Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Using SCOR model with fuzzy MCDM approach to assess competitiveness positioning of supply chains: focus on shipbuilding supply chains

This paper proposes a Fuzzy Multiple Criteria Decision Making (FMCDM) approach for supply chain competitiveness positioning. In this paper, the Fuzzy Screening is used for selecting fit indexes for positioning supply chains' competitiveness from Supply Chain Operation Reference (SCOR) model. Then, the relative weights of the chosen competitiveness positioning indexes were calculated by Fuzzy AHP. Furthermore, according to the concept of the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution, a closeness coefficient is defined to determine the ranking order of all supply chains' competitiveness by calculating the distances to the both fuzzy positive-ideal solution and fuzzy negative-ideal solution simultaneously. The analysis results shows that the proposed hierarchy FME-MCDM algorithm using the SCOR model is very well suited as a useful and effective competitiveness positioning tool of supply chains for the identification of opportunities and threats and appropriate strategy selection decisions. Further research involving other sectors and industries needs to be undertaken in order to gain an in-depth understanding of the key factors associated with the implementation of supply chain competitiveness practices in Iran. This could also help develop a generic model to positioning supply chain competitiveness. This paper provides an attempt to adopt the concept of supply chain competitiveness positioning to the shipbuilding supply chain context and culture.
Tax Shields, Sample-Selection Bias, and the Information Content of Conversion-Forcing Bond Calls

The information content of conversion-forcing bond calls depends on the after-tax cash flow to bondholders. If the dividend after conversion exceeds the after-tax coupon but is less than the before-tax coupon, the call reveals unanticipated decreases in dividends and/or earnings that reduce the tax shield from interest payments. In contrast, a call when the dividend is less than the after-tax coupon reveals the timing of an anticipated shift from exceptional firm-specific positive growth to the industry norm. Efforts to document properties of convertible calls are subject to sample-selection bias because calls are disproportionately associated with positive pre-call firm-specific growth. Copyright 1991 by American Finance Association.
Osteoporosis treatment: why ibandronic acid?

Introduction: In this article, we have summarized the specific evidence on ibandronic acid (or ibandronate) efficacy, tolerability, and feasibility acquired from trials and clinical use. Areas covered: This critical review focuses on evidence from randomized controlled clinical trials, meta-analyses, surrogate markers, bridging trials, long-term extension studies, observational studies, clinical experiences in osteoporosis in addition to postmenopausal treatment adherence in clinical practice, and safety profile of ibandronic acid. Expert opinion: Pivotal studies on ibandronic acid efficacy in terms of antifracture effects on nonvertebral fractures had some intrinsic limitations. However, a large body of indirect evidence suggests that ibandronate has significantly sustained vertebral and nonvertebral antifracture efficacies in women with postmenopausal osteoporosis, in comparison to those observed with other nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates. Discrepancies in efficacy between the available bisphosphonate regimens appear to be a function of dose rather than to inherent differences in their respective therapeutic potential. Drugs or treatment regimens that minimize the risk of osteoporotic fractures and make the treatment of osteoporosis more convenient and suitable for patients are preferred: ibandronic acid marketed at oral doses of 150 mg once monthly and 3 mg quarterly as intravenous injection has these characteristics. The safety profile of ibandronic acid treatment appears to be good overall and in some cases better than that of other nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates.
The Deterring Role of the Medium of Payment in Takeover Contests: Theory and Evidence from the U.K.

The deterring role of the medium of payment in a takeover contest is analyzed from the point of view of the bidder. Cash, debt and equity are considered as alternative mediums of payment, and the bidder equilibrium strategies are specified following the Perfect Bayesian Equilibrium requirements for a signaling game. The model predicts notably that cash offers signal a high-valuing bidder, strongly determined to acquire the target firm.
Nanoindentation characterisation of human colorectal cancer cells considering cell geometry, surface roughness and hyperelastic constitutive behaviour

Characterisation of the mechanical behaviour of cancer cells is an issue of crucial importance as specific cell mechanical properties have been measured and utilized as possible biomarkers of cancer progression. Atomic force microscopy certainly occupies a prominent place in the field of the mechanical characterisation devices. We developed a hybrid approach to characterise different cell lines (SW620 and SW480) of the human colon carcinoma submitted to nanoindentation measurements. An ad hoc algorithm was written that compares the force-indentation curves experimentally retrieved with those predicted by a finite element model that simulates the nanoindentation process and reproduces the cell geometry and the surface roughness. The algorithm perturbs iteratively the values of the cell mechanical properties implemented in the finite element model until the difference between the experimental and numerical force-indentation curves reaches the minimum value. The occurrence of this indicates that the implemented material properties are very close to the real ones. Different hyperelastic constitutive models, such as Arruda–Boyce, Mooney–Rivlin and Neo–Hookean were utilized to describe the structural behaviour of indented cells. The algorithm was capable of separating, for all the cell lines investigated, the mechanical properties of cell cortex and cytoskeleton. Material properties determined via the algorithm were different with respect to those obtained with the Hertzian contact theory. This demonstrates that factors such as: the cell geometry/anatomy and the hyperelastic constitutive behaviour, which are not contemplated in the Hertz’s theory hypotheses, do affect the nanoindentation measurements. The proposed approach represents a powerful tool that, only on the basis of nanoindentation measurements, is capable of characterising material at the subcellular level.
The fine structure of the placental labyrinth in the sloth, Bradypus tridactylus

The placental labyrinth of the three‐toed sloth (Bradypus tridactylus) was examined by electron microscopy. The material available was from two fetuses of 55 mm and 150 mm crown‐rump length (CRL). The placenta of the younger specimen was a transition form between the syndesmochorial type and the endotheliochorial type. The interhemal membrane of the 55 mm CRL specimen consisted of the following components: (1) hypertrophied maternal endothelial cells surrounding the maternal vessels; (2) a small amount of extracellular material and spindle‐shaped cells, both presumed to be of maternal origin; (3) a layer of syncytial trophoblast that had an unusual, reticulated or sponge‐like appearance; and (4) the fetal capillary endothelium. In addition, the fetal connective tissue contained hypertrophied mesenchymal cells that were characterized by abundant granular endoplasmic reticulum. The placenta of the 150 mm CRL fetus was poorly preserved, but it was possible to determine that the placenta was of the endotheliochorial type. There was a close apposition of maternal endothelium and trophoblast. The results confirmed virtually all of the light microscopic observations of Wislocki (1927; 1928b). The ultrastructure of the sloth interhemal membrane is compared to that of other endotheliochorial placentas, particularly that of the shrew, with which it shows many cytological similarities.
A symmetry-based method for kinematic analysis of large-slip brittle fault zones

We apply a symmetry-based, statistical method for kine­ matic analysis of mesoscale fault-zone structures to resolve the trans­ port directions for the Rosario fault zone and Lopez StructuralCom­ plex in the San Juan Islands. Both moderately dipping fault zones accommodated large amounts of Late Cretaceous slip ( > 30 km), but the transport direction of nappes overlying these fault zones is controver­ sial. Individual asymmetric folds and Riedel composite structures consisting of arrays of fault-related planar shear fractures and folia­ tions are represented by an internal rotation axis, which describes the sense of shear and orientation of each structure. Synoptic stereo­ graphic analyses show that the internal rotation axes lie in a plane parallel to the fault zone but are widely dispersed within it. The fault-parallel distribution of internal rotation axes has a Gaussian form, centered around a mean direction. We propose that the mean of the distribution reflects a determinis­ tic process, the monoclinic symmetry of progressive deformation in an idealized, non-coaxial shear zone, and that stochastic and antecedent processes result in random variations about the mean. Therefore, the circular mean of the distribution is used to define a synoptic internal rotation axis, which according to the model should he normal to the mirror plane of symmetry for the deformation and hence normal to the average slip vector for the fault zone. The symmetric Gaussian disper­ sions of internal rotation axes in the Lopez and Rosario fault zones are hypothesized to have resulted from processes such as local perturba­ tions in the orientation of layering with respect to the slip direction or shear plane or rotations about fault-normal axes. Sfip vectors derived from synoptic analyses of mesoscale folds are top-to-the-south for the Lopez fault zone and top-to-the-southwest for the Rosario zone. Riedel stru' ctures in the Rosario fault zone formed within two conjugate sets of localized shear zones; slip on one set was top-to-the-northwest and on the other, top-to-the-southeast. The inter­ nal rotation axes for the Riedel structures have a bimodal distribution and inferred orthorhombic symmetry indicating bulk northeast­ southwest shortening normal to the Rosario zone. The overall deforma­ tion in the zone is interpreted as a general non-coaxial shear with monoclinic symmetry. * Department of Geological Sciences, U niversity of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98 1 95. ·r, ** Department of Geology and Geophysics, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut Ob.JI I.
Determinants of the underpricing of new shares during the subscription period: empirical evidence from the Spanish stock exchange

This article reports on an issue hitherto unexplored in the literature, namely, the ‘new shares’ price setting during the subscription period. We report evidence of a spread between the old stock price and the value of new shares obtained through subscription. A framework is developed within which to analyse the explanatory factors involved in this spread in the Spanish Stock Exchange. The empirical evidence suggests that new share prices during the subscription period are influenced by a range of factors, such as difference in the amount of tax to which subscription rights and capital gains are subject, characteristics of the issuer and the issue, norms established between clients and banks and the microstructure of the subscription rights market.
Hedging Effectiveness in Shipping Industry During Financial Crises

This paper investigates the significance of financial derivatives in shipping firms and its potential impact on their firm value. The methodology applied in order to measure firms' value is Tobin's Q. The investigation whether shipping firms can decrease their risk exposure and increase their value by using financial derivatives is considered to be essential. The sample of this study consists of shipping firms which are listed in US stock exchanges where the impact of financial crisis was first seen. The empirical evidence of this paper indicates that the use of derivatives minimise shipping firms' risk exposure and guarantee their growth.
Membrane fusion as a mechanism of simian virus 40 entry into different cellular compartments

Permissive and nonpermissive simian virus 40 (SV40)-infected cells were ultrastructurally analyzed. Viral particles were found in the cytoplasm, rough endoplasmic reticulum, nuclear envelope, lysosomes, and mitochondria. Upon entering the cell the virion obtains a tight membrane envelope. It seems to be either released from the envelope upon fusion with other membranes of the cell or aggregated into tubular membrane specializations upon fusion with other membrane-enveloped particles. Reconstructed morphological sequences and the finding of SV40 in different spaces of the cell suggest that entry of SV40 into the different compartments and eventually into the site of replication is facilitated by its capacity for being enveloped by a variety of membranes (notably the cell membrane and the nuclear membrane) and the sequential fusion and fission of these membranes.
Looking Back to Move Forward: The (D)evolution of Australia's EEO Regulatory Framework

In the context of a 2009 review of Australia's legislation governing framework government equal opportunity for women in the workplace, this article traces the history of Australia's Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity regulatory frameworks, arguing that there has been a consistent devolution in accountability and responsibility over the years. Whilst there is considerable existing research on EEO outcomes drawing on publicly available reports, the weakness of the reporting mechanism means that evidence of workplace policy and practice has not only diminished but should also be questioned for its accuracy. Drawing from workplace case studies in three sectors, the article draws contrasts between espoused organisational policy and some experiences of women in these workplaces. It is suggested that this and similar evidence of limitations in our current regulatory framework need to be considered by those crafting new legislation.
Recession and expected retirement age: another look at the evidence.

PURPOSE This article expands on earlier analyses that assessed whether the recent recession influenced retirement expectations. DESIGN AND METHODS Acknowledging that planning for retirement is a complex process influenced by personal preferences, resources, economic factors, institutional policies, and social norms, we test more comprehensive models than those used in previous studies, using data from the 2006 and 2008 waves (Waves 8 and 9) of the Health and Retirement Study. RESULTS Our results confirm that economic changes impinge on retirement expectations, but they also show stronger influences of other factors such as debts and the work environment. IMPLICATIONS As the baby boom cohorts approach retirement age, it will be important to better understand how workers consider macro factors such as the state of the economy and firm-level factors and personal finances when planning for retirement.
Moth diversity in three biofuel crops and native prairie in Illinois

The expanding demand for biofuel feedstock may lead to large‐scale conscription of land for monoculture production of biofuel crops with concomitant substantial negative impacts on biodiversity. We compared moth diversity in light‐trap samples from corn, miscanthus, switchgrass and native prairie, to determine whether there is an observable relationship between plant species diversity and moth abundance and diversity. Moth alpha diversity was highest in prairie and was higher in switchgrass than in the other two biofuel crops. Beta diversity generally was low among the biofuel crops, and prairie shared lower beta diversity with switchgrass than with corn or miscanthus. Analysis of variance showed no significant differences in moth abundance per species among treatments. The alpha and beta diversity index findings are consistent with those of other studies on arthropods in biofuel crops and provide evidence to suggest that large‐scale conversion of acreage to biofuel crops may have substantial negative effects on arthropod biodiversity both within the cropping systems and in the surrounding landscape.
Shifting Perspectives: Cognitive Changes Mediate the Impact of Romantic Relationships on Desistance from Crime

Although research regarding the impact of marriage on desistance is important, most romantic relationships during early adulthood, the period in the life course when involvement in criminal offending is relatively high, do not involve marriage. Using the internal moderator approach, we tested hypotheses regarding the impact of non-marital romantic relationships on desistance using longitudinal data from a sample of approximately 600 African American young adults. The results largely supported the study hypotheses. We found no significant association between simply being in a romantic relationship and desistance from offending. On the other hand, for both males and females quality of romantic relationship was rather strongly associated with desistance. Partner antisociality only influenced the offending of females. Much of the effect of quality of romantic relationship on desistance was mediated by a reduction in commitment to a criminogenic knowledge structure (a hostile view of people and relationships, concern with immediate gratification, and cynical view of conduct norms). The mediating effect of change in affiliation with deviant peers was not significant once the contribution of criminogenic knowledge structure was taken into account. The findings are discussed in terms of social control and cognitive accounts of the mechanisms whereby romantic relationships influence desistance.
Asymmetric Futures Price Distribution and Bid-Ask Quotes

This study presents a model for estimating the asymmetry of the futures price with respect to the futures bid-ask spread. Using data from the Swedish OMXS 30 index futures market, estimation results show clear evidence of futures price asymmetry, where the futures price in general tends to be closer to the bid than to the ask quote. Moreover, in a futures market environment with a relatively low liquidity, the futures price tends to be closer to the bid quote, whereas the futures price is virtually symmetrically located within the futures spread when liquidity is relatively high.
Psychometric properties and measurement invariance of the Spanish version of the 11-item De Jong Gierveld loneliness scale

ABSTRACT Background: Loneliness has been associated with physical and mental health problems. It has also been considered a serious social problem that increases the use and costs of health services. The most widely used instrument in Europe for measuring loneliness is the de Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale (DJGLS). The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the 11-item DJGLS by means of the Rasch model, and its convergent and discriminant validity. Methods: Participants were a representative sample of Spanish community-dwelling adults aged 60 and older. We evaluated sociodemographic variables, health, social support, social activity, and subjective well-being measures. Results: Person and item fit statistics, and standardized residual principal component analysis revealed that the DJGLS was essentially unidimensional. However, we found DIF across marital status and living arrangements. Moderate to high associations were found between loneliness and depression, self-rated loneliness, positive and negative emotions, and satisfaction with life. The DJGLS differentiated between well known-groups according to gender, marital status, living arrangements, health, structural and functional aspects of social networks, and social activity. Conclusions: The DJGLS is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring loneliness in Spanish older adults. The addition of a few items in order to improve the measurement range is strongly recommended. Our findings are consistent with previous research indicating that loneliness is an important aspect of mental health and subjective well-being, and support the use of the scale to detect vulnerable population in old age.
Measuring firm-specific informational efficiency without conditioning on a public announcement

We exploit the availability of active single-stock futures on India's National Stock Exchange (NSE) to provide estimates of overall informational efficiency, without conditioning on a public announcement. The key is the estimation of the primitive parameters of an asset pricing model with private information and noise. The variance–covariance parameters governing futures prices and terminal values can be inverted to obtain the Maximum Likelihood Estimators (MLEs) of the precision of private information and the variance of liquidity motivated trades. The Signal-to Signal-plus-Noise (SSN) ratio – our measure of overall informational efficiency – is a function of these primitive parameters. Our primary findings show that there is considerable variation across firms in these parameters despite only large active firms being available for futures trading. We also examine the cross-sectional relationship of this measure of informational efficiency and corporate governance. Overall informational efficiency increases in promoters’ and foreign institutional investors’ shareholding, and if the board of directors has a majority that is independent, and decreases if the chairman of the board is also the CEO, and if overall trading activity is fragmented across domestic and international markets. The NIFTY index shows a higher SSN ratio than for any of the firms. This is consistent with the idea that less manipulability is associated with greater informational efficiency.
Transition from Semi-Confinement to Pasture-Based Dairy in Brazil: Farmers’ View of Economic and Environmental Performances

The production of ecosystem goods and services has increased significantly in the last 100 years, while the capacity of ecosystems to generate supporting and regulating services has decreased. In this context, agriculture and livestock production have become major concerns. At the same time, livestock, particularly dairy cows, play a key role and can serve to improve ecosystems, production, and rural livelihoods. We randomly selected and conducted semistructural interviews with 61 dairy family farmers from four cooperatives in the Encosta da Serra Geral Region of the Atlantic rainforest in Santa Catarina, Brazil. The goal was to analyze their production and viewpoints about environmental variables after adopting management-intensive grazing (MIG). The overall results showed that when farmers changed from semi-confinement and continuous grazing to MIG they perceived improvements in production, livelihoods, and ecosystem services. Moreover, according to farmers’ insights, MIG could be a tool to increase water and soil quality, animal health, alleviate poverty, and complement Brazilian conservation efforts.