Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Online Preparation Of Adult Learners In Post-Secondary Education: A Triangulated Study

In this study, data from pre-service school administrators, faculty, and online documents were used to: 1) analyze how pre-service school administrators perceive the online preparation process, 2) analyze how faculty perceive the online preparation of school administrators, and 3) determine the extent to which quality administrators are prepared through the online process. The result of the study yielded strong evidence that the online process is a strong pedagogical tool for preparing quality school administrators for P-12 schools in this era of educational quality and accountability. Perceptions of the participants in this study toward the online process were extremely positive.
Occurrence of pathogenic strains of Yersinia enterocolitica in pigs and their antimicrobial resistance

Between 2005 and 2007, the incidence of Y. enterocolitica in pigs and particularly of its human pathogenic serotypes O:3 and O:9, was monitored. In 1 706 samples collected from the tongue, skin surface, skin surface near the rectum, rectal content, and tonsils, 76 pathogenic strains of Y. enterocolitica were identified. Y. enterocolitica was found most frequently on the tonsils (7.5%) and in rectal content (7.4%), and less frequently on the tongue (5.1%), skin surface (2.8%), and skin surface near the rectum (1.0%). Eighty-eight per cent of the strains belonged to the serotype O:3, one strain isolated from skin surface was identified as serotype O:5, and 8 strains were not specified. Using the reference agar dilution method, susceptibility to six antimicrobial agents (tetracycline, nalidixic acid, chloramphenicol, erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, and gentamicin) was tested. The strains showed high MIC levels to erythromycin and tetracycline. On the other hand, they were susceptible to the nalidixic acid, gentamicin, chloramphenicol, and ciprofloxacin. The highest susceptibility was found to ciprofloxacin.
ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTS OF KRISMON SHOCKS ON INDONESIA'S INDUSTRIAL SUBSECTORS

HIS paper analyzes the impacts of the economic crisis on the industrial sector during the Krismon period based on the monthly time-series data (January 1996–December 1998) of the Indonesian economy. In Section I, I define the chronology of the three subperiods of Krismon. In Section II, I construct a surrogate variable of political (or noneconomic) shocks based on the disturbance term of the exchange rate equation. In Section III, I describe the changing trends of production levels of nine subsectors during the Krismon period. In Section IV, I analyze the impacts of the economic and noneconomic variables on these production indices and evaluate the damage caused by Krismon. Section V includes some simulation studies based on the estimated equations. In Section VI, I discuss the changes of the employment situation during the Krismon period. Section VII shows a tentative forecast until December 1999. Section VIII concludes the paper.
Progress With Profits: The Development of Rural Banking in Indonesia

credible effort" and had pointed out that the allocation of resources was in reality quite limited. Amidst the mass of diverse data and energetic argument in this important study, the careful reader will be disturbed by a degree of imprecision that occasionally leads to error. At the conceptual level, this is evident in the jumbling of Furnivall's "plural society" with the "dual economy," particularly in chapter 3. At the empirical level, it appears in the claim that the "performance of the Burmese economy from the days of British rule to the present has been one of monotonic regression rather than progression" (p. 57). This claim is contradicted by his subsequent demonstration of both growth during the U Nu period (pp. 136—38) and the brief revival during the Burmese Socialist Program Party period (p. 193 ff-). And at the graphic level, some confusion emerges in the labeling of line graphs and pie charts. All in all, the errors are not mortal; the overall thesis of the book holds. This is a timely book that helps fill the need for an extensive treatment of what is becoming day by day an even more extreme example of military tyranny and economic mismanagement. We are indebted to both the author and the publisher for making this work available. One or the other, however, should also bear the onus for the failure of editing to remove repetitions in the writing and reduce the unusual number of misprints, malapropisms, mislabelings, and even miscalculations.
Autosomal linkage analysis of a Japanese single multiplex schizophrenia pedigree reveals two candidate loci on chromosomes 4q and 3q

We analyzed a large multiplex schizophrenia pedigree collected in mid‐eastern Japan using 322 microsatellite markers distributed throughout the whole autosome. Under an autosomal‐dominant inheritance model, the highest pairwise LOD score (LOD = 1.69) was found at 4q (D4S2431: theta = 0.0), and LOD scores at two other loci 3q (ATA34G06) and 8q (D8S1128) were 1.62 and 1.46, respectively. In multipoint analysis, LOD scores of the regions on 4q and 3q remained at a similar level; however, the LOD score of the region on 8q apparently decreased. Additional dense map analysis revealed haplotypes on 4q and 3q regions shared by affected individuals. On chromosome 4q, the haplotype spanning about 8 centiMorgans (cM) was shared by four of six genotyped individuals with schizophrenia and one affected individual whose haplotype was estimated. On 3q, the haplotype spanning about 20 cM was shared by five genotyped individuals with schizophrenia. We obtained two candidate regions of major susceptibility loci for schizophrenia on chromosomes 3q and 4q. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Study of the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at the palindromic sequence of hypersensitive site (HS)4 of the human β‐globin locus control region (LCR) in Indian population

LCR, a genetic regulatory element, was examined in β‐thalassemia patients who do not show any mutation in the β‐globin genes. We sequenced LCR‐HS2, HS3, and HS4 in samples from 16 such patients from the Indian population and found only one SNP A‐G in the inverted repeat in HS4. A significant association was observed between the G allele and occurrence of β‐thalassemia by Fisher's exact test. The AG and GG genotypes showed higher relative risk as compared to the AA genotype. We also observed linkage disequilibrium between the A/G polymorphism and the AT‐rich motif of the LCR HS2 region, suggesting that the G allele could be an evolutionarily new mutation in the study population. Am. J. Hematol. 69:77‐79, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
D-DASH: A Deep Q-Learning Framework for DASH Video Streaming

The ever-increasing demand for seamless high-definition video streaming, along with the widespread adoption of the dynamic adaptive streaming over HTTP (DASH) standard, has been a major driver of the large amount of research on bitrate adaptation algorithms. The complexity and variability of the video content and of the mobile wireless channel make this an ideal application for learning approaches. Here, we present D-DASH, a framework that combines deep learning and reinforcement learning techniques to optimize the quality of experience (QoE) of DASH. Different learning architectures are proposed and assessed, combining feed-forward and recurrent deep neural networks with advanced strategies. D-DASH designs are thoroughly evaluated against prominent algorithms from the state-of-the-art, both heuristic and learning-based, evaluating performance indicators such as image quality across video segments and freezing/rebuffering events. Our numerical results are obtained on real and simulated channel traces and show the superiority of D-DASH in nearly all the considered quality metrics. Besides yielding a considerably higher QoE, the D-DASH framework exhibits faster convergence to the rate-selection strategy than the other learning algorithms considered in the study. This makes it possible to shorten the training phase, making D-DASH a good candidate for client-side runtime learning.
Access to Financial Services: A Review of the Issues and Public Policy Objectives

Finance is an important component of development, including for the poor. Indeed, much recent empirical evidence has shown that a more developed financial system can help reduce poverty and lower income inequality. In addition to facilitating overall economic growth, finance can help individuals smooth their income, insure against risks, and broaden investment opportunities. Yet, access to finance is limited in many developing countries to few individuals and firms. Policy questions thus arise concerning what determines access to financial services, what barriers may hinder access, whether more general availability of financial services should be a public sector goal, and, if so, what the best means of achieving this are.
Arthroscopic subscapularis tendon repair: Technique and preliminary results.

PURPOSE Our objective was to evaluate the preliminary results of 25 consecutive arthroscopic subscapularis tendon repairs. TYPE OF STUDY Case series. METHODS All 25 shoulders had longer than 3 months follow-up, with an average of 10.7 months (range, 3 to 48 months). The average age was 60.7 years (range, 41 to 78 years). The average time from onset of symptoms to surgery was 18.9 months (range, 1 to 72 months). The shoulders were evaluated using a modified UCLA score, Napoleon test, lift-off test, radiographs, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Indications for surgery included clinical and/or MRI evidence of a rotator cuff tear. An arthroscopic suture anchor technique devised by the senior author (S.S.B.) was used for repair. RESULTS UCLA scores increased from a preoperative average of 10.7 to a postoperative average of 30.5 (P <.0001). By UCLA criteria, excellent and good results were obtained in 92% of patients, with 1 fair and 1 poor result. Forward flexion increased from an average 96.3 degrees preoperatively to an average 146.1 degrees postoperatively (P =.0016). Eight of 9 patients with a positive Napoleon test had complete tears of the subscapularis. All 7 patients with a negative Napoleon test had a tear of the upper half only. The lift-off test could not be performed reliably due to pain or restricted motion in 19 of the 25 patients. Eight patients had isolated tears of the subscapularis. The remaining 17 patients had associated rotator cuff tears with an average total tear size of 5 x 8 cm. Ten patients had proximal migration of the humerus preoperatively. Eight of these 10 patients had durable reversal of proximal humeral migration following surgery. These 8 patients improved their overhead function from a preoperative "shoulder shrug" with attempted elevation of the arm to functional overhead use of the arm postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS (1) The senior author has been able to consistently perform arthroscopic repair of torn subscapularis tendons, with good and excellent results, in 92% of patients. (2) The Napoleon test is useful in predicting not only the presence of a subscapularis tear, but also its general size. (3) Combined tears of the subscapularis, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus tendons are frequently associated with proximal humeral migration and loss of overhead function. Arthroscopic repair of these massive tears can produce durable reversal of proximal humeral migration and restoration of overhead function.
Bancassurance efficiency gains: evidence from the Italian banking and insurance industries

Bancassurance has rapidly grown in Europe over the past 20 years catching the attention of managers and academia. Most dedicated studies have only been descriptive in nature, while the number of empirical studies is very limited. Potential efficiency gains are a poorly investigated issue, even though cost and revenue synergies are commonly recognised among the main economic rationales for conglomeration. Our paper aims to assess bancassurance performance gains (from both the banking and the insurance standpoints) in the Italian banking and insurance sectors over the period 2005–2006 by estimating cost and profit efficiency using stochastic frontier analysis. With regard to the banking industry, we do not show any strong evidence in favour of entering the life insurance business. The investigation into the insurance industry highlights the competitive viability of bancassurance as a distribution channel, especially in terms of cost efficiency. In terms of profitability, our findings suggest that the mix of products should be continuously revised to adapt to customer needs and the evolution of financial markets. As a consequence, ownership links are not necessarily the best bancassurance strategy, and the parties involved should also consider more flexible forms of cooperation, such as cross-selling agreements and non-equity strategic alliances.
CONSUMER RESPONSE TO GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOODS: MARKET SEGMENT ANALYSIS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRODUCERS AND POLICY MAKERS

Conjoint analysis is used to elicit consumer preferences for attributes of genetically modified foods. Market segments are identified based on a cluster analysis of respondents' preferences for brand, price, and GMO content. A logit analysis is used to analyze consumer characteristics associated with the acceptance of GMO foods. Those consumers who were most risk averse, most likely to believe that GMOs improved the quality or safety of food, and most knowledgeable about biotechnology were the most likely to be accepting of GMO foods. These findings are used to develop implications for producers and regulators of GMO foods.
The natural history of antenatal nuchal cords.

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to test the null hypotheses that nuchal cords occur with equal frequency throughout gestation, the presence of an antenatal nuchal cord is usually a random or chance event, nuchal cords do not usually persist, and nuchal cords do not usually produce evidence of acute fetal compromise before labor. STUDY DESIGN A prospective subject-, examiner-, and physician-blinded study design was used. The fetuses were examined serially at 24 to 26, 30 to 32, and 36 to 38 weeks' gestation and during labor and delivery. Measurements included: ultrasonic or visual detection of nuchal cords and assessment of fetal and neonatal well-being by using standard clinical techniques. RESULTS The incidence of nuchal cord rose with advancing gestation from 12% at 24 to 26 weeks to 37% at term. However, at each gestational age, its occurrence was a random or chance event and was not associated with clinical evidence of fetal compromise before labor. CONCLUSION Antenatal nuchal cords usually occur randomly with increased frequency in late gestation and appear to be a normal part of intrauterine life that is rarely associated with perinatal morbidity and mortality.
A study of entrepreneurial orientation of small-scale enterprise operators in Nigeria

Entrepreneurship has become an important issue for policy in most developing countries. At one level, enterprise creation is recognized as important for employment, growth and enhancing sustainable human development. At another level, there is concern to encourage existing business enterprises to become more entrepreneurial as a means of enhancing international competitiveness. Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) which is reflected in recurring organizational behaviour such as innovativeness, pro-activeness and risk-taking of entrepreneurs is particularly important for the growth of small-scale enterprises. The research study explores the extent to which entrepreneurial orientation factors were demonstrated by small scale enterprise operators. The study was carried out in Oyo State of Nigeria. The focus of the study was a purposely selected sample of 60 owner-managed small-scale enterprises engaged in manufacturing activities. The questionnaire was the main instrument of the study and it contains a set of structured questions to measure the entrepreneurial orientation of the respondents by using the 5 Point Likert Scale anchored by Never, Rarely, Sometimes, Usually and Always. Data were analyzed with the aid of Standard Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) using descriptive method of analysis. The outcome of the study on the three entrepreneurial orientation factors shows a very great disparity from the personality traits expected of a good entrepreneur. The study concludes that aversion to risk taking, lack of innovation and proactiveness by the respondents, which are critical factors necessary for the growth of small enterprises, is very low among the respondents. Therefore, there is an urgent need to evolve a comprehensive training package for entrepreneurs in Nigeria to develop and sharpen their entrepreneurial orientation so as to enhance their competitiveness particularly in this age of globalization and market driven economy. IFE PsychologIA Vol. 16 (1) 2007: pp. 90-102
The influence of spectators' attitudes on sponsorship awareness: a study in three different leisure events

Previous research has shown that event sponsorship effectiveness can be influenced by variables related to spectators' attitudes and beliefs towards the event. The objective of this study was to test the degree to which sponsorship awareness is influenced by three attitudinal constructs: spectators' attitude toward the event, spectators' involvement with the activity of the event, and spectators' beliefs about sponsorship. These variables were tested across three different leisure events: a snowboard exhibition, a basketball all-star game, and a folklore dancing festival. The results revealed: (a) the percentage of those who knew the sponsors of the events was significantly lower among the dancing festival spectators in comparison with the snowboard exhibition and the basketball all-star game spectators; (b) the mean scores in the attitudinal variables were higher among the dancing festival spectators than among the basketball and snowboard spectators; (c) respondents who knew the sponsors of the events across all the three samples had significantly higher mean scores than those who did not know the sponsors of the events in the ‘attitudes toward the event’ and ‘involvement’ dimensions. The marketing implications of these results are discussed.
The use of knockouts to study determinants of airway hyperresponsiveness

Nonspecific bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) describes the characteristic altered airway behavior observed in asthma; namely, the propensity to develop bronchoconstriction in response to a wide variety of physical, chemical, pharmacologic, and physiologic stimuli at concentrations or levels of intensity that do not induce any change in airway caliber in healthy subjects (1). The two main determinants of BHR are increases, respectively, in the reactivity and the sensitivity of the airways (2, 3). The hypersensitivity is characterized by a leftward shift of the dose-response curve to the bronchoconstrictor effect of stimuli such as histamine or methacholine. The hyperreactivity is reflected by a steeper slope of the dose-response curve and by an increased degree of maximal airway narrowing. On the basis of mathematic models, increased sensitivity has been attributed predominantly to thickening of the airway wall, due to the presence of an inflammatory process in the airway mucosa (4, 5). Increased airway reactivity has been largely explained by the presence of more chronic, structural changes in asthmatic airways, such as thickening of the smooth-muscle layer and changes in the adventitial structure, leading to a loss of elastic parenchymal recoil on contracting airway smooth muscle (6, 7). The exact functional contribution of the various inflammatory and structural cells, mediators, cytokines, and growth factors present in asthmatic airways to both determinants of BHR remains to be fully established. To date, for obvious ethical reasons, studies in man have been restricted to the combination of morphologic assessment and in vitro experiments. In addition to these data, a more functional evaluation in an in vivo animal model may be of interest. In asthma research, this has resulted in the development of a multitude of animal models that have examined the effect of exogenous administration of a given
Determinants of voluntary disclosure of segment information: A re‐examination of the role of diversification strategy

This paper explores the determinants of management's decision to voluntarily disclose segment information. It is an extension of McKinnon and Dalimunthe (1993) who investigate the role of six hypothesised determinants. Their results indicate that firm size, industry membership, ownership diffusion, and the level of minority interest are related to the voluntary disclosure of segment information. However, they find that leverage and diversification into related versus unrelated industries are not related to this disclosure. It is the diversification finding that motivates our work. This paper explores the effect of differences in data, differences in samples, and differences in the measurement of diversification on the McKinnon and Dalimunthe (1993) results. Using an alternative definition of diversification, we find diversification strategy, firm size, and the level of minority interest to be related to segment disclosure while the results for ownership diffusion and industry are mixed. We find no support for a leverage effect.
Dopamine Invigorates Reward Seeking by Promoting Cue-Evoked Excitation in the Nucleus Accumbens

Approach to reward is a fundamental adaptive behavior, disruption of which is a core symptom of addiction and depression. Nucleus accumbens (NAc) dopamine is required for reward-predictive cues to activate vigorous reward seeking, but the underlying neural mechanism is unknown. Reward-predictive cues elicit both dopamine release in the NAc and excitations and inhibitions in NAc neurons. However, a direct link has not been established between dopamine receptor activation, NAc cue-evoked neuronal activity, and reward-seeking behavior. Here, we use a novel microelectrode array that enables simultaneous recording of neuronal firing and local dopamine receptor antagonist injection. We demonstrate that, in the NAc of rats performing a discriminative stimulus task for sucrose reward, blockade of either D1 or D2 receptors selectively attenuates excitation, but not inhibition, evoked by reward-predictive cues. Furthermore, we establish that this dopamine-dependent signal is necessary for reward-seeking behavior. These results demonstrate a neural mechanism by which NAc dopamine invigorates environmentally cued reward-seeking behavior.