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At least 739 records · Page 41

A New Measurement of the Extragalactic Background Light Using 15 yr of Fermi-large Area Telescope Data

The extragalactic background light (EBL) from ultraviolet to infrared comprises the emission from all stars, galaxies, and actively accreting black holes in the observable Universe. A precise measurement of the EBL is critically important to probe models of star formation and galaxy evolution. The EBL can be measured via the absorption imprint left on the spectra of γ-ray blazars. In this work, we rely on 15 yr of Fermi-LAT data and 1576 blazars to measure the EBL optical depth in the 0 < z < 4.3 range. We detect the EBL attenuation with ≅23σ significance and measure the optical depth in 19 redshift bins, extending the coverage and improving on our previous results. This allows us to reconstruct the evolution of the EBL and find general consistency with recent EBL models. These results represent the most precise determination of the EBL with GeV γ rays to date.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Emergent unitarity in de Sitter from matrix integrals

We study Jackiw-Teitelboim gravity with positive cosmological constant as a model for de Sitter quantum gravity. We focus on the quantum mechanics of the model at past and future infinity. There is a Hilbert space of asymptotic states and an infinite-time evolution operator between the far past and far future. This evolution is not unitary, although we find that it acts unitarily on a subspace up to non-perturbative corrections. These corrections come from processes which involve changes in the spatial topology, including the nucleation of baby universes. There is significant evidence that this 1+1 dimensional model is dual to a 0+0 dimensional matrix integral in the double-scaled limit. So the bulk quantum mechanics, including the Hilbert space and approximately unitary evolution, emerge from a classical integral. We find that this emergence is a robust consequence of the level repulsion of eigenvalues along with the double scaling limit, and so is rather universal in random matrix theory.

2D gravity↗

Quiescent Galaxy Size, Velocity Dispersion, and Dynamical Mass Evolution

Abstract We use surveys covering the redshift range 0.05 < z < 3.8 to explore quiescent galaxy scaling relations and the redshift evolution of the velocity dispersion, size, and dynamical mass at fixed stellar mass. For redshift z < 0.6, we derive mass-limited samples and demonstrate that these large samples enhance constraints on the evolution of the quiescent population. The constraints include 2985 new velocity dispersions from the SHELS F2 survey. In contrast with the known substantial evolution of size with redshift, evolution in the velocity dispersion is negligible. The dynamical-to-stellar-mass ratio increases significantly as the universe ages, in agreement with recent results that combine high-redshift data with the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. Like other investigators, we interpret this result as an indication that the dark matter fraction within the effective radius increases as a result of the impact of the minor mergers that are responsible for size growth. We emphasize that dense redshift surveys covering the range 0.07 < z < 1 along with strong and weak lensing measurements could remove many ambiguities in evolutionary studies of the quiescent population.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Far-Infrared Extragalactic Surveys: Past, Present, and Future

As much as one third of the luminosity of the local universe is emitted in the far infrared. In order to understand the history of energy release in the universe, it is crucial to characterize this rest-frame far-infrared contribution from the present back to the era of initial galaxy formation. Over the redshift range from 0 to 10, this energy is received in the 80 micrometers to 1 mm spectral region. In the 1980's the Infrared Astronomy Satellite (IRAS) all-sky survey provided the first comprehensive view of the far infrared emission from the local universe. The diffuse background measurements by Cosmic Background Explorer Satellite (COBE) have provided constraints on the integral contributions from the high redshift universe. In the past five years, submillimeter measurements made using the SCUBA instrument have revealed powerful high redshift sources. To develop a clear history of energy release in the universe, we need numbers and redshifts of representative populations of energetically important objects. The near future will bring the Space Infrared Telescope Facility Multiband Imaging Photometer (SIRTF)(MIPS) survey, which will cover about 100 square degrees at wavelengths out to 160 micrometers, providing a large sample of energetically important galaxies out to z of approx.3. In 2005, the Japanese IRIS survey will provide a 160 micrometers full sky survey, which will provide larger samples of the high z galaxy populations and will find intrinsically rare high luminosity objects. The SPIRE instrument on the FIRST facility will extend these surveys to longer wavelengths, providing a view of the universe at higher redshifts in three spectral bands. A concept for an all-sky submillimeter survey is under development, called the Survey of Infrared Cosmic Evolution (SIRCE). With a 2 m cryogenic telescope, it can map the entire sky to the confusion limit in the 100 to 500 micrometers range in six months. This survey will provide photometric redshifts, number counts, and will find the most luminous objects in the universe. In the next decade, the opening of the submillimeter, combined with the near infrared capability of NGST will provide us with a clear picture of energy release in the early universe.

Moseley, Samuel H., Jr.↗

Nonequilibrium defect-phase nanostructures stabilized by irradiation in undersaturated Ni-Si nanocrystalline alloy

Nanocrystalline thin films of the undersaturated alloy Ni-8.5 at% Si were subjected to 2 MeV Ti irradiation at temperatures ranging from 450˚C to 550˚C. Correlative microscopy combining transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning-TEM and atom probe tomography (APT revealed that large dose irradiation at 450˚C of samples with initial grain sizes below 100 nm stabilized a novel nanostructure which surprisingly contained three co-existing phases, the γ face-centered-cubic (FCC) matrix, γ' L12 ordered precipitates on intragranular dislocation loops and Ni 31 Si 12 precipitates at triple junctions (TJs). In contrast, irradiation at 550˚C and irradiation of larger grain-size samples at 450˚C only produced a γ-γ' two-phase coexistence. Analysis of the three-phase nanostructure and phase field simulations indicates that radiation-induced segregation is most pronounced at TJs, thus triggering the formation of Ni 31 Si 12 precipitates. These incoherent precipitates, in turn, are expected to stabilize the grain size under irradiation. The results are generalized using the concept of driven defect-phases. It is suggested that the stabilization of driven defect-phases may impart radiation resilience by providing localized relaxation modes to the microstructure evolution during and after temporary perturbations in irradiation conditions.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Machine learning informed rational design of high entropy double perovskite oxide universal air/steam electrodes for solid oxide electrochemical cells

Due to their high efficiency and versatility, solid oxide electrochemical cells (SOCs) are poised to play a significant role in future energy conversion and storage applications. In recent years, SOCs have bifurcated into two distinct categories: traditional oxygen-ion conducting SOCs that typically operate from ∼650—850 °C and the more recent proton-conducting ceramic (PCC) SOCs that typically operate from ∼400—650 °C. Current performance and lifetime of both oxygen-ion conducting SOCs and PCCs is primarily limited by the air/steam electrode, which facilitates the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) during fuel cell operation and must also facilitate the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) during electrolysis operation. Here, we present a newly designed high-entropy double perovskite oxide suitable as a universal ORR/OER electrode for both oxygen-ion conducting SOCs and PCCs. Machine learning methods are applied to identify chemical descriptors for highly catalytic high-entropy double perovskite oxides (AA’B 2 O 6 ) across a large compositional space. Based on the machine-learning guidance, we ultimately converge on Ba 0.9 Cs 0.1 (Ca 0.2 Gd 0.2 La 0.2 Pr 0.2 Sr 0.2 )Co 1.5 Fe 0.5 O 6 (CsBaHEO) as a universal air/steam electrode. Structure stabilization is accomplished by an equimolar five-cation high-entropy composition on the A’-site, while cesium substitution on the A-site enhances the electrical conductivity and leads to a higher oxygen vacancy concentration. This material exhibits versatility and high performance in reversible oxygen-ion SOCs, reversible PCCs, and also large-scale tubular PCCs. For example, the CsBaHEO-based PCC reaches 1018 mW∙cm −2 at 600°C, while a large-scale tubular PCC using CsBaHEO for electrolysis achieves a hydrogen production rate of 21.314 ML∙min −1 at 600 °C.

Cell↗

Molecular Modifications of Crystalline Poly(triazine imide) for Advancing Its Structure–Property Relationships in Light-Driven Catalysis

Carbon-nitride materials represent light-absorbing structures composed of earth-abundant elements capable of being leveraged for semiconductor photocatalysis at their surfaces. This study systematically investigates the addition of molecular modifiers to the synthesis of crystalline carbon nitrides to assess their effects on the materials’ structure, optical bandgap, and photocatalytic activity for hydrogen (H 2 ) and oxygen (O 2 ) evolution under ultraviolet and visible-light irradiation. Melamine and five pyrimidine-centered analogs were employed as building blocks to modify various heteroatoms within the polymeric framework. The modified materials were characterized with attention to the differences introduced by the monomeric modifiers and their influence on the resulting structures and compositions. The findings indicate that these changes significantly broaden the visible-light absorption range, albeit with the gradual loss of the bulk crystalline structure. As the loading of modifiers increased beyond 50%, a predominantly amorphous form of carbon nitride emerged. XPS, 13 C solid-state NMR, and SEM analyses corroborated the changes, which were attributed to modifications of the elemental composition and a reduced amount of Li cations and charge-balancing Cl anions owing to fewer binding sites in the intralayer cavities. In photocatalytic measurements under an ultraviolet 390 nm LED, and aided by photodeposited nanoparticle cocatalysts, the unmodified PTI-LiCl framework demonstrated the highest H 2 evolution rate (HER; 3.44 mmol·g –1 ·h –1 ) with an apparent quantum yield of 5.4%, along with total water splitting at rates of 163 μmol of H 2 ·g –1 ·h –1 and 75.6 μmol·O 2 g –1 ·h –1 . While PTI-LiCl showed trace activity under a visible-light 440 nm LED, all modified materials exhibited enhanced reactivity with as low as 5% molecular modifiers. The photocatalytic rates peaked at a 15% modification level when using 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidine, with rates of 33 μmol·g –1 ·h –1 for HER, along with 19.7 μmol of H 2 ·g –1 ·h –1 and 8.7 μmol of O 2 ·g –1 ·h –1 for total water splitting. Density functional theory calculations were used to probe electronic structure changes resulting from the modifications. Furthermore, these results elucidate the structural, optical, and electronic changes arising from the five selected molecular modifiers and their impact on the semiconductors’ photocatalytic properties.

Electrical conductivity↗

High-z Universe with Gamma Ray Bursts

Gamma-Ray Bursts (GRBs) are the most luminous explosions in space and trace the cosmic star formation history back to the first generations of stars. Their bright afterglows allow us to trace the abundances of heavy elements to large distances, thereby measuring cosmic chemical evolution. To date GRBs have been detected up to distances of z=8.23 and possibly even beyond z~9. This makes GRBs a unique and powerful tool to probe the high-z Universe up to the re-ionization era. We discuss the current status of the field, place it in context with other probes, and also discuss new mission concepts that have been planned to utilize GRBs as probes.

Kouveliotou, C.↗

Illuminating White Dwarf Spectra through Laboratory Experiments at Cosmic Conditions

We establish the work on white dwarf stars in the larger context of the experiments of the Wootton Center for Astrophysical Plasma Properties (WCAPP); these experiments are conducted at the plasma conditions found in the cosmos, without the need for scaling. We briefly summarize the results of these experiments to-date and their astrophysical and physical import, before focusing on the white dwarf experiments. Over 97% of stars either are, or will become, white dwarf stars, giving them broad relevance. We describe the astrophysical and physical problems associated with white dwarf photospheres, the plasma where the observed light arises. Here, the astrophysical questions include the age of the universe, the age and history of star formation in our Galaxy's varied morphological components and the evolution of stars. The compact nature of these ubiquitous stars means that the atomic physics is not well constrained even in the outermost layers. Further, it suggests that many important processes, including crystallization in dense Coulomb plasma, occur and have a significant effect on the evolution and structure of these stars and thus all their many applications.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Thermodynamics of diamond formation from hydrocarbon mixtures in planets

Hydrocarbon mixtures are extremely abundant in the Universe, and diamond formation from them can play a crucial role in shaping the interior structure and evolution of planets. With first-principles accuracy, we first estimate the melting line of diamond, and then reveal the nature of chemical bonding in hydrocarbons at extreme conditions. We finally establish the pressure-temperature phase boundary where it is thermodynamically possible for diamond to form from hydrocarbon mixtures with different atomic fractions of carbon. Notably, here we show a depletion zone at pressures above 200 GPa and temperatures below 3000 K-3500 K where diamond formation is thermodynamically favorable regardless of the carbon atomic fraction, due to a phase separation mechanism. The cooler condition of the interior of Neptune compared to Uranus means that the former is much more likely to contain the depletion zone. Our findings can help explain the dichotomy of the two ice giants manifested by the low luminosity of Uranus, and lead to a better understanding of (exo-)planetary formation and evolution.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗

Platinum group metal-free (PGM-free) integrated tandem junction photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting devices (Final Technical Report)

This project involves using solar light, a photoabsorber, and a catalyst to split water and produce hydrogen. The Department of Energy (DOE) targets for integrated photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells emphasize cost (electrode cost < $200/m 2 ), performance (> 15% solar to hydrogen (STH) efficiency), and stability (> 6 months electrode lifetime), but most approaches skew toward one specific metric. This project exploited interfacial integration of platinum group metal-free (PGM-free) catalysts on the high performance and high value tandem solar cells to attain or exceed the DOE benchmark STH energy conversion efficiency and durability. This was investigated in two thrusts by developing two PEC devices for direct comparison: the first is a high-performance monolithic device based on state-of-the-art GaInP 2 /GaAs tandem solar cells developed at National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), and the second is a high-value device based on earth-abundant wide band gap photoabsorber materials including oxynitride and hybrid organic-inorganic perovskite (HOIP) coupled with commercial narrow band gap silicon (Si). Both these devices were paired with electrocatalysts developed for this purpose at Rutgers University by adapting them to thin films on the photoabsorbers. These catalysts are based on the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysts (Ni 5 P 4 ), oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysts (LiCo 2 O 4 ) previously developed at Rutgers for high-efficiency electrolyzers. For using the high-performance tandem solar cell and Ni 5 P 4 catalysts, we achieved a durability of > 200 h at a STH efficiency of > 10%. For using the high-value wide band gap single junction solar cells on n + Si, we achieved 0.73 mA/cm 2 at 1.23V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and -15.9 mA/cm 2 at 0V vs RHE using the oxynitride- and HOIP-based photoelectrodes, respectively. After comparing their photocurrent densities, we down selected the HOIP photoabsorber to couple Si for fabrication of a tandem photocathode. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, both the laboratories at Rutgers and NREL were locked down for three months and reopened only partially in 2020. The HOIP/Si tandem photocathode using robust nickel phosphide thin film catalysts cannot be developed within the project period, which is expected to achieve a STH efficiency of > 20%. Also, the low-cost LiCo 2 O 4 OER catalysts need to replace the benchmark IrO 2 for evaluation. Finally, techonomic analysis of full high-performance and high-value integrated PEC devices needs to be carried out for comparison in terms of cost.

08 HYDROGEN↗

A search for X-ray bright distant clusters of galaxies

We present the results of a search for X-ray luminous distant clusters of galaxies. We found extended X-ray emission characteristic of a cluster toward two of our candidate clusters of galaxies. They both have a luminosity in the ROSAT bandpass of approximately equals 10(exp 44) ergs/s and a redshift greater than 0.5; thus making them two of the most distant X-ray clusters ever observed. Furthermore, we show that both clusters are optically rich and have a known radio source associated with them. We compare our result with other recent searches for distant X-ray luminous clusters and present a lower limit of 1.2 x 10(exp -7)/cu Mpc for the number density of such high-redshift clusters. This limit is consistent with the expected abundance of such clusters in a standard (b = 2) cold dark matter universe. Finally, our clusters provide important high-redshift targets for further study into the origin and evolution of massive clusters of galaxies.

Nichol, R. C.↗

Extragalactic Backgrounds in the Far UV and Exploring Star Formation at High Redshifts with Gamma-ray Observations

The determination of the intergalactic photon densities from the FIR to the UV which is produced by stellar emission and dust reradiation at various redshifts can provide an independent measure of the star formation history of the universe. Using recent Spitzer and GALEX data in conjunction with other observational inputs, Stecker, Malkan and Scully have calculated the intergalactic photon density as a function of both energy and redshift for 0 < zeta < 6 for photon energies from 0.003 eV to the Lyman limit cutoff at 13.6 eV in a ACDM universe with Omega(sub Lambda) = 0.7 and Omega(sub m) = 0.3. Their results are based on backwards evolution models for galaxies which were developed by Malkan and Stecker previously. The calculated background SEDs at zeta = 0 are in good agreement with the present observational data and limits. The calculated intergalactic photon densities as a function of redshift were used to predict to extend the absorption of high energy 7-rays in intergalactic space from sources such as blazars and quasars, this absorption being produced by interactions the y-rays with the intergalactic FIR-UV photons having the calculated densities. The results are in excellent agreement with absorption features found in the low gamma-ray spectra of Mkn 421, Mkn 501 at, zeta = 0.03 and PKS

Stecker, Floyd W.↗

The advanced evolution of massive stars

The nuclear rates for reactions involving 12 C and 16 O are key to computing the energy release and nucleosynthesis evolution of massive stars during their advanced burning phases. Ultimately, these burning rates shape the stellar structure and evolution and influence the nature of the compact objects produced at the end of the stellar life. We explore the implications of new nuclear reaction rates from both experimental and theoretical studies for 12 C(α, γ) 16 ​O, 12 C+ 12​ C, 12 C+ 16 ​O, and 16 O+ 16 ​O reactions for massive stars. Our goal is to investigate how the chemical structure and nucleosynthesis evolve from the He-exhaustion stage to the O-burning phase and how these processes influence the ultimate stellar fate. We computed rotating and non-rotating models for stars of different masses at solar metallicity. We used the stellar evolution code GENEC, which includes a large network of nuclear reactions and isotopes involved in advanced phases, as well as updated rates for 12 C(α,γ) 16 O. For the three fusion reactions involving 12 C and 16 O, we considered new rates following a data-driven fusion suppression scenario (hereafter HIN(RES)) and new theoretical rates obtained with time-dependent Hartree-Fock (TDHF) calculations. The updated 12 C(α, γ) 16 ​O rates mainly impact the chemical structure evolution changing the 12 C/ 16 O ratio at He-exhaustion and have little effect on the CO core mass. This variation in the 12 C/ 16 O ratio is in some cases critical for predicting the final fate of the model, which is very sensitive to 12 C abundance, and in particular the 20 M ⊙ remnant may change from a black hole to a neutron star. The He-burning (C-burning) lifetime is also decreased (increased) by about −2% (+15%). The combined new rates for 12 C+ 12 ​C and 16 O+ 16 ​O fusion reactions according to the HIN(RES) model lead to shorter C- and O-burning lifetimes by ≈ − 10%, and −50%, respectively, and shift the ignition conditions to higher temperatures and densities. In contrast, the theoretical TDHF rates primarily affect C-burning, increasing its duration by about 30% and lowering the ignition temperature. These changes modify the chemical structure of the core, the size and duration of C-burning shells, and hence their compactness. They also impact the central and shell nucleosynthesis (by ±1 dex and by factors of ±2–10, respectively), while 12 C+ 16 ​O reaction rates variations remain the least important.

abundances↗

Clarifying Terminology in Microbial Ecology: A Call for Precision in Scientific Communication

The rapid evolution of microbiology as a field of research has led to the introduction of new terminology and the adaptation of existing terms. However, inconsistencies in the use of these terms, including variations across different scientific disciplines, can lead to confusion and miscommunication within the scientific community. This article discusses the importance of precise terminology in microbiome research, highlighting examples where terms have been misused or redefined without clear justification. We also present a list of frequently used terms in microbial ecology along with their specific definitions. We argue that the misuse of terminology can hinder scientific progress by creating ambiguity and misunderstanding. To address this, we propose a set of guidelines for the consistent use of key terms and provide clear definitions for some of the most commonly misused or newly introduced terms in the field. The definitions provided herein will also function as a guide for young researchers new to the field of microbial ecology. Accurate and consistent use of terminology is crucial for effective communication and collaboration in microbiology research. By adhering to standardised definitions, researchers can ensure that their work is clearly communicated and contributes meaningfully to the progress of science.

definitions↗

Synthesis, Properties, and Electrochemical Proton Reduction of a Homoleptic Tetrathiolato Ni-Site Model of [NiFe]-Hydrogenase

[NiFe]-hydrogenase enzymes process H 2 at a nonplanar tetracysteinato-Ni site, the sole participator in proton binding/redox chemistry during turnover. With the objective of assessing whether a simple tetrahedral/ tetrathiolato-Ni 2+ core could promote H 2 evolution reaction (HER), we synthesized (Et 4 N) 2 [Ni(S-p-CF 3 −Ph) 4 ] (1) employing para-trifluoromethylbenzenethiolate ( − S-p-CF 3 −Ph) as a Ni-site analog of [NiFe]-hydrogenase. Spectroscopic measurements and X-ray crystallography confirm the distorted tetrahedral geometry of 1. Dissolution of 1 results in partial thiolate dissociation and formation of S,S-bridged complexes such as (Et 4 N) 2 [Ni 2 (S-p-CF 3 −Ph) 6 ] (3) among other ill-defined species. Dissociation is further accelerated in the presence of Brønsted acids, complicating the assessment of 1 for proton reduction. However, this dissociation/proton instability is suppressed in the presence of additional thiolate ligand to ensure tetrahedral/tetrathiolato 1 persists in solution. Electrochemical HER activity was evaluated by monitoring the current response of an MeCN solution of 1/ excess thiolate after sequential titration with a weak Brønsted acid (acetic acid). The results suggest that 1 is a modest electrocatalyst for the HER with a turnover frequency of 14.5 ± 3.6 s −1 and an overpotential of 0.72 ± 0.02 V. Control experiments and supplementary DFT computations indicate that 1, or a species derived from 1, is responsible for the HER and suggest an ECCE-type mechanism.

Evolution reactions↗

Models of Protocellular Structure, Function and Evolution

In the absence of any record of protocells, the most direct way to test our understanding, of the origin of cellular life is to construct laboratory models that capture important features of protocellular systems. Such efforts are currently underway in a collaborative project between NASA-Ames, Harvard Medical School and University of California. They are accompanied by computational studies aimed at explaining self-organization of simple molecules into ordered structures. The centerpiece of this project is a method for the in vitro evolution of protein enzymes toward arbitrary catalytic targets. A similar approach has already been developed for nucleic acids in which a small number of functional molecules are selected from a large, random population of candidates. The selected molecules are next vastly multiplied using the polymerase chain reaction.

New, Michael H.↗

Models of Protocellular Structure, Function and Evolution

In the absence of any record of protocells, the most direct way to test our understanding of the origin of cellular life is to construct laboratory models that capture important features of protocellular systems. Such efforts are currently underway in a collaborative project between NASA-Ames, Harvard Medical School and University of California. They are accompanied by computational studies aimed at explaining self-organization of simple molecules into ordered structures. The centerpiece of this project is a method for the in vitro evolution of protein enzymes toward arbitrary catalytic targets. A similar approach has already been developed for nucleic acids in which a small number of functional molecules are selected from a large, random population of candidates. The selected molecules are next vastly multiplied using the polymerase chain reaction. A mutagenic approach, in which the sequences of selected molecules are randomly altered, can yield further improvements in performance or alterations of specificities. Unfortunately, the catalytic potential of nucleic acids is rather limited. Proteins are more catalytically capable but cannot be directly amplified. In the new technique, this problem is circumvented by covalently linking each protein of the initial, diverse, pool to the RNA sequence that codes for it. Then, selection is performed on the proteins, but the nucleic acids are replicated. Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract.

New, Michael H.↗