Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Children on Family Purchasing in Lithuania and Azerbaijan

In the context of marketing, children are considered to be increasingly important influencers of parents’ purchasing decisions. However, their influence varies depending on the products and cultures, and many particularities of this phenomenon remain under-researched. This is especially true in regard to the countries that are categorized as “emerging economies”. Some of them still do not have reliable measurements of their cultural dimensions, and this increases difficulties in performing comparative analysis there. On the other hand, these countries offer a broad and important scene for child influence studies.This study concentrates on analysis and comparisons of children’s influence on parental purchase decision-making in Lithuania and Azerbaijan. These countries are different in, at least, two Hofstede’s cultural dimensions that are important in family decision-making: individualism and uncertainty avoidance. Also, the study contributes to the existing research by using a product use-related categorization of product groups.Such an approach reveals significant difference in terms of how children exert their influence on purchasing services versus tangible products for the family use. Interesting differences between the countries in terms of children’s influence on purchasing products for their personal use also opens a new scene for future studies that might consider a similar product categorization approach.
CHAOTIC DISINTEGRATION OF THE INNER SOLAR SYSTEM

On timescales that greatly exceed an orbital period, typical planetary orbits evolve in a stochastic yet stable fashion. On even longer timescales, however, planetary orbits can spontaneously transition from bounded to unbound chaotic states. Large-scale instabilities associated with such behavior appear to play a dominant role in shaping the architectures of planetary systems, including our own. Here we show how such transitions are possible, focusing on the specific case of the long-term evolution of Mercury. We develop a simple analytical model for Mercury's dynamics and elucidate the origins of its short-term stochastic behavior as well as of its sudden progression to unbounded chaos. Our model allows us to estimate the timescale on which this transition is likely to be triggered, i.e., the dynamical lifetime of the solar system as we know it. The formulated theory is consistent with the results of numerical simulations and is broadly applicable to extrasolar planetary systems dominated by secular interactions. These results constitute a significant advancement in our understanding of the processes responsible for sculpting of the dynamical structures of generic planetary systems.
Influence of sterilization on the retention properties of magnetic attachments for dental implants.

OBJECTIVES When used with dental implants advantages of the magnetic attachments include control of load transmitted to implants, improvements in stability, support and retention for the prosthesis, and the relative ease of prostheses fabrication. Clinically, the use of sterilized components is required, and this may be problematic as magnetic alloys are sensitive to temperature. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of autoclave sterilization on the maximum retentive forces and characteristic curves for magnetic attachments recommended for use with dental implants. MATERIAL AND METHODS Eleven SmCo and NeFeB implant magnetic attachments were evaluated as provided by the respective manufacturers. Implant magnetic abutment and the corresponding denture magnet (n=5 magnet pairs) were tested before and after standardized autoclave sterilization (10 min at 134 degrees C). Each magnet pair was tested 10 times in a calibrated universal testing machine using a non-magnetic test device (s=40 mm, v=20 mm/min). Results were recorded electronically and statistically analyzed using t-test and ANOVA (Welch and Brown-Forsythe test; P<0.05). RESULTS After autoclave sterilization all magnetic pairs produced lower (though statistically insignificant) overall retention forces compared with the untreated pairs. After sterilization mean maximum retentive forces (SD) ranged from 5.65 (0.33) to 1.41 (0.07) N. The characteristic force-displacement curves of the tested magnetic systems showed differences among the single products. CONCLUSIONS Autoclave sterilization caused a non-significant reduction in retentive force of 0.04-14.6% when compared with the unsterilized magnet pairs. There were differences between the tested magnetic pairs for both the initial breakaway forces and the characteristic force-displacement curves. Within the limitations of this study all tested magnetic attachments were sterilized in an autoclave without significant change of retention properties. Nevertheless magnetic implant abutments should be sterilized with caution to reduce the risk of alterations of the retention properties.
Dupuytren’s Disease Affecting the Thumb and First Web of the Hand

The clinical distribution of the Dupuytren’s disease cords in the thumb and first web was examined in 100 consecutive patients with Dupuytren’s disease. The precise anatomical relations of the cords were then studied in 25 patients undergoing Dupuytren’s surgery for thumb and first web space disease. Thumb and first web space involvement was found in 28% of hands affected by Dupuytren’s disease, and was the third most common site after the ring and little fingers. Operative findings showed that two major cords could be distinguished. One lying in the first web space and passing towards the insertion of the first dorsal interosseous muscle on the radial side of the index finger and the other lying on the radial aspect of the thumb.
Analysis of Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinases-2 and −9 in Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by in Situ Hybridization

The gene expression of two type IV collagenases (matrix metalloproteinase [MMP]-2, a 72 kd type IV collagenase, and MMP-9, a 92 kd type IV collagenase) was investigated in carcinomas of the hypopharynx. We examined 27 cases operated on in our hospital by an in situ hybridization technique to detect their messenger RNA signals in cancer cells and surrounding stroma. Both signals were detected in all cancer nests and in stromal cells in the same specimens. Clinicopathologic studies showed a significant relationship between MMP-2 expression in the primary cancer and the outcome of treatment. Our present study suggests that hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma producing MMP-2 has a high potential for invasion and metastasis and a poor outcome. The analysis of MMPs will be useful for treatment planning in hypopharyngeal carcinoma and for prognosis.
Information Architecture and Electronic Market Performance

textabstractElectronic markets are one of the most prominent business applications of the Internet, so determining the factors that drive their performance is of great value. This thesis shows that an important driver of electronic market performance is the information architecture of the market, which describes what type of information is available to whom during the market process. Two studies of electronic market initiatives at a large Dutch flower auction highlight how information and communication technology (ICT) affects the information architecture of the market and the consequences for market behavior. ICT not only affects existing markets, but also offers opportunities to design innovative new market mechanisms. One of these is a multidimensional auction, in which bidders bid not only on price, but also on dimensions such as quality and delivery time. The effects of different information architectures of multidimensional auctions are explored in laboratory experiments. The findings of the three studies are synthesized into a theory of electronic markets that has important implications for market designers, traders and researchers.
Managerial Structure and Stock Price Delay in China

We investigate how characteristics of the board of directors and top management affect a firm’s stock price delay in China. Using A-shares listed on both Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges from May 2003 to April 2014, we find firms with stocks in the highest price delay decile portfolio have fewer directors and top managers, lower state ownership, higher director and top management ownership, younger top management team, and lower probability of CEO-Chair separation. Firm-level analysis shows that the number of directors, the number of top managers, and CEO-Chair separation significantly negatively correlate with the stock price delay after controlling liquidity and investor attention variables. After we separate a firm’s price delay into director, top management, liquidity, attention, and state ownership components, we find only liquidity and attention components of price delay contribute to the monthly price delay premium of 1.47% from May 2004 to April 2014 in China.
Intermediate-term Outcome and Success of Superior Versus Inferior Ahmed Glaucoma Valve Implantation

PurposeThe superotemporal quadrant is usually the implantation site of choice for glaucoma drainage devices. Inferior placement of glaucoma drainage device is considered technically difficult. The purpose was to determine the success rates, complications, and visual outcome of superior versus inferior Ahmed Glaucoma Valve implantation. Patients and MethodsA retrospective review of the records of 83 eyes (77 patients) that underwent Ahmed Glaucoma Valve surgery from 1997 to 2004. Thirty-one eyes had superior insertion (SI) versus 52 eyes with inferior insertion (II). Demographic, preoperative, and postoperative data including intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity, and number of medications, and complications were recorded. Success was defined as postoperative IOP between 5 and 21 mm Hg and at least a 20% reduction from baseline IOP. ResultsThe mean postoperative IOPs at 6 months, 1, 2, 2.5, and 3 years were 13.5±3.2 mm Hg versus 12.8±3.6 mm Hg (P=0.76), 12.5±3.1 mm Hg versus 13.0±4.0 mm Hg (P=0.5), 15.7±6.2 mm Hg versus 12.6±4.7 mm Hg (P=0.06), 13.2±3.0 mm Hg versus 12.6±3.3 mm Hg (P=0.70), and 14.5±3.0 mm Hg versus 13.7±5.0 mm Hg (P=0.73) in the SI group versus the II group, respectively. The success rates were similar between the groups over the study period with 87.0% versus 86.5%, 71.5% versus 73.0%, and 71.5% versus 64.6% for SI versus II at 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. There were more complications in the II group; however, only wound dehiscence and transient diplopia were statistically significant (P=0.04 and 0.001, respectively). The number of glaucoma medications was lower in the SI during the first 3 months but nonsignificant thereafter. ConclusionsThere was no significant difference in IOP control between SI and II over 36 months. II should be considered when there are limitations to SI.
Manajemen Penyakit Berbasis Wilayah

It is universally accepted that disease occurrence is the nucleus of public health problem and should be prevented to achieve healthy area and strong country. Disease occurrence is a phenomenon that is area-based and include ecosystem both spatial and temporal dimensions. This paper tries to explain the importance, meaning, location and method of area-based disease management. The important basic assumption is that the successful risk and disease control can increase ability to increase and maintain life quality of the people. Area-based development could be implemented by referring to MPBW concept and SKK design for each and every autonomous government. Furthermore, there is a need to develop MPBW guidelines in district level to be used by development designer and planner. It is expected that MPBW could improve community health in a district gradually and continuously. Last but not least, the implementation of MPBW should utilise Public Health sciences principles. Key words: Area-based, disease management, public health devlopment
Effects of Contextualized Reading Tasks on Incidental Vocabulary Learning: Iranian EFL Learners in Focus

This study aims to examine the relationship among the incidental vocabulary learning, time devoted on tasks, and vocabulary retention by Iranian EFL learners. Therefore, using a quasi-experimental design, sixty EFL learners in six intact classes in Zabansara language institute in Isfahan, Iran were selected. They were at an intermediate level of proficiency based on the institute? s continuous assessment criteria. All groups were using the same textbook (i.e., Passages books) in that institute, and all followed the same instructional procedure. Three classes were respectively exposed to dictionary-based, fill-in-the-blank, and sentence-making tasks with time restrictions, and the other three classes were respectively exposed to dictionary-based, fill-in-the-blank, and sentence-making tasks without time restrictions. Having experienced their relevant treatments, the participants were asked to take an immediate vocabulary test. Since timing was an independent variable and vocabulary learning/recall was the dependent variable of the study, two-way ANOVA was used to compare the learners? vocabulary scores on the immediate vocabulary test. The results revealed that time restriction exerted a significant effect on the performance of the learners in all the three groups on the immediate tests. In addition, learners in the groups without time restriction significantly outperformed those in the groups with time restriction. The findings of this study have theoretical as well as pedagogical implications in the field of foreign language teaching and learning.
Special Issue on Design and Development: Appropriateness and Impact of Platform-Based Product Development

In their quest to manage the complexity of offering greater product variety, firms in many industries are considering platform-based product development. Product platforms, which are component and subsystem assets shared across a product-family, enable a firm to better leverage investments in product design and development. While the platform approach offers a number of benefits, it also imposes certain additional costs that have not received adequate research attention. In this paper, we use an industrial example both to illustrate some of the costs and benefits of platform-based product development and to motivate the development of a mathematical model. The model is formulated to better understand the appropriateness of product platforms and their impact on product-planning decisions. Our results indicate that platforms are not appropriate for extreme levels of market diversity or high levels of nonplatform scale economies. Also, a firm's product positioning and introduction sequence decisions made during the product-planning phase are significantly impacted by the presence of platforms. Specifically, a platform increases the separation among products and offers a multitude of product introduction strategies. We translate our model findings into a managerial framework.
LEUKOKINETIC STUDIES. X. BLOOD GRANULOCYTE KINETICS IN CHRONIC MYELOCYTIC LEUKEMIA.

By the transfusion of granulocytes labeled in vitro with diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP32), it is possible to measure the size of the total blood granulocyte pool (TBGP), the distribution of granulocytes in the two subcompartments thereof, the blood granulocyte half disappearance time (tj), and the blood granulocyte turnover rate (GTR) (1-3). In preliminary reports from this laboratory (4-6) and in reports from other laboratories (7, 8) an increase in TBGP size, prolongation of blood granulocyte ti, and an increase in GTR have been described in a few patients with chronic myelocytic leukemia. In the present report 43 studies carried out on 29 patients with chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML) in various stages of their disease have been analyzed in an attempt to gain an understanding of these deviations from normal granulocyte kinetics. In addition, several studies designed to evaluate the cause of the long t4 values in patients with CML are presented. Similar studies of granulocyte kinetics in patients with polycythemia vera, subacute or chronic infections, myelofibrosis, or diseases of other kinds are presented in a companion paper.
Expression of resistin in the adipose tissue is modulatedby various factors including peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor α

Aim: Resistin has been suggested to link obesity to diabetes by antagonizing insulin action. However, this model is based on limited observations and how resistin links the two complex processes is not known. In this study, we investigated the effects of various factors on the expression of resistin and examined the generality of the proposal.
Adaptation of infectious bronchitis virus in primary cells of the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane

The susceptibility of the primary chick embryo chorioallontoic membrane cells to infectious bronchitis virus was evaluated after twenty consecutive passages in chick embryo chorioallontoic membrane cells. Virus replication was monitored by cytopathic observation, indirect immunoperoxidase, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). At 72 hours post-infection (p.i.) in third passage, the cytopathic effect was characterized by rounding up of cells, monolayer detachment, intracytoplasmic brownish colouration was readily observed by immunoperoxidase from 24 hours p.i in third passage , and at all times the extracted viral RNA from IBV-infected monolayers was demonstrated by RT-PCR. Tissue culture ineffective dose 50 (TCID 50 ) was used to measure virus titration performed on primary chick embryo chorioallontoic membrane cells and the titre in twenty passage was 10 8.6 TCID 50 /ml. The results obtained in this study suggested that the primary chick embryo chorioallontoic membrane cells can be used for adaptation infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) and may be considered a step forward for the use of these cells in the future for IBV vaccine production
The effectiveness of corporate governance and external audit on constraining earnings management practice in the UK

Agency theory predicts that corporate governance and external audit enhance the convergence of interests between shareholders and managers. The primary objective of this thesis is to investigate the effect of corporate governance and external audit on constraining earnings management practice in the UK. In this thesis, earnings management is measured using the magnitude of discretionary accruals as estimated by the performance matched discretionary accruals (Kothari et al., 2005) model. A review of the corporate governance literature reveals sixteen attributes that can impact on shareholders’ perception of earnings quality due to their role in enhancing financial reporting integrity. The corporate governance attributes are organized in four categories: 1) Board Composition; 2) Audit Committee Effectiveness; 3) Non-Executive Directors’ (NEDs) Commitment; and 4) Ownership Structures. The external audit factors include auditor independence and audit quality. Two models are constructed and a set of hypotheses are stated. These models are tested using a sample consisting of the top 350 companies listed on the London Stock Exchange. Firms in the financial, mining and regulated industries are excluded due to different accrual choices and valuation processes. The study covers the period of four financial years (2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006). Nineteen hypotheses are derived from both models. These hypotheses are tested using univariate and multivariate techniques to determine if corporate governance attributes and external auditor factors significantly constrain discretionary accruals. The results reveal that board size and independence, audit committee independence and expertise, nomination committee independence, chairman independence, the level of NED fees and an independent and specialised external auditor are negatively associated with earnings management at significant levels. The primary contribution to knowledge of this research is its extension of the literature on the role of corporate governance and the external auditor in constraining earnings management practice in the UK. This study’s results are useable by stock market participants in their evaluation of corporate governance and the role of the external auditor in enhancing earnings quality. The findings will also assist regulators in defining effective corporate governance attributes and assessing the disclosure of corporate governance practices.
Greek Banking at the Dawn of the New Millennium

In this Paper we analyse the current state, past performance, and future prospects of the Greek banking system. Greek banking is in a period of rapid transformation, reflecting the impact of national, European and international forces. Deregulation and European integration are already intensifying competition. The most revolutionary transformation will follow from the privatization of Greece’s public banks. We focus on two challenges for policy makers: the need to strengthen prudential supervision, and the need to manage the process of restructuring so as to deliver a more efficient, competitive banking system.
A mixed methods study investigating intangibles in the banking sector

Despite increasing attention paid to intangibles research since the end of the 20th century, there is a dearth of empirical evidence on the interactions among different intangible elements and their performance implications due to the lack of appropriate intangible measurements and the low level of intangible disclosure in the public domain. From a resource-based view (RBV), this thesis seeks to investigate the role of intangibles in the European banking sector using mixed methods. A quantitative approach is adopted to test the relationships among different intangible elements and between them and bank performance for a sample of 63 banks from 2005 to 2007. The empirical results show that top management human capital (HC) has a positive impact on either customer relationships or bank financial performance, and the combination of different intangible elements tends to better explain the variation in banks’ return on assets than they do individually. Meanwhile, a qualitative approach is employed to assess intangible measurement, disclosure, and modelling by conducting semi-structured interviews with 11 bank managers and 12 bank analysts. A grounded theory model of intangibles is developed, which reveals how intangibles and tangible/financial resources interact in the bank value creation process. In addition, it explores the communication gaps between bank managers and bank analysts regarding the concept of intangibles, intangible measurement and intangible disclosure. More importantly, the adoption of mixed methods research allows this thesis to achieve evidence triangulation and complementarity. Both approaches produce evidence in support of the resource integration of the RBV theory and the importance of top management HC. Besides, the qualitative study provides the means to explore the way of improving the specified models and intangible proxies used in the quantitative study. This thesis makes a contribution to the development of mixed methods research in the fields of finance, accounting and management by providing an example of how quantitative and qualitative approaches can be integrated to investigate a research question. It also contributes to the intangible literature and banking literature in terms of improving our understanding of the role of intangibles in the bank business model.