We describe a new B-meson full reconstruction algorithm designed for the Belle experiment at the B-factory KEKB, an asymmetric e
+e
− collider that collected a data sample of 771.6×10
6
B
B
¯
pairs ...during its running time. To maximize the number of reconstructed B decay channels, it utilizes a hierarchical reconstruction procedure and probabilistic calculus instead of classical selection cuts. The multivariate analysis package NeuroBayes was used extensively to hold the balance between highest possible efficiency, robustness and acceptable consumption of CPU time.
In total, 1104 exclusive decay channels were reconstructed, employing 71 neural networks altogether. Overall, we correctly reconstruct one B
± or B
0 candidate in 0.28% or 0.18% of the
B
B
¯
events, respectively. Compared to the cut-based classical reconstruction algorithm used at the Belle experiment, this is an improvement in efficiency by roughly a factor of 2, depending on the analysis considered.
The new framework also features the ability to choose the desired purity or efficiency of the fully reconstructed sample freely. If the same purity as for the classical full reconstruction code is desired (
∼
25
%
), the efficiency is still larger by nearly a factor of 2. If, on the other hand, the efficiency is chosen at a similar level as the classical full reconstruction, the purity rises from
∼
25
%
to nearly 90%.
► A method for full reconstruction of B-mesons was built. ► A hierarchical model with multivariate techniques in each step was used. ► Instead of cuts, probabilities were calculated and feed to higher stages. ► Compared to cut-based methods we achieved a factor of 2 in efficiency.
If high-mass stars (≳20 − 25
M
⊙
) are the progenitors of stripped-envelope (SE) supernovae (SNe), their massive ejecta should lead to broad, long-duration lightcurves. Instead, literature samples ...of SE SNe have reported relatively narrow lightcurves corresponding to ejecta masses between 1 − 4
M
⊙
that favor intermediate-mass progenitors (≲20 − 25
M
⊙
). Working with an untargeted sample from a single telescope to better constrain their rates, we searched the Palomar Transient Factory (PTF) and intermediate-PTF (iPTF) sample of SNe for SE SNe with broad lightcurves. Using a simple observational marker of
g
- or
r
-band lightcurve stretch compared to a template to measure broadness, we identified eight significantly broader Type Ibc SNe after applying quantitative sample selection criteria. The lightcurves, broad-band colors, and spectra of these SNe are found to evolve more slowly relative to typical Type Ibc SNe, proportional with the stretch parameter. Bolometric lightcurve modeling and their nebular spectra indicate high ejecta masses and nickel masses, assuming radioactive decay powering. Additionally, these objects are preferentially located in low-metallicity host galaxies with high star formation rates, which may account for their massive progenitors, as well as their relative absence from the literature. Our study thus supports the link between broad lightcurves (as measured by stretch) and high-mass progenitor stars in SE SNe with independent evidence from bolometric lightcurve modeling, nebular spectra, host environment properties, and photometric evolution. In the first systematic search of its kind using an untargeted sample, we used the stretch distribution to identify a higher than previously appreciated fraction of SE SNe with broad lightcurves (∼13%). Correcting for Malmquist and lightcurve duration observational biases, we conservatively estimate that a minimum of ∼6% of SE SNe are consistent with high-mass progenitors. This result has implications for the progenitor channels of SE SNe, including late stages of massive stellar evolution, the origin of the observed oxygen fraction in the universe, and formation channels for stellar-mass black holes.
Superluminous supernovae from PESSTO Nicholl, M; Smartt, S. J; Jerkstrand, A ...
Monthly notices of the Royal Astronomical Society,
11/2014, Letnik:
444, Številka:
3
Journal Article
Recenzirano
Odprti dostop
We present optical spectra and light curves for three hydrogen-poor superluminous supernovae followed by the Public ESO Spectroscopic Survey of Transient Objects (PESSTO). Time series spectroscopy ...from a few days after maximum light to 100 d later shows them to be fairly typical of this class, with spectra dominated by Ca ii, Mg ii, Fe ii, and Si ii, which evolve slowly over most of the post-peak photospheric phase. We determine bolometric light curves and apply simple fitting tools, based on the diffusion of energy input by magnetar spin-down, 56Ni decay, and collision of the ejecta with an opaque circumstellar shell. We investigate how the heterogeneous light curves of our sample (combined with others from the literature) can help to constrain the possible mechanisms behind these events. We have followed these events to beyond 100–200 d after peak, to disentangle host galaxy light from fading supernova flux and to differentiate between the models, which predict diverse behaviour at this phase. Models powered by radioactivity require unrealistic parameters to reproduce the observed light curves, as found by previous studies. Both magnetar heating and circumstellar interaction still appear to be viable candidates. A large diversity is emerging in observed tail-phase luminosities, with magnetar models failing in some cases to predict the rapid drop in flux. This would suggest either that magnetars are not responsible, or that the X-ray flux from the magnetar wind is not fully trapped. The light curve of one object shows a distinct rebrightening at around 100 d after maximum light. We argue that this could result either from multiple shells of circumstellar material, or from a magnetar ionization front breaking out of the ejecta.
Correcting Type Ia Supernova brightnesses for extinction by dust has proven to be a vexing problem. Here we study the dust foreground to the highly reddened SN 2012cu, which is projected onto a dust ...lane in the galaxy NGC 4772. The analysis is based on multi-epoch, spectrophotometric observations spanning from 3300-9200 , obtained by the Nearby Supernova Factory. Phase-matched comparison of the spectroscopically twinned SN 2012cu and SN 2011fe across 10 epochs results in the best-fit color excess of ( , RMS) = (1.00, 0.03) and total-to-selective extinction ratio of (RV, RMS) = (2.95, 0.08) toward SN 2012cu within its host galaxy. We further identify several diffuse interstellar bands and compare the 5780 band with the dust-to-band ratio for the Milky Way (MW). Overall, we find the foreground dust-extinction properties for SN 2012cu to be consistent with those of the MW. Furthermore, we find no evidence for significant time variation in any of these extinction tracers. We also compare the dust extinction curve models of Cardelli et al., O'Donnell, and Fitzpatrick, and find the predictions of Fitzpatrick fit SN 2012cu the best. Finally, the distance to NGC4772, the host of SN 2012cu, at a redshift of z = 0.0035, often assigned to the Virgo Southern Extension, is determined to be 16.6 1.1 Mpc. We compare this result with distance measurements in the literature.
Societies worldwide are investing considerable resources into the safe development and use of nanomaterials. Although each of these protective efforts is crucial for governing the risks of ...nanomaterials, they are insufficient in isolation. What is missing is a more integrative governance approach that goes beyond legislation. Development of this approach must be evidence based and involve key stakeholders to ensure acceptance by end users. The challenge is to develop a framework that coordinates the variety of actors involved in nanotechnology and civil society to facilitate consideration of the complex issues that occur in this rapidly evolving research and development area. Here, we propose three sets of essential elements required to generate an effective risk governance framework for nanomaterials. (1) Advanced tools to facilitate risk‐based decision making, including an assessment of the needs of users regarding risk assessment, mitigation, and transfer. (2) An integrated model of predicted human behavior and decision making concerning nanomaterial risks. (3) Legal and other (nano‐specific and general) regulatory requirements to ensure compliance and to stimulate proactive approaches to safety. The implementation of such an approach should facilitate and motivate good practice for the various stakeholders to allow the safe and sustainable future development of nanotechnology.
A key tracer of the elusive progenitor systems of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) is the detection of narrow blueshifted time-varying Na i D absorption lines, interpreted as evidence of circumstellar ...material surrounding the progenitor system. The origin of this material is controversial, but the simplest explanation is that it results from previous mass-loss in a system containing a white dwarf and a non-degenerate companion star. We present new single-epoch intermediate-resolution spectra of 17 low-redshift SNe Ia taken with XShooter on the European Southern Observatory Very Large Telescope. Combining this sample with events from the literature, we confirm an excess (∼20 per cent) of SNe Ia displaying blueshifted narrow Na i D absorption features compared to redshifted Na i D features. The host galaxies of SNe Ia displaying blueshifted absorption profiles are skewed towards later-type galaxies, compared to SNe Ia that show no Na i D absorption and SNe Ia displaying blueshifted narrow Na i D absorption features have broader light curves. The strength of the Na i D absorption is stronger in SNe Ia displaying blueshifted Na i D absorption features than those without blueshifted features, and the strength of the blueshifted Na i D is correlated with the B − V colour of the SN at maximum light. This strongly suggests the absorbing material is local to the SN. In the context of the progenitor systems of SNe Ia, we discuss the significance of these findings and other recent observational evidence on the nature of SN Ia progenitors. We present a summary that suggests that there are at least two distinct populations of normal, cosmologically useful SNe Ia.
ABSTRACT We introduce a method for identifying "twin" Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) and using them to improve distance measurements. This novel approach to SN Ia standardization is made possible by ...spectrophotometric time series observations from the Nearby Supernova Factory (SNfactory). We begin with a well-measured set of SNe, find pairs whose spectra match well across the entire optical window, and then test whether this leads to a smaller dispersion in their absolute brightnesses. This analysis is completed in a blinded fashion, ensuring that decisions made in implementing the method do not inadvertently bias the result. We find that pairs of SNe with more closely matched spectra indeed have reduced brightness dispersion. We are able to standardize this initial set of SNfactory SNe to 0.083 0.012 mag, implying a dispersion of 0.072 0.010 mag in the absence of peculiar velocities. We estimate that with larger numbers of comparison SNe, e.g., using the final SNfactory spectrophotometric data set as a reference, this method will be capable of standardizing high-redshift SNe to within 0.06-0.07 mag. These results imply that at least 3/4 of the variance in Hubble residuals in current SN cosmology analyses is due to previously unaccounted-for astrophysical differences among the SNe.
Context. Observations of type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) can be used to derive accurate cosmological distances through empirical standardization techniques. Despite this success neither the progenitors ...of SNe Ia nor the explosion process are fully understood. The U-band region has been less well observed for nearby SNe, due to technical challenges, but is the most readily accessible band for high-redshift SNe. Aims. Using spectrophotometry from the Nearby Supernova Factory, we study the origin and extent of U-band spectroscopic variations in SNe Ia and explore consequences for their standardization and the potential for providing new insights into the explosion process. Methods. We divide the U-band spectrum into four wavelength regions λ(uNi), λ(uTi), λ(uSi) and λ(uCa). Two of these span the Ca H&K λλ 3934, 3969 complex. We employ spectral synthesis using SYNAPPS to associate the two bluer regions with Ni/Co and Ti. Results. The flux of the uTi feature is an extremely sensitive temperature/luminosity indicator, standardizing the SN peak luminosity to 0.116 ± 0.011 mag root mean square (RMS). A traditional SALT2.4 fit on the same sample yields a 0.135 mag RMS. Standardization using uTi also reduces the difference in corrected magnitude between SNe originating from different host galaxy environments. Early U-band spectra can be used to probe the Ni+Co distribution in the ejecta, thus offering a rare window into the source of light curve power. The uCa flux further improves standardization, yielding a 0.086 ± 0.010 mag RMS without the need to include an additional intrinsic dispersion to reach χ2∕dof ~ 1. This reduction in RMS is partially driven by an improved standardization of Shallow Silicon and 91T-like SNe.
Context. Our Local Group of galaxies appears to be moving relative to the cosmic microwave background with the source of the peculiar motion still uncertain. While in the past this has been studied ...mostly using galaxies as distance indicators, the weight of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) has increased recently with the continuously improving statistics of available low-redshift supernovae. Aims. We measured the bulk flow in the nearby universe (0.015 < z < 0.1) using 117 SNe Ia observed by the Nearby Supernova Factory, as well as the Union2 compilation of SN Ia data already in the literature. Methods. The bulk flow velocity was determined from SN data binned in redshift shells by including a coherent motion (dipole) in a cosmological fit. Additionally, a method of spatially smoothing the Hubble residuals was used to verify the results of the dipole fit. To constrain the location and mass of a potential mass concentration (e.g., the Shapley supercluster) responsible for the peculiar motion, we fit a Hubble law modified by adding an additional mass concentration. Results. The analysis shows a bulk flow that is consistent with the direction of the CMB dipole up to z ~ 0.06, thereby doubling the volume over which conventional distance measures are sensitive to a bulk flow. We see no significant turnover behind the center of the Shapley supercluster. A simple attractor model in the proximity of the Shapley supercluster is only marginally consistent with our data, suggesting the need for another, more distant source. In the redshift shell 0.06 < z < 0.1, we constrain the bulk flow velocity to ≤240 km s-1 (68% confidence level) for the direction of the CMB dipole, in contradiction to recent claims of the existence of a large-amplitude dark flow.
Previous studies have identified a unique Treg population, which expresses the Th17 characteristic transcription factor RORγt. These RORγt+ Tregs possess enhanced immunosuppressive capacity, which ...endows them with great therapeutic potential. However, as a caveat, they are also capable of secreting pro-inflammatory IL-17A. Since the sum function of RORγt+ Tregs in glomerulonephritis (GN) remains unknown, we studied the effects of their absence. Purified CD4+ T cell populations, containing or lacking RORγt+ Tregs, were transferred into immunocompromised RAG1 knockout mice and the nephrotoxic nephritis model of GN was induced. Absence of RORγt+ Tregs significantly aggravated kidney injury, demonstrating overall kidney-protective properties. Analyses of immune responses showed that RORγt+ Tregs were broadly immunosuppressive with no preference for a particular type of T cell response. Further characterization revealed a distinct functional and transcriptional profile, including enhanced production of IL-10. Expression of the chemokine receptor CCR6 marked a particularly potent subset, whose absence significantly worsened GN. As an underlying mechanism, we found that chemokine CCL20 acting through receptor CCR6 signaling mediated expansion and activation of RORγt+ Tregs. Finally, we also detected an increase of CCR6+ Tregs in kidney biopsies, as well as enhanced secretion of chemokine CCL20 in 21 patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated GN compared to that of 31 healthy living donors, indicating clinical relevance. Thus, our data characterize RORγt+ Tregs as anti-inflammatory mediators of GN and identify them as promising target for Treg directed therapies.
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