bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Periodic discharge of adrenocorticotropin and vasopressin associated with focal glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Yokoyama Wakako , Fujieda Mikiya , Okada Taisuke , Maeda Haruko , Ushida Miyuki , Machida Yumiko , Naruse Keishi , Maeda Akihiko , Wakiguchi Hiroshi , Kurashige Takanobu
Published: October 2007

We report the first case of the syndrome of periodic adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and vasopressin (ADH) discharge associated with focal glomerulosclerosis. Approximately 30 cases of this syndrome have so far been reported in Japan, but no cases associated with renal dysfunction have yet been reported. The patient, a 10‐year‐old Japanese boy, was referred to our hospital because of recurrent attacks of vomiting. He was diagnosed as having this syndrome from clinical and laboratory findings. While various drugs were tried to manage his vomiting attacks, only valproic acid appeared to be effective in reducing the frequency of the attacks. Chronic nephritis was manifested when the patient was 12 years old, which required treatment with continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. Valproic acid was proved to be effective in reducing the number of attacks over 4 months.
An infant with Costelio syndrome complicated with fatal hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
Authors: Tomita Hideshi , Fuse Shigeto , Ikeda Kazuo , Matsuda Kazuko , Chiba Shunzo
Published: October 2007

We report a 3‐month‐old girl with Costelio syndrome complicating fatal hypertrophic obstructive cardio‐myopathy. She had typical findings of this syndrome, slight dyspnea and persistent wheezing. Doppler echocardiography revealed asymmetric septal hypertrophy and systolic anterior movement of the anterior mitral leaflet. There was grade 1 mitral regurgitation. Although once her heart failure had been controlled medically, she died suddenly following deterioration of her heart condition. Costelio syndrome can complicate fatal hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy.
Subclinical Sjögren's syndrome: A significant 67gallium accumulation in the orbits and parotid glands
Authors: Tanaka Hiroshi , Onodera Norio , Ito Ryosuke , Higuchi Akifumi , Suzuki Yasushi , Monma Nobuhiro , Waga Shinobu
Published: October 2007

An 8‐year‐old girl with hypergammaglobulinemia showed an abnormal 67gallium accumulation in the orbits and parotid glands. Although she did not have any subjective siccant complaints, reported typical histopatho‐logical and sialographs changes suggesting Sjögren's syndrome (SjS) were observed in the salivary glands. Gallium scintigram might be a valuable and non‐invasive diagnostic tool in the diagnosis of children with SjS without sicca symptoms.
Pocket Monster incident and low luminance visual stimuli: Special reference to deep red flicker stimulation
Authors: Takahashi Takeo , Tsukahara Yasuo
Published: October 2007

On the evening of 16 December 1997 approximately 700 people around the nation (mostly children) were rushed to hospitals and treated for seizure symptoms. The youngsters had been watching the vastly popular TV animated cartoon series Pocket Monsters (Pokemon). We designated those individuals as a main group, who presumably had simultaneous occurrence of visually induced seizures. Follow‐up studies revealed that5–10.4% of Pokemon viewers had various minor symptoms not requiring hospital treatment. We designated those as a subgroup. Due to an official report regarding the problematic TV scene as a low luminance, 12 Hz alternating red/blue stimulus, we attempted an accounting of the Pokemon incident, with regard to the main group in particular, on the basis of electroencephalographic activation by use of low luminance 15 Hz deep red flicker stimulation. In order to explain the entire Pokemon incident, including symptoms experienced by individuals of the subgroup, we considered the possibility that some healthy youngsters may have latent photosensitivity and we thought that such a sensitivity might be disclosed by use of low luminance deep red nicker stimulation which is more provocative of photoparoxysmal response than ordinary high luminance stroboscopic intermittent photic stimulation. For prevention of visually induced seizures by TV viewing, we stress that care should be taken to test not only red nicker but also flickering geometric pattern stimuli.
ADOPTING A VALUE‐ADDED TAX IN A DEVELOPING COUNTRY*
Authors: Sicat Gerardo P.
Published: October 2007

There are many decisions points to consider once a government has decided to put in place a value added tax. Some of these decisions pre‐determine other decisions.

In particular, most countries have chosen this VAT to be most suitable: consumption type of VAT designed along the destination principle, and collected by the credit method. Other features tend to be more variable depending on the countries concerned. Most countries would want to adopt the comprehensive VAT, down to the retail level, but practical considerations would necessitate the introduction only of the pre‐retail VAT. The VAT may have a narrower coverage of sectors because of the limitations related to special conditions of small establishments, especially in developing countries and because of the stage of economic activity covered. When these are taken into account, through the technique of exemption, the VAT would tend to be applicable to the more formal sector of the economy that is composed of larger establishments. The simplest VAT would be conceived with a single rate, but intermediate rates may be introduced to accommodate the need to meet social considerations on the burden of the tax.

Finally, although this paper dealt with the issues about the introduction of a VAT, the same issues would loom large in any improvements designed to broaden the coverage of an existing VAT. It is likely that the most basic choices will have to be committed at the point of introduction. In that respect, there is some irreversibility in the choice of the type of VAT, the principle upon which it is based, and the method of collecting it. Room for improvement will take place essentially in the coverage of the tax. For instance, this can be in terms of the following: movement towards the comprehensive VAT, in the case of a decision in favor of a pre‐retail level VAT; increase in the coverage of sectors where before the horizontal coverage is narrow; and changes in the level of the tax rate.
CAPITAL FLOWS AND EXPORT EXTERNALITIES: AN EAST ASIAN CURE FOR THE DUTCH DISEASE?*
Authors: Petri Peter A.
Published: October 2007

The analysis so far suggests several conclusions regarding policy under externalities in tradables production. It shows that conventional profit‐maximizing solutions lead to too much investment, too much “up front” consumption, high period 1 real exchange rates, and underproduction of tradables. In this setting, it is possible that an improvement in an economy's access to foreign capital will lead to welfare losses.

These distortions are most efficiently corrected by a tradables output subsidy, equal to the externality. This subsidy should be increased if the economy's access to foreign capital markets improves. In the absence of such subsidies, however, incentives to reduce investment and postpone consumption may be appropriate second‐best policies. These policies, in effect, drive a wedge between rates of return on investment and foreign interest rates. Therefore the optimal policy will also require controls on foreign capital seeking to take advantage of higher interest rates at home than abroad.
LINKAGES: DO FOREIGN FIRMS BUY LOCALLY IN TAIWAN?*
Authors: Schive Chi
Published: October 2007

Linkages are important potential impacts of DFI upon host economies. Since these potentialities are not necessarily realized, we must separate the potential (ex ante) and actual (ex post) results of these effects. Empirical data for Taiwan in the 1970s show that DFI may tend to concentrate in industries with strong backward linkages. More significantly, DFI located in EPZs or controlled by non‐Chinese investors had a clear tendency to import more and, hence, to form enclaves. However, this group of firms greatly improved its procurement policies over time. Thus, while discernible in the short run, the enclavistic phenomenon linked to DFI becomes insignificant in the long run, as shown by Taiwan's experience. Needless to say, the gradual rise of the local content rate of foreign firms is in line with successful development of the local material industries in Taiwan in the 1970s (Schive, forthcoming).

In addition to the time factor, several firms specific factors such as foreign ownership structure, export propensity, status as a producer of either final or intermediate goods, status as a “neighboring” or “distant” investor, and the scale of operation all have a bearing on foreign firms' local purchasing behavior. To determine whether these findings pertain to Taiwan only, further country comparative studies are needed.
Exchange Rates and State ‐ Led Capitalism: What Can the NIC's Learn from Japan?
Authors: Yotopoulos Pan A.
Published: October 2007

Having failed the free‐market, laissez‐faire, capitalist‐economic‐development interpretation, Japan's economic success is currently accorded a “revisionist” approach: it is treated as a “special case” on the grounds that Japan operates along a different set of cultural, economic, and political imperatives. This paper offers an alternative systematic economic interpretation of the “Japanese Miracle” which has transference to other countries. It is based on the Ricardo Principle, and uses purchasing‐power‐parity data to analyze Japanese development policies that led to successfully “leapfrogging” the process of economic development. The state of underdevelopment, with initial conditions that led to specialization in labor‐intensive, low‐value‐added exports, and resulted in low wages and low living standards was ended “prematurely” in the 1960s, lest the country be trapped in its static comparative advantage. The state of development was then launched, with specialization in capital‐ and technology‐intensive exports that had dynamic comparative advantage down‐the‐road. The process is characterized as “State‐led capitalism,” with the government using its strong arm to the purpose of achieving pluralistic economic development.
An Empirical Study on Taiwan's Tax Policy: 1966–1988
Authors: Huang Chao‐Hsi , Lin Kenneth S.
Published: October 2007

If government financing policy aims at reducing the distortionary cost of taxation over time as Barro's tax smoothing hypothesis suggested, then the government tends to run a “surplus” whenever the growth rate of its expenditure is expected to increase or the growth rate of aggregate income is expected to decline. We examine whether Taiwan's tax policy was consistent with this prediction of the hypothesis for the period between 1966 and 1988. Our formal tests and informal evaluations accord well with such prediction. One implication is that if Taiwan's “six year national development plan” results in a permanent increase in government spending, then the government will raise taxes to finance the increased spending.
Wage Reform in Singapore
Authors: Beng Chew Soon
Published: October 2007

Singapore attained self‐government in 1959. Her policy of relying on the MNCs to achieve industrialization has proven to be very successful. The Singapore model shows that economic strategy must be flexible to meet the changing needs of the Singapore economy. One such economic strategy is the wage system.

During the period 1959–1990, the wage system in Singapore changed twice, once in 1968, and again in 1985. The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, we examine the need for wage reform, and secondly to discuss various patterns of flexible wage models in Singapore. The main conclusion is that Singapore's flexible wage models can benefit both the worker and the employer.
A Case of Economic Pragmatism: Japanese Manufacturing in U.K.
Authors: Reitsperger Wolf D.
Published: October 2007

This paper focuses on the comparative performance of Japanese and Western television manufacturing in the United Kingdom. It offers explanations of how differences in policies and practices lead to superior performance levels in the selected Japanese companies.
A Game Model of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation
Authors: Jackson Tom
Published: October 2007

This paper explores the evolution of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) from 1988, when Australia first proposed it, to the present day. The analysis follows the tradition of the game theory of international politics and utilizes a variant of the scenario bundle mehod of Reinhard Selten (1977). The model explains APEC as an informal process rather than a full blown international organization, and why ASEAN is the decisive player in Pacific cooperation. An analysis of historical events since the creation of APEC leads to the hypothesis that an OECD style organization, which Australia had originally hoped for, will not be established in the foreseeable future.
Macroeconomic Forecasting in Hong Kong: A Survey
Authors: Chou Win‐lin , Jun Zhang
Published: October 2007

This study reports the results of a survey on how the business firms, government, and academics in Hong Kong prepare their forecasts, what methods they prefer, whether they keep records of forecasting performance, and the usage of their forecasts. The survey questionnaire was sent to fortynine participants and the results showed that subjective techniques are commonly used by Hong Kong firms in various forecasting situations despite the increasing availability of computers that make possible the efficient use of quantitative forecasting techniques. Also, very few firms performed accuracy analysis for their forecasts. The lack of records of forecasting accuracy suggests that business firms in Hong Kong are likely to continue to use a technique that fails to perform.
A Test of the Rational Expectations‐Permanent Income Hypothesis for Singapore
Authors: Thornton John
Published: October 2007

This paper tests the rational expectations‐permanent incomc hypothesis (REPIH) for Singaporc using the methodology developed by Hall (1978) and Flavin (1981). Thc statistical evidcncc suggests that the REPIH cannot be rejected.
China's Regional Economic Policy: Effects and Alternatives*
Authors: Ma Jun , Li Yong
Published: October 2007

This paper presents an overview of China's regional policy over the past thirteen years and analyses the policy's effects in the 1980s. It is argued that, although the decentralization process and the unbalanced regional policy stimulated some regions’rapid growth, it caused and exacerbated various distortions due to the fact that the administrative decentralization lacked the coordination of other reforms. These distortions found expressions in the following aspects: the decline of economic efficiency in the state sector, the loss of regional comparative advantage, the weakening of macroeconomic control, and the rent‐seeking effects. A number of recently proposed policies addressing the central‐local relation issues are also discussed.
Regional Trading Arrangements and Regional Integration
Authors: Lloyd P. J.
Published: October 2007

The formation of new or geographically expanded regional trading arrangements is one of the dominant trends in the world economy. This paper reviews the changing nature of regional trading arrangements. In the 1980s and 1990s a new generation of arrangements has gone much beyond the removal of border‐trade barriers to the harmonization of non‐border instruments such as national subsidies and commodity taxes, standards, business law regulations and competition policy. They also, in some cases, cover service trade and factor trade. These extensions beyond the scope of traditional customs unions and free trade areas pose new questions about the meaning of regional integration. This paper proposes a new definition of regional integration in terms of price convergence and looks at the extent of regional integration in East Asia.
The Dynamics of Intra‐industry Trade in ASEAN*
Authors: Menon Jayant
Published: October 2007

The decision to establish the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) by the year 2008 has resulted in producers in all ASEAN countries except Singapore raising concerns relating to potential loss of market share and adjustment pressures. Underlying these concerns is the view that the expected growth in intra‐ASEAN trade will be dominated by inter‐industry or net trade (NT) rather than intra‐industry trade (IIT). If most of the expected growth in trade is intra‐industry, however, then the short‐run resource re‐allocation costs are likely to be lower. In this study, we employ a new methodology to analyse the dynamics of IIT in ASEAN. We overcome problems associated with using movements in the value of the Grubel‐Lloyd (GL) index by deriving a formula that decomposes the growth in trade into the contributions of growth in IIT and NT. Our results suggest that the role of IIT in trade growth has been increasing in importance, and thus much of the recent concern that threatens the viability of AFTA may be misplaced.
Singapore’s Bilateral Merchandise Trade Linkages with Japan and the United States: Trends, Patterns and Comparisons
Authors: Rajan Ramkishen S.
Published: October 2007

This paper analyses and compares trends and patterns in Singapore’s bilateral merchandise trade relations with its two largest trading partners, Japan and the United States (US). Over the period 1976‐1992, the analyses reveal that both Japan and the US have been relatively over‐represented as Singapore’s trade partners. However, whereas Singapore’s trade with Japan has become more intensive in recent years, that with the US has become less so. Computations reveal that the degree as well as level of Singapore’s intra‐industry trade with the US has exceeded that with Japan. Nevertheless, while the degree of Singapore’s intra‐industry trade with Japan has been consistently increasing since 1981, bilateral trade with the US since 1987 has become increasingly inter‐ rather than intra‐industry. The important nexus between trade and FDI is also highlighted.
Geodesic Curves on Patched Polynomial Surfaces
Authors: Haw R J , Munchmeyer F C
Published: October 2007

A method is described for tracing geodesic curves across patched surfaces. Two techniques are discussed for constructing the curves ‐ an initial value problem and a boundary value problem. Arc lengths are computed, as well as the enclosed area of an arbitrary region on the surface.
CAD For Intelligent Activity of an Autonomous Submersible System
Authors: Russell G T , Lane D M
Published: October 2007

This paper describes a CAD facility for the design of automatic guidance and control strategies for an unmanned autonomous submersible. The facility utilises a three dimensional colour graphics display of the scene and vehicle trajectory, providing a man/ machine interface for the operator in addition to vehicle motion simulation with six degrees of freedom. A primary application envisaged for the CAD facility is in the design of scene analysis algorithms and the intelligent control system structure, for an autonomous submersible employing scanning sonar as its target sensor.
Displaying Random Fields
Authors: Coquillart Sabine
Published: October 2007

This paper presents an algorithm for random fields generation. The main idea of the paper is an improvement of the recursive technique presented by A. Fournier, D. Fussel and L. Carpenter in [4]. In order to ensure the continuity constraints on the boundaries of the cells generated at different stages of the algorithm, we show that it is possible to store the boundary values using a dynamic data structure. Random fields have been successfully used to model height fields or to display synthetic textures. In the second part of this paper we investigate the perspective mapping and clipping stages of random fields generation and display. At the end of the paper, some synthetic skies displayed using this technique are presented.
The Graphics PARCUM* System: A 3D Memory Based Computer Architecture for Processing and Display of Solid Models
Authors: Jackel D.
Published: October 2007

The concept of a computer architecture for processing and display of spatially ordered data is presented in this paper. The central part of the architecture is a memory cube in which the objects can be processed in their real shape as a three‐dimensional data array. The development has been rendered possible at reasonable costs through the rapid progress in the realm of VLSI‐memory technology.
User Interaction with an Environment for Image Processing and Graphics
Authors: Westrup T D , Kegel W. , Gras J.
Published: October 2007

The Space Telescope Faint Object Camera is one of the most exciting projects in astronomical history, and will expand the volume of the observable universe by a factor of almost one thousand. In order to process the images from this instrument a FOC Image Processing System (FIPS) has been developed at the European Space Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Holland.

Amongst other features, such as means to input, display, store, retrieve and output image and graphics data, FIPS places much emphasis on the user interface. The FIPS Command Language (FCL) is based on algorithmic languages such as PASCAL, C, ALGOL, etc, rather than conventional Job Control Languages, and thus includes control statements, compound statements, functions and procedures, assignment statements, etc. These allow the user to define complex functions out of the basic commands and to process for example, sets of images and graphics files without intervention.

In addition, FCL allows command parameters to be specified either by default, canonically, by means of keywords, or via prompts to take account of the experience of the user. HELP information can be invoked both at the command and parameter levels, to assist the inexperienced user. As image processing can be time consuming, certain operations (e.g. rotate an image) can be performed asynchronously to avoid delaying interactive user input.

Some examples of the practical usage of FIPS are also given, and the paper concludes with an assessment of how well FIPS has met its objectives and what improvements would be beneficial.

FIPS is available on a commercial basis from Dynaflow Software Systems. For further information contact J Gras at the address indicated.
A Compressed Data Structure for Surface Representation
Authors: Cottingham Marion S.
Published: October 2007

One of the standard methods of simplifying the task of obtaining a shaded image of a solid object is to represent it by a polyhedron. Another method is to use sculptured surface modelling which represents surfaces by collections of surface patches. Using either method the surfaces can be approximated by facets, which are simple to shade according to photometry information.

To obtain a smooth image in regions of high curvature, the surface would typically be required to have hundreds or thousands of facets. Because of the large number of facets involved, it is extremely important that geometrical and topological information is stored in an efficient manner. This information must include all that is required for an unambiguous representation of the solid(s) in question.

The compressed data structure (CDS) is suitable for this purpose, and is capable of defining the majority of surfaces. The structure is intended to minimise the amount of data stored, with as much information as possible being implied. The CDS can be easily generated knowing the order of the vertices defining the surface.
APEX and STRETCH: A Practical Form for the Conic Arc
Authors: Gossling T.H. , Stokes S.T.S
Published: October 2007

This paper presents formulae and results from a practical implementation of a conic arc specified in terms of its end‐points and other descriptors, based on the three numeric factors, bulge, shear and squash, described in an earlier paper. The parametric form for the derivative is given, from which are found the normals from a given point to the arc, and formulae for splitting off one or more parts from it. A method of chordal approximation for plotting purposes is also presented, and the effects of applying transformations are discussed.
A Survey of Electronics R and D in the USA
Authors: Prince M.D.
Published: October 2007

This paper reviews the large‐scale electronics R&D activities in the United States, with emphasis on microelectronics and computer development. This review serves as useful background in discussing technology trends in computer graphics.

The $245,000 million spent by U.S. computer and electronics‐related industry is discussed by categories, and the factors influencing technology development are considered. The U.S. response to the Japanese challenge is reviewed with regard to superspeed and fifth‐generation computers, VLSI chips, and CAD/CAM tools.

Various industrial, university, and government activities are discussed. Included are descriptions of the Microelectronics and Computer technology Corp., Semiconductor Research Corp., Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Electronics Computer‐Aided Manufacturing, and Very High Speed Integrated Circuit programs. The VLSI manufacturing and CAD/CAM design goals of these programs for the 1985–1990 period are summarized.

It is pointed out that computer graphics technology and general electronics R&D are strongly interrelated. For example. VLSI circuits are utilized for powerful geometry engines in computer graphic systems. Conversely, CAD/CAM based on computer graphics is essential for the design of VLSI circuits.

Finally, computer graphics technology trends are summarized in the areas of VLSI usage, display systems, software, and system architecture.
An Edge‐Face Relational Scheme for Boundary Representations
Authors: Ansaldi S. , De Floriani K. , Falcidienc B.
Published: October 2007

We propose a relational scheme for representing and modelling regular objects, which is based on the adjacency relations between faces and edges. In this structure, called edge‐face graph, the nodes represent the faces and the arcs the edges of the corresponding object. Other topological entities, such as vertices, loops of edges, and shells, can be obtained from this relational scheme. We give a formal description of the edge‐face graph, and the relationships between its properties and the topological entities of the object are analyzed in detail. Furthermore, a set of basic Euler operators based on the edge‐face adjacency relation is denned, which allow the incremental manipulation of boundary representations of solid objects.
GKS Programming in a PHIGS Environment
Authors: Arnold David B. , Hall Gillian , Reynolds Graham J.
Published: October 2007

GKS is an international standard for the functional interface to 2D graphics, whilst PHIGS is currently an ISO work item for 2D and 3D graphics. In addition, PHIGS allows improved control over structuring graphics data in the system. With a new work item, the upwards compatability from GKS to PHIGS is being called into question. This paper is an attempt to give direction to these discussions by listing the implications of introducing a software layer between a GKS application program and a PHIGS environment on which this application is to be run. It is intended to highlight differences between the systems and to answer questions such as, “How compatible?”, “Is it possible?”, “How much does the software layer have to do?”, etc.
Arbitrary Area Filling in a Fast Procedure
Authors: Ying Dao‐Ning , Feng Xing
Published: October 2007

A representation for area filling is described which allows shading of an area that may have both straight lines and circular arc edges and include holes within its boundaries. For efficiency an elimination algorithm which has a waiting line list and a currently active line list is adopted. For calculating intersections, a more time saving method is used. The algorithm and some practical examples are discussed. The main features of the algorithm are execution with high speed and less storage requirement. The program is written both in BASIC and FORTRAN 77 and could be executed on a microcomputer such as APPLE II, IBM‐P/C etc. The sample outputs shown in this paper are generated by the APPLE II with high efficiency.
Polygonal Clipping of Polylines
Authors: Matthew A.J.
Published: October 2007

A Fortran routine is presented for clipping a polyline to the inside or outside of a polygon, the boundary of the polygon being treated as part of the inside. There is no limitation on the number of sides of the polygon or vectors of the polyline, and no working storage is required. The polygon may have sides that intersect and vertices or sides that coincide with each other.
Algorithms for Handling the Fill Area Primitive of GKS
Authors: Shinde Yogesh N. , Mudur S.P.
Published: October 2007

The fill area primitive of GKS (Graphical Kernel System)1 is one of the more powerful features which differentiates it from earlier device independent graphics software and systems. Its specification is extremely general in the form of a closed boundary, possibly self‐intersecting, and whose interior can be filled in a variety of styles. However a complete implementation of this primitive is very complex. It is difficult to find a single graphics workstation incorporating this primitive in hardware or firmware. Most GKS implementations will have to include software for simulating the appearance of this primitive on the commonly available displays and hard‐copy graphics devices. Correct and efficient algorithms are necessary for developing this software. Because of the generality many of the existing algorithms are not directly applicable. In this paper we describe:

1. a new algorithm for clipping a fill area polygon, using what we have named as the Bridge Technique.

2. implementation of a plane sweep algorithm, by Nievergelt and Preparata,2 for solid filling and hatching, particularly applicable to vector devices.

3. extension of the plane sweep algorithm for filling with any given pattern on raster as well as vector devices.

The algorithms have been designed to work for all special cases as well. In fact they have been implemented having in mind the fill area set primitive of GKS‐3D extension.3 All these algorithms have been very successfully implemented in a commercially available GKS implementation, namely indoGKS.
A Token Based Graphics System
Authors: Reynolds Graham J.
Published: October 2007

This paper presents the design of a novel process oriented graphics systems architecture suitable for emulating many general purpose computer graphics systems. The systems architecture has been designed loosely on the actor model of computation, and consists of a number of functionally distinct modules or processes, which communicate solely by token (message) passing. The design addresses a specific requirement for configurability and adaptability of and between modules identified within interactive computer graphics systems.
An Integrated Graphics Programming Environment
Authors: Morrison R. , Florianis A.L. , Dearle A. , Atkinson M.P.
Published: October 2007

The facilities of the PS‐algol programming language are described in this paper to show how they may be used to provide an integrated graphics programming environment. The persistent store mechanism and the secure transaction facilities of the language provide the basic environment in which an integrated system may be implemented. This is augmented by data types and operations to support line drawings and raster graphics. The combination of these mechanisms may be used to provide the integrated graphics programming environment.
Fast Operations on Raster Images with SIMD Machine Architectures
Authors: Arabnia H. R. , Oliver M. A.
Published: October 2007

Algorithms for fast operations on a raster image data structure are described. The data structure and algorithms have been designed to exploit SIMD parallel architectures. Images of lines, discs and circles can be created efficiently. Images can be translated, scaled, and combined. The data structure is closely related to runlength encodement. The algorithms have been implemented on an ICL DAP on which the operations can be done in real time (on non‐trivial images).
A Monte Carlo Approach for ɛ Placement in Fractal‐Dimension Calculations for Waveform Graphs
Authors: Pickover C.A.
Published: October 2007

Many diverse and complicated objects of nature and math possess the quality of self‐similarity, and algorithms which produce self‐similar shapes provide a way for computer graphics to represent natural structures. For a variety of studies in signal processing and shape‐characterization, it is useful to compare the structures of many different “objects”. Unfortunately, large amounts of computer time are needed as prerequisite for rigorous self‐similarity characterization and comparison. The present paper describes a fast computer technique for the characterization of self‐similar shapes and signals based upon Monte Carlo methods. The algorithm is specifically designed for digitized input (e.g. pictures, acoustic waveforms, analytic functions) where the self‐similarity is not obvious from visual inspection of just a few sample magnifications. A speech waveform graph is used as an example, and additional graphics are included as a visual aid for conceptualizing the Monte Carlo process when applied to speech waveforms.
Artificial Intelligence in Three‐Dimensional Computer Animation
Authors: Thalmann D. , Magnenat‐Thalmann N.
Published: October 2007

Recent developments in hardware and software have led to the production of complex computer‐generated images and films. Sophisticated algorithms like ray‐tracing, fractals or particle systems allow the generation of very realistic natural scenes. However, the design of images and films is still a painful task for designers, because of the inadequacy of person‐machine interfaces. A large number of parameters is necessary to build objects (curves, surfaces) to define their properties (orientation, size, colour, transparency, texture, reflectance), to specify the viewing angle, to control the lights and shadows, to define and synchronize motions.

The technology of artificial intelligence and more specially knowledge engineering makes possible the development of intelligent human‐machine interfaces for image synthesis and animation. Designers may communicate with design and animation systems using natural language. Basic geometric rules may be given to the computer, making it an expert in 3D geometric modeling. Languages based on the concept of frame simplify the intelligent description of complex objects. Expert systems allow the designer to specify the conditions of an image using goal‐directed specifications for cameras and lights. Scripts and actors are particularly appropriate for the description of motions; the impact of these concepts on 3D computer animation is considerable. Finally, the complex problem of animation of articulated bodies may be solved using knowledge‐based animation. Examples are presented using our new language EXPERTMIRA. This language is based on MIRA and PROLOG and incorporates concepts of artificial intelligence, image synthesis and animation.
Arbitrary Rotation of Raster Images with SIMD Machine Architectures
Authors: Arabnia H.R. , Oliver M.A.
Published: October 2007

An algorithm for the rotation of a raster image by an arbitrary angle is described. The image data structure is closely related to runlength code. The algorithm has been designed to exploit SIMD parallel architectures. It has been implemented on an ICL DAP on which non trivial images can be rotated in times very close to real time.
Visual Simulation of Atmospheric Haze
Authors: Willis P.J.
Published: October 2007

For applications such as daylight visual pilot training simulators, the correct representation of aerial haze, mist and fog is of major importance in providing accurate depth cues and training in poor visibility conditions.

We present a straightforward derivation of a formula to express this and then show various pictorial examples to illustrate its effectiveness.
Using Abstract Data Types To Define Large‐scale World Models For Image Generation Systems
Authors: Marsh S.C. , Grimsdale R.L.
Published: October 2007

The creation of databases for real‐time image generation systems is expensive and time consuming. This is mostly due to the method of defining the world models which can currently represent an area of up to 500,000 sq Km. This paper suggests that abstract data types can decline the necessary elements of world models. A programming language containing these data types can then be used to specify the construction of world models, and greatly reduce the time taken to create the databases.
Graphical Interaction Management
Authors: Barn Balbir S. , Willis Philip
Published: October 2007

Graphical interfaces and interactive graphical programmes are awkward to write because of a lack of top‐down structure. A methodology for constructing graphical programs will be described, together with a system that generates the basic interaction requirements for such applications.
A User‐Interface Toolkit in Object‐Oriented PostScript Owen M. Densmore
Authors: Densmore Owen M. , Rosenthal David S. H.
Published: October 2007

Only the diehards want to develop applications using basic window system facilities. The preferred approach is a higher‐level “toolkit” of user interface components, such as menus and scroll bars. Experience with current toolkits shows the need for an object‐oriented interface to these components.

NeWS, the Network/extensible Window System, allows user interface components to be programmed in PostScript. Fortunately, object‐oriented interfaces are natural in PostScript, and they have been used to create a toolkit with some novel properties. Among these are the use of concurrent processing and run‐time inheritance of component methods.

“Postscript is the future of words on paper.”Arthur C. Clarke
Making Drawings Talk: Pictures in Minds and Machines
Authors: Bijl Aart
Published: October 2007

Interactions between human minds and machine systems will be discussed, drawing on experience of CAD and focusing on modes of expression. Free forms of text and drawings pose deep questions when interpretations have to be “meaningful” to different knowledge representations ‐ especially in loosely defined application fields. What should we expect from technology?
Techniques for Animation on Microcomputers
Authors: Neelamkavil F. , Beare L.
Published: October 2007

Animation is a powerful visualization aid and it has applications not only in the traditional areas of cartoons and fiction movies but also in the study of a wide variety of natural and simulated phenomena. Currently, there is growing interest in the study of animated algorithms and data structures particularly due to the availability of cheaper and more powerful microcomputers. Computer animation may use complex graphics systems and therefore the quality and speed of the graphics display are extremely important. Various techniques for animation on microcomputers are examined and it is shown that Scrolling techniques can be successfully applied for realistic animation in many application areas. Macintosh implementations of “animated algorithms” are used to illustrate the effectiveness of the method.
A Texture Mapping Approach to 3‐D Facial Image Synthesis
Authors: Yau John F.S. , Duffy Neil D.
Published: October 2007

A method of synthesising and animating a realistic image of a person's face by means of computer graphics is described. The key feature contributing to realism in image synthesis lies in the use of texture mapping in the rendering of surface detail on the face. Full facial animation is made possible by manipulating a 3‐D model of the face in conjunction with a relatively small data set of pre‐stored sub‐images.
Planar Convex Hull Algorithms in Theory and Practice
Authors: Day A. M.
Published: October 2007

Sequential and parallel planar convex hull algorithms, their applications and some of the problems encountered on implementations are described. Details of Pascal implementations are given for three of the sequential algorithms: Graham's, Floyd‐Eddy and the Approximation method. The programs are compared experimentally.
Some Remarks on the Modelling Gip Problem
Authors: Herman I. , Reviczky J.
Published: October 2007

The modelling clip as proposed for example in PHIGS is mathematically analyzed and a method to perform it is proposed. The method has the particular edvantage of avoiding all possible singularities appearing in the course of a projective transformation. Additionally, further optimizations in the implementation of the whole output pipeline are proposed.
A Note on Random Thresholding for Colour Synthesis
Authors: Lastra G.L. , Rüdinger E.N.
Published: October 2007

A simple algorithm that improves colour shaded images is presented. The algorithm does not trade spatial resolution for intensity resolution. The basic technique, based on random thresholding modulated by a pseudo‐random number generator of uniform distribution, is introduced to render halftone images on bi‐level displays. A generalization of the technique is done for displays with multiple bi‐per‐colour components. An obvious advantage of the algorithm presented over other reported methods is its simplicity. Pictures are included to show results of the algorithm.
On Implementing Parallel GKS
Authors: Arnold D.B. , Hinds M.R.
Published: October 2007

This report investigates the problems involved in implementing the GKS 2D graphics standard in Occam. Whilst some of the detail is language specific, similar problems arise with implementations in any parallel system and the paper therefore has wider relevance. The main problems were found to be the lack of data types in Occam, parallel calls to the GKS implementation (which assumes a sequential command stream) and implementing a truly parallel GKS kernel. None of these problems appears to be insuperable, particularly if a preprocessor is used to overcome the potential communication and network conflicts which are possible in a parallel graphic system.
SIAS, Strokes Interpreted Animated Sequences
Authors: van Berkel Pierre
Published: October 2007

The goals of the bulk of commercial computer systems for graphics and animated film/video are different from the kind of systems involving the production of art. The former systems are developed for industrial application. Accurate technical communication and precise representation of measures are the main goals of the drawings and die coloured plates intended for industrial application.

In the arts, however, the main goal of a drawing, a painting, or an animated film/video is beauty. The visual artist searches for an equilibrium between proportions of different shapes and an equilibrium between different colours. A system able to help in this search must therefore have its roots in art, i.e. the so‐called modern art. Starting from my experience in painting, in animated film by pencil drawing, and in computer animation, I concluded that a scene could be represented very effectively and accurately by the technique of painting and drawing.

The system presented for automatic painting of scenes within a 3D space that are changing in time, is based on the tradition of drawing and painting. The system must be applicable within the visual arts and video production. An experimental computer animation system SIAS (Strokes Interpreted Animated Sequences) has been developed which produces coloured shapes that are similar to the strokes put on a canvas by a painter.
A Framework for Functional Specification and Transformation of Hidden Surface Elimination Algorithms
Authors: Lakshminarasimhan A.L. , Srivas Mandayam
Published: October 2007

This paper deals with the theory of hidden surface elimination algorithms in Computer Graphics. A set of functions and abstract data types are defined to help concisely specify a class of hidden surface elimination algorithms in a purely functional language. A formal study of these algorithms is presented here along with theorems of equivalence between some of the specifications. It is shown here that such proofs of equivalence will help in the construction of existing as well as new algorithms. We bring in the importance of such a study to exploit alternative parallel architectures for implementation of these algorithms. The other benefits of formal specification and analysis are due to its use as a teaching aid and effective method for rapid prototyping of these algorithms.
Image Representations Using Miranda Laws
Authors: Parsons Michael S.
Published: October 2007

The applicative language Miranda is used to define various image representations. One particular feature of this language, an algebraic data type with laws, is shown to be very powerful in giving and automatically maintaining properties of these image structures. This enables simple definitions of graphical ideas such as the following: quadtrees which are always fully condensed, self‐dividing line lists which produce fractal images, and primitives restricted to certain areas of the screen or to certain orientations.
Motion Control in Animation, Simulation and Visualization*
Authors: Hegror Gerard , Palamidese Patrizia , Thalmann Daniel
Published: October 2007

This paper discusses the role and the evolution of animation, simulation and scientific visualization and their relationships. Two trends are described: (1) the physical laws are well‐known and their use improves the animation; (2) the physical laws are not really well‐known and the animation techniques contribute to understanding them. We distinguish descriptive models used to reproduce an effect without knowledge about its cause and generative models describing the cause which produces the effects. Cooperation between descriptive and generative models is also discussed as well as man‐machine interface constraints. Finally, the evolution of animation towards automatic motion control, goal‐oriented motion, task modeling and behavioural animation is emphasized.
An Approach to Hierarchical Input Devices
Authors: Duce D. A. , Liere R van , Hagen P.J.W. ten
Published: October 2007

This paper shows how a formal description of the GKS input model can be extended to include hierarchically structured input devices
Graphics Object Management in The X Window System
Authors: Davison Allan , Slater Mel , Smith Mark
Published: October 2007

This paper describes a library for the creation and manipulation of geometrically defined graphical objects in The X Window System Objects are arranged in a 2.5D space, and can be transformed, made invisible or visible, or have their priority changed. Transformation of objects occurs immediately and with full damage repair, thus providing an essential requirement for the support of interactive graphics. The paper reports on an experimental implementation of the library and also discusses the implications of graphical objects in the X environment.