Managing system risk

Abstract: Companies are increasingly required to provide assurance that their systems are secure and conform to commercial security standards. Senior business managers are ultimately responsible for the security of their corporate systems and for the implications in the event of a failure. Businesses will be exposed to unquantified security risks unless they have a formal risk management framework in place to enable risks to be identified, evaluated and managed. Failure to assess and manage risks can lead to a business suffering serious financial impacts, commercial embarrassment and fines or sanctions from regulators. This is both a key responsibility and opportunity for Management Services Practitioners

risk management framework
commercial security standards
IT projects


There is no optimal routing policy for the torus

Abstract: A routing policy is the method used to select a specific output channel for a message from among a number of acceptable output channels. An optimal routing policy is a policy that maximizes the probability of a message reaching its destination without delays. Optimal routing policies have been proposed for several regular networks, including the mesh and the hypercube. An open problem in interconnection network research has been the identification of an optimal routing policy for the torus. In this paper, we show that there is no optimal routing policy for the torus. Our result is demonstrated by presenting a detailed example in which the best choice of output channel is dependent on the probability of each channel being available. This result settles, in the negative, a conjecture by J. Wu (1996) concerning an optimal routing policy for the torus


The impact of the Internet on public library use: an analysis of the current consumer market for library and Internet services

Abstract: The potential impact of the Internet on the public's demand for the services and resources of public libraries is an issue of critical importance. The research reported in this article provides baseline data concerning the evolving relationship between the public's use of the library and its use of the Internet. The authors developed a consumer model of the American adult market for information services and resources, segmented by use (or nonuse) of the public library and by access (or lack of access) to, and use (or nonuse) of, the Internet. A national Random Digit Dialing telephone survey collected data to estimate the size of each of six market segments, and to describe their usage choices between the public library and the Internet. The analyses presented in this article provide estimates of the size and demographics of each of the market segments; describe why people are currently using the public library and the Internet; identify the decision criteria people use in their choices of which provider to use; identify areas in which libraries and the Internet appear to be competing and areas in which they appear to be complementary; and identify reasons why people choose not to use the public library and/or the Internet. The data suggest that some differentiation between the library and the Internet is taking place, which may very well have an impact on consumer choices between the two. Longitudinal research is necessary to fully reveal trends in these usage choices, which have implications for all types of libraries in planning and policy development


Spectral characteristics of the linear systems over a bounded time interval

Abstract: Consideration was given to the spectral characteristics of the linear dynamic systems over a bounded time interval. Singular characteristics of standard dynamic blocks, transcendental characteristic equations, and partial spectra of the singular functions were studied. Relationship between the spectra under study and the classical frequency characteristic was demonstrated

spectral characteristics
bounded time interval
linear dynamic systems
singular characteristics
standard dynamic blocks
transcendental characteristic equations
partial spectra
singular functions
frequency characteristic


The effects of asynchronous computer-mediated group interaction on group processes

Abstract: This article reports a study undertaken to investigate some of the social psychological processes underlying computer-supported group discussion in natural computer-mediated contexts. Based on the concept of deindividuation, it was hypothesized that personal identifiability and group identity would be important factors that affect the perceptions and behavior of members of computer-mediated groups. The degree of personal identifiability and the strength of group identity were manipulated across groups of geographically dispersed computer users who took part in e-mail discussions during a 2-week period. The results do not support the association between deindividuation and uninhibited behavior cited in much previous research. Instead, the data provide some support for a social identity perspective of computer-mediated communication, which explains the higher levels uninhibited in identifiable computer-mediated groups. However, predictions based on social identity theory regarding group polarization and group cohesion were not supported. Possible explanations for this are discussed and further research is suggested to resolve these discrepancies


Designing a new urban Internet

Abstract: The parallel between designing a Web site and the construction of a building is a familiar one, but how often do we think of the Internet as having parks and streets? It would be absurd to say that the Internet could ever take the place of real, livable communities; however, it is safe to say that the context for using the Internet is on a path of change. As the Internet evolves beyond a simple linkage of disparate Web sites and applications, the challenge for Information Architects is establishing a process by which to structure, organize, and design networked environments. The principles that guide New Urbanism can offer much insight into networked electronic environment design. At the core of every New Urbanism principle is the idea of "wholeness"-of making sure that neighborhoods and communities are knit together in a way that supports civic activities, economic development, efficient ecosystems, aesthetic beauty, and human interaction

Web site
Internet
information architects
private-public sector cooperation
global information networks
networked environments
networked electronic environment design
communities


Adaptive image denoising using scale and space consistency

Abstract: This paper proposes a new method for image denoising with edge preservation, based on image multiresolution decomposition by a redundant wavelet transform. In our approach, edges are implicitly located and preserved in the wavelet domain, whilst image noise is filtered out. At each resolution level, the image edges are estimated by gradient magnitudes (obtained from the wavelet coefficients), which are modeled probabilistically, and a shrinkage function is assembled based on the model obtained. Joint use of space and scale consistency is applied for better preservation of edges. The shrinkage functions are combined to preserve edges that appear simultaneously at several resolutions, and geometric constraints are applied to preserve edges that are not isolated. The proposed technique produces a filtered version of the original image, where homogeneous regions appear separated by well-defined edges. Possible applications include image presegmentation, and image denoising

adaptive image denoising
scale consistency
space consistency
edge preservation
image multiresolution decomposition
redundant wavelet transform
image edges
gradient magnitudes
shrinkage function
geometric constraints
edge enhancement


Accelerated simulation of the steady-state availability of non-Markovian systems

Abstract: A general accelerated simulation method for evaluation of the steady-state availability of non-Markovian systems is proposed. It is applied to the investigation of a class of systems with repair. Numerical examples are given

accelerated simulation
steady-state availability
non-Markovian systems
general accelerated simulation method
numerical examples


Organization design: The continuing influence of information technology

Abstract: Drawing from an information processing perspective, this paper examines how information technology (IT) has been a catalyst in the development of new forms of organizational structures. The article draws a historical linkage between the relative stability of an organization's task environment starting after the Second World War to the present environmental instability that now characterizes many industries. Specifically, the authors suggest that advances in IT have enabled managers to adapt existing forms and create new models for organizational design that better fit requirements of an unstable environment. Time has seemingly borne out this hypothesis as the bureaucratic structure evolved to the matrix to the network and now to the emerging shadow structure. IT has gone from a support mechanism to a substitute for organizational structures in the form of the shadow structure. The article suggests that the evolving and expanding role of IT will continue for organizations that face unstable environments

organization design
information processing perspective
organizational structures
organization task environment
environmental instability
information technology


The role of CAUL (Council of Australian Libraries) in consortial purchasing

Abstract: The Council of Australian University Librarians, constituted in 1965 for the purposes of cooperative action and the sharing of information, assumed the role of consortial purchasing agent in 1996 on behalf of its members and associate organisations in Australia and New Zealand. This role continues to grow in tandem with the burgeoning of electronic publication and the acceptance of publishers of the advantages of dealing with consortia. The needs of the Australian university community overlap significantly with consortia in North America and Europe, but important differences are highlighted


Using molecular equivalence numbers to visually explore structural features that distinguish chemical libraries

Abstract: A molecular equivalence number (meqnum) classifies a molecule with respect to a class of structural features or topological shapes such as its cyclic system or its set of functional groups. Meqnums can be used to organize molecular structures into nonoverlapping, yet highly relatable classes. We illustrate the construction of some different types of meqnums and present via examples some methods of comparing diverse chemical libraries based on meqnums. In the examples we compare a library which is a random sample from the MDL Drug Data Report (MDDR) with a library which is a random sample from the Available Chemical Directory (ACD). In our analyses, we discover some interesting features of the topological shape of a molecule and its set of functional groups that are strongly linked with compounds occurring in the MDDR but not in the ACD. We also illustrate the utility of molecular equivalence indices in delineating the structural domain over which an SAR conclusion is valid

molecular equivalence number
molecule classification
structural features
topological shapes
cyclic system
functional groups
nonoverlapping relatable classes
chemical libraries
MDL Drug Data Report
Available Chemical Directory
molecular equivalence indices


Absorption of long waves by nonresonant parametric microstructures

Abstract: Using simple acoustical and mechanical models, we consider the conceptual possibility of designing an active absorbing (nonreflecting) coating in the form of a thin layer with small-scale stratification and fast time modulation of parameters. Algorithms for space-time modulation of the controlled-layer structure are studied in detail for a one-dimensional boundary-value problem. These algorithms do not require wave-field measurements, which eliminates the self-excitation problem that is characteristic of active systems. The majority of the considered algorithms of parametric control transform the low-frequency incident wave to high-frequency waves of the technological band for which the waveguiding medium inside the layer is assumed to be opaque (absorbing). The efficient use conditions are found for all the algorithms. It is shown that the absorbing layer can be as thin as desired with respect to the minimum spatial scale of the incident wave and ensures efficient absorption in a wide frequency interval (starting from zero frequency) that is bounded from above only by a finite space-time resolution of the parameter-control operations. The structure of a three-dimensional parametric "'black" coating whose efficiency is independent of the angle of incidence of an incoming wave is developed on the basis of the studied one-dimensional problems. The general solution of the problem of diffraction of incident waves from such a coating is obtained. This solution is analyzed in detail for the case of a disk-shaped element

acoustical models
mechanical models
active absorbing coating
nonreflecting coating
thin layer
small-scale stratification
fast time modulation
space-time modulation
controlled-layer structure
one-dimensional boundary-value problem
parametric control
low-frequency incident wave
high-frequency waves
waveguiding medium
absorbing layer
angle of incidence
one-dimensional problems
diffraction
disk-shaped element


Motion estimation using modified dynamic programming

Abstract: A new method for computing precise estimates of the motion vector field of moving objects in a sequence of images is proposed. Correspondence vector-field computation is formulated as a matching optimization problem for multiple dynamic images. The proposed method is a heuristic modification of dynamic programming applied to the 2-D optimization problem. Motion-vector-field estimates using real movie images demonstrate good performance of the algorithm in terms of dynamic motion analysis

modified dynamic programming
motion estimation
precise estimates
motion vector field
moving objects
image sequence
vector-field computation
matching optimization problem
multiple dynamic images
heuristic modification
dynamic programming
2-D optimization problem
motion vector field estimates
real movie images
algorithm
dynamic motion analysis


Automated breath detection on long-duration signals using feedforward backpropagation artificial neural networks

Abstract: A new breath-detection algorithm is presented, intended to automate the analysis of respiratory data acquired during sleep. The algorithm is based on two independent artificial neural networks (ANN/sub insp/ and ANN/sub expi/) that recognize, in the original signal, windows of interest where the onset of inspiration and expiration occurs. Postprocessing consists in finding inside each of these windows of interest minimum and maximum corresponding to each inspiration and expiration. The ANN/sub insp/ and ANN/sub expi/ correctly determine respectively 98.0% and 98.7% of the desired windows, when compared with 29 820 inspirations and 29 819 expirations detected by a human expert, obtained from three entire-night recordings. Postprocessing allowed determination of inspiration and expiration onsets with a mean difference with respect to the same human expert of (mean +or- SD) 34 +or- 71 ms for inspiration and 5 +or- 46 ms for expiration. The method proved to be effective in detecting the onset of inspiration and expiration in full night continuous recordings. A comparison of five human experts performing the same classification task yielded that the automated algorithm was undifferentiable from these human experts, failing within the distribution of human expert results. Besides being applicable to adult respiratory volume data, the presented algorithm was also successfully applied to infant sleep data, consisting of uncalibrated rib cage and abdominal movement recordings. A comparison with two previously published algorithms for breath detection in respiratory volume signal shows that the presented algorithm has a higher specificity, while presenting similar or higher positive predictive values


Underground poetry, collecting poetry, and the librarian

Abstract: A powerful encounter with underground poetry and its important role in poetry, literature, and culture is discussed. The acquisitions difficulties encountered in the unique publishing world of underground poetry are introduced. Strategies for acquiring underground poetry for library collections are proposed, including total immersion and local focus, with accompanying action

librarian
underground poetry
publishing
library collections
out-of-print books
special collections
literature
culture


Personality research on the Internet: a comparison of Web-based and traditional instruments in take-home and in-class settings

Abstract: Students, faculty, and researchers have become increasingly comfortable with the Internet, and many of them are interested in using the Web to collect data. Few published studies have investigated the differences between Web-based data and data collected with more traditional methods. In order to investigate these potential differences, two important factors were crossed in this study: whether the data were collected on line or not and whether the data were collected in a group setting at a fixed time or individually at a time of the respondent's choosing. The Visions of Morality scale (Shelton and McAdams, 1990) was used, and the participants were assigned to one of four conditions: in-class Web survey, in-class paper-and-pencil survey; take-home Web survey, and take-home paper-and-pencil survey. No significant differences in scores were found for any condition; however, response rates were affected by the type of survey administered, with the take-home Web-based instrument having the lowest response rate. Therefore, researchers need to be aware that different modes of administration may affect subject attrition and may, therefore, confound investigations of other independent variables

personality research
Internet
Web-based instruments
data collection
Visions of Morality scale
in-class Web survey
in-class paper-and-pencil survey
take-home Web survey
take-home paper-and-pencil survey
response rates
administration
subject attrition


Learning spatial relations using an inductive logic programming system

Abstract: The ability to learn spatial relations is a prerequisite for performing many relevant tasks such as those associated with motion, orientation, navigation, etc. This paper reports on using an Inductive Logic Programming (ILP) system for learning function-free Horn-clause descriptions of spatial knowledge. Its main contribution, however, is to show that an existing relation between two reference systems-the speaker-relative and the absolute-can be automatically learned by an ILP system, given the proper background knowledge and positive examples

spatial relations learning
inductive logic programming system
spatial relations
function-free Horn-clause descriptions


Geometrically invariant watermarking using feature points

Abstract: This paper presents a new approach for watermarking of digital images providing robustness to geometrical distortions. The weaknesses of classical watermarking methods to geometrical distortions are outlined first. Geometrical distortions can be decomposed into two classes: global transformations such as rotations and translations and local transformations such as the StirMark attack. An overview of existing self-synchronizing schemes is then presented. Theses schemes can use periodical properties of the mark, invariant properties of transforms, template insertion, or information provided by the original image to counter geometrical distortions. Thereafter, a new class of watermarking schemes using the image content is presented. We propose an embedding and detection scheme where the mark is bound with a content descriptor defined by salient points. Three different types of feature points are studied and their robustness to geometrical transformations is evaluated to develop an enhanced detector. The embedding of the signature is done by extracting feature points of the image and performing a Delaunay tessellation on the set of points. The mark is embedded using a classical additive scheme inside each triangle of the tessellation. The detection is done using correlation properties on the different triangles. The performance of the presented scheme is evaluated after JPEG compression, geometrical attack and transformations. Results show that the fact that the scheme is robust to these different manipulations. Finally, in our concluding remarks, we analyze the different perspectives of such content-based watermarking scheme

geometrically invariant watermarking
feature points
digital images
geometrical distortions
global transformations
rotations
translations
local transformations
StirMark attack
self-synchronizing schemes
periodical properties
invariant properties
transforms
template insertion
image content
embedding
detection scheme
content descriptor
feature extraction
Delaunay tessellation
additive scheme
correlation properties
JPEG compression
geometrical attack


Pervasive computing goes to work: interfacing to the enterprise

Abstract: The paperless office is an idea whose time has come, and come, and come again. To see how pervasive computing applications might bring some substance to this dream, the author spoke recently with key managers and technologists at McKesson Corporation (San Francisco), a healthcare supplier, service, and technology company with US$50 billion in sales last year, and also at AvantGo (Hayward, Calif.), a provider of mobile infrastructure software and services. For the past several years, McKesson has used mobility middleware developed by AvantGo to deploy major supply chain applications with thousands of pervasive clients and multiple servers that replace existing paper-based tracking systems. According to McKesson's managers, their system greatly reduced errors and associated costs caused by redelivery or loss of valuable products, giving McKesson a solid return on its investment

paperless office
pervasive clients
multiple servers
mobile workers
enterprise resource planning
data warehousing


What you get is what you see [Web performance monitoring]

Abstract: To get the best possible performance from your Web infrastructure, you'll need a complete view. Don't neglect the big picture because you're too busy concentrating on details. The increasing complexity of Web sites and the content they provide has consequently increased the complexity of the infrastructure that supports them. But with some knowledge of networking, a handful of useful tools, and the insight that those tools provide, designing and operating for optimal performance and reliability is within your grasp

Web performance
Web sites
Web infrastructure
networking
reliability


A self-adjusting quality of service control scheme

Abstract: We propose and analyze a self-adjusting Quality of Service (QoS) control scheme with the goal of optimizing the system reward as a result of servicing different priority clients with varying workload, QoS and reward/penalty requirements. Our scheme is based on resource partitioning and designated "degrade QoS areas" such that system resources are partitioned into priority areas each of which is reserved specifically to serve only clients in a corresponding class with no QoS degradation, plus one "degraded QoS area" into which all clients can be admitted with QoS adjustment being applied only to the lowest priority clients. We show that the best partition is dictated by the workload and the reward/penalty characteristics of clients in difference priority classes. The analysis results can be used by a QoS manager to optimize the system total reward dynamically in response to changing workloads at run time. We demonstrate the validity of our scheme by means of simulation and comparing the proposed QoS self-adjusting scheme with those that do not use resource partitioning or designated degraded QoS areas


Nonlinear modeling and adaptive fuzzy control of MCFC stack

Abstract: To improve availability and performance of fuel cells, the operating temperature of the molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFC) stack should be controlled within a specified range. However, most existing models of MCFC are not ready to be applied in synthesis. In the paper, a radial basis function neural networks identification model of a MCFC stack is developed based on the input-output sampled data. An adaptive fuzzy control procedure for the temperature of the MCFC stack is also developed. The parameters of the fuzzy control system are regulated by back-propagation algorithm, and the rule database of the fuzzy system is also adaptively adjusted by the nearest-neighbor-clustering algorithm. Finally using the neural networks model of MCFC stack, the simulation results of the control algorithm are presented. The results show the effectiveness of the proposed modeling and design procedures for the MCFC stack based on neural networks identification and the novel adaptive fuzzy control


Designing and delivering a university course - a process (or operations) management perspective

Abstract: With over 30 years of academic experience in both engineering and management faculties, involving trial and error experimentation in teaching as well as reading relevant literature and observing other instructors in action, the author has accumulated a number of ideas, regarding the preparation and delivery of a university course, that should be of interest to other instructors. This should be particularly the case for those individuals who have had little or no teaching experience (e.g. those whose graduate education was recently completed at research-oriented institutions providing little guidance with respect to teaching). A particular perspective is used to convey the ideas, namely one of viewing the preparation and delivery of a course as two major processes that should provide outputs or outcomes that are of value to a number of customers, in particular, students

university course delivery
management perspective
academic experience
management faculties
engineering faculties
search-oriented institutions


Bayesian nonstationary autoregressive models for biomedical signal analysis

Abstract: We describe a variational Bayesian algorithm for the estimation of a multivariate autoregressive model with time-varying coefficients that adapt according to a linear dynamical system. The algorithm allows for time and frequency domain characterization of nonstationary multivariate signals and is especially suited to the analysis of event-related data. Results are presented on synthetic data and real electroencephalogram data recorded in event-related desynchronization and photic synchronization scenarios


Horizontal waypoint guidance design using optimal control

Abstract: A horizontal waypoint guidance algorithm is proposed by applying line-following guidance to waypoint line segments in sequence. The line-following guidance is designed using an LQR (linear quadratic regulator). Then, the optimal waypoint changing points are derived by minimizing the accelerations required for changing the waypoint line segments. Also derived is a sufficient condition for the stability bound of ground speed changes based on the Lyapunov stability theorem. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively guide a vehicle along the sequence of waypoint line segments

horizontal waypoint guidance algorithm
line-following guidance
waypoint line segments
LQR
linear quadratic regulator
optimal waypoint changing points
stability bound
ground speed changes
Lyapunov stability theorem
unmanned flying vehicle
threat avoidance
terrain masking
attack directions
target location arrival time


A design to cost system for innovative product development

Abstract: Presents a prototype object-oriented and rule-based system for product cost modelling and design for automation at an early design stage. The developed system comprises a computer aided design (CAD) solid modelling system, a material selection module, a knowledge-based system (KBS), a process optimization module, a design for assembly module, a cost estimation module and a user interface. Two manufacturing processes, namely machining and injection moulding processes, were considered in the developed system. The main function of the system, besides estimating the product cost, is to generate initial process planning, including the generation and selection of machining processes, their sequence and their machining parameters, and to recommend the most economical assembly technique for a product and provide design improvement suggestions based on a design feasibility technique. In addition, a feature-by-feature cost estimation report is generated using the proposed system to highlight the features of high manufacturing cost. Two case studies were used to validate the developed system

computer aided design solid modelling system


Multidimensional data visualization

Abstract: Historically, data visualization has been limited primarily to two dimensions (e.g., histograms or scatter plots). Available software packages (e.g., Data Desk 6.1, MatLab 6.1, SAS-JMP 4.04, SPSS 10.0) are capable of producing three-dimensional scatter plots with (varying degrees of) user interactivity. We constructed our own data visualization application with the Visualization Toolkit (Schroeder et al., 1998) and Tcl/Tk to display multivariate data through the application of glyphs (Ware, 2000). A glyph is a visual object onto which many data parameters may be mapped, each with a different visual attribute (e.g., size or color). We used our multi-dimensional data viewer to explore data from several psycholinguistic experiments. The graphical interface provides flexibility when users dynamically explore the multidimensional image rendered from raw experimental data. We highlight advantages of multidimensional data visualization and consider some potential limitations

multidimensional data visualization
3D scatter plots
user interactivity
Visualization Toolkit
Tcl/Tk
multivariate data display
glyphs
visual object
data parameters
visual attribute
multi-dimensional data viewer
psycholinguistic experiments
graphical interface
multidimensional image rendering


Comprehensive encoding and decoupling solution to problems of decoherence and design in solid-state quantum computing

Abstract: Proposals for scalable quantum computing devices suffer not only from decoherence due to the interaction with their environment, but also from severe engineering constraints. Here we introduce a practical solution to these major concerns, addressing solid-state proposals in particular. Decoherence is first reduced by encoding a logical qubit into two qubits, then completely eliminated by an efficient set of decoupling pulse sequences. The same encoding removes the need for single-qubit operations, which pose a difficult design constraint. We further show how the dominant decoherence processes can be identified empirically, in order to optimize the decoupling pulses

solid-state quantum computing
decoherence
logical qubit encoding
pulse sequence decoupling
engineering constraints
decoupling pulse optimization
scalable quantum computing devices
exchange Hamiltonian


The acquisition of out-of-print music

Abstract: Non-specialist librarians are alerted to factors important in the successful acquisition of out-of-print music, both scholarly editions and performance editions. The appropriate technical music vocabulary, the music publishing industry, specialized publishers and vendors, and methods of acquisition of out-of-print printed music are introduced, and the need for familiarity with them is emphasized

out-of-print music
scholarly editions
performance editions
technical music vocabulary
music publishing industry
specialized publishers
specialized vendors
out-of-print printed music


Genetic algorithm guided selection: variable selection and subset selection

Abstract: A novel genetic algorithm guided selection method, GAS, has been described. The method utilizes a simple encoding scheme which can represent both compounds and variables used to construct a QSAR/QSPR model. A genetic algorithm is then utilized to simultaneously optimize the encoded variables that include both descriptors and compound subsets. The GAS method generates multiple models each applying to a subset of the compounds. Typically the subsets represent clusters with different chemotypes. Also a procedure based on molecular similarity is presented to determine which model should be applied to a given test set compound. The variable selection method implemented in GAS has been tested and compared using the Selwood data set (n = 31 compounds; nu = 53 descriptors). The results showed that the method is comparable to other published methods. The subset selection method implemented in GAS has been first tested using an artificial data set (n = 100 points; nu = 1 descriptor) to examine its ability to subset data points and second applied to analyze the XLOGP data set (n = 1831 compounds; nu = 126 descriptors). The method is able to correctly identify artificial data points belonging to various subsets. The analysis of the XLOGP data set shows that the subset selection method can be useful in improving a QSAR/QSPR model when the variable selection method fails


Don't always believe what you Reed [optimisation techniques for Web sites and trade mark infringement]

Abstract: On 20 May 2002, Mr Justice Pumfrey gave judgment in the case of (1) Reed Executive Plc (2) Reed Solutions Plc versus (1) Reed Business Information Limited (2) Reed Elsevier (UK) Limited (3) totaljobs.com Limited. The case explored for the first time in any detail the extent to which the use of various optimisation techniques for Web sites could give rise to new forms of trade mark infringement and passing off. The author reports on the case and offers his comments

Reed Executive Plc
Reed Solutions Plc
Reed Business Information Limited
Reed Elsevier (UK) Limited
totaljobs.com Limited
optimisation techniques
Web sites
trade mark infringement
passing off


"Hidden convexity" of finite-dimensional stationary linear discrete-time systems under conical constraints

Abstract: New properties of finite-dimensional linear discrete-time systems under conical control constraints that are similar to the "hidden convexity" of continuous-time systems are studied


High-density remote storage: the Ohio State University Libraries depository

Abstract: The article describes a high-density off-site book storage facility operated by the Ohio State University Libraries. Opened in 1995, it has the capacity to house nearly 1.5 million items in only 9000 square feet by shelving books by size on 30-foot tall shelving. A sophisticated climate control system extends the life of stored materials up to 12 times. An online catalog record for each item informs patrons that the item is located in a remote location. Regular courier deliveries from the storage facility bring requested materials to patrons with minimal delay


Information architecture for the Web: The IA matrix approach to designing children's portals

Abstract: The article presents a matrix that can serve as a tool for designing the information architecture of a Web portal in a logical and systematic manner. The information architect begins by inputting the portal's objective, target user, and target content. The matrix then determines the most appropriate information architecture attributes for the portal by filling in the Applied Information Architecture portion of the matrix. The article discusses how the matrix works using the example of a children's Web portal to provide access to museum information

information architecture
target user
target content
children's Web portal
museum information


Embedding of level-continuous fuzzy sets on Banach spaces

Abstract: In this paper we present an extension of the Minkowski embedding theorem, showing the existence of an isometric embedding between the classF/sub c/(X) of compact-convex and level-continuous fuzzy sets on a real separable Banach space X and C([0, 1] * B(X*)), the Banach space of real continuous functions defined on the cartesian product between [0, 1] and the unit ball B(X*) in the dual space X*. Also, by using this embedding, we give some applications to the characterization of relatively compact subsets of F/sub c/(X). In particular, an Ascoli-Arzela type theorem is proved and applied to solving the Cauchy problem x(t) = f(t, x(t)), x(t/sub 0/) = x/sub 0/ on F/sub c/(X)

isometric embedding
level-continuous fuzzy sets
compact-convex fuzzy sets
real separable Banach space
real continuous functions
cartesian product
unit ball
dual space
Ascoli-Arzela type theorem
Cauchy problem


Four factors influencing the fair market value of out-of-print books.1

Abstract: Four factors (edition, condition, dust jacket, and autograph) that are hypothesized to influence the value of books are identified and linked to basic economic principles, which are explained. A sample of fifty-six titles is qualitatively examined to test the hypothesis

fair market value
out-of-print books
economic principles
pricing


Optimization of planning an advertising campaign of goods and services

Abstract: A generalization of the mathematical model and operations research problems formulated on its basis, which were presented by Belenky (2001) in the framework of an approach to planning an advertising campaign of goods and services, is considered, and corresponding nonlinear programming problems with linear constraints are formulated

optimization
advertising campaign planning
operations research
OR
nonlinear programming


Enterprise in focus at NetSec 2002

Abstract: NetSec 2002 took place in San Francisco, amid industry reflection on the balance to be struck between combatting cyber-terrorism and safeguarding civil liberties post-9.11. The author reports on the punditry and the pedagogy at the CSI event, focusing on security in the enterprise


Computational finite-element schemes for optimal control of an elliptic system with conjugation conditions

Abstract: New optimal control problems are considered for distributed systems described by elliptic equations with conjugate conditions and a quadratic minimized function. Highly accurate computational discretization schemes are constructed for the case where a feasible control set u/sub delta / coincides with the full Hilbert space u of controls

optimal control problems
distributed systems
elliptic equations
conjugate conditions
quadratic minimized function
computational discretization schemes


Exploring developments in Web based relationship marketing within the hotel industry

Abstract: This paper provides a content analysis study of the application of World Wide Web marketing by the hotel industry. There is a lack of historical perspective on industry related Web marketing applications and this paper attempts to resolve this with a two-year follow-up case study of the changing use of the Web to develop different types of relationships. Specifically, the aims are: (1) to identify key changes in the way hotels are using the Web; (2) to look for evidence of the adoption of a relationship marketing (RM) model as a strategy for the development of hotel Web sites and the use of new technologies; and, (3) To investigate the use of multimedia in hotel Web sites. The development and strategic exploitation of the Internet has transformed the basis of marketing. Using the evidence from a Web content survey this study reveals the way relationships are being created and managed within the hotel industry by its use of the Web as a marketing tool. The authors have collected evidence by means of a descriptive study on the way hotels build and create relationships with their Web presence delivering multimedia information as well as channel and interactive means of communication. In addition a strategic framework is offered as the means to describe the mechanism and orientation of Web based marketing by hotels. The study utilizes a model by Gilbert (1996) as a means of developing a measurement instrument to allow a content analysis of the current approach by hotels to the development of Web sites. The results indicate hotels are aware of the new uses of Web technology and are promoting hotel products in the global electronic market in new and sophisticated ways

Web based relationship marketing
hotel industry
World Wide Web marketing
hotel Web sites
multimedia
Web content survey
global electronic market


Improving the predicting power of partial order based QSARs through linear extensions

Abstract: Partial order theory (POT) is an attractive and operationally simple method that allows ordering of compounds, based on selected structural and/or electronic descriptors (modeled order), or based on their end points, e.g., solubility (experimental order). If the modeled order resembles the experimental order, compounds that are not experimentally investigated can be assigned a position in the model that eventually might lead to a prediction of an end-point value. However, in the application of POT in quantitative structure-activity relationship modeling, only the compounds directly comparable to the noninvestigated compounds are applied. To explore the possibilities of improving the methodology, the theory is extended by application of the so-called linear extensions of the model order. The study show that partial ordering combined with linear extensions appears as a promising tool providing probability distribution curves in the range of possible end-point values for compounds not being experimentally investigated


In search of a general enterprise model

Abstract: Many organisations, particularly SMEs, are reluctant to invest time and money in models to support decision making. Such reluctance could be overcome if a model could be used for several purposes rather than using a traditional "single perspective" model. This requires the development of a "general enterprise model" (GEM), which can be applied to a wide range of problem domains with unlimited scope. Current enterprise modelling frameworks only deal effectively with nondynamic modelling issues whilst dynamic modelling issues have traditionally only been addressed at the operational level. Although the majority of research in this area relates to manufacturing companies, the framework for a GEM must be equally applicable to service and public sector organisations. The paper identifies five key design issues that need to be considered when constructing a GEM. A framework for such a GEM is presented based on a "plug and play" methodology and demonstrated by a simple case study

general enterprise model
business process re-engineering
SMEs
decision making
single perspective model
GEM
problem domains
enterprise modelling frameworks
operational level
dynamic modelling issues
public sector organisations
service sector organisations
plug and play methodology
case study


Library services today and tomorrow: lessons from iLumina, a digital library for creating and sharing teaching resources

Abstract: This article is based on the emerging experience associated with a digital library of instructional resources, iLumina, in which the contributors of resources and the users of those resources are the same-an open community of instructors in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology. Moreover, it is not the resources, most of which will be distributed across the Internet, but metadata about the resources that is the focus of the central iLumina repository and its support services for resource contributors and users. The distributed iLumina library is a community-sharing library for repurposing and adding value to potentially useful, mostly non-commercial instructional resources that are typically more granular in nature than commercially developed course materials. The experience of developing iLumina is raising a range of issues that have nothing to do with the place and time characteristics of the instructional context in which iLumina instructional resources are created or used. The issues instead have their locus in the democratization of both the professional roles of librarians and the quality assurance mechanisms associated with traditional peer review

iLumina
digital library
teaching resource sharing
Internet
metadata
information resources
community-sharing library
professional roles
academic library
librarians
quality assurance
peer review
library automation
standards
interoperability
reusable software
distributed systems
user issues


Medicine in the 21 st century: global problems, global solutions

Abstract: The objectives are to discuss application areas of information, technology in medicine and health care on the occasion of the opening of the Private Universitat fur Medizinische Informatik and Technik Tirol/University for Health Informatics and Technology Tyrol (LIMIT) at Innsbruck, Tyrol, Austria. Important application areas of information technology in medicine and health are appropriate individual access to medical knowledge, new engineering developments such as new radiant imaging methods and the implantable pacemaker/defibrillator devices, mathematical modeling for understanding the workings of the human body, the computer-based patient record, as well as new knowledge in molecular biology, human genetics, and biotechnology. Challenges and responsibilities for medical informatics research include medical data privacy and intellectual property rights inherent in the content of the information systems

health care
medicine
information technology
individual medical knowledge access
engineering developments
radiant imaging methods
implantable pacemaker devices
implantable defibrillator devices
mathematical modeling
human body
computer-based patient record
molecular biology
human genetics
biotechnology
medical informatics research
medical data privacy
intellectual property rights
information systems


Fuzzy modeling based on generalized conjunction operations

Abstract: An approach to fuzzy modeling based on the tuning of parametric conjunction operations is proposed. First, some methods for the construction of parametric generalized conjunction operations simpler than the known parametric classes of conjunctions are considered and discussed. Second, several examples of function approximation by fuzzy models, based on the tuning of the parameters of the new conjunction operations, are given and their approximation performances are compared with the approaches based on a tuning of membership functions and other approaches proposed in the literature. It is seen that the tuning of the conjunction operations can be used for obtaining fuzzy models with a sufficiently good performance when the tuning of membership functions is not possible or not desirable

fuzzy modeling
generalized conjunction operations
function approximation
tuning
approximation performances
membership functions
t-norm
fuzzy inference systems


Emotion and self-control

Abstract: A biology-based model of choice is used to examine time-inconsistent preferences and the problem of self-control. Emotion is shown to be the biological substrate of choice, in that emotional systems assign value to 'goods' in the environment and also facilitate the learning of expectations regarding alternative options for acquiring those goods. A third major function of the emotional choice systems is motivation. Self-control is shown to be the result of a problem with the inhibition of the motive force of emotion, where this inhibition is necessary for higher level deliberation

choice model
inhibition
learning
time-inconsistent preferences
self-control
emotional choice systems
emotion


Restoration of broadband imagery steered with a liquid-crystal optical phased array

Abstract: In many imaging applications, it is highly desirable to replace mechanical beam-steering components (i.e., mirrors and gimbals) with a nonmechanical device. One such device is a nematic liquid crystal optical phased array (LCOPA). An LCOPA can implement a blazed phase grating to steer the incident light. However, when a phase grating is used in a broadband imaging system, two adverse effects can occur. First, dispersion will cause different incident wavelengths arriving at the same angle to be steered to different output angles, causing chromatic aberrations in the image plane. Second, the device will steer energy not only to the first diffraction order, but to others as well. This multiple-order effect results in multiple copies of the scene appearing in the image plane. We describe a digital image restoration technique designed to overcome these degradations. The proposed postprocessing technique is based on a Wiener deconvolution filter. The technique, however, is applicable only to scenes containing objects with approximately constant reflectivities over the spectral region of interest. Experimental results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of this technique

liquid-crystal optical phased array steering


Accurate modeling of lossy nonuniform transmission lines by using differential quadrature methods

Abstract: This paper discusses an efficient numerical approximation technique, called the differential quadrature method (DQM), which has been adapted to model lossy uniform and nonuniform transmission lines. The DQM can quickly compute the derivative of a function at any point within its bounded domain by estimating a weighted linear sum of values of the function at a small set of points belonging to the domain. Using the DQM, the frequency-domain Telegrapher's partial differential equations for transmission lines can be discretized into a set of easily solvable algebraic equations. DQM reduces interconnects into multiport models whose port voltages and currents are related by rational formulas in the frequency domain. Although the rationalization process in DQM is comparable with the Pade approximation of asymptotic waveform evaluation (AWE) applied to transmission lines, the derivation mechanisms in these two disparate methods are significantly different. Unlike AWE, which employs a complex moment-matching process to obtain rational approximation, the DQM requires no approximation of transcendental functions, thereby avoiding the process of moment generation and moment matching. Due to global sampling of points in the DQM approximation, it requires far fewer grid points in order to build accurate discrete models than other numerical methods do. The DQM-based time-domain model can be readily integrated in a circuit simulator like SPICE

lossy nonuniform transmission lines
differential quadrature method
numerical approximation technique
frequency-domain Telegrapher PDE
partial differential equations
algebraic equations
interconnects
multiport models
multiconductor transmission lines
rationalization process
time-domain model


Fast frequency acquisition phase-frequency detectors for Gsamples/s phase-locked loops

Abstract: This paper describes two techniques for designing phase-frequency detectors (PFDs) with higher operating frequencies [periods of less than 8* the delay of a fan-out-4 inverter (FO-4)] and faster frequency acquisition. Prototypes designed in 0.25- mu m CMOS process exhibit operating frequencies of 1.25 GHz [=1/(8.FO-4)] and 1.5 GHz [=1/(6.7.FO-4)] for two techniques, respectively, whereas a conventional PFD operates at <1 GHz [=1/(10.FO-4)]. The two proposed PFDs achieve a capture range of 1.7* and 1.4* the conventional design, respectively

phase-frequency detectors
fast frequency acquisition
CMOS process
clock generator
latch-based PFD architecture
phase-locked loop
GSamples/s PLL
pass-transistor DFF PFD architecture
1.25 GHz
1.5 GHz
0.25 micron


Nonlinear systems arising from nonisothermal, non-Newtonian Hele-Shaw flows in the presence of body forces and sources

Abstract: In this paper, we first give a formal derivation of several systems of equations for injection moulding. This is done starting from the basic equations for nonisothermal, non-Newtonian flows in a three-dimensional domain. We derive systems for both (T/sup 0/, p/sup 0/) and (T/sup 1/, p/sup 1/) in the presence of body forces and sources. We find that body forces and sources have a nonlinear effect on the systems. We also derive a nonlinear "Darcy law". Our formulation includes not only the pressure gradient, but also body forces and sources, which play the role of a nonlinearity. Later, we prove the existence of weak solutions to certain boundary value problems and initial-boundary value problems associated with the resulting equations for (T/sup 0/, p/sup 0/) but in a more general mathematical setting

injection moulding
body forces
sources
Darcy law
nonlinear systems
boundary value problems
Hele-Shaw flows


A comparison of computational color constancy algorithms. I: Methodology and experiments with synthesized data

Abstract: We introduce a context for testing computational color constancy, specify our approach to the implementation of a number of the leading algorithms, and report the results of three experiments using synthesized data. Experiments using synthesized data are important because the ground truth is known, possible confounds due to camera characterization and pre-processing are absent, and various factors affecting color constancy can be efficiently investigated because they can be manipulated individually and precisely. The algorithms chosen for close study include two gray world methods, a limiting case of a version of the Retinex method, a number of variants of Forsyth's (1990) gamut-mapping method, Cardei et al.'s (2000) neural net method, and Finlayson et al.'s color by correlation method (Finlayson et al. 1997, 2001; Hubel and Finlayson 2000) . We investigate the ability of these algorithms to make estimates of three different color constancy quantities: the chromaticity of the scene illuminant, the overall magnitude of that illuminant, and a corrected, illumination invariant, image. We consider algorithm performance as a function of the number of surfaces in scenes generated from reflectance spectra, the relative effect on the algorithms of added specularities, and the effect of subsequent clipping of the data. All data is available on-line at http://www.cs.sfu.ca/~color/data, and implementations for most of the algorithms are also available (http://www.cs.sfu.ca/~color/code)


Location of transport nets on a heterogeneous territory

Abstract: The location of transport routes on a heterogeneous territory is studied. The network joins a given set of terminal points and a certain number of additional (branch) points. The problem is formulated, properties of the optimal solution for a. tree-like network, and the number of branch points are studied. A stepwise optimization algorithm for a. network with given adjacency matrix based on an algorithm for constructing minimal-cost routes is designed

transport nets
heterogeneous territory
transport routes
terminal points
branch points
tree-like network
stepwise optimization algorithm
adjacency matrix


Accessible streaming content

Abstract: Make sure your Web site is offering quality service to all your users. The article provides some tips and tactics for making your streaming media accessible. Accessibility of streaming content for people with disabilities is often not part of the spec for multimedia projects, but it certainly affects your quality of service. Most of the resources available on Web accessibility deal with HTML. Fortunately, rich media and streaming content developers have a growing number of experts to turn to for information and assistance. The essentials of providing accessible streaming content are simple: blind and visually impaired people need audio to discern important visual detail and interface elements, while deaf and hard-of-hearing people need text to access sound effects and dialog. Actually implementing these principles is quite a challenge, though. Now due to a relatively new law in the US, known as Section 508, dealing with accessibility issues is becoming an essential part of publishing on the Web

Web site
quality service
streaming media
content providers
United States
accessible streaming content
disabled users
multimedia projects
Web accessibility
HTML
streaming content developers
visually impaired people
blind people
visual detail
interface elements
deaf people
hard-of-hearing people
sound effects
Section 508
accessibility issues
Web publishing


Extinction cross sections of realistic raindrops: data-bank established using T-matrix method and nonlinear fitting technique

Abstract: A new computer program is developed based on the T-matrix method to generate a large number of total (extinction) cross sections (TCS) values of the realistic raindrops that are deformed due to a balance of the forces that act on a drop failing under gravity, and were described in shape by Pruppacher and Pitter (1971). These data for various dimensions of the raindrops (mean effective radius from 0 to 3.25 mm), frequencies (10 to 80 GHz), (horizontal and vertical) polarizations, and temperatures (0, 10 and 20 degrees C) are stored to establish a data bank. Furthermore, a curve fitting technique, i.e., interpolation of order 3, is implemented for the TCS values in the data bank. Therefore, the interpolated TCS results can be obtained readily from the interpolation process with negligible or even null computational time and efforts. Error analysis is carried out to show the high accuracy of the present analysis and applicability of the interpolation. At three operating frequencies of 15, 21.225, and 38 GHz locally used in Singapore, some new TCS values are obtained from the new fast and efficient interpolation with a good accuracy

extinction cross sections
realistic raindrops
data-bank
T-matrix method
total cross sections
temperature
error analysis
mean effective radius
gravity
horizontal polarization
vertical polarization
interpolation
nonlinear curve fitting technique
operating frequencies
Singapore
SHF
EHF
electromagnetic wave scattering
EM wave scattering
computer program
15 GHz
21.225 GHz
38 GHz
10 to 80 GHz
0 to 3.25 mm
0 C
10 C
20 C


Phase control of higher-order squeezing of a quantum field

Abstract: In a recent experiment [Phys. Rev. Lett. 88 (2002) 023601], phase-dependent photon statistics in a c.w. system has been observed in the mixing of a coherent field with a two-photon source. Their system has the advantage over other atomic transition-based fluorescent systems. In this paper, we examine further the squeezing properties of higher-order quantum fluctuations in one of the quadrature components of the combined field in this system. We demonstrate that efficient and lasting higher-order squeezing effects could be observed with proper choice of the relative phase between the pump and coherent fields. This nonclassical feature is attributed to a constructive two-photon interference. Relationship between the second- and higher-order squeezing of the field is discussed


Application of multiprocessor systems for computation of jets

Abstract: The article describes the implementation of methods for numerical solution of gas-dynamic problems on a wide class of multiprocessor systems, conventionally characterized as "cluster" systems. A standard data-transfer interface - the so-called message passing interface - is used for parallelization of application algorithms among processors. Simulation of jets escaping into a low-pressure region is chosen as a computational example

multiprocessor systems
computation of jets
gas-dynamic problems
cluster systems
data-transfer interface
message passing interface
low-pressure region


New paradigms for interactive 3D volume segmentation

Abstract: We present a new virtual reality-based interaction metaphor for semi-automatic segmentation of medical 3D volume data. The mouse-based, manual initialization of deformable surfaces in 3D represents a major bottleneck in interactive segmentation. In our multi-modal system we enhance this process with additional sensory feedback. A 3D haptic device is used to extract the centreline of a tubular structure. Based on the obtained path a cylinder with varying diameter is generated, which in turn is used as the initial guess for a deformable surface

interactive 3D volume segmentation
virtual reality
interaction metaphor
medical image segmentation
mouse
deformable surfaces
interactive segmentation
multi-modal system
sensory feedback
3D haptic device
tubular structure
varying diameter cylinder
deformable surface
haptic interaction


An inverse problem for a model of a hierarchical structure

Abstract: We consider the inverse problem for the identification of the coefficient in a parabolic equation. The model is applied to describe the functioning of a hierarchical structure; it is also relevant for heat-conduction theory. Unique solvability of the inverse problem is proved

inverse problem
hierarchical structure
parabolic equation
heat-conduction theory
unique solvability


Three-dimensional optimum design of the cooling lines of injection moulds based on boundary element design sensitivity analysis

Abstract: A three-dimensional numerical simulation using the boundary element method is proposed, which can predict the cavity temperature distributions in the cooling stage of injection moulding. Then, choosing the radii and positions of cooling lines as design variables, the boundary integral sensitivity formulations are deduced. For the optimum design of cooling lines, the squared difference between the objective temperature and temperature of the cavity is taken as the objective function. Based on the optimization techniques with design sensitivity analysis, an iterative algorithm to reach the minimum value of the objective function is introduced, which leads to the optimum design of cooling lines at the same time

injection moulding
3D numerical simulation
boundary element method
cavity temperature distributions
cooling stage
boundary integral sensitivity analysis
iterative algorithm
heat conduction
objective function
optimization


Putting pen to screen on Tablet PCs

Abstract: With the release of the first Tablet PCs produced to Microsoft Corp.'s general specifications, handheld computers may be about to leap into the ring with today's laptops. They will be about the size of the smaller laptops, will be at least as powerful, and maybe their biggest selling point-will be able to handle handwritten text. The Tablet PCs will be amply configured, general-purpose machines with more than enough power to run the full-blown Windows XP operating system. In particular, they will allow handwritten text to be entered onto a digitizing tablet and recognized, a functionality that's called pen-based computing. The Tablet PC will far outpace the computing power of existing small devices such as PDAs (personal digital assistants), including those variants based on Microsoft's own Pocket PC operating system

Tablet PC
Microsoft
handheld computers
handwritten text
Windows XP operating system
digitizing tablet
pen-based computing


Simulation of evacuation processes using a bionics-inspired cellular automaton model for pedestrian dynamics

Abstract: We present simulations of evacuation processes using a recently introduced cellular automaton model for pedestrian dynamics. This model applies a bionics approach to describe the interaction between the pedestrians using ideas from chemotaxis. Here we study a rather simple situation, namely the evacuation from a large room with one or two doors. It is shown that the variation of the model parameters allows to describe different types of behaviour, from regular to panic. We find a non-monotonic dependence of the evacuation times on the coupling constants. These times depend on the strength of the herding behaviour, with minimal evacuation times for some intermediate values of the couplings, i.e., a proper combination of herding and use of knowledge about the shortest way to the exit


The set of stable polynomials of linear discrete systems: its geometry

Abstract: The multidimensional stability domain of linear discrete systems is studied. Its configuration is determined from the parameters of its intersection with coordinate axes, coordinate planes, and certain auxiliary planes. Counterexamples for the discrete variant of the Kharitonov theorem are given

stable polynomials
Kharitonov theorem
characteristic polynomial
linear discrete systems
geometry
multidimensional stability domain


Theoretical and experimental investigations on coherence of traffic noise transmission through an open window into a rectangular room in high-rise buildings

Abstract: A method for theoretically calculating the coherence between sound pressure inside a rectangular room in a high-rise building and that outside the open window of the room is proposed. The traffic noise transmitted into a room is generally dominated by low-frequency components, to which active noise control (ANC) technology may find an application. However, good coherence between reference and error signals is essential for an effective noise reduction and should be checked first. Based on traffic noise prediction methods, wave theory, and mode coupling theory, the results of this paper enabled one to determine the potentials and limitations of ANC used to reduce such a transmission. Experimental coherence results are shown for two similar, empty rectangular rooms located on the 17th and 30th floors of a 34 floor high-rise building. The calculated results with the proposed method are generally in good agreement with the experimental results and demonstrate the usefulness of the method for predicting the coherence

traffic noise transmission
open window
rectangular room
high-rise buildings
sound pressure
low-frequency components
active noise control technology
traffic noise prediction methods
mode coupling theory
wave theory


On the Beth properties of some intuitionistic modal logics

Abstract: Let L be one of the intuitionistic modal logics. As in the classical modal case, we define two different forms of the Beth property for L, which are denoted by B1 and B2; in this paper we study the relation among B1, B2 and the interpolation properties C1 and C2. It turns out that C1 implies B1, but contrary to the boolean case, is not equivalent to B1. It is shown that B2 and C2 are independent, and moreover it comes out that, in contrast to classical case, there exists an extension of the intuitionistic modal logic of S/sub 4/-type, that has not the property B2. Finally we give two algebraic properties, that characterize respectively B1 and B2

Beth properties
interpolation properties
intuitionistic modal logics


Innovative manufacture of impulse turbine blades for wave energy power conversion

Abstract: An innovative approach to the manufacture of impulse turbine blades using rapid prototyping, fused decomposition modelling (FDM), is presented. These blades were designed and manufactured by the Wave Energy Research Team (WERT) at the University of Limerick for the experimental analysis of a 0.6 m impulse turbine with fixed guide vanes for wave energy power conversion. The computer aided design/manufacture (CAD/CAM) package Pro-Engineer 2000i was used for three-dimensional solid modelling of the individual blades. A detailed finite element analysis of the blades under centrifugal loads was performed using Pro-Mechanica. based on this analysis and FDM machine capabilities, blades were redesigned. Finally, Pro-E data were transferred to an FDM machine for the manufacture of turbine blades. The objective of this paper is to present the innovative method used to design, modify and manufacture blades in a time and cost effective manner using a concurrent engineering approach

CAD/CAM
impulse turbine blades
wave energy power conversion
fused decomposition modelling
rapid prototyping
manufacturing
concurrent engineering
University of Limerick
solid modelling
finite element analysis


Capturing niche markets with copper

Abstract: For "last-mile access" in niche applications, twisted copper pair may be the cable of best option to gain access and deliver desired services. The article discusses how operators can use network edge devices to serve new customers. Niche market segments represent a significant opportunity for cable TV delivery of television and high-speed Internet signals. But the existing telecommunications infrastructure in those developments frequently presents unique challenges for the service provider to overcome

last-mile access
twisted copper pair
network edge devices
copper cables
niche markets


A better ballot box?

Abstract: Election officials are examining technologies to address a wide range of voting issues. The problems observed in the November 2000 US election accelerated existing trends to get rid of lever machines, punch-cards, and hand-counted paper ballots and replace them with mark-sense balloting, Internet, and automatic teller machine (ATM) kiosk style computer-based systems. An estimated US $2-$4 billion will be spent in the United States and Canada to update voting systems during the next decade. Voting online might enable citizens to vote even if they are unable to get to the polls. Yet making these methods work right turns out to be considerably more difficult than originally thought. New electronic voting systems pose risks as well as solutions. As it turns out, many of the voting products currently for sale provide less accountability, poorer reliability, and greater opportunity for widespread fraud than those already in use. This paper discusses the technology available and how to ensure accurate ballots

automatic teller machine computer-based voting system

ATM kiosk style computer-based voting systems


A nonlinear time-optimal control problem

Abstract: Sufficient conditions for the existence of an optimal control in a time-optimal control problem with fixed ends for a smooth nonlinear control system are formulated. The properties of this system for characterizing the optimal control switching points are studied

nonlinear time-optimal control problem
sufficient existence conditions
smooth nonlinear control system
optimal control switching points


Nuclear magnetic resonance molecular photography

Abstract: A procedure is described for storing a two-dimensional (2D) pattern consisting of 32*32=1024 bits in a spin state of a molecular system and then retrieving the stored information as a stack of nuclear magnetic resonance spectra. The system used is a nematic liquid crystal, the protons of which act as spin clusters with strong intramolecular interactions. The technique used is a programmable multifrequency irradiation with low amplitude. When it is applied to the liquid crystal, a large number of coherent long-lived /sup 1/H response signals can be excited, resulting in a spectrum showing many sharp peaks with controllable frequencies and amplitudes. The spectral resolution is enhanced by using a second weak pulse with a 90 degrees phase shift, so that the 1024 bits of information can be retrieved as a set of well-resolved pseudo-2D spectra reproducing the input pattern

high-content molecular information processing


IT as a key enabler to law firm competitiveness

Abstract: Professional services firms have traditionally been able to thrive in virtually any market conditions. They have been consistently successful for several decades without ever needing to reexamine or change their basic operating model. However, gradual but inexorable change in client expectations and the business environment over recent years now means that more of the same is no longer enough. In future, law firms will increasingly need to exploit IT more effectively in order to remain competitive. To do this, they will need to ensure that all their information systems function as an integrated whole and are available to their staff, clients and business partners. The authors set out the lessons to be learned for law firms in the light of the recent PA Consulting survey

professional services firms
client expectations
business environment
information systems
law firms


The two populations' cellular automata model with predation based on the Penna model

Abstract: In Penna's (1995) single-species asexual bit-string model of biological ageing, the Verhulst factor has too strong a restraining effect on the development of the population. Danuta Makowiec gave an improved model based on the lattice, where the restraining factor of the four neighbours take the place of the Verhulst factor. Here, we discuss the two populations' Penna model with predation on the planar lattice of two dimensions. A cellular automata model containing movable wolves and sheep has been built. The results show that both the quantity of the wolves and the sheep fluctuate in accordance with the law that one quantity increases while the other one decreases

cellular automata model
population
Penna model
single-species asexual bit-string model
biological ageing
Verhulst factor
restraining effect
lattice
wolves
sheep
fluctuation
Lotka-Volterra model
predation


Simple minds [health care IT]

Abstract: A few things done properly, and soon, is the short-term strategy for the UK NHS IT programme. Can it deliver this time?

UK NHS IT programme
health care
strategy


Central hub for design assets: Adobe GoLive 6.0

Abstract: Adobe GoLive is a strong contender for Web authoring and publishing. Version 6.0 features a flexible GUI environment combined with a comprehensive workgroup and collaboration server, plus tight integration with leading design tools

Adobe GoLive 6.0
Flash
Real
Java
application servers
Web authoring
GUI
workgroup server
collaboration server
LiveMotion 2.0
animation and scripting tool
Macromedia SWF format
workgroup environment
Web publishing environment
design-centric dynamic content


Evolution of the high-end computing market in the USA

Abstract: This paper focuses on the technological change in the high-end computing market. The discussion combines historical analysis with strategic analysis to provide a framework to analyse a key component of the computer industry. This analysis begins from the perspective of government research and development spending; then examines the confusion around the evolution of the high-end computing market in the context of standard theories of technology strategy and new product innovation. Rather than the high-end market being 'dead', one should view the market as changing due to increased capability and competition from the low-end personal computer market. The high-end market is also responding to new product innovation from the introduction of new parallel computing architectures. In the conclusion, key leverage points in the market are identified and the trends in high-end computing are highlighted with implications

high-end computing market evolution
USA
historical analysis
strategic analysis
computer industry
government research
development spending
technology strategy
new product innovation
competition
low-end personal computer market
parallel computing architectures
supercomputing


Exact controllability of shells in minimal time

Abstract: We prove an exact controllability result for thin cups using the Fourier method and recent improvements of Ingham (1936) type theorems

controllability
shells
minimal time
thin cups
partial differential equations
Young modulus
Hilbert space
Fourier method
Ingham type theorems


Limits for computational electromagnetics codes imposed by computer architecture

Abstract: The algorithmic complexity of the innermost loops that determine the complexity of algorithms in computational electromagnetics (CEM) codes are analyzed according to their operation count and the impact of the underlying computer hardware. As memory chips are much slower than arithmetic processors, codes that involve a high data movement compared to the number of arithmetic operations are executed comparatively slower. Hence, matrix-matrix multiplications are much faster than matrix-vector multiplications. It is seen that it is not sufficient to compare only the complexity, but also the actual performance of algorithms to judge on faster execution. Implications involve FDTD loops, LU factorizations, and iterative solvers for dense matrices. Run times on two reference platforms, namely an Athlon 900 MHz and an HP PA 8600 processor, verify the findings

computational electromagnetics codes
computer architecture
algorithmic complexity
innermost loops
CEM codes
operation count
computer hardware
memory chips
data movement
matrix-matrix multiplications
matrix-vector multiplications
FDTD loops
LU factorizations
iterative solvers
dense matrices


Lung metastasis detection and visualization on CT images: a knowledge-based method

Abstract: A solution to the problem of lung metastasis detection on computed tomography (CT) scans of the thorax is presented. A knowledge-based top-down approach for image interpretation is used. The method is inspired by the manner in which a radiologist and radiotherapist interpret CT images before radiotherapy is planned. A two-dimensional followed by a three-dimensional analysis is performed. The algorithm first detects the thorax contour, the lungs and the ribs, which further help the detection of metastases. Thus, two types of tumors are detected: nodules and metastases located at the lung extremities. A method to visualize the anatomical structures segmented is also presented. The system was tested on 20 patients (988 total images) from the Oncology Department of La Chaux-de-Fonds Hospital and the results show that the method is reliable as a computer-aided diagnostic tool for clinical purpose in an oncology department

lung metastasis detection
data visualization
CT images
computed tomography
knowledge-based top-down approach
two-dimensional analysis
three-dimensional analysis
computer-aided diagnostic tool
oncology
medical imaging
knowledge representation
thorax
image interpretation


WEXTOR: a Web-based tool for generating and visualizing experimental designs and procedures

Abstract: WEXTOR is a Javascript-based experiment generator and teaching tool on the World Wide Web that can be used to design laboratory and Web experiments in a guided step-by-step process. It dynamically creates the customized Web pages and Javascripts needed for the experimental procedure and provides experimenters with a print-ready visual display of their experimental design. WEXTOR flexibly supports complete and incomplete factorial designs with between-subjects, within-subjects, and quasi-experimental factors, as well as mixed designs. The software implements client-side response time measurement and contains a content wizard for creating interactive materials, as well as dependent measures (graphical scales, multiple-choice items, etc.), on the experiment pages. However, it does not aim to replace a full-fledged HTML editor. Several methodological features specifically needed in Web experimental design have been implemented in the Web-based tool and are described in this paper. WEXTOR is platform independent. The created Web pages can be uploaded to any type of Web server in which data may be recorded in logfiles or via a database. The current version of WEXTOR is freely available for educational and noncommercial purposes. Its Web address is http://www.genpsylab.unizh.ch/wextor/index.html

WEXTOR
Web-based tool
experimental design visualization
Javascript-based experiment generator
teaching tool
World Wide Web
customized Web pages
print-ready visual display
factorial designs
client-side response time measurement
content wizard
HTML
Web server
logfiles
database
free software


Complexity transitions in global algorithms for sparse linear systems over finite fields

Abstract: We study the computational complexity of a very basic problem, namely that of finding solutions to a very large set of random linear equations in a finite Galois field modulo q. Using tools from statistical mechanics we are able to identify phase transitions in the structure of the solution space and to connect them to the changes in the performance of a global algorithm, namely Gaussian elimination. Crossing phase boundaries produces a dramatic increase in memory and CPU requirements necessary for the algorithms. In turn, this causes the saturation of the upper bounds for the running time. We illustrate the results on the specific problem of integer factorization, which is of central interest for deciphering messages encrypted with the RSA cryptosystem

complexity transitions
global algorithms
sparse linear systems
finite fields
random linear equations
finite Galois field
statistical mechanics
Gaussian elimination
phase boundaries
integer factorization
message deciphering
encryption
RSA cryptosystem
disordered systems


Learning weights for the quasi-weighted means

Abstract: We study the determination of weights for quasi-weighted means (also called quasi-linear means) when a set of examples is given. We consider first a simple case, the learning of weights for weighted means, and then we extend the approach to the more general case of a quasi-weighted mean. We consider the case of a known arbitrary generator f. The paper finishes considering the use of parametric functions that are suitable when the values to aggregate are measure values or ratio

quasi-weighted means
quasi-linear means
learning
parametric functions
measure values
ratio values


Prediction of ultraviolet spectral absorbance using quantitative structure-property relationships

Abstract: High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometric detection is a common method for analyzing reaction products in organic chemistry. This procedure would benefit from a computational model for predicting the relative response of organic molecules. Models are now reported for the prediction of the integrated UV absorbance for a diverse set of organic compounds using a quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) approach. A seven-descriptor linear correlation with a squared correlation coefficient (R/sup 2/) of 0.815 is reported for a data set of 521.compounds. Using the sum of ZINDO oscillator strengths in the integration range as an additional descriptor allowed reduction in the number of descriptors producing a robust model for 460 compounds with five descriptors and a squared correlation coefficient 0.857. The descriptors used in the models are discussed with respect to the physical nature of the UV absorption process

ultraviolet spectral absorbance prediction


Variable structure intelligent control for PM synchronous servo motor drive

Abstract: The variable structure control (VSC) of discrete time systems based on intelligent control is presented in this paper. A novel approach is proposed for the state estimation. A linear observer is firstly designed. Then a neural network is used for compensating uncertainty. The parameter of the VSC scheme is adjusted online by a neural network. Practical operating results from a PM synchronous motor (PMSM) illustrate the effectiveness and practicability of the proposed approach

PM synchronous servo motor drive
variable structure intelligent control
control design
discrete time systems
state estimation
linear observer
neural network
uncertainty compensation
control performance


2002 in-house fulfillment systems report [publishing]

Abstract: CM's 13th annual survey of in-house fulfillment system suppliers brings you up to date on the current capabilities of the leading publication software packages

survey
in-house fulfillment system
suppliers
publication software packages


From a biological to a computational model for the autonomous behavior of an animat

Abstract: Endowing an autonomous system like a robot with intelligent behavior is difficult for several reasons. First, behavior is such a wide topic that a general framework paradigm of inspiration must be chosen in order to obtain a consistent model. Such a framework can be, for example, biological modeling or an artificial intelligence approach. Second, a general framework is not sufficient to determine a fully specified program to be implemented in a robot. Many choices, tuning and tests must be carried out before obtaining a robust system. A biological model is presented, based on the definition of cortex-like automata, representing elementary functions in the perceptive, motor or associative domain. These automata are connected in a network whose architecture, functioning and learning rules are described in a cortical framework. Second, the computational model derived from that biological model is specified. The way units exchange and compute variables through links is explained, with reference to corresponding biological elements. It is then easier to report experiments allowing an autonomous system to learn regularities of a simple environment and to exploit them to satisfy some internal drives. Even if additional biological hints can be added, this model allow us to better understand how a biological model can be implemented and how biological properties can emerge from a distributed set of units

autonomous system
robot
autonomous behavior
intelligent behavior
animat
tuning
tests
robust system
biological model
cortex-like automata
elementary functions
perceptive domain
associative domain
motor domain
learning rules
architecture
computational model
variable computation
variable exchange
links
regularity learning
simple environment
internal drives


A 120-mW 3-D rendering engine with 6-Mb embedded DRAM and 3.2-GB/s runtime reconfigurable bus for PDA chip

Abstract: A low-power three-dimensional (3-D) rendering engine is implemented as part of a mobile personal digital assistant (PDA) chip. Six-megabit embedded DRAM macros attached to 8-pixel-parallel rendering logic are logically localized with a 3.2-GB/s runtime reconfigurable bus, reducing the area by 25% compared with conventional local frame-buffer architectures. The low power consumption is achieved by polygon-dependent access to the embedded DRAM macros with line-block mapping providing read-modify-write data transaction. The 3-D rendering engine with 2.22-Mpolygons/s drawing speed was fabricated using 0.18- mu m CMOS embedded memory logic technology. Its area is 24 mm/sup 2/ and its power consumption is 120 mW

low-power 3D rendering engine
three-dimensional rendering engine
mobile PDA chip
mobile personal digital assistant chip
embedded DRAM macros
8-pixel-parallel rendering logic
reconfigurable bus
low power consumption
polygon-dependent access
line-block mapping
read-modify-write data transaction
CMOS embedded memory logic technology
3D graphics rendering
120 mW
6 Mbit
3.2 GB/s
0.18 micron


A comparison of the discounted utility model and hyperbolic discounting models in the case of social and private intertemporal preferences for health

Abstract: Whilst there is substantial evidence that hyperbolic discounting models describe intertemporal preferences for monetary outcomes better than the discounted utility (DU) model, there is only very limited evidence in the context of health outcomes. This study elicits private and social intertemporal preferences for non-fatal changes in health. Specific functional forms of the DU model and three hyperbolic models are fitted. The results show that the stationarity axiom is violated, and that the hyperbolic models fit the data better than the DU model. Intertemporal preferences for private and social decisions are found to be very similar

discounted utility model
hyperbolic discounting models
intertemporal preferences
health outcomes
private decisions
social decisions


Two-step integral imaging for orthoscopic three-dimensional imaging with improved viewing resolution

Abstract: We present a two-step integral imaging system to obtain 3-D orthoscopic real images. By adopting a nonstationary micro-optics technique, we demonstrate experimentally the potential usefulness of two-step integral imaging

two-step integral imaging
resolution improved viewing
two-step integral imaging system
3-D orthoscopic real images
nonstationary micro-optics technique
3-D image reconstruction
liquid crystal light valve
display device
LCLV
pickup lenslet array


Conformal-mapping design tools for coaxial couplers with complex cross section

Abstract: Numerical conformal mapping is exploited as a simple, accurate, and efficient tool for the analysis and design of coaxial waveguides and couplers of complex cross section. An implementation based on the Schwarz-Christoffel Toolbox, a public-domain MATLAB package, is applied to slotted coaxial cables and to symmetrical coaxial couplers, with circular or polygonal inner conductors and external shields. The effect of metallic diaphragms of arbitrary thickness, partially separating the inner conductors, is also easily taken into account. The proposed technique is validated against the results of the finite-element method, showing excellent agreement at a fraction of the computational cost, and is also extended to the case of nonsymmetrical couplers, providing the designer with important additional degrees of freedom

conformal mapping design tools
coaxial couplers
complex cross section
coaxial waveguides
Schwarz-Christoffel Toolbox
public-domain MATLAB package
slotted coaxial cables
symmetrical couplers
circular inner conductors
polygonal inner conductors
external shields
metallic diaphragms
nonsymmetrical couplers
numerical conformal transformations


ePsych: interactive demonstrations and experiments in psychology

Abstract: ePsych (http://epsych.msstate.edu), a new Web site currently under active development, is intended to teach students about the discipline of psychology. The site presumes little prior knowledge about the field and so may be used in introductory classes, but it incorporates sufficient depth of coverage to be useful in more advanced classes as well. Numerous interactive and dynamic elements are incorporated into various modules, orientations, and guidebooks. These elements include Java-based experiments and demonstrations, video clips, and animated diagrams. Rapid access to all material is provided through a layer-based navigation system that allows users to visit various "Worlds of the Mind." Active learning is encouraged, by challenging students with puzzles and problems and by providing the opportunity to "dig deeper" to learn more about the phenomena at hand

ePsych
interactive demonstrations
psychology experiments
Web site
teaching
Java-based experiments
video clips
animated diagrams
layer-based navigation system
Worlds of the Mind
active learning


An identity-based society oriented signature scheme with anonymous signers

Abstract: In this paper, we propose a new society oriented scheme, based on the Guillou-Quisquater (1989) signature scheme. The scheme is identity-based and the signatures are verified with respect to only one identity. That is, the verifier does not have to know the identity of the co-signers, but just that of the organization they represent


Universal dynamic synchronous self-stabilization

Abstract: We prove the existence of a "universal" synchronous self-stabilizing protocol, that is, a protocol that allows a distributed system to stabilize to a desired nonreactive behaviour (as long as a protocol stabilizing to that behaviour exists). Previous proposals required drastic increases in asymmetry and knowledge to work, whereas our protocol does not use any additional knowledge, and does not require more symmetry-breaking conditions than available; thus, it is also stabilizing with respect to dynamic changes in the topology. We prove an optimal quiescence time n + D for a synchronous network of n processors and diameter D; the protocol can be made finite state with a negligible loss in quiescence time. Moreover, an optimal D + 1 protocol is given for the case of unique identifiers. As a consequence, we provide an effective proof technique that allows one to show whether self-stabilization to a certain behaviour is possible under a wide range of models

universal dynamic synchronous self-stabilization


A new approach to the decomposition of Boolean functions by the method of q-partitions.II. Repeated decomposition

Abstract: For pt.I. see Upr. Sist. Mash., no. 6, p. 29-42 (1999). A new approach to the decomposition of Boolean,functions that depend on n variables and are represented in various forms is considered. The approach is based on the method of q-partitioning of minterms and on the introduced concept of a decomposition clone. The theorem on simple disjunctive decomposition of full and partial functions is formulated. The approach proposed is illustrated by examples

Boolean functions decomposition
minterms
decomposition clone
disjunctive decomposition
partial functions
logic synthesis
q-partitions


Affine invariants of convex polygons

Abstract: In this correspondence, we prove that the affine invariants, for image registration and object recognition, proposed recently by Yang and Cohen (see ibid., vol.8, no.7, p.934-46, July 1999) are algebraically dependent. We show how to select an independent and complete set of the invariants. The use of this new set leads to a significant reduction of the computing complexity without decreasing the discrimination power

affine invariants
convex polygons
algebraically dependent. invariants
complexity reduction
image registration
object recognition
convex quadruplet
feature vector


Trust in online advice

Abstract: Many people are now influenced by the information and advice they find on the Internet, much of it of dubious quality. This article describes two studies concerned with those factors capable of influencing people's response to online advice. The first study is a qualitative account of a group of house-hunters attempting to find worthwhile information online. The second study describes a survey of more than 2,500 people who had actively sought advice over the Internet. A framework for understanding trust in online advice is proposed in which first impressions are distinguished from more detailed evaluations. Good Web design can influence the first process, but three key factors-source credibility, personalization, and predictability-are shown to predict whether people actually follow the advice given

online advice trust
Internet
survey
online mortgage advice
Web design
source credibility
personalization
predictability
e-commerce
house buying advice


Much ado about nothing: Win32.Perrun

Abstract: JPEG files do not contain any executable code and it is impossible to infect such files. The author takes a look at the details surrounding the Win32.Perrun virus and make clear exactly what it does. The main virus feature is its ability to affect JPEG image files (compressed graphic images) and to spread via affected JPEG files. The virus affects, or modifies, or alters JPEG files but does not "infect" them

Win32.Perrun
JPEG files
virus
compressed graphic images


On emotion and bounded rationality: reply to Hanoch

Abstract: The author refers to the comment made by Hanoch (see ibid. vol.49 (2000)) on his model of bounded rationality and the role of the Yerkes-Dodson law and emotional arousal in it. The author points out that Hanoch's comment, however, conspicuously fails to challenge - much less contradict - the central hypothesis of his paper. In addition, several of Hanoch's criticisms are based on a wrong characterization of the positions

emotion
bounded rationality
Yerkes-Dodson law
decision-making
psychology


Iterative regularized least-mean mixed-norm image restoration

Abstract: We develop a regularized mixed-norm image restoration algorithm to deal with various types of noise. A mixed-norm functional is introduced, which combines the least mean square (LMS) and the least mean fourth (LMF) functionals, as well as a smoothing functional. Two regularization parameters are introduced: one to determine the relative importance of the LMS and LMF functionals, which is a function of the kurtosis, and another to determine the relative importance of the smoothing functional. The two parameters are chosen in such a way that the proposed functional is convex, so that a unique minimizer exists. An iterative algorithm is utilized for obtaining the solution, and its convergence is analyzed. The novelty of the proposed algorithm is that no knowledge of the noise distribution is required, and the relative contributions of the LMS, the LMF, and the smoothing functionals are adjusted based on the partially restored image. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm

iterative regularized least-mean mixed-norm image restoration


Model selection in electromagnetic source analysis with an application to VEFs

Abstract: In electromagnetic source analysis, it is necessary to determine how many sources are required to describe the electroencephalogram or magnetoencephalogram adequately. Model selection procedures (MSPs) or goodness of fit procedures give an estimate of the required number of sources. Existing and new MSPs are evaluated in different source and noise settings: two sources which are close or distant and noise which is uncorrelated or correlated. The commonly used MSP residual variance is seen to be ineffective, that is it often selects too many sources. Alternatives like the adjusted Hotelling's test, Bayes information criterion and the Wald test on source amplitudes are seen to be effective. The adjusted Hotelling's test is recommended if a conservative approach is taken and MSPs such as Bayes information criterion or the Wald test on source amplitudes are recommended if a more liberal approach is desirable. The MSPs are applied to empirical data (visual evoked fields)

model selection
electromagnetic source analysis
noise settings
residual variance
Wald test
adjusted Hotelling's test
empirical data
VEFs
MEG source analysis
EEG source analysis
goodness-of-fit
source localization
visual evoked fields


Implications of document-level literacy skills for Web site design

Abstract: The proliferation of World Wide Web (Web) sites and the low cost of publishing information on the Web have placed a tremendous amount of information at the fingertips of millions of people. Although most of this information is at least intended to be accurate, there is much that is rumor, innuendo, urban legend, and outright falsehood. This raises problems especially for students (of all ages) trying to do research or learn about some topic. Finding accurate, credible information requires document level literacy skills, such as integration, sourcing, corroboration, and search. This paper discusses these skills and offers a list of simple ways that designers of educational Web sites can help their visitors utilize these skills

document-level literacy skills
rumor
innuendo
urban legend
falsehood
students
accurate credible information
integration
sourcing
corroboration
search
educational Web site design