Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Role of Luck in the Strategy-Performance Relationship

Purpose – Strategic management scholars seek to link strategic factors to performance. When specific causal links cannot be identified, however, other potential explanations should be considered, including the notion of luck. This paper aims to introduce a distinction between scholarly and practitioner perspectives of luck and identifies why this distinction is critical to both scholars and practitioners. Design/Methodology/Approach – This paper proposes a framework linking luck and competitive advantage. It also reports the results of an exploratory empirical investigation on the perceived role of luck in firm performance. Findings – Scholars and practitioners have different views of luck’s role in organizational performance. Managers are more likely to assign luck for bad outcomes rather than good. In addition, the more quantitative a manager’s work function, the less likely he or she is to perceive a luck-performance linkage, and the higher the manager is in the organization, the more likely he or she is to perceive luck as affecting outcomes. Research Limitations/Implications – There are a number of reasons why luck should receive prominence when considering the strategy-performance relationship: many of the linkages between strategic factors and performance are identified after the fact – they are viewed as causal when they were actually lucky; empirical research may identify relationships whether they actually exist; researchers tend to find what they are looking for; and academics will be more likely to explain “luck” if they are using the appropriate tools to reveal it. Practical Implications – The positive link between management level and luck’s role in performance identified in this study suggests that the more a manager knows about a firm’s resources and attributes, the more likely he or she is to downplay the role they actually play in performance. From this perspective, managers seem more willing to acknowledge the role played by luck as they progress into greater levels of responsibility and control. Originality/Value – A significant portion of empirical work seeks to explain differences in performance across organizations by identifying the links between various strategic factors and performance. Although this research has contributed much to the knowledge about the strategy-performance nexus, it assumes that strategy-performance linkages necessarily exist and that they can be readily identified. In other words, most scholarly work in this area is based on assumptions that minimize or preclude the role of luck or randomness in the determination of firm performance. Building on previous work, this paper adopts an alternative perspective on the strategy-performance relationship, highlighting the often overlooked role of luck.
Comparison of Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (ACR) Between ACR Strip Test and Quantitative Test in Prediabetes and Diabetes

Background Albuminuria is generally known as a sensitive marker of renal and cardiovascular dysfunction. It can be used to help predict the occurrence of nephropathy and cardiovascular disorders in diabetes. Individuals with prediabetes have a tendency to develop macrovascular and microvascular pathology, resulting in an increased risk of retinopathy, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic renal diseases. We evaluated the clinical value of a strip test for measuring the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) in prediabetes and diabetes. Methods Spot urine samples were obtained from 226 prediabetic and 275 diabetic subjects during regular health checkups. Urinary ACR was measured by using strip and laboratory quantitative tests. Results The positive rates of albuminuria measured by using the ACR strip test were 15.5% (microalbuminuria, 14.6%; macroalbuminuria, 0.9%) and 30.5% (microalbuminuria, 25.1%; macroalbuminuria, 5.5%) in prediabetes and diabetes, respectively. In the prediabetic population, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and overall accuracy of the ACR strip method were 92.0%, 94.0%, 65.7%, 99.0%, and 93.8%, respectively; the corresponding values in the diabetic population were 80.0%, 91.6%, 81.0%, 91.1%, and 88.0%, respectively. The median [interquartile range] ACR values in the strip tests for measurement ranges of <30, 30-300, and >300 mg/g were 9.4 [6.3-15.4], 46.9 [26.5-87.7], and 368.8 [296.2-575.2] mg/g, respectively, using the laboratory method. Conclusions The ACR strip test showed high sensitivity, specificity, and negative predictive value, suggesting that the test can be used to screen for albuminuria in cases of prediabetes and diabetes.
An overlapping multi-hexagon space vector modulation scheme for modular multilevel cascade converters

This paper presents an adapted space vector modulation scheme for modular multilevel converters cascaded to higher levels. Instead of extending a single hexagon to the regions corresponding to the number of levels, this scheme uses multiple overlapping hexagons which are phase displaced relative to each other. The approach simplifies the modulation algorithm and brings flexibility in shaping the output voltage waveforms for different applications. The method is analyzed in simulation for modular multilevel cascaded flying capacitor converters in single star/single delta configurations, and is validated using an experimental two-tier cascaded converter. Output performance, including harmonic spectra, and the capacitor voltage balancing, compares well with those of other control schemes such as conventional multilevel SVM. A key feature is ease of extension to higher cascading levels without forfeiting overall performance.
RAPPRESENTAZIONI DELL'IDENTITÀ PROFESSIONALE DEGLI INSEGNANTI IN UN CONTESTO REGIONALE ITALIANO

Riassunto Il presente contributo e parte di una piu ampia ricerca che si pone, come obiettivo principale, di indagare se vi siano delle conflittualita, delle discrepanze nelle differenti rappresentazioni di identita professionali degli insegnanti (ideale, reale, percepita) oltre a rintracciare e descrivere quei nuclei figurativi che costituiscono tali rappresentazioni sociali ovvero quali ne siano gli elementi centrali, piu stabili e resistenti al cambiamento secondo quanto proposto dall’approccio strutturale (Abric 1998, 1994). Lo spunto iniziale alla ricerca proviene da una ricerca condotta da di Lodolo D’Oria e collaboratori i quali considerano la conflittualita e la discrepanza della rappresentazione del Se professionale degli insegnanti italiani, diviso tra ideale e reale, tra professionale e impiegatizio, la principale fonte di innesco di stati emozionali negativi, di sofferenza, disagio. Per contro, l’armonia tra le due tipologie del Se (ideale e reale) e l’equilibrio tra identita personale e sociale promuovono benessere (Lodolo D’Oria, Pocaterra & Pozzi, 2003). Paroli chiavi: Rappresentazione sociale. Benessere. Malessere. Abstract Representations of the professional identity of educators in an Italian regional context This paper is part of a larger research intended to question whether there are conflicts and discrepancies in different representations of the professional identity of educators (ideal, real, “noticed”), and to describe the figurative nuclei that form such social representations, or what elements are central, more stable and resistant to change, according to the structural approach (ABRIC, 1994, 1998). The starting point of this study is a research conducted by Lodolo D’Oria et al. (2002), who consider the conflict and discrepancy in the representation of the professional Self of Italian educators (divided into ideal and real, professionals and employees) the main source of negative emotions, of suffering and gloom. On the other hand, the harmony between the two Self typologies (ideal and real) and the balance between social and personal identities provide well-being (D’ORIA; POCATERRA; POZZI, 2003). Keywords: Social representations. Well-being. Ill-being.
A phyloproteomic characterization of in vitro autophosphorylation in calcium‐dependent protein kinases

Calcium‐dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) are a novel class of signaling molecules that have been broadly implicated in relaying specific calcium‐mediated responses to biotic and abiotic stress as well as developmental cues in both plants and protists. Calcium‐dependent autophosphorylation has been observed in almost all CDPKs examined, but a physiological role for autophosphorylation has not been demonstrated. To date, only a handful of autophosphorylation sites have been mapped to specific residues within CDPK amino acid sequences. In an attempt to gain further insight into this phenomenon, we have mapped autophosphorylation sites and compared these phosphorylation patterns among multiple CDPK isoforms. From eight CDPKs and two CDPK‐related kinases from Arabidopsis thaliana and Plasmodium falciparum, 31 new autophosphorylation sites were characterized, which in addition to the previously described sites, allowed the identification of five conserved loci. Of the 35 total sites analyzed approximately one‐half were observed in the N‐terminal variable domain. Homology models were generated for the protein kinase and calmodulin‐like domains, each containing two of the five conserved sites, to allow intelligent speculation regarding subsequent lines of investigation.
Future use intention based on TAM-RI model: A study on Chinese college student credit card

In some new industries, firms not only must introduce the new types of products or services but also enhance the customer loyalty so that customers purchase more products or service provided by focal firm. The customer relationship management with the double targets has vital theory and application means. This research built a new future use intention model of the college student credit card customers combining the Repurchase Intention Model with Technology Acceptance Model. This research carries on the survey in view of college student community. Then it draws the conclusion that there are seven factors which influence the future use intention: satisfaction, trust, financial risk, perceptive usefulness, and perceptive ease for use, switch cost and alternative attract. The result of regression analysis shows that the influence degrees from high to low are perceptive ease for use, trust, alternative attract, perceptive useful, satisfaction and financial risk.
Uses and Functions of Formulaic Sequences in Second-Language Speech: An Exploration of the Foundations of Fluency

<p>Formulaic sequences are fixed combinations of words that have a range of functions and uses in speech production and communication, and seem to be cognitively stored and retrieved by speakers as if they were single words. They can facilitate fluency in speech by making pauses shorter and less frequent, and allowing longer runs of speech between pauses. The present study was undertaken to identify the uses and functions of formulaic sequences in the development of speech fluency in narrative retelling in English as a second language (ESL). Spontaneous spoken narrative retells by ESL learners were analyzed for ways in which use of formulaic sequences may have facilitated fluency growth over a six-month period, be they pragmatic, functional, or strategic. Five categories of formula use emerged: repetition of a formula; use of multiple formulas to extend a run; reliance on one formula; use of self-talk and filler formulas; and use of formulas as rhetorical devices. These categories are illustrated by excerpts from transcripts of learner speech. </p> <p>Les expressions stéréotypées sont des combinaisons fixes de mots qui ont divers usages et rôles dans la production du langage et la communication. Elles semblent être cognitivement enregistrées et récupérées par les usagers comme s'il s'agissait d'un seul mot. Ces expressions peuvent améliorer la fluidité verbale d'un discours en diminuant la longueur et la fréquence des pauses, et en permettant de plus longues séquences de discours ininterrompues entre les pauses. La présente étude a été effectuée dans le but de déterminer l'usage et le rôle des expressions stéréotypées dans le développement de la fluidité verbale pour les exposés redits en anglais, langue seconde (ALS). On a analysé les exposés oraux redits spontanément par des étudiants en ALS afin de trouver comment les expressions stéréotypées ont favorisé le développement de la fluidité au cours d'une période de six mois, peu importe que les expressions soient pragmatiques, fonctionnelles ou stratégiques. Cinq catégories d'expressions se sont dégagées : la répétition d'une expression ; l'enchaînement de multiples expressions ; le recours à une [End Page 13] seule expression ; l'emploi de la verbalisation intérieure et d'expressions de remplissage ; et l'emploi d'expressions comme figure de style. Pour chacune de ces catégories, on donne des exemples tirés de la transcription des discours des étudiants. </p>
Pathogenic Characteristics at Diagnosis in Young Children with Type 1 Diabetes Presenting Prior to 5 Years of Age

We examined pathogenic characteristics in Japanese children with type 1 diabetes presenting before 5 years of age. The subjects were 23 Japanese children, 9 males and 14 females, 1.1–4.8 yr of age at diagnosis. The majority had severe metabolic decompensation accompanied by complete absence of β-cell function at diagnosis. We found a high frequency of preceding viral illness (41.7%) among them. The prevalence of antibodies to GAD and IA-2 at diagnosis in young children were significantly lower than those in older cases diagnosed after 5 yr of age (31.6% vs. 86.3%, 47.1% vs. 82.5%, respectively). These findings suggest that non-autoimmune mechanisms or age-related differences in autoimmunity could be involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes in young children. In regard to diabetes-related HLA-DRB1 and DQB1 alleles, all subjects had high-risk genotypes in both alleles. On the other hand, none of the patients had any of the protective genotypes in either allele. In regard to haplotypes, the frequencies of DRB1*0405-DQB1*0401 and DRB1*0901/ DQB1*0303 were 60.9% and 52.2%, respectively, and both these haplotypes are associated with strong susceptibility to type 1 diabetes. Patients with early-childhood onset may have diabetes-related autoimmunity and genetic backgrounds different from those of patients diagnosed at a later age.
Eddy current inspection of a duralumin plate

This article presents the results obtained when a Duralumin plate with a slot was scanned with an inductive probe in order to measure the eddy currents' magnetic field. A 3D finite element numeric model was used to preview the eddy current distribution. An analysis of the produced data and of the consequences of using image filters is included.
The deadly pleasures of the clitoris and the condom – a rebuttal of Brody, Costa and Hess (2012) 1

Brody, Costa and Hess (2012) have produced a critique containing errors both of commission and omission of my editorial (Levin 2012a) and review (Levin 2012b). This reply identifies a number of these and makes the appropriate rebuttals and vindications to correct both.
Use of Pictures of Multiethnic Interaction to Change Attitudes of White Elementary School Students toward Blacks

Several pictures portraying varied mixed racial groups of children in either a middle-class suburban setting or a lower-class intercity setting were used as part of a 1-mo. long curriculum unit. White second grade students (N = 128) in a midwestern metropolitan area were Ss. Results indicate that the attitudes toward blacks of Ss were not affected by the curriculum unit.
Compassion Focused Therapy with Perinatal and Mother-Infant Distress

This article explores the use of Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) with women referred to a Perinatal Mental Health Service where significant psychological distress has arisen or been exacerbated in the antenatal and early postnatal period. It also discusses how CFT, with its focus on the enhancement of the soothing-oxytocin system, has much potential in offering a model of understanding and intervention where a compromised maternal soothing-oxytocin system impacts upon mother-infant relating. This article will detail the treatment components for developing self-compassion in the mother, and bringing compassion into the mother-infant relationship. It will also consider how knowledge gained from parent-infant research can further enrich CFT.
Discrimination of cytosolic self and non-self RNA by RIG-I-like receptors

RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) are cytosolic innate immune sensors that detect pathogenic RNA and induce a systemic antiviral response. During the last decade, many studies focused on their molecular characterization and the identification of RNA agonists. Therefore, it became more and more clear that RLR activation needs to be carefully regulated, because constitutive signaling or detection of endogenous RNA through loss of specificity is detrimental. Here, we review the current understanding of RLR activation and selectivity. We specifically focus upon recent findings on the function of the helicase domain in discriminating between different RNAs, and whose malfunctioning causes serious autoimmune diseases.
Graph Structured Normal Means Inference

This thesis addresses statistical estimation and testing of signals over a graph when measurements are noisy and high-dimensional. Graph structured patterns appear in applications as diverse as sensor networks, virology in human networks, congestion in internet routers, and advertising in social networks. We will develop asymptotic guarantees of the performance of statistical estimators and tests, by stating conditions for consistency by properties of the graph (e.g. graph spectra). The goal of this thesis is to demonstrate theoretically that by exploiting the graph structure one can achieve statistical consistency in extremely noisy conditions. We begin with the study of a projection estimator called Laplacian eigenmaps, and find that eigenvalue concentration plays a central role in the ability to estimate graph structured patterns. We continue with the study of the edge lasso, a least squares procedure with total variation penalty, and determine combinatorial conditions under which changepoints (edges across which the underlying signal changes) on the graph are recovered. We will shift focus to testing for anomalous activations in the graph, using the scan statistic relaxations, the spectral scan statistic and the graph ellipsoid scan statistic. We will also show how one can form a decomposition of the graph from a spanning tree which will lead to a test for activity in the graph. This will lead to the construction of a spanning tree wavelet basis, which can be used to localize activations on the graph.
The Substantia Nigra Pars Compacta and Temporal Processing

The basal ganglia and cerebellum are considered to play a role in timing, although their differential roles in timing remain unclear. It has been proposed that the timing of short milliseconds-range intervals involves the cerebellum, whereas longer seconds-range intervals engage the basal ganglia (Ivry, 1996). We tested this hypothesis using positron emission tomography to measure regional cerebral blood flow in eight right-handed males during estimation and reproduction of long and short intervals. Subjects performed three tasks: (1) reproduction of a short 500 ms interval, (2) reproduction of a long 2 s interval, and (3) a control simple reaction time (RT) task. We compared the two time reproduction tasks with the control RT task to investigate activity associated with temporal processing once additional cognitive, motor, or sensory processing was controlled. We found foci in the left substantia nigra and the left lateral premotor cortex to be significantly more activated in the time reproduction tasks than the control RT task. The left caudate nucleus and right cerebellum were more active in the short relative to the long interval, whereas greater activation of the right putamen and right cerebellum occurred in the long rather than the short interval. These results suggest that the basal ganglia and the cerebellum are engaged by reproduction of both long and short intervals but play different roles. The fundamental role of the substantia nigra in temporal processing is discussed in relation to previous animal lesion studies and evidence for the modulating influence of dopamine on temporal processing.
Investigation of the expression patterns and correlation of DNA methyltransferases and class I histone deacetylases in ovarian cancer tissues

Recent studies have reported that DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) are involved in the epigenetic regulation of cancer, as well as promoting cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. These mechanisms also play important roles in ovarian cancer, but little is known concerning the correlation of DNMTs and HDACs in ovarian cancer. In the present study, we used quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunohistochemical staining to examine the mRNA and protein expression of DNMTs and class I HDACs of tissues from 22 cases of ovarian cancer and 8 normal ovaries as a control. Furthermore, we assessed the correlation with clinicopathological stages and the mRNA expression of these genes. The results indicated that the mRNA expression of DNMT1, DNMT3b and class I HDACs was increased in ovarian cancers, while the expression of DNMT3a was not different between cancer tissues and normal ovaries. Additionally, the results of immunohistochemical staining demonstrated that DNMT1 and DNMT3b were significantly increased in ovarian cancer samples. Furthermore, the expression of DNMT1, DNMT3b, HDAC1 and HDAC2 was significantly higher in stage III/IV compared with stage I/II ovarian carcinomas. The expression of HDAC2 was positively correlated with HDCA1, HDAC3 and HDAC8, and DNMT1 was positively correlated with DNMT3b. Simultaneously, DNMT3b was correlated with HDAC1 and HDAC2. HDAC1 may upregulate the expression of DNMTs, but this requires confirmation by in vitro and in vivo experiments. The overall high rate of expression for class I HDACs, DNMT1 and DNMT3b suggested that these mRNAs should be explored as predictive factors in ovarian cancer. In addition, HDAC1, HDAC2 and DNMT3b cooperated in controlling ovarian cancer progression. Determining the correlations between HDACs and DNMTs in ovarian cancer will not only further clarify the mechanisms of genesis and development, but also guide clinical therapy using the inhibitors of HDACs and DNMTs.
Benefits of Sound-Field Amplification for Elementary School Children With and Without Hearing Loss: A Review

Abstract Research has shown that typical classrooms are often too noisy and reverberant to provide an adequate learning environment for students (Crandell & Smaldino, 1994; Sanders, 1965). In fact, they offer a less than optimal learning environment for students with normal hearing sensitivity and an unacceptable learning environment for students suffering from a hearing loss (Crandell et al., 1995). Collectively, results of sound-field amplification research suggest significant benefits in academics, and attendstiming and learning behaviors for children with normal hearing sensitivity in elementary school. However, there is a dearth of information regarding the effects of amplification use on children with hearing loss secondary to otitis media. Future studies should expand the existing body of research by demonstrating the effects of sound-field amplification use on the classroom performance of elementary school children of varying ages with and without hearing loss secondary to middle ear pathology.