Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Do Domestic Firms Benefit from Multinational Enterprises? A Meta-Analysis of the Empirical Research

Meta-analysis is a statistical technique that allows one to combine the results from multiple studies to glean inferences on the overall importance of a certain phenomenon. This study employs a substantive meta-analysis approach to quantitatively summarize the results of empirical studies of the direct impact of multinational companies on productivity spillovers in host countries. When all the available estimates are combined and averaged, there seems to be a small significant positive effect of multinational companies on productivity spillovers in host countries (average effect size = .06, aggregate N = 124,143). The findings of this study significantly refine the body of knowledge concerning the impact of multinational companies on productivity spillovers in host countries, and thereby offer an improved conceptual framework for researchers and policymakers.
ECONOMIC POLICY NOTE 13 / 2 / 2017 It ’ s the WACC , stupid !

In the wake of the Great Financial Crisis central banks have tried to revive the economy through low interest rates. Their intention was to stimulate lending for investment purposes so as to revive growth and lift inflation to their targets. To bring interest rates down, central banks have cut their policy rates and massively bought securities. The purchase of securities was most likely helpful in bringing down interest rates in the credit market. This is illustrated in
Analysts, Industries, and Price Momentum

Abstract This paper examines the value of analysts as industry specialists. We show analysts create value in their recommendations mainly through their ability to rank stocks within industries. An industry-based recommendation strategy substantially improves the return to risk ratio and reduces price momentum tilt relative to portfolios that ignore industry information. An examination of the links among analyst information, aggregated at the industry level, and industry returns and industry momentum shows that industry returns precede industry-aggregated analyst upgrades and downgrades, and the short-term industry price momentum phenomenon is partly explained by returns of firms with more analyst coverage leading those with less in that industry. Recommendation information is not valuable for predicting future relative industry returns, however.
A SYNTHESIS OF LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT RESEARCH IN AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION: 1988 - 2003

The concept of leadership development has been researched in agricultural education for decades. This study reviewed the Journal of Agricultural Education and the Proceedings of the National Agricultural Education Research Meeting/Conference to determine the number of research papers published between 1988 and 2003, the prolific leadership researchers, and the focus areas of their leadership research. Only 15 researchers had published three or more leadership-related studies over the 16 year period. Five percent of the articles in both publications were classified as leadership-related studies. The focus areas that emerged were: agricultural education/FFA, extension education/4-H, collegiate, and community leadership.
Microsieve supporting palladium-silver alloy membrane and application to hydrogen separation

A submicron thick and defect-free palladium-silver (Pd-Ag) alloy membrane is fabricated on a supporting microsieve by using microfabrication techniques. The microfabrication process also creates a robust wafer-scale membrane module, which can easily be inserted into a membrane holder to have gas-tight connections to the outer world. The microfabricated membrane demonstrated high separation fluxes of up to 4 mol H/sub 2//m/sup 2//spl middot/s with a minimal selectivity of 1500 for hydrogen over helium (H/sub 2//He) at 450/spl deg/C and 83 kPa H/sub 2/ retentate pressure. The present membrane has great potential for hydrogen purification and in applications like dehydrogenation chemistry. In addition, the presented technology can be used to fabricate other kinds of ultrathin but strong and defect-free membranes to set up new applications.
Comparing Hierarchical Trees in Statistical Implicative Analysis & Hierarchical Cluster in Learning Analytics

Learning Analytics1 has been and is still an emerging technology in education; the amount of research on learning analysis is increasing every year. The integration of new open source tools, analysis methods, and other calculation options are important. This paper aims to compare hierarchical trees in Statistical Implicative Analysis (SIA) and some hierarchical clusters in Learning Analytics. To this end, we must use a quasi-experimental design with random binary data. A comparison is about the time it takes to evaluate the function for execute the four cluster algorithms: cohesion tree (ASI), similarity tree (ASI), agnes (cluster R package) and hclust (R base function). This paper provides a alternative hierarchical cluster used in Statistical Implicative Analysis that is possible to use in Learning Analytics (LA). Also, provides a comparative R-program used and identifies future research about software performance.
Capital Budgeting Practices: A Comparative Study of the Netherlands and China

This paper compares the use of capital budgeting techniques of Dutch and Chinese firms, using data obtained from a survey among 250 Dutch and 300 Chinese companies. Our main aim is to analyse the use of capital budgeting techniques by companies in both countries from a comparative perspective to see whether economic development matters. The empirical analysis provides evidence that Dutch CFOs on average use more sophisticated capital budgeting techniques than Chinese CFOs do. At the same, however, our results suggest that the difference between Dutch and Chinese firms is smaller than might have been expected based upon the differences in the level of economic development between both countries, at least with respect to the use of methods of estimating the cost of capital and the use of CAPM as the method of estimating the cost of equity.
Identification of vehicle tracks and association to wireless endpoints by multiple sensor modalities

Vehicular positioning technologies enable a broad range of applications and services such as navigation systems, driver assistance systems and self-driving vehicles. However, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) do not work in enclosed areas such as parking garages. For these scenarios, a wide range of indoor positioning technologies are available inside the vehicle (internal) and based on infrastructure (external). Based on our previous work, we use off-the-shelf network video cameras to detect the position of moving vehicles within the parking garage in multiple non-overlapping camera views. Towards the goal of using this system as positioning source for vehicles, detected positions need to be transmitted to the communication endpoint in the correct vehicle. The key problem thereby is the association of the externally-observed position to the endpoint in the corresponding vehicle. State-of-the-art tracking-by-detection techniques can differentiate multiple camera-detected vehicles but the generated tracks are anonymous and cannot inherently be associated to the corresponding vehicle. To bridge this gap, we present a tracking-by-identification solution which analyzes vehicle movement patterns by multiple vehicle sensor modalities and compares them with camera-detected tracks to identify the track with the best correlation. The presented approach is based on Kalman Filters and suitable for real-time operation. Test results show that a correct and robust association between endpoints and camera-detected tracks is achieved and that occurring identity switches can be resolved.
Modelling and Forecasting Exchange Rate Dynamics: An Application of Asymmetric Volatility Models

This paper compares the performance of linear GARCH models in forecasting the volatility of returns in the foreign exchange market with that of asymmetric models. We study the information content of macroeconomic and market microstructure variables for forecasting over a 30-day horizon. The paper also examines the relevance of volatility spill-overs using multivariate GARCH. A long memory process was found for the exchange rate, with the effects of shocks being asymmetric. The non-linear GARCH model did better than the linear models in terms of the explanatory power. These models also performed well in the out-of-sample forecasts, although the model that accounted for excessive kurtosis provided better forecasts in some cases. The main influences on market volatility were the expected liquidity conditions, level of trade and spill-over effects from other financial markets. The spread was also found to have some explanatory power.
Reducing Management's Influence on Auditors' Judgments: An Experimental Investigation of SOX 404 Assessments

ABSTRACT: Auditors often receive summary information or conclusions from management about account balances or internal controls. They must then gather evidence to assess whether this information is fairly stated. In such situations, management can be considered the “first mover” and the auditor the “second mover. ” When auditors are the second mover, they are vulnerable to the curse of knowledge bias—the inability to ignore previously processed information (Fischhoff 1977). Specifically, because information from management could be incorrect or biased, auditors must arrive at an independent evaluation of the item in question (e.g., year-end book values, accounting estimates, or internal controls). This study examines the general issue of auditors being “second movers” by investigating how their awareness of management’s severity classifications of internal control problems influences auditors’ initial assessments of internal control over financial reporting (ICFR) under Auditing Standard No. 2. Our experim.
A license to operate? An empirical examination of the influence of environmental and social performance on the financial performance of mining sector firms

The notion that firms owe a duty to the wider communities in which they operate is now widely accepted among practitioners and academics. If there is a link between corporate environmental and social responsibility (CESP) and corporate financial performance (CFP), no sector is likely to be more sensitive than the mining sector. I investigate the relationship by testing whether there is a relationship between the strategic intent of mining firms to employ sustainability activities and positive financial performance as reflected in their return on fixed assets (ROFA). The results suggest that for a sample of major global mining firms there is not a statistically significant association between their CFP and their actions taken to improve their CESP. However, this paper submits that any connection may be complicated by inconsistencies in assessing and reporting the environmental and social performance of a firm in a systematic, accurate and transparent manner.
Gender, identity and change : mature women students in universities

In recent years policy changes have encouraged access to and the participation of adults in British universities. This thesis is a case study which looks at the experiences of non-traditional adult women students in universities. Emphasis is placed on understanding the experiences of mature undergraduate women students in universities from the perspectives of the actors. This is a sociological study. I draw on and integrate three theoretical paradigms: Marxist feminism, Marxism and interactionism. I examine the significance of macro and micro levels in shaping the behaviour, attitudes and experiences of women adult students. Gender and class were important factors in shaping the past and present lives of women in this study. However, in deciding to return to learn the women were actively choosing to change the direction of their lives. An underlying question was to what extent did studying change the way participants perceived themselves as women? Learning and the influence of social science disciplines helped the women to deconstruct and redefine the self. Being a student was influenced by the interaction of structure and agency. The women's student identity was shaped by both their own actions and institutional forces. Adult students are not homogeneous. Younger, single mature women experienced university life differently from older, married women as do full-time students compared to part-time students. The women studied here adjusted to the institutional life of a university through the formation of subcultures. To understand fully the experiences of being an adult student the interactions between public and private worlds are examined. A biographical approach using interviews was employed. A small sample of male mature students was included to identify the extent to which experiences were gendered ones. Despite the struggles the women interviewed valued the acquisition of knowledge and learning in a university environment.
Changes in Implicit Prices of Prairie Pothole Habitat

type="main" xml:lang="fr"> Dans la presente etude, j'ai evalue les variations des rabais sur les terres agricoles en raison de l'habitat dans les fondrieres des Prairies. J'ai estime les prix implicites des superficies occupees par les fondrieres a l'aide d'une serie de modeles hedonistes comprenant des donnees sur les transactions de terres agricoles effectuees au Manitoba au cours de la periode de 1990 a 2009. Les resultats de mon etude montrent que les rabais accordes sur les superficies de terres humides ont augmente d'au moins 40%, ce qui autorise a penser que les avantages lies a la conversion des terres humides ont cru de facon significative et imprevue au cours de la periode d’etude. J'ai egalement estime une serie de modeles hedonistes par le biais de regressions quantiles. Ces modeles ont montre que les rabais sur les superficies occupees par les fondrieres des Prairies, lesquels sont determines en fonction d'un pourcentage du prix de vente a l'acre, etaient constants dans la repartition de la valeur des terres. Ces resultats ont des repercussions sur la conception des programmes de conservation des habitats, en particulier ceux qui comportent des ententes a long terme entre des proprietaires fonciers et des organismes de conservation.
Cell Map Representation for Hierarchical Layout

In the hierarchical layout of rectangular blocks, the routing area naturally breaks into a set of adjacent rectangles. These rectangles can be used as a basis for both loose routing and the final track assignment. The paper explores some ways of structuring the required data. More details about generalized Lee routing, and practical results are left for verbal presentation.
The Estimation of International Migration Flows: A General Technique Focused on the Origin-Destination Association Structure

The log-linear model, with an alternative parameter coding scheme, is used in this paper to obtain estimates of international migration flows in situations where the data are inadequate or missing. The alternative parameter coding scheme is particularly useful in constructing the origin-destination association stricture—a key element often required for more-accurate predictions. To illustrate the method, international migration flows between countries in the northern region of Europe during the 1999–2000 period are estimated.
Obesity prevention for children with physical disabilities: a scoping review of physical activity and nutrition interventions

Abstract Purpose: Children with disabilities are at higher risk of obesity, engage in less physical activity and report poorer quality dietary habits than their non-disabled peers. This study reviewed current evidence on interventions designed to facilitate weight management and/or weight-related behaviors (i.e. physical activity and/or healthy eating habits) in children with physical disabilities. Methods: A scoping review was performed using established methodology. Data from studies meeting specific inclusion criteria were extracted and analyzed using summary statistics, and common characteristics thematically identified. Results: Thirty-four articles were included in the synthesis. No long-term obesity prevention interventions were identified. The majority of research focused upon children with cerebral palsy, and had case study, quasi- or non-experimental designs. All interventions reporting positive outcomes (n = 18) addressed physical activity, with common themes including using motivational strategies for the child and child self-direction. Incremental increases in workload and engaging in strength training for longer than 15 minutes were also effective. Interventions targeting body weight/composition did not report success in the long term. Conclusions: A robust evidence base is lacking for long-lasting obesity interventions for children with physical disabilities. Current research provides some insights into the specific components that should be considered when planning such interventions in the future. Implications for Rehabilitation Clinicians should be aware of the high risk of obesity, physical inactivity and poor diet in children with physical disabilities. The use of motivational strategies, child direction in activities and incremental increases in workload all appear promising approaches, yet require further evaluation. Evidence-based interventions are needed to improve both short- and long-term health and quality of life for children with physical disabilities.
Can companies profit from greener manufacturing

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the trend and effect of environmentally friendly manufacturing on the financial performance of companies in the European automotive and pharmaceutical industries. Specific attention was given to resource utilization.Design/methodology/approach – The method of research was a survey of annual and sustainability reports published by companies and recording the change in resource usage as well as the financial performance of the companies.Findings – The study showed no significant relationship between greener manufacturing and corporate performance, however a trend in decreasing resources, specifically electricity, was found. Furthermore, a trend in reducing CO2 was found.Research limitations/implications – The lack of available data was a significant obstacle in finding a trend and a meaningful relationship. Furthermore, the data that was published was restated in following reports to account for divestments or acquisitions. For further research, case stu.
Evaluation of 3-D finite element method to study and design a soft magnetic composite machine

In this paper, we test a three-dimensional (3-D) magnetostatics model using Whitney's elements to study a permanent magnet machine made up of soft magnetic composite (SMC) material. Models based on both magnetostatic potential formulations are briefly presented. To evaluate the accuracy of these formulations, theoretical fluxes are compared with fluxes measured on permanent magnet machine. Computation resources of both formulations are also compared.
Developing and using a performance management framework: a case study

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to define corporate performance management, provide an overview of the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority's performance management framework (PMF) and explain how the PMF might be used to enhance organisational effectiveness.Design/methodology/approach – The paper takes the form of a case study.Findings – This paper describes the performance management framework developed by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority in Northern Ireland, and identifies how such a framework may be proactively used to enhance organisational effectiveness.Research limitations/implications – The findings are limited to the analysis of the development and use of a performance management framework within a single organisation.Originality/value – This paper has contributed to the debate on performance management by outlining a mechanism by which a performance management framework can be utilised in practice to fundamentally challenge the organisation and provide a platform f.
Family taxation and labour market participation incentives in Italy

The potential implications of using the family as opposed to the individual as the unit of taxation are not clear. This applies both to work incentives and distributional outcomes. In this paper we evaluate the effects of a hypothetical reform of Italian income taxation both on labour supply incentives and on redistribution of income between families with different composition and income levels. In particular, we analyze the potential effects of a shift from the current system of individual taxation to a system of family taxation similar to the French family-splitting approach by implementing a tax-benefit model. Based on data from the Bank of Italy Survey of Household Income and Wealth, our simulations show a reduction in the degree of progressivity and a disincentive for the labour supply of additional earners within the family.
WILL THE DEVALUATION OF THE RAND IMPROVE SOUTH AFRICAN COMPETITIVENESS?: AN EMPIRICAL INVESTIGATION FOR THE SHORT-AND LONG-RUN PERIODS

The strength of the rand has raised fears among policymakers, labour unions, and exporters, who argue that a strong rand makes local goods relatively more expensive than foreign goods and that this negatively affects South Africa’s competitiveness. This study empirically investigates the relationship between the trade balance, domestic income, foreign income and the bilateral real exchange rate by employing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach to cointegration. The results from the ARDL model suggest that the devaluation of the rand does not have a positive impact on South Africa’s trade balance. Therefore the arguments put forward by policymakers, labour unions and exporters have no foundation. The recent weakening of the rand and its impacts on the economy confirm this assessment.
Evaluation of Life Cycle Assessment Recycling Allocation Methods

Life cycle assessment practitioners struggle to accurately allocate environmental burdens of metals recycling, including the temporal dimension of environmental impacts. We analyze four approaches for calculating aluminum greenhouse gas emissions: the recycled content (RC) or cut‐off approach, which assumes that demand for recycled content displaces primary production; end‐of‐life recycling (EOLR), which assumes that postuse recycling displaces primary production; market‐based (MB) approaches, which estimate changes in supply and demand using price elasticities; and value‐corrected substitution (VCS), which allocates impact based on price differences between primary and recycled material. Our analysis suggests that applications of the VCS approach do not adequately account for the changing scrap to virgin material price ratio over time, whereas MB approaches do not address stock accumulation and depletion. The EOLR and RC approaches were analyzed using two case studies: U.S. aluminum beverage cans and vehicle engine blocks. These approaches produced similar results for beverage cans, which have a closed material loop system and a short product life. With longer product lifetimes, as noted with the engine blocks, the magnitude and timing of the emissions differs greatly between the RC and EOLR approaches. The EOLR approach indicates increased impacts at the time of production, offset by negative impacts in future years, whereas the RC approach assumes benefits to increased recycled content at the time of production. For vehicle engine blocks, emissions using EOLR are 140% higher than with RC. Results are highly sensitive to recycled content and future recycling rates, and the choice of allocation methods can have significant implications for life cycle studies.