bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the transcriptional cooperation between RUNX2 and its associated elncRNA RAIN
Authors: Vitale Emanuele , Manicardi Veronica , Gugnoni Mila , Torricelli Federica , Donati Benedetta , Muccioli Silvia , Salviato Elisa , Rossi Teresa , Manzotti Gloria , Piana Simonetta , Ciarrocchi Alessia
Published: September 2024

Recent insights into the mechanisms controlling gene expression identified enhancer-associated long non-coding RNAs (elncRNAs) as master players of transcription in cancers. RUNX2, a mammalian RUNT-related transcription factor, is increasingly recognized in cancer biology for its role in supporting survival and progression also in thyroid cancer (TC). We recently identified, within the RUNX2 locus, a novel elncRNA that we named RAIN (RUNX2 associated intergenic lncRNA). We showed that RAIN and RUNX2 expression correlate in TC, both in vitro and in vivo, and that RAIN promotes RUNX2 expression by interacting with and affecting the activity of the RUNX2 P2 promoter through two distinct mechanisms. Here, we took forward these observations to explore the genome-wide transcriptional function of RAIN and its contribution to the RUNX2-dependent gene expression program in TC. By combining multiple omics data, we demonstrated that RAIN functionally cooperates with RUNX2 to the regulation of a subset of functionally related genes involved in promoting matrix remodeling, migration, and loss of differentiation. We showed that RAIN interacts with RUNX2 and its expression is required for the efficient recruitment of this TF to its target regulatory regions. In addition, our data revealed that besides RUNX2, RAIN governs a hierarchically organized complex transcriptional program by controlling a core of cancer-associated TFs that, in turn, orchestrate the expression of downstream genes. This evidence indicates that the functional cooperation observed between RAIN and RUNX2 can be a diffuse work mechanism for this elncRNA.
Short-term efficacy of photobiomodulation in early and intermediate age-related macular degeneration: the PBM4AMD study
Authors: Nassisi Marco , Mainetti Claudia , Paparella Giorgia Rosapia , Belloni Baroni Luca , Milella Paolo , Leone Gaia , Galli Davide , Pozzo Giuffrida Francesco , Dell’Arti Laura , Mapelli Chiara , Casalino Giuseppe , Viola Francesco
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This independent prospective study evaluated the short-term effects and safety of photobiomodulation (PBM) in early and intermediate age-related macular degeneration.

Methods

patients were treated with PBM in one eye. Functional parameters and drusen volume were measured at one (W4), three- (W12) and six-months (W24) after PBM.

Results

The study included 38 subjects who completed the PBM protocol. Two patients developed macular neovascularization during the study period. Best corrected visual acuity improved from 77.82 ± 5.83 ETDRS letters at baseline to 82.44 ± 5.67 at W12 (p < 0.01), then declined to 80.05 ± 5.79 at W24 (p < 0.01 vs. baseline). Low luminance visual acuity showed a similar pattern, improving from 61.18 ± 8.58 ETDRS letters at baseline to 66.33 ± 8.55 at W12 (p < 0.01), and decreasing to 62.05 ± 9.71 at W24 (p = 0.02). Contrast sensitivity improved at W12 (20.11 ± 9.23 ETDRS letters, p < 0.01), but returned to baseline by W24 (16.45 ± 9.12, p = 0.5). Scotopic microperimetry showed a decrease in mean absolute retinal sensitivity from 9.24 ± 3.44 dB to 7.47 ± 4.41 dB at W24 (p < 0.01), while relative sensitivity decreased only at W24 (p = 0.04). Drusen volume decreased at W4 (0.018 ± 0.009 mm3, p < 0.01) and W12 (0.017 ± 0.009 mm3, p < 0.01), with a slight increase at W24 (0.019 ± 0.012 mm3, p = 0.154).

Conclusions

PBM resulted in temporary improvements in visual function and a reduction in drusen volume, but these effects were not sustained at six months. The long-term efficacy and impact on disease progression are uncertain, necessitating further research to confirm these findings and determine optimal patient selection.
Genome-wide discovery and integrative genomic characterization of insulin resistance loci using serum triglycerides to HDL-cholesterol ratio as a proxy
Authors: DeForest Natalie , Wang Yuqi , Zhu Zhiyi , Dron Jacqueline S. , Koesterer Ryan , Natarajan Pradeep , Flannick Jason , Amariuta Tiffany , Peloso Gina M. , Majithia Amit R.
Published: September 2024

Insulin resistance causes multiple epidemic metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and fatty liver, but is not routinely measured in epidemiological studies. To discover novel insulin resistance genes in the general population, we conducted genome-wide association studies in 382,129 individuals for triglyceride to HDL-cholesterol ratio (TG/HDL), a surrogate marker of insulin resistance calculable from commonly measured serum lipid profiles. We identified 251 independent loci, of which 62 were more strongly associated with TG/HDL compared to TG or HDL alone, suggesting them as insulin resistance loci. Candidate causal genes at these loci were prioritized by fine mapping with directions-of-effect and tissue specificity annotated through analysis of protein coding and expression quantitative trait variation. Directions-of-effect were corroborated in an independent cohort of individuals with directly measured insulin resistance. We highlight two phospholipase encoding genes, PLA2G12A and PLA2G6, which liberate arachidonic acid and improve insulin sensitivity, and VGLL3, a transcriptional co-factor that increases insulin resistance partially through enhanced adiposity. Finally, we implicate the anti-apoptotic gene TNFAIP8 as a sex-dimorphic insulin resistance factor, which acts by increasing visceral adiposity, specifically in females. In summary, our study identifies several candidate modulators of insulin resistance that have the potential to serve as biomarkers and pharmacological targets.
A primordial noble gas component discovered in the Ryugu asteroid and its implications
Authors: Verchovsky Alexander B. , Abernethy Feargus A. J. , Anand Mahesh , Franchi Ian A. , Grady Monica M. , Greenwood Richard C. , Barber Simeon J. , Suttle Martin , Ito Motoo , Tomioka Naotaka , Uesugi Masayuki , Yamaguchi Akira , Kimura Makoto , Imae Naoya , Shirai Naoki , Ohigashi Takuji , Liu Ming-Chang , Uesugi Kentaro , Nakato Aiko , Yogata Kasumi , Yuzawa Hayato , Karouji Yuzuru , Nakazawa Satoru , Okada Tatsuaki , Saiki Takanao , Tanaka Satoshi , Terui Fuyuto , Yoshikawa Makoto , Miyazaki Akiko , Nishimura Masahiro , Yada Toru , Abe Masanao , Usui Tomohiro , Watanabe Sen-ichiro , Tsuda Yuichi ,   Consortium Phase2 curation team Kochi, Imae Naoya , Shirai Naoki , Hirahara Kaoki , Sakurai Ikuya , Okado Ikuo , Findlay Ross , Malley James A. , Zhao Xuchao , Pilorget Cerdic , Bebring Jean-Pierre , Loizeau Dambien , Carter John , Riu Lucie , Le Pivert-Jolivet Tania , McCain Katlyn , Matsuda Nozomi
Published: September 2024

Ryugu is the C-type asteroid from which material was brought to Earth by the Hayabusa2 mission. A number of individual grains and fine-grained samples analysed so far for noble gases have indicated that solar wind and planetary (known as P1) noble gases are present in Ryugu samples with concentrations higher than those observed in CIs, suggesting the former to be more primitive compared to the latter. Here we present results of analyses of three fine-grained samples from Ryugu, in one of which Xe concentration is an order of magnitude higher than determined so far in other samples from Ryugu. Isotopically, this Xe resembles P1, but with a much stronger isotopic fractionation relative to solar wind and significantly lower 36Ar/132Xe ratio than in P1. This previously unknown primordial noble gas component (here termed P7) provides clues to constrain how the solar composition was fractionated to form the planetary components.
Lewy body pathology exacerbates brain hypometabolism and cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Collij Lyduine E. , Mastenbroek Sophie E. , Mattsson-Carlgren Niklas , Strandberg Olof , Smith Ruben , Janelidze Shorena , Palmqvist Sebastian , Ossenkoppele Rik , Hansson Oskar
Published: September 2024

Identifying concomitant Lewy body (LB) pathology through seed amplification assays (SAA) might enhance the diagnostic and prognostic work-up of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in clinical practice and trials. This study examined whether LB pathology exacerbates AD-related disease progression in 795 cognitively impaired individuals (Mild Cognitive Impairment and dementia) from the longitudinal multi-center observational ADNI cohort. Participants were on average 75 years of age (SD = 7.89), 40.8% were female, 184 (23.1%) had no biomarker evidence of AD/LB pathology, 39 (4.9%) had isolated LB pathology (AD-LB+), 395 (49.7%) had only AD pathology (AD+LB-), and 177 (22.3%) had both pathologies (AD+LB+). The AD+LB+ group showed worst baseline performance for most cognitive outcomes and compared to the AD+LB− group faster global cognitive decline and more cortical hypometabolism, particularly in posterior brain regions. Neuropathological examination (n = 61) showed high sensitivity (26/27, 96.3%) and specificity (27/28, 96.4%) of the SAA-test. We showed that co-existing LB-positivity exacerbates cognitive decline and cortical brain hypometabolism in AD. In vivo LB pathology detection could enhance prognostic evaluations in clinical practice and could have implications for clinical AD trial design.
Compression-sensitive smart windows: inclined pores for dynamic transparency changes
Authors: Chen Haomin , Chang Gunho , Lee Tae Hee , Min Seokhwan , Nam Sanghyeon , Cho Donghwi , Ko Kwonhwan , Bae Gwangmin , Lee Yoonseong , Feng Jirou , Zhang Heng , Kim Jang-Kyo , Shin Jonghwa , Hong Jung-Wuk , Jeon Seokwoo
Published: September 2024

Smart windows, capable of tailoring light transmission, can significantly reduce energy consumption in building services. While mechano-responsive windows activated by strains are promising candidates, they face long-lasting challenges in which the space for the light scatterer’s operation has to be enlarged along with the window size, undermining the practicality. Recent attempts to tackle this challenge inevitably generate side effects with compromised performance in light modulation. Here, we introduce a cuttlefish-inspired design to enable the closing and opening of pores within the 3D porous structure by through-thickness compression, offering opacity and transparency upon release and compression. By changing the activation mode from the conventional in-plane to through-thickness direction, the space requirement is intrinsically decoupled from the lateral size of the scatterer. Central to our design is the asymmetry of pore orientation in the 3D porous structure. These inclined pores against the normal direction increase the opaqueness upon release and improve light modulation sensitivity to compression, enabling transmittance regulation upon compression by an infinitesimal displacement of 50 μm. This work establishes a milestone for smart window technologies and will drive advancements in the development of opto-electric devices.
Unaddressed non-energy use in the chemical industry can undermine fossil fuels phase-out
Authors: Zanon-Zotin Marianne , Baptista Luiz Bernardo , Draeger Rebecca , Rochedo Pedro R. R. , Szklo Alexandre , Schaeffer Roberto
Published: September 2024

Around 13% of fossil fuels globally are used for non-combustion purposes. Fossil fuel processing plants, such as petroleum refineries, exhibit interdependent material and energy system dynamics, making the transition away from fossil fuels in energy systems more challenging without addressing the non-energy outputs. This study explores the future role of fossil fuels for non-energy purposes in climate-stringent scenarios with restrictions on alternative feedstock availability, focusing on the primary chemicals sector. Using a global integrated assessment model with detailed refining and primary chemicals sectors, findings across various scenarios reveal that up to 62% of total feedstock use in the chemical sector could be provided by alternative sources by 2050. This would require significant scale-up in biomass utilisation and carbon capture technologies. Annual CO2 emissions from the chemical sector could be reduced to as low as −1Gt CO2 by the same year if carbon storage in non-recycled and non-incinerated bioplastics is accounted for.
Assessing the toxicity of green Agaricus bisporus-based Cadmium Sulfide nanoparticles on Musca domestica as a biological model
Authors: Elhenawy Hanan I. , Toto Noura A. , Eltaweil Abdelazeem S. , Hussein Hussein K. , Augustyniak Maria , El-Samad Lamia M.
Published: September 2024

The common housefly, Musca domestica, known for transmitting over 100 infections, was studied using green-synthesized Cadmium Sulfide nanoparticles (CdS NPs) from Agaricus bisporus. These CdS NPs were tested on third-instar larvae under laboratory conditions using dipping and feeding methods with concentrations (75, 100, 125, 150, 175, and 200 µg/mL). The toxicity, measured by LC50, was found to be 138 µg/mL for dipping treatment and 123 µg/mL for feeding treatment. Analysis with an energy-dispersive X-ray microanalyzer confirmed Cd accumulation in the larval midgut, indicating penetration of CdS NPs into the organism, which may potentially increase their toxicity. CdS NPs caused disruptions in Heat Shock Protein 70, cell apoptosis, and various biochemical components. Scanning electron microscopy revealed morphological abnormalities in larvae, pupae, and adults exposed to CdS NPs. Ultrastructural examination showed significant midgut tissue abnormalities in larvae treated with 123 µg/mL of CdS NPs. Our study demonstrated that green-synthesized CdS NPs from A. bisporus can effectively control the development of M. domestica larvae.
Assessment of the in vitro anti-diabetic activity with molecular dynamic simulations of limonoids isolated from Adalia lemon peels
Authors: El-Feky Amal M. , Aboulthana Wael Mahmoud , El-Rashedy Ahmed A.
Published: September 2024

Limonoids are important constituents of citrus that have a significant impact on promoting human health. Therefore, the primary focus of this research was to assess the overall limonoid content and isolate limonoids from Adalia lemon (Citrus limon L.) peels for their potential use as antioxidants and anti-diabetic agents. The levels of limonoid aglycones in the C. limon peel extract were quantified through a colorimetric assay, revealing a concentration of 16.53 ± 0.93 mg/L limonin equivalent. Furthermore, the total concentration of limonoid glucosides was determined to be 54.38 ± 1.02 mg/L. The study successfully identified five isolated limonoids, namely limonin, deacetylnomilin, nomilin, obacunone 17-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, and limonin 17-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, along with their respective yields. The efficacy of the limonoids-rich extract and the five isolated compounds was evaluated at three different concentrations (50, 100, and 200 µg/mL). It was found that both obacunone 17-O-β-D-glucopyranoside and limonin 17-O-β-D-glucopyranoside possessed the highest antioxidant, free radical scavenging, and anti-diabetic activities, followed by deacetylnomilin, and then the limonoids-rich extract. The molecular dynamic simulations were conducted to predict the behavior of the isolated compounds upon binding to the protein's active site, as well as their interaction and stability. The results revealed that limonin 17-O-β-D-glucopyranoside bound to the protein complex system exhibited a relatively more stable conformation than the Apo system. The analysis of Solvent Accessible Surface Area (SASA), in conjunction with the data obtained from Root-Mean-Square Deviation (RMSD), Root-Mean-Square Fluctuation (RMSF), and Radius of Gyration (ROG) computations, provided further evidence that the limonin 17-O-β-D-glucopyranoside complex system remained stable within the catalytic domain binding site of the human pancreatic alpha-amylase (HPA)-receptor. The research findings suggest that the limonoids found in Adalia lemon peels have the potential to be used as effective natural substances in creating innovative therapeutic treatments for conditions related to oxidative stress and disorders in carbohydrate metabolism.
Qualitative evaluation of trace elements in commercially packaged forms of tobacco using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy
Authors: Kripa Adlene Edith A. , Ongole Ravikiran , Unnikrishnan V. K. , Adarsh U. K.
Published: September 2024

Oral cancer is the most common malignancy in many developing countries, such as India, due to increased consumption of smokeless tobacco. The trace elemental components in commercially packaged forms of tobacco can play a significant role in the pathogenesis of oral cancer. To qualitatively assess the trace elements in various types of commercially packaged forms of tobacco using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). Two popular varieties of ‘Paan masala’ that contained a mixture of slaked lime with areca nut, catechu, and other flavouring agents (tobacco was absent) and four types of packaged tobacco were obtained from ‘Paan’ shops. The contents in the packets were made into pellets using a hydraulic press and subjected to elemental analysis using LIBS. A ten-trial experiment was carried out on all six pellets. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) database was used to assess the emission lines. The elements obtained from commercially packaged tobacco and Paan masala were similar: calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), aluminium (Al), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr). Substances that cause DNA damage and carcinogenesis are inorganic elements such as nickel. Our study revealed that carcinogens such as nickel are present in the commercially packaged forms of tobacco and ‘Paan masala’ samples.
Conformal structure of singularities in some varying fundamental constants bimetric cosmologies
Authors: Marosek Konrad , Balcerzak Adam
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we explore the conformal structure of singularities arising from varying fundamental constants using the method of Penrose diagrams. We employ a specific type of bimetric model featuring two different metrics. One metric describes the causal structure for matter, while the other characterizes the causal structure for gravitational interactions, which is related to variations in fundamental constants such as the gravitational constant and the speed of light. For this reason, we focused on the gravitational metric to calculate the conformal transformation and compose Penrose diagrams for the singularities arising from the varying fundamental constants. We have shown that, in one case, the parameter such as the scale factor, the density and the pressure resemble those of the finite scale factor singularity (FSF). Despite singularity appears in constant conformal time in our case and in the case of FSF the Misner-Sharp horizon looks different. Our another case is similar to sudden future singularity (SFS), but there are differences in the conformal structures. We have also shown that in our cases the behavior of Misner-Sharp horizon strongly depends on initial conditions. The last analytical solution which we introduced is identical to conformal structure of the standard exotic singularity for the matter.
Multifunctional polyacrylonitrile-SiO2/TiO2 hollow particle nanofibrous membranes with robust ultraviolet resistance and antibacterial effect
Authors: Pan Xiaxi , Zhu Yuwei , Liu Liangdong , Mu Changdao , Ngai To
Published: September 2024

Multifunctional nanofibrous membranes displaying superior UV-resistance, antibacterial effect, and breathability were fabricated by encapsulating lyophobized SiO2/TiO2 hollow particles into polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers via electrospinning.
Controllable epitaxy of CrTe2 thin films for application as saturable absorbers
Authors: Wu Zhitao , Chen Yueqian , Xiao Peiyao , Zhang Xu , Liu Wenjun , Xiao Wende
Published: September 2024

Two-dimensional CrTe2 thin films exhibit excellent nonlinear optical characteristics and have enormous prospects in ultrafast optical devices.
Impact of atmospheric water-soluble iron on α-pinene-derived SOA formation and transformation in the presence of aqueous droplets
Authors: Lüchtrath Sabine , Klemer Sven , Dubois Clément , George Christian , Held Andreas
Published: September 2024

Increased secondary organic aerosol formation in the presence of soluble iron and H2O2 acidic conditions in the aqueous phase.
Rhenium-based catalysts for biomass conversion
Authors: Reinhold Julian Skagfjörd , Pang Jifeng , Zhang Bo , Kühn Fritz E. , Zhang Tao
Published: September 2024

This review highlights the advancements in homogeneous and heterogeneous Re-based catalysts for the conversion of biomass into value-added chemicals.
Short‐term power prediction of distributed PV based on multi‐scale feature fusion with TPE‐CBiGRU‐SCA
Authors: Zou Hongbo , Yang Changhua , Ma Henrui , Zhu Suxun , Sun Jialun , Yang Jinlong , Wang Jiahao
Published: September 2024

To address the challenge of insufficient comprehensive extraction and fusion of meteorological conditions, temporal features, and power periodic features in short‐term power prediction for distributed photovoltaic (PV) farms, a TPE‐CBiGRU‐SCA model based on multiscale feature fusion is proposed. First, multiscale feature fusion of meteorological features, temporal features, and hidden periodic features is performed in PV power to construct the model input features. Second, the relationships between PV power and its influencing factors are modelled from spatial and temporal scales using CNN and Bi‐GRU, respectively. The spatiotemporal features are then weighted and fused using the SCA attention mechanism. Finally, TPE‐based hyperparameter optimization is used to refine network parameters, achieving PV power prediction for a single field station. Validation with data from a PV field station shows that this method significantly enhances feature extraction comprehensiveness through multiscale fusion at both data and model layers. This improvement leads to a reduction in MAE and RMSE by 26.03% and 38.15%, respectively, and an increase in R2 to 96.22%, representing a 3.26% improvement over other models.
Exploring the dynamical evolution of Cepheid multiplicity in star clusters and its implications for B-star multiplicity at birth
Authors: Dinnbier František , Anderson Richard I. , Kroupa Pavel
Published: September 2024

Context. Classical Cepheid variable stars provide a unique probe of binary evolution in intermediate-mass stars over the course of several tens to hundreds of Myr. In addition, understanding binary evolution with the inclusion of cluster dynamics is desirable for obtaining a more complete picture of these stars, especially as they play a vital role in distance determinations.

Aims. We studied the binary and multiple properties of Cepheids, assuming that all mid-B stars form in binaries inside star clusters. We also estimated the birth multiplicity of mid-B stars by comparing the observed multiplicity statistics of Cepheids with models based on particular assumptions.

Methods. The clusters were modelled with the NBODY6 code, including synthetic stellar and binary evolutionary tracks. The Cepheids were identified from their position on the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram.

Results. The dynamical cluster environment results in a higher binary fraction among the Cepheids that remain in star clusters (≈60%) than among the Cepheids which have escaped to the field (≈35%). The fraction of Cepheids in triples (≈30% and ≈10% in clusters and field, respectively) follows the same trend. In clusters, the binary, triple, and multiple fraction decreases with increasing cluster mass. More massive clusters have binaries of shorter orbital periods than lower mass clusters and field Cepheids. Mergers are very common with ≈30% of mid-B stars not evolving to Cepheids because of the interaction with their companion. Approximately 40% of Cepheids have merged with their companion, and the merger event impacts stellar evolution, so that ≈25% of all Cepheids occur at an age by more than 40% different than what would be expected from their mass and the current cluster age; the expected age of Cepheids can differ from the age of their host cluster. Our models predict that one in five Cepheids is the result of a merger between stars with mass below the lower mass limit for Cepheids; in clusters, these objects occur substantially later than expected from their mass. Approximately 10% of binary Cepheids have a different companion from the zero-age main sequence (ZAMS) one, and ≈3 to 5% of all Cepheids have a compact companion (≈0.15% of all Cepheids are accompanied by a black hole).

Conclusions. The binary fraction derived from our simulations (42%) underestimates the observed binary Cepheid fraction by approximately a factor of 2. This suggests that the true multiplicity fraction of B-stars at birth could be substantially larger than unity and, thus, that mid-B stars may typically form in triple and higher order systems.
Detecting unresolved lensed SNe Ia in LSST using blended light curves
Authors: Bag Satadru , Huber Simon , Suyu Sherry H. , Arendse Nikki , Andika Irham Taufik , Cañameras Raoul , Kim Alex , Linder Eric , Lodha Kushal , Melo Alejandra , More Anupreeta , Schuldt Stefan , Shafieloo Arman
Published: September 2024

Strongly gravitationally lensed supernovae (LSNe) are promising probes for providing absolute distance measurements using gravitational-lens time delays. Spatially unresolved LSNe offer an opportunity to enhance the sample size for precision cosmology. We predict that there will be approximately three times as many unresolved as resolved LSNe Ia in the Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST) by the Rubin Observatory. In this article, we explore the feasibility of detecting unresolved LSNe Ia from a pool of preclassified SNe Ia light curves using the shape of the blended light curves with deep-learning techniques. We find that ∼30% unresolved LSNe Ia can be detected with a simple 1D convolutional neural network (CNN) using well-sampled rizy-band light curves (with a false-positive rate of ∼3%). Even when the light curve is well observed in only a single band among r, i, and z, detection is still possible with false-positive rates ranging from ∼4 to 7% depending on the band. Furthermore, we demonstrate that these unresolved cases can be detected at an early stage using light curves up to ∼20 days from the first observation with well-controlled false-positive rates, providing ample opportunity to trigger follow-up observations. Additionally, we demonstrate the feasibility of time-delay estimations using solely LSST-like data of unresolved light curves, particularly for doubles, when excluding systems with low time delays and magnification ratios. However, the abundance of such systems among those unresolved in LSST poses a significant challenge. This approach holds potential utility for upcoming wide-field surveys, and overall results could significantly improve with enhanced cadence and depth in the future surveys.
Gravity.jl: Fast and accurate gravitational lens modeling in Julia
Authors: Lombardi Marco
Published: September 2024

We presentGravity.jl, a new proprietary software for the modeling of gravitational lens systems.Gravity.jlis written in the Julia programming language, and is designed to be fast, accurate, and flexible. It can be used to model gravitational lens systems composed of multiple lensing planes, and to perform Bayesian inference on the lens model parameters. In this paper we present the theoretical and statistical ideas behind the code, and we describe its main features. In this first paper of the series, we focus on the modeling of point-like and small extended sources, for which we can linearize the lens equation. We show a practical use ofGravity.jlon a galaxy-scale lens, and we compare the results with those obtained with other codes. We also show howGravity.jlcan be used to perform Bayesian inference on cosmological parameters.
The intrinsic distribution of Lyman-α halos
Authors: Pharo John , Wisotzki Lutz , Urrutia Tanya , Bacon Roland , Pessa Ismael , Augustin Ramona , Goovaerts Ilias , Kozlova Daria , Kusakabe Haruka , Salas Héctor , Smirnov Daniil , Thai Tran Thi , Vitte Eloïse
Published: September 2024

The emission and escape of Lyman-α photons from star-forming galaxies is determined through complex interactions between the emitted photons and a galaxy’s interstellar and circumgalactic gas. This causes Lyman-α emitters (LAEs) to commonly appear not as point sources but in spatially extended halos with complex spectral profiles. We developed a 3D spatial-spectral model of Lyman-α halos (LAHs) to replicate LAH observations in integral field spectroscopic studies, such as those made with VLT/MUSE. The profile of this model is a function of six key halo properties: the halo- and compact-source exponential scale lengths (rsH and rsC), the halo flux fraction (fH), the compact component ellipticity (q), the spectral line width (σ), and the spectral line skewness parameter (γ). Placing a series of model LAHs into datacubes that reflect observing conditions in the MUSE UDF-Mosaic survey, we tested their detection recoverability and determine that σ, rsH, and fH are expected to have the most significant effect on the detectability of the overall LAH at a given central wavelength and intrinsic line luminosity. We developed a general selection function model that spans a grid of these halo parameters. Using it with a sample of 145 LAHs with measured halo properties observed in the UDF-Mosaic survey, we derived completeness-corrected, intrinsic distributions of the values of σ, rsH, and fH for 3 < z < 5 LAHs. We present the best-fit functional forms of the distributions as well as a σ distribution corrected for instrumental line-spread function broadening, and thereby show the physical line-spread distribution of the intrinsic population. Finally, we discuss possible implications for these distributions for the nature of Lyα emission through the circumgalactic medium, finding that observations may undercount LAHs with extended halo scale lengths compared to the intrinsic population.
Super-slowly rotating Ap (ssrAp) stars: Spectroscopic study
Authors: Mathys G. , Holdsworth D. L. , Giarrusso M. , Kurtz D. W. , Catanzaro G. , Leone F.
Published: September 2024

Context. The fact that the rotation periods of Ap stars span five to six orders of magnitude and that the longest ones reach several hundred years represents one of the main unsolved challenges of stellar physics.

Aims. Our goal is to gain better understanding of the occurrence and properties of the longest period Ap stars.

Methods. We obtained high resolution spectra of a sample of super-slowly rotating Ap (ssrAp) star candidates identified by a TESS photometric survey to confirm that they are indeed Ap stars, to check that their projected equatorial velocities are compatible with super-slow rotation, and to obtain a first estimate of their magnetic field strengths. For the confirmed Ap stars, we determined whenever possible their mean magnetic field modulus, their mean quadratic magnetic field, and an upper limit of their projected equatorial velocities.

Results. Eighteen of the 27 stars studied are typical Ap stars; most of the other nine appear to be misclassified. One of the Ap stars is not a slow rotator; it must be seen nearly pole-on. The properties of the remaining 17 are compatible with moderately to extremely long rotation periods. Eight new stars with resolved magnetically split lines in the visible range were discovered; their mean magnetic field modulus and their mean quadratic magnetic field were measured. The mean quadratic field could also be determined in five more stars. Five spectroscopic binaries containing an Ap star, which were not previously known, were identified. Among the misclassified stars, one double-lined spectroscopic binary with two similar, sharp-lined Am components was also discovered.

Conclusions. The technique that we used to carry out a search for ssrAp star candidates using TESS data is validated. Its main limitation appears to arise from uncertainties in the spectral classification of Ap stars. The new magnetic field measurements obtained as part of this study lend further support to the tentative conclusions of our previous studies: the absence of periods Prot ≳ 150 d in stars with B0 ≳ 7.5 kG, the lower rate of occurrence of super-slow rotation for field strengths B0 ≲ 2 kG than in the range 3 kG ≲ B0 ≲ 7.5 kG, and the deficiency of slowly rotating Ap stars with (phase-averaged) field strengths between ∼2 and ∼3 kG.
Witnessing an extreme, highly efficient galaxy formation mode with resolved Lyman-α and Lyman-continuum emission
Authors: Marques-Chaves R. , Schaerer D. , Vanzella E. , Verhamme A. , Dessauges-Zavadsky M. , Chisholm J. , Leclercq F. , Upadhyaya A. , Álvarez-Márquez J. , Colina L. , Garel T. , Messa M.
Published: September 2024

J1316+2614 at z = 3.613 is the UV-brightest (MUV = −24.7) and strongest Lyman continuum-emitting (fescLyC ≈ 90%) star-forming galaxy known; it also shows signatures of inflowing gas from its blue-dominated Lyα profile. We present high-resolution imaging with the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) and the Very Large Telescope (VLT) of the LyC, Lyα, rest-UV, and optical emission of J1316+2614. Detailed analysis of the LyC and UV light distributions reveals compact yet resolved profiles, with LyC and UV morphologies showing identical half-light radii of reff ≃ 220 pc. The continuum-subtracted Lyα emission, obtained with the HST ramp-filter FR551N, reveals an extended filamentary structure of ≃6.0 kpc oriented south to north with only residual flux within the stellar core, suggesting a Lyα ‘hole’. Our spectral energy distribution analysis shows that J1316+2614 is characterised by a young (5.7 ± 1.0 Myr), nearly un-obscured stellar population with a high star-formation rate (SFR = 898 ± 181 M⊙ yr−1) and a stellar mass of M⋆young = (4.8 ± 0.3) × 109 M⊙. Additionally, the spectral energy distribution analysis supports the absence of an underlying old stellar population (M⋆old ≤ 2.8 × 109 M⊙, 3σ). J1316+2614 presents remarkably high SFR and stellar mass surface densities of log(Σ SFR[M⊙ yr−1 kpc−2]) = 3.47 ± 0.11 and log(ΣM⋆[M⊙pc−2]) = 4.20 ± 0.06, respectively, which are among the highest observed in star-forming galaxies and are more typically observed in local young massive star clusters and globular clusters. Our findings indicate that J1316+2614 is a powerful, young, and compact starburst that is leaking a significant amount of LyC photons due to a lack of gas and dust within the starburst. We explored the conditions for gas expulsion using a simple energetic balance and find that, given the strong binding force in J1316+2614, a high star-formation efficiency (ϵSF ≥ 0.7) is necessary to explain the removal of gas and its exposed nature. Our results thus suggest a close link between high ϵSF and high fescLyC. This high efficiency can also naturally explain the remarkably high SFR, UV luminosity, and efficient mass growth of J1316+2614, which acquired at least 62% of its mass in the last 6 Myr. J1316+2614 may exemplify an intense, feedback-free starburst with a high ϵSF, similar to those proposed for UV-bright galaxies at high redshifts.
Electron dynamics in neutron scattering with hydrogen atoms
Authors: Xing Mingzhao , Fu Libin
Published: September 2024

Gas targets have been used to measure the scattering length in neutron–proton (n–p) scattering experiments. Changes in electron dynamics within the gas target have a negligible effect on the dynamics of nucleons. However, electron dynamics are sensitively related to the specific form of the n–p interaction during the scattering process. We propose a theoretical approach to explore electron dynamics and determine the parameters of the n–p interaction. This approach is based on a three-body scattering process involving a neutron, a proton and an electron. Numerical results indicate significant differences in electron dynamics with varying values of n–p interaction parameters, providing additional information beyond scattering cross-sections to accurately determine these parameters.
Identify information sources with different start times in complex networks based on sparse observers
Authors: Deng 邓 Yuan-Zhang 元璋 , Hu 胡 Zhao-Long 兆龙 , Lin 林 Feilong 飞龙 , Tang 唐 Chang-Bing 长兵 , Wang 王 Hui 晖 , Huang 黄 Yi-Zhen 宜真
Published: September 2024

The dissemination of information across various locations is an ubiquitous occurrence, however, prevalent methodologies for multi-source identification frequently overlook the fact that sources may initiate dissemination at distinct initial moments. Although there are many research results of multi-source identification, the challenge of locating sources with varying initiation times using a limited subset of observational nodes remains unresolved. In this study, we provide the backward spread tree theorem and source centrality theorem, and develop a backward spread centrality algorithm to identify all the information sources that trigger the spread at different start times. The proposed algorithm does not require prior knowledge of the number of sources, however, it can estimate both the initial spread moment and the spread duration. The core concept of this algorithm involves inferring suspected sources through source centrality theorem and locating the source from the suspected sources with linear programming. Extensive experiments from synthetic and real network simulation corroborate the superiority of our method in terms of both efficacy and efficiency. Furthermore, we find that our method maintains robustness irrespective of the number of sources and the average degree of network. Compared with classical and state-of-the art source identification methods, our method generally improves the AUROC value by 0.1 to 0.2.
Unravelling biotoxicity of graphdiyne: Molecular dynamics simulation of the interaction between villin headpiece protein and graphdiyne
Authors: Zhang 张 Bei-Wei 贝薇 , Zhang 张 Bing-Quan 兵权 , Shao 邵 Zhi-Gang 志刚 , Wu 吴 Xianqiu 先球
Published: September 2024

Recently, there has been a growing prevalence in the utilization of graphdiyne (GDY) in the field of biomedicine, attributed to its distinctive physical structure and chemical properties. Additionally, its biocompatibility has garnered increasing attention. However, there is a lack of research on the biological effects and physical mechanisms of GDY-protein interactions at the molecular scale. In this study, the villin headpiece subdomain (HP35) served as a representative protein model. Molecular dynamics simulations were employed to investigate the interaction process between the HP35 protein and GDY, as well as the structural evolution of the protein. The data presented in our study demonstrate that GDY can rapidly adsorb HP35 protein and induce denaturation to one of the α-helix structures of HP35 protein. This implies a potential cytotoxicity concern of GDY for biological systems. Compared to graphene, GDY induced less disruption to HP35 protein. This can be attributed to the presence of natural triangular vacancies in GDY, which prevents π–π stacking action and the limited interaction of GDY with HP35 protein is not conducive to the expansion of protein structures. These findings unveil the biological effects of GDY at the molecular level and provide valuable insights for the application of GDY in biomedicine.
Zeeman decoherence effect of trapped 199Hg+ ion Ramsey spectra
Authors: Liu 刘 Ge 格 , Liu 柳 Hao 浩 , Chen 陈 Yihe 义和 , Wang 王 Jian 健 , Huang 黄 Shuhong 书泓 , Li 李 Chengbin 承斌 , She 佘 Lei 磊
Published: September 2024

In the 199Hg+ ion microwave clock, the Zeeman decoherence effect caused by the overlapping of Zeeman sidebands and the radial secular motion sidebands will decrease the contrast of the Ramsey fringe, thus reducing the signal-to-noise ratio of the spectra. In this paper, the Zeeman decoherence effect is analyzed theoretically and investigated experimentally. A simplified model is built to describe the Ramsey spectral probability, in which the transverse relaxation time T
2 is introduced to characterize the influence of the Zeeman decoherence effect phenomenologically. The experiments were carried out on a linear quadrupole trap 199Hg+ ion clock. The results show that the probability model matches well with the experimental data, and the magnetic field value should be more than 150 mGs (1 Gs = 10−4 T) to avoid the Zeeman decoherence effect.
Model on picometer-level light gravitational delay in the GRACE Follow-On-like missions
Authors: Dong 董 Jin-Zhuang 金壮 , Huang 黄 Wei-Sheng 玮圣 , Qin 秦 Cheng-Gang 成刚 , Tan 谈 Yu-Jie 玉杰 , Shao 邵 Cheng-Gang 成刚
Published: September 2024

Laser interferometry plays a crucial role in laser ranging for high-precision space missions such as GRACE (Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment) Follow-On-like missions and gravitational wave detectors. For such accuracy of modern space missions, a precise relativistic model of light propagation is required. With the post-Newtonian approximation, we utilize the Synge world function method to study the light propagation in the Earth’s gravitational field, deriving the gravitational delays up to order c
−4. Then, we investigate the influences of gravitational delays in three inter-satellite laser ranging techniques, including one-way ranging, dual one-way ranging, and transponder-based ranging. By combining the parameters of Kepler orbit, the gravitational delays are expanded up to the order of e
2 (e is the orbital eccentricity). Finally, considering the GRACE Follow-On-like missions, we estimate the gravitational delays to the level of picometer. The results demonstrate some high-order gravitational and coupling effects, such as c
−4-order gravitational delays and coupling of Shapiro and beat frequency, which may be non-negligible for higher precision laser ranging in the future.
Stochastic modeling and analysis of Hepatitis and Tuberculosis co-infection dynamics
Authors: Ali Shah Sayed Murad , Nie 聂 Yufeng 玉峰 , Din Anwarud , Alkhazzan Abdulwasea , Younas Bushra
Published: September 2024

Several mathematical models have been developed to investigate the dynamics of Tuberculosis (TB) and Hepatitis B virus (HBV). Numerous current models for TB, HBV, and their co-dynamics fall short in capturing the important and practical aspect of unpredictability. It is crucial to take into account a stochastic co-infection HBV–TB epidemic model since different random elements have a substantial impact on the overall dynamics of these diseases. We provide a novel stochastic co-model for TB and HBV in this study, and we establish criteria on the uniqueness and existence of a non-negative global solution. We also looked at the persistence of the infections as long its dynamics are governable by the proposed model. To verify the theoretical conclusions, numerical simulations are presented keeping in view the associated analytical results. The infections are found to finally die out and go extinct with certainty when Lévy intensities surpass the specified thresholds and the related stochastic thresholds fall below unity. The findings also demonstrate the impact of noise on the decline in the co-circulation of HBV and TB in a given population. Our results provide insights into effective intervention strategies, ultimately aiming to improve the management and control of TB and HBV co-infections.
Physics through the microscope
Authors: Pennycook Stephen J. , Ishikawa Ryo , Wu 武 Haijun 海军 , Zhao 赵 Xiaoxu 晓续 , Li 黎 Changjian 长建 , Loh Duane , Dan Jiadong , Zhou 周 Wu 武
Published: September 2024

The electron microscope provides numerous insights into physics, from demonstrations of fundamental quantum mechanical principles to the physics of imaging and materials. It reveals the atomic and electronic structure of key regions such as defects and interfaces. We can learn the underlying physics governing properties, and gain insight into how to synthesize new materials with improved properties. Some recent advances and possible future directions are discussed.
Proton acceleration in plasma turbulence driven by high-energy lepton jets
Authors: Zhang 张 Gaowei 高维 , Sheng 盛 Zhengming 政明 , Weng 翁 Suming 苏明 , Chen 陈 Min 民 , Zhang 张 Jie 杰
Published: September 2024

The interaction of high energy lepton jets composed of electrons and positrons with background electron–proton plasma is investigated numerically based upon particle-in-cell simulation, focusing on the acceleration processes of background protons due to the development of electromagnetic turbulence. Such interaction may be found in the universe when energetic lepton jets propagate in the interstellar media. When such a jet is injected into the background plasma, the Weibel instability is excited quickly, which leads to the development of plasma turbulence into the nonlinear stage. The turbulent electric and magnetic fields accelerate plasma particles via the Fermi II type acceleration, where the maximum energy of both electrons and protons can be accelerated to much higher than that of the incident jet particles. Because of background plasma acceleration, a collisionless electrostatic shock wave is formed, where some pre-accelerated protons are further accelerated when passing through the shock wave front. Dependence of proton acceleration on the beam-plasma density ratio and beam energy is investigated. For a given background plasma density, the maximum proton energy generally increases both with the density and kinetic energy of the injected jet. Moreover, for a homogeneous background plasma, the proton acceleration via both turbulent fields and collisionless shocks is found to be significant. In the case of an inhomogeneous plasma, the proton acceleration in the plasma turbulence is dominant. Our studies illustrate a scenario where protons from background plasma can be accelerated successively by the turbulent fields and collisionless shocks.
Recent advances in bio-functional Ta-based bone materials: materials design and bioactivity
Authors: Wu Manyuan , Zhao Mingchun , Cai Ying , Yao Jiangang , Wang Ping , Atrens Andrej
Published: September 2024

Ta-based materials have gained significant interest for bioimplantable scaffolds because of their appropriate mechanical characteristics and biocompatibility. To overcome the serious limitation of bioinertness, there have been many efforts to enhance the bioactivity and osseointegration of Ta-based scaffolds through morphostructural and surface modifications. As scaffolds are implantable devices, sufficient bioactivity is needed to trigger the cellular functions required for tissue engineering. Consequently, a combination of materials and bioscience is needed to develop efficient Ta-based scaffolds, although reviews of this interdisciplinary field remain limited. This review aims to provide an overview of the main strategies to enhance the bioactivity of Ta-based scaffolds, describing the basic mechanisms and research methods of osseointegration, and the approaches to enhance bioactivity and osseointegration. These approaches are divided into three main sections: (i) alteration of the micromorphology, (ii) customization of the scaffold structure, and (iii) functionalization modifications (through alloying or the addition of surface coatings). Also provided are recent advances regarding biocompatibility assessment in vitro, osseointegration properties in vivo, and clinical trial results.