Metaschemas for ER, ORM and UML data models: a comparison

Abstract: This paper provides metaschemas for some of the main database modeling notations used in industry. Two Entity Relationship (ER) notations (Information Engineering and Barker) are examined in detail, as well as Object Role Modeling (ORM) conceptual schema diagrams. The discussion of optionality, cardinality and multiplicity is widened to include Unified Modeling Language (UML) class diagrams. Issues addressed in the metamodel analysis include the normalization impact of non-derived constraints on derived associations, the influence of orthogonality on language transparency, and trade-offs between simplicity and expressibility. To facilitate comparison, the same modeling notation is used to display each metaschema. For this purpose, ORM is used because of its greater expressibility and clarity

metaschemas
data models
UML
database modeling notations
Entity Relationship modeling
Information Engineering
Barker notation
Object Role Modeling
conceptual schema diagrams
optionality
cardinality
multiplicity
Unified Modeling Language
class diagrams
normalization
orthogonality
language transparency
ORM


Blind source separation applied to image cryptosystems with dual encryption

Abstract: Blind source separation (BSS) is explored to add another encryption level besides the existing encryption methods for image cryptosystems. The transmitted images are covered with a noise image by specific mixing before encryption and then recovered through BSS after decryption. Simulation results illustrate the validity of the proposed method

blind source separation
transmitted images
noise image
image cryptosystems
dual encryption


Exploiting randomness in quantum information processing

Abstract: We consider how randomness can be made to play a useful role in quantum information processing-in particular, for decoherence control and the implementation of quantum algorithms. For a two-level system in which the decoherence channel is non-dissipative, we show that decoherence suppression is possible if memory is present in the channel. Random switching between two potentially harmful noise sources can then provide a source of stochastic control. Such random switching can also be used in an advantageous way for the implementation of quantum algorithms

quantum information processing
randomness
decoherence control
quantum algorithms
two-level system
random switching
noise
stochastic control


A comparison of different decision algorithms used in volumetric storm cells classification

Abstract: Decision algorithms useful in classifying meteorological volumetric radar data are discussed. Such data come from the radar decision support system (RDSS) database of Environment Canada and concern summer storms created in this country. Some research groups used the data completed by RDSS for verifying the utility of chosen methods in volumetric storm cells classification. The paper consists of a review of experiments that were made on the data from RDSS database of Environment Canada and presents the quality of particular classifiers. The classification accuracy coefficient is used to express the quality. For five research groups that led their experiments in a similar way it was possible to compare received outputs. Experiments showed that the support vector machine (SVM) method and rough set algorithms which use object oriented reducts for rule generation to classify volumetric storm data perform better than other classifiers

decision algorithms
volumetric storm cells classification
meteorological volumetric radar data
radar decision support system
summer storms
classification accuracy
support vector machine
rough set algorithms
object oriented reducts


Finding performance bugs with the TNO HPF benchmark suite

Abstract: High-Performance Fortran (HPF) has been designed to provide portable performance on distributed memory machines. An important aspect of portable performance is the behavior of the available HPF compilers. Ideally, a programmer may expect comparable performance between different HPF compilers, given the same program and the same machine. To test the performance portability between compilers, we have designed a special benchmark suite, called the TNO HPF benchmark suite. It consists of a set of HPF programs that test various aspects of efficient parallel code generation. The benchmark suite consists of a number of template programs that are used to generate test programs with different array sizes, alignments, distributions, and iteration spaces. It ranges from very simple assignments to more complex assignments such as triangular iteration spaces, convex iteration spaces, coupled subscripts, and indirection arrays. We have run the TNO HPF benchmark suite on three compilers: the PREPARE prototype compiler, the PGI-HPF compiler, and the GMD Adaptor HPF compiler. Results show performance differences that can be quite large (up to two orders of magnitude for the same test program). Closer inspection reveals that the origin of most of the differences in performance is due to differences in local enumeration and storage of distributed array elements

High-Performance Fortran
portable performance
distributed memory machines
HPF compilers
performance portability
benchmark suite
parallel compilers
compiler optimizations


At your service [agile businesses]

Abstract: Senior software executives from three of the world's leading software companies, and one smaller, entrepreneurial software developer, explain the impact that web services, business process management and integrated application architectures are having on their product development plans, and share their vision of the roles these products will play in creating agile businesses

agile businesses
integrated application architectures
business process management
web services
software companies


Identifying multivariate discordant observations: a computer-intensive approach

Abstract: The problem of identifying multiple outliers in a multivariate normal sample is approached via successive testing using P-values rather than tabled critical values. Caroni and Prescott (Appl. Statist. 41, p.355, 1992) proposed a generalization of the EDR-ESD procedure of Rosner (Technometrics, 25, 1983)). Venter and Viljoen (Comput. Statist. Data Anal. 29, p.261, 1999) introduced a computer intensive method to identify outliers in a univariate outlier situation. We now generalize this method to the multivariate outlier situation and compare this new procedure with that of Caroni and Prescott (Appl. Statist. 4, p.355, 1992)

multivariate discordant observations
computer-intensive approach
multiple outliers
multivariate normal sample
P-values
tabled critical values
data analysis
EDR-EHD procedure
univariate outlier
stepwise testing approach
multivariate outlier


Manufacturing data analysis of machine tool errors within a contemporary small manufacturing enterprise

Abstract: The main focus of the paper is directed at the determination of manufacturing errors within the contemporary smaller manufacturing enterprise sector. The manufacturing error diagnosis is achieved through the manufacturing data analysis of the results obtained from the inspection of the component on a co-ordinate measuring machine. This manufacturing data analysis activity adopts a feature-based approach and is conducted through the application of a forward chaining expert system, called the product data analysis distributed diagnostic expert system, which forms part of a larger prototype feedback system entitled the production data analysis framework. The paper introduces the manufacturing error categorisations that are associated with milling type operations, knowledge acquisition and representation, conceptual structure and operating procedure of the prototype manufacturing data analysis facility. The paper concludes with a brief evaluation of the logic employed through the simulation of manufacturing error scenarios. This prototype manufacturing data analysis expert system provides a valuable aid for the rapid diagnosis and elimination of manufacturing errors on a 3-axis vertical machining centre in an environment where operator expertise is limited


Relationship between strong monotonicity property, P/sub 2/-property, and the GUS-property in semidefinite linear complementarity problems

Abstract: In a recent paper on semidefinite linear complementarity problems, Gowda and Song (2000) introduced and studied the P-property, P/sub 2/-property, GUS-property, and strong monotonicity property for linear transformation L: S/sup n/ to S/sup n/, where S/sup n/ is the space of all symmetric and real n * n matrices. In an attempt to characterize the P/sub 2/-property, they raised the following two questions: (i) Does the strong monotonicity imply the P/sub 2/-property? (ii) Does the GUS-property imply the P/sub 2/-property? In this paper, we show that the strong monotonicity property implies the P/sub 2/-property for any linear transformation and describe an equivalence between these two properties for Lyapunov and other transformations. We show by means of an example that the GUS-property need not imply the P/sub 2/-property, even for Lyapunov transformations


SubSeven's Honey Pot program

Abstract: A serious security threat today are malicious executables, especially new, unseen malicious executables often arriving as email attachments. These new malicious executables are created at the rate of thousands every year and pose a serious threat. Current anti-virus systems attempt to detect these new malicious programs with heuristics generated by hand. This approach is costly and often ineffective. We introduce the Trojan Horse SubSeven, its capabilities and influence over intrusion detection systems. A Honey Pot program is implemented, simulating the SubSeven Server. The Honey Pot Program provides feedback and stores data to and from the SubSeven's client

Honey Pot program
security threat
malicious executables
email attachments
anti-virus systems
Trojan Horse
SubSeven
intrusion detection systems


Data quality - unlocking the ROI in CRM

Abstract: While many organisations realise their most valuable asset is their customers, many more fail to realise the importance of auditing, maintaining and updating the information contained in their customer databases. Today's growing awareness in the importance of data quality in relation to CRM and ROI will help change this attitude. In response, CRM vendors will follow suit and begin to differentiate themselves by offering data quality as part of an enterprise-wide data management methodology

customer databases
data management
customer relationships
CRM
return on investment


Failures and successes: notes on the development of electronic cash

Abstract: Between 1997 and 2001, two mid-sized communities in Canada hosted North America's most comprehensive experiment to introduce electronic cash and, in the process, replace physical cash for casual, low-value payments. The technology used was Mondex, and its implementation was supported by all the country's major banks. It was launched with an extensive publicity campaign to promote Mondex not only in the domestic but also in the global market, for which the Canadian implementation was to serve as a "showcase." However, soon after the start of the first field test it became apparent that the new technology did not work smoothly. On the contrary, it created a host of controversies, in areas as varied as computer security, consumer privacy, and monetary policy. In the following years, few of these controversies could be resolved and Mondex could not be established as a widely used payment mechanism. In 2001, the experiment was finally terminated. Using the concepts developed in recent science and technology studies (STS), the article analyzes these controversies as resulting from the difficulties of fitting electronic cash, a new sociotechnical system, into the complex setting of the existing payment system. The story of Mondex not only offers lessons on why technologies fail, but also offers insight into how short-term failures can contribute to long-term transformations. This suggests the need to rethink the dichotomy of success and failure

electronic cash
Canada
low-value payments
Mondex
major banks
publicity campaign
global market
Canadian implementation
computer security
consumer privacy
monetary policy
payment mechanism
science and technology studies
sociotechnical system
short-term failures
long-term transformations


Effect of insulation layer on transcribability and birefringence distribution in optical disk substrate

Abstract: As the need for information storage media with high storage density increases, digital video disks (DVDs) with smaller recording marks and thinner optical disk substrates than those of conventional DVDs are being required. Therefore, improving the replication quality of land-groove or pit structure and reducing the birefringence distribution are emerging as important criteria in the fabrication of high-density optical disk substrates. We control the transcribability and distribution of birefringence by inserting an insulation layer under the stamper during injection-compression molding of DVD RAM substrates. The effects of the insulation layer on the geometrical and optical properties, such as transcribability and birefringence distribution, are examined experimentally. The inserted insulation layer is found to be very effective in improving the quality of replication and leveling out the first peak of the gapwise birefringence distribution near the mold wall and reducing the average birefringence value, because the insulation layer retarded the growth of the solidified layer

optical disk substrate
transcribability
birefringence distribution
insulation layer
information storage media
high storage density
digital video disks
smaller recording marks
thinner optical disk substrates
replication quality
land-groove
pit structure
fabrication
stamper
injection-compression molding
DVD RAM substrates
geometrical properties
optical properties
gapwise birefringence distribution
mold wall
solidified layer growth retardation
polyimide thermal insulation layer

P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P R P P P R M


Winning post [mail systems]

Abstract: Businesses that take their mail for granted can end up wasting money as well as opportunities. Mike Stecyk, VP of marketing and lines of business at Pitney Bowes, suggests strategies for making more of a great opportunity

mail
Pitney Bowes
strategies
franking machines
folders
inserters
direct mail shots


Car-caravan snaking. 1. The influence of pintle pin friction

Abstract: A brief review of knowledge of car-caravan snaking is carried out. Against the background described, a fairly detailed mathematical model of a contemporary car-trailer system is constructed and a baseline set of parameter values is given. In reduced form, the model is shown to give results in accordance with literature. The properties of the baseline combination are explored using both linear and non-linear versions of the model. The influences of damping at the pintle joint and of several other design parameters on the stability of the linear system in the neighbourhood of the critical snaking speed are calculated and discussed. Coulomb friction damping at the pintle pin is then included and simulations are used to indicate the consequent amplitude-dependent behaviour. The friction damping, especially when its level has to be chosen by the user, is shown to give dangerous characteristics, despite having some capacity for stabilization of the snaking motions. It is concluded that pintle pin friction damping does not represent a satisfactory solution to the snaking problem. The paper sets the scene for the development of an improved solution

car-caravan snaking
pintle pin friction
mathematical model
car-trailer system
linear system
amplitude-dependent behaviour
critical snaking speed
Coulomb friction damping


Application of ultrasonic sensors in the process industry

Abstract: Continuous process monitoring in gaseous, liquid or molten media is a fundamental requirement for process control. Besides temperature and pressure other process parameters such as level, flow, concentration and conversion are of special interest. More qualified information obtained from new or better sensors can significantly enhance the process quality and thereby product properties. Ultrasonic sensors or sensor systems can contribute to this development. The state of the art of ultrasonic sensors and their advantages and disadvantages will be discussed. Commercial examples will be presented. Among others, applications in the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industries are described. Possibilities and limitations of ultrasonic process sensors are discussed

ultrasonic sensors application
process industry
continuous process monitoring
process control
process quality
food industries
chemical industries
pharmaceutical industries
acoustic microsensors
ultrasonic measurements
ultrasonic attenuation
acoustic impedance
temperature measurement
pressure measurement
level measurement
distance measurement
flow measurement


People who make a difference: mentors and role models

Abstract: The literature of gender issues in computing steadfastly and uniformly has advocated the use of mentors and role models (M&RM) for recruiting and retaining women in computer science. This paper, therefore, accepts the results of research studies and avoids reiterating details of the projects but offers instead a practical guide for using M&RM to recruit and retain women in computer science. The guide provides pragmatic advice, describing several different facets of the M&RM concept

mentors
role models
gender issues
computing
women retention
women recruitment
computer science


On generalized Gaussian quadratures for exponentials and their applications

Abstract: We introduce new families of Gaussian-type quadratures for weighted integrals of exponential functions and consider their applications to integration and interpolation of bandlimited functions. We use a generalization of a representation theorem due to Caratheodory to derive these quadratures. For each positive measure, the quadratures are parameterized by eigenvalues of the Toeplitz matrix constructed from the trigonometric moments of the measure. For a given accuracy epsilon , selecting an eigenvalue close to epsilon yields an approximate quadrature with that accuracy. To compute its weights and nodes, we present a new fast algorithm. These new quadratures can be used to approximate and integrate bandlimited functions, such as prolate spheroidal wave functions, and essentially bandlimited functions, such as Bessel functions. We also develop, for a given precision, an interpolating basis for bandlimited functions on an interval

generalized Gaussian quadratures
weighted integrals
exponential functions
integration
interpolation
bandlimited functions
Caratheodory representation theorem
eigenvalues
Toeplitz matrix
trigonometric moments
approximation
prolate spheroidal wave functions
Bessel functions


Playing for time [3G networks]

Abstract: The delays in rolling out 3G networks across Europe should not always be seen with a negative slant

3G networks
delays
Europe
mobile operators


Tablet PCs on the way [publishing markets]

Abstract: Previews of hardware and software look promising for publishing markets


A leaf sequencing algorithm to enlarge treatment field length in IMRT

Abstract: With MLC-based IMRT, the maximum usable field size is often smaller than the maximum field size for conventional treatments. This is due to the constraints of the overtravel distances of MLC leaves and/or jaws. Using a new leaf sequencing algorithm, the usable IMRT field length (perpendicular to the MLC motion) can be mostly made equal to the full length of the MLC field without violating the upper jaw overtravel limit. For any given intensity pattern, a criterion was proposed to assess whether an intensity pattern can be delivered without violation of the jaw position constraints. If the criterion is met, the new algorithm will consider the jaw position constraints during the segmentation for the step and shoot delivery method. The strategy employed by the algorithm is to connect the intensity elements outside the jaw overtravel limits with those inside the jaw overtravel limits. Several methods were used to establish these connections during segmentation by modifying a previously published algorithm (areal algorithm), including changing the intensity level, alternating the leaf-sequencing direction, or limiting the segment field size. The algorithm was tested with 1000 random intensity patterns with dimensions of 21*27 cm/sup 2/, 800 intensity patterns with higher intensity outside the jaw overtravel limit, and three different types of clinical treatment plans that were undeliverable using a segmentation method from a commercial treatment planning system. The new algorithm achieved a success rate of 100% with these test patterns. For the 1000 random patterns, the new algorithm yields a similar average number of segments of 36.9+or-2.9 in comparison to 36.6+or-1.3 when using the areal algorithm. For the 800 patterns with higher intensities outside the jaw overtravel limits, the new algorithm results in an increase of 25% in the average number of segments compared to the areal algorithm. However, the areal algorithm fails to create deliverable segments for 90% of these patterns. Using a single isocenter, the new algorithm provides a solution to extend the usable IMRT field length from 21 to 27 cm for IMRT on a commercial linear accelerator using the step and shoot delivery method

usable intensity modulated radiation therapy field length

multileaf-based collimators intensity modulated radiation therapy

P M P M U M M P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P P


A hybrid model for smoke simulation

Abstract: A smoke simulation approach based on the integration of traditional particle systems and density functions is presented in this paper. By attaching a density function to each particle as its attribute, the diffusion of smoke can be described by the variation of particles' density functions, along with the effect on airflow by controlling particles' movement and fragmentation. In addition, a continuous density field for realistic rendering can be generated quickly through the look-up tables of particle's density functions. Compared with traditional particle systems, this approach can describe smoke diffusion, and provide a continuous density field for realistic rendering with much less computation. A quick rendering scheme is also presented in this paper as a useful preview tool for tuning appropriate parameters in the smoke model

hybrid model
smoke simulation
density functions
continuous density field
rendering
look-up tables


Interaction and presence in the clinical relationship: virtual reality (VR) as communicative medium between patient and therapist

Abstract: The great potential offered by virtual reality (VR) to clinical psychologists derives prevalently from the central role, in psychotherapy, occupied by the imagination and by memory. These two elements, which are fundamental in our life, present absolute and relative limits to the individual potential. Using VR as an advanced imaginal system, an experience that is able to reduce the gap existing between imagination and reality, it is possible to transcend these limits. In this sense, VR can improve the efficacy of a psychological therapy for its capability of reducing the distinction between the computer's reality and the conventional reality. Two are the core characteristics of this synthetic imaginal experience: the perceptual illusion of nonmediation and the possibility of building and sharing a common ground. In this sense, experiencing presence in a clinical virtual environment (VE), such as a shared virtual hospital, requires more than reproduction of the physical features of external reality. It requires the creation and sharing of the cultural web that makes meaningful, and therefore visible, both people and objects populating the environment. The paper outlines a framework for supporting the development and tuning of clinically oriented VR systems

virtual reality
patient-therapist communication
clinical psychology
psychotherapy
imagination
memory
presence
psychological therapy
clinical virtual environment
shared virtual hospital


Cross-entropy and rare events for maximal cut and partition problems

Abstract: We show how to solve the maximal cut and partition problems using a randomized algorithm based on the cross-entropy method. For the maximal cut problem, the proposed algorithm employs an auxiliary Bernoulli distribution, which transforms the original deterministic network into an associated stochastic one, called the associated stochastic network (ASN). Each iteration of the randomized algorithm for the ASN involves the following two phases: (1) generation of random cuts using a multidimensional Ber(p) distribution and calculation of the associated cut lengths (objective functions) and some related quantities, such as rare-event probabilities; (2) updating the parameter vector p on the basis of the data collected in the first phase. We show that the Ber(p) distribution converges in distribution to a degenerated one, Ber(p/sub d/*), p/sub d/* = (p/sub d/,/sub 1/, p/sub d,n/) in the sense that some elements of p/sub d/*, will be unities and the rest zeros. The unity elements of p/sub d/* uniquely define a cut which will be taken as the estimate of the maximal cut. A similar approach is used for the partition problem. Supporting numerical results are given as well. Our numerical studies suggest that for the maximal cut and partition problems the proposed algorithm typically has polynomial complexity in the size of the network

cross entropy method
Bernoulli distribution
deterministic network
rare event simulation
associated stochastic network
random cuts
probability
numerical results
polynomial complexity
combinatorial optimization
importance sampling
maximal cut problems
partition problems
randomized algorithm


A distributed mobile agent framework for maintaining persistent distance education

Abstract: Mobile agent techniques involve distributed control if communication is required among different types of agents, especially when mobile agents can migrate from station to station. This technique can be implemented in a distributed distance learning environment, which allows students or instructors to login from anywhere to a central server in an education center while still retaining the look-and-feel of personal setups. In this research paper, we propose a distributed agent framework along with its communication messages to facilitate mobile personal agents, which serve three different groups of distance education users: instructors, students, and system administrators. We propose an agent communication framework as well as agent evolution states of mobile agents. The communication architecture and message transmission protocols are illustrated. The system is implemented on the Windows platform to support nomadic accessibility of remote distance learning users. Personal data also migrate with the mobile agents, allowing users to maintain accessibility to some extent even when the Internet connection is temperately disconnected. Using user-friendly personal agents, a distance education platform can include different tools to meet different needs for users

distributed mobile agent framework
persistent distance education
distributed control
central server
distributed agent framework
message transmission protocols
user-friendly personal agents


Supporting unified interface to wrapper generator in integrated information retrieval

Abstract: Given the ever-increasing scale and diversity of information and applications on the Internet, improving the technology of information retrieval is an urgent research objective. Retrieved information is either semi-structured or unstructured in format and its sources are extremely heterogeneous. In consequence, the task of efficiently gathering and extracting information from documents can be both difficult and tedious. Given this variety of sources and formats, many choose to use mediator/wrapper architecture, but its use demands a fast means of generating efficient wrappers. In this paper, we present a design for an automatic eXtensible Markup Language (XML)-based framework with which to generate wrappers rapidly. Wrappers created with this framework support a unified interface for a meta-search information retrieval system based on the Internet Search Service using the Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA) standard. Greatly advantaged by the compatibility of CORBA and XML, a user can quickly and easily develop information-gathering applications, such as a meta-search engine or any other information source retrieval method. The two main things our design provides are a method of wrapper generation that is fast, simple, and efficient, and a wrapper generator that is CORBA and XML-compliant and that supports a unified interface

unified interface
wrapper generator
integrated information retrieval
Internet
automatic eXtensible Markup Language
CORBA
meta-search engine


Hybrid decision tree

Abstract: In this paper, a hybrid learning approach named hybrid decision tree (HDT) is proposed. HDT simulates human reasoning by using symbolic learning to do qualitative analysis and using neural learning to do subsequent quantitative analysis. It generates the trunk of a binary HDT according to the binary information gain ratio criterion in an instance space defined by only original unordered attributes. If unordered attributes cannot further distinguish training examples falling into a leaf node whose diversity is beyond the diversity-threshold, then the node is marked as a dummy node. After all those dummy nodes are marked, a specific feedforward neural network named FANNC that is trained in an instance space defined by only original ordered attributes is exploited to accomplish the learning task. Moreover, this paper distinguishes three kinds of incremental learning tasks. Two incremental learning procedures designed for example-incremental learning with different storage requirements are provided, which enables HDT to deal gracefully with data sets where new data are frequently appended. Also a hypothesis-driven constructive induction mechanism is provided, which enables HDT to generate compact concept descriptions


Three-dimensional spiral MR imaging: application to renal multiphase contrast-enhanced angiography

Abstract: A fast MR pulse sequence with spiral in-plane readout and conventional 3D partition encoding was developed for multiphase contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE-MRA) of the renal vasculature. Compared to a standard multiphase 3D CE-MRA with FLASH readout, an isotropic in-plane spatial resolution of 1.4*1.4 mm/sup 2/ over 2.0*1.4 mm/sup 2/ could be achieved with a temporal resolution of 6 sec. The theoretical gain of spatial resolution by using the spiral pulse sequence and the performance in the presence of turbulent flow was evaluated in phantom measurements. Multiphase 3D CE-MRA of the renal arteries was performed in five healthy volunteers using both techniques. A deblurring technique was used to correct the spiral raw data. Thereby, the off-resonance frequencies were determined by minimizing the imaginary part of the data in image space. The chosen correction algorithm was able to reduce image blurring substantially in all MRA phases. The image quality of the spiral CE-MRA pulse sequence was comparable to that of the FLASH CE-MRA with increased spatial resolution and a 25% reduced contrast-to-noise ratio. Additionally, artifacts specific to spiral MRI could be observed which had no impact on the assessment of the renal arteries


Recent researches of human science on railway systems

Abstract: This paper presents research of human science on railway systems at RTRI. They are roughly divided into two categories: research to improve safety and those to improve comfort. On the former subject, for the safeguard against accidents caused by human errors, we have promoted studies of psychological aptitude test, various research to evaluate train drivers' working conditions and environments, and new investigations to minimize the risk of passenger casualties at train accidents. On the latter subject, we have developed new methods to evaluate the riding comfort including that of tilt train, and started research on the improvement of railway facilities for the aged and the disabled from the viewpoint of universal design

human science
RTRI
safety improvement
comfort improvement
railway systems
accidents
human errors
psychological aptitude test
train drivers' working conditions
train drivers' working environments
passenger casualties risk minimisation
train accidents
riding comfort
tilt train
railway facilities
aged persons
disabled persons
sight impaired
wakefulness level
ergonomics


Mathematical properties of dominant AHP and concurrent convergence method

Abstract: This study discusses the mathematical structure of the dominant AHP and the concurrent convergence method which were originally developed by Kinoshita and Nakanishi. They introduced a new concept of a regulating alternative into an analyzing tool for a simple evaluation problem with a criterion set and an alternative set. Although the original idea of the dominant AHP and the concurrent convergence method is unique, the dominant AHP and the concurrent convergence method are not sufficiently analyzed in mathematical theory. This study shows that the dominant AHP consists of a pair of evaluation rules satisfying a certain property of overall evaluation vectors. This study also shows that the convergence of concurrent convergence method is guaranteed theoretically

dominant AHP
concurrent convergence method
overall evaluation vectors


Efficient simplicial reconstructions of manifolds from their samples

Abstract: An algorithm for manifold learning is presented. Given only samples of a finite-dimensional differentiable manifold and no a priori knowledge of the manifold's geometry or topology except for its dimension, the goal is to find a description of the manifold. The learned manifold must approximate the true manifold well, both geometrically and topologically, when the sampling density is sufficiently high. The proposed algorithm constructs a simplicial complex based on approximations to the tangent bundle of the manifold. An important property of the algorithm is that its complexity depends on the dimension of the manifold, rather than that of the embedding space. Successful examples are presented in the cases of learning curves in the plane, curves in space, and surfaces in space; in addition, a case when the algorithm fails is analyzed


Extracting linguistic DNA: NStein goes to work for UPI

Abstract: It's a tantalizing problem for categorization. United Press International (UPI) has more than 700 correspondents creating thousands of stories every week, running the gamut from business news to sports to entertainment to global coverage of America's war on terrorism. And while UPI and others news services have mechanisms for adding keywords and categorizing their content, UPI recognized a need to add more automation to the process. With the recent growth and improvement in tools for Computer-Aided Indexing (CAI), UPI undertook a process of looking at its needs and evaluating the many CAI tools out there. In the end, they chose technology from Montreal-based NStein Technologies. "Our main objective was to acquire the best CAI tool to help improve our customers' access and interaction with our content," says Steve Sweet, CIO at UPI. "We examined a number of solutions, and NStein's NServer suite clearly came out on top. The combination of speed, scalability, accuracy, and flexibility was what really sold us."

United Press International
UPI
electronic archive
wire service stories
Computer-Aided Indexing
NStein Technologies


Shortchanging the future of information technology: the untapped resource

Abstract: Building on ideas from a virtual workshop and additional input from the scientific community, the CISE Directorate at the National Science Foundation established the Information Technology Workforce Program (ITWF) in March 2000 to support a broad set of scientific research studies focused on the under-representation of women and minorities in the information technology workforce. In this paper, we explore various approaches that the funded researchers are taking to address the problem of women in information technology. We begin with a brief history of the ITWF, and then focus on some of the research projects in terms of their goals, approaches, and expected outcomes


Ten suggestions for a gender-equitable CS classroom

Abstract: Though considerable attention has been paid to the creation of a nurturing environment for women in the field of computer science, proposed solutions have primarily focused on activities outside of the classroom. This paper presents a list of suggestions for modifications to both the pedagogy and content of CS courses designed to make the CS classroom environment more inviting for women students

gender-equitable classroom
CS classroom environment
computer science
nurturing environment
pedagogy
CS course content
women students


Parallel and distributed Haskells

Abstract: Parallel and distributed languages specify computations on multiple processors and have a computation language to describe the algorithm, i.e. what to compute, and a coordination language to describe how to organise the computations across the processors. Haskell has been used as the computation language for a wide variety of parallel and distributed languages, and this paper is a comprehensive survey of implemented languages. It outlines parallel and distributed language concepts and classifies Haskell extensions using them. Similar example programs are used to illustrate and contrast the coordination languages, and the comparison is facilitated by the common computation language. A lazy language is not an obvious choice for parallel or distributed computation, and we address the question of why Haskell is a common functional computation language

distributed Haskell
parallel Haskell
distributed languages
parallel languages
multiple processors
coordination language
functional programming
lazy language
functional computation language


Comparison of automated digital elevation model extraction results using along-track ASTER and across-track SPOT stereo images

Abstract: A digital elevation model (DEM) can be extracted automatically from stereo satellite images. During the past decade, the most common satellite data used to extract DEM was the across-track SPOT. Recently, the addition of along-track ASTER data, which can be downloaded freely, provides another attractive alternative to extract DEM data. This work compares the automated DEM extraction results using an ASTER stereo pair and a SPOT stereo pair over an area of hilly mountains in Drum Mountain, Utah, when compared to a USGS 7.5-min DEM standard product. The result shows that SPOT produces better DEM results in terms of accuracy and details, if the radiometric variations between the images, taken on subsequent satellite revolutions, are small. Otherwise, the ASTER stereo pair is a better choice because of simultaneous along-track acquisition during a single pass. Compared to the USGS 7.5-min DEM, the ASTER and the SPOT extracted DEMs have a standard deviation of 11.6 and 4.6 m, respectively


Numerical simulation of information recovery in quantum computers

Abstract: Decoherence is the main problem to be solved before quantum computers can be built. To control decoherence, it is possible to use error correction methods, but these methods are themselves noisy quantum computation processes. In this work, we study the ability of Steane's and Shor's fault-tolerant recovering methods, as well as a modification of Steane's ancilla network, to correct errors in qubits. We test a way to measure correctly ancilla's fidelity for these methods, and state the possibility of carrying out an effective error correction through a noisy quantum channel, even using noisy error correction methods

numerical simulation
information recovery
quantum computers
decoherence control
error correction methods
noisy quantum computation processes
fault-tolerant recovering methods
ancilla network
ancilla fidelity
qubits
noisy error correction methods
noisy quantum channel


The case for activity based management

Abstract: In today's stormy economic climate businesses need Activity Based Management (ABM) more than ever before. In an economic downturn it is a vital tool for pinpointing a business' most profitable customers, products, regions or channels, as well as uncovering the costs of individual business processes that may need to be improved in order to drive higher profit levels. Changes may be afoot in the ABM market, but Armstrong Laing Group CEO Mike Sherratt argues that businesses need specialists with an ABM focus to keep up with their requirements in such a climate. He looks at what benefits a `best-of-breed' ABM system can offer businesses and contends that businesses must choose carefully when going down the ABM route - and also ask themselves the question whether 'generalist' organisations will be able to deliver the best possible ABM solution

activity based costing
best-of-breed ABM
Armstrong Laing Group
activity based management


Electronic reserves at University College London: understanding the needs of academic departments

Abstract: This article describes a recent project at University College London to explore the feasibility of providing a service to improve access to electronic course materials. Funded by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE), the project was not simply to set up an electronic reserve. By undertaking a needs analysis of academic departments, the project was able to tailor the design of the new service appropriately. While new initiatives in libraries are often established using project funding, this work was unique in being research-led. It also involved collaboration between library and computing staff and learning technologists


The results of experimental studies of the reflooding of fuel-rod assemblies from above and problems for future investigations

Abstract: Problems in studying the reflooding of assemblies from above conducted at foreign and Russian experimental installations are considered. The efficiency of cooling and flow reversal under countercurrent flow of steam and water, as well as the scale effect are analyzed. The tasks for future experiments that are necessary for the development of modern correlations for the loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) computer codes are stated

fuel-rod assemblies reflooding
Russian experimental installations
cooling efficiency
flow reversal
countercurrent flow
steam
water
loss-of-coolant accident computer codes
LOCA computer codes


Lattice Boltzmann schemes for quantum applications

Abstract: We review the basic ideas behind the quantum lattice Boltzmann equation (LBE), and present a few thoughts on the possible use of such an equation for simulating quantum many-body problems on both (parallel) electronic and quantum computers

lattice Boltzmann schemes
quantum applications
quantum many-body problems
quantum computers
parallel computing


Enterprise content integration III: Agari Mediaware's Media Star

Abstract: Since we introduced the term Enterprise Content Integration (ECI) in January, the concept has gained momentum in the market. In addition to Context Media's Interchange Platform and Savantech's Photon Commerce, Agari Mediaware's Media Star is in the fray. It is a middleware platform that allows large media companies to integrate their digital systems with great flexibility

Agari Mediaware Media Star
enterprise content integration
middleware


Using technology to facilitate the design and delivery of warnings

Abstract: This paper describes several ways in which new technologies can assist in the design and delivery of warnings. There are four discussion points: (1) current product information can be delivered via the Internet; (2) computer software and hardware are available to assist in the design, construction, and production of visual and auditory warnings; (3) various detection devices can be used to recognize instances in which warnings might be delivered; and (4) a warning presentation can be modified to fit conditions and persons. Implications, example applications and future prospects of these points are described

product information
Internet
computer software
computer hardware
auditory warnings
warning presentation


Wave propagation related to high-speed train. A scaled boundary FE-approach for unbounded domains

Abstract: Analysis of wave propagation in solid materials under moving loads is a topic of great interest in railway engineering. The objective of the paper is three-dimensional modelling of high-speed train related ground vibrations; in particular the question of how to account for the unbounded media is addressed. For efficient and accurate modelling of railway structural components taking the unbounded media into account, a hybrid method based on a combination of the conventional finite element method and scaled boundary finite element method is established. In the paper, element matrices and solution procedures for the scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) are derived. A non-linear finite element iteration scheme using Lagrange multipliers and coupling between the unbounded domain and the finite element domain are also discussed. Two numerical examples including one example demonstrating the dynamical response of a railroad section are presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed method

nonlinear finite element iteration scheme


Parallel implicit predictor corrector methods

Abstract: The performance of parallel codes for the solution of initial value problems is usually strongly sensitive to the dimension of the continuous problem. This is due to the overhead related to the exchange of information among the processors and motivates the problem of minimizing the amount of communications. According to this principle, we define the so called Parallel Implicit Predictor Corrector Methods and in this class we derive A-stable, L-stable and numerically zero-stable formulas. The latter property refers to the zero-stability condition of a given formula when roundoff errors are introduced in its coefficients due to their representation in finite precision arithmetic. Some numerical experiment show the potentiality of this approach

parallel implicit predictor corrector methods


Minimizing the number of successor states in the stubborn set method

Abstract: Combinatorial explosion which occurs in parallel compositions of LTSs can be alleviated by letting the stubborn set method construct on-the-fly a reduced LTS that is CFFD- or CSP-equivalent to the actual parallel composition. This article considers the problem of minimizing the number of successor states of a given state in the reduced LTS. The problem can be solved by constructing an and/or-graph with weighted vertices and by finding a set of vertices that satisfies a certain constraint such that no set of vertices satisfying the constraint has a smaller sum of weights. Without weights, the and/or-graph can be constructed in low-degree polynomial time w.r.t. the length of the input of the problem. However, since actions can be nondeterministic and transitions can share target states, it is not known whether the weights are generally computable in polynomial time. Consequently, it is an open problem whether minimizing the number of successor states is as "easy" as minimizing the number of successor transitions

stubborn set method
combinatorial explosion
weighted vertices
low-degree polynomial time
CSP-equivalence


Himalayan information system: a proposed model

Abstract: The information explosion and the development in information technology force us to develop information systems in various fields. The research on Himalaya has achieved phenomenal growth in recent years in India. The information requirements of Himalayan researchers are divergent in nature. In order to meet these divergent needs, all information generated in various Himalayan research institutions has to be collected and organized to facilitate free flow of information. This paper describes the need for a system for Himalayan information. It also presents the objectives of Himalayan information system (HIMIS). It discusses in brief the idea of setting up a HIMIS and explains its utility to the users. It appeals to the government for supporting the development of such system

Himalayan information system model
information explosion
information technology
India
information requirements
HIMIS
government
information network


Efficient transitive closure reasoning in a combined class/part/containment hierarchy

Abstract: Class hierarchies form the backbone of many implemented knowledge representation and reasoning systems. They are used for inheritance, classification and transitive closure reasoning. Part hierarchies are also important in artificial intelligence. Other hierarchies, e.g. containment hierarchies, have received less attention in artificial intelligence. This paper presents an architecture and an implementation of a hierarchy reasoner that integrates a class hierarchy, a part hierarchy, and a containment hierarchy into one structure. In order to make an implemented reasoner useful, it needs to operate at least at speeds comparable to human reasoning. As real-world hierarchies are always large, special techniques need to be used to achieve this. We have developed a set of parallel algorithms and a data representation called maximally reduced tree cover for that purpose. The maximally reduced tree cover is an improvement of a materialized transitive closure representation which has appeared in the literature. Our experiments with a medical vocabulary show that transitive closure reasoning for combined class/part/containment hierarchies in near constant time is possible for a fixed hardware configuration


Fuzzy system modeling in pharmacology: an improved algorithm

Abstract: In this paper, we propose an improved fuzzy system modeling algorithm to address some of the limitations of the existing approaches identified during our modeling with pharmacological data. This algorithm differs from the existing ones in its approach to the cluster validity problem (i.e., number of clusters), the projection schema (i.e., input membership assignment and rule determination), and significant input determination. The new algorithm is compared with the Bazoon-Turksen model, which is based on the well-known Sugeno-Yasukawa approach. The comparison was made in terms of predictive performance using two different data sets. The first comparison was with a two variable nonlinear function prediction problem and the second comparison was with a clinical pharmacokinetic modeling problem. It is shown that the proposed algorithm provides more precise predictions. Determining the degree of significance for each input variable, allows the user to distinguish their relative importance

fuzzy system modeling
pharmacology
cluster validity problem
projection schema
significant input determination
predictive performance
fuzzy sets
fuzzy logic
pharmacokinetic modeling


Modification for synchronization of Rossler and Chen chaotic systems

Abstract: Active control is an effective method for making two identical Rossler and Chen systems be synchronized. However, this method works only for a certain class of chaotic systems with known parameters both in drive systems and response systems. Modification based on Lyapunov stability theory is proposed in order to overcome this limitation. An adaptive synchronization controller, which can make the states of two identical Rossler and Chen systems globally asymptotically synchronized in the presence of system's unknown constant parameters, is derived. Especially, when some unknown parameters are positive, we can make the controller more simple, besides, the controller is independent of those positive uncertain parameters. At last, when the condition that arbitrary unknown parameters in two systems are identical constants is cancelled, we demonstrate that it is possible to synchronize two chaotic systems. All results are proved using a well-known Lyapunov stability theorem. Numerical simulations are given to validate the proposed synchronization approach

synchronization
Rossler chaotic systems
Chen chaotic systems
active control
response systems
Lyapunov stability theory
adaptive synchronization controller
global asymptotic synchronization


Sharpening the estimate of the stability constant in the maximum-norm of the Crank-Nicolson scheme for the one-dimensional heat equation

Abstract: This paper is concerned with the stability constant C/sub infinity / in the maximum-norm of the Crank-Nicolson scheme applied. to the one-dimensional heat equation. A well known result due to S.J. Serdyukova is that C/sub infinity / < 23. In the present paper, by using a sharp resolvent estimate for the discrete Laplacian together with the Cauchy formula, it is shown that 3 <or= C/sub infinity / < 4.325. This bound also holds when the heat equation is considered on a bounded interval along with Dirichlet or Neumann boundary conditions

stability constant
Crank-Nicolson scheme
one-dimensional heat equation
sharp resolvent estimate
discrete Laplacian
Cauchy formula
Neumann boundary conditions
Dirichlet boundary conditions


Computing failure probabilities. Applications to reliability analysis

Abstract: The paper presents one method for calculating failure probabilities with applications to reliability analysis. The method is based on transforming the initial set of variables to a n-dimensional uniform random variable in the unit hypercube, together with the limit condition set and calculating the associated probability using a recursive method based on the Gauss-Legendre quadrature formulas to calculate the resulting multiple integrals. An example of application is used to illustrate the proposed method

failure probabilities computation
reliability analysis applications
n-dimensional uniform random variable
unit hypercube
limit condition
recursive method
Gauss-Legendre quadrature formulae
multiple integrals calculation
tail approximation


New approach to standing phase angle reduction for power system restoration

Abstract: During power system restoration, it is necessary to check the phase angle between two buses before closing circuit breakers to connect a line between them. These angles may occur across a tie line between two systems or between two connected subsystems within a system. In case of large standing phase angle (SPA) difference the synchro-check relay does not allow closing of the breaker for this line. Therefore, this excessive SPA has to be reduced before attempting to connect the line. In this paper, a new and fast method for reducing SPA is presented. For this purpose, the standing phase angle difference between two specific buses is represented in terms of sensitivity factors associated with the change in active power generations and consumption at the buses. Then, the proposed method reschedule generation of selected units or shed load of selected buses to reduce excessive SPA difference between two buses based on sensitivity factors

power system restoration
standing phase angle reduction approach
circuit breaker closing
synchrocheck relay
power line connection
sensitivity factors


Individual decision making using fuzzy set theory

Abstract: The paper shows the importance of decision making by an individual and highlights the prime domain of decision making where fuzzy set theory can be used as a tool. Fuzzy set theory has been used on rational model of decision making to arrive at the desired conclusion

individual decision making
fuzzy set theory
rational decision making model


Multicriterion optimization of composite laminates for maximum failure margins with an interactive descent algorithm

Abstract: An interactive multicriterion optimization method for composite laminates subjected to multiple loading conditions is introduced. Laminate margins to initial failure (first ply failure, FPF) with respect of the applied loading conditions are treated as criteria. The original problem is reduced to a, bicriterion problem by introducing parameters to combine criteria in a linear manner. The problem is solved by using an interactive descent algorithm. Both the conditions required for a discrete procedure to converge towards a Pareto optimum and numerical examples are given

interactive multicriterion optimization
composite laminates
maximum failure margins
multiple loading conditions
interactive descent algorithm
first ply failure
bicriterion problem
discrete procedure
convergence
Pareto optimum


A novel control logic for fast valving operations

Abstract: This letter proposes new control logic for operating parallel valves in fast valving schemes in order to improve the transient stability performance of power systems. A fast valving scheme using parallel valves overcomes many of the limitations of the conventional scheme. The proposed control logic for operating these valves has been applied to a typical single machine infinite bus system. Single as well as multiple stroke operations for controlling the turbine power output have been studied with the new control sequences. Encouraging results have been shown over the conventional schemes of fast valving

control logic
parallel valves operation
transient stability performance
single machine infinite bus system
multiple stroke operations
single stroke operations
turbine power output control
transient stability


Simulation of physicochemical processes of erosion-corrosion of metals in two-phase flows

Abstract: A computational model for the erosion-corrosion of the metals used in power equipment in two-phase flows (RAMEK-2) was developed. The results of calculations of the dependency of the intensity of the erosion-corrosion of structural steels as a function of the thermodynamic, hydrodynamic and water chemistry parameters of these flows in the working paths of thermal power stations and nuclear power stations are presented in a three-dimensional space. On the basis of mathematical models, application software was created for forecasting the erosion-corrosion resource and for optimizing the rules on diagnosis and protective maintenance of erosion-corrosion of the elements of the wet-steam path in power stations

erosion-corrosion computational model
two-phase flows
RAMEK-2
computer simulation
structural steels
thermodynamic parameters
hydrodynamic parameters
water-chemistry parameters
three-dimensional space
thermal power plants
nuclear power plants
application software
protective maintenance
fault diagnosis
wet-steam path


Physical quantum algorithms

Abstract: I review the differences between classical and quantum systems, emphasizing the connection between no-hidden variable theorems and superior computational power of quantum computers. Using quantum lattice gas automata as examples, I describe possibilities for efficient simulation of quantum and classical systems with a quantum computer. I conclude with a list of research directions

physical quantum algorithms
classical systems
no-hidden variable theorems
quantum computers
quantum lattice gas automata


The crossing number of P(N, 3)

Abstract: It is proved that the crossing number of the generalized Petersen graph P(3k + h, 3) is k + h if h in {0, 2} and k + 3 if h = 1, for each k >or= 3, with the single exception of P(9,3), whose crossing number is 2

crossing number
generalized Petersen graph


Enhanced product support through intelligent product manuals

Abstract: The scope of this paper is the provision of intelligent product support within the distributed Intranet/Internet environment. From the point of view of user requirements, the limitations of conventional product manuals and methods of authoring them are first outlined. It is argued that enhanced product support requires new technology solutions both for product manuals and for their authoring and presentation. The concept and the architecture of intelligent product manuals are then discussed. A prototype system called ProARTWeb is presented to demonstrate advanced features of intelligent product manuals. Next, the problem of producing such manuals in a cost-effective way is addressed and a concurrent engineering approach to their authoring is proposed. An integrated environment for collaborative authoring called ProAuthor is described to illustrate the approach suggested and to show how consistent, up-to-date and user-oriented-product manuals can be designed. The solutions presented here enable product knowledge to be captured and delivered to users and developers of product manuals when, where and in the form they need it

intelligent product support
intelligent product manuals
product manuals
ProARTWeb
concurrent engineering
product knowledge
technical information


Satellite image collection optimization

Abstract: Imaging satellite systems represent a high capital cost. Optimizing the collection of images is critical for both satisfying customer orders and building a sustainable satellite operations business. We describe the functions of an operational, multivariable, time dynamic optimization system that maximizes the daily collection of satellite images. A graphical user interface allows the operator to quickly see the results of what if adjustments to an image collection plan. Used for both long range planning and daily collection scheduling of Space Imaging's IKONOS satellite, the satellite control and tasking (SCT) software allows collection commands to be altered up to 10 min before upload to the satellite

multivariable time dynamic optimization system


Quantum learning and universal quantum matching machine

Abstract: Suppose that three kinds of quantum systems are given in some unknown states |f>/sup (X)N/, |g/sub 1/>/sup (X)K/, and |g/sub 2/>/sup (X)K/, and we want to decide which template state |g/sub 1/> or |g/sub 2/>, each representing the feature of the pattern class C/sub 1/ or C/sub 2/, respectively, is closest to the input feature state |f>. This is an extension of the pattern matching problem into the quantum domain. Assuming that these states are known a priori to belong to a certain parametric family of pure qubit systems, we derive two kinds of matching strategies. The first one is a semiclassical strategy that is obtained by the natural extension of conventional matching strategies and consists of a two-stage procedure: identification (estimation) of the unknown template states to design the classifier (learning process to train the classifier) and classification of the input system into the appropriate pattern class based on the estimated results. The other is a fully quantum strategy without any intermediate measurement, which we might call as the universal quantum matching machine. We present the Bayes optimal solutions for both strategies in the case of K=1, showing that there certainly exists a fully quantum matching procedure that is strictly superior to the straightforward semiclassical extension of the conventional matching strategy based on the learning process

quantum learning
universal quantum matching machine
pattern class
pattern matching problem
quantum domain
qubit systems
matching strategies
semiclassical strategy
two-stage procedure
quantum strategy
Bayes optimal solutions
quantum matching procedure
semiclassical extension
matching strategy
learning process


Technology CAD of SiGe-heterojunction field effect transistors

Abstract: A 2D virtual wafer fabrication simulation suite has been employed for the technology CAD of SiGe channel heterojunction field effect transistors (HFETs). Complete fabrication process of SiGe p-HFETs has been simulated. The SiGe material parameters and mobility model were incorporated to simulate Si/SiGe p-HFETs with a uniform germanium channel having an L/sub eff/ of 0.5 mu m. A significant improvement in linear transconductance is observed when compared to control-silicon p-MOSFETs

technology CAD
heterojunction field effect transistors
SiGe
fabrication process
material parameters
mobility model
uniform channel
linear transconductance
0.5 micron


Development of visual design steering as an aid in large-scale multidisciplinary design optimization. I. Method development

Abstract: A modified paradigm of computational steering (CS), termed visual design steering (VDS), is developed in this paper. The VDS paradigm is applied to optimal design problems to provide a means for capturing and enabling designer insights. VDS allows a designer to make decisions before, during or after an analysis or optimization via a visual environment, in order to effectively steer the solution process. The objective of VDS is to obtain a better solution in less time through the use of designer knowledge and expertise. Using visual representations of complex systems in this manner enables human experience and judgement to be incorporated into the optimal design process at appropriate steps, rather than having traditional black box solvers return solutions from a prescribed input set. Part I of this paper focuses on the research issues pertaining to the Graph Morphing visualization method created to represent an n-dimensional optimization problem using 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional visualizations. Part II investigates the implementation of the VDS paradigm, using the graph morphing approach, to improve an optimal design process. Specifically, the following issues are addressed: impact of design variable changes on the optimal design space; identification of possible constraint redundancies; impact of constraint tolerances on the optimal solution: and smoothness of the objective function contours. It is demonstrated that graph morphing can effectively reduce the complexity and computational time associated with some optimization problems


A meteorological fuzzy expert system incorporating subjective user input

Abstract: We present a fuzzy expert system, MEDEX, for forecasting gale-force winds in the Mediterranean basin. The most successful local wind forecasting in this region is achieved by an expert human forecaster with access to numerical weather prediction products. That forecaster's knowledge is expressed as a set of 'rules-of-thumb'. Fuzzy set methodologies have proved well suited for encoding the forecaster's knowledge, and for accommodating the uncertainty inherent in the specification of rules, as well as in subjective and objective input. MEDEX uses fuzzy set theory in two ways: as a fuzzy rule base in the expert system, and for fuzzy pattern matching to select dominant wind circulation patterns as one input to the expert system. The system was developed, tuned, and verified over a two-year period, during which the weather conditions from 539 days were individually analyzed. Evaluations of MEDEX performance for both the onset and cessation of winter and summer winds are presented, and demonstrate that MEDEX has forecasting skill competitive with the US Navy's regional forecasting center in Rota, Spain

meteorological fuzzy expert system
subjective user input
MEDEX
gale-force wind forecasting
Mediterranean basin
numerical weather prediction products
rules-of-thumb
fuzzy set theory
subjective variables
uncertainty
rule specification
fuzzy rule base
fuzzy pattern matching
wind circulation patterns


An improved self-organizing CPN-based fuzzy system with adaptive back-propagation algorithm

Abstract: This paper describes an improved self-organizing CPN-based (Counter-Propagation Network) fuzzy system. Two self-organizing algorithms IUSOCPN and ISSOCPN, being unsupervised and supervised respectively, are introduced. The idea is to construct the neural-fuzzy system with a two-phase hybrid learning algorithm, which utilizes a CPN-based nearest-neighbor clustering scheme for both structure learning and initial parameters setting, and a gradient descent method with adaptive learning rate for fine tuning the parameters. The obtained network can be used in the same way as a CPN to model and control dynamic systems, while it has a faster learning speed than the original back-propagation algorithm. The comparative results on the examples suggest that the method is fairly efficient in terms of simple structure, fast learning speed, and relatively high modeling accuracy

self-organizing fuzzy system
Counter-Propagation Network
neural-fuzzy system
hybrid learning
gradient descent
structure learning
initial parameters setting
back-propagation learning scheme


Quantum sensitive dependence

Abstract: Wave functions of bounded quantum systems with time-independent potentials, being almost periodic functions, cannot have time asymptotics as in classical chaos. However, bounded quantum systems with time-dependent interactions, as used in quantum control, may have continuous spectrum and the rate of growth of observables is an issue of both theoretical and practical concern. Rates of growth in quantum mechanics are discussed by constructing quantities with the same physical meaning as those involved in the classical Lyapunov exponent. A generalized notion of quantum sensitive dependence is introduced and the mathematical structure of the operator matrix elements that correspond to different types of growth is characterized

quantum sensitive dependence
wave functions
bounded quantum systems
time-independent potentials
periodic functions
time asymptotics
classical chaos
time-dependent interactions
quantum control
classical Lyapunov exponent
operator matrix elements
quantum complexity


Quantum limit on computational time and speed

Abstract: We investigate if physical laws can impose limits on computational time and speed of a quantum computer built from elementary particles. We show that the product of the speed and the running time of a quantum computer is limited by the type of fundamental interactions present inside the system. This will help us to decide as to what type of interaction should be allowed in building quantum computers in achieving the desired speed

quantum limit
computational time
computational speed
quantum computer
fundamental interactions


Numerical behaviour of stable and unstable solitary waves

Abstract: In this paper we analyse the behaviour in time of the numerical approximations to solitary wave solutions of the generalized Benjamin-Bona-Mahony equation. This equation possesses an important property: the stability of these solutions depends on their velocity. We identify the error propagation mechanisms in both the stable and unstable case. In particular, we show that in the stable case, numerical methods that preserve some conserved quantities of the problem are more appropriate for the simulation of this kind of solutions


Weighted energy linear quadratic regulator vibration control of piezoelectric composite plates

Abstract: In this paper on finite element linear quadratic regulator (LQR) vibration control of smart piezoelectric composite plates, we propose the use of the total weighted energy method to select the weighting matrices. By constructing the optimal performance function as a relative measure of the total kinetic energy, strain energy and input energy of the system, only three design variables need to be considered to achieve a balance between the desired higher damping effect and lower input cost. Modal control analysis is used to interpret the effects of three energy weight factors on the damping ratios and modal voltages and it is shown that the modal damping effect will increase with the kinetic energy weight factor, approaching square root (2/2) as the strain energy weight factor increases and decrease with the input energy weight factor. Numerical results agree well with those from the modal control analysis. Since the control problem is simplified to three design variables only, the computational cost will be greatly reduced and a more accurate structural control analysis becomes more attractive for large systems


High-speed consistency checking for hypothetical reasoning systems using inference path network

Abstract: Hypothetical reasoning is popular in fault diagnostics and design systems, but slow reasoning speed is its drawback. The goal of the current study is developing hypothetical reasoning based on an inference path network, which would overcome this drawback. In hypothetical reasoning systems based on an inference path network, there is much room for improvement regarding the computing costs of connotation processing and consistency checking. The authors of this study demonstrate improvement ideas regarding one of these problems, namely, consistency checking. First, the authors obtained necessary and sufficient conditions under which inconsistencies occur during hypothesis composition. Based on the obtained results, the authors proposed an algorithm for speeding up the process of consistency checking. Processing with this algorithm in its core consists of transforming the inference path network in such a way that inconsistencies do not occur during the hypothesis composition, under the condition of unchanged solution hypotheses. The efficiency of this algorithm was confirmed by tests

hypothetical reasoning
fault diagnostics
high-speed consistency checking
inference path network
reasoning speed
inconsistencies
hypothesis composition
speed up


A knowledge intensive multi-agent framework for cooperative/collaborative design modeling and decision support of assemblies

Abstract: Multi-agent modeling has emerged as a promising discipline for dealing with the decision making process in distributed information system applications. One of such applications is the modeling of distributed design or manufacturing processes which can link up various designs or manufacturing processes to form a virtual consortium on a global basis. This paper proposes a novel knowledge intensive multi-agent cooperative/collaborative framework for concurrent intelligent design and assembly planning, which integrates product design, design for assembly, assembly planning, assembly system design, and assembly simulation subjected to econo-technical evaluations. An AI protocol based method is proposed to facilitate the integration of intelligent agents for assembly design, planning, evaluation and simulation processes. A unified class of knowledge intensive Petri nets is defined using the OO knowledge-based Petri net approach and used as an AI protocol for handling both the integration and the negotiation problems among multi-agents. The detailed cooperative/collaborative mechanism and algorithms are given based on the knowledge object cooperation formalisms. As such, the assembly-oriented design system can easily be implemented under the multi-agent-based knowledge-intensive Petri net framework with concurrent integration of multiple cooperative knowledge sources and software. Thus, product design and assembly planning can be carried out simultaneously and intelligently in an entirely computer-aided concurrent design and assembly planning system


Vibration control of structure by using tuned mass damper (development of system which suppress displacement of auxiliary mass)

Abstract: In vibration control of a structure by using an active tuned mass damper (ATMD), stroke of the auxiliary mass is so limited that it is difficult to control the vibration in the case of large disturbance input. In this paper, two methods are proposed for the problem. One of the methods is a switching control system by two types of controllers. One of the controllers is a normal controller under small relative displacement of the auxiliary mass, and the other is not effective only for first mode of vibration under large relative displacement of the auxiliary mass. New variable gain control system is constructed by switching these two controllers. The other method is the brake system. In active vibration control, it is necessary to use actuator for active control. By using the actuator, the proposed system puts on the brake to suppress displacement increase of the auxiliary mass under large disturbance input. Finally, the systems are designed and the effectiveness of the systems is confirmed by the simulation

tuned mass damper
vibration control
variable gain control system
brake system
actuator
active control
auxiliary mass displacement suppression
controllers


PGE helps customers reduce energy costs

Abstract: A new service from Portland General Electric (PGE, Portland, Oregon, US) is saving customers tens of thousands of dollars in energy costs. PGE created E-Manager to allow facility managers to analyze their energy consumption online at 15-minute intervals. Customers can go to the Web for complete data, powerful analysis tools and charts, helping them detect abnormal energy use and focus on costly problem areas

energy costs reduction
Portland General Electric
Oregon
E-Manager
online energy consumption analysis
abnormal energy use detection


A scalable and efficient systolic algorithm for the longest common subsequence problem

Abstract: A longest common subsequence (LCS) of two strings is a common subsequence of two strings of maximal length. The LCS problem is that of finding an LCS of two given strings and the length of the LCS. This problem has been the subject of much research because its solution can be applied in many areas. In this paper, a scalable and efficient systolic algorithm is presented. For two given strings of length m and n, where m>or=n, the algorithm can solve the LCS problem in m+2r-1 (respectively n+2r-1) time steps with r<n/2 (respectively r<m/2) processors. Experimental results show that the algorithm can be faster on multicomputers than all the previous systolic algorithms for the same problem

systolic algorithm
longest common subsequence problem
scalable algorithm
parallel algorithms


Portal dose image prediction for dosimetric treatment verification in radiotherapy. II. An algorithm for wedged beams

Abstract: A method is presented for calculation of a two-dimensional function, T/sub wedge/(x,y), describing the transmission of a wedged photon beam through a patient. This in an extension of the method that we have published for open (nonwedged) fields [Med. Phys. 25, 830-840 (1998)]. Transmission functions for open fields are being used in our clinic for prediction of portal dose images (PDI, i.e., a dose distribution behind the patient in a plane normal to the beam axis), which are compared with PDIs measured with an electronic portal imaging device (EPID). The calculations are based on the planning CT scan of the patient and on the irradiation geometry as determined in the treatment planning process. Input data for the developed algorithm for wedged beams are derived from (the already available) measured input data set for transmission prediction in open beams, which is extended with only a limited set of measurements in the wedged beam. The method has been tested for a PDI plane at 160 cm from the focus, in agreement with the applied focus-to-detector distance of our fluoroscopic EPIDs. For low and high energy photon beams (6 and 23 MV) good agreement (~1%) has been found between calculated and measured transmissions for a slab and a thorax phantom

portal dose image prediction
dosimetric treatment verification
radiotherapy
transmission dosimetry
wedged beams algorithm
two-dimensional function
wedged photon beam
planning CT scan
irradiation geometry
low energy photon beams
high energy photon beams
slab phantom
thorax phantom
in vivo dosimetry
electronic portal imaging devices
fluoroscopic CCD camera
pencil beam algorithm
CadPlan planning system
open beams
virtual wedges
6 MV
23 MV

P P P M R P P P P R P R P M P M M M P M R P


Blending parametric patches with subdivision surfaces

Abstract: In this paper the problem of blending parametric surfaces using subdivision patches is discussed. A new approach, named removing-boundary, is presented to generate piecewise-smooth subdivision surfaces through discarding the outmost quadrilaterals of the open meshes derived by each subdivision step. Then the approach is employed both to blend parametric bicubic B-spline surfaces and to fill n-sided holes. It is easy to produce piecewise-smooth subdivision surfaces with both convex and concave corners on the boundary, and limit surfaces are guaranteed to be C/sup 2/ continuous on the boundaries except for a few singular points by the removing-boundary approach. Thus the blending method is very efficient and the blending surface generated is of good effect

subdivision surfaces
parametric surfaces blending
subdivision patches
piecewise-smooth subdivision surfaces
quadrilaterals
parametric bicubic B-spline surfaces
piecewise smooth subdivision surfaces


Excess energy [cooling system]

Abstract: The designers retrofitting a comfort cooling system to offices in Hertfordshire have been able to make use of the waste heat rejected. what's more they're now making it a standard solution for much larger projects

comfort cooling system
waste heat
Nationwide Trust
air conditioning


Pipelined broadcast with enhanced wormhole routers

Abstract: This paper proposes a pipelined broadcast that broadcasts a message of size m in O(m+n-1) time in an n-dimensional hypercube. It is based on the replication tree, which is derived from reachable sets. It has greatly improved performance compared to Ho-Kao's (1995) algorithm with the time of O(m[n/log(n+1)]). The communication in the broadcast uses an all-port wormhole router with message replication capability. This paper includes the algorithm together with performance comparisons to previous schemes in a practical implementation

enhanced wormhole routers
message broadcast
n-dimensional hypercube
replication tree
reachable sets
performance
communication complexity
all-port wormhole router
message replication capability
intermediate reception
pipelined broadcast


P2P is dead, long live P2P

Abstract: Picture the problem: a sprawling multinational has hundreds of offices, thousands of workers, and countless amounts of intellectual property scattered here, there, everywhere. In Kuala Lumpur an executive needs to see an internally-generated report on oil futures in central Asia-but where is it? London? New York? Moscow? With a few clicks of the mouse-and the right P2P technology deployed in-house-that executive will find and retrieve the report. Without P2P that might be impossible-certainly it would be time-consuming-and, right there, the argument for P2P implementations inside enterprises becomes clear. Who are the players? No companies have managed to stake out clear leads and the fact is that the P2P marketplace now is up for grabs-but the exciting news is that a range of small and startup businesses are trying to grab turf and quite probably, if the analysts are right, a few of these now little-known companies will emerge as digital content stars within the next few years. Cases in point: Groove Networks, Avaki, WorldStreet, Yaga, NextPage, and Kontiki. Very different companies-their approach to the markets radically differ-but, say the analysts, each is worth a close look because among them they are defining the future of P2P

P2P technology
digital content
businesses
Groove Networks
Avaki
WorldStreet
NextPage
Kontiki
Yaga
content owners


Speaker identification from voice using neural networks

Abstract: The paper provides three different schemes for speaker identification of personnel from their voice using artificial neural networks. The first scheme recognizes speakers by employing the classical backpropagation algorithm pre-trained with known voice samples of the persons. The second scheme provides a framework for classifying the known training samples of the voice features using a hierarchical architecture realized with a self-organizing feature map neural net. The first scheme is highly robust as it is capable of identifying the personnel from their noisy voice samples, but because of its excessive training time it has limited applications for a large voice database. The second scheme though not so robust as the former, however, can classify an unknown voice sample to its nearest class. The time needed for classification by the first scheme is always unique irrespective of the voice sample. It is proportional to the number of feedforward layers in the network. The time-requirement of the second classification scheme, however, is not free from the voice features and is proportional to the number of 2D arrays traversed by the algorithm on the hierarchical structure. The third scheme is highly robust and mis-classification is as low as 0.2 per cent. The third scheme combines the composite benefits of a radial basis function neural net and backpropagation trained neural net

speaker identification
artificial neural networks
personnel
hierarchical architecture
self-organizing feature map
backpropagation algorithm
classification
feedforward layers
2D arrays
radial basis function neural net
pre-training
known voice samples


Pioneering women in computer science

Abstract: Although their contributions are not well documented, women have played an important role in the development of computer science. A survey of women pioneers demonstrates their influence in designing and programming the first electronic computers and languages, while laying the groundwork for women's expanding involvement in science

pioneering women
computer science development
electronic computers
programming languages
history


A comprehensive chatter prediction model for face turning operation including tool wear effect

Abstract: Presents a three-dimensional mechanistic frequency domain chatter model for face turning processes, that can account for the effects of tool wear including process damping. New formulations are presented to model the variation in process damping forces along nonlinear tool geometries such as the nose radius. The underlying dynamic force model simulates the variation in the chip cross-sectional area by accounting for the displacements in the axial and radial directions. The model can be used to determine stability boundaries under various cutting conditions and different states of flank wear. Experimental results for different amounts of wear are provided as a validation for the model


Q-learning for risk-sensitive control

Abstract: We propose for risk-sensitive control of finite Markov chains a counterpart of the popular Q-learning algorithm for classical Markov decision processes. The algorithm is shown to converge with probability one to the desired solution. The proof technique is an adaptation of the o.d.e. approach for the analysis of stochastic approximation algorithms, with most of the work involved used for the analysis of the specific o.d.e.s that arise

finite Markov chains
risk-sensitive control
Q-learning algorithm
classical Markov decision processes
algorithm convergence
reinforcement learning algorithms
proof technique
stochastic approximation algorithms
dynamic programming
ordinary differential equations


Getting the most out of intrusion detection systems

Abstract: Intrusion detection systems (IDS) can play a very valuable role in the defence of a network. However, it is important to understand not just what it will do (and how it does it) - but what it won't do (and why). This article does not go into the technical working of IDS in too much detail, rather it limits itself to a discussion of some of the capabilities and failings of the technology

intrusion detection systems
computer network security
network attacks
firewall


Global action rules in distributed knowledge systems

Abstract: Previously Z. Ras and J.M. Zytkow (2000) introduced and investigated query answering system based on distributed knowledge mining. The notion of an action rule was introduced by Z. Ras and A. Wieczorkowska (2000) and its application domain e-business was taken. In this paper, we generalize the notion of action rules in a similar way to handling global queries. Mainly, when values of attributes for a given customer, used in action rules, can not be easily changed by business user, definitions of these attributes are extracted from other sites of a distributed knowledge system. To be more precise, attributes at every site of a distributed knowledge system are divided into two sets: stable and flexible. Values of flexible attributes, for a given consumer, sometime can be changed and this change can be influenced and controlled by a business user. However, some of these changes (for instance to the attribute "profit') can not be done directly to a chosen attribute. In this case, definitions of such an attribute in terms of other attributes have to be learned. These new definitions are used to construct action rules showing what changes in values of flexible attributes, for a given consumer, are needed in order to re-classify this consumer the way business user wants. But, business user may be either unable or unwilling to proceed with actions leading to such changes. In all such cases we may search for definitions of these flexible attributes looking at either local or remote sites for help

global action rules
query answering system
action rules
attributes
e-commerce
distributed knowledge mining


High-performance numerical pricing methods

Abstract: The pricing of financial derivatives is an important field in finance and constitutes a major component of financial management applications. The uncertainty of future events often makes analytic approaches infeasible and, hence, time-consuming numerical simulations are required. In the Aurora Financial Management System, pricing is performed on the basis of lattice representations of stochastic multidimensional scenario processes using the Monte Carlo simulation and Backward Induction methods, the latter allowing for the exploitation of shared-memory parallelism. We present the parallelization of a Backward Induction numerical pricing kernel on a cluster of SMPs using HPF+, an extended version of High-Performance Fortran. Based on language extensions for specifying a hierarchical mapping of data onto an SMP cluster, the compiler generates a hybrid-parallel program combining distributed-memory and shared-memory parallelism. We outline the parallelization strategy adopted by the VFC compiler and present an experimental evaluation of the pricing kernel on an NEC SX-5 vector supercomputer and a Linux SMP cluster, comparing a pure MPI version to a hybrid-parallel MPI/OpenMP version

finance
financial management
Aurora Financial Management System
pricing
stochastic processes
Monte Carlo simulation
Backward Induction methods
numerical pricing kernel
derivative pricing
investment strategies


Comparison of non-stationary time series in the frequency domain

Abstract: In this paper we compare two nonstationary time series using nonparametric procedures. Evolutionary spectra are estimated for the two series. Randomization tests are performed on groups of spectral estimates for both related and independent time series. Simulation studies show that in certain cases the tests perform reasonably well. The tests are applied to observed geological and financial time series

nonstationary time series
nonparametric procedures
evolutionary spectra estimation
randomization tests
spectral estimates
related time series
lag window
time window
independent time series
simulation
geological time series
financial time series


Robust speech recognition using probabilistic union models

Abstract: This paper introduces a new statistical approach, namely the probabilistic union model, for speech recognition involving partial, unknown frequency-band corruption. Partial frequency-band corruption accounts for the effect of a family of real-world noises. Previous methods based on the missing feature theory usually require the identity of the noisy bands. This identification can be difficult for unexpected noise with unknown, time-varying band characteristics. The new model combines the local frequency-band information based on the union of random events, to reduce the dependence of the model on information about the noise. This model partially accomplishes the target: offering robustness to partial frequency-band corruption, while requiring no information about the noise. This paper introduces the theory and implementation of the union model, and is focused on several important advances. These new developments include a new algorithm for automatic order selection, a generalization of the modeling principle to accommodate partial feature stream corruption, and a combination of the union model with conventional noise reduction techniques to deal with a mixture of stationary noise and unknown, nonstationary noise. For the evaluation, we used the TIDIGITS database for speaker-independent connected digit recognition. The utterances were corrupted by various types of additive noise, stationary or time-varying, assuming no knowledge about the noise characteristics. The results indicate that the new model offers significantly improved robustness in comparison to other models


Reply to "Comment on: Teleportation of an unknown state by W state" [Phys. Lett. A 300 (2002) 324]

Abstract: In our letter (see ibid., vol. 296, p. 161 (2002)), the main question we consider is whether a general three-particle W state can be used to realize the teleportation of an unknown qubit state. We give the positive answer to this question in our letter, and show that W state can be used to realize to do that probabilistically. We also discuss how to do it in detail in our letter. In the previous comment (see ibid., vol. 300, p. 324 (2002)), authors check carefully the mathematics calculation of our letter, find and point out a simple mathematics error about normalization coefficient of Eq. (1). This mathematics error induces the incorrect probability calculation of Eq. (6), and also an incorrect claim in first part of our letter

teleportation
unknown state
three-particle W state
qubit state
normalization coefficient
probability calculation


Soft options for software upgrades?

Abstract: Several new products claim to take the work out of installing software and patches, and even migrating operating systems. Software migration products fall into two broad categories. The drive imaging type is designed to make exact copies of a hard disk, either an entire drive or certain directories, so you can use it to back up data. The application management type is designed for more incremental upgrades and often provides additional features such as the ability to monitor or control users' access to applications

software installation
software upgrades
Microsoft Windows
operating systems migration


A fuzzy logic approach to accommodate thermal stress and improve the start-up phase in combined cycle power plants

Abstract: Use of combined cycle power generation plant has increased dramatically over the last decade. A supervisory control approach based on a dynamic model is developed, which makes use of proportional-integral-derivative (PID), fuzzy logic and fuzzy PID schemes. The aim is to minimize the steam turbine plant start-up time, without violating maximum thermal stress limits. An existing start-up schedule provides the benchmark by which the performance of candidate controllers is assessed. Improvements regarding possible reduced start-up times and satisfaction of maximum thermal stress restrictions have been realized using the proposed control scheme

steam turbine plant start-up time minimization


Using constructed types in C++ unions

Abstract: The C++ Standard states that a union type cannot have a member with a nontrivial constructor or destructor. While at first this seems unreasonable, further thought makes it clear why this is the case: The crux of the problem is that unions don't have built-in semantics for denoting when a member is the "current" member of the union. Therefore, the compiler can't know when it's appropriate to call constructors or destructors on the union members. Still, there are good reasons for wanting to use constructed object types in a union. For example, you might want to implement a scripting language with a single variable type that can either be an integer, a string, or a list. A union is the perfect candidate for implementing such a composite type, but the restriction on constructed union members may prevent you from using an existing string or list class (for example, from the STL) to provide the underlying functionality. Luckily, a feature of C++ called placement new can provide a workaround

C++ Standard
union type
constructors
destructors
union members
scripting language
placement new


A conference's impact on undergraduate female students

Abstract: In September of 2000, the 3rd Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing was held in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Along with a colleague from a nearby university, we accompanied seven of our female undergraduate students to this conference. This paper reports on how the conference experience immediately affected these students - what impressed them, what scared them, what it clarified for them. It also reports on how the context in which these students currently evaluate their ability, potential and opportunity in computer science is different now from what it was before the conference. Hopefully, by understanding their experience, we can gain some insight into things we can do for all of our undergraduate female students to better support their computer science and engineering education

undergraduate female students
computer science education
engineering education
gender issues
conference


Integration, the Web are key this season [tax]

Abstract: Integration and the Web are driving many of the enhancements planned by tax preparation software vendors for this coming season

accounting packages
tax packages
software integration
Internet
CCH
TaxWorks
People's Choice
Visual Tax
GoSystem Tax RS
Drake
NetConnection
ATX
CPASoftware
Intuit
Petz
TaxSimple
RIA