bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quasiparticle approach to collective quantum dielectric response
Authors: Akbari-Moghanjoughi M.
Published: October 2023

In current research, we use a generalized quantum multistream model to develop an effective quasiparticle theory for quantum many-body effects. The N-electron Schrödinger–Poisson stream model is reduced to a system of coupled differential equations with new wavefunction representation for collective quantum excitations in the many electron system. The current theory is then applied to the collective quantum statistical behavior of homogenous electron gas. Moreover, the generalized energy dispersion relation, which incorporates the quasiparticle band structure, is used to calculate the linear dielectric response of collective quantum excitations in the electron gas with arbitrary degree of degeneracy beyond many-body theories, limiting assumptions such as the independent electron and the random phase approximations. Important parameters of electron gas such as the dynamic structure factor, the loss function, the static charge screening, optical reflectivity, and the electronic stopping power are investigated as applications of current theory. The quasiparticle theory incorporates effects both due to single-electron excitations as well as the electrostatic interaction among electrons in a single picture. Existence of Van-Hove-like singularity at the plasmon wavenumber leads to distinct features of quasiparticle response to electromagnetic perturbations in the electron gas. It is shown that collective quantum excitations in high density electron gas below a given critical electron temperature are blocked due to existence of a large quasiparticle energy bandgap above the Fermi level. A new equation of states is given for the quasiparticle excitation in the electron gas, based on the transition probability of electrons to the quasiparticle level. It is found that, the screening potential of a static charge in quasiparticle model has an oscillatory Lennard–Jones-type attractive form.
Force decomposition on flapping flexible plate via impulse theory and dynamic mode decomposition
Authors: Kang Linlin , Xiong Shiying , Wu Buchen , Li Chao , Ge Mingming , Yuan Dehan , Han Fei , Cui Weicheng
Published: October 2023

Dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) is a widely used method to extract dynamic information from sequential flow data, aiding our comprehension of fluid dynamics and transport processes. While DMD can unveil internal system laws and predict unsteady flow phenomena, the connection between DMD modes and the nonlinear hydrodynamic behavior of solid bodies remains unexplored. This study investigated the internal relationship between DMD modes and their impact on hydrodynamic forces. We employed a penalty-immersed boundary method to simulate the behavior of a flapping flexible plate in a uniform incoming flow, generating extensive datasets of vorticity fields. By applying DMD to these datasets, we identified key modes governing the flow dynamics, including the shear layer, symmetric vortex street, and antisymmetric vortex street. Furthermore, we utilized the impulse theory to analyze the force characteristics of the plate based on the corresponding DMD modes. The net force is determined by the combined contributions of the impulse force and the vortex force. Our findings reveal that the net horizontal force is primarily influenced by the first two modes. Specifically, mode 1, characterized by a dimensionless frequency of f*=0, contributes to thrust, whereas mode 2, with f*=1, contributes to drag. This physical investigation holds relevance for fluid–structure systems involving the interaction dynamics of flexible structures with unsteady wake vortex systems.
Numerical study of the development of premixed flame interface induced by shock wave: A parameterization study of inhomogeneity of medium and chemical reaction
Authors: Wang Yang , Dong Gang
Published: October 2023

The evolution of a perturbed flame interface induced by shock waves occurs frequently in natural phenomena and in engineering applications. In practice, spatial inhomogeneity can exist and have a significant impact on the interface development in the real world. On the other hand, the effect of the chemical reaction on the flame interface evolution is still not clear. Therefore, in the present study, the evolution of a novel configuration of interaction between a planar premixed flame interface and a straight incident shock wave in inhomogeneous medium is studied numerically by solving the two-dimensional, time-dependent, reactive, and compressible Navier–Stokes equations with a high-order numerical scheme. A series of numerical cases are designed such that the amplitude of density perturbation σ, representing the effect of medium inhomogeneity, and the activation energy Ea, representing the effect of chemical reaction, can be varied independently. The result shows a unique dual-spike structure of flame interface during the interaction in inhomogeneous medium, which is different from the conventional spike–bubble structure during the interaction in homogeneous medium. For the range of σ and Ea considered, when Ea is fixed, σ is found to appreciably affect the growth of mixing zone area on the flame interface. This is because larger σ leads to stronger vortices and subsequently results in a nonlinear growth rate in the area of mixing zone. In contrast, when σ is fixed, the impact of Ea on the growth of mixing zone area on the flame interface is mainly manifested as the local consumption of reactants and changes of the flame thickness. Similarly, a high reactivity (small Ea) results in a nonlinear growth rate of the mixing zone area. Finally, for the cases in the range in which the growth rate of mixing zone area is linear, an empirically mathematic model, involved in activation energy (Ea) and inhomogeneity (σ) as independent variables, is proposed to reasonably predict the growth rate of mixing zone area in the reactive and inhomogeneous medium.
Measuring the topological charge of a helico-conical vortex beam via the lens phase
Authors: Liu Xuejuan , Guo Lei , Wang Meidi , Liu Shuo , Cheng Shubo , Tao Shaohua , Yang Wenxing
Published: October 2023

Helico-conical vortex (HCV) beams are a kind of orbital angular momentum-carrying beam whose phase profile has a non-separable azimuthal and radial dependence. In this Letter, we introduce a lens phase into the helico-conical phase to measure the topological charge carried by the helico-conical beam. The focal-field intensity distributions of the beam obtained from the superimposition of the helico-conical phase and the lens phase are analyzed theoretically and experimentally. The experimental findings are in good agreement with the simulation results. The results demonstrate that a certain number of elliptical dark regions are embedded in the intensity patterns and the number of dark regions is equal to the amount of topological charge carried by the HCV beam. Meanwhile, the tilt direction of the elliptical dark regions can determine the sign of the topological charges. This method will have potential applications in the field of light field modulation.
Accelerating micromagnetic and atomistic simulations using multiple GPUs
Authors: Lepadatu Serban
Published: October 2023

It is shown that micromagnetic and atomistic spin dynamics simulations can use multiple graphical processing units (GPUs) not only to reduce computation time but also to allow for a larger simulation size than is possible on a single GPU. While interactions that depend on neighboring spins, such as exchange interactions, may be implemented efficiently by transferring data between GPUs using halo regions or direct memory accesses, implementing the long-range demagnetizing interaction is the main difficulty in achieving good performance scaling, where the data transfer rate between GPUs is a significant bottleneck. A multi-GPU convolution algorithm is developed here, which relies on single-GPU FFTs executed in parallel. It is shown that even for micromagnetic simulations where the demagnetizing interaction computation time dominates, good performance scaling may be achieved, with speedup factors up to 1.8, 2.5, and 3.1, for two, three, and four GPUs, respectively. The code developed here can be used for any number of GPUs in parallel, with performance scaling strongly dependent on the inter-GPU data transfer rate and connection topology. This is further improved in micromagnetic simulations, which include a spin transport solver, obtaining speedup factors up to 1.96, 2.8, and 3.7, for two, three, and four GPUs, respectively. The best case scenario is obtained for atomistic simulations, where the demagnetizing interaction is implemented with spin-averaged cells. Using a single workstation with four GPUs, it is shown that atomistic spin dynamics simulations with up to 1 × 109 spins and atomistic Monte Carlo simulations with up to 2 × 109 spins are possible, with near-ideal performance scaling.
Depth-resolved measurement of the Meissner screening profile in a niobium thin film from spin-lattice relaxation of the implanted β-emitter 8Li
Authors: McFadden Ryan M. L. , Asaduzzaman Md , Buck Terry J. , Cortie David L. , Dehn Martin H. , Dunsiger Sarah R. , Kiefl Robert F. , Laxdal Robert E. , Levy C. D. Philip , MacFarlane W. Andrew , Morris Gerald D. , Pearson Matthew R. , Thoeng Edward , Junginger Tobias
Published: October 2023

We report measurements of the Meissner screening profile in a Nb(300 nm)/Al2O3 thin film using 8Liβ-detected nuclear magnetic resonance (β-NMR). The NMR probe 8Li was ion-implanted into the Nb film at energies ≤ 20 keV, corresponding to mean stopping depths comparable to Nb’s magnetic penetration depth λ. 8Li’s strong dipole–dipole coupling with the host 93Nb nuclei provided a “cross-relaxation” channel that dominated in low magnetic fields, which conferred indirect sensitivity to the local magnetic field via the spin-lattice relaxation (SLR) rate 1/T1. From a fit of the 1/T1 data to a model accounting for its dependence on temperature, magnetic field, and 8Li+ implantation energy, we obtained a magnetic penetration depth λ0= 51.5(22) nm, consistent with a relatively short carrier mean-free-path ℓ= 18.7(29) nm typical of similarly prepared Nb films. The results presented here constitute an important step toward using 8Liβ-NMR to characterize bulk Nb samples with engineered surfaces, which are often used in the fabrication of particle accelerators.
300 mm CMOS-compatible superconducting HfN and ZrN thin films for quantum applications
Authors: Potjan Roman , Wislicenus Marcus , Ostien Oliver , Hoffmann Raik , Lederer Maximilian , Reck André , Emara Jennifer , Roy Lisa , Lilienthal-Uhlig Benjamin , Wosnitza J.
Published: October 2023

The rising interest in increased manufacturing maturity of quantum processing units is pushing the development of alternative superconducting materials for semiconductor fab process technology. However, these are often facing CMOS process incompatibility. In contrast to common CMOS materials, such as Al, TiN, and TaN, reports on the superconductivity of other suitable transition-metal nitrides are scarce, despite potential superiority. Here, we demonstrate fully CMOS-compatible fabrication of HfN and ZrN thin films on state-of-the-art 300 mm semiconductor process equipment, utilizing reactive DC magnetron sputtering on silicon wafers. Measurement of mechanical stress and surface roughness of the thin films demonstrates process compatibility. We investigated the materials phase and stoichiometry by structural analysis. The HfN and ZrN samples exhibit superconducting phase transitions with critical temperatures up to 5.84 and 7.32 K, critical fields of 1.73 and 6.40 T, and coherence lengths of 14 and 7 nm, respectively. A decrease in the critical temperature with decreasing film thickness indicates mesoscopic behavior due to geometric and grain-size limitations. The results promise a scalable application of HfN and ZrN in quantum computing and related fields.
Tld1 is a regulator of triglyceride lipolysis that demarcates a lipid droplet subpopulation
Authors: Speer Natalie Ortiz , Braun R. Jay , Reynolds Emma Grace , Brudnicka Alicja , Swanson Jessica M.J. , Henne W. Mike
Published: October 2023

Cells store lipids in the form of triglyceride (TG) and sterol ester (SE) in lipid droplets (LDs). Distinct pools of LDs exist, but a pervasive question is how proteins localize to and convey functions to LD subsets. Here, we show that the yeast protein YDR275W/Tld1 (for TG-associated LD protein 1) localizes to a subset of TG-containing LDs and reveal it negatively regulates lipolysis. Mechanistically, Tld1 LD targeting requires TG, and it is mediated by two distinct hydrophobic regions (HRs). Molecular dynamics simulations reveal that Tld1’s HRs interact with TG on LDs and adopt specific conformations on TG-rich LDs versus SE-rich LDs in yeast and human cells. Tld1-deficient yeast display no defect in LD biogenesis but exhibit elevated TG lipolysis dependent on lipase Tgl3. Remarkably, overexpression of Tld1, but not LD protein Pln1/Pet10, promotes TG accumulation without altering SE pools. Finally, we find that Tld1-deficient cells display altered LD mobilization during extended yeast starvation. We propose that Tld1 senses TG-rich LDs and regulates lipolysis on LD subpopulations.
Multi-pixels gallium oxide UV detector array and optoelectronic applications
Authors: Shu Lincong , Yao Suhao , Xi Zhaoying , Liu Zeng , Guo Yufeng , Tang Weihua
Published: October 2023

With the continuous advancement of deep-ultraviolet (DUV) communication and optoelectronic detection, research in this field has become a significant focal point in the scientific community. For more accurate information collection and transport, the photodetector array of many pixels is the key of the UV imaging and commnication systems, and its photoelectric performance seriously depends on semiconductor material and array layout. Gallium oxide (Ga2O3) is an emerging wide bandgap semicondutor material which has been widely used in DUV dectection. Therefore, this paper mainly focuses on Ga2O3 semiconductor detector array which has gained widespread attention in the field of DUV technique, from the perspective of individual device to array and its optoelectonic integration, for reviewing and discussing the research progress in design, fabrication, and application of Ga2O3 arrays in recent years. It includes the structure design and material selection of array units, units growth and array layout, response to solar blind light, the method of imaging and image recognition. Morever, the future development trend of the photodetector array has been analyzed and reflected, aiming to provide some useful suggestions for the optimizing array structure, improving patterned growth technology and material growth quality. As well as Ga2O3 optoelectronic devices and their applications are discussed in view of device physics and photophysics in detector.
Controlled synthesis of transition metal oxide multi-shell structures and in situ study of the energy storage mechanism
Authors: Wang Ke , Zhou Yan , Hu Zhihao , Tai Yilin , Cheng Lixun , Ge Binghui , Wu Chuanqiang
Published: October 2023

Multi-shell transition metal oxide hollow spheres show great potential for applications in energy storage because of their unique multilayered hollow structure with large specific surface area, short electron and charge transport paths, and structural stability. In this paper, the controlled synthesis of NiCo2O4, MnCo2O4, NiMn2O4 multi-shell layer structures was achieved by using the solvothermal method. As the anode materials for Li-ion batteries, the three multi-shell structures maintained good stability after 650 long cycles in the cyclic charge/discharge test. The in situ transmisssion electron microscope characterization combined with cyclic voltammetry tests demonstrated that the three anode materials NiCo2O4, MnCo2O4 and NiMn2O4 have similar charge/discharge transition mechanisms, and the multi-shell structure can effectively buffer the volume expansion and structural collapse during lithium embedding/delithiation to ensure the stability of the electrode structure and cycling performance. The research results can provide effective guidance for the synathesis and charging/discharging mechanism of multi-shell metal oxide lithium-ion battery anode materials.
The SNR of time-of-flight positron emission tomography data for joint reconstruction of the activity and attenuation images
Authors: Nuyts Johan , Defrise Michel , Morel Christian , Lecoq Paul
Published: October 2023

Objective. Measurement of the time-of-flight (TOF) difference of each coincident pair of photons increases the effective sensitivity of positron emission tomography (PET). Many authors have analyzed the benefit of TOF for quantification and hot spot detection in the reconstructed activity images. However, TOF not only improves the effective sensitivity, it also enables the joint reconstruction of the tracer concentration and attenuation images. This can be used to correct for errors in CT- or MR-derived attenuation maps, or to apply attenuation correction without the help of a second modality. This paper presents an analysis of the effect of TOF on the variance of the jointly reconstructed attenuation and (attenuation corrected) tracer concentration images. Approach. The analysis is performed for PET systems that have a distribution of possibly non-Gaussian TOF-kernels, and includes the conventional Gaussian TOF-kernel as a special case. Non-Gaussian TOF-kernels are often observed in novel detector designs, which make use of two (or more) different mechanisms to convert the incoming 511 keV photon to optical photons. The analytical result is validated with a simple 2D simulation. Main results. We show that if two different TOF-kernels are equivalent for image reconstruction with known attenuation, then they are also equivalent for joint reconstruction of the activity and the attenuation images. The variance increase in the activity, caused by also jointly reconstructing the attenuation image, vanishes when the TOF-resolution approaches perfection. Significance. These results are of interest for PET detector development and for the development of stand-alone PET systems.
Study on the influence of the information diffusion and vaccination behavior on disease transmission in multiplex networks
Authors: Huo Liang’an , Wu Bingjie
Published: October 2023

To investigate the influence of information diffusion and vaccination behavior on disease transmission. In this paper, a coupling model is proposed to describe the co-evolution process of information diffusion, vaccination behavior and disease transmission in multiplex network. In the information layer, two types of information are diffused, including the positive information and the negative information, respectively. During the process of information diffusion, the influence of mass media on information diffusion is considered, due to the herd effect, which type of information is believed to depend on the information state of the surrounding neighbors based on the Heaviside step function. In the behavioral layer, the individuals with different types of information will choose different immune behavioral responses, which in turn will influence the disease transmission. The coupling model was analyzed by using the Micro Markov Chain Approach (MMCA) to obtain state transition equations and the prevalence thresholds for disease. By simulating the simulation experiments, it demonstrates that the information diffusion has no direct effect on disease prevalence thresholds, but affects the proportion of infected; vaccination behavior has a significant effect on disease prevalence thresholds and also affects the proportion of infected. The results of the study suggest that when the disease transmission is within the controllable range, the stronger the diffusion of positive information, the higher the vaccination rate, which has a more positive influence on inhibiting disease transmission; once out of control, the official will lose trust, which is not conducive to disease control.
The number of spanning trees in a k5 chain graph
Authors: Kosar Zunaira , Zaman Shahid , Ali Wajid , Ullah Asad
Published: October 2023

Spanning trees (ST) have numerous applications in various fields, including computer science, graph theory, network design, and optimization. ST uses in designing efficient network topologies. In computer networks, a ST ensures that all nodes are connected while avoiding loops and redundant connections. This helps in minimizing network congestion and ensuring reliable communication. In routing protocols the ST’s play a crucial role such as the Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) and Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP). These protocols are used to prevent network loops and establish a loop-free topology for efficient packet forwarding. In image processing the ST’s have applications in algorithms such as image segmentation and region merging. By constructing a minimum spanning tree based on pixel intensities or other image features, regions or objects can be efficiently grouped together. In wireless sensor networks, ST’s are employed to organize the network structure, reduce energy consumption, and enable efficient data collection. By constructing a spanning tree, sensor nodes can communicate with a central node or sink node while minimizing energy consumption and prolonging network lifetime. Motivated by the above applications and by the normalized Laplacian (NL) matrix, we obtained the spectrums of the n copies of K
5 chain graph, and is denoted by

K

5

ℓ

. By utilizing these spectrums, we have successfully calculated the number of spanning trees for

K

5

ℓ

.
A novel model for the fifth-order mKP equation describing (2+1)-dimensional shallow ocean solitary waves and their properties
Authors: Zhao Kailun , Gao Guandong , Yang Dezhou , Xu Lingjing , Feng Xingru , Yin Baoshu , Han Xiaofeng
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we develop a (2+1)-dimensional fifth-order modified Kadomtsev-Petviashvili (mKP) equation model using multiscale analysis and perturbation expansion, which is a novel model description of the shallow ocean solitary waves phenomenon, featuring stronger nonlinear terms and a higher-order compared to traditional models. We examine the conservation law within the model to further investigate the properties of solitary waves. Subsequently, we obtain the exact solutions of the model by employing the

G
′

G

expansion method. We simulate the generation and propagation of solitary waves through appropriate parameter adjustments, deriving the solitary wave solutions, kink wave solutions, and periodic wave solutions. Additionally, we analyze the effects of different parameters on the propagation of solitary waves. Finally, we explore the evolution of solitary waves before and after generation under a given initial perturbation conditions. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics of shallow ocean solitary waves, shedding light on their behaviour and implications.
Investigation by simulation of the highest sensitivity interferometric pressure sensor at the end of a micro-structured optical fiber
Authors: Bouchaour Mounir , Guermat Abdelhak , Adouane Azzedine , Guessoum Assia , Ghoumazi Mehdi , Rahmani Mahdi , Demagh Nacer-Eddine
Published: October 2023

One of the most prevalent techniques used in the construction of optical fiber-based pressure sensors is Fabry–Perot interferometry. This work presents a variety of interferometric sensors based on this feature. To achieve this, we used chemical etching (HF) to create conical cavities at the ends of the optical fibers single mode fiber (SMF) and graded index (GRIN) fiber, where the first gold (Au) deposition allows us to create half-mirrors. So the interface (core/Au) represents the first reflective surface. After filling each micro-cavity with a quantity of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) type polymer to form a flexible micro-lens, and proceeding to a second deposition of gold (Au), we got the second reflective surface (PDMS/Au). The sensor with the highest sensitivity to pressure and temperature, namely 0.065 nm/KPa and 0.24 nm/°C, was obtained for a micro-cavity length of 35 μm, a diameter of 60 μm, and a micro-lens thickness of 20 μm, respectively. Analysis and simulation were performed using COMSOL Multiphysics to develop the sensor.
ALP dark matter with non-periodic potentials: parametric resonance, halo formation and gravitational signatures
Authors: Chatrchyan Aleksandr , Eröncel Cem , Koschnitzke Matthias , Servant Géraldine
Published: October 2023

Axion-like particles (ALPs) are leading candidates to explain the dark matter in the universe. Their production via the misalignment mechanism has been extensively studied for cosine potentials characteristic of pseudo-Nambu-Goldstone bosons. In this work we investigate ALPs with non-periodic potentials, which allow for large misalignment of the field from the minimum. As a result, the ALP can match the relic density of dark matter in a large part of the parameter space. Such potentials give rise to self-interactions which can trigger an exponential growth of fluctuations in the ALP field via parametric resonance, leading to the fragmentation of the field. We study these effects with both Floquet analysis and lattice simulations. Using the Press-Schechter formalism, we predict the halo mass function and halo spectrum arising from ALP dark matter. These halos can be dense enough to produce observable gravitational effects such as astrometric lensing, diffraction of gravitational wave signals from black hole mergers, photometric microlensing of highly magnified stars, perturbations of stars in the galactic disk or stellar streams. These effects would provide a probe of dark matter even if it does not couple to the Standard Model. They would not be observable for halos predicted for standard cold dark matter and for ALP dark matter in the standard misalignment mechanism. We determine the relevant regions of parameter space in the (ALP mass, decay constant)-plane and compare predictions in different axion fragmentation models.
Cosmology inference at the field level from biased tracers in redshift-space
Authors: Stadler Julia , Schmidt Fabian , Reinecke Martin
Published: October 2023

Cosmology inference of galaxy clustering at the field level with the EFT likelihood in principle allows for extracting all non-Gaussian information from quasi-linear scales, while robustly marginalizing over any astrophysical uncertainties. A pipeline in this spirit is implemented in the LEFTfield code, which we extend in this work to describe the clustering of galaxies in redshift space. Our main additions are: the computation of the velocity field in the LPT gravity model, the fully nonlinear displacement of the evolved, biased density field to redshift space, and a systematic expansion of velocity bias. We test the resulting analysis pipeline by applying it to synthetic data sets with a known ground truth at increasing complexity: mock data generated from the perturbative forward model itself, sub-sampled matter particles, and dark matter halos in N-body simulations. By fixing the initial-time density contrast to the ground truth, while varying the growth rate f, bias coefficients and noise amplitudes, we perform a stringent set of checks. These show that indeed a systematic higher-order expansion of the velocity bias is required to infer a growth rate consistent with the ground truth within errors. Applied to dark matter halos, our analysis yields unbiased constraints on f at the level of a few percent for a variety of halo masses at redshifts z = 0, 0.5, 1 and for a broad range of cutoff scales 0.08 h/Mpc≤ Λ ≤ 0.20 h/Mpc. Importantly, deviations between true and inferred growth rate exhibit the scaling with halo mass, redshift and cutoff that one expects based on the EFT of Large Scale Structure. Further, we obtain a robust detection of velocity bias through its effect on the redshift-space density field and are able to disentangle it from higher-derivative bias contributions.
Quasi-anti-parity–time-symmetric single-resonator micro-optical gyroscope with Kerr nonlinearity
Authors: Geng 耿 Jingtong 靖童 , Xu 徐 Shuyi 书逸 , Jin 靳 Ting 婷 , Ding 丁 Shulin 舒林 , Yang 杨 Liu 柳 , Wang 王 Ying 颖 , Zhang 张 Yonggang 勇刚
Published: October 2023

Parity–time (PT) and quasi-anti-parity–time (quasi-APT) symmetric optical gyroscopes have been proposed recently which enhance Sagnac frequency splitting. However, the operation of gyroscopes at the exceptional point (EP) is challenging due to strict fabrication requirements and experimental uncertainties. We propose a new quasi-APT-symmetric micro-optical gyroscope which can be operated at the EP by easily shifting the Kerr nonlinearity. A single resonator is used as the core sensitive component of the quasi-APT-symmetric optical gyroscope to reduce the size, overcome the strict structural requirements and detect small rotation rates. Moreover, the proposed scheme also has an easy readout method for the frequency splitting. As a result, the device achieves a frequency splitting 105 times higher than that of a classical resonant optical gyroscope with the Earth’s rotation. This proposal paves the way for a new and valuable method for the engineering of micro-optical gyroscopes.
Basic Survey Scheduling for the Wide Field Survey Telescope (WFST)
Authors: Chen Yan-Peng , Jiang Ji-An , Luo Wen-Tao , Zheng Xian-Zhong , Fang Min , Yang Chao , Hong Yuan-Yu , Lü Zong-Fei
Published: October 2023

Aiming at improving the survey efficiency of the Wide Field Survey Telescope, we have developed a basic scheduling strategy that takes into account the telescope characteristics, observing conditions, and weather conditions at the Lenghu site. The sky area is divided into rectangular regions, referred to as “tiles,” with a size of 2.°577 × 2.°634 slightly smaller than the focal area of the mosaic CCDs. These tiles are continuously filled in annulars parallel to the equator. The brightness of the sky background, which varies with the moon phase and distance from the moon, plays a significant role in determining the accessible survey fields. Approximately 50 connected tiles are grouped into one block for observation. To optimize the survey schedule, we perform simulations by taking into account the length of exposures, data readout, telescope slewing, and all relevant observing conditions. We utilize the Greedy Algorithm for scheduling optimization. Additionally, we propose a dedicated dithering pattern to cover the gaps between CCDs and the four corners of the mosaic CCD array, which are located outside of the 3° field of view. This dithering pattern helps to achieve relatively uniform exposure maps for the final survey outputs.
Solitons and normal random matrices
Authors: Loutsenko I M , Spiridonov V P , Yermolayeva O V
Published: October 2023

We discuss a general relation between the solitons and statistical mechanics and show that the partition function of the normal random matrix model can be obtained from the multi-soliton solutions of the two-dimensional Toda lattice hierarchy in a special limit.
D-divisible quantum evolution families
Authors: Szczygielski Krzysztof
Published: October 2023

We propose and explore a notion of decomposably divisible (D-divisible) differentiable quantum evolution families on matrix algebras. This is achieved by replacing the complete positivity requirement, imposed on the propagator, by more general condition of decomposability. It is shown that such D-divisible dynamical maps satisfy a generalized version of Master equation and are totally characterized by their time-local generators. Necessary and sufficient conditions for D-divisibility are found. Additionally, decomposable trace preserving semigroups are examined.
ACR: metagenome-assembled prokaryotic and eukaryotic genome refinement tool
Authors: Seong Hoon Je , Kim Jin Ju , Sul Woo Jun
Published: October 2023

Microbial genome recovery from metagenomes can further explain microbial ecosystem structures, functions and dynamics. Thus, this study developed the Additional Clustering Refiner (ACR) to enhance high-purity prokaryotic and eukaryotic metagenome-assembled genome (MAGs) recovery. ACR refines low-quality MAGs by subjecting them to iterative k-means clustering predicated on contig abundance and increasing bin purity through validated universal marker genes. Synthetic and real-world metagenomic datasets, including short- and long-read sequences, evaluated ACR's effectiveness. The results demonstrated improved MAG purity and a significant increase in high- and medium-quality MAG recovery rates. In addition, ACR seamlessly integrates with various binning algorithms, augmenting their strengths without modifying core features. Furthermore, its multiple sequencing technology compatibilities expand its applicability. By efficiently recovering high-quality prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes, ACR is a promising tool for deepening our understanding of microbial communities through genome-centric metagenomics.
Postoperative complications and surgical outcomes of robotic versus conventional nipple-sparing mastectomy in breast cancer: meta-analysis
Authors: Nessa Ashrafun , Shaikh Shafaque , Fuller Mairi , Masannat Yazan A , Kastora Stavroula L
Published: October 2023

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, with remarkable advances in early diagnosis, systemic treatments, and surgical techniques. Robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy has been trialled; however, the complication rates, surgical outcomes, and oncological safety of this approach remain obscure.

Methods

A systematic search of the literature was conducted from conception until September 2022. Studies examining complications and operative variables where robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy was compared with conventional nipple-sparing mastectomy were included. Primary study outcomes were complications (Clavien–Dindo grade III complications, skin or nipple necrosis, seroma, haematoma, infection, implant loss, and wound dehiscence) and oncological safety (recurrence and positive margins). The secondary outcomes included operative variables, length of stay, cost-effectiveness, learning curve, and aesthetic outcome.

Results

A total of seven studies of overall fair quality, involving 1674 patients, were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Grade 3 complications were reduced in robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy without statistical significance (OR 0.60 (95 per cent c.i. 0.35 to 1.05)). Nipple necrosis was significantly reduced in robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy (OR 0.54 (95 per cent c.i. 0.30 to 0.96); P = 0.03; I2 = 15 per cent). Operating time (mean difference +58.81 min (95 per cent c.i. +28.19 to +89.44 min); P = 0.0002) and length of stay (mean difference +1.23 days (95 per cent c.i. +0.64 to +1.81 days); P < 0.0001) were significantly increased in robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy, whereas the opposite was true for blood loss (mean difference −53.18 ml (95 per cent c.i. −71.78 to −34.58 ml); P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Whilst still in its infancy, robotic breast surgery may become a viable option in breast surgery. Nonetheless, the oncological safety of this approach requires robust assessment.
Adult Cerebral Malaria: Acute and Subacute Imaging Findings, Long-term Clinical Consequences
Authors: Coughlan Charles , Jäger Hans Rolf , Brealey David , Carletti Francesco , Hyare Harpreet , Pattnaik Rajyabardhan , Sahu Praveen K , Mohanty Sanjib , Logan Sarah , Hoffmann Angelika , Wassmer Samuel C , Checkley Anna M
Published: October 2023

Cerebral malaria is an important cause of mortality and neurodisability in endemic regions. We show magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features suggestive of cytotoxic and vasogenic cerebral edema followed by microhemorrhages in 2 adult UK cases, comparing them with an Indian cohort. Long-term follow-up images correlate ongoing changes with residual functional impairment.
Health status, healthcare use and child MMR vaccination coverage in Travellers according to their environmental and living conditions in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France, 2019–2022
Authors: Mondeilh Aude , Brabant Gilles , Haidar Sahar , Saboni Leïla , Ruello Marc , Lesieur Sophie , Castor Christine , Autes-Treand Erwan , Le strat Yann , Vandentorren Stéphanie
Published: October 2023

Background

The poor health status of underserved populations is compounded by low vaccination uptake, leading to a greater risk of epidemics. On October 2017, a measles outbreak started in the southwest of France among under-vaccinated social groups, including Travellers. We aimed to describe the health status, healthcare use and child measles–mumps–rubella (MMR) vaccination coverage in Travellers according to their environmental and living conditions.

Methods

A cross-sectional study with a three-stage random sample design was conducted between October 2019 and March 2022 in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in France. Trained social workers administered face-to-face questionnaires to collect data on adults and children. Anthropometric measurements, vaccination records and data using an environmental exposure questionnaire were also collected.

Results

The participation rate was high (73.6%), with 1030 adults and 337 children included. Concerning the adults, 36.6% had obesity, 14.4% reported diabetes, 24.7% hypertension and 14.4% major depression. The prevalence of major depression was significantly higher in adults living in precarious and unauthorized housing than in those with adequate housing (19.8 vs. 14.7%, P = 0.03). With regard to children, 45.3% had full (i.e. 2-dose) MMR vaccination coverage at 24 months and 17.9% had obesity. Finally, 74.5% of the households experienced housing insecurity, and 22.2% did not have a supply of drinking water.

Conclusion

Traveller children and adults faced deleterious environmental and living conditions potentially affecting their health, healthcare use and vaccination coverage. These results demonstrate the need for urgent interventions for underserved populations which take into account their specific needs.
Public attitudes, knowledge and educational needs toward genetic testing and omics sciences: a pilot survey conducted in Italy
Authors: Calabrò Giovanna Elisa , Causio Francesco Andrea , Pires Marafon Denise , Sassano Michele , Moccia Francesca , Pastorino Roberta , Boccia Stefania
Published: October 2023

Advancements in genomics have significant implications for public health, making citizens’ education vital for informed decision-making. Based on two literature reviews’ findings and a survey conducted with experts from the Italian Network of Genomics in Public Health, we conducted a pilot survey on Italian citizens’ attitudes, knowledge and educational needs toward genetic testing and omics sciences. Our results demonstrate a widespread interest in genetic testing and uncertainties regarding associated risks, with 99% of participants acknowledging insufficient knowledge of genetic testing. There is an urgent need for educational tools to improve citizens’ literacy and engagement in this rapidly evolving field.
Baseline and Postinduction Intestinal Ultrasound Findings Predict Long-term Transmural and Mucosal Healing in Patients With Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Huang Zicheng , Cheng Wenjie , Chao Kang , Tang Jian , Li Miao , Guo Qin , Liu GuangJian , Gao Xiang
Published: October 2023

Background

Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is becoming a standard assessment tool in Crohn’s disease (CD), but limited data exist on its ability to predict long-term objective outcomes. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the predictive value of IUS findings for long-term transmural healing (TH) and mucosal healing (MH) in CD.

Methods

We prospectively included consecutive CD patients with active endoscopic disease and bowel wall thickness (BWT) >3.0 mm, initiating infliximab. Intestinal ultrasound parameters (ie, BWT, inflammatory mesenteric fat [i-fat], bowel blood flow and stratification) and International Bowel Ultrasound Segmental Activity Score (IBUS-SAS) were collected at baseline, after 14 to 26 weeks (visit 1, postinduction) and 44 to 56 weeks (visit 2). Transmural healing (normalization of all IUS parameters) and MH (SES-CD ≤2) were assessed at visit 2.

Results

One hundred twenty-nine patients were evaluated. At visit 2, 38.0% and 48.1% of patients achieved TH and MH, respectively. All the IUS parameters and IBUS-SAS showed improvement at visit 1 and visit 2 compared with the baseline (all P < .001). Multivariable analysis found that presence of i-fat at baseline (odds ratio [OR], 0.57; P = .008) and greater postinduction BWT (OR, 0.24; P < .001) were negative predictors for TH, while higher baseline (OR, 0.98; P = .013) and postinduction (OR, 0.94; P < .001) IBUS-SAS predicted negatively for MH. Postinduction BWT <4.5mm best predicted TH (AUC 0.85; P < .001), while postinduction IBUS-SAS <25.0 best predicted MH (AUC 0.82; P < .001). Moreover, colonic disease was associated with higher risk of TH (OR, 2.55; P = .027), and disease duration >24 months with lower risk of MH (OR, 0.27; P = .006).

Conclusions

Baseline and postinduction IUS findings reliably predict long-term TH and MH in patients with CD receiving infliximab.
An Early Treatment With BKI-1748 Exhibits Full Protection Against Abortion and Congenital Infection in Sheep Experimentally Infected With Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Sánchez-Sánchez Roberto , Imhof Dennis , Hecker Yanina P , Ferre Ignacio , Re Michela , Moreno-Gonzalo Javier , Blanco-Murcia Javier , Mejías-López Elena , Hulverson Matthew A , Choi Ryan , Arnold Samuel L M , Ojo Kayode K , Barrett Lynn K , Hemphill Andrew , Van Voorhis Wesley C , Ortega-Mora Luis Miguel
Published: October 2023

Congenital toxoplasmosis in humans and in other mammalian species, such as small ruminants, is a well-known cause of abortion and fetal malformations. The calcium-dependent protein kinase 1 (CDPK1) inhibitor BKI-1748 has shown a promising safety profile for its use in humans and a good efficacy against Toxoplasma gondii infection in vitro and in mouse models. Ten doses of BKI-1748 given every other day orally in sheep at 15 mg/kg did not show systemic or pregnancy-related toxicity. In sheep experimentally infected at 90 days of pregnancy with 1000 TgShSp1 oocysts, the BKI-1748 treatment administered from 48 hours after infection led to complete protection against abortion and congenital infection. In addition, compared to infected/untreated sheep, treated sheep showed a drastically lower rectal temperature increase and none showed IgG seroconversion throughout the study. In conclusion, BKI-1748 treatment in pregnant sheep starting at 48 hours after infection was fully effective against congenital toxoplasmosis.
Webs of intrigue: museum genomics elucidate relationships of the marronoid spider clade (Araneae)
Authors: Gorneau Jacob A , Crews Sarah C , Cala-Riquelme Franklyn , Montana Katherine O , Spagna Joseph C , Ballarin Francesco , Almeida-Silva Lina M , Esposito Lauren A
Published: October 2023

Relationships among spider families that lack support through other lines of evidence (e.g., morphology) have recently been uncovered through molecular phylogenetics. One such group is the “marronoid” clade, which contains about 3,400 described species in 9 families. Marronoids run the gamut of life history strategies, with social species, species producing a variety of silk types, and species occurring in a range of extreme environments. Despite recognition of the ecological variability in the group, there remains uncertainty about family- level relationships, leaving diverse ecologies without an evolutionary context. The phylogenies produced to date have relatively low nodal support, there are few defined morphological synapomorphies, and the internal relationships of many families remain unclear. We use 93 exemplars from all marronoid families and ultraconserved element loci captured in silico from a combination of 48 novel low-coverage whole genomes and genomic data from the Sequence Read Archive (SRA) to produce a 50% occupancy matrix of 1,277 loci from a set of ultraconserved element probes. These loci were used to infer a phylogeny of the marronoid clade and to evaluate the familial relationships within the clade, and were combined with single-locus (Sanger) legacy data to further increase taxonomic sampling. Our results indicate a clearly defined and well-supported marronoid clade and provide evidence for both monophyly and paraphyly within the currently defined families of the clade. We propose taxonomic changes in accordance with the resulting phylogenetic hypothesis, including elevating Cicurinidae (restored status) and Macrobunidae (new rank).
Survey on microbial contamination of opened skin care products used for tattooing
Authors: Neuhaus Szilvia , Brockmann Stefan , Al Dahouk Sascha , Dieckmann Ralf
Published: October 2023

Aims

Inadequate hygiene measures as well as the use of contaminated inks or non-sterile needles are considered as important infection sources in the process of tattooing. In tattoo parlors and at conventions, it is common practice to apply cosmetic products from bulk packs as lubricants during tattooing and as ointments for tattoo aftercare. The objective of our study was to assess the microbial load of opened skin care products used during tattooing or for tattoo aftercare.

Methods and results

First, we established a homogenization method suitable for the microbiological examination of water-immiscible products. To this end, we compared the efficiency of FastPrepTM and Stomacher® homogenizers on artificially contaminated petroleum jelly. FastPrep homogenates revealed significantly higher detection rates (≥97%) compared to Stomacher ones (31%–64%). Second, we investigated 106 cosmetic bulk pack products collected from tattoo artists. After FastPrep homogenization for 30 seconds, total aerobic mesophilic bacteria and the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans were determined through culture. We also tested for Mycobacteria spp. by qPCR. In total, 4.7% of the cosmetic products under study turned out to be contaminated.

Conclusion

The observed microbial contamination of opened skin care bulk packs can hold a risk to introduce bacteria into the fresh skin wound resulting from tattooing and may be a risk factor for post-tattoo infections.
Determining the efficacy of disinfectants at nucleic acid degradation
Authors: Wilkinson Rachael C , Meldrum Kirsty , Maggs Caitlin J , Thomas Nerissa E , Thomas Bethan R , De Mello Natalie , Joyce Naomi
Published: October 2023

Aims

Nucleic acids, particularly antibiotic resistance genes, are commonly found on surfaces within healthcare environments, with levels not reducing following cleaning. Within the UK, there are no regulations for testing disinfectants against nucleic acids.

Methods and results

A series of commonplace in vitro methods were used to determine disinfectant-induced physical and functional damage to various nucleic acids; RNA (10 μg), genomic DNA (2 μg), and plasmids (1 μg). Using these methods, the optimal residence time (10 minutes) and working concentration (10%) were determined for a new disinfectant. Furthermore, comparison of disinfectants with different active ingredients including lactic acid (LA), sodium hydroxide (NaOH), chloroxylenol (PCMX), and quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), were compared to controls. All disinfectants showed greater degradation by gel electrophoresis of genomic DNA and RNA than of purified plasmids. Functional analysis using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) demonstrated that no disinfectant tested (apart from control) could damage DNA to the level where PCR amplification was not possible, and only the NaOH reagent could achieve this for RNA.

Conclusions

The set of methods described herein provides a platform for future standardization and potential regulation regarding monitoring cleaning solutions for their activity against nucleic acids.