Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The multilevel effect of marketing activities on sales, revenue and profitability in a micro-enterprise

Purpose – This study dynamically assessed the effectiveness of marketing activities in the generation of product sales, revenue, and profitability in a micro-enterprise, a context that lacks research in marketing. Design/methodology/approach – A longitudinal multilevel study was conducted using daily panel data for 5,800 products sold and monthly time series on the business level, involving 26 months of commercial and financial records for a micro-enterprise (a drugstore). Panel and time series regressions were performed. Findings – The research shows that (1) marketing activities, in particular price elasticity, quite accurately generate product sales, (2) the aggregated estimate of total marketing activities predicts monthly company revenue and profitability, and (3) in the investigated company, if marketing activities are intensified in the same proportion to increase costs in products and goods, they are not efficient in generating profit. Originality/value – This research supports investigations concerning micro-macro level analysis relationships with commercial and financial data in order to merge marketing decisions to finance.
INSTITUTO NACIONAL DE PESQUISAS DA AMAZÔNIA – INPA PROGRAMA DE PÓS-GRADUAÇÃO EM ECOLOGIA SISTEMÁTICA E BIOGEOGRAFIA DO COMPLEXO AUTOMOLUS INFUSCATUS (AVES:FURNARIIDAE): TESTANDO HIPÓTESES DE DIVERSIFICAÇÃO PARA O NEOTRÓPICO EDUARDO DE DEUS SCHULTZ Manaus-Amazonas Junho, 2016 EDUARDO DE DEUS

Sistematics and Biogeography of the Automolus infuscatus complex (Aves:Furnariidae): Testing diversification hypotheses to the Neotropic. Recent revisions of the avian neotropical genus Automolus and the Furnariidae family pointed to the paraphyly of A. infuscatus and revealed a species complex comprising A. infuscatus, A.ochrolaemus, A. paraensis, A. leucophthalmus, A. lammi and A. subulatus, the latter historically classified in the genus Hyloctistes. The detailed knowledge of the taxonomy, geographic distribution, phylogenetic relationship and divergence times of a taxon allows to explore its evolutionary history and test different scenarios of diversification. Different biogeographical hipotheses were proposed to explain the patterns of distribution found in the neotropical lowland forests biota, where the species of the complex inhabit. These hypotheses, generally, relate lineages diversification to the geological evolution of the landscape and cycles of forestry expansion and retraction associated with climatic variations. In this context, we inferred the phylogenetic relationships, divergence times and biogeography of the A. infuscatus complex seeking to unveil the cryptic diversity within the complex and reveal its evolutionary history. To do that we sequenced two mitochondrial (ND2 and cytb) and three nuclear markers (G3PDH, ACO, Fib7) comprising 302 individuals belonging to all species in the complex and most described subspecies. Our analysis support the paraphyly of A. infuscatus, indicating the existing of at least two distinct clades not closely related. The remaining species were all recovered as monophyletic. Notwithstanding, a well structured intraspecific diversity was found with 19 lineages suggesting a great cryptic diversity within the described species. A. subulatus was recovered within the complex, corroborating its positioning inside the genus. The patterns of distribution encountered match with known distribution patterns of neotropical lowland birds. In spite of the high congruence between distributions of different lineages, with several sister lineages currently separated by the same barriers, the temporal incongruence between divergences of lineages co-separated by the same barriers reveals a complex evolutionary history. While older events might be related with the emergence of barriers such as the Andes and major amazonian rivers, younger events suggest dispersal after the consolidation of those barriers. Our analysis suggest that the complex had its origin around 6 million years (Ma) and inhabited Western Amazonia in Late Miocene-Early Pliocene. Considering the riparian habit of species in its sister clade, the rise and early diversifications of the complex may be related to the establishment of terra firme forests as it changed form a floodplain to a fluvial system.
Can diagnostic problem-solving competences of car mechatronics be validly assessed using a paper-pencil test ?

In this study, an authentic paper-based key-feature test for electrotechnical diagnostic problem-solving competence was developed, administered to car mechatronic apprentices (N = 206) and validated using diagnostic problem-solving scores. It was hypothesized that the paper-based test scores represent the same construct as the problem-solving scores. The written test turned out to have a relatively high reliability (EAP/PV = .75). Additionally, it was found that the paper-based scores and problem-solving scores were highly correlated (r = .76) but represented empirically distinct dimensions. Presumably, the written test especially covered diagnostic knowledge and failed to cover other relevant subcomponents of diagnostic problem-solving competence. It is argued that this unexpected finding might be caused by construct underrepresentation and construct-irrelevant variance of the paper-based key-feature test.
The effects of intensive gait training with body weight support treadmill training on gait and balance in stroke disability patients: a randomized controlled trial

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of intensive gait training with body weight support treadmill training on gait and balance in stroke disability patients. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Methods: Twenty-six stroke patients (20 men and 6 women) participated in this study. All subjects were hospitalized patients. They were randomly divided into two groups: the experimental group (body weight supported treadmill training group, n=14) and control group (treadmill group, n=12). The mean ages were 52.07 years (experimental group) and 53.83 years (control group). Subjects in both groups received conventional training 10 times/wk. Subjects in the experimental group practiced body weight supported treadmill training for 30 minutes a day, 3 day/wk. Subjects in the control group practiced treadmill training for 30 minutes. The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and GAITRite were used to evaluate balance and gait parameters (step length, cadence and gait speed) before and after the intervention. Results: BBS scores in the experimental group showed significantly greater improvement (4.33±1.54), compared with the control group (p<0.05). Significantly greater improvement in the gait speed (24.13±4.53 cm/s), affected side step length (10.40±3.42 cm), sound side step length (11.97±3.29 cm), and cadence (23.88±5.52 step/min), compared with the control group (p<0.05). Conclusions: Intensive gait training with Body Weight Support Treadmill Training may improve gait and balance in subacute stroke.
Wage and Price Joint Dynamics at the Firm Level: An Empirical Analysis

This article provides evidence about the interrelationships between wages and prices at the microeconomic level. We rely on the right-to manage model to specify and estimate a multivariate model explaining the timing and magnitude of wage changes at the firm level. The modeling of price changes relies on a state-dependent model. The data we use is a quarterly panel of about 1800 firms from the French manufacturing industry, observed over the years 1998 to 2005. We find the occurrence of wage changes to be essentially time dependent, though weakly related to the state of the economy. However, the magnitude of wage changes strongly depends on macroeconomic variables, namely inflation and unemployment, and to a lesser extent on the evolution of the firm product price and on its productivity gains. Changes in the firm product price are mostly driven by the evolution of its costs and more specifically by that of its intermediate inputs. The wage cost, as well as the production and the industry level inflation, have a weaker influence.
Two Approaches to Measurability Concept and Quantum Theory

In the present paper, in terms of the measurability concept introduced in the previous works of the author, a quantum theory is studied. Within the framework of this concept, several examples are considered using the Schrodinger picture; analogs of Fourier transformations from the momentum representation to the coordinate one and vice versa are constructed. It is shown how to produce a measurable analog of the Heisenberg picture. At the end of this paper the obtained results are used to substantiate another (more general) definition of the measurability concept that is not based on the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle and its generalization, as it has been in the previous works of the author, and may be equally suitable for both non-relativistic and relativistic cases.
Distributed Leadership as a Factor in and Outcome of Teacher Action Learning, 12(4)

This paper reports an evaluation of Quality Teaching Action Learning (QTAL) projects conducted at New South Wales (NSW), Australia public (state) primary and secondary schools and explores how distributed leadership facilitated and was an outcome of the QTAL projects. The evaluation encompassed all 50 projects at 82 NSW public schools, and nine of these schools were selected and visited for case study by members of the evaluation team. Data were provided through individual project progress reports, journals, interviews and case studies. Schools used funding provided under the Australian Government Quality Teaching Program to release teams of teachers to undertake approved Quality Teaching Action Learning Projects using the NSW model of pedagogy as a framework. Projects were broadly successful in achieving their aims and distributed leadership and teacher learning were important factors in project planning, implementation, and success. Projects resulted in enhanced distributed leadership and leadership capacity in the schools and provided a foundation for further professional learning and change. Conditions facilitating and hindering action learning, distributed leadership, and educational change are highlighted.
Processing and Mechanical Properties of Fine Grained Magnesium by Equal Channel Angular Pressing

In this paper, grain refinement of pure magnesium using severe plastic deformation was investigated in order to enhance mechanical properties of the hard-to-deform metallic material. The microstructure and the mechanical properties of Mg processed by equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) at various processing temperatures were examined experimentally. ECAP of channel angle of 90 � and corner angle of 0 � was successful without fracture of the magnesium workpiece at 300 � C, but not under 200 � C. The hardness of the ECAP processed magnesium decreased with increasing ECAP processing temperature. The effect of temperature on the hardness, instrumented indenting response and microstructure of the ECAP processed magnesium were discussed. Fracture behavior during ECAP under different processing temperatures was demonstrated using the finite element method associated with ductile fracture model. [doi:10.2320/matertrans.MC200725]
Fraud and Forensic Accounting Education: Prospects and Challenges in Nigeria

This study first investigates the availability of fraud and forensic accounting (FFA) education in Nigeria. The paper then analyses the perceptions of academics and practitioners on the demand for, relevance and integration of, FFA in Nigeria. The data obtained through a questionnaire survey was analysed using descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis (K-W) and Chi-Square tests. The results (i) indicate an increasing market demand for fraud examiners and forensic accountants; and (ii) suggest that FFA be given adequate coverage in the accounting curriculum in response to market demand. On the benefits of FFA education and training, there is virtual unanimity that it will: (i) widen the employment horizon and opportunities for graduates; (ii) help to combat fraud, corruption and financial crimes, (iii) strengthen the credibility of financial reporting, and (iv) help to rebuild investors’ confidence and trust in financial reports. The findings also support integration at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The policy implication draws attention to regulatory importance and expediency of integrating FFA education into the accounting curriculum. This calls for regulatory initiative in developing the Benchmark Minimum Academic Standards (BMAS) for FFA programmes at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
’Social structures and income distribution in colonial sub-Saharan Africa: The case of Bechuanaland Protectorate, 1921-1974

In this paper we estimate the level and inequality of income for Bechuanaland Protectorate by constructing four social tables between 1936 to 1964 using colonial archives and anthropological records. We present a working hypothesis that there is need to further analyze Botswana’s colonial era if we are to understand several aspects of contemporary economic structures. Our focus is on identifying the roots of post-independence high levels of inequality. We find that first of all that migrant labour to neighbouring South Africa earned well relative to domestic labour in the Protectorate, both in the formal and traditional sectors. Remittances their families back home and became an important strategy for the poorer segments of society to stay at or above subsistence. Second, the creation of a beef export sector in the 1930s brought with it new opportunities to access export incomes and starting in the 1940s this led to increasing income inequalities and a polarization in cattle holdings. Third, wages for government officials were forging ahead creating an increasing income divide between public and private formal employment. In conclusion we infer that Botswana’s contemporary institutional inequality has far reaching historical roots.
Weight changes and dietary habits among breast feeding mothers

Women are often advised that lactation accelerates loss of the excess weight gained during pregnancy, but the evidence underlying this advice is sparse and conflicting. The aim of this study is to show the relation of full breast feeding with mothers' weight change, and to assess traditional practices in Iraqi population during breast feeding period. Longitudinal study was conducted in Babylon governorate, Iraq, during the period of 1 September, 2013 to 30 February, 2014. The collected baseline data at the time of requirement was 6 weeks and 6 months after delivery. The study sample was divided into two groups: full breast feeding (FBF) and mixed feeding group (MF). The sample was convenient, while the questionnaires include socio-demographic factors, parity, gender of baby, type of delivery, history of previous infertility, birth space, pre-pregnancy body weight, and her weight at 6 months after delivery. The questionnaires also include dietary habit during full breast feeding that includes: use of herb remedies, favorite and food they avoided. Weight (kg) and Height (cm) were measured. 175 mothers participated in the study, and they were divided into 2 groups: FBF group and MF. Full breast feeding group were younger than mixed or non- full breast feeding group. 66% of FBF had history of normal vaginal delivery with significant difference between them regarding type of delivery, and 80% of FBF group had no history of infertility compare to 63% in MF group who had history of infertility with significant difference regarding history of infertility and birth interval between 2 groups. There was no significant difference regarding pre- pregnancy body mass index between the groups and the weight change from 6 weeks to 6 months. 39.3% of FBF group reported the use of herb remedies during breast feeding fully. The most common food item avoided during full breast feeding was onion and Dates was the most favorite food. This result provide further evidence that full breast feeding promotes greater weight loss than mixed feeding among mothers even in the early months after delivery. Key words: Weight loss, dietary habits, breast feeding.
The Technological Dimension of knowledge Management: which effect on the Competitiveness of the Tunisian Companies? Case of the Services Sector

This article explores the approach of knowledge Management through information and communication technologies (ICT) which has revolutionized the business relations, the reporting methods and the flexibility concepts. It is a determinant approach in the quest ofcompetitiveness. It seeks to answer the following question: how much can the technological factor influence knowledge managementpractice, which is considered a source of competitiveness. In order to answer the previous question, we have conducted a quantitative research based on the investigation technique containing a questionnaire developed and conducted with a sample of TunisianCompanies belonging to the services sector. The results testify a relation of direct dependence between knowledge management and innovation, as being the crux of competitiveness. Moreover, the research analysis shows that competitiveness is a multi-dimensional result and that knowledge management is a mediator variable playing an indirect role in reinforcing the direct relationship existing between the technological dimension and the company competitiveness. The practical contribution is summarized in a presentation to thecompanies ’ executives in charge of the technical solution service in order to ensure a better capitalization, sharing, new knowledgecreation and a better understanding of the success conditions of the approach consisting in the adaptation to their external environment.
Syllabic composition and use frequency: how do they affect stress assignment? A comparison between slow readers and fluent readers

Italian words can be stressed either on penultimate or antepenultimate syl lables. In both cases, stress assignment is not predictable by rules, but re quires a lexical check. Italian words with stress on the penultimate syllable are defined as regular because the proportion of these words is much lar ger than words with stress on the antepenultimate syllable, defined as ir regular. We propose to investigate the influence (in terms of correct stress positioning) of different syllabic and stress structures during “decoding” by both slow readers and fluent readers. Forty-eight children, twenty-four slow and twenty-four fluent readers, decoded “target words” selected on the basis of frequency (high/low frequency) and different syllabic and stress structures: This included both irregular stress (on the third-last syllable) and structures of the open second-last syllables (ending with a vowel); Also regular stress (on the second-last syllable) and an open second-last syllable structure, including regular stress falling on a second-last syllable closed structure (ending with “A” consonant). Subjects’ performances re sulted worse in the case of open second-last syllables with irregular and regular stress. Instead, closed, second-last syllable stress created impro bable errors. In particular, slow readers are influenced by stress and syl labic structure also in the case of high frequency use lists of words, contrary to the results from fluent readers.
The Influence of Reward on Turnover Intention with the Organizational Commitment as an Intervening Variable (A Study on Group I and II Employee at Djatiroto Sugar Factory)

Turnover Intention is an early signal of potential employee turnover within the company. Attempts to detect a turnover intention is important to do because qualified human resources need to be maintained for the sake of the company’s progress. This study aims to determine the condition of reward variables, organizational commitment, and Turnover Intention, as well as the influence of reward variables and commitment to Turnover Intention on the employees of Djatioroto Sugar Factory in Lumajang. By using proportional random sampling method, respondents in this study were 217 people from 472 employees of Group I and II Djatioroto Sugar Factory, Lumajang. Using path analysis, the results showed that there was a significant direct effect of rewards on turnover intention, rewards to organizational commitment, and organizational commitment to turnover intention. In addition, there is an indirect influence of rewards on turnover intention, with organizational commitment as an intervening variable. Keywords: Reward, Organizational Commitment, Turnover Intention.
Initial studies into the characterisation of ripening stages of Emmental cheeses by mid-infrared spectroscopy

Experimental Emmental cheeses were analysed to evaluate the potential of mid-infrared spectroscopy to follow the ripening process. Cheeses were sampled at seven different ripening stages and were analysed. The infrared spectra were obtained by placing the cheese slices directly over the attenuated total reflectance crystal. Analysis of variance showed significant (P ≤ 0.05) absorbance changes between spectral sets in the regions assigned to vibrations of alcohol, amide and hydrocarbon chains. Principal component analysis (PCA) made it possible to describe four groups including samples ripened during 21, 27 and 34 days (G1), 51 and 58 days (G2), 65 days (G3) and the samples at the end of the ripening (mould opening, about 85 days) (G4). Using general discriminant analysis of spectral data, it is not possible to correctly distinguish samples according to seven dates of sampling, but samples belonging to the four groups identified by PCA are predicted well by the regression model.Abstract7 (ANOVA) (PCA) G1 21 27 34 G2 51 58 G3 65 G4 85 (GDA) 7RésuméDes fromages expérimentaux de type Emmental ont été analysés pour évaluer le potentiel de la spectroscopie moyen infrarouge pour caractériser l’affinage. Des échantillons de fromage ont été prélevés à sept stades différents d’affinage et analysés directement. Les spectres infrarouges ont été obtenus en plaçant les tranches de fromage sur un cristal de réflexion totale atténuée (ATR). L’analyse de variance a montré des changements d’absorbance significatifs (P ≤ 0.05) dans les régions spectrales assignées aux vibrations des fonctions alcools, amides et des chaînes carbonées. L’analyse en composantes principales permettait de décrire quatre groupes incluant les échantillons affinés pendant 21, 27 et 34 jours (G1), 51 et 58 jours (G2), 65 jours (G3) et en fin d’affinage (MO, ouverture des meules, environ 85 jours). Par analyse discriminante des données spectrales, il n’était pas possible de classer correctement les échantillons selon les sept dates de prélèvements. Cependant, les échantillons appartenant aux quatre groupes identifiés par ACP ont bien été prédits par le modèle de régression.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND EXTERNAL FINANCE : AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF THE BANKING AND FINANCIAL SECTOR OF THE KARACHI STOCK EXCHANGE

This research explains the relationship between corporate governance and external finance. It uses a set of independent variables mainly related to disclosure and transparency to check the corporate governance level of the firm and its effect on external finance. The analysis of data of 30 companies listed on the KSE is done for a time period spanning over 5 years from 2007 to 2011. The empirical findings of the study depict a positive relationship between good corporate governance practices and external financing thus validating the notion that the companies tend to follow better governance practices when they need to generate funds externally. The study uses size as a control variable and finds out that larger firms are more prone to be following a good standard of corporate governance as they have to access more external finance.