Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Accurate Identification of Galaxy Mergers with Imaging

Merging galaxies play a key role in galaxy evolution, and progress in our understanding of galaxy evolution is slowed by the difficulty of making accurate galaxy merger identifications. We use GADGET-3 hydrodynamical simulations of merging galaxies with the dust radiative transfer code SUNRISE to produce a suite of merging galaxies that span a range of initial conditions. This includes simulated mergers that are gas poor and gas rich, and that have a range of mass ratios (minor and major). We adapt the simulated images to the specifications of the SDSS imaging survey and develop a merging galaxy classification scheme that is based on this imaging. We leverage the strengths of seven individual imaging predictors (Gini, M20, concentration, asymmetry, clumpiness, Sérsic index, and shape asymmetry) by combining them into one classifier that utilizes Linear Discriminant Analysis. It outperforms individual imaging predictors in accuracy, precision, and merger observability timescale (>2 Gyr for all merger simulations). We find that the classification depends strongly on mass ratio and depends weakly on the gas fraction of the simulated mergers; asymmetry is more important for the major mergers, while concentration is more important for the minor mergers. This is a result of the relatively disturbed morphology of major mergers and the steadier growth of stellar bulges during minor mergers. Since mass ratio has the largest effect on the classification, we create separate classification approaches for minor and major mergers that can be applied to SDSS imaging or adapted for other imaging surveys.
Learning Engagement as a Moderator between Self-Efficacy, Math Anxiety, Problem-Solving Strategy, and Vector Problem-Solving Performance

Vector problem-solving abilities are fundamental to everyday life and higher education; thus, improving them is important in education and research. However, the role of cognitive and affective factors and learning engagement in vector problem-solving performance is still unclear. This study examines the processes associated with vector problem-solving performance, focusing on the problem-solving strategy as a cognitive factor and math anxiety and task-specific self-efficacy as affective factors. In addition, this study examines the impact of learning engagement as a moderator in this process. A total of 245 Japanese 11th-grade high school students completed questionnaires. A multiple-group structural equation modelling revealed that (1) task-specific self-efficacy, math anxiety, and problem-solving strategies contribute to vector problem-solving performance when learning engagement is above average; (2) task-specific self-efficacy contributes to math anxiety, whereas task-specific self-efficacy and math anxiety contribute to problem-solving strategies when learning engagement is above average and stable; (3) task-specific self-efficacy is a positive predictor of vector problem-solving performance regardless of learning engagement. The results suggest that learning engagement moderates the association between math anxiety, task-specific self-efficacy, problem-solving strategy, and vector problem-solving performance. In addition, task-specific self-efficacy is a strong predictor of vector problem-solving performance.
Supermode spatial optical solitons in liquid crystals with competing nonlinearities

We study numerically the formation of spatial optical solitons in nematic liquid crystals with competing nonlocal nonlinearities. We demonstrate that at a sufficiently high input power the interplay between focusing and thermally induced defocusing may lead to the formation of two-peak fundamental spatial solitons. These solitons have a constant spatial phase and hence represent supermodes of the self-induced extended waveguide structure. We show that these two-peak solitons are stable in propagation and exhibit an adiabatic transition to a single-peak state under weak absorption.
The Properties and Luminosity Function of Extremely Low Luminosity Galaxies

We examine a sample of low-redshift (10 h-1 Mpc < d < 150 h-1 Mpc) field galaxies including galaxies with luminosities as low as Mr - 5 log h ~ -12.5, selected from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Data Release 2 (SDSS DR2). The sample is unique in containing galaxies of extremely low luminosities in a wide range of environments, selected with uniform and well-understood criteria. We present the luminosity function, as well as the broadband properties, of low-luminosity galaxies in this sample. A Schechter function is an insufficient parameterization of the r-band luminosity function; there is an upturn in the slope for Mr - 5 log h > -18. The resulting slope at low luminosities in this sample is α2 ~ -1.3. However, we almost certainly miss a large number of galaxies at very low luminosities due to low surface brightness selection effects, and we estimate that the true low-luminosity slope may be as steep as or steeper than α2 ~ -1.5. The results here are consistent with previous SDSS results and, in the g band, roughly consistent with the results of the Two Degree Field Galaxy Redshift Survey. Extremely low luminosity galaxies are predominantly low surface brightness, exponential disks, the majority of which are red.
Is there scientific progress in macroeconomics? The case of the NAIRU

We address the question posed in the title of this paper by investigating recent developments in the literature that estimates the NAIRU. A necessary condition for the existence of a NAIRU is dynamic homogeneity: the Phillips curve should be homogenous of degree one in lagged and/or expected inflation. But contemporary approaches to estimating the NAIRU typically assume rather than test for dynamic homogeneity, thus assuming (rather than testing for) the existence of a NAIRU. We argue that these developments remove the NAIRU from the domain of testable hypotheses and transform the concept into an article of faith. This does not constitute scientific progress. J.E. L. Classification Codes: E10, B41, C12
The host galaxy of the short GRB 111117A at z = 2.211

It is notoriously difficult to localize short γ-ray bursts (sGRBs) and their hosts to measure their redshifts. These measurements, however, are critical for constraining the nature of sGRB progenitors, their redshift distribution, and the r-process element enrichment history of the universe. Here we present spectroscopy of the host galaxy of GRB 111117A and measure its redshift to be z = 2.211. This makes GRB 111117A the most distant high-confidence short duration GRB detected to date. Our spectroscopic redshift supersedes a lower, previously estimated photometric redshift value for this burst. We use the spectroscopic redshift, as well as new imaging data to constrain the nature of the host galaxy and the physical parameters of the GRB. The rest-frame X-ray derived hydrogen column density, for example, is the highest compared to a complete sample of sGRBs and seems to follow the evolution with redshift as traced by the hosts of long GRBs. From the detection of Lyα emission in the spectrum, we are able to constrain the escape fraction of Lyα in the host. The host lies in the brighter end of the expected sGRB host brightness distribution at z = 2.211, and is actively forming stars. Using the observed sGRB host luminosity distribution, we find that between 43% and 71% of all Swift-detected sGRBs have hosts that are too faint at z ~ 2 to allow for a secure redshift determination. This implies that the measured sGRB redshift distribution could be incomplete at high redshift. The high z of GRB 111117A is evidence against a lognormal delay-time model for sGRBs through the predicted redshift distribution of sGRBs, which is very sensitive to high-z sGRBs. From the age of the universe at the time of GRB explosion, an initial neutron star (NS) separation of a0 < 3.1 R⊙ is required in the case where the progenitor system is a circular pair of inspiralling NSs. This constraint excludes some of the longest sGRB formation channels for this burst.
Plasma Flow Behaviors and Their Effects on the Performance of Pulsed Plasma Thrusters IEPC-2007-189

Plasma acceleration processes in an ablative pulsed plasma thruster (APPT) were investigated. APPTs have recently attracted much attention because of their low electric power requirements and simple, compact propellant system. The plasma acceleration mechanism, however, has not been well understood. In the present work, emission spectroscopy, high speed photography, and magnetic field measurements are conducted inside the electrode channel of an APPT with rectangular geometry. The successive images of neutral particles and ions give us a comprehensive understanding of their behavior under electromagnetic acceleration. The magnetic field profile clarifies the location where the electromagnetic force takes effect. As a result, it is shown that high density, ablated neutral gas stays near the propellant surface, and only a fraction of the neutrals is converted into plasma and electromagnetically accelerated, leaving the residual neutrals behind. In addition, these diagnostic techniques were applied to a liquid propellant pulsed plasma (LPPPT), which use liquid propellant instead of the solid propellant and have high specific impulse. The plasma acceleration of a LP-PPT was compared with the APPT, and higher plasma acceleration was observed
Light cone Wn geometry and its symmetries and projective field theory

It is shown that the generalized Beltrami differentials and projective connections which appear naturally in induced light cone Wn gravity are geometrical fields parametrizing in one-to-one fashion generalized projective structures on a fixed base Riemann surface. It is also shown that Wn symmetries are nothing but gauge transformations of the flat SL(n,c) vector bundles canonically associated with the generalized projective structures. This provides an original formulation of classical light cone Wn geometry. From the knowledge of the symmetries, the full BRS algebra is derived. Inspired by the results of literature, it is argued that quantum Wn gravity may be formulated as an induced gauge theory of generalized projective connections. This leads to projective field theory. The possible anomalies arising at the quantum level are analysed by solving Wess-Zumino consistency conditions. The implications for induced covariant Wn gravity are briefly discussed. The results presented, valid for arbitrary n, reproduce those obtained for n=2,3 by different methods.
Contrasting Export of Particulate Organic Carbon From Greenlandic Glacial and Nonglacial Streams

On‐going shrinkage of Greenland's icecap, permafrost thaw, and changes in precipitation are exposing its landscapes to erosion and remobilization of ancient organic carbon (OC) held in soils and sedimentary rocks. The fate of this OC and potential feedbacks to climate are still unclear. Here, we show that the glacial Zackenberg river (Northeastern Greenland) exports aged particulate OC (POC, uncalibrated radiocarbon ages of ∼4,000 years). Many of the smaller periglacial streams affected by abrupt permafrost thaw transport substantially older POC (up to 32,000 years), especially with enhanced discharge following intense precipitation. Mineralogical analysis, and density and size fractionation of soils and both glacial and nonglacial river sediments reveal that OC is largely associated with phyllosilicate minerals, suggesting stabilization against microbial processing. Enhanced export of ancient, mineral‐associated OC as a consequence of summer rainfall may accelerate translocation of OC from terrestrial to marine environments, but could have limited consequences for climate.
Quantum friction between graphene sheets

Fil: Farias, Maria Belen. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas. Oficina de Coordinacion Administrativa Ciudad Universitaria. Instituto de Fisica de Buenos Aires. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Instituto de Fisica de Buenos Aires; Argentina
Relationship between Study Habits and Academic Achievement of Secondary School Students

The objective of the present study was to find out the correlation between study habits and academic achievement of secondary school students in relation to gender. As the study intents to investigate the relationship between reading habits and educational attainment, a Correlational design was used. A sample of 100 middle school students were taken, each of which 50 boys and 50 girls studying in class 10th of Sambalpur district affiliated by Board of Secondary Education, Odisha were selected by using stratified random sampling technique. The Study Habits Inventory and the academic score card associated with the students’ last annual examination were used to collect data. The Pearson Product Moment Coefficient of Correlation used to analyze the obtained data reveled that i) there was a high positive correlation between the study habits and academic achievement students studying in secondary schools; ii) there was a high positive correlation found between study habits and academic achievement of boys’ students studying in secondary schools; iii) there was a high positive correlation existed between study habits and academic achievement of girls’ students studying in secondary schools. This implies that good study habit is positively related in enhancing the academic achievement of both boys and girls at secondary level.
Risk factors and clinical features in young patients with myocardial infarction: A cross-sectional study

Background: Changes in lifestyle with increased sedentary lifestyle are associated with its consequences such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, diabetes, and eventually myocardial infarction (MI). Coronary artery diseases (CADs) although have been commonly seen in elderly individuals it’s now being increasingly recognized in a relatively younger age group (<45 years). The present study was aimed at analyzing risk factors and clinical presentation of MI in young (<45 years). Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to study risk factors and clinical profile of young patients with MI. Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based prospective cohort study, in which 60 young patients (age <45 years) of age were included on the basis of a predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A thorough history was obtained and detailed general and cardiovascular examination was done. Electrocardiogram, basic hematological profile, and 2 D echo were done in all cases. Clinical profile, site of infarction, and severity of systolic dysfunction were studied. P<0.05 was taken as statistically significant. Results: A total of 60 patients were studied. Out of these 60 cases, there were 48 (80%) males and 12 (20%) females with a M: F ratio being 1:0.25. Although the mean age of female patients (40.25±3.44 years) was more than male patients (38.62±4.43 years), the difference was not found to be statistically significant (P>0.05). Obesity, family history of CADs, smoking, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes were common risk factors in studied cases. Majority of the patients (81.67%) presented with typical chest pain radiating to left arm. The atypical clinical features were seen in 11 (18.33%) patients. In m ost of the patients (63.33%) there was anterior wall infarction. Inferior wall infarction and anteroseptal MI were seen in 12 (20%) and 10 (16.67%) patients, respectively. Conclusion: MI in young patients is increasing. Majority of the risk factors associated with MI in young patients are modifiable risk factors. A high index of suspicion is necessary in diagnosing these patients in time particularly in cases, where there is atypical presentation.
Spectroscopic identification of 2D conjugated polyphthalocyanines

Since the discovery of polyphthalocyanines (PPCs) in late 1950s, numerous attempts have been made to synthesize this 2D polymer by different approaches. Interestingly, the reported IR, Raman and UV-vis spectra of PPCs show drastic variation depending on the synthesis conditions. In this work, we show that the spectral data obtained in some works should be assigned not to the target polymer, but rather to octacyano phthalocyanine (OCP), which is an early step of the reaction. We discuss the spectral signatures of the well-polymerized and monomeric PCs based on reliable experimental data and support the spectral assignments with DFT calculations.
The effectiveness of EDTA 17% as a cleaning solution for the fiber post space after filling with cements

Aim: To evaluate the resistance of the union between a glass fiber post and radicular dentine after cleaning the root with 17% EDTA and filling with different endodontic cements. Methods: Forty uniradicular bovine incisors were removed to obtain root lengths of 18 mm. Endodontic treatment was performed on all roots using different filling cements (zinc oxide and eugenol-based, OZE; cement based on epoxy resin, AH) and cleaning solutions (saline, SA or EDTA), which made it possible to obtain four groups: OZESA, OZEEDTA, AHSA and AHEDTA. Subsequently, 12 mm of filling material was removed from the roots, and they were prepared to receive fiber posts luted with resin cement. To execute the mechanical cycles (2x106 cycles, 90 N, 4 Hz), coronal reconstruction was performed with a silicon matrix. The roots were then sliced (2-mm thick) to perform the push-out test. The results were analyzed using analysis of variance (one factor and two factors) and Tukey’s test (α=0,05). Results: Bond strength (Mpa) was significantly higher for OZEEDTA (9,18) and AHEDTA (8,70) than for OZESA (6,06) AHSA (8,7). OZEEDTA also presented the highest values in the cervical region (15,18) but was significantly lower in the apical region (2,99). However, AHEDTA had a homogeneous bond strength in all thirds. Conclusion: Regardless of the endodontic cement used, EDTA was used as an irrigating solution, culminating in a higher bond strength between the glass fiber post and dentin.
Clinical utility of endobronchoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration as the first modality of investigation in undiagnosed mediastinal lymph node in a TB-endemic country

Lung India • Volume 39 • Issue 6 • November-December 2022 583 Medicine for evaluation of ML from July 2018 to June 2021 were included. Patients without informed consent for participating in this study were excluded. The study was approved by the Institutional Research Bureau (IRB). All the patients underwent EBUS-TBNA as an initial procedure. The standard technique for EBUS-TBNA was followed as described previously. [4] A linear echoendoscope (BF-UC160F, Olympus) was used to assess hilar and mediastinal lymph nodes. Rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) of samples was employed for all the procedures. If a conclusive diagnosis was not obtained after processing all the specimens, a multidisciplinary team consisting of respiratory physicians, radiologists, pathologists and thoracic surgeons* (*as and when indicated) decided on further procedural workup or continued imaging surveillance. All patients on treatment and those needing further workup were on continued clinical follow-up for at least 6 months. The primary outcome was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and the overall yield of EBUS-TBNA in cases of ML.
Cost-Effectiveness of a New Outpatient Pulmonology Care Model Based on Physician-to-Physician Electronic Consultation

Introduction This study assesses the impact of an electronic physician-to-physician consultation program on the waiting list and the costs of a Pulmonology Unit. Materials and Methods A prepost intervention study was conducted after a new ambulatory pulmonary care protocol was implemented and the capacity of the unit was adopted. In the new model, physicians at all levels of healthcare send electronic consultations to specialists. Results In the preintervention year (2019), the Unit of Pulmonology attended 7,055 consultations (466 e-consultations and 6,589 first face-to-face visits), which decreased to 6,157 (3,934 e-consultations and 2,223 first face-to-face visits; 12.7% reduction) in the postintervention year (all were e-consultations). The mean wait time for the first appointment was 25.7 days in 2019 versus 3.2 days in 2021 (p < 0.001). In total, 43.5% of cases were solved via physician-to-physiciane-consultation. A total of 2,223 patients needed a face-to-face visit, with a mean wait time of 7.5 days. The mean of patients in the waiting listing decreased from 450.8 in 2019 to 44.8 in 2021 (90% reduction). The annual time devoted to e-consultations and first face-to-face visits following an e-consultation diminished significantly after the intervention (1,724 hours versus 2,312.8; 25.4% reduction). Each query solved via e-consultation represented a saving of €652.8, resulting in a total annual saving of €827,062. Conclusions Physician-to-physiciane-consultations reduce waiting times, improve access of complex patients to specialty care, and ensure that cases are managed at the appropriate level. E-consultation reduces costs, which benefits both, society and the healthcare system.
Psychometric evaluation of the Arabic version of the Perceived Stress Scale in clinical practicum: Validity and reliability in the Moroccan nursing students

BACKGROUND: During clinical practicum, nursing students are subjected to stressors that can affect their well-being, academic performance, and technical skills. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Perceived Stress Scale of Clinical Practicum (PSS-CP) in a sample of Moroccan nursing students. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, a translation and back-translation method and comparisons were made with the original version. The study population consisted of 215 nursing students. The construct validity of PSS-CP was measured using exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Convergent validity was demonstrated by correlation with the Arabic version of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). For reliability, Cronbach's alpha and test–re-test reliability (with a 10-day interval) were used. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics V. 23.0 (SPSS) and AMOS V.21. 0 (SPSS) software. RESULTS: The results showed that the PSS-CP is a reliable and valid scale with good internal consistency and test–re-test reliability. In terms of convergent validity, the PSS-CP showed a positive and significant correlation with the DASS-21 scale items. The results of this study led to a two-factor model consisting of 29 items. CONCLUSION: The PSS-CP is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing clinical stressors among nursing students in Morocco.
Collisional relaxation of Feshbach molecules and three-body recombination in 87Rb Bose-Einstein condensates

We predict the resonance-enhanced magnetic field dependence of atom-dimer relaxation and three-body recombination rates in a {sup 87}Rb Bose-Einstein condensate close to 1007 G. Our exact treatments of three-particle scattering explicitly include the dependence of the interactions on the atomic Zeeman levels. The Feshbach resonance distorts the entire diatomic energy spectrum, causing interferences in both loss phenomena. Our two independent experiments confirm the predicted recombination loss over a range of rate constants that spans four orders of magnitude.