Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The influence of marketing capabilities on economic international performance

Purpose – The paper's objective is to demonstrate that marketing capabilities have positive effects on firms' international performance. These effects may be both direct and indirect. Marketing capabilities foster international commitment and influence the choice of international entry mode. Through these, marketing capabilities exercise an indirect influence on international performance.Design/methodology/approach – First, based on arguments from the dynamic capabilities perspective, the dynamic theory of strategy and the transaction‐cost theory, the effects of marketing capabilities on international performance are discussed. A survey was carried out on Spanish and Belgian international firms to test the model. SEM was used to analyse the relationships established in the hypotheses.Findings – The results show coincidences between the samples in relation to the positive influences of companies' marketing capabilities on economic international performance, international commitment and international entry .
The Collateral Costs of Clearing

In this working paper, we study the three generic clearing arrangements in the presence of two-sided limited commitment: simple bilateral clearing, segregated collateral clearing through a third party, and - most sophisticated of all - central counterparty (CCP) clearing. Clearing secures the settlement of obligations from over-the-counter (OTC) forward contracts that smooth the income of risk-averse agents. Clearing requires collateral to guarantee settlement; this is costly, as it reduces income from investment. While welfare is greater under more sophisticated clearing arrangements, we find that these are also more demanding in terms of collateral.
Murine hemopoietic colonies in culture containing normoblasts, macrophages, and megakaryocytes

Murine marrow cells, when incubated in methylcellulose culture in the presence of erythropoietin and conditioned medium for two weeks, produced large macroscopic bursts containing normoblasts, macrophages, and often megakaryocytes. The clonal nature of these mixed colonies was supported by linearity studies and analyses of the percentages of constituent cells in different plating conditions. Time course observations and studies of the effects of L‐cell‐conditioned medium revealed that colony‐forming cells for the mixed colonies (CFU‐mix) are at earlier stages of hemopoietic development than burst‐forming units (BFU‐E). The mean of the modal sedimentation velocities of CFU‐mix was 3.4 mm/hr and was in close agreement with that reported for the spleen colony‐forming units. Almost none of the CFU‐mix was in a DNA synthetic phase as measured by short‐term exposure to tritiated thymidine. These results strongly indicate that CFU‐mix represent a population of pluripotent hemopoietic stem cells in murine marrow.
The Determinants of Email Receivers' Disseminating Behaviors on the Internet

ABSTRACT To investigate the determinants of the effects of a viral campaign, we employ the classical framework of a persuasive communication model, designated as “Who says what to whom in which channel and with what effect? ” We also consider theories of consumer value, personality, word-of-mouth communication, and source credibility. On the basis of an experiment conducted in Taiwan, we find four main results. First, message recipients who receive emails from close interpersonal sources are more willing to forward them than messages from unfamiliar interpersonal or commercial sources. Second, those who receive more utilitarian or more hedonic messages are more willing to forward them. Third, those who score high on extraversion and openness and low on conscientiousness traits are more willing to forward a marketing message to others. Fourth, those who access the internet via a broadband connection are more willing to forward the message than are those who use dial-up modems.
Phospholipid structured microemulsion as effective carrier system with potential in methicillin sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) involved burn wound infection

Abstract Burn wounds are foremost site for bacterial colonization and multiplication. Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most predominant pathogen found in burn wounds. Fusidic acid (FA) is widely employed in the treatment of complicated skin infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness and efficacy of topical FA (2% w/w) loaded biocompatible microemulsion-based-system (FA-ME) in eradicating MSSA bacterial infections which otherwise was less effective when dealt with conventional formulations. For construction of pseudoternary phase diagram, ratio of oil (IPM):water:Smix is 20:30:50% w/w and proportion of Smix (Phospholipid:Tween 80 (T80):Ethanol) is in the ratio of 1:2:1, respectively. The hypothesis relates here to the role of phospholipids as part of the nano-scale structure of microemulsion systems to overcome the hurdles of drug delivery. The prepared FA-ME system was evaluated for its therapeutic efficacy and carrier-specific characteristics such as globule size, % transmittance, transmission electron microscopy, drug content and stability. Selected microemulsion system was incorporated into gel form and evaluated for texture analysis, drug permeation in 24 h and treatment of burn wounds. Burn wound infection was established with MSSA ATCC 25923 in BALB/c mice and the process of wound healing as well as bacterial loading in the wound was estimated. The developed nanosized FA-ME system demonstrated improved wound healing, better spreadability and enhanced therapeutic efficacy due to the changes in the behavior of the drug molecules by way of carrier-characteristics.
Effectiveness of Process Improvement Patterns 3 2 Sample Case : Applications Management Process

Improving the operational efficiency of processes is an important goal of business process management (BPM). There exist many proposals with regard to process improvement patterns (PIPs) as practices that aim at supporting this task. Nevertheless, there is still a gap with respect to validating PIPs in terms of their actual business value for a specific organization. Based on empirical research and experience from consulting projects, this paper proposes a method to tackle this challenge. Our approach towards a-priori validation of process improvement patterns considers real-world constraints such as the role of senior stakeholders and opportunities such as process mining techniques. In the sense of an experience report, our approach as well as results are illustrated on the basis of a real-world business process from human resources management, covering a transactional volume of about 29,000 process instances over the period of one year. Overall, our proposal enables practitioners and researchers to subject PIPs to a sound validation procedure before taking any process implementation decision.
IFRS Adoption in Europe and Audit Market Concentration

The switch to IFRS in Europe opens the opportunities to investigate the relationship between a drastic change in the complexity of financial reporting standards and the audit market dynamics. Following concerns that mandated IFRS may have increased the domination of the global audit firms, we investigate the relationship between audit market concentration and IFRS adoption in the European setting. Our evidence suggests that IFRS adoption is associated with an increase in auditor industry concentration on a cross-border perspective. This is consistent with the view that global audit networks reacted to an increase in accounting/audit complexity by seeking more industry expertise, and that this change in market dynamics is beyond legal jurisdictions. However, we do not find any positive relationship between IFRS adoption and auditor concentration or dominance at the country level. Overall, we conclude that the audit market competition does not seem to be affected by this major change in financial reporting standards.
Guided tissue regeneration in human gingival recessions. A 10-year follow-up study.

OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to evaluate the changes of the mucogingival complex of guided tissue regeneration (GTR)-treated gingival recession defects over a 10-year follow-up. METHODS The study population consisted of 20 patients, 11 males and nine females, mean age: 44.3+/-10.4 years, each contributing one recession defect treated with a polytetrafluoroethylene membrane. Eight patients were smokers at the time of surgery and at 10 years post-surgery. Recession depth (RD), probing depth clinical attachment level (CAL), and width of keratinized gingiva (KG) were assessed immediately before surgery, at 6 months, 4 years and 10 years post-surgery. RESULTS RD was 0.9+/-0.6 mm at 6 months, 1.0+/-1.3 mm at 4 years and 1.3+/-1.6 mm at 10 years. CAL amounted to 1.9+/-1.0 mm at 6 months and shifted to 2.2+/-1.4 and 2.6+/-1.6 mm at 4 years and 10 years, respectively. KG significantly increased following surgery and remained stable thereafter. At 10-year examination, no significant changes from 4-year evaluation were observed. Differences in periodontal parameters between smokers and non-smokers were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the results of the present study failed to demonstrate changes over time in the clinical outcome achieved following GTR procedure in gingival recession defects over a period between 4 and 10 years post-surgery.
Retinoblastoma Protein Enhances the Fidelity of Chromosome Segregation Mediated by hsHec1p

ABSTRACT Retinoblastoma protein (Rb) plays important roles in cell cycle progression and cellular differentiation. It may also participate in M phase events, although heretofore only circumstantial evidence has suggested such involvement. Here we show that Rb interacts, through an IxCxE motif and specifically during G2/M phase, with hsHec1p, a protein essential for proper chromosome segregation. The interaction between Rb and hsHec1p was reconstituted in a yeast strain in which human hsHEC1 rescues the null mutation of scHEC1. Expression of Rb reduced chromosome segregation errors fivefold in yeast cells sustained by a temperature-sensitive (ts) hshec1-113 allele and enhanced the ability of wild-type hsHec1p to suppress lethality caused by a ts smc1mutation. The interaction between Hec1p and Smc1p was important for the specific DNA-binding activity of Smc1p. Expression of Rb restored part of the inactivated function of hshec1-113p and thereby increased the DNA-binding activity of Smc1p. Rb thus increased the fidelity of chromosome segregation mediated by hsHec1p in a heterologous yeast system.
High-Content Analysis to Leverage a Robust Phenotypic Profiling Approach to Vascular Modulation

Phenotypic screening seeks to identify substances that modulate phenotypes in a desired manner with the aim of progressing first-in-class agents. Successful campaigns require physiological relevance, robust screening, and an ability to deconvolute perturbed pathways. High-content analysis (HCA) is increasingly used in cell biology and offers one approach to prosecution of phenotypic screens, but challenges exist in exploitation where data generated are high volume and complex. We combine development of an organotypic model with novel HCA tools to map phenotypic responses to pharmacological perturbations. We describe implementation for angiogenesis, a process that has long been a focus for therapeutic intervention but has lacked robust models that recapitulate more completely mechanisms involved. The study used human primary endothelial cells in co-culture with stromal fibroblasts to model multiple aspects of angiogenic signaling: cell interactions, proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Multiple quantitative descriptors were derived from automated microscopy using custom-designed algorithms. Data were extracted using a bespoke informatics platform that integrates processing, statistics, and feature display into a streamlined workflow for building and interrogating fingerprints. Ninety compounds were characterized, defining mode of action by phenotype. Our approach for assessing phenotypic outcomes in complex assay models is robust and capable of supporting a range of phenotypic screens at scale.
A 0.5 V 200 MHz 1-stage 32 b ALU using a body bias controlled SOI pass-gate logic

SOI CMOS with gate-body connection (DTMOS) and body bias controlled SOI pass-gate logic (BCSOI pass-gate) take advantage of individually isolated SOI device active area and reduce threshold voltage by controlling each device body bias. Hence, they enjoy higher speed than circuits based on fixed low threshold voltage. The direct body bias control used in previous work suffers from leakage current at supply voltage higher than 0.8V due to drain-body junction leakage. A practical circuit technology that offers the highest speed, lowest operation voltage and stable operation under wide supply voltage demonstrates performance with an ALU macro using this technology.
The Etiological Spectrum of Obstructive Jaundice & Role of Ercp In Thi-Qar Governorate

Obstructive jaundice (o.j) is common surgical problem that occurs when there is an obstruction to the passage of conjugated bilirubin from liver cells to intestine & one of challenging conditions managed by general surgeons and contribute significantly to high morbidity and mortality. This study was carried out in Al-Hussein teaching hospital ,Al-Nissyiria city through 2 years period from December 2010 to November 2012 on 215 patients to assess the incidence of obstructive jaundice , its prevalence according to the causes, ,age, sex, places of patients, the curative rate of ercp management & its complication in our city,104 (48.3%) were males and 111(51.6%) were females, the age ranged from 23 to 80 years, 132 cases (61.3%) from Thiqar while 83 patients (38.6%) from other governorates. CBD stone or stones were the most common cause [163 patients (75.8%)] , 131 patients (80.3%) of them respond to ERCP treatment .
Identification of Streptococcus sobrinus with monoclonal antibodies

Identification of Streptococcus sobrinus is often difficult to perform because of the great resemblance of the organism to other oral streptococcal species. Therefore, monoclonal antibodies were prepared which were shown to be highly specific for S. sobrinus. Cross-reactivity with other oral microorganisms has not been observed in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and an immunofluorescence assay. These monoclonal antibodies belonged to the subclass immunoglobulin G2b. To be certain that the strains used in cross-reactivity tests were S. sobrinus, their DNA base composition was measured as a golden standard. Additional tests like colony morphology and sugar fermentation with the API 20 Strep system (Analytab Products, Montalieu-Vercieu, France) were performed. These additional tests turned out to be necessary because 100% correct identification could not be obtained by separate tests. Immunological characterization with the clones OMVU10 and OMVU11 proved to be discriminative between S. sobrinus and other streptococcal species.
Dentofacial changes from fan-type rapid maxillary expansion vs traditional rapid maxillary expansion in early mixed dentition.

OBJECTIVE To test the null hypothesis that there is no difference between the effects of fan-type rapid (FRME) and rapid maxillary expansion (RME) used with an acrylic bonded expansion appliance on dentofacial structures in early occlusal stages. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a prospective clinical trial. The FRME group had an anterior constricted maxillary width with a normal intermolar width, and the RME group had bilateral constricted maxillary width. The FRME group consisted of 20 patients (mean age, 8.96 ± 1.19 years), and the RME group consisted of 22 patients (mean age, 8.69 ± 0.66 years). Lateral and frontal cephalometric radiographs and dental casts were taken before and after expansion and 3 months after completing treatment for each patient. The data were compared using repeated-measures analysis of variance. The paired-samples t-test was used to evaluate treatment and retention effects, and the independent samples t-test was used to consider the differences between the two groups. RESULTS The maxilla moved downward and forward in both groups. The nasal cavity and maxillary width were expanded more in the RME group, and there were only a few relapses in this group during the retention period. There was significant labial tipping of the upper incisors in the FRME expansion group. The expansion of intercanine width was similar in both groups, but the expansion of intermolar width was significantly greater in the RME group. CONCLUSION The null hypothesis was rejected. There was a difference between the effects of FRME and RME used with an acrylic bonded expansion appliance on dentofacial structures in the early occlusal stages.
Interstitial Fluid Pressure: II. Pressure‐Volume Curves of Interstitial Space

Pressure-volume curves of the interstitial fluid spaces were estimated using four different methods. Interstitial fluid pressure was measured from implanted perforated capsules while interstitial fluid volume was varied (a) by perfusing the isolated hind limb of the dog with several types of fluid and at different perfusion pressures, (b) by elevating the venous pressure so that fluid would transude into the interstitial compartment, (c) by infusing large quantities of Tyrode's solution into the whole animal, and (d) by intravenous infusion of concentrated dextran solution. In all these studies, the compliance of the interstitial fluid system was found to be very low when the interstitial fluid pressure was negative but very high when the pressure rose slightly above atmospheric pressure. A physical model of the interstitial spaces was also constructed. Pressure-volume curves recorded from this model demonstrated a pattern of compliance changes similar to that shown by the interstitial pressure-volume curves recorded from dogs. These experiments give further support to the concept that the interstitial fluid pressure is normally negative but becomes positive as edema fluid accumulates.
To charge or not to charge customs excise duty on digitized products: An assessmentof the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) potential revenue losses through duty exemption on digitized goods.

Governments the world over depend on taxes and customs duties as their major source of revenue. This has created a great debate on the issue of digitization and duty collection.This paper concentrates on gathering ZIMRA officials’ perceptions on the impact of e-commerce developments on customs revenue in respect of that special category of goods that has the capacity to be traded in the tangible and digital forms. Most researchers on e-commerce tend to concentrate on how technology developments have come in handy in speeding up business transactions. Little research considers the losses suffered by countries,especially in the third world through customs duties exemptions on digitizable goods.This research investigates Zimbabwe Revenue Authorities(ZIMRA) officials’ perceptions of potential revenue losses endured through exemptions of customs duties on digitized goods. It also establishes the current treatment of digitized goods by ZIMRA. The study explored perceptions of people actually involved in revenue collection thus providing empirical evidence to support or refute some notions in the theoretical debates raging on digitized goods in terms of their classification and their potential to generate customs revenue.The study was an exploratory survey that drew evidence from interviews with ZIMRA officials in the customs department, document analysis and hand delivered questionnaires. Results show that digitized goods are not charged customs duties. This appeared to be a result of two main reasons(1) the will to comply with the WTO Moratorium that forbids charging of customs duties on e-transactions in its bid to support the development of e-commerce and (2) the lack of capacity by ZIMRA to detect and levy customs duties on e-transactions. The study also revealed that there were strong feelings that losses through customs duties exemptions on digitized goods were significant. The study has triggered debate within ZIMRA ranks on whether or not to charge customs duties on digitized goods. ZIMRA management is challenged to investigate further ways I which to achieve the two competing goals of complying with the moratorium and at the same time maximizing on revenue collection.The recommendation would be to make decisions on which classes of goods to keep on the exemption and which ones to levy customs duties on in order to maximize revenue collection.
Exploring consumer evaluations of e‐services: a portal site

The commercial importance of e‐services, accessed via Internet or mobile phone, grows steadily. There is a clear need to develop a better understanding of how consumers evaluate these services and develop e‐loyalty. An empirical study of an Internet portal was tied in with extant theories about service quality, customer satisfaction and loyalty. Data were collected by means of an on‐line survey. The effect of customer satisfaction with three service components on value perception and overall satisfaction was measured. Customers’ overall satisfaction was influenced by their satisfaction with the core service, supplementary services and the user interface. A strong positive effect of overall satisfaction on the intention to continue using the portal was found. Noteworthy was the predominant effect of satisfaction with supplementary services on value perception. No significant direct effects were found of satisfaction with the user interface on value perception. Some implications as well as future research directions are provided.
Strategic Alliance Success Factors

SUMMARY There is recognition that competition is shifting from a “firm versus firm perspective” to a “supply chain versus supply chain perspective. ” In response to this shift, firms seeking competitive advantage are participating in cooperative supply chain arrangements, such as strategic alliances, which combine their individual strengths and unique resources. Buyer-supplier sourcing relationships are a primary focus of alliance improvement efforts. While interest in such arrangements remains strong, it is well accepted that creating, developing, and maintaining a successful alliance is a very daunting task. This research addresses several critical issues regarding that challenge. First, what factors contribute most to long-term alliance success? Second, what conditions define the presence of those success factors? Third, do buyers and suppliers in an alliance agree on those success factors and defining conditions? The research results demonstrate a remarkably consistent perspective among alliance partners regarding key success factors, despite the acknowledgment that the resultant success is based on a relatively even, but not equal, exchange of benefits and resources. Additionally, within an alliance's intended “win-win” foundation, suppliers must recognize their innate dependence on customers. Finally, significant opportunities for improvement exist with respect to alliance goal clarification, communication, and performance evaluation.