Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Reference prices in retail advertisements: Moderating effects of market price dispersion and need for cognition on consumer value perception and shopping intention

One main concern regarding the use of reference prices in advertisements relates to the possibility of deception due to consumers' positive response towards exaggerated or implausible claims. This paper examines the moderating roles of a contextual variable‐market price dispersion for a product category, and that of an individual level variable‐need for cognition, in influencing consumer evaluation of reference prices across two experiments. The results support the hypothesized effects of need for cognition and demonstrate that, for low need, for cognition individuals, increasing the level of reference price results in positive effects on value perception and shopping intention.
Liquidity and Governance

Is greater trading liquidity good or bad for corporate governance? We address this question both theoretically and empirically. We solve a model consisting of an optimal IPO followed by a dynamic Kyle market in which the large investor's private information concerns her own plans for taking an active role in governance. We show that an increase in the liquidity of the firm's stock increases the likelihood of the large investor 'taking the Wall Street walk. ' Thus, higher liquidity is harmful for governance. Empirical tests using three distinct sources of exogenous variation in liquidity confirm the negative relation between liquidity and blockholder activism.
Time-Cost-Quality-Risk of Construction and Development Projects or Investment

In this paper, the survival pyramid including time, cost, quality and risk in construction and development projects and investment has been taken into consideration and explanation. The results for other industries such as automotive, appliances and electronic devices, leading industries and etc can be used. The purpose of considering them is to create balance among time, cost, quality and risk to make the best level of customers' satisfaction and end users and to obtain the most optimal level of value for organization. In recent years, examining the relationship between competitive advantages in the leading industries and industrialized countries are still under discussion. Every year, large companies spend large sums on the research and development about the most optimum combination of production or the most optimum function and feature of their products and services. The impact of poor quality on the price of products and organization earnings and the amount of cost should be paid for high quality has raised many important issues affecting cost accounting, quality control, repairs and maintenance, supply chain, production management, stores, safety and health, education and improvement and so forth.
Agile High-Q RF Photonic Zooming Filter

We report on the development of an agile radio frequency (RF) photonic receiver front-end based on a tunable single pole band-pass RF photonic filter with reconfigurable pass band. The filter center frequency is tunable from 30 MHz to 3 GHz (VHF-UHF frequency band) in a microsecond time interval, and its bandwidth is adjustable from 100 kHz to 100 MHz in less than 10 μs time interval. The filter out-of-band rejection ratio exceeds 35 dB. The filter features 23 dB frequency independent insertion loss and -140 dBm/Hz noise floor with respect to input, as well as 110 dB.Hz2/3 spurious free dynamic range measured at 100 MHz filter bandwidth. The use of photonics technology allows adjusting the center frequency of the filter to any frequency within 30 MHz-100 GHz range without performance degradation.
Interconnect simple, accurate and statistical models using on-chip measurements for calibration

In this work, we will describe and analyze simple, accurate and compact models for interconnect structures. These parameterized models are optimized for the particular fabrication process via field solver simulations and on wafer test structure measurements. Additionally, process variations will be incorporated in the compact models using the principal component analysis (PCA) and performance response surface models (RSM) to derive statistical interconnect models. A new test structure, along with the measurement scheme and the associated extraction methods are introduced here to facilitate the calibration of the interconnect models. Additionally, further tuning of those models with respect to measurements of complex on-chip test structures, such as clock nets, assures model accuracy and circuit performance predictability.
Validity and reproducibility of the ErgomoPro power meter compared with the SRM and Powertap power meters.

PURPOSE The ErgomoPro (EP) is a power meter that measures power output (PO) during outdoor and indoor cycling via 2 optoelectronic sensors located in the bottom bracket axis. The aim of this study was to determine the validity and the reproducibility of the EP compared with the SRM crank set and Powertap hub (PT). METHODS The validity of the EP was tested in the laboratory during 8 submaximal incremental tests (PO: 100 to 400 W), eight 30-min submaximal constant-power tests (PO = 180 W), and 8 sprint tests (PO > 750 W) and in the field during 8 training sessions (time: 181 +/- 73 min; PO: approximately 140 to 160 W). The reproducibility was assessed by calculating the coefficient of PO variation (CV) during the submaximal incremental and constant tests. RESULTS The EP provided a significantly higher PO than the SRM and PT during the submaximal incremental test: The mean PO differences were +6.3% +/- 2.5% and +11.1% +/- 2.1% respectively. The difference was greater during field training sessions (+12.0% +/- 5.7% and +16.5% +/- 5.9%) but lower during sprint tests (+1.6% +/- 2.5% and +3.2% +/- 2.7%). The reproducibility of the EP is lower than those of the SRM and PT (CV = 4.1% +/- 1.8%, 1.9% +/- 0.4%, and 2.1% +/- 0.8%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The EP power meter appears less valid and reliable than the SRM and PT systems.
Coopetition strategies and innovation in pre-competitive R&D programs: the case of wireless telecommunication sector

Many studies highlight that coopetition is a performant strategy for value creation. However, the determinants of its emergence and success remain insufficiently studied from coopetition theory perspective since it is just tackled by traditional relational perspectives. We suggest that precompetitive R&D programs represent a context which is interesting to study this type of collaboration. In this respect, we investigate the case of the cluster Celtic-Plus, dedicated to wireless telecommunications, within the pan-European program Eureka. Upon a qualitative in-depth case study based on 13 interviews with cluster officials, R&D managers and projects? coordinators, this research shows that for coopetitive projects to emerge and to succeed, a number of factors are necessary: a favorable context for collaboration, research-oriented objectives, consistence with the strategy of member firms and a portfolio of R&D projects represented in several R&D programs (European, national and regional).
The validity of an empirical delineation of heterogeneity in chronic unexplained fatigue.

OBJECTIVES To validate a latent class structure derived empirically from a clinical data set obtained from persons with chronic medically unexplained fatigue. METHODS The strategies utilized in this validation study included: recalculating latent class analysis (LCA) results varying random seeds and the number of initial random starting sets; recalculating LCA results by substituting alternate variables to demonstrate a robust solution; determining the statistical significance of between-class differences on disability, fatigue and demographic measures omitted from the data set used for LCA; cross-classifying class membership using established Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) research criteria for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) to compare the relative proportions of subjects designated CFS, chronic fatigue (not CFS) or healthy controls captured by the latent classes. RESULTS Recalculation of results and substitution of variables for low-loading variables demonstrated a robust LCA result. Highly significant between-class differences were confirmed between Class 2 (well) and those interpreted as ill/fatigued. Analysis of between-class differences for the fatigue groups revealed significant differences for all disability and fatigue variables, but with equivalent levels of reported activity and reduction in motivation. Cross-classification against established CDC criteria demonstrated that 89% of subjects constituting Class 2 (well) were indeed nonfatigued controls. A general tendency for grouping CFS cases in the multiple symptomatic classes was noted. CONCLUSION This study established reasonably good validity for an empirically-derived latent class solution reflecting considerable heterogeneity among subjects with medically unexplained chronic fatigue. This work strengthens the growing understanding of CFS as a heterogeneous entity comprised of several conditions with different underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.
Soleus-Fibula Free Transfer in Lower Limb Reconstruction

Free-fibula transfer has been widely used since 1975. Many modifications have been described; one of them, association of the lateral part of the soleus muscle to the fibula, is reported here through a 14-case series. This composite flap is intended for extensive defects of the lower limbs involving bone and soft tissues. The flap is considered by the authors to be reliable, with a constant vascularization. A 20-cm length of fibula may be harvested associated either with the lateral part of the soleus muscle or with the whole muscle. Moreover, the soleus muscle represents a vascular security inasmuch as it preserves both medullar and periosteal bone supply. Fourteen cases have been performed by the authors since 1978 and could be reviewed with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Average length of bone defect was 12 cm, and average length of fibula harvested was 18.6 cm. Soft-tissue defect was always associated and ranged from 8 × 4 cm to 20 × 30 cm. The fibula was harvested with the lateral part of the soleus muscle in 10 cases and with the whole soleus muscle in 4 cases. One total treatment failure was reported and was related to intimal degenerative lesions on veins used for arteriovenous bypass. In other patients, mean time for bone healing was 11 months. Patients could walk again, on average, 17 months after reconstruction. Sequelae at the donor site were minimal.
Shoulder Soft Tissue Width as a Predictor of Macrosomia in Diabetic Pregnancies

Sonographic evaluation of 43 pregnant women with diabetes mellitus was performed in the third trimester of gestation for evidence of fetal macrosomia. The width of the soft tissues of the shoulder from the skin surface to the proximal humerus was compared with previously reported measurements for their ability to predict fetal macrosomia. The abdominal circumference and shoulder soft tissue measurements were the best individual predictors of macrosomia, but a combination of an abdominal circumference greater than the 90th percentile for gestational age or a shoulder soft tissue width greater than 12 mm was the best predictor with a sensitivity of 96%, specificity of 89%, and accuracy of 93%. The shoulder soft tissue width should be evaluated for evidence of macrosomia in diabetic pregnancies.
Quantitative genetics in multi-objective optimization algorithms: from useful insights to effective methods

This paper shows that statistical algorithms proposed for the quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping problem, and the equation of the multivariate response to selection can be of application in multi-objective optimization. We introduce the conditional dominance relationships between the objectives and propose the use of results from QTL analysis and G-matrix theory to the analysis of multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs).
Human segmentation based on Bayesian model

In this paper, a novel method is proposed for human segmentation in the presence of occlusion or shadows. We utilize human body shape model to interpret the foreground in a Bayesian framework. In order to reduce process time, we use head-torso model instead of full-body human shape models in the solution space of Bayesian model. We obtain MAP (Maximum a posteriori) by using MCMC (Markov chain Monte Carlo). The choice of proposal density also can avoid miss-detections caused by mistaking small targets as image noises. In our method, we firstly detect head candidates; then, we construct Bayesian model and calculate MAP of it; finally, we select optimum human models for the candidates and segment human objects precisely. In a number of human segmentation experiments, our method not only achieves good performance in occlusion situations, but also is resistant to background noises.
Olfactory‐specific quality of life outcomes after endoscopic sinus surgery

Olfactory loss is a cardinal symptom of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and affects 40% to 80% of patients. However, common sinus‐specific quality‐of‐life (QOL) instruments include only single questions related to olfaction. Few studies have explored olfactory outcomes after surgery utilizing validated, olfaction‐specific QOL questionnaires.
Random graph theory based connectivity analysis in wireless sensor networks with Rayleigh fading channels

Connectivity is an essential merit of wireless sensor networks. There has been great interest in exploring the minimum density of sensor nodes that is needed to achieve a connected wireless network. This becomes difficult when uncertain features increase, such as Rayleigh fading channels. In this paper, we describe a range-dependent model for sensor networks by using random graph theory, and study the connectivity problem with this model. We calculate the probability of an arbitrary node being isolated, and thus obtain the probability of the whole network being connected. By giving the required minimum density, our work can guide in designing of the wireless sensor networks with fading channels. Moreover, the numerical results shows that the fading effect would degrade the connectivity of the wireless sensor networks.
Regeneration of glycocalyx by heparan sulfate and sphingosine 1-phosphate restores inter-endothelial communication

Vasculoprotective endothelium glycocalyx (GCX) shedding plays a critical role in vascular disease. Previous work demonstrated that GCX degradation disrupts endothelial cell (EC) gap junction connexin (Cx) proteins, likely blocking interendothelial molecular transport that maintains EC and vascular tissue homeostasis to resist disease. Here, we focused on GCX regeneration and tested the hypothesis that vasculoprotective EC function can be stimulated via replacement of GCX when it is shed. We used EC with [i] intact heparan sulfate (HS), the most abundant GCX component; [ii] degraded HS; or [iii] HS that was restored after enzyme degradation, by cellular self-recovery or artificially. Artificial HS restoration was achieved via treatment with exogenous HS, with or without the GCX regenerator and protector sphingosine 1- phosphate (S1P). In these cells we immunocytochemically examined expression of Cx isotype 43 (Cx43) at EC borders and characterized Cx-containing gap junction activity by measuring interendothelial spread of gap junction permeable Lucifer Yellow dye. With intact HS, 60% of EC borders expressed Cx43 and dye spread to 2.88 ± 0.09 neighboring cells. HS degradation decreased Cx43 expression to 30% and reduced dye spread to 1.87± 0.06 cells. Cellular self-recovery of HS restored baseline levels of Cx43 and dye transfer. Artificial HS recovery with exogenous HS partially restored Cx43 expression to 46% and yielded dye spread to only 1.03 ± 0.07 cells. Treatment with both HS and S1P, recovered HS and restored Cx43 to 56% with significant dye transfer to 3.96 ± 0.23 cells. This is the first evidence of GCX regeneration in a manner that effectively restores vasculoprotective EC communication.
An empirical analysis of inter-acquisition time of free online content

Free, content-oriented Web sites depend on advertising revenues that are based on the number of visitors to the site. To induce visitors to acquire information quickly, these sites present information items according to their popularity. We empirically examine two key determinants of a visitor's inter-acquisition time (popularity and the number of information items previously acquired by the visitor) using a hazard model estimated from data obtained from del.icio. us, a social bookmarking site. The results indicate that inter-acquisition times are longer for heavy users and for less popular information items. The results are relevant for other free content-providing sites such as cnet.com and music.yahoo. com.
The Study on the MRTD Measurement System of Medical Infrared Thermal Imager Based on Sub-Pixel Edge Detection Algorithm

MRTD (minimum resolvable temperature difference) is an important parameter to evaluate the infrared thermal imager. MRTD is not only related to the spatial resolution of the system, but also to many factors such as optical system, detector array and so on. The measurement technique and principle of the medical infrared thermal imager’s MRTD is deeply analyzed, and the MRTD measurement model is established in this paper. The MRTD measurement system of infrared thermal imager based on CCD imaging technology is designed. CCD is used to carry on the interpretation of temperature difference in this system instead of the human eye, which can avoid the effect of some factors on the subjective image quality evaluation, such as the contrast, the human interference flaw and so on. The sub-pixel edge detection algorithm is used to deal with the four-bar target image, which can effectively suppress the interface of the random noise on four-bar target image. The experimental results show that the MRTD testing accuracy of the system can reach 0.055℃.
Conditional Deletion of Ric-8b in Olfactory Sensory Neurons Leads to Olfactory Impairment

The olfactory system can discriminate a vast number of odorants. This ability derives from the existence of a large family of odorant receptors expressed in the cilia of the olfactory sensory neurons. Odorant receptors signal through the olfactory-specific G-protein subunit, Gαolf. Ric-8b, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor, interacts with Gαolf and can amplify odorant receptor signal transduction in vitro. To explore the function of Ric-8b in vivo, we generated a tissue specific knock-out mouse by crossing OMP-Cre transgenic mice to Ric-8b floxed mice. We found that olfactory-specific Ric-8b knock-out mice of mixed sex do not express the Gαolf protein in the olfactory epithelium. We also found that in these mice, the mature olfactory sensory neuron layer is reduced, and that olfactory sensory neurons show increased rate of cell death compared with wild-type mice. Finally, behavioral tests showed that the olfactory-specific Ric-8b knock-out mice show an impaired sense of smell, even though their motivation and mobility behaviors remain normal. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Ric-8b is a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) expressed in the olfactory epithelium and in the striatum. Ric-8b interacts with the olfactory Gαolf subunit, and can amplify odorant signaling through odorant receptors in vitro. However, the functional significance of this GEF in the olfactory neurons in vivo remains unknown. We report that deletion of Ric-8b in olfactory sensory neurons prevents stable expression of Gαolf. In addition, we demonstrate that olfactory neurons lacking Ric-8b (and consequently Gαolf) are more susceptible to cell death. Ric-8b conditional knock-out mice display impaired olfactory guided behavior. Our results reveal that Ric-8b is essential for olfactory function, and suggest that it may also be essential for Gαolf-dependent functions in the brain.
‘The presentation of self in the online world’: Goffman and the study of online identities

This paper presents an exemplification and discussion of the contemporaneity of Erving Goffman’s work and of its applicability to the analysis of identity and presentation of self in the blogging and Second Life (SL) contexts. An analysis of online identity and interaction practices in 10 different cases of bloggers and SL inhabitants and of their online spaces is presented in terms of: expressions given; embellishment as a minor form of persona adoption; dividing the self; conforming and ‘fitting in’; and masking, anonymity and pseudonimity. The key finding of the research is that, contrary to engaging with the process of whole persona adoption, participants were keen to re-create their offline self online, but engaged in editing facets of self. This emphasizes the key premise in Goffman’s work that, when in ‘front stage’, people deliberately chose to project a given identity. It is concluded that Goffman’s original framework is of great usefulness as an explanatory framework for understanding identity through interaction and the presentation of self in the online world. Equally, the online environment, with its enhanced potential for editing the self, can offer opportunities to contribute to the further development of the Goffman framework.
Private Benefits of Control in Founding-Family Owned Firms: An Analysis of the Dynamics of Disproportionate Ownership and Control in Family Firm Ipos

Our study examines private benefits of control in founding-family owned firms, by analyzing a unique sample of 105 IPOs of family firms on German stock exchanges from 1970 to 2011. First, we show that substantial private benefits of control exist in these firms and we empirically determine the nature of these private benefits. Second, we confirm that the separation of cash flow rights and voting rights via dual-class shares is used to create controlling shareholder structures in order to preserve private benefits of the family. In doing so, we analyze the effect of different types of private benefits on dual-class adoption. Third, we show that the market cares about private benefits of control and find a significant long-run underperformance by dual-class IPO shares.
Modelling and estimation of the fundamental frequency of speech using a hidden Markov model

This paper proposes using a hidden Markov model (HMM) to model a speech signal in terms of its speech class (voiced, unvoiced and nonspeech) and for voiced speech its fundamental frequency. States of the HMM represent unvoiced speech and nonspeech with multiple voiced states that model different fundamental frequencies. The transition matrix of the HMM models temporal changes in speech class and the time-varying fundamental frequency contour. The model is then applied to voicing and fundamental frequency estimation by extracting acoustic features from a speech signal and then applying Viterbi decoding. Experimental results are presented that investigate the estimation accuracy of the proposed system and a comparison is made against conventional methods.