Field Test of a Remote Multi-Path CLaDS Methane Sensor

Existing technologies for quantifying methane emissions are often limited to single point sensors, making large area environmental observations challenging. We demonstrate the operation of a remote, multi-path system using Chirped Laser Dispersion Spectroscopy (CLaDS) for quantification of atmospheric methane concentrations over extended areas, a technology that shows potential for monitoring emissions from wetlands

Compressionism: A Theory of Mind Based on Data Compression

The theory of functionalism holds that mental states are constituted solely by the functional organisation of an implementing system. We propose that the specific mechanism supporting both intelligence and consciousness is data compression. Recent approaches to cognition and artificial intelligence, based on a branch of theoretical computer science known as algorithmic information theory (AIT), have proposed a computational view of induction, prediction, understanding and consciousness which is founded on this concept. Building on existing literature we propose the term ‘compressionism’ as a label to unite theories which recognise intelligent, cognisant systems as sophisticated data compressors. We show how data compression can shed light on information binding and offer a novel perspective on the hard problem of consciousness

Compressionism: A Theory of Mind Based on Data Compression

The theory of functionalism holds that mental states are constituted solely by the functional organisation of an implementing system. We propose that the specific mechanism supporting both intelligence and consciousness is data compression. Recent approaches to cognition and artificial intelligence, based on a branch of theoretical computer science known as algorithmic information theory (AIT), have proposed a computational view of induction, prediction, understanding and consciousness which is founded on this concept. Building on existing literature we propose the term ‘compressionism’ as a label to unite theories which recognise intelligent, cognisant systems as sophisticated data compressors. We show how data compression can shed light on information binding and offer a novel perspective on the hard problem of consciousness

Cooperative use of standoff and UAV sensors for CBRNE detection

ABSTRACT The defense of the US armed forces against chemical and biological (CB) attack is transitioning from a focus on standoff detection of these threats to the concept of Early Warning (EW). In this approach an array of dual-use and low-burden dedicated use sensor capabilities are used to replace longer-range single use sensors to detect a CB attack. In this paper we discuss the use of passive broadband thermal imaging to detect chemical vapor clouds as well as a developing suite of compact UAV-borne chemical and radiological sensors for the investigation of threats detected by these indirect approaches. The sensors include a colorimetric ammonia sensor, a chemical sensor based on ion mobility spectrometry, and a radiation detector based on gamma ray scintillation. The implementation and initial field tests of each of these sensor modalities is discussed and future plans for the further development of the capability is presented

Preservation of male fertility in patients undergoing pelvic irradiation

As the number of cancer survivors increases, so does the demand for preserving male fertility after radiation. It is important for healthcare providers to understand the pathophysiology of radiation-induced testicular injury, the techniques of fertility preservation both before and during radiation, and their role in counseling patients on the risks to their fertility and the means of mitigating these risks. Impaired spermatogenesis is a known testicular toxicity of radiation in both the acute and the late settings, as rapidly dividing spermatogonial germ cells are exquisitely sensitive to irradiation. The threshold for spermatogonial injury and subsequent impairment in spermatogenesis is ~ 0.1 Gy and the severity of gonadal injury is highly dose-dependent. Total doses < 4 Gy may allow for recovery of spermatogenesis and fertility potential, but with larger doses, recovery may be protracted or impossible. All patients undergoing gonadotoxic radiation therapy should be counseled on the possibility of future infertility, offered the opportunity for semen cryopreservation, and offered referral to a fertility specialist. In addition to this, every effort should be made to shield the testes (if not expected to contain tumor) during therapy

What's the point of elucidation?

In this article I examine three ways in which one might interpret Wittgenstein's Philosophical Investigations (PI). In a partial response to Hans-Johann Glock's article in this journal, I suggest that since publication PI has, broadly speaking, been interpreted in three ways: doctrinal; elucidatory; or therapeutic. The doctrinal interpretation is shown to be, at best, difficult to sustain textually. The elucidatory (standard) interpretation, though seemingly closer to the text, is shown both to implicate Wittgenstein in some unfortunate philosophical commitments and to face a problem of "motivation." I argue that, correctly understood, any attempt to elucidate in PI is undertaken only in pursuit of the therapeutic goal. I conclude by arguing that the therapeutic interpretation is the only interpretation that can adequately make sense of Wittgenstein's text as a whole and the metaphilosophical remarks in particular. Furthermore, it is the only interpretation that can demonstrate Wittgenstein's continued importance and relevance as a philosopher