Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Business Marketing Management

Part I Introduction: 1. The Business Marketing Environment. Part 2 How Buyers Buy: 2. Fundamentals of the Purchasing and Materials Management Function 3. Management of the Business Buying Function. Part 3 Identifying the Customer: 4. Business Marketing Research and Information Systems 5. Market Segmentation, Positioning and Demand Projection. Part 4 Making and Moving the Goods: 6. Product Development, Management, and Strategy 7. Business Price Planning and Strategy 8. Business Marketing Channel Participants 9. Business Physical Distribution Management and Strategy. Part 5 Promoting and Selling the Goods: 10. The Personal Selling Function in Business Marketing Strategy 11. Business Sales Management 12. Advertising and Sales Promotion Strategy in Business Markets. Part 6 Trend in Business-to-Business Marketing 13. Marketing of Business Services 14. International Business Marketing 15. Ethical Considerations in Business-to-Business Marketing. Part 7 Comprehensive Cases.
Traceability and certification in food quality production - a critical view

Traceability and certification in quality-assurance systems are issues which are widely discussed and which are the basis for major initiatives in policy, agricultural interest groups and agri-food industries. This paper outlines some arguments on these issues, which are meant to initiate a discussion on the appropriateness of principal developments and on the needs for engagements of research either to support or to change their course of direction. It is the opinion of the author that present discussions and initiatives have lost focus on the key visions and messages of quality management as it developed during the last twenty years. It largely disregards developments in research and experiences from industries, and builds on the knowledge status of many years ago. This opinion is based on ongoing developments with sector-oriented quality-assurance systems in various countries like, e.g., the German initiative Q+S (Budde and Richard 2002). Difficulties in discussions are partly due to differences in focus. The focus of quality-management research is primarily on enterprises and on enterprise-level management approaches. If a sector is involved in quality discussions, it usually builds on clearly separated supply chains and brands like, e.g., in the automobile industry. The view is closely linked to the enterprise approach and covered by traditional quality-management research. The agri-food sector is different in many aspects, which makes it difficult to link traditional enterprise-oriented quality-management approaches with quality-assurance requirements of the sector. Its infrastructure is characterized by a large number of rather small production enterprises (farms) on one end and internationally operating industries and retail chains for input delivery and food-product sales on the other end. The dependency on natural production environments sets limits to the control of production environments and makes the delivery of a comprehensive food program or the use of food-product ingredients dependent on a diversity of production sources on a global scale. Basic food products are similar in appearance irrespective of their source and quality, which reduces consumers’ ability to make informed decisions. However, difficulties in the utilization of enterprise-oriented quality-management approaches for the solution of sector quality-assurance problems should not result in the negligence of quality-management research results, but challenge qualitymanagement research to find appropriate ways for the transfer of its accumulated knowledge from an enterprise into a sector view.
Can Six Sigma be the "cure" for our "ailing" NHS?

PURPOSE The purpose of this research is to analyse whether Six Sigma business strategy can be used to improve the financial and operational performance of the NHS. The paper will also look at some of the major challenges and barriers in the implementation of this powerful process improvement strategy within the healthcare sector. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH This paper discusses whether Six Sigma DMAIC methodology can be a useful and disciplined approach to tackle process- and quality-related problems in the NHS. FINDINGS The paper presents some key findings from other researchers in the field, followed by some comments on whether Six Sigma is a useful approach to be considered by the NHS for cost reduction and defect reduction strategies. ORIGINALITY/VALUE The paper illustrates the point that Six Sigma is not confined just to manufacturing industry, rather it is equally applicable to service industry, especially the healthcare and financial sectors. The application of Six Sigma in the UK health sector is relatively new and the purpose of the paper is to increase the awareness of this powerful business strategy in healthcare discipline.
The Impact of Gasoline Prices on Medical Care and Costs of Motor Vehicle Injuries

Background Traffic safety has placed a tremendous economic and social burden on individuals and nations. Gasoline prices have been linked to traffic safety in the recent studies. Higher gasoline price may prompt people to reduce expenses by changing travel distance and frequency, transportation mode, or driving behaviors. Objective This study aims to examine the relationship of gasoline prices to hospital utilization and cost for motorcycle and non-motorcycle motor vehicle injuries in the United States. Methods Data on inpatient hospitalization for motor vehicle injuries were obtained from the 2001-2010 Nationwide Inpatient Sample, which is part of the Healthcare Costs and Utilization Project. Gasoline price data were gathered by the Federal Highway Administration. Panel feasible generalized least squares models were used to estimate the effects of inflation-adjusted gasoline prices on hospitalization rate (per 10 million population). Additionally, a conceptual system dynamic model was developed to examine the traffic safety system response to rising gasoline price, and it was used to estimate the effects of gasoline tax and transport policies on reducing motor vehicle injuries. Results It was predicted that a $1.00 increase in the gasoline tax was associated with reducing the number of hospitalizations for non-motorcycle MVC injuries by 8,347, and lowered hospital costs by $143 million in 2014. However, the $1.00 increase in the gasoline tax was associated with increasing the number of hospitalizations for motorcycle crash injuries by 3,574, and increased hospital costs by $73 million. Also, our experiments of system dynamics modeling found that increasing passenger-miles traveled would be effective in reducing motor vehicle injuries in the long run. Conclusion Our findings suggest that the increased hospital utilization and costs from motorcycle crash injuries after a rise in the price of gasoline partially offset reductions in non-motorcycle MVC injuries. Therefore, gasoline tax could be a policy alternative to improve traffic safety, provided that it is paired with efforts to improve motorcycle safety. The development of public transportation system could also become an attractively alternative commuting mode to reduce motor vehicle injuries.
Gene Expression Profiles on Hypoxia and Reoxygenation in Rat Gastric Epithelial Cells: A High-Density DNA Microarray Analysis

Previous investigations have demonstrated that the cellular signaling induced by hypoxia-reoxygenation is a major pathway contributing to gastric mucosal injury induced by stress, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and Helicobacter pylori. The aim of the present study was to perform a gene expression analysis of the gastric mucosal cellular response and to define the protective molecules in hypoxia and reoxygenation using a high-density DNA microarray analysis. Normal rat gastric mucosal (RGM-1) cells were subjected to hypoxia for 2 h, and reoxygenation was initiated by placing the cells in an environment of normoxia for 2, 4, or 8 h. Total RNA was extracted, and differences in the gene expression profiles between the normoxia and hypoxia groups or among the different durations of reoxygenation were investigated using a high-density DNA microarray. HIF-1- and apoptosis-related genes were modulated by hypoxia. Moreover, inflammation-, stress-, and wound- healing-related genes were regulated by reoxygenation following hypoxia. In particular, the expression of heat shock protein-70, amphiregulin and cyclooxygenase-2 were upregulated during reoxygenation following hypoxia, suggesting that these upregulations may play an important role in maintaining cell survival and supporting cell function.
Design of a novel lightweight key establishment mechanism for smart home systems

Nowadays there has been a tremendous increase in the use of Smart Home Systems (SHSs) due to its various benefits like increased human comfort, optimized use of electricity, etc. These SHSs are altering human requirements and making human beings more dependent on them. In smart home environments, there are various low capacity devices (microcontrollers and sensors) connected through wireless networks. The smart devices (SDs) in the network must communicate with adequate security. Due to resource constraints like low processing power and low space, there is a lack of standard security mechanism which can provide adequate security. This research work introduces a novel key establishment mechanism for smart home systems. Proposed mechanism provides solution against various security attacks like replay, masquerade, denial of service, eavesdropping etc. We demonstrate the feasibility of proposed mechanism using proof of concept and evaluate results for showing the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed mechanism.
The Efficacy of Psychosocial Approaches to Behaviour Disorders in Dementia: A Systematic Literature Review

Objective: This paper provides a systematic review of research findings published between 1989 and 1998 concerning non-pharmacological strategies to alleviate behavioural disturbances in elderly persons with dementia. Method: Data collection strategies included computer literature searches, manual searches of selected journals and checks of references listed in previous reviews. To warrant inclusion, studies were required to include some measure of behaviour before and after the introduction of an intervention. Papers were appraised in the following domains: design, sampling technique, setting, behaviours studied, measurement tools, data collection methods, type of interventions and feasibility. An overall validity rating was assigned to each article using predetermined rules. Results: Forty-three studies met criteria for inclusion including five randomised controlled trials. Validity ratings were as follows: one strong, 15 moderate, and 27 weak. Areas of scientific weakness included small numbers of subjects, inadequate descriptions of study participants, imprecise data collection methods, high attrition rates and insufficient statistical analysis. Despite this, there is evidence to support the efficacy of activity programs, music, behaviour therapy, light therapy, carer education and changes to the physical environment. The evidence in favour of multidis-ciplinary teams, massage and aromatherapy is inconclusive. Conclusions: It was easier to interpret the results of rigorously designed studies that focused on a single behaviour or single intervention tailored to the needs of individuals and carers. Future studies should seek to replicate the findings outlined here, improving methodologies where necessary and including outcome measures that encompass the interests of people with dementia, family caregivers and health professionals.
Automatic contour detection from dental CBCT DICOM data

The algorithm described in this paper is part of a program supporting the process of teeth contour detection, segmentation and 3D reconstruction. The data is taken from dental conical tomographies. Automatic contour detection starts by filtering the image according to an adaptive threshold. The region of interest is established and the tooth contour is determined using the possible edge directions. The applied method is innovative for the contour detection, because it exploits the domain knowledge, where each tooth (incisor, canine, premolar, molar) has a certain shape. For touching teeth, the delimitation is automatically performed by drawing a line using the Bresenham algorithm. The algorithm will further contribute to the determination and treatment of teeth pathologies.
The Introduction of Market-Based Pricing in Corporate Lending

We describe a recent innovation in the corporate lending business whereby banks tie the interest rate during the life of the loan to the borrowers’ credit default swap spreads or to a CDS index. We also discuss the potential impact this innovation may have on bank lending and more generally on financial intermediation and identify some potential adverse effects it may have for the stability of the financial system.
Topiramate in benzodiazepine withdrawal

There is an increasing interest in anticonvulsants for the treatment of benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms. The new anticonvulsant compound topiramate seems to be an especially promising drug for this indication. It acts, among others, as an AMPA antagonist, which may be responsible in part for its anticonvulsant efficacy, but may also modulate the withdrawal‐induced activation of noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus, which are related to some behavioural effects of benzodiazepine withdrawal. A case is presented of a rapid benzodiazepine‐withdrawal treated successfully with topiramate. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antecedent and Consequences of Consumer Expectations and Evaluations Toward CSR Activities: Case Study of an MNC Operating in Indonesia

This paper investigates the causal relationship between the antecendents and consequences of consumer expectations and evaluation to CSR activities. Many firms are seeing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as necessary investments in the community where the firms operate in order to ensure and safeguard sustainable operation for the future (Wibisono, 2007). Consumers are seen as stakeholders who expect corporations to behave responsibly, as well as actively participate in developing the communities in which they operate. Their expectation is also important in their perception toward the current CSR activities done by the firm, which in the end might influence their attitudes and behaviors toward the firm’s product and services (Waddock dan Graves, 1997; Chi-Shiun, Chiu-Chih, Yang-Chin and Pai-Da, 2010; Stanaland, Lwin and Murphy, 2011). The research employed 175 women in the Greater Jakarta region as respondents, which consists of 92 housewives and 83 career women. Respondents are existing consumers of a multinational consumer goods firm operating in Indonesia. Data analysis was performed using Structural Equation Modeling with LISREL for WINDOWS 8.51 Full Version (Jőreskog and Sőrbom, 2001). Final model showed that customer’s evaluation on the firms’ financial and ethical statements positively influences expectations and evaluations, while Consumer evaluation of a firms’ CSR has indirect effect but no direct effect to Consumer’s Trust, Loyalty and Perceived Risk.
The corticosteroid dose-response curve in asthma and how to identify patients for adjunctive and alternate therapies

Abstract Asthma is an inflammatory disorder of the airways and inhaled corticosteroids are the most effective agents in controlling the disease process. The corticosteroid-dose response curve has traditionally been thought of as being flat, i.e. plateaus early, with no further therapeutic response with increasing dose of medication. This is only true for mild asthma and the improvement in airway calibre that occurs as inflammation subsides. For other parameters of asthma control, the dose- response curve is shifted to the right (i.e. control takes longer to achieve) and for severe asthma and bronchial hyper-responsiveness, the curve is much steeper (an almost linear relationship). Thus, for PEFR or FEV1, the curve plateaus at about 400–800 ug BDP equivalent per day (depending on asthma severity), whilst doses greater than 1000 ug per day control bronchial hyper-reactivity much better. In assessing the efficacy of asthma medication, the current literature is confusing in that response criteria are chosen arbitrarily (e.g. a 10% improvement in FEV1) and can mislead if results are extrapolated to other components of asthma control that were not studied. Thus one needs to appreciate data in the appropriate research context. Asthma control should be gauged using composite measures of as many variables in the goals of therapy as possible. Failure to achieve these goals is an indication that the ICS dose should be increased or that an additional agent should be added when one needs to limit steroid side-effects. Co-administration of LABA/ICS remains the most effective strategy (especially in the combination product), that allows for superior asthma control, with leukotriene antagonists and theophylline being alternate choices.
Viral load of the human immunodeficiency virus could be an independent risk factor for endothelial dysfunction

Background: Recent reports of myocardial infarction in young persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) who are receiving protease inhibitor therapy have raised concerns about premature coronary artery disease in this population. However, endothelial dysfunction, hypercoagulability, hypertriglyceridemia, and abnormal coronary artery pathology have been observed in association with HIV infection prior to the availability of protease inhibitor therapy.
Designing a Multipurpose Methodology for Strategic Environmental Research: The Rönneå Catchment Dialogues

Abstract The Rönneå Catchment Dialogues were developed as a multipurpose methodology to enable stakeholder-oriented, interdisciplinary research. This article describes the background of the Catchment Dialogues and their multiple aims and evaluates the Dialogue design. The three parallel objectives that were expected from the Catchment Dialogues were that they would function as a method to i) collect qualitative research data, ii) promote the involvement of stakeholders in water management, and iii) offer a practical example to enable integration of disciplines. Drawing on experiences from similar research or stakeholder-involvement projects using focus groups and similar techniques, this article assesses how the research aim was fulfilled and how the balance between fulfilling different objectives was struck. It reflects on Catchment Dialogues as a fruitful research method for answering our research questions, specifically focusing on the “new” design features, i.e. heterogeneous groups, structured interviews (long hours), and external moderation. Conclusions show that Catchment Dialogues was a useful approach for achieving VASTRA's multiple purposes.
A 5-6-GHz bipolar quadrature-phase Generator

A wide-band fully monolithic quadrature-phase generator is implemented. It consists of a bipolar frequency doubler with differential outputs and a regenerative divider with 5 mV/sub rms/ maximum sensitivity. Measured residual phase noise is </spl plusmn/0.5 dB for offsets between 100 Hz and 100 kHz in the 5-6-GHz band, limited by the resolution of the measurement equipment. An electronic phase tuning circuit controls the I/Q phase error to /spl plusmn/15/spl deg/ of tuning range with 0.033/spl deg//mV sensitivity. Unwanted harmonics are suppressed by over 40 dB within the working range of the multiplier. The test circuit occupies an active area of 0.26/spl times/0.11 mm/sup 2/, and consumes 23 mW from a 2.7-V supply.
Physical Activity and Glycaemic Control in Children with Diabetes Mellitus

The relationship between physical activity, glycaemic control, and skinfold thickness was studied in children with diabetes. Patients recorded details of activity in a home diary over a 6‐day period, and provided eight serial capillary dried blood spots for glucose analysis during a 24‐h period. Levels of activity were assessed using a semi‐quantitative scoring scheme. No correlation was found between total activity score and glycaemic control. However, the activity score before 9 am showed significant correlation with mean blood glucose (p = 0.005) and fructosamine (p = 0.04). The time of rising in the morning showed significant correlation with blood glucose after lunch (p = 0.004) and with fructosamine (p = 0.04). A significant correlation was found between early morning activity and subscapular skinfold thickness. The association between activity and glycaemic control warrants further investigation, as it suggests that patients who engage in energetic activity early in the morning may achieve lower blood glucose and fructosamine levels than their less active peers.
Emotional response to social dencing and walks in persons with dementia

The emotional response to social dancing and walks in persons with dementia was studied to better understand the feasibility, popularity, and meaning of these activities from the perspective of the patient. Social dance events and walks were videotaped and analyzed using Husserl's philosophy as a basis for the analysis. Six persons with dementia participated in the study. The results are described in terms of four interrelated themes: 1) the engaged body; 2) the caregivers' understanding, encouragement, and response to patients during the activity; 3) mutual tenderness and communion; and 4) environmental conditions. Results were then synthesized into a general assessment of the emotional states observed and reported in relation to the activities.
Models of an individual decision-making process related to ethical issues in business: the risk of framing effects

The theoretical paper at hand reviews 16 most often cited descriptive models of a manager's individual decision-making process related to ethical issues in business in general, international business and marketing fields in particular. The paper has a goal to point out the need to rephrase the dependent variable in the models in neutral terms to avoid framing effects in the three subject areas, as well as to rename the models accordingly.
The US Housing Bubble and the Informational Efficiency

Many investors usually believe that real estate is a reliable investment. However, as it is not risk-free and the recent US housing bubble has shown the devastating effects of a crisis in this sector. Even more, Shiller (1989) highlights that this is not an efficient market since there are clear correlation. In the present work we use the entropy as a measure of the informational efficiency in the US Housing market and tested the relationship with the probability of having a crash in the sector. We found some evidence suggesting that the market has been inefficient since May 1999. In addition, the logit model indicates that a decrease in the informational efficiency produce a significant increase in the probability of having a crash. Further results show that the fact of investing in different US metropolitan areas does not affect this probability.