Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Combined Use of Balanced Scorecard and Data Envelopment Analysis in the Banking Industry

Abstract Background: Starting from the limitations of different single-method approaches to measuring the organizational efficiency, the paper is focused on covering both the financial and non-financial factors of this concept by combining two methods, namely the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). Objectives: The main goal of the research in the paper is to show that certain deficiencies in the independent application of each method are eliminated by combining these methods. Methods/Approach: The paper combines two methods, BSC and DEA, to measure the relative efficiency of all branches of a bank in Serbia. Results: Results confirmed that the combined use of the named methods facilitates measurement of organizational efficiency by using both financial and non-financial indicators. Conclusions: The paper shows that it is possible to achieve synergetic effects in the evaluation of organizational efficiency in the banking sector if BSC is applied first, to define goals within four perspectives, and then four DEA models are developed to measure efficiency in each perspective.
The Rise of Public Networks for Economic Inclusion: Strategic Dilemmas Experienced by Flemish SSE-Organizations

Abstract In this article, we summarize the dominant experiences, discussions, and judgments of Flemish SSE-organizations joining emerging public multi-actor networks to tackle the socioeconomic challenge of economic inclusion. Based on a longitudinal qualitative research track combining case-study research, focus group research and action research (i.e. pilot studies), we recently find out that the initial enthusiasm, willingness and interest of SSE-organizations to participate has gradually been replaced by emerging feelings of cautiousness, disappointment, and frictions. When considering the dominant underlying classical rational management paradigm of these networks, we can better understand the precise nature and origin of these growing frictions. As such, emerging strategic network paradigms seem to provoke serious dilemmas. Based on our research results these frictions relate to (i) the reasons for being invited to participate, (ii) the meaning of related concepts (i.e. quality, professionalism, and innovation), (iii) the assumed disturbance of competition, and (iv) the pressure of isomorphic management models.
A basal area increment model for individual conifers in the northern Rocky Mountains

(.) The model represents the diverse ecological requirements of the various species and responds appropriately across the observed range of predictor variables. Furthermore, it is well behaved even when used for conditions found in the region but not represented in the large calibration data set (44,086 trees). In addition, it possesses desirable statistical properties such as homogeneous residual variance, minimal multicollinearity, and linear parameters. (.)
Size of Banks as a Factor Which Impacts the Efficiency of the Bank Lending Channel

Abstract In most economies the banking sector plays the major role in the financial system. Therefore, it is of great importance to analyse and understand the mechanism of transmission of monetary policy and its impact on the banking sector. One of the possible repercussions of changing the level of official interest rates is the ability to influence the size of bank lending, by means of the bank lending channel. The key aspect our research is a thorough understanding of the functioning of the bank lending channel, with the main goal of this study being an examination of the efficiency of monetary policy transmission through the bank lending channel depending on the size of banks in the sector. This paper examines the abovementioned relation using annual data from 1995-2015 by 1709 commercial and cooperative banks from 27 EU countries and analyzing them in various econometric models. The results indicate that there is a positive impact of a bank’s size on loan growth (defined as the bank size increases, the impact of changes in interest rates in the bank’s lending policy is getting smaller), however, interaction between the variables of size and the interest rate, was proved to be insignificant (in the group of all analysed banks, as well as in commercial and cooperative banks separately).
Sex Ratios: Sex ratios in dioecious plants

Summary Some seeds of dioecious plants develop into male plants and others become females. Brothers and sisters can grow close together in the seed shadow of the maternal plant, which promotes sib-mating, and classical sex-allocation theory predicts a slight female bias among the seeds produced. We describe different ways of examining seed sex ratios and some of the pitfalls involved. The available direct (seed sex ratio) and indirect (proportions of male and female plants in the field) evidence suggests that the seed sex ratio is often close to 0.5, despite the fact that there is genetic variation in the seed sex ratio in some cases. The combination of significant sib-mating and an unbiased seed sex ratio is at odds with classical sex-allocation theory. Genetic conflict theory might provide new insights and should be a central theme in future research. The adult sex ratio can also become male or female biased due to sexually differential mortality, but this does not influence the seed sex ratio. Das Zahlenverhaltnis [0.5] kann aber nur dann rein herauskommen, wenn eine ganze Reihe von Bedingungen erfullt sind. The ratio [0.5] can, however, only emerge, when a whole range of conditions is satisfied. (Correns 1928) Introduction Like most animals, but unlike the great majority of plant species, dioecious plants have separate male and female individuals. Both male and female organs develop in each of their flowers, in separate floral whorls, but the development of one type is halted before maturity (Grant et al. 1994), with the timing of the arrest differing between species.
Analysis of Production Technology of Wood Briquettes, Including Costs and Distribution

Abstract The paper analyzes the costs of production of wood sawdust briquettes, manufactured by the company Brykiet-Pol2, based in Goleszów in southern Poland. In addition, production technology, raw material supply and distribution of the finished product were analyzed. The costs of producing one ton of briquettes for the four assessed variants ranged from PLN 364.8 (option D) to PLN 648.7 (option A). The cost structure was dominated by the purchase of raw material and depreciation of the technological line. The most economically advantageous production variant was option C, currently implemented in the company (production costs: PLN 458.7·t−1), and the proposed option D, using two briquetting presses. The latter option increased production efficiency and reduced unit costs of briquette production in a three-shift system around the clock.
Independent Parties in Minimizing Agency Problem in Indonesia: An Alternative Model

Abstract Despite various studies on good corporate governance (GCG), many GCG mechanisms do not seem to work effectively in Indonesian companies due to frequent conflicts between majority and minority shareholders. A more independent party needs to be offered to solve this unique agency problem. This study attempts to analyze how independent parties; foreign and domestic institutional ownership, and independent commissioners may provide solution to agency problem. Results of panel data regression show a positive and significant influence of foreign institutional ownership on dividends and stock prices, whereas domestic institutional ownership and independent commissioners do not significantly affect shareholder wealth. The study also proposes a new model to minimize the possibility of agency problems in Indonesian context through the establishment of foreign institutional ownership as an independent party.
Comparing Test Methods for the Intra-ply Shear Properties of Uncured Prepreg Tapes

Abstract To achieve cost-efficient manufacturing and a high part quality in Thermoset Automated Fiber Placement (TS-AFP), knowledge about the interaction between material and process parameters is of special interest. Material properties of prepregs are well known at the cured state of the resin. However, there are no standardized test procedures for the mechanical behavior of the uncured prepreg tapes. To investigate the intra-ply shear deformation behavior of uncured unidirectional prepreg tapes, we compared several measurement procedures and conducted experiments for rheometer based tests using 8552/AS4 material. We identified a rotational parallel platens rheometer test method and a torsion bar rheometer test method to be suitable. Experiments using both methods revealed that the Torsion Bar Test has a higher repeatability and the analysis is less complex. Furthermore, first results show that changes in material properties caused by aging can be analyzed using this method. In the future,we will use the Torsion Bar Test to characterize changes in deformation behavior due to material aging as well as material modifications. By this, we will be able to provide data for the material modeling thus enabling the prediction of lay-up defects such as buckling due to steering.
Chromosome Numbers of Ten Species and Clones in the Genus Psidium1

Polyploidy within Psidium guajava appears to be uncommon but the genus Psidium is represented by di-, tetra-, hexa- and octoploid species. The species and their respective chromosome numbers are: P. guajava and P. polycarpum, 2n = 22; P. guineense and P. cujavillus, 2n = 44; P. friedrichsthalianum (El Salvador), 2n = 44; P. friedrichsthalianum (Costa Rica), 2n = 66; P. cattleianum f. lucidum, 2n = 66. Two plants of P. cattleianum were found to be 2n = 77, a heptaploid number, but whether these plants represent horticultural variants has not been established. Close resemblance in vegetative characters of the species and gross appearance of the chromosomes of P. guajava and P. polycarpum on the one hand and those of P. guineense and P. cujavillus on the other casts some doubt as to their identities.
Reversal of Diabetic Complications in Andrology Parameters of Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Male Wistar Rats Treated with Cleome rutidosperma Leaves

Abstract Male infertility is one of the complications associated with diabetes mellitus. This study reported the effect of managing experimentally-induced diabetes in male Wistar rats with Cleome rutidosperma leaf extract at doses of 100 mg.kg−1, 200 mg.kg−1 or 400 mg.kg−1 for 14 days. Further deterioration or amelioration of reproductive derangement was assessed by changes in sperm morphology, sperm characteristics, and testicular histo-pathology. Andrology profile of diabetic untreated rats showed significant (P < 0.05) derangements compared to normoglycaemic rats. The profile of diabetic rats treated with the extract of C. rutidosperma, especially at the 200 mg.kg−1 dose showed a significant decrease in abnormal sperm cells, increases in sperm motility, live/ dead ratio and count compared to the untreated diabetic rats. Histopathology showed spermatogenic arrest and degeneration of Sertoli cells in the diabetic untreated rats, but was restored in the C. rutidosperma treated rats. This study showed evidence of infertility associated with diabetes and the ameliorative ability of C. rutidosperma on infertility demonstrated by improved andrological parameters. Traditional management of diabetes with C. rutidosperma leaves should therefore be encouraged in both humans and other animals, especially males with reproductive intentions.
The Implementation of Village Fund Policy: A Comparative Study in Improving the Public Welfare in Two Villages in Pati Regency, Central Java

Abstract This research attempts to describe and analyse the implementation process of Village Fund in two villages in Pati Regency, Central Java. This qualitative research was conducted in Tambakromo Village and Mojomulyo Village. The result shows that the implementation of Village Fund has been in accordance with the substance of rules that underlies the village fund policy, such as how to transfer the fund, the planning, the implementation procedure, the liability, and the monitoring of the village fund. However, in their participation in the implementation of village fund policy, the actors who have big roles in allocating the village fund were the internal bureaucracy actors. Meanwhile, the participation of the local community was low. Ideally, the local community should greatly participate starting from the planning step up to the monitoring of Fund Policy.
Celiac Disease in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis on Ivacaftor: A Case Series.

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein modulators have revolutionized care for individuals with CF with positive effects on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. There is emerging evidence linking CFTR dysfunction to celiac disease. We present three cases of patients with CF, genotype F508del/G551D, treated with CFTR modulator, Ivacaftor, and diagnosed with celiac disease. These patients tested for celiac disease because they had persistent GI symptoms that had partially improved with ivacaftor. This case series highlights the importance of a better understanding of how CFTR modulators impact the GI tract, their possible link to celiac disease, and the importance of considering celiac disease when evaluating GI symptoms in individuals with CF.
Clinical Characteristics and Long-term Outcomes of Children With Fibrosing Pancreatitis.

OBJECTIVES Fibrosing pancreatitis (FP) shares clinical features with autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP), although both entities have not been definitely linked. This study aimed to assess the presence of AIP criteria in an historic FP patient cohort and investigate the clinical features, management, and long-term outcomes of pediatric FP (P-FP). METHODS Clinical data of 14 P-FP patients from Toronto and 42 P-FP cases from a literature review were collected and compared to pediatric AIP (P-AIP). Toronto P-FP patients were recontacted to assess their current health status using a brief questionnaire. RESULTS Jaundice and abdominal pain were the symptoms at presentation in 44 of 56 (79%) and 50 of 56 (89%) P-FP patients, respectively. Common findings on cross sectional imaging were an enlarged pancreas head with narrowing of the distal common bile duct (51/54, 94%). Histopathology mainly showed gland fibrosis (39/39, 100%). Three of twelve (25%) P-FP patients had elevated IgG4 in serum. None of the patients were treated with corticosteroids, but some underwent surgical or endoscopic intervention. Toronto patients were followed for a median of 13.6 years (interquartile range: 2.9-22.8). Complications during follow-up included exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (3/14, 21%) and pancreatic gland atrophy (5/13, 38%); but none of the patients had disease relapse or developed diabetes type 3c. Five (5/14 36%) patients developed other immune-mediated diseases over time. CONCLUSIONS Clinical features of patients with P-FP resembled those recently described in a subgroup of P-AIP presenting with jaundice. Long-term outcome of these patients is generally good, with or without invasive interventions. As some patients may develop exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and/or other immune-mediated diseases, ongoing clinical monitoring is recommended.
Frequency of STI/HIV Testing among Commercially Insured Patients with ICD-10 Specified Sex Partners.

BACKGROUND High-risk sexual behaviors (HRSB) are associated with sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The CDC and USPSTF recommend routine testing for patients with HRSB. Providers can classify patients with HRSB based on the sex of their sex partners using the International Classification of Disease Tenth Revision (ICD-10). We analyzed STI/HIV testing frequencies among patients with HRSB. METHODS This study used a large U.S. administrative outpatient medical claims dataset from 2015-2017. Patients aged 15-64 years were identified with HRSB using ICD-10 codes. An initial HRSB diagnosis in 2016 served as the index date. We assessed chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV testing by HRSB at the index date, and four-time intervals of 1 to 6, and 7 to 12 months before and after the index date. RESULTS We identified 52,160 patients with HRSB: 90.3% were patients with opposite-sex partners, 7.7% patients with same-sex partners, and 2.1% patients with same-and-opposite-sex partners. 77.5% and 82.1% of patients were insured 6 months before and after the index respectively. On the index date, patients with opposite-sex partners tested most for chlamydia (65.3%) and gonorrhea (65.2%), patients with same-sex partners tested most for syphilis (51.5%) and HIV (57.8%). Among insured patients, follow-up STI/HIV testing was 89.5% during 1 to 6 months and 33.1% during 7 to 12 months after the index date. Patients tested on the index date were more likely to have an STI/HIV test within 1 to 6 months after the index date. CONCLUSIONS STI/HIV testing among patients with HRSB could improve. It is important for patients identified as HRSB to get tested and continue testing patients based on recommendations.
Recurrence in Patients Achieving Pathological Complete Response After Neoadjuvant Treatment for Advanced Pancreatic Cancer.

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to characterize the patterns and treatment of disease recurrence in patients achieving a pathological complete response (pCR) following neoadjuvant chemoradiation for advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA A pCR is an independent predictor for improved survival in PDAC. However, disease recurrence is still observed in these patients. METHODS Patients with advanced PDAC who were treated with neoadjuvant therapy and had a pCR were identified between 2009 and 2017. Overall survival (OS) was determined from the initiation of neoadjuvant, disease-free survival (DFS) from the date of surgery, and post-recurrence survival (PRS) from the date of recurrence. Factors associated with recurrence were analyzed using a Cox-regression model. RESULTS Of 331 patients with borderline resectable or locally advanced PDAC, 30 achieved a pCR following neoadjuvant treatment and pancreatectomy. The median DFS for pCR patients was 29 months and OS 76 months. Recurrence was observed in 14 patients. No clinicopathologic or treatment characteristics were associated with survival. The median PRS following recurrence was 25 months. Treatment following recurrence included chemotherapy, radiation or ablation, and surgical resection. Hepatectomy or completion pancreatectomy was accomplished in 2 patients that remain alive 13 and 62 months, respectively, following metastasectomy. CONCLUSIONS A pCR following neoadjuvant therapy in patients with advanced PDAC is associated with remarkable survival, although recurrence occurs in about half of patients. Nevertheless, patients with pCR and recurrence respond well to treatment and survival remains encouraging. Advanced molecular characterization and longitudinal liquid biopsy may offer additional assistance with understanding tumor biologic behavior after achieving a pCR.
Pediatric adrenocortical tumor - review and management update.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Adrenocortical tumor (ACT) is a rare disease with an annual worldwide incidence of 0.3-0.38/million children below 15 years old, and Brazilian population presents the highest incidence because of germline mutation in the TP53. Pediatric ACT is associated with virilizing features and hypercortisolism in most cases. Malignancy is defined when local invasion or metastasis is found, and it is associated with a poor prognosis. However, the correct and early diagnosis and treatment may impact on overall and disease-free survival. RECENT FINDINGS A complete understanding of the disease and its singularities facilitates the assistance to the pediatric patient with ACT. The new insights about adrenal tumorigenesis have provided a better understanding of this disease. In this scenario, the era of molecular studies is leading to the refinement of the taxonomy, and it is offering the opportunity to discover new biomarkers and pathways of tumorigenesis, beyond the knowing β-catenin, Insulin-like growth factor-II/IGF-IR, and the p53/Rb signaling. SUMMARY The rarity of this disease makes it a real challenge. Here, we present a review focusing on clinical practice. A methodic approach aiming to clarify the diagnosis and a follow-up are suggested to guide physicians in the assistance of pediatrics patients, improving the prognosis.
Intrarater Reliability and Agreement of Recommended Performance-Based Tests and Common Muscle Function Tests in Knee Osteoarthritis

Background and Purpose: Some uncertainty persists regarding the reproducibility of the recommended core set of performance-based tests, as well as common muscle function tests, when applied in individuals with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The purpose of this study was to investigate the intrarater reliability and agreement of the recommended core set of performance-based tests and common muscle function tests in KOA. Methods: Participants (N=40) with radiographic and/or symptomatic KOA were evaluated twice with a 3-day interval between test sessions using the following tests: Leg extensor (LE) maximal muscle power measured in a Nottingham Power Rig; knee extensor (KE) peak isometric strength measured with a handheld dynamometer; 40-m walk test; 30-second chair-stand test; and 9-step stair climb test. Reliability was assessed using a 2-way, mixed-effects, single-measures model (3,1), absolute agreement-type intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Agreement was assessed using 95% limits of agreement (LOA) and LOA relative to the mean score from test and retest (LOA-%). Results: Reliability for all tests was very high (ICC ≥ 0.97). LOA (LOA-%) was ±32.3 watt (W) (±22%) for LE power; ±22.7 N·m (±24%) for KE strength; ±0.2 m/s (±10%) for 40-m walk test; ±2.4 repetitions (±14%) for 30-second chair-stand test; and ±2 second (±20%) for stair climb test. A potential participant learning effect was found for all 3 performance-based tests, indicated by the significantly better scores at retest. Discussion: The very high reliability found for the performance-based tests supports findings from previous studies and confirms discriminate reliability of these tests on a group level. Also, very high reliability estimates were demonstrated for both muscle function tests. This study also provided estimates of agreement for both performance-based and muscle function tests, which are important to consider when using these tests on an individual level in clinical practice. Conclusion: When using these tests to monitor changes over time in the clinic, depending on the test, improvements of less than 10% to 24% could be a result of measurement error alone and therefore may not be considered an actual improvement after treatment.