Abstract
Ontologies are a technological key factor regarding the knowledge management domain. This paper presents a graphical-based knowledge representation approach using concept maps towards creating a formal work organization ontology, which was translated into a Content Management System in order to manage the work design information. Some aspects related with the advantages of visual approaches for collaborative development of ontologies are discussed.

Abstract
This paper proposes a new method to support the collaborative construction of semantic artifacts in an inter-organizational context. It aims at being applied, in particular, in the early phases of ontology development. We share the view that that the development of semantic artifacts in collaborative networks of organizations should be based on a continuous construction of meaning, rather than pursuing the delivery of highly formalized accounts of domains. For that, our research is directed to the application of cognitive semantics results, specifically by developing and extending the Conceptual Blending Theory to cope with the socio-cognitive aspects of inter-organizational ontology development. Besides the Outline of the method, we analyze the main problems and gaps in current ontology development methods regarding collaboration and negotiation in early development phases.

Abstract
Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to solve the problem of committing electric power generators (unit commitment, UC), considering network constraints. Design/methodology/approach - The UC is first solved with a local search based meta-heuristic, following the assumption that all generators and loads are connected to a single network node. For evaluation purposes, the economical production levels of the units committed are computed by running a pre-dispatch algorithm where network constraints are not included. If a good quality solution is reached, an economic dispatch (ED) with network constraints is performed, where the geographic location of generators and loads are considered. Therefore, the production level of each committed generator is performed that leads to the global lowest solution cost, regarding both the generators' costs and constraints and the power system network constraints. Findings - The algorithm proposed is computationally efficient, given the time available for decision making. In addition, the solution for this algorithm, in terms of minimization of total costs, is generally better than the solution of the two phases approach. Some contractual and legal aspects related with the injection in network connections can also be included in the model. Practical implications - UC with network constraints has a large potential of use, especially for small and medium size power systems. It reflects reality in a closer way and provides a more complete and realistic knowledge about the system in operation. Originality/value - The paper presents an approach where theED with network constraints is integrated with the UC procedure. The model described is currently implemented in an EMS package offered in the market - making it a case of successful transfer from science to industry.

Abstract
This paper explores the development of long-term, close relationships that are likely to influence the relationship between Transnational Corporations (TNCs) affiliates and their local suppliers. Based on the interdependencies between six industrial foreign subsidiaries and 26 local suppliers, it is possible to conclude that the complementarity between local suppliers and their TNC clients depends on two dynamics: • on the technological trajectory created by the supplier towards the upper steps of the technological competence • on the technological trajectory created by the transmissive capacity of the TNC client that helps their suppliers on their organisational transformation. © 2008, Inderscience Publishers.

Abstract
A seawater quality monitoring program for Foz do Arelho outfall has already started in May 2006 to evaluate the background seawater quality around the vicinity of the sea outfall and to follow the impacts of wastewater discharge in the area. Seven monitoring campaigns were already performed between 2006-2007 in which CTD and ADCP measurements were obtained in the vicinity of the wastewater discharge. Predictions of the plume behavior for several times of the year were obtained using a near field model with the monitoring data as input. The plume behavior was mostly influenced by density stratification. During stratified conditions the plume was trapped with dilutions always above 270 to 1. During unstratified conditions the plume was surfacing with dilutions above always 375 to 1. It is concluded that the outfall is behaving as expected.

Abstract
Asthma patients incur a great cost in terms of loss of quality of life. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the relative contribution and relationship of several patient- and disease-related factors, measured by several variables, to the quality of life in adults with asthma. Two hundred and ten asthmatic outpatients over 18 years old, registered in a Family Health Unit, were randomly selected to complete the Asthma Quality of Life (AQLQ) and Short Form Generic questionnaires (SF-36), respectively. Single and multiple linear regression models were developed to explain the variability of the summary scores of AQLQ and Physical and Mental Health SF-36. As potential predictors, the following independent variables were used: gender, age, number of comorbidities, asthma severity following the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) criteria, asthma control (measured by ACQ questionnaire), %FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in the first second) and, for the first time, Graffar Score to assess socioeconomical features. The Graffar Score is an index that divides the population in 5 socioeconomic layers. We report the best Adjusted R Square of these models published in the literature, ranging from 0.40 to 0.76. Women showed poorer quality of life than men. The best predictor of AQLQ was ACQ, followed by Asthma Severity, Gender and %FEV1. The best predictors of Physical and Mental Health SF-36 were, by decreasing importance, ACQ, number of comorbidities, Gender and Graffar Score. We note that the variable Dumber of comorbidities was included in both SF-36 models, but not in AQLQ model. Asthma Severity and %FEV1 did not enter into SF-36 models. We conclude that besides clinical and functional measures, the evaluation process of the overall health status must incorporate quality-of-life measures.