Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Gender Diversity and Securities Fraud

We formulate theory on the effect of board of director gender diversity on the broad spectrum of securities fraud, and generate three key insights. First, based on ethicality, risk aversion, and diversity, we hypothesize that gender diversity on boards can operate as a significant moderator for the frequency of fraud. Second, we advance that the stock market response to fraud from a more gender-diverse board is significantly less pronounced. Third, we posit that women are more effective in male-dominated industries in reducing both the frequency and severity of fraud. Results of our novel empirical tests, based on data from a large sample of Chinese firms that committed securities fraud, are largely consistent with each of these hypotheses.
Rethink the Nicaragua Canal

At the end of 2014, construction began on the Grand Canal in Nicaragua, a project shrouded in secrecy since its inception 2.5 years ago. The Nicaraguan government showed scant evidence of having accounted for the impact on the environment and on local residents, or of having adequately consulted the public in selecting the final 278-km route. Such disregard should be alarming to everyone. Projects of this magnitude warrant dialogue among all stakeholders. As construction is projected to span 5 years, there is still time to reconsider it and convene independent assessments and meetings that are transparent, inclusive, and respectful of different perspectives, to guide the project toward the best outcome.
Good response to IL‐1β blockade by anakinra in a 23‐year‐old CINCA/NOMID patient without mutations in the CIAS1 gene. Cytokine profiles and functional studies

Chronic infantile neurological cutaneous and articular (CINCA) syndrome is an autoinflammatory disease, defined by the triad of urticarial rash, neurological manifestations, and arthropathy, accompanied by recurrent fevers and systemic inflammation. Increasing neurological deficits result from aseptic meningitis. Sensorineural hearing loss and progressive loss of vision caused by keratoconjunctivitis or papilloedema may emerge. An autosomal‐dominant inheritance is suspected although sporadic cases are reported frequently. Sixty per cent of CINCA patients carry mutations in the cold‐induced autoinflammatory syndrome (CIAS1) gene. We report the favourable response of a 23‐year‐old CINCA patient without CIAS1 mutations to treatment with the recombinant interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) receptor antagonist anakinra.
Vegetarianism, Veganism, and Meat Avoidance: Recent Trends and Findings

The main findings of a detailed qualitative study of the motivations, beliefs and attitudes of practising vegetarians and vegans are reported. It is concluded that vegetarianism, while remaining very much a minority option, is increasing steadily in the UK population, although the rate of increase appears to vary by such factors as age, gender and socio‐economic category. Those who opt for a non‐meat‐eating dietary pattern may well represent the vanguard of a form of ethical consumerism to which food producers, processors and retailers will need to be increasingly responsive in the near future.
Digital technology in respiratory diseases

In a world where digital technology has revolutionized the way we work, shop and manage our finances it is unsurprising that digital systems are suggested as potential solutions to delivering clinically and cost-effective care for an aging population with one or more long-term conditions. However, recent evidence suggesting that telehealth may not be quite the panacea that was promised, has led to discussions on the mechanisms and role of digital technology in respiratory care. Implementation in rural and remote settings offers significant benefits in terms of convenient access to care, but is contingent on technical and organizational infrastructure. Telemonitoring systems rely on algorithms to detect deterioration and trigger alerts; machine learning may enable telemonitoring of the future to develop personalized systems that are sensitive to clinical status whilst reducing false alerts. By providing access to information, offering convenient and flexible modes of communication and enabling the transfer of monitoring data to support professional assessment, telehealth can support self-management. At present, all too often, expensive ‘off the shelf’ systems are purchased and given to clinicians to use. It is time for the paradigm to shift. As clinicians we should identify the specific challenges we face in delivering care, and expect flexible systems that can be customized to individual patients’ requirements and adapted to our diverse healthcare contexts.
Variable Association of Reactive Intermediate Genes with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Populations with Different African Ancestry

Objective. Little is known about the genetic etiology of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in individuals of African ancestry, despite its higher prevalence and greater disease severity. Overproduction of nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species are implicated in the pathogenesis and severity of SLE, making NO synthases and other reactive intermediate-related genes biological candidates for disease susceptibility. We analyzed variation in reactive intermediate genes for association with SLE in 2 populations with African ancestry. Methods. A total of 244 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) from 53 regions were analyzed in non-Gullah African Americans (AA; 1432 cases and 1687 controls) and the genetically more homogeneous Gullah of the Sea Islands of South Carolina (133 cases and 112 controls). Single-marker, haplotype, and 2-locus interaction tests were computed for these populations. Results. The glutathione reductase gene GSR (rs2253409; p = 0.0014, OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.09–1.44) was the most significant single SNP association in AA. In the Gullah, the NADH dehydrogenase NDUFS4 (rs381575; p = 0.0065, OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.23–3.59) and NO synthase gene NOS1 (rs561712; p = 0.0072, OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.44–0.88) were most strongly associated with SLE. When both populations were analyzed together, GSR remained the most significant effect (rs2253409; p = 0.00072, OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.10–1.44). Haplotype and 2-locus interaction analyses also uncovered different loci in each population. Conclusion. These results suggest distinct patterns of association with SLE in African-derived populations; specific loci may be more strongly associated within select population groups.
Accuracy of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography for estimating residual tumor size after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer: a feasibility study

Objective To assess the feasibility of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) of the breast for assessing the size of residual tumors after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). Materials and methods In breast cancer patients who underwent NAC between 2011 and 2013, we evaluated residual tumor measurements obtained with CESM and full-field digital mammography (FFDM). We determined the concordance between the methods, as well as their level of agreement with the pathology. Three radiologists analyzed eight CESM and FFDM measurements separately, considering the size of the residual tumor at its largest diameter and correlating it with that determined in the pathological analysis. Interobserver agreement was also evaluated. Results The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were higher for CESM than for FFDM (83.33%, 100%, 100%, and 66% vs. 50%, 50%, 50%, and 25%, respectively). The CESM measurements showed a strong, consistent correlation with the pathological findings (correlation coefficient = 0.76-0.92; intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.692-0.886). The correlation between the FFDM measurements and the pathological findings was not statistically significant, with questionable consistency (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.488-0.598). Agreement with the pathological findings was narrower for CESM measurements than for FFDM measurements. Interobserver agreement was higher for CESM than for FFDM (0.94 vs. 0.88). Conclusion CESM is a feasible means of evaluating residual tumor size after NAC, showing a good correlation and good agreement with pathological findings. For CESM measurements, the interobserver agreement was excellent.
Propuesta de un modelo para la medición del capital intelectual en la industria de los maquinados industriales

Previously the companies watched over in productive use of their capital in financial terms, the whole emphasis in the implementation of their strategies was in fulfilling the budget, nowadays this doesn't give them enough elements to make decisions. In this time (XXI century), the most successful companies have opted to evaluate their organization in terms of knowledge, considering that the intangible activities that generate are an inexhaustible source of wealth, the capacity to measure or to negotiate these resources or active it has become, this way, in a basic necessity to be able to explain in a satisfactory way the processes of obtaining of sustainable competitive advantages in the time.
GOD Queuing : A Novel Grid-based Resource Co-allocation Scheme in Distributed Multimedia System

In this paper, we firstly analyze all kinds of resource allocation schemes in distributed multimedia system, including QoS manager, SRT, GARA, and propose a novel distributed multimedia service grid architecture & multimedia service grid. Based on grid architecture, this paper introduces a novel resource allocation scheme & grid-based on-demand queuing, GOD queuing. We propose the function architecture of the scheme, and describe the main function of each component. Furthermore, this paper emphasizes on the resource usage monitoring and adapting mechanism of VOD multimedia service grid based on GOD queuing scheme, illustrating the characteristic of GOD queuing scheme in resource allocation. At last, we illustrate the prospective research direction on the combination of distributed multimedia system and grid technology
Analysis of reliability and power efficiency in cascode class-E PAs

Power efficiency in switched common source class-E amplifiers is usually obtained at the expense of device stress. Device stacking is a viable way to reduce voltage drops across a single device, improving long-term reliability. In this paper, we focus on cascode-based topologies, analyzing the loss mechanisms and giving direction to optimize the design. In particular, a new dissipative mechanism, peculiar of the cascode implementation, is identified and a circuit solution to minimize its effect is proposed. Prototypes, realized in a 0.13-/spl mu/m CMOS technology demonstrate 67% PAE while delivering 23 dBm peak power at 1.7 GHz. Good bandwidth was also realized with greater than 60% PAE over the frequency range of 1.4-2 GHz.
The Relationships among Performance of Accounting Information Systems, Influence Factors, and Evolution Level of Information Systems

In previous implementation studies, the relationships between influence factors and information systems (IS) performance under the level of IS evolution were not empirically examined. The studies did not consider the evolution level of IS in examining influence factors of IS performance. They have tried to identify critical influence factors without considering the state of the IS and the IS department, that is, the levels of IS evolution.The objectives of this study are to examine the direct relationships between influence factors and performance of accounting information systems (AIS), and to identify the moderating effect of evolution level of IS on the relationships. In this study, the direct relationships and the moderating effect of evolution level of IS were hypothesized.The results of the empirical test suggested that there are significant positive correlations between the performance of an AIS and the influence factors such as user involvement, capability of IS personnel and organization size. It was also proved that the relationships between performance of AIS and influence factors are significantly influenced by the evolution level of IS. Hence, for the success of AIS, each influence factor should be considered differently in the degree of importance according to the level of IS evolution.
Oseltamivir for treatment of influenza in healthy adults: pooled trial evidence and cost-effectiveness model for Canada.

BACKGROUND Influenza is a common viral respiratory infection that is associated with significant morbidity. Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is a neuraminidase inhibitor-a new class of antiviral treatment for influenza where efficacy and safety has been established but cost-effectiveness is unknown. METHODS A decision analytic model was used to estimate the costs and effectiveness of two treatment scenarios for empiric management of otherwise healthy nonelderly patients, presenting with influenza-like illness (ILI) to primary care physicians in Canada: 1) where oseltamivir is reimbursed and on formulary for prescription; and 2) where oseltamivir is not on formulary. Outcomes are influenza-days averted and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained. Effectiveness, utility, and pneumonia complication risk estimates are by pooled analysis of patient-level data from four clinical trials. Unit cost information (Canadian dollars) was obtained from published sources in Ontario. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was conducted using Monte Carlo simulation. RESULTS Of 2288 patients randomized, influenza was confirmed in 1575 (69%) and oseltamivir treatment reduced the mean time to symptom alleviation by 1.08 days (95% confidence interval CI] 0.58-1.59). Infected patients treated with oseltamivir had higher utility scores (quality of life) than placebo patients over the 7 days of follow-up (P <.05). Cost per influenza-day averted with oseltamivir on formulary is 49 US dollars (95% CI 31-107) and the cost per QALY is 57,863 US dollars (95% CI 48,919- 70,149 US dollars). Results are sensitive to the percentage of patients presenting to their physician beyond 48 hours from symptom onset who get oseltamivir and the prevalence of influenza among patients presenting with ILI. CONCLUSIONS Oseltamivir for treatment of patients with ILI is potentially cost-effective if clinical diagnostic specificity for influenza observed in clinical trials is applicable to routine practice. More population-based information on the prevalence of influenza among early (<48 hours) presenters with ILI would be valuable.
Electronic Groups at Work.

This paper considers how computer-based communication technology, specifically electronic group mail, might affect group behavior in organizations. It proposes a framework for analyzing groups formed by electronic distribution lists. It describes the scope and nature of electronic group mail in one organization, illustrates how members of electronic distribution lists can exhibit fundamental group processes, and compares behavior in different kinds of electronic groups. It suggests that the electronic group at work is a new social phenomenon that may contribute importantly to organizational behavior.
A Study of Journal Publication Diversity within the Australian Information Systems Sphere

This study reports on research that examined DEST data from 14 Australian universities to identify the diversity of journal outlets in the information systems (IS) area. Across a total of 60 years of academic publishing output, 1449 journal articles were evaluated to identify 649 different journals in which IS-related articles were published. The most popular journals used by Australian academics to publish IS-related articles were the Lecture Notes in Computer Science (N=94) in the computer science area, with the Australasian Journal of Information Systems (N=25) being the most popular journal in the pure and business IS sphere. The study also examined publishing output against a set of 50 previously highly rated IS journals and concluded that the average annual publication of articles in these highly rated journals occurred at a very low rate. The research appears to be one of the first studies to use historical DEST data to report journal diversity in the Australian IS-sphere.
[Association of the polymorphism in manganese superoxide dismutase gene with diabetic retinopathy in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients].

OBJECTIVE To investigate the association of the polymorphism in manganese superoxide dismutase (Mn-SOD) gene in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients with diabetic retinopathy. METHODS The Ala(-9)Val polymorphism of the Mn-SOD gene was determined by polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing in 198 normal control subjects and 264 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, among them there were 139 non-diabetic retinopathy (NDR) subjects and 125 subjects with diabetic retinopathy (DR). RESULTS There was no statistic difference in the frequencies of VV genotype and V allele between the type 2 diabetic group and the control group. However, the frequencies of VV genotype and V allele were significantly higher in the DR group than that in the NDR group (chi-square (2)=5.015, P=0.025; chi(2)=10.253, P=0.001),but there was no statistic difference in the NDR group compared with the control group (P > 0.05). The presence of V allele was shown to be associated with diabetic retinopathy (OR=1.96, 95%CI: 1.29-2.97). Furthermore, the subjects carrying the VV genotype had lower serum Mn-SOD level (P=0.025) and had a tendency of higher total serum SOD activity, but this tendency had no statistic significance. CONCLUSION The Ala(-9)Val polymorphism in the Mn-SOD gene may not be related to the etiology of type 2 diabetes, but it seems to contribute to the development of diabetic retinopathy in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients.
The Effects of Traditional and Social Earned Media on Sales: A Study of a Microlending Marketplace

Marketers distinguish three types of media: paid (e.g., advertising), owned (e.g., company website), and earned (e.g., publicity). The effects of paid media on sales have been extensively covered in the marketing literature. The effects of earned media, however, have received limited attention. The authors examine how two types of earned media, traditional (e.g., publicity and press mentions) and social (e.g., blog and online community posts), affect sales and activity in each other. They analyze 14 months of daily sales and media activity data from a microlending marketplace website using a multivariate autoregressive time-series model. They find that (1) both traditional and social earned media affect sales; (2) the per-event sales impact of traditional earned media activity is larger than for social earned media; (3) because of the greater frequency of social earned media activity, after adjusting for event frequency, social earned media's sales elasticity is significantly greater than traditional earned media's; and (4) social earned media appears to play an important role in driving traditional earned media activity.
A strategy of knowledge representation for uncertain problems: experiments and relations to similar concepts

Vamos (1995) outlined the general schemes of pattern representation of knowledge. Extensive experiments proved the feasibility of the methods, e.g., a twelve-year project in early brain developmental problems, a sociolegal project and a search for patterns in economy. All these are characterized by overwhelming soft-type knowledge. The paper presents an overview of these research efforts, discussing similarities to and differences from the pattern method. >
Managing market relationships – methodological and empirical insights

targeting deserve more attention. In addition, one of the challenges that remains is how to measure the effectiveness of social media efforts. Kimmel presents some of the key metrics that are helpful as a starting point; however, discussions of comprehensive approaches are beyond the scope of the book. Overall, readers will likely find Connecting with Consumers: Marketing for New Marketplace Realities well written, thoroughly researched and informative. Kimmel integrates many different research streams that influence how companies can effectively communicate with consumers. Academics and marketing students will find that the book is refreshing to read and not overly theoretical. At the same time, practitioners will find many practical examples that may provide guidance for meeting some of the challenges that companies will undoubtedly face as they explore consumer connections through social media and beyond. Connecting with Consumers: Marketing for New Marketplace Realities is a helpful starting point to navigate this exciting new territory.
Acquisition or greenfield start-up? Institutional, cultural and transaction cost influences

In this paper, we develop and test a model of diversification mode choice (how firms decide between acquisitions and greenfield start-up ventures) which includes institutional, cultural, and transaction cost variables. Using a sample of Japanese firms entering western Europe, our results show the model correctly predicts over eighty-seven percent of the mode choices. Thus, we provide strong initial evidence to support using institutional, cultural and transaction cost variables to predict firms’ choices between acquisitions and greenfield start-ups in international expansion. Our findings also suggest that organizations which have developed strong intangible capabilities may be able to more readily leverage these capabilities through greenfield start-ups. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of Bupivacaine and Alkalinized Bupivacaine in Brachial Plexus Anesthesia

To define the effect of alkalinization of bupivacaine 0.5% in subclavian perivascular brachial plexus blockade, the time to onset, time to peak effect, and 6-hour regression of sensory and motor blockade were determined. Sixty physical status ASA I and II patients were randomly allocated to one of two groups and a double-blind design was used: group I (n = 30) received bupivacaine 0.5% (pH, 5.5) 3 mg/kg, while group 11 (n = 30) received alkalinized bupivacaine 0.5% (pH, 7.05–7.15) 3 mg/kg. Onset and regression of sensory blockade were determined by pinprick in the CPT2 skin dermatomes, while motor blockade was assessed using a scheme of proximal to distal muscle group paralysis. Time to onset of sensory blockade (group I, 4.0 ± 1.2 min; group II, 3.6 ± 0.9min) and time to peak sensory effect (group I, 17.7 2 1.8 min; group II, 16.3 ±1.8 min) did not differ significantly between the groups. Similarly, no difference in time to onset of motor blockade (group I, 6.9 ± 1.7 min; group 11, 6.3 ± 2.5 min) or time to peak motor effect (group I, 18.1 2 1.9 min; group 11, 15.1 ± 1.9 min) was observed. Regression of postoperative sensory and motor blockade was similar in both groups. It is concluded that alkalinization of bupivacaine 0.5% solutions does not confer any added clinical advantage in subclavian perivascular brachial plexus blockade when compared with commercially available bupivacaine.