bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Revisiting ranking accuracy within WASPAS method
Authors: Baykasoğlu Adil , Gölcük İlker 
Published: July 2019

PurposeThe 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/approachThis 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.FindingsOne 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/implicationsA 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/valueWASPAS 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

PurposeThis 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/approachThe 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.FindingsIt 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/implicationsIt 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 implicationsThe authors provide insights on how to choose revenue models and how to price the sellers with the long tail phenomenon.Originality/valueThis 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

PurposeThis 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/approachSystematic 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.FindingsA 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/valuePrevious 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

PurposeMedication 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/approachA 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.FindingsThe 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/implicationsBecause 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/valueTo 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

PurposeThis 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/approachSurvey 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.FindingsIt 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/valueThis 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

SummaryEpigenetic 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.
Understanding How High‐Protein Bar Formulations Impact Their Mechanical and Wear Behaviors Using Response Surface Analysis
Authors: Sparkman Kristen , Joyner Helen S. , Smith Brennan 
Published: July 2019

AbstractHigh‐protein bars are popular snack items that can have significant processing issues like sticking, clogging, and cold flow. These issues are primarily problematic during formulation development because current predictive testing is reliant on highly empirical bench tests or pilot plant testing, which is expensive and time‐consuming. Wear testing, which has been used in the medical field to evaluate the lifetime of soft materials used in joint replacements, may have promise in evaluating food processing ability. Wear and rheological testing were used to better understand high‐protein bar processing ability. The objective of this study was to determine bench‐level instrumental tests that would be able to predict processing ability for a given formulation. Two response surface designs were used for formulations of model bar systems comprising whey protein isolate (WPI), high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), and either canola oil or vegetable shortening. Ingredient formulation affected processing ability, wear behaviors, and rheological behaviors. Formulations with high ratios of WPI to HFCS and either shortening or oil exhibited good processing ability, lower wear rates, and increased elastic‐type behavior, indicating that processing ability is related to formulation. The results of this study indicated that material mechanical and wear behaviors were related to processing ability; both were controlled by formulation. Because it was shown to be a good indicator of high‐protein bar processing ability, wear testing of food has potential significance in benchtop testing.Practical ApplicationUnderstanding of how high‐protein bar formulations impact their mechanical behaviors can help streamline their formulation development and scaling from bench to industrial production. Processing ability may be predicted with a quick wear test, providing a rapid testing method that requires little sample for evaluating bar formulations.
Effect of Genistein on Cholesterol Metabolism‐Related Genes in HepG2 Cell
Authors: Lu Rongrong , Zheng Zicong , Yin Yimin , Jiang Zhuoqin 
Published: July 2019

AbstractIt has been reported that genistein could improve metabolic syndromes. Our study aimed to investigate the effects and potential mechanisms of genistein on improving cholesterol metabolism in HepG2 cell. HepG2 cells were cultured with 0, 0.01, 1.00, 10.00, and 50.00 µM genistein for 24 hr. The current results showed a dose‐dependent manner between genistein and intracellular contents of total cholesterol (TC), high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (HDL‐C), and cellular apolipoprotein A1 (Apo‐A1) secretion. TC was increased by 25.69%, meanwhile HDL‐C and Apo‐A1 were decreased by 56.00% and 25.93%, respectively, when the dosage of genistein was 1.00 µM. Genistein dose‐dependently upregulated the protein and mRNA levels of sterol regulatory element binding proteins‐2 (SREBP‐2), as well as the mRNA levels of low‐density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR), by 145.91%, 72.29%, 310.23%, and 123.08%, respectively, when we gave 1.00 µM genistein, indicating that intracellular cholesterol synthesis and absorption of exogenous cholesterol were increased. In addition, the mRNA levels of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPARγ) and liver X receptor (LXRα), lowered by 58.23% and 34.86% at 0.01 µM genistein, were reduced in a dose‐dependent manner. LXRα and ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) protein levels were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased by 50.35% and 11.60% at 1.00 µM genistein, which indicated that cellular cholesterol efflux was inhibited. Taken together, our results suggested that genistein at dosage of more than 1.00 µM was able to increase the intracellular cholesterol levels by up regulating SREBP‐2/LDLR/HMGCR pathway and suppressing PPARγ/LXRα/ABCA1 pathway.Practical ApplicationIn this study, genistein appeared to be effective in reducing plasma cholesterol levels due to increase the intracellular cholesterol levels by upregulating cholesterol absorption through SREBP‐2/LDLR/HMGCR pathway, and also downregulating cholesterol efflux via PPARγ/LXRα/ABCA1 pathway in vitro. In addition, plasma cholesterol is regarded as the key indicator of atherosclerosis; therefore, we believe that our findings could be used for further exploration on a possible therapeutic application of genistein for atherosclerosis.
Concert Diplomacy: Past, Present, Prospects
Authors: Meerts Paul W. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractThis article analyzes the evolution of concert diplomacy in the past 370 years. It argues that negotiations bridging gaps are vulnerable unless parties have some control over each other. As modern technology makes war more costly, concerted negotiations are becoming increasingly important. This study raises questions about the future role of concert diplomacy in a globalizing world in which states and diplomats are losing their age old hegemony in international relations while some politicians do not shy away from deleting agreements that have already been signed and ratified. Pacta servanda sunt seems to lose some of its significance. This contribution concludes with recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of working together through negotiation processes in concerto, even if the concert becomes unharmonious.