Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Job Satisfaction among Selected Agriculture Faculty.

The construct of job satisfaction is rooted in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Herzberg’s MotivatorHygiene Theory. The current study was conducted to ascertain the level of job satisfaction of faculty members specializing in agricultural communication, agricultural leadership, agricultural teacher education, and extension education and to determine which job factors are the greatest predictors of an individual’s overall job satisfaction. Survey research methods were utilized to collect data from members of the American Association for Agricultural Education with specializations in the aforementioned disciplines. The Three Factor Job Satisfaction Scale was used to measure faculty members’ level of satisfaction with the policy and administration, personal growth and satisfaction, and fiscal resources job factors as well as the level of overall job satisfaction. A 74% response rate was achieved. Descriptive and relational statistics were used to analyze the data. Overall, faculty members were moderately satisfied with their jobs, with the personal growth and satisfaction job factor explaining the greatest proportion of variance in overall job satisfaction scores. Department chairs and administrators should focus faculty professional development around the factors related to individuals’ personal growth and satisfaction.
Identifying and Explaining the Efficiency of the Public Health Systems in European Countries

Abstract The purpose of this study was to identify the efficient European healthcare systems. The study differs from other similar researches in that it uses different variables in assessing the efficiency of the healthcare systems, and also in that it uses a two-stage approach in the analysis. In order to identify the efficient healthcare systems, we used a non-parametric method, Data Envelopment Analysis, which allows the evaluation of the countries against an efficiency frontier. Furthermore, we explain the efficiency by analysing several factors which influence the efficiency of the healthcare systems, using the censored regression analysis. The findings indicate that there are significant efficiency disparities both among the developed states and among the developing ones. Finally, we suggest several directions for the public policy, in order to increase the efficiency of the public healthcare systems in the European countries.
RATES OF MOLECULAR EVOLUTION IN NUCLEAR GENES OF EAST MEDITERRANEAN SCORPIONS

Abstract Scorpions of the genus Mesobuthus represent a useful terrestrial model system for studying molecular evolution. They are distributed on several Aegean islands and the adjacent mainland, they are believed to have low rates of dispersal, and evolutionary divergence dates of taxa are available based on biogeographic events that separated islands from each other and the mainland. Here, we present data on polymorphism and synonymous (Ks) and nonsynonymous (Ka) substitution rates for nine nuclear protein-coding genes of two east Mediterranean scorpion species, Mesobuthus gibbosus and M. cyprius (Buthidae). Levels of polymorphism tend to be lower in populations from islands (mean nucleotide diversity π = 0.0071 ± 0.0028) than in mainland populations (mean π = 0.0201 ± 0.0085). By using linear regression of genetic divergence versus isolation time, we estimate Ks to be 3.17 ± 1.54 per (site × 109 years), and Ka to be 0.39 ± 0.94 per (site × 109 years). These estimates for both Ks and Ka are considerably lower than for many other invertebrates, such as Drosophila, and may be attributed to scorpions' mammal-like generation times (∼2 years) and low metabolic rates. Phylogenetic analysis using maximum likelihood revealed a phylogeny that is congruent with that expected based on biogeographic events and in which divergences at synonymous sites are proportional to the dates that the taxa are believed to have split. Tests of equality of branch lengths for the Cyprus and Crete lineages revealed that Ks-estimates are about the same in both lineages, as expected from the biogeographic events that separated the islands, but Ka was increased in the Cyprus lineage compared to the Cretan lineage.
Estimates of Statewide and Nationwide Carbon Dioxide Emission Reductions and Their Costs From Cash for Clunkers

Vehicle scrappage programs which provide private owners with inducements to scrap their older, less-fuel efficient vehicles offer the promise to both increase consumer spending on private vehicles and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Cash for Clunkers program enacted in 2009 is the first nationwide incarnation of such a program in the United States where past programs have been confined to specific regions and states. While measuring the success of such programs in terms of sales is straightforward, measuring their success in terms of greenhouse gas emission reductions is not. Much of the difficulty in estimating these reductions relates to projecting how private vehicle owners will use their newer, more fuel efficient vehicles. Using cross-sectional data on how the trade-in vehicles were typically used as well as projected usage increases due to the rebound effect (improvements in fuel efficiency cause more usage), this study estimates emission reductions and their costs for two different vehicle usage scenarios. Estimates from the two scenarios indicate that the nationwide effects of the Cash for Clunkers program on carbon dioxide emissions are modest, at best. Exploration of statewide carbon dioxide emission reductions and costs from Cash for Clunkers indicates that, as suggested by the literature, the environmental benefits of vehicle scrappage programs are limited.
Comparative renal tubular toxicity of chemotherapy regimens including ifosfamide in patients with newly diagnosed sarcomas.

PURPOSE The aim of this study was to assess renal tubular toxicity (RTT) of ifosfamide-containing regimens (ICR) in patients with newly diagnosed sarcomas at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. METHODS The authors reviewed the records of 199 patients receiving ICR at St. Jude between June 1986 and December 31, 1994 for evidence of RTT. Their median age was 13.3 years (range 1.2-24.8); 150 patients were white and 112 were male patients. Diagnoses included osteosarcoma (n = 82), Ewing sarcoma (n = 82), rhabdomyosarcoma (n = 28), and a group of other tumors (n = 7). RESULTS The authors estimated the proportion of patients with severe RTT during the first five cycles of ICR and within 1 year after therapy for three groups of patients receiving ifosfamide (IFOS, n = 110), ifosfamide/cisplatin (IFOS/CDDP, n = 51), and ifosfamide/carboplatin (IFOS/CARBO, n = 38). The IFOS/CDDP patients received three cycles of IFOS before receiving CDDP and received only 200 mg/m2 by cycle 5, whereas the IFOS/CARBO patients received both agents simultaneously. The authors compared the probability of severe RTT among treatment groups using a generalized linear model for the first five cycles of ICR, as well as the probability of severe RTT within 1 year after therapy among treatment groups for patients receiving all prescribed IFOS using an exact chi-square test with pairwise comparisons when the three-way P value was less than 0.10. The proportion of patients with severe RTT during the first three cycles of ICR was significantly greater in the IFOS/CARBO group than in the other two. Although the proportion of patients with severe RTT in the IFOS/CDDP group increased during cycles 4/5, the proportion of patients with severe RTT remained significantly greater in the IFOS/ CARBO group. Within 1 year after therapy, the proportion of patients with severe RTT differed among the three groups, and pairwise comparisons revealed a significant difference between the IFOS and the IFOS/CDDP group. Severe RTT developed in four IFOS/CDDP patients more than 1 year after therapy, suggesting a long-term effect of CDDP on tubular function. CONCLUSIONS Chemotherapy regimens including IFOS/ CARBO produce severe acute RTT more frequently than regimens including IFOS or IFOS/CDDP. Patients receiving IFOS/ CDDP appear at risk for delayed RTT. Long-term follow-up of these patients is essential to assess whether the number of patients receiving IFOS/CDDP with severe RTT continues to increase over time and to evaluate the long-term significance of these abnormalities.
Contribution to the Ontological Status of Information: Development of the Structural-Attributive Approach

This paper proposes to appeal to the structural-attributive approach to help establish a useful ontological categorization of information. Specifically, it argues that a framework for library and information science (LIS) based on Stonier’s theory of information would be helpful, with the intention to advance one of the unfinished dialogues of LIS, the so-called Wiener’s problem, or statutum ontologicum. This proposal advocates the possibility of developing a theory based on the assumption that information is a basic property of the universe. Stonier’s perspective is an evolutionary type, so the basis of this research is interdisciplinary, such that his ideas can help describe the development of society in the information age. It also explains the two main categories or forms of information, which Stonier called “applied,” for the library scope. In other words, there are the information contained in a system and the transformed and processed information. He argues that information is an ontological category that exists independently of being perceived. This paper asserts that information characterizes the world in itself, since it is through it that all knowledge is obtained.
CHRONIC AND INTERVENTIONAL PAIN

Objective: In this study, we aimed to determine if stellate ganglion block (SGB) could reduce symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in comparison with sham therapy in military service members. Methods: In a randomized trial in which both participants and assessors were blind, participants with PTSD received either an SGB or a sham procedure. Posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms were measured using the CAPS (Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale) and self-report measures of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and pain. Subjects underwent assessment before the procedure and at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after the procedure. Patients receiving sham injections were allowed to cross over to the treatment group, and participants who maintained criteria for PTSD were allowed to receive a second SGB treatment. Results: Posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression scores all showed improvement across time, but there was no statistically or clinically relevant difference in outcomes between the active and control groups. Individuals who crossed over from sham treatment to SGB similarly showed no greater improvement with the SGB treatment. Improvement in CAPS was greater with a second SGB treatment than after the first treatment. Conclusions: Although previous case series have suggested that SGB offers an effective intervention for PTSD, this study did not demonstrate any appreciable difference between SGB and sham treatment on psychological or pain outcomes. Future studies should examine if differences in treatment methods or patient population could allow individuals with PTSD to benefit from SGB, but current evidence does not support widespread or indiscriminant clinical use of the procedure for PTSD.
Brand Inertia in U.S. Household Cheese Consumption

To analyze U.S. consumers' brand choices for cheese purchases, we derive a set of discrete-choice models from dynamic utility maximization. ACNielsen Homescan Survey data on U.S. households is used to estimate a dynamic probit model for each of the top brands for cheddar, shredded, and sliced cheese in four U.S. regions. We find that households have strong brand inertia, a result robust across alternative specifications. Predicted probabilities confirm greater inertia in the top brands and consumers are more likely to switch into them. Brand inertia is relatively larger in cheddar and sliced cheese especially in the Central and Southeast regions. Copyright 2008, Oxford University Press.
Large Shareholders, Board Independence, and Minority Shareholder Rights: Evidence from Europe

We examine the relation between minority shareholder protection laws, ownership concentration, and board independence. Minority shareholder rights is a country-level governance variable. Ownership structure and board composition represent firm-level governance variables. Prior research hypothesizes anddocuments a negative relation between countries' minority shareholder rights quality and firms' ownership concentration. We introduce the hypothesis that shareholder protection rights and firms' board independence are positively related. When a country's minority shareholder rights are strong, thenminority shareholders should have the legal power to affect board composition. Using a sample of large firms from 14 European countries, we test both hypotheses and find that countries with stronger shareholder protection rights have firms with lower ownership concentrations and with more independent directors, consistent with both hypotheses. We also find evidence that ownership concentration and board independence are negatively related.
Hedonic Wine Price Functions with Different Prices

This study examines the impact that recommended retail prices, actual market prices and the release of a prominent wine guide have on Australian wine hedonic price estimates, for attributes such as sensory quality, winery reputation and grape region. In general, hedonic price estimates appear to be independent of prices employed. The main identified differences in estimates relate to the size of the producer and some regional impacts. For market prices only, increases in producer size are estimated to reduce prices. This implies the existence of supply chain quantity discounting price practices. The impact of an authoritative wine guide appears to have a negligible influence on prices in Australia. In the absence of market transaction prices, the common practice of employing recommended prices for hedonic wine price estimation is defendable.
An Examination of the Determinants of Golf Travelers’ Satisfaction

With increasing competition for attracting patrons to golf destinations, it is becoming more important for managers to identify the variables that attract or retain golf travelers. Yet, relatively little is known about the determinants of, and best way to measure, golf travelers’ satisfaction. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the determinants of golf travelers’ overall satisfaction. The research found that overall satisfaction can be effectively predicted with information and attribute satisfaction and that information satisfaction is an antecedent to attribute satisfaction. These findings suggest that Oliver’s model may be improved with the inclusion of information satisfaction. It was also found that attributes related to the resort experience had more influence on overall satisfaction than attributes related to information provided and golfing experiences. Further, it was found that golf travelers’ satisfaction is highly correlated with repurchase intentions. Managerial and theoretical implications are discussed.
The Effect of Financial Interpretation No. 46 on Electric Utility Companies

The objective of this research was to define and empirically test the effect of Financial Interpretation No. 46 (FIN 46) on electric utility companies. FIN 46 requires that Variable Interest Entities be reviewed and their financial information be consolidated in their primary beneficiary financial statements. When FIN 46 was issued, the electric utility companies expected that, in consolidated statements, their liabilities would increase to the degree that the result would be an increase in their cost of capital. Therefore, we expected that the implementation of FIN 46 would result in an increase in the cost of obtaining capital in electric utility companies. The results did not support this supposition. We found no significant changes in the cost of capital (when measured by changes in companies' bond rating) that could be associated with additional consolidation resulting from FIN 46. The two tests used in this study (T-test and Probit analysis) did not provide significant evidence that companies affected by FIN 46 were different from those that were not affected. We did find, however, that electric companies that were smaller and reported lower debt were affected by the FIN 46 requirement more than their larger counterparts. Some results suggest that the complete effect of FIN 46 is yet to be included in some of the electric utility companies' statements. Not considering the possible influence of such future effects, however, our results suggest that FIN 46 has not had a significant and costly effect on the electric utility companies.
Yields of millet between shelterbelts in semi-arid northern Nigeria, with a traditional and a scientific method of determining sowing date, and at two levels of organic manuring

Eucalyptus camaldulensis shelterbelts positively influenced yields of millet (Pennisetum glaucum) planted close to the belts. Only smaller distances between shelterbelts than used in semiarid Nigeria, certainly <100 m, can fully exploit crop protection from advected hot dry air. Yields in two years with completely different rainfall regimes, for a traditional determination of sowing date, based on the Ramadan, were statistically significantly less (20-40%) than those for a scientific method of determining sowing date, based on Kowal's method. Assistance in on-farm application of proper sowing dates is needed. Millet grown outside the influence of the belts yielded about 50% less when including both methods of determining the onset of the growing season. Soil moisture availability early in the season and its influence on growth, tillering, and grain filling most of all determined yield differences between plots. Substantial yield differences as function of distance from the belts could be explained by soil moisture at sowing and the effects of hot dry turbulent air generated by the belts on crop growth conditions. Compared to the best organic manuring that farmers could afford, half that amount gave yield losses near 35% in both years, suggesting that manuring is not yet optimum.
Postterm Pregnancy: How Can We Improve Outcomes?

Postterm pregnancy is defined as one which has progressed to 42 0/7 weeks or beyond. The most common reason to be diagnosed with a postterm pregnancy is inaccurate pregnancy dating, but it is also associated with obesity, nulliparity, and a prior history of postterm pregnancy. The rate of postterm pregnancy appears to be decreasing whether due to improved pregnancy dating or an increase in induction of labor. Postterm pregnancy is associated with both maternal and neonatal morbidity and fetal and neonatal mortality; similarly pregnancies beyond 41 weeks’ gestation are associated with increases in these perinatal complications. Prevention of postterm pregnancies may include stripping or sweeping the membranes and unprotected coitus. Management of such pregnancies may include induction of labor and fetal antenatal monitoring. Individual patient management should involve careful counseling regarding the risks and benefits of each of the components of care. Target Audience: Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Family Physicians Learning Objectives: After completion of this article, the reader should be able to recall the increasing risks of poor outcomes associated with prolonged pregnancy, demonstrate knowledge regarding gestational dating and use of cervical ripening agents in their care of pregnant women, and use evidence-based information when counseling their term patients regarding postterm pregnancy management.
The role of change agent as mediator in the relationship between HR competencies and organizational performance

Human resource (HR) practitioners, as change agents, are responsible for easing the impact of changes in their organization and to protect employees against the side effects of these inevitable changes. Sometimes, the change helps to produce a significant increase in performance and the company can boost sales and production without additional cost. Several vital competencies that are reviewed in this paper include business knowledge culture management, effective relationship and human resource development skills. Based on the findings of this study, not all competencies are related to the role of change agent. HR practitioners who are unable to function as change agents will inevitably create a barrier against their becoming a well-integrated strategic partner. Therefore, the role of change agent also mediates the relationship between certain HR competencies and organizational performance.
The Practice of Burning Savannas for Hunting by the Xavante Indians Based on the Stars and Constellations

The cultural basis for the practice of savanna burning for hunting by the Xavante Indians was investigated. Fieldwork was performed in the Indigenous Lands of Areões and Pimentel Barbosa in Mato Grosso State, Brazil. This study showed that natural events are still relevant in the cognitive universe of the Xavante and are considered in the people's decision-making processes. The eldest village members select the best location and time to start a fire. Their decision is based on the winds and the positions of the stars. The constellations that have a special meaning for the Xavante are rather similar to those acknowledged by Western culture. The results of the study support the conclusion that a dialogue between the traditional knowledge of the Xavante about fire management and the scientific fundamentals of fire ecology can contribute to a broader understanding of the management of fires in the cerrado.
Risk/Return Performance of Diversified Firms

Based on a sample of 80 firms, this paper examines the risk/return performance of related and unrelated diversified firms at the level of accounting data. The results suggest that although on the average related diversified firms outperform unrelated diversified firms, related diversification offers no guarantee of a favorable risk/return performance. (Many low performers are related diversifiers.) In fact, different diversification strategies can result in similar risk/return performance. However, a favorable risk/return performance is extremely hard to achieve with unrelated diversification. The study identifies diversified firms that have managed to simultaneously reduced risks and increase returns. The results indicate that these firms differ from other firms on some managerially useful dimensions. The differences suggest clues to guide other diversified firms to improve their risk/return performance.
Classroom Evaluation of an Elementary Educational Swine Curriculum: There's a Pig in My Classroom.

The purpose of this study was to test an educational swine curriculum geared toward fifth grade classrooms to measure the change in students’ knowledge about the pork industry, pork as a nutritious protein source, and the value of byproducts derived from pork production. Objectives of this study were to evaluate overall change in students’ knowledge of the pork industry and the effect of specific demographics on the change in students’ knowledge following participation in an educational swine curriculum. Effectiveness of the curriculum was measured by a pretest/post-test survey of fifth grade students (n = 435), with classrooms divided into treatment and control groups. Findings indicated that participating in the educational swine curriculum increased the students’ knowledge of the pork industry by 37.4%; demographics such as 4-H experience, farm experience, or prior experience with pigs had limited effect on knowledge gained.