Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Expansionary Fiscal Consolidations: New Evidence from Turkey

After the February 2001 crisis, Turkey started to implement a new economic program. One of its aims was to reduce public debt that had jumped to a record high level. The resulting fiscal consolidation was rather exceptional. By the end of 2006, public debt-to-GDP ratio had declined by 43 percentage points. Despite this outstanding fiscal consolidation, the average growth rate attained in this period was almost twice that of the long-term growth rate. Given that shallowness of the Turkish financial markets had lead to credit constraints, it was tempting to study the reasons behind this performance. We argue that fiscal consolidation sharply reduced default risk, increased business confidence and improved banks’ and nonfinancial firms’ balance sheets, causing, in turn, a significant rise in credit supply and demand. Improvement in the private sector’s balance sheets and a decline in the option value of waiting, both together, boosted private sector demand.
Personality Traits in Australian Business Graduates and Implications for Organizational Effectiveness

The Five-Factor model is widely accepted as a robust model of personality that influences workplace behaviour and performance. Given evidence of persistent skills gaps in Australia, it is important to explore personality traits in business graduates to understand whether they have the necessary characteristics to enable the country to perform successfully nationally and to compete on a global level, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty. This study examines personality traits in 674 Australian business graduates, using the Ten-Item Personality Inventory (TIPI), and variations in traits across demographic/background characteristics. The results indicate that graduates are relatively high in extroversion, conscientiousness and emotional stability and low in openness and agreeableness. Some gender differences were apparent. The findings are largely positive for organizational performance, but raise concern for organizational well-being, effective leadership and innovativeness. There is some alignment between the findings and documented deficiencies in graduate performance, highlighting areas for intervention. Strategies for managing typical traits in business graduates and their potential impact on prevalent skills gaps are discussed for both professional and education practitioners.
A New Model of Chronic Hapten-induced Colitis in Young Rats

Aim and Objectives: Chronic models of inflammatory bowel disease are lacking in preadult rodents. The primary goal of our study was to develop a chronic model of hapten-induced intestinal inflammation and fibrosis in young rats. Second, we aimed to determine the profiles of key Th-1, Th-2, and Th-17 proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines, during the progression of colitis in young rats. Materials and Methods: Chronic hapten-induced colitis was induced by the administration of intracolonic 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) in young Wistar rats (postnatal days 23, 35, 48, and 59). After 1, 3, or 4 cycles of TNBS, rats were euthanized and the colons were removed for the measurement of macroscopic, histologic, and biochemical parameters of colitis. Results: Young rats developed moderate to severe colitis in the distal colon, without significant morbidity or mortality. Macroscopic severity, histologic pathology, and colonic weights increased progressively with repeated TNBS administration. Cobblestone-like ulceration and fibrosis was evident in the colon, particularly after 4 cycles of TNBS. There was a unique cytokine pattern associated with colitis in young rats. Interleukin (IL)-12 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α peaked during the earlier postnatal time points (days 28 and 54) and then declined after repetitive administration of the hapten (day 67). In contrast, IL-13 and IL-17 were consistently elevated after administration of TNBS to the colon of young rats. Conclusions: A new model of colitis was established in young rats, which has a unique pattern of Th-1, Th-2, and Th-17 cytokine induction. This chronic TNBS model may be useful for studying the development of inflammation and fibrosis in preadult animals.
Statistics of Stochastic Textures: Application in pattern analysis and image processing

Unlike the well-established fact of non-Gaussian, highly kurtotic, statistical property that characterizes the general class of natural images, a wide class of Natural Stochastic Textures (NST) obeys, to a good approximation, Gaussianity. This is exploited in denoising, resolution enhancement, analysis, modelling and classification of textures and textured images. Denoising is performed by decomposition to cartoon and textural layers. A fractal model is used to restore the latter. Deconvolution is performed via a variational scheme in the frequency domain, using phase and long-range dependency properties of NST.
Predicting speech intelligibility in conditions with nonlinearly processed noisy speech

The speech-based envelope power spectrum model (sEPSM; [1]) was proposed in order to overcome the limitations of the classical speech transmission index (STI) and speech intelligibility index (SII). The sEPSM applies the signal-tonoise ratio in the envelope domain (SNRenv), which was demonstrated to successfully predict speech intelligibility in conditions with nonlinearly processed noisy speech, such as processing with spectral subtraction. Moreover, a multiresolution version (mr-sEPSM) was demonstrated to account for speech intelligibility in various conditions with stationary and fluctuating interferers [2]. However, the model fails in the case of phase jitter distortion, in which the spectral structure of speech is affected but the temporal envelope is maintained. This suggests that an across audio-frequency mechanism is required to account for this distortion. It is demonstrated that a measure of the across audio-frequency variance at the output of the modulation-frequency selective process in the model is sufficient to account for the phase jitter distortion. Thus, a joint spectro-temporal modulation analysis, as proposed in [3], does not seem to be required. The results are consistent with concepts from computational auditory scene analysis and further support the hypothesis that the SNRenv is a powerful metric for speech intelligibility prediction.
Multivariable Disturbance Observer Based Advanced Feedback Control Design and Its Application to a Grinding Circuit

Design of advanced feedback control (AFC) for optimal process operation has been mostly based on a hierarchical structure for many years. Since many advanced control algorithms (such as the model predictive control) do not handle disturbances directly in their design phase, it is difficult to achieve satisfactory performance in controlling complex process operations in the presence of heavy disturbances and large uncertainties. Focused on this practical challenge, in this paper we propose a novel multivariable disturbance observer (MDOB) to improve the disturbance rejection performance of conventional AFCs. The MDOB formulation is based on the approximate inversion of the multivariable generalized system, which consists of the multivariable operation process and the lower level basic feedback control system. All the stable and realizable MDOBs are characterized in terms of time delays and nonminimum phase zeros of the open-loop generalized systems. In the proposed MDOB-based AFC, the advanced feedback controller acts as a presetting controller to generate the proper pre-setpoint for the lower level basic feedback control (BFC) system such that a desired setpoint tracking is achieved. The MDOB acts as a compensator to enhance the operational performance of the process by dynamically adjusting the setpoints of the BFC according to the observed disturbances and plant uncertainties. Theoretical analysis, simulation comparisons, and experimental evaluation using a hardware-in-loop simulation platform of a grinding circuit are given, showing the effectiveness, validity, and advantages of the proposed approach.
An explorative study on the impact of IT capabilities on international key account management capabilities and firm performance in international customer–supplier relationships

Abstract Key account management plays a pivotal role for managers and practitioners in maintaining successful customer–supplier relationships. Yet, little is known conceptually and empirically as to how suppliers can develop international key account management capabilities in international customer–supplier relationships. Drawing from resource-based view and dynamic capability literature, we develop and test a model of the impact of IT capabilities on international key account management capabilities and firm performance. An explorative case study of Taiwanese electronics suppliers reveals that IT capabilities are critical to develop supplier international key account management capabilities. Moreover, IT capabilities can enhance supplier performance through improving international KAM capabilities.
A multiple ELISA system for simultaneously monitoring intercrop movement and feeding activity of mass-released insect predators

We combined two protein-marking enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) with a predator gut content ELISA to monitor the movement and feeding activity of commercially-purchased Hippodamia convergens Guèrin-Mèneville (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) under realistic field conditions during two field seasons in central Arizona. The protein-marking ELISAs were used to differentiate released H. convergens from the native beetles. Commercially purchased beetles marked with rabbit immunoglobulin G (IgG) were released into cotton fields and chicken IgG marked beetles were released into adjacent cantaloupe fields. Results showed that the total native beetle abundance in each crop was about the same size. The recovery rates after 15 days for the released beetles were less than 1.0% over all the releases, indicating that they dispersed readily from the release site. Of the recaptured beetles containing rabbit IgG (cotton), 82.2% were recovered in cotton and 11.8% moved to cantaloupe. Of those containing chicken IgG (cantaloupe), 66.5% were recovered in cantaloupe and 33.5% moved to cotton. A predator gut content ELISA was used to determine if there were differences in the frequency of predation of released versus indigenous H. convergens on the silverleaf whitefly, Bemisia argentifolii Bellows & Perring (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae). The proportion of beetles containing whitefly antigens was always higher for the released beetles than for their native counterparts. Our results demonstrate an approach to combine protein marking and predator gut content ELISAs that allows the simultaneous comparison of feeding and intercrop movement of native and commercially-obtained biological control agents.
Strategic I/O Psychology and the Role of Utility Analysis Models

In the 1990’s, the significance of human capital in organizations has been increasing,and measurement issues in human resource management have achieved significant prominence. Yet, I/O psychology research on utility analysis and measurement has actually declined. In this chapter we propose a decision-based framework to review developments in utility analysis research since 1991, and show that through lens of this framework there are many fertile avenues for research. We then show that both I/O psychology and strategic HRM research and practice can be enhanced by greater collaboration and integration, particularly regarding the link between human capital and organizational success. We present an integrative framework as the basis for that integration, and illustrate its implications for future research.
Temporal expression and localization of protein farnesyltransferase during spermiogenesis and posttesticular sperm maturation in the hamster

Spermiogenesis and posttesticular sperm maturation in the epididymis are distinct developmental processes that result in a polarized spermatozoon possessing a plasma membrane partitioned into segment‐specific domains of distinct composition and function. The mechanisms that specify the distribution of intracellular organelles and target proteins to restricted membrane domains are not well understood. In this study we examined the expression pattern and distribution of protein farnesyltransferase (FTase) in hamster spermatids and epididymal spermatozoa to determine if protein lipidation may represent a potential mechanism to regulate protein association with specific organelles or the plasma membrane. Round spermatids exhibited only weak immunostaining with antibody against the β‐subunit of FTase, whereas elongating spermatids exhibited a high level of FTase expression that was segregated to the cytoplasmic lobe surrounding the anterior flagellum. Although FTase was released with the residual body, mature spermatids retained FTase within the midpiece and cytoplasmic droplet. In epididymal spermatozoa, FTase remained associated with the cytoplasmic droplet during its migration to the midpiece‐principal piece junction; following release of the cytoplasmic droplet, no immunodetectable FTase was noted in the midpiece segment. Immunoblotting demonstrated the presence of both the α and β subunits of FTase in sperm lysates. The temporal expression pattern and restricted distribution of FTase in spermatids and epididymal spermatozoa suggest a potential role in regulating protein association with specific organelles and/or membrane domains of the mature spermatozoon. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 48:71–76, 1997. © 1997 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The A, B, Cs of G-protein-coupled receptor pharmacology in assay development for HTS

G-protein-coupled receptors represent one of the most important areas of research in the pharmaceutical industry, being one of the largest druggable gene families. Recognising this fact, manufacturers have developed a huge variety of homogeneous assay technologies that facilitate the quantification of receptor ligand binding events and their downstream signalling cascades. However, while early emphasis was placed on the most sensitive, high-throughput and cost-effective screening technologies to enable identification of the most lead matter for further development, in recent years emphasis has shifted to a focus on maximising the identification of compounds that are new and developing assays that are more biologically/pharmacologically relevant. Therefore, this review provides an overview of the binding and functional techniques available for high-throughput screening, with particular attention on how assay application and configuration can be maximised to ensure their successful identification of relevant chemical matter and thereby optimising project success.
Relationship between plasma lactate parameters and muscle characteristics in female cyclists.

PURPOSE In a previous study, we showed that when six different plasma lactate parameters (LPs) were compared, the LP determined by the Dmax method was the best predictor of 1-h cycling performance in women. The present study extended these findings to determine whether or not the relationship between the following six LPs and endurance performance could be explained by their relationship with muscle fiber characteristics: 1) lactate threshold (LT; the power output at which plasma lactate concentration begins to increase above the resting level during an incremental exercise test), 2) LT1 (the power output at which plasma lactate increases by 1 mmol x L(-1) or more), 3) LT(D) (the lactate threshold calculated by the Dmax method), 4) LT(MOD) (the lactate threshold calculated by a modified Dmax method), 5) L4 (the power output at which plasma lactate reaches a concentration of 4 mmol x L(-1)), and 6) LT(LOG) (the power output at which plasma lactate concentration begins to increase when the log([La-]) is plotted against the log(power output)). METHODS Twelve trained female cyclists (27.3 +/- 5.4 yr) first completed an incremental cycle test to determine both their LPs and peak VO2. One week later, endurance performance was assessed as the average absolute power output maintained during a 1-h endurance test (OHT). Resting muscle was sampled by needle biopsy from m. vastus lateralis and analyzed for fiber type diameter, fiber type percentage, 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase (OGDH) activity, and phosphofructokinase (PFK) activity. RESULTS OHT performance was more strongly correlated with all LPs (r = 0.71-0.89, P < 0.05) than with peak VO2 (L x min(-1), r = 0.65, P < 0.05). OGDH activity, PFK activity, and the percentage of Type I fibers were not related to peak VO2, any of the LPs, or OHT performance. The diameter of the Type II fibers, however, was negatively related to OHT performance (r = -0.77, P < 0.01) and to four of the LPs (r = -59 to -0.86, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS These correlations, which indicate that large Type II fibers may impair endurance performance, may be the result of greater production and/or reduced removal of lactate from the larger, glycolytic Type II fibers. LPs most strongly correlated with Type II fiber diameter were also most strongly correlated with OHT performance.
Application of IS-Balanced Scorecard in Performance Measurement of e-Government Services in Kenya

This research applied the Balanced Scorecard concept to audit performance of e-Government services at Kenya Revenue Authority. An analysis was made on how KRA developed performance measurement data. A systematic study of the existing performance tools was carried out in establishing the basis for conceptualizing the Information Systems Balanced Scorecard. Various dimensions of e-Government services were measured and a tool was proposed that would assess the quality dimensions of the e-Government services from a management perspective. The proposed tool was validated using i-Tax service of KRA. We list the indicators and metrics to be used to measure the performance of e-Government services. This research suggests an adoption of an IS-BSC which measures and evaluates e-Government services from four perspectives: business value, user orientation, internal process and future readiness. The research concludes with recommendations to help governments develop a performance measurement mechanism to assess the impact of investing in e-Government. Considering that performance measurement is a prerequisite to e-Government efforts to audit services and assure citizen of government’s accountability, the findings will be beneficial to ministries adopting e-Government initiatives as they will gain an understanding about the mixed method of using metrics in IT governance balanced scorecard.
An adaptive control scheme for discrete-time T-S fuzzy systems with unknown membership parameters

This paper presents a new study of adaptive control of discrete-time input-output multiple-delay T-S fuzzy systems whose membership function parameters and dynamics parameters are both unknown. A multiple-delay prediction fuzzy system model with such uncertain parameters is used to form a nonlinearly parametrized estimation error. A gradient algorithm is derived, based on a nonlinear error model, to adaptively update the parameters of the feedback control law for the uncertain T-S fuzzy system. Stability and robustness of the adaptive laws are analyzed in the T-S system model framework to clarify the inherent system properties and specify the key design conditions as well. Simulation results are presented to illustrate the adaptive control design and verify the desired closed-loop system properties.
Finance, growth, and public policy

Development economists have long argued that modern financial markets are important to growth and that financial repression is a serious obstacle to progress in many developing countries. The authors consider the relationship between finance and growth and the appropriate role of government policy. Many economists have stressed how problems of asymmetric information and contract enforcement impede the functioning of financial markets in developing countries. In addition, they try to elaborate on these theories to make them relevant to policymakers. Information gaps and enforcement frictions introduce a premium in the cost of external funds. Factors such as the borrower's financial health, the efficiency of financial intermediation, and the ease of enforcing private financial contracts govern the size of this premium. How financial factors contribute to development may be understood along these lines. Financial contracts and institutions should be designed to minimize this premium.
Queries over Large-Scale Incremental Data of Hybrid Granularities

The development of Internet and Web systems in recent years has made it difficult and challenging to deal with large-scale data. What we usually need to process is incremental data, the scale of which will enlarge with the changing of time. Nowadays, many general queries over data is traditionally based on the full amount of raw data, which becomes a great challenge to performance when the data increases substantially. As these data will not be updated after generated, this paper proposes a query model, called hybrid-granularity model, that data and queries can be preprocessed to form intermediate result sets of different granularities. With query transformation, submitted queries can take advantage of intermediate preprocessing results, to obtain the required final results. In this paper, we also describe query transformation and the methods to seek the solution of best performance with hybrid-granularity model for the specific query. Finally, we analyze and verify the advantage on performance of the proposed model by comparison with the original model in experiment. The proposed solution is used in some practical systems, which shows that this solution can guarantee the correctness of query results while improving the responsive efficiency of the query significantly.
Nitrogen balance of starting barrow pigs fed on increasing lysine levels

The effects of increasing lysine levels on nitrogen balance of pigs fed on low protein diets were evaluated. Four treatments (diets) containing lysine levels (0.8, 1.0 1.2 and 1.4%) were applied to 12 starting (20.0 ± 1.8 kg) barrow pigs. Methionine, threonine and tryptophan were kept constant to the lysine ratio in all diets. Feces and urine were collected during a 5-day period. Nitrogen output in urine (NOU), total nitrogen output (TNO), nitrogen retention (NR), net protein utilization (NPU), biological value or feed protein (BVFP), urine urea nitrogen (UUN), and plasma urea nitrogen (PUN) were determined. PUN showed high negative correlations with BVFP (-0.84), NPU (-0.76), and NR (-0.78) and a positive correlation (0.79) to NOU. Lowest nitrogen excretion and the best use of diet protein were obtained with 1.1% total lysine level. PUN is efficient to indicate amino acid for pigs.
An integrated three layer hierarchical control and protection of photovoltaic generators in microgrid

The Photovoltaic microgrid is one of the most important and developing research area in the power system and around the world. Photovoltaic microgrid has demonstrated the ability to provide higher reliability and power quality than utility power system and improves energy utilization. The main requirements of photovoltaic microgrid should maintain constant voltage and frequency, balanced real and reactive power flow and to avoid transient surge in the power system. In this work, we proposed the three layer integrated control and protection of photovoltaic microgrid with hierarchical coordination for grid connected and stand-alone mode of operation. Icosφ control algorithm is used to control the microgrid Voltage, Frequency, Real and Reactive power. To achieve reliability, security and steady state operation of microgrid, the protection schemes, such as relay protection with z-source breaker, hybrid energy storage system regulation and emergency control are adopted. The numerical simulations are carried out using MATLAB software and main requirements of photovoltaic microgrid are achieved.