Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Linear tuning of the resonant frequency in tilting oscillators by an axially loaded suspension flexure

In this work we present a novel approach for fine linear tuning of resonant frequency in tilting oscillators and investigate, both theoretically and experimentally, the main features and functionality of the tuning mechanism. The operation principle of the tuning mechanism is based on the application of an axial force to a cantilever-like suspension flexure, built in such a way that the real pivot is replaced by a virtual one, which provides a center of rotation. The axial force is provided by an electrostatic transducer realized in the framework of the single layer multiple close-gap electrodes actuation concept. Devices with three different types of suspensions were fabricated and characterized. Experimental and theoretical results collectively show that the suggested approach can be efficiently implemented for resonant frequency tuning in tilting devices.
Do Online Services Contribute to Establishing Brand Equity Within the Retail Banking Context?

The main purpose of this article is to investigate the relationship between online service quality factors and brand equity within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) banking context. This article is the first in the literature to investigate the role of online service quality in establishing bank equity. There had been some speculation on the link between online quality and equity, but no empirical evidence had been found in previous research. In this study a conceptual model was proposed of the relationship between online service quality factors and brand equity factors within the UAE banking context. A survey was designed and data collected from a convenience sample of online banking users. AMOS 6 was used to test the hypothesized relationships. E-escape and security factors have a direct and positive relationship with brand awareness as well as brand image. E-responsiveness has a direct influence on bank brand image. The ease-of-use factor has no relationship either with brand image or with awareness. None of the online service quality factors have a direct relationship with brand loyalty. However, most online service factors influence brand loyalty indirectly through brand image and awareness. This research has been applied to financial institutions in the UAE. Further testing of the proposed conceptual model across different industries and countries is needed to determine the generalizability and consistency of this study's findings.
Reputation,Third-party Seal and Online Purchasing Behavior:an Empirical Study of Taobao

"Reputation Points" and "Third-party Seal" are the two main types of trust mechanisms commonly used in the online retail market,both in china and abroad.The data from this paper were obtained from 3060 shops on Taobao which sold Nokia 5800 mobile phones through the search program,in order for verifying the functions of reputation and third-party seal.The study showed the following four aspects under the circumstances of non-negotiable price rather than auction:(1)Reputation produces a positive impact on online purchasing behavior;(2)Price produces a negative impact on online purchasing behavior,which is moderated by reputation(the higher the reputation,the weaker the impact of price on purchase);(3)Assurance seal produces a positive impact on purchasing behavior,which is also moderated by reputation(the higher the reputation,the larger the impact of assurance seal);(4)Promotional seal produces a great and positive impact on purchasing behavior,charitable seal produces a weaker and positive impact on trust,and convenient seal has no significant effect on purchasing behavior.
Transport integration tools for supply chain management

Over the last 3 years, research carried out by Cardiff University has studied the opportunities to integrate freight transport better into supply chains. The paper stems from this work. After asserting the principal reasons why better transport integration is important, it charts a range of diagnostic tools that were deployed. The tools represent a menu of instruments that aim to aid understanding, which can be selected from depending on need and circumstance. They can be utilised by transport and supply chain managers to assess what is happening within their supply chains, how well they are performing and the degree of integration, especially of the transport function with related supply chain echelons. It is hoped that by codifying this element of the research a contribution will have been made to the effective dissemination of the research to industry and thought leaders, which in turn will lead to practical exploitation, resulting in more integrated transport and supply chain management practice.
A 1.5V four phase switched polarity charge pump

A four phase switched polarity charge pump using 0. 13µm triple well CMOS technology is presented. The architecture takes advantage of the threshold voltage cancellation scheme in the conventional four phase Dickson charge pump. With the body control technique, the body effect is eliminated. The charge transfer unit is shared in positive and negative operation, which makes the design more compact. Simulation results show that the proposed 5-stage charge pump can reach +8.22V/−8.05V (ideal: +9V/−9V) with 10% of total capacitance as estimated parastics, and the output indicates good linearity with respect to the increase of stages.
Expression of zinc finger protein 105 in the testis and its role in male fertility

Using an in silico approach, we identified a putative zinc finger domain‐containing transcription factor (zinc finger protein 105, ZFP105) enriched in the adult mouse testis. RT‐PCR analyses showed that Zfp105 was indeed highly expressed in adult mouse testis and that its expression was regulated during postnatal development. To further characterize Zfp105 expression, we generated a Zfp105:β‐galactosidase (LacZ) knock‐in reporter mouse line (Zfp105LacZ/+) in which a Zfp105:LacZ fusion gene was expressed. Whole‐mount LacZ analyses of adult Zfp105LacZ/+ tissues showed robust LacZ staining in the testis, very weak staining in the ovary, and no staining in the spleen, liver, kidney, heart, lung, thymus, adrenal gland, uterus, or oviduct. Sectional LacZ staining showed that ZFP105 was highly expressed in pachytene spermatocytes. ZNF35, the human ortholog of Zfp105, was also highly expressed in human testis. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that ZNF35 was located primarily in the cytoplasm of male germ cells. More importantly, reduced male fertility was observed in adult Zfp105LacZ/LacZ mice. Histological studies showed the presence of undifferentiated spermatogenic cells in the lumen of seminiferous tubules at stage VII and in the epididymal lumen of adult Zfp105LacZ/LacZ mice. Taken together, our results suggest that ZFP105 is a male germ‐cell factor and plays a role in male reproduction. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 77: 511–520, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The influence of management journals in the 1980s and 1990s

It is difficult to get a clear picture of the relative influence of management journals because previous studies have focused on a single sub-area in the field over a relatively restricted number of years, and/or have used inconsistent criteria to judge journal influence. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine journal influence using citations from 28 journals over the past two decades. The findings show that the top seven journals accounted for 61 percent of all of the citations in the journals included, and that the three journals that showed the greatest increase in influence over the past 20 years were AMJ, AMR, and SMJ. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Socially responsible supply chains: power asymmetries and joint dependence

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to analyse the role of relational power/dependent asymmetries and symmetries in shaping socially responsible supply chain management, whilst also examining how these issues are moderated by geographical distance between buyer and supplier.Design/methodology/approach – The study draws on data from 339 buyer‐supplier relationships, and the authors use a set of regression models to test their hypotheses.Findings – Joint dependency positively influences socially responsible supply chain management, whilst supplier power constrains it. Both joint dependency and buyer power become increasingly important determinants of socially responsible supply chain management as geographic distance increases.Research limitations/implications – Further work is needed to examine the conditions under which organisations will exercise their power advantage or their joint dependence position to improve socially responsible processes in the supply chain, as there may be situations where the .
Dispute boards on major infrastructure projects

Prevention is better than cure. Using dispute boards on major infrastructure projects has been shown to reduce significantly the number of issues that become full-blown disputes and thereby involve the parties in time-consuming and costly arbitration and/or litigation. In this paper the author, a past-president of the Dispute Resolution Board Foundation and a leading exponent of dispute boards, reviews the history, purpose and proven benefits of dispute boards in the avoidance and early evaluation (adjudication) of disputes within the construction industry. The paper emphasises the importance of good job–site communication and how a proactive dispute board, particularly on international contracts, can positively influence on-site relationships and bring major project management benefits to the construction process. The appointment of dispute boards, the terms of engagement and best-practice procedures are discussed. The article reveals the remarkably successful dispute resolution figures of 98‥ when dispu.
Theories of investor behavior and their application to segmentation and predictive modelling of retail clients at Phillips, Hager & North

Behavioural theories of finance and economics have received little academic attention until recently. Nevertheless, behavioural theories of investor behaviour can be directly applied to categorization of investors and prediction of future behaviour. The purpose of characterizing and predicting future behaviour is to ensure allocation of appropriate corporate resources to meet the needs of clients as effectively as possible. This research specifically focuses on segmentation and predictive modeling of retail clients at Phillips, Hager & North Investment Management Ltd. Segmentation is undertaken through cluster analysis of investors based on transactional and performance data. Subsequent logistic regression and seemingly unrelated regression models are developed to determine if investment personality through Know-Your-Client (KYC) information and demographics have an explanatory and predictive relationship with future investor behaviour. © Nicole Marija Franjic ii
Integrating nurse practitioners into Canadian emergency departments: a qualitative study of barriers and recommendations.

OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to identify the facilitators and barriers associated with integrating nurse practitioners (NPs) into Canadian emergency departments (EDs) from the perspectives of NPs and ED staff. METHODS We conducted 24 semi-structured interviews with key multidisciplinary stakeholders in 6 Ontario EDs to gain a broad range of perspectives on implementation issues. Data were analyzed using a grounded-theory approach. RESULTS Qualitative analysis of the interview data revealed 3 major issues associated with NP implementation: organizational context, role clarity and NP recruitment. Organizational context refers to the environment an NP enters and involves issues related to the ED culture, physician reimbursement system and patient volume. Role clarity refers to understanding the NP's function in the ED. Recruitment issues are associated with attracting and retaining NPs to work in EDs. Examples of each issue using respondent's own words are provided. CONCLUSIONS Our study identified 3 issues that illustrate the complex issues involved when implementing NPs in EDs. The findings may inform policy makers and health care professionals in the future development of the role of NPs in Canadian EDs.
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ATTRIBUTES OF INTERNAL AUDIT DEPARTMENTS: A CANONICAL ANALYSIS

This study explores internal audit (IA) practices in selected Ethiopian organizations to identify factors associated with attributes of IA departments. Analytical questionnaire survey responses of 188 IA directors and staff from Ethiopian government ministries, state-owned enterprises and private companies were used. Canonical analysis results show that IA proficiency, scope of IA work and quality of IA planning and execution are higher in organizations where organizational policy authorizing IA is clearly defined, organizational risk exposure is high and internal audit‘s linkage with external audit is strong. The findings suggest that in organizations that are exposed to high risk, management tends to appreciate IA‘s assistance in managing risk and thus strengthens IA. Results also suggest the importance of internal and external audit linkages and IA charter (or similar organizational policy) to strengthen IA. The study provides further evidence of differences in IA attributes between public and private sector entities.
Trading Activity and Foreign Exchange Market Quality

This paper studies intraday market quality for currency pairs with very different trading characteristics, the Euro-U.S. dollar and the Canadian dollar-U.S. dollar. Two sets of tests - the first based on the ratio of long term to short term variances, and the second based on information spillovers - provide consistent conclusions regarding market quality. The variance ratio analysis shows that market quality is highest for the Euro during European trading and lowest during Asian trading. For the Canadian dollar, market quality is highest during North American trading and lowest during Asian trading. Analysis of information spillovers shows that innovations in returns and volatility for the more heavily-traded Euro predict returns and volatility for the Canadian dollar during Asian and European trading, but innovations for the dollar have predictive power for the Euro during North American trading. Our results suggest that foreign exchange market quality is high, not always when quoting and trading activity are heavy but rather, and somewhat unexpectedly, when activity is not only high, but also geographically focused and concentrated among a limited number of major dealers.
E‐mail survey response rates: targeting increases response

E‐mail is the most used of the electronic media. It is a cheap and quick means of communicating with clients and customers. It is also a means of collecting information on customers. This study analyses the response rates of a targeted and non‐targeted group to a financial questionnaire. The targeted group provided more complete and useful data than the non‐targeted group. The conclusions indicate strategies for using e‐mail to gather customer information.
Neuronal differentiation signals are controlled by nerve growth factor receptor/Trk binding sites for SHC and PLC gamma.

Differentiation and survival of neuronal cell types requires the action of neurotrophic polypeptides such as nerve growth factor (NGF). In the central and peripheral nervous system and the phaeochromocytoma cell model PC12, NGF exerts its effects through the activation of the signalling capacity of Trk, a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) which upon interaction with NGF becomes phosphorylated on tyrosines and thereby acquires the potential to interact with signal‐transducing proteins such as phospholipase C‐gamma (PLC gamma), phosphatidylinositol‐3′‐kinase (PI3′‐K) and SHC. Mutagenesis of the specific binding sites for these src homology 2 (SH2) domain‐containing substrates within the Trk cytoplasmic domain suggests a non‐essential function of PI3′‐K and reveals a major role for the signal controlled by the SHC binding site at tyrosine 490 and a co‐operative function of the PLC gamma‐mediated pathway for neuronal differentiation of PC12 cells.
Developmental pathogenesis of short palpebral fissure length in children with fetal alcohol syndrome.

BACKGROUND From the standpoint of normal embryologic development, the palpebral fissures are generally considered to be determined by and dependent on the underlying optic vesicles, outpouchings of the frontal area of the developing fetal brain. It has been suggested that short palpebral fissures are a reflection of an underlying defect in specific areas of forebrain development. Alternatively, short palpebral fissures, seen in a number of multiple malformation syndromes associated with small occipitofrontal circumference (OFC), such as the fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), might be proportionally small as a reflection of the microcephaly. The purpose of this study was to examine whether short palpebral fissures are independent of or determined by the OFC. METHODS Age-specific palpebral fissure length (PFL) and OFC centiles were correlated in 273 children with FAS, 272 children with some features of FAS, and 385 children with no structural features characteristic of FAS. RESULTS The OFC and PFL centiles demonstrated a statistically significant but weak correlation in all three study groups. Among children with FAS, only 10.2% of the total variation in PFL could be accounted for by OFC (p = 0.0001). A similar pattern was observed for children with some features of FAS (r(2) = 0.142; p = 0.0001) and children with no structural features of FAS (r(2) = 0.110; p = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Palpebral fissure length is predominately independent of occipitofrontal circumference in children with and without features of FAS. Short palpebral fissures may well reflect a defect in forebrain development rather than being proportionally reduced in size as a reflection of microcephaly. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2009. (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Measuring the domain-oriented quality of diff algorithms

Software changes over time: not only the source code but also its models and documentation, configuration files, messages payloads, and so on. Diff algorithms help users to track such evolution. These algorithms vary a lot in terms of efficiency, resources consumption, internal strategies and final results. The focus of this paper is on measuring and comparing the quality of the output produced by these algorithms. There is no univocal definition of quality in this context. We propose a top-down approach to characterise deltas, in order to investigate which is the most suitable algorithm for a given domain and a given class of users. Some measuring experiments on XML diff algorithms are presented too.
Organization and expression of the rat D2A receptor gene: identification of alternative transcripts and a variant donor splice site.

We have recently reported the creation of a cell line expressing D2 receptors encoded by a gene distinct from that described by Bunzow et al. [Bunzow, J. R. , Van Tol, H. H. M. , Grandy, D. K. , Albert, P., Salon, J., Christie, M. , Machida, C. A. , Neve, K. , & Civelli, O. (1988) Nature 336, 783-787]. To provide a framework for understanding structural differences between these and other G-protein-coupled receptors, the structure of the rat gene coding for the Bunzow et al. cDNA (called D2A here) was delineated. The D2A gene contains eight exons and spans at least 50 kb. Sets of oligonucleotide primers were used in combination with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine the presence of alternative transcripts within the introns. In contrast to other G-protein-coupled receptors, the D2A gene undergoes alternative RNA processing within intron 5, resulting in an insertion of 29 amino acids to the predicted 415 amino acid sequence of the D2A protein. By use of the PCR assay the relative abundance and tissue distribution of the alternative D2A transcripts (herein termed D2A415 and D2A444) were determined. A variant donor splice site was also identified at the end of exon 4, a GC dinucleotide instead of the canonical GT. The variant dinucleotide was also present in the mouse but not in the human D2A gene.
The inside story of relationship development: power asymmetry in a buyer-supplier relationship

The objectives of this paper are threefold: first, to explicate the role of power imbalance in buyer? supplier relationships; second, to analyse the inter-relationships among relational constructs from the perspective of both the buyer and supplier and lastly, to identify the benefits to the same. To accomplish these objectives, we identify and integrate variables and justifications from transaction cost economics, relational, and behavioural theories to develop a robust model. We propose that buyer and supplier power determines their respective level of commitment, which in turn, ascertains the level of power imbalance, fostering either arms-length or close relationships. The latter is likely to additionally reduce power imbalance and help partners accumulate trust and intellectual capital within organisations. Trust is posited to further enhance buyer and supplier intellectual capital through long-term relationships. The models of buyer? supplier partnerships presented in this paper add to the prevalent literature and provide further insights for managers.
Brand Equity in Cooperative Business Relationships: Exploring the Development of a Conceptual Model

With the increase in inter-firm activities - whether joint promotion, cobranding, joint ventures, alliances, or other types of organizational cooperation - an individual firm stands to become more dependent on consumers' associations with its cooperative partners. Since cooperation involves association and sharing of both tangible and intangible assets, the focus shifts to how to jointly manage the individual firm's assets and equity and also the assets and equity of close affiliates. We develop a conceptual model that examines how and why a cooperative partner's relational assets and equity may transfer to the firm. First we examine the theoretical foundations and then we focus on the key relational constructs of trust and reputation, which are integrated into the model.
Imaging at Both Ends of the Spectrum: the Long Wavelength Array and Fermi

The Long Wavelength Array (LWA) will be a new multi-purpose radio telescope operating in the frequency range 10-88 MHz. Scientific programs include pulsars, supernova remnants, general transient searches, radio recombination lines, solar and Jupiter bursts, investigations into the "dark ages" using redshifted hydrogen, and ionospheric phenomena. Upon completion, LWA will consist of 53 phased array "stations" distributed across a region over 400 km in diameter. Each station consists of 256 pairs of dipole-type antennas whose signals are formed into beams, with outputs transported to a central location for high-resolution aperture synthesis imaging. The resulting image sensitivity is estimated to be a few mJy (5sigma, 8 MHz, 2 polarizations, 1 h, zenith) from 20-80 MHz; with angular resolution of a few arcseconds. Additional information is online at this http URL Partners in the LWA project include LANL, JPL, NRL, UNM, NMT, and Virginia Tech. The full LWA will be a powerful instrument for the study of particle acceleration mechanisms in AGN. Even with the recently completed first station of the LWA, called "LWA1", we can begin spectral studies of AGN radio lobes. These can be combined with Fermi observations. Furthermore we have an ongoing project to observe Crab Giant Pulses in concert with Fermi. In addition to these pointed studies, the LWA1 images the sky down to declination -30 degrees daily. This is quite complimentary to Fermi's daily images of the sky.