bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An intelligent transformer enabled medium voltage AC network for loss minimization and node voltage improvement
Authors: Loaena Yalisho Girma
Published: November 2024

The research work presented here discusses about design and integration of intelligent transformer (IT) to the 15 kV/0.4 kV overloaded distribution feeder in Wolaita Sodo Town. The feeder contains 113 distribution transformers with different capacities ranging from 50 kVA to 1250 kVA. The proposed intelligent transformer is a three-stage modular type using phase shift multicarrier modulations for MMC front end converter. Its middle stage is dual active bridge having input series output parallel (DAB-ISOP) configuration using a phase shift modulation. The smart transformer’s back end uses an MMC inverter using interleaved phase shift modulation. The distribution feeder is modeled in MATLAB/Simulink and the designed intelligent transformer is allocated to it using voltage stability index (VSI). The peak load data, feeder data and transformer data of the distribution system under study are obtained from the utility office. The existing distribution feeder’s performance was evaluated by using backward-forward sweep load flow simulation for peak loading condition. The line flows and voltage profile at all nodes were observed and candidate nodes for enhancement were identified. Placement of modular intelligent transformer by using voltage stability index (VSI) was conducted to improve the voltage profiles, minimize reactive power flows and losses. Based on the simulation results for base case scenario, total power loss of 936.5 kW is obtained. The minimum node voltage of 0.81PU and maximum reactive power flow of 10.9MVAr were observed for the base case simulation. Placement of intelligent transformer at weak node 67 and node 111 improves the node voltages to have a minimum value 0.965 PU and maximum value of 1.05PU. The total power loss is reduced to 511.5 kW (54.5% improvement) after integration of intelligent transformer
On the enumeration of orbits of unipotent groups over finite fields
Authors: Rossmann Tobias
Published: November 2024

We show that the enumeration of linear orbits and conjugacy classes of

Z

\mathbf {Z}

-defined unipotent groups over finite fields is “wild” in the following sense: given an arbitrary scheme

Y
Y

of finite type over

Z

\mathbf {Z}

and integer

n

⩾

1

n\!\geqslant \! 1

, the numbers

#
Y
(

F

q

)
mod

q
n

\#Y(\mathbf {F}_q) \bmod q^n

can be expressed, uniformly in

q
q

, in terms of the numbers of linear orbits (or numbers of conjugacy classes) of finitely many

Z

\mathbf {Z}

-defined unipotent groups over

F

q

\mathbf {F}_q

and finitely many Laurent polynomials in 𝑞.
Exchangeability and irreducible rotational invariance
Authors: Baldi Paolo , Marinucci Domenico , Trapani Stefano
Published: November 2024

In this note we prove that a finite family

{

X
1

,
…
,

X
d

}

\{X_1,\dots ,X_d\}

of real r.v.’s that is exchangeable and such that

(

X
1

,
…
,

X
d

)

(X_1,\dots ,X_d)

is invariant with respect to a subgroup of

S
O
(
d
)

SO(d)

acting irreducibly, is actually invariant with respect to the action of the full group

S
O
(
d
)

SO(d)

. Three immediate consequences are deduced: a characterization of isotropic spherical random eigenfunctions whose Fourier coefficients are exchangeable, an extension of Bernstein’s characterization of the Gaussian and a characterization of the Lebesgue measure on the sphere.
Prologue
Authors: Insole Christopher J
Published: November 2024

The prologue outlines an understanding of ‘negative natural theology’. ‘Natural theology’ involves speaking about God without reference to revelation or tradition, using the resources of ‘reason alone’. ‘Negative theology’ is concerned with the ways in which some types of reasoning, thinking, and speaking, might run out, without this necessarily being an ending. Negative natural theology asks ‘what is at stake’ in the choice (if it is that) to talk about God/the divine, and different conceptions of the divine, or not to do so. What moves us, or persuades us, or blocks us, or enables us, to want to speak about God, or not, in different ways? Relevant factors might include reasons, evidence, and arguments, certainly, but also more intuitive and affective dimensions, including imagination and emotion. Also relevant are unconscious drives and factors. Concepts can convince, or fail to convince, but, also, they can attract and repel.
An Anatomical Approach to Radiofrequency-Assisted Facial Rejuvenation: Beyond the Treatment Gap
Authors: Stein Michael J , Vranis Neil M , Aston Sherrell J
Published: November 2024

Background

Radiofrequency-assisted (RF) facial rejuvenation has become a safe and reliable option for “treatment gap” patients, including (1) patients whose skin laxity is not severe enough to warrant a facelift, yet not mild enough to reliably treat with noninvasive procedures; (2) patients who have already undergone a face or neck lift and have recurrent laxity; and (3) patients who would benefit from a traditional face or neck lift but want to avoid surgery and are willing to accept a more modest improvement without extensive surgical scar burden and recovery.

Objectives

In this study we aimed to educate the reader about providing bipolar RF to various anatomic regions of the face.

Methods

A retrospective review of cases was conducted to assess the safety of zone-specific RF-assisted facial rejuvenation in S.A.'s practice.

Results

RF-microneedling with Morpheus8 was performed on 364 foreheads, 364 periorbita, 353 perioral areas, and 233 jawlines. RF-bipolar with AccuTite was performed on 43 nasolabial folds. There were no cases of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, scarring, or prolonged erythema.

Conclusions

The result of patients treated with the combination of bipolar radiofrequency and fractional bipolar radiofrequency microneedling has expanded RF-assisted facial rejuvenation in our practice. We report on an anatomical approach to RF-assisted facial rejuvenation, as well as expanding indications beyond treatment gap patients.

Level of Evidence: 4 (Therapeutic)
Impact of the radiological morphology of the mesopancreas on the outcome after pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: retrospective study
Authors: Navez Julie , Pezzullo Martina , Bouchart Christelle , Arsenijevic Tatjana , Demetter Pieter , Closset Jean , Azurmendi Senar Oier , Racu Marie-Lucie , D’Haene Nicky , Devière Jacques , Verset Laurine , Bali Maria A , van Laethem Jean-Luc
Published: November 2024

Background

The most frequently invaded margins on pancreatoduodenectomy specimens for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma are vascular margins, particularly the superior mesenteric artery (or mesopancreatic) margin. Due to limited exploration of the radiological aspect of the mesopancreas, the aim of this study was to evaluate mesopancreatic infiltration through imaging of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy, to correlate these findings with histopathology and evaluate their impact on survival.

Methods

Data for all patients who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma from 2015 to 2021 were reviewed, including review of surgical margin histopathology and blinded review of preoperative diagnostic imaging. According to qualitative radiological assessment, the mesopancreas was characterized as having normal fat, fat stranding, or solid infiltration. Survival data were analysed using Cox regression.

Results

A total of 149 patients were included. At baseline imaging, mesopancreatic fat stranding or solid infiltration was present in 47 patients (31.5%) and 20 patients (13.4%) respectively. Median overall survival and disease-free survival were significantly lower with mesopancreatic solid infiltration (17 and 8 months) compared with normal fat (30 and 14 months) and fat stranding (29 and 16 months) (P = 0.017 and 0.028 respectively). In multivariable analysis, pathological tumour size was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival, and tumour location in the uncinate process and pathological tumour size were independent prognostic factors for disease-free survival.

Conclusion

At diagnostic imaging, solid infiltration (but not fat stranding) of the mesopancreas is associated with a poor prognosis for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma patients who undergo pancreatoduodenectomy. Pathological tumour size significantly influences the prediction of overall survival, and tumour location in the uncinate process and pathological tumour size significantly influence the prediction of disease-free survival, suggesting further exploration of underlying mechanisms related to retroperitoneal tumoral invasion of vascular margins and the mesopancreas.
Effect of L-alanine exposure during early life stage on olfactory development, growth and survival in age-0 lake sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens
Authors: Edwards Tyler , Bouyoucos Ian A , Hasler Caleb T , Fry Mark , Anderson W Gary
Published: November 2024

Environmental factors play an important role in phenotypic development of fishes, which has implications for hatchery-reared fishes that are released into the wild where natural cues are present. There is interest in examining how early exposure to dietary odourants can affect development of olfaction. The aim of our study was to use behavioural, molecular and electro-physiological techniques to evaluate how introduction of the amino acid L-alanine to the rearing environment might influence the development of olfactory perception of dietary cues, growth and survival in lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens), a species of conservation concern. We hypothesized that exposure to amino acids would influence the onset of feeding during dietary transitions from endogenous to exogenous feeding and predicted that the introduction of L-alanine during early development would promote growth and survival of age-0 lake sturgeon. Additionally, we hypothesized that olfaction in lake sturgeon is a developmentally plastic trait, predicting that the addition of L-alanine prior to exogenous feeding would influence mRNA transcript abundance of genes associated with detection of dietary cues. Our approach was to add L-alanine daily from 17 to 20 days post-fertilization (DPF) before the onset of exogenous feeding. We sampled individuals at 17, 21, 26, 31, 50, 65 and 80 DPF. Additionally, olfactory sensitivity to L-alanine was tested at ~1 year via electro-olfactogram (EOG). We observed no significant differences in mortality or EOG response between L-alanine and control treatments; however, significant differences were observed in morphometrics, behaviour and mRNA transcript abundance of all genes throughout development. Our results indicated the olfactory system exhibited developmental plasticity in response to L-alanine treatment until 50–65 DPF, suggesting that environmental odourants may influence early development of key olfactory processes. Our data could inform practises at conservation hatcheries that are used as part of enhancement programmes for lake sturgeon.
Diagnostic performance of approximal caries in bitewing radiographs from different monitors and room illuminances
Authors: Liu Xiao-Xuan , Li Gang
Published: November 2024

Objective

To compare the accuracy, duration, and certainty of diagnosing approximal caries in bitewing radiographs displayed in 3 monitors under 2 luminance conditions.

Methods

A total of 39 teeth without evident caries were selected from 11 patients undergoing partial jaw resection. Before the operation, 13 bitewing radiographs were captured by a digital imaging system. Eight observers evaluated the images under dark (9 lux) and bright (200 lux) conditions, using 2 medical-grade monitors and a commercial monitor. Using histological results as the gold standard, the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves under different conditions were compared using the Z-test. Multivariate analysis of variance was conducted to assess the impact of various factors on diagnostic duration, while ordinal logistic regression was used to examine factors influencing diagnostic certainty level. It was considered significant when P < .05.

Results

No significant difference was found in the diagnostic accuracy or duration for diagnosis of approximal caries under 2 luminance conditions with the 3 distinct monitors (P > .05). Ambient light, clinical experience, and the pathological grade of approximal caries have influence on the degree of diagnostic confidence (P < .05).

Conclusions

Different monitors and ambient luminance didn’t influence the diagnostic accuracy or evaluation duration. Ambient luminance, clinical experience, and the depth of caries affect the degree of diagnostic confidence.

Advances in knowledge

The study employing bitewing radiographs from real patients indicates that ambient luminance, clinical experience, and the depth of caries affect the degree of diagnostic confidence.
Evaluation of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis using a new FRACTURE sequence of 3.0T MRI
Authors: Nozawa Michihito , Fukuda Motoki , Kotaki Shinya , Tomoda Daisuke , Morishita Ayaka , Akiyama Hironori , Ariji Yoshiko
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine the usefulness of a new MRI sequence, CT-like fast field echo with limited echo-spacing (FRACTURE), in diagnosing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis compared with routine MRI TMJ sequences.

Methods

The study sample comprised 76 patients (152 joints) who underwent MRI and CT examinations to diagnose TMJ disorders. Two specialists in oral and maxillofacial radiology assessed the bony changes of the TMJ on FRACTURE, proton density-weighted (PDw), and fat-suppression T2-weighted (T2wFS) sequences. Receiver operating characteristic curves were plotted for each sequence, and the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) were calculated. Additionally, the interobserver agreement (Cohen’s kappa value) and sensitivity in assessing each osteoarthritis finding were calculated for each sequence.

Results

The FRACTURE sequence had the highest diagnostic performance, with an accuracy of 0.85, sensitivity of 0.85, specificity of 0.84, and AUC of 0.84. These values were 0.84, 0.72, 0.91, and 0.80, respectively, for the PDw sequence, and 0.83, 0.72, 0.91, and 0.79, respectively, for the T2wFS sequence. The AUC did not significantly differ between the FRACTURE and PDw sequences (Delong test, P > .05), but did significantly differ between the FRACTURE and T2wFS sequences (P < .05). For all osteoarthritis findings, the FRACTURE sequence had the highest kappa values and the highest sensitivity.

Conclusions

FRACTURE sequencing may be a promising tool for the diagnosis of TMJ osteoarthritis compared with other conventional sequences.
Improvement of image quality of dentomaxillofacial region in ultra-high-resolution CT: a phantom study
Authors: Sakai Yuki , Okamura Kazutoshi , Kitamoto Erina , Shirasaka Takashi , Kato Toyoyuki , Chikui Toru , Ishigami Kousei
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to compare the image quality of ultra-high-resolution CT (U-HRCT) with that of conventional multidetector row CT (convCT) and demonstrate its usefulness in the dentomaxillofacial region.

Methods

Phantoms were helically scanned with U-HRCT and convCT scanners using clinical protocols. In U-HRCT, phantoms were scanned in super-high-resolution (SHR) mode, and hybrid iterative reconstruction (HIR) and filtered-back projection (FBP) techniques were performed using a bone kernel (FC81). The FBP technique was performed using the same kernel as in convCT (reference). Two observers independently evaluated the 54 resulting images using a 5-point scale (5 = excellent diagnostic image quality; 4 = above average; 3 = average; 2 = subdiagnostic; and 1 = unacceptable). The system performance function (SPF) was calculated for a comprehensive evaluation of the image quality using the task transfer function and noise power spectrum. Statistical analysis using the Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to compare the image quality among the 3 protocols.

Results

The observers assigned higher scores to images acquired with the SHRHIR and SHRFBP protocols than to those acquired with the reference (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.0001, respectively). The relative SPF value at 1.0 cycles/mm in SHRHIR and SHRFBP compared to the reference protocol were 151.5% and 45.6%, respectively.

Conclusions

Through phantom experiments, this study demonstrated that U-HRCT can provide superior-quality images compared to conventional CT in the dentomaxillofacial region. The development of a better image reconstruction method is required to improve image quality and optimize the radiation dose.
Semi-Picking: A semi-supervised arrival time picking for microseismic monitoring based on the TransUGA network combined with SimMatch
Authors: Wang Qianfang , Sheng Guanqun , Tang Xingong , Xie Kai
Published: November 2024

An accurate and efficient method for picking the first arrival of microseismic signals is crucial for processing microseismic monitoring data. However, the weak magnitude and low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of these signals make picking arrivals challenging. Recent advancements in deep learning-based methods for picking the first arrivals of microseismic signals have effectively addressed the inefficiencies and inaccuracies of traditional methods. Nevertheless, these methods often require many training samples, and the substantial size and labelling effort significantly hinder the development of deep learning-based first-arrival picking methods. This study introduces Semi-Picking: a semi-supervised method for picking the first arrival of microseismic signals, utilizing the TransUGA network and SimMatch. This approach automatically labels microseismic signals following sample augmentation by establishing a semi-supervised learning framework, significantly reducing the time required for sample labelling. Initially, the TransUNet model is enhanced by incorporating the Self-Supervised Predictive Convolutional Attention Block (SSPCAB) module to create a Deep-TransUNet architecture, which more effectively separates signal from noise in microseismic signals with low SNR and improves the accuracy of first-arrival picking. Subsequently, the data sets for this study are compiled from microseismic traces collected from field monitoring records. Finite-difference forward modelling is applied to the microseismic data to train the network, and hyperparameter tuning is performed to optimize the UGATIT and Deep-TransUNet architecture. The outcomes of the arrival-picking experiments, conducted under conditions of low SNR using both synthetic and real microseismic records, demonstrated that Semi-Picking offers robust resistance to incorrect labels. This resilience stems from the synergistic use of the semi-supervised learning framework and self-attention mechanisms. The proposed method demonstrates superiority over the TransUNet, the SSPCAB-TransUNet, the UNet++ and the traditional short-term average/long-term average method, respectively, with the picking error rate of the Semi-Picking Net being less than 0.1 s. The proposed method outperforms the commonly used deep learning-based approaches for picking the first arrivals of microseismic signals, exhibiting superior performance.
Governance challenges to protect globally important ecosystem services of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean
Authors: Stoeckl Natalie , Adams Vanessa , Baird Rachel , Boothroyd Anne , Costanza Robert , Finau Glenn , Fulton Elizabeth A , Hatton MacDonald Darla , King Matt A , Kubiszewski Ida , Leane Elizabeth , Melbourne-Thomas Jess , Nielsen Hanne E F , Ooi Can-Seng , Raghavan Mala , Senigaglia Valeria , Tian Jing , Yamazaki Satoshi
Published: November 2024

Antarctica and the Southern Ocean (A&SO) has a unique environment that plays an important role in the Earth’s life-support systems. It has no indigenous human population but hosts around 5000 researchers and is visited by more than 100 000 tourists per year. In this paper, we describe the biophysical processes that create the region’s ecosystem services, outlining their related governance systems within the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS), and show the global distribution of the ecosystem service beneficiaries. These services clearly support populations across the world but are endangered by anthropogenic activities, which the current place-based ATS is not empowered to control. We discuss whether it is possible to use insights from Elinor Ostrom’s work on managing the commons, including her eight core design principles and the idea of Common Asset Trusts, to better harness efforts to protect ALL of the region’s ecosystem services. We note that many existing arrangements associated with the ATS are already well-aligned with Ostrom’s design principles but need to be expanded to better protect the globally important ecosystem services produced by A&SO.
Natural Boosting and the Immunogenicity of the XBB.1.5 Monovalent Vaccine in the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Endemic Era: A Longitudinal Observational Study
Authors: Kang Hyun Myung , Kim Hye-Jin , Jung Jiwon , Ahn Jin Young , Song Kyoung-Ho , Baek Jin Yang , Choi Ju-yeon , Lee Young Jae , Jeong Hyeonji , Kim Su-Hwan , Park Soyoung , Jang Hye Min , Rhie Gi-eun , Kim Eu Suk , Choi Jun Yong , Kim Sung-Han , Kang Eun-Suk , Peck Kyong Ran , Jeong Hye Won , Ko Jae-Hoon
Published: November 2024

Background

With the transition from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic into endemicity, changes in group immunity and the effect of updated XBB.1.5 monovalent vaccine (MonoV) need to be investigated.

Methods

A multicenter vaccine cohort was followed for 3 years, and the investigation period was classified into the pre-Omicron, Omicron, and endemic eras. Thirteen sampling points were assessed, including pre- and post-MonoV administration. Specimens were classified as vaccinated, molecularly or serologically diagnosed breakthrough infection (BI), natural boosting (NB), or waned.

Results

A total of 327 healthcare workers contributed 2645 blood samples from March 2021 to December 2023. The log10 anti-spike protein antibody (SAb) levels, elevated by vaccination, declined linearly in the pre-Omicron era, were maintained during the Omicron era due to BIs, and increased in the endemic era (slope = 0.02, P = .02) without additional vaccination. NB cases increased significantly across the epidemiologic eras. The incidence rate ratios were 2.72 (P < .001) for Omicron/pre-Omicron and 3.39 (P < .001) for endemic/Omicron. Plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT) titers against circulating strains (XBB.1.5 and XBB.1.9.1) in the NB group maintained previous levels, but ratios to wild-type PRNT and fold changes exhibited significantly enhanced activity. The XBB.1.5 MonoV increased PRNT by 5.8-fold against XBB.1.5 and 6.6-fold against JN.1, showing stronger enhancement against subsequent epidemic strains than the bivalent vaccine.

Conclusions

Group immunity in the COVID-19 endemic era exhibited maintained SAb levels and adjusted neutralizing activities through BI and NB. The XBB.1.5 MonoV significantly enhanced neutralizing activity against the vaccine strain and robust immunity against the subsequent epidemic JN.1 strain.
Measuring Users’ Trust in VIA Responses: The Age and Response Forms Perspective
Authors: Kang Rui , Rau Pei-Luen Patrick
Published: November 2024

When interacting with voice intelligent assistants (VIAs), users of different age groups usually react differently to the devices’ responses. This research focused on two influencing factors of users’ trust—user age and VIA response forms, and devised an experiment followed up with voluntary semi-structured interviews with 100 younger adult users (aged 22 to 59), 100 older adult users (aged 66 to 79) and 100 child users (aged 6 to11) to (i) quantify the varying degrees of trust across distinct age groups in the different presentation forms used to convey the same response content from VIAs, (ii) identify how the type of question posed influences on the levels of trust exhibited by users of different age groups in VIA response forms and (iii) explore the underlying rationales and motivations behind user perceptions and attitudes towards the diverse presentation forms of VIA responses, accounting for variations across different age demographics. In this paper, seven VIA response forms was studied, i.e. picture, text, hyperlink, ‘picture + text’, ‘picture + hyperlink’, ‘text + hyperlink’, and ‘picture + text + hyperlink’. Results indicate that users from different age groups demonstrate varying degrees of trust in the same responses when presented in different forms, expanding the research on users’ trust from the distinctive perspectives of user ages and response forms, while providing manufacturers with insights into consumer psychology.
Flexible modelling of time-varying exposures and recurrent events to analyse training load effects in team sports injuries
Authors: Zumeta-Olaskoaga Lore , Bender Andreas , Lee Dae-Jin
Published: November 2024

We present a flexible modelling approach to analyse time-varying exposures and recurrent events in team sports injuries. The approach is based on the piece-wise exponential additive mixed model where the effects of past exposures (i.e. high-intensity training loads) may accumulate over time and present complex forms of association. In order to identify a relevant time window at which past exposures have an impact on the current risk, we propose a penalty approach. We conduct a simulation study to evaluate the performance of the proposed model, under different true weight functions and different levels of heterogeneity between recurrent events. Finally, we illustrate the approach with a case study application involving an elite male football team participating in the Spanish LaLiga competition. The cohort includes time-loss injuries and external training load variables tracked by Global Positioning System devices, during the seasons 2017–2018 and 2018–2019.
NGTS-31b and NGTS-32b: two inflated hot Jupiters orbiting subgiant stars
Authors: Vines Jose I , Jenkins James S , Anderson David R , Alves Douglas R , Moyano Maximiliano , Acton Jack S , Apergis Ioannis , Barkaoui Khalid , Bayliss Daniel , Bouchy Francois , Bryant Edward M , Burleigh Matthew R , Casewell Sarah L , Christiansen Jessie L , Collins Karen A , Eigmüller Philipp , Falk Ben , Gill Samuel , Gillen Edward , Goad Michael R , Günther Maximilian N , Henderson Beth A , Kendall Alicia , Lendl Monika , McCormac James , Nielsen Louise D , Osborn Ares , Ramsay Gavin , Ricker George R , Rowden Pamela , Rudat Alexander , Saha Suman , Seager Sara , Smith Alexis M S , Tan Thiam-Guan , Tilbrook Rosanna H , Udry Stéphane , West Richard , Wheatley Peter J , Winn Joshua N , Zivave Tafadzwa
Published: November 2024

We present the discoveries of NGTS-31b(= TOI-2721), and NGTS-32b, two hot Jupiters from the Next Generation Transit Survey (NGTS) transiting slightly evolved stars. The orbital periods, radii, and masses are 4.16 and 3.31 d, 1.61 and 1.42 $R_{J}$, and 1.12 and 0.57 $M_{J}$, respectively. Both planets have an incident stellar flux significantly above the threshold where inflation occurs, with both planets showing signs of inflation. These planets have widely different equilibrium temperatures than other hot Jupiters of similar mass and radius, with NGTS-31b having a significantly lower temperature, and NGTS-32b being hotter. This dichotomy raises the question of how prevalent the roles of other inflation mechanisms are in the radius anomaly phenomena and will help further constrain different inflationary models.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in exoplanet atmospheres: a detectability study
Authors: Arenales-Lope Rosa , Molaverdikhani Karan , Dubey Dwaipayan , Ercolano Barbara , Grübel Fabian , Rab Christian
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we explore the detectability of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) under diverse planetary conditions, aiming to identify promising targets for future observations of planetary atmospheres. Our primary goal is to determine the minimum detectable mass fractions of PAHs on each studied planet. We integrate the one-dimensional self-consistent model petitcode with petitradtrans, a radiative transfer model, to simulate the transmission spectra of these planets. Subsequently, we employ the pandexo noise simulator using the NIRSpec PRISM instrument aboard the JWST to assess the observability. Then, we conduct a Bayesian analysis through the multinest code. Our findings illustrate that variations in C/O ratios and planet temperatures significantly influence the transmission spectra and the detectability of PAHs. Our results show that planets with [Fe/H] = 0 and 1, C/O = 0.55, and temperatures around 1200 K are the most promising for detecting PAHs, with detectable mass fractions as low as 10$^{-7}$, or one thousandth of the interstellar medium abundance level. For colder planets with lower metallicities and C/O ratios, as well as hotter planets with carbon-rich atmospheres, PAHs can be detected at abundances around 10$^{-6}$. These results aid our strategy for selecting targets to study PAHs in the atmospheres of exoplanets.
Elevated UV luminosity density at Cosmic Dawn explained by non-evolving, weakly mass-dependent star formation efficiency
Authors: Feldmann Robert , Boylan-Kolchin Michael , Bullock James S , Çatmabacak Onur , Faucher-Giguère Claude-André , Hayward Christopher C , Kereš Dušan , Lazar Alexandres , Liang Lichen , Moreno Jorge , Oesch Pascal A , Quataert Eliot , Shen Xuejian , Sun Guochao
Published: November 2024

Recent observations with JWST have uncovered unexpectedly high cosmic star formation activity in the early Universe, mere hundreds of millions of years after the big bang. These observations are often understood to reflect an evolutionary shift in star formation efficiency (SFE) caused by changing galactic conditions during these early epochs. We present FIREbox$^{\it HR}$, a high-resolution, cosmological hydrodynamical simulation from the Feedback in Realistic Environments (FIRE) project, which offers insights into the SFE of galaxies during the first billion years of cosmic time. FIREbox$^{\it HR}$ re-simulates the cosmic volume ($L=22.1$ cMpc) of the original FIREbox run with eight times higher mass resolution ($m_{\rm b}\sim {}7800\, M_\odot$), but with identical physics, down to $z\sim {}6$. FIREbox$^{\it HR}$ predicts ultraviolet (UV) luminosity functions in good agreement with available observational data. The simulation also successfully reproduces the observed cosmic UV luminosity density at $z\sim {}6{\!-\!}14$, demonstrating that relatively high star formation activity in the early Universe is a natural outcome of the baryonic processes encoded in the FIRE-2 model. According to FIREbox$^{\it HR}$, the SFE–halo mass relation for intermediate mass haloes ($M_{\rm halo}\sim {}10^9{\!-\!}10^{11}\, {\rm M}_\odot$) does not significantly evolve with redshift and is only weakly mass-dependent. These properties of the SFE–halo mass relation lead to a larger contribution from lower mass haloes at higher z, driving the gradual evolution of the observed cosmic UV luminosity density. A theoretical model based on the SFE–halo mass relation inferred from FIREbox$^{\it HR}$ allows us to explore implications for galaxy evolution. Future observations of UV faint galaxies at $z\gt 12$ will provide an opportunity to further test these predictions and deepen our understanding of star formation during Cosmic Dawn.
The frequency and mass-ratio distribution of binaries in clusters – III. Probabilistic generative modelling of six young open clusters
Authors: Alexander Jason S , Albrow Michael D
Published: November 2024

We apply probabilistic generative modelling of colour–magnitude diagrams to six young Galactic open star clusters and determine their mass functions, binary mass-ratio distributions, and the frequencies of binary stars. We find that younger clusters tend to exhibit a higher incidence of binaries than their older counterparts. The mass-ratio distribution is fairly flat for the clusters, with one exception that exhibits a sharp increase for $q\gtrsim 0.9$. The ratio of the number of cluster binaries for which $q\gt 0.75$ to the number of binaries for which $q\gt 0.5$ (referred to as $FQ_{75}$) ranges from $\sim 0.4 \,{\text{to}}\, 0.8$. This metric increases with the binary-star frequency of a cluster but declines with cluster age. This may be due to non-ionizing three-body dynamical processing of a primordial population of close binaries with initial mass ratios, $q \simeq 1$.
The properties of the interstellar medium in dusty star-forming galaxies at z ∼ 2–4: the shape of the CO spectral line energy distributions
Authors: Taylor Dominic J , Swinbank A M , Smail Ian , Puglisi Annagrazia , Birkin Jack E , Dudzevičiūtė Ugne , Chen Chian-Chou , Ikarashi S , Frias Castillo Marta , Weiß Axel , Li Zefeng , Chapman Scott C , Jansen Jasper , Jiménez-Andrade E F , Morabito Leah K , Murphy Eric J , Rybak Matus , van der Werf P P
Published: November 2024

The molecular gas in the interstellar medium (ISM) of star-forming galaxy populations exhibits diverse physical properties. We investigate the $^{12}$CO excitation of 12 dusty luminous star-forming galaxies at $z \sim$ 2–4 by combining observations of the $^{12}$CO from $J_{\rm up} = 1$ to $J_{\rm up} = 8$. The spectral line energy distribution (SLED) has a similar shape to NGC 253, M82, and local ultra-luminous infrared galaxies, with much stronger excitation than the Milky Way inner disc. By combining with resolved dust continuum sizes from high-resolution 870 $\mu$m ALMA observations and dust mass measurements determined from multiwavelength spectral energy distribution fitting, we measure the relationship between the $^{12}$CO SLED and probable physical drivers of excitation: star-formation efficiency, the average intensity of the radiation field $\langle U\rangle$, and the star-formation rate surface density. The primary driver of high-$J_{\rm up}$$^{12}$CO excitation in star-forming galaxies is star-formation rate surface density. We use the ratio of the CO(3–2) and CO(6–5) line fluxes to infer the CO excitation in each source and find that the average ratios for our sample are elevated compared to observations of low-redshift, less actively star-forming galaxies and agree well with predictions from numerical models that relate the ISM excitation to the star-formation rate surface density. The significant scatter in the line ratios of a factor $\approx 3$ within our sample likely reflects intrinsic variations in the ISM properties that may be caused by other effects on the excitation of the molecular gas, such as cosmic ray ionization rates and mechanical heating through turbulence dissipation.
Simultaneous two-colour intensity interferometry with H.E.S.S
Authors: Vogel Naomi , Zmija Andreas , Wohlleben Frederik , Anton Gisela , Mitchell Alison , Zink Adrian , Funk Stefan
Published: November 2024

In recent years, intensity interferometry has been successfully applied to the Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes, H.E.S.S. , MAGIC, and VERITAS. All three telescope systems have proven the feasibility and capability of this method. After our first campaign in 2022, when two of the H.E.S.S. telescopes in Namibia were equipped with our external set-up and the angular diameter of two stars was measured, our set-up was upgraded for a second campaign in 2023, where the goal is to perform simultaneous two-colour measurements. The second campaign not only involves a third equipped telescope, but also each mechanical set-up now includes two interference filters at two different wavelengths (375 and 470 nm) with a broader bandwidth of 10 nm. This enables having simultaneous two-colour measurements, which yield information about the star’s physical size at different wavelengths. This is the first time that simultaneous dual-waveband intensity interferometry measurements have been performed. We report the angular diameter results of four stars, Mimosa ($\beta$ Cru), Eta Centauri ($\eta$ Cen), Nunki (σ Sgr), and Dschubba (δ Sco), where the effects of limb darkening are also taken into account.
A comparison of pre-existing ΛCDM predictions with the abundance of JWST galaxies at high redshift
Authors: Lu Shengdong , Frenk Carlos S , Bose Sownak , Lacey Cedric G , Cole Shaun , Baugh Carlton M , Helly John C
Published: November 2024

Observations with the JWST have revealed a high abundance of bright galaxies at redshift, $z\gtrsim 12$, which has been widely interpreted as conflicting with the Lambda cold dark matter model. In Cowley et al., predictions were made – prior to the JWST observations – for the expected abundance of these galaxies using the Durham semi-analytic galaxy formation model, galform, which is known to produce a realistic population of galaxies at lower redshifts including the present day. Key to this model is the assumption of a ‘top-heavy’ initial mass function of stars formed in bursts (required to explain the number counts and redshift distribution of submillimetre galaxies). Here, we compare the rest-frame ultraviolet luminosity functions derived from JWST observations with those predicted by the Cowley et al. model up to $z=14$ and make further predictions for $z=16$. We find that below $z\sim 10$, the Cowley et al. predictions agree very well with observations, while agreement at $z\gtrsim 12$ requires extending the model to take into account the time-scale for the growth of obscuring dust grains at these very early times and its dependence on gas metallicity. We trace the evolution of these galaxies from $z=14$ to $z=0$ and find that their descendants typically reside in haloes with a median mass $2.5\times 10^{13}\, h^{-1}\, \mathrm{{\rm M}_{\odot }}$. The stellar masses of the descendants range from $3.2\times 10^{6}\, h^{-1}\, \mathrm{{\rm M}_{\odot }}$ to $3.2\times 10^{11}\, h^{-1}\, \mathrm{{\rm M}_{\odot }}$. Although these galaxies were all central galaxies at $z=14$, over half of their descendants end up as satellites in massive haloes.
Deviations from the universal initial mass function in binary star clusters
Authors: Singh-Bal Sunder S K , Blaylock-Squibbs George A , Parker Richard J , Goodwin Simon P
Published: November 2024

The stellar mass distribution in star-forming regions, stellar clusters and associations, the initial mass function (IMF), appears to be invariant across different star-forming environments, and is consistent with the IMF observed in the Galactic field. Deviations from the field, or standard, IMF, if genuine, would be considered strong evidence for a different set of physics at play during the formation of stars in the birth region in question. We analyse N-body simulations of the evolution of spatially and kinematically substructured star-forming regions to identify the formation of binary star clusters, where two (sub)clusters which form from the same Giant Molecular Cloud orbit a common centre of mass. We then compare the mass distributions of stars in each of the subclusters and compare them to the standard IMF, which we use to draw the stellar masses in the star-forming region from which the binary cluster(s) form. In each binary cluster that forms, the mass distributions of stars in one subcluster deviates from the standard IMF, and drastically so when we apply similar mass resolution limits as for the observed binary clusters. Therefore, if a binary subcluster is observed to have an unusual IMF, this may simply be the result of dynamical evolution, rather than different physical conditions for star formation in these systems.
Analyzing the Diversity and Impacting Factors of Smoke-Free Legislation and Implementation in Mainland China: A Case Qualitative Research
Authors: Yang Bolu , Wang Ray , Shen Qianqian , Wang Jia , Long Qian
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Since the ratification of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in 2005, mainland China has experienced notable delays in implementing the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. This study aims to examine the legislation and implementation of smoke-free laws in different cities in mainland China, with a particular focus on identifying factors that contribute to these differences.

Aims and Methods

Through a literature review and policy mapping, we gathered information on the variations in smoke-free laws’ legislation and implementation across mainland China. To delve deeper into the local specifics of implementation and the factors contributing to these variations, qualitative interviews were conducted with 16 key stakeholders in two selected cities. This group included former policy makers, policy experts, enforcement officers, and public venue owners.

Results

Although the revision of Healthy Cities standards advocates for the enactment of smoking bans post-2021, less than half of these cities have implemented comprehensive smoke-free laws. This phenomenon can be partly attributed to the tobacco industry’s significant influence in the legislative process and to policy makers’ limited understanding of smoking rooms/areas being temporary measures without setting clear end dates for transition periods. We also identified inconsistent implementation across selected cities, attributed to inadequate coordination and workforce shortages.

Conclusions

Our study reveals significant variations and delays in the adoption of smoke-free laws across different cities in mainland China. We identify key factors contributing to this disparity, underscoring the urgent need for targeted measures to address these challenges, such as setting up a coordinated department and promoting policy advocacy.

Implications

This study reveals geographical disparities in the legislative progress and enforcement effectiveness of smoke-free laws in mainland China. Persistent interference from the tobacco industry has obstructed the establishment of comprehensive smoke-free laws. Additionally, policy makers’ limited awareness of the harm caused by designated smoking areas, regional economic disparities, and inadequate interdepartmental coordination have impeded effective policy implementation. These findings underscore the urgent need to set enforcement goals aligned with local economic contexts and strengthen policy dialogue to empower policy makers and stakeholders to mitigate tobacco industry influence and achieve successful implementation.
Favouritism, social pressure, and gender
Authors: Spilker Finn , Deutscher Christian , Ötting Marius , Sonnabend Hendrik
Published: November 2024

We analyse gender differences in response to social pressure. Our setting provides information on decision-making by both female and male referees towards rewarding extra time in football. The exact score at the time of the decision allows us to evaluate how much it favours the home team and, hence, pleases the audience. Controlling for in-game information that affects the length of extra time per game rules, we find that (especially young) female referees are more susceptible to social pressure and reward less extra time when the home team needs the game to end to secure a win. To confirm that social pressure from the audience drives our findings, we demonstrate that female referees tend to favour home teams more in games with high attendance.
Epidemiology of Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) in Commercial Greenhouses
Authors: Di Rosa Emilien , Durand Audrey-Anne , Provost Caroline , Constant Philippe
Published: November 2024

The tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) poses a considerable threat to tomato production worldwide. Substantial experimental evidence supports the role of infected seeds as a contamination route, but the epidemiologic portrait of the virus has received less attention. This study reports the first survey of ToBRFV prevalence in commercial greenhouses. The aim was to examine the distribution of the virus in relation to greenhouse size and management practices in Québec (Canada). Plant samples collected at three production stages in 31 commercial greenhouses were subjected to ToBRFV detection and genome sequencing. The virus was detected in seven commercial greenhouses (11 positive samples out of 311 analyzed). Retrieved partial genome sequences formed a cluster with ToBRFV variants from Canada and Mexico, suggesting cross-border propagation through commercial trades. There was no link between greenhouse features and ToBRFV diagnosis, indicating that no specific profile is more susceptible to infection than others.
The Arabic Oswestry Disability Index as a Unidimensional Measure
Authors: Alnahdi Ali H.
Published: November 2024

Study Design.

Cross-sectional study.

Objective.

To evaluate the structural validity of the Arabic version of the Oswestry disability index (ODI) in patients with low back pain (LBP).

Summary of Background Data.

The Arabic ODI is currently used in clinical and research settings to assess disability, but questions remain regarding its structural validity.

Materials and Methods.

Adult patients with LBP were recruited from physical therapy departments of two hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Participants completed the Arabic ODI and the numeric pain rating scale. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were conducted to examine the factor structure of the ODI. Maximum likelihood extraction and parallel analysis were used in the EFA, and the goodness-of-fit indices [χ2 statistics, Tucker-Lewis index (TLI), comparative-fit index (CFI), root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), and standardized root mean residual (SRMR)] were assessed in the CFA to confirm the factor structure.

Results.

A total of 113 patients (47.8% male, 52.2% female) participated. The EFA identified a unidimensional structure for the Arabic ODI, with one factor explaining 45.8% of the total variance. All items had significant factor loadings, with loadings ranging from 0.48 (sleeping) to 0.84 (sex life and social life). The CFA confirmed this unidimensional structure, yielding good fit indices [χ2=49.53, P<0.04; TLI=0.96; CFI=0.97; RMSEA=0.06 (90% CI=0.07–0.10), SRMR=0.04]. All ODI items exhibited significant positive loadings consistent with the expected correlation between the single latent variable (LBP-related disability) and the ODI items. A high error covariance was observed between items related to walking and standing.

Conclusion.

The Arabic Oswestry disability index demonstrates sufficient structural validity as a unidimensional measure of disability in Arabic-speaking patients with low back pain. These findings support the continued use of the Oswestry disability index for disability assessment in clinical and research settings and support the validity of using one total score representing the single underlying latent construct.

Level of Evidence.

Level III.