bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Task Allocation Optimization in Collaborative Customized Product Development Based on Adaptive Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Bao Beifang , Yang Yu , Liu Aijun , Zhao Jiali , Li Leiting
Published: May 2013

Due to the currently insufficient consideration of task fitness and task coordination for task allocation in collaborative customized product development, this research was conducted based on the analysis of collaborative customized product development process and task allocation strategy. The definitions and calculation formulas of task fitness and task coordination efficiency were derived, and a multiobjective optimization model of product customization task allocation was constructed. A solution based on adaptive genetic algorithm was proposed, and the feasibility and effectiveness of the task allocation algorithm were tested and verified using a 5-MW wind turbine product development project as example.
Economic Analysis of Hybrid Rice Performance in Arkansas
Authors: Lyman Nathaniel , Nalley Lawton Lanier
Published: May 2013

Despite the rapid producer adoption of hybrid rice (Oryza sativa L.) in recent years, the economic advantage of hybrid rice in the mid‐southern United States remains disputed. This study compared the economic risk and return of three popularly sown hybrid rice cultivars: XL723, Clearfield (CL) XL729, and CL XL745; and eight conventional rice cultivars: Cheniere, CL 142‐AR, CL 151, Francis, Roy J, Taggart, Templeton, and Wells, using University of Arkansas experimental test plot data from 2006 to 2010. Paddy and milling yield data on each cultivar were used to estimate a Just–Pope production function, allowing comparison of mean yields and mean yield variances across cultivars. A Monte Carlo simulation was used to compare net returns and net return variance (risk) across hybrid and conventional cultivars. Just–Pope estimation results indicated that hybrid cultivars exhibited mean paddy yield premiums of 1.6 to 2.4 Mg ha–1 relative to the best‐performing conventional cultivar (Francis); furthermore, the hybrid yield advantage was not associated with increased yield risk. Among hybrid‐CL and conventional‐CL cultivars, hybrid milling quality was not statistically different. Among non‐CL cultivars, the hybrid XL723 exhibited a mean head rice yield premium relative to conventional alternatives. Monte Carlo simulation results suggested that the net revenue advantage of hybrid cultivars makes them preferable to conventional alternatives in the CL and non‐CL categories across the entire range of producer risk preferences considered in this study.
Nonlinear system identification using heterogeneous multiple models
Authors: Orjuela Rodolfo , Marx Benoît , Ragot José , Maquin Didier
Published: May 2013

Multiple models are recognised by their abilities to accurately describe nonlinear dynamic behaviours of a wide variety of nonlinear systems with a tractable model in control engineering problems. Multiple models are built by the interpolation of a set of submodels according to a particular aggregation mechanism, with the heterogeneous multiple model being of particular interest. This multiple model is characterized by the use of heterogeneous submodels in the sense that their state spaces are not the same and consequently they can be of various dimensions. Thanks to this feature, the complexity of the submodels can be well adapted to that of the nonlinear system introducing flexibility and generality in the modelling stage. This paper deals with off-line identification of nonlinear systems based on heterogeneous multiple models. Three optimisation criteria (global, local and combined) are investigated to obtain the submodel parameters according to the expected modelling performances. Particular attention is paid to the potential problems encountered in the identification procedure with a special focus on an undesirable phenomenon called the no output tracking effect. The origin of this difficulty is explained and an effective solution is suggested to overcome this problem in the identification task. The abilities of the model are finally illustrated via relevant identification examples showing the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Cloud Manufacturing Concept as a Tool of Multimodal Manufacturing Systems Integration
Authors: Kłosowski Grzegorz
Published: May 2013

The following article deals with a novel approach to manufacturing in the context of the increasing demand for system and process integration. This integration chiefly applies to concrete facets of manufacturing tasks which must be taken into consideration in the stage of planning and preparation for complex production processes. Those facets are primarily exemplified by order types (such as production, service and cooperative commissions etc.), production models (e.g. discrete and process modeling), product categorization based on established criteria (e.g. production technology, complexity level, used materials and extras, weight, etc.) as well as many other aspects that hold great significance in the automatization of manufacturing processes. When more advanced orders are to be realized, one of the main challenges posed by this situation is the need to accomplish multiple operations which due to their different nature, scope and scale (e.g. varied processing types: heat and plastic treating, machining etc.) have to be conducted by different contractors. In order to address those key problems and reduce the negative impact of multimodality, the author proposes a manufacturing cloud (also known as cloud manufacturing) which is a variant of a groundbreaking, yet well-established concept - cloud computing. This paper presents the chief notions of this method created specifically with integrated multimodal systems and production processes. The author also highlights key problems that should be addressed before this solution can be used in practice.
The Risk Assessment in the Logistic Processes Structures
Authors: Kulińska Ewa
Published: May 2013

This paper presents the nature of logistic processes functioning in manufacturing companies with special risk factors situations. The author's parameterization model of the value added was generated as a result of the logistic processes. Author refers to differences between all-in and real costs caused by appearance of risk factors in logistic processes. Author also identifies the change of the value added measured with the net profit and its results.
The hidden population: Some methodological issues about estimation of problematic drug use
Authors: Dahlberg Mikael , Anderberg Mats
Published: May 2013

Aim

This article analyses and discusses the estimation of serious or problematic drug use through an empirical example based on a local Swedish study in Gothenburg.

Methods and Data

This was a case-finding study with questionnaires directed at organisations which have contact with the target group. The material was supplemented with information from the two documentation systems DOK and ASI. A total of 2,148 reports were collected. Health care data of 1,096 individuals was also collected for analysis with the truncated Poisson method. Analyses with capture-recapture or truncated Poisson were conducted to calculate the size of the hidden population.

Results

The statistical analyses resulted in variable numbers for the hidden population, and the total prevalence of serious drug abuse in Gothenburg is estimated to be between 2,200 and 4,400 people.

Conclusion

The study shows that estimation of the presence and prevalence of problematic drug abuse involves many methodological difficulties and challenges. The significant variation of the size of the hidden population presented in the study raises doubts about the reliability and validity of the different methods. The methods are clearly sensitive to the importance of fulfilling the different basic assumptions.
Working with Different Logics: A Case Study on the use of the Addiction Severity Index in Addiction Treatment Practice
Authors: Björk Alexander
Published: May 2013

Aim

This article explores the implementation and use of the Addiction Severity Index in addiction treatment practice, both as a clinical instrument and as a way of facilitating outcome measurement. This is regarded as incorporating “laboratory logic” into clinical practice characterised by “the logic of care”.

Data

The data is based on ethnographic fieldwork in a Swedish metropolitan social service agency known for its systematic ASI work.

Results

The findings suggest that much effort must be dedicated to co-ordinate activities in the agency in line with the laboratory logic, making sure that the interviews are administered systematically. In use, the ASI and the variables in clinical practice are adjusted to each other, making it possible to follow both logics at the same time. In some cases, however, there is a conflict: the ASI becomes an extra task that does not further the clinical work. Once collected, the ASI data must be co-ordinated in line with other information. This has not yet been realised in the agency, which makes the value of the ASI data unknown.

Conclusions

It requires hard work to handle the two logics simultaneously in addiction treatment practice: activities must be co-ordinated, and instruments and variables in clinical practice must be continuously “tinkered” with. Further, outcome measurement is not only about systematic use of standardised instruments, but much work must be done after the ASI data has been collected.
Alkoholmissbruk och självbestämmande – en kartläggning av den svenska hemtjänstens förutsättningar att arbeta med äldre personer med alkoholproblem
Authors: Gunnarsson Evy
Published: May 2013

Aim

Alcohol abuse and self-determination-a mapping of the conditions for home care work with older persons with alcohol problems in Sweden. The aim of this study was to investigate the conditions within home care services when working with older persons with alcohol abuse.

Design

A telephone survey has been carried out and middle managers for needs assessment officers and middle managers for home care staff have been interviewed. The managers in 25 municipalities in the Stockholm area took part in the study.

Results

It was common that care workers were in regular contact with older people with alcohol abuse. However, very few had any training regarding how to treat older people with alcohol abuse and there was no specialization within this field. A conflicting task was the question of buying alcohol to alcohol addicts. The self determination of older people was the guideline. The home care workers had little or no cooperation with misuse teams in the municipalities. The municipalities had no guidelines for the work with older people with alcohol abuse and the responsibility was pressed down to the lowest level in the organization.

Conclusions

To a great extent, home care workers stand alone in the work with older people with alcohol problems.
Phonetic Imitation of Vowel Duration in L2 Speech
Authors: Zając Magdalena
Published: May 2013

This paper reports the results of a pilot study concerned with phonetic imitation in the speech of Polish learners of English. The purpose of the study was to investigate whether native speakers of Polish imitate the length of English vowels and to determine whether the extent of phonetic imitation may be influenced by the model talker being a native or a non-native speaker of English. The participants were asked to perform an auditory naming task in which they indentified objects and actions presented on a set of photos twice, with and without the imitation task. The imitation task was further sub-divided depending on the model talker being a native or non-native speaker of English (a native Southern British English speaker and a native Polish speaker fluent in English). As the aim was to investigate the variability in durational characteristics of English vowels, the series of front vowels /æ e ɪ iː/ were analysed in the shortening and lengthening b_t vs. b_d contexts. The results of the study show that the participants imitated the length of the investigated vowels as a result of exposure to the two model talkers. The data suggest that the degree of imitation was mediated both by linguistic and social factors and that the direction of convergence might have been affected by the participants’ attitude toward L2 pronunciation.
Two steps piecewise affine identification of nonlinear systems
Authors: Števek Juraj , Szűcs Alexander , Kvasnica Michal , Fikar Miroslav , Kozák Štefan
Published: May 2013

Given a set of input-output measurements, the paper proposes a method for approximation of a nonlinear system by a piecewise affine model (PWA). First step of the two-stage procedure is identification from input-output data, in order to obtain an appropriate nonlinear function in analytic form. The analytic expression of the model can be represented either by a static nonlinear function or by a dynamic system and can be obtained using a basis function expansion modeling approach. Subsequently we employ nonlinear programming to derive optimal PWA approximation of the identified model such that the approximation error is minimized. Moreover, we show that approximation of multivariate systems can be transformed into a series of one-dimensional approximations, which can be solved efficiently using standard optimization techniques.
Determination of positive realizations with reduced numbers of delays or without delays for discrete-time linear systems
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz
Published: May 2013

A new modified state variable diagram method is proposed for determination of positive realizations with reduced numbers of delays and without delays of linear discrete-time systems for a given transfer function. Sufficient conditions for the existence of the positive realizations of given proper transfer function are established. It is shown that there exists a positive realization with reduced numbers of delays if there exists a positive realization without delays but with greater dimension. The proposed methods are demonstrated on a numerical example.
The Lack of Predictors for Rapid Progression in Prostate Cancer Patients Receiving Sipuleucel-T
Authors: Ng Laura , Heck Wendy , Lavsa Stacey , Crowther David , Atkinson Brad , Xiao Lianchun , Araujo John
Published: May 2013

Sipuleucel-T is an immunotherapy indicated for the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer. It offers a new mechanism to treat prostate cancer without the side effects of hormone therapies and chemotherapies. In previous studies sipuleucel-T did not delay disease progression, but demonstrated an overall survival benefit compared to placebo. While clinical trials have evaluated the effects of sipuleucel-T on overall survival and progression, more studies are needed to evaluate its effectiveness and role in the management of prostate cancer. The objective of this study is to identify the incidence and possible predictors for disease progression in patients receiving sipuleucel-T. A retrospective review of patients who received sipuleucel-T between 1 September 2010 and 11 October 2011 was conducted (n = 36). Patients who changed therapy or died within 120 days were classified as experiencing rapid progression. Potential predictors of rapid progression were examined using logistic regression. Seven patients met criteria for rapid progression. Progression occurred in 72.2% of all patients. The median days to progression was 158. No significant predictors of rapid progression were identified. Currently no predictors have been found to be associated with rapid progression in prostate cancer patients on sipuleucel-T.
Statistical Properties of the Foreign Exchange Network at Different Time Scales: Evidence from Detrended Cross-Correlation Coefficient and Minimum Spanning Tree
Authors: Wang Gang-Jin , Xie Chi , Chen Yi-Jun , Chen Shou
Published: May 2013

We investigate the statistical properties of the foreign exchange (FX) network at different time scales by two approaches, namely the methods of detrended cross-correlation coefficient (DCCA coefficient) and minimum spanning tree (MST). The daily FX rates of 44 major currencies in the period of 2007–2012 are chosen as the empirical data. Based on the analysis of statistical properties of cross-correlation coefficients, we find that the cross-correlation coefficients of the FX market are fat-tailed. By examining three MSTs at three special time scales (i.e., the minimum, medium, and maximum scales), we come to some conclusions: USD and EUR are confirmed as the predominant world currencies; the Middle East cluster is very stable while the Asian cluster and the Latin America cluster are not stable in the MSTs; the Commonwealth cluster is also found in the MSTs. By studying four evaluation criteria, we find that the MSTs of the FX market present diverse topological and statistical properties at different time scales. The scale-free behavior is observed in the FX network at most of time scales. We also find that most of links in the FX network survive from one time scale to the next.
Dynamic Properties of Evolutionary Multi-player Games in Finite Populations
Authors: Wu Bin , Traulsen Arne , Gokhale Chaitanya
Published: May 2013

William D. Hamilton famously stated that “human life is a many person game and not just a disjoined collection of two person games”. However, most of the theoretical results in evolutionary game theory have been developed for two player games. In spite of a multitude of examples ranging from humans to bacteria, multi-player games have received less attention than pairwise games due to their inherent complexity. Such complexities arise from the fact that group interactions cannot always be considered as a sum of multiple pairwise interactions. Mathematically, multi-player games provide a natural way to introduce non-linear, polynomial fitness functions into evolutionary game theory, whereas pairwise games lead to linear fitness functions. Similarly, studying finite populations is a natural way of introducing intrinsic stochasticity into population dynamics. While these topics have been dealt with individually, few have addressed the combination of finite populations and multi-player games so far. We are investigating the dynamical properties of evolutionary multi-player games in finite populations. Properties of the fixation probability and fixation time, which are relevant for rare mutations, are addressed in well mixed populations. For more frequent mutations, the average abundance is investigated in well mixed as well as in structured populations. While the fixation properties are generalizations of the results from two player scenarios, addressing the average abundance in multi-player games gives rise to novel outcomes not possible in pairwise games.
A Chimeric UDP-Glucose Pyrophosphorylase Produced by Protein Engineering Exhibits Sensitivity to Allosteric Regulators
Authors: Asención Diez Matías , Ebrecht Ana , Martínez Lucila , Aleanzi Mabel , Guerrero Sergio , Ballícora Miguel , Iglesias Alberto
Published: May 2013

In bacteria, glycogen or oligosaccharide accumulation involves glucose-1-phosphate partitioning into either ADP-glucose (ADP-Glc) or UDP-Glc. Their respective synthesis is catalyzed by allosterically regulated ADP-Glc pyrophosphorylase (EC 2.7.7.27, ADP-Glc PPase) or unregulated UDP-Glc PPase (EC 2.7.7.9). In this work, we characterized the UDP-Glc PPase from Streptococcus mutans. In addition, we constructed a chimeric protein by cutting the C-terminal domain of the ADP-Glc PPase from Escherichia coli and pasting it to the entire S. mutans UDP-Glc PPase. Both proteins were fully active as UDP-Glc PPases and their kinetic parameters were measured. The chimeric enzyme had a slightly higher affinity for substrates than the native S. mutans UDP-Glc PPase, but the maximal activity was four times lower. Interestingly, the chimeric protein was sensitive to regulation by pyruvate, 3-phosphoglyceric acid and fructose-1,6-bis-phosphate, which are known to be effectors of ADP-Glc PPases from different sources. The three compounds activated the chimeric enzyme up to three-fold, and increased the affinity for substrates. This chimeric protein is the first reported UDP-Glc PPase with allosteric regulatory properties. In addition, this is a pioneer work dealing with a chimeric enzyme constructed as a hybrid of two pyrophosphorylases with different specificity toward nucleoside-diphospho-glucose and our results turn to be relevant for a deeper understanding of the evolution of allosterism in this family of enzymes.
Molecular Interaction of a New Antibacterial Polymer with a Supported Lipid Bilayer Measured by an in situ Label-Free Optical Technique
Authors: Horvath Robert , Kobzi Balázs , Keul Helmut , Moeller Martin , Kiss Éva
Published: May 2013

The interaction of the antibacterial polymer–branched poly(ethylene imine) substituted with quaternary ammonium groups, PEO and alkyl chains, PEI25QI5J5A815–with a solid supported lipid bilayer was investigated using surface sensitive optical waveguide spectroscopy. The analysis of the optogeometrical parameters was extended developing a new composite layer model in which the structural and optical anisotropy of the molecular layers was taken into consideration. Following in situ the change of optical birefringence we were able to determine the composition of the lipid/polymer surface layer as well as the displacement of lipid bilayer by the antibacterial polymer without using additional labeling. Comparative assessment of the data of layer thickness and optical anisotropy helps to reveal the molecular mechanism of antibacterial effect of the polymer investigated.
Paradoxes and Possibilities for a ‘Green’ Housing Sector: A Swedish Case
Authors: Hagbert Pernilla , Mangold Mikael , Femenías Paula
Published: May 2013

As global and local visions for sustainable living environments are increasingly supported by policies and concrete practices in construction, the building and housing sector is seeking to mitigate its environmental impact as well as assume a greater social responsibility. The overarching policy objectives set to concretize what a sustainable housing development entails, however, tend to rely on equivocal terminology, allowing a varied interpretation by key industry practitioners. Though in line with an ecological modernization paradigm in policy, the promotion of a market-driven environmentalism in housing faces multiple challenges as varying interests and perspectives collide. Supported by empirical findings of a semi-structured interview study conducted with housing developers in a new ‘green’ urban district in Göteborg, Sweden, theoretical frameworks surrounding the paradoxical path towards a sustainable housing development are presented. Inconsistencies between outspoken ambitions; social dimensions; and the framing of efficiency in new housing are discussed. Possibilities for the housing sector are given in the recognition of new forms of development, where a systemic perspective is required in the alignment between how industry, policy and the market perceives housing development and what is actually sustainable.
PROSPERITY, HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND EASE OF DOING BUSINESS RESEARCH ANALYSIS / VISUOMENĖS GEROVĖS IR VERSLO SĄLYGŲ PALANKUMO VERTINIMO TYRIMŲ ANALIZĖ
Authors: Samoška Mindaugas
Published: May 2013

The article addresses the problem pertaining to the ease of doing business and prosperity assessment. Scientific literature was analyzed in order to ascertain the link between prosperity and ease of doing business in general. Development of the quality of life conception is discussed and presented in the figure. Prosperity evaluation and assessment instruments differ in terms of evaluation scheme, assessment factors and the type of evaluation process. The article provides the analysis of the best known instruments. Article in Lithuanian.

Santrauka

Straipsnyje nagrinėjama verslo sąlygų palankumo ir visuomenės gerovės vertinimo problema. Analizuojama mokslinė literatūra. Straipsnio tikslas yra išsiaiškinti ryšį tarp visuomenės gerovės ir verslo sąlygų palankumo lygio, pasiūlyti kiekybinį metodą, kaip šį ryšį galima ištirti ir nustatyti jo stiprumą tolesniuose tyrimuose. Remiantis moksline literatūra, straipsnyje nagrinėjamos visuomenės gerovės, žmogaus socialinės raidos, verslo sąlygų ir konkurencingumo sąvokos, jų prigimtis, sampratos raida, vartojimas moksliniuose tyrimuose ir tarpusavio ryšys. Visuomenės gerovei vertinti mokslinėje literatūroje yra siūloma įvairių vertinimo priemonių, straipsnyje jos trumpai aptariamos ir tarpusavyje palyginamos pagal pagrindinius sandaros požymius.
MULTICRITERIA EVALUATION OF THE INNOVATIVE PROJECT EFFECTIVENESS / INOVATYVIŲ PROJEKTŲ VERTINIMO PROBLEMA
Authors: Stepanovas Artūras , Ostašenkovaitė Karolina
Published: May 2013

For a long time in most developed Western countries, innovation has been the key driver of economic growth, enabling a high level of added value and ensuring economic development. According to 2011 Innovation Union Scoreboard indicators for assessment, Lithuania still lags far behind the European Union countries in innovation. In order to improve this indicator, it is important to encourage the development of innovative projects in the country. For this purpose, it is important to properly prepare innovative projects in multi-criteria evaluation model in case this reasonable use might reduce the risk of projects and help to find the least risky and most beneficial innovative projects. Article in Lithuanian. Santrauka Daugelyje išsivysčiusių Vakarų valstybių inovacijos jau seniai tapo svarbiausiu ekonomikos augimo varikliu, leidžiančiu pasiekti aukštą pridėtinę vertę ir užtikrinančiu ekonomikos plėtrą. Remiantis 2011 m. Inovacijų sąjungos švieslentės rodiklių vertinimu, Lietuva vis dar itin atsilieka nuo Europos Sąjungos šalių vidurkio inovacijų srityje. Lietuvai siekiant pagerinti šį rodiklį ir iki 2015 m. tapti Šiaurės Baltijos regiono paslaugų centru, o iki 2020 m. – Šiaurės Europos inovacijų centru, vienas iš uždavinių – kuo įmanoma labiau pakelti šalies modernizacijos bei inovacijų lygį. Tai įmanoma skatinant inovatyvių projektų plėtrą šalyje. Šiuo tikslu svarbu tinkamai parengti inovatyvių projektų daugiakriterio vertinimo modelį, kurio priimtinas taikymas išskirtų mažiausiai rizikingus ir daugiausia naudos teikiančius inovatyvius projektus.
RELATIONSHIP MARKETING IN LEGAL SERVICES MARKETING STRATEGY / SANTYKIŲ RINKODARA TEISINIŲ PASLAUGŲ RINKODAROS STRATEGIJOJE
Authors: Androšiūnaitė Audronė , Melnikas Borisas
Published: May 2013

The article defines the concept of professional services and evaluates the extent, to which legal services could be understood as professional services. In addition, literature analysis in the relationship marketing is presented as well as conclusions on the method for the use of relationship marketing in the development of legal services marketing strategy. Strategies of professional services marketing are completely different from other services marketing because of relations with current clients and competitors, also – singularity of the professional services. Article in Lithuanian.

Santrauka

Šiame straipsnyje apibrėžus profesionalių paslaugų sampratą ir įvertinus, kokia apimtimi teisinės paslaugos gali būti priskiriamos profesionalioms paslaugoms, pateikiama literatūros analizė, kas yra santykių rinkodara ir kiek ji gali būti taikoma vystant teisinių paslaugų įmonės rinkodaros strategiją. Profesionalioms paslaugoms taikomos strategijos iš principo skiriasi nuo paslaugų parduotuvių ar masinių paslaugų strategijų, įtaką daro ne tik pačių paslaugų ir rinkos specifika, bet ir ryšiai su konkurentais, santykiai su esamais klientais.
Les adolescentes face aux contraintes du système de genre
Authors: Duru-Bellat Marie
Published: May 2013

Ce texte entend rappeler que la question des inégalités entre filles et garçons n’est pas devenue sans objet. On montre que ce qui apparaît de prime abord comme une supériorité des filles dans le domaine scolaire n’est pas sans ambivalence et notamment ne suffit pas à supprimer les difficultés spécifiquement féminines dans les débuts de la vie active. En arrière-plan, toute une socialisation sexuée joue, qui vient canaliser strictement le développement personnel des jeunes filles, avec en particulier une sexualisation de plus en plus accentuée et de plus en plus précoce, selon la logique du système de genre.
Mohammed VI, despote malgré lui
Authors: Benchemsi Ahmed
Published: May 2013

À en croire les médias internationaux, impressionnés par la manière subtile dont la monarchie marocaine a tiré son épingle du Printemps arabe, Mohammed VI serait un jeune roi avisé et ouvert à la démocratie. Mais à y voir de plus près, le roi du Maroc dispose de la panoplie du satrape oriental : pouvoirs absolus légitimés par le droit divin, richesse personnelle illimitée, culte de la personnalité extravagant... tout y est. Sauf, peut-être la personnalité autocratique qui va avec.
Au-delà de « l'opposition à sa Majesté » : mobilisations, contestations et conflits politiques au Maroc
Authors: Catusse Myriam
Published: May 2013

Le Mouvement du 20 février questionne les dynamiques qui traversent les oppositions marocaines et plus généralement l’état des forces politiques. Au sein d’un régime de pluralisme limité, dominé par l’institution monarchique où le « dissensus » politique fut souvent neutralisé par la force autant que par la persuasion (ou la cooptation), d’aucuns seraient tentés de réactualiser un schéma maintes fois convoqué pour rendre compte des relations entre le souverain et les élites politiques : celui d’un désamorçage savant mais imparable de toute forme de dissidence. Pourtant, l’histoire sociale et politique des oppositions marocaines peut se lire bien différemment. En considérant des formes plurielles de contestations, de mobilisations et de conflits politiques, cet article montre au contraire que les arènes de l’opposition sont à géométrie variable, qu’elles sont négociées et non d’avance fixées par en haut ; qu’elles sont le lieu de pratiques, d’engagements qui se réinventent et s’adaptent selon les enjeux, la conjoncture et la répression.
L'émergence du pouvoir judiciaire dans la Constitution marocaine de 2011
Authors: Mathieu Bertrand
Published: May 2013

La nouvelle Constitution marocaine reconnaît l’existence d’un véritable pouvoir judiciaire et met en place un organe, le Conseil supérieur du pouvoir judiciaire, garant de son indépendance et doté de larges compétences s’agissant de la gestion des magistrats et de la politique judiciaire. Cette réforme, qui s’accompagne d’une transformation du contentieux constitutionnel, alloue au Maroc un outil constitutionnel novateur et performant. Cependant cette réforme est tributaire des lois organiques nécessaires à son accomplissement.
Changement de cap et transition politique au Maroc et en Tunisie
Authors: Mohsen-Finan Khadija
Published: May 2013

L’analyse comparative des transitions marocaine et tunisienne montre qu’au Maroc, même si le roi reste la pièce maîtresse du dispositif politique, le changement n’en demeure pas moins réel. Profitant des espaces de liberté concédés à la faveur d’une ouverture – aussi stratégique fût-elle – et de l’effet de contagion des autres soulèvements, le mode de revendication des Marocains et leurs attentes sont aujourd’hui radicalement différents. En Tunisie, malgré la révolution, la rupture avec le passé est loin d’être franche. La transition s’opère en se référant à « l’esprit et aux valeurs de la révolution », tout en conservant de nombreuses institutions et pratiques du passé. Malgré cela, la dynamique du changement réel et profond est engagée de manière irréversible.
Le Maroc et le Printemps arabe
Authors: Abdelmoumni Fouad
Published: May 2013

Le Maroc sort de son moyen âge, mais il le fait dans la lenteur et la confusion. L’ancien modèle de société, fait de conservatisme féodal, d’autoritarisme patriarcal, de prédation et de rente, de répression et de corruption, est condamné par les mutations sociologiques, économiques, politiques et technologiques. Mais il cède difficilement devant les inerties politiques et sociales dues, notamment, à l’éviction, la répression, la corruption et la décrédibilisation des élites menées par le palais depuis l’indépendance, ainsi qu’à la crainte de déstabilisation (islamiste, militaire, sécessionniste...). Ainsi, les espaces de libéralisation récemment concédés permettent un jeu politique plus fluide, plus transparent et mieux sanctionné par la volonté populaire. Mais les élites au pouvoir et celles capables de peser à moyen terme grâce au suffrage populaire sont très largement prisonnières de la logique autoritariste, paternaliste, clientéliste et rentière, ce qui empêchera probablement l’éclosion d’une véritable démocratie active pour une ou plusieurs décennies, le temps que la relève se cristallise et que les us démocratiques s’imposent.
Rythmes urbains et la vie quotidienne : figures de Busan
Authors: Ryu Ji-Seok , Gilloch Graeme
Published: May 2013

Ce travail examine le problème de l’expérience urbaine en s’appuyant sur la notion lefebvrienne de rythmanalyse. Il est favorable à une perspective sur la vie urbaine attentive à la (re)construction et au (re)déploiement du temps et de l’espace, et à leur mise en forme. La rythmanalyse commence par une attention réflexive aux répétitions naturelles et aux cycles du corps humain et s’étend ensuite à d’autres phénomènes naturels dans l’environnement. Dans ce contexte théorique, nous cherchons à élaborer quelques figures choisies, tirées du paysage urbain quotidien de Busan. La rythmanalyse donnera ici un aperçu de la façon dont ces figures sont en mesure d’identifier, d’occuper et d’utiliser les niches habitables au sein du paysage urbain, en les reconfigurant par l’improvisation et le bricolage.
Les déchets, métamorphoses et arts de déchoir
Authors: Houdayer Hélène
Published: May 2013

Les déchets constituent la partie impure et décadente des sociétés. Ils correspondent à ce que les économistes nomment les externalités de la production et dont personne ne veut. Chaque société tente de s’en défaire par le rebut ou de les apprivoiser par le recyclage. De ces rapports entrepris avec les déchets surgissent parfois des arts de vivre en mesure de métamorphoser l’image des déchets. Les sociétés sont alors capables de se réapproprier leurs déchets pour les incorporer à leur mode de vie.
Management of Technical Security Measures
Authors: Uffen Jörg , Breitner Michael H.
Published: May 2013

Organizations are investing substantial resources in technical security measures that aim at preventively protecting their information assets. The way management – or information security executives – deals with potential security measures varies individually and depends on personality traits and cognitive factors. Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior, the authors examine the relationship between the personality traits of conscientiousness, neuroticism and openness with attitudes and intentions towards managing technical security measures. The highly relevant moderating role of compliance factors is also investigated. The hypothesized relationships are analyzed and validated using empirical data from a survey of 174 information security executives. Findings suggest that conscientiousness is important in determining the attitude towards the management of technical security measures. In addition, the findings indicate that when executives are confronted with information security standards or guidelines, the personality traits of conscientiousness and openness will have a stronger effect on attitude towards managing security measures than without moderators.
Unpredictable Reconfigurations
Authors: Vieru Dragos , Trudel Marie-Claude
Published: May 2013

A merger is the result of a strategic decision aimed at creating synergy. Notwithstanding mergers’ expected benefits, their outcomes are often beset by problems such as employees’ high levels of stress, dissatisfaction and resistance. Research suggests that these problems are often related to the issue of boundary management during the post-merger integration phase (PMI), which refers to the degree of integration required among the merging parties and the degree of autonomy, that each must retain for the merger to achieve synergy. The literature identifies information systems (IS) as being a key enabler of successful mergers and suggests that during PMI, new ISs that span the boundaries of the previously independent firms need to be implemented to facilitate a specific level of integration. Yet, there is a paucity of studies on the issue of boundary management at the information technology (IT) level during PMI. Adopting a sociomaterial perspective and based on a qualitative study within a healthcare organization, the authors find that post-merger practices were the result of dialectic processes of resistance to, and negotiation of, the IS reconfiguration after its implementation.
Satisfying Public Relations
Authors: Al-Jenaibi Badreya
Published: May 2013

This paper assesses the state of PR in the UAE in relation to global media, and highlights needs in this area for both public and private enterprises. The paper explores the types of Social Media (SM) used for public relations in the UAE and what it plays in PR departments. The main research focus of this paper is how PR departments are utilizing social media to engage in advocacy work. Employing a qualitative method, interview data is taken from a cross section of 40 organizations throughout the UAE. It addresses perceptions of benefits, challenges, public acceptance, and future strategies of social media in relation to global SM as a whole. A limited number of research articles about the use of the internet in the UAE organizations have been published, but the author found no previous published studies specifically focusing on the use of SM in PR in this region, and this is the first paper that focuses on SM in 40 different organizations. It also offers suggestions for media planning and education strategies that can contribute to the future of PR in the UAE, and suggests further research focusing on the socio-economic effects of social media be conducted and incorporated by educational institutions in the UAE and by private businesses with a vested interest. These new technologies are critical for improving organizational and PR processes in the UAE.
A Conceptual Framework for Online Stock Trading Service Adoption
Authors: Abroud Alireza , Choong Yap Voon , Muthaiyah Saravanan
Published: May 2013

Globalization and recent advancement in the deployment of Internet and related technologies, have significantly transformed all sectors of the modern economy. For instance, electronic service has enabled the application of Internet platform in stock trading, thereby empowering individuals across diverse location to engage in trading activities. As established by extant theories on technology acceptance, individuals are expected to exhibit different attitude and behaviour towards new technology. This study aims to develop a conceptual model, which can explain the antecedents of individual investors’ intention to adopt online stock trading service. Specifically, this study identifies three new constructs (trust perception, investors’ knowledge and economic value) by integrating theory of planed behavior (TPB) and technology acceptance model (TAM), with perspective from transaction cost theory (TCT).
A Success Model for the Malaysian Government e-Procurement System
Authors: Kassim Erne Suzila , Hussin Husnayati
Published: May 2013

In Malaysia, there has been a tremendous effort in implementing e-government as a national agenda to increase public transparency, improve sector efficiency and effectiveness, and reduce public expenditure through lower operational costs. One of the e-government applications is the ePerolehan, a government-to-business (G2B) system that enables online public procurement coordination and transaction between government and businesses. However, there has been a lack of empirical research findings in evaluating the success and actual value of the system and understanding the usage factors among government users. Hence, this research was undertaken to investigate the level of ePerolehan system success and the factors that contribute to this success, as perceived by the government users. The structural equation modeling results suggest the use of the Malaysian public e-procurement system has significant and positive influence to success, measured as transparency, service performance, efficiency, and information quality. The results also indicated that the main significant success factors of the ePerolehan system are found to be system compatibility, user attitude, organizational learning, mimetic pressure, and supplier expectation. The findings provide several important implications not only for the government-to-business discipline, but also for e-government research and practice.
Hospital IT Sophistication Profiles and Patient Safety Outcomes
Authors: Hart Valeria
Published: May 2013

Information technology (IT) sophistication of acute care hospitals in Texas was measured to explore the relationships between IT infrastructure and patient outcomes using Donabedian’s framework. The sample was acute care hospitals (n=175) with an IT profile using HIMSS, demographic and operations data. Three dimensions of hospital IT sophistication were measured and related to patient care outcomes using the AHRQ Patient Safety Indicators (PSI). Significant relationships (p < 0.05) using linear regression were found between hospital IT sophistication and three PSI measures. A review of similar studies during the same time period in Iowa, Georgia, and Florida compares findings from two instruments used to profile hospital IT infrastructure. This study adds to and confirms findings of positive relationships between IT sophistication of hospitals and patient care outcomes using the AHRQ safety indicators. Discussion of the conceptual model and the IT sophistication construct provides a theoretical framework for this line of research.
Scaled Fuzzy Graph for Cluster Analysis in DNA Sequence of Olfactory Receptors
Authors: Dash Satya Ranjan , Dehuri Satchidananda , Sahoo Uma Kant
Published: May 2013

Olfactory receptors (ORs) are responsible for recognition of odor molecules. The deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequences of these receptors are severely affected by local mutations. Therefore, to study the changes among affected and non-affected ORs, the authors attempted to use unsupervised learning (clustering) algorithm. In this paper, they have used a scaled fuzzy graph model for clustering to study the changes before and after the local mutation on DNA sequences of ORs. Their simulation study at the fractional dimensional level confirms its accuracy.
An MMSE Overlay Cognitive Wireless System
Authors: Vameghestahbanati Monirosharieh , Mir Hasan S. , El-Tarhuni Mohamed
Published: May 2013

In this paper, the authors propose a framework that allows an overlay (new) system to operate simultaneously with a legacy (existing) system. By jointly optimizing the transmitter and the receiver filters of the overlay system, the sum of the mean-squared error (MSE) of the new system plus the excess MSE in the existing system due to the introduction of the overlay system is minimized. The effects of varying key parameters such as the overlay transmitter power and the amount of overlap between the legacy and the overlay systems are investigated. Furthermore, the sensitivity of the system to accuracy of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) estimate and the channel estimate is also examined.
Deep-Hole Subsea Excavation Utilizing the Most Current Technology
Authors: Webb Chuck
Published: May 2013

TETRA Offshore Services has developed a novel approach to the use of heavy subsea excavation tools in conjunction with USBL positioning and three dimensional sonar systems to successfully and safely excavate two subsea holes, 75 foot and 60 foot below mud line, to support the plug and abandonment of several wells and removal of two downed platforms in the Gulf of Mexico (GOM). This work took place at two locations within the GOM and over a period of three years. This manuscript will discuss, in detail, the lessons learned during these excavations including the modeling of how GOM clays hydrate and the proper application of excavation tools to varying soil hardness, the development of three dimensional sonar to assist in diver safety and in positioning of the excavation tools in a real-time environment, and a comparison of the various types of excavation tools and how to maximize their utility. The discussion will include the best methods found for employing each type of technology and the techniques developed to use multiple tools in concert to move soils in the most effective manner possible. To conclude, concepts for integrating and utilizing the next tier of emerging technologies and efforts to integrate those technologies will be suggested within the current process to maximize execution efficiency and assist in future excavation as the abandonment market moves into deeper water.

Introduction

For the sake of this discussion, a deep subsea hole will be defined as any seafloor excavation that is deeper than 15 feet below mud line (BML) which will require diver access to conduct some form of work will extend beyond the hydration period of the soils being excavated. In the Gulf of Mexico oil and gas sector, this type of hole is generally excavated where limited access exists to a subsea wellbore for well plug and abandonment (P&A) usually due to bending of the conductor or internal casings. This casing bending usually occurs after a catastrophic collapse of a platform during a severe storm. Most subsea P&A operations require wellhead access to be within twenty degrees of vertical and have at least 1.5 inches of access within the tubing. If either of these criteria is not met within the conductor interface with the seafloor, then the well conductor must be excavated until " straight?? pipe conditions are met. This presentation will focus on two deep holes dug in Eugene Island and Ship Shoal to respective depths of 75 and 60 feet BML. Each of these excavations were executed in varying water depths and led to specific lessons, which then led to more specialized processes being developed.