, hormonal, and transcriptomic assays on the testes of male plateau zokors in breeders, in non-breeders, and in the non-breeding season. We found that the testes of non-breeders are smaller in weight and have lower serum testosterone levels than those of breeders, and the mRNA expression levels of the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and its transcription factors are significantly higher in non-breeder testes. Genes related to spermatogenesis are significantly downregulated in both meiotic and post-meiotic stages in non-breeders. Genes related to the meiotic cell cycle, spermatogenesis, flagellated sperm motility, fertilization, and sperm capacitation are significantly downregulated in non-breeders. Our data suggest that high levels of AMH may lead to low levels of testosterone, resulting in delayed testicular development, and physiological reproductive suppression in plateau zokor. This study enriches our understanding of reproductive suppression in solitary mammals and provides a basis for the optimization of managing this species.
Insertion Depth Modulates Protein Kinase C-δ-C1b Domain Interactions with Membrane Cholesterol as Revealed by MD Simulations

Protein kinase C delta (PKC-δ) is an important signaling molecule in human cells that has both proapoptotic as well as antiapoptotic functions. These conflicting activities can be modulated by two classes of ligands, phorbol esters and bryostatins. Phorbol esters are known tumor promoters, while bryostatins have anti-cancer properties. This is despite both ligands binding to the C1b domain of PKC-δ (δC1b) with a similar affinity. The molecular mechanism behind this discrepancy in cellular effects remains unknown. Here, we have used molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the structure and intermolecular interactions of these ligands bound to δC1b with heterogeneous membranes. We observed clear interactions between the δC1b-phorbol complex and membrane cholesterol, primarily through the backbone amide of L250 and through the K256 side-chain amine. In contrast, the δC1b-bryostatin complex did not exhibit interactions with cholesterol. Topological maps of the membrane insertion depth of the δC1b-ligand complexes suggest that insertion depth can modulate δC1b interactions with cholesterol. The lack of cholesterol interactions suggests that bryostatin-bound δC1b may not readily translocate to cholesterol-rich domains within the plasma membrane, which could significantly alter the substrate specificity of PKC-δ compared to δC1b-phorbol complexes.
When Workers Feel Like Objects: A Field Study on Self-Objectification and Affective Organizational Commitment

Objectification is a form of dehumanization that implies the perception of others as mere objects. The present study aimed to expand research on objectification in the work domain by exploring the relationships between objectifying job features, self-objectification, and affective organizational commitment within a real work setting. Building on previous literature, we hypothesized that the execution of objectifying work activities would be positively related to workers’ tendency to objectify themselves. Further, we expected a decrease in affective organizational commitment as the outcome of these perceptions. A study involving 142 Italian supermarket clerks (75 females) supported our hypotheses. Workers with a low-status job role (i.e., cashiers and salespeople vs. managers) perceived their activities as more objectifying. In turn, this perception heightened their self-objectification, which decreased workers’ commitment towards the organization. Our results enrich the understanding of workplace objectification by also providing relevant insights into the link between social-psychological and organizational processes.
2023 roadmap for potassium-ion batteries

The heavy reliance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has caused rising concerns on the sustainability of lithium and transition metal and the ethic issue around mining practice. Developing alternative energy storage technologies beyond lithium has become a prominent slice of global energy research portfolio. The alternative technologies play a vital role in shaping the future landscape of energy storage, from electrified mobility to the efficient utilization of renewable energies and further to large-scale stationary energy storage. Potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) are a promising alternative given its chemical and economic benefits, making a strong competitor to LIBs and sodium-ion batteries for different applications. However, many are unknown regarding potassium storage processes in materials and how it differs from lithium and sodium and understanding of solid–liquid interfacial chemistry is massively insufficient in PIBs. Therefore, there remain outstanding issues to advance the commercial prospects of the PIB technology. This Roadmap highlights the up-to-date scientific and technological advances and the insights into solving challenging issues to accelerate the development of PIBs. We hope this Roadmap aids the wider PIB research community and provides a cross-referencing to other beyond lithium energy storage technologies in the fast-pacing research landscape.