Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Multi-channel consumer behavior: online and offline travel preparations

Elaborating on the first stage in the User-Centered Design (UCD) process, understanding the user, this study questions whether it is sufficient to look at the use of interactive systems in isolation. Starting from the assumption that consumers often use the Internet in combination with other channels (telephone, high street, mail order), this paper discusses a study on how consumers move between online and offline channels during the preparations for leisure travel. The theoretical framework was informed by literature from the fields of HCI, marketing and social sciences. The results of the first stage of this work-in-progress indicate that multi-channel use is a day-to-day reality for many consumers.
FİNANSAL KRİZLERE KARŞI POLİTİKA TERCİHLERİ POLICY CHOICES FOR FINANCIAL CRISES

OZET Bu calismada, finansal krizlerin olusum nedenleri, uluslararasi finansal sistemin reformuna yonelik calismalar ve krizlere karsi hangi politika tercihlerinin yapilacagi konusunda cikarimlar yapilmistir. Bu kapsamda; finansal sistemin yeniden yapilandirilmasi ve krizlere neden olan temel faktorler ele alinmistir. Gelisen yeni sartlarda, IMF ve Dunya Bankasi'nin rolu, piyasalarin denetimi, sermaye hareketleri, uygulanan kur rejimi, Merkez Bankalari'nin politikalari incelenmistir. Ayrica; soz konusu finansal piyasalarin krizlere karsi hangi politika secenekleriyle yapilandirilmasi, bankacilik sorunlari ve krizlerin nedenlerine iliskin literaturde yer alan alternatif onerilere yer verilmistir. ABSTRACT In this study, the reasons of financial crises, reforms needed for international financial system, policy choicies for crises are discussed. Therefore, the reconstruction of financial system and main factors causing crises are examined. The consequences of recent developments are studied within the framework of the role of IMF and World Bank, the controlling of markets, capital movements, implemented exchange regime, policies of Central Banks. Moreover, alternative suggestions in the literature regarding problems of banking sector and reasons of crises are mentioned.
Comparative Analysis by Chromosome Painting of the Sex Chromosomes in Arvicolid Rodents

Sex chromosome evolution in mammals has been extensively investigated through chromosome-painting analyses. In some rodent species from the subfamily Arvicolinae the sex chromosomes contain remarkable features such as giant size, a consequence of heterochromatic enlargement, or asynaptic behaviour during male meiosis. Here, we have made a comparative study of the sex chromosomes in 6 arvicolid species using different probes from the X and Y chromosomes of 3 species, in order to gain knowledge about intra- or interspecific preservation of euchromatic regions. Our results clearly reveal poor conservation of the euchromatic region of the Y chromosome within these species, while the euchromatin on the X chromosome is extremely well preserved. Furthermore, we detected no clear correlation between the synaptic/asynaptic behaviour of the sex chromosomes, and the presence or absence of sequence homology within their euchromatic regions. Notably, our study has shown a new relationship between the giant sex chromosomes of 2 species, Microtus agrestis and Microtus cabrerae, that is, both X and Y share a novel region of common sequences in the euchromatin that is not present in the other species analysed. This interspecific euchromatic conservation, limited to the giant sex chromosomes, could point towards a common evolutionary origin for the heterochromatic enlargement process that has characterized the evolution of the sex chromosomes in some arvicolid species.
Exploring the alignment between service strategy and service innovation

Purpose – Literature is relatively sparse on describing how companies should align their determinants for service innovations with their different types of service strategies. This study seeks to explore the alignment between three types of service strategies and determinants for service innovations.Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative, multi‐case research design on 12 Western European capital goods manufacturers including 24 service innovation projects was employed. The study is based on multiple sources of evidence: internal documentation of service innovation and development projects and, most importantly, interview data and participation in internal innovation workshops. Traditional inductive research methods were used to analyze the case studies.Findings – These indicate that aligning service strategies with determinants for service innovations is very complex. The configurations of the determinants are associated with the innovation success. Alternative configurations of determinants can crea.
Selection and aggregation techniques for crowdsourced semantic annotation task

Crowdsourcing is an accessible and cost-effective alternative to traditional methods of collecting and annotating data. The application of crowdsourcing to simple tasks has been well investigated. However, complex tasks like semantic annotation transfer require workers to take simultaneous decisions on chunk segmentation and labeling while acquiring on-the-go domain-speciﬁc knowledge. The increased task complexity may generate low judgment agreement and/or poor performance. The goal of this paper is to cope with these crowdsourcing requirements with semantic priming and unsupervised quality control mechanisms. We aim at an automatic quality control that takes into account different levels of workers’ expertise and annotation task performance. We investigate the judgment selection and aggregation techniques on the task of cross-language semantic annotation transfer. We propose stochastic modeling techniques to estimate the task performance of a worker on a particular judgment with respect to the whole worker group. These estimates are used for the selection of the best judgments as well as weighted consensus-based annotation aggregation. We demonstrate that the technique is useful for increasing the quality of collected annotations.
Democracy, threats and political repression in developing countries: Are democracies internally less violent?

Although previous research on the correlates of political repression has found a negative linear relationship between democracy and repression, we maintain that the relationship is more complex. We focus instead on the role of threats as a key precipitant to political repression and contend that scholars should attend to both non-linearities in analyses of political repression as well as Fein's (1995) argument that states with intermediate levels of democracy (ie semi-democracies) are more likely to be repressive. Such an orientation leads us to hypothesise that there is an inverted U relationship between regime type and political repression. In this article we examine this relationship for 91 less developed countries over the period 1979-92. The findings support the thesis and indicate that: (1) the level of threat is positively and significantly associated with political repression;(2) the level of threat has a greater impact than regime type on the likelihood of political repression; and (3) controlling for the level of threat, less developed states with intermediate levels of democracies--semi-democracies--have the highest levels of political repression.
Insulin-like growth factor 1 alters feto-placental protein and carbohydrate metabolism in fetal sheep.

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is an anabolic hormone in postnatal life and may be an important endocrine regulator of fetal growth. However, its effects on fetal metabolism in vivo have not previously been determined. We studied the effect of 50 micrograms/h.kg IGF-1 infusion in 12 chronically catheterized fetal sheep. Fetal blood amino nitrogen concentrations fell 10% and maternal 7%, consistent with a rise in feto-placental amino acid uptake. Fetal amino acid oxidation, measured by fetal urea production fell by 30% (44.4 +/- 10.5 to 30.9 +/- 8.0 mumol/min). Fetal and maternal blood glucose concentrations both fell by 0.1 mM, consistent with increased feto-placental glucose uptake. Placental lactate production fell 30% (114 +/- 15 to 78 +/- 11 mumol/min), as did fetal and uterine lactate uptake. There was no change in umbilical or uterine blood flows, nor in placental transfer by simple or facilitated diffusion. We conclude that IGF-1 has anabolic effects on feto-placental protein and carbohydrate metabolism. Circulating IGF-1 may in part mediate the regulation of fetal growth in response to fetal nutrient supply.
Internet-Enabled Linkages: Balancing Strategic Considerations with Operational Efficiencies in Business-to-Business Marketing

ABSTRACT The fast-paced development of the Internet as a mechanism for efficient communication and transactions has led to the growth of diverse forms of electronic business-to-business marketing linkages. Such linkages have profound implications for the development and exploitation of newer constellations of supply chains as well as for the re-design and re-orientation of existing ones. Newer sources of value and competitive advantage enable firms to better manage their existing relationships with suppliers and customers. Moreover, firms are now equipped with better tools for engaging in advantageous alliances with other firms possessing complementary resources. While various Internet-based business-to-business (B2B) business models have failed in recent times, most existing B2B exchanges can be classified into a general typology based on the type of linkages, access and governance. Three major types of B2B buyer-seller linkages are identified as “net marketplaces,” “industry consortia,” and “virtual private networks. ” This paper evaluates the comparative properties of these major types of exchanges and identifies various antecedent factors that would impinge on a firm's decision to participate in any of these types of exchanges.
Why Do Undergraduate Marketing Majors Select Marketing as a Business Major? Evidence from Australasia

This research examines the reasons behind marketing majors’ decision to select marketing as a major, where students have the option to select more than one major toward their undergraduate degree. Results of surveys conducted at two universities, one in Australia and one in New Zealand, provide some new findings as well as extending findings from earlier studies. This research complements existing studies on the topic by providing empirical evidence from Australasia. The results also suggest that marketing is the most popular first-choice major for Australasian marketing majors.
Scaling Law for the Radius of Gyration of Proteins and Its Dependence on Hydrophobicity

The scaling law between the radius of gyration and the length of a polymer chain has long been an interesting topic since the Flory theory. In this article, we seek to derive a unified formula for the scaling exponent of proteins under different solvent conditions. The formula is obtained by considering the balance between the excluded volume effect and elastic interactions among monomers. Our results show that the scaling exponent is closely related to the fractal dimension of a protein’s structure at the equilibrium state. Applying this formula to natural proteins yields a 2/5 law with fractal dimension 2 at the native state, which is in good agreement with other studies based on Protein Data Bank analysis. We also study the dependence of the scaling exponent on the hydrophobicity of a protein chain through a simple two-letters HP model. The results provides a way to estimate the globular structure of a protein, and could be helpful for the investigation of the mechanisms of protein folding. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 207–214, 2009
Personal Selling in Retail Settings: How Does the Internet and Related Technologies Enable and Limit Successful Selling?

Despite the proliferation of Internet usage both by retailers and by retail customers, little is know about the impact of the Internet on the retail salesperson's ability to add value to customer encounters. This article identifies and discusses Internet-related factors that potentially enable and/or limit the salesperson's successful execution of the personal selling process and also considers the effects of limitations of Internet retailing on achievement of desired retailer performance. Research questions are identified as a foundation for future work in the area.
Antipsychotic Induced Weight Gain in Schizophrenia: Mechanisms and Management

The aim of the present paper was to describe the mechanisms and management of antipsychotic-induced weight gain in schizophrenia patients. A comprehensive literature review of all available articles on the mechanisms and management of antipsychotic-induced weight gain was done by searching databases PsychINFO and PubMed. A summary of the available guidelines for monitoring of antipsychotic-induced weight gain and metabolic syndrome is also provided. There has been a substantial increase in the number of studies investigating the mechanisms and management of antipsychotic-induced weight gain after 2002. These include advances in the understanding of pharmacogenomics of weight gain and several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating pharmacological and psychological treatments to promote weight loss. The most effective strategy for prevention of weight gain is the choice of antipsychotic medication with low weight gain potential. In individuals with established weight gain and metabolic issues, switching to an antipsychotic agent with lower weight gain potential and/or lifestyle modifications with physical activity are most effective in promoting weight loss. Pharmacological agents such as orlistat and sibutramine are effective in general obesity but have not been sufficiently evaluated in antipsychotic-induced weight gain. The case to prescribe routine pharmacological treatment to promote weight loss is weak. Long-term, pragmatic studies are required to inform clinical practice. Weight gain in schizophrenia is associated with significant physical and psychological morbidity. Achieving an optimal trade-off between effectiveness and side-effects of antipsychotic agents, although difficult, is achievable. This should be based on three main principles: (i) a shared decision-making model between the patient, clinician and carer(s) when choosing an antipsychotic; (ii) a commitment to baseline and follow-up monitoring with explicit identification of the responsible individual or team; and (iii) the adoption of clear structured protocols for clinicians to follow in case of clinically significant weight gain and metabolic issues, which should incorporate greater collaboration between various health professionals from psychiatric and medical specialist services.
Toxoplasmosis in humans and animals in Brazil: high prevalence, high burden of disease, and epidemiology

SUMMARY Infections by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii are widely prevalent in humans and animals in Brazil. The burden of clinical toxoplasmosis in humans is considered to be very high. The high prevalence and encouragement of the Brazilian Government provides a unique opportunity for international groups to study the epidemiology and control of toxoplasmosis in Brazil. Many early papers on toxoplasmosis in Brazil were published in Portuguese and often not available to scientists in English-speaking countries. In the present paper we review prevalence, clinical spectrum, molecular epidemiology, and control of T. gondii in humans and animals in Brazil. This knowledge should be useful to biologists, public health workers, veterinarians, and physicians. Brazil has a very high rate of T. gondii infection in humans. Up to 50% of elementary school children and 50–80% of women of child-bearing age have antibodies to T. gondii. The risks for uninfected women to acquire toxoplasmosis during pregnancy and fetal transmission are high because the environment is highly contaminated with oocysts. The burden of toxoplasmosis in congenitally infected children is also very high. From limited data on screening of infants for T. gondii IgM at birth, 5–23 children are born infected per 10 000 live births in Brazil. Based on an estimate of 1 infected child per 1000 births, 2649 children with congenital toxoplasmosis are likely to be born annually in Brazil. Most of these infected children are likely to develop symptoms or signs of clinical toxoplasmosis. Among the congenitally infected children whose clinical data are described in this review, several died soon after birth, 35% had neurological disease including hydrocephalus, microcephaly and mental retardation, 80% had ocular lesions, and in one report 40% of children had hearing loss. The severity of clinical toxoplasmosis in Brazilian children may be associated with the genetic characteristics of T. gondii isolates prevailing in animals and humans in Brazil.
Heterogeneous beliefs, investor sentiment and A-H share premium

Based on monthly data of dual-listed companies in A share and H share markets from November 2006 to November 2009, this paper provides an explanation for A-H share premium by introducing two behavioral factors: heterogeneous beliefs and investor sentiment. The results show that, under the short-sales constraints of A share market, the stronger the heterogeneous beliefs, the higher the A-H premium rate. The higher the investor sentiment of A share market, the higher the A-H premium rate. Under higher investor sentiment, A shares of stocks whose intrinsic value is difficult to estimate are more likely to be overpriced, leading to a higher A-H premium rate. Moreover, higher investor sentiment can strengthen the effect of heterogeneous beliefs on AH premium rate. Overall, theories on heterogeneous beliefs and investor sentiment can well explain the irrational phenomenon of A-H share premium.
TQM and the learning organization

Questions the difference between TQM and organizational learning, including characteristics and problems encountered – states that TQM is a vehicle for organizational learning. Uses Australian organizations to provide examples of this link. Examines systematic problem solving, experimenting with new approaches, learning from experience and the transfer of knowledge within these three companies. Concludes that TQM is part of becoming a learning organization, but that most TQM initiatives do not lead to organizational learning.
Market Participants' Behavior and Pricing Mechanisms in the JGB Markets -- Analysis of Market Developments from the End of 1998 to 1999 --

Enhancing market liquidity and efficiency in government bond markets is a central issue which needs to be addressed so as to ensure that the yield curve, which acts as the benchmark for yen interest rate instruments, is smoothly determined and reflects prevailing market prices. An efficient government bond market is indispensable from the standpoint of financial policy operations in order (1) to secure reliable information which reflects market participants' outlook on interest rates, and (2) to carry out smooth market operations using government bonds. However, there are various problems with respect to the government bond markets, related to both market structure and the behavior of market participants, and thus they are vulnerable to stress. The experience of summer 1999, where a widespread decline in market liquidity was observed in the government bond markets prompted in part by a shock which materialized in the repo market, is still fresh in our minds. In this paper, we explore various developments in Japanese government bond markets, focusing on the connection between the behavior and incentives of market participants and the effect they have had on market liquidity. More specifically, we examine the various problems (pricing difficulties and the impact on earnings, for example) faced by market participants and the accompanying decline in the market making activities, based on quantitative analysis and the results of questionnaire and interviews conducted by the Financial Markets Department.
Computer Models for Site Location Decisions

Considers alternative types of computer models designed to assist decision makers on questions of site location. Relates to a larger scale research project which aims to examine the necessary requirements for computers to provide practical decision support. It involves comparing a wide range of modelling techniques, with a view to establishing their relative strengths and the conditions under which each would be the most appropriate choice. Discusses the range of modelling techniques available and provides a more detailed review of one particular model which combines a “conventional” approach, based on algebraic equations, with an expert systems approach.
Financial Valuation and Risk Management Working Paper No . 625 Market Belief , Trading Volume , Price Volatility , and Liquidity Songtao Wang First

This paper studies the effects of investors’ heterogeneous beliefs on the trading volume, price volatility, and liquidity of stocks. Following Kurz and Motolese (2008), we propose a simple theoretical model to show that the equilibrium stock price is linearly and positively correlated with market belief (investors’ average belief) about stock future payoffs. Further, it is shown in this paper that when market belief is more volatile, trading volume and liquidity decline while price volatility increases. Using the analyst forecast data on quarterly earnings per share provided by the Institutional Brokers’ Estimate System, we obtain empirical results which support the theoretically predicted relations between the volatility of market belief about stock future payoffs and the trading volume, price volatility, and liquidity of underlying stocks, and these empirical results are robust to various methods of estimating market belief and its volatility and to alternative illiquidity measures. JEL codes: G12, G17, G32.
Experiences from Assessing Safety in Vingis Park, Vilnius, Lithuania

The aim of this article is to suggest a multi-method approach for assessing safety in parks. The study is based on the analysis of police crime data combined with information from a safety walk and safety survey of park users. The framework is tested in an urban park, Vingis, in the inner city of Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. Findings show that Vingis is perceived as a safe park, but, compared with police statistics, the survey and the safety walk provide a more nuanced diagnostic of safety in this green area. Vingis’ safety is compromised by car traffic and illicit parking practices, the park’s poor capacity to accommodate users’ needs (e.g. the elderly, parents with small children, young people) and the inadequate infrastructure for users at certain times, such as in the evenings and dark months of the year. Patterns of safety expressed by citizens of Vingis park do not differ from the ones found in parks elsewhere (both in relation to their physical and social environment), despite the recent transformations Vilnius, as the capital city, has overcome since the country’s independence. The article concludes with an assessment of the proposed framework and directions for research and intervention.