Kybernetes

Pansystems-based fuzzy systems relations and clustering : Table of Contents

Minglan Sheng — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – Melting universality, quantification and relative computability into a meta-synthesis, pansystems theory develops an investigation on W-fuzziness and 0*-fuzziness connected with generalized conceptions such as derivative, equation, variational principle and OR. The purpose of this paper is to unify various mathematical structures, fuzziness categories, definitions of systems are unified within a general framework. Design/methodology/approach – The paper includes topics: pansystems approach to fuzzy systems and relations, pansystems variational principle and Zadeh's extension principle, pansystems clustering and its fuzzy embodiment, pansystems topology and approximation to fuzziness, relative unification of fuzziness and roughness. Findings – Zadeh extension principle about fuzziness transmission can be considered as a specific model of pansystems extremum principle, and so the more modes can be developed. Based on them a further investigation is present on pansystems clustering, which is a W-fuzzy clustering, an extension or sublation of traditional one and fuzzy one. Originality/value – Pansystems clustering embodies mutuality of many logoi of different subbraches with classification-styled OR, including related interpromotions of the principles among knowledge rediscovery, data mining, mathematical reasoning and the investigations of fuzzy systems. W-fuzziness and 0*-fuzziness realize a relative unification for many logoi and principles.

Migrating personality theories Part 1: creating agentic trait psychology? : Table of Contents

Maurice Yolles — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – Pluralities of personality schemas reside across different Maruyama universes suggesting incommensurability and isolation. Schemas may migrate across Maruyama universes given appropriate means. As illustration, the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) schema for personality temperament is migrated into a sociocognitive schema through the intermediary of knowledge cybernetics (KC). MBTI is a type approach that operates with polar opposites; however, conceptually there is no reason for it not to be associated with a trait space. Supposing that MBTI has traits at some horizon of meaning, then since traits are responsible for the creation of enduring states, sociocognitive explanations should be able to explain the stable states consistent with a variation of the McCrae and Costa proposition. As a result this paper aims to formulate for the first time a link between the MBTI type schema, a trait space, and a capacity for sociocultural descriptions. Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses the meta-framework of KC, part of the relevantial universe identified by Maruyama, to formulate a representation of MBTI. This also appears to be the first serious use of the Maruyama universe concept, and the first time that MBTI has been explored from a relevantial perspective. A consequence is the possible development of a more sophisticated trait theory that is capable of providing more complex information about personality. Findings – The findings indicate that a more complex form of type theory is possible than has been provided by MBTI. Research limitations/implications – This paper is limited to the investigation of MBTI. However, it offers a generic approach that can be applied to other solitary theories like MBTI. It also postulates a trait basis for the MBTI type approach. Practical implications – The paper leads to the possibility of improved explanatory power for a type theory than is currently possible. Originality/value – The paper adopts for the first time a relevantial meta-framework approach to explore a development of MBTI. It has value to those researchers who may wish to explore the potential of more complex forms of type personality theory than are currently available.

On various neutrosophic topologies : Table of Contents

Francisco Gallego Lupiáñez — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – Recently, F. Smarandache generalized the Atanassov's intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs) and other kinds of sets to neutrosophic sets (NSs) and also defined various notions of neutrosophic topologies on the non-standard interval. One can expect some relation between the intuitionistic fuzzy topology (IFT) on an IFS and neutrosophic topologies on the non-standard interval. The purpose of this paper is to show that this is false. Design/methodology/approach – The possible relations between the intuitionistic fuzzzy topology and neutrosophic topologies are studied. Findings – Relations on IFT and neutrosophic topologies. Research limitations/implications – Clearly, the paper is confined to IFSs and NSs. Practical implications – The main applications are in the mathematical field. Originality/value – The paper shows original results on fuzzy sets and topology.

New results on the approximate solution of the non-linear partial derivative equation system of corona-electrostatic separation : Table of Contents

Armand Caron — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to add precisions to a method, to demonstrate the convergence, to explain time and memory space complexities and new simulated results on a non-linear partial derivative equation system governing corona-electrostatic electric field for granular mixture separation. Design/methodology/approach – The method converts the non-linear partial derivative system into an iterative system of linear equations. Using the well-known finite difference approximation, a numerical solution is computed very quickly. Findings – The paper gives the truncated error and the approximation error to conclude to the convergence. Originality/value – The paper shows the fast numerical solution leads to confidence in the numerical approximations for the comprehension of the phenomenon. Extends the corona-electrostatic electric field for granular mixture separation to new geometries easily.

Extracting order from chaos : Table of Contents

Joseph Sherif, Ram Singhania — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to advance research that portrays chaos in number theory. Classical and quantum physics, and lately pure mathematics and system that exhibit deductive inference produced randomness and unpredictability over time. Design/methodology/approach – This paper discusses the fact that in raising numbers to higher powers, it is noticed that the scale of intensities of order and tidiness is very poor and chaos occurs mainly when numbers are raised to even powers. When numbers are raised to odd powers, the chaos is obtained still, but was able to extract order from this chaos strangely enough. Findings – Linear relationships if left to themselves long enough will eventually produce disorderly chaotic and inconsistent results. Chaos are being found where the order was thought to be found. But then, looking more closely, unexplained order is being found in what looked like chaos. Practical implications – The results of this research may be applied to develop algorithms for random number generation and also for developing encryption algorithms for routers security and privacy. Originality/value – The paper tackles one of the most unexplained phenomena where scientists are findings chaos where they thought they would find order.

Electron microscopy pictures, mathematical model and approximate solution of the surface potential : Table of Contents

Claude Gagnadre, Armand Caron, Hervé Guézénoc, Yves Grohens — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to compare a picture obtained by means of electron microscopy, resulting from the interaction of an electron beam with the material surface, and the numerical mapping of the material surface potentials. This new method has been successfully applied to a composite material and will be checked to describe other complex materials. Design/methodology/approach – This surface potential function is calculated by a numerical approximation of Laplace's equation with three variables reduced to two variables by using the continuity assumptions on the potential. Findings – The results are particularly satisfactory and allow future developments in electron microscopy picture analysis to be forecasted. Originality/value – This paper demonstrates new approximated operator of the surface potential with good accordance between experimental and calculated values.

Self-referencing as socio-scientific methodology in contrasting paradigms : Table of Contents

Masudul Alam Choudhury, S.I. Zaman — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to critique Gödel's and Tarski's axiomatic approach in their theorems of incompleteness of the arithmetical system. Design/methodology/approach – Mathematical theory of self-referencing is contrasted and an original contribution made by an extension of the same theorem beyond Godel and Tarski, showing how the Islamic epistemology contributes to establishing new thought in mathematical logic with unity of the divine law. Findings – The paper finds that behind the critique of the axioms of provability and non-provability, decidability and undecidability, lies the morally valid episteme of all socio-scientific systems and that this is as true of social systems as it is of the hard-core sciences. Research limitations/implications – The paper has the potential for extension to applications, which has not been included. Originality/value – The paper contributes to new and original thinking in the area of mathematical logic of self-referencing theorem in the framework of unity of the divine law as the episteme of “everything”.

Resolution of industrial problems by a simple and universal new method : Table of Contents

Yves Cherruault — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe a general method for solving all problems arising in industrial processes and more generally in operational research. Design/methodology/approach – The paper's aim is to present a new method based on a-dense curves first developed at the beginning of the 1980s by Yves Cherruault and Arthur Guillez. This technique allows to solve all problems of operational research in a simple way. For instance, industrial problems leading to optimization or optimal control problems can be easily and precisely solved by this very general technique. The main idea consists in expressing n variables by means of a single one. Findings – This new method, based on “alpha-dense curves” allows to express n variables in function of a single variable. One of the most important applications is related to global optimization. Multivariable optimization problems can be quickly and easily solved, even for great numbers of variables and for integer or boolean variables. Every problem (linear or nonlinear) coming from operational research or from industry becomes simple to solve in a very short time on micro-calculators. Originality/value – This method is deduced from the original works of Yves Cherruault et al. of MEDIMAT laboratory. The reducing transformations were initiated at the beginning of the 1980s by Yves Cherruault and Arthur Guillez. Then they were generalized by the notion of a-dense curves. A lot of applications were derived covering entirely the operational research and a part of functional analysis.

Global optimization in integer or mixed variables and applications to industrial problems : Table of Contents

Jean Claude Mazza — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe some applications of a universal method to industrial problems. Design/methodology/approach – This method, called Alienor, is based on a-dense curves, allowing to fill a space Rn and to express n variables by means of a single variable. Findings – Using this method, any industrial problem leading to a cost function (linear or not) becomes easily and quickly resolved, even when integer or mixed variables are to be considered. Originality/value – The paper is of value in showing how a-dense curves allow the solving of most problems of operational research by using classical softwares.

Diffusion of extended structures I polymers : Table of Contents

Bernard Gaveau — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the diffusive motion of a polymer. Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes the Fokker-Planck equation for the probability distribution of the positions of the monomers and the stochastic equation for their positions (in the large friction limit). The average position is studied for a free polymer ring or an attached ring, respectively. Findings – It is found that this motion is subdiffusive: at time t, the average position of the polymer is of order t1/4 rather than t1/2. Originality/value – The paper is of value in showing that it is wrong to consider a polymer as a particle of large mass, owing to the fact the polymer has an internal structure.

Characterizing Cantorian sets by entropy-like quantities : Table of Contents

Konstantinos Karamanos — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to discuss the recognizability of Cantorian stochastic automata by generalized entropy-like qualities. Design/methodology/approach – The paper gives a necessary entropy condition, valid for all sequences on the alphabet {0, 1} read by lumping and generated by a Cantorian stochastic automaton. Findings – The paper finds that, on this basis, once can determine that a given sequence is not generated by Cantorian stochastic automata and reconstruct the automaton when the sequence is generated by a Cantorian stochastic automaton. Originality/value – This paper derives a new diagnostic for Cantorian stochastic automata, which could find a direct application to biology, where there is a recent claim that the coding regions of chromosomes form Cantor sets.

Solving integral equations of the first kind by decomposition method : Table of Contents

Ngarkodje Ngarasta — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to find methods for solving linear or non-linear integral equations. The decomposition method may be applied, but a difficulty arises when it is applied to integral equations of the first kind which are not in canonical form. This paper aims to describe some techniques to obtain canonical form of Adomian decomposition method (ADM) for solving integral equations of the first kind. Design/methodology/approach – Among various numerical methods for solving integral equations, the ADM has shown a good skill for determining the solutions as polynomial series forms. In this paper, some methods based on regularization, derivation or substitution techniques are presented to permit the application of ADM to integral equations of the first kind. Findings – By using the three proposed methods the decomposition method can then be easily used to solve integral equations of the first kind. The three methods allow to obtain the canonical form and a solution to find using the ADM. Research limitations/implications – The three methods provide the solution by the application of the decomposition method of George Adomian as extended by other researchers. All are efficient: the derivation and substitution techniques giving interesting results for linear and non-linear equations of Volterra type; the regularization technique is also efficient for the equations of Fredholm type, but difficulties could arise from the calculations of the required series. Practical implications – The research provides three efficient methods for solving integral equations of first kind. Originality/value – The three methods illustrate the powerful use of the decomposition techniques pioneered by Adomian and a result of their applications may be applied for solving of functional equations of any kind. This paper shows some methods for applying the Adomian techniques to integral equations of the first kind.

Web mining technologies for customer and marketing surveys : Table of Contents

Richard S. Segall, Qingyu Zhang — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the usefulness and results of applying web mining as extensions of data mining. Design/methodology/approach – Web mining is performed using three selected software to databases related to customer survey, marketing campaign data, and web site usage. The three selected software are PolyAnalyst® of Megaputer Intelligence, Inc., SPSS Clementine®, and ClickTracks by Web Analytics. Findings – This paper discusses and compares the web mining technologies used by the selected software as applied to text, web, and click stream data. Research limitations/implications – The limitations include the availability of databases and software to perform the web mining. The implications include that this methodology can be extended to other databases. Practical implications – The methodology used in this paper could be representative of that used for managers to manage their relationships with customers, their marketing campaigns, and their web site activities. Originality/value – PolyAnalyst is applied to analyze text data of actual written hotel comments. SPSS Clementine is applied to customer web data collected in response to several different marketing campaigns, including age, gender, and income. ClickTracks is applied to click-stream data for Bob's Fruit web site to generate click fraud report, search report with revenues, pay-per-click, and search keywords for all visitors.

Requisite variety: more on Gaia : Table of Contents

Alex M. Andrew — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to mention a set of suggestions for analysing the current financial crisis, but with reservations about the usefulness of one based on Ashby's principle of requisite variety. The reservations are supported by reference to a mechanism of chemotaxis in bacteria. A recent publication concerning the Gaia hypothesis and global warming is reviewed. Design/methodology/approach – The aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest. Findings – The significance of complexity, in government and management, is not disputed, but doubts are expressed about validity of laws that are purported to treat it quantitatively. A pessimistic view of world future is due to James Lovelock, the originator of the Gaia hypothesis, though there is some reason to believe he is more hopeful than is suggested in an interview. Practical implications – The reservations about Ashby's treatment of complexity are essentially theoretical and do not negate findings based on its robust and imprecise application. Lovelock indicates a means of saving the Earth from disastrous climate change but has little hope that it will be implemented. Originality/value – It is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.

A Taylor expansion approach using Faà di Bruno's formula for solving nonlinear integral equations of the second and third kind : Table of Contents

Feyed Ben Zitoun, Yves Cherruault — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a method for solving nonlinear integral equations of the second and third kind. Design/methodology/approach – The method converts the nonlinear integral equation into a system of nonlinear equations. By solving the system, the solution can be determined. Comparing the methodology with some known techniques shows that the present approach is simple, easy to use, and highly accurate. Findings – The proposed technique allows the authors to obtain an approximate solution in a series form. Test problems are given to illustrate the pertinent features of the method. The accuracy of the numerical results indicates that the technique is efficient and well-suited for solving nonlinear integral equations. Originality/value – The present approach provides a reliable technique that avoids the difficulties and massive computational work if compared with the traditional techniques and does not require discretization in order to find solutions to the given problems.

A new algorithm for solving nonlinear boundary value problems : Table of Contents

Feyed Ben Zitoun, Yves Cherruault — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a new algorithm for solving nonlinear boundary value problems (BVPs). Design/methodology/approach – The method converts the nonlinear BVP into a system of nonlinear equations. By solving the system, the solution can be determined. Comparing the methodology with some known techniques shows that the present approach is simple, easy to use and highly accurate. Findings – The proposed technique allows us to obtain an approximate solution in a series form which satisfies all the given conditions. Test problems are given to illustrate the pertinent features of the method. The accuracy of the numerical results indicates that the technique is efficient and well suited for solving nonlinear differential equations with initial and boundary conditions. Originality/value – The paper provides a reliable technique which avoids the tedious work needed by classical techniques and existing numerical methods and does not require discretization in order to find the solutions of the given problems.

Alienor method to solve multi-objective linear programming (MOLP) : Table of Contents

Mahamat Maimos, Yves Cherruault, Balira O. Konfe, Ange-gar S. Nkokolo Massamba — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present an efficient algorithm to solve multi-objective linear programming (MOLP) problem. Design/methodology/approach – This new approach consists to convert the constrained multicriteria problem into an unconstrained global optimization problem. Then, the Alienor method coupled to the optimization preserving operators* (OPO*) technique is used to solve the transformed problem. Findings – A determinist algorithm for solving general MOLP problem contributes to research in the decision-makers area. Research limitations/implications – Some improvements could probably be obtained. In future work, other scalarized functions will be used and this algorithm's complexity will be studied. Practical implications – The new algorithm can be advantageously compared with other methods To illustrate this new approach, an example is studied. Originality/value – A new algorithm is given which guarantees all efficient solutions are easily obtained in most cases.

Modelling and mathematical studies of neuronal NO-synthase: NO versus NA theory : Table of Contents

Saïd Guellal, Alain Meulemans, Salim Khelifa — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present modelling and mathematical studies of neuronal NO-synthase and discuss the case for nitric oxide (NO) versus nitroso-arginine (NA) theory. Design/methodology/approach – Introduces recent studies, NO studied models and the experimental model before considering the diffusion-reaction model. Enzymatic kinetics and an analysis of systems and the NA diffusion equations in mice cortex are given. Numerical results are featured. Findings – Based on these studies, both a bio-mathematical and physiological conclusions are given. The way to protect the brain was to inhibit the NO-synthase of the neurons during a stroke. Originality/value – The paper is of value, particularly as stroke is the second leading cause of mortality worldwide and the most common cause of dementia in western countries. In Europe, each year, over 1,200,000 people experience a stroke.

Stability of the linearization method in compartmental analysis : Table of Contents

Belkhaled Hebri, Salim Khelifa, Yves Cherruault — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to prove that under sufficient conditions the linearization method used for identifying a nonlinear bicompartmental system is stable. Design/methodology/approach – The problem of identifying a nonlinear compartmental system appears as badly stated a priori. In fact the problem is not to identify the general behavior law of exchange between compartments, but to assume these laws known such as in Michaelis-Menten systems or in polynomial compartmental systems with coefficients that need to be identified. It has been proved previously that with a linearization method an approximation can be obtained to the identification of these nonlinear systems. To validate this method, a stability study is necessary. Findings – Sufficient conditions are established for the evolution law of a nonlinear bicompartmental system under which the linearization method is stable, and an upper bound is given on the approximation error – with an application, in the last section to the case of an open Michaelis-Menten system. Originality/value – The paper is of value in establishing sufficient conditions about the evolution law of a nonlinear system in order to show that this method is stable and to give an upper bound on the approximation error.

Quantum computing, Wikis : Table of Contents

Alex M. Andrew — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review some applications of supercomputers, with the observation that a readily available PlayStation can rival supercomputers of a decade ago. Applications to ocean modelling and to examination of possibilities for quantum computing are discussed. Also discussed are the meaning of the term Wiki, and uses of Wikis in language learning. Design/methodology/approach – The aim is to review developments on the internet, especially those of general cybernetic interest. Findings – Supercomputers have valuable applications in biological modelling, medical record keeping and climatic studies and there is particular interest in their use to explore possibilities of quantum computing which may be the key to more powerful machines of the future. The value of Wikis is not confined to the Wikipedia. Practical implications – PlayStations are likely to be taken seriously as programmable computers in certain areas. Possibilities for a new generation of quantum computers are discussed, as is also the use of Wikis in language learning. Originality/value – It is hoped this is a valuable periodic review.

The role of sociocybernetics in understanding world futures : Table of Contents

Bernard Scott — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to set out some ideas about how sociocybernetics can contribute to understanding possible world futures. A central concept in cybernetics is “governance”, the art of steersmanship. As conceived by Ashby, Beer and others, this art is concerned with the management of variety. How do we face the challenge of managing all the variety that makes up “possible world futures”? Design/methodology/approach – The paper uses the distinction between first and second order cybernetics as a way of bringing order to the wide variety of disciplinary studies that are relevant for the understanding of possible world futures. Findings – Sociocybernetics is concerned with applying theories and methods from cybernetics and the systems sciences to the social sciences by offering concepts and tools for addressing problems holistically and globally. With its distinction between first order studies of observed systems and the second order study of observing systems, sociocybernetics provides a unifying epistemological and methodological conceptual framework. Within this framework, sociocybernetics accommodates a wealth of specialisms in the social sciences, ranging, for example, from the drivers and effects of technological development to sustainability to justice. The shared framework facilitates communication between social science specialisms and also between the social sciences, the natural sciences and the applied, technological sciences. Originality/value – The paper will be of interest to anyone keen to see how ideas from cybernetics and the systems sciences can facilitate interdisciplinary approaches to the understanding of complex social systems.

Global optimization by V-dense curves in topological vector spaces : Table of Contents

Gaspar Mora — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to solve a global optimization problem raised from industry, named the M-problem, posed in the space L1 of Lebesgue measurable functions of integrable absolute value. Design/methodology/approach – The paper introduces the new concept of V-dense curve (VDC), a generalization of that of a-dense curve, to densify subsets of topological vector spaces not necessarily metrisable. It is proved that the feasible set of the M-problem, namely the subset D of L1 of all probability functions, is densifiable by VDC provided that L1 to be endowed with the weak topology. Findings – It is proved that the M-problem, consisting of finding a probability function f of D associated to the mean life of an electronic devise that minimizes the expectation defined by a certain functional on L1, is not a well-posed problem in D. Nevertheless, by virtue of the compactness, the M-problem has solution on each weak VDC in D for arbitrary weak 0-neighbourhood V, which allows to find an approximate probability function with arbitrary precision. Originality/value – The paper has designed, by means of the VDC-method, a convergent algorithm to find approximate solutions in ill-posed global optimization problems when the feasible set is contained in a non-metrisable topological vector space.

On the new numerical solution of corona-electrostatic electric field model with inductive electrostatic electrode for the industrial separation of granular mixture : Table of Contents

Armand Caron — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to study the industrial separation of granular mixture by approximation of combined corona-electrostatic electric field with feeder and inductive electrostatic electrode. Design/methodology/approach – The original numerical method developed in Caron's Kybernetes paper is used and extended to an industrial construction. The method gives a mathematical model of an industrial process and converts the non-linear partial derivative system into an iterative system of linear equations. Using the well-known finite difference approximation, a numerical solution is computed very quickly. Findings – In order to really obtain a computer-aided numerical solution, it is necessary to define a really manageable approximation method. The new simulation results are detailed and show better results for the steady state in time processing and finally, to imagine improvements of the industrial processes. Originality/value – The paper shows the fast numerical solution, which leads to confidence in the numerical approximations to imagine improvements of the industrial processes easily.

Using multi-criteria decision aid to rank and select co-branding partners: From a brand personality perspective : Table of Contents

Wei-Lun Chang — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to utilize the big five models of brand personality concept to explore potential co-branding partners by employing the multi-attribute utility theory (MAUT) to estimate and rank utilities for possible partners from the big five models. Design/methodology/approach – Design science, an artifact of proof-of-concept system is used for deciding co-branding partners. Findings – The present study attempts to demonstrate the proof-of-concept of the proposed MAUT-based decision model for a company in determining a beneficial and supportive co-branding partner. Practical implications – This paper aims to provide clues for industries in terms of providing a MAUT-based decision-making approach and a strategic information system. Examples from the telecommunication industry also demonstrate the feasibility of the approach. Originality/value – The proposed decision-making method: provides clues for ranking and selection of co-branding partners; explores the brand personality of the potential partners primitively; utilizes the MAUT approach to estimate utilities of the partners; and furnishes a roadmap for brand alliance research.

Global research and development: some new initiatives : Table of Contents

B.H. Rudall, C.J.H. Mann — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This paper aims to review current research and developments with particular reference to some global initiatives. Design/methodology/approach – A general review and survey of selected research and development topics is given, and studies of some new projects and programmes discussed. Findings – Illustrates the multi- and trans-disciplinary natures of studies in cybernetics, systems and management science, with a view to further research and development activity. Practical implications – The choice of reviews provides an awareness of current trends in these areas of endeavour. Originality/value – The reviews are selected from a global database and give a studied-assessment of current research and development initiatives.

Soft systems and research : Table of Contents

Frank Stowell — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – This paper is written in response to the question “What developments are taking place in systems?” as a contribution to the November 2006 Cybernetics Conference. The paper is based upon the assumption that what is meant by the question relates to research in an area of systems known as soft systems. Design/methodology/approach – The paper begins with clarification about “Systems” and then the reader is taken on a personal journey through what are considered to be important contributions to soft systems research. The account includes reference to philosophical treatise on aspects relevant to some of the difficulties facing subjective research and some outcomes from research germane to the development of these ideas. Findings – The paper recounts lessons learnt from the practice about the nature of undertaking soft systems research and whilst acknowledging that this research continues suggests that because of these soft systems has an intellectual and practical foundation. Originality/value – Systems has become more contemplative about the nature of the world and how each one makes sense of it. Systems thinking and practice is no longer based solely on biological models but has a greater emphasis placed upon understanding and learning. Systems thinking now makes explicit that what comprises the whole is subjective but rigorous. The paper is of value to soft systems researchers and practitioners especially those who are attempting research/practice in which the clients are encouraged to participate in the process of learning.

Concurrent processing of mixed-integer non-linear programming problems : Table of Contents

Ralf Östermark — Sun Jul 05 14:15:04 BST 2009

Abstract:
Purpose – To discuss a new parallel algorithmic platform (minlp_machine) for complex mixed-integer non-linear programming (MINLP) problems. Design/methodology/approach – The platform combines features from classical non-linear optimization methodology with novel innovations in computational techniques. The system constructs discrete search zones around noninteger discrete-valued variables at local solutions, which simplifies the local optimization problems and reduces the search process significantly. In complicated problems fast feasibility restoration may be achieved through concentrated Hessians. The system is programmed in strict ANSI C and can be run either stand alone or as a support library for other programs. File I/O is designed to recognize possible usage in both single and parallel processor environments. The system has been tested on Alpha, Sun and Linux mainframes and parallel IBM and Cray XT4 supercomputer environments. The constrained problem can, for example, be solved through a sequence of first order Taylor approximations of the non-linear constraints and feasibility restoration utilizing Hessian information of the Lagrangian of the MINLP problem, or by invoking a nonlinear solver like SQP directly in the branch and bound tree. minlp_machine( ) has been tested as a support library to genetic hybrid algorithm (GHA). The GHA(minlp_machine) platform can be used to accelerate the performance of any linear or non-linear node solver. The paper introduces a novel multicomputer partitioning of the discrete search space of genuine MINLP-problems. Findings – The system is successfully tested on a small sample of representative MINLP problems. The paper demonstrates that – through concurrent nonlinear branch and bound search – minlp_machine( ) outperforms some recent competing approaches with respect to the number of nodes in the branch and bound tree. Through parallel processing, the computational complexity of the local optimization problems is reduced considerably, an important aspect for practical applications. Originality/value – This paper shows that binary-valued MINLP-problems will reduce to a vector of ordinary non-linear programming on a suitably sized mesh. Correspondingly, INLP- and ILP-problems will require no quasi-Newton steps or simplex iterations on a compatible mesh.