Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of star-planet systems

After the first confirmed detection of an exoplanet in 1995, their number has significantly increased to 3 557 confirmed planets around other stars (www.exoplanet.eu, Dec. 2016). The most successful techniques for planet search are transit and radial-velocity observations. Due to the large mass ratio between the star and the planet, M dwarfs are favourable for radial-velocity surveys. The CARMENES instrument mounted at the 3.5 m telescope at Calar Alto Observatory in Spain consists of two high-precision spectrographs to search for Earth-sized planets in the habitable zones of M dwarfs. The high-resolution (R ~ 82000) spectrographs operate in the visible (0.55-0.95 µm) and near-infrared (0.95-1.7 µm) wavelength range with precisions of around 1 m/s. In order to characterise a potential planet it is necessary to characterise the host star. For CARMENES science preparation around 1 700 spectra of 523 stars have been taken with other high-resolution spectrographs like CAFE, FEROS and HRS, to analyse the target candidate sample. I developed an algorithm to determine fundamental parameters for these stars, i.e. effective temperature (Teff), surface gravity (log g) and metallicity [Fe/H]. The determination of stellar parameters in low-mass M stars is more difficult than for hotter stars like the Sun, since their lower temperatures lead to the formation of molecules showing dense forests of lines in the stellar spectra. Instead of a line-by-line approach, a more complex full spectral synthesis is necessary. The PHOENIX-ACES models are up-to-date synthetic spectra especially designed for low-temperature stellar atmospheres. The algorithm fits the PHOENIX-ACES models to the observed spectra and determines the best fit using a downhill-simplex method and X2-minimisation. Spectral lines and ranges are used, which are especially sensitive to Teff, log g and [Fe/H]. My method gives accurate parameters for a large sample of 323 M dwarfs with uncertainties of 93 K for Teff, 0.29 dex for log g, and 0.25 dex for metallicity. Comparisons with literature values present excellent agreement in temperature and surface gravity. However, in metallicity there is a larger spread compared to measurements from literature. The overall sample statistically agrees with other samples analysed in earlier studies, although for single stars the deviations can be more than 1 sigma. Accurate metallicity determinations in low-mass stars are very challenging and possible explanations for metallicity discrepancies, e.g. inconsistencies in synthetic models or the use of different determination methods, definitely need further and more detailed investigations.
Investigation of natural dewatering of dredged sediments incorporating evaporation and drainage

Abstract Whether driven by the need to dispose of contaminated sediment, a reduction in the size of confined disposal areas, or a lack of land adjacent to dredge sites, dewatering practices have gained prominence over the past few years. It is necessary to dewater these dredged sediments so that they can be used for beneficial purposes, such as industrial or construction backfill material. This study explores the natural dewatering method that reduces the water content of dredged sediment through evaporation and drainage. This research implemented two types of dredged sediments from different origins to determine the effects of sediment type on both evaporations as well as dredging. First, the effects of diameter on the rate of evaporation (ROE) and the potential of evaporation (POE) were investigated. The measured POE was then compared to the predicted POE using Rohwer’s and Penman’s models. In order to improve the handling of these dredged sediments prior to beginning the valorization process, a correlation between the decrease in water content and the increase in shear strength is discussed. This research will improve the handling of these sediments for transportation and indirect management of dredged sediment valorization.
Charged particle behavior in localized ultralow frequency waves: Theory and observations

The formation and variability of the Van Allen radiation belts are highly influenced by charged particles accelerated via drift-resonant interactions with ultralow frequency (ULF) waves. In the prevailing theory of drift resonance, the ULF wave amplitude is assumed independent of magnetic longitude. This assumption is not generally valid in Earth's magnetosphere, as supported by numerous observations that point to the localized nature of ULF waves. Here, we introduce a longitude dependence of the ULF wave amplitude, achieved via a von Mises function, into the theoretical framework of ULF wave-particle drift resonance. To validate the revised theory, the predicted particle signatures are compared with observational data through a best-fit procedure. It is demonstrated that incorporation of non-local effects in drift-resonance theory provides an improved understanding of charged particle behavior in the inner magnetosphere through the intermediary of ULF waves.
Food-sorting jet arrays and target impact properties

This thesis uses numerical techniques and analysis to study the development and interactions between multiple in-line slender air jets. Consideration is given to two-and three-dimensional flow regimes, but the emphasis is on the latter. The applications (and mechanisms) involved in high-speed machine sorting of small food items, such as grains of rice, are explained. The underpinning mathematics required to develop the mathematical model are stated. In Chapter 2 an analytical solution for the two-dimensional steady jet is demonstrated and used to provide a far-downstream asymptote for validation of the numerical scheme, for steady and unsteady jets. A numerical scheme is demonstrated to be versatile and reasonably accurate. Small-distance analysis complements the numerical scheme and limitations are discussed. A comprehensive small-time analysis is undertaken, results from which support later work on three-dimensional jets. Interference between inline jets is considered in Chapter 3, which applies methods previously used to study two-dimensional in-parallel wakes. The conclusions from this chapter support and help explain results in later chapters. The numerical scheme is extended to three-dimensional steady and unsteady jets. Issuing nozzles of various cross-sections are considered with the aim of obtaining pressure data for comparison with physical data. Small-distance analysis is again investigated, enabling a weakness in the numerical solution to be highlighted. Potential flow theory is used to model interference aspects of multiple in-line unsteady three-dimensional jets. The emphasis is placed on jets from nozzles of either circular or rectangular cross-section but, in fact, the analysis applies for any cross-section. The impact properties of a typical jet when it hits one of the particles such as a grain of rice being sorted are discussed briefly, and final comments are made.
The role of sphingosine-1-phosphate in the gut mucosal microenvironment and inflammatory bowel diseases

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a type of bioactive sphingolipid, can regulate various cellular functions of distinct cell types in the human body. S1P is generated intracellularly by the catalysis of sphingosine kinase 1/2 (SphK1/2). S1P is transferred to the extracellular environment via the S1P transporter, binds to cellular S1P receptors (S1PRs) and subsequently activates S1P-S1PR downstream signaling. Dysbiosis of the intestinal microbiota, immune dysregulation and damage to epithelial barriers are associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Generally, S1P mainly exerts a proinflammatory effect by binding to S1PR1 on lymphocytes to facilitate lymphocyte migration to inflamed tissues, and increased S1P was found in the intestinal mucosa of IBD patients. Notably, there is an interaction between the distribution of gut bacteria and SphK-S1P signaling in the intestinal epithelium. S1P-S1PR signaling can also regulate the functions of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) in mucosa, including cell proliferation and apoptosis. Additionally, increased S1P in immune cells of the lamina propria aggravates the inflammatory response by increasing the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Several novel drugs targeted at S1PRs have recently been used for IBD treatment. This review provides an overview of the S1P-S1PR signaling pathway and, in particular, summarizes the various roles of S1P in the gut mucosal microenvironment to deeply explore the function of S1P-S1PR signaling during intestinal inflammation and, more importantly, to identify potential therapeutic targets for IBD in the SphK-S1P-S1PR axis.
A Symbiotic Fungus Sistotrema Benefits Blueberry Rejuvenation and Abiotic Stress Tolerance

Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) rhizosphere microorganisms can significantly increase the absorption area and improve the efficiency of rhizospheric nutrient uptake. However, there has been little research on blueberry rhizosphere microorganisms, especially those that can complement root function deficiency. In this study, we analyzed the rhizosphere fungi of ‘O’Neal,’ ‘Sharpblue,’ and ‘Premier’ blueberry cultivars and found that ‘Premier’ blueberries showed strong growth potential and relatively high root regulation ability. The dominant symbiotic fungus Sistotrema was correlated with the strong growth of ‘Premier’ and was directionally screened and isolated based on conserved gene structures and COG function analysis. This fungus was reinoculated onto the roots of ‘Gulfcoast’ and ‘Star’ blueberry cultivars. Sistotrema promoted the growth of blueberries and improved their ability to resist stress and grow under adverse conditions, as indicated by maintained or increased chlorophyll content under such conditions. Further analyses showed that Sistotrema has certain functional characteristics such as the ability to dissolve iron in its insoluble form and then release it, to fix nitrogen, and to inhibit nitrification in soil. Thus, it effectively doubled the soil nitrogen content and increased the soluble iron content in soil by 50%. This investigation indicates sistotrema inoculation as an approach to increase blueberry stress tolerance and complete their root nutrition deficiency.
Application of multivariate analysis methods to search for variable stars in the Pi of the Sky experiment

The purpose of this article is to present novel algorithm for searching variable stars in the Pi of the Sky data, based on Multivariate Analysis (MVA). Pi of the Sky is a system of wide field-of-view robotic telescopes, which search for short timescale astrophysical phenomena, especially for prompt optical emission from GRB. The system was designed for autonomous operation, monitoring a large fraction of the sky with 12m -13m range and time resolution of the order of 1 - 100 seconds. Dedicated photometric algorithm was implemented in the LUIZA framework and optimized on a sample of test sky images. It was then used on a ”training” image sample, which was obtained by modifying the test sample of images, using different patterns of variability to selected constant stars. Different statistical estimators were considered to find the most efficient algorithm, based on MVA method, for variable star identification. Analysis of the test results indicated that most efficient candidate star selection can be based on the so called Boosted Decision Tree (BDT) approach. The algorithm is then used to search for variable star candidates in the actual data. New results of the analysis and three candidate stars found are presented.
Selecting the number of factors in principal component analysis by permutation testing—Numerical and practical aspects

Selecting the correct number of factors in principal component analysis (PCA) is a critical step to achieve a reasonable data modelling, where the optimal strategy strictly depends on the objective PCA is applied for. In the last decades, much work has been devoted to methods like Kaiser's eigenvalue greater than 1 rule, Velicer's minimum average partial rule, Cattell's scree test, Bartlett's chi‐square test, Horn's parallel analysis, and cross‐validation. However, limited attention has been paid to the possibility of assessing the significance of the calculated components via permutation testing. That may represent a feasible approach in case the focus of the study is discriminating relevant from nonsystematic sources of variation and/or the aforementioned methodologies cannot be resorted to (eg, when the analysed matrices do not fulfill specific properties or statistical assumptions). The main aim of this article is to provide practical insights for an improved understanding of permutation testing, highlighting its pros and cons, mathematically formalising the numerical procedure to be abided by when applying it for PCA factor selection by the description of a novel algorithm developed to this end, and proposing ad hoc solutions for optimising computational time and efficiency.
Heat shock and iron limitation modulate the metabolic profile of the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa NIES‐88

The freshwater cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa NIES‐88, which can produce microcystins, micropeptins, and argicyclamides, was subjected to a one strain many compounds (OSMAC) analysis. We report its response to two environmental stressors, temperature and iron limitation, by means of untargeted and targeted metabolomics. The results demonstrated a slower specific growth rate of 0.20 per day and 0.16 per day in adverse conditions of 37°C and iron limitation, respectively. The metabolic signature of M. aeruginosa was highly dependent on incubation temperatures. Production of microcystins LR and RR was severely downregulated while that of argicyclamide B was significantly upregulated, with a highest 10‐fold increase on day 14 of heat shock treatment. M. aeruginosa NIES‐88 was found to produce a new compound, argicyclamide D (1), in iron limited medium, which has the same macrocyclic structure as the previously reported analogs. Hence, it is proposed that acclimation of M. aeruginosa to environmental stressors might be mediated by a change in the metabolic pathways as well as modulation of the levels of their expressed metabolites.
Adherence to Atrial Fibrillation Better Care (ABC) Pathway Management of Chinese Community Elderly Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Investigating adherence to the Atrial Fibrillation Better Care (ABC) pathway management and identifying gaps between the real world and established guidelines can lead to better integrated management of AF. Current data on adherence to ABC pathway management among community elderly patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) in Chinese communities is limited. Aim To investigate the adherence to ABC pathway management among community elderly patients with AF in China. Methods In this cross-sectional study, data were collected from the 2020 National Basic Public Health Service Program database that includes health examination information for all residents >65 years of age in Yuexiu, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province. Demographic and clinical characteristics data from 197 community AF patients were obtained. Results Among the 197 AF patients, 103 (52.3%) were male, 117 (59.4%) were ≥75 years of age, 127 (64.5%) had a senior middle school education or above, 84.3% were married, and 195 (99.0%) had medical insurance. The most common comorbidities were hypertension (72.1%, 142/197), dyslipidaemia (28.4%, 56/197), CAD (28.9%, 57/197), and diabetes (24.9%, 49/197). In terms of the ABC management pathway, 21.8% (43/197), 82.7% (163/197), and 31.5% (62/197) of AF patients were classified into the A-adherent group, B-adherent group, and C-adherent group, respectively. The level of adherence to ABC pathway management was very low (9.1%, 18/197) and independently associated with age and multimorbidity. Conclusion The level of adherence to ABC pathway management in community elderly patients with AF was unsatisfactory. Further research is warranted to improve the integrated management of AF.
Parental determinants associated with early growth after the first year of life by race and ethnicity

Objective To investigate maternal and parental factors associated with changes in children's body mass index percentile (BMI-P) from 12 to 24 months. Methods Data from a prospective cohort of racially and ethnically diverse mothers, fathers, and children (n = 245) were used. Changes in BMI-P from 12 to 24 months of age were examined using height and weight measurements collected at both times. Separate longitudinal mixed-effects models with maximum likelihood were introduced to examine the determinants introduced by mothers and determinants from both parents among all children, and by race and ethnicity. Results Models that examine maternal and parental factors showed that children's overall BMI-P decreased from 12 to 24 months [β = −4.85, 95% confidence interval (CI), −7.47 to −2.23]. Stratified tests showed that White children whose parents graduated high school or completed a 4-year college degree or higher had greater decreases in BMI-P than White children born to parents with less than high school education (β = −60.39, 95% CI, −115.05 to −5.72; β = −61.49, 95% CI, −122.44 to −0.53). Among Hispanic/Latinx children, mean BMI-P significantly decreased from 12 to 24 months (β = −7.12, 95% CI, −11.59 to −2.64). Mother's older age (β = 1.83, 95% CI, 0.29–3.36) and child female sex (β = 11.21, 95% CI, 1.61–20.82) were associated with gains in children's BMI-P, while father's older age was associated with decreases (β = −1.19, 95% CI, −2.30 to −0.08). Conclusions Parental determinants associated with children's early growth varied by children's sex and racial and ethnic background. Results highlight the importance of understanding racial and ethnicity-specific obesity risks and including fathers in research.
Consumers' Preferences for Digital Corporate Content on Company Websites: A Best-Worst Scaling Analysis

Digital content marketing (DCM) complements traditional marketing communication approaches and is a major focus of research. Uses and gratifications research posits that DCM only unfolds positive effects if it provides valuable content to consumers. However, there is limited evidence on what constitutes gratifying digital corporate content on company websites. This study aimed to elicit consumers’ preferences for key characteristics of digital corporate content on company websites and whether preferences differ among consumer subgroups. Best–worst scaling (BWS) was used to reveal preferences. To obtain BWS data, a cross-sectional survey was employed. The study sample comprised 1527 consumers from Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Data were analyzed using counting analysis and conditional logit modeling. Subgroup comparisons were performed with t-tests and one-way ANOVA. The results consistently show that consumers prioritize information value as the most important content characteristic, followed by value in use, entertainment value, process value, and social value. Subgroup comparisons revealed generally similar priorities among consumers, with the greatest heterogeneity being found in assessments of the importance of social value. The study also suggests that consumers prioritize digital corporate content characteristics on company websites differently than they do on social media. These findings contribute to the evolving literature on DCM and provide insights that could help set evidence-based priorities in DCM practice.
Effect of Crop Farmers-Pastoralist Conflict on Crop Output in Adamawa State, Nigeria

This study was conducted to determine the effect of crop farmers-pastoralist conflict on crop output in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Purposive and random sampling methods was used to select 24 communities and 192 respondents (Crop farmers) from the study area. Descriptive statistic and regression model were used to analyse the data collected. The results showed that majority (67.23%) of the respondents were between 31 – 50 years; 70.1% of crop farmers had western education and 80.7% of the respondents were married. Furthermore, the respondents had farming experience of 7 – 20 years and above with 48.4% having less than 20 years of farming experience. The multiple regression result showed that there is a strong correlation between the effect of conflict and output/income of crop farmer. Furthermore, the result further indicated losses in monetary term of N87,875,00 arising from the loss of farm produce. The major constraints to the strategies taken by government to resolve the conflict were weakness of state institution (97.95%), slow response to crises (97.92%) and excessive use of force (police/military) in mitigating the conflicts. Conclusively, the farmers-pastoralist conflict had negative effect on crop farmers’ output/income. It was recommended that state institutions need to be pro-active enough to nip the problem of crop farmers – pastoralist conflicts in the bud, Law enforcement agencies should be alive to their constitutional roles and government should strengthen the security around farmers and herders across the country by providing necessary training and sophisticated security equipment are required to control outburst of crisis. Government should make provision for customary institution to settle crop farmers-pastoralists conflicts rather than the courts, and a joint peace and conflict resolution committee consisting of leadership of farm community and the herders be constituted to mediate among conflicting groups.
Left-handed propagation characteristics of a dielectric and metal-loaded periodic circular waveguide

Abstract In this paper, a periodic dielectric/metallic rod is located in a circular waveguide to obtain left-handed operation. Two geometries of the dielectric/metallic rod are proposed and examined. The dispersion characteristics of the investigated waveguides are obtained using a surface impedance model. Moreover, equivalent circuit models are proposed allowing for calculation of the dispersion characteristics and scattering parameters of the considered waveguide structures. The numerical results are compared with those obtained from commercial software and from experiment. The obtained results prove the left-handed properties of the investigated structures.
Distributed Moments of a Scalar PDF

The evolution of concentration values in a turbulent flow is quantified by the probability density function (PDF) of concentration or more simply by the expected mass fraction function (EMF). It is convenient to use some lower-order moments to approximate the PDF or EMF. In this paper a particularly simple representation of these moments is explored. Concentration measurements using planar laser induced fluorescence (PLIF) are made over the cross-section of a fluorescent plume emanating from a point source in a gridturbulence flow in a water tunnel. It is observed that the distributed moments across the plume are determined from a ‘local’ concentration scale and the mean concentration profile. The moments of the EMF appear to be related to the center-line moments and the EMF to have a simple, self-similar form when scaled with the center-line mean concentration.