bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Chinese domestic textile demand: where they buy does matter
Authors: MacDonald Stephen , Pan Suwen , Hudson Darren , Tuan Francis 
Published: August 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of distribution channels on demand for apparel, home textiles, and other textiles (including shoes) in urban China.Design/methodology/approachThe estimation procedure used in this study is implemented in three steps: first, the price/unit value information is estimated; second, the parameters for a set of demand systems are estimated; and third, the J‐test and likelihood ratio testing are used to determine the most suitable model for the data set.FindingsThe results indicate that households spend more on apparel than home textiles and other textile products if they purchase textile products from small stores. It also indicates that they would spend more on home textiles and other textiles if they purchase from chain stores and supermarkets.Originality/valueThe estimation of Chinese textile consumption presents a significant challenge to both academic researchers and industry, due to China's large population, income inequality, different consumption channels, and other related issues. First, the results presented in the paper provide a clear indication for textile producers, exporters, and others to choose their distribution channels to target specific customers; second, the disaggregated textile expenditure and price elasticity estimates from this article can be used in various analytical procedures (i.e. simulation models) to evaluate the welfare effects of domestic policies and international trade policies. Quantification of the welfare impacts of domestic policies and international trade policies would be more meaningful if disaggregate textile elasticity estimates are used in simulation models.
Structural optimization of fuzzy systems' rules base and aggregation models
Authors: Panteliyovych Kondratenko Yuriy , Pavlovych Klymenko Leonid , Yasin Mustafa Al Zu'bi Eyad 
Published: August 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose a general method to simplify the structure of fuzzy controllers' rule base using integrated methodology for reducing the number of fuzzy rules based on modelling and simulation.Design/methodology/approachThe paper considers the problem of developing effective methods and algorithms for optimization of fuzzy rules bases of Sugeno‐type fuzzy controllers that can be applied to control of dynamic objects, including objects with non‐stationary parameters. The proposed approach based on calculating the impact of each of the rule on the formation of control signals for different types of input signals provides optimization of a linguistic rules database by using exclusion mechanism for rules with negligible influence. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is investigated using a fuzzy PID controller for control of a non‐stationary object of second order.FindingsIn this paper, the authors argued that different aggregation models can be used for structural optimization of fuzzy controllers and not all the rules are actually required in the fuzzy controllers' rule base. Eliminating some of the rules does not necessarily lead to a significant change in the fuzzy controller's output. The proposed integrated approach based on combination of different kinds of reference input signals for fuzzy controllers modelling and simulation is able to provide guidelines to the users which rules are required and which can be eliminated. The results obtained from the case studies demonstrate that the proposed integrated approach is able to reduce the number of rules required and, at the same time, to have the desired values of quality control indices.Research limitations/implicationsIn order to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach, only control object of second order with PID fuzzy controller of Sugeno‐type is chosen. Future studies can advance this research by applying the proposed approach in different types of fuzzy systems.Practical implicationsThe proposed integrated approach is able to simplify the structural optimization methodology and make it possible to be implemented in real processes of the fuzzy controllers' design.Originality/valueThe value of the current paper is on the proposal of an integrated approach for rule reduction to enhance the practical use of modelling and simulation in a design of fuzzy controllers.
Valuation of money‐back guarantees for retail goods: a test of the real‐option perspective
Authors: Luo Lieh‐Ming 
Published: August 2013

PurposeThe paper aims to develop an alternative valuation model for money‐back guarantees (MBG) using a real‐option approach and examine the validity of the proposed model with an experimental design. This study attempts to address how retailers appropriately price MBG from a consumer value‐based viewpoint.Design/methodology/approachThe study defines the perceived post‐purchase product value as a stochastic underlying process, and then MBG option value could be theoretically determined by the real‐option pricing approach. For the test of the real‐option perspective on MBG, a 2×2×2 factorial experimental design is conducted to examine the empirical effects.FindingsWith model specification, the study investigated the effects of three key factors, i.e. price level, perceived risk level, and consumers' risk‐aversion, which are characterized by a two‐sided effect on MBG option value. The relationships among those factors also are clarified through theoretical analyses. The empirical results could be explained well by the proposed model.Originality/valueFaced with increasingly competitive market, retailers typically need more sophisticated pricing strategies. The study can offer retailers a more comprehensive understanding of consumers' perceived value of MBG in various situations and thereby suggest some management implications for the MBG pricing issue.
The assessment of cash flow forecasting
Authors: Linares‐Mustarós Salvador , Carles Ferrer‐Comalat Joan , Cassú‐Serra Elvira 
Published: August 2013

PurposeThe aim of this study is to show in detail the theoretical and practical foundations of a new feasibility technique for cash flow forecasting (CFF) based on triangular fuzzy numbers.Design/methodology/approachOne of the most complicated problems business people face is determining if they have enough cash to be able to meet all future payments of a specific period. The uncertainty of forecasting the data to solve the problem suggests that a model based on fuzzy logic tools may provide a good way to obtain new techniques to ensure the feasibility of cash flow management.FindingsThis study shows how a specific company can obtain a quantitative idea of the risk of not being able to meet payments in a specific period. This idea can be put into practice with the usual computer tools.Research limitations/implicationsThis work presents a technique to predict the feasibility of CFF using triangular fuzzy numbers. There are other fuzzy numbers with which we can model the study problem and that offer certain advantages over to triangular ones.Practical implicationsA qualitative procedure is currently used to calculate the feasibility of a CFF. This work represents a step forward since it shows how to model quantitative feasibility.Originality/valueThe originality and value of this contribution consists of providing a complete model for a feasibility technique of CFF, as well as several proposals to mechanize the calculations and make the results more intuitive by means of spreadsheet graphs.
Cross‐cultural differences in the content and presentation of web sites
Authors: Huertas‐Garcia Ruben , Casas‐Romeo Agusti , Subira Esther 
Published: August 2013

PurposeInternet is set to be one of the main channels of distribution in the future and already greatly facilitates product evaluation thanks to the information available on the net. The main advantages of electronic shopping over other channels include the reduced costs of searching for products and for product‐related information. Research has stressed the importance of quality information in web site design. The perceived utility of a web site depends on the perceived utility of its content (i.e. quality of information on product characteristics) and its presentation of that content. This paper compares the ways in which a web site's content and content presentation affect the product choice of two consumer groups from different cultures. The paper aims to discuss these issues.Design/methodology/approachThe authors conduct an exploratory study to determine the key factors which may be used in a later conclusive research. The authors propose a tool based on the statistical design of experiments to determine the number of significant factors used by two market segments (Spanish and US students) when selecting a bottle of wine sold via a web site.FindingsThe authors identify key extrinsic factors of consumers' perceived utility when selecting a bottle of wine from a web site and analyse whether cross‐cultural aspects are significant in this choice. The authors assume that web site evaluations made by users from different geographical areas reflect their preferences for more familiar designs.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample size does not enable us to determine the significance of certain variables. Moreover, the sample is not fully representative of the overall consumer population, and so inferences cannot be made about all consumers. However, since the study is exploratory with a theoretical content, the results can be considered valid.Practical implicationsWeb page designers need to take into account the cultural characteristics of their target market in the presentation and content of their sites.Originality/valueThe internet marketing literature considers cultural differences in web design as a tool to improve user confidence and attitude. However, few studies have examined the effects of the cultural adaptation of web sites on user evaluations. Here, the authors propose a straightforward procedure for calculating the main effects of web site attributes. Yates' algorithm and the normal probability plot, proposed by Daniel, can be implemented in any spread sheet.
Algorithm applied in the identification of stakeholders
Authors: Gil‐Lafuente Anna Maria , Barcellos Paula Luciano 
Published: August 2013

PurposeThis paper aims to focus the research on the identification of stakeholders through an analysis of an empirical study by a consulting firm in Brazil. In this case study, the company needs to identify the stakeholders that can exert some influence in its sphere of activity.Design/methodology/approachThe paper considers the question: to do sustainable business, companies must have good knowledge of all actors with influence in their sphere of activity. This identification of stakeholders is the first step. Based on stakeholder theory, the authors discuss the importance of management with stakeholders in the pursuit of sustainability in business. To achieve this objective, the consultant hired has used fuzzy logic algorithm, applying the theory of clans.FindingsIn applying the model through an empirical study, it has been possible to provide a tool based on the use of grouping algorithm that can facilitate decision making by obtaining qualitative data from a dialogue with managers or specialists on a particular topic. The model also serves to establish the level of relationship between different stakeholders and obtain affinities.Originality/valueThe paper provides an innovative and a useful tool to be used in the process of identifying stakeholders. The paper's main contribution is the application of algorithms in the identification of stakeholders considering sustainability criteria in enterprises, and providing a useful model in making decisions.
Fatalities Due to Indigenous and Exotic Species in Florida
Authors: Wolf Barbara C. , Harding Brett E. 
Published: August 2013

AbstractFlorida's climate is suitable for many potentially hazardous animals, including both indigenous and exotic species, which are frequently kept as in zoos or as pets. This has resulted in many unforeseen fatal encounters between animals and the ever expanding human population. While the literature and knowledge pool for more common types of deaths referred to medical examiner/coroner's offices is abundant, the appreciation of wildlife and exotic pet‐related deaths is far less widespread. We report seven animal attack‐related deaths that occurred in Florida. The inflicted injuries included blunt and sharp force injuries, asphyxia, drowning, and envenomation. The underlying cause of death, however, was always a result of the human/animal interaction and in many cases related to human error and failure to appreciate the potentially dangerous behavior of nondomesticated species. These cases illustrate the varied circumstances and pathophysiologies associated with deaths due to indigenous and exotic species and the importance of the multidisciplinary approach in the medicolegal investigation of these cases.
Host‐habitat Location by the Parasitoid, Nasonia vitripennis Walker (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae)
Authors: Frederickx Christine , Dekeirsschieter Jessica , Verheggen Francois J. , Haubruge Eric 
Published: August 2013

AbstractThis study investigated the role of odorant cues used during host‐habitat location by the generalist parasitoid, Nasonia vitripennis Walker. Nasonia vitripennis is a common parasitoid of Dipteran pupae found in association with decaying carrion. Behavioral assays were used to investigate the host‐habitat searching behavior under different scenarios. First, we demonstrated N. vitripennis to be significantly attracted toward odorant cues associated with decaying meat. The biological activity of nine of the volatile molecules constituting the odor of decaying meat was tested on the searching behavior of parasitoid females through two complementary chemoecological approaches: electroantennography (EAG) and olfactometry bioassays. Butanoic acid and butan‐1‐ol elicited high olfactory responses, but no attraction was induced by these two chemicals. Behavioral assays showed that, among the VOCs tested, methyldisulfanylmethane (DMDS) was the only volatile chemical to induce attraction in N. vitripennis.
Detecting Association of Rare Variants by Testing an Optimally Weighted Combination of Variants for Quantitative Traits in General Families
Authors: Fang Shurong , Zhang Shuanglin , Sha Qiuying 
Published: August 2013

SummaryAlthough next‐generation sequencing technology allows sequencing the whole genome of large groups of individuals, the development of powerful statistical methods for rare variant association studies is still underway. Even though many statistical methods have been developed for mapping rare variants, most of these methods are for unrelated individuals only, whereas family data have been shown to improve power to detect rare variants. The majority of the existing methods for unrelated individuals is essentially testing the effect of a weighted combination of variants with different weighting schemes. The performance of these methods depends on the weights being used. Recently, researchers proposed a test for Testing the effect of an Optimally Weighted combination of variants (TOW) for unrelated individuals. In this article, we extend our previously developed TOW for unrelated individuals to family‐based data and propose a novel test for Testing the effect of an Optimally Weighted combination of variants for Family‐based designs (TOW‐F). The optimal weights are analytically derived. The results of extensive simulation studies show that TOW‐F is robust to population stratification in a wide range of population structures, is robust to the direction and magnitude of the effects of causal variants, and is relatively robust to the percentage of neutral variants.
Quantitative sonoelastography of the uterine cervix by interposition of a synthetic reference material
Authors: Hee Lene , Sandager Puk , Petersen Olav , Uldbjerg Niels 
Published: August 2013

AbstractObjectiveTo develop a reference material that allows quantitative elastography of the uterine cervix using the calculation of the approximate tissue stiffness expressed as Young's modulus (N/mm2). Further, to test the elastography equipment on phantoms from a clinical perspective regarding the distance dependence and the influence of a heterogeneous material.DesignMethodological study.SettingAarhus University Hospital, Denmark.PopulationSix mid‐ and five full‐term pregnant women.MethodsReference caps and phantoms with Young's moduli between 0.07 and 0.40 N/mm2 were made of silicone and oil. By using reference caps, the approximate Young's moduli of the cervixes were calculated from strain ratios obtained by elastography.Main outcome measuresApproximate Young's modulus of the cervix.ResultsThe recordings of the phantoms revealed that the calculation of the approximate Young's moduli became unreliable at distances above 10–15 mm from the transducer. This was further increased for a phantom which included a soft layer imitating the cervical canal. The approximate Young's modulus obtained from the anterior cervical lip was 0.08 N/mm2 in mid‐term and 0.03 N/mm2 in full‐term pregnant women (Wilcoxon rank‐sum test, p = 0.01).ConclusionThe reference cap constitutes a promising tool for quantitative elastography of the anterior cervical lip. Figures obtained from the posterior cervical lip are less plausible due to the distance from the transducer and the heterogeneity introduced by the cervical canal. The method has the potential to be used to supplement cervical length assessment when evaluating women at risk of preterm delivery and when planning induction of labor.
Comparing schizophrenia symptoms in the Iban of Sarawak with other populations to elucidate clinical heterogeneity
Authors: McLean Duncan , Barrett Robert , Loa Peter , Thara Rangaswamy , John Sujit , McGrath John , Gratten Jake , Mowry Bryan 
Published: August 2013

AbstractIntroductionThe symptom profile of schizophrenia can vary between ethnic groups. We explored selected symptom variables previously reported to be characteristic of schizophrenia in the Iban of Sarawak in transethnic populations from Australia, India, and Sarawak, Malaysia. We tested site differences to confirm previous research, and to explore implications of differences across populations for future investigations.MethodsWe recruited schizophrenia samples in Australia (n = 609), India (n = 310) and Sarawak (n = 205) primarily for the purposes of genetic studies. We analyzed seven identified variables and their relationship to site using logistic regression, including: global delusions, bizarre delusions, thought broadcast/insertion/withdrawal delusions, global hallucinations, auditory hallucinations, disorganized behavior, and prodromal duration.ResultsWe identified a distinct symptom profile in our Sarawak sample. Specifically, the Iban exhibit: low frequency of thought broadcast/insertion/withdrawal delusions, high frequency of auditory hallucinations and disorganized behavior, with a comparatively short prodrome when compared with Australian and Indian populations.DiscussionUnderstanding between‐site variation in symptom profile may complement future transethnic genetic studies, and provide important clues as to the nature of differing schizophrenia expression across ethnically distinct groups. A comprehensive approach to subtyping schizophrenia is warranted, utilizing comprehensively ascertained transethnic samples to inform both schizophrenia genetics and nosology.
A multicentre, phase II trial of ofatumumab monotherapy in relapsed/progressive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Coiffier Bertrand , Radford John , Bosly André , Martinelli Giovanni , Barca Gabriela , Davies Andrew , Decaudin Didier , Gallop‐Evans Eve , Padmanabhan‐Iyer Swaminathan , Van Eygen Koen , Wu Ka Lung , Gupta Ira V. , Lin Thomas S. , Goldstein Nancy , Jewell Roxanne C. , Winter Paul , Lisby Steen ,   415 study investigators
Published: August 2013

SummaryThis international, multicentre phase II study was conducted to assess ofatumumab, a human anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody, in patients with relapsed/progressive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) who were ineligible for autologous stem cell transplantation (TI) or who had relapse/progression after transplantation (PT). Eighty‐one patients received ofatumumab 300 mg intravenously (IV) on Day 1, followed by seven weekly IV infusions of 1000 mg. Patients in the TI and PT groups had received a median of 3 (range, 1–7) and 5 (range, 2–7) prior therapies, respectively. One‐third of patients did not respond to the last prior therapy, and 53% had failed two or more rituximab‐containing therapies. Overall response rate was 13% for the TI group (seven partial responses) and 8% for the PT group (two complete responses). Median progression‐free survival was 2·6 months, and median duration of response was 9·5 months. The most common Grade 3–4 adverse events were neutropenia (11%), leucopenia (6%), lymphopenia (6%) and thrombocytopenia (6%). Sixteen deaths have been reported, with disease progression as the most common cause of death. In conclusion, ofatumumab monotherapy was well tolerated and provided clinical benefit to some DLBCL patients in this study. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00622388).
The Tzu Chi nomograms for maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) in children: comparison with Miskolc nomogram
Authors: Yang Stephen S. , Chiang I‐Ni , Hsieh Cheng‐Hsing , Chang Shang‐Jen 
Published: August 2013

Objective
To report the first ranking method‐based age‐ and gender‐specific nomograms for maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) in children.
Patients and Methods
Healthy children aged 4–12 years were enrolled for two sets of uroflowmetry tests.
The first and the higher value of the two consecutive Qmax of each child with a voided volume (VV) of ≥50 mL were included for establishing single‐ and dual‐Qmax nomograms.
Children with possible urinary tract infection or lower urinary tract dysfunctions were excluded.
Results
In all, 1128 children (583 boys and 545 girls) with a mean (sd) age of 7.7 (2.2) years were eligible for analysis and construction of nomograms.
Multivariate analysis showed that the Qmax was significantly affected by age, VV and gender (all P < 0.01). The values of the corresponding percentile of the Qmax were significantly higher in the dual‐Qmax nomogram compared with the single‐nomogram.
In boys aged 8–12 years, the 5th percentile line of the Miskolc nomogram was significantly lower than that of the present nomograms at all VVs.
Minimally acceptable Qmax values, around the 10th percentile of the dual‐Qmax nomogram, were >11.5 mL/s in children aged ≤6 years and >15.0 mL/s in children aged ≥7 years. External validation is required for the present dual‐Qmax nomograms.
Conclusion
We recommend repeating uroflowmetry in cases with a Qmax lower than the minimally acceptable age‐ and gender‐specific Qmax values.