On NFAs where all states are final,initial, or both

We examine questions involving nondeterministic finite automata where all states are final, initial, or both initial and final. First, we prove hardness results for the nonuniversality and inequivalence problems for these NFAs. Next, we characterize the languages accepted. Finally, we discuss some state complexity problems involving such automata.     

State complexity of unique rational operations

For each basic language operation we define its “unique” counterpart as being the operation that results in a language whose words can be obtained uniquely through the given operation. These unique operations can arguably be viewed as combined basic operations, placing this work in the popular area of state complexity of combined operations on regular languages. We study the state complexity of unique rational operations and we provide upper bounds and empirical results meant to cast light into this matter. Equally important, we hope to have provided a generic methodology for estimating their state complexity.     

Detecting palindromes,patterns and borders in regular languages

Given a language L and a non-deterministic finite automaton M, we consider whether we can determine efficiently (in the size of M) if M accepts at least one word in L, or infinitely many words. Given that M accepts at least one word in L, we consider how long a shortest word can be. The languages L that we examine include the palindromes, the non-palindromes, the k-powers, the non-k-powers, the powers, the non-powers (also called primitive words), the words matching a general pattern, the bordered words, and the unbordered words.     

Physico-chemical and Sensory Characteristics of Flavored Snacks from Extruded Cassava/Pigeonpea Flour

ABSTRACT: The effects of pigeonpea flour (PF) addition to cassava flour (CF) on the sensory and physico‐chemical quality of extrudates were investigated. Products with added PF were more yellow, had higher protein, bulk density, and water absorption index with lower expansion and water absorption index. Extrudate with 95% CF/5% PF had a suitable crisp to hard texture. All enrobed products were liked moderately to very much in overall acceptability. Chocolate extrudates were most liked (p < 0.01) for flavor and color over paprika, hickory, and cheese/onion.     

A case study in the design of flexible assembly systems

The design of production systems is generally based on economic considerations, which are related to certain technical criteria, such as capacity, availability, and reliability. To realize a cost-effective design, these technical and economic criteria should be considered in their mutual coherence during the conceptual design process. This paper focuses on a productivity model, which is related to this subject. This model allows an opinion to be formed about the technical and economic performance of conceptual robotic assembly cells, during the process of design. First, the system design process is discussed in brief, after which the productivity variables are presented. An illustration of the model is used to assess the technical and economic behavior of alternative system structures for the assembly of a power plug assortment.     

An integral assembly model

Companies are increasingly being put under pressure from the market to design product and production better, faster, cheaper and more market-oriented. Insufficient coherence and synchronization between product, process and system design often lie at the basis of great design efforts and high design costs. This paper focuses on this subject, by introducing an integral assembly model to improve the insight into the interaction between product, process and system design. The objective of this model is to realize a controllable design process.     

Aesthetics and lateral thoracotomy in the neonate

BACKGROUND: Lateral thoracotomy is a relatively common procedure in the neonate. Early reports on the incidence of shoulder deformity, scoliosis, and winged scapula rapidly led to a muscle-sparing approach. Scar cosmesis, however, received less attention. Better education and increasing sophistication have led to a higher aesthetic expectation by the public. METHODS: Since 1988 the authors have combined both principles in the high axillary skin crease approach to lateral thoracotomy in 27 children with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula and two children with a patent ductus arteriosus. RESULTS: Access was not restricted, and early healing was uncomplicated by wound breakdown or infection. Scar aesthetics is excellent and is enhanced by the natural tendency of the scar to migrate into the axilla. Long-term morbidity has been singularly absent. CONCLUSION: Parent appreciation and operator satisfaction have been noteworthy.     

Economic regulation of ambulance services in California

OBJECTIVE: This study was intended to identify economic regulatory programs used by California counties (including ambulance franchising and rate setting), to inventory their foci and application, and to identify differences around the state. By studying the variety of programs used in one state, this study establishes a framework for evaluation of state and local regulatory programs elsewhere. METHODS: This study surveyed all California local EMS agencies (LEMSAs); these are California's equivalent of regional EMS organizations. The survey achieved a 100% response rate, and all data involve population parameters obviating the need for inferential statistics. RESULTS: Seventy-three percent of California counties use economic regulations. Large-population counties and those that operate their own LEMSAs are more likely to use economic regulations than are small counties and those that participate in multicounty EMS agencies. Despite a preference for competition in the authorizing statute, most franchises were granted without competition to existing providers. The majority of franchises in the state were granted to public services. Most ambulance rate setting occurs outside of a competitive process. CONCLUSIONS: Economic regulations that were intended to provide a structured marketplace are often being used to protect existing providers, particularly public services, from competition. The growing interest by fire departments in entering the market for emergency ambulance service, along with the existing bias toward them in granting of franchises, does not bode well for use of the competitive process. The growth of managed care may change or eliminate the need for economic regulations but, if they are to continue, more state oversight should be considered.