bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficient use of information in the formation of subjective industry forecasts
Authors: Fildes Robert 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThe paper considers the use of information by a panel of expert industry forecasters, focusing on their information‐processing biases. The panel forecasts construction output by sector up to three years ahead. It is found that the biases observed in laboratory experiments, particularly ‘anchoring’, are observable. The expectations are formed by adjusting the previous forecast to take new information into account. By analysing forecast errors it is concluded that the panel overweight recently released information and do not understand the dynamics of the industry. However, their forecasts, both short and long term, are better than an alternative econometric model, and combining the two sources of forecasts leads to a deterioration in forecast accuracy. The expert forecasts can be ‘de‐biased’, and this leads to the conclusion that it is better to optimally process information sources than to combine (optimally) alternative forecasts.
Judgemental revision of sales forecasts: The relative performance of judgementally revised versus non‐revised forecasts
Authors: Mathews Brian P. , Diamantopoulos Adamantios 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThe judgemental revision of sales forecasts is an issue which is receiving increasing attention in the forecasting literature. This paper compares the performance of forecasts after revision by managers with that of the forecasts which were accepted by them without revision. The data set consists of sales forecasting data from an industrial company, spanning six quarterly periods and relating to some 900 individual products. The findings show that, in general, the improvements made by managers bring the forecast errors of revised forecasts more into line with non‐revised forecasts, but the change is often marginal, and the best result is equivalence between revised and non‐revised forecasts.
Two complementary representations of multiple time series in state‐space innovation forms
Authors: Aoki Masanao 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThis paper discusses two alternative innovation representations (forward and backward) of a state space model of a multivariate weakly stationary time series, and suggests estimators of system matrices and innovation noise covariances which are alternative to these based on stochastic realization theory. A scheme for iterative improvements of the initial estimates is also suggested.
Extraction of contour lines by identification of neighbor relationships on a voronoi line graph
Authors: Mizutani Norio , Watanabe Toyohide , Yoshida Yuuji , Okabe Naoki 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThe studies on automatic extraction of contour lines have attracted interest in building a map information system as an automatic composition of input data. However, many attempts reported so far considered only the local connection relationship of contour lines and did not use global information contained in the whole topographic map. Therefore, they could not cope with extraction of contour lines having various cut forms.The method proposed in this paper can deal with the interconnection of contour lines which are disconnected within a region enclosed by a curved contour line and also the interconnection of contour lines disconnected in the same region, which were difficult in the existing methods. This was because its processing is based on global information of contour lines contained in a topographic map.As an example of the global information, the neighbor relationship built by a Voronoi diagram is used. The proposed method is divided into the following five steps: construction of a Voronoi diagram; identification of neighbor relationships of line segments; determination of height relation of line segments; extraction of contour lines; and extraction of pairs of endpoints to be interconnected. Then, while comparing and verifying them with the features of contour lines, disconnected contour lines are identified and extracted. This paper reports the procedures for processing and then considers the effect of the proposed method by experimental results.
Optimum image restoration and topological invariance
Authors: Yamashita Yukihiko , Ogawa Hidemitsu 
Published: July 2007

AbstractAn optimum image restoration filter is defined by an objective function. Its objective function is given using a topology in a space. Therefore, when another topology in a space is used, a different restoration filter may be obtained.In this paper the change of the topology in a space is restricted to a homeomorphic change of the inner product in a Hilbert space and the following two are discussed: (1) some optimum image restoration filters are independent of the inner product in a space; (2) When a Mahalanobis space is used, some of the optimum image restoration filters coincide with each other.The former property can be used in practical situations as follows. The inner product in a space generally must be chosen to suit the problem at hand, but in many cases this is a very difficult task. However, if a restoration filter is independent of the inner product in a space, there is no need to search for such an optimal inner product. Therefore, such inner product independent filters are very useful in practice.
Quantitative properties of Kohonen's self‐organizing maps as adaptive vector quantizers
Authors: Tanaka Toshiyuki , Saito Masao 
Published: July 2007

AbstractKohonen's model as the self‐organizing model for the neural network can be considered as a kind of adaptive vector quantization algorithm. Numerous reports have been presented on the application of the model to practical problems. Although some results have been presented for the theoretical properties of Kohonen's model, many properties remain to be clarified.Among various properties of Kohonen's model as an adaptive vector quantization algorithm, this paper considers the problem of how the reference vectors are placed according to the probability distribution of the input signal. Considering the limit where the number of reference vectors is increased to infinity, this problem can be discussed theoretically as the distribution of the reference vectors.Due to the effect of the “learning by neighborhood,” which is the feature of Kohonen's model, the property of the Kohonen model differs quantitatively from the property of the ordinary vector quantization algorithm. This paper discusses quantitatively the properties of Kohonen's model using the average learning equation.
SEIUN — a fast and intelligent character recognition system
Authors: Aso Hirotomo , Omachi Shin'Ichiro , Kimura Masayuki , Katsuyama Yutaka 
Published: July 2007

AbstractIt is useful for Japanese and Chinese character recognition to use image‐type processing for selection of limited number of candidates in terms of the general characteristics of the entire image (rough classification) and then deciding the final candidate by logical processing (fine classification). In this paper, we describe the architecture and performance of SEIUN (Systolic Elaborated Intelligent Ultra‐High‐Speed Neosystem), which is a fast and intelligent character recognition system integrating image‐type and logical‐type processing. This system has a host computer, an optical image scanner and an image processor developed by the authors. The architecture of the image processor is a pipelined combination of systolic arrays. The performance characteristics are: rough classification of 2965 kinds of printed Chinese characters at a speed of about 200 characters per second. The correct candidate is one of the first three candidates more than 99.99% of the time if all characters are 20‐point size. The image processor executes variable functions by changing parameters, such as recognition by partial image, extraction of blurred regions of character image, alternate use of dictionaries for multifont text, matching by using feature vectors for word recognition, and so on.
Extended relaxation matching method, that includes dynamic‐programming matching method
Authors: Horiuchi Takahiko , Toraichi Kazuo , Yamamoto Kazuhiko , Yamada Hiromitsu 
Published: July 2007

AbstractVarious optimization methods are considered in image processing and pattern recognition. These methods have hitherto been considered independently; the purpose of this study is to systematize them, despite their difficult natures, and to indicate clearly what features they have in common and where they diverge.As a first step toward this goal, this paper proposes a method called the “extended relaxation matching method,” which is an extension of ordinary relaxation matching. It is shown that dynamic‐programming (DP) matching can be treated as a special case of the extended method.The DP matching method is transformed in this paper into an equivalent form called product‐type DP matching. The relationship between the extended relaxation matching and the DP matching is discussed on the basis of this equivalent form. It is shown that DP matching constitutes a special case of the extended relaxation matching method. As a consequence, the recurrence formula that is the core of processing by DP matching corresponds to the procedures used in all algorithms extended relaxation matching.
The Colonial state in Northern Ghana: the political economy of pacification
Authors: Plange Nii‐K 
Published: July 2007

The installation of the colonial capitalist economic system required the creation of certain socio‐political structures to ensure the reorganisation of indigenous economies for accumulation. This precipitated the appearance and the gradual and sometimes violent extension of the colonial state into the hinterland of the colonies. The concept ‘colonial state’ is employed here to denote its characteristic difference from the state as it emerged in the context of European capitalism. The state in the colonies was imposed from above and supervised a captive population and economy, which together were ‘protected’ for expatriate metropolitan capitalism, and was largely responsible to the metropolitan state. The latter provided unusual limits to its operation.
Colonial capitalism was a ‘bastard’ form of capitalism as the state's presence was over‐arching and also denied indigenous capitalist entrepreneurs from any substantial participation in the economy. It did this within Ghana through legislation which undercut local and favoured expatriate capital and allowed the latter considerable freedom of operation. The colonial state underwrote the process of expatriate capital accumulation by encouraging labour recruitment (many times forcefully) and the payment of low wages and by restricting labour unionisation. Agricultural producers were denied direct access to markets except through expatriate merchant houses which manipulated prices. Control of the colonial economy affected the process of class formation as the colonial state encouraged differential participation in the economy by various regions and communities among the colonised population.
Trade had existed between African communities and Europeans before colonisation. In this pattern of trade, relatively equal partners had exchanged their goods without the need for domination. Colonisation introduced the domination of one partner. European capital sought to wrest the control of trade and resources from the hands of local traders and reduce them to producers, wage earners or both. This would ensure a constant production of commodities for export which would not depend upon the goodwill of indigenous rulers.
The Agrarian question and politics in the ‘New’ South Africa
Authors: Levin Richard , Weiner Daniel 
Published: July 2007

New right and neo‐liberal ‘development’ discourses have heavily impacted on the politics of agrarian restructuring in South Africa. Mechanisms for resolving agrarian contradictions are being discussed and presented as abstract planning decisions to be made by agricultural and rural development experts. This legitimation of ‘neo‐classicism’, if unchallenged, will reproduce and support current neo‐apartheid forms of restructuring.
In this article, we argue for a process of agrarian transformation where rural political mobilisation and the establishment of viable agricultural production systems are complementary. The paper is not an exercise in proposing specific (top‐down) ‘solutions’ or ‘models’, which has become a recent pre‐occupation in South Africa. Rather, we write with the objective of supporting a process whereby democratic transformation in rural South Africa remains possible.
Corruption in Nigeria: historical perspectives
Authors: Osoba S. O. 
Published: July 2007

With this essay by Segun Osoba we begin an occasional series of guest essays by distinguished African scholars in which they reflect on key political, social and developmental issues. This essay is based on a paper presented to the August 1995 conference on Ethics in Government, organised by the Civil Liberties Organisation, at Ijebu‐Ode.

Corruption is a global phenomenon, intelligible only in its social context. It can he defined as anti‐social behaviour conferring improper benefits contrary to legal and moral norms, and which undermines the authorities’ capacity to secure the welfare of all citizens. In Nigeria it became the principal means of private accumulation during the decolonisation period, in the absence of other means, and came to shape political activity and competition after independence.
All subsequent regimes, military and civilian, have been pervaded by corruption. Aided and enhanced by oil revenues, this has created a deepening crisis of kleptocracy, shown in is most extreme form since 1984. It results in a combination of scandalous wealth among the ruling class with growing poverty, misery and degradation among the mass of Nigerians. Political life has become dominated by winner‐take‐all factional struggles, political cynicism and violence, while the economy and social institutions have been driven into decay.
Corruption has thus become a way of life in Nigeria, one which existing governments neither wish to, nor can, control. Combating corruption requires a popular participatory democracy able to monitor and hold to account those in charge of the state and the treasury.
‘Low‐tech’ Industries: Innovativeness and Development Perspectives—A Summary of a European Research Project
Authors: Hirsch‐Kreinsen Hartmut , Jacobson David , Robertson Paul L. 
Published: July 2007

Abstract
This paper introduces the findings of a European research project on the innovativeness of industrial ‘low‐tech’ sectors. This research was carried out in the context of the ongoing discussion about the emerging knowledge society. We argue that innovation depends not only on industries with frontline technological knowledge but also on low‐tech industries. Our starting point is an examination of widely held views on the strengths of high‐technology, followed by a discussion of the project’s objectives and methodology. Thirdly, we present the basic findings of the project. They include: statistical data stressing the importance of the low‐tech sector; an elaboration of the main dimensions, resources and practices of low‐tech innovativeness; and the interrelationships of low‐tech with high‐tech sectors. Fourthly, we discuss policy issues derived from the findings. One key policy recommendation is to support activities raising awareness of low‐tech industries and their specific needs and conditions. A fundamental precondition for this is the development of a new, broader understanding of innovation that does not equate innovative ability with excellence in R&D alone. Finally, we emphasise that, in spite of globalisation and growing competition, prospects for a substantial range of low‐tech and medium low‐tech (LMT) sectors and companies are bright in the high‐tech countries of the European Union.
Democracy Promotion as Foreign Policy: Some Cautionary Reflections
Authors: Lovell David 
Published: July 2007

AbstractActivities by one state to promote democracy in another are now more visible and systematic than they have ever been. Numerous governments, international organizations and private associations spend billions of dollars to build, deepen and defend democracy around the world. Promoting democracy elsewhere forms the centre piece of the foreign policies of the United States and the European Union, and is used to justify a wide range of actions, from election observation to education of public officials, but also includes the controversial 2003 US invasion and subsequent occupation of Iraq. To judge from the rhetoric, promoting democracy elsewhere has become a guiding theme both of the foreign policies of liberal democracies and of international relations more generally.This article draws chiefly on the experiences of the United States and the European Union — the two most important democracy promoters. It suggests that the prominence given to promoting democracy elsewhere as part of the foreign policies of liberal democracies tends to diminish the challenges of democratization and has the potential to exacerbate international tensions, bring democracy itself into disrepute, and diminish the role of traditional diplomacy in managing differences between states.
Reforming Foreign Services for the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Riordan Shaun 
Published: July 2007

AbstractNew technology, new actors, new issues and the breakdown of distinctions between foreign and domestic policy have undermined diplomats' monopoly over international relations. Foreign services have been overtaken by these changes and are no longer up to the challenges of defending and promoting national interests in the twenty-first century. They need radical reform of their structures, culture, recruitment and training. Above all, they need to reinforce their capacity for medium- and long-term geopolitical analysis and strategic thinking and introduce greater flexibility into their operations. Nevertheless, an effective foreign service is ever more essential to a country's security and economic and social welfare. Governments should give higher priority to foreign service reform. This article suggests specific areas to consider.
On detecting interference from endogenous antibodies in immunoassays by doubling dilutions test
Authors: Ismail Adel A.A. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractThe clinical laboratory may perform additional test or tests to ascertain the integrity of immunoassay analyses when the results are in doubt. Doubling serial dilutions is one of these confirmatory tests. Doubling dilutions is a useful and informative test for detecting inaccuracy and potential interference from endogenous antibodies in immunoassays. Despite its technical simplicity, the science underpinning this test is highly complex. Appreciating such complexities could help in understanding the various outcomes of such tests from misleadingly inaccurate but virtually linear/parallel results, despite the presence of interfering antibodies in some immunoassays, to an array of non-linearity/non-parallelism synonymous with interference in others. A lack of parallelism/linearity could identify some 60% of samples with inaccurate and potentially misleading results caused by endogenous interfering antibodies. Assessing real-time binding kinetics using techniques such as non-linear regression analysis or linearised transformations such as the Scatchard plot could help in identifying more samples in which the doubling dilutions test remains linear and parallel.Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:851–4.
Pharmacogenomics and adverse drug reactions in diagnostic and clinical practice
Authors: Manolopoulos Vangelis G. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractPharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics deal with genetically determined variations in how individuals respond to drugs. They hold the potential to revolutionize drug therapy. The clinical need for novel approaches to improve pharmacotherapy stems from the high rate of adverse reactions to drugs and their lack of effectiveness in many individuals. Despite the accumulation of research findings showing the potential for clinical benefit for several drug-metabolizing enzymes and some receptors that constitute drug targets, the translation of these findings into tangible clinical applications occurs very slowly. The main steps for clinical implementation of pharmacogenomics include: a) education of clinicians and all other parties involved in the use and benefits of pharmacogenomics; b) execution of large prospective clinical and pharmacoeconomic studies showing the benefit of pharmacogenomic genotyping; c) provision of incentives to develop tests; d) development of specific clinical guidelines; and e) creation of a solid regulatory and ethical framework. Furthermore, the potential should be explored to use existing therapeutic drug monitoring laboratories to introduce pharmacogenomic testing into hospitals. Overall, our thesis is that pharmacogenomics is already a reality in clinical practice and is bound to continue gaining acceptance by clinicians in the coming years.Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:801–14.
Über die Bildung orientierter Verwachsungen unter den Bedingungen der chemischen Transportreaktionen (I)
Authors: Noack J. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractDurch Anwendung der chemischen Transportreaktionen als Aufwachsverfahren konnten orientierte Aufwachsungen von Hämatit auf Hämatit, Korund, Zinnstein, Rutil und Magnetit erhalten werden. Orientierte Abscheidungen von Ferberit auf Magnetit und Fe2 O3 · WO3 auf Hämatit wurden durch Transport von WO3 unter Verwendung von Magnetit und Hämatit als Träger hergestellt. Versuche, orientierte Abscheidungen von Hämatit auf Quarz und Adular zu erzeugen, schlugen fehl.
Über die Reinigung des Kaliumnitrats vom Strontium (Sr89) durch Zonenschmelzen und bei der Kristallisation aus Lösungen
Authors: Kirkova E. 
Published: July 2007

AbstractEs werden Versuche beschrieben über die Reinigung des Kaliumnitrats von Strontium als nicht‐isomorpher Beimengung durch Zonenschmelzen und durch Kristallisation aus Lösungen. Dabei konnte gezeigt werden, daß bei der Zonenschmelze Kaliumnitrat etwa 100 mal leichter vom Strontium gereinigt wird als ein isomorphes System mit nahezu gleichem effektiven Verteilungskoeffizienten. Die Reinigung des Kaliumnitrats vom Strontium geht bei der Kristallisation aus stark übersättigten Lösungen viel leichter vor sich als beim Zonenschmelzen. Für die Einlagerung von Beimengungen in Kaliumnitrat wird ein Adsorptionsmechanismus vorgeschlagen.
Über die Bildung orientierter Verwachsungen unter den Bedingungen der chemischen Transportreaktionen (II)
Authors: Noack Joachim 
Published: July 2007

AbstractMit Hilfe der kinetischen und phänomenologischen Theorie werden unter Berücksichtigung der zu erwartenden Übersättigungs‐ und Adsorptionsverhältnisse Aussagen über die Keimbildungsvorgänge bei der Entstehung orientierter Abscheidungen von Hämatit auf verschiedenen oxidischen Trägern erhalten.Aus dem Vergleich der kristallographischen und chemischen Eigenschaften der verwendeten Träger und der Orientierungseffekte wird die Notwendigkeit der Reaktion zwischen Transportgas und Trägerkristall für die Bildung orientierter Verwachsungen abgeleitet.