A Review of Adaptive Neural Netw

Artificial neural networks are inspired from their biological counterparts. Adaptation is one of the most important features of both types of networks. Adaptive artificial neural networks are a class of networks used in dynamic environments. They are characterized by online learning. A number of techniques are used to provide adaptability to neural networks: adaptation by weight modification, by neuronal property modification, and by network structure modification. A brief review of various types of implementations is provided.

The ACE approach combines prior research techniques with new ones to eliminate anomalous code from source code. The idea is as follows: (1) identify characteristics/patterns of anomalous code, identify proper syntax, and identify rules of safe programming practices (2) encode the above items as evaluation properties, and (3) verify whether the evaluation passed or failed. This process has been automated into a pushdown automation tool that uses relational databases, process algorithms, static analysis and dynamic analysis.

Segmentation of nontrivial color images is one of the most difficult tasks in digital image processing. This paper presents a novel color image segmentation algorithm, which uses a biologically inspired paradigm known as swarm intelligence, to segment images based on color similarity. The swarm algorithm employed uses image pixel data and a corresponding segment map to form a context in which stigmergy can occur. The emergent property of the algorithm is that connected segments of similar pixels are found and may later be referenced. We demonstrate the algorithm by applying it to the task of segmenting digital images of butterflies for the purpose of automatic classification.

The security flaws of the current the IEEE 802.11 standard are well known and have widely been publicized. To provide improvements in security and enhance the current 802.11 MAC, the IEEE 802.11i task group has proposed a new security architecture called Robust Security Network (RSN). The proposed improvements in the new architecture focus on two areas; the IEEE 802.1X standard for access control and encryption using Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). RSN uses a pair-wise key exchange protocol utilizing 802.1X for mutual authentication. In this paper, we present two alternative pair-wise key exchange protocols to provide mutual authentication in Robust Security Networks. We utilize the same message structures used in RSN and reduce the number of handshake messages. These alternative protocols improve the timing requirements for mobility in WLANs, reduce channel contention, and decrease computational load on all users in WLANs. We also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of our proposed protocols in terms of complexity and vulnerabilities.

This study identifies animated agents that communicate effectively with learners in a multimedia learning environment. It is based on the social interaction of engineering students with a variety of animated agents that have features and gestures that range from bird-like to human-like. A range of agents with similar non-verbal cues presented engineering principles to students. Then, an evaluation of the students’ perception of the animated agents, along with learning gains, provided measures for this discussion.

New technology has provided the educational community with a variety of animated agents that are compatible with mainstream educational software. In many educational settings, animated agents readily integrate into Microsoft PowerPoint and Web-based instructional programs. Moreover, animated agents have proven to be effective in a variety of educational environments and learning domains. This study focuses on the use of animated agents to teach circuit analysis

On-frequency repeaters provide network operators with a cost-effective means of extending coverage to areas of low signal strength. Their ability to transmit and receive on the same channel essentially renders their operation transparent to the rest of the network. The maximum gain of an on-frequency repeater is, however, limited by the amount of isolation that exists between the transmitter and receiver antennas. Adaptive cancellation techniques may be used to mitigate a lack of isolation, but their performance is limited by their ability to track the time-varying multipath in the channel which exists between the two antennas. This paper presents antenna isolation and wideband power delay profile measurement results for typical repeater installations. In addition, simulation results are presented from a novel adaptive filtering approach that allows repeaters to operate with gains equal to or greater than the existing isolation

In this paper, we propose a new approach for reverse engineering Java applications into Petri Net structures. Our approach rests on utilizing the foundations of Petri Nets as a means of uncovering certain attributes of interests. Petri Nets offers techniques of predicting path execution, flow complexity, dead paths, and resource utilization. The conclusion of this work will provide the strengths and weaknesses of using this approach along with future recommendations of research.

Probabilistic Multidimensional Data Models capture the uncertainty that pervades the real world using probabilistic measures. The data representing the real world is subject to change. In this paper, we propose a Bayesian framework and an algorithm to update the probabilistic multidimensional data.

Many computer architecture and organization instructors are turning to simulators with visualization as teaching aids. Many simulators have already been developed and made freely available on the Internet. It is beneficial to document and organize these simulators to all instructors of computer architecture and organization courses to take full advantage of this time-saving resource conveniently. This paper describes and analyzes three cache memory simulators. These cache memory simulators can be used with the popular computer architecture and organization textbooks. Our document of these cache memory simulators and comparative evaluation of their usability may provide computer architecture instructors with insight in selecting appropriate cache memory simulators to satisfy their pedagogical needs.

Switching, or class D, amplifiers represent a source of untapped potential for efficient, high power amplification. They are mostly suited for mobile and portable applications. In an effort to better understand these amplifiers, this project examines the theory, design, and performance of these circuits. As a result, it was determined that Class D amplifiers are not as difficult to design and build as commonly believed. The output sound quality of a well-designed class D audio amplifier is comparable to many high fidelity conventional sound systems. D class amps typically have 90-95% efficiency at rated power compared to conventional audio amps, which have 65-70% efficiency ratings. Most importantly, these benefits are available in a smaller, more cost-effective package due to the switching amplifier’s high efficiency and capability for integration.

In this paper we consider a multiple input multiple output multi-group space-time coding system that is a combination of V-BLAST and space-time block codes. Decoding order is an important issue for serial group interference cancellation (SGIC) algorithm. Different ordering schemes for SGIC are compared. While layers in SGIC suffer from unequal receive diversity, parallel group interference cancellation (PGIC) has the potential to achieve full receive diversity for all the layers. Performance of both the algorithms are analyzed and compared. Finally we show that the optimal performance of layered block codes could be achieved by sphere decoding (SD) which approaches the maximum likelihood detection performance with lower complexity.

This paper presents the comparison of ten dispersion models for microstrip lines and assesses their accuracy. Accurate and simple formulas for diverse values of the microscrip line parameters for microwave circuits have been compared. This comparison is essential for computer-aided design (CAD) of microstrip lines that requires accurate and reliable information on the dispersion behavior of the microstrip

Signature algorithms have already been proposed for use in URL routers. Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) codes can be used as URL signatures. When a packet is received, CRCs are generated on the fly with the use of very simple hardware circuits. Existing network adapters are not programmed to generate CRCs on packet subfields. However, it is possible to use the CRC circuit of a network adapter to simultaneously generate the packet CRC and CRCs on any subfield (such as the URL string in the HTTP GET request header) of the packet. The intermediate CRC codes (available from the CRC circuit) can then be used to produce a URL signature for each incoming HTTP request and do URL routing table look-up. In this paper we evaluate alternatives for URL signature generation that rely on hardware or software computation of CRC32 codes. Our results indicate that the delay of producing the signature in software is smaller (100s of nanoseconds) as compared to the alternative of using the CRC circuit in existing adapters (10s of microseconds).

This report outlines a study based on the potential benefits for implementing a Cumulative Momentum (CMV) Value in order to enhance current traffic management systems. The proposed CMV demonstrates embedded decision making capabilities by allows signature traffic patterns to compete for the right of way. This model thus provides a natural way of managing intersection traffic. The proposed study uses enhanced technology and algorithms that simulate a "traffic cop". The intent is to demonstrate performance improvements for public transit. The report exemplifies the CMV algorithm that will enhance traffic system negotiation for intersection right-of-way. It is the intent of this paper to focus on the fundamental development of this CMV concept.

Parallel logic simulation is an important method for verifying the correctness of complex VLSI system designs. Synchronous simulation technique has low overhead but has poor load balancing and frequent synchronization cost. We derive a performance evaluation formula for the synchronous simulation. The formula considers factors including load balancing, the ratio between computation and communication and number of simulation cycles. The formula reveals that for simulations with very fine computation granularity, the reduction in simulation cycles is one of the most important keys to improve the performance. We propose an optimistic synchronous algorithm that is targeted to reduce the number of synchronization steps. The experimental results on ISCAS89 and ISCAS85 circuits show that the proposed algorithm performs significantly better than synchronous simulation. For non-unit delay models, the proposed algorithm performs almost as good as unit delay models.

During the latter-half of 2003, the authors embarked on a project aimed at establishing objective answers to a seemingly ethereal but straightforward question: by what criteria can you tell you have produced a high-quality document? In the process of their research, the authors discovered there were consistent patterns of clear and obvious errors to be avoided when producing technical documentation; this paper is an effort to share their conclusions. While their particular area of interest is technical documentation within the realm of software engineering, their findings have broader applicability.

Oak Ridge National Laboratories was established in 1943 to carry out a single, well-defined mission of the pilot-scale production and separation of plutonium for the World War II Manhattan Project. The Laboratory has advanced into a unique resource for addressing important national and global energy and environmental issues. It initiates the development of new energy sources, technologies, and materials and the advancement of knowledge in the biological, chemical, computational, engineering, environmental, physical, and social sciences.

A research opportunity at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory may result in providing more knowledge within the student than one full academic school year. As a junior or a senior student, it is always recommended to take the research and development route in the science, engineering and technology fields. The outcome of the coop or internship research program would be very influential to submit a project based abstract and present findings before a panel and carry out a discussion with professionals in the field. The project assignment may include detailed structured array platform, which would be designed to detect a signal using fabricated arrays of micro-devices. Aspects for projects would be designed usually to accommodate Homeland Security efforts as well as energy conservation, and process control.

This paper focuses on detailed steady state models with emphsize on control loops of two Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) devices’ namely, Static Var Compensator (SVC) and Thyristor Controlled Series Capacitor (TCSC) , to study their effects on voltage collapse phenomena in power systems. Based on results at the point of collapse ‘ control loops strategies which could increase system loadability or increase loadability margin to collapse point are determined. The IEEE 14 bus test system is used to illustrate the effects of FACTS devices control strategies on voltage collapse phenomena.

Previous work has been done demonstrating that the asymmetric AdaBoost algorithm could be successfully used to design a binary classifier that is a cascade of simple classifiers. We use the algorithm to design an audio classifier and study the effect of changing the length of the cascade and the weighting at each stage on the accuracy of the classifier. Results for a four-class audio classification problem are presented.

This paper presents a sequential based Newton-Raphson power flow algorithm for reliable and efficiently handling power systems with embedded FACTS (Flexible AC Transmission Systems) devices. Computation and control of power flow in power systems with embedded FACTS devices appear to be fundamental for power system analysis and planning purposes. A power injection model for conventional FACTS devices such as SVC (Static Var Compensator) and TCSC (Thyristor Controlled Series capacitor) as well as modern FACTS devices such as STATCOM (Static Series Compensator) SSSC (Static Synchronous Series Compensator) and UPFC (Unified Power Flow Controller) is derived. Also a power injection model of conventional HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) is obtained. Then a sequential power flow algorithm (two step algorithm) is adopted. The proposed injection models and sequential power flow algorithm have been programmed and systematically tested in a number of systems. The results of Ward-Hale network are reported which clearly illustrates the Capabilities and generalization of the proposed algorithm.

This paper presents the essential elements that a component-based software engineering (CBSE) development environment should have in order for the Software Supermarket (SoS) to be effectively deployed therein. An analysis of current development environments is also presented so as to determine whether or not there is any current environment that complies with the essential elements presented. We find that none of the development environments studied fulfills the essential elements required for a SoS.

We propose an approach to a TVQ-based image coding technique that out performs DCT-based JPEG compression. The approach presented in this paper eliminates the artifacts generated in JPEG compression, and yields higher peak signal-to-noise ratios (PSNR), higher compression ratios (CR), and lower bit rate allocation. Our approach is based on the combined use of the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) and Vector Quantization (VQ). This type of image coding is referred to as Transform Vector Quantization (TVQ).

The overall goal of this research is to develop a system that is resistant or tolerant of sensor failures. The plan is to incorporate multiple sensors in an electronic system and then take the average of the sensors as the system output. If a sensor fails, the failure is detected, and the processing hardware will be “re-programmed” based on evolvable hardware principles to take the average of the remaining input sensors. A key aspect of this program is how to detect when one out of N sensors fails. This paper describes the use of a one-dimensional (1-D) Kalman filter to detect a sensor failure by observing the average of N sensors together. The paper discusses the failure detection algorithm and then gives results for the algorithm based on computer simulations and then actual laboratory measurements.

For the last few decades almost all hospitals have been keeping patient data in computerized database systems. One of the current problems in hospital databases is finding family hierarchy. Finding such family relationships by human operators is possible, but it can be a tedious and time consuming task when the database is extremely large. This study focuses on the appropriate data mining techniques that can be used in support of an intelligent agent in a hypothetical hospital database. A model for evaluating the genetic relationship in hospital databases with uncertainty using Hugin API will be discussed.

This paper reports results of an effort to develop a test environment in which “live” attack-free background traffic reflects the characteristics of the network to be defended. The expectation is that new intrusion detection techniques can be better evaluated (and tuned), in such a background, against inserted attacks and no others. Based on analysis of traffic captured from an example network in 2003, we determine models appropriate for the major Internet protocols present and compare these with previously obtained results. We describe the traffic modeling, and we describe an approach for generating realistic attack-free traffic (that is statistically similar to the captured traffic) in a test environment.

We present the high-level design of a prototype AI-based interactive system that simulates conversation between two animated virtual characters. The conversational choices made by each character are influenced by dynamic models of each virtual participant's mental state. Also, the choices made by one character, the user's Conversational Avatar, are at certain times under user control. This style of simulated conversation with user intervention is applicable to a range of potential applications in education and entertainment. Our current application is a training system for coaching caregivers on having social conversations with persons with Alzheimer's Disease.

Reusable software architecture (RSA) is playing an integral role in Component-Based Software Development (CBSD). This should assist productivity and increase software quality. This work looks at the identification of the key factors that will assist with the development of an RSA. The work involves a formal specification of an RSA and its structures.

This paper involves the development of optimization software and its associated simulator to compute optimum paths to move a group of mobile robots to a given number of targets in a known environment. Genetic algorithms and the Virtual Reality Modeling Language “vrml” are used to design the software and the simulator respectively. It is assumed that the robots are located arbitrary at known starting positions and need to be moved to target positions in a known multi-obstacle three-dimensional environment. The factors considered for finding optimum paths for the group of mobile robots are the size and location of obstacles in the environment and the elevations of the environment. The developed software was tested on an aerial picture taken by a satellite imaging device for an outdoor environment. The size of obstacles, elevations present in the environment and starting positions of the robots and target position are all identified on the digital image in a form of grid map. The genetic algorithm takes information about the environment from the grid map, the results of processed pictures, and searches for optimum paths to move a group of mobile robots to specified targets. It is found that genetic algorithms converge and give better solutions to path planning in an environment where results are difficult to obtain.

This paper presents the results of a case study that tested the performance of IPSec Offload feature of Microsoft Windows 2000 Server using 3COM 10/100 Mbps PCI Server NIC 3XP Processors. Based on the results of the benchmark, it was concluded that, in a few cases, a fast CPU with ample RAM and CACHE could yield better performance than a 3DES NIC using the IPSec Offload feature of Microsoft Windows 2000 Server. In most cases, with the IPSec Offload turned on, there was improvement in overall performance of the system. This paper concludes that in order to yield and maintain peak performance, the selection of encryption protocols and devices ought to be dynamic and based on runtime environmental factors.

We present a new technique for detecting the possible presence of certain Denial-of-Service attacks in network traffic. The effectiveness of the technique is demonstrated in experiments against 23 attacks in three different traffic backgrounds. Even though some attacks persist for only 2-4 seconds, results show detection rates up to 84%. Results also show that (for these data) the technique can be tuned to eliminate false alarms. These results are especially favorable given the technique's objective of detecting new (previously unseen) attacks without a template of the background traffic.

Eigenvalues of a power system can explain the system stability in its operating point. In this paper the linear analysis capabilities of two software packages are evaluated and compared. The paper also illustrates the impact of the models of the power system components on the location of the eigenvalues. Eigenvalue analyses are not only dependent on the properties of the investigated system, but also on the software package that is used, as well as on how the components of the power system are modeled. Therefore, conclusions can differ when studying the same power system with different software packages.

Noise features of balanced CMOS RF direct down conversion mixer are examined and analyzed in this paper. Optimal port matching circuit architectures are proposed for RF, LO and output ports to improve the mixer's performance. Based on the analysis, both a single-balanced and a double-balanced direct down-conversion mixers are designed using a 0.18m CMOS process, with a 1.2V power supply. With a 2.41GHz RF signal of –30dBm driven by a 2.4GHz LO signal of –10dBm, both mixers have shown good performance in noise figure and conversion gain. The double-balanced one is in process of fabrication through MOSIS.

This paper proposed a potential assistant robot for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) eggs retrieval. Safety and adaptability are important issues for the research. The eggs were obtained through right, left, up, and down motions at the location. The robot was attachable to the bedside using a conventional scope holder with multiple joints. The control system was expected to enhance the overall performance of the system during eggs retrieval procedure. The auto-tracking control algorithms were demonstrated and computed for the potential assistant robot system.

This paper describes the design and characterization of an ultra-wideband (UWB) pulse (“nanopulse”) generator suitable for biomedical research. The pulser generates nanosecond-long pulses of adjustable rise time, amplitude, and duration, permitting analysis of possible bioeffects over a range of pulse characteristics. Nanopulses of 3.4 kV and 2.4 ns rise time are achieved in a 4-stage pulser circuit using ZTX415 transistors. This device has been used to assess exposure bioeffects to nanopulses of the model system E. coli.

Software quality professionals can learn lessons from many sources, some seemingly unrelated to software. NASA’s painstaking approach to learning from their mistakes in the field of aerospace is a shining example of the quest to find errors with finding fault. Especially in the areas of quality inspections and testing, software professionals can learn from the Columbia tragedy and the NASA approach in general.

A data structure that can enable efficient isosurface extraction on desktop (single- and dual-CPU) computers is introduced. The data structure enables avoidance of unnecessary processing in the isosurface extraction while consuming little memory. Incorporation of the data structure into multithreading strategies that allow exploitation of slack computational processing resources, especially on hyperthreaded CPUs, is also described.

This paper presents explicit formulas for the resultant S-parameters for cascaded three and four two-ports in terms of the S-parameters of the individual two-ports. The formulas are derived in two ways (multiplication of the T-parameters and signal flow graph) giving the same result. They are also confirmed by simulation.

The NIAM (Nijssen’s Information Analysis Methodology) conceptual schema model was originated in the 1970s and later became more popular under a new name ORM (Object Role Model). It is a fact-based conceptual schema model that can be represented by graphical diagrams or described by a formal natural language. Since all relationship types are elementary, they cannot be further decomposed. This property enables the ORM conceptual schema diagram to be transformed into 5NF relational database schemas. This paper presents temporal database application development using TORM, a temporal extension to the ORM conceptual schema model. The notions of valid time and life span are introduced to the entity type and fact type concepts. An implementation of a TORM conceptual schema on relational and object relational database schemas are also presented.

Grid computing, which is characterized as large-scale distributed resources sharing and cooperation, is becoming a mainstream technology in distributed computing. Workflow, as the automation of a business process, can take advantage of the grid-computing environment to provide dynamic business automation for e-commerce. In this paper, we discuss the idea of using XML and workflow techniques to cooperate various grid services to implement e-commerce automation. The dynamic grid services cooperation can be plugged into a workflow to fulfill a specific business operation. A workflow can be split into sub-workflows to be executed in different organizations. XML is chosen for message communication format, which enables the grid agents to carry, switch, and exchange domain-specific XML interpreters so that they can switch roles to participate in different business partnerships or relationships. Via the workflow and XML techniques, the cooperation of grid organizations and sharing of grid resources are capable of supporting large-scale dynamic e-commerce automations.

The goal of the UNCW Grid project is to produce a user-friendly graphical environment for assembling and executing Grid applications. In this paper, we provide examples of the work done for this ongoing project. In particular we demonstrate a “drag-and-drop” approach to assembling complex Grid applications from individual Grid services. We also show how our graphical environment interacts with existing services to install and execute user applications on remote machines.

Virtual reality involves reproducing all the details of a real-world physical object or environment that needs to be simulated graphically with a computer. Augmented reality is the mixing of computer-generated information with the user’s view of the real world. This paper presents the results of designing an interactive virtual reality simulation and augmented reality simulation of the Chattanooga Creek superfund cleanup site located in Chattanooga, TN. The augmented reality portion of the design provides a wearable system for use by personnel working at the site.

A virtual laboratory for an introductory laboratory course in circuit analysis in Electrical Engineering Technology program is developed that can replace the traditional laboratory setup by an approach based on data acquisition (DAQ) instrumentation. The project utilizes LabVIEW software and DAQ board (Model PCI-6024E) both from National Instruments. The PCI-6024E is a multifunction I/O device having 8 digital I/O lines, 12 bit 16 single ended analog input lines, and two 12 bit analog output lines. The undergraduate laboratories have been poorly equipped due to the rising cost of laboratory instruments. This trend has created a strong market for laboratory instruments based on personal computers. LabVIEW provides a low-cost solution for laboratory instrumentation compared to its traditional counterpart since appropriate software, operating through a plug-in DAQ board, is readily available at a very low-cost. The LabVIEW can model standard laboratory instruments while offering more flexibility as it is software based. The combination of LabVIEW and available plug-in hardware enables the virtual instrument to be modified whenever needs change. This instrumentation system can be produced at a fraction of the cost of traditional instruments. Due to LabVIEW’s graphical nature data can be easily presented in any forms such as charts, graphs, etc. The final product of this project will be used to teach the laboratory course in-class as well as via Internet so that students can take the course on the web which is the trend of education now.

Computer students need to understand both the theoretical and practical aspects of computer networking. As computer science teaching methods continue to mature, experiences in mixing theory and application have been shared in the community. Combining theory and practice in a single course on computer networks is difficult because of the complexity and scale of modern networks. Classroom modeling of networks is a technique to illustrate the theoretical aspects of networking through practical models of computer networks. In this paper a visualization tool is developed and it would be useful for students to understand the difficult concepts of computer networks. It provides the design and working of network architecture, which allows communication between computer systems. This approach provides the opportunity to learn and teach computer networking.

Refereed Papers | Unrefereed Papers | Additional Abstracts

47. A Methodology to Characterize Kernel Level Rootkit Exploits that Overwrite the System Call Table

John G. Levine GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Julian B. Grizzard

Phillip W. Hutto

Henry L. Owen

A cracker who gains access to a computer system will normally install some method, for use at a later time that allows the cracker to come back onto the system with root privilege. One method that a cracker may use is the installation of a rootkit on the compromised system. A kernel level rootkit will modify the underlying kernel of the installed operating system. The kernel controls everything that happens on a computer. We are developing a standardized methodology to characterize rootkits. The ability to characterize rootkits will provide system administrators, researchers, and security personnel with the information necessary in order to take the best possible recovery actions. This may also help to detect and fingerprint additional instances and prevent

further security instances involving rootkits. We propose new methods for characterizing kernel level rootkits. These methods may also be used in the detection of kernel

rootkits.

Refereed Papers | Unrefereed Papers | Additional Abstracts

48. Mobile IP Throughput Studies on a Wireless LAN

Anand K. Parameswaran

Ravi Sankar

Abstract--The evolution of TCP has been primarily geared to support wired networks. With the increased usage and popularity of wireless networks, it is prudent to examine the effect of these modifications on wireless data transfers. This project studies the effect of some of the different flavors of TCP on the throughput of FTP data to a Mobile node. The Mobile IP protocol is the mobility mechanism used in this simulation. The NS2 simulator is programmed to use a wired-cum-wireless network topology. Many variants of TCP are used for the simulation and the data transferred and signaling traffic generated are recorded. Two base stations act as agents for the mobile node. It was shown that delayed acknowledgments offered the best throughput in the simulation whereas the Vegas implementation of TCP exhibited the least.

Refereed Papers | Unrefereed Papers | Additional Abstracts

49. Online Traffic Engineering and Connection Admission Control Based on Path Queue States

Sven Krasser GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Henry L. Owen

Jochen Grimminger

Hans-Peter Huth

In this paper, we outline a new connection admission control and online traffic engineering framework for small networks using differentiated services. Decisions are made at the edge routers of the network. Multiple label switched paths are set up between each pair of edge routers. When a new connection arrives at an edge router, each path is evaluated to see whether it is able to carry the connection. Then, the best path of the remaining ones is picked. The evaluation of paths is based on state information gathered from the queues on each path. We show the results this scheme achieves based on simulations.

Refereed Papers | Unrefereed Papers | Additional Abstracts

50. Numerical Differentiation Based Algorithms for Frequency Estimation of Multiple Signals

J. K. Wu

J. Long1 IOWA STATE UNIVERSIY

Y. Liang

J. X. Wang

A high-accuracy, wide-range frequency estimation algorithm for the multi-component signals is presented in this paper. The proposed algorithm is basing on a numerical differentiation and central Lagrange interpolation. With the sample consequences, which needs at most 7 points and are sampled at a sample frequency of 25600Hz, and computation consequences, which employed a formulation proposed in this paper, the frequencies of the component 1, 2 and 3 of the signal are all estimated at an accuracy of 0.001% over 1Hz to 800kHz with the amplitudes of the component 1, 2 and 3 of the signal varying from 1V to 200V and the phase angle of the component 1, 2 and 3 of the signal varying from 0 to 360. The proposed algorithm needs at most half cycle for the frequencies of the component 1, 2 and 3 of the signal under noisy or non-noisy conditions. A testing example with a 3 subsignals is given to illustrated the

proposed algorithm in Marlab environment.

Refereed Papers | Unrefereed Papers | Additional Abstracts

51. MPLS Based Best Effort Traffic Engineering

Jerapong Rojanarowan GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Bernd G. Koehler

Henry L. Owen

The advent of Multi-protocol Label Switching (MPLS) enables traffic engineering by introducing connection-oriented features of forwarding packets over arbitrary nonshortest paths. Our goal in this research is to improve the network utilization for best effort traffic in IP networks. By examining the best effort traffic class, we assume The large volume of research that has been conducted on traffic engineering for assured forwarding and expedited forwarding with admission control allows traffic engineering on those traffic classes. We examine a different and in some sense a more complex problem (traffic demands are not known a priori) of traffic engineering for the remaining network bandwidth which is utilized by best effort traffic. We present a generic traffic engineering framework and four specific algorithms. This framework has two prominent features 1) it uses MPLS to encapsulate source-destination aggregate flows within a Label Switched Path (LSP), with multiple LSPs per source-destination. 2) The framework is ìstatelessî, only the topology is used to determine the traffic routing.

Refereed Papers | Unrefereed Papers | Additional Abstracts

52. Simulation of Viable Torque Control Schemes of Induction Motor for Electric Vehicles

M.Vasudevan

R.Arumugam

This paper presents the results of an investigation into suitable torque control schemes for

an electric vehicle application. The electric vehicle drive consists of rewound induction motors and a three-level IGBT inverter. The schemes investigated are Field Oriented Control, Direct Torque Control (DTC), and DTC using Space Vector Modulation. The results of Matlab-Simulink simulations and a comparison between the control schemes are presented. It is found that the DTC using Space Vector Modulation scheme is best for this application.

Refereed Papers | Unrefereed Papers | Additional Abstracts

53. Utilization of Cellular Automata in the DNA Signal Search Problem

Stephen V. Providence Ph.D. NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY

Time-varying cellular automata (TV CA) are a form of cellular automata (CA) where the transition functions vary over time or are time dependent. The DNA signal search problem (DSSP) is a well-known problem in bio-informatics. Essentially it is the problem of searching for patterns in biological sequences. Two classical approaches utilize computation theory to exploit the power of deterministic finite automata (DFA). A third

approach uses a filtering technique. CA is novel in DSSP. We view a CA as an aggregate of NFAs or cells where the NFA transitions are modified to account for neighboring cell states. There is a large body of literature on CA and large body of literature on NFA in DSSP. In this paper we extend the classical approach and explain the usage of a TV CA in DSSP.

Refereed Papers | Unrefereed Papers | Additional Abstracts

This paper introduces a new adaptive noise canceller (ANC) using a modified least mean-square (LMS) algorithm that applies nonlinearities to the error signal in the LMS update equation. The proposed algorithm for ANCs can be viewed as a variable step-size LMS algorithm, in which the step-size is inversely proportional to the square norm of the error vector which has an increasing length. With an appropriate choice of the dimensionless adaptation constant step-size, a trade-off between speed of convergence and misadjustment can be achieved. The proposed algorithm is simulated using different noise power levels for both stationary and nonstationary noise environments. Simulation results, carried out using a real speech, clearly demonstrate the superiority of the proposed algorithm over many other algorithms in achieving small values of steady-state excess mean-square error with high rates of convergence in stationary as well as nonstationary noise environments.

Today’s latest mixed signal designs continue to grow in complexity as well as shrinking in physical size. Where once test-points could be located at strategic points throughout the design, today the spacing between the components and the critical nature of layout concerns no longer will support that approach. The increase in complexity requires circuit partitioning for adequate testing.

Recent advances in packaging and process development, as well as extended characterization of the analog characteristics in the latest generation of analog switch products, bring many advantages to solving these design problems. These desirable improvements include: wide operating voltage range, very low power of operation, rail to rail signal handling, wide bandwidth, low on resistance, fast enable and disable times, and very small package sizes. These improved characteristics simplify the design process by minimizing the effects that inserting a switch will have in the functionality of the circuit being modified.

Use of the Global Positioning System (GPS) L-band (1.57542 GHz) surface-reflected signal for remote sensing is a relatively recent development. In the current study, GPS satellite reflected-signal surface reflectivity, computed along the spectral point ground track across an agricultural area, is combined with 1m x 1m orthorectified, grayscale imagery to form a 2-dimensional (2D) space where unsupervised data clustering and classification is performed. Unlike intensity-only (1D) clustering and classification of the visual data, the moisture-sensitive GPS reflected signal allows water features to be readily differentiated from heavy vegetation and cultivated fields. To our knowledge, this study is the first use of the reflected GPS signal in combination with visual imagery for remotely sensed terrain data clustering and classification.

This paper presents the design of synchronous and asynchronous architectures for a Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) based Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filter. The one dimensional filter is based on the delayed Least Mean Squares (DLMS) algorithm. The architecture is derived for a 1×4 array of processing elements. The proposed synchronous architecture is applied in adaptive equalization and the convergence results are analyzed using Matlab. The functionality of the architecture is verified by simulation via Actel’s Veribest VHDL simulator. The synchronous architecture is modified to operate in asynchronous mode by implementing a two phase handshaking protocol between the processing elements (PEs). The performance of the proposed architectures is analyzed in terms of speed up, adaptation delay and throughput. The proposed DFT based DLMS systolic architecture leads to faster convergence when compared to conventional DLMS systolic architecture. In the asynchronous architecture the processors are clock independent. This reduces the adaptation delay and increases the throughput. The architectures are highly modular and very much suitable for VLSI implementation.

Today's data security consists of many layers. Data activity may be hidden, in addition to encryption, to make it more secure. Steganography provides a possible solution, to further enhance the data security. This paper presents the concept of basic steganography and further improvements as well as the attacks on steganography. In this article, the authors will present the investigations carried out using the stegano principles, to enhance the data security and data integrity.

In this competitive industrial market, maximizing time compression for new product development and release is paramount to achieving and sustaining strategic position. Designing applications for complex integrated circuits (IC) composed of tens of millions of transistors is the norm. These systems are composed of complex hardware modules integrated to create a System-On-Chip (SoCs) design. In today’s technology, Register Transfer Level (RTL) digital system designs and associated modeling of complex ICs have been based on two prominent hardware description language (HDLs)s known as VHDL and Verilog. However, a new arising HDL language being integrated in the design of these complex system is known as SystemC. The authors will discuss the digital designs around SystemC. (Keywords: Register transfer level, VHDL, Verilog, SystemC, microprocessor).

This paper presents the results of work by the author on application and comparative performance of IP Security (IPSec) and Secure Socket Layer (SSL) protocols in a Microsoft .NET 3-tier client-server network. To evaluate the performance of each security protocol, the author created a typical 3-tier client-server e-commerce model in which data communication passed through three distinct pathways: (1) channel between client and Web server over Internet, (2) channel between the Web server and application server, (3) channel between the application server and database server. The primary focus in this paper remains on the third channel where IPSec and SSL were used to connect the application server to the database server. A preliminary analysis of the collected data sheds light on performance of IPSec and SSL in Microsoft .NET environment. It also suggests that in pathways where SSL and IPSec could be used interchangeably, the selection of the most suitable security protocol ought to be dynamic.

Present day Digital System Designs have taken a new dimension, especially with the simulation tools such as the ModelSim and synthesis tools such as the Leonardo Spectrum. Unlike the conventional digital system designs, where the logic and functionality are optimized, modern designs call for integration of several digital sub system units for an integrated digital system. Such a scheme needs a collection of digital circuits in a library. It is prohibitive to have very many of different circuits and the associated software coding for each of them. Rather, it is advantageous to identify fundamental digital components and develop the VHDL or Verilog code for these components. Use this code recursively, to develop higher density and more complex circuits. (Key words: VHDL, Verilog, Digital Library)

This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of primary schemes for wireless e-mail security. It attempts to discuss most common standards available in the market place for e-mail security as well as their applicability on message privacy and protection. The main focus is given on e-mail security standards, message format types, e-mail certificate and trust management systems and issues associated with each of these concepts from privacy and message integrity protection perspectives. Their applications on these two main security service areas are examined and real-world applied solutions are analyzed. The most common security standards, which are overviewed here, are 3DES, PEM, MOSS, PGP, PGP/MIME and S/MIME. It is assumed readers have basic knowledge on MIME specification

ADDITIONAL ABSTRACTS NOT PREVIOUS POSTED

101. Measuring Performance of Web Applications: Empirical Techniques and Results

Performance of web applications is a key determinant of operating costs, quality of user experience, and, therefore of business outcome for any web site. Objective procedures for testing web applications alone have not been found in the literature. A procedure has been developed for making such measurements. This paper reports further progress in measuring performance of web applications in a laboratory local-area-network (LAN) environment. Experimental procedures and data analysis have been refined. Test workloads have been improved so as to provide more intensive, and more varied demands on the server web application. Recent results are reported, which show that there are significant differences in performance among web application classes, depending on the type of data requested.

102. Secured Mobile Device Software Update over IP Networks

One of the major difficulties in managing mobile device maintenance is to perform software updates over the open network. Mobile devices are demanding more complex operation software. The manufacturer may need for some reason to update the operation software or even add new functionalities from time to time. The manufacturer may also want to sell selectively a new application to some interested mobile device owners. This operation could be performed over the open network. However both device owner and manufacturer should develop a mutual authentication and secured software download. The manufacturer would not like to reveal the software code for security and commercial reasons, at the same time the owner would like to be sure that the manufacturer is the one who is offering the code to be able to let the manufacturer take the responsibility for later device operation. This is a very old and common problem equivalent to software Intellectual Property Right (IPR) protection. A particular software download scenario is presented for mobile device environment and a secured protocol scenario is proposed. The solution includes mainly secret-key mechanisms together with special hardware architecture, which gives the whole process secure and less complex implementation in a mobile environment with low computational power requirements.

103. A Gradient image dependent fragile watermarking for improved security and localization
Shan Suthaharan¹, Seong-Whan Kim²

¹Dept. of Mathematical Sciences, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC 27402, USA, E-mail: ssuthaharan@uncg.edu, ²Dept. of Computer Science, University of Seoul, Seoul, South Korea, E-mail: sigma@venus.uos.ac.kr

Most fragile watermarking techniques are block-wise independent based schemes. They are either vulnerable to vector quantization (VQ) attack or sacrifice localization accuracy to improve security. This paper presents a gradient image dependent fragile watermarking scheme, which thwarts VQ attack while providing superior localization properties. The proposed technique provides distinct input keys for each image block from a large (1024! - 8770-bits entries) key space, a master key, a session key and block-wise permutated versions of a gradient image. The watermarking scheme requires only the master key (one time exchange) and the session key (each session) to be exchanged between the communication parties securely. Analysis and experimental results indicate that the proposed method possess better authentication and tamper detection capabilities compared to many other fragile watermarking schemes available in the literature. It can also be seen that the proposed scheme is suitable for both digital images and video.

This study examined estimated scores and actual scores on completed test problems obtained from the final exam questions in a computer programming course. The programming tasks involved ten multiple choice questions and three programming problems. The problems were designed within the framework of the skill-rule-knowledge model of human performance. Twenty five engineering and computer science students took the final exam. The analyses of data show significant differences in self-assessment of performance between the high-performing students and the low-performing students. The paper suggests that the student’s ability to assess his or her own performance on the practice problems is strongly related to the actual performance on tests and exams. The paper also suggests that the tutoring programs for SMET courses should address the learning skills of individual students and, specifically, the students’ self-assessment skills.

IEEE SoutheastCon 2004
Theme "....Engineering Connects....."

Paper Presentation Abstracts

Saturday March 27 and Sunday March 28, 2004

Refereed Papers

Unrefereed Papers

Additional Abstracts Posted 3/23/04

101. Measuring Performance of Web Applications: Empirical Techniques and Results

102. Secured Mobile Device Software Update over IP Networks
103. A Gradient image dependent fragile watermarking for improved security and localization
104. Estimated and Actual Performance Scores on Computer Programming Tasks

ADDITIONAL ABSTRACTS NOT PREVIOUS POSTED

101. Measuring Performance of Web Applications: Empirical Techniques and Results

102. Secured Mobile Device Software Update over IP Networks

103. A Gradient image dependent fragile watermarking for improved security and localization
Shan Suthaharan¹, Seong-Whan Kim²

IEEE SoutheastCon 2004 Theme "....Engineering Connects....."

Paper Presentation Abstracts

Saturday March 27 and Sunday March 28, 2004

Refereed Papers

Unrefereed Papers

Additional Abstracts Posted 3/23/04

101. Measuring Performance of Web Applications: Empirical Techniques and Results

102. Secured Mobile Device Software Update over IP Networks 103. A Gradient image dependent fragile watermarking for improved security and localization 104. Estimated and Actual Performance Scores on Computer Programming Tasks

ADDITIONAL ABSTRACTS NOT PREVIOUS POSTED

101. Measuring Performance of Web Applications: Empirical Techniques and Results

102. Secured Mobile Device Software Update over IP Networks

103. A Gradient image dependent fragile watermarking for improved security and localization Shan Suthaharan1, Seong-Whan Kim2

IEEE SoutheastCon 2004
Theme "....Engineering Connects....."

102. Secured Mobile Device Software Update over IP Networks
103. A Gradient image dependent fragile watermarking for improved security and localization
104. Estimated and Actual Performance Scores on Computer Programming Tasks

103. A Gradient image dependent fragile watermarking for improved security and localization
Shan Suthaharan¹, Seong-Whan Kim²