Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Differential comparison of identified-hadron $\bf p_t$ spectra from high-energy A-B nuclear collisions based on a two-component model of hadron production

Identified-hadron (PID) spectra from 2.76 TeV Pb-Pb and $p$-$p$ collisions are analyzed via a two-component (soft + hard) model (TCM) of hadron production in high-energy nuclear collisions. The PID TCM is adapted with minor changes from a recent analysis of PID hadron spectra from 5 TeV $p$-Pb collisions. Results from LHC data are compared with a PID TCM for 200 GeV Au-Au pion and proton spectra. 2.76 TeV proton spectra exhibit strong inefficiencies above 1 GeV/c estimated by comparing the $p$-$p$ spectrum with the corresponding TCM. After inefficiency correction Pb-Pb proton spectra are very similar to Au-Au proton spectra. PID A-A spectra are generally inconsistent with radial flow. Jet-related Pb-Pb and Au-Au spectrum hard components exhibit strong suppression at higher $p_t$ in more-central collisions corresponding to results from spectrum ratio $R_{AA}$ but also, for pions and kaons, exhibit dramatic enhancements below $p_t = 1$ GeV/c that are concealed by $R_{AA}$. In contrast, enhancements of proton hard components appear only above 1 GeV/c suggesting that the baryon/meson "puzzle" is a jet phenomenon. Modification of spectrum hard components in more-central A-A collisions is consistent with increased gluon splitting during jet formation but with approximate conservation of leading-parton energy within a jet via the lower-$p_t$ enhancements.
Near-horizon geodesics of high spin black holes

We provide an exhaustive and illustrated classification of timelike and null geodesics in the near-horizon region of near-extremal Kerr black holes. The classification of polar motion extends to Kerr black holes of arbitrary spin. The classification of radial motion leads to a simple parametrization of the separatrix between bound and unbound motion. Furthermore, we prove that each timelike or null geodesic is related via conformal transformations and discrete symmetries to spherical orbits and we provide the explicit mappings. We detail the high-spin behavior of both the innermost stable and the innermost bound spherical orbits.
Were the synapsids primitively endotherms? A palaeohistological approach using phylogenetic eigenvector maps

The acquisition of mammalian endothermy is poorly constrained both phylogenetically and temporally. Here, we inferred the resting metabolic rates (RMRs) and the thermometabolic regimes (endothermy or ectothermy) of a sample of eight extinct synapsids using palaeohistology, phylogenetic eigenvector maps (PEMs), and a sample of 17 extant tetrapods of known RMR (quantified using respirometry). We inferred high RMR values and an endothermic metabolism for the anomodonts (Lystrosaurus sp., Oudenodon bainii) and low RMR values and an ectothermic metabolism for Clepsydrops collettii, Dimetrodon sp. , Edaphosaurus boanerges, Mycterosaurus sp. , Ophiacodon uniformis and Sphenacodon sp. A maximum-likelihood ancestral states reconstruction of RMRs performed using the values inferred for extinct synapsids, and the values measured using respirometry in extant tetrapods, shows that the nodes Anomodontia and Mammalia were primitively endotherms. Finally, we performed a parsimony optimization of the presence of endothermy using the results obtained in the present study and those obtained in previous studies that used PEMs. For this, we assigned to each extinct taxon a thermometabolic regime (ectothermy or endothermy) depending on whether the inferred values were significantly higher, lower or not significantly different from the RMR value separating ectotherms from endotherms (1.5 ml O2 h−1 g−0.67). According to this optimization, endothermy arose independently in Archosauromorpha, Sauropterygia and Therapsida. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Vertebrate palaeophysiology’.
Respiratory evolution in archosaurs

The Archosauria are a highly successful group of vertebrates, and their evolution is marked by the appearance of diverse respiratory and metabolic strategies. This review examines respiratory function in living and fossil archosaurs, focusing on the anatomy and biomechanics of the respiratory system, and their physiological consequences. The first archosaurs shared a heterogeneously partitioned parabronchial lung with unidirectional air flow; from this common ancestral lung morphology, we trace the diverging respiratory designs of bird- and crocodilian-line archosaurs. We review the latest evidence of osteological correlates for lung structure and the presence and distribution of accessory air sacs, with a focus on the evolution of the avian lung-air sac system and the functional separation of gas exchange and ventilation. In addition, we discuss the evolution of ventilation mechanics across archosaurs, citing new biomechanical data from extant taxa and how this informs our reconstructions of fossils. This improved understanding of respiratory form and function should help to reconstruct key physiological parameters in fossil taxa. We highlight key events in archosaur evolution where respiratory physiology likely played a major role, such as their radiation at a time of relative hypoxia following the Permo-Triassic mass extinction, and their evolution of elevated metabolic rates. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Vertebrate palaeophysiology’.
Examining Parameter Invariance in a General Diagnostic Classification Model

The present study aimed at investigating invariance of a diagnostic classification model (DCM) for reading comprehension across gender. In contrast to models with continuous traits, diagnostic classification models inform mastery of a finite set of latent attributes, e.g., vocabulary or syntax in the reading context, and allow to provide fine grained feedback to learners and instructors. The generalized deterministic, noisy “and” gate (G-DINA) model was fit to item responses of 1000 male and female individuals to a high-stakes reading comprehension test. Use of the G-DINA model allowed for minimal assumption on the relationship of latent attribute profiles and item-specific response probabilities, i.e., the G-DINA model can represent compensatory or non-compensatory relationships of latent attributes and response probabilities. Item parameters were compared across the two samples, and only a small number of item parameters were statistically different between the two groups, corroborating the result of a formal measurement invariance test based on the multigroup G-DINA model. Neither correlations between latent attributes were significantly different across the two groups, nor mastery probabilities for any of the attributes. Model selection at item level showed that from among the 18 items that required multiple attributes, 16 items picked different rules (DCMs) across the groups. While this seems to suggest that the relationship among the attributes of reading comprehension differs across the two groups, a closer inspection of the rules picked by the items showed that almost in all cases the relationships were very similar. If a compensatory DCM was suggested by the G-DINA framework for an item in the female group, a model belonging to the same family resulted for the male group.
Corticosteroids for Acute and Recurrent Idiopathic Pericarditis: Unexpected Evidences

Pericarditis is a common disease, often postviral or “idiopathic,” diagnosed in about 5% of emergency room visits for non-ischemic chest pain. Although pericarditis often occurs as a benign and self-limiting disease, it may present recurrences. The first-line therapy includes aspirin/nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ASA/NSAIDs) plus colchicine. Steroids especially at high-dose have been associated with a higher recurrence rate. In this retrospective study, we evaluated efficacy and safety of ASA/NSAIDs and prednisone in the treatment of acute or recurrent idiopathic pericarditis (colchicine was off-label in the period of the study). The cohort included 276 patients diagnosed with acute idiopathic pericarditis. Mean age was 45.4 ± 12.7 years, and males were significantly higher in number and younger than females. Sixty-one patients (22.1%) were treated with prednisone and 215 with ASA/NSAIDs (77.9%). 171 patients experienced at least one recurrence (62%). No difference in recurrence rate was observed (p=0.257) between the groups treated with prednisone (55.7%) vs. ASA/NSAIDs (63.7%). The recurrences were treated with steroids at low doses and very gradual tapering, and the dose reduction was slower as the number of relapses was higher. Steroids alone were administered to about 80% of patients, while in the remaining 20% of cases, they were associated with ASA/NSDAIDs or colchicine. Approximately 90% of patients had a very favorable course, that is no more than 2 relapses and no patients presented serious side effects. Steroids at low dose, did not act, surprisingly, as an independent risk factor for recurrences and therefore may be considered a successful and safe treatment for acute and recurrent idiopathic pericarditis.
Successful Endoscopic Management of a Renal Fungal Ball using Flexible Ureterorenoscopy

Background Candida as a cause for urinary tract infection in healthy individuals is unusual. The extension of fungi into the urinary collecting system rarely leads to formation of bezoars or fungus balls. This can in turn lead to hydronephrosis, obstructive uropathy and sepsis. Case Presentation An eighty years old gentleman presented to A&E with confusion, severe urosepsis and acute kidney injury. CTKUB demonstrated significant right sided hydronephrosis, perinephric fat stranding and gas in collecting system. A year prior to this admission he has become known to the urology team for a fungal ball that was noted in the upper pole of the right kidney which was picked up following elective flexible ureterorenoscopy for right kidney stones. Flexible ureterorenoscopy and successful retrieval of fungal ball by basket was performed. Conclusion We advocate this technique to be considered as an alternative to the current treatment offered to patients with fungal ball infections and especially so in cases were a nephrostomy is either contraindicated, unavailable, or not possible.
Induction of Micronuclei, Base-pair Substitution Mutation and Excision-repair Deficient by Polluted Water from Asa River in Nigeria

Abstract Asa river is a major river designated to supply millions of people of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria potable water for drinking but its managements is of grave concern due to anthropogenic activities. Thus, evaluation of genotoxicity of this river was carried out by subjecting the water samples and fish therein to three bioassays (Micronucleus (MN) assay, Ames test and SOS-chromo test). Physicochemical parameters and heavy metals were analysed at three different stations (Aliara (SI), Unity (SII) and Tuyil (SIII)) of the river. In SII, most of the heavy metals analysed were above the acceptable limits compare to SI and SIII. The peripheral erythrocyte of the fishes (Oreochromis niloticus, Synodontis batensoda, Synodontis eupterus, Clarias gariepinus and Clarias angullaris) at SI and SII stations showed a significant (p<0.05) induction of MN and different nuclear abnormalities (NA). Water samples from the three stations subjected to Ames test (Salmonella typhimurium TA100) and SOS chromotests (Escherichia coli PQ37) at 25%, 50% and 100% concentrations showed statistically significant (p<0.05) induction of DNA damage at all concentrations in the two tester strains, thus indicating base-pair substitution mutation and excision-repairdeficient, respectively, by the water samples. Therefore, drinking of this water and/or consumption of fish from this river should be taken with caution to avoid a carcinogenic risk.
Determining the Factors of the Employees’ Intention to Stay or Leave in the Slovak’s SMEs

Abstract A large number of Slovak small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are confronted with often-leaving employees. This situation can have a devastating effect; thus, the ability to predict and early detect the employees’ intention to stay or leave to another organisation provides them with a competitive advantage. Paper aims to determine how employer attractiveness influences the employees’ intention to stay or leave to another organisation. The online questionnaire survey was conducted to collect data during the September and October 2019 among 357 Slovak SMEs’ employees. The employees’ values were described by EmpAt’s five dimensions scale. Binary logistic regression was used to predict which employer attractiveness factor leads to an intention to stay in the organisation within the next 6 months. Results show that to the employee’s decision to stay working for the organisation contribute Application Value (AV Odds Ratio=2.53), followed by Economic Value (EV Odds Ratio=2.36), Interest Value (IV Odds Ratio=2.23), and Social Value (SV Odds Ratio=1.48). We did not find statistically significant associations between Development Value (DV) and the employees’ intention to stay or leave (ISL). This study makes several contributions to extant human resource management literature. First, it extends the research on employer attractiveness and employee retention. Second, it expands the knowledge about the predictors of employees’ intention to stay in organisations. On the managerial level, it recommends that the employees’ intent to stay or leave should be regularly measured.
Research in biodynamic food and farming – a review

Abstract Research into biodynamic food and farming has a long history within the biodynamic movement. Whilst the basic aim of this research has always been to provide knowledge for furthering the development of this farming approach, recently interest has increased in sharing research activities and results with the global scientific community. After commencing with an introduction to biodynamic agriculture, this review gives an overview of peer-reviewed publications on issues in biodynamic food and farming that have been published between 2006 and 2017. The time before this period is covered by the reviews of Leiber et al. (2006) and Turinek et al. (2009). Overall, 86 articles were included into this review. The most recognized topics were soil quality and soil health in biodynamic vs. conventional and organic farming, effects of biodynamic preparations, food quality, and viticulture. The studies provide substantial evidence for positive effects of biodynamic management on agroecosystems and food quality: 1) Biodynamic management creates system effects on soils, where compost application plays a crucial role. 2) Biodynamic preparations create effects on food chemical composition and food quality. 3) Biodynamic production can improve the value of food with regard to nutritive properties, taste and human health and well-being. 4) Biodynamic management improves grape quality and plant traits compared to non-biodynamic management. Until now, the effects of biodynamic management have usually been studied with classical analytical methods in natural and life sciences through disciplinary and reductionist study designs. An application of study designs or specific methods that are conducive for a more holistic analysis are rarely implemented. Thus, we identify the development of appropriate methods and study designs for a holistic examination as a major challenge of future research in biodynamic food and farming.
On Equilibrium Existence in a Finite-Agent, Multi-Asset Noisy Rational Expectations Economy

Abstract We introduce a novel method of proving existence of rational expectations equilibria (REE) in multi-dimensional CARA-Gaussian environments. Our approach is to construct a mapping from agents’ initial beliefs (which are characterized by a positive semidefinite matrix), to their updated beliefs, after reaching and observing equilibrium; we then show Brouwer’s fixed point theorem applies. We apply our approach to a finite-market version of Admati (1985), which is a multi-asset noisy REE asset pricing model with dispersed information. We present an algorithm to numerically solve for equilibrium of the finite model, as well as several examples illustrating the difference in equilibrium behavior between the finite and infinite models. Our method can be applied to any multi-dimensional REE model with Gaussian uncertainty and behavior that is linear in agents’ information.
Effect of UV light on food quality and safety

Abstract The recent years have seen a great number of instances when ultraviolet (UV) radiation was used in the preservation process of all sorts of foods. Since the purine and pyrimidine bases of DNA and RNA absorb well the 254 nm radiation, its application with the use of a correct dosage can result in disinfections of various orders of magnitude. It can be particularly effective in cases where technology does not allow a more intensive heat treatment. When used properly, UV treatment can be a competitive procedure in the case of foodstuffs where the large surface area allows for UV rays to penetrate the entire volume of the substance. Incorrectly applied UV treatment may change the composition of foods. Free-radical as well as photochemical reactions can digest the proteins, damage the antioxidants, oxidize the lipids, make changes to the colour and substance, and produce undesirable flavourings and odorous substances. Some vitamins are particularly sensitive to UV irradiation in the course of which losses could reach even 50%. Photosensitive water-soluble vitamins are vitamin C, B12, B6, B2 and folic acid, while vitamins A, K and E are the fat soluble sensitive to light, carotene being the only provitamin with such properties. On the other hand, UV treatment can be a useful tool of food safety because of the photosensitivity of fungal toxins.
A Community-based Survey on Stroke -associated Knowledge,Attitude and Behavior in Huangpu District of Shanghai

Objective To investigate current stroke-associated knowledge,attitude and practice (KAP) of community-based population in Huangpu District of Shanghai,providing preliminary information for community-based stroke education programs. Methods One-on-one interview with questionnaire was carried out in 2 040 community -based residents of Community Bansongyuan and Community Nanjing East Road from Dec,2008 to Feb,2009. Univariate analysis and multiple linear regression were used to determine factors associated with KAP. Correlation Analysis was used to study interactions between KAP. Results In univariate analysis and multivariable analysis,score of knowledge was associated with educational level (P0.01),age (P0.001) and stroke-related disease history (P0.001); score of belief was associated with score of knowledge (P0.001),educational level (P0.001) and stroke-related disease history (P0.001); score of behavior was associated with score of knowledge (P0.001),score of belief (P0.001),educational level (P0.001),age (P0.001) and stroke-related disease history (P0.001). In correlation analysis,score of knowledge was positively correlated with score of practice (pearson's correlation coefficient:0.81,P0.001). Score of belief was moderately correlated with score of knowledge and score of practice (both pearson's correlation coefficient 0.40,P0.001). Conclusion Community-based population with low score of knowledge and educational level,younger than fifty-five years old,without stroke-related disease history,wrong conception of health education and medical staff is of priority need for intervention.
The Impact Of Power And Relationship Quality On Value Creation and Appropriation in Buyer–Supplier Relationships

Abstract Business relationships provide the means to create and appropriate superior value in business markets. However, despite the proliferation of research on the phenomenon, many questions remain unaddressed. Previous work focused almost exclusively on value after its creation and its sharing between the two exchange partners. Consequently, the appropriation of value as well as its interaction with value creation remains relatively unknown. Similarly, a few studies have examined the role of relational variables and power asymmetry in customer–supplier exchange relationships. To fill this gap, this study aims to examine the influence of relationship quality and power on value creation and appropriation and ultimately, on satisfaction and relationship continuity. Based on the theory of social exchange, this study proposes a conceptual model, which positions value creation and appropriation as central variables in the nomological network of business relationships. A quantitative study of 174 suppliers was carried out in order to compare the theoretical model with the empirical reality. The results obtained show that the relationship quality promotes greater value creation and appropriation in ongoing business relationships. As for power, its influence differs depending on how it is exercised within the relationship. Moreover, the appropriation of value remains the main driver of partner satisfaction, a sine qua non condition for the continuity of the relationship. This present research contributes to a better understanding of value creation-appropriation in ongoing business relationships. By strategically managing their customer–supplier relationships, managers can create and capture greater value and gain a competitive advantage.
The Effects of Preschoolers’ Media Usage Habits on Their Daily Life and Sustainability

Abstract Today’s children are born into a digital world and are exposed to various electronic devices and digital contents both in the home environment and other environments since the first years of life. Children, who are a natural recipient of the environment in which they live, are exposed to the effects of the digital world at different levels and reflect these effects in different ways. The purpose of the reported study is to investigate if preschoolers’ daily media usage habits affects their drawings. This study is planned according to the case study design of qualitative research methods. The study was conducted with 15 preschoolers and their parents. There were nine boys and six girls in the study. The preschoolers’ drawings and their parents’ interview data were analyzed by using the descriptive analyzing method. The study result shows that there are differences between boys and girls media usage habits. Boys spend more time with media tools than girls. Additionally, boys are exposed to more inappropriate content because of their preferences. The analysis of their drawings revealed that boys are more affected than girls from media contents since boys’ drawings include more characters from media than girls. It can thus be suggested that media tools might be harmful when they are used in a developmentally inappropriate way, and excessive media tool usage has negative impact on children. Therefore, the reported study recommends that parents and caregivers take some precautions to limit preschoolers from spending time with media tools and to control content of children’s activity.
Comparative studies on the adsorption of Pb(II) ions by fly ash and slag obtained from CFBC technology

Abstract Fly ash and slag were examined for the removal processes of Pb(II) ions from water in batch experiments under different conditions of adsorbent dosage, initial concentration, pH and contact time. The materials are industrial waste generated from the high temperature treatment of sewage sludge by the circulating fluidized bed combustion (CFBC) technology. Physical and chemical properties, as well as adsorption efficiency and calculated maximum adsorption capacity of Pb(II) ions were determined using a variety of methods. The kinetic analysis revealed that the adsorption process is better described by the pseudo-second order equation and it is well fitted to the Freundlich model.