Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Informal Learning to Improve Job Satisfaction: Perspective of SMEs Managers in Lithuania

Purpose – The paper aims to analyze the relationship between managers’ informal learning and their job satisfaction in Lithuanian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Design/methodology/approach – The methodology of the survey has been developed in respect to the ideas on informal learning and job satisfaction. The questionnaire on informal learning factors was developed by the author. Also, the adapted Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire was used. A representative sample of 173 SMEs managers in Lithuania was surveyed.Findings – The paper reveals the relationship between managers’ informal learning and their job satisfaction in Lithuanian SMEs. Informal learning factors not only correlate with but also have an impact on job satisfaction. The survey findings correspond to similar surveys carried out in other countries.Research limitations/implications – The research could be replicated in large organizations as well as in other countries to confirm or deny the relations established in this survey.Practical implications – Understanding and managing informal learning factors can help improve job satisfaction in Lithuanian SMEs.Originality/value – The clarified concept of informal learning is presented. Also, the systematized set of informal learning factors is introduced and tested empirically.
Optimal Execution Comparison Across Risks and Dynamics, with Solutions for Displaced Diffusions

We solve a version of the optimal trade execution problem when the mid asset price follows a displaced diffusion. Optimal strategies in the adapted class under various risk criteria, namely value-at-risk, expected shortfall and a new criterion called "squared asset expectation" (SAE), related to a version of the cost variance measure, are derived and compared. It is well known that displaced diffusions (DD) exhibit dynamics which are in-between arithmetic Brownian motions (ABM) and geometric Brownian motions (GBM) depending of the choice of the shift parameter. Furthermore, DD allows for changes in the support of the mid asset price distribution, allowing one to include a minimum permitted value for the mid price, either positive or negative. We study the dependence of the optimal solution on the choice of the risk aversion criterion. Optimal solutions across criteria and asset dynamics are comparable although differences are not negligible for high levels of risk aversion and low market impact assets. This is illustrated with numerical examples.
A case study in estimating the area of informal trail development and associated impacts caused by mountain bike activity in John Forrest National Park, Western Australia

Mountain biking has increased rapidly as a recreational activity and constitutes an additional pressure on trail networks in protected areas. Furthermore, in part to a lack of dedicated mountain bike trails in natural areas, physical degradation to the environment has occurred as a result of informal trail development, non-approved modification of existing trail systems, erosion and disturbance to native vegetation. Although previous studies have tried to quantify the impacts of mountain bikes in natural areas, using general trail assessment methods to assess the physical degradation of trails, many impacts of mountain biking have not been included sufficiently in the research on trails. Because of rising demand for access to trail networks, managers require a tool by which they can quantify impacts specific to mountain biking in natural areas in order to protect these environments through targeted management. A rapid assessment tool, using global positioning system and geographic information system, was developed to quantify the effects of mountain biking in natural areas. The technique was tested in John Forrest National Park, a popular place for recreational mountain biking in the peri-urban area of Perth, Western Australia, where mountain bikes creating informal trails and modifications to existing trail systems is acknowledged as a problem by Park management. This assessment tool can effectively quantify the actual area impacted by the creation of mountain bike-specific informal trails and trail modifications. It also provides management with informative and interpretive maps of the impacted area.
The Impact of Human Resource Management Practices on Organizational Commitment in the Banking Sector in Kuwait

In this paper, we investigated the impact of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices on the affective,continuance, and normative organizational commitment among employees in the banking sector in Kuwait. Thestudywas conducted across permanent, full-time, and part-time employees (managers and non-managers) of fivelarge private banks in Kuwait. Both Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and hierarchical regression analyseswere used to draw the relationship between these variables. The results showed that fifty percent of the variablesconfirmed previous studies and the remaining fifty percent did not support these studies due to factors such asculture and values. The results have a great implication for both the banking industry in Kuwait and internationalbusiness.
Changes in the influence of socio-economic status on obesity among aging Canadian baby boomers.

A trend analysis was conducted on the influence of socio-economic (SES) status on obesity levels in Canadian baby boomers over time. Two, large scale national studies conducted 10 years apart were analyzed. Riley's Social Change Model was used to frame how the influence of SES on obesity will converge over time due to social changes to food production and eating habits coupled with reliance on modern technology. Partial support was found for convergence of SES and obesity associations over time, including interesting differences by sex. Findings from 1994 data indicate that measures of SES decreased the odds of obesity among males, while working status increased the odds of obesity for females. In 2004, associations for males show that measures of income were positively associated with obesity, while post-secondary graduation showed an opposite association. In 2004, associations for females show an inverse association between measures of education and obesity.
Incumbents' responses to disruptive business model innovation: the moderating role of technology vs. market-driven innovation

Current research argues that incumbents should respond to disruptive innovation by setting up a separate business unit. This recommendation stems from research predominantly carried out on disruptive technologies in high-tech industries but whether incumbents respond differently to other types of disruptive business model innovations and whether the type of response leads to a difference in performance have not been empirically analysed. By collecting data from 88 strategic business units (SBUs) and dividing the sample into incumbents responding to disruptive technology against those responding to disruptive market-driven innovations, the study shows that the latter type of firms can succeed in managing both disruptive and sustaining innovations without setting up structurally separated business units. We discuss the implications of our results and highlight areas for further research.
Complete Nucleotide Sequence of Plasmid Rts1: Implications for Evolution of Large Plasmid Genomes

ABSTRACT Rts1, a large conjugative plasmid originally isolated from Proteus vulgaris, is a prototype for the IncT plasmids and exhibits pleiotropic thermosensitive phenotypes. Here we report the complete nucleotide sequence of Rts1. The genome is 217,182 bp in length and contains 300 potential open reading frames (ORFs). Among these, the products of 141 ORFs, including 9 previously identified genes, displayed significant sequence similarity to known proteins. The set of genes responsible for the conjugation function of Rts1 has been identified. A broad array of genes related to diverse processes of DNA metabolism were also identified. Of particular interest was the presence of tus-like genes that could be involved in replication termination. Inspection of the overall genome organization revealed that the Rts1 genome is composed of four large modules, providing an example of modular evolution of plasmid genomes.
Maximizing minimal rights for sustainability: a viability approach

This paper examines how the viability approach can be used to define sustainability goals. In an economic model with a non renewable natural resource, we define minimal rights to be guaranteed for all generations. These rights can include a minimal consumption (economic goal) and the preservation of natural resources (environmental goal). From a given economic state, it is possible to define the set of minimal rights that can be provided for all generation. To address the intergenerational equity issue, we propose to use a criterion that define the set of minimal rights that provide the maximal utility, in a Rawlsian perspective (Rawls, 1971). We describe how this criterion can be applied and computed, and discuss it with respect to usual criteria, including the maximin criterion, the Green Golden Rule, the Chichilnisky approach and the Mixed Bentham-Rawls criterion.
Industrial Structure, Concentration and the Speed of Price Adjustment

It is argued that the relationship between market structure and the speed of price adjustment involves two distinct forces with opposing directions: "t he leadership effect" and the "industry profitability effect. " The direction of the relationship will depend on the relative importance of these effects. Estimation of an equation explaining the speed of price adjustment in terms of industrial concentration and the length of the production period provided evidence of negative effects for bo th the above variables. Copyright 1988 by Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Radar probability of detection for some additional fluctuating target cases

The chi-square family of signal fluctuation distributions is defined. Rules are given for embedding the Swerling cases, and other cases of interest, in this family. Probability of detection curves are presented for the chi-square family of fluctuations, including cases whose probability of detection curves cannot be bracketed by the Swerling cases and the non-fluctuating case. The work of Weinstock has indicated such cases to be of practical interest; the fluctuation loss, for probability of detection exceeding 0.50, can be much larger than that for Swerling Case I. A discussion and partial analysis, accompanied by examples, is devoted to the question: when can the detection probability curves for signal fluctuations not belonging to the chi-square family be well approximated by curves resulting from chi-square fluctuations, and what methods can be used to choose adequately fitting chi-square fluctuation models when such a fit is possible?
Ownership structure and the separation of voting and cash flow rights–evidence from Switzerland

This article analyses the relation between a firm's equity capital structure, managerial and outside block ownership, and firm value based on a unique and hand-collected sample of 545 observations on 174 Swiss firms over the period from 2002 to 2005. While previous papers concentrate either on managerial ownership or on blockholdings, which can, but need not be, managerial, this article distinguishes between the two and investigates their relative importance. This distinction turns out to be important. I find the probability that a firm has a dual-class structure to be positively related to managerial ownership, the ownership of the single largest shareholder, and inside blockholders more generally while negatively related to the ownership of ‘true’ outside blockholders such as listed companies, mutual and pension funds. Moreover, I present strong evidence that the aim of the dual-class structure is to secure the largest shareholder's and, more specifically, inside blockholders’ control over the firm. Most importantly, I find evidence that these inside controlling shareholders take advantage of the dual-class structure by extracting private benefits of control. †This article is based on Chapter 2 of my PhD dissertation at the University of Basel, Switzerland.
Pigeons produce aerodynamic torques through changes in wing trajectory during low speed aerial turns

The complexity of low speed maneuvering flight is apparent from the combination of two critical aspects of this behavior: high power and precise control. To understand how such control is achieved, we examined the underlying kinematics and resulting aerodynamic mechanisms of low speed turning flight in the pigeon (Columba livia). Three birds were trained to perform 90 deg level turns in a stereotypical fashion and detailed three-dimensional (3D) kinematics were recorded at high speeds. Applying the angular momentum principle, we used mechanical modeling based on time-varying 3D inertia properties of individual sections of the pigeon's body to separate angular accelerations of the torso based on aerodynamics from those based on inertial effects. Directly measured angular accelerations of the torso were predicted by aerodynamic torques, justifying inferences of aerodynamic torque generation based on inside wing versus outside wing kinematics. Surprisingly, contralateral asymmetries in wing speed did not appear to underlie the 90 deg aerial turns, nor did contralateral differences in wing area, angle of attack, wingbeat amplitude or timing. Instead, torso angular accelerations into the turn were associated with the outside wing sweeping more anteriorly compared with a more laterally directed inside wing. In addition to moving through a relatively more retracted path, the inside wing was also more strongly pronated about its long axis compared with the outside wing, offsetting any difference in aerodynamic angle of attack that might arise from the observed asymmetry in wing trajectories. Therefore, to generate roll and pitch torques into the turn, pigeons simply reorient their wing trajectories toward the desired flight direction. As a result, by acting above the center of mass, the net aerodynamic force produced by the wings is directed inward, generating the necessary torques for turning.
Air trapping in primary Sjögren syndrome: correlation of expiratory CT with pulmonary function tests.

PURPOSE The purpose of our study was to correlate the extent of air trapping on expiratory CT scans with results of pulmonary function tests (PFTs) in a large group of patients with primary Sjögren syndrome and to determine whether these techniques may be complementary in assessing small airways obstruction. METHOD Thirty-four nonsmoking patients with proven primary Sjögren syndrome and 10 healthy nonsmokers underwent paired inspiratory-expiratory thin section CT and PFTs. Expiratory scans were scored for the presence and extent of areas of air trapping. Extent of air trapping was assessed visually and given a score. The functional significance of the extent of air trapping was evaluated in both groups and then correlated with the results of PFTs. RESULTS Bronchiolar abnormalities were seen in 11 (32%) of 34 patients with primary Sjögren syndrome. On the expiratory CT scans, a mosaic pattern of lung attenuation was identified in 17 patients. Air trapping was found in 44 of 204 lobar observations on the expiratory scans. The median point scale score at end-expiration was 3.6 (20%, Grade 1), ranging from 1 (5.5%, Grade 1) to 9 (50%, Grade 2). The mean total score of air trapping was more prevalent in lower (46/68) lobes (22.4%) than in upper (22/136) lobes (5.3%) (p < 0.001). PFTs were normal in the primary Sjögren syndrome patients as well as the healthy subjects. Air trapping was found more frequently in patients with primary Sjögren syndrome than in the healthy group. Only during exhalation was there evidence of minimal lobular-sized areas or air trapping (Grade 1) in three of the healthy subjects. We did not find any correlation between air trapping and PFTs including the forced expiratory flow rate between 25 and 75% of the forced vital capacity (FEF25-75). CONCLUSION Expiratory high resolution CT revealed the extent of bronchiolar disease in patients with primary Sjögren syndrome. We also found that the extent of air trapping did not correlate with PFTs, which suggests the existence of a subclinical bronchiolar inflammatory process that may precede detectable abnormalities in lung function tests.
Mild depression in young adults with cerebral infarction at long‐term follow‐up: A population‐based study

We sought to evaluate the prevalence of and risk factors for post‐stroke depression (PSD) at long‐term follow‐up in young adults aged 15–49 years with first‐ever cerebral infarction in a population‐based study. Scores on Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) were obtained at follow‐up (mean time 6.0 years after the stroke) and analysed in subgroups. MADRS scores were obtained in 196 of 209 surviving patients. PSD (MADRS ≥ 7) was detected in 56 patients (28.6%). None had severe PSD. Alcoholism (P = 0.006), depressive symptoms any time before the index stroke (P = 0.016), and severe neurological deficits on admission for the index stroke (P = 0.043) were independently associated with PSD. PSD seems milder in young ischaemic stroke patients compared with older patients. Alcoholism, depression any time before the index stroke, and severity of neurological deficits on admission for the stroke increased the risk of developing PSD in the long run.
Commentary: Family Firms and the Advantage of Multitemporality

In this commentary, we argue the need for multitemporality (MT)—the ability to achieve enduring success by meeting both short– and long–term challenges—and we show how many family firms are in a superior position to do that. We situate Lumpkin and Brigham's (L&B's) long–term orientation (LTO) components within a multitemporal frame in part by relating them to their primary mechanisms of intertemporality. We then extend L&B's LTO conception by moving from an organizational mindset to its effective actualization via multitemporal facilitators as they manifest in family firms, arguing also the conditions under which family firms have an advantage in achieving MT. We conclude with a discussion of suggested research directions.
Factors associated with financial-decision support systems in state government: an empirical exploration

This exploratory study examines factors which influence the use of computerized information systems in state financial management. Perennial and evolving questions in both the management information and fiscal/budgeting processes require further examination given the central position of states in the intergovernmental system. Common assumptions concerning the linkages between managerial, contextual, and information systems are in need of empirical support. This study attempts to deal with defining the role of computerized information systems in the financial management process. Propositions derived from recent taxonomies, public information systems, and decision support literature are advanced and tested using recent data from the information system supplement to the 1985 National Association of State Budget Officers (NASBO) survey. '
Preoperative versus postoperative docetaxel-cisplatin-fluorouracil (TCF) chemotherapy in locally advanced resectable gastric carcinoma: 10-year follow-up of the SAKK 43/99 phase III trial.

BACKGROUND Fluorouracil-based adjuvant chemotherapy in gastric cancer has been reported to be effective by several meta-analyses. Perioperative chemotherapy in locally advanced resectable gastric cancer (RGC) has been reported improving survival by two large randomized trials and recent meta-analyses but the role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and optimal regimen remains to be determined. We compared a neoadjuvant with adjuvant docetaxel-based regimen in a prospective randomized phase III trial, of which we present the 10-year follow-up data. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with cT3-4 anyN M0 or anyT cN1-3 M0 gastric carcinoma, staged with endoscopic ultrasound, computed tomography, bone scan, and laparoscopy, were assigned to receive four 21-day/cycles of docetaxel 75 mg/m(2) day 1, cisplatin 75 mg/m(2) day 1, and fluorouracil 300 mg/m(2)/day over days 1-14, either before (arm A) or after (arm B) gastrectomy. Event-free survival was the primary end point, whereas secondary end points included overall survival, toxicity, down-staging, pathological response, quality of life, and feasibility of adjuvant chemotherapy. RESULTS This trial was activated in November 1999 and closed in November 2005 due to insufficient accrual. Of the 70 enrolled patients, 69 were randomized, 34 to arm A and 35 to arm B. No difference in EFS (2.5 years in both arms) or OS (4.3 versus 3.7 years, in arms A and B, respectively) was found. A higher dose intensity of chemotherapy was observed in arm A and more frequent chemotherapy-related serious adverse events occurred in arm B. Surgery was safe after preoperative chemotherapy. A 12% pathological complete response was observed in arm A. CONCLUSION Docetaxel/cisplatin/fluorouracil chemotherapy is promising in preoperative setting of locally advanced RGC. The early stopping could mask the real effectiveness of neoadjuvant treatment. However, the complete pathological tumour responses, feasibility, and safe surgery warrant further investigation of a taxane-based regimen in the preoperative setting.
Persistence Pays: Evidence from Investment Style Dynamics in the Venture Capital Industry

We examine style drift in venture capital investing using 344,491 VC firm-financing rounds between 1980 and 2010. We locate each VC financing round in one of twenty styles, and develop a measure of a change in a VC's styles ("style drift") that is time consistent and independent of firm size. VC firms that exhibit style persistence outperform those that drift. VCs in the early years of their lifecycle exhibit greater style drift. Style drift hurts performance for seasoned VCs and for VCs that drift in a correlated (herd) fashion with other VC firms. We fi nd evidence for economies of style persistence.
Are technology gatekeepers renewing clusters? Understanding gatekeepers and their dynamics across cluster life cycles

The cluster literature assumes that technology gatekeepers (TGs) shape a district's learning process and its evolution. However, analysis of the resilience of TGs, and their role across different stages of the cluster life cycle (CLC), is absent. Instead, most of the evidence that has been produced is set at a particular stage of the CLC. This article seeks to use a qualitative case study to understand the dynamics of TGs, and their knowledge creation and diffusion capabilities in the CLC renewal period. This is a stage less studied in the literature. Further, the article explores TG resilience across different stages of the CLC. Our results show that not all TGs are resilient and necessary for cluster renewal. In addition, they are not sufficient for fostering disruptions: their manifest reluctance to destroy the status quo and their network centrality makes necessary the entrance of new firms with new knowledge. TGs are necessary because they facilitate a cluster's transition across stages thanks to their powerful control of the most vital aspect of clusters: networks.