bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Measuring perception about sustainability of building materials in Kosovo
Authors: Hoxha Visar , Haugen Tore , Bjorberg Svein 
Published: March 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop the empirically tested framework about the knowledge and perception about sustainability of building materials in Prishtina, Kosovo from the perspective of users, construction industry and facility managers.

Design/methodology/approachA survey of representative sections of the population was designed and carried out in the capital city of Kosovo to determine the knowledge and perception of the population about the sustainability of building materials and to determine the main criteria of selection of sustainable building materials. The study may be used as guidelines for sustainable real estate developers in Prishtina during the materials selection process. Qualitative interviews were conducted with architects, consulting engineering companies, construction companies and facility managers from the region of Prishtina with open-ended questions also being used.

FindingsResults of quantitative research find that embodied energy, durability and low energy consumption are used as key criteria that influence the materials selection process on the part of users. The results of the cross-case analysis of qualitative measure the perceptions of construction industry and facility managers, according to which durability to a large degree is the main criterion for selection of sustainable building materials followed by embodied energy and low energy consumption.

Research limitations/implicationsThe study of measurement of level of knowledge and perception about sustainability of building materials in Kosovo focuses only on one pilot city; hence, further research is needed throughout Kosovo to validate the empirically tested tool within other geographical settings in Kosovo.

Originality/valueThis survey represents the first quantification of knowledge and perception regarding the sustainability of building materials among users, construction sector and facility managers.
The impact of public investments in facilities on the potential housing market for older persons
Authors: Drobne Samo , Bogataj Marija 
Published: March 2017

PurposeThis paper aims to analyse the impact of public investments in facilities on the potential housing market for older persons by expanding the generally used approach of modelling working-age population to the approach of modelling the cohort of older population.

Design/methodology/approachThe paper introduces an asymmetric approach and normalization to the special case of spatial interaction models, i.e. the Lowry-like model, to analyse significant factors that influence migration flows structured by age cohorts. The model uses publicly available and free databases at the mezzo level in a state. The analysis was performed for inter-municipal interactions of migrants structured by age cohorts.

FindingsThe results show the different influences of Lowry’s main factors that influence the migration flows in industrial societies. The higher the average age of migrants, the lower the influences in the Lowry model. But, this is also valid for the impact of investments in public facilities and their management at the mezzo level on older migrants. Furthermore, institutional care facilities in a local community were proven to be an important factor to attract older persons.

Research limitations/implicationsThe results show that there are other important factors that influence the migration flows of older persons. So, for better results, more structured data on investments and management of the facilities and other more subjective factors should be included in the model.

Practical implicationsThe paper gives suggestions for further development of the models to analyse the potential housing market for older persons.

Originality/valueIn addition to the suggested approach to study the impact of investments in facilities on the older population, this paper also identifies a need for more in-depth studies into this topic in the near future.
Segmenting female consumers: high-involvement personal services
Authors: Milfelner Borut , Vidergar Kikel Tanja , Mumel Damijan , Pisnik Aleksandra 
Published: March 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to measure attitudes towards cosmetic surgery services among women and to determine the potential segments of women according to their attitudes towards cosmetic surgery services and discover the main differences among them.

Design/methodology/approach
The research was implemented on a sample of 258 women in Slovenia. A quota sample was chosen for this research following the age characteristics of the Slovenian female population. The data collection method used was personal interviews. Convergent validity for the attitudes towards cosmetic surgery services was assessed with exploratory factor analysis. The segmentation analysis procedure was implemented in two phases. First, hierarchical clustering with Ward’s method was deployed, and in the second step K-means cluster analysis was used.

Findings
The results show that four clusters were clearly distinctive according to three dimensions, namely, intrapersonal, social and consider component. In further analysis, four segments of women were analysed regarding the fear of ageing, the importance of appearance, body image and self-esteem. Results show that all four segments are unique and distinguish one from another.

Practical implications
Through segmentation analysis, authors of this study indicate two segments (target groups) that are possibly interesting for providers of cosmetic services. Marketing communication activities should mainly be focussed on the woman’s appearance.

Originality/value
Based on a theoretical hypothesis and use a quantitative method, the aim of this paper is to provide a deeper analysis and understanding of attitudes and views of different woman profile regarding cosmetic surgeries. It presents a more structured view on differences that exist among segments of female consumers while also adding new insights into the factors that influence attitudes towards cosmetic procedures.
Institutional change and economic development: a conceptual analysis of the African case
Authors: Adanu Kwami 
Published: March 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explain the African socio-economic development and policy design problems using the new institutional economics methodology. The paper emphasizes the importance of carefully considering the policy environment setting before changing the rules of the society (institutional change) and making policy choices.

Design/methodology/approach
A conceptual approach is used to explain why major economic development policies fail in Africa and the developing world as a whole. To illustrate policy-environment-dependent institutional and policy change decision making, examples of potential institutional and policy changes are examined for Ghana’s financial, retail, and land resource sectors.

Findings
It is argued that the concept of institutional efficiency must be looked at quite differently from the Pareto-optimal concept in the neoclassical economic theory. This is because institutional analysis leans more toward normative rather than positive economics. The paper explains the counterintuitive findings that although the African business environment is low on trust due to high ethnic diversity, African business depends more on trust than contracts –weak enforcement of institutions accounts for such twists. Potential institutional changes that can help address specific socio-economic developmental challenges are suggested based on the characteristics of the African business environment.

Research limitations/implications
The paper lays bare several research hypotheses that can now be tested using the available data. These include hypotheses that strong economic growth precedes growth in the stock market activity (not the other way round); an asymmetric Tobin tax that taxes conversion into foreign currencies more than conversion into local currency reverses local currency depreciation; and for import-dependent countries, strengthening the local currency provides a positive shock to local production and budget balance.

Originality/value
The paper illustrates the pitfalls associated with blanket application of theoretical frameworks without proper contextualization. A promising way out for weak African economies is to adapt the theoretical economic predictions to local environments and help refine general economic theory through their experiences.
Disparity in family status attainment between the majority and minority ethnic groups in Bangladesh
Authors: Uddin Md. Emaj 
Published: March 2017

Purpose
Structural sociological framework suggests that sociopolitical and economic factors exert independent effects on variations in family status attainment (FSA) across the social/ethnic groups. The purpose of this paper is to analyze and predict how social-political-economic factors exert effects on disparity in FSA between the majority and minority ethnic groups in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach
This study used the cross-cultural survey design to analyze the research objective. In doing so, 585 men (Muslim n=150, Hindu n=145, Santal n=145, and Oraon n=145) who were randomly selected through cluster sampling from the Rasulpur union of Bangladesh were interviewed with a semi-structured questionnaire.

Findings
The results of Pearson’s χ2 test have shown that FSA was significantly different (p<0.01) associated with social-political-economic factors between the majority and minority groups. The results of the linear regression analysis (coefficients of β) suggested that social, political, and economic factors were the best predictors (significant at p<0.01 level) to perpetuate disparity in FSA between the majority and minority ethnic groups in Bangladesh. In addition, the results of coefficients of determination (R2) suggested that unequal distribution of social-political-economic resources perpetuates 10-14 percent disparities in FSA between the majority and minority groups in Bangladesh.

Research limitations/implications
Although the findings of the study are suggestive to understand the disparity in FSA associated with social-political-economic factors, further cross-cultural research is needed on how the social psychological factor affects variations in FSA between the groups in Bangladesh. In spite of the limitation, social policymakers may apply the findings with caution to design social policy and practice to reduce the disparity in FSA between the majority and minority ethnic groups in Bangladesh.

Originality/value
The cross-cultural findings are original in linking structural sociological theory and comparative family welfare policy to reduce the disparity in FSA between the majority and minority groups in Bangladesh.
Intersectionality in LGBT fiction
Authors: Moulaison Sandy Heather , Brendler Beth M. , Kohn Karen 
Published: March 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate characters and scenarios reflecting varied lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) identities in fiction in two library acquisitions platforms: a traditional library vendor (Coutts’ OASIS) and a freely available platform for self-published eBooks (Smashwords).Design/methodology/approachUsing intersectionality as an approach, 200 LGBT fiction titles were examined in OASIS and in Smashwords with the goal of assessing the characters and scenarios represented. The hypothesis was that Smashwords’s titles, because they were self-published, would include more variety.FindingsThe titles in both platforms were roughly similar, with a pronounced focus on white gay males.Research limitations/implicationsThis research relied on limited metadata provided in each system. Additional research should evaluate the quality of the titles and the nature of the publishers.Practical implicationsAlthough the Smashwords eBook platform provides access to eBooks, a convenient way to consume genre fiction, the titles available do not represent more diverse LGBT identities than the titles available through a traditional library vendor platform, OASIS.Originality/valueAs libraries struggle with practical implications for selecting materials representing varied viewpoints, the question of self-published or indie eBooks has emerged as a potential option for providing these perspectives. The findings of this study indicate, however, that instead of reflecting a more diverse readership, the sample of Smashwords LGBT fiction eBooks examined largely resembles the materials that a library vendor provides.
Does accumulated knowledge impact academic performance in cost accounting?
Authors: Alanzi Khalid A. , Alfraih Mishari M. 
Published: March 2017

Purpose
This quantitative study aims to examine the impact of accumulated knowledge of accounting on the academic performance of Cost Accounting students.

Design/methodology/approach
The sample consisted of 89 students enrolled in the Accounting program run by a business college in Kuwait during 2015. Correlation and linear least squares regression analyses tested the study’s hypothesis.

Findings
Results indicated significant impact of accumulated knowledge on academic performance, with and without controls for other factors.

Practical implications
The findings provide administrators, academic advisors, accounting educators and researchers with a useful benchmark for the development of accounting curriculum, teaching plans and strategies and future academic research, and it forms the basis for comparative work aimed at the harmonization of international accounting education.

Originality/value
The study provides empirical support for the theoretical prediction that quantitative accumulated knowledge in accounting has an impact on the academic performance of students, especially in Cost Accounting. Internationally, it provides a foundation for future comparative studies, potentially leading to the harmonization of international accounting education. Regionally, it attempts to fill some of the gaps in the regional accounting education literature. Locally, the study seeks to improve the performance of the accounting students in Cost Accounting within the college where data were collected.
The learning organization and the level of consciousness
Authors: Chiva Ricardo 
Published: March 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to analyze learning organization by comparing with other types of organizations. This typology is based on the levels of consciousness and relates each type of organization with a level of learning and an organizational structure.

Design/methodology/approach
This is a conceptual paper based on the concept of levels of consciousness.

Findings
The paper proposes that learning organization requires the highest level of consciousness.

Originality/value
The paper uses the levels of consciousness to compare learning organization with other types of organizations.
The mediation role of intention in knowledge sharing behavior
Authors: Mafabi Samuel , Nasiima Sentrine , Muhimbise Edgar Mutakirwa , Kasekende Francis , Nakiyonga Caroline 
Published: March 2017

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the mediation role of behavioral intention in the relationship between attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control and knowledge sharing behavior.Design/methodology/approachThe study adopted a cross-sectional design to collect data used to carry out mediation analysis. Structural equation modeling was used to test for the mediation effect based on the theory of planned behavior.FindingsThe results reveal positive and significant relationships between attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control and behavioral intention. There is a full mediation effect of behavioral intention between attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control and knowledge sharing behavior. This implies that behavioral intention wholly processes planned behavior prediction.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample size was small, covering only two referral hospitals which affects the generalization of findings across all the hospitals in Uganda. The study was cross-sectional focusing on a one-off perception, which does not examine knowledge sharing behavior over time. This may necessitate follow-up studies in a longitudinal design to capture the trend of results.Practical implicationsManagers in referral hospitals should create opportunities for health professionals to enhance knowledge sharing behavior. Knowledge sharing practices should be embedded in the performance appraisal and reward systems which should promote positive knowledge sharing attitudes and norms and develop self-efficacy.Originality/valueThe study generates empirical evidence on less studied phenomena in the health sector focusing on behavioral intention mediation in predicting knowledge sharing behavior.
Utilizing a systematic literature review to develop an integrated framework for information and knowledge management systems
Authors: Senivongse Chulatep , Bennet Alex , Mariano Stefania 
Published: March 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the value of using a systematic literature review to develop an integrated framework for information and knowledge management systems.Design/methodology/approachFirst, the systematic literature review method is introduced, differentiating it from traditional literature reviews in terms of value-added and limitations. Second, this methodology is used in a research application focused on absorptive capacity internal capabilities with regard to the processes of acquisition, assimilation, transformation and exploitation. Third, an integrated framework for information and knowledge management systems is developed from this application.FindingsThe systematic literature review approach provides a rigor that can assist in reducing researcher bias while simultaneously enabling the definition of a precise scope of review, with a clear explanation of selection criteria with the objective to find and review all the studies that are relevant to the search definitions. As a research method, it effectively supports a qualitative, quantitative or mixed methodology.Research limitations/implicationsThis methodology was applied to one specific area of research. Specific limitations include the availability of articles in subscribed databases and the analytical capabilities of the tools used for text mining and analytics.Originality/valueThis paper demonstrates the usefulness of the systematic literature review methodology in developing an integrated framework for analysis.
Contextual factors in knowledge reuse
Authors: Cheuk Ka Po , Baškarada Saša , Koronios Andy 
Published: March 2017

Purpose
This paper aims to answer calls for more research on how contextual factors influence the effectiveness of knowledge reuse.

Design/methodology/approach
The findings are based on an in-depth case study conducted in the sales department of a large white goods company in Australia.

Findings
Six contextual factors identified include purpose, time pressure, language, accessibility, author and date. A mismatch in purpose between knowledge creation and reuse is most likely to reduce knowledge reuse effectiveness. Time pressures may lead to an increase in errors associated with search question definition as well as knowledge search and selection, while unfamiliar language is likely to lead to misinterpretations of content. Knowledge accessibility issues are of particular concern in time-sensitive situations. Authorship and creation date information may facilitate knowledge reuse by allowing consumers to filter unwanted knowledge.

Originality/value
This study contributes to knowledge management theory by providing an exploration of the ways in which contextual factors influence knowledge and reuse effectiveness, and of the possible relationships between those factors. The paper also provides knowledge management practitioners with tangible guidelines on how to increase the effectiveness of organizational knowledge reuse.
Keratoacanthoma en plaque/nodule: A brief report of the clinicopathological features of five cases
Authors: Misago Noriyuki , Ansai Shin‐ichi , Fukumoto Takaya , Anan Takashi , Nakao Tomokazu 
Published: March 2017

AbstractKeratoacanthoma (KA) is characterized by exoendophytic growth with a central keratin‐filled crater, representing the crateriform architecture. We herein report five rare cases of KA without a central keratin‐filled crater. These KA cases histopathologically showed that one or a few infundibular structures/isthmic lobules had their own open keratotic pores on the surface without a common merged keratotic plug/horn, clinically representing verrucous (keratotic) plaque/nodule, namely, “KA en plaque/nodule”. KA rarely but on occasion does show verrucous plaque (or nodular) lesions without a central keratin‐filled crater, as the notion that KA invariably shows crateriform architecture is nonsensical.
Efficacy and safety of luliconazole 5% nail solution for the treatment of onychomycosis: A multicenter, double‐blind, randomized phase III study
Authors: Watanabe Shinichi , Kishida Hiroshi , Okubo Akihiro 
Published: March 2017

AbstractOnychomycosis is a highly prevalent and intractable disease. The first‐line treatment agents are oral preparations, but an effective topical medication has long been desired. The objective was to investigate the efficacy and safety of luliconazole 5% nail solution, an imidazole antifungal agent, for the treatment of patients with onychomycosis. A multicenter, double‐blind, randomized phase III study was conducted in Japanese patients with distal lateral subungual onychomycosis affecting the great toenails, with 20–50% clinical involvement. Patients were randomized (2:1) to luliconazole or vehicle once daily for 48 weeks. The primary end‐point was the complete cure rate (clinical cure [0% clinical involvement of the nail] plus mycological cure [negative results on direct microscopy]). The adverse event incidence was monitored to evaluate safety. The complete cure rate significantly favored luliconazole (14.9%, 29/194 subjects) versus vehicle (5.1%, 5/99) (P = 0.012). Similarly, the negative direct microscopy rate was significantly higher with luliconazole (45.4%, 79/174) than with vehicle (31.2%, 29/93) (P = 0.026). There were no serious adverse drug reactions. We conclude that once daily topical luliconazole 5% nail solution demonstrated clinical efficacy and was confirmed to be well tolerated.
Mechanisms of resistance to quinolones in Salmonella Typhimurium from patients with infectious diarrhea
Authors: Yuan Jing , Guo Wei 
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACTThis study investigated the mechanisms of resistance of 36 quinolone‐resistant Salmonella Typhimurium strains isolated from outpatients with infectious diarrhea in Beijing Tian Tan Hospital between 2013 and 2015. The resistance spectrum of the 36 strains was measured using a broth dilution method. Class 1 integrons harboring the β‐lactamase gene and mutations in quinolone resistance determining regions were also investigated. All 36 quinolone‐resistant Salmonella Typhimurium strains were found to be multidrug‐resistant and the majority of these strains harbored Class 1 integrons. These findings study suggests that strategies for determining resistance spectrums should be implemented with greater urgency.