Hybrid curved nano-structured micro-optical elements

Tailoring the spatial degree of freedom of light is an essential step towards the realization of advanced optical manipulation tools. A topical challenge consists of device miniaturization for improved performance and enhanced functionality at the micron scale. We demonstrate a novel approach that combines the additive three-dimensional (3D) structuring capability of laser polymerization and the subtractive subwavelength resolution patterning of focused ion beam lithography. As a case in point hybrid (dielectric/metallic) micro-optical elements that deliver a well-defined topological shaping of light are produced. Here we report on hybrid 3D binary spiral zone plates with unit and double topological charge. Their optical performances are compared to corresponding 2D counterparts both numerically and experimentally. Cooperative refractive capabilities without compromising topological beam shaping are shown. Realization of advanced designs where the dielectric architecture itself is endowed with singular properties is also discussed.

Investigation of interaction between enolase and phosphoglycerate mutase using molecular dynamics simulation

Two glycolytic enzymes, phosphoglycerate mutase (PGM) and enolase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae have been chosen to detect complex formation between active centers (a/c), using molecular dynamics simulation. Enzymes have been separated by 10 A distance and placed in a water box of size 173 x 173 x 173 A. Three different orientations where a/c of PGM and enolase were positioned toward each other have been used for investigation. The two initial 3-phosphoglycerate substrates at near active centers of initial structure of PGM have been replaced with final 2-phosphoglycerate products. 150mM of NaCl have been added to the system to observe binding activity in the near physiological conditions. Analysis of interaction energies and conformation changes for 3ns simulation indicates that PGM and enolase do show binding affinity between their near active regions. Moreover the similarity between final conformations of the first two orientations with the initial conformation of the third orientation suggests that complex formation between a/c of enzymes is not confined only by discussed orientations. Clear interaction of enolase with C-terminal tail of PGM has been recorded. These results suggest that substrate direct transfer mechanism may exist between enzymes.

Molecular dynamics simulation of interactions in glycolytic enzymes

Two glycolytic enzymes, phosphoglycerate mutase (PGM) and enolase from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, have been chosen to detect complex formation and possible channeling, using molecular dynamics simulation. The enzymes were separated by 10 angstroms distance and placed in a water-filled box of size 173 x 173 x 173 angstroms. Three different orientations have been investigated. The two initial 3-phosphoglycerate substrate molecules near the active centers of the initial structure of PGM have been replaced with final product (2-phosphoglycerate) molecules, and 150 mM NaCl together with three Mg2+ ions have been added to the system to observe post-catalytic activity under near-physiological conditions. Analysis of interaction energies and conformation changes for 3 nsec simulation indicates that PGM and enolase do show binding affinity between their near active regions, which is necessary for channeling to occur. Interaction of the C-terminal residues Ala239 and Val240 of PGM (which partially "cap" the 2-phosphoglycerate) with enolase also favors the existence of channeling.

Variable Very-High-Energy Gamma-Ray Emission from the Microquasar LS I +61 303

Microquasars are binary star systems with relativistic radio-emitting jets. They are potential sources of cosmic rays and can be used to elucidate the physics of relativistic jets. We report the detection of variable gamma-ray emission above 100 gigaelectron volts from the microquasar LS I 61 + 303. Six orbital cycles were recorded. Several detections occur at a similar orbital phase, which suggests that the emission is periodic. The strongest gamma-ray emission is not observed when the two stars are closest to one another, implying a strong orbital modulation of the emission or absorption processes.