Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Entrepreneurship, Competitive Advantages, and the Growth of the Firm: The Case of Taiwan's Radio Control Model Corporation - Thunder Tiger

Abstract The growth of the firm is the fundamental strength for a nation's economic growth. By incorporating the theory of entrepreneurship with strategic management, this paper uses an analytical framework to explain the growth of the firm. While the study of entrepreneurship is about exploiting opportunity and ultimately manifesting into firm creation, and strategic management focuses on how to lead an existing firm to grow by creating competitive advantages, the integration of these two lines of research merits our understanding on topic of the growth of the firm. In a dynamic and ever-changing economy where opportunities and competitive strategies change constantly, entrepreneurship learning is essential for the firm to accumulate dynamic capabilities and to create sustainable competitiveness. We apply this framework to study the growth of a Taiwanese firm manufacturing radio control models, Thunder Tiger Corporation, and its founder Aling Lai. Since every firm is different, this analytical framework helps advance our knowledge of various factors initiating firm creation and the disparate ways for a fledgling business to grow into a global corporation. We also demonstrate how those competitive strategies - such as relentless R&D, taking advantages of vertical integration and horizontal diversification, and global deployment and marketing - enable Thunder Tiger Corporation to maintain sustainable competitive advantages.
Large-signal black-box behavioral modeling of grid-supporting power converters in AC microgrids

Microgrids are a growing trend toward a new power distribution system that allows for a high penetration of renewable distributed generation, electrical energy storage systems and controllable loads. This modern concept exploits the advances in electronic technology to improve efficiency, reliability, and flexibility, while reducing cost and size. Furthermore, microgrids can operate in a grid-connected mode or in an islanded operation mode. Electronic power converters are essential in this kind of architecture in order to interface every element to the system. They introduce controllability into the system and dynamic decoupling. However, the control of these elements from a system-level perspective remains a challenge. The dynamic interaction among the power converters, their variable operation modes, and the lack of information about commercial converters, are some of the factors that complicate an integrated analysis. This work proposes a large-signal black-box modeling approach able to characterize the nonlinear behavior dc/ac converters. The study is particularized to a converter interfacing a renewable source with the grid. Nevertheless, this methodology can be extended to different operating modes. The performance of the model is compared with the detailed switching model of the converter.
Developing the wider role of Business in Society: The Experience of Microsoft in developing training and supporting employability

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe Microsoft's activities in encouraging employability and to show how these activities provide strategic advantageDesign/methodology/approach – Two of Microsoft's corporate responsibility initiatives linked to the development of employment in Europe are described and it is shown how these activities have created sustainable competitive advantage for Microsoft through an analysis of industrial organisation economics and the resource‐based view of the firm. Reflects on the characteristics of these involvements and points to aspects which may have wider applicability.Findings – Involvement in societal projects can contribute intangible assets to the firm whilst delivering social value. However these projects are part of wider coordinated activities with other organisations and with government.Research limitations – These are reflections on participation in business and hence the conclusions are not representative and the analysis is unstructured.Practical impl.
EXTENT OF HOSPITAL DIRECTOR INVOLVEMENT IN STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT: DOES TENURE MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Of particular interest to researchers and practitioners is the impact of board members’ composition and characteristics on corporate activities. With the exception of studies focusing on the gender of board members and the inside director-outside director dichotomy, much of the research tends to treat directors as a homogeneous group. This study seeks to determine whether a relationship exists between hospital directors’ length of tenure and their degree of involvement in the strategic management process. The results of a survey of 240 directors from twenty-one hospitals are analyzed. A MANOVA, followed by a series of ANOVAs revealed significant differences between the longand short-tenure directors. In most areas those with relatively short board tenure tend to be less engaged than their longer-tenured counterparts. The latter are more involved in developing strategic alternatives, providing advice and counsel in discussions outside of board/committee meetings, and setting standards for and evaluating the performance of the hospital and management. However, both groups have very limited involvement in setting standards for rewarding top management and evaluating their performance. Short-tenure directors are more concerned with the interests of major stakeholders and promoting their goodwill and support. Also, they are more actively involved in financial matters. The results raise potentially important strategic dilemmas for hospitals and offer proponents of changes in board composition support for their normative suggestions. Longertenured members are not as concerned with financial matters as well as stakeholders’ interests and support as their short-tenured counterparts. Also, although longer-tenured members were more active in setting standards for rewarding top management and assessing their performance, it is important to note the limited involvement of both groups. The results show a reluctance by both groups to set performance standards for top management and to formally evaluate their performance.
Automatic ICD Code Assignment to Medical Text with Semantic Relational Tuples

Mining the Electronic Medical Record (EMR henceforth) is growing in popularity but still lacks good methods for better understanding the text in EMR. One important task is assigning proper International Classification of Diseases (ICD henceforth, which is the code schema for EMR) code based on the narrative text of EMR document. For the task, we propose an automatic feature extraction method by means of capturing semantic relational tuples. We proved the semantic relational tuple is able to capture information at semantic level and it contribute to ICD-9 classification task in two aspects, negation identification and feature generation.
Singularities in polarization resolved angular patterns: transmittance of nematic liquid crystal cells

We study the angular structure of polarization of light transmitted through a nematic liquid crystal (NLC) cell by theoretically analysing the polarization state as a function of the incidence angles. For a uniformly aligned NLC cell, the 4 × 4 matrix formalism and the orthogonality relations are used to derive the exact expressions for the transmission and reflection matrices. The polarization resolved angular patterns in the two-dimensional projection plane are characterized in terms of the polarization singularities such as C-points (points of circular polarization) and L-lines (lines of linear polarization). For linearly polarized plane waves incident on the homeotropically aligned cell, we present the results of detailed theoretical analysis describing the structure of the polarization singularities. We apply the theory to compute the polarization patterns for various orientational structures in the NLC cell and discuss the effects induced by director orientation and biaxiality.
Objective and subjective methods for quantifying training load in wheelchair basketball small-sided games

ABSTRACT The aim of the present study was to analyse the training load in wheelchair basketball small-sided games and determine the relationship between heart rate (HR)-based training load and perceived exertion (RPE)-based training load methods among small-sided games bouts. HR-based measurements of training load included Edwards’ training load and Stagno’s training impulses (TRIMPMOD) while RPE-based training load measurements included cardiopulmonary (session RPEres) and muscular (session RPEmus) values. Data were collected from 12 wheelchair basketball players during five consecutive weeks. The total load for the small-sided games sessions was 67.5 ± 6.7 and 55.3 ± 12.5 AU in HR-based training load (Edwards’ training load and TRIMPMOD), while the RPE-based training loads were 99.3 ± 26.9 (session RPEres) and 100.8 ± 31.2 AU (session RPEmus). Bout-to-bout analysis identified greater session RPEmus in the third [P < 0.05; effect size (ES) = 0.66, moderate] and fourth bouts (P < 0.05; ES = 0.64, moderate) than in the first bout, but other measures did not differ. Mean correlations indicated a trivial and small relationship among HR-based and RPE-based training loads. It is suggested that HR-based and RPE-based training loads provide different information, but these two methods could be complementary because one method could help us to understand the limitations of the other.
Molecular imaging and biological evaluation of HuMV833 anti-VEGF antibody: implications for trial design of antiangiogenic antibodies.

BACKGROUND Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent angiogenic cytokine, and various inhibitory agents, including specific antibodies, have been developed to block VEGF-stimulated angiogenesis. We developed HuMV833, a humanized version of a mouse monoclonal anti-VEGF antibody (MV833) that has antitumor activity against a number of human tumor xenografts, and investigated the distribution and biologic effects of HuMV833 in patients in a phase I trial. METHODS Twenty patients with progressive solid tumors were treated with various doses of HuMV833 (0.3, 1, 3, or 10 mg/kg). Positron emission tomography with (124)I-HuMV833 was used to measure the antibody distribution in and clearance from tissues. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure the vascular permeability surface area product with a first-pass pharmacokinetic model (k(fp)) to determine tumor vascular permeability. RESULTS The antibody was generally well tolerated, although the incremental dose, phase I study design, and pharmacodynamic endpoints could not identify the optimum biologically active dose. Antibody distribution and clearance were markedly heterogeneous between and within patients and between and within individual tumors. HuMV833 distribution to normal tissues also varied among patients, but the antibody was cleared from these tissues in a homogeneous fashion. Permeability was strongly heterogeneous between and within patients and between and within individual tumors. All tumors showed a reduction in k(fp) 48 hours after the first treatment (median = 44%; range = 4%-91%). CONCLUSIONS Because of the heterogeneity in tumor biology with respect to antibody uptake and clearance, we suggest that either intrapatient dose escalation approaches or larger, more precisely defined patient cohorts would be preferable to conventional strategies in the design of phase I studies with antiangiogenic compounds like HuMV833.
Decisions of Initial Public Offering Review Committees: Causes and Consequences

We investigate the causes and consequences of the decisions made by an initial public offering (IPO) reviewing committee using a unique data set from Taiwan. Firms that were approved for listing are associated with better financial performance measures and are larger in equity size. Whether the committee unanimously approves an IPO firm depends on whether the firm's associated auditor changes or gives a nonunqualified report. The voting outcome has a discernable effect in the sense that unanimously approved firms are associated with higher financial performance measures (returns on equity, returns on assets, earnings per share, and the price-to-earnings ratio) than are nonunanimously approved firms, with the differences being more significant in the two years after the IPO.
AN EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVE CASH, SHARE, AND FLEXIBLE LEASING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SOUTH CAROLINA GRAIN FARMS

A simulation model incorporating stochastic yields, prices, and government payments generates returns for landowners and tenants under cash, share, and flexible leases. Corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, peanuts, and wheat-double crop soybeans crop enterprises are studied. Alternatives are evaluated by mean returns, coefficient of variation, and certainty equivalent analysis.
Genome editing in induced pluripotent stem cells

The discovery of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells has broadened the promises of regenerative medicine through the generation of syngeneic replacement cells or tissues via the differentiation of patient‐specific iPS cells. To apply iPS cell‐mediated therapy to patients with genetic disorders, however, genome‐editing technologies with high efficiency and specificity are needed. Recently, several targeted genome‐editing strategies mediated by zinc finger nuclease and transcription activator‐like effector nuclease have been applied to human and mouse iPS cells. Furthermore, spontaneous homologous recombination can restore genotype to wild type in mouse iPS cells heterozygous for genetic mutations. Through genome editing, the clinical application of patient‐specific genetic mutation‐free iPS cells to genetic disorders can finally be realized.
The cerebral hemorrhage-producing cystatin C variant (L68Q) in extracellular fluids

A variant of the normal extracellular cysteine protease inhibitor cystatin C (L68Q-cystatin C), is the amyloid precursor in hereditary cystatin C amyloid angiopathy (HCCAA). It has been suggested that the mutation causes cellular entrapment ofL68Q-cystatin C in vivo and that the variant protein is not secreted to extracellular fluids. In order to test this hypothesis, we used matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry in an effort to demonstrate the presence ofL68Q- along with wildtype cystatin C in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of HCCAA-patients. Plasma from all five investigated HCCAA-patients contained both L68Q- and wildtype cystatin C. The presence of approximately equal amounts of cystatin C dimers and monomers was demonstrated in plasma from HCCAA-patients, whereas only monomers could be found in normal plasma. L68Q-wildtype-cystatin C heterodimers seem to be present in the dimeric cystatin C population. CSF from six HCCAA-patients also contained cystatin C-dimers and monomers, but the dimeric fraction was minute. CSF from control patients did not contain dimeric cystatin C These results suggest that the milieu of L68Q-cystatin C is important for its stability and dimerization status and that certain milieus might hinder its further development into oligomers, amyloid fibrils and other precipiting aggregates.
High-Tech Immigrant Entrepreneurship in the United States

This article reports the results of a national survey that estimates the rate of immigrant entrepreneurship in a representative sample of high-impact firms in high-technology industries in the United States. The authors report key descriptive statistics about the companies and their founders. About 16% of the companies in the sample, for instance, number at least one immigrant entrepreneur among their founding teams, while about 77% of the immigrant entrepreneurs are U.S. citizens. Three multivariate analyses are carried out that compare high-impact, high-tech firms that count at least one immigrant in their founding teams with those that were founded by native-born entrepreneurs. It is found that the two groups of firms are similar with respect to economic and technological performance. Immigrant-founded firms are more likely to report that they have a strategic relationship with a foreign firm. The authors conclude by briefly considering the potential implications of their findings for immigration and economic development policy.
What Drives the Tracking Error of Hedge Fund Clones?

Hedge fund clones provide a liquid, efficient, and transparent alternative to investing in hedge funds. As a group, however, their recent performance has been disappointing, despite the large variation in the replication methodologies used. The author investigates hedge fund clones’ tracking errors and finds that contrary to common belief, the reliance on historical data to “reverse engineer” hedge fund allocation is not the primary cause. Instead, the author identifies two important drivers of tracking errors of hedge fund clones. One is changes in marketwide liquidity levels as measured by the basis between derivatives and cash securities. The second is biases in measuring the returns that arise due to attrition among hedge funds that affect the performance of commonly used hedge fund indices. Together, they account for about half of the variation in hedge fund clones’ tracking errors over time.
Single-wall carbon nanotubes induce oxidative stress in rat aortic endothelial cells

Oxidative stress is a major factor contributing to endothelial cell damage. Single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have oxidative properties; however, the oxidative effects of SWCNTs on endothelial cells are not fully understood. In the present study, we investigated the effects of oxidative stress induced by SWCNTs on rat aortic endothelial cells (RAECs). Various markers of cellular damage were assessed, such as biochemical and ES immunity indexes, and DNA and protein damage. Our findings suggest that RAEC endured oxidative damage following SWCNT exposure. Specifically, after SWCNTs exposure, non-enzymatic antioxidant glutathione was activated prior to superoxide dismutase activation in order to defend against oxidative stress. Additionally, it was found that as SWCNT concentration increased, so did the stress protein, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), expression levels. These changes may induce RAEC damage, and result in many serious diseases.
Ultra wide band power amplifier using GaN on Si HEMT device

This contribution describes the design of an ultra wide band hybrid power amplifier for applications in the frequency range from 1 GHz to 6 GHz. The amplifier is designed with a GaN-on-Si HEMT device provided by SELEX-SI, in a single ended configuration and using the source/load-pull and Scattering parameters measured data. The amplifier has been designed using a CAD oriented broad band matching approach for both input and output networks. From 1 GHz to 6 GHz, the expected output power at 3dB of gain compression is around 41 dBm.
MRI and spectroscopy in (near) term neonates with perinatal asphyxia and therapeutic hypothermia

Background Previous studies have demonstrated the association of abnormalities on diffusion-weighted MRI (DW-MRI) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) in infants with perinatal asphyxia. The use of therapeutic hypothermia might change this association. Aim To study the association between DW-MRI and 1H-MRS and outcome after perinatal asphyxia and therapeutic hypothermia in infants with a gestational age of ≥36 weeks. Patients and methods Infants with perinatal asphyxia and therapeutic hypothermia (n=88) were included when an MR examination was performed within 7 days after birth. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of the basal ganglia and thalamus were calculated, as were lactate/N-acetylaspartate (LAC/NAA) and N-acetylaspartate/choline (NAA/Cho) ratios. Death or an abnormal neurodevelopment at ≥24 months was considered an adverse outcome. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to determine cut-off levels. Results Of the 88 infants, 22 died and 7 had an adverse neurodevelopmental outcome. In infants with an adverse outcome, ADC values of the basal ganglia and thalamus were significantly lower, and Lac/NAA ratios were significantly higher than in infants with a normal outcome. Areas under the curve of ADC of the basal ganglia, thalami and Lac/NAA ratio were 0.89, 0.88 and 0.87, respectively. NAA/Cho ratios were in this cohort not associated with outcome. Conclusions During and after therapeutic hypothermia, low ADC values and high Lac/NAA ratios of the basal ganglia and thalamus are associated with an adverse outcome in infants with perinatal asphyxia.
Effect of gate fringing and dopant redistribution on the width-dependence of threshold voltage of narrow channel shallow trench isolated MOSFETs

This paper demonstrates the effect of gate fringing and dopant redistribution on the width-dependence of threshold voltage of narrow channel shallow trench isolated MOSFETs Shallow trench isolated MOSFETs have been considered in the 90 nm technology node. The model takes into account the modification of the depletion charge density caused due to dopant redistribution and the enhanced depletion depth at the trench oxide sidewalls due to edge effect caused by gate fringing. The developed model has been validated by comparing the results predicted from the derived model with experimental data, simulation data and also with a similar model available in literature. It has been demonstrated that our model predicts correctly the inverse narrow width effect of nano-scale devices.
Vertical strategic alignment and public service performance

We report the results of a study examining the effects of vertical strategic alignment (that is, the degree to which strategic stances are consistent across different organizational levels) on public service performance. Longitudinal multivariate analysis is undertaken on a panel of public organizations over four years. We find that alignment on a prospecting strategy leads to better performance, but that no such effect is observed for a defending strategy. We also find that high levels of prospecting alignment produce stronger positive performance effects in centralized organizations and when environmental uncertainty is high. The implications of these findings for research and practice are considered in the conclusion.
Classroom Games: Voluntary Provision of a Public Good

This paper describes a simple public goods game, implemented with playing cards in a classroom setup. Students choose whether to contribute to the provision of a public good in a situation where it is privately optimal not to contribute, but socially optimal to contribute fully. This exercise motivates discussion of altruism, strategies for private fund-raising, and the role of government in resolving the public good problem.