Are distributional representations ready for the real world? Evaluating word vectors for grounded perceptual meaning

Distributional word representation methods exploit word co-occurrences to build compact vector encodings of words. While these representations enjoy widespread use in modern natural language processing, it is unclear whether they accurately encode all necessary facets of conceptual meaning. In this paper, we evaluate how well these representations can predict perceptual and conceptual features of concrete concepts, drawing on two semantic norm datasets sourced from human participants. We find that several standard word representations fail to encode many salient perceptual features of concepts, and show that these deficits correlate with word-word similarity prediction errors. Our analyses provide motivation for grounded and embodied language learning approaches, which may help to remedy these deficits.Comment: Accepted at RoboNLP 201

Handle with care : Mid-Atlantic marine animals that demand your respect

Generally speaking, the marine organisms found along middle Atlantic shores are not considered threatening to people. However, some of these animals can cause problems, either upon simple contact with the skin, as in the case of some jellyfish, or through careless handling. Larger inhabitants of coastal waters, such as stingrays and sharks, must always be treated with great respect because of the danger potential and their unpredictable nature. The following description of nuisance and potentially harmful organisms is presented to help coastal residents and visitors become more aware of how problems with such marine animals might develop, how they can be avoided and how certain injuries should best be treated if they occur. All mid-Atlantic coastal animals that can cause problems for the uninitiated beachgoer or angler are not discussed herein. Common sense and caution must be exercised upon encountering any unfamiliar animal. A quick check with local residents, lifeguards or marina operators before heading out on the water or beach will often prevent problems later. Knowledge prevents surprise and makes for more enjoyable outings. Play it smart, be observant and enjoy the fullest recreational potential of our coastal waters