Amir Hosein Keyhanipour, Behzad Moshiri, Maryam Piroozmand, Farhad Oroumchian and Ali Moeini
Learning to rank algorithms inherently faces many challenges. The most important challenges could be listed as high-dimensionality of the training data, the dynamic nature of Web…
Abstract
Purpose
Learning to rank algorithms inherently faces many challenges. The most important challenges could be listed as high-dimensionality of the training data, the dynamic nature of Web information resources and lack of click-through data. High dimensionality of the training data affects effectiveness and efficiency of learning algorithms. Besides, most of learning to rank benchmark datasets do not include click-through data as a very rich source of information about the search behavior of users while dealing with the ranked lists of search results. To deal with these limitations, this paper aims to introduce a novel learning to rank algorithm by using a set of complex click-through features in a reinforcement learning (RL) model. These features are calculated from the existing click-through information in the data set or even from data sets without any explicit click-through information.
Design/methodology/approach
The proposed ranking algorithm (QRC-Rank) applies RL techniques on a set of calculated click-through features. QRC-Rank is as a two-steps process. In the first step, Transformation phase, a compact benchmark data set is created which contains a set of click-through features. These feature are calculated from the original click-through information available in the data set and constitute a compact representation of click-through information. To find most effective click-through feature, a number of scenarios are investigated. The second phase is Model-Generation, in which a RL model is built to rank the documents. This model is created by applying temporal difference learning methods such as Q-Learning and SARSA.
Findings
The proposed learning to rank method, QRC-rank, is evaluated on WCL2R and LETOR4.0 data sets. Experimental results demonstrate that QRC-Rank outperforms the state-of-the-art learning to rank methods such as SVMRank, RankBoost, ListNet and AdaRank based on the precision and normalized discount cumulative gain evaluation criteria. The use of the click-through features calculated from the training data set is a major contributor to the performance of the system.
Originality/value
In this paper, we have demonstrated the viability of the proposed features that provide a compact representation for the click through data in a learning to rank application. These compact click-through features are calculated from the original features of the learning to rank benchmark data set. In addition, a Markov Decision Process model is proposed for the learning to rank problem using RL, including the sets of states, actions, rewarding strategy and the transition function.
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M. Mahdi Moeini Gharagozloo, Chen Chen and Farinaz Sabz Ali Pour
The purpose of this paper is to examine how a country’s change readiness impacts international mergers and acquisitions (M&A) capital flows on a national level toward host…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine how a country’s change readiness impacts international mergers and acquisitions (M&A) capital flows on a national level toward host countries. The authors unpack the construct of change readiness and identify how its different dimensions impact international M&As (IMA). The authors provide a theoretical framework based on the resource-based view to facilitate an understanding of this concept.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors used a fixed-effect analysis to study a sample of 2,970 IMAs announced by publicly traded US companies during 2013–2017.
Findings
The authors propose that higher levels of change readiness would help foreign firms to cope with risks and uncertainties generated by the changes and shocks in the environment of a host country. The authors find support for their hypotheses showing that higher levels of change readiness increase the number of IMAs that a country receives every year. This characteristic of the host country shows a significant influence, especially in technology-intensive IMA flows.
Practical implications
This study provides implications for business executives and policymakers both in terms of risk mitigation strategies and investment attraction. Understanding the fact that when it comes to foreign investment in the form of IMAs business executives are aware of the importance of change readiness in host countries might lead to motivate the governments and host country officials to provide better infrastructure to boost the change readiness in their economy.
Originality/value
Overall, this study improves our knowledge about mechanisms through which change readiness of host countries might impact firms' strategies for international expansion. As we are indeed living in the era of global disruptions and strong shocks caused by political turmoil, climate change and the spread of new diseases, this study contributes to the literature on risk mitigation in international business and is one of the first to look closely at the role of host countries' change readiness and the effect it might have on attracting international M&As.
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Suvasish Das Shuvo, Md. Eunus Ali, Md. Masudur Rahman, Abu Taher, Md Asaduzzaman, Md. Toufiq Elahi, Md. Ashrafuzzaman Zahid, Dipak Kumar Paul and Deepa Roy
This study aims to evaluate the association between dietary patterns with health status and smoking-related knowledge, attitudes and practices (s-KAP) among Bangladeshi adolescent…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to evaluate the association between dietary patterns with health status and smoking-related knowledge, attitudes and practices (s-KAP) among Bangladeshi adolescent smokers.
Design/methodology/approach
An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 205 randomly selected adolescents. Socio-demographic, health status, s-KAP related data were collected in face-to-face interviews. Dietary intake data were calculated using the food frequency questionnaire.
Findings
The practices score (44.8%) was comparatively poor among adolescent smokers. Among the respondents, around 56.1%, 38.1% and 49.3% were suffering from gastric problems, nausea and the loss of appetite, respectively, because of smoking. There was a significant relationship between dietary diversity and the occurrence of several diseases such as gastric problems, nausea and loss of appetite. The respondents who consumed fresh fruits and vegetables regularly might reduce gastric problems (OR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.27–1.04 and OR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.25–1.65), nausea (OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.38–1.37 and OR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.13–0.84) and loss of appetite (OR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.32–1.21 and OR: 0.16 95% CI: 0.27–0.68).
Originality/value
In conclusion, smoking has been associated with multiple health problems because of poor practices score. Consumption of a balanced diet, better smoking-related knowledge, attitudes and practices needs to be improved among adolescents.
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Dana Indra Sensuse, Deden Sumirat Hidayat and Ima Zanu Setyaningrum
The application of knowledge management (KM) in government agencies is one strategy to deal with government problems effectively and efficiently. This study aims to identify KM…
Abstract
Purpose
The application of knowledge management (KM) in government agencies is one strategy to deal with government problems effectively and efficiently. This study aims to identify KM readiness critical success factors (CSFs), measure the level of readiness for KM implementation, identify improvement initiatives and develop KM readiness models for government agencies. This model plays a role in the implementation of KM successful.
Design/methodology/approach
The level of readiness is obtained by calculating the factor weights of the opinions of experts using the entropy method. The readiness value is calculated from the results of the questionnaire with average descriptive statistics. The method for analysis of improvement initiatives adopts the Asian Productivity Organization framework. The model was developed based on a systems approach and expert validation.
Findings
Reliability testing with a Cronbach’s alpha value for entropy is 0.861 and the questionnaire is 0.920. The result of measuring KM readiness in government agencies is 75.29% which is at level 3 (ready/needs improvement). The improvement in the level of readiness is divided into two parts: increasing the value of factors that are still less than ready (75%) and increasing the value of all factors to level 4 (84%). The model consists of three main sections: input (KMCSFs), process (KM readiness) and output (KM implementation).
Research limitations/implications
The first suggestion is that the sample of employees used in this study is still in limited quantities, that is, 50% of the total population. The second limitation is determining KMCSFs. According to experts, combining this study with factor search and correlation computations would make it more complete. The expert’s advice aims to obtain factors that can be truly tested both subjectively and objectively. Finally, regarding literature selection for future research, it is recommended to use a systematic literature review such as the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses and Kitchenham procedures.
Practical implications
The management must also prioritize KMCSF according to its level and make KMCSF a key performance indicator. For example, at the priority level, active leadership in KM is the leading performance indicator of a leader. Then at the second priority level, management can make a culture of sharing an indicator of employee performance through a gamification program. The last point that management must pay attention to in implementing all of these recommendations is to collaborate with relevant stakeholders, for example, those authorized to draft regulations and develop human resources.
Originality/value
This study proposes a novel comprehensive framework to measure and improve KM implementation readiness in government agencies. This study also proposes a KMCSF and novel KM readiness model with its improvement initiatives through this framework.
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Adilson Carlos Yoshikuni and Rajeev Dwivedi
The paper aims to establish the role of enterprise information systems strategies (ISS) enabled by business strategies for attaining organizational innovativeness (ORIN) mediated…
Abstract
Purpose
The paper aims to establish the role of enterprise information systems strategies (ISS) enabled by business strategies for attaining organizational innovativeness (ORIN) mediated by performance (decision-making and business processes) under environmental turbulence.
Design/methodology/approach
The research framework is developed based on theoretical grounding and validated with the help of 408 responses from Brazil using SmartPLS path modeling.
Findings
The results of the research suggest that the resource orchestra of enterprise information systems strategy-enabled strategy-making can be a viable alternative to enhance innovation activities in the organizations through the mediated role of performance (decision-making and business process).
Practical implications
The research demonstrates the role of business function (information systems) strategy enabled overall business strategy-making for achieving innovations in the organization. Fortune organizations are exploiting the information systems strategy enabled business strategy for innovations in the organization; such as Amazon, Walmart, Costco, etc.
Originality/value
The proposed and validated model is a contribution to the enterprise information systems strategy theory. This model presents the role of resource orchestras in achieving innovations in organizations.
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P. G. S. A. Jayarathne, Narayanage Jayantha Dewasiri and K. S. S. N. Karunarathne
Owing to the significance of a healthy lifestyle, we investigate the antecedents of the healthy lifestyle of young consumers in Sri Lanka. 658 structured questionnaires were…
Abstract
Owing to the significance of a healthy lifestyle, we investigate the antecedents of the healthy lifestyle of young consumers in Sri Lanka. 658 structured questionnaires were collected from young consumers in Sri Lanka as part of the survey procedure. The judgmental sampling method is used to choose the respondents. The analysis makes use of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings disclose a high degree of healthy lifestyle among young consumers in Sri Lanka. Further findings revealed that health consciousness, collective esteem, and neighborhood environment are the antecedents for a healthy lifestyle. As young consumers are more concerned about a healthy lifestyle, managers in certain industries such as food and beverages, hotels, and restaurants should adopt their products and services in line with a healthy lifestyle.
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Mouna Zrigui, Imen Khanchel and Naima Lassoued
From a target perspective, this paper aims to examine the impact of environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transaction valuations…
Abstract
Purpose
From a target perspective, this paper aims to examine the impact of environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transaction valuations.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper uses a sample of 629 international transactions conducted between 2002 and 2020. Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression was applied by using ESG aggregate score and the three ESG pillars: environment, social and governance.
Findings
This paper finds that the ESG performance of targets has a negative and significant impact on acquisition premiums. However, this paper finds that targets receive lower premiums by increasing their ESG score, suggesting that targets would do better to focus on ESG to increase shareholder wealth. Thus, results of this paper support the view that ESG-focused firms create shareholder value through the M&A process. Furthermore, results of this paper indicate that environmental and social aspects of ESG drive the acquisition premium. The governance score does not seem to be related to acquisition premiums.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first study to assess whether ESG performance impacts the valuation of M&A transactions by decomposing ESG into its three components.
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Vartika Pundir, Elangbam Binodini Devi and Vishnu Nath
This study aims to examine the collective impact of awareness and knowledge about fake news, attitudes toward news verification, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the collective impact of awareness and knowledge about fake news, attitudes toward news verification, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, fear of missing out (FoMO) and sadism on social media users’ intention to verify news before sharing on social media.
Design/methodology/approach
The current study’s conceptual framework is developed by a comprehensive literature review on social networking and the theory of planned behavior. The data for samples were collected from 400 respondents in India to test the conceptual framework using the partial least square–structural equation modeling technique.
Findings
The results show that awareness and knowledge, perceived behavioral control, attitudes toward news verification and FoMO are significant predictors of intention to verify news before sharing.
Research limitations/implications
The present study concludes implications for managers of social media companies and policy actors that want to take steps toward arresting the spread of fake news via social media.
Originality/value
Academic investigation on fake news sharing on social media has recently gained traction. The current work is unique because it uses the theory of planned behavior as a basis for predicting social media user’s intention to verify news before sharing on social media.
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Adilson Carlos Yoshikuni, Frederico Ribeiro Galvão and Alberto Luiz Albertin
Many studies have not fully explored the relationship between knowledge and information system strategies (ISS) and their overall impact on firm performance (FP). In an attempt to…
Abstract
Purpose
Many studies have not fully explored the relationship between knowledge and information system strategies (ISS) and their overall impact on firm performance (FP). In an attempt to address this knowledge gap, this study draws on the dynamic capabilities view, and on recent literature on knowledge strategy planning (KSP), and examines the alignment between KSP and ISS to enable dynamic capabilities innovation capabilities (DCIC) to gain FP.
Design/methodology/approach
The survey examined empirical data from 234 Brazilian companies using the partial least squares path modeling to test the hypotheses proposed herein.
Findings
The empirical results confirmed that both KSP and ISS have a positive impact on DCIC. Furthermore, the results indicated that FP was positively impacted through DCIC. The results indicated that the alignment between KSP and ISS positively impacts DCIC and ultimately FP.
Research limitations/implications
The data was collected from 234 Brazilian companies in a country classified as a developing economy. Future studies could investigate the impact of KSP and ISS on FP in developed economies. The practical implication of the study required managers to be knowledgeable about the value of alignment between KSP and IT capabilities involving more practitioners in the strategy-as-practice to create innovation capabilities and enhance FP.
Originality/value
This is one of the earliest studies that has investigated the relationships between KSP and ISS and their impact on FP within a developed economy context. The relationship between all constructs that have not been addressed previously contributes to extend the literature on KSP, ISS and dynamic capabilities view.