bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural and sequential regularities modulate phrase-rate neural tracking
Authors: Zhao Junyuan , Martin Andrea E. , Coopmans Cas W.
Published: January 2024

Electrophysiological brain activity has been shown to synchronize with the quasi-regular repetition of grammatical phrases in connected speech – so-called phrase-rate neural tracking. Current debate centers around whether this phenomenon is best explained in terms of the syntactic properties of phrases or in terms of syntax-external information, such as the sequential repetition of parts of speech. As these two factors were confounded in previous studies, much of the literature is compatible with both accounts. Here, we used electroencephalography (EEG) to determine if and when the brain is sensitive to both types of information. Twenty native speakers of Mandarin Chinese listened to isochronously presented streams of monosyllabic words, which contained either grammatical two-word phrases (e.g., catch fish, sell house) or non-grammatical word combinations (e.g., full lend, bread far). Within the grammatical conditions, we varied two structural factors: the position of the head of each phrase and the type of attachment. Within the non-grammatical conditions, we varied the consistency with which parts of speech were repeated. Tracking was quantified through evoked power and inter-trial phase coherence, both derived from the frequency-domain representation of EEG responses. As expected, neural tracking at the phrase rate was stronger in grammatical sequences than in non-grammatical sequences without syntactic structure. Moreover, it was modulated by both attachment type and head position, revealing the structure-sensitivity of phrase-rate tracking. We additionally found that the brain tracks the repetition of parts of speech in non-grammatical sequences. These data provide an integrative perspective on the current debate about neural tracking effects, revealing that the brain utilizes regularities computed over multiple levels of linguistic representation in guiding rhythmic computation.
The molecular basis for the increased stability of the FUS-LC fibril at the anionic membrane- and air-water interfaces
Authors: Paul Sanjoy , Mondal Sayantan , Shenogina Irina , Cui Qiang
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Self-organization of biomolecules can lead to the formation of liquid droplets, hydrogels, and irreversible aggregates that bear immense significance in biology and diseases. Despite the considerable amount of studies conducted on biomolecular condensation in bulk solution, there is still a lack of understanding of how different surfaces regulate the condensation process. In this context, recent studies showed that, in contrast to zwitterionic lipid membranes, anionic membranes promoted the production of liquid droplets of FUsed in Sarcoma Low Complexity domain (FUS-LC) despite exhibiting no specific protein-lipid interactions. Moreover, the air-water interface led to a solid fibril-like aggregate of FUS-LC. The molecular mechanism of condensation/aggregation of proteins in response to surfaces of various charged states or levels of hydrophobicity remains to be better elucidated. Here, we address this question by investigating the stability of a smallβfibril state of FUS-LC in bulk solution vs. membrane- and air-water interfaces. Our study demonstrates the stability of the FUS-LC fibril in the presence of anionic membranes over 1µs timescale while the fibril falls apart in bulk solution. We observe that a zwitterionic membrane does not enhance the stability of the fibril and 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-L-serine (DOPS) has a higher propensity to stabilize the fibril than dioleoylphosphatidylglycerol (DOPG), in qualitative agreement with experiments. We further show that the fibril becomes more stable at the air-water interface. We pinpoint interfacial solvation at the membrane- and air-water interfaces as a key factor that contributes to the stabilization of the peptide assembly.
Multiomic Data Integration Reveals Microbial Drivers of Aetiopathogenesis in Mycosis Fungoides
Authors: Licht Philipp , Mailänder Volker
Published: January 2024

Background

Mycosis fungoides (MF) represents the most prevalent entity of cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL). The MF aetiopathogenesis is incompletely understood, due to strong transcriptomic heterogeneity and opposing perspectives on the initial oncologic transformation mapping the event to both early thymocytes and mature, effector memory T cells. Recently, using clinical specimen, our group showed that the skin microbiome aggravates disease course, mainly driven by an outgrowing, pathogenicS. aureusstrain carrying the virulence factor spa, which reportedly activates the T cell signalling pathway NF-κB.

Methods

To further investigate the role of the skin microbiome in MF aetiopathogenesis, we here performed RNA sequencing, multiomic data integration of the skin microbiome and skin transcriptome using Multi-Omic Factor Analysis (MOFA), virome profiling, and T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing in 10 MF patients representing a subset of our previous study cohort.

Results

We observed that inter-patient transcriptional heterogeneity may be largely driven by differential activation of T cell signalling pathways. Strikingly, the MOFA model resolved the heterogenous activation pattern of T cell signalling after denoising the transcriptome from microbial influence. The MOFA model showed that the outgrowingS. aureusstrain evoked signalling by non-canonical NF-κB and IL-1B, which likely fuelled the aggravated disease course. Further, the MOFA model revealed aberrant pathways of early thymopoiesis alongside enrichment of antiviral innate immunity. In line, viral prevalence, particularly of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), trended higher in both lesional skin and the blood compared to nonlesional skin. Additionally, TCRs in both MF skin lesions and the blood were significantly more likely to recognize EBV peptides involved in latent infection.

Conclusions

First, our findings suggest thatS. aureuswith its virulence factor spa fuels MF progression trough non-canonical NF-κB and IL-1B signalling. Second, our data provide insights into the potential role of viruses in MF aetiology. Last, we propose a model of microbiome-driven MF aetiopathogenesis: Thymocytes undergo initial oncologic transformation, potentially caused by viruses. After maturation and skin infiltration, an outgrowing, pathogenicS. aureusstrain evokes activation and maturation into effector memory T cells, resulting in aggressive disease.
NRV: An open framework for in silico evaluation of peripheral nerve electrical stimulation strategies
Authors: Couppey Thomas , Regnacq Louis , Giraud Roland , Romain Olivier , Bornat Yannick , Kölbl Florian
Published: January 2024

Electrical stimulation of peripheral nerves has been used in various pathological contexts for rehabilitation purposes or to alleviate the symptoms of neuropathologies, thus improving the overall quality of life of patients. However, the development of novel therapeutic strategies is still a challenging issue requiring extensivein vivoexperimental campaigns and technical development. To facilitate the design of new stimulation strategies, we provide a fully open source and self-contained software framework for thein silicoevaluation of peripheral nerve electrical stimulation. Our modeling approach, developed in the popular and well-established Python language, uses an object-oriented paradigm to map the physiological and electrical context. The framework is designed to facilitate multi-scale analysis, from single fiber stimulation to whole multifascicular nerves. It also allows the simulation of complex strategies such as multiple electrode combinations and waveforms ranging from conventional biphasic pulses to more complex modulated kHz stimuli. In addition, we provide automated support for stimulation strategy optimization and handle the computational backend transparently to the user. Our framework has been extensively tested and validated with several existing results in the literature.

Author summary

Electrical stimulation of the peripheral nervous system is a powerful therapeutic approach for treating and alleviating patients suffering from a large variety of disorders, including loss of motor control or loss of sensation. Electrical stimulation works by connecting the neural target to a neurostimulator through an electrode that delivers a stimulus to modulate the electrical activity of the targeted nerve fiber population. Therapeutic efficacy is directly influenced by electrode design, placement, and stimulus parameters. Computational modeling approaches have proven to be an effective way to select the appropriate stimulation parameters. Such an approach is, however, poorly accessible to inexperienced users as it typically requires the use of multiple commercial software and/or development in different programming languages. Here, we describe a Python-based framework that aims to provide an open-source turnkey solution to any end user. The framework we developed is based on open-source packages that are fully encapsulated, thus transparent to the end-user. The framework is also being developed to enable simulation of granular complexity, from rapid first-order simulation to the evaluation of complex stimulation scenarios requiring a deeper understanding of the ins and outs of the framework.
High-content phenotypic analysis ofa C. elegansrecombinant inbred population identifies genetic and molecular regulators of lifespan
Authors: Gao Arwen W. , Alam Gaby El , Zhu Yunyun , Li Weisha , Katsyuba Elena , Sulc Jonathan , Li Terytty Y. , Li Xiaoxu , Overmyer Katherine A. , Lalou Amelia , Mouchiroud Laurent , Sleiman Maroun Bou , Cornaglia Matteo , Morel Jean-David , Houtkooper Riekelt H. , Coon Joshua J. , Auwerx Johan
Published: January 2024

Lifespan is influenced by complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Studying those factors in model organisms of a single genetic background limits their translational value for humans. Here, we mapped lifespan determinants in 85 genetically diverseC. elegansrecombinant intercross advanced inbred lines (RIAILs). We assessed molecular profiles – transcriptome, proteome, and lipidome – and life-history traits, including lifespan, development, growth dynamics, and reproduction. RIAILs exhibited large variations in lifespan, which positively correlated with developmental time. Among the top candidates obtained from multi-omics data integration and QTL mapping, we validated known and novel longevity modulators, includingrict-1,gfm-1andmltn-1. We translated their relevance to humans using UK Biobank data and showed that variants inRICTORandGFM1are associated with an elevated risk of age-related heart disease, dementia, diabetes, kidney, and liver diseases. We organized our dataset as a resource (https://lisp-lms.shinyapps.io/RIAILs/) that allows interactive explorations for new longevity targets.
Circadian regulation of CaV1.2 expression by RORα in the mouse heart
Authors: Personnic Estelle , Gerard Garance , Poilbout Corinne , Jetten Anton M. , Gómez Ana Maria , Benitah Jean-Pierre , Perrier Romain
Published: January 2024

Background

In addition to show autonomous beating rhythmicity, the physiological functions of the heart present daily periodic oscillations. Notably the ventricular repolarization itself varies throughout the circadian cycle which was mainly related to the periodic expression of K+channels. However, the involvement of the L-type Ca2+channel (CaV1.2 encoded byCacna1cgene) in these circadian variations remains elusive.

Methods

We used a transgenic mouse model (PCa-luc) that expresses the luciferase reporter under the control of the cardiacCacna1cpromoter and analyzed promoter activity by bioluminescent imaging, qPCR, immunoblot, Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay (ChIP) and CaV1.2 activity.

Results

Under normal 12:12h light-dark cycle, we observedin vivoa biphasic diurnal variation of promoter activities peaking at 9 and 19.5 Zeitgeber time (ZT). This was associated with a periodicity ofCacna1cmRNA levels preceding 24-h oscillations of CaV1.2 protein levels in ventricle (with a 1.5 h phase shift) but not in atrial heart tissues. The periodicity of promoter activities and CaV1.2 proteins, which correlated with biphasic oscillations of L-type Ca2+current conductance, persisted in isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes from PCa-Luc mice over the course of the 24-h cycle, suggesting an endogenous cardiac circadian regulation. Comparison of 24-h temporal patterns of clock gene expressions in ventricles and atrial tissues of the same mice revealed conserved circadian oscillations of the core clock genes except for the retinoid-related orphan receptor α gene (RORα), which remained constant throughout the course of a day in atrial tissues.In vitrowe found that RORα is recruited to two specific regions on theCacna1cpromoter and that incubation with specific RORα inhibitor disrupted 24-h oscillations of ventricular promoter activities and CaV1.2 protein levels. Similar results were observed for pore forming subunits of the K+transient outward currents, KV4.2 and KV4.3.

Conclusions

These findings raise the possibility that the RORα-dependent rhythmic regulation of cardiac CaV1.2 and KV4.2/4.3 throughout the daily cycle may play an important role in physiopathology of heart function.
CD4 T cell contact drives macrophage cell cycle progression and susceptibility to lentiviral transduction
Authors: Mlcochova Petra , Heilig Raphael , Fischer Roman , Gupta Ravindra K.
Published: January 2024

Macrophages are typically quiescent cells residing in G0, though tissue macrophages have been shown to proliferate locally in tissues; we previously demonstrated that differentiated monocyte derived macrophages (MDM) can be stimulated to re-enter G1 phase of the cell cycle from G0, without cell division. Entry into G1 correlates with an increase in CDK1 expression which phosphorylates the deoxynucleotide-triphosphate hydrolase SAMHD1 at position 592. SAMHD1 not only regulates cellular dNTP levels, but is also a restriction factor for virus replication of HIV-1 and DNA viruses. Here we show that contact with autologous CD4 T cells leads to antigen-independent macrophage cell cycle progression from G0-G1, accompanied by expression of cell cycle associated proteins, including CDK1, and the activation of the canonical MEK-ERK pathway. Further, macrophage cell cycle progression can be blocked not only by anti-cancer drugs targeting the MEK-ERK axis such as Palcociclib, but also by pre-treatment with EGFR antibody, providing additional evidence for cell surface interactions driving proliferative responses. Cell contact with uninfected CD4 T cells renders macrophages ten-fold more susceptible to transduction with VSV-G pseudotyped HIV-1 particles.
Bidirectional fear modulation by discrete anterior insular circuits in male mice
Authors: Park Sanggeon , Huh Yeowool , Kim Jeansok J. , Cho Jeiwon
Published: January 2024

The brain’s ability to appraise threats and execute appropriate defensive responses is essential for survival in a dynamic environment. Humans studies have implicated the anterior insular cortex (aIC) in subjective fear regulation and its abnormal activity in fear/anxiety disorders. However, the complex aIC connectivity patterns involved in regulating fear remain under investigated. To address this, we recorded single units in the aIC of freely moving male mice that had previously undergone auditory fear conditioning, assessed the effect of optogenetically activating specific aIC output structures in fear, and examined the organization of aIC neurons projecting to the specific structures with retrograde tracing. Single-unit recordings revealed that a balanced number of aIC pyramidal neurons’ activity either positively or negatively correlated with a conditioned tone-induced freezing (fear) response. Optogenetic manipulations of aIC pyramidal neuronal activity during conditioned tone presentation altered the expression of conditioned freezing. Neural tracing showed that non-overlapping populations of aIC neurons project to the amygdala or the medial thalamus, and the pathway bidirectionally modulated conditioned fear. Specifically, optogenetic stimulation of the aIC-amygdala pathway increased conditioned freezing, while optogenetic stimulation of the aIC-medial thalamus pathway decreased it. Our findings suggest that the balance of freezing-excited and freezing-inhibited neuronal activity in the aIC and the distinct efferent circuits interact collectively to modulate fear behavior.
A genetic and physiological model of renal dysfunction in Lowe syndrome
Authors: Ramesh Navyashree A , Kataria Vaishali , Lama Indra Sara , Thakur Rajan , Ghosh Avishek , Sharma Sanjeev , Venugopal Aishwarya , Vasudevan Anil , Padinjat Raghu
Published: January 2024

Lowe syndrome (LS) is an X-linked recessive genetic disorder characterized by renal dysfunction, neurodevelopmental defects, and cataract. The affected gene,OCRLencodes for a polyphosphoinositide 5-phosphatase. OCRL is localized to multiple sub-cellular locations in the endolysosomal system and defects in these organelles have been described in human cells depleted of OCRL. However, the relationship of the endolysosomal defects in OCRL depleted cells to the altered physiology of kidney cells of LS patients has not been completely determined. Here we model the kidney phenotypes of LS using aDrosophilanephrocyte model. Using this model system, we demonstrate that OCRL plays a cell-autonomous role in nephrocyte function. Deletion of the only OCRL ortholog inDrosophila(dOCRL) leads to cell-autonomous defects in larval nephrocyte structure and function. Null mutants ofdOCRL(dOCRLKO) show defects in the endolysosomal system of larval nephrocytes that are associated with physiological defects in nephrocyte function. These defects could be rescued by reconstitution with a humanOCRLtransgene but not with a phosphatase dead version or a human LS patient derived mutation. Overall, this work provides a model system to understand the mechanisms by which the sub-cellular changes from loss of OCRL leads to defects in kidney function in human patients.
Variation in the response to antibiotics and life-history across the majorPseudomonas aeruginosaclone type (mPact) panel
Authors: Tueffers Leif , Batra Aditi , Zimmermann Johannes , Botelho João , Buchholz Florian , Liao Junqi , Mejía Nicolás Mendoza , Munder Antje , Klockgether Jens , Tümmler Burkhard , Rupp Jan , Schulenburg Hinrich
Published: January 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosais a ubiquitous, opportunistic human pathogen. Since it often expresses multidrug resistance, it is ranked by the World Health Organization among the top 3 high priority pathogens, for which new treatment options are urgently required. An evaluation of new treatments is usually performed experimentally with one of the canonical laboratory strains (e.g., PAO1 or PA14). However, these two strains are unlikely representative of the strains infecting patients, because they have adapted to laboratory conditions and do not capture the enormous genomic diversity of the species. Here, we characterized the majorP. aeruginosaclone type (mPact) panel. This panel consists of 20 strains, which reflect the genomic diversity of the species, cover all major clone types, and have both patient and environmental origins. We found significant strain variation in distinct responses towards antibiotics and general growth characteristics. Only few of the measured traits are related, and if so, only for specific antibiotics. Moreover, high levels of resistance were only identified for clinical mPact isolates and could be linked to known AMR (antimicrobial resistance) genes in the sequenced genomes. One strain also produced highly unstable AMR, indicating an evolutionary cost to resistance expression. By linking isolation source, growth, and virulence to life history traits, we further identified specific adaptive strategies for individual mPact strains towards either host processes or degradation pathways. Overall, the mPact panel provides a reasonably sized set of distinct strains, enabling in-depth analysis of new treatment designs or evolutionary dynamics in consideration of the species’ genomic diversity.

Importance

New treatment strategies are urgently needed for high risk pathogens such as the opportunistic and often multidrug resistant pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosa. Here, we characterize the majorP. aeruginosaclone type (mPact) panel. It consists of 20 strains with different origins that cover the major clone types of the species as well as its genomic diversity. This mPact panel shows significant variation in (i) resistance against distinct antibiotics, including several last resort antibiotics, (ii) related traits associated with the response to antibiotics, and (iii) general growth characteristics. We further developed a novel approach that integrates information on resistance, growth, virulence, and life-history characteristics, allowing us to demonstrate the presence of distinct adaptive strategies of the strains that focus either on host interaction or resource processing. In conclusion, the mPact panel provides a manageable number of representative strains for this important pathogen for further in-depth analyses of treatment options and evolutionary dynamics.
Senolytic Treatment for Low Back Pain
Authors: Mannarino Matthew , Cherif Hosni , Ghazizadeh Saber , Martinez Oliver Wu , Sheng Kai , Cousineau Elsa , Lee Seunghwan , Millecamps Magali , Gao Chan , Ouellet Jean A. , Stone Laura , Haglund Lisbet
Published: January 2024

Senescent cells (SnCs) accumulate due to aging and external cellular stress throughout the body. They adopt a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and release inflammatory, and degenerative factors that actively contribute to age-related diseases such as low back pain (LBP). The senolytics, o-Vanillin and RG-7112, remove senescent human intervertebral (IVD) cells and reduce SASP release, but it is not known if they can treat LBP.sparc-/-mice, with LBP, were treated orally with o-Vanillin and RG-7112 as single or combination treatments. Treatment reduced LBP and SASP factor release and removed SnCs from the IVD and spinal cord. Treatment also lowered degeneration score in the IVDs, improved vertebral bone quality, and reduced the expression of pain markers in the spinal cord. The result indicates that RG-7112 and o-Vanillin with the combination treatment providing the strongest effect are potential disease-modifying drugs for LBP and other painful disorders where cell senescence is implicated.

One Sentence Summary:Senolytics drugs can reduce back pain
A spatiotemporally resolved atlas of mRNA decay in theC. elegansembryo reveals differential regulation of mRNA stability across stages and cell types
Authors: Peng Felicia , Nordgren C Erik , Murray John Isaac
Published: January 2024

During embryonic development, cells undergo dynamic changes in gene expression that are required for appropriate cell fate specification. Although both transcription and mRNA degradation contribute to gene expression dynamics, patterns of mRNA decay are less well-understood. Here we directly measured spatiotemporally resolved mRNA decay rates transcriptome-wide throughoutC. elegansembryogenesis by transcription inhibition followed by bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing. This allowed us to calculate mRNA half-lives within specific cell types and developmental stages and identify differentially regulated mRNA decay throughout embryonic development. We identified transcript features that are correlated with mRNA stability and found that mRNA decay rates are associated with distinct peaks in gene expression over time. Moreover, we provide evidence that, on average, mRNA is more stable in the germline compared to in the soma and in later embryonic stages compared to in earlier stages. This work suggests that differential mRNA decay across cell states and time helps to shape developmental gene expression, and it provides a valuable resource for studies of mRNA turnover regulatory mechanisms.
Recruitment of the m6A/Am demethylase FTO to target RNAs by the telomeric zinc finger protein ZBTB48
Authors: Nabeel-Shah Syed , Pu Shuye , Burke Giovanni L. , Ahmed Nujhat , Braunschweig Ulrich , Farhangmehr Shaghayegh , Lee Hyunmin , Wu Mingkun , Ni Zuyao , Tang Hua , Zhong Guoqing , Marcon Edyta , Zhang Zhaolei , Blencowe Benjamin J. , Greenblatt Jack F.
Published: January 2024

N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most abundant internal modification on eukaryotic mRNA, and N6, 2′-O-dimethyladenosine (m6Am), are epitranscriptomic marks that function in multiple aspects of posttranscriptional regulation. Fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) can remove both m6A and m6Am; however, little is known about how FTO achieves its substrate selectivity. Here, we demonstrate that ZBTB48, a C2H2-zinc finger protein that functions in telomere maintenance, associates with FTO and binds both mRNA and the telomere-associated regulatory RNA TERRA to regulate the functional interactions of FTO with target transcripts. Specifically, depletion of ZBTB48 affects targeting of FTO to sites of m6A/m6Am modification, changes cellular m6A/m6Am levels and, consequently, alters decay rates of target RNAs. ZBTB48 ablation also accelerates growth of HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells and modulates FTO- dependent regulation of Metastasis-associated protein 1 (MTA1) transcripts by controlling the binding to MTA1 mRNA of the m6A reader IGF2BP2. Our findings thus uncover a previously unknown mechanism of posttranscriptional regulation in which ZBTB48 co-ordinates RNA- binding of the m6A/m6Am demethylase FTO to control expression of its target RNAs.
Multi-state kinetics of the syringe-like injection mechanism of Tc toxins
Authors: Ng’ang’a Peter Njenga , Folz Julian , Kucher Svetlana , Roderer Daniel , Xu Ying , Sitsel Oleg , Belyy Alexander , Prumbaum Daniel , Kühnemuth Ralf , Assafa Tufa E. , Dong Min , Seidel Claus A. M. , Bordignon Enrica , Raunser Stefan
Published: January 2024

Tc toxins are virulence factors of many insects and human pathogenic bacteria. They attach as soluble prepores to receptors on host cells and following acidification in the late endosome, perforate the cell membrane like a syringe to translocate toxic enzymes into the host cell through their pore-forming channel. Although this complex transformation has been structurally well studied, the functional aspects of this large-scale rearrangement, such as the reaction pathway with possible intermediate states and the resulting temporal evolution have remained elusive. Here, we used an integrated biophysical approach to monitor the prepore-to-pore transition and found that it takes ∼28 h when induced by high pH in the absence of other factors. In the presence of liposomes, an increasingly high pH or receptors, such as heparin or Vsg, the probability to transform prepores to pores increases by a factor of up to 4. This effect can also be mimicked by biotinylation or site-directed mutagenesis of the shell, demonstrating that shell destabilization is a crucial step in prepore-to-pore transition. We show that shell opening is a heterogeneous process with transition times ranging from 60 ms to 1.6 s and resolve three sequential intermediate states: an initial transient intermediate during shell destabilization, a first stable intermediate where the receptor-binding domains on the shell rearrange and a second stable intermediate with an open shell. In contrast, the ejection of the pore-forming channel from the open shell is highly cooperative with a transition time of < 60 ms. This detailed knowledge of the Tc toxin mechanism of action, even in the absence of receptors, is important for the future application of Tc toxins as biomedical devices or biopesticides.
Dissipation of axion energy via the Schwinger and Witten effects
Authors: Jeong Kwang Sik , Nakagawa Shota , Takahashi Fuminobu , Yamada Masaki
Published: January 2024

In the presence of an anomalous CP phase in a U(1) gauge theory, a monopole becomes a dyon via the Witten effect. When the anomalous CP phase is promoted to a dynamical field, the axion, the electric charge of the dyon changes according to the coherent motion of the axion oscillation. Once the electric charge exceeds a certain threshold, the Schwinger pair production of charged particles becomes efficient near the surface of the dyon. These nonperturbative effects lead to the backreaction of the axion dynamics by causing the dissipation of the axion oscillation energy and the change of the effective potential due to the Witten effect. Taking these effects into account, we consider the dynamics of the whole system, including the axion, monopole, and charged heavy vector bosons, and discuss to what extent the axion abundance is modified. We also discuss the electric dipole radiation from a bound state of a monopole-antimonopole pair due to the axion coherent oscillations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
D(s)−
mesons semileptonic form factors in four-flavor holographic QCD
Authors: Ahmed Hiwa A. , Chen Yidian , Huang Mei
Published: January 2024

We investigate semileptonic form factors of a D(s) meson from a modified soft-wall 4-flavor holographic model. The model successfully reproduces the masses and decay constants of various mesons, including ρ, K*, D*, Ds*, a1, K1, f1, D1, Ds1, π, K, η, D, and Ds. Moreover, we study the semileptonic decay processes D+→(π,K,η)l+νl and Ds+→(K,η)l+νl, associated with the vector meson exchange, as well as D(s)+→Kl+νl, associated with the vector and axial vector meson exchange. The form factors f+(q2) for D→π and D(s)→K decays agree excellently with experimental and lattice data, outperforming other theoretical approaches. The f+(q2) form factor for D+→η is compatible with experimental data, while a slight discrepancy is observed for Ds+→η at large q2. Additionally, we predict the vector form factors V(q2) and A1(q2) for D→K and Ds→K decays, respectively. The results agree well with other approaches and lattice data at maximum recoil (q2=0).

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Higher-order nonequilibrium term: Effective power density quantifying evolution towards or away from local thermodynamic equilibrium
Authors: Barbhuiya M. Hasan , Cassak Paul A. , Adhikari Subash , Parashar Tulasi N. , Liang Haoming , Argall Matthew R.
Published: January 2024

A common approach to assess the nature of energy conversion in a classical fluid or plasma is to compare power densities of the various possible energy conversion mechanisms. A leading research area is quantifying energy conversion for systems that are not in local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE), as is common in a number of fluid and plasma systems. Here we introduce the “higher-order nonequilibrium term” (HORNET) effective power density, which quantifies the rate of change of departure of a phase space density from LTE. It has dimensions of power density, which allows for quantitative comparisons with standard power densities. We employ particle-in-cell simulations to calculate HORNET during two processes, magnetic reconnection and decaying kinetic turbulence in collisionless magnetized plasmas, that inherently produce non-LTE effects. We investigate the spatial variation of HORNET and the time evolution of its spatial average. By comparing HORNET with power densities describing changes to the internal energy (pressure dilatation, Pi−D, and divergence of the vector heat flux density), we find that HORNET can be a significant fraction of these other measures (8% and 35% for electrons and ions, respectively, for reconnection; up to 67% for both electrons and ions for turbulence), meaning evolution of the system towards or away from LTE can be dynamically important. Applications to numerous plasma phenomena are discussed.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Mass-Independent Scheme to Test the Quantumness of a Massive Object
Authors: Das Debarshi , Home Dipankar , Ulbricht Hendrik , Bose Sougato
Published: January 2024

The search for empirical schemes to evidence the nonclassicality of large masses is a central quest of current research. However, practical schemes to witness the irreducible quantumness of an arbitrarily large mass are still lacking. To this end, we incorporate crucial modifications to the standard tools for probing the quantum violation of the pivotal classical notion of macrorealism (MR): while usual tests use the same measurement arrangement at successive times, here we use two different measurement arrangements. This yields a striking result: a violation of MR is possible for harmonic oscillator systems. In fact, our adaptation enables probing quantum violations for literally any mass, momentum, and frequency. Moreover, coarse-grained position measurements at an accuracy much worse than the standard quantum limit, as well as knowing the relevant parameters only to this precision, without requiring them to be tuned, suffice for our proposal. These should drastically simplify the experimental effort in testing the nonclassicality of massive objects ranging from atomic ions to macroscopic mirrors in LIGO.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Exclusion of Axionlike-Particle Cogenesis Dark Matter in a Mass Window above
100  μeV
Authors: Quiskamp Aaron , McAllister Ben T. , Altin Paul , Ivanov Eugene N. , Goryachev Maxim , Tobar Michael E.
Published: January 2024

We report the results of Phase 1b of the ORGAN experiment, a microwave cavity haloscope searching for dark matter axions in the 107.42–111.93  μeV mass range. The search excludes axions with two-photon coupling gaγγ≥4×10−12  GeV−1 with 95% confidence interval, setting the best upper bound to date and with the required sensitivity to exclude the axionlike particle cogenesis model for dark matter in this range. This result was achieved using a tunable rectangular cavity, which mitigated several practical issues that become apparent when conducting high-mass axion searches, and was the first such axion search to be conducted with such a cavity. It also represents the most sensitive axion haloscope experiment to date in the ∼100  μeV mass region.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Phonon-induced decoherence in color-center qubits
Authors: Dhara Prajit , Guha Saikat
Published: January 2024

Electron spin states of solid-state defects such as nitrogen- and silicon-vacancy in diamond are a leading quantum-memory candidate for quantum communications and computing. Via open-quantum-systems modeling of spin-phonon coupling—the major contributor of decoherence—at a given temperature, we derive the time dynamics of the density operator of an electron-spin qubit. We use our model to corroborate experimentally measured decoherence rates. We further derive the temporal decay of distillable entanglement in spin-spin entangled states heralded via photonic Bell-state measurements. Extensions of our model to include other decoherence mechanisms, e.g., undesired hyperfine couplings to the neighboring nuclear-spin environment, will pave the way to a rigorous predictive model for engineering artificial-atom qubits with desirable properties.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Impact of committed minorities: Unveiling critical mass of cooperation in the iterated prisoner's dilemma game
Authors: He Zhixue , Shen Chen , Shi Lei , Tanimoto Jun
Published: January 2024

The critical mass effect is a prevailing topic in the study of complex systems. Recent research indicates that a committed minority of cooperators, unwavering in their beliefs and consistently maintaining cooperation, can effectively foster widespread cooperation in social dilemma games. However, achieving a critical mass of cooperation in the one-shot prisoner's dilemma requires stricter conditions. The underlying mechanism behind this effect remains unclear, particularly in the context of repeated interactions. This work aims to investigate the influence of a committed minority on cooperation in the iterated prisoner's dilemma game, a widely studied model of repeated interactions between individuals confronting a social dilemma. In contrast to previous findings, we identify tipping points for both well-mixed and structured populations. Our findings demonstrate that a committed minority of unconditional cooperators can induce full cooperation under weak imitation conditions. Conversely, a committed minority of conditional cooperators, who employ extortion strategy, can promote widespread cooperation under strong imitation conditions. These results are consistent across various network topologies and imitation rules, suggesting that critical mass effects may be a universal principle in social dilemma games. Moreover, we discovered that an excessive density of committed extortioners can hinder cooperation in structured populations. This research advances our understanding of the role of committed minorities in shaping social behavior and provides valuable insights into cooperation dynamics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Long wave infrared signature of swept back leading edges in aircraft frontal aspect
Authors: Vinayak Kajal , Mahulikar Shripad P.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

In recent years, increased use of all-aspect infrared (IR)-guided missiles based on the long-wave infrared (LWIR; 8–12 µm) band has lowered the probability of aircraft survival in warfare. The lock-on of these highly sensitive missiles is difficult to break, especially from the front. Aerodynamically heated swept-back leading edges (SBLE), because of their high temperature and large area, serve as a prominent LWIR source for aircraft detection from the front. This study aims to report the influence of sweep-back angle (Λ, based on the Mach number [M∞]) on aerodynamic heating and the LWIR signature of SBLE.

Design/methodology/approach

The temperature along SBLE is obtained numerically as radiation equilibrium temperature (Tw) by discretizing the SBLE length into “n” number of segments, and for each segment, emission based on Tw is evaluated. IR radiance due to reflected external sources (sky-shine and Earthshine) and radiance due to Tw are collectively used to determine the IR contrast between SBLE and its replaced background in the LWIR band (icont-SBLE,LWIR).

Findings

The results are obtained for low subsonic turboprop aircraft (Λ = 3°, M∞ = 0.44); high subsonic strategic bombers (Λ = 35°, M∞ = 0.8); fifth-generation stealth aircraft (Λ = 40°, M∞ = 1.6); and aircraft with supercruise/supersonic capability (Λ = 50°, M∞ = 2.5). The aircraft with supersonic capability (Λ = 50°, M∞ = 2.5) reports the maximum LWIR signatures and hence the highest visibility from the front. The results obtained are compared with values at Λ = 0° for all cases, which shows that increasing Λ significantly reduces aerodynamic heating and LWIR signatures.

Originality/value

The novelty of this study comes from its report on the influence of Λ on the LWIR signatures of aircraft SBLE in the frontal aspect for the first time.
Driving forces behind service innovation in knowledge-intensive services with different knowledge bases
Authors: Krupskaya Anastasia
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and describe the influence of the knowledge base (KB) of the company on driving forces of innovation processes in knowledge-intensive services (KIS) and to compare the level of innovativeness of the final services.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper investigates through qualitative research 11 KIS organisations with different KB.

Findings

The research results identified and described the influence of the KB on driving forces of innovations processes and its results in companies with four newly identified KBs (analytical, synthetic, symbolic and compliance).

Research limitations/implications

Further research, based on a larger number of companies, is needed to confirm the results of this research and to complement the effect of the KB on driving forces of innovation.

Practical implications

This research can help organisations understand how to develop strategic plans and new ideas for innovative services depending on the KB of the organisation.

Social implications

The description of successful innovation processes and results in several leading companies presented in the study may help other companies in identifying knowledge-integration practices to improve performance and innovation processes that support multiplicity, productivity and creativity.

Originality/value

The study systemised the sources of new ideas for innovation in companies with different KB, several driving forces of innovation were identified and how these forces are affected by each KB; lastly, innovation results were compared in companies with different KB.
Assessing the effect of housing attributes and green certification on Malaysian house price
Authors: Chuweni Nor Nazihah , Fauzi Nurul Sahida , Che Kasim Asmma , Mayangsari Sekar , Wardhani Nurhastuty Kesumo
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Sustainability represents innovative elements in determining the profitability of real estate investments, among other factors, including the green component in real estate. Evidence from the literature has pointed out that incorporating green features into residential buildings can reduce operational costs and increase the building’s value. Although green real estate is considered the future trend of choice, it is still being determined whether prospective buyers are willing to accept the extra cost of green residential investment. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effect of housing attributes and green certification on residential real estate prices.

Design/methodology/approach

The impact of the housing attribute and green certification in the residential sectors was assessed using a transaction data set comprising approximately 861 residential units sold in Selangor, Malaysia, between 2014 and 2022. Linear and quantile regression were used in this study by using SPSS software for a robust result.

Findings

The findings indicate that the market price of residential properties in Malaysia is influenced by housing attributes, transaction types and Green Building Index certification. The empirical evidence from this study suggests that green certification significantly affects the sales price of residential properties in Malaysia. The findings of this research will help investors identify measurable factors that affect the transaction prices of green-certified residential real estate. These identifications will facilitate the development of strategic plans aimed at achieving sustainable rates of return in the sustainable residential real estate market.

Practical implications

Specifically, this research will contribute to achieving area 4 of the 11th Malaysia Plan, which pertains to pursuing green growth for sustainability and resilience. This will be achieved by enhancing awareness among investors and homebuyers regarding the importance of green residential buildings in contributing to the environment, the economy and society.

Originality/value

The regression model for housing attributes and green certification on house price developed in this study could offer valuable benefits to support and advance Malaysia in realising its medium and long-term goals for green technology.
Selection of Industry 4.0 technologies for Lean Six Sigma integration using fuzzy DEMATEL approach
Authors: Ibrahim Arish , Kumar Gulshan
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies with lean six sigma practices in the manufacturing sector for enhanced process improvement.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory approach to identify critical Industry 4.0 technologies that can be harmonized with Lean Six Sigma methodologies for achieving improved processes in manufacturing.

Findings

The research reveals that key technologies such as modeling and simulation, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, big data analytics, automation and industrial robots and smart sensors are paramount for achieving operational excellence when integrated with Lean Six Sigma.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to the identification of pivotal Industry 4.0 technologies for Lean Six Sigma integration in manufacturing. Further studies can explore the implementation challenges and the quantifiable benefits of such integrations.

Practical implications

Integrating Industry 4.0 technologies with Lean Six Sigma enhances manufacturing efficiency. This approach leverages AI for predictive analysis, uses smart sensors for energy efficiency and adaptable robots for flexible production. It is vital for competitive advantage, significantly improving decision-making, reducing costs and streamlining operations in the manufacturing sector.

Social implications

The integration of Industry 4.0 technologies with Lean Six Sigma in manufacturing has significant social implications. It promotes job creation in high-tech sectors, necessitating advanced skill development and continuous learning among the workforce. This shift fosters an innovative, knowledge-based economy, potentially reducing the skills gap. Additionally, it enhances workplace safety through automation, reduces hazardous tasks for workers and contributes to environmental sustainability by optimizing resource use and reducing waste in manufacturing processes.

Originality/value

This study offers a novel perspective on synergizing advanced Industry 4.0 technologies with established Lean Six Sigma practices for enhanced process improvement in manufacturing. The findings can guide industries in prioritizing their technological adoptions for continuous improvement.
Fractal contact resistance model of wind pitch slip ring considering wear and self-excited vibration
Authors: Zhang Minglang , Zuo Xue , Zhou Yuankai
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reveal the dynamic contact characteristics of the slip ring. Dynamic contact resistance models considering wear and self-excited were established based on fractal theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The effects of tangential velocity, stiffness and damping coefficient on dynamic contact resistance are studied. The relationships between fractal parameters, wear time and contact parameters are revealed.

Findings

The results show that the total contact area decreases with the friction coefficient and fractal roughness under the same load. Self-excited vibration occurs at a low speed (less than 0.6 m/s). It transforms from stick-slip motion at 0.4 m/s to pure sliding at 0.5 m/s. A high stiffness makes contact resistance fluctuate violently, while increasing the damping coefficient can suppress the self-excited vibration and reduce the dynamic contact resistance. The fractal contact resistance model considering wear is established based on the fractal parameters models. The validity of the model is verified by the wear tests.

Originality/value

The results have a great significance to study the electrical contact behavior of conductive slip ring.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-09-2023-0300/