15,988 research outputs found
A Compositional Semantics for Stochastic Reo Connectors
In this paper we present a compositional semantics for the channel-based
coordination language Reo which enables the analysis of quality of service
(QoS) properties of service compositions. For this purpose, we annotate Reo
channels with stochastic delay rates and explicitly model data-arrival rates at
the boundary of a connector, to capture its interaction with the services that
comprise its environment. We propose Stochastic Reo automata as an extension of
Reo automata, in order to compositionally derive a QoS-aware semantics for Reo.
We further present a translation of Stochastic Reo automata to Continuous-Time
Markov Chains (CTMCs). This translation enables us to use third-party CTMC
verification tools to do an end-to-end performance analysis of service
compositions.Comment: In Proceedings FOCLASA 2010, arXiv:1007.499
Synchronization and Redundancy: Implications for Robustness of Neural Learning and Decision Making
Learning and decision making in the brain are key processes critical to
survival, and yet are processes implemented by non-ideal biological building
blocks which can impose significant error. We explore quantitatively how the
brain might cope with this inherent source of error by taking advantage of two
ubiquitous mechanisms, redundancy and synchronization. In particular we
consider a neural process whose goal is to learn a decision function by
implementing a nonlinear gradient dynamics. The dynamics, however, are assumed
to be corrupted by perturbations modeling the error which might be incurred due
to limitations of the biology, intrinsic neuronal noise, and imperfect
measurements. We show that error, and the associated uncertainty surrounding a
learned solution, can be controlled in large part by trading off
synchronization strength among multiple redundant neural systems against the
noise amplitude. The impact of the coupling between such redundant systems is
quantified by the spectrum of the network Laplacian, and we discuss the role of
network topology in synchronization and in reducing the effect of noise. A
range of situations in which the mechanisms we model arise in brain science are
discussed, and we draw attention to experimental evidence suggesting that
cortical circuits capable of implementing the computations of interest here can
be found on several scales. Finally, simulations comparing theoretical bounds
to the relevant empirical quantities show that the theoretical estimates we
derive can be tight.Comment: Preprint, accepted for publication in Neural Computatio
Embedded Network Test-Bed for Validating Real-Time Control Algorithms to Ensure Optimal Time Domain Performance
The paper presents a Stateflow based network test-bed to validate real-time
optimal control algorithms. Genetic Algorithm (GA) based time domain
performance index minimization is attempted for tuning of PI controller to
handle a balanced lag and delay type First Order Plus Time Delay (FOPTD)
process over network. The tuning performance is validated on a real-time
communication network with artificially simulated stochastic delay, packet loss
and out-of order packets characterizing the network.Comment: 6 pages, 12 figure
Oscillations, metastability and phase transitions in brain and models of cognition
Neuroscience is being practiced in many different forms and at many different organizational levels of the Nervous System. Which of these levels and associated conceptual frameworks is most informative for elucidating the association of neural processes with processes of Cognition is an empirical question and subject to pragmatic validation. In this essay, I select the framework of Dynamic System Theory. Several investigators have applied in recent years tools and concepts of this theory to interpretation of observational data, and for designing neuronal models of cognitive functions. I will first trace the essentials of conceptual development and hypotheses separately for discerning observational tests and criteria for functional realism and conceptual plausibility of the alternatives they offer. I will then show that the statistical mechanics of phase transitions in brain activity, and some of its models, provides a new and possibly revealing perspective on brain events in cognition
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