Digital Commons Network^™

Evolution And Nebulousness In Theories, Barry N. Markovsky

Faculty Publications

Social scientists have a clear choice in how they may approach theory development. One path leads to "nebulous" theories that lack any real explanatory power. The other path capitalizes on evolutionary principles of variation and selection, vastly increasing the chances for explanatory success. I illustrate these ideas by reference to "artificial life" programs, and discuss the implications for theory construction in the social sciences.

Undergraduate Catalog, 1997-2000, New Jersey Institute Of Technology, New Jersey Institute Of Technology

Course Catalogs

No abstract provided.

Building Multi-Discipline, Multi-Format Digital Libraries Using Clusters And Buckets, Michael L. Nelson

Computer Science Theses & Dissertations

Our objective was to study the feasibility of extending the Dienst protocol to enable a multi-discipline, multi-format digital library. We implemented two new technologies: cluster functionality and publishing buckets. We have designed a possible implementation of clusters and buckets, and have prototyped some aspects of the resultant digital library.

Currently, digital libraries are segregated by the disciplines they serve ( computer science, aeronautics, etc.), and by the format of their holdings (reports, software, datasets, etc.). NCSTRL+ is a multi-discipline, multi-format digital library (DL) prototype created to explore the feasibility of the design and implementation issues involved with created a …

Optical Components For Wdm Lightwave Networks, Michael S. Borella, Jason P. Jue, Dhritiman Banerjee, Byrav Ramamurthy, Biswanath Mukherjee

School of Computing: Faculty Publications

Recently, there has been growing interest in developing optical fiber networks to support the increasing bandwidth demands of multimedia applications, such as video conferencing and World Wide Web browsing. One technique for accessing the huge bandwidth available in an optical fiber is wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM). Under WDM, the optical fiber bandwidth is divided into a number of nonoverlapping wavelength bands, each of which may be accessed at peak electronic rates by an end user. By utilizing WDM in optical networks, we can achieve link capacities on the order of 50 THz. The success of WDM networks depends heavily on the …

Evolutionary Constraints On Population Structure: The Parasites Of Fundulus Zebrinus (Pisces: Cyprinodontidae) In The South Platte River Of Nebraska, John J. Janovy Jr., Scott D. Snyder, Richard E. Clopton

John J. Janovy, Jr. Publications

Population and community descriptor values (parasites per host, prevalence per parasite species, variance/mean ratios, species density, and diversity indices) for the 7-species parasite community of 61 relatively homogeneous samples of Fundulus zebrinus (Pisces: Cyprinodontidae) in the South Platte River of Nebraska, U.S.A., taken over a 14-yr period, are reported. South Platte River streamflow fluctuates over two orders of magnitude on several time scales-monthly, annually, and over multiple year wet-dry cycles. Relatively homogeneous sampling of a single host species with several parasite species provided a system that allowed assessment of the contribution of evolved parasite life cycles to population structure in …

Simulation Of A Microdosimetry Problem: Behavior Of A Pseudorandom Series At A Low Probability, P. Meyer, J. E. Groetz, Robert Katz, M. Fromm, A. Chambaudet

Robert Katz Publications

The carcinogenic effects for low dose irradiations are not very well known. Estimations usually are made based on the effects observed at high doses that are then extrapolated to low doses. To estimate low dose effects, the ICRP (International Commission on Radiological Protection) uses a linear extrapolation matched with a dose-rate reduction factor equal to two. This proportionality of the effect and dose, even for the lowest doses and dose-rates, leads to two assumptions which must be questioned :
1. the efficiency of DNA repair in cells does not vary with the dose and the dose-rate,
2. when one single …

Magnetism In One Dimension: Fe On Cu(111), J. Shen, Ralph Skomski, M. Klaua, H. Jenniches, S. Sundar Manoharan, J. Kirschner

Ralph Skomski Publications

The magnetism and the morphology of one-dimensional Fe stripes on a Cu(111) vicinal surface with perpendicular magnetization are investigated. Scanning tunneling microscopy shows that the Fe stripes have nanometer width and are aligned in parallel along the [011] direction. From the magnetization curves it is inferred that the stripes exhibit a ferromagnetic behavior well below the nominal thickness of one monolayer. In contrast to two-dimensional films, the magnetization of the stripes is not only temperature but also time dependent. The dynamics of the stripes have been described by a micromagnetic Ising model with Glauber dynamics, yielding an effective anisotropy constant …

Community In Liberal Thought, Richard C. Brill

Masters Theses

The aim of this thesis is to research the role of community in liberal thought. The problem that has initiated this research is the erosion of traditional communal bonds in contemporary liberal society. This problem has been the focus of the debate between communitarians and liberals for the past two decades. The research problem will be to discover workable definitions of community and liberalism which have been plagued with multiple interpretations throughout the debate.

The method of this thesis will be to first frame in the environment of the original problem. The second chapter will address the precedents set by …

Concerto For Piano And Orchestra, Christine L. Jancarz

Masters Theses

Concerto for Piano and Orchestra is a work based on combinations of traditional forms and compositional techniques. Some of the compositional devices used include mathematically derived pitch sets, as well as traditional scales.

Flow Due To A Moving Pressure Distribution Over Free-Surface With Finite-Depth Bottom, Noriaki Okita

Masters Theses

Two-dimensional, steady-state and time-dependent analysis of wave making phenomenon due to a moving pressure distribution in sub-critical Froude number was performed. The domain is consisted of undisturbed free-surface at y=0, flat bottom at y=-h, and it is unbounded in horizontal direction. The pressure distribution was treated as an ideal model of an air-cushioned-vehicle (ACV). Ideal flow theory and linearized boundary conditions were used. Numerical integration algorithm was developed to evaluate the analytical solution. The surface elevation, bottom pressure profiles, and wave resistance were analyzed as functions of speed and depth.

The steady-state wave resistance calculated from the surface elevation profile …

Extraction Of Premafloxacin Radiolabeled With Carbon Fourteen From Loam Soil, Steven Gregory Staskiewicz

Masters Theses

Premafloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic being developed by Pharmacia & Upjohn for veterinary indications. Since the parent drug and possibly metabolites will be applied to soil through the deposition of animal excreta, many regulatory agencies will require environmental assessment testing. In order to determine if ¹⁴C-premafloxacin would biodegrade in the soil, loam soil was extracted with solvents and C18 solid phase columns were used to isolate the compound after three weeks of incubation. In addition to extracting the soil, production of ¹⁴CO₂ was monitored by trapping the degradation by-product in 2 N NaOH. Liquid scintillation counting of …

Learning Recursive Functions From Approximations, John Case, Susanne Kaufmann, Martin Kummer, Efim Kinber

School of Computer Science & Engineering Faculty Publications

This article investigates algorithmic learning, in the limit, of correct programs for recursive functionsffrom both input/output examples offand several interesting varieties ofapproximateadditional (algorithmic) information aboutf. Specifically considered, as such approximate additional information aboutf, are Rose's frequency computations forfand several natural generalizations from the literature, each generalization involving programs for restricted trees of recursive functions which havefas a branch. Considered as the types of trees are those with bounded variation, bounded width, and bounded rank. For the case of learning final correct programs for recursive functions, EX-learning, …

School Deans, Department Chairpersons, And Program Directors 1997-1998, Saint Mary's College Of California

Chairs and Program Directors lists

No abstract provided.

Using Expert Support And Its Explanation Facilities For Group Decision Making, Fiona Fui-Hoon Nah, Izak Benbasat

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

As information technology is increasingly used to support group work, it becomes desirable to identify the types of computer-based decision aids that are beneficial for supporting group decision making. In a review of the decision support literature, Benbasat, DeSanctis and Nault (1993) point out the lack of empirical research in examining the use of expert support for group decision making. In our review of the literature in this respect, we identified only one case study (Sviokla, 1989), which examined the processes involved in the pre- and post-use of an expert support system (ESS) called PlanPower by a group of financial …

Phosphorus And Nitrate Loss From Horticulture On The Swan Coastal Plain, Neil Clifton Lantzke

Agriculture reports

(En) The extent of nutrient loss from nine horticultural properties located on the sandy soils of the Swan Coastal Plain was examined. On three of the properties phosphorus (P) loss was measured by monitoring nutrient loads in shallow drains. On the other six properties networks of monitoring bores were installed and both P and nitrate nitrogen (NO3-N) concentrations were monitored. All of the properties except one were located on the low phosphate fixing Bassendean sands. The level of nutrient loss was depend l production areas. High to very high N03-N concentrations were found in the shallow groundwater beneath the production …

Minority Rights Issues In Post-Apartheid South Africa, H.A. Strydom

Loyola of Los Angeles International and Comparative Law Review

No abstract provided.

Perceptions Of Year-Round Principals: The Effect Of Year-Round Education In Fulfilling The Recommendations Of The National Commission On Excellence In Education And Goals 2000, Sharon C. O'Dell

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This study sought to answer research questions designed to determine principals' perceptions of the effect of year-round education (YRE) on students, teachers, and parents. These perceptions were then used to determine if YRE is fulfilling the recommendations of the National Commission on Excellence in Education and Goals 2000. There were 27 null hypotheses used to answer eight research questions that guided the study. Analysis of the data revealed that year-round principals perceive YRE as having a significantly positive impact on 25 variables in areas relating to educational opportunities/content, standards and expectations, time/flexibility and operational costs, teaching, and school/parent relations. Analysis …

Otter Realm, August 1997, Vol. 2 No. 12, California State University, Monterey Bay

The Otter Realm

What is your degree costing? -- New University Learning Requirements -- VPA Buildings Completed -- ASAP to Greater Academic Success: Introducing the New "Academic Skills Achievement Program" -- MPA Has New Sounds -- International Festival at CSUMB -- Introducing...The New Campus Shuttle! -- CSUMB Child Care Center Update -- Cleaning Up Our Act: Fort Ord Environmental Cleanup Project Update

Singular And Plural Non-Deterministic Parameters, Sigurd Meldal, M. A. Walicki

Faculty Publications

The article defines algebraic semantics of singular (call-time-choice) and plural (run-time-choice) nondeterministic parameter passing and presents a specification language in which operations with both kinds of parameters can be defined simultaneously. Sound and complete calculi for both semantics are introduced. We study the relations between the two semantics and point out that axioms for operations with plural arguments may be considered as axiom schemata for operations with singular arguments.

An Improved Analytical Model For Wormhole Routed Networks With Application To Butterfly Fat-Trees, Ronald I. Greenberg, Lee Guan

Computer Science: Faculty Publications and Other Works

A performance model for wormhole routed interconnection networks is presented and applied to the butterfly fat-tree network. Experimental results agree very closely over a wide range of load rate. Novel aspects of the model, leading to accurate and simple performance predictions, include (1) use of multiple-server queues, and (2) a general method of correcting queuing results based on Poisson arrivals to apply to wormhole routing. These ideas can also be applied to other networks.

Experimental Investigation Of Nonlinear Dynamics In Single Mode Semiconductor Laser Diodes With Phase Conjugate Feedback, Gordon T. Hengst

Theses and Dissertations

The semiconductor laser diode offers a unique system to investigate nonlinear dynamics when optical feedback is applied. Although there is extensive research of laser diodes with optical feedback from normal dielectric mirrors, very little has been done experimentally to analyze the effects of degenerate phase conjugate feedback from a BaTiO₃ crystal. This research experimentally investigated the dynamics of a single-mode laser diode with weak phase conjugate feedback using both the self-pumped and double phase conjugate geometries. The experimental results validated a mathematical model which numerically evaluates the Lang-Kobayahsi coupled differential equations. The model simulated the nonlinear behavior of a …

Breakdown Of The Iron Passive Layer By Use Of The Scanning Electrochemical Microscope, David O. Wipf, John W. Still

Publications

The scanning electrochemical microscope (SECM) is used to generate localized corrosion at passivating iron surfaces by using the tip to generate Cl^– ions. Use of the SECM allows the rapid establishment of a locally aggressive chemical environment at a pre-selected site on the iron surface. The susceptibility for passive-layer breakdown and corrosion initiation was examined as a function of the time between the start of the passive-layer growth and the formation of Cl^- ions. The breakdown of the passive-layer was found to depend strongly on the passivation potential and the site of Cl^- formation on the iron …

Plausible Uses And Limitations Of Videoconferencing As A Tool For Achieving Technology Transfer, Edwin R. Hiel, David Herrington

Journal of Extension

An investigation into the utilization of videoconferencing at a Texas Agricultural Research and Experiment Station (Center) was conducted. End users of videoconferencing were identified and how well their interests were being served was ascertained. The purpose of this case study was to present the successes and limitations of videoconferencing as experienced during a three-and-a-half year period. Recommendations for improving the use of videoconferencing technology in the attainment of the Center's mission include support services and on-line scheduling.

A Bayesian Nonlinear Inversion Of Seismic Body-Wave Attenuation Factors, Stephen S. Gao

Geosciences and Geological and Petroleum Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

It is a well-known fact that the uncertainties in measuring relative attenuation factors within a local or regional seismic network are usually high, due to noise of different kinds and unrealistic assumptions. Numerical experiments using nine synthetic seismograms, created using t* values ranging from 0.1 to 0.9 sec, reveal that the commonly used spectral ratio method is strongly affected by the selection of data processing parameters such as width of the spectral smoothing window, reference station, and so on. The numerical experiments demonstrate that a Bayesian nonlinear inversion approach that directly matches the spectra is better at finding the correct …

Privacy And Encryption In Cyberspace: First Amendment Challenges To Itar, Ear And Their Successors, Ryan Alan Murr

San Diego Law Review

This Comment discusses the need for privacy over the Internet and looks at the constitutional validity of previous and current regulations governing the export of privacy-enabling technologies, such as PGP and other powerful ciphers that allow users to protect the privacy of data transmitted over the Internet. In particular, the article seeks to analyze the constitutionality of the current regulatory scheme in light of the competing interests of privacy and freedom of expression on the one hand, and the need to protect national security on the other.

Time-Efficient Maze Routing Algorithms On Reconfigurable Mesh Architectures, Fikret Ercal, H. C. Lee

Computer Science Faculty Research & Creative Works

The routing problem is one of the most widely studied problems in VLSI design. Maze-routing algorithms are used in VLSI routing and robot path planning. Efficiency of the parallel maze routing algorithms which were mostly based on C. Y. Lee's algorithm8is poor. In this paper, we propose time-efficient algorithms to solve the maze-routing problem on a reconfigurable mesh architecture. The constant-time algorithms presented include: (i) testing the existence of specific types of paths between two terminals, and (ii) finding an absolute shortest path (ASP) and a shortest duplex-path (SDP). In addition, a fast algorithm to find the single shortest path …

Lumped-Element Sections For Modeling Coupling Between High-Speed Digital And I/O Lines, Wei Cui, Hao Shi, Xiao Luo, Fei Sha, James L. Drewniak, Thomas Van Doren, T. Anderson

Electrical and Computer Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

Lumped-element sections are used for modeling coupling between high-speed digital and I/O lines on printed circuit boards (PCBs) in this paper. Radiated electromagnetic interference (EMI) is investigated when the I/O line going off the board is driven as an unintentional, but effective antenna. Simulated results are compared with measurements for coupled lines. A suitable number of lumped-element sections for modeling is chosen based on the line length and the highest frequency of interest.

Theoretical Foundation For Relationship Construct In Information Modeling – Relation Element Theory, Keng Siau

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

Information modeling is a critical process in software development. One of the key constructs in information modeling is the relationship construct. Though commonly used, the relationship construct is poorly defined and lacks a strong theoretical foundation. The objectives of this research are to define and classify the various relationships based on a theory in linguistic known as the relation element theory. This paper describes the theory, relates the theory to the relationship construct, and discusses the implication of the theory on the relationship construct.

Influence And Consensus In Group Decision Making Environment, Fiona Fui-Hoon Nah, Byungcho Kim

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

In this research, the effect of expert support on influence and consensus in group decision making is investigated. The results indicate that ESS support diminishes the group members' influence on the group judgment as well as the influence exerted by the most influential group member. On the other hand, explanations support provided by ESS increases consensus in group decision making.

Development Of A Dynamic Model For A Two Stage Servovalve Amplifier Line And Orifice, David Cook

Theses

Electrohydraulic servovalves are used in a variety of industrial, military, and aerospace applications. For some of these applications the servovalve must meet stringent dynamic performance criteria while under the influence of external disturbances. The most common of these external disturbances is vibration. Vibration can not only have an affect on valve performance, but can also affect valve stability. This thesis deals with the development of a dynamic model of the amplifier lines and line orifice of a two stage servovalve. The amplifier lines are thought to affect the stability of two stage servovalves under vibration. The amplifier lines are the …