Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Leader Effect on Economic Growth

National leaders, especially in autocratic countries, are often recognized as having significant effects on economic growth. However, existing methods have not credibly obtained reliable individual estimates of such effects. In order to identify the so-called leader effect, we adopt a synthetic control method that matches each country to a synthetic control group of countries with the same growth potential, predicted by growth determinants in each pre-leader period. We then estimate the performance of a leader relative to his control group. We argue that our approach accounts for three problem common in previous methods: serial correlation among leaders, the inclusion of exogenous economic shocks and the failure to evaluate a heterogeneous growth path. We construct improved estimates of leader effects that are interpretable case-by-case, for autocratic leaders as well as democratic ones. Insights are drawn regarding the interaction between the leader and other forces such as regimes, executive constraints and gender.
How Do Manufacturing Exports React to the Real Exchange Rate and Foreign Demand? The Chilean Case

How do manufacturing exports react to the real exchange rate and to foreign demand? We investigate this question with a Chilean panel data spanning from 2003Q1 to 2016Q4, using publicly available data. In the long term, we find that exports strongly co‐integrate with external demand, whereas not with the level of the real exchange rate. The short‐run elasticities of manufacturing exports differ in size: (a) the elasticity of foreign demand—approximated by trading partners' activity aggregates—ranges between 0.8 and 1.4; and (b) the elasticity with respect to the bilateral real exchange rate is comprehended in the interval [0.4–0.6]. Core estimated elasticities pass usual robustness checks. The fall in manufacturing exports' growth in 2014–16 is consistent with a persistent slowdown in foreign demand, which has been partially offset by an average depreciation of the bilateral real exchange rate (with respect to destination countries of these exports). The transience of the effect of the real exchange rate is coherent with its exhibited stationarity and also consistent with its role of shock absorber.
Modeling the internal structure, dynamics and trends of urban sprawl in Ghanaian cities using remote sensing, spatial metrics and spatial analysis

ABSTRACT In Ghana, studies on urban sprawl have focused on the use of conventional survey maps and qualitative descriptions that mask policy-relevant information for planning. We apply remote sensing data and spatial statistics to examine the Spatio-temporal dynamics in the internal structure of two cities. We find that the total area of the urban fabric in Wa increased from 11.365ha ± 0.413ha in 1986 to 1, 775.848ha ± 52.094ha in 2017, while Tamale’s increased from 715.425ha ± 5.969ha in 1984 to 6,890.177ha ± 208.105ha in 2017. The results also revealed contiguity in urban clusters. We discuss the implications of our findings within the context of spatial planning in Ghana.
ANGIOTENSIN'S ROLE IN RENAL DEVELOPMENT

All the components of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) are highly expressed in the developing kidney in a unique spatial and temporal pattern that is associated with nephrogenesis, vascularization, and the proper architectural and functional development of this organ. Pharmacological inhibition of the RAS results in structural and functional developmental abnormalities of the kidneys in several animal species, including humans. Similarly, altered renal morphology and functional abnormalities have been described in mice with targeted inactivation of the angiotensinogen (Agt) and the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) genes. In contrast, inactivation of angiotensin receptors have not resulted in renal morphological abnormalities, suggesting a redundancy at this level of the RAS cascade that prevents the development of renal pathology. More importantly, inactivation of the ACE or Ao genes results in a renal phenotype remarkably similar to that obtained with pharmacological inhibition of the RAS. Taken together, the available information suggests that angiotensin is necessary for normal kidney development and for the maintenance of the functional and structural integrity of the adult kidney.
A Study of a New-Keynesian DSGE Macro Model: Estimates, Shocks, and Optimal Monetary Policy

This paper estimates and simulates a New-Keynesian small-scale DSGE macro model. The model consists of the hybrid forms of the Phillips curve and the IS curve, and is closed with a Taylor-type feedback rule allowing partial adjustment of the monetary policy instrument. We estimate the three-equation system simultaneously on Swedish data 1995:Q1 to 2014:Q4 with the FIML estimator. The empirical parameter values are then used in simulations of the model to study the impact of shocks and optimize the policy rule by using an objective function. Our estimates indicate that both inflation and output possess a significant forward-looking behavior, and that the policy instrument is adjusted in a gradual manner. A sensitivity analysis of the magnitude of interest rate smoothing suggests a trade-off that the Central Bank faces when exogenous disturbances move the economy. In attempting to gauge preferences of monetary policy, we show that an optimized policy rule that roughly returns the historical rule is characterized by that the monetary authority in descending order stabilizes the volatility of the interest rate, the output gap and inflation from a target level. (Less)
DOES AFFIRMATIVE ACTION IN POLITICS HINDER PERFORMANCE? EVIDENCE FROM INDIA∗

We ask whether equity promotion through electoral quotas for disadvantaged groups must come at the cost of leader’s overall performance or “efficiency. ” The literature on electoral quotas, though invested in the equity question, is mostly silent on this issue. Using randomized electoral quotas for a caste group (OBCs) in a large state in India, we show that, on average, delivery of public projects does not suffer due to quota. Moreover, we show that when one group is numerous, quotas may in fact improve leader’s performance. We argue and empirically demonstrate that this happens because electoral quotas increase within-group electoral competition in villages where the group is large. Further, we show that the improvement in performance doesn’t benefit any group differentially, and is not driven by leader’s ability or preference, or improved group monitoring. The result highlights that “efficiency” concerns regarding affirmative action may need reevaluation. It further justifies the electoral quota policy in India of targeting the jurisdictions where the group is numerous.
Green Criminology and Environmental Crime: Criminology That Matters in the Age of Global Ecological Collapse

An overview of green criminology (GC) is provided. That substantial literature is not easily summarized, and here, some core issues are reviewed: defining green crimes, the scope of GC, measuring green crimes, and empirical studies of green crimes. Special attention is paid to political economic approaches to GC, which was the foundation for GC. Connections are made to environmental sociology, theories of metabolic rift and unequal ecological exchange, and scientific evidence on planetary boundaries and ecological footprints. Examples of widespread human and nonhuman being green victimization are reviewed. In an era of anthropogenic-driven global ecological collapse, academic disciplines must pay increased attention to ecological disorganization, ecosystem destruction, and excessive production/consumption, which is the proper subject matter of GC.
Corporate governance and internal audit: an institutional theory perspective

PurposeThis paper aims to explore internal audit effectiveness through its contribution to corporate governance. Namely, the authors attempt to investigate the impact of internal audit professionalization on internal audit’s contribution to corporate governance.Design/methodology/approachUsing a research framework informed by institutional theory, the authors predict that internal audit’s contribution to corporate governance is associated with factors related to internal audit professionalization. To investigate the arguments, the authors combine data from a survey of 49 listed companies in the Athens Stock Exchange with publicly available information from annual reports.FindingsEmpirical results indicate that internal audit professionalization affects internal audit effectiveness, as internal audit’s contribution to corporate governance is improved for organizations where internal audit function complies with internal auditing standards and internal auditors hold professional certifications. The findings also suggest that internal audit’s contribution to corporate governance is shaped by some company-specific characteristics, namely, CEO duality and audit committee quality.Practical implicationsThe results have implications for internal auditors who wish to increase the efficiency of their work, corporate governance mechanisms such as the board of directors and the audit committee, which can use the findings of this study to better respond to their responsibilities concerning internal audit and regulators who can also benefit to strengthen areas with substantial impact on internal audit’s contribution to corporate governance.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to the academic discussion on the role of internal audit in corporate governance and complements the work of other researchers in the field of internal audit professionalization. This study tries to fill a gap in the literature on the effect of internal audit professionalization elements on internal audit’s contribution to corporate governance.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B, C and HIV infection in blood donors of Multan region

Acute and chronic viral hepatitis are common public health problems in Pakistan, and associated with serious complications. The carrier rate of HBsAg is quoted to be around 10% in general population while the prevalence of HCV in blood donors is 4.8 %. Data regarding the prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus infections among healthy blood donors is well established in Karachi, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Lahore and Abbotabad areas, but similar data is not available for Multan population. Data regarding the epidemiology of HIV infection among blood donors is not available at most of the blood transfusion centers. In this study six thousands (6000) consecutive young healthy voluntary blood donors (age 16-50 years) comprising of 5476 males and 524 females, belonging to Multan region were included from "Blood Transfusion Center Nishtar Hospital Multan" & "Fatmid Blood Transfusion Center Multan" and were tested for HbsAg, Anti-HCV and HIV. Prevalence of Hepatitis B, C and HIV Infection was 3.37%, 0.27% and 0% respectively. The reported prevalence figures for HBsAg & Anti-HCV in other studies are quite variable, depending upon screening protocol, study groups selected and methodology of testing. If data from all the blood transfusion centers of Pakistan is collected and published, we can get representative prevalence values of HBV, HCV and HIV infection of the general population.
A fine balance: understanding the influence of job, school and personal characteristics in predicting academic and job satisfaction amongst non-traditional students

ABSTRACT While there has been a proliferation of interest and research into work-family studies we know little about how employees who study while working manage their multiple and sometimes conflicting roles. This research focuses on non-traditional students (NTS), whose representation in the general student population has increased, and explores how they attempt to balance their work and school responsibilities. The question of what factors potentially impact NTS’s academic and job satisfaction remains mostly unanswered and is the question this article attempts to address. Data were collected from over 200 non-traditional students studying across different regional campuses of a US university, testing several hypotheses including relevant demographic and non-demographic variables. Results revealed academic satisfaction was impacted by job-related factors while job satisfaction tended to be influenced mostly by factors in the general work domain. Demographic factors did not appear to predict job satisfaction and nor did they significantly predict academic satisfaction. The paper outlines some future opportunities for research to better understand the work-school dynamic in the lives of non-traditional students.
Prevalence and associated factors of khat use among university students in the University of Gondar, northwest Ethiopia

Abstract Habitual khat use has negative psychological, social, sexual, and economic consequences. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the prevalence of khat use and associated factors among university students in the University of Gondar. Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to September 2011. Multistage sampling techniques were used to select the study participants. Anonymous self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. Epi Info and SPSS softwares were used to enter and analyze the data. Binary logistic regression was used to identify the determinant factors. Independent two-sample “t” test was employed to compare academic performance between khat chewers and non-chewers. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used to assess the strength of the association. P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The current prevalence of khat chewing was 16.4%. Sex, place of upbringing, alcohol use, cigarette smoking, and history of family and friends related chewing khat were statistically associated with khat chewing habit. The prevalence of khat chewing was found moderate and had not any influence on academic performance. Targeted and consistent counseling by a close controller and guidance is recommended as a direct in-campus intervention to tackle this habit.
Can family characteristics influence the future labor situation of children? Evidence for Spain

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyze whether family support, measured through the labor status of parents and the presence of both parents in the household during adolescence, may be an important determinant of unemployment in Spain. Design/methodology/approach To address this issue, we follow the Quantity-Quality model of Becker–Lewis (Becker and Lewis, 1973), using data from the Survey of Living Conditions (2011). Findings First, the results show that individuals living with both parents at home during their teenage years are less likely to be unemployed in the future. Second, the authors find evidence of the intergenerational transmission of unemployment outcomes, and that the unemployment status of the mother is strongly transferred to the child. Additionally, the authors extend this work to an analysis of other labor characteristics, finding that family support is an important determinant of self-employment and temporary employment. The findings are robust to controls for observable and unobservable characteristics by region, and to the use of different subsamples. Originality/value This study can be considered as first evidence of the effect of family support during adolescence on the Spanish labor market.
Temporal binding in phenomenal causality

The temporal binding effect was first reported by Haggard, Clark and Kalogeras (2002) as a shift in the perceived times of intentional actions and their effects toward one another, and the compression of the perceived interval between them. Research has since shown causal inferences to be necessary for temporal binding to occur (e.g., Buehner & Humphreys, 2009), with some suggesting that the effect results from the perception of causality alone (Buehner & Humphreys, 2009; Eagleman & Holcombe, 2002). Despite the importance of causality, the mechanisms by which it contributes to temporal binding have received little attention, with the perception of agency being the focus of most temporal binding research. In particular, the role of phenomenal causality has been almost entirely overlooked. Phenomenal causality refers to causal impressions formed visually (Michotte, 1964/63). To date, only one study had made use of visual stimuli giving rise to phenomenal causality to investigate temporal binding (Cravo, Claessens & Baldo, 2009) and no distinction between inferred and phenomenal causality had been made in theoretical accounts of the effect. This thesis aimed to investigate temporal binding in phenomenal causality with the use of visual stimuli novel to temporal binding research. In experiments 1-6 (Chapter 3) participants provided causal impressions and temporal judgements in response to these stimuli. These experiments found no clear effect of phenomenal causality on the perceived delay intervals between perceived causes and effects. Contrary to the predictions of most accounts of temporal binding, experiment 6 found no evidence for temporal binding in phenomenal causality when intentional actions were present. Experiments 7 and 8 (Chapter 4) investigated temporal binding in inferred causality to test for the possible role of non-causal perceptual influences on the findings of experiments 1-6, such as predictability and the use of visual stimuli. No evidence was found for several such alternative explanations.While alternative explanations cannot be entirely ruled out, the findings presented here suggest that temporal binding does not necessarily occur due to phenomenal causality in the stimuli used in experiments 1-6. Future research using a greater variety of stimuli may confirm whether this is general to phenomenal causality or specific to certain stimuli or types of visual causal impressions. The findings of experiments 1-6 were not predicted by existing theoretical accounts of temporal binding, suggesting amendments to these accounts are required.
Migration and Agricultural Practices in the Peripheral Areas of Côte d’Ivoire State-Owned Forests

Côte d’Ivoire’s rural areas adjacent to the state-owned areas of the southern half of the country, such as classified forests, are experiencing significant migratory flows due to their agricultural potential. The population movements in these rural areas have changed the rural landscape. The general objective of this study was to identify the peasant innovations implemented in these rural areas adjacent to the state’s forest domains in a context of land saturation caused by migratory flows. This objective was elucidated from the case of the classified forest of Haut-Sassandra (CFHS). To achieve this, surveys were conducted in 11 villages on the periphery of the FCHS to determine the profile of planters and the main crops grown. Subsequently, floristic inventories were carried out on farms to analyse the diversity of associated species. Analyses showed that the rural populations of the CFHS are mainly composed of Allochthones (64%). Four innovative production systems were identified: a cashew-based production system, a cocoa-based production system, a coffee-based production system and a coffee- and cocoa-based production system. These farmer innovations based on agroforestry practices make it possible to restore impoverished lands and fight against climatic hazards. Consequently, these local practices deserve to be popularised in areas of strong land pressure as strategies to overcome the shortage of arable land and fluctuating prices of agricultural production.
Stock Price Forecast Accuracy and Recommendation Profitability of Financial Magazines

In this study, we analyze the forecast accuracy and profitability of buy recommendations published in five major German financial magazines for private households based on fundamental analysis. The results show a high average forecast accuracy but with a very high standard deviation, which indicates poor forecast accuracy with regard to individual stocks. The recommendation profitability slightly exceeds the performance of the MSCI World index. Considering the involved risk, which is represented by a high standard deviation, the excess returns appear to be insufficient.
Why Fiscal Stimulus is Unlikely to Work

This paper reviews the empirical literature on countercyclical policy. It finds that three types of countercyclical policies have been studied in the literature: built-in stabilizers, temporary policy changes and more permanent policy changes. The literature is decidedly mixed on the effectiveness of temporary changes, but more hopeful concerning the other two. Copyright 2009 Blackwell Publishing Ltd
Economic Productivity vs. Ecological Protection in Danube Floodplain. Case Study: Danube’s Sector between Olt and Vedea

For a long time, wetlands were perceived as non-productive areas and were drained in an attempt to increase Romania’s agricultural surface, without acknowledging their ecological functions. This paper aims to identify possible ecological restoration models for the Danube floodplain according to the principles of sustainable development and the needs of the population living and working here. The research methodology included direct field observation, GIS techniques, and the survey method. The analysis proved the need for achieving the ecological restoration of this area while ensuring a harmonious relationship between nature and economic activities. After evaluating the views of local decision-making actors, different groups of stakeholders with divergent opinions emerged. While owners of agricultural holdings and agriculture experts pleaded for maintaining the status quo, NGOs voted for complete ecological restoration, and landowners with small farms, local authorities’ representatives, and environmental experts argued for partial ecological restoration. The study emphasises that the ecological restoration of the Danube floodplain is necessary but only possible through a consensus between the existing stakeholders and done based on the principles of sustainable development (conserving its biodiversity, protection against floods, economic activities).
Behind Quality, there is Equality: An Analysis of Scientific Capital Accumulation in Social-democratic Welfare Regimes

ABSTRACT Trade-offs between quality and equality are at the forefront of multiple debates in higher education, and one conceptual tool to approach societies’ adjustment in resolving these trade-offs is the welfare regime typology. Relying on the theory of academic capitalism and using research production as a proxy for quality in higher education, this study analyses how social-democratic welfare regimes resolve the trade-off between comparatively high levels of academic research production, access to higher education and equal citizens’ living conditions. Interviews with 56 system actors suggest that equality is perceived to contribute to academic freedom, public investments in research and the expansion of the academic workforce, those features contributing in turn to academic research production. RÉSUMÉ Les compromis entre qualité et égalité sont au centre de nombreux débats en éducation et l’un des cadres conceptuels permettant d’appréhender les trajectoires d’ajustement des sociétés dans leur manière d’atteindre ces compromis est celui des types d’États providence. En s’appuyant sur la théorie du capitalisme universitaire et en utilisant la production de recherche comme indicateur de qualité dans l’enseignement supérieur, cette étude examine comment les États sociaux-démocrates atteignent des niveaux de production de recherche importants tout en préservant l’accessibilité à l’enseignement supérieur et l’égalité entre les citoyens. Des entretiens avec 56 acteurs-clés des systèmes d’enseignement supérieur suggèrent que l’égalité sociale contribue à la production de recherche en ce sens qu’elle protège la liberté universitaire, encourage les investissements publics en recherche et augmente le bassin de recrutement de chercheurs universitaire.