Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Substructure at Colliders

In this PhD thesis we investigate several aspects of parton distribution functions (PDFs) and jets as applicable to the physics underpinning the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) as well as future colliders. We first discuss jet observables at the LHC, focusing on the single-jet inclusive cross section. We introduce possible alternative definitions, which weigh the individual contributions coming from each jet in the event and are thus unitary by construction. We also clarify the origin of some problematic aspects of the standard definition. Secondly, within the hadronic PDF fitting framework of the NNPDF collaboration, we investigate the inclusion of single-jet inclusive and dijet measurements into a global PDF fit, using QCD next-to-next-to-leading order predictions for jet processes. We field-test which observables lead to better perturbative stability, better PDF compatibility with other data, better fit quality, and more stringent constraints on the PDFs. Thirdly, we focus on an analytical understanding of machine learning techniques used for quark versus gluon discrimination, a hot topic in jet substructure studies. We construct a new version of the widely used N -subjettiness variable, which features a simpler theoretical behaviour than the original one, while maintaining, if not exceeding, the discriminating power. We input these new observables to the simplest possible neural network, with only one neuron, and we study analytically the network behaviour at leading logarithmic accuracy. We also compare our analytic findings to a more realistic neural network trained with Monte Carlo pseudo-data. Fourthly, we compute the unpolarised electron, positron, and photon PDFs at nextto-leading logarithmic accuracy in QED, which are crucial for high-precision predictions needed for future e+e− colliders. We present both numerical and analytical results. The analytical predictions, defined by means of a specific additive formula, provide a large-z analytical solution that includes all orders in the QED coupling constant α, with a smalland intermediate-z solution that includes terms up toO(α3). The content of this thesis is based on arXiv:1906.11850, arXiv:1911.12040, arXiv:2005.11327, and arXiv:2007.04319.
Plant biomass allocation and driving factors of grassland revegetation in a Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau chronosequence

Biomass allocation is a key factor in understanding how ecosystems respond to changing environmental conditions. The role of soil chemistry in the above‐ and belowground plant biomass allocation in restoring grassland is still incompletely characterized. Consequently, it has led to two competing hypotheses for biomass allocation: optimal partitioning, where the plants allocate biomass preferentially to optimize resource use; and the isometric hypothesis, which postulates that biomass allocation between roots and shoots is fixed. Here we tested these hypotheses over a chronosequence of alpine grasslandsion undergoing restoration in the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau, these range from severely degraded to those with 18 years of revegetation with an intact grassland (as a reference). A high proportion of biomass was allocated to the roots in the revegetated grasslands, and more biomass to shoots in the degraded and intact grasslands. The grasslands gradually decreased their root to shoot ratio as revegetation continued, with the lowest value in year 18 of revegetation. Our results showed that aboveground biomass (AGB) was increased by available phosphorus (P), soil moisture, and negatively related to bulk density, while belowground biomass (BGB) was positively impacted by total P and negatively by nitrate nitrogen (N). The trade‐off between them was positively associated with available P and nitrate‐N, and soil nutrient availability is more linked to increased AGB relative to BGB. Our study indicates that biomass allocation is highly variable during the revegetation period from degraded grassland, and is linked with soil properties, thus supporting the optimal partitioning hypothesis.
Effect of Live Chat on Traffic‐to‐Sales Conversion: Evidence from an Online Marketplace

Over the years, online retailers have increasingly embraced live chat to improve customer service and facilitate transactions. We examine how online sellers’ use of live chat influences their online traffic conversion into sales. Like brick‐and‐mortar stores, a fundamental task for online stores is to convert traffic into purchases, an important problem in retail service operations management. We argue that live chat can increase online sales conversion by performing the functions of informing and persuading. We explore how the two roles of live chat interact with existing information regarding sellers and their products, such as product descriptions, ratings, price, and reviews, as these types of information also influence consumers’ perceived product quality and help mitigate uncertainties in product fit to their needs. We apply a random‐coefficient model in a Bayesian hierarchical framework and test the model using a panel dataset from Taobao, the leading C2C platform in China. Our results suggest that live chat has a positive impact on conversion and that the strength of this positive effect depends on seller and product characteristics. The positive effect is stronger when product information on web pages is less comprehensive (where live chat manifests an informative role), and when the perceived value of the product is higher (where live chat manifests a persuasive role) with either a higher product rating or a lower product price. Our results provide relevant and useful implications for online merchants and platform owners.
NKCC1: Newly Found as a Human Disease-Causing Ion Transporter

Abstract Among the electroneutral Na+-dependent chloride transporters, NKCC1 had until now evaded identification as a protein causing human diseases. The closely related SLC12A transporters, NKCC2 and NCC have been identified some 25 years ago as responsible for Bartter and Gitelman syndromes: two renal-dependent salt wasting disorders. Absence of disease was most surprising since the NKCC1 knockout mouse was shown in 1999 to be viable, albeit with a wide range of deleterious phenotypes. Here we summarize the work of the past 5 years that introduced us to clinical cases involving NKCC1. The most striking cases are of 3 children with inherited mutations, who have complete absence of NKCC1 expression. These cases establish that lack of NKCC1 causes deafness; CFTR-like secretory defects with mucus accumulation in lung and intestine; severe xerostomia, hypotonia, dysmorphic facial features, and severe neurodevelopmental disorder. Another intriguing case is of a patient with a dominant deleterious SLC12A2 allele. This de novo mutation introduced a premature stop codon leading to a truncated protein. This mutant transporter seems to exert dominant-negative effect on wild-type transporter only in epithelial cells. The patient who suffers from lung, bladder, intestine, pancreas, and multiple endocrine abnormalities has, however, normal hearing and cognition. Finally, new reports substantiate the haploinsufficiency prediction of the SLC12A2 gene. Cases with single allele mutations in SLC12A2 have been linked to hearing loss and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Evaluation of the reliability of diagnostic thinking inventory for physical therapist and of the development of clinical reasoning in physiotherapy students

Abstract Background Several instruments have been developed to assess clinical reasoning ability, regardless of specific knowledge. One of these instruments is the Diagnostic Thinking Inventory (DTI), used by doctors and medical students to determine their level of diagnostic clinical reasoning as it applies to the diagnosis. Objective The purposes of the pilot study were three-fold: (1) to assess internal consistency after adapting the DTI to the context of physical therapy (DTI-PT), (2) to assess the association between diagnostic clinical reasoning, self-assessment of clinical reasoning ability, and academic performance among physiotherapy students; and (3) to compare diagnostic clinical reasoning, self-assessment of clinical reasoning ability, and academic performance in the beginning and the end of the semester. Method A total of 40 physiotherapy students were assessed for the association of student performance, student clinical competence and DTI-PT between the beginning of August and the end of November 2017 in the discipline of assessment in physiotherapy. Results The results showed an improvement in the DTI-PT score and its sub-scales at the end of the semester. There was an improvement in the student clinical competence and in the students' performance score. Conclusion DTI-PT can be an effective tool to determine the clinical reasoning of physiotherapy students.
Comparison of Intrathecal Chloroprocaine 1% Vs Levobupivacaine 0.5% in Patient for Lower Limb Surgery

Background and Aims: With the advent of newer drug in spinal Anaesthesia, there is a lacuna in the study of these drugs. Use of longer acting Local Anaesthetics in lower dose has been the practice for shorter Surgery. The study aims to compare Chloroprocaine with the Levobupivacaine in lower limb surgeries of shorter duration. Methods: A Prospective, Comparative study was conducted after obtaining the permission from Ethical Committee. A total of 70 patients (men & women, 18-60 years, ASA 1-2) posted for elective lower long surgery were included. They were randomly divided into 2 groups. Group A received 1% Chloroprocaine 3ml (30 mg) while Group B received 0.5% Levobupivacaine 3ml (15mg). The Onset of sensory blockade and motor blockade, Peak height for sensory block, two-segment regression time, Duration of sensory block and motor block were studied. Results: The Onset of sensory blockade & motor blockade was similar in both the groups. The Peak height for sensory block was higher in Group B (T4 - T6 vs T6 – T8) as compared from Group A, and it also had a longer two-segment regression time (119.31 ± 34.87 mins vs 43.06 ± 8.75 min). The duration of sensory block was shorter in Group A (74.43 ± 10.96 mins vs 312.71 ± 51.94 mins). The duration of motor block was shorter in Group A (61.03 ± 11.48 mins vs 249.57 ± 38.34 mins). All the differences were statistically significant (p<0.05) Conclusion: We conclude Chloroprocaine is better for shorter lower limb and ambulatory surgery.
Trajectories of Cotton Fiber Initiation: A Regulatory Perspective

The epidermal cells on the surface of the cotton ovules undergo differentiation to produce fibers, which are single-celled hair-like protrusions resembling the plant trichomes. The initiation of these unicellular fibers from the cotton ovule surface is a complex and tightly regulated process. The initiation step is the cell fate-determining stage, which leads to the commitment of cells that eventually developed into fibers, thus becomes the most crucial phase in fiber development. The in-depth knowledge of molecular regulation is a prerequisite to get a clear view of the fiber initiation process's genetic and epigenetic control. The identification and functional validation of cotton fiber initiation-related genes, few fibreless mutants, transcription factors, microRNAs, epigenetic regulators, as well as the elucidation of the role of phytohormones as signaling molecules, has played a significant role in understanding the cotton fiber initiation process at the molecular level. This review focuses on the comprehensive information regarding the genetic and epigenetic regulation of cotton fiber initiation. Thus, the review will provide readers insight into mechanistic details that operate during cotton fiber initiation.
The Use of an Ionic Liquid in a Karr Reciprocating Plate Extraction Column: Drop Size Distribution

Ionic liquids (ILs) offer a new class of fluids for solvent extraction. This work presents drop size distribution data for the [bmim][PF6]/water system and examines the basis of existing drop size prediction models developed for traditional organic/aqueous systems in a Karr reciprocating plate column and recommends how they may be used for these new class of materials.
Assessment of Waste Management Services in Public and Private Facilities at the Three Levels of Healthcare Delivery, in Enugu State

Background: Improper and uncoordinated healthcare waste management (HCWM) practice exposes the healthcare worker, patients and surrounding communities to several morbidities and mortality from nosocomial infections. Objectives: This study aims at assessing waste management services in public and private healthcare facilities at the three levels of healthcare delivery in Enugu State. Methods: A cross-sectional study using quantitative and qualitative data collection methods involving healthcare workers and healthcare facilities (public and private) at the three levels of care in Enugu state. The study comprised of a total of 23 health facilities and 362 health workers drawn from the three levels of healthcare for private and public facilities. Original Research Article Chinawa et al.; JAMMR, 32(20): 68-84, 2020; Article no.JAMMR. 62344 69 Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. Chi-square test was used to compare the proportion of healthcare workers with adequate knowledge of HCWM. A significance level of p < 0.05 was used for statistical calculations. Results: One hundred and eighty (47.5%) of the respondents knew the correct steps for HCWM. Most respondents 355(93.7%) admitted that there is associated risk in handling waste. About 147 (38.8%) sustained injury while they had contact with waste out of which 57(38.8%) have had this injury more than three times. The presence of written strategy was higher in public facilities compared to private facilities (x 2 = 1.446; p = 0.485), The access to it was highest in the unit (x 2 = 1.027; p = 0.311). The frequency of waste collection was highest on a daily basis in both private and public facilities. Waste measurement and segregation were also observed to be higher in public than private facilities (x 2 = 1.434; p = 0.488 and x 2 = 1.644; p = 0.440 respectively). More public facilities segregated their waste at source compared to private facilities and this was statistically significant (x 2 = 13.875; p = 0.008). Conclusion: The frequency of waste collection was highest on a daily basis in both private and public facilities. However, waste measurement and segregation were observed to be higher in public than private facilities. More public facilities segregated their waste at source compared to private facilities. There seems to be a gap in communication among those involve in health management waste. The health personnel despite level of education and cadre, have poor knowledge of the risk associated with healthcare waste.
Overweight and Obesity among Adults in Iraq: Prevalence and Correlates from a National Survey in 2015

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and correlates of overweight and obesity among adults in Iraq. Data from a 2015 nationally representative cross-sectional survey of 3916 persons 18 years or older (M (median) age = 40 years, IQR (interquartile range) age = 29–52 years; men: M = 41 years, IQR = 29–54 years; women: M = 40 years, IQR = 30–51 years) who responded to a questionnaire, and physical and biochemical measures were analysed. Multinomial logistic regression was utilised to predict the determinants of overweight and obesity relative to under or normal weight. The results indicate that 3.6% of the participants were underweight (body mass index (BMI) <18.5 kg/m2), 30.8% had normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m2), 31.8% were overweight (25.0–29.9 kg/m2), and 33.9% had obesity (BMI ≥30.0 kg/m2). In the adjusted multinomial logistic regression, being aged 40–49 years (compared to 18–39 years old) (adjusted relative risk ratio (ARRR): 4.47, confidence interval (CI): 3.39–5.91), living in an urban residence (ARRR: 1.28, CI: 1.14–2.18), and having hypertension (ARRR: 3.13, CI: 2.36–4.17) were positively associated with obesity. Being male (ARRR: 0.47, CI: 0.33–0.68), having more than primary education (ARRR: 0.69, CI: 0.50–0.94), and having a larger household size (five members or more) (ARRR: 0.45, CI: 0.33–0.60) were negatively associated with obesity. Approximately two in three adult participants were overweight/obese, and sociodemographic and health risk factors were found that can be utilised in targeting interventions.
The evolution of cloud and aerosol microphysics at the summit of Mt. Tai, China

Abstract. The influence of aerosols, both natural and anthropogenic, remains a major area of uncertainty when predicting the properties and the behaviours of clouds and their influence on climate. In an attempt to better understand the microphysical properties of cloud droplets, the simultaneous variations in aerosol microphysics and their potential interactions during cloud life cycles in the North China Plain, an intensive observation took place from 17 June to 30 July 2018 at the summit of Mt. Tai. Cloud microphysical parameters were monitored simultaneously with number concentrations of cloud condensation nuclei (NCCN) at different supersaturations, PM2.5 mass concentrations, particle size distributions and meteorological parameters. Number concentrations of cloud droplets (NC), liquid water content (LWC) and effective radius of cloud droplets (reff) show large variations among 40 cloud events observed during the campaign. The low values of reff and LWC observed at Mt. Tai are comparable with urban fog. Clouds on clean days are more susceptible to the change in concentrations of particle number (NP), while clouds formed on polluted days might be more sensitive to meteorological parameters, such as updraft velocity and cloud base height. Through studying the size distributions of aerosol particles and cloud droplets, we find that particles larger than 150 nm play important roles in forming cloud droplets with the size of 5–10 µm. In general, LWC consistently varies with reff. As NC increases, reff changes from a trimodal distribution to a unimodal distribution and shifts to smaller size mode. By assuming a constant cloud thickness and ignoring any lifetime effects, increase in NC and decrease in reff would increase cloud albedo, which may induce a cooling effect on the local climate system. Our results contribute valuable information to enhance the understanding of cloud and aerosol properties, along with their potential interactions on the North China plain.
Empirical evidence on the impacts of bikesharing: a literature review

ABSTRACT In recent years, bikesharing has become one of the most popular policies promoting cycling across the world. As the number of bikesharing systems (BSS) continues to rise, it is increasingly important to quantify their expected benefits. This paper synthetises the available evidence on the current impacts of implementing a BSS, with a special focus on the induced modal shift dynamics and impacts in car reduction, indicating how increasing the attractiveness of BSS to car users could improve its benefits. Several benefits have been associated to bikesharing, but they are not equally distributed and are dependent on several nuances, particularly on modal shifts. Among the biggest contributions are the increases in physical activity (PA) levels (triggering health gains) as well as travel time savings to the BSS users. Bikesharing is mostly replacing sustainable modes of transport, with modest car replacing rates. However, bikesharing can also indirectly decrease car travel by fostering synergies with Public Transport (by expanding catchment areas, reducing overcrowding and overall travel times) and by promoting cycling use through increasing the number and diversity of cyclists. Furthermore, different types of modal shift lead to different benefits. Reductions in car travel induce decreases in greenhouse gases (GHG) and other air pollutants, increases in PA, time savings as well as congestion reductions. Conversely, new trips generated by BSS also lead to increases in PA, while modal shift from walking to BSS has been associated with travel time savings. Shifting PT users to BSS can also reduce overcrowding in saturated PT networks. The most social disadvantaged groups were found to be systematically under-represented among BSS users, yet equity measures combined with awareness-raising campaigns could increase usage rates. Exploring potential advantages of BSS against car use and increasing its car replacing rates, coupled with better impact assessments, should constitute research priorities.
Is Ghana’s Law Against Human Trafficking a Success?

This article assessed the success or otherwise of the Ghana Human Trafficking Act (GHTA), 2005, in curbing human trafficking. On the basis of interviews and secondary information, the assessment was done along the program, process, and politics dimensions. The evidence showed that GHTA achieved fairly its program objectives. However, failures occurred in all the phases of the Act’s enactment process. In particular, agenda setting suffered from definitional ambiguity surrounding human trafficking and implementation was mired by resource constraints and financial impropriety. The findings also revealed that an integrated model of human trafficking has greater explanatory power than a single one, but there is inattention to this in extant literature. The article concludes that lessons should be drawn from the specific type as well as the overall program, process, and political failures of the Act. As in this case, an exclusive focus on technical learning to the neglect of potential process and political failures has increased rather than decreased the chances of policy failure. Moreover, the accent on legislative bans to the neglect of other interventions is futile.
Cash management practice, SACCO size and Kenya’s deposit taking saving and credit co-operatives financial sustainability

Deposit taking Savings and Credit Co-operatives (SACCO) are solution to social dilemmas like abject poverty, living standards and unemployment. Nevertheless, 14 percent do not maintain sound cash management practices despite SACCOs oversight authority in Kenya offering guidelines and supervision to the enterprises that would assist in maintaining their financial sustainability. This necessitated for the evaluation of the moderating effect of SACCO size on cash management practice and financial sustainability. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design with a positivism philosophical paradigm was adopted. Emailed questionnaire and data collection sheet were used in data collection which registered a 95 percent response rate. A binary logistic regression results established that with presence of a moderator for the predictor sub-variables, the strength of the relationship between variables registered an insignificant change but with introduction of interaction term, the strength of relationship between variables changed. The study concluded that SACCO size portrayed a statistically significant moderating effect on predictor sub-variables and response variable. The study thus recommends that the management need to consider increasing their SACCO sizes through merging, acquiring the non-performing SACCOs or even conducting intensive marketing since large size SACCO have low chances of being financially unsustainable.