Structural comparisons of networks and model-based detection of small-worldness

In this paper, we consider the problem of assessing the “level of small-worldness” of a graph and of detecting small-worldness features in real networks. After discussing the limitations of classical approaches, based on the computation of network indicators, we propose a new procedure, which involves the comparison of network structures at different “observation scales”. This allows small-world features to be caught, even if “hidden” deeply into the network structure. Applications of the procedure to both simulated and real data show the effectiveness of the proposal, also in distinguishing between different small-world models and in detecting emerging small-worldness in dynamical networks.     

The Influence of Legal Capacity on WTO Dispute Duration

World Trade Organization dispute settlement has evolved away from the concise process originally imagined to one where panels languish for years. This is to the detriment of lesser-developed states that do not have the resources that allow for access. In this article, I perform a multivariate analysis to explore the relationship between a state's legal capacity and the length of trade disputes. Controlling for selection bias, I find that the legal capacity of both of the involved parties contributes to longer disputes. The relaxed time expectations in this process favor the inclusion of developed states and exclude those without the resources necessary to carry out what has become the normal dispute process.     

‘Managing successful change in the public sector’: a view from the consultants’ world

Our paper presents the results of a survey on the perceptions of 680 Italian public-sector consultants on the drivers of successful organizational change according to Fernandez and Rainey’s model. The results show that the consultants mostly confirm the model, though recognizing that the various drivers have different degrees of relevance. A clear vision and plan for change and the top management’s commitment are seen as central in change processes, whereas interestingly, resource availability and a comprehensive approach to change appear to play a less relevant role.     

Factors determining the degree of gender equality within the European Union

Quality & Quantity - This paper aims to identify the major determinants of the structural differences in gender equality for EU countries, using tools from partial order theory on a system of 6...     

Axiomatic properties of geo-logarithmic price indices

In the axiomatic approach to composite index numbers, a list of properties is given that both price and quantity indices should satisfy in order to ensure consistent comparisons. Usually, the price index is selected first and its cofactor is consequently adopted as the (implicit) quantity index. Unfortunately, even if the price index has good axiomatic properties, its cofactor need not, so the implicit quantity comparison may be axiomatically inconsistent. In this paper, we give a comprehensive study of a family of price indices sharing good axiomatic properties (proportionality, commensurability, and homogeneity) together with their cofactors. This family, called geo-logarithmic, is relevant also because of the empirical circumstance that all known price indices sharing such properties with their cofactors belong to it or can be obtained from geo-logarithmic index numbers through simple transformations. Thus, the geo-logarithmic family seems to play a central role when the joint consistency of price and quantity comparisons is concerned.     

Measuring dynamics and structural change of time-dependent socio-economic networks

This paper addresses the issue of measuring temporal dynamics of complex socio-economic relational systems, represented as time-dependent networks. Network dynamics is first splitted into a structural component, accounting for changes in the network topology, and a non-structural component, accounting for permutation of vertex labels. A quantitative measure of the dynamics and its components is then proposed and it is shown how it can be used to investigate and interpret the time evolution of networks. A real example is discussed, pertaining to the dynamics of a subnetwork of the Italian corporate board network.