The aim of this paper is to present and analyze the factors, motivations and criteria considered in the decision-making processes of the actors belonging to the biodiesel production chain in Brazil. The biodiesel prod...The aim of this paper is to present and analyze the factors, motivations and criteria considered in the decision-making processes of the actors belonging to the biodiesel production chain in Brazil. The biodiesel production chain consists of three main agents： the farmers, the soybean processing plants and the oil refinery/distributor. For the farmers organized in cooperatives the central decision is whether to sell oil-bearing crops for the production of biodiesel. In contrast, for the soybean processing plants that convert the crops into vegetable and/or biodiesel, the decision to produce this fuel is based on the wish to expand their market portfolio. Government tax incentives strongly influence both decisions regarding which oil-bearing crop to use and the amount of vegetable oil to be transformed into biodiesel. Finally, the oil refinery/distributor is obliged by law to mix the biodiesel with the mineral diesel and perceives this as a liability. The results show the existence of different characteristics linked to the decision-making process and a significant lack of synchronicity in the aims and motivations behind the agents＇ decisions. This state of decisional misalignment leads to heightened uncertainty regarding the sustainability of the Brazilian biodiesel production program.展开更多
Using an analytical narrative approach to understand policy change, this paper explores the Brazilian government decision to create a digital TV policy initiating major reforms in this sector. The analysis is centered...Using an analytical narrative approach to understand policy change, this paper explores the Brazilian government decision to create a digital TV policy initiating major reforms in this sector. The analysis is centered on the actors, preferences, and choices. The article is divided into three parts： （1） We address the historical institutionalism assumptions; （2） We focus on the politics of digital TV policy in Brazil; and （3） The results are highlighted, and ＂winners＂ and ＂losers＂ are identified. Actors, preferences, and choices are historically observed and related to the government decision about rules of digital TV exploitation. It provides configurational evidence that makes it possible to associate major changes to two presidential decrees （n° 4.901/2003 and n° 5.820/2006） that reflect the preferences and behavior of the main actor （broadcasters, social movements, and federal government） around the new digital TV issues. The Brazilian case shows an institutional model in which federal government＇s decisions are strongly connected with the preferences of the actor broadcasters and goes against the actor social movements.展开更多
Community participation and community based management are topical themes in current policy and discussion revolving around decision-making processes especially those dealing with natural resources management.This rev...Community participation and community based management are topical themes in current policy and discussion revolving around decision-making processes especially those dealing with natural resources management.This review shows that while governments have accepted the need to either cede or devolve control and management of natural resources to the local communities,the communities are not part and parcel of the planning and budgeting which are crucial in decisionmaking.Communities were seen to be more involved in the implementation of natural resource management programs but lacked ownership of the projects.This causes lack of commitment to the programs and at times hostile reaction from the communities.The communities are always at the receiving end when it pertains to losses in the exchange.Community participation was shown to be effective when the local population is involved not as co-operating users but as natural resource managers or owner managers.展开更多
The study determined the roles of agricultural extension in hybrid rice technology decision-making process by extension agents,Nay Pyi Taw,Myanmar.The specific objectives were:to study personal characteristics of agri...The study determined the roles of agricultural extension in hybrid rice technology decision-making process by extension agents,Nay Pyi Taw,Myanmar.The specific objectives were:to study personal characteristics of agricultural extension agents,experiences and their roles,to identify extension agents’opinion on hybrid rice technology decision-making process,and to determine relationship between the roles of agricultural extension agents and decision-making process of hybrid rice production.One hundred and eight extension agents were collected who were working in Department of Agriculture,Nay Pyi Taw area and surveyed and interviewed by questionnaires.The study revealed that majority of agricultural extension agents(65.7%)were female staffs and most of extension agents(40.7%)were under 30 years as young staffs.Majority of extension agents(81.5%)were educated only Agri-Diploma.More than half(54.6%)had one to five-year experiences in employment and 58.3%had no hybrid rice training experience and source of information regarding the hybrid rice production was received 63.9%from Department of Agriculture(DOA).Study found that there was highly significant relationship between most of the roles of agricultural extension agents and hybrid rice technology decision-making process of stages 4 and 5.And then most of the extension agents’roles singnificantly related with stage 2 except role of conducting introduction of hybrid seeds and distribution through by Seed Co.Ltds which was highly significant.Beside,most of the roles of extension agents significantly related with stage 3.However stages 1 and 6 were no singnificantly related.Finally above all,a well structure seed business,Good Agricultural Practices and farm level mechanization and quality extension service are very important to increase the adoption of hybrid rice in Myanmar.展开更多
I the context of the Corporate Governance Code enactment in Japan, we examine how newly introduced outside directors in Japanese boards obtain information to take part in the decision-making process. We conducted a sy...I the context of the Corporate Governance Code enactment in Japan, we examine how newly introduced outside directors in Japanese boards obtain information to take part in the decision-making process. We conducted a systematic review of the literature and found 18 peer-reviewed publications in a time span between 2000 and 2016 that described the asymmetry of information between the insider group of board directors （including the CEO） and the outside board members. Our fmdings show that for the course of more than a decade, despite all changes and reforms, the role of board directors, whether insiders or outsiders, is still supplementary. They are treated more as advisors than active part in the decision-making process. We reveal different insider sources of information as forming social ties with the CEO and/or inside board directors and collaboration with Audit ＆ Supervisory Board （Kansayaku）, which can help reduce this asymmetry and improve the decision-making process. We assume that it will be easier for the outsiders to establish contacts and form social ties with the Audit ＆ Supervisory Board members because of their unspoken lower status and thus to obtain more information about the company internal affairs and discussions that take place during the informal meetings, where only insiders （including the CEO） are present.展开更多
Objective: Up to 40% of women over 70 years with primary operable breast cancer in the UK are treated with primary endocrine therapy(PET) as an alternative to surgery. A variety of factors are important in determining...Objective: Up to 40% of women over 70 years with primary operable breast cancer in the UK are treated with primary endocrine therapy(PET) as an alternative to surgery. A variety of factors are important in determining treatment for older breast cancer patients. This study aimed to identify the patient and tumor factors associated with treatment allocation in this population.Methods: Prospectively collected data on treatment received(surgery vs. PET) were analysed with multivariable logistic regression using the variables age, modified Charlson Comorbidity Index(CCI), activities of daily living(ADL) score, Mini-Mental State Examination(MMSE) score, HER2 status, tumour size, grade and nodal status. Results: Data were available for 1,122 cancers in 1,098 patients recruited between February 2013 and June 2015 from 51 UK hospitals. About 78% of the population were treated surgically, with the remainder being treated with PET. Increasing patient age at diagnosis, increasing CCI score, large tumor size(5 cm or more) and dependence in one or more ADL categories were all strongly associated with non-surgical treatment(P<0.05).Conclusion: Increasing comorbidity, large tumor size and reduced functional ability are associated with reduced likelihood of surgical treatment of breast cancer in older patients. However, age itself remains a significant factor for non-surgical treatment; reinforcing the need for evidence-based guidelines.展开更多
Decision-making is the process of deciding between two or more options in order to take the most appropriate and successful course of action in order to achieve sustainable mangrove management. However, the distinctiv...Decision-making is the process of deciding between two or more options in order to take the most appropriate and successful course of action in order to achieve sustainable mangrove management. However, the distinctiveness of mangrove as an ecosystem, and thus the attendant socio-economic and governance ramifications, causes the idea of decision making to become relatively distinct from other decision making process As a result, the purpose of this research was to evaluate the impact that community engagement plays in the decision-making process as it relates to the establishment of governance norms for sustainable mangrove management in Lamu County. In this study, a correlational research design was applied, and the researchers employed a mixed techniques approach. The target population was 296 respondents. The research used questionnaires and interviews to collect data. A descriptive statistical technique was utilized to perform an inspection and analysis on the data that was gathered. The findings indicated that having awareness about governance standards is beneficial during the process of making decisions. In addition, the findings demonstrated that respondents had the impression that the decision-making process was not done properly. On the other hand, the participants pointed out the positive aspects of the decision-making process and agreed that the participation of both gender was essential for the sustainable management of mangroves. Based on these data, it appeared that full community engagement in decision-making is necessary for sustainable management of mangrove forests.展开更多
<span style="font-family:Verdana;">T</span><span><span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">his research ...<span style="font-family:Verdana;">T</span><span><span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">his research develops and elaborates studies done for a contribution to the 2019 PIC International Conference 2019 in Malta, about the decision-making process. Decision-making is the act of choosing between two or more courses of action. In the wider process of problem-solving, decision-making involves choosing between possible solutions to a problem, and these decisions can be made through either an intuitive or reasoned process, or a combination of the two. The study of decision-making processes, to be understood as the role of human factors, becomes particularly interesting in complex organizations. This research aims to analyze how an effective team, within organizations, can develop a more correct and effective decision-making, in order to get an optimal solution, overcoming the typical uncertainty. The paper describes the point of departure of decision in complex, time-pressured, uncertain, ambiguous and changing environments. The use of a leading case (the Tenerife air accident, 1977), will lead us to the desired results, </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">i</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">.</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">e</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. to demonstrate how an effective decisional process, including team dynamics, can be useful to reduce the risk, present in all decisions, and reduce errors. The case of Tenerife air disaster, confirm our research. In that case, in fact, the group dynamics prove not to have worked. Thus, we can state that if a team approach had been followed instead of a more individual one, the results would probably have been different. The central belief of the research, is that classic decision theory could benefit from a team approach, which reduces the risk that a decision may lead to undesirable consequences. As demonstrated with the case study, within organizations, the decision-making is not a solitary action. Decisions, in fact, are made within a team and in order to be able to function effectively in a group, and manage group situations, there are essential skills. The team can then become a resource for the decisional process and problem solving, but it is necessary </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">to </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">understand the dynamics.</span></span></span>展开更多
The design process of the built environment relies on the collaborative effort of all parties involved in the project.During the design phase,owners,end users,and their representatives are expected to make the most cr...The design process of the built environment relies on the collaborative effort of all parties involved in the project.During the design phase,owners,end users,and their representatives are expected to make the most critical design and budgetary decisions-shaping the essential traits of the project,hence emerge the need and necessity to create and integrate mechanisms to support the decision-making process.Design decisions should not be based on assumptions,past experiences,or imagination.An example of the numerous problems that are a result of uninformed design decisions is“change orders”,known as the deviation from the original scope of work,which leads to an increase of the overall cost,and changes to the construction schedule of the project.The long-term aim of this inquiry is to understand the user’s behavior,and establish evidence-based control measures,which are actions and processes that can be implemented in practice to decrease the volume and frequency of the occurrence of change orders.The current study developed a foundation for further examination by proposing potential control measures,and testing their efficiency,such as integrating Virtual Reality(VR).The specific aim was to examine the effect of different visualization methods(i.e.,VR vs.construction drawings)on,(1)how well the subjects understand the information presented about the future/planned environment;(2)the subjects’perceived confidence in what the future environment will look like;(3)the likelihood of changing the built environment;(4)design review time;and(5)accuracy in reviewing and understanding the design.展开更多
With the increasing complexity of industrial automation,planetary gearboxes play a vital role in largescale equipment transmission systems,directly impacting operational efficiency and safety.Traditional maintenance s...With the increasing complexity of industrial automation,planetary gearboxes play a vital role in largescale equipment transmission systems,directly impacting operational efficiency and safety.Traditional maintenance strategies often struggle to accurately predict the degradation process of equipment,leading to excessive maintenance costs or potential failure risks.However,existing prediction methods based on statistical models are difficult to adapt to nonlinear degradation processes.To address these challenges,this study proposes a novel condition-based maintenance framework for planetary gearboxes.A comprehensive full-lifecycle degradation experiment was conducted to collect raw vibration signals,which were then processed using a temporal convolutional network autoencoder with multi-scale perception capability to extract deep temporal degradation features,enabling the collaborative extraction of longperiod meshing frequencies and short-term impact features from the vibration signals.Kernel principal component analysis was employed to fuse and normalize these features,enhancing the characterization of degradation progression.A nonlinear Wiener process was used to model the degradation trajectory,with a threshold decay function introduced to dynamically adjust maintenance strategies,and model parameters optimized through maximum likelihood estimation.Meanwhile,the maintenance strategy was optimized to minimize costs per unit time,determining the optimal maintenance timing and preventive maintenance threshold.The comprehensive indicator of degradation trends extracted by this method reaches 0.756,which is 41.2%higher than that of traditional time-domain features;the dynamic threshold strategy reduces the maintenance cost per unit time to 55.56,which is 8.9%better than that of the static threshold optimization.Experimental results demonstrate significant reductions in maintenance costs while enhancing system reliability and safety.This study realizes the organic integration of deep learning and reliability theory in the maintenance of planetary gearboxes,provides an interpretable solution for the predictive maintenance of complex mechanical systems,and promotes the development of condition-based maintenance strategies for planetary gearboxes.展开更多
Based on an analysis of the role of industrial control and optimization technologies in the Industrial Revolution,as well as the current situation and existing problems of operational decision-making(ODM)for industria...Based on an analysis of the role of industrial control and optimization technologies in the Industrial Revolution,as well as the current situation and existing problems of operational decision-making(ODM)for industrial process,this paper introduces the concept of intelligent ODM in industrial process,shapes its future directions,and highlights key technical challenges.By the tight conjoining of and coordination between industrial artificial intelligence(AI)with industrial control and optimization technologies,as well as the Industrial Internet with industrial computer management and control systems,an intelligent operational optimization decision-making methodology is proposed for complex industrial process.The intelligent ODM methodology and its successful application demonstrate that the tight conjoining of and coordination between next-generation information technologies with industrial control and optimization technologies will promote the development of industrial intelligent ODM.Finally,main research directions and ideas are outlined for realizing intelligent ODM in industrial process.展开更多
Based on analyzing the influences of a slicing scheme on stair-stepping effect, supporting structure, efficiency and deformation, etc. , analytical hierarchical process （AHP） combining with fuzzy synthetic evaluatio...Based on analyzing the influences of a slicing scheme on stair-stepping effect, supporting structure, efficiency and deformation, etc. , analytical hierarchical process （AHP） combining with fuzzy synthetic evaluation is introduced to make decision in slicing schemes for a processing part. The application in determining the slicing scheme for a computer mouse during prototyping shows that the method increases the rationality during decision- making and improves quality and efficiency for the prototyping part.展开更多
Background:Analysis of consumer decision making in the health sector is a complex process of comparing feasible alternatives and evaluating the levels of satisfaction associated with the relevant options.This paper ma...Background:Analysis of consumer decision making in the health sector is a complex process of comparing feasible alternatives and evaluating the levels of satisfaction associated with the relevant options.This paper makes an attempt to understand how and why consumers make specific decisions,what motivates them to adopt a specific health intervention,and what features they find attractive in each of the options.Method:The study used a descriptive-explanatory design to analyze the factors determining the choices of healthcare providers.Information was collected through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews.Results:The results suggest that the decision making related to seeking healthcare for Kala Azar(KA)treatment is a complex,interactive process.Patients and family members follow a well-defined road map for decision making.The process of decision making starts from the recognition of healthcare needs and is then modified by a number of other factors,such as indigenous knowledge,healthcare alternatives,and available resources.Household and individual characteristics also play important roles in facilitating the process of decision making.The results from the group discussions and in-depth interviews are consistent with the idea that KA patients and family members follow the rational approach of weighing the costs against the benefits of using specific types of medical care.Conclusion:The process of decision making related to seeking healthcare follows a complex set of steps and many of the potential factors affect the decision making in a non-linear fashion.Our analysis suggests that it is possible to derive a generalized road map of the decision-making process starting from the recognition of healthcare needs,and then modifying it to show the influences of indigenous knowledge,healthcare alternatives,and available resources.展开更多
This paper describes a model to simulate the decision-making process of consumers that adopts technology within a dynamic social network.The proposed model use theories and tools from the psychology of consumer behavi...This paper describes a model to simulate the decision-making process of consumers that adopts technology within a dynamic social network.The proposed model use theories and tools from the psychology of consumer behavior,social networks and complex dynamical systems like the Consumat framework and fuzzy logic.The model has been adjusted using real data,tested with the automobile market and it can recreate trends like those described in the world market.展开更多
Purpose:This research is an exploratory narrative inquiry into reflections of three Chinese international undergraduate students in a Canadian university,University S,which reveals participants’entire decision-making...Purpose:This research is an exploratory narrative inquiry into reflections of three Chinese international undergraduate students in a Canadian university,University S,which reveals participants’entire decision-making processes as potential international undergraduate students.Design/Approach/Methods:A two-dimensional analytical framework has been constructed.One dimension is based on three phases of the entire decision-making process:the phases of deciding whether or not to study abroad,selecting destination countries,and choosing target institutions.The second dimension is based on three kinds of hypothetically proposed environmental factors within each phase:policy factors,(family and regional)socioeconomic factors,and information factors.First-hand data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted based on the analytical framework.Findings:This article suggests that both policymakers in the source country(i.e.,China)and university administrators in the destination country(i.e.,Canada)should further support potential international undergraduate students during each phase of their decision-making processes,particularly through optimizing information supply channels.Originality/Value:This article has the potential to construct a new theoretical framework as a supplement for analyzing the entire decision-making process of potential international students.As a pilot study,it provides a template for further investigations.展开更多
一、作为哲学的AI for Process(一)郭为的哲学思想1.郭为是谁郭为是谁?他是一位哲学家。顺便说,他同时还领导着神州数码。为什么说郭为是哲学家呢?因为他在著作中谈到高深的哲学,如“数据如水,奔流不息,无界融合”。他引述古希腊哲学家...一、作为哲学的AI for Process(一)郭为的哲学思想1.郭为是谁郭为是谁?他是一位哲学家。顺便说,他同时还领导着神州数码。为什么说郭为是哲学家呢?因为他在著作中谈到高深的哲学,如“数据如水,奔流不息,无界融合”。他引述古希腊哲学家赫拉克利特所说的“万物流转”,又说“你不能两次踏进同一条河流,因为新的水不断地流过你的身旁”,他所表达的意思是“世界上唯一不变的就是变化”。展开更多
Collision avoidance decision-making models of multiple agents in virtual driving environment are studied. Based on the behavioral characteristics and hierarchical structure of the collision avoidance decision-making i...Collision avoidance decision-making models of multiple agents in virtual driving environment are studied. Based on the behavioral characteristics and hierarchical structure of the collision avoidance decision-making in real life driving, delphi approach and mathematical statistics method are introduced to construct pair-wise comparison judgment matrix of collision avoidance decision choices to each collision situation. Analytic hierarchy process （AHP） is adopted to establish the agents＇ collision avoidance decision-making model. To simulate drivers＇ characteristics, driver factors are added to categorize driving modes into impatient mode, normal mode, and the cautious mode. The results show that this model can simulate human＇s thinking process, and the agents in the virtual environment can deal with collision situations and make decisions to avoid collisions without intervention. The model can also reflect diversity and uncertainly of real life driving behaviors, and solves the multi-objective, multi-choice ranking priority problem in multi-vehicle collision scenarios. This collision avoidance model of multi-agents model is feasible and effective, and can provide richer and closer-to-life virtual scene for driving simulator, reflecting real-life traffic environment more truly, this model can also promote the practicality of driving simulator.展开更多
The critical role of patient-reported outcome measures(PROMs)in enhancing clinical decision-making and promoting patient-centered care has gained a profound significance in scientific research.PROMs encapsulate a pati...The critical role of patient-reported outcome measures(PROMs)in enhancing clinical decision-making and promoting patient-centered care has gained a profound significance in scientific research.PROMs encapsulate a patient's health status directly from their perspective,encompassing various domains such as symptom severity,functional status,and overall quality of life.By integrating PROMs into routine clinical practice and research,healthcare providers can achieve a more nuanced understanding of patient experiences and tailor treatments accordingly.The deployment of PROMs supports dynamic patient-provider interactions,fostering better patient engagement and adherence to tre-atment plans.Moreover,PROMs are pivotal in clinical settings for monitoring disease progression and treatment efficacy,particularly in chronic and mental health conditions.However,challenges in implementing PROMs include data collection and management,integration into existing health systems,and acceptance by patients and providers.Overcoming these barriers necessitates technological advancements,policy development,and continuous education to enhance the acceptability and effectiveness of PROMs.The paper concludes with recommendations for future research and policy-making aimed at optimizing the use and impact of PROMs across healthcare settings.展开更多
To solve problems of poor security guarantee and insufficient training efficiency in the conventional reinforcement learning methods for decision-making,this study proposes a hybrid framework to combine deep reinforce...To solve problems of poor security guarantee and insufficient training efficiency in the conventional reinforcement learning methods for decision-making,this study proposes a hybrid framework to combine deep reinforcement learning with rule-based decision-making methods.A risk assessment model for lane-change maneuvers considering uncertain predictions of surrounding vehicles is established as a safety filter to improve learning efficiency while correcting dangerous actions for safety enhancement.On this basis,a Risk-fused DDQN is constructed utilizing the model-based risk assessment and supervision mechanism.The proposed reinforcement learning algorithm sets up a separate experience buffer for dangerous trials and punishes such actions,which is shown to improve the sampling efficiency and training outcomes.Compared with conventional DDQN methods,the proposed algorithm improves the convergence value of cumulated reward by 7.6%and 2.2%in the two constructed scenarios in the simulation study and reduces the number of training episodes by 52.2%and 66.8%respectively.The success rate of lane change is improved by 57.3%while the time headway is increased at least by 16.5%in real vehicle tests,which confirms the higher training efficiency,scenario adaptability,and security of the proposed Risk-fused DDQN.展开更多
文摘The aim of this paper is to present and analyze the factors, motivations and criteria considered in the decision-making processes of the actors belonging to the biodiesel production chain in Brazil. The biodiesel production chain consists of three main agents： the farmers, the soybean processing plants and the oil refinery/distributor. For the farmers organized in cooperatives the central decision is whether to sell oil-bearing crops for the production of biodiesel. In contrast, for the soybean processing plants that convert the crops into vegetable and/or biodiesel, the decision to produce this fuel is based on the wish to expand their market portfolio. Government tax incentives strongly influence both decisions regarding which oil-bearing crop to use and the amount of vegetable oil to be transformed into biodiesel. Finally, the oil refinery/distributor is obliged by law to mix the biodiesel with the mineral diesel and perceives this as a liability. The results show the existence of different characteristics linked to the decision-making process and a significant lack of synchronicity in the aims and motivations behind the agents＇ decisions. This state of decisional misalignment leads to heightened uncertainty regarding the sustainability of the Brazilian biodiesel production program.
文摘Using an analytical narrative approach to understand policy change, this paper explores the Brazilian government decision to create a digital TV policy initiating major reforms in this sector. The analysis is centered on the actors, preferences, and choices. The article is divided into three parts： （1） We address the historical institutionalism assumptions; （2） We focus on the politics of digital TV policy in Brazil; and （3） The results are highlighted, and ＂winners＂ and ＂losers＂ are identified. Actors, preferences, and choices are historically observed and related to the government decision about rules of digital TV exploitation. It provides configurational evidence that makes it possible to associate major changes to two presidential decrees （n° 4.901/2003 and n° 5.820/2006） that reflect the preferences and behavior of the main actor （broadcasters, social movements, and federal government） around the new digital TV issues. The Brazilian case shows an institutional model in which federal government＇s decisions are strongly connected with the preferences of the actor broadcasters and goes against the actor social movements.
文摘Community participation and community based management are topical themes in current policy and discussion revolving around decision-making processes especially those dealing with natural resources management.This review shows that while governments have accepted the need to either cede or devolve control and management of natural resources to the local communities,the communities are not part and parcel of the planning and budgeting which are crucial in decisionmaking.Communities were seen to be more involved in the implementation of natural resource management programs but lacked ownership of the projects.This causes lack of commitment to the programs and at times hostile reaction from the communities.The communities are always at the receiving end when it pertains to losses in the exchange.Community participation was shown to be effective when the local population is involved not as co-operating users but as natural resource managers or owner managers.
文摘The study determined the roles of agricultural extension in hybrid rice technology decision-making process by extension agents,Nay Pyi Taw,Myanmar.The specific objectives were:to study personal characteristics of agricultural extension agents,experiences and their roles,to identify extension agents’opinion on hybrid rice technology decision-making process,and to determine relationship between the roles of agricultural extension agents and decision-making process of hybrid rice production.One hundred and eight extension agents were collected who were working in Department of Agriculture,Nay Pyi Taw area and surveyed and interviewed by questionnaires.The study revealed that majority of agricultural extension agents(65.7%)were female staffs and most of extension agents(40.7%)were under 30 years as young staffs.Majority of extension agents(81.5%)were educated only Agri-Diploma.More than half(54.6%)had one to five-year experiences in employment and 58.3%had no hybrid rice training experience and source of information regarding the hybrid rice production was received 63.9%from Department of Agriculture(DOA).Study found that there was highly significant relationship between most of the roles of agricultural extension agents and hybrid rice technology decision-making process of stages 4 and 5.And then most of the extension agents’roles singnificantly related with stage 2 except role of conducting introduction of hybrid seeds and distribution through by Seed Co.Ltds which was highly significant.Beside,most of the roles of extension agents significantly related with stage 3.However stages 1 and 6 were no singnificantly related.Finally above all,a well structure seed business,Good Agricultural Practices and farm level mechanization and quality extension service are very important to increase the adoption of hybrid rice in Myanmar.
文摘I the context of the Corporate Governance Code enactment in Japan, we examine how newly introduced outside directors in Japanese boards obtain information to take part in the decision-making process. We conducted a systematic review of the literature and found 18 peer-reviewed publications in a time span between 2000 and 2016 that described the asymmetry of information between the insider group of board directors （including the CEO） and the outside board members. Our fmdings show that for the course of more than a decade, despite all changes and reforms, the role of board directors, whether insiders or outsiders, is still supplementary. They are treated more as advisors than active part in the decision-making process. We reveal different insider sources of information as forming social ties with the CEO and/or inside board directors and collaboration with Audit ＆ Supervisory Board （Kansayaku）, which can help reduce this asymmetry and improve the decision-making process. We assume that it will be easier for the outsiders to establish contacts and form social ties with the Audit ＆ Supervisory Board members because of their unspoken lower status and thus to obtain more information about the company internal affairs and discussions that take place during the informal meetings, where only insiders （including the CEO） are present.
基金funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) under its Programme Grants for Applied Research Programme (Grant No. RP-PG-1209-10071)
文摘Objective: Up to 40% of women over 70 years with primary operable breast cancer in the UK are treated with primary endocrine therapy(PET) as an alternative to surgery. A variety of factors are important in determining treatment for older breast cancer patients. This study aimed to identify the patient and tumor factors associated with treatment allocation in this population.Methods: Prospectively collected data on treatment received(surgery vs. PET) were analysed with multivariable logistic regression using the variables age, modified Charlson Comorbidity Index(CCI), activities of daily living(ADL) score, Mini-Mental State Examination(MMSE) score, HER2 status, tumour size, grade and nodal status. Results: Data were available for 1,122 cancers in 1,098 patients recruited between February 2013 and June 2015 from 51 UK hospitals. About 78% of the population were treated surgically, with the remainder being treated with PET. Increasing patient age at diagnosis, increasing CCI score, large tumor size(5 cm or more) and dependence in one or more ADL categories were all strongly associated with non-surgical treatment(P<0.05).Conclusion: Increasing comorbidity, large tumor size and reduced functional ability are associated with reduced likelihood of surgical treatment of breast cancer in older patients. However, age itself remains a significant factor for non-surgical treatment; reinforcing the need for evidence-based guidelines.
文摘Decision-making is the process of deciding between two or more options in order to take the most appropriate and successful course of action in order to achieve sustainable mangrove management. However, the distinctiveness of mangrove as an ecosystem, and thus the attendant socio-economic and governance ramifications, causes the idea of decision making to become relatively distinct from other decision making process As a result, the purpose of this research was to evaluate the impact that community engagement plays in the decision-making process as it relates to the establishment of governance norms for sustainable mangrove management in Lamu County. In this study, a correlational research design was applied, and the researchers employed a mixed techniques approach. The target population was 296 respondents. The research used questionnaires and interviews to collect data. A descriptive statistical technique was utilized to perform an inspection and analysis on the data that was gathered. The findings indicated that having awareness about governance standards is beneficial during the process of making decisions. In addition, the findings demonstrated that respondents had the impression that the decision-making process was not done properly. On the other hand, the participants pointed out the positive aspects of the decision-making process and agreed that the participation of both gender was essential for the sustainable management of mangroves. Based on these data, it appeared that full community engagement in decision-making is necessary for sustainable management of mangrove forests.
文摘<span style="font-family:Verdana;">T</span><span><span><span style="font-family:;" "=""><span style="font-family:Verdana;">his research develops and elaborates studies done for a contribution to the 2019 PIC International Conference 2019 in Malta, about the decision-making process. Decision-making is the act of choosing between two or more courses of action. In the wider process of problem-solving, decision-making involves choosing between possible solutions to a problem, and these decisions can be made through either an intuitive or reasoned process, or a combination of the two. The study of decision-making processes, to be understood as the role of human factors, becomes particularly interesting in complex organizations. This research aims to analyze how an effective team, within organizations, can develop a more correct and effective decision-making, in order to get an optimal solution, overcoming the typical uncertainty. The paper describes the point of departure of decision in complex, time-pressured, uncertain, ambiguous and changing environments. The use of a leading case (the Tenerife air accident, 1977), will lead us to the desired results, </span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">i</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">.</span><i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">e</span></i><span style="font-family:Verdana;">. to demonstrate how an effective decisional process, including team dynamics, can be useful to reduce the risk, present in all decisions, and reduce errors. The case of Tenerife air disaster, confirm our research. In that case, in fact, the group dynamics prove not to have worked. Thus, we can state that if a team approach had been followed instead of a more individual one, the results would probably have been different. The central belief of the research, is that classic decision theory could benefit from a team approach, which reduces the risk that a decision may lead to undesirable consequences. As demonstrated with the case study, within organizations, the decision-making is not a solitary action. Decisions, in fact, are made within a team and in order to be able to function effectively in a group, and manage group situations, there are essential skills. The team can then become a resource for the decisional process and problem solving, but it is necessary </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">to </span></span></span><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;"><span style="font-family:Verdana;">understand the dynamics.</span></span></span>
文摘The design process of the built environment relies on the collaborative effort of all parties involved in the project.During the design phase,owners,end users,and their representatives are expected to make the most critical design and budgetary decisions-shaping the essential traits of the project,hence emerge the need and necessity to create and integrate mechanisms to support the decision-making process.Design decisions should not be based on assumptions,past experiences,or imagination.An example of the numerous problems that are a result of uninformed design decisions is“change orders”,known as the deviation from the original scope of work,which leads to an increase of the overall cost,and changes to the construction schedule of the project.The long-term aim of this inquiry is to understand the user’s behavior,and establish evidence-based control measures,which are actions and processes that can be implemented in practice to decrease the volume and frequency of the occurrence of change orders.The current study developed a foundation for further examination by proposing potential control measures,and testing their efficiency,such as integrating Virtual Reality(VR).The specific aim was to examine the effect of different visualization methods(i.e.,VR vs.construction drawings)on,(1)how well the subjects understand the information presented about the future/planned environment;(2)the subjects’perceived confidence in what the future environment will look like;(3)the likelihood of changing the built environment;(4)design review time;and(5)accuracy in reviewing and understanding the design.
基金funded by scientific research projects under Grant JY2024B011.
文摘With the increasing complexity of industrial automation,planetary gearboxes play a vital role in largescale equipment transmission systems,directly impacting operational efficiency and safety.Traditional maintenance strategies often struggle to accurately predict the degradation process of equipment,leading to excessive maintenance costs or potential failure risks.However,existing prediction methods based on statistical models are difficult to adapt to nonlinear degradation processes.To address these challenges,this study proposes a novel condition-based maintenance framework for planetary gearboxes.A comprehensive full-lifecycle degradation experiment was conducted to collect raw vibration signals,which were then processed using a temporal convolutional network autoencoder with multi-scale perception capability to extract deep temporal degradation features,enabling the collaborative extraction of longperiod meshing frequencies and short-term impact features from the vibration signals.Kernel principal component analysis was employed to fuse and normalize these features,enhancing the characterization of degradation progression.A nonlinear Wiener process was used to model the degradation trajectory,with a threshold decay function introduced to dynamically adjust maintenance strategies,and model parameters optimized through maximum likelihood estimation.Meanwhile,the maintenance strategy was optimized to minimize costs per unit time,determining the optimal maintenance timing and preventive maintenance threshold.The comprehensive indicator of degradation trends extracted by this method reaches 0.756,which is 41.2%higher than that of traditional time-domain features;the dynamic threshold strategy reduces the maintenance cost per unit time to 55.56,which is 8.9%better than that of the static threshold optimization.Experimental results demonstrate significant reductions in maintenance costs while enhancing system reliability and safety.This study realizes the organic integration of deep learning and reliability theory in the maintenance of planetary gearboxes,provides an interpretable solution for the predictive maintenance of complex mechanical systems,and promotes the development of condition-based maintenance strategies for planetary gearboxes.
基金supported by the Research Program of the Liaoning Liaohe Laboratory(LLL23ZZ-05-012)China Academy of Engineering Institute of Land Cooperation Consulting Project(2023-DFZD-60-02)+3 种基金the Key Research and Development Program of Liaoning Province(2023JH26/10200011)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(61991404)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2024YFB3309700)the Science and Technology Major Project 2024 of Liaoning Province(2024JH1/11700048).
文摘Based on an analysis of the role of industrial control and optimization technologies in the Industrial Revolution,as well as the current situation and existing problems of operational decision-making(ODM)for industrial process,this paper introduces the concept of intelligent ODM in industrial process,shapes its future directions,and highlights key technical challenges.By the tight conjoining of and coordination between industrial artificial intelligence(AI)with industrial control and optimization technologies,as well as the Industrial Internet with industrial computer management and control systems,an intelligent operational optimization decision-making methodology is proposed for complex industrial process.The intelligent ODM methodology and its successful application demonstrate that the tight conjoining of and coordination between next-generation information technologies with industrial control and optimization technologies will promote the development of industrial intelligent ODM.Finally,main research directions and ideas are outlined for realizing intelligent ODM in industrial process.
基金Supported by the Science and Technology Support Key Project of Jiangsu Province (DE2008365)~~
文摘Based on analyzing the influences of a slicing scheme on stair-stepping effect, supporting structure, efficiency and deformation, etc. , analytical hierarchical process （AHP） combining with fuzzy synthetic evaluation is introduced to make decision in slicing schemes for a processing part. The application in determining the slicing scheme for a computer mouse during prototyping shows that the method increases the rationality during decision- making and improves quality and efficiency for the prototyping part.
基金We would like to thank the UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special Program for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases(TDR),Geneva for providing the financial support for this study.
文摘Background:Analysis of consumer decision making in the health sector is a complex process of comparing feasible alternatives and evaluating the levels of satisfaction associated with the relevant options.This paper makes an attempt to understand how and why consumers make specific decisions,what motivates them to adopt a specific health intervention,and what features they find attractive in each of the options.Method:The study used a descriptive-explanatory design to analyze the factors determining the choices of healthcare providers.Information was collected through focus group discussions and in-depth interviews.Results:The results suggest that the decision making related to seeking healthcare for Kala Azar(KA)treatment is a complex,interactive process.Patients and family members follow a well-defined road map for decision making.The process of decision making starts from the recognition of healthcare needs and is then modified by a number of other factors,such as indigenous knowledge,healthcare alternatives,and available resources.Household and individual characteristics also play important roles in facilitating the process of decision making.The results from the group discussions and in-depth interviews are consistent with the idea that KA patients and family members follow the rational approach of weighing the costs against the benefits of using specific types of medical care.Conclusion:The process of decision making related to seeking healthcare follows a complex set of steps and many of the potential factors affect the decision making in a non-linear fashion.Our analysis suggests that it is possible to derive a generalized road map of the decision-making process starting from the recognition of healthcare needs,and then modifying it to show the influences of indigenous knowledge,healthcare alternatives,and available resources.
文摘This paper describes a model to simulate the decision-making process of consumers that adopts technology within a dynamic social network.The proposed model use theories and tools from the psychology of consumer behavior,social networks and complex dynamical systems like the Consumat framework and fuzzy logic.The model has been adjusted using real data,tested with the automobile market and it can recreate trends like those described in the world market.
基金sponsored by China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(Grant No.2018M640358).
文摘Purpose:This research is an exploratory narrative inquiry into reflections of three Chinese international undergraduate students in a Canadian university,University S,which reveals participants’entire decision-making processes as potential international undergraduate students.Design/Approach/Methods:A two-dimensional analytical framework has been constructed.One dimension is based on three phases of the entire decision-making process:the phases of deciding whether or not to study abroad,selecting destination countries,and choosing target institutions.The second dimension is based on three kinds of hypothetically proposed environmental factors within each phase:policy factors,(family and regional)socioeconomic factors,and information factors.First-hand data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted based on the analytical framework.Findings:This article suggests that both policymakers in the source country(i.e.,China)and university administrators in the destination country(i.e.,Canada)should further support potential international undergraduate students during each phase of their decision-making processes,particularly through optimizing information supply channels.Originality/Value:This article has the potential to construct a new theoretical framework as a supplement for analyzing the entire decision-making process of potential international students.As a pilot study,it provides a template for further investigations.
文摘一、作为哲学的AI for Process(一)郭为的哲学思想1.郭为是谁郭为是谁?他是一位哲学家。顺便说,他同时还领导着神州数码。为什么说郭为是哲学家呢?因为他在著作中谈到高深的哲学,如“数据如水,奔流不息,无界融合”。他引述古希腊哲学家赫拉克利特所说的“万物流转”,又说“你不能两次踏进同一条河流,因为新的水不断地流过你的身旁”,他所表达的意思是“世界上唯一不变的就是变化”。
基金supported by National Basic Research Program (973 Program,No.2004CB719402)National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.60736019)Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province, China(No.Y105430).
文摘Collision avoidance decision-making models of multiple agents in virtual driving environment are studied. Based on the behavioral characteristics and hierarchical structure of the collision avoidance decision-making in real life driving, delphi approach and mathematical statistics method are introduced to construct pair-wise comparison judgment matrix of collision avoidance decision choices to each collision situation. Analytic hierarchy process （AHP） is adopted to establish the agents＇ collision avoidance decision-making model. To simulate drivers＇ characteristics, driver factors are added to categorize driving modes into impatient mode, normal mode, and the cautious mode. The results show that this model can simulate human＇s thinking process, and the agents in the virtual environment can deal with collision situations and make decisions to avoid collisions without intervention. The model can also reflect diversity and uncertainly of real life driving behaviors, and solves the multi-objective, multi-choice ranking priority problem in multi-vehicle collision scenarios. This collision avoidance model of multi-agents model is feasible and effective, and can provide richer and closer-to-life virtual scene for driving simulator, reflecting real-life traffic environment more truly, this model can also promote the practicality of driving simulator.
文摘The critical role of patient-reported outcome measures(PROMs)in enhancing clinical decision-making and promoting patient-centered care has gained a profound significance in scientific research.PROMs encapsulate a patient's health status directly from their perspective,encompassing various domains such as symptom severity,functional status,and overall quality of life.By integrating PROMs into routine clinical practice and research,healthcare providers can achieve a more nuanced understanding of patient experiences and tailor treatments accordingly.The deployment of PROMs supports dynamic patient-provider interactions,fostering better patient engagement and adherence to tre-atment plans.Moreover,PROMs are pivotal in clinical settings for monitoring disease progression and treatment efficacy,particularly in chronic and mental health conditions.However,challenges in implementing PROMs include data collection and management,integration into existing health systems,and acceptance by patients and providers.Overcoming these barriers necessitates technological advancements,policy development,and continuous education to enhance the acceptability and effectiveness of PROMs.The paper concludes with recommendations for future research and policy-making aimed at optimizing the use and impact of PROMs across healthcare settings.
基金Supported by National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2022YFE0117100)National Science Foundation of China(Grant No.52102468,52325212)Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities。
文摘To solve problems of poor security guarantee and insufficient training efficiency in the conventional reinforcement learning methods for decision-making,this study proposes a hybrid framework to combine deep reinforcement learning with rule-based decision-making methods.A risk assessment model for lane-change maneuvers considering uncertain predictions of surrounding vehicles is established as a safety filter to improve learning efficiency while correcting dangerous actions for safety enhancement.On this basis,a Risk-fused DDQN is constructed utilizing the model-based risk assessment and supervision mechanism.The proposed reinforcement learning algorithm sets up a separate experience buffer for dangerous trials and punishes such actions,which is shown to improve the sampling efficiency and training outcomes.Compared with conventional DDQN methods,the proposed algorithm improves the convergence value of cumulated reward by 7.6%and 2.2%in the two constructed scenarios in the simulation study and reduces the number of training episodes by 52.2%and 66.8%respectively.The success rate of lane change is improved by 57.3%while the time headway is increased at least by 16.5%in real vehicle tests,which confirms the higher training efficiency,scenario adaptability,and security of the proposed Risk-fused DDQN.
