Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Does Sector Diversification Benefit All Markets?—Analysis of Australian and Indian Markets

With the integration of global markets, the opportunities of benefiting from international diversification are diminishing and investors from developed countries are looking at the emerging markets to gain from lower correlations of emerging markets with those of the developed markets. In view of increasing correlations of emerging markets with developed markets and higher transaction costs, sector diversification within the domestic markets provides a good alternative to international diversification. Two markets, each at a different stage of development, are tested in this study, and benefits are found in allocating an investment portfolio across sectors in both markets. This study uses an asymmetric Dynamic Conditional Correlation (DCC) GARCH model for an accurate estimate of correlations and tests the benefits of diversification using two models of performance measurement. The robustness of the results is tested using different restrictions on portfolios. An out-of-sample analysis shows portfolios with fewer restrictions provide superior results as compared with highly restricted portfolios.
The combined influence of time pressure and time orientation on consumers’ multichannel choice: evidence from China

This article deals with the influence of time pressure and time orientation on consumers’ multichannel shopping behaviour. Previous studies have documented the role of time pressure on customers’ channel choice in developed countries, without examining the moderating effects of time orientation on the relationship between perceived time pressure and consumers’ attitudes towards online/offline channels. To fill this gap, this article aims to investigate the combined influences of time pressure and time orientation on consumers’ attitude towards both online and offline shopping. The results show that time pressure helps consumers form more favourable attitudes towards online shopping than towards offline shopping. Further, the effect of time pressure on consumers’ channel attitudes depends on one's time orientations. The implications for marketing channel strategies and market segmentation in Asian emerging markets are discussed.
Effect of spatial resolution on classification errors of pure and mixed pixels in remote sensing

It is observed in remote sensing that a finer spatial resolution does not necessarily improve the classification performance. These observations have been understood by using the conceptual explanation that "boundary effect" and "within-class variability" work against one another. Though easily understood, this conceptual explanation cannot be readily used for a quantitative investigation. The authors design a simulation scheme to evaluate systematically the impacts of various parameters on the classification accuracy. The authors employ a model for the class spectral covariance of pure pixels and a linear mixing model for the spectral responses of mixed pixels. Based on these models, the authors derive the statistical characteristics for mixed pixels and assess the corresponding classification errors. As the ratio of ground sampling distance to field size decreases, the classification error associated with pure pixels tends to increase, whereas the classification error associated with mixed pixels tends to decrease from the smaller area of mixed pixels. The simulation results show that the overall classification error first decreases with decreasing ratio of ground sampling distance to field width, reaches a minimum value, and then may increase with further decreasing ratio. The study on the classification error may help the development of classification schemes for high spatial resolution imagery.
Hard Disk Drive Seeking Acoustics Reduction By a New Two-Degree-of-Freedom Seeking Controller

Hard disk drives (HDD) have been widely used in video/audio devices; for such applications the acoustic level of HDD is a key performance index. This paper proposes a two-degree-of-freedom (TDOF) seeking controller for minimizing the seeking acoustics. An acoustics factor is included in the reference trajectory generation so that the acoustics level can be adjusted via seek design to make a compromise between the access time and the acoustics level. With the systematic design of seeking controller, the acoustics in HDDs will be greatly reduced without significant increase of the seeking time. The effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is verified by both simulation and experimental studies.
Transport Properties of the Human Cartilage Endplate in Relation to Its Composition and Calcification

Study Design The transport properties of solutes of different sizes and conformations were studied in cartilage endplates. Objectives The results were correlated with the composition of the cartilage matrix to determine if a relationship existed between this and the movement of molecules within it. Summary of Background Data Solute transport through the hyaline cartilage endplate is important not only for the physiologic and metabolic processes of that tissue, but also for those of the adjacent intervertebral disc. Movement of solutes depends on solute size, shape or charges, and the composition of the matrix itself. Changes in composition of the cartilage endplate, such as those that occur in degeneration or scoliosis, may affect transport. Methods Partition and diffusion coefficients of solutes ranging in molecular weight from 115 to 70,000 d have been measured on cores of cartilage endplate. Transport properties were assessed in relation to core composition. Results The shape and size of the solutes were found to affect their transport through cartilage matrix, with larger molecules being more highly excluded and diffusing more slowly. Long‐chain polymers were able to penetrate the matrix less readily than the more globular molecules. The more hydrated the matrix, the higher the degree of penetration and the more easily solutes could move, in contrast to the inverse relationship between the other components of the matrix and solute transport. With increased proteoglycan, collagen, or calcification in the tissue, there was greater restriction of solute movement. Conclusions The proteoglycans normally found in the endplate regulate movement of solutes into and out of the disc. It has been shown previously that removal of proteoglycans from the endplate accelerates the loss of proteoglycans from the nucleus. Hence, a major function of the cartilage endplate may be to prevent fragments of osmotically active proteoglycans from leaving the disc.
Customer‐supplier relationships in the UK trade of rice

Deals with some issues associated with relationship‐forming patterns within the UK trade of rice. In particular examines the importance of 16 variables, through a telephone survey, at three levels of the distribution chain, millers/ importers, manufacturers and retailers. The results indicate an overall uniformity in the importance of the variables between the channel intermediaries. In relative terms, finds soft/ personal variables to be perceived as less important than hard/product‐related variables. Furthermore, consistent with existing literature, identifies the following relationship‐forming groups of variables: interpersonal or intanintegrative criteria, relationship monitoring criteria, price criteria and product criteria.
The Influence of National Culture on the Capital Structure of SMEs

Variations in entrepreneurial attitudes towards risk and control imply a link between the capital structure of SMEs and national culture. We investigate this unexplored relationship, using two of Schwartz’s latest cultural dimensions (Hierarchy and Embeddedness) and a large panel data sample from seven countries, covering the period 2006 to 2008. Our results show that Hierarchy is negatively related to debt levels not only for the full sample, but also across the sub-samples of micro, small and medium firms. This suggests that managers who operate in cultures where wealth, social power, and authority are important cultural values use less debt. Embeddedness is also negatively related to debt levels of small and medium firms. This suggests that relatively-smaller companies in cultures which inter alia value family security and self-discipline tend to use less debt. Further testing shows that national culture can affect long-term, short-term debt, and the choice between the two differently. While the results for Hierarchy show a consistent, negative relationship between this dimension and both types of debt, the results for Embeddedness vary depending on the size of the firm and the duration of the debt source. Our findings contribute to prior literature by providing empirical evidence of national culture’s influence on the capital structure of SMEs through the manager’s behaviour towards risk and control.
Cattle distribution patterns and vegetation use in mountain riparian areas.

To quantify the effects of season of use on beef cattle distribution relative to the riparian area, 52 cow/calf pairs were used to evaluate 1) early summer grazing (mid-June to mid-July), and 2) late summer grazing (mid-August to mid-September) during the summers of 1998 and 1999. Within a block, cow/calf pairs used during early summer were also used during late summer grazing periods. Pastures were stocked to achieve 50% utilization of herbaceous vegetation after a 28-day grazing trial. Livestock location and ambient air temperature were recorded hourly during two, 4-day periods in each season of use. Locations were transcribed to a geographical information system for the study area. Ocular vegetation utilization estimates, forage quality, and fecal deposits within 1-m of the stream were recorded post-grazing. During early summer, cattle were further from the stream (P < 0.01) than late summer, averaging 161 and 99-m, respectively. Cows were observed closer (P < 0.01) to the stream when ambient air temperatures were higher. Fecal deposits within 1-m of the stream were similar (P = 0.13) following early and late summer grazing. Forage quality varied (P < 0.01) between seasons, with early summer forages having lower dry matter, greater crude protein, lower fiber, and greater in situ dry matter disappearance compared with late summer forages. Utilization of riparian vegetation was lower and use of upland vegetation greater during early summer than late summer (P < 0.05). In summary, season of use affected cattle distribution relative to the riparian area, with late summer pastures having more concentrated use of riparian vegetation. DOI:10.2458/azu_jrm_v56i4_parsons
Consumer Attitudes Toward Nudity in Advertising

Many societal changes have occurred since earlier studies on sex in advertising. This study investigated attitudes oftoday’s young consumers, 386 junior and senior marketing students, toward the use of nudity in advertising suntan lotion. Four test ads were developed featuring the product only, a model wearing a one-piece swimsuit, a topless model, and a nude model.Although some perceptions were negative, nudity resulted in a more attention-getting, interesting, appealing ad, and a more distinctive brand. The nude model was generally more favorably rated than the topless model. Those firms willing to risk the adverse effects of nudity in their advertising, should consider “going all the way” with nude models rather than merely “adding a little spice” with topless models.
Revisiting the Determinants of Dividend Payout Ratios in Ghana

Comprehensive digestion of the subject matter of dividend policy has been somewhat difficult notwithstanding the many studies done on the subject as stated by Black (1976) who wrote that ‘‘. the harder we look at the dividend picture, the more it seems like a puzzle, with pieces that just don’t fit together’’. The situation is not much different today, where Brealey and Myers (2003) list dividends as one of the ten important unresolved problems in finance. This paper re-examines the factors that determine dividend payout in Ghana. The sample for the study was drawn from 30 listed firms on the Ghana stock exchange from 2000 to 2009.The study used ordinary least squares panel regression model to estimate the determinants of dividend payout. The results show that, profitability, the square of profitability, board size, board independence, leverage, and audit type are important determinants of dividend payout in Ghana. The results of this study are also consistent with the signaling theory, agency theory and the tax-effect hypothesis.
Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptosporidium parvum Lack Detectable DNA Cytosine Methylation

ABSTRACT Epigenetic factors play a role in the expression of virulence traits in Apicomplexa. Apicomplexan genomes encode putative DNA cytosine methylation enzymes. To assess the presence of cytosine methylation of Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptosporidium parvum DNA, we used mass spectrometry analysis and confirmed that these organisms lack detectable methylcytosine in their DNA.
THE VALUATION OF INITIAL SHARE PRICE USING THE FREE CASH FLOW TO FIRM METHOD AND THE REAL OPTION METHOD IN INDONESIA STOCK EXCHANGE

The purposes of this study were to determine fair share value, to analyze the factors that influence undervalue and overvalue, and to determine the best valuation method. This study made valuation using real options method and free cash flow to firm method. The results of partial logistic regression on Free Cash Flow to Firm showed that tenor variable and equity variable had positive and significant effects, while dummy variable had a negative and significant effect. In the real option model, tenor variable and implied volatility variable had positive and significant effects, while sheets of share variable had a negative and significant effect
Streptococcal toxins: role in pathogenesis and disease

Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes), group B Streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae) and Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) are host‐adapted bacterial pathogens among the leading infectious causes of human morbidity and mortality. These microbes and related members of the genus Streptococcus produce an array of toxins that act against human cells or tissues, resulting in impaired immune responses and subversion of host physiological processes to benefit the invading microorganism. This toxin repertoire includes haemolysins, proteases, superantigens and other agents that ultimately enhance colonization and survival within the host and promote dissemination of the pathogen.
Interdependence and Its Consequences in Distributor-Supplier Relationships: A Distributor Perspective through Response Surface Approach

Despite its importance for marketing channels research, the effect of interdependence on channel outcome variables remains elusive because of the inconsistent manner in which it is operationalized and the analytical methods used to assess its impact. To address those gaps, the authors first review prior approaches and identify the sources of their limitations. Then, the authors use the response surface approach (RSA) and derive three managerial insights that can be garnered from its use. They apply RSA to industrial distributor-supplier relationships and contrast it with previous methods. The empirical study results suggest that distributors perceive differential effects of supplier dependence and distributor dependence on outcome variables. The authors elaborate on managerial and research implications of the RSA results.
DNA fingerprinting tags novel altered chromosomal regions and identifies the involvement of SOX5 in the progression of prostate cancer

Identification of genomic alterations associated with the progression of prostate cancer may facilitate the better understanding of the development of this highly variable disease. Matched normal, premalignant high‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia and invasive prostate carcinoma cells were procured by laser capture microdissection (LCM) from human radical prostatectomy specimens. From these cells, comparative DNA fingerprints were generated by a modified PCR‐based technique called scanning of microdissected archival lesion (SMAL)‐PCR. Recurrent polymorphic fingerprint fragments were used in tagging altered chromosomal regions. Altered regions were found at cytobands 1p31.3, 1q44, 2p23.1, 3p26.3, 3q22.3, 4q22.3, 4q35.2, 5q23.2, 8q22.3, 8q24.13, 9q21.3, 9q22.32, 10q11.21, 11p13, 12p12.1, 13q12.1, 16q12.2 and 18q21.31. Candidate genes in the surrounding area that may possibly harbor mutations that change normal prostatic cells to progress into their tumor stages were proposed. Of these fragments, a 420 bp alteration, absent in all 26 normal samples screened, was observed in 2 tumors. This fragment was cloned, sequenced and localized to chromosome 12p12.1. Within this region, candidate gene sex determining region Y‐box 5 (SOX5) was proposed. Further studies of SOX5 in cell lines, xenografts and human prostate specimens, at both the RNA and protein levels, found overexpression of the gene in tumors. This overexpression was then subsequently found by fluorescent in situ hybridization to be caused by amplification of the region. In conclusion, our results suggest LCM coupled with SMAL‐PCR DNA fingerprinting is a useful method for the screening and identification of chromosomal regions and genes associated with cancer development. Further, overexpression of SOX5 is associated with prostate tumor progression and early development of distant metastasis. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Effect of Nominal and Real Reporting Difference in Predicting Cash Flows of Companies in Tehran Stock Exchange

One main goal of an accounting system is providing on time, reliable and relevant information for the users of those information. Traditional basis of accounting for information provision is using historical values since these values are reliable and can be proved. When in developed countries, inflation caused asymmetry in economic structure, accounting and economic scholars tried to find new methods for dealing with these issues. Providing solutions in the frame of accounting standards such as FASB-33 in America and SSAP-16 in England, accountants mitigated created problems for accounting to some extent. This study aims to examine the effect of profit and loss from inflation in predicting cash flows of companies in Tehran Stock Exchange. In this regard, two hypotheses were formulated. Results show that unrecognized inflation profit has a positive correlation with future cash flows while it has no correlation with future cash flows.
Primary Cutaneous Large Cell Lymphomas Morphologic, Immunophenotypic, and Clinical Features of 20 Cases

The morphologic, immunophenotypic, and clinical characteristics of 20 cases of primary cutaneous large cell lymphoma were analyzed. Immunoperoxidase stains in paraffin sections indicated B-cell phenotype in 14 cases and T-cell phenotype in six cases. By the Kiel classification, the B-cell lymphomas were classified into the following categories: follicular centroblastic (three patients), centroblastic/centrocytic with a predominance of large centrocytes (two patients), centroblastic (seven patients), and immunoblastic (two patients). The T-cell lymphomas (six cases) were all categorized as pleomorphic medium and large cell type. Three of these had an angiocentric growth pattern. The lymphocyte activation marker CD30 was expressed in three of the 20 cases. Among these 20 patients, the clinical course was remarkably variable. The only clinical or pathologic feature with prognostic significance was multicentricity of the skin lesions. All five patients with multifocal or disseminated skin lesions died within 13 months of their initial presentation; the median survival was 7 months. Most of the patients with localized skin lesions had an indolent clinical course with a median survival of 107 months. These results suggest that multicentricity of the skin lesions and necrosis are closely linked and are important prognostic features in cutaneous large cell lymphoma.
Hedging with Derivatives and Value Creation: An Empirical Examination in the Insurance Industry

This paper aims to analyze the reasons why insurance companies make the decision to hedge their corporate risk through derivatives, and to identify the variables that determine hedging volume in the context of the agency theory and maximization of firm value. The empirical study is based on data provided by 28 Spanish life insurers. Apart from being a pioneering work in the Spanish insurance industry, this paper also includes several variables that have not been taken into account in previous studies. The results indicate that hedging decision and volume are positively related to the company’s size, leverage and interest rate exposure. We also find that the type of product is important in the hedging decision. Finally, companies that use derivatives have a great return on assets that suggest a relationship between hedging decision and value creation.
TB treatment outcomes following directly-observed treatment at an urban outpatient specialist TB facility in South Africa

The treatment of 450 consecutive new patients with pulmonary TB was evaluated to determine outcome following directly-observed treatment. In all, 176 (39.1%) patients were cured, 23 (5.1%) completed treatment, 80 (17.8%) defaulted treatment, 24 (5.3%) died, 54 (12.0%) were lost to follow-up and 93 (20.7%) were transferred out. Increasing age was significant for death. Males were more likely to default and those with negative pretreatment sputum smears and those who were unemployed were more likely to be lost to follow-up. The overall treatment success rate remains low. Our data suggests that greater emphasis is needed to improve TB treatment success.
Complaints-handling processes and organisational benefits: An ISO 10002-based investigation

Abstract Benchmarking data provided by 144 organisations across four industry sectors are consolidated and mined to generate insights into the relationship between complaints-handling processes, as defined in ISO 10002, the International Standard for Complaints Handling, and a number of marketing-related outcomes. Factor analysis of the 17 complaints-handling process variables yields five factors accounting for 62.6% of the overall variance. The most important factors are: visibility and accessibility of the complaints-handling policy and process; easy-to-use process for all complainants; and responsiveness of the complaints-handling process. Collectively these factors account for 24% of the variance in the desired marketing-related outcomes, most notably levels of customer advocacy and customer satisfaction. Although there have been a number of empirical investigations of International Standards, this is the first empirical study to investigate the influence of ISO 10002-conformant complaints-handling processes on marketing-related and broader outcomes. We conclude that complaints-handling processes that conform to ISO 10002 can yield significant marketing-related benefits, and we make recommendations for marketing practitioners.
Satisfaction with the Informational Value of Magazine and Television Advertising

Abstract This survey examines consumer satisfaction with the informational value of magazine and television advertising. Three significant conclusions are indicated by the data: (1) consumers are more satisfied with the informational value of magazine advertising than television advertising; (2) blacks are more satisfied with the informational value of both types of advertising than whites; and (3) middle-income are more satisfied with the informational value of both types of advertising than are low - and high-income.