bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Knowledge management and the competitiveness of small construction firms
Authors: Mohamad Mohd Rosli , Mat Zin Normayuni 
Published: November 2019

Purpose
This paper aims to discuss the mediating effects of innovation on the relationship between knowledge management and firm competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach
A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from small construction firms in the Eastern Region of Peninsular Malaysia. Out of the 190 construction firms surveyed, 153 (80.5%) respondents returned their completed questionnaire. These were used for data analysis. The data were then analyzed using the covariance-based structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings
Knowledge management had a direct and significant positive effect on firm competitiveness. Nonetheless, the effect of knowledge management on firm competitiveness was mediated by innovation. This indicates that knowledge management should be supported by technical and administrative innovations in the firm.

Research limitations/implications
The data collected were from a limited sample of construction firms. In addition, conducting a study on a region of Malaysia may limit the generalizability of the model.

Practical implications
While knowledge management is crucial for a firm’s competitiveness, technical and administrative innovations must be concurrently improved for a stronger firm competitiveness. This is especially true in terms of financial strength and core competence.

Originality/value
This paper provides some empirical evidence that technical and administrative innovations fully mediated the relationship between knowledge management and firm competitiveness. The results consolidate the resource-based view on the importance of internal resource and capability of the firm and improve KM research area. It also strengthens the view that KM is a critical factor for firm competitiveness, but a good KM without strong innovation will not increase the competitiveness of small construction firms.
Differentiation and financial performance: a meta-analysis
Authors: Mohammadi Pegah , Fathi Saeed , Kazemi Ali 
Published: November 2019

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to meta-analytically compare the effect of differentiation strategy formulation on financial and non-financial performance to explore the agency problem.

Design/methodology/approach
This study was conducted using a meta-analysis approach and CMA2 software. Hypotheses has been tested using cumulative effect sizes. Then, the cumulative effect sizes if some subsamples are also tested for robustness check by manipulation of circumstances.

Findings
Based on the findings, differentiation affects performance dimensions. However, spite of shareholders’ wealth maximization, differentiation has a smaller effect on financial performance (as the proxy of shareholders’ wealth) compared with operational performance. Meanwhile, the robustness test showed that the results in all subcategories has also confirmed, and this supports the results.

Research limitations/implications
The results catch attentions of shareholders to review the elements of management evaluation in the corporate governance system in a way that they focus more on stakeholders’ interests in developing differentiation strategy. Limitations of this study is firstly based on limitations of meta-analysis approach, which provide general results of relevant studies so that the local conditions of each firm should be considered in deploying implications.

Originality/value
Exploring the overall schema of firms (from past to present and in different research conditions) regarding the impact of differentiation strategy on performance has been the originality of this research because of potentials of meta-analysis against past field studies. This originality led to the discovery of the general confusion of firms in the development of differentiation strategy so that it emphasizes operational performance more than financial performance.
Developing social intelligence among employees for effectively managing organizational change
Authors: Goswami Meghna 
Published: November 2019

Purpose
The objective of this paper is to study the impact of social intelligence on attitude toward organizational change.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper is based on an empirical study conducted across information technology industry, banking and financial services industry and hospitality industry in India.

Findings
This paper shows the positive impact of social intelligence on attitude toward organizational change. Further, it provides various recommendations to develop social intelligence of employees in business organizations.

Originality/value
This paper provides insight into how social intelligence plays significant role in managing attitudes toward organizational change.
Health-related quality management values – comparing manager and co-worker perceptions
Authors: Bäckström Ingela 
Published: November 2019

Purpose
The purpose of this paper was to modify an existing survey that measures co-worker perceptions of health-related quality management (QM) values and perceived health and to measure both co-worker and manager perceptions of those values. The purpose was also to test the modified survey and then compare the results from managers and co-workers from two organizations in which the survey has been used to measure baseline data in a lean research project and to help managers understand the areas where improvement is needed.

Design/methodology/approach
An earlier survey measuring co-worker perception of the dimensions of the health-related QM values “leadership commitment” and “participation of everybody” has been developed with corresponding statements for managers. The results of the survey were analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences), the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was calculated for each of the dimensions, and the correlations between the dimensions and the health index were investigated using the Pearson correlation. The mean and standard deviation were also calculated.

Findings
The modified survey is presented in the paper, and the results demonstrate that the managers’ perception of the presence of health-related QM values is higher than that of the co-workers. Seeing the leadership from the co-workers’ standpoint compared with the managers’ perspective provides novel insight for both the researcher and the managers.

Originality/value
Leaders in organizations must develop greater efficiency to improve operational performance and develop healthy work environments. Practicing QM can benefit performance and is central for inspiring quality and efficiency within organizations, as well as for enhancing co-worker well-being. Earlier research found relationships between co-workers’ perception of their health and the health-related QM values “leadership commitment” and “participation of everybody.” With the survey presented in this paper, it is possible to measure these health-related QM values and provide a comparison between manager and co-worker perceptions.
Exchange rate pass-through into inflation in Vietnam: evidence from VAR model
Authors: Pham Van Anh 
Published: November 2019

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine and analyze the exchange rate pass-through into inflation (ERPT) in Vietnam.Design/methodology/approachThe paper examines and analyzes the ERPT in Vietnam by applying vector autoregression model over the period 2008‒2018.FindingsThe key finding of the research is that from the impulse response results, the transmission of exchange rate shocks to inflation is significant in Vietnam, and this is incomplete exchange rate pass-through. Moreover, the evidence from variance decompositions argues that exchange rate is an important factor to explain the fluctuation of inflation.Originality/valueIn overall, the depreciation or appreciation of exchange rate in Vietnam will considerably impact inflation.
On financial development and economic growth in Egypt
Authors: Mohieldin Mahmoud , Hussein Khaled , Rostom Ahmed 
Published: November 2019

PurposeThis paper aims to discuss the evolution of the Egyptian banking sector and the main trends in financial development in Egypt. The purpose of this study is to examine empirically the relationship between the development of the financial sector and economic growth in Egypt between 1980 and 2016.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws comparisons based on critical financial indicators between Egypt and selected emerging markets and developing economies. It uses a new data set of financial development indexes released by the International Monetary Fund. This paper uses econometric time series modelling of bivariate regressions for real growth per capita and measures of financial development to assess the relationship between financial development and economic growth in Egypt.FindingsThere are three specific findings based on the empirical analysis. First, there is a strong association between real growth per capita and financial development measured by money supply to GDP. Second, access to and the efficiency of banking services are not associated with real per capita income. Third, the Financial Markets Access Index – which compiles data on market capitalization outside of the top ten largest companies and the number of corporate issuers of debt – indicates a robust association with real per capita GDP.Originality/valueThe paper uses advanced empirical investigation techniques and new data sets available to assess the critical relationship between finance and growth in Egypt. The main policy implications of the empirical results of this paper suggest a stronger focus on promoting a more proactive role for the financial services industry in Egypt. In particular, there is a critical role for bank financing to support the private sector to maintain an inclusive growth momentum. Further development of the capital market will promote sustainability of such economic growth.
Organizational dynamics: exploring the factors affecting knowledge sharing behavior
Authors: Obermayer Nóra , Toth Viktoria Erika 
Published: November 2019

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to identify the individual and organizational factors that influence knowledge sharing (KS) behavior within Hungarian organizations.

Design/methodology/approach
The data were obtained from 238 completed questionnaires collected via the LimeSurvey system. The analysis is based on applied quantitative methodology, both descriptive and inferential statistics were used. The research investigated the relationships between individual and organizational characteristics and the KS behavior at individual and global levels.

Findings
Among individual factors, significant relationships have been identified regarding the generation and position of individuals, and KS behavior, while gender and education do not seem to play a significant role. With respect to organizational factors, the size of the organization and the tenure of individuals are found to be significant.

Research limitations/implications
The results of the analysis are limited because the data set was not large enough to investigate inter- and intra-industry variability.

Practical implications
The outcome of this research can support the design of managerial and organizational processes and incentives that will potentially facilitate KS in a more efficient and effective manner. Such improved KS is likely to improve the overall performance of knowledge-intensive organizations.

Originality/value
The original value of this research is that individual and organizational characteristics have been identified that influence KS behavior. The study focuses on a single country, Hungary, and provides relevant insight into the organizational dynamics of a specific national context.
Norbert Wiener Memorial Gold medal is awarded to Matjaž Mulej
Authors: Perko Igor , Espejo Raul 
Published: November 2019

Purpose
The purpose of this memorandum is to share the awarding of one of the most prestigious recognitions in systems thinking and cybernetics: The World Organisation of Systems and Cybernetics (WOSC) Norbert Wiener Memorial Gold medal was awarded in June 2019 to Professor Emeritus, PhD, PhD, Matjaž Mulej for his long-life contributions.

Design/methodology/approach
The Norbert Wiener Memorial Gold medal was awarded to Professor Emeritus, PhD, PhD, Matjaž Mulej based on the combination of extensive literature analysis and the Delphi approach.

Findings
Based on Professor Emeritus, PhD, PhD, Matjaž Mule’s exceptional accomplishments in the field of systems thinking and cybernetics, especially the Dialectical Systems Theory and the notion of requisite holism, combined with his visionary projects as, for instance, the development and application of social responsibility concepts, he was nominated and awarded this esteemed medal.

Research limitations/implications
The Norbert Wiener Memorial Gold medal draws the focus to important work of exceptional individuals and at the same time drives researchers to follow his example in research and overall behaviour.

Originality/value
The Norbert Wiener Memorial Gold medal has been awarded to 12 people during the past 50 years of WOSC’s existence. Only researchers that have provided significant imprint in systems thinking and cybernetics with their research and organisational activities in society, organisations and communities can be nominated for this prize.
IT outsourcing, knowledge transfer and project transition phases
Authors: McGowan Poole Cynthia Denise 
Published: November 2019

PurposeThe purpose of this research was to uncover perceptions of information technology outsourcing (ITO) project leaders and project teams regarding knowledge transfer between client and vendor partners during opening and closing transition phases of ITO projects.Design/methodology/approachQualitative methods and exploratory case study design were used. Purposeful sampling was used to identify ITO knowledge assets including project team members and organizational documents and artifacts that may provide information regarding the knowledge transfer processes during the transition phases of the ITO project. Sample criteria were ITO project team members from one US-based client organization and the company’s international vendor partners. The study population included project managers, analyst, developers, subject matter experts (SMEs) and other ITO knowledge workers involved in the ITO project from one US-based organization. Interview and document analysis were done using of NVivo Pro 11®research software.FindingsFour themes emerged from participant responses relative to the opening and closing phases of ITO projects including KT approaches to plans and processes; KT dependencies relative to IT project team member’s reliance on project tools, processes and artifacts; determinants of KT success or failure relative to project team members’ perceptions; and role of documentation relative to communication and distribution of KT outcomes.Originality/valueThis research may provide insights into additional aspects of knowledge transfer during ITO transition phases, which may be used by IT leaders and project teams to plan for successful knowledge transfer during the transition phases of ITO projects.
Genome‐inferred spatio‐temporal resolution of an uncultivated Roizmanbacterium reveals its ecological preferences in groundwater
Authors: Geesink Patricia , Wegner Carl‐Eric , Probst Alexander J. , Herrmann Martina , Dam Hang T. , Kaster Anne‐Kristin , Küsel Kirsten 
Published: November 2019

SummarySubsurface ecosystems like groundwater harbour diverse microbial communities, including small‐sized, putatively symbiotic organisms of the Candidate Phyla Radiation, yet little is known about their ecological preferences and potential microbial partners. Here, we investigated a member of the superphylum Microgenomates (Cand. Roizmanbacterium ADI133) from oligotrophic groundwater using mini‐metagenomics and monitored its spatio‐temporal distribution using 16S rRNA gene analyses. A Roizmanbacteria‐specific quantitative PCR assay allowed us to track its abundance over the course of 1 year within eight groundwater wells along a 5.4 km hillslope transect, where Roizmanbacteria reached maximum relative abundances of 2.3%. In‐depth genomic analyses suggested that Cand. Roizmanbacterium ADI133 is a lactic acid fermenter, potentially able to utilize a range of complex carbon substrates, including cellulose. We hypothesize that it attaches to host cells using a trimeric autotransporter adhesin and inhibits their cell wall biosynthesis using a toxin–antitoxin system. Network analyses based on correlating Cand. Roizmanbacterium ADI133 abundances with amplicon sequencing‐derived microbial community profiles suggested one potential host organism, classified as a member of the class Thermodesulfovibrionia (Nitrospirae). By providing lactate as an electron donor Cand. Roizmanbacterium ADI133 potentially mediates the transfer of carbon to other microorganisms and thereby is an important connector in the microbial community.
Sediment cooling triggers germination and sulfate reduction by heat‐resistant thermophilic spore‐forming bacteria
Authors: Bell Emma , Sherry Angela , Pilloni Giovanni , Suárez‐Suárez Ana , Cramm Margaret A. , Cueto Guillermo , Head Ian M. , Hubert Casey R. J. 
Published: November 2019

SummaryThermophilic endospores are widespread in cold marine sediments where the temperature is too low to support growth and activity of thermophiles in situ. These endospores are likely expelled from warm subsurface environments and subsequently dispersed by ocean currents. The endospore upper temperature limit for survival is 140°C, which can be tolerated in repeated short exposures, potentially enabling transit through hot crustal fluids. Longer‐term thermal tolerance of endospores, and how long they could persist in an environment hotter than their maximum growth temperature, is less understood. To test whether thermophilic endospores can survive prolonged exposure to high temperatures, sediments were incubated at 80–90°C for 6, 12 or 463 days. Sediments were then cooled by 10–40°C, mimicking the cooling in subsurface oil reservoirs subjected to seawater injection. Cooling the sediments induced sulfate reduction, coinciding with an enrichment of endospore‐forming Clostridia. Different Desulfofundulus, Desulfohalotomaculum, Desulfallas, Desulfotomaculum and Desulfofarcimen demonstrated different thermal tolerances, with some Desulfofundulus strains surviving for >1 year at 80°C. In an oil reservoir context, heat‐resistant endospore‐forming sulfate‐reducing bacteria have a survival advantage if they are introduced to, or are resident in, an oil reservoir normally too hot for germination and growth, explaining observations of reservoir souring following cold seawater injection.
Physician practices in Accountable Care Organizations are more likely to collect and use physician performance information, yet base only a small proportion of compensation on performance data
Authors: Rosenthal Meredith , Shortell Stephen , Shah Nilay D. , Peiris David , Lewis Valerie A. , Barrera Jacob A. , Usadi Benjamin , Colla Carrie H. 
Published: November 2019

AbstractImportanceIt is critical to develop a better understanding of the strategies provider organizations use to improve the performance of frontline clinicians and whether ACO participation is associated with differential adoption of these tools.ObjectivesCharacterize the strategies that physician practices use to improve clinician performance and determine their association with ACOs and other payment reforms.Data SourcesThe National Survey of Healthcare Organizations and the National Survey of ACOs fielded 2017‐2018 (response rates = 47 percent and 48 percent).Study DesignDescriptive analysis for practices participating and not participating in ACOs among 2190 physician practice respondents. Linear regressions to examine characteristics associated with counts of performance domains for which a practice used data for feedback, quality improvement, or physician compensation as dependent variables. Logistic and fractional regression to examine characteristics associated with use of peer comparison and shares of primary care and specialist compensation accounted for by performance bonuses, respectively.Principal FindingsACO‐affiliated practices feed back clinician‐level information and use it for quality improvement and compensation on more performance domains than non‐ACO‐affiliated practices. Performance measures contribute little to physician compensation irrespective of ACO participation.ConclusionACO‐affiliated practices are using more performance improvement strategies than other practices, but base only a small fraction of compensation on quality or cost.
Effectiveness of image‐guided radiotherapy for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients treated with definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Kuo Yao‐Hung , Fang Hsin‐Yuan , Lin Yu‐Sen , Lein Ming‐Yu , Yang Chi‐Ying , Ho Shih‐Chi , Li Chia‐Chin , Chien Chun‐Ru 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundImage‐guided radiotherapy (IGRT) is an advanced radiotherapy technique to improve the accuracy of treatment delivery. However, a recent randomized controlled trial (RCT) for prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy either via IGRT or routine care (no daily IGRT) reported a statistically significant worse overall survival for those treated with IGRT. This raised the concern regarding the effectiveness of IGRT for definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (dCCRT) for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (LA‐ESqCC).MethodsEligible LA‐ESqCC patients diagnosed between 2011 and 2015 were identified via the Taiwan Cancer Registry. We estimated propensity scores to construct a 1:1 propensity‐score‐matched groups and balance observable potential confounders. The hazard ratio (HR) of death as well as other outcomes was compared between IGRT and non‐IGRT matched groups during the entire follow‐up period. The impact of additional covariables was considered in the sensitivity analysis.ResultsOur study population included 590 patients in the primary analysis. The HR for death when IGRT was compared with non‐IGRT was 0.92 (95% confidence interval 0.77–1.10, P = 0.35). There were also no significant differences for other outcomes or sensitivity analyses.ConclusionsIn this updated nonrandomized study using real world data, we found that the overall survival of LA‐ESqCC patients treated with dCCRT was not statistically different between those treated with IGRT versus those without IGRT, although the hazard ratio was less than unity, ie, in favor of IGRT. The results should be interpreted with caution given the nonrandomized design and RCTs are needed to clarify our findings.Key points

Significant findings of the study: The OS of LA‐ESqCC patients treated with dCCRT was not statistically different between those treated with IGRT versus those without IGRT, although the hazard ratio was less than unity, ie, in favor of IGRT.
What this study adds: In this updated nonrandomized study using real world data with additional potential confounders, our study provided a reasonable tentative evidence of lack of RCT as suggested in the literature.