bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MODELING SEDIMENT AND PHOSPHORUS LOSSES IN AN AGRICULTURAL WATERSHED TO MEET TMDLs1
Authors: Dalzell Brent J. , Gowda Prasanna H. , Mulla David J.
Published: June 2007

ABSTRACT: This paper studies the effectiveness of alternative farm management strategies at improving water quality to meet Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) in agricultural watersheds. A spatial process model was calibrated using monthly flow, sediment, and phosphorus (P) losses (1994 to 1996) from Sand Creek watershed in south‐central Minnesota. Statistical evaluation of predicted and observed data gave r2 coefficients of 0.75, 0.69, and 0.49 for flow (average 4.1 m3/s), sediment load (average 0.44 ton/ha), and phosphorus load (average 0.97 kg/ha), respectively. The calibrated model was used to evaluate the effects of conservation tillage, conversion of crop land to pasture, and changes in phosphorus fertilizer application rate on pollutant loads. TMDLs were developed for sediment and P losses based on existing water quality standards and guidelines. Observed annual sediment and P losses exceeded these TMDLs by 59 percent and 83 percent, respectively. A combination of increased conservation tillage, reduced application rates of phosphorus fertilizer, and conversion of crop land to pasture could reduce sediment and phosphorus loads by 23 percent and 20 percent of existing loads, respectively. These reductions are much less than needed to meet TMDLs, suggesting that control of sediment using buffer strips and control of point sources of phosphorus are needed for the remaining reductions.
Wireless Power Transfer via Strongly Coupled Magnetic Resonances
Authors: Kurs André , Karalis Aristeidis , Moffatt Robert , Joannopoulos J. D. , Fisher Peter , Soljačić Marin
Published: June 2007

Using self-resonant coils in a strongly coupled regime, we experimentally demonstrated efficient nonradiative power transfer over distances up to 8 times the radius of the coils. We were able to transfer 60 watts with ∼40% efficiency over distances in excess of 2 meters. We present a quantitative model describing the power transfer, which matches the experimental results to within 5%. We discuss the practical applicability of this system and suggest directions for further study.
EFFECT OF Pr AND Ca DOPING ON THE SUPERCONDUCTING PROPERTIES OF Dy1-2xPrxCaxBa2Cu3O7-δ HTSCs
Authors: CHAROENTHAI N. , UDOMKAN N.
Published: June 2007

The structure changes and the suppression of superconductivity in the Dy -123 high-temperature superconductors (HTSCs) due to equal substitution of Pr and Ca are studied. The onset temperatures (T c 's) of the co-doped Dy 1-2x Pr x Ca x Ba 2 Cu 3 O 7-δ HTSC's are measured by AC susceptibility measurements. The Tc 's and rates of decrease of dT c /dx due to Pr substitution for both series exhibit rare earth size effects. It is found that the lattice distortion defined by D = (b-a)/(b+a), where a and b are the lattice parameters in the basal plane, decreases systematically as the doping is increased. A hole-filling and pair-breaking model is used to explain the behaviors of both the T c 's and the rates of decrease of dT c /dx as Pr 4+ ions are doped into two "123" HTSCs.
THE EFFECTIVE MASS OF STRONG-COUPLING MAGNETOPOLARON IN QUANTUM DOT
Authors: XIAO WEI , XIAO JING-LIN
Published: June 2007

The properties of the strong-coupling magnetopolaron in a parabolic quantum dot are studied for the first time using an improved linear combination operator method. The relation between the vibration frequency, the interaction energy and the effective mass of the strong-coupling magnetopolaron in a parabolic quantum dot with the magnetic field, the confinement strength and the electron-phonon coupling strength were derived. Numerical calculations for the RbCl crystal, for example, are performed and the results show that the vibration frequency, the effective mass and the interaction energy of the strong-coupling magnetopolaron in a parabolic quantum dot will increase quickly with decreasing effective confinement length of the quantum dot. Those attributed to interesting quantum size effects will appear.
LUMINESCENCE STUDIES OF RARE EARTH DOPED CALCIUM ALUMINATE PHOSPHORS
Authors: MADHUKUMAR K. , RAJENDRA BABU K. , AJITH PRASAD K. C. , JAMES J. , ELIAS T. S. , PADMANABHAN V. , NAIR C. M. K.
Published: June 2007

Photoluminescence (PL) and Thermoluminescence (TL) properties of Cerium ( Ce 3+) and Terbium ( Tb 3+) singly doped and multidoped monocalcium aluminate phosphors are studied. The suitability of monocalcium aluminate material as a luminescent host is analyzed. The nature of trap centers and the possibility of energy transfer between the dopant ions are discussed. The suitability of the material for radiation dosimetry application is also studied.
VANISHING COSMOLOGICAL CONSTANT IN MODIFIED GAUSS–BONNET GRAVITY WITH CONFORMAL ANOMALY
Authors: BREVIK IVER , QUIROGA JOHN
Published: June 2007

We consider dark energy cosmology in a de Sitter universe filled with quantum conformal matter. Our model represents a Gauss–Bonnet model of gravity with contributions from quantum effects. To the General Relativity action an arbitrary function of the GB invariant, f(G), is added, and taking into account quantum effects from matter the cosmological constant is studied. For the considered model, the conditions for a vanishing cosmological constant are considered. Creation of a de Sitter universe by quantum effects in a GB modified gravity is discussed.
GRAVITATIONAL RADIATION OF ACCELERATED SOURCES
Authors: MALUF J. W. , ANDRADE V. C. , STEINER J. R.
Published: June 2007

We investigate the gravitational radiation produced by a linearly accelerated source in general relativity. The investigation is performed by studying the vacuum C metric, which is interpreted as representing the exterior space–time of an uniformly accelerating spherically symmetric gravitational source, and is carried out in the context of the teleparallel equivalent of general relativity. For an observer sufficiently far from both the (modified) Schwarzschild and Rindler horizons, which is a realistic situation, we obtain a simple expression for the total emitted gravitational radiation. We also briefly discuss on the absolute or relative character of the accelerated motion.
THE STATISTICAL PROPERTIES OF GALAXY MORPHOLOGICAL TYPES IN COMPACT GROUPS OF MAIN GALAXIES FROM THE SDSS DATA RELEASE 4
Authors: DENG XIN-FA , HE JI-ZHOU , JIANG PENG , TANG XIAO-XUN , LUO CHENG-HONG
Published: June 2007

In order to explore the statistical properties of galaxy morphological types in compact groups (CGs), we construct a random group sample which has the same distributions of redshift and number of member galaxies as those of the CG sample. It turns out that the proportion of early-type galaxies in different redshift bins for the CG sample is statistically higher than that for random group sample, and with growing redshift z this kind of difference becomes more significant. This may be due to the existence of interactions and mergers within a significant fraction of SDSS CGs. We also compare statistical results of CGs with those of more compact groups and pairs, but do not observe as large statistical difference as Hickson's [Astrophys. J.255 (1982) 382] results.
Cryptographic key management
Authors: Gerberick Dahl A.
Published: June 2007

There are two main issues concerning data security on networks; controlling access and the vulnerability of data communication links. A brief introduction to the various techniques which may be applied to these concerns are given in this paper.
How you can use the data encryption standard to encrypt your files and data bases
Authors: Van Buren Roy F.
Published: June 2007

Through this paper, I am going to show you how you can use data encryption to effectively secure your files and databases.
Decision tables - an effective programming tool
Authors: Langenwalter Daniel F.
Published: June 2007

The manager or owner of a small to medium size business often has strong ideas on how he wants to run his business. The “packaged” software to go with the mini computer that he can afford just doesn't give him the flexibility he wants. To keep the software costs down and still be able to get the desired programs, a programming method that gets the results at low cost is needed. Two companies reported reductions of 3 to 1, i.e. costs were down to one-third of the previous methods, by using decision tables to write the logic. With such substantial reductions in costs, the mini computer owner can have the tailored programs he wants with a reasonable investment.

A decision table processor, MUSCL, has been developed and is implemented on mini computers. This paper shows how to write and solve decision tables as implemented.

Ideally problems are solved in steps. The problem is defined clearly. Criteria or conditions are established. Then a series of actions is taken. The expression that describes the conditions and actions is a “decision rule”. A decision table is the structure for describing a set of decision rules. A decision table gives us a way of recording decision patterns so that we can make consistent decisions and see how to change the patterns to meet changing conditions.
A comparative study of environments for database system implementation
Authors: Fernandez M. Teresa Suarez , Hartson H. Rex
Published: June 2007

Two specific environments for implementation of experimental DataBase Management Systems (DBMS) are compared, especially in light of performance measurement: IBM 370 and HP-2100A. The HP-2100A was selected for a skeletal implementation to study performance parameters further. The DBMS structure, some performance results, and several difficulties encountered are described. The HP-2100A minicomputer did provide “hands-on” experience and more direct control to customize disk access routines. However, there were problems with performance measurement in both environments and the expected advantages of the minicomputer were not wholly realized. A specially constructed hardware timing clock would have improved the ability to measure I/O execution times in the HP-2100A.
Middle-range technology
Authors: Nagasundaram Murli
Published: June 2007

Designers of groupware are perhaps more aware than others as to how difficult it is to introduce new and useful technologies if such technologies have the potential to significantly and directly impact behavioral and social mores and practices. In this piece, I propose that social acceptance and diffusion of technologies comes about only if they are targeted at what I call a middle-range (MR) of usage. An MR technology provides a set of functionalities for whom a great need is felt and its acceptance and use at this level (or range) leads to its adoption at "lower" and "higher" levels, i.e., contexts where the functionalities delivered are much less or much more than at the middle-level. Developers keen on bringing their products to the market could avoid much anguish by focusing their efforts on MR applications.
An information presentation system for decision makers
Authors: Yonke Martin D. , Greenfeld Norton R.
Published: June 2007

This paper describes a new concept for interfacing operational decision makers with their information systems. It is intended to overcome the rigidities of current architectures by enabling the decision maker to direct, modify, and manipulate the presentation of information in real-time through a highly automated interface system. The current practice of specifying a decision maker's desires to a programmer, who must in turn produce a data gathering and formatting program that interfaces with some graphics system, is unsatisfactory for the real-time needs of an ever-changing decision environment.An experimental Information Presentation System has been implemented utilizing a high-level knowledge representation language. The system manipulates general descriptions of information presentation concepts such as coordinate systems, trnasformations, display regions, display objects, and the relationships between data objects and their depictions. This paper summarizes the current state of that system and the Information Presentation System concept.
Data management for decision support systems
Authors: Methlie Leif B.
Published: June 2007

In describing a DSS architecture it is common to include a database as a component in the system. However, the DSS literature pays little attention to the data management function. Emphasis is placed on model aspects and user-system interface. In this paper we shall develop some characteristics of the data management function for a DSS. They are based on data management functions in some existing management tools as well as general developments within database theory. Finally, a particular feature of data management, data extraction, is treated. Data extraction enables loading of data into a DSS from data files external to the DSS.
On the automatic correction of orthographic mistakes
Authors: Campi G.
Published: June 2007

A corrected program is presented. Algorithms for misspelled words have been introduced for different kinds of mistakes. The analysis is centered on the structural characteristic of the word in such a way that the program is not confined to a particular language. The Italian language is used as test. The algorithms have been implemented in Fortran and two environments have been realized as applications.
A database management system for office systems and advanced workstations
Authors: Choy David M. , Bamford Roger J. , Tung Frank C.
Published: June 2007

Over the past few years the amount of computing power and storage available to the office worker has greatly increased, resulting in the introduction of increasingly sophisticated and varied office systems applications. Many of these applications operate on structured data that could be manages by a general-purpose database system, but are instead stored in flat files in an application-specific format. On the other hand, applications that operate on relatively unstructured data, such as for word processing, need the transparency and efficiency of a conventional file interface.To this end, we have developed the "Office Database" (ODB), an integrated database and file system based on the Entity_Relationship model. The ODB database interface supports structured data, while the file system interface supports the unstructured data. ODB databases also serve as directories for files (and databases, allowing arbitrary organization and identification of user files and databases.This paper first describes the office application environment and the requirements for an office database. Next, the data model and programming interface for ODB are described. Following this is a description of a full-screen interactive interface to ODB. An overview of the implementation of ODB is given, as well as some details on the current status, and conclusions about the significance of the work.
Successful implementation of voice store and forward technology
Authors: Ehrlich Susan F. , Akiba Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2007

The introduction of a voice store and forward system can have a profound impact on an organization. This technology can not only support existing communication networks but can also provide an
additional mode
by which individuals can communicate with each other. However, the success of voice store and forward systems is highly dependent on the way they are introduced into a company and the way the resulting changes in communication patterns are managed. This report documents the effect that a voice store and forward system had at Herman Miller, Inc., a large midwestern furniture manufacturing company specializing in open office systems and seating. It details the strategic plans for implementing the system and describes their effects on system use. Highlighted are the critical issues that led to successful implementation of the system.
Adaptive staging and advancement of user-computer interaction skills in office environments
Authors: Treu Siegfried
Published: June 2007

A research project has been initiated to study the design of powerful user-network interface systems which will facilitate user interaction but not constrain the user. That user is considered to be the office worker who is not a computer specialist. Our general approach is to utilize what is known from computer science and to blend that with relevant knowledge from psychology (especially learning theory) toward tailoring an intelligent, display-based workstation for the special needs of such office workers. More specifically, we are working on a prototype system which will assist and guide the user toward building up increasingly complex intellectual skills. We are not interested in superficial simplicity; instead we want the user to be able to advance his/her understanding of the technology by progressing through carefully structured stages of learning, encompassing the spectrum of very simple to very complex computer-aided tasks. Along the way, the system will provide special forms of adaptation (using expert systems techniques) as well as network-wide context (with supportive, parallel display channels).
A longitudinal view of an office system failure
Authors: Galletta Dennis F.
Published: June 2007

A large eastern US university recently installed components of a so-called "Administrative Information System" (AIS), which will eventually encompass most office functions in the entire university. Part of this system includes an electronic mail function, which appeared to fail miserably in both long- and short-term points of view. This is a short description of the system, the data collection procedures, and the results. A more complete description can be found in Galletta (1985).Although the original study focused on performance of subjects following certain training approaches, other measures were also taken. In particular, attitudes of users were measured before training, after the system was installed for one month, and again after one year. Extent of system usage was also measured in both post-installation cases.
Rendering tables in audio
Authors: Yesilada Yeliz , Stevens Robert , Goble Carole , Hussein Shazad
Published: June 2007

Tables remain a persistent problem for visually impaired people using screen readers. Tables are complex structures that are widely used for different purposes such as spatial layout or data summarisation. The multi-dimensional nature of tables challenges the linear interaction styles typically supported by screen readers. To read a table, a user needs to maintain coherency of, and interact with more than one dimension. In this paper, we first characterise why tables are useful in print, but difficult to read in the audio. We present a survey of the relationship between table structure, intention and the reading styles employed to use the content of tables. We then present two different approaches for interacting with tables non-visually. These approaches are designed to support the characteristics of tables that make them such a popular and useful means of conveying information. The first approach provides a small table browser called EVITA (Enabling Visually Impaired Table Access), whose aim is to enable non-visual table browsing and reading in an analogous manner to the print medium. The second approach provides a table lineariser to transform tables into a form such that they can be easily read by screen readers.
Beyond standards
Authors: Wattenberg Ted
Published: June 2007

The promise of social inclusion, reinforced by online technologies, has not become the reality for most people with disabilities. In 2002, over ten years after the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, more people with disabilities are unemployed than at any time in the last thirty years. Most online educational environments are still not accessible to students with disabilities or those using assistive technologies. While enrollment of people with disabilities in colleges and universities has increased, few have been able to graduate, find successful employment, and move on to independent lifestyles, free of government assistance.To support the vision of universal usability, designers and instructors of assistive technology must go beyond the limited constructs of engineering standards and integrate actual users of assistive technology as participants into both the design and delivery processes.
The most significant bits
Authors: Godderz J. E.
Published: June 2007

In the April issue of Computer Design the latest offering from Data General Corp. was reviewed. The offering consists of a new micro/minicomputer family which is code-compatible with NOVA minicomputers. The family has members aimed at OEM (original equipment manufacturers) and end users alike.
Possible futures and present actions
Authors: Hopper Grace Murray
Published: June 2007

Every computer and data-processing system implemented today will eventually be replaced. There are many possible futures. It is necessary to examine these possibilities and to identify those actions which can be taken today in order to be prepared to move readily into the future. Such actions involve questions of standards of programming languages, of modularity and of documentation. Events of the past point up the types of decisions which must be made.
Mini-notes
Authors: Wood Percy G.
Published: June 2007

The appearance of microprocessor based computing systems has put the cost of hardware virtually within the reach of everybody. Software for such systems, however, hasn't even come near matching the ever expanding selection of gear. To help solve the software generation problem, many language processors have been developed. Since the products involved tend to have such restricted environments, these processors are usually run on machines that are much larger than the target processing system. It is quite common to have these processors available on the local time sharing network.
The most significant bits
Authors: Godderz J. E.
Published: June 2007

Hewlett-Packard has announced a 2108K mini-processor board which can act as a 24-bit microprocessor with a 325 ns cycle time for register-to-register add. An optional 12728E instruction set ROM converts the 2108K into a minicomputer using the HP 21MX (2100, 2116, etc.) instruction set.
The Conticomputer system a commodities database
Authors: Martin Daniel
Published: June 2007

A computer system used to support the technical research department of Conticommodity is described. The system is installed on a Data General Eclipse S/200 computer and has been in operation since June, 1976. It is centered around a 12MB data base of commodity prices and includes plotter and communication software.
Preprocessing
Authors: Polster F. J.
Published: June 2007

This paper reports on the implementation of a powerful data manipulation language of a data base system for minicomputers. The technique of language preprocessing is employed.
Comparative performance of COBOL programs on mini vs. large computer systems
Authors: Jalics Paul J.
Published: June 2007

The comparative performance characteristics of COBOL programs in a small versus large computer systems are investigated. The vehicle consists of a set of synthetic benchmark COBOL programs, each measuring a particular aspect of COBOL proigrams; and in addition a large actual COBOL program. Measurement of the CPU execution time and the elapsed clock time for various COBOL computations, data manipulation, and input/output is made on both a large scale computer (IBM 370/158) and a minicomputer (Texas Instruments TI980). Results of a number of such experiments are presented and comparisons made between results gotten from the two systems.
Structured design benefits to a process control software project
Authors: Benincasa G. P. , Daneels A. , Heymans P. , Serre C. H.
Published: June 2007

A 12-man-year process control software project has been successfully completed in 12 months without interruption of the production process of CERN PS accelerators. After 6 months of careful preparation by a small team, 9 man-years of software, i.e., around 100 control programs amounting to more than 40,000 instructions, have been produced in 6 months by 6 experienced full-time software engineers and 24 part-time engineers and technicians, part of whom had never programmed before. The delivered product met the users specifications, was completed within schedule, conformed to the standards and was fully documented.
The concept of attached processing and attached resource computer systems
Authors: Poor Victor D.
Published: June 2007

Attached Processing, an innovative concept in business data processing demanding novel computer systems architecture, divides computing into three broadly specialized functions: applications processing, data storage and management, and communications. In its realization, the Attached Resource Computer, communications are handled by combining hardware and software in a high-speed, short-range interprocessor bus managed by bipolar microprocessors; data storage and management is the province of dedicated small processors attached to the interprocessor bus through the bipolar microprocessors; applications processing is done in other small processors similarly attached but entirely unburdened by communication processing requirements. The system is capable of indefinite extension and essentially unlimited throughput at very modest cost.
A mini-micro computers link promotes distributed processing in scientific and engineering computations
Authors: Gruber Shmuell , Tahan Meir , Hanani Michael Z.
Published: June 2007

Engineering and scientific work often requires complex computations of different types that should be carried out on different types of computers on the one hand, but must communicate and support each other on the other. In recent years, the availability of minicomputers and microcomputers and their special characteristics increased their popularity in industry and in research laboratories where they usually perform specific tasks they are best fit to do, but leave a host of other computation needs wanting on account of their small sizes, lack of peripherals, etc. To help solve such problems, and to enable efficient distribution of processing, a network composed of mini and micro computers with the support of a large computer has been built and is described in this paper.
Basic for realtime control applications
Authors: Buxton John E.
Published: June 2007

Basic is a general purpose programming language commonly used in business applications. There are many versions of Basic with varying capabilities. These capabilities range from simple games to large multi-terminal business applications. However, Basic is seldom used to implement a large realtime control system.
Minicomputers and mini computer centers scientific research & teaching
Authors: Maas P.
Published: June 2007

The advent of low cost minicomputers and peripherals supported by extensive high level software in the late 1960's led to the possibility of dispersing computer power from isolated central sites to user sites. The experience of one of a group of six such sites in an academic environment is described. The experience gained can provide a guide to others attempting to produce similar installations on optimizing the choice of hardware and software.
Performance evaluation of mini-computer timesharing systems
Authors: Marino Richard A.
Published: June 2007

This article presents some of the material that was included in a presentation by the author during the Spring, 1978 DECUS Seminar. Although it pertains most directly to PDP-11 computer systems using the RSTS/E Operating System, most of the concepts are applicable to the general problem of evaluating the performance of mini-computer timesharing systems. In discussing performance evaluation the article also details the tools available for evaluating this particular minicomputer timesharing environment.The information presented in this article is believed to be accurate, but no representation is made as to its particular accuracy or use, nor is any support for the features or software mentioned provided by Digital Equipment Corporation, Data Processing Design, Inc., or the author.
Software/courseware exchange for UCSD pascal
Authors: Bowles Kenneth L.
Published: June 2007

As a result of rapidly increasing interest in the UCSD PASCAL Software System, the Institute for Information Systems will establish an exchange service for software developed by users of the system. In addition to handling contributed programs, the exchange will function as a marketplace wherein authors of applications software packages, or computer based course materials, may sell their products to customers in return for royalty payments. The exchange will recover its operating costs through customer payments of small distribution charges, and will operate as a non profit public service.
Personal computing
Authors: Isaacson Portia , Gammill Robert C. , Heiser Richard S. , Osborne Adam , Tesler Larry , Warren Jim C.
Published: June 2007

The personal computer defies exact definition. Any general-purpose computer affordable by an individual is certainly a personal computer. If that same computer is used by a business, it is still a personal computer. Usually even in the business it would be dedicated to the use of a person or a small group. In a company, a person's computer may be analogous to his desk--the desk is personal even though it is owned by the corporation. Just as an automobile may be the personal property of one family member or shared by the entire family, so can the personal computer be singly used or shared, perhaps even time-shared.
Associative personal memory, a user oriented approach
Authors: Seeley Doug
Published: June 2007

This paper describes a personal information retrieval system, APM, written in PASCAL for small computers. The motivation is to help the user to keep abreast of information in rapidly growing areas and to do research. It has been modeled after the Community Memory system which has been successful in store-front community computer situations in the past. However, APM represents a significant extension in its inclusion of associative structures, its expanded user-oriented design, and in its inherent extendibility. It should be particularly suitable for both individual retrieval systems and as a basis for a networked community of systems.Along with describing a typical command language and its base implementation, the associative structures that compliment the open-ended keyword design are detailed. Particularly useful is the treatment of these structures by the same internal operations that are used for the retrieval of the messages themselves. A spin-off is the capability of having the system respond to the individual's own conceptual structures rather than rigidly-designed ones. The implication of this to large-scale sharing of information between APM nodes in co-operative networks are discussed.The user-oriented design is essentially achieved by putting all of the system-user interactions on the same basis as messages in the data-base. This fact greatly enhances the flexibility required to meet the requirements of particular users. By making the alterations to interactions straightforward, the resulting system can evolve without the obstacles of "encrusted" code. Much of the internal operation of APM can also be handled in this manner.As a result of this experience with APM, several guidelines are described for the development of user-oriented software in the personal computing field. A notion of "appropriate software" is elaborated. Finally, extensions to APM are discussed including: a) using meta-message structures such as "presentation scripts" and "development skeletons", and b) using an associative data-base as a context for interactive modelling.
A survey of the CP/M software market
Authors: Press Larry
Published: June 2007

Personal computing is not as new a field as the public relations staff at Radio Shack would have us believe. In the good old days (before OS), programmers often had dedicated use of even the largest machines. In 1966, Fred Gruenberger wrote and article entitled "Are Small, Free-Standing Computers Here to Stay?" which appeared in
Datamation.
His conclusion was that they were here to stay and that they would also be used as time sharing terminals part of the time. In 1967, Tom Steel wrote an SDC internal note which not only predicted that small computers were here to stay, but that the average person might be able to afford to own one. His prediction was for a $25,000 personal computer with the power of a 7090 by the mid 1970s and a market size of 5--20 million units.
The architecture of future personal computers an informal note
Authors: Press Larry
Published: June 2007

This is an informal note, in the spirit of the open nature of SisPC Notes. It is intended to generate discussion, not to "tell it how it is".
Smalltalk-80 at NCC
Authors: Blochowiak Kenneth
Published: June 2007

The NCC session entitled "Releasing the Smalltalk-80 Programming System" had much of the flavor of missionaries bearing witness to their faith. Several speakers alluded to the religious aspects of programming languages. And the "apostles" faith in their system was obvious.
Computers computers everywhere
Authors: Smith Stephen A.
Published: June 2007

"I'm really interested in computers but I don't know anything about them. How can I get started?" How about a trip to the local museum. Kids and grown-ups got to try out many of the latest personal computers at the Palo Alto Jr. Museum in Palo Alto, Ca. Equipment was loaned by local retail computer stores and manufacturers. The exhibit run from the middle of March through the middle of April - nothing crashed, nothing stolen!
Mince
Authors: Moore Jim
Published: June 2007

Mince is a screen-oriented text editor for use under CP/M (P). That is, "What you see is what you get." At all times, the screen (less the bottom two lines) represents a "window" into the text being edited, and that part of the text file contains exactly what you see on the screen. This means that, within the window being viewed, all changes of any sort are always kept current. Likewise, as you move the window to any other part of the text, you see the then-current state of the text.
OFFLOAD
Authors: Tate Austin
Published: June 2007

In order to exploit the ready availability of low cost, general purpose microcomputers as office workstations, an integrated environment has been assembled to allow for the straightforward use of a collection of software components. A closed user environment has been provided through the use of the OffLoad command interpreter which makes appropriate calls on the underlying operating system and utilities.The software components provided within the OffLoad system include a document preparation editor, a filing system, document formatters, printing and help facilities. Utilities include a numeric calculator, a mailing list and form letter management system, cash flow analysis and data management aids. Interactive and file transfer communications are provided from the OffLoad workstation to a computer network which provides archive and shared file storage, electronic mail, ViewData, expensive peripherals and many other services.The individual components of the workstation have common user interfaces and have been carefully integrated to ensure that their composite use is straightforward. Simple, but effective, aids are present to allow the user to configure the OffLoad system to personal tastes or particular office practices.
DBA design challenge
Authors: Cassim Julia , Dong Hua
Published: June 2007

The value and relevance of inclusive design is increasingly recognised by design professionals in the UK. An initiative that has encouraged this is the DBA (Inclusive) Design Challenge. Organised by the Helen Hamlyn Research Centre (HHRC) at the Royal College of Art (RCA), it was launched in 2000 in collaboration with the Design Business Association (DBA), a major professional organisation of designers, and it drew on the experience of three previous design challenges organised by the DesignAge programme, whose achievements led to the establishment of the HHRC in 1999.
American Sign Language natural language generation and machine translation
Authors: Huenerfauth Matt
Published: June 2007

Although deaf students in the U.S. and Canada are taught written English, their inability to hear spoken English results in most deaf U.S. high school graduates (18 year olds) reading at a fourth-grade (10 year old) level (Holt, 1991). Unfortunately, many deaf accessibility aids, like television closed captioning or teletype telephones, assume the user has strong English literacy skills. Many deaf people with English reading difficulty are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL); so, an English-to-ASL automated machine translation (MT) system could make information and services accessible when English text captioning is too complex or an interpreter is unavailable.
Mixed-mode dialogue information access for the visually impaired
Authors: Chen Xiaoyu
Published: June 2007

This paper describes mixed tactile and speech input modes implemented on a PDA as a solution to various problems of information access for the visually impaired. A prototype of the mixed-mode input dialogues has been developed in a non-visual news browser on a desktop computer. A pilot study is being conducted on this computer to determine how best to mix speech and touch input for visually impaired users. With the knowledge gained from the pilot study, a mixed-mode input environment will be built on PDA. Once the PDA prototype is operational a field study conducted on visually impaired subjects using this input environment will extend our understanding of how to effectively design mixed touch and speech input for various tasks and input contexts.
Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (RERC) for the advancement of cognitive technologies
Authors: Bodine Cathy , Lewis Clayton
Published: June 2007

Individuals with cognitive disabilities have long been marginalized by society's unwillingness to include them - within their local communities, educational systems and workplaces - in short, into the very fabric of society. While technology undoubtedly can play a vital role in decreasing this marginalization, there have been very few attempts to date to produce a coherent and sustained approach to identifying and ameliorating barriers for persons with significant cognitive disabilities through the use of technology.
Interacting with robots
Authors: Robins Ben , Dautenhahn Kerstin
Published: June 2007

Robots, virtual environments and other computer based technologies are increasingly applied in therapy and education. The work reported in this article, being part of the Aurora project [1], investigates the potential use of robots as therapeutic or educational 'toys' specifically for use by children with autism. Children with autism show difficulties in social interaction, communication and imagination (referred to by many authors as the triad of impairment, e.g. [15]). Our research focuses on ways that robotic systems can engage autistic children in simple interactive activities (e.g. imitation and turn--taking games) with the aim of encouraging basic communication and social interaction skills.
Impact of rapidly changing computer technology on computer crime
Authors: Sendrow Marvin
Published: June 2007

This paper reviews the changes in computer technology that have already occurred over the past 25 years, indicates the direction of future developments and describes the potential impact of these developments on the extent and types of computer-related crime.
ACM/SIGSAC resources
Authors: Smith Richard A.
Published: June 2007

This department was started with the SIGSAC Review Volume 1, Number 2 issue. The foundation for the department was discussed in the following issue, and this current issue begins with actual entries and resources.
Security of computer software
Authors: Guynes Steve
Published: June 2007

Due to the Multiplicity of risks to computer software as well as the time involved and expenses required to provide safety for the programs, protection for a firm's software has become a complex matter. Many security measures have been explored in recent years, especially with regard to general computer facility safety; the location of computer facilities, proper building construction and maintenance limited and controlled access to computer facilities, security clearance for personnel, and the creation of security policies are but a few of the general practices a company should consider when planning for total facility safety.
Personnel considerations in information systems security
Authors: Yestingsmeier Jan , Guynes Steve
Published: June 2007

In an area where internal control should be considered absolutely mandatory, it is ironic to note that management in many cases has let the mystique of the computer and the resultant associated loftiness of the technical staff discourage them from raising questions about the security of their information systems. As a result, top management is unaware, in many cases, that internal controls in the EDP department are lacking. It is not the intent of this paper to cover the entire area of computer security but only to make managers more aware of what they can do to help control their own personnel in the areas of internal security and internal controls.
Legal means of protecting computer software
Authors: Tujo John A. , Springer Dr. Donald
Published: June 2007

Each year, more and more computer software is produced and made available to public industry. Concerns over ownership rights of this software surface frequently. These disputes can lead to major lawsuits, some of which have changed the protection laws of software. This article attempts to look at some of the ownership problems and if possible, suggest some solutions.
Resources
Authors: Smith Richard A.
Published: June 2007

Previous issues of SIGSAC Review have covered some resources for the following topics:
Data encryption protocols for electronic mail
Authors: Fenna Erik
Published: June 2007

The 1984 CCITT recommendations on message handling provide for encrypted data but do not propose any standard method. Since use of both data encryption and electronic mail is increasing, the need for encryption standards within the message handling system will grow. The following note examines the different encryption requirements and proposes protocol extensions to handle them.
Preposterous opinions about computer security
Authors: Neugent Bill
Published: June 2007

The ideas have already been distilled to extreme purity and potency; further distillation could result in dangerous volatility.
Probabilistic quorum protocols for biometrical user authentication in OLTP
Authors: Murthy V. K.
Published: June 2007

A statistical zero-knowledge authentication scheme is described for security control in on-line database transaction processing systems (OLTP). This scheme uses probabilistic quorum protocols to validate users using their biometrical characteristics (such as speech, handwriting and keyboard characteristics). This authentication scheme can be implemented using the present-day smart card technology.
Designing real-time software systems
Authors: Kuenning Geoffrey H.
Published: June 2007

Real-time software design has become more difficult as devices have become more complex. A two-dimensional categorization of real-time software is presented which has proven useful in high-level design.
Video graphic query facility database design
Authors: McDonald Nancy H. , McNally John P.
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this paper is to describe the video graphic query facility's database design in terms of the query capabilities it orchestrates. The next section of the paper discusses the background and capabilities to be provided by the video graphic query facility. Section III describes the multi-media database underlying the facility and section IV summarizes what we believe to be a new database application.
Implementing SMART for minicomputers via relational processing With abstract data types
Authors: Fox Edward A.
Published: June 2007

Designed during the 1960's as a research tool for the field of information retrieval, the SMART system has been operating on an IBM 370 since 1974. SMART is now being enhanced, redesigned, and programmed under the UNIX operating system [28] on a DEC VAX 11/780. The techniques used should allow real-time operation on smaller minicomputers in the PDP 11 family. The implementation provides for a combination of database and information retrieval operations which make it applicable to office automation, personal information system management, and research studies.

The SMART vector space model, which treats information requests and stored information records as vectors in an n-space (of terms), is integrated into the relational database model using the concepts of abstract data types (ADTs). Domains of relations are allowed to be any ADT; an extended relational algebra is described with operators that manipulate many complex data structures. After illustrating the application of these concepts to typical SMART tasks, a prototype implementation is outlined. Also included is a discussion of techniques to be employed in a more efficient version.
Introducing ease of access into IBM
Authors: Keates Simeon
Published: June 2007

IBM has a long history of addressing the issues of employees and customers with disabilities through hiring and workplace practices, and through research and productisation of accessibility technologies. In 1999 IBM established an Accessibility Center with a focus on making our offerings accessible, exploiting accessibility technologies developed in IBM Research, and improving IBM's internal IT tools and work environment for employees with disabilities. IBM's product development organisations have made significant progress enabling their offerings and addressing some of the more difficult architectural issues associated with product accessibility.
Leveraging universal design in a financial services company
Authors: Bergel Marguerite , Chadwick-Dias Ann , Tullis Tom
Published: June 2007

E-commerce companies must strive to understand the changing physical, cognitive, and social requirements of their customers. The older demographic is the fastest growing worldwide [10, 15, 16, 20] and also the fastest growing online [8, 13]. In many countries, this aging trend is driven by the increase in birth rate that occurred after World War II. This generation is often defined as those born between 1946 and 1964 and includes the US "baby boomers" and the Japanese "dankai no sedai" (clumped generation). As this generation ages, the average age of the population will rise, and so will the incidence of impairments that influence how people use the Web including visual (cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, etc.), auditory (presbycusis, otosclerosis), motor (arthritis, stroke), neurodegenerative (Parkinson's disease), and cognitive (Alzheimer's disease) impairments. In the U.S. alone, over 14 million adults have some type of visual impairment and 28 million have some type of hearing loss (10 million of whom are over the age of 65). In addition to the changing demographics, international and domestic laws [12, 17, 18] are becoming ever more stringent, requiring equal access to information on the Web for all users, including those with disabilities. These changing demographics and sociopolitical issues, combined with a gradual trend toward corporate social responsibility, will likely encourage more companies to integrate universal design standards into their internal and externally-facing Web sites.
Accessibility from the front line
Authors: Dodd Jon
Published: June 2007

In 1999 when I started my usability consultancy, web accessibility was in a very sorry state. So has anything changed in the intervening five and a bit years?Well I'm happy to report things are improving steadily, but there is still much to do, particularly if we are to receive the benefits of accessibility above and beyond just ticking the boxes to achieve mere technical compliance. In the following short article I describe some of the progress that has been made, and some of the challenges and potential solutions for the future of web accessibility and web design in general.