bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An X-Ray Census of Fast Radio Burst Host Galaxies: Constraints on Active Galactic Nuclei and X-Ray Counterparts
Authors: Eftekhari T. , Fong W. , Gordon A. C. , Sridhar N. , Kilpatrick C. D. , Bhandari S. , Deller A. T. , Dong 董 Y. 雨 欣 , Rouco Escorial A. , Heintz K. E. , Leja J. , Margalit B. , Metzger B. D. , Pearlman A. B. , Prochaska J. X. , Ryder S. D. , Scholz P. , Shannon R. M. , Tejos N.
Published: November 2023

We present the first X-ray census of fast radio burst (FRB) host galaxies to conduct the deepest search for active galactic nuclei (AGN) and X-ray counterparts to date. Our sample includes seven well-localized FRBs with unambiguous host associations and existing deep Chandra observations, including two events for which we present new observations. We find evidence for AGN in two FRB host galaxies based on the presence of X-ray emission coincident with their centers, including the detection of a luminous (L

X
≈ 5 × 1042 erg s−1) X-ray source at the nucleus of FRB 20190608B’s host, for which we infer an SMBH mass of M
BH ∼ 108
M
⊙ and an Eddington ratio L
bol/L
Edd ≈ 0.02, characteristic of geometrically thin disks in Seyfert galaxies. We also report nebular emission-line fluxes for 24 highly secure FRB hosts (including 10 hosts for the first time), and assess their placement on a BPT diagram, finding that FRB hosts trace the underlying galaxy population. We further find that the hosts of repeating FRBs are not confined to the star-forming locus, contrary to previous findings. Finally, we place constraints on associated X-ray counterparts to FRBs in the context of ultraluminous X-ray sources (ULXs), and find that existing X-ray limits for FRBs rule out ULXs brighter than L

X
≳ 1040 erg s−1. Leveraging the CHIME/FRB catalog and existing ULX catalogs, we search for spatially coincident ULX–FRB pairs. We identify a total of 28 ULXs spatially coincident with the localization regions for 17 FRBs, but find that the DM-inferred redshifts for the FRBs are inconsistent with the ULX redshifts, disfavoring an association between these specific ULX–FRB pairs.
Extreme Red-wing Enhancements of UV Lines during the 2022 March 30 X1.3 Solar Flare
Authors: Xu Yan , Kerr Graham S. , Polito Vanessa , Huang Nengyi , Jing Ju , Wang Haimin
Published: November 2023

Here, we present the study of a compact emission source during an X1.3 flare on 2022 March 30. Within a ∼41 s period (17:34:48 UT to 17:35:29 UT), Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph observations show spectral lines of Mg ii, C ii, and Si iv with extremely broadened, asymmetric red wings. This source of interest (SOI) is compact, ∼1.″6, and is located in the wake of a passing ribbon. Two methods were applied to measure the Doppler velocities associated with these red wings: spectral moments and multi-Gaussian fits. The spectral-moments method considers the averaged shift of the lines, which are 85, 125, and 115 km s−1 for the Mg ii, C ii, and Si iv lines respectively. The red-most Gaussian fit suggests a Doppler velocity up to ∼160 km s−1 in all of the three lines. Downward mass motions with such high speeds are very atypical, with most chromospheric downflows in flares on the order 10–100 km s−1. Furthermore, extreme-UV (EUV) emission is strong within flaring loops connecting two flare ribbons located mainly to the east of the central flare region. The EUV loops that connect the SOI and its counterpart source in the opposite field are much less brightened, indicating that the density and/or temperature is comparatively low. These observations suggest a very fast downflowing plasma in the transition region and upper chromosphere, which decelerates rapidly since there is no equivalently strong shift of the O I chromospheric lines. This unusual observation presents a challenge that models of the solar atmosphere’s response to flares must be able to explain.
Black Hole Polarimetry I. A Signature of Electromagnetic Energy Extraction
Authors: Chael Andrew , Lupsasca Alexandru , Wong George N. , Quataert Eliot
Published: November 2023

In 1977, Blandford and Znajek showed that the electromagnetic field surrounding a rotating black hole can harvest its spin energy and use it to power a collimated astrophysical jet, such as the one launched from the center of the elliptical galaxy M87. Today, interferometric observations with the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) are delivering high-resolution, event-horizon-scale, polarimetric images of the supermassive black hole M87* at the jet launching point. These polarimetric images offer an unprecedented window into the electromagnetic field structure around a black hole. In this paper, we show that a simple polarimetric observable—the phase ∠β
2 of the second azimuthal Fourier mode of the linear polarization in a near-horizon image—depends on the sign of the electromagnetic energy flux and therefore provides a direct probe of black hole energy extraction. In Boyer–Lindquist coordinates, the Poynting flux for axisymmetric electromagnetic fields is proportional to the product B

ϕ

B

r
. The phase ∠β
2 likewise depends on the ratio B

ϕ
/B

r
, thereby enabling an observer to determine the direction of electromagnetic energy flow in the near-horizon environment experimentally. Data from the 2017 EHT observations of M87* are consistent with electromagnetic energy outflow. Currently envisioned multifrequency observations of M87* will achieve higher dynamic range and angular resolution, and hence deliver measurements of ∠β
2 closer to the event horizon as well as better constraints on Faraday rotation. Such observations will enable a definitive test for energy extraction from the black hole M87*.
Relation between Latitude-dependent Sunspot Data and Near-Earth Solar Wind Speed
Authors: Jiao Qirong , Liu Wenlong , Zhang Dianjun , Cao Jinbin
Published: November 2023

Solar wind is important for the space environment between the Sun and the Earth and varies with the sunspot cycle, which is influenced by solar internal dynamics. We study the impact of latitude-dependent sunspot data on solar wind speed using the Granger causality test method and a machine-learning prediction approach. The results show that the low-latitude sunspot number has a larger effect on the solar wind speed. The time delay between the annual average solar wind speed and sunspot number decreases as the latitude range decreases. A machine-learning model is developed for the prediction of solar wind speed considering latitude and time effects. It is found that the model performs differently with latitude-dependent sunspot data. It is revealed that the timescale of the solar wind speed is more strongly influenced by low-latitude sunspots and that sunspot data have a greater impact on the 30 day average solar wind speed than on a daily basis. With the addition of sunspot data below 7.°2 latitude, the prediction of the daily and 30 day averages is improved by 0.23% and 12%, respectively. The best correlation coefficient is 0.787 for the daily solar wind prediction model.
Morphology of Star-forming Clumps in Ram-pressure Stripped Galaxies as Seen by HST
Authors: Giunchi Eric , Poggianti Bianca M. , Gullieuszik Marco , Moretti Alessia , Werle Ariel , Zanella Anita , Vulcani Benedetta , Tonnesen Stephanie , Calzetti Daniela , Bellhouse Callum , Scarlata Claudia , Bacchini Cecilia
Published: November 2023

We characterize the morphological properties of a statistically relevant sample of Hα and UV young star-forming clumps and optical complexes, observed with the Hubble Space Telescope in six galaxies of the GASP sample undergoing ram pressure stripping. The catalogs comprise 2406 (323 in the tails) Hα clumps, 3750 (899) UV clumps, and 424 tail optical complexes. About 15%–20% of the clumps and 50% of the complexes are resolved in size. We find that more than half of the complexes contain no Hα clumps, while most of them contain at least one UV clump. The clump number and size increase with the complex size, while the median complex filling factor is larger for UV clumps (0.27) than that for Hα clumps (0.10) and does not correlate with almost any morphological property. This suggests that the clumps' number and size grow with the complex keeping the filling factor constant. When studying the position of the clumps inside their complexes, Hα clumps, and UV clumps to a lesser extent, show a displacement from the complex center of 0.1–1 kpc, and in ∼60% of the cases, they are displaced away from the galactic disk. This is in accordance with the fireball configuration, already observed in the tails of stripped galaxies. Finally, the filling factor and the clump radius increase with the distance from the galactic disk, suggesting that the reciprocal displacement of the different stellar generations increases as a consequence of the velocity gradient caused by ram pressure.
Radio Plateaus in Gamma-Ray Burst Afterglows and Their Application in Cosmology
Authors: Tian Xiao , Li Jia-Lun , Yi Shuang-Xi , Yang Yu-Peng , Hu Jian-Ping , Qu Yan-Kun , Wang Fa-Yin
Published: November 2023

The plateau phase in radio afterglows has been observed in very few gamma-ray bursts (GRBs), and in this paper, 27 radio light curves with plateau phases were acquired from the published literature. We obtain the related parameters of the radio plateau, such as temporal indexes during the plateau phase (α
1 and α
2), break time (T
b,z), and the corresponding radio flux (F
b). The two-parameter Dainotti relation between the break time of the plateau and the corresponding break luminosity (L
b,z) in the radio band is

L

b
,
z

∝

T

b
,
z

−
1.20
±
0.24

. Including the isotropic energy E

γ,iso and peak energy E
p,i, the three-parameter correlations for the radio plateaus are written as

L

b
,
z

∝

T

b
,
z

−
1.01
±
0.24

E

γ
,
iso

0.18
±
0.09

and

L

b
,
z

∝

T

b
,
z

−
1.18
±
0.27

E

p
,
i

0.05
±
0.28

, respectively. The correlations are less consistent with those of the X-ray and optical plateaus, implying that radio plateaus may have a different physical mechanism. The typical frequencies crossing the observational band may be a reasonable hypothesis that causes the breaks of the radio afterglows. We calibrate the GRB empirical luminosity correlations as a standard candle for constraining cosmological parameters and find that our samples can constrain the flat ΛCDM model well but are not sensitive to the nonflat ΛCDM model. By combining GRBs with other probes, such as supernovae and the CMB, the constraints on the cosmological parameters are Ωm = 0.297 ± 0.006 for the flat ΛCDM model and Ωm = 0.283 ± 0.008, ΩΛ = 0.711 ± 0.006 for the nonflat ΛCDM model.
Rotating Vector Model and Radius-to-frequency Mapping in the Presence of a Multipole Magnetic Field
Authors: Qiu J. L. , Tong H. , Wang H. G.
Published: November 2023

The rotating vector model and radius-to-frequency mapping in the presence of a multipole magnetic field in pulsars and magnetars are considered. An axisymmetric potential field is assumed, and the following is found: (1) The radiation beam in the case of a multipole field is wider than the dipole case. This may account for the increasing pulse width at the higher frequency of pulsars (anti-radius-to-frequency mapping); (2) The expression for the polarization position angle is unchanged. Only the inclination angle α and phase constant ϕ
0 will change. The angle between the rotational axis and line of sight and the position angle constant ψ
0 will not change. When fitting the varying position angle of magnetars, these constraints should be considered. The appearance and disappearance of a multipole field may account for the changing slope of the position angle in the radio-emitting magnetar Swift J1818.0–1607. A similar but more active process in magnetar magnetospheres may account for the diverse position angle in fast radio bursts.
Solar Magnetic Polarity Effect on Neutron Monitor Count Rates: Comparing Latitude Surveys and Antarctic Stations
Authors: Poopakun K. , Nuntiyakul W. , Khamphakdee S. , Seripienlert A. , Ruffolo D. , Evenson P. , Jiang P. , Chuanraksasat P. , Munakata K. , Duldig M. L. , Humble J. E. , Madsen J. , Soonthornthum B. , Komonjinda S.
Published: November 2023

The Galactic cosmic-ray spectrum manifests pronounced variations over the 11 yr sunspot cycle and more subtle variations over the 22 yr solar magnetic cycle. An important tool to study these variations is repeated latitude surveys with neutron monitors (NMs) on board icebreakers in conjunction with land-based references. We revisit 13 annual latitude surveys from 1994 to 2007 using reference data from the Mawson NM instead of McMurdo NM (which closed in 2017). We then consider two more latitude surveys (2018 and 2019) with a monitor similar to the 3NM64 in the previous surveys but without lead rings around the central tube, a so-called “semi-leaded neutron monitor.” The new surveys extend the linear relationship among data taken at different cutoff rigidity ranges. They also confirm the “crossover” measured near solar minima during epochs of opposite solar magnetic polarity and the absence of a crossover for epochs having the same solar magnetic polarity.
Phase Mixing of Propagating Alfvén Waves in a Single-fluid Partially Ionized Solar Plasma
Authors: McMurdo M. , Ballai I. , Verth G. , Alharbi A. , Fedun V.
Published: November 2023

The phase mixing of Alfvén waves is one of the most promising mechanisms for the heating of the solar atmosphere. The damping of waves in this case requires small transversal scales, relative to the magnetic field direction; this requirement is achieved by considering a transversal inhomogeneity in the equilibrium plasma density profile. Using a single-fluid approximation of a partially ionized chromospheric plasma, we study the effectiveness of the damping of phase-mixed shear Alfvén waves and investigate the effect of varying the ionization degree on the dissipation of waves. Our results show that the dissipation length of shear Alfvén waves strongly depends on the ionization degree of the plasma, but more importantly, in a partially ionized plasma, the damping length of shear Alfvén waves is several orders of magnitude shorter than in the case of a fully ionized plasma, providing evidence that phase mixing could be a large contributor to heating the solar chromosphere. The effectiveness of phase mixing is investigated for various ionization degrees, ranging from very weakly to very strongly ionized plasmas. Our results show that phase-mixed propagating Alfvén waves in a partially ionized plasma with ionization degrees in the range μ = 0.518–0.657, corresponding to heights of 1916–2150 km above the solar surface, can provide sufficient heating to balance chromospheric radiative losses in the quiet Sun.
Broadband Radio Study of the North Polar Spur: Origin of the Spectral Turnover with Insights into the X-Ray and Gamma-Ray Spectra
Authors: Iwashita Ryoji , Kataoka Jun , Sofue Yoshiaki
Published: November 2023

The North Polar Spur (NPS) is a giant structure that is clearly visible in both radio and X-ray all-sky maps. We analyzed broadband radio observations covering a range between 22 MHz and 70 GHz to systematically analyze the thermal/nonthermal emissions associated with the NPS. We demonstrate that the radio emission of the NPS comprises synchrotron, free–free, and dust emission; however, synchrotron emissions dominate over other emissions, especially at high Galactic latitudes. Moreover, the synchrotron spectra exhibit a power-law behavior with N(γ) ∝ γ
−s
(s ≃ 1.8–2.4) up to a few GHz moderated by a turnover at ν
brk ≃ 1 GHz, above which the spectral index s decreases by one. Assuming that the turnover is due to the electrons being cooled by synchrotron radiation before escaping (or advecting) from the emission region, the magnetic field strength can be estimated to be B ∼ 8 μG if the NPS is a distant structure that is near the Galactic center (GC). However, an unreasonably strong B ∼ 114 μG is required if the NPS is near the local supernova remnant (SNR). The corresponding nonthermal energy stored in the NPS is E
n/th ≃ 4.4 × 1055 erg in the GC scenario, whereas E
n/th ≃ 4.1 × 1052 erg is difficult to explain with a single local SNR. We also estimated the gamma-ray emission associated with the NPS through inverse Comptonization of the cosmic microwave background, which peaks at 100–1000 keV with a flux of ν
F

ν
∼ 10−9 erg cm−2 s−1 sr−1 in the GC model, and may be a good candidate for detection by future X-ray/gamma-ray observatories.
Mass Ratio Estimates for Overcontact Binaries Using the Derivatives of Light Curves
Authors: Kouzuma Shinjirou
Published: November 2023

The photometric mass ratios of eclipsing binaries are usually estimated by light-curve modeling with an iterative method. We propose a new method for estimating the photometric mass ratio of an overcontact binary using the derivatives of a light curve, which provides a reasonable uncertainty value. The method mainly requires only the time interval value between two local extrema found in the third derivative of a light curve with no need of an iterative procedure. We applied the method to a sample of real overcontact binary data and compared the estimated mass ratios with their spectroscopically determined values. The comparison showed that our estimated mass ratios for ∼67% of the samples agreed with their spectroscopic mass ratios within the estimated uncertainties, and the errors for 95% of them are within ±0.1. Our method should be useful for estimating mass ratios for numerous overcontact eclipsing binaries found with existing and future surveys, as well as for the light-curve analysis of each system.
Morphological, acoustic and genetic identification of a reproducing population of the invasive African clawed frog Xenopus laevis (Anura, Pipidae) recently discovered in Belgium
Authors: Pauwels Olivier S. G. , Brecko Jonathan , Baeghe Dimitri , Venderickx Jeroen , Vanderheyden Ann , Backeljau Thierry
Published: November 2023

Using external morphology of adults and tadpoles, osteology from high-resolution microcomputed tomography, vocalization analysis, and DNA sequence data, the identity of a reproducing Belgian population of invasive Xenopus at the current northernmost edge of the distribution of the genus in Europe was assessed. All data concur to an identification as Xenopus (Xenopus) laevis (Daudin, 1802). Genetically it is most closely related to populations of the Cape region in South Africa. No studies on the natural history of the Belgian Xenopus population and its impact on the local environment have been made to date.
Dual-function coatings to protect absorbent surfaces from fouling
Authors: Papadopoulos Nikolaos D. , Vourna Polyxeni , Falara Pinelopi P. , Koutsaftiki Panagiota , Xafakis Sotirios
Published: November 2023

Fouling of surfaces caused by pollution, contamination, humidity and microorganisms is one of the major sources of the degradation of mineral and composite materials. The inhibition of foulant growth is essential for the prevention of different kinds of damage, ranging from aesthetic, mechanical and chemical, to risks concerning human and environmental health. This study proposes a new approach for the development of a transparent preservative material with water-repellent and biocide attributes through the use of a sol-gel method. It was found that Si–O–Si dense networks can effectively grow into the micro-pores of mineral and cellulose-based materials, promoting self-cleaning properties as well as sufficient protection against bio-fouling.
Robust tracking control of a flexible manipulator with limited control input based on backstepping and the Nussbaum function
Authors: Tan Jia , Chen ShiLong , Li ZhengQiang
Published: November 2023

A flexible manipulator is a versatile automated device with a wide range of applications, capable of performing various tasks. However, these manipulators are often vulnerable to external disturbances and face limitations in their ability to control actuators. These factors significantly impact the precision of tracking control in such systems. This study delves into the problem of attitude tracking control for a flexible manipulator under the constraints of control input limitations and the influence of external disturbances. To address these challenges effectively, we first introduce the backstepping method, aiming to achieve precise state tracking and tackle the issue of external disturbances. Additionally, recognizing the constraints posed by control input limitations in the flexible manipulator's actuator control system, we employ a design approach based on the Nussbaum function. This method is designed to overcome these limitations, allowing for more robust control. To validate the effectiveness and disturbance rejection capabilities of the proposed control strategy, we conduct comparative numerical simulations using MATLAB/Simulink. These simulations provide further evidence of the robustness and reliability of the control strategy, even in the presence of external disturbances and control input limitations.
PCDA-HNMP: Predicting circRNA-disease association using heterogeneous network and meta-path
Authors: Chen Lei , Zhao Xiaoyu
Published: November 2023

Increasing amounts of experimental studies have shown that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important regulatory roles in human diseases through interactions with related microRNAs (miRNAs). CircRNAs have become new potential disease biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Predicting circRNA-disease association (CDA) is of great significance for exploring the pathogenesis of complex diseases, which can improve the diagnosis level of diseases and promote the targeted therapy of diseases. However, determination of CDAs through traditional clinical trials is usually time-consuming and expensive. Computational methods are now alternative ways to predict CDAs. In this study, a new computational method, named PCDA-HNMP, was designed. For obtaining informative features of circRNAs and diseases, a heterogeneous network was first constructed, which defined circRNAs, mRNAs, miRNAs and diseases as nodes and associations between them as edges. Then, a deep analysis was conducted on the heterogeneous network by extracting meta-paths connecting to circRNAs (diseases), thereby mining hidden associations between various circRNAs (diseases). These associations constituted the meta-path-induced networks for circRNAs and diseases. The features of circRNAs and diseases were derived from the aforementioned networks via mashup. On the other hand, miRNA-disease associations (mDAs) were employed to improve the model's performance. miRNA features were yielded from the meta-path-induced networks on miRNAs and circRNAs, which were constructed from the meta-paths connecting miRNAs and circRNAs in the heterogeneous network. A concatenation operation was adopted to build the features of CDAs and mDAs. Such representations of CDAs and mDAs were fed into XGBoost to set up the model. The five-fold cross-validation yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.9846, which was better than those of some existing state-of-the-art methods. The employment of mDAs can really enhance the model's performance and the importance analysis on meta-path-induced networks shown that networks produced by the meta-paths containing validated CDAs provided the most important contributions.
An Assessment in Terms of Investment Efficiency in an Informal Economy. A Case Study with 30 Years Biased Data from Albanian Forex Market
Authors: Lamani Luis
Published: November 2023

While observing the charts of the foreign exchange market in Albania, it is evident that the market in Albania is less dynamic than the market in the region. The financial system in Albania needs more information to build strategies, for there is a lack of financial transparency. It is a controlled financial system to a certain extent. Most banks contribute to the market, as do financial companies, individual speculators, and import-export companies. By examining these charts, one can discern the fractal and repetitive patterns within the behavior of the financial market. Empirical evidence indicates a notable interdependence and correlation between price movements. This paper empirically explores the possibilities of investing with an efficient risk-return ratio using the data from the Bank of Albania. This analysis presents an approach to portfolio theory while working with biased data in an informal economy. It addresses the question of which asset investments are efficient for the informal economy in Albania over a span of 30 years. The analysis encompasses nine different assets are considered for the analysis: USDALL, GBPALL, CHFALL, EURALL, XAUALL, XAGALL, JPYALL, AUDALL, and CADALL.
Multidimensional Forecasting and Analysis: Exploring Moroccan Learning Data Analytics in Business, Environment, and Sustainability
Authors: Housni Mohamed
Published: November 2023

As humans and machines increasingly interact within hybrid physical-digital spaces, researchers have developed data analytics procedures to understand and enhance learning capabilities while supporting human development. This study investigates the application of data analytics in the Moroccan context, a nation characterized by moderate technological advancement, to establish a framework for countries experiencing technological growth. We present our findings from a specific application of data analytics within Morocco’s hybrid educational setup and introduce a multidimensional forecasting and analysis model, encompassing business, environment, and sustainability domains. This model aims to expand the understanding and potential applications of analytics beyond technologically advanced nations, advocating for its integration across various sectors to foster global progress and innovation.
Understanding Blockchain's Role in Social Media Marketing
Authors: Ramlakan Ashish Prithviraj , Gupta Ruchi , Islam Sardar M. N. , Miao Yuan
Published: November 2023

Blockchain technology's introduction to social media marketing is an influential force to transform security and build trust in a social media platform, thus encouraging greater consumer engagement. This chapter explores the economic benefits of combining blockchain and social media marketing, and how this creates a powerful synergy to address consumer behaviour, through a process of a systematic and thematic content analysis of 30 selected peer-reviewed literature as well as 11 pieces of grey literature (which included social media site posts and blogs) published between 2012 and 2021. The implementation of blockchain technology has the potential to bring about a strategic transformation by inculcating a change in the customer's behaviour towards the organisation. The information in this chapter will provide compelling support that organisations can increase their consumer as well as influencer numbers online and successfully entice high traffic to their home page by implementing blockchain technology in their social media marketing campaigns.
Activist Brands
Authors: Sandes Fabio Shimabukuro
Published: November 2023

Recent events triggered consumer outrage towards brands taking a stand on controversial matters. However, the response to low controversial topics marketing's definition of controversy requires an understanding of consumers' subjective perceptions shaped by cognitive processes, emotions, experiences, and cultural backgrounds. Subjectivity influences consumer behavior, while cognitive processing facilitates information comprehension. An experimental study using controversy level and brand presence as independent variables and consumer perceptions as dependent variables revealed that consumers associate branded content with irritation. A statistically significant interaction indicated that controversial topics are perceived as more disturbing with brand presence, while noncontroversial topics are more disturbing without a brand.
The Usage of Digital Marketing Tools in City Branding
Authors: Vaňová Anna , Rojíková Darina , Vitálišová Katarína
Published: November 2023

The aim of the chapter is to assess and compare the differences in the approach of European and Slovak cities to city branding with focus on utilisation of digital tools of marketing communication tools. The concept of city branding has developed through several stages and nowadays, it is strongly affected by utilization of digital tools. The empirical research verifies the current approaches to urban branding in 13 European and eight Slovak cities which are the administrative and cultural centres of the regions and have the best potential for applying the concept of city branding in Slovakia. By questionnaire survey, the authors have verified in depth the defined approaches to city branding in eight Slovak cities. For inspiration, the process of city branding in one of the best ranked European cities—Amsterdam—is presented. In the conclusion, the chapter defines the measures that should be taken to implement city branding as a comprehensive, systematic and targeted process aimed at shaping the positive image of the city in order to promote it on the market and to ensure comprehensive city development.
Carbon Offsets and Green Finance
Authors: Poyser Andre
Published: November 2023

Understanding corporate demand for carbon offsets is a critical component of sustainable investments in green finance. It reflects companies' and investors' commitment to environmental sustainability, contributes to emissions reduction, supports the development of green financial instruments, and aligns with broader global sustainability objectives. In recent years, the use of carbon offset credits has increased alongside the voluntary carbon offset market with concerns being raised about the cobra effect of offsets vis-à-vis the investment required for abatement and a reduction in gross emission in keeping with the mitigation hierarchy concept. As the demand for sustainable investments continues to grow, carbon offsets will play an increasingly significant role in shaping the landscape of green finance. This chapter conducts a global systematic literature review and synthesis of 303 peer-review studies and grey publications on the demand for and use of carbon offsets, mitigation deterrence, and abatement approaches of firms.
Green Finance
Authors: Aggarwal Kapil Kumar , Kaur Rumit , Lakhera Girish
Published: November 2023

In order to address environmental issues through sustainable investments, this chapter will examine the idea of green finance. The report gives a general outline of the environmental problems that are now plaguing the world, and emphasises how crucial sustainable investments are to resolve these problems. It goes into the tenets and practices of green finance, looking at different financial tools and tactics used to advance environmental sustainability. The chapter also examines the advantages and difficulties of green finance, including how rules and policies from the executive branch have aided in its expansion. The significance of green financing is emphasised as a key factor in the conclusion as a means of accelerating the shift to a more resilient and sustainable economy.
Green Finance
Authors: Thapliyal Kanika , Gupta Chandan , Jindal Priya , Mishra Amar
Published: November 2023

Nature nurtures us constantly and provides for us from the moment we are born. However, in response to these natural blessings, humans are damaging the environment in various ways, including by polluting the resources and testing nuclear energy as a representation of scientific growth and the industrial revolution. Green finance is the solution to establishing a deal between economic growth and ecology. Green financing is viewed as monetary backing for environmentally friendly growth that eliminates the emission of substances that deplete the ozone layer and other air pollutants. It is a new idea that offers individuals, organizations, and nations an alternative funding source for activities that are environmentally friendly and carbon-free. Businesses as members of society, have obligations to minimize carbon emissions and assist the government in doing so by implementing “green financing” for sustainable growth. Hence the chapter, examine the body of knowledge already in existence about green finance and Indian bank initiatives to support green financing.
Impact of Green Finance on Sustainability in India's Commercial Banks
Authors: Gupta Munish , Kumar Pawan , Ghai Sachin
Published: November 2023

Green finance and responsible investment are gaining importance within the scope of sustainable development goals (SDGs). This chapter explores how important green finance is to improving the sustainability performance of Indian commercial banks. The study looks at how social, economic, and environmental aspects of green finance, such as green financing techniques, environmental risk management, and economic characteristics, affect sustainability performance. Information is acquired from primary sources through surveying and interviewing influential figures in the financial sectors with 392 respondents in New Delhi using a sampling (non-probabilistic) approach. The results highlight the possibility for financial institutions to promote favorable environmental outcomes while guaranteeing long-term economic viability, shedding light on the considerable impact of green finance's social, economic, and environmental components on sustainability performance.
Achieving Sustainable Investment Practices Through Green Finance
Authors: Kashif Mohammad , Shajar Syed Noorul , Singhal Nikita , Kumar Puneet
Published: November 2023

There is a positive trend in the substantial extension of green credit tools. These include climate bonds and numerous universal establishments. Although challenges are posed, there are numerous opportunities in this field. The environmental protection industry demands substantial upfront investment capital and often involves a lengthy payback period, necessitating a unique financing approach. Green finance policies can address government financing challenges through financial innovation and reform. Green bond issuance initially gained traction in Europe, but more communal and individual concerns in Asia are now adopting such device to support their unceasing growth objectives. The present chapter highlights challenges faced by sustainable investment practices through green finance and opportunities available globally for this particular area.
Study of radiation effects through an innovative and alternative biodosimetric method based on the use of a plant organism
Authors: Cascone M. G. , Rosellini E. , Butini T. , Barco F. , De Souza Lalic S. , D'Errico F.
Published: November 2023

Not available.
Designing game for helping people learning Taiwanese culture
Authors: Miao Chi Jen , Liu Noreena , Karmokar S
Published: November 2023

Taiwanese culture holds immense value, with its rich heritage and history being recognized worldwide. While efforts have been made to preserve tangible cultural heritage, intangible aspects such as knowledge and beliefs have often been overlooked. To address this gap and contribute to the preservation of Taiwanese cultural heritage, technology has been harnessed, with games emerging as a popular medium.This study explores the advantages of using games to promote understanding and appreciation of Taiwanese culture. Through a literature review and examination of existing serious games related to Taiwanese culture, a research game was developed. Expert interviews were then conducted with professionals from the game industry and cultural creativity sector, providing diverse perspectives and invaluable insights.The feedback obtained from these expert interviews demonstrates a positive reception towards the concept of using games as a tool for cultural education. Furthermore, the suggestions and recommendations provided by the experts have significantly contributed to the enhancement and refinement of the prototype game. As a result, valuable guidelines have been derived, serving as a roadmap for future designers interested in creating serious games centered around Taiwanese culture.
Evaluating TQFT invariants from $G$-crossed braided spherical fusion categories via Kirby diagrams with 3-handles
Authors: Bärenz Manuel
Published: November 2023

A family of TQFTs parametrised by

G

-crossed braided spherical fusion categories has been defined recently as a state sum model and as a Hamiltonian lattice model. Concrete calculations of the resulting manifold invariants are scarce because of the combinatorial complexity of triangulations, if nothing else. Handle decompositions, and in particular Kirby diagrams are known to offer an economic and intuitive description of 4-manifolds. We show that if 3-handles are added to the picture, the state sum model can be conveniently redefined by translating Kirby diagrams into the graphical calculus of a

G

-crossed braided spherical fusion category.

This reformulation is very efficient for explicit calculations, and the manifold invariant is calculated for several examples. It is also shown that in most cases, the invariant is multiplicative under connected sum, which implies that it does not detect exotic smooth structures.
Performance pressure and mental health among finance workers in Korea: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lee Yu Min , Kim Hyoung-Ryoul
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVES: While issues related to mental health, including suicide, have been frequently reported among finance workers, no formal investigation has been undertaken. This study was conducted to analyze correlations between indicators of performance pressure, which is a characteristic of the finance sector, and mental health.METHODS: An online survey was administered to 1,181 participants. Brief questionnaires were employed to ask general questions about participant characteristics, work environment, and the presence of performance pressure, suicidal thoughts/plans/attempts, depression (indicated by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9), and anxiety (measured with the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7). Frequency analysis, chi-square testing, and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed.RESULTS: Of the 1,181 respondents, 797 (83.5%) reported feeling pressure to perform at work, while 252 (26.4%) admitted to occasional willingness to achieve results even through illegal activities. Multivariate logarithmic regression analysis was employed to examine the correlation between performance pressure and mental health. This analysis revealed that those expressing willingness to achieve results through illegal activities exhibited higher levels of suicidal ideation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.63; 99% confidence interval [CI], 1.04 to 2.55), plans (aOR, 1.75; 99% CI, 1.01 to 3.01), and attempts (aOR, 2.72; 99% CI, 1.06 to 6.98). Additionally, these individuals demonstrated higher levels of depression (aOR, 2.02; 99% CI, 1.34 to 3.06) and anxiety (aOR, 2.84; 99% CI, 1.81 to 4.46).CONCLUSIONS: Performance pressure is prevalent within the finance industry. This pressure serves as a major source of stress for employees and is evident in 3 representative indicators of mental health: suicide, depression, and anxiety.
On the positivity of direct image bundles
Authors: Li Zhi , Zhou Xiangyu
Published: November 2023

In the present paper, we obtain an equivalent relation between the log-plurisubharmonicity
of the relative Bergman kernel, the Griffiths and Nakano positivity for the direct image with the natural $L^2$ metric, by finding a converse of Berndtsson's theorem on the direct image. A converse of Berndtsson's generalization of Kiselman minimal principle is also obtained.
On non-trivial solvability of one system of non-linear integral equations on the real axis
Authors: Khachatryan Khachatur Aghavardovich , Petrosyan Haykanush Samvelovna
Published: November 2023

A system of singular integral equations with monotonic and convex non-linearity on the entire real line is considered.
System of this form have applications in many areas of natural science. In particular, such systems arise in the theory of $p$-adic open-closed strings, in the mathematical theory of spatial-temporal epidemic spread within the framework of the well known Diekmann-Kaper model, in the kinetic theory of gases, in the radiative transfer theory. An existence theorem for a non-trivial and bounded solution is proved. The asymptotic behaviour of the constructed solution at $\pm\infty$ is also studied. Specific examples of non-linearities and kernel functions having an applied character are given.
Reviewers
Authors: Lee Yung-Li
Published: November 2023

Reviewers
Anodizing method for aluminum alloy by using high-frequency switching electrolysis
Authors: Tanaka H. , Fujita M. , Yamamoto T. , Muramatsu H. , Asoh H. , Ono S.
Published: November 2023

Anodizing is applied to improve the durability and the corrosion resistance of aluminum alloy parts of engines and car bodies. Generally, anodic oxide film is formed using direct current anodizing (DCA). However, in the case of anodizing high silicon aluminum alloy cast parts, it is difficult to derive uniform film thickness distribution. Furthermore, it takes a long treatment time which causes low productivity. In this study, the authors have developed an anodizing method by using high-frequency switching anodizing (HSA) to solve these problems. The growth process of anodic oxide film is susceptible to the metallographic structure. Thus, the typical DCA application to the high silicon aluminum alloy produces a non-uniform film thickness, while HSA has the potential to form uniform film without being affected by metallographic structure. Moreover, the current density of HSA is higher than that of DCA which reduces treatment time to 1/5 as the film formation enhances. Our investigation is to apply HSA to the mass produced engine pistons that require both high durability and low cost.
The Stress Measurement of the Crankshaft for High-Performance Engine
Authors: Takayama Satoshi , Arase Kunio
Published: November 2023

To measure the stresses acting on the crankshaft of an engine, signals must be taken out from the rapidly spinning shaft. This paper discusses the measurement of stress signals from the crankshaft using a slip ring, which is the conventional method.

By developing a special fixture that allowed us to measure rotations up to 14,000 rpm and using the four-gauge method, we succeeded in accurately measuring stress waves.

We confirmed that, during the motoring operation, stresses due to the secondary component of the inertia forces of the reciprocating parts are dominant and that, during the firing operation, deformation occurs at various frequency bands.

As the engine speed increased, the stress amplitude increased and reached a maximum around the highest engine speed. The results of a static analysis predicted values close to actual measurements. The experiment confirmed the possibility of developing an effective analysis method, by repeating validations, for predicting the reliability of crankshafts.
MERGE (MOBILE ENERGY RESOURCES IN GRIDS OF ELECTRICITY): A EUROPEAN COMMISSION FUNDED PROJECT ADDRESSING THE IMPACT OF THE ROLL-OUT OF ELECTRIC AND PLUG-IN HYBRID VEHICLES ON GRID INFRASTRUCTURE
Authors: Bower E.T. , Lopes J.A. Peςas , Soares F.J. , Rua D. , Hatziargyriou N. , Strunz K. , Ferdowsi M.
Published: November 2023

This paper highlights the initial findings of the European Commission funded project called MERGE (Mobile Energy Resources in Grids of Electricity). MERGE is a C4.5m, 16-partner collaborative research project supported by the European Commission's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7). The consortium includes utilities, regulators, commercial organizations and universities with interests in the power generation, automotive, electronic commerce and hybrid and electric vehicle sectors across the entire European Union (EU). This major two-year research initiative began in January 2010. The MERGE project mission is to evaluate the impacts that electric vehicles (EV) will have on EU electric power systems with regards to planning, operation and market functioning. The focus is placed on EV and SmartGrid/MicroGrid aimultaneous deployment, together with renewable energy increase, leading to CO₂ emission reduction through the identification of enabling technologies and advanced control approaches.
Development of Toyota Plug-in hybrid system
Authors: Komatsu Masayuki , Takaoka Toshifumi
Published: November 2023

Toyota has been introducing several hybrid vehicles (HV) as a countermeasure to concerns related to the automotive mobility like CO2 reduction, energy security, and emission reduction in urban areas. A next step towards an even more effective solution for these concerns is a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHV). This vehicle combines the advantages of electric vehicles (EV), which can use clean electric energy, and HV with it's high environmental potential and user-friendliness comparable to conventional vehicles such as a long cruising range. This paper describes a newly developed plug-in hybrid system and its vehicle performance. This system uses a Li-ion battery with high energy density and has an EV-range within usual trip length without sacrificing cabin space. The vehicle achieves a CO2 emission of 59g/km and meets the most stringent emission regulations in the world. The new PHV is a forerunner of the large-scale mass production PHV which will be introduced in a year. PHVs have the potential to become popular as a realistic solution towards sustainable mobility by renewable electricity usage in the future.
Development of Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle in TOYOTA
Authors: Kojima Koichi , Shinobu Sekine
Published: November 2023

The outline of the TOYOTA FCHV-adv is described in this paper. The TOYOTA FCHVadv achieved an approximately 25 percent improvement in vehicle fuel efficiency and about 1.9 times the amount of usable hydrogen in comparison with the previous model. These improvements have enabled almost 2.5 times longer practical cruising range, more than 500 km. The freeze start capabilities of the FCHV-adv were improved by modifying the FC stack and control system. As a result, the FCHV-adv has been capable of starting at a temperature of -30°C. In the future, TOYOTA intends to improve durability and reduce costs.
EXPERIMENTAL DEMONSTRATION OF 1200V SiC-SBDs WITH LOWER FORWARD VOLTAGE DROP AT HIGH TEMPERATURE
Authors: Tsuji Takashi , Kinoshita Akimasa , Iwamuro Noriyuki , Fukuda Kenji , Kimura Hiroshi
Published: November 2023

The 1200V class silicon carbide Schottky barrier diodes were designed and fabricated. The drift layer resistance was reduced in order to realize low forward voltage drops. Since the low drift layer resistance led to the low breakdown voltage, the avalanche withstanding capability should be enhanced not to cause the destructive breakdown. By means of the optimized device design, we succeeded to realize the low forward voltage drop while maintaining the high avalanche withstanding capability. The forward voltage drops at 200A/cm° were 1.35V at 25°C and 1.63V at 175°C, respectively. The avalanche withstanding capability was more than 3500mJ/cm₂ at 25°C. By substituting SiC-SBDs for Sipin diodes, the estimated total power loss of the module comprised by Si-IGBTs and the diodes was reduced by 35%. We could also confirm that no failures happened after long term reliability tests.