Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Online satisfaction, trust and loyalty, and the impact of the offline parent brand

Purpose – The objective of this paper is to examine online brand relationships, and the linkage between satisfaction, trust, and loyalty on the web site level. The web site is considered to be an extension of the parent brand. It also seeks to explore the effects of offline experiences on web site‐level experiences.Design/methodology/approach – Hierarchical regression analysis is applied in order to test the hypotheses. The data are based on an online survey (n=867) conducted on a Finnish consumer‐magazine web site.Findings – The research findings support the results of earlier studies suggesting that satisfaction and trust on the web site level are determinants of web site loyalty. However, they also show that brand‐level experiences affect online satisfaction, trust, and loyalty differently, depending on the consumers' relationship with the brand. Interestingly, in this case the length of user history and registration on the web site had a negative effect on web site trust. Two of the reasons behind thi.
External technology and in-house R&D's facilitative role

Abstract A number of firms use external sourcing of technology to create technological change in their organizations. In this article, Falguni Sen and Albert Rubenstein develop a rationale to support the concept of an integrative technology development strategy which emphasizes the role of in-house R&D during the planning and implementation process for externally sourced technology. They divide the external sourcing process into two major components: an acquisition phase and an implementation phase. Next, they define five distinct stages within both phases. Based on a review of the literature, the authors identify some common problems with external sourcing and discuss potential ways that in-house R&D can alleviate them by becoming involved in specific steps in each of the ten stages. The data in the article have been obtained from thirty-one cases of external sourcing of technology from a diverse group of industries in the United States and India. R&D's involvement in the external technology process varies among firms and is generally low in the acquisition phase. In the research, R&D managers describe barriers to their involvement, and the article develops measures of effectiveness of the activities in each stage of the external sourcing process. The authors recommend removing relevant barriers, especially in those stages where the involvement of in-house R&D groups could increase the effectiveness of the process.
International Small-Scale Forest Carbon Sequestration Program and its Impact on the Livelihood of Local People: Evidences from Central Kenya

Customer relationship management (CRM) as a philosophy as well as a technology has gained utmost importance in the business arena. Researchers have suggested different perspectives of CRM that help firms gain competitive advantages. In the same line this research, based on case analysis of two Indian fast growing e-business companies, tries to test few hypotheses derived from Resource Based View (RBV) of CRM. The main objectives are to evaluate the relationships of internet resource – e-business capabilities and e-business values in these two Indian firms. In depth analysis of the case companies reveals there is positive relationship between internet resources and e-business capabilities and these e-business capabilities further have facilitated e-business value. On the basis of the findings certain practical implications and future research have been suggested.
Recovering children's voices in consumer research

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore how children can be empowered in the research process, as active agents and key informants, in matters affecting their consumption.Design/methodology/approach – Insights are drawn from a study that used multiple methods to explore children's everyday food consumption practices. The data set was gathered over a period of two years and included: 23 informant‐generated visual diaries; seven online depth interviews; 15 school‐based depth interviews; 42 days of school‐based mealtime observations; and home‐based mealtime observations with four families, each visited on five different occasions.Findings – The paper uncovers how visual diaries can be used in combination with other methods to transform relationships between adults and children in the research encounter. The emergent transformations are organised around three core themes that include: children's authentic voices; multiplex reality; and power and control. It was also found that children were able to .
Interactions between HIV-1 gp41 Core and Detergents and Their Implications for Membrane Fusion*

The gp41 envelope protein mediates entry of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) into the cell by promoting membrane fusion. The crystal structure of a gp41 ectodomain core in its fusion-active state is a six-helix bundle in which a N-terminal trimeric coiled coil is surrounded by three C-terminal outer helices in an antiparallel orientation. Here we demonstrate that the N34(L6)C28 model of the gp41 core is stabilized by interaction with the ionic detergent sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) or the nonionic detergentn-octyl-β-d-glucopyranoside (βOG). The high resolution x-ray structures of N34(L6)C28 crystallized from two different detergent micellar media reveal a six-helix bundle conformation very similar to that of the molecule in water. Moreover, N34(L6)C28 adopts a highly α-helical conformation in lipid vesicles. Taken together, these results suggest that the six-helix bundle of the gp41 core displays substantial affinity for lipid bilayers rather than unfolding in the membrane environment. This characteristic may be important for formation of the fusion-active gp41 core structure and close apposition of the viral and cellular membranes for fusion.
Material Weakness Disclosures and Restatement Announcements

We examine the joint pricing effects of restatement announcements and associated MW disclosures. First, we analyze whether a dual disclosure of both a MW and restatement is viewed more adversely by the market at the time of restatement. We show that firms that announce both a restatement and an associated MW, either before, concurrent with, or after the restatement experience significantly more negative returns and a higher increase of implied volatility than do firms whose restatements were not associated with an MW disclosure. We also find that the joint disclosure of a MW and restatement triggers more class action lawsuits than does a single disclosure of a MW. Second, we examine the PCAOB’s premise that MW disclosures are warnings of potential financial misstatements by examining the market reaction to restatements conditional on prior MW disclosures. Our evidence suggests that the market reacts more negatively to restatements that are preceded by a MW disclosure compared to restatements that went unwarned. Overall, our study provides new insights on how capital market participants incorporate information about internal control quality into their perceptions about financial reporting quality.
Improved Collaborative Representation Classifier Based on l2-Regularized for Human Action Recognition

Human action recognition is an important recent challenging task. Projecting depth images onto three depth motion maps (DMMs) and extracting deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) features are discriminant descriptor features to characterize the spatiotemporal information of a specific action from a sequence of depth images. In this paper, a unified improved collaborative representation framework is proposed in which the probability that a test sample belongs to the collaborative subspace of all classes can be well defined and calculated. The improved collaborative representation classifier (ICRC) based on -regularized for human action recognition is presented to maximize the likelihood that a test sample belongs to each class, then theoretical investigation into ICRC shows that it obtains a final classification by computing the likelihood for each class. Coupled with the DMMs and DCNN features, experiments on depth image-based action recognition, including MSRAction3D and MSRGesture3D datasets, demonstrate that the proposed approach successfully using a distance-based representation classifier achieves superior performance over the state-of-the-art methods, including SRC, CRC, and SVM.
Spectrum database-assisted radio propagation prediction for wireless distributed networks: A geostatistical approach

The concern over wireless distributed networks (WDNs) such as Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems and Internet of Things (IoT) has risen. In massive WDNs, it is important to strictly manage the interference power among wireless links: radio propagation prediction between distributed terminals is a critical issue for highly efficient spectrum use. In this paper, we propose a novel radio propagation estimation using spectrum database which collects communication results from mobile terminals. The proposed method focuses on the spatial-correlation of radio propagation characteristics between different wireless links. Using maximum likelihood-based pathloss estimation and Kriging-based shadowing estimation, the radio propagation of the wireless link that has arbitrary location relationship can be predicted. From numerical results, it is shown that the proposed method achieves higher estimation accuracy than the conventional pathloss-based estimation methods. Furthermore, we show that the proposed technique can predict the probability density function (PDF) of the estimation error.
Reduced switching-frequency modulation and circulating current suppression for modular multilevel converters

Summary form only given. This paper describes a modified phase-shifted carrier-based pulsewidth-modulation (PSC-PWM) scheme for modular multilevel converters (MMC). In order to reduce the average device switching frequency, a reduced switching-frequency (RSF) voltage balancing algorithm is developed. This paper also proposes a circulating current suppressing controller (CCSC) to minimize the inner circulating current in an MMC. Based on the double line-frequency, negative-sequence rotational frame, the three-phase alternative circulating currents are decomposed into two dc components and are minimized by a pair of proportional integral controllers. Simulation results based on a detailed PSCAD/EMTDC model prove the effectiveness of the modified PSC-PWM method and the RSF voltage-balancing algorithm. The proposed CCSC not only eliminates the inner circulating current but also improves the quality of the converter ac output voltage. A simple loss evaluation demonstrates that the RSF voltage-balancing algorithm and the CCSC reduce the converter power losses.
Targeting for Growth: A Critical Examination

The targeting debate has been around for more than 20 years, and yet we are still discussing how best to identify high-growth SMEs. Following a discussion of targeting issues and a review of some of the key literature on SME growth, the paper focuses on an empirical analysis of the performance of a panel of SMEs in New Zealand over a three-year period. The results show that, even when growth occurs in SMEs, it is typically discontinuous. In addition, most of the easily verifiable profile characteristics that are often used for targeting, such as size, sector, age, whether or not the firm is exporting and/or innovating, did not consistently distinguish growth firms from others. Possible conclusions are that policy makers need more effective long-term assessment of government programmes and/or that the heterogeneity of those enterprises able to achieve growth points towards the principle of self-selection. However, the authors suggest a more radical response based on investing more in education and training and aiming to make more explicit the implications of actions and non-actions by entrepreneurs with regard to growth.
FIRM COMPETENCIES AND EXPORT PERFORMANCE: A STUDY OF SMALL AND MEDIUM MANUFACTURING EXPORTERS IN UGANDA

In the exporting context, the notion of firm competencies entails processes by which organizational resources are developed, combined and transformed into value offerings for the export market. Despite the growing amount of academic exchange on competencies that underpin a firm’s export capability, there appears to be no unified framework for studying their effects on export performance (Freury & Freury, 2003). To address this gap, we draw on the Resources Based View and export marketing literature to develop a framework for the relationship between firm competencies and export performance. We empirically assess the predicted relationship using survey data from 76 small and medium manufacturing exporters in Uganda. Overall, our findings show that only marketing and sales competencies had significant positive effects on export performance. Surprisingly, the effect of production competencies on export performance, though significant was negative. From the results, export managers should outsource production to specialist firms and concentrate on marketing and sales activities in order to enhance export performance.
The study of the relationship between firms' board of directors' structure and criteria in assessing the firm performance

The main purpose in this article is to study the relationship between firms' board of directors’ structure and accounting and economic criteria in assessing the performance of companies listed at Tehran Stock Exchange. To do this, 94 firms from our statistical society were chosen. We had access to the needed information for a period of six years (2004 to 2009) about those firms. Some criteria were chosen as dependent variables as follows: return on investment, stock return yearly and P/B ratio for financial performance assessment criteria and Tobins’Q, market value-added and economical value-added for economic performance assessment criteria have been considered. Then, the data related to independent variables, in which two criteria of firms' board of directors’ structure as ratio of independent members of board of directors and financial specialty of members of board of directors were studied. The research results indicate that there is a positive and meaningful relationship between ratio of independent members of board of directors and financial specialty of members of board of directors with financial and economic criteria in assessing the firm performance. Key words: Corporate governance, board of directors’ structure, financial criteria, economical criteria.
Smoking acutely impaired endothelial function in healthy college students

Objective Cigarette smoking has been clearly pointed out as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Endothelial dysfunction contributes to the development of cardiovascular disease. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) has been known as one of the endothelial function markers. We investigated the acute and chronic eff ects of smoking on endothelial function in college-aged smokers. Methods Eighteen smokers (mean age: 21 ± 1 y) and 14 non-smokers (mean age: 20 ± 1 y) were enrolled in this study. Brachial-ankle pulsed wave velocity (baPWV), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and heart rate (HR) were measured using a plethysmograph. Endotheliumdependent FMD was induced by reactive hyperaemia. High-resolution ultrasound with a 7.5-MHz linear array transducer was used to measure the diameter of the right brachial artery. Measurement of baPWV, SBP, DBP, HR, artery diameter, and %FMD was performed in smokers and non-smokers after 10 min bed rest, and after smoking one cigarette in the smokers. The interval between the two measurements was more than 15 minutes. Results There were no signifi cant diff erences on baPWV, SBP, DBP, HR, baseline brachial artery diameter between smokers and non-smokers. Percent FMD after smoking was signifi cantly lower than that at rest values in smokers (8.7 ± 4.0 vs 5.3 ± 2.4, P< 0.005), although %FMD at rest was not signifi cantly diff erent between smokers and non-smokers. No other markers showed any signifi cant diff erences between smokers at rest and after smoking. Conclusion Even the smoking of one cigarette dramatically impaired endothelial function, although habitual cigarette smoking did not decrease FMD in young healthy smokers.
The role of brand image in forming airlines passengers’ purchase intention: study of Iran aviation industry

Brand is regarded as one of the most important assets of a company and plays a key role in its success. Among various dimensions mentioned for brand, in this survey the brand image has been concentrated. Having identified the most important indicators of forming brand image, the aim of this survey is to state its role in influencing passengers' purchase intention in Iran's aviation industry. For this purpose, structural equation modelling (SEM) method has been used. The research sample includes Iran airlines' passengers. A questionnaire has been used to collect information. Findings indicate that the brand image and its indicators have an important and detrimental role in passengers' purchase intention, and estimate a considerable portion of purchase intention variance.
AGE DEPENDENCE OF THE NUMBER OF THE STEM CELLS IN HAEMOPOIETIC TISSUES OF RATS

The number and concentration of haemopoietic stem cells in the femoral bone marrow and spleen of Wistar rats of different ages were investigated. Stem cells were assayed by the spleen colony technique in irradiated rat recipients. The ability of the recipient spleen to harvest transplanted tissue as a macroscopic colony was found to be dependent on the recipient's age. Changes with senescence were observed also in the concentration and the size of the stem cell compartment both in the marrow and spleen. No differences were demonstrated in the seeding of transplanted colony‐forming units into the spleen of recipients of 1 and 4 months of age. A rats‐mice strain difference in the effect of senescence on the haemopoietic stem cells is discussed.
Performance measures in English small and medium enterprises: survey results

Purpose – To determine the current state of knowledge related to performance measures and their degree of implementation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in England.Design/methodology/approach – The paper starts with a literature review and then goes on to discuss the methodology used. The survey is briefly presented together with the analysis of the resultant data. General opinions regarding performance measurement in English SMEs are described, including the most important measures and the biggest obstacles to the adoption of new ones. Hypotheses about differences between groups are tested and discussed.Findings – This work concludes that there is a gap between the theory/knowledge of performance measures and the practice in English SMEs. Training of employees and difficulty in defining new performance measures were highlighted as the major obstacles to the adoption of new performance measures.Research limitations/implications – The low response rate of the survey precludes the generalisation of t.
Signaling and Regulation HOXC 8 Inhibits Androgen Receptor Signaling in Human Prostate Cancer Cells by Inhibiting SRC-3 Recruitment to Direct Androgen Target Genes

HOX (homeobox) genes encode homeodomain-containing transcription factors critical to development, differentiation, and homeostasis. Their dysregulation has been implicated in a variety of cancers. Previously, we showed that a subset of genes of the HOXC cluster is upregulated in primary prostate tumors, lymph node metastases, and malignant prostate cell lines. In the present study, we show that HOXC8 inhibits androgen receptor (AR)-mediated gene induction in LNCaP prostate cancer cells and HPr-1 AR, a nontumorigenic prostate epithelial cell line. Mechanistically, HOXC8 blocks the AR-dependent recruitment of the steroid receptor coactivators steroid receptor coactivator-3 (SRC-3), and CREB binding protein to the androgen-regulated prostate-specific antigen gene enhancer and inhibits histone acetylation of androgen-regulated genes. Inhibition of androgen induction by HOXC8 is reversed upon expression of SRC-3, a member of the SRC/p160 steroid receptor cofactor family. Coimmunoprecipitation studies show that HOXC8 expression inhibits the hormonedependent interaction of AR and SRC-3. Finally, HOXC8 expression increases invasion in HPr-1 AR nontumorigenic cells. These data suggest a complex role for HOXC8 in prostate cancer, promoting invasiveness while inhibiting AR-mediated gene induction at androgen response element–regulated genes associated with differentiated function of the prostate. A greater understanding of HOXC8 actions in the prostate and its interactions with androgen signaling pathways may elucidate mechanisms driving the onset and progression of prostate cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 8(12); 1643–55. 2010 AACR.
Electron collision excitations in complex spectra of ionized heavy atoms.

A theory for calculating a many-transition spectrum of electron-ion collisional excitations in the distorted-wave approximation (DWA) is presented. First, it is shown that the collision strength including exchange can be factorized into (i) a radial part, involving one-electron wave functions only, and the summation over partial waves of the continuum electron; and (ii) an angular part, involving the coupling between bound electrons in the target states only, specific to each transition. Factorized representations of the collision strengths are derived in various coupling schemes. Second, the computationally involved radial part is shown to be a smooth function of transition energies over a very wide range, allowing easy interpolation. These two results enable one to obtain a complete collisional-excitation array with a drastic reduction of the number of time-consuming radial calculations compared with standard methods. This allows the solution of problems which were heretofore considered impractical. As an illustration, the whole array of excitation rate coefficients for Ni-like Gd xxxvii including the lowest 107 levels (5671 transitions) was calculated in the DWA, and used in a steady-state collisional-radiative model. Resulting population inversions are presented versus plasma density.
Performance measurement in buyer-supplier collaboration programmes: implementing the common scorecard

Collaboration programmes for coordinated replenishment in buyer-supplier dyads have become popular among companies willing to increase market responsiveness, decrease safety stocks and increase control over the supply chain. In parallel, logistic performance measures have been identified as a crucial element for defining objectives, supervise improvements and managing effectively the supply chain. We explore the use of the common scorecard to share performance measurements between buyer and supplier in collaboration projects. The common scorecard works as a tool to facilitate the communication between partners and to share transparently partners' individual objectives in a structured and objective way. Its implementation and beneficial impact is shown in a case study of a vendor managed inventory operating in an environment of high demand volatility, long lead-time and customised products.