bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Why do people change routes? Impact of information services
Authors: Gan Hong‐Cheng , Bai Yang , Wei June 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe aim of this study is to identify factors that influence drivers' route choice response to travel time information about both the expressway and local streets provided by variable message signs on arterial roads.Design/methodology/approachA stated preference questionnaire survey was conducted to collect behavioral data. The generalized estimating equations (GEEs) method with a logit link function was used to model driver response and account for correlations within repeated observations from the same respondent. Four GEEs‐based estimations with different working correlation structures were conducted and compared with each other as well as the conventional maximum likelihood estimation.FindingsDriving experiences, expressway delays, causes of delay, and the number of traffic lights on local streets are factors influencing route choice decisions. A new finding is that there exist differences in response behavior among employer‐provided car, taxi and private car drivers. On the modeling aspect, the exchangeable structure was the most appropriate in this study.Research limitations/implicationsThis study indicates the effectiveness and appropriateness of the GEEs method and suggests further examination of GEEs' performance.Practical implicationsThe route choice probability model established by this study will facilitate better investment, design and assessment of dynamic information services in transportation management.Originality/valueThe dynamic information this study concerns has rarely been addressed in the literature. Little literature to date has applied the GEEs method in information response modeling. This study reaches solider conclusions about the GEEs method.
Dynamic suppliers' risk management of large‐scale and complex equipment development
Authors: Yuan Wenfeng , Liu Sifeng , Yuan Chaoqing 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe paper attempts to establish a two‐dimension frame to analyze dynamic supplier risks of large‐scale and complex equipment and study the probability distribution of the occurring risks.Design/methodology/approachStarting from the dynamic and correlated supplier risks of large‐scale and complex equipment, a two‐dimension frame to analyze these risks is established. A maximum entropy model is also built to research the probability distribution of the risks; then, K‐T conditions are proved to solve the model. A real case is also studied in the last part of the paper.FindingsThe results are convincing: in order to analyze the supplier risk dynamically of large‐scale and complex equipment development project, a two‐dimension analysis frame is established and a maximum entropy model is worked out. The case study shows that they are valuable.Practical implicationsThe two‐dimension frame gives a new viewpoint for risk management, but also the maximum entropy model supplies a valuable method for risk management.Originality/valueThe paper succeeds in creating a dynamic analysis frame to study risks and building a new method to research the disciplines of the dynamic risks.
Some extended operations of grey sets
Authors: Yang Y. , John R. , Liu S. 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to advance new rules about operations of grey sets based on grey numbers and greyness and investigate their capability in reducing uncertainty.Design/methodology/approachA grey set can have its characteristic function values restricted by grey numbers, and such a representation makes the operations of grey sets different from other sets. Based on the concept of whitenisation of grey sets, two extended operations of grey sets are defined and their properties are discussed.FindingsThe result demonstrates that the proposed meet operation can significantly reduce uncertainty in grey sets and that the novel rules about operation of grey sets can reduce uncertainty of the set significantly. The propagation of uncertainty under different operations is investigated.Practical implicationsThe method exposed in the paper can be used to integrate information from different sources to reduce uncertainty in information.Originality/valueThe paper succeeds in constructing novel operation rules of grey sets. The capability of novel operation rules to reduce uncertainty is studied and it is a new development of grey systems theory.
A study on government regulation mechanism of promoting enterprises in China in energy conservation
Authors: Guo Benhai , Zhang Rongrong , Yuan Chaoqing 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThis paper attempts to study the impact of changing incentive strategies on enterprises' energy saving effort level and to construct an effective principal‐agent mechanism to achieve Pareto improvement of energy‐saving control.Design/methodology/approachStarting from the benefit relations between government and enterprises as well as their game strategies in energy conservation management, the impact of changing incentive strategies on enterprises' energy saving effort level and the asymmetric information situation of the players are studied taking into consideration the angle of strategies evolving in local government. Also, an effective principal‐agent mechanism to achieve Pareto improvement of energy‐saving control is constructed.FindingsThe results are convincing: interests of both the principal and agent had consistency under the principal‐agent mechanism, and the principal‐agent model was a mechanism with rich efficiency that could substantially arouse the enthusiasm of enterprises in energy saving. The comprehensive supervision of local governments over enterprises could effectually eliminate ill effects on energy‐saving management caused by information asymmetry under certain circumstances.Practical implicationsIt is good for locating the balance of interest of game players by building a government energy saving mechanism based on principal‐agent theory. Through solving a game stable strategy, it is beneficial to seize a key point of regulation and control policies.Originality/valueThe paper succeeds in analyzing decision behaviours of government and enterprises through the basic idea of cooperative game theory so as to make actions of enterprises at all levels agree to government determined solving of energy issues.
Study on credibility level of trustworthy software development process based on grey nonlinear cluster
Authors: Mi Chuanmin , Tian Min , Li Xuemei 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThis paper attempts to put forward a convincing and flexible grey cluster method that can be used in confirming credibility level of trustworthy software development process.Design/methodology/approachDetermination on credibility level in the software development process is dynamic, as credibility of the results may be different at different times and under different project requirements. Qualitative methods are not entirely convincing, and most quantitative methods are not flexible enough. Grey cluster based on nonlinear grey whitening weight function put forward in this paper is both convincing and flexible. Finally eight projects from the ISBSG database are used for empirical analysis, which confirm that the method put forward in this paper is available and credible.FindingsThe results are convincing: not only that grey cluster based on nonlinear grey whitening weight function put forward in this paper is both convincing and flexible, but it can be used in confirming credibility level of trustworthy software development process.Practical implicationsEight projects from the ISBSG database are used for empirical analysis, which confirms that the method put forward in this paper is available and credible.Originality/valueNonlinear grey whitening weight function is derivable except endpoint. Grey cluster based on nonlinear grey whitening weight function put forward in this paper is both convincing and flexible.
Petri net model for supply‐chain quality conflict resolution of a complex product
Authors: Liu Yuan , Fang Shili , Fang Zhigeng , Hipel Keith W. 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThis paper aims to develop a Petri net model for analyzing the quality conflict and its resolution of a complex product. The result aims to assist decision makers (DMs) to properly select their activities when a quality conflict has happened.Design/methodology/approachAccording to the features of Petri net and conflict analysis theory, a novel Petri net for conflict analysis (PNCA) is designed which contains transition and preference labels to describe DMs' decision activities and profit comparisons. Additionally, a generating approach is proposed, which can help DMs to construct a PNCA. Furthermore, based on players' bounded rationality, the equilibrium of PNCA is studied to provide scientific supports for DMs' decision‐making. A case study on an aircraft production system is conducted to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the new model, which furnishes a fresh perspective on the supply chain quality management of a complex product.FindingsA new methodology is proposed for the domain of conflict analysis, which is easier to understand and improves the operation efficiency. What is more important, DMs can clearly be aware of their following choices according to the corresponding transition information.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to conflict analysis theory by designing a new model and develops a new graph model for managing the supply chain quality of a complex product.
The absolute degree of grey incidence for grey sequence base on standard grey interval number operation
Authors: Zhang Ke , Ye Wei , Zhao Liping 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThis paper attempts to extend classic absolute degree of grey incidence so that the extended model can be used for grey number sequences.Design/methodology/approachThe classic absolute degree of grey incidence was extended according to basic principles of grey incidence analysis. First, modelling methods and theories of the classic grey incidences were summarized. Then, the zeroing starting operator in grey incidence was extended for grey sequence. Third, the parameters in classic incidence degree were redefined, and an absolute degree of grey incidence for grey number sequences was proposed. The degree can not only be applied to grey number sequence, but also contains the uncertain information of analysis result. Fourth, two non‐linear programming models were constructed to estimate the grey coverage interval of absolute degree of incidences. Finally, the comparison method of grey numbers was introduced for sorting the different absolute degrees of incidences.FindingsA theoretically feasible absolute degree of grey incidence was constructed for grey sequence. A case study showed that the proposed incidence degree was an effective method for grey sequence incidence analysis.Practical implicationsThe method exposed in the paper can be used for grey sequences clustering, grey decision making, multi‐attribute decision making theory, uncertain target recognition and other related fields.Originality/valueThe paper succeeded in establishing an incidence analysis model for grey sequences which was still a research gap in grey system theory.
Study on optimizing resources configuration of value activity network of manufacturing clusters
Authors: Wang Wenping , Huang Xinhuan , Xie Jie 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe paper attempts to analyze the network structure of value activity in manufacturing clusters, propose the model of value creation of cluster's value activity network, and explore the inner mechanism and optimization strategies of value creation in manufacturing clusters from the perspective of cluster's value activity network.Design/methodology/approachThis paper applies a genetic algorithm to optimally search in the target space, and repeatedly exerts genetic operation (select, cross, variation) on the population to explore the optimal configuration strategy between value creation activity and resource utilization. It also analyzes the relation between object function of value creation and relative parameters.FindingsThe total value created by value activity network was impacted by the degree of effective configuration between all kinds of resources and value activities; the total value created by value activity network is positively related to activity units' elasticity coefficient of value creation of human resource, material resources and relations resource, and is negatively correlated to cost coefficient of human resource, material resources and relations resource; when the cooperative relations between activity units create positive relationship profit, the total value created by value activity network increases with the increase of cooperative relations between activity units.Practical implicationsEnterprises in clusters should reasonably configure and incorporate the resource among value activities through adding, deleting or reconfiguring activities, which makes the value activities network create maximum value; enterprises can transform the type of activity units to increase elasticity coefficient of value creation of human resources, such as transforming production activities into the high value‐added activities; enterprises can optimally incorporate the technical, material resources and human resources among activities to increase value creation elastic coefficient of material resources; enterprises can decrease cost coefficient by maintaining the stability of long‐term cooperation with the suppliers and strengthening the cultivation of talents; enterprises can increase profits from relation resource or reduce cost coefficient of relationship by updating activities, building trust mechanism and communication mechanisms and establishing long‐term cooperation relationship to improve value creation activities.Originality/valueThis paper proposes the model of value creation from the perspective of cluster's value activity network, and applies a genetic algorithm to explore the optimal configuration strategies between value creation activity and resource utilization.
A hybrid model using analytic network process and gray relational analysis for bank's IT outsourcing vendor selection
Authors: Cao Jie , Cao Guo , Wang Weiwei 
Published: March 2013

PurposeConsidering the limitation of the single stage vendor selection model, this paper proposes a two‐stage vendor selection framework for IT outsourcing in microfinance banks.Design/methodology/approachThe paper attempts to realize a complete analysis at company level using grey systems theory for shaping the relations among variables. With the social choice function – Dodgson function, the first stage is a trial phase that helps the decision‐maker find the potential vendors, then, the decision‐maker employs those chosen vendors for the final selection with modified grey relational analysis (GRA) integrated analytic network process (ANP), which emphasizes the interrelation among those selection criteria, and avoids the subjective estimation of experts and practitioners. The case of a microfinance bank IT outsourcing vendor selection is used to verify the proposed approach.FindingsThe results of the empirical study show that the proposed method is practical for ranking competing vendors in terms of their overall performance with respect to multiple interdependence criteria for the bank's IT outsourcing.Practical implicationsThe method exposed in the paper can be used for other supplier selection by modifying some criteria and weight.Originality/valueThe paper provides a method for ranking competing vendors in terms of their overall performance with respect to multiple interdependence criteria for IT outsourcing.
Schlauschleimer in Reichsautobahnen
Authors: Adamatzky Andrew , Schubert Theresa 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop experimental laboratory biological techniques for approximation of principle transport networks, optimizing transport links, and developing optimal solutions to current transport problems. It also aims to study how slime mould of Physarum polycephalum approximate autobahn networks in Germany.Design/methodology/approachThe paper considers the 21 most populous urban areas in Germany. It represents these areas with source of nutrients placed in the positions of slime mould growing substrate corresponding to the areas. At the beginning of each experiment slime mould is inoculated in the Berlin area. Slime mould exhibits foraging behavior and spans sources of nutrients (which represent urban areas) with a network of protoplasmic tubes (which approximate vehicular transport networks). The study analyzes structure of transport networks developed by slime mould and compares it with families of known proximity graphs. It also imitates slime‐mould response to simulated disaster by placing sources of chemo‐repellents in the positions of nuclear power plants.FindingsIt is found that the plasmodium of Physarum polycephalum develops a minimal approximation of a transport network spanning urban areas. Physarum‐developed network matches autobahn network very well. The high degree of similarity is preserved even when we place high‐demand constraints on repeatability of links in the experiments. Physarum approximates almost all major transport links. In response to a sudden disaster, gradually spreading from its epicenter, the Physarum transport networks react by abandoning transport links affected by disaster zone, enhancement of those unaffected directly by the disaster, massive sprouting from the epicenter, and increase of scouting activity in the regions distant to the epicenter of the disaster.Originality/valueExperimental methods and computer analysis techniques presented in the paper lay a foundation of novel biological laboratory approaches to imitation and prognostication of socio‐economical developments.
A novel active sliding mode control for synchronization of uncertain chaotic systems
Authors: Shao‐cheng Qu , Xiao‐yan Wang , Yong‐ji Wang 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to find a practical active sliding mode control approach for synchronization of two uncertain chaotic systems.Design/methodology/approachSliding mode control approach is known to be an efficient alternative way to implement synchronization for uncertain chaotic systems. However, design of traditional sliding mode controller usually needs complex state transformation. Owing to a novel idea of virtual state feedback, a control strategy for synchronization of uncertain chaotic systems is presented, which does not need any complex state transformation. Furthermore, based on Lyapunov stability theory, a sufficient condition is drawn for the robust stability of the error dynamics of synchronization for uncertain chaotic systems.FindingsA novel active sliding mode control approach is proposed to achieve the synchronization of two uncertain chaotic systems.Research limitations/implicationsThe main limitation is that uncertainties must meet matched conditions.Practical implicationsThe paper presents a useful control approach for synchronization of two uncertain chaotic systems.Originality/valueThe proposed sliding mode control approach based on novel virtual state feedback does not need any complex state transformation, unlike the traditional sliding mode control.
Analysis of some grey control system modeling
Authors: Hejin Xiong , Wenjing Peng 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop some grey models to analyze and control the poor information systems, or grey systems.Design/methodology/approachThe grey system theory has been a more widespread application in recent years and the authors have solved many forecast problems of incomplete information with it. However, the establishment of gray control models still needs certain prerequisites.FindingsBased on incomplete information or poor information, by using the viewpoint of the grey system theory and the integral generation operation in this paper, six kinds of grey control models have been established.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper offers very useful advice for incomplete (or poor) information control.Originality/valueThe paper is aimed at control engineers and offers a new approach to the optimal choice of information control models.
The connections of vague set and rough set
Authors: Yan Ruixia , Liu Jinliang , Yao Bingxue 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present research methods in processing uncertain information.Design/methodology/approachVague set and rough set are both‐wings‐mode for expressing uncertainty systems, and based on the both‐wings‐mode of expressing uncertainty systems, the connections of vague set and rough set are discussed.FindingsThis paper presents the relationships between vague set and rough set.Research limitations/implicationsBased on these connections between vague set and rough set, theoretical and means of vague set can be used for rough set; also theoretical and means of rough set can be used for vague set.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to the discussion on the research of vague set and rough set. The conclusions are useful in information processing.
Identifying the number of bars based on two chain lists
Authors: Zhang Suwen , Zhu Cuiping , Chen Juan 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to overcome the shortcomings of the marked method in identifying the number of regions in binary images, and to present a new algorithm to identify the number of bars.Design/methodology/approachIdentifying the number of bars automatically is widely used in the lumbering, iron, and steel industry. The marked methods need complex signing and have to scan the binary image several times. An algorithm that uses two chain lists to identify the number of bars is presented. It uses the characteristic of the chain list. When scanning the binary image, it creates two chain lists and then the number and the central position of the bar based on the relations of created chain lists can be determined.FindingsTest results have indicated this algorithm is feasible and effective on recognizing the number of bars.Research limitations/implicationsWhen the connected area has too many pixels in the binary images, recognizing its number needs much more time.Originality/valueThe paper presents a very useful approach for identifying the number of the bar, in the lumbering and steel industry.
An integrated theoretical model for determinants of knowledge sharing behaviours
Authors: Wu Yong , Zhu Weidong 
Published: March 2013

PurposeKnowledge sharing has been recognized as a positive force for the survival of an organization but the factors that promote or discourage knowledge sharing behaviors in the organizational context are poorly understood. The purpose of this paper is to enhance our collective understanding of the factors affecting knowledge sharing behaviors of knowledge workers in the organizational context.Design/methodology/approachDrawing from multiple streams of research including social psychology, organizational learning, knowledge management, information systems and so forth, this research developed an integrated theoretical model. The Theory of Planned Behavior model, motivation theory, social exchange theory, economic exchange theory and self determination theory were employed here. In total, 180 responses from ten companies in China were collected.FindingsThe theoretical model was validated within the context of a single empirical study. The findings provided significant statistical support for the research model, accounting for about 60 percent of the variance in the behavioral intention to share knowledge and 41 percent variance in the actual knowledge sharing behavior. In total, 11 of the 12 hypothesized relationships were supported.Originality/valueThis exploratory research attempted to fill the void in the integrative research by investigating the most crucial factors that influence the knowledge sharing behaviors of knowledge workers.