bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Rowdies of Darjeeling
Authors: Chettri Mona
Published: July 2019

‘Rowdies or rowdy’ refers to a person who fits somewhere between a gangster and a goon, not a criminal per se but prone to crime and violence, usually at the behest of political leaders. ‘Rowdies’ are the face of political movements, an integral and ubiquitous feature of Darjeeling politics. Their centrality to popular movements indicates a form of hill politics that challenges accepted notions of political participation, democracy, and mobilization. The essay engages in an assessment of the political culture of Darjeeling through the perspective of the ‘rowdies’ who are a product of the social, political, and material circumstances of postcolonial Darjeeling. It examines the vital role that ‘rowdies’ play in shaping the political terrain of the region and how their lives provide a context through which to understand contemporary state and society in Darjeeling.
A meta-analysis of neuroimaging studies on pain empathy: investigating the role of visual information and observers’ perspective
Authors: Jauniaux Josiane , Khatibi Ali , Rainville Pierre , Jackson Philip L
Published: July 2019

Empathy relies on brain systems that support the interaction between an observer’s mental state and cues about the others’ experience. Beyond the core brain areas typically activated in pain empathy studies (insular and anterior cingulate cortices), the diversity of paradigms used may reveal secondary networks that subserve other more specific processes. A coordinate-based meta-analysis of fMRI experiments on pain empathy was conducted to obtain activation likelihood estimates along three factors and seven conditions: visual cues (body parts, facial expressions), visuospatial (first-person, thirdperson), and cognitive (self-, stimuli-, other-oriented tasks) perspectives. The core network was found across cues and perspectives, and common activation was observed in higher-order visual areas. Body-parts distinctly activated areas related with sensorimotor processing (superior and inferior parietal lobules, anterior insula) while facial expression distinctly involved the inferior frontal gyrus. Self- compared to other-perspective produced distinct activations in the left insula while stimulus- versus other-perspective produced distinctive responses in the inferior frontal and parietal lobules, precentral gyrus, and cerebellum. Pain empathy relies on a core network which is modulated by several secondary networks. The involvement of the latter seems to depend on the visual cues available and the observer's mental state that can be influenced by specific instructions.
Investigating the US biomedical workforce: Gender, field of training, and retention
Authors: Winkler Anne E , Levin Sharon G , Allison Michael T
Published: July 2019

The biomedical research workforce plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth and improving public health through discoveries and innovations. This study fills a knowledge gap by providing a comprehensive portrait of this workforce and retention within it. A distinguishing feature is that we use an occupation-based definition which allows us to look ‘backward’ to field of training and assess the extent to which it has grown more interdisciplinary, and how this differs by gender. The analysis is conducted using restricted-use SESTAT data, the most comprehensive dataset on the scientific workforce in the USA, for the years 1993, 2003, and 2010. Among the findings, we identify differences in interdisciplinarity in training by gender, and these differences have widened. In the retention analysis, which focuses on the 7-year period, 2003–10, we find that retention is negatively and significantly associated with interdisciplinary training for women, but not for men.
Long-Term Vitamin K Antagonists and Cancer Risk
Authors: Shurrab Mohammed , Quinn Kieran L. , Kitchlu Abhijat , Jackevicius Cynthia A. , Ko Dennis T.
Published: July 2019

Objectives:

Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) remain one of the most commonly used anticoagulation therapies. The potential anticancer effect of long-term use of VKAs has been a matter of debate with conflicting results. Our goal was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis examining the association between long-term VKAs use and cancer risk.

Methods:

Systematic searches of multiple major databases were performed from inception until January 2018. We included studies of adults that compared incidence of any cancer between ≥6 months use of VKAs (long-term group) and <6 months use of VKAs or nonuse (control group). Primary outcome was all-cancer incidence and secondary outcomes were cancer-specific incidence, all-cause death and cancer-specific mortality. Hazard ratios (HRs) were pooled using a random-effects model, and individual studies were weighted using inverse variance.

Results:

We identified 9 observational studies that included 1,521,408 patients. No randomized trials were identified. In comparison to control, long-term use of VKAs was associated with a significant reduction in incidence of all cancers (HR, 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.81-0.88; P<0.001). In a prespecified subgroup analysis, long-term use of VKAs demonstrated a significant reduction in all-cancer incidence when compared with control in individuals whose indication for VKAs were venous thromboembolism (HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.52-0.90; P=0.007).

Conclusions:

The use of long-term VKAs, for any indication, is associated with lower cancer incidence. This finding could have important clinical implications for the choice of oral anticoagulation therapies among specific patients with a higher baseline risk of cancer.
Convergent evolution of cytochrome P450s underlies independent origins of keto-carotenoid pigmentation in animals
Authors: Wybouw Nicky , Kurlovs Andre H. , Greenhalgh Robert , Bryon Astrid , Kosterlitz Olivia , Manabe Yuki , Osakabe Masahiro , Vontas John , Clark Richard M. , Van Leeuwen Thomas
Published: July 2019

Keto-carotenoids contribute to many important traits in animals, including vision and coloration. In a great number of animal species, keto-carotenoids are endogenously produced from carotenoids by carotenoid ketolases. Despite the ubiquity and functional importance of keto-carotenoids in animals, the underlying genetic architectures of their production have remained enigmatic. The body and eye colorations of spider mites (Arthropoda: Chelicerata) are determined by β-carotene and keto-carotenoid derivatives. Here, we focus on a carotenoid pigment mutant of the spider mite
Tetranychus kanzawai
that
,
as shown by chromatography, lost the ability to produce keto-carotenoids. We employed bulked segregant analysis and linked the causal locus to a single narrow genomic interval. The causal mutation was fine-mapped to a minimal candidate region that held only one complete gene, the cytochrome P450 monooxygenase
CYP384A1
, of the CYP3 clan. Using a number of genomic approaches, we revealed that an inactivating deletion in the fourth exon of
CYP384A1
caused the aberrant pigmentation. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that CYP384A1 is orthologous across mite species of the ancient Trombidiformes order where carotenoids typify eye and body coloration, suggesting a deeply conserved function of CYP384A1 as a carotenoid ketolase. Previously,
CYP2J19,
a cytochrome P450 of the CYP2 clan, has been identified as a carotenoid ketolase in birds and turtles. Our study shows that selection for endogenous production of keto-carotenoids led to convergent evolution, whereby cytochrome P450s were independently co-opted in vertebrate and invertebrate animal lineages.
An integrated computational and experimental study to elucidateStaphylococcus aureusmetabolism
Authors: Islam Mohammad Mazharul , Thomas Vinai C. , Van Beek Matthew , Ahn Jong-Sam , Alqarzaee Abdulelah A. , Zhou Chunyi , Fey Paul D. , Bayles Kenneth W. , Saha Rajib
Published: July 2019

Staphylococcus aureusis a metabolically versatile pathogen that colonizes nearly all organs of the human body. A detailed and comprehensive knowledge of staphylococcal metabolism is essential to understanding its pathogenesis. To this end, we have reconstructed and experimentally validated an updated and enhanced genome-scale metabolic model ofS. aureusUSA300_FPR3757. The model combined genome annotation data, reaction stoichiometry, and regulation information from biochemical databases and previous strain-specific models. Reactions in the model were checked and fixed to ensure chemical balance and thermodynamic consistency. To further refine the model, growth assessment of 1920 non-essential mutants from the Nebraska Transposon Mutant Library was performed and metabolite excretion profiles of important mutants in carbon and nitrogen metabolism were determined. The growth and no-growth inconsistencies between the model predictions andin vivoessentiality data were resolved using extensive manual curation based on optimization-based reconciliation algorithms. Upon intensive curation and refinements, the model contains 840 metabolic genes, 1442 metabolites, and 1566 reactions including transport and exchange reactions. To improve the accuracy and predictability of the model to environmental changes, condition-specific regulation information curated from the existing knowledgebase was incorporated. These critical additions improved the model performance significantly in capturing gene essentiality, substrate utilization, and metabolite production capabilities and increased the ability to generate model-based discoveries of therapeutic significance. Use of this highly curated model will enhance the functional utility of omics data and, therefore, serve as a resource to support future investigations ofS. aureusand to augment staphylococcal research worldwide.
GREB1 regulates proliferation of estrogen receptor positive breast cancer through modulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling
Authors: Haines Corinne N. , Klingensmith H.D. , Burd Craig J.
Published: July 2019

Over 70% of breast cancers express the estrogen receptor (ER) and depend on ER activity for survival and proliferation. While hormone therapies that target receptor activity are initially effective, patients invariably develop resistance which is often associated with activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. While the mechanism by which estrogen regulates proliferation is not fully understood, one gene target of ER, growth regulation by estrogen in breast cancer 1 (GREB1), is required for hormone-dependent proliferation. However, the molecular function by which GREB1 regulates proliferation is unknown. Herein, we validate that knockdown of GREB1 results in growth arrest and that exogenous GREB1 expression initiates oncogene-induced senescence, suggesting that an optimal level of GREB1 expression is necessary for proliferation of breast cancer cells. Under both of these conditions, GREB1 is able to regulate signaling through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. GREB1 acts intrinsically through PI3K to regulate PIP3 levels and Akt activity. Critically, growth suppression of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells by GREB1 knockdown is rescued by expression of constitutively activated Akt. Together, these data identify a novel molecular function by which GREB1 regulates breast cancer proliferation through Akt activation and provides a mechanistic link between estrogen signaling and the PI3K pathway.
The knockout effect of low doses of gamma radiation on hepatotoxicity induced byEchis Coloratussnake venom in rats
Authors: Samy Esraa M. , Shaaban Esmat A. , Kenawy Sanaa A. , Salama Walaa H. , Abd El Fattah Mai A.
Published: July 2019

Echis Coloratusis the most medically important viper in Egypt causing several pathological effects leading to death. Gamma radiation has been used as a venom detoxifying tool in order to extend the lifespan of the immunized animals used in antivenin production process. Thus, the aim of this study is to assess the effects of increasing doses of gamma radiation onEchis Coloratusin vivo through biochemical and histological studies. The results revealed a significant increase in the levels of AST, ALT, ALP and glucose of sera collected from the rats injected with nativeEchis Coloratusvenom compared with the non-envenomed group. On the other hand, biochemical parameters of sera of rats administrated with either 1.5 kGy or 3 kGy irradiated venom were significantly decrease compared with the native venom envenomed group at 2h, 4h and 24h post envenomation. In addition, these results were confirmed by histological studies of rats’ livers. Correspondingly, the sublethal dose injection of nativeEchis Coloratusvenom induced significant alterations in the histological architecture of liver after 2, 4 and 24 h of injection. Concurrently, the administration of both 1.5 kGy and 3 kGy gamma irradiated venom showed fewer histological alterations compared with the native group. In conclusion, the present findings support the idea of using gamma radiation as an effective venom detoxification tool.
A covariance shaping filtering method for tightly-coupled MIMU/GNSS of UAV
Authors: Liu Bin , Xu Jiangtao , Fu Bangsheng , Hao Yong , An Tianyu
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Regarding the important roles of accuracy and robustness of tightly-coupled micro inertial measurement unit (MIMU)/global navigation satellite system (GNSS) for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). This study aims to explore the efficient method to improve the real-time performance of the sensors.

Design/methodology/approach

A covariance shaping adaptive Kalman filtering method is developed. For optimal performance of multiple gyros and accelerometers, a distribution coefficient of precision is defined and the data fusion least square method is applied with fault detection and identification using the singular value decomposition. A dual channel parallel filter scheme with a covariance shaping adaptive filter is proposed.

Findings

Hardware-in-the-loop numerical simulation was adopted, the results indicate that the gain of the covariance shaping adaptive filter is self-tuning by changing covariance weighting factor, which is calculated by minimizing the cost function of Frobenius norm. With the improved method, the positioning accuracy with tightly-coupled MIMU/GNSS of the adaptive Kalman filter is increased obviously.

Practical implications

The method of covariance shaping adaptive Kalman filtering is efficient to improve the accuracy and robustness of tightly-coupled MIMU/GNSS for UAV in complex and dynamic environments and has great value for engineering applications.

Originality/value

A covariance shaping adaptive Kalman filtering method is presented and a novel dual channel parallel filter scheme with a covariance shaping adaptive filter is proposed, to improve the real-time performance in complex and dynamic environments.
Prospectus and limitations of algorithmic governance: an ecological evaluation of algorithmic trends
Authors: Shin Donghee (Don) , Fotiadis Anestis , Yu Hongsik
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to offer a roadmap for work on the ethical and societal implications of algorithms and AI. Based on an analysis of the social, technical and regulatory challenges posed by algorithmic systems in Korea, this work conducts socioecological evaluations of the governance of algorithmic transparency and accountability.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyzes algorithm design and development from critical socioecological angles: social, technological, cultural and industrial phenomena that represent the strategic interaction among people, technology and society, touching on sensitive issues of a legal, a cultural and an ethical nature.

Findings

Algorithm technologies are a part of a social ecosystem, and its development should be based on user interests and rights within a social and cultural milieu. An algorithm represents an interrelated, multilayered ecosystem of networks, protocols, applications, services, practices and users.

Practical implications

Value-sensitive algorithm design is proposed as a novel approach for designing algorithms. As algorithms have become a constitutive technology that shapes human life, it is essential to be aware of the value-ladenness of algorithm development. Human values and social issues can be reflected in an algorithm design.

Originality/value

The arguments in this study help ensure the legitimacy and effectiveness of algorithms. This study provides insight into the challenges and opportunities of algorithms through the lens of a socioecological analysis: political discourse, social dynamics and technological choices inherent in the development of algorithm-based ecology.
Polynomials for numerical solutions of space-time fractional differential equations (of the Fokker–Planck type)
Authors: Wang Jiao
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Fokker–Planck equation appears in various areas in natural science, it is used to describe solute transport and Brownian motion of particles. This paper aims to present an efficient and convenient numerical algorithm for space-time fractional differential equations of the Fokker–Planck type.

Design/methodology/approach

The main idea of the presented algorithm is to combine polynomials function approximation and fractional differential operator matrices to reduce the studied complex equations to easily solved algebraic equations.

Findings

Based on Taylor basis, simple and useful fractional differential operator matrices of alternative Legendre polynomials can be quickly obtained, by which the studied space-time fractional partial differential equations can be transformed into easily solved algebraic equations. Numerical examples and error date are presented to illustrate the accuracy and efficiency of this technique.

Originality/value

Various numerical methods are proposed in complex steps and are computationally expensive. However, the advantage of this paper is its convenient technique, i.e. using the simple fractional differential operator matrices of polynomials, numerical solutions can be quickly obtained in high precision. Presented numerical examples can also indicate that the technique is feasible for this kind of fractional partial differential equations.
Career interruptions and current remuneration
Authors: Gerst Benedikt , Grund Christian
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Career interruptions of employees imply important issues for both firms and individuals, including a possibly lower compensation after returning to a job. Different compensation components are explored, as bonus payments frequently complement fixed salaries for many employees, making various channels of lower compensation possible. This paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a yearly salary survey among a rather homogeneous group of professionals and middle managers from the German chemical sector, which contains detailed information on compensation components next to individual and job characteristics. The incidence and duration of past career interruptions act as the most important independent variables. Mincer-type wage regressions are complemented by estimations on wage increases.

Findings

The results show that career interruptions are more related to lower subsequent bonus payments than they are to fixed salaries. Furthermore, interruptions caused by unemployment are associated with higher interruption pay gaps than those resulting from other reasons such as parental leave. The results even hint for catch-up effects following parental leave with regard to higher wage increases compared to individuals without interruptions. Career interruptions are more prevalent for female managers offering an explanation for a considerable part of gender pay gaps. Wage losses after career interruptions are more pronounced for male employees than they are for females, though.

Originality/value

This study extents the literature by disentangling the relation of career interruptions and different compensation components, bonus payments next to fixed salaries in particular. The role of interruption type and gender are also taken into account so that the paper deepens the understanding of the role of past career interruptions for employees’ remuneration.
Workplace thriving in China
Authors: Jiang Zhou , Jiang Yiqi , Nielsen Ingrid
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Workplace thriving is a psychological state that promotes employee health and development. In addition to presenting a useful instrument that captures the nature of a thriving work life in China, the purpose of this paper is to investigate important factors that influence one’s thriving status within this national context.

Design/methodology/approach

Using diverse approaches across different samples, Study 1 contextualized the content of a workplace thriving scale (WTS) to fit the Chinese context. Study 2 tested the effects of learning goal orientation, exploration at work and role ambiguity on workplace thriving, employing a mediation model. As a supplement, Study 3 examined the test–retest reliability of workplace thriving.

Findings

Study 1 confirmed that in the Chinese setting, workplace thriving is a higher order construct represented by both a sense of learning and a sense of vitality. Study 2 found that learning goal orientation and exploration at work fostered thriving, while role ambiguity reduced thriving. Also, exploration mediated the relationship between learning goal orientation and thriving. Study 3 verified that the WTS was reliable over time in the Chinese setting, further increasing the reliability of results from Studies 1 and 2.

Originality/value

By rigorously and formally contextualizing the concept/construct of workplace thriving in China, this paper is informative for future research on thriving at work in Eastern cultures.
Kinematic calibration of bracket type parallel posture alignment mechanism considering the gravity effect
Authors: Wang Zhihao , Chen Wenliang , Wang Min , Xu Qinghe , Huang Can
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to improve the position and posture accuracy of posture alignment mechanism. The automatic drilling and riveting machine is an important equipment for aircraft assembly. The alignment accuracy of position and posture of the bracket type posture alignment mechanism has a great influence on the operation effect of the machine. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out the kinematic calibration.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on analysis of elastic deformation of the bracket and geometric errors of the posture alignment mechanism, an improved method of kinematic calibration was proposed. The position and posture errors of bracket caused by geometric errors were separated from those caused by gravity. The method of reduction of dimensions was applied to deal with the error coefficient matrix in error identification, and it did not change the coefficient of the error terms. The target position and its posture were corrected to improve the error compensation accuracy. Furthermore, numerical simulation and experimental verification were carried out.

Findings

The simulation and experimental results show that considering the influence of the elastic deformation of the bracket on the calibration effect, the error identification accuracy and compensation accuracy can be improved. The maximum value of position error is reduced from 5.33 mm to 1.60 × 10−1 mm and the maximum value of posture error is reduced from 1.07 × 10−3 rad to 6.02 × 10−4 rad, which is superior to the accuracy without considering the gravity factor.

Originality/value

This paper presents a calibration method considering the effects of geometric errors and gravity. By separating position and posture errors caused by different factors and correcting the target position and its posture, the results of the calibration method are greatly improved. The proposed method might be applied to any parallel mechanism based on the positioner.
Making a Blue Ocean Shift: Tata Ace captures a new market
Authors: Kulkarni Bindu , Sivaraman Vasant
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to understand how organizations can apply the Blue Ocean Shift process to achieve profitable growth and make competition irrelevant.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a case study approach. Based on interaction with the senior management of an organization and secondary sources, this paper presents an application of the Blue Ocean Shift process on a strategic move by an organization to achieve value innovation.

Findings

This paper presents a case of how Tata Motors Ltd. applied Blue Ocean Shift process to come up with the product Tata Ace, which achieved value innovation while making competition irrelevant. From assessing the current state of play to forming a motivated team, working with suppliers and fulfilling the needs of the non-customers and unhappy existing users, they were able to create a strong position for themselves.

Practical implications

Blue Ocean Strategy, through a process defined as Blue Ocean Shift, can be applied by organizations to achieve value innovation, change market boundaries and achieve profitable growth through their strategic offerings. It can help them get out of “red oceans” which may be a way to view the existing hypercompetitive world.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the application of the Blue Ocean Shift process in the Indian context while studying a strategic move of an Indian firm. It showcases an example of how large Indian organizations can successfully apply the process to achieve value innovation.
Marketing management and optimism of Afghan female entrepreneurs
Authors: Wafeq Manizha , Al Serhan Omar , Catherine Gleason Kimberley , Dasanayaka S.W.S.B. , Houjeir Roudaina , Al Sakka Mohamad
Published: July 2019

Purpose

For the present generation of entrepreneurs, the operating environment in Afghanistan has been among the most tenuous in the world. Numerous regime changes, civil unrest and war have created tremendous uncertainty, making civilian business planning difficult. These challenges incrementally impact female entrepreneurs. This paper aims to investigate the relationship between one aspect of entrepreneurial psychological capital – optimism regarding enterprise success of Afghan female entrepreneurs – and aspects of the marketing function.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data collection was used for this study. A total of 248 women business owners were surveyed via telephone from five provinces of Afghanistan. Over half (133) of respondents were from the Afghan capital, Kabul. A total of 49 respondents were obtained from Herat, 44 from Mazar, 12 from Nangarhar and ten were obtained from Kandahar.

Findings

We find that a focus on marketing positively and significantly impacts reported optimism by female Afghan entrepreneurs, as do marketing planning efforts. However, self-reliance and orientation toward the outside world do not impact the perceived success of the entrepreneurial venture.

Research limitations/implications

Like other empirical studies, this research has its own limitation. First, we would have liked a larger sample size, but date collection in a war-torn country and from female business women in a male-dominated society is proofed very challenging task. Also, some cities had less representation due to security concerns especially Kandahar province.

Practical implications

Our results have significant relevance for economic development policymakers, non-governmental organizations and entrepreneurs throughout the developing world. What drives the psychological capital of these entrepreneurs under these extreme conditions should be of interest not only from the perspective of the entrepreneurship literature, but also for policymakers who are often uninformed regarding on the ground conditions under which individuals in the environment function.

Social implications

It is our hope that our results inform those in a position of power so that they support the development of human capital of Afghan women who are or who seek to be entrepreneurs. We also hope to raise questions for other researchers related to the importance of human capital investment and the business functions for entrepreneurs in other less developed, conflict-prone environments with low mean educational levels.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to use proprietary, hand collected survey data from Afghani female entrepreneurs to collect, analyze and draw conclusions and recommendations from a sample of 248 women-owned businesses regarding the relationship between the marketing function and one aspect of psychological capital – perceived optimism – in five Afghan cities.
Supervision of lost pension accounts and unclaimed benefits
Authors: Park Kyoung Gook , Stańko Dariusz , McShane Darren
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how private pension supervisors in selected jurisdictions monitor and address lost pension accounts and unclaimed pension assets or benefits and draw supervisory implications.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on the survey on private pension schemes of selected International Organisation of Pension Supervisors member jurisdictions.

Findings

This paper finds that there are differences in severity of the issue of lost pension accounts and unclaimed pension benefits among jurisdictions, and that pension supervisors/regulators differ with regard to awareness of and approaches taken to handle this issue. Some jurisdictions show a well-established systematic approach to deal effectively with the problem of lost pension accounts or unclaimed benefits, while other jurisdictions are yet to recognise and tackle the issue.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first larger cross-country study on lost pension accounts and unclaimed benefits in private pension schemes. The paper presents international comparison of this issue in 32 different jurisdictions and provides examples of good supervisory or regulatory practices.
Revisiting ranking accuracy within WASPAS method
Authors: Baykasoğlu Adil , Gölcük İlker
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze previous models of the concept of ranking accuracy within the weighted aggregated sum product assessment (WASPAS) method and make necessary refinements.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a correct combination of the weighted sum model (WSM) and weighted product model (WPM), which is usually performed on anad hocbasis in the literature.

Findings

One of the reasons of rarely conducting ranking accuracy analysis might be that some of the reported equations in the literature are confusing, and hence, accurate partial derivatives cannot be calculated. In this study, all of the necessary formulations are re-derived and necessary modifications are proposed.

Research limitations/implications

A corrected WASPAS equation for optimal combination parameters is derived. Two examples are used to validate the formulations, and software implementation is provided. Because multiple attribute decision-making (MADM) has gained widespread attention from both the academia and industry, the findings of this paper help decision makers fully capitalize the concept of ranking accuracy and avoid possible confusions regarding the equations reported in the literature.

Originality/value

WASPAS is a relatively new MADM method and has enjoyed a visible position in the MADM literature. In addition to its simplicity, the WASPAS method utilizes the concept of ranking accuracy by combining the well-known WSM and WPM. This combination realized via an optimization criterion brings unique opportunities for decision makers such as evaluating confidence intervals for relative significance of alternatives and reducing estimated variance of ranking results. Despite its crucial importance, the combination of WSM and WPM is usually performed on anad hocbasis in the literature. In this study, all of the necessary formulations are re-derived and necessary modifications are proposed along with clarifying examples.
Pricing on monopoly online trading platform with heterogeneous trading behavior and the long tail
Authors: Geng Yang , Zhang Yulin
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to study the pricing strategies of an online trading platform with indirect network externalities by considering heterogeneous trading behavior in the downstream market and the long tail.

Design/methodology/approach

The game theory, optimization and comparative static are used in this research. The equilibria are derived from the game theory, and with them, the authors optimize the platform’s profit function. Comparative static is used to study pricing strategies.

Findings

It is found that with heterogeneous trading behavior, the transaction-based model is more profitable than the subscription-based model by reason of the feasibility of “price discrimination”. However, with certain advantages of subscription fees such as avoiding offline transactions, the subscription-based model is better with a concentrated distribution of sellers’ revenues (the Gini coefficient is small). With a lucrative long tail, the platform should set a low price to attract small sellers in the long tail. Besides, if the Gini coefficient is large, the effects of the market entry barrier of sellers on the optimal price in each model may be opposite.

Research limitations/implications

It implies that the choice of revenue models and pricing strategies are influenced by the Gini coefficient or the long tail. The exogenous setting in which buyers can use the platform for free needs further extension.

Practical implications

The authors provide insights on how to choose revenue models and how to price the sellers with the long tail phenomenon.

Originality/value

This paper emphasizes the role of the long tail on pricing strategies and the effect of heterogeneous trading behavior on model selection.
Structural equation modeling in cloud computing studies: a systematic literature review
Authors: Pişirir Erhan , Uçar Erkan , Chouseinoglou Oumout , Sevgi Cüneyt
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This study aims to examine the current state of literature on structural equation modeling (SEM) studies in “cloud computing” domain with respect to study domains of research studies, theories and frameworks they use and SEM models they design.

Design/methodology/approach

Systematic literature review (SLR) protocol is followed. In total, 96 cloud computing studies from 2009 to June 2018 that used SEM obtained from four databases are selected, and relevant data are extracted to answer the research questions.

Findings

A trend of increasing SEM usage over years in cloud studies is observed, where technology adoption studies are found to be more common than the use studies. Articles appear under four main domains, namely, business, personal use, education and health care. Technology acceptance model (TAM) is found to be the most commonly used theory. Adoption, intention to use and actual usage are the most common selections for dependent variables in SEM models, whereas security and privacy concerns, costs, ease of use, risks and usefulness are the most common selections for causal factors.

Originality/value

Previous cloud computing SLR studies did not focus on statistical analysis method used in primary studies. This review will display the current state of SEM studies in cloud domain for all future academics and practical professionals.
An exploratory study into the use of Lean Six Sigma to reduce medication errors in the Norwegian public healthcare context
Authors: Antony Jiju , Forthun Shirin Charlotte , Trakulsunti Yaifa , Farrington Thomas , McFarlane Julie , Brennan Attracta , Dempsey Mary
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Medication errors are a significant cause of injury in Norwegian hospitals. The purpose of this study is to explore how Lean Six Sigma (LSS) has been used in the Norwegian public health-care context to reduce medication errors.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed method approach was used to gather data from participants working in the four regions served by the Norway health authorities. A survey questionnaire was distributed to 38 health-care practitioners and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 health-care practitioners.

Findings

The study finds that the implementation of LSS in the Norwegian public health-care context is still in its infancy. This is amidst several challenges faced by Norwegian hospitals such as the lack of top-management support, lack of LSS training and coaching and a lack of awareness around the benefits of LSS in health care.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the large geographical area, it was difficult to reach participants from all health regions in Norway. However, the study managed to assess the current status of LSS implementation through the participants’ perspectives. This is a fruitful area for future research whereby an action research methodology could be used.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first empirical study into the use of LSS methodology in reducing medication errors. In addition, this study is valuable for health-care practitioners and professionals as a guideline to achieve the optimal benefit of LSS implementation to reduce medication errors.
Putting some “sense” into our research
Authors: Soderstrom Naomi
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to propose using human senses as a means of thinking about the contributions of this research.

Design/methodology/approach

Based upon the metaphor of human senses, the model describes different aspects of research, such as topic selection, theory and method, providing suggestions for enhancing relevance and expanding the audience for the research. The model is applied to a current working paper on cyber security and then more broadly to provide suggestions for researchers who are interested in conducting research on risk.

Findings

The model can be used to frame different types of research projects in a way that helps to increase the interest in and impact of this research.

Research limitations/implications

The model in the paper is ad hoc but provides a fresh way to view this research.

Social implications

Increasing interest in accounting research can result in a broader audience for this work.

Originality/value

The paper provides a means for researchers to step back from their research and think about what makes their research original and interesting.
Resource sharing in interfirm alliances between SMEs and large firms and SME access to finance
Authors: Wasiuzzaman Shaista
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the role of interfirm alliances in the form of resource sharing in influencing the access to finance of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia. Further, the effect of different forms of resource sharing – tangible and intangible – is also studied.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey questionnaire was distributed to 456 SMEs in the manufacturing sector and a total of 146 responses were gathered. However, out of these, only 88 responses could be used as only these SMEs had alliances with large firms. Investigation into the relationship between interfirm alliances and SME access to finance was carried out using structural equation modeling – partial least squares.

Findings

It is found that interfirm alliances play a significant positive role in influencing SME access to finance. As interfirm alliances are measured as the extent of resource sharing, further analysis is carried out on the different forms of resource sharing, i.e. tangible and intangible. Tangible resource (asset and cost) sharing significantly influences SME access to finance but intangible resource (knowledge and information) sharing does not.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of the effects of interfirm alliances on the financing of SMEs. So far, most studies have only focused on the management and technological gains of interfirm alliances. Therefore, this study contributes significantly to literature on resource sharing among firms.
Intuitive forecasting and analytical reasoning: does investor personality matter?
Authors: Misra Rupali , Srivastava Sumita , Banwet Devinder Kumar
Published: July 2019

Purpose

In spite of an intuitive appeal regarding association between personality and investment efficacy, there is a dearth of empirical support for the effects of theoretically meaningful personality difference on intuitive and analytical ability, which further explains investment efficacy. The current study aims to explore this link using multi-method analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

In Study 1, the experimental protocol captures intuitive responses of naïve investors in four different investment horizons and maps the findings with personality constituents of the Big Five (Costa and McCrae, 1992), while in Study 2, survey of active investors seeks their preference for intuition or deliberation (PID, Betsch, 2004) in decision-making, along with measuring their investment efficacy and analysing the results on the basis their personality Type A vs Type B.

Findings

Subjects with lower extraversion tend to have superior forecasting accuracy for gold and dollar, while those with lower neuroticism have tendency of superior forecasting for dollar and Nifty index in mid-term investment. Further, in Study 2, the results indicate superior intuitive ability, analytical ability and investment efficacy of Type B investors.

Originality/value

The study is unique in two ways. One, it explores the role of personality in ambidextrous decision-making framework, where rationality and intuition iteratively operate in a parallel, yet synchronous, fashion. Two, the study attempts to examine the role of personality in the unique socio-cultural context of an emerging economy such as India with Eastern religious traditions, having strong implications on the personal characteristics of the decision agents.
Application of total interpretive structural modelling (TISM) for analysis of factors influencing sustainable additive manufacturing: a case study
Authors: Agrawal Rohit , S. Vinodh
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a structural model based on total interpretive structural modelling (TISM) approach for analysis of factors influencing sustainable additive manufacturing (AM).

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 20 factors influencing sustainable AM are identified on the basis of literature review. Appropriate inputs from experts are obtained and TISM model is developed. Also, cross-impact Matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis is carried out to categorize the factors.

Findings

Based on TISM model, “Flexibility in manufacturing”, “Time to develop new product” and “Local availability of technology” are found to be the dominant factors. MICMAC analysis indicates that 10 factors belong to driving and 10 factors belong to dependent category.

Research limitations/implications

In the present study, 20 factors have been considered. In future, additional factors can be considered to deal with technological advancements.

Practical implications

The conduct of the study will enable AM experts to systematically analyze the factors influencing sustainable AM.

Originality/value

The development of structural model for analysis of factors influencing sustainable AM manufacturing is the original contribution of authors.
Can ethical leaders drive employees’ CSR engagement?
Authors: Nejati Mehran , Salamzadeh Yashar , Loke Cheng Kong
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The association between ethical leadership and employees’ ethical behaviors is well-established. But can ethical leadership go beyond this and drive employees’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) engagement? The purpose of this study is to examine the association between ethical leadership and employees’ perception of their engagement in CSR activities while exploring the mediating role of person–organization fit.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative research design, data were collected via self-administered questionnaires from 142 employees of multi-national companies in Malaysia. This study used partial-least squares structural equation modeling to test and validate the research model and hypotheses posited.

Findings

The results reveal that ethical leadership has a positive impact on employees’ CSR engagement, mediated through person–organization fit. Moreover, analyses were carried out to assess the predictive performance of the proposed model. Our results confirmed the predictive capability of the proposed model.

Research limitations/implications

This study has provided a better understanding of employees’ CSR engagement, which is a crucial factor for effectiveness of CSR implementation in any organization. Finding evidence on the positive role of ethical leadership in driving employees’ CSR engagement extends both the leadership and CSR literature and offers new avenues for future research studies.

Practical implications

This study has shown that ethical leadership can stimulate employees’ CSR engagement through creating a better person–organization fit. This understanding can help managers in finding ways for more effective involvement of employees in a company’s CSR activities and creating a better working environment.

Social implications

Organizations can find better ways to involve employees in CSR activities through having ethical leaders who lead by example and champion social causes. Although ethical leadership will benefit society, it will also help employees experience a better fit between their values and those of the organization.

Originality/value

Despite extensive research on CSR, its drivers and outcomes, there is still limited knowledge on the role of leaders in driving employees’ CSR engagement. Findings from an emerging economy (i.e. Malaysia) will offer fresh insights into the growing CSR and leadership literature.
Link between epigenetic diversity and invasive status of south‐eastern European populations of phytopathogenic fungus Cryphonectria parasitica
Authors: Vuković Rosemary , Liber Zlatko , Ježić Marin , Sotirovski Kiril , Ćurković‐Perica Mirna
Published: July 2019

Epigenetic modifications may play an important role in invasion and adaptation of clonal and invasive populations to different environments. The aim of this study was to analyse epigenetic diversity and structure within and among populations of invasive pathogenic fungus Cryphonectria parasitica from south‐eastern Europe, where one haplotype S12 dominates. The highest level of epigenetic diversity was found in haplotype S1, followed by S2, while the lowest level of epigenetic diversity was found in haplotype S12. Similar pattern of epigenetic diversity was detected in the control, genetically diverse Croatian population where S1 haplotype dominates. In four south‐eastern European populations, the highest level of epigenetic diversity was observed in the Italian population, the oldest population in the studied area, while the lowest diversity was found in most recently established Bulgarian population. This relationship between epigenetic diversity and population age implies the important role of epigenetic modifications on the process of invasion. Our data suggest that epigenetic differences might affect the success of expansion of certain haplotype into new regions. Understanding the role of epigenetic processes in expansion and (pre)adaptation of fungal plant pathogens, besides fundamental knowledge, can contribute to development of strategies for control of fungal spread and pathogenesis.