Multimod Data Manager: a tool for data fusion

Nowadays biomedical engineers regularly have to combine data from multiple medical imaging modalities, biomedical measurements and computer simulations and this can demand the knowledge of many specialised software tools. Acquiring this knowledge to the depth necessary to perform the various tasks can require considerable time and thus divert the researcher from addressing the actual biomedical problems. The aim of the present study is to describe a new application called the Multimod Data Manager, distributed as a freeware, which provides the end user with a fully integrated environment for the fusion and manipulation of all biomedical data. The Multimod Data Manager is generated using a software application framework, called the Multimod Application Framework, which is specifically designed to support the rapid development of computer aided medicine applications. To understand the general logic of the Data Manager, we first introduce the framework from which it is derived. We then illustrate its use by an example--the development of a complete subject-specific musculo-skeletal model of the lower limb from the Visible Human medical imaging data to be used for predicting the stresses in the skeleton during gait. While the Data Manager is clearly still only at the prototype stage, we believe that it is already capable of being used to solve a large number of problems common to many biomedical engineering activities.     

Management scheme of a workstation controller in a flexible manufacturing system

A workstation controller is an industrial computer which controls the function of the unit workstation in a flexible manufacturing system. A workstation is considered a functionally cohesive group of machine equipment and the operation is carried out independently. The basic operating unit in a workstation controller is the computer program. In other words it is a task. A set of software tools has been defined, developed, and tested for a workstation controller. The tasks create a workstation domain which makes the user application that controls and monitors the workstation operation. A specific program called Configuration Manager, consisting of various modules, is responsible for supervising the tasks within a workstation controller. Usually, a single Configuration Manager resides in a workstation controller. However, multiple Configuration Managers can be utilized in several CPU boards in a common backplane. The program has been developed on a realtime operating system to fit into the realtime environment of a manufacturing system. The Configuration Manager is written in the “C” programming language to enhance the portability. However, the user application software could be written in any higher level language.     

Bidder-anonymous English auction scheme with privacy and public verifiability

This work studies the English auction protocol, which comprises three interactive parties—the Registration Manager, the Auction Manager and the Bidder. The registration manager confirms and authenticates the identities of bidders; the auction manager issues the bidding rights and maintains order in holding the auction. The proposed scheme provides the following security features—anonymity, traceability, no framing, unforgeability, non-repudiation, fairness, public verifiability, non-linkability among various auction rounds, linkability within a single auction round, bidding efficiency, single registration, and easy revocation. The scheme developed herein can effectively reduce the load on the registration and auction managers by requiring the end server to derive the key. It also eliminates the need for bidders to download the auction key and the auction certificate. Hence, the time complexity of processing data is clearly reduced and the best interests of the bidders can be achieved. Accordingly, the scheme is consistent with the actual practice of online transactions.     

基于数据库的Internet化学资源导航信息管理与自动发布

分析了文件方式管理的Ｉｎｔｅｒｎｅｔ导航系统所存在的问题，结合ＣｈＩＮ化学导航系统应用和管理的需求，采用关系数据库技术进行网页数据的管理。建立了基于数据库的ＣｈＩＮ维护系统ＣｈＩＮ Ｍａｎａｇｅｒ，协助编辑人员完成数据的编辑、分类、自动发布等操作，提高了ＣｈＩＮ的日常工作和维护效率。本文介绍ＣｈＩＮ－Ｍａｎａｇｅｒ和刷此自动生成的网页的一些特点。     

The Rotorcraft Pilot''s Associate: design and evaluation of an intelligent user interface for cockpit information management

The US Army's Rotorcraft Pilot's Associate (RPA) program is developing an advanced, intelligent “associate” system for flight demonstration in a future attack/scout helicopter. A significant RPA component is the intelligent user interface known as the Cockpit Information Manager (CIM). This paper describes the high-level architecture of the CIM, with emphasis on its pilot-perceptible behaviors: Crew Intent Estimation, Page Selection, Symbol Selection/Declutter, Intelligent Window Location, Automated Pan and Zoom, and Task Allocation. We then present the subjective results of recent full mission simulation studies using the CIM to illustrate pilots' attitudes toward these behaviors and their perceived effectiveness.     

基于虚拟化架构的软件开发与测试环境自动化

基于虚拟化架构的软件开发与测试自动化环境是一个新的概念.通过架设基于Hypervisor层的虚拟化服务器,并辅以软件开发测试自动化工具VMware Lab Manager进行管理、优化,提出了一种新的软件开发测试自动化方案,阐述了该方案相对于传统的软件测试环境搭建的优越性.并进行环境搭建和实施实验论证了该方案在配置和部署开发测试环境的灵活性和良好的可用性.     

Management competences,not tools and techniques: A grounded examination of software project management at WM-data

Traditional software project management theory often focuses on desk-based development of software and algorithms, much in line with the traditions of the classical project management and software engineering. This can be described as a tools and techniques perspective, which assumes that software project management success is dependent on having the right instruments available, rather than on the individual qualities of the project manager or the cumulative qualities and skills of the software organisation. Surprisingly, little is known about how (or whether) these tools techniques are used in practice. This study, in contrast, uses a qualitative grounded theory approach to develop the basis for an alternative theoretical perspective: that of competence. A competence approach to understanding software project management places the responsibility for success firmly on the shoulders of the people involved, project members, project leaders, managers. The competence approach is developed through an investigation of the experiences of project managers in a medium sized software development company (WM-data) in Denmark. Starting with a simple model relating project conditions, project management competences and desired project outcomes, we collected data through interviews, focus groups and one large plenary meeting with most of the company’s project managers. Data analysis employed content analysis for concept (variable) development and causal mapping to trace relationships between variables. In this way we were able to build up a picture of the competences project managers use in their daily work at WM-data, which we argue is also partly generalisable to theory. The discrepancy between the two perspectives is discussed, particularly in regard to the current orientation of the software engineering field. The study provides many methodological and theoretical starting points for researchers wishing to develop a more detailed competence perspective of software project managers’ work.     

基于西门子编程软件SIMATIC Manager的DP数据通讯模块化编程

西门子S7-300／400系列PLC的编程软件STEP7-SIMATICManager中包含了多种高级编程方式，为实现复杂的控制功能提供了保证。本文以ANY参数类型为主，结合PROFIBUS-DP主从数据通讯的案例，阐述了如何构造ANY类型的参数变量，并最终实现模块化编程。     

Project managers in global software development teams: a study of the effects on productivity and performance

Globalization is having a deep impact on today’s world economy. One of the most affected industries is the software industry. Recently, global software development (GSD) has gained a lot of attention. This new trend of producing software is influencing all software processes, including human resource management. The aim of this study is to provide an overview of the implications of GSD for software project managers by analyzing project performance from different perspectives such as the 360-degree feedback evaluation. Results show that performance of GSD projects is lower than in-house projects, but apart from that, this study reveals that there are also negative consequences for software project managers, which need to be taken into account. For instance, the experiment revealed a lack of attention to tasks by software project managers and, as a consequence of this, performance losses. The main conclusions of this research may be valuable for software development organizations.     

IT project managers' construction of successful project management practice: a repertory grid investigation

Although effective project management is critical to the success of information technology (IT) projects, little empirical research has investigated skill requirements for IT project managers (PMs). This study addressed this gap by asking 19 practicing IT PMs to describe the skills that successful IT PMs exhibit. A semi-structured interview method known as the repertory grid (RepGrid) technique was used to elicit these skills. Nine skill categories emerged: client management, communication, general management, leadership, personal integrity, planning and control, problem solving, systems development and team development. Our study complements existing research by providing a richer understanding of several skills that were narrowly defined (client management, planning and control, and problem solving) and by introducing two new skill categories that had not been previously discussed (personal integrity and team development). Analysis of the individual RepGrids revealed four distinct ways in which study participants combined skill categories to form archetypes of effective IT PMs. We describe these four IT PM archetypes – General Manager, Problem Solver, Client Representative and Balanced Manager – and discuss how this knowledge can be useful for practitioners, researchers and educators. The paper concludes with suggestions for future research.     

应用DSET ManagerToolkit开发TMN Manager

本文介绍了DSET公司提供的用于开发TMNManager的工具———ManagerToolkit,并在此基础上提出了一个典型的管理者模型。     

基于QoE的路测软件数据存储与分析模块设计与实现

传统的基于KPI评估体系的路测软件不能满足无线网络优化中用户感知（QoE）的要求,本文以QoE为导向,采用内存-磁盘映射存储机制设计出了一种适合路测软件的数据存储结构,提出了一种后台数据分析模块的设计方案,使用分析管理器为用户提供定制自定义分析项目的接口,使用表达式编辑器为用户提供定制自定义参数、事件和指标的接口。实际测试结果表明,数据库系统的设计很好的满足路测软件对数据存取的要求,后台分析模块的设计使得后台数据分析更加灵活高效,符合QoE评估体系的要求。     

电信综合网管系统技术方案

文章阐述了本局研制的电信综合网管系统的功能、软件结构和运行环境,也指出该系统的未来研制方向。     

Exploring the relationship between software project duration and risk exposure: A cluster analysis

Software projects often fail. Thus it is important to find ways to ensure a successful outcome. One significant area is a better understanding of the relationship between the software project duration and risk exposure, as this helps project managers with pertinent information to be effective in managing risky projects. We addressed this need by adopting a cluster analysis technique to provide managers with insight into effective planning and control of their projects. The results not only revealed that risk exposures associated with user, requirement, planning & control and team risk dimensions were affected by project duration, but also showed how to manage software risks effectively through observing trends in the risk components. Based on our findings, project managers can adopt appropriate attitudes, skills, and practices to deal with risky areas more effectively rather than just identifying those software risks with which project managers should be concerned.     

PUPIL: A systematic approach to software integration in multi-scale simulations

We present a relatively straightforward way to integrate existing software packages into a full multi-scale simulation package in which each application runs in its own address space and there is no run-time intervention by the researcher. The PUPIL (Program for User Package Interfacing and Linking) architectural concept is to provide a simulation Supervisor, implemented as a Manager and various Workers which involve small wrapper interfaces written and installed within each application package and various communication services. The different, autonomous packages (“Calculation Units”) are plugged into the PUPIL system which one then operates as a software driver for them. Well-defined protocols are provided for communication between the different Calculation Units and the PUPIL system. The CORBA communication protocol is used to exchange information between running processes. All simulation directives from the user are stored in an XML file that is interpreted by the PUPIL Manager and Workers. An initial version has been designed using the Object Oriented (OO) paradigm and implemented in Java as a fast prototyping language. Tests of implementation ease and of operational correctness (on toy physical systems) have been carried out. In the former category, we document how interfaces to both DL_POLY and SIESTA were done relatively straightforwardly. In the latter category, the most demanding test was the joining of three different packages to do a MD calculation with pattern recognition to identify the QM-forces region and an external QM force calculation. The results show that PUPIL provides ease of operation and maintenance with little overhead.     

Understanding student participation in undergraduate course communities: A case study

Participation is the cornerstone of any community. Promoting, understanding and properly managing it allows not only keeping the community sustainable, but also providing personalized services to its members and managers. This article presents a case study in which student participation in a course community was motivated using two different extrinsic mechanisms, and mediated by a software platform. The results were compared with a baseline community of the same course, in which participation was not motivated by external means. The analysis of these results indicates that managing a partially virtual course community requires the introduction of monitoring services, community managers and extrinsic mechanisms to motivate participation. These findings allow community managers to improve their capability for promoting participation and keeping the community sustainable. The findings also raise several implications that should be considered in the design of software supporting this kind of community, when managing the participation of its members.     

The impact of institutional forces on software metrics programs

Software metrics programs are an important part of a software organization's productivity and quality initiatives as precursors to process-based improvement programs. Like other innovative practices, the implementation of metrics programs is prone to influences from the greater institutional environment the organization exists in. In this paper, we study the influence of both external and internal institutional forces on the assimilation of metrics programs in software organizations. We use previous case-based research in software metrics programs as well as prior work in institutional theory in proposing a model of metrics implementation. The theoretical model is tested on data collected through a survey from 214 metrics managers in defense-related and commercial software organizations. Our results show that external institutions, such as customers and competitors, and internal institutions, such as managers, directly influence the extent to which organizations change their internal work-processes around metrics programs. Additionally, the adaptation of work-processes leads to increased use of metrics programs in decision-making within the organization. Our research informs managers about the importance of management support and institutions in metrics programs adaptation. In addition, managers may note that the continued use of metrics information in decision-making is contingent on adapting the organization's work-processes around the metrics program. Without these investments in metrics program adaptation, the true business value in implementing metrics and software process improvement is not realized.     

Relative importance of evaluation criteria for enterprise systems: a conjoint study

Abstract.  While a large body of research exists on the development and implementation of software, organizations are increasingly acquiring enterprise software packages [e.g. enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems] instead of custom developing their own software applications. To be competitive in the marketplace, software package development firms must manage the three-pronged trade-off between cost, quality and functionality. Surprisingly, prior research has made little attempt to investigate the characteristics of packaged software that influence management information system (MIS) managers' likelihood of recommending purchase. As a result, both the criteria by which MIS managers evaluate prospective packaged systems and the attributes that lead to commercially competitive ERP software products are poorly understood. This paper examines this understudied issue through a conjoint study. We focus on ERP systems, which are among the largest and most complex packaged systems that are purchased by organizations. In a conjoint study, 1008 evaluation decisions based on hypothetical ERP software package profiles were completed by managers in 126 organizations. The study represents the first empirical investigation of the relative importance that managers ascribe to various factors that are believed to be important in evaluating packaged software. The results provide important insights for both organizations that acquire such systems and those that develop them. The results show that functionality, reliability, cost, ease of use and ease of customization are judged to be important criteria, while ease of implementation and vendor reputation were not found to be significant. Functionality and reliability were found to be the most heavily weighted factors. We conclude the paper with a detailed discussion of the results and their implications for software acquisition and development practice.     

A risk-reduction approach for optimal software release time determination with the delay incurred cost

Most existing research on software release time determination assumes that parameters of the software reliability model (SRM) are deterministic and the reliability estimate is accurate. In practice, however, there exists a risk that the reliability requirement cannot be guaranteed due to the parameter uncertainties in the SRM, and such risk can be as high as 50% when the mean value is used. It is necessary for the software project managers to reduce the risk to a lower level by delaying the software release, which inevitably increases the software testing costs. In order to incorporate the managers’ preferences over these two factors, a decision model based on multi-attribute utility theory (MAUT) is developed for the determination of optimal risk-reduction release time.     

Advanced multimodal visualisation of clinical gait and fluoroscopy analyses in the assessment of total knee replacement

Traditional gait and fluoroscopy analysis of human movement are largely utilised but are still limited in registration, integration, synchronisation and visualisation capabilities. The present work exploits the features of a recently developed software tool based on multimodal display (Data Manager developed within the EU-funded project 'Multimod') in an exemplary clinical case. Standard lower limb gait analysis, comprising segment position, ground reaction force and EMG data collection, and three-dimensional fluoroscopy analysis at the replaced joint were performed in a total knee replacement patient while ascending stairs. Clinical information such as X-rays and standard scores were also available. Data Manager was able to import all this variety of data and to structure these in an original hierarchical tree. Bone and prosthesis component models were registered to corresponding marker position data for effective three-dimensional animations. These were also synchronised with corresponding standard video sequences. Animations, video, time-histories of collected and also processed data were shown in various combinations, according to specific interests of the bioengineering and medical professionals expected to observe and to interpret this large amount of data. This software tool demonstrated to be a valuable means to enhance representation and interpretation of measurements coming from human motion analysis. In a single software, a thorough and effective clinical and biomechanical analysis of human motion was performed.