A convenient method for defining a quasi-ordering, such as those used for proving termination of rewriting, is to choose the minimum of a set of quasi-orderings satisfying some desired traits. Unfortunately, a minimum in terms of set inclusion can be non-existent even when an intuitive “minimum” exists. We suggest an alternative to set inclusion, called “leanness”, show that leanness is a parti...

There is growing evidence that body shape and regional body composition are strong indicators of metabolic health. The purpose of this study was to develop statistical models that accurately describe holistic body shape, thickness, and leanness. We hypothesized that there are unique body shape features that are predictive of mortality beyond standard clinical measures. We developed algorithms t...

Supply chain environment is more dynamic and unpredictable than the past; therefore, it needs to be highly flexible in order to reconfigure in response to changes in their environment on the spur of the moment. This study presents a framework for supplier selection based on product-related and organization-related characteristics of the suppliers to be more competitive in the market and flexibl...

BACKGROUND Recent lifestyle approaches to physical activity have included the promotion of domestic physical activities such as do-it-yourself or home maintenance, gardening and housework. Although it is acknowledged that any activity is better than none, there is a danger that those undertaking domestic 'chores' may assume that this activity is moderate intensity and therefore counts towards t...

Purpose The main aim of this research is to compare and distinguish between two salient means for improving the management of, and leveraging the effectiveness of, supply chains. Leanness and agility have been considered recently as prominent and successful means for competing. The paper examines the literature on leanness and agility thinking including their definitions, importance and practic...

Credit scoring models are normally built using only applicants who have been previously accepted for credit. Such non-random sample selection may produce bias in estimated model parameters and accordingly model predictions of repayment performance may not be optimal. Previous empirical research suggests that omission of rejected applicants has a detrimental impact on model estimation and predic...

World-class manufacturing paradigms emerge from specific types of manufacturing systems with which they remain associated until they are obsolete. Since its introduction the lean paradigm is almost exclusively implemented in repetitive manufacturing systems employing flow-shop layout configurations. Due to its inherent complexity and combinatorial nature, scheduling is one application domain wh...