Animo Repository - De La Salle University Research
Not a member yet
45334 research outputs found
Sort by
Complex statistical signatures of stock markets: Scaling laws, multifractality, temporal recurrence networks of price and the Ising model
No full textFinancial markets, such as stock markets, are good representative examples of complex systems because they are composed of a large number of agents interacting in a non-linear manner. As such, there has now been a paradigm shift towards the treatment of stock markets as complex systems. A defining feature of complex systems is emergence, presenting themselves as statistical signatures in the macroscopic scale. In financial markets, this is observed in the main stylized facts: fat-tails in the distribution of large returns, volatility clustering, absence of autocorrelation in daily returns, and multifractality. Using log-returns data on sixteen global market indices over varying time scales, we verify the main stylized facts and found empirical results consistent with previous works. In addition to the main stylized facts, this work has uncovered nearly-universal statistical properties in financial markets from the perspective of the theory of records and complex networks. By creating a temporally directed network of prices using global stock market data, we recover robust power-law statistics in the distribution of records and link separation times, and find Poisson statistics in the in- and out-degree link distributions, quantifying a high level of activity in financial markets, i.e., price recurrences are retrieved over fewer connections than that of completely random sequences. These empirical facts are benchmarks of complex and agent-based financial market models. As such, valid models must be able to retrieve the main stylized facts. In this work, we demonstrate that the self-organizing Ising model is one such model capable of replicating the empirical stylized facts. We generate synthetic return series over a broad set of model parameters (bmax, σmax,CV) and identified bmax ∈ [0.2,03], σmax ∈ [0.15,0.45] and CV = 0.50 as the range of parameters that retrieve the main stylized facts with a minimal degree of multifractality. These simulated findings imply that agents in stock markets tend to follow the external news, conform with neighborhood trends, and that agents are neither too timid or too bold in introducing idiosyncratic actions when making decisions
Examining the effects of ownership concentration on firm performance and value as moderated by firm demographics and COVID-19 pandemic
No full textABSTRACT
This study utilizes panel regression analysis to examine the impact of ownership concentration on firm performance and firm value among publicly listed companies in the Philippines from 2018 to 2023. It incorporates moderating variables such as firm size, firm age, industry classification, and the COVID-19 pandemic to evaluate their contextual influences. The findings suggest that ownership concentration does not significantly affect firm performance, as measured by Return on Assets (ROA) and Return on Equity (ROE). However, it demonstrates a more pronounced effect on firm value, assessed through Tobin’s Q. Firm age and industry type are significant moderators; older firms experience diminishing returns due to governance entrenchment, while industry-specific dynamics affect valuation. Although COVID-19 had a limited effect on ROA and ROE, it selectively influenced firm value in companies with concentrated second-largest shareholder stakes. These insights are valuable for investors, auditors, regulatory bodies, publicly listed companies, and future researchers interested in corporate governance within emerging markets
Replacing, amplifying, and transforming instructional practices: Digital technology profile among Filipino-American educators
Full text linkIntegrating digital technology in education aligns closely with the United Nations’ SDG 4, which focuses on equitable education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. This study, which aims to determine the digital technologies that replaced, amplified, and transformed the instructional practices of Filipino-American educators, specifically targets accessibility to quality education by catering to diverse learning needs and improving engagement and outcomes. Sixty-four Filipino-American educators across the United States, identified through purposive sampling, evaluated the extent of their integration of popular digital technologies in the classrooms. These technologies were ranked according to how much they replaced the educator’s traditional instructional practices, how they increased the productivity or effectiveness of these practices, and how they reinvented the educators’ teaching or curricular goals. Educators identified twelve sets of popular digital technologies for each of the three survey instruments. Results showed that Smartboards, online grading systems, digital presentations, and learning management systems “very highly” replaced customary instructional practices among these educators. Smartboards, online grading systems, and learning management systems also “very highly” amplified these practices. Applications or assistive tools in the classroom and teaching materials produced through collaboration among educators “highly” transformed their practices. The study\u27s findings underscore the significant impact of digital technologies on modern instructional practices and highlight the pivotal role of digital technology in reshaping education by aligning efforts to meet the demands of 21st-century learning. Future pedagogical practices may increasingly focus on leveraging these tools to foster critical thinking, creativity, and technological fluency
Tirem (Ostreidae) Shells and Sumbaboy (Cerastoderma edule) Shells as Fiberglass
Full text linkSolid waste management is a global issue. Researchers in La Union, Philippines, investigated the potential of discarded Tirem (Ostreidae) and Sumbaboy (Cerastoderma edule) shells from seafood restaurants as a sustainable alternative in fiberglass production. The study explored the use of pulverized shells, rich in calcium carbonate, to enhance the strength, durability, and corrosion resistance of fiberglass. Various formulations of shell-based fiberglass were created and tested for water resistance and flexural strength. The findings revealed that increasing the proportion of Tirem shells improved water resistance, while a higher content of both Tirem and Sumbaboy shells enhanced flexural strength. Statistical analysis using a T-test indicated no significant difference in water resistance and flexural strength between the experimental shell-based fiberglass and commercial fiberglass. This suggests that fiberglass made from these shells is a viable alternative with comparable performance. The researchers propose that this shell-based fiberglass could be utilized in different industries due to its flexural strength and water-resistant properties.The researchers recommend future researchers to explore other seashell types, optimize the epoxy-to-shell ratio for better curing and performance, and investigate heat resistance, translucence, and weight reduction. This innovative approach offers environmental and economic benefits by transforming waste into a valuable material for various industries
“May I Just Ask You Why That’s Funny?”: Exploring Power and Dominance in BBM’s 7.30 Interview
Full text linkPower plays a crucial role in politics; in most cases, the majority would say that those in power would always dominate. However, Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) can tell people otherwise. This study looked into the interview of Philippine President Bongbong Marcos and Sarah Ferguson in an ABC in-depth 7.30 interview. The study aimed to identify how socio-cognitive factors played a role in the powerplay of the president and the interviewer during the interview and how power was demonstrated by both individuals in the discourse. Through CDA, the researcher also used the Cognition-Discourse-Society Triangle framework to analyze the interview. Findings have shown that President Marcos continues to be powerful as a power elite due to his access to various situations and discourse; however, his identity as a Marcos remains questionable in international politics. Conversely, Sarah’s identity as an Australian has highlighted her white supremacy, and this gave her the power to ask controversial questions during the interview. Her access to social knowledge and facts has augmented her power as an Australian interviewer. Lastly, this study contributes to the field of English Language Education as it teaches educators and learners to be critical thinkers for themselves and society
An experimental and numerical study of low-cost fiber reinforced elastomeric bearing (FREB) using recycled rubber for seismic base isolation application
No full textThis research proposed the development of the low-cost fiber-reinforced elastomeric bearing (FREB) utilizing recycled butyl rubber (IIR) from used inner tubes. Firstly, the study examines the hardness and tensile strength of recycled butyl rubber through a hardness test and the uniaxial tensile test, respectively. The hardness test results are 52.5, 57.5, 50.5, 53.0, and 54 IRHD for specimens 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 respectively. The tensile strength of the five samples is 8.5, 9.7, 9.6, 8.5, and 8.3 MPa respectively. The dumbbell specimen was analyzed using ANSYS commercial software to compare the experimental and numerical results. In this study, the Ogden 1st order model was suitable to utilize in the determination of the hyper-elastic material constants of recycled rubber. These material constants are applied in the modeling of the proposed low-cost FREB in FEA to define the hyper-elastic material. Secondly, the mechanical properties of FREB were evaluated through a compression test and a combined compression and shear test. After conducting the compression test, the observed maximum vertical load-carrying capacity was 1862 kN, and the compressive strength measured 23.85 MPa. Then, the evaluated compression modulus and vertical stiffness of the FREB were 31.81 kN/mm², and 16624.63 N/mm, respectively. The load-carrying capacity of the proposed FREB, 23.85 MPa is comparable with those of commercially available elastomeric bearings. These values indicate the material\u27s significant strength and rigidity under vertical loading conditions, confirming its suitability for applications requiring high load-bearing capacity. After the compression test, the deformations observed in the materials are decoupling of the fiber and rubber and also fiber reinforcement failure. Through the horizontal test, the FREB displays quite stable hysteresis loops at each level of displacement amplitude. Using the force-displacement curve, the horizontal stiffness of the FREB was 0.636 kN/mm at a shear strain of 33% and 0.5013 kN/mm at a shear strain of 53%, respectively. Moreover, the shear modulus of the proposed FREB was 1.2 MPa at 33% shear strain and 0.95 MPa at 53% shear strain, respectively. The horizontal stiffness and shear modulus decreased while the displacement amplitudes increased. Subsequently, the calculated damping ratio was 14.8% and 16.9% at the 33% shear strain and 53% shear strain, respectively. The damping ratio increased from 14.8% to 16.9% due to the enlargement of the hysteresis loop area. The damping capacity of the bearing is inversely proportional to horizontal displacements. The mechanical properties of the proposed FREB are comparable with those of commercially available elastomeric bearings. In addition, the mechanical properties of the proposed elastomeric bearing were analyzed using FEM software. The validation of the mechanical properties of the low-cost fiber-reinforced elastomeric bearing was conducted between experimental results and numerical analysis. The comparison shows a good agreement between experiment and analysis. The structural performance of a two-story reinforced concrete school building, both with a fixed base and an isolated base featuring the proposed FREB was analyzed by nonlinear time history analysis using ETABS software. The proposed FREB base isolation system significantly develops the seismic resilience of the structure compared to a fixed-base system. By prolonging the time period and reducing the natural frequency, the isolated system reduces susceptibility to high-frequency ground motions, thereby minimizing acceleration forces and enhancing overall energy dissipation. The system effectively limits story drift in the upper levels, reduces lateral force transmission, and minimizes base shear, ensuring better protection for fundamental components of the structures. The isolated system absorbs and dissipates more input energy than the fixed-base system, highlighting its ability to mitigate seismic forces through controlled displacements and efficient damping mechanisms. This leads to reduced force transmission and lower accelerations throughout the structure, ultimately minimizing the risk of damage during seismic events. By contrast, the fixed system displays higher accelerations and prolonged oscillations, reflecting its limited capacity for energy dissipation and force reduction. Furthermore, the FREB isolators, developed from recycled butyl rubber, offer a low-cost and sustainable solution, making them particularly beneficial for improving seismic performance in developing regions. The findings demonstrate that this innovative isolation system provides a practical, cost-effective approach to reducing the seismic vulnerability of structures, ensuring enhanced safety and resilience in seismic prone areas of the developing country
Journey to a Foreign Land: English Language Teaching Beliefs and Dispositions of Filipino Teachers in Vietnam
Full text linkThis study explored the experiences of nine (9) Filipino English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers in Vietnam, focusing on their teaching beliefs and dispositions. It examined their perspectives on language instruction, professional challenges, and the strategies they employed to adapt to a new educational and cultural environment. Using a qualitative case study approach, the research provided insights into how these educators navigated the complexities of teaching in a foreign land. The findings revealed that Filipino EFL teachers viewed their teaching beliefs as rooted in cultural adaptation and integration, emphasizing the importance of bridging cultural gaps in the language learning process. Their dispositions were shaped by professional challenges, yet they demonstrated resilience in addressing these difficulties. Key themes emerged in their narratives, including cultural sensitivity, language integration, instructional strategies, and the significance of professional support networks. These factors played a vital role in shaping their teaching experiences and effectiveness in the classroom. As a result of this study, a webinar program was developed to support the professional growth of Filipino English teachers in Vietnam. This initiative aimed to enhance teaching strategies, promote culturally responsive pedagogy, and strengthen professional collaboration among educators. The study highlighted the need for continuous professional development, the impact of cultural adaptation on teaching effectiveness, and the role of resilience in overcoming challenges. Future research was recommended to examine the long-term effects of cultural integration and professional support networks on teaching practices and teacher retention in foreign educational settings
