Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Strategic Management and Competitive Advantage: Concepts and Cases

Brief Contents Part 1: THE TOOLS of STRATEGIC ANALYSIS CHAPTER 1: What Is Strategy and the Strategic Management Process? 2 CHAPTER 2: Evaluating a Firm's External Environment 28 CHAPTER 3: Evaluating a Firm's Internal Capabilities 64indows User End-of-Part 1 Cases PC 1-1 Part 2: BUSINESS-LEVEL STRATEGIES CHAPTER 4: Cost Leadership 102 CHAPTER 5: Product Differentiation 130 End-of-Part 2 Cases PC 2-1 Part 3: CORPORATE STRATEGIES CHAPTER 6: Vertical Integration 162 CHAPTER 7: Corporate Diversification 188 CHAPTER 8: Organizing to Implement Corporate Diversification 220 CHAPTER 9: Strategic Alliances 248 CHAPTER 10: Mergers and Acquisitions 276 CHAPTER 11: International Strategies 306 End-of-Part 3 Cases PC 3-1 Appendix: Analyzing Cases and Preparing for Class Discussions 343 Glossary 347 Company Index 355 Name Index 359 Subject Index
Trends and Variability in Extreme Rainfall Events in British Columbia

This paper analyzes hourly rainfall data from a collection of tipping bucket rain gauges in British Columbia. The hourly rainfall data are used to define peaks over threshold (POT) rainfall events for durations of 1, 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours. This database is then used to define, on an annual basis, the number of over threshold events, the average magnitude of the over threshold events, and the largest over threshold event. Trend analysis is conducted for these three variables for each duration and for several common analysis periods drawn from the period 1966 to 2005. The identification and estimation of trends is conducted using the Mann-Kendall nonparametric test for trend. The global, or field, significance of the trend results is established using a bootstrap resampling approach. The research reveals generally increasing trends in extreme rainfall, especially for the summer season and for the short duration rainfall events.
Susceptibility of Cypriot Tuta absoluta populations to four targeted insecticides and control failure likelihood

Tuta absoluta, known as the South American tomato pinworm, is one of the most disastrous pests of tomato cultivations, presently menacing tomato cultivations worldwide. In 2006, T. absoluta invaded Spain from South America. Since then, it was rapidly spread to most European, African and Asian countries. Such alien invasive species can minimize crop production, whereas the increasing use of insecticides raises various environmental concerns as well as on control costs, control failure and the toxicity to non‐target organisms. The S. American tomato pinworm is mostly controlled by chemical insecticides, and failure to control it is not a rare phenomenon. Resistance to numerous insecticides has been reported and is mainly due to the fact that farmers do not follow a sustainable resistance management scheme. Several examples have been reported from several countries where the tomato pinworm is present. In order to develop a successful insecticide resistance management (IRM) strategy for any major pest, one needs to identify the baseline toxicity to insecticides and then monitor susceptibility levels. In Cyprus, the current status of susceptibility levels to the main insecticides that are used to control T. absoluta has never been studied before. Herein, nine Cypriot populations of the pest were subjected to laboratory bioassays between 2016 and 2018 using the main insecticides applied against it. We found that the insecticides chlorantraniliprole and indoxacarb could not control the Cypriot T. absoluta populations anymore, with a resistance ratio (RR) >28 and 3–23, respectively. Furthermore, mortality achieved by those two insecticides was 20.6%–72% for chlorantraniliprole and 27.5%–78% for indoxacarb. However, the insecticides emamectin benzoate and spinosad are very effective, since mortality to both of them ranged between 99.5% and 100%.
Mahler measures of Pisot and Salem type numbers

Abstract In this paper we consider the set of Mahler measures of generalized Pisot and Salem numbers and give a characterization of such numbers in terms of their minimal polynomials. We show that every real quadratic algebraic integer β can be expressed by the diﬀerence of the Mahler measure of a generalized Pisot number and a Pisot number in ℚ(β).
Nutritional Evaluation of Chia and Moringa Seeds Flour and Quality Characteristics of Fortified Cookies

This study was carried out to investigate the utilization of defatted Chia seeds flour (DCSF) and defatted Moringa seeds flour (DMSF), as replacement of wheat flour at different levels (5, 10 and 15%) to prepare cookies rich protein and minerals. The obtained results revealed that, DCSF and DMSF, are very rich in protein, ash and fiber compared with CSF, MSF and wheat flour 72%. Wheat flour (72%) contains lower values in all determined elements excepted for sodium compared to chia and moringa seeds in addition, moringa seeds had higher values of potassium, phosphorus, copper, than those of chia seeds. The total amino acids of chia and moringa seeds were (56.97 %) and (79.13 %) respectively. Furthermore, moringa seeds were rich in essential and nonessential amino acids than chia seeds. Total saturated fatty acid of moringa seeds oil were higher (23.43%) than that of chia seeds oil (9.53%). High amounts of extracted polyphenolic compounds by ethanol from chia and moringa seeds were (1.63 and 1.34 mg gallic acid/g of DW) respectively. Moisture, crude protein, ash and crude fiber contents increased in cookies products in contrast, carbohydrates value decreased gradually with increasing the substitution levels of DCSF and DMSF. From the results of sensory evaluation, it should be noted that, fortification of DCSF and DMSF until 15% is acceptable for the sensory evaluation of cookies. Based on the obtained results, the new product of cookies contained DCSF and DCMF can be covered protein and minerals of nutritional needs of schoolchildren in developing countries and could be recommended as a food aid in institutional feeding programs for pupils in different school stages.
KINEMATIC ANALYSIS OF VOLLEYBALL JUMP TOPSPIN AND FLOAT SERVE

The purpose of this study is to describe the kinematic characteristics of the volleyball jump topspin and float serve. Thirteen international players performed jump topspin serves and another three players executed jump float serves participated in this study. Two JVC 9800 cameras (120Hz) recorded the players performed jump serves. The results show the jump topspin serve has greater values than the jump float serve on ball velocity, COM velocities at takeoff, jump height, spike height, takeoff to line distance, and horizontal COM displacement. In addition, the mean 1.0cm and 0.7cm of COM spike difference for jump topspin and float serve indicates that elite volleyball players have good timing control during serve action. It is suggested that results from this study can provide useful information for coaches to train volleyball jump topspin and float serve.
The Dimensions and Determinants of Health-promoting Behavior among Postpartum Women in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia

Background The postpartum period, known as Aras bét in Amharic, has been given little research, practice, and policy attention in Ethiopia.Objective This study examined the dimensions and determinants of postpartum women health-promoting behaviors in Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia.Method A facility-based cross-sectional study design was employed. Using the Health Promoting Life Profile (HPLP) Questionnaire, quantitative data were drawn from 178 randomly selected mothers who had attended at least one postnatal care visit. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.Results Postpartum women reported moderate levels of overall health-promoting behavior (M=141.62; SD=22.44). Across the subscales, spiritual growth (M= 28.81; SD, 5.35) and physical activity (M=18.16; SD=4.49) showed the highest and the lowest average HPLP score respectively. The t-test and ANOVA results showed that health-promoting behaviors varied across various sociodemographic variables such as religion groups, educational level, number of pregnancies, family type, employment status, monthly income, delivery place, delivery type, ANC and PNC attendance (p<0.05). In the binary logistic regression model, postpartum women who had no schooling were 16% less likely to have “better” overall HPLP-II score as compared to their college/university graduated counterparts ( p <0.05). Implications and Conclusion This study differentiated the dimensions and determinants of postpartum health-promoting behaviors. The study offers implications for social and health service providers and future researchers to consider the holistic dimensions of health promotion during the continuum of care for pregnancy.
Effect of Losses in Design of Distribution Circuits

The impact of losses on the design of distribution cable and overhead networks is discussed. A minimum life-cycle cost methodology that balances the capital investment against the cost of the system losses is used as a basis for circuit design. The results obtained indicate that the utilisation of distribution circuits, particularly at lower voltage levels, should be quite low. The analysis also shows that the optimal design of the circuits with cost of losses taken into account is likely to satisfy the security requirements at no additional cost in most of the system.
COVID-19 hospitalization and death and relationship with social determinants of health and morbidities in Espírito Santo State, Brazil: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE To analyze the association between social determinants and morbidities for the outcomes of hospitalization, intensive care unit admission and death by COVID-19 in Espírito Santo State, Brazil. METHODS Cross-sectional study with secondary data from confirmed cases of COVID-19, reported in the Notifiable Diseases Information System. Poisson regression was used to estimate the prevalence ratios. RESULTS 104,384 cases reported between February 28th and September 1st, 2020 were studied. The outcomes under study were more frequent among male, elderly, yellow, followed by black, uneducated and with multimorbidity. There was a higher risk of death among people over the age of 60 (PR=56.31 - 95%CI 34.24;92.61), multimorbidities (PR=3.63 - 95%CI 3.16;4.17), kidney disease (PR=3.42 - 95%CI 2.81;4.15) and neoplasms (PR=3.15 - 95%CI 2.41;4.13). CONCLUSION The effect of social determinants and morbidities on hospitalization and deaths by COVID-19 is evident.
Avalanche speed in thin avalanche photodiodes

The duration of the avalanche multiplication process in thin GaAs avalanche photodiodes is investigated using a full band Monte Carlo (FBMC) model. The results are compared with those of a simple random path length (RPL) model which makes the conventional assumptions of a displaced exponential for the ionization path length probability distribution function and that carriers always travel at their saturated drift velocities. We find that the avalanche duration calculated by the RPL model is almost twice of that predicted by the FBMC model, although the constant drift velocities used in the former model are estimated using the latter. The faster response predicted by FBMC model arises partly from the reduced dead space but mainly from the velocity overshoot of ionizing carriers. While the feedback multiplication processes forced by the effects of dead space extend the avalanche duration in short structures, the effects of velocity overshoot in the realistic model more than compensate, significantly improvi.
Damage Mechanics Modeling of Nonlinear Seismic Behavior of Concrete Structures

Performance-based design of structures is becoming the preferred seismic design method. Its use requires special numerical programs capable of predicting the performance of structures during a seismic event well into the nonlinear range. Seismic analysis results obtained from these programs depend on the types of elements and constitutive material laws used. For one type of element used, the results can be sensitive to the size of the elements. This paper presents a simplified finite-element analysis program based on multilayer elements and damage mechanics modeling of concrete behavior. A method to identify the various parameters required to define the behavior of the different materials is presented and some guidance on structural modeling using this type of program is provided. This program is used to predict the behavior of three different structures: overreinforced normal-strength concrete and high-strength concrete (HSC) beams tested monotonically, HSC columns tested under constant axial load and cyclic flexure, and bridge piers subjected to earthquake-type loading by the pseudodynamic test method. It is shown that predictions are in excellent agreement with experimental results.
Effect of intravenous lidocaine combined with dexmedetomidine on postoperative nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic total hysterectomy

Background A few studies have manifested that intravenous (IV) lidocaine or dexmedetomidine decreased the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). We investigated whether lidocaine plus dexmedetomidine infusion could better reduce the incidence of PONV than placebo after laparoscopic total hysterectomy. Methods This prospective, randomized controlled study enrolled 126 women undergoing elective laparoscopic total hysterectomy with general anesthesia. They divided into the following two groups: patients in the lidocaine combined with dexmedetomidine group (group LD) received lidocaine (1.5 mg/kg loading, 1.5 mg/kg/h infusion) and dexmedetomidine (0.5 μg/kg loading, 0.4 μg/kg/h infusion), respectively. Patients in the control group (group CON) received the equal volume of saline. The primary outcome was the incidence of nausea, vomiting and PONV for the first 48 hours after surgery. The secondary outcomes included intraoperative propofol and remifentanil consumption, postoperative fentanyl requirement, Ramsay sedation score, and the incidence of bradycardia during post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) stay period. Results Data of 59 in CON and 60 in LD groups were analyzed. The incidence of nausea, vomiting, and PONV in group LD during the 0 to 2 hours and 24 to 48 hours after the operation was slightly lower than group CON, but the difference was not statistically significant between the two groups. The incidence of nausea, vomiting, and PONV was much lower in group LD than group CON at 2 to 24 hours after surgery (P<0.05, P<0.01, P<0.01, respectively). The cumulative requirement of fentanyl during the first 48 hours after surgery was significantly reduced in group LD compared to group CON (P<0.01, P<0.01, P<0.05, respectively). Propofol and remifentanil total dose in the intraoperative period was significantly lower in group LD compared with group CON (P<0.01 and P<0.01). However, the level of sedation and incidence of bradycardia during the PACU stay period were markedly increased in group LD compared with group CON (P<0.01 and P<0.01). Conclusion Lidocaine plus dexmedetomidine infusion markedly decreased the occurrence of nausea, vomiting and PONV within the 2 to 24 hours after laparoscopic total hysterectomy with general anesthesia. However, it increased the incidence of bradycardia and the level of sedation during the PACU stay period.
Experimental study and analysis of breakdown characteristics of long air gaps with short tail lightning impulse

This paper describes experimental study and analysis of breakdown characteristics of long air gaps with short tail lightning impulse, which appears across the insulator strings on the transmission line by a lightning stroke. At first, starting conditions of leader propagation and leader developing process with the short tail lightning impulse are clarified by experiments. A new flashover model based on the experimental results is proposed in this paper. The proposed model consists of two simple equations, that give expression to the leader developing process, and can be realized very easily on the EMTP and other transient programs. A comparison of results calculated by the proposed model with the experimental results shows good agreement.
FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS SIMULATION OF AIRPORT APPROACH LIGHTING TOWERS

Analysis of the frangibility of airport approach lighting towers using both full-scale impact tests and computer simulation were performed to develop a better understanding of the buckling and failure mode of the tower when struck by a representative aircraft. These data were necessary for the development of simplified requirements and test methods for the design of frangible structures that minimize the impact hazard to aircraft. This paper describes the model developed to simulate the impact properties of the tower using the LS-DYNA finite element analysis software. Three different velocities, 50, 80, and 140 km/h were used in combination with two different orientations of the tower to simulate impact at the apex and on the side of the triangular cross section tower. The results obtained using this simulation were compared to the experimental results from full-scale tests. In addition, the tower dynamic behavior was compared to the high-speed video imagery to confirm failure mode predictions.
Ultrawideband for Automated Real-Time Three-Dimensional Location Sensing for Workforce, Equipment, and Material Positioning and Tracking

Management of construction resources, such as workforce, equipment, and material, is critical to project success. Completion of work tasks on schedule, safely and within the proposed budget requires a coordinated planning effort that allocates adequate availability of project resources. Because this task alone can become a challenging and time-consuming effort for many field personnel, several existing technologies are reviewed for their benefits and limitations in keeping oversight of resource location and status at job sites. To ensure the optimal solution using the right resources, such knowledge becomes even more meaningful when optimizing construction logistics and safety at the same time. This paper introduces an emerging sensing technology called ultrawideband (UWB) that is capable of determining three-dimensional resource location information in object-cluttered construction environments in real time (up to 60 Hz). The use of UWB is explained in a variety of construction applications including simplifying on-site management, improving resource productivity and usage, reducing schedule and cost, and increasing work zone safety. UWB technology and its advantages and limitations are compared with the state of the art in positioning technologies. Results of preliminary UWB experiments in the laboratory and construction environment are presented using developed data processing algorithms and a method to determine the accuracy of UWB position measurements. The paper discusses the feasibility of using ultrawideband as a data collection and decision support tool for robotic (automated) infrastructure construction applications in the areas of real-time three-dimensional material flow and workforce location tracking, optimized machine positioning and automated navigation, and proactive work zone safety.
Development of an acoustic vorticity meter to measure shear in ocean-boundary layers

Abstract : This thesis describes the analysis and development of an acoustic vorticity meter to measure shear in ocean boundary layers over smaller measurement volumes than previously possible. A nonintrusive measurement of vorticity would filter out irrotational motion such as surface waves and currents that can swamp small scale measurements of shear. The instrument measures three axis vorticity at 0.83 and 2.45 meters below the ocean surface with measurement volumes of 0.45 meters on a side. The instrument forms a buoy that is inertially instrumented to calculate and remove buoy motion from the measurements. The instrument uses a complementary filter algorithm to estimate attitude and motion from low power, inexpensive, strapdown rate gyros, accelerometers, and fluxgate magnetometers. The instrument performance has been measured to have a vorticity bias of not more than 1 x 10(exp -2) per second in the down wave and vertical directions in typical ocean waves, and a 30 decibel spectral rejection of surface wave velocity. Two instrument deployments are described to show the potential of the system, one in the upper ocean boundary layer to measure shear and infer vertical diffusivity, and one on the thermocline to measure the Gradient Richardson number.
Perinatal outcome in cases of severe oligohydramnios

Background: Oligohydramnios is defined as when on ultrasonography the single largest pocket in horizontal and vertical diameter is less than 2cm or amniotic fluid index is less than 5cm. Normal amniotic fluid index is 5-25cm. The overall incidence is 0.5 to more than 5%. However, the incidence increases in post dated pregnancies as many as 11%. It is increasing these days because of changes in lifestyle and also reduced maternal fluid intake.Methods: A prospective randomized study was done in Dept of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, MGMMC and MYH, Indore during the period of 6 months from 1st July 2017 to 31st December 2017. It included 200 cases from all the antenatal patients attending Antenatal OPD in routine and emergency and who are admitted in MYH beyond 28 weeks of pregnancy.Results: Majority of cases i.e. 64% were handover, babies with 26% were IUDs (intra uterine devices) and Rest 10% requiring neonatal care in nursery. The color Doppler changes showed normal flow in 54% in cases with 26% showing early fetal hypoxia and 14% showing uteroplacental insufficiency. Rest of the 6% cases were IUD. Incidence of IUGR was 50% in babies most commonly being constitutionally small. About 8% cases were found to be associated with abruption and 24% cases were found to be associated with pregnancy induced hypertension. Most common mode of delivery was vaginal delivery in 68% cases. However, 32% cases underwent LSCS.Conclusions: There has been reported cases of sudden IUD in severe oligohydramnios presenting with loss of fetal movements.
Experimental study of deformation rules during the process of gas adsorption and desorption in briquette coal

Gas is one of the most important factors which causes coal and gas outburst and can influence the mechanical characteristics of coal. Coal itself is a kind of elastic carbonaceous material which can swell and shrink under the influence of gas adsorption and desorption. Solid deformations influence the porosity of coal which also changes its adsorption and desorption capability. Gas pressure due to gas adsorption in porous materials is the cause of elastic deformation of coal, which can be assessed by direct experimental measurements. In this paper, briquette coal samples are made with different sizes of coal particles and the deformations are tested during the process of gas adsorption and desorption in samples under different gas pressures. The results show that coal swells during gas adsorption and shrinks during desorption. Deformation of different coal samples under different gas pressures is variable. It is further observed that deformation of coal is proportional to gas pressure and particle size. Also, deformation is not recoverable and residual deformation develops. The relationship between residual deformation and gas pressure is derived. This study helps to reveal the damage mechanism of pore gas in cola mass.