Fast arithmetic computing with neural networks

The authors introduce a restricted model of a neuron which is more practical as a model of computation then the classical model of a neuron. The authors define a model of neural networks as a feedforward network of such neurons. Whereas any logic circuit of polynomial size (in n) that computes the product of two n-bit numbers requires unbounded delay, such computations can be done in a neural network with constant delay. The authors improve some known results by showing that the product of two n-bit numbers and sorting of n n-bit numbers can both be computed by a polynomial size neural network using only four unit delays, independent of n . Moreover, the weights of each threshold element in the neural networks require only O(log n)-bit (instead of n-bit) accuracy

Neural computation of arithmetic functions

A neuron is modeled as a linear threshold gate, and the network architecture considered is the layered feedforward network. It is shown how common arithmetic functions such as multiplication and sorting can be efficiently computed in a shallow neural network. Some known results are improved by showing that the product of two n-bit numbers and sorting of n n-bit numbers can be computed by a polynomial-size neural network using only four and five unit delays, respectively. Moreover, the weights of each threshold element in the neural networks require O(log n)-bit (instead of n -bit) accuracy. These results can be extended to more complicated functions such as multiple products, division, rational functions, and approximation of analytic functions

Genetic studies on cytoplasmic particles in Paramecium

The object of the investigation was to determine whether the metagon hypothesis applies to the system of genes and kappa particles in stock 51 killers, syngen 4, ot Paramecium aμrelia.Clones of genotype kk were derived from Kk (heterozygote) killers and samples of animals were studied at precisely known fissions (1-15 fissions after the change of genotype) with respect to ability to act as killers, resistance to killing, and presence of kappa. particles by microscopic examination.'While in general, the findings were not in conflict with the metagon hypothesis, evidence in direct support was lacking. Some discrepancies with previous findings by Gibson and Beale, Chao, and others, were observed, and were discussed

On the Power of Threshold Circuits with Small Weights

Linear threshold elements (LTEs) are the basic processing elements in artificial neural networks. An LTE computes a function that is a sign of a weighted sum of the input variables. The weights are arbitrary integers; actually they can be very big integers-exponential in the number of input variables. However, in practice, it is very difficult to implement big weights. So the natural question that one can ask is whether there is an efficient way to simulate a network of LTEs with big weights by a network of LTEs with small weights. We prove the following results: 1) every LTE with big weights can be simulated by a depth-3, polynomial size network of LTEs with small weights, 2) every depth-d polynomial size network of LTEs with big weights can be simulated by a depth-(2d+1), polynomial size network of LTEs with small weights. To prove these results, we use tools from harmonic analysis of Boolean functions. Our technique is quite general, it provides insights to some other problems. For example, we were able to improve the best known results on the depth of a network of threshold elements that computes the COMPARISON, ADDITION and PRODUCT of two n-bits numbers, and the MAXIMUM and the SORTING of n n-bit numbers

How the presentation of patient information and decision-support advisories influences opioid prescribing behavior: A simulation study

ObjectiveThe United States faces an opioid crisis. Integrating prescription drug monitoring programs into electronic health records offers promise to improve opioid prescribing practices. This study aimed to evaluate 2 different user interface designs for prescription drug monitoring program and electronic health record integration.Materials and MethodsTwenty-four resident physicians participated in a randomized controlled experiment using 4 simulated patient cases. In the conventional condition, prescription opioid histories were presented in tabular format, and computerized clinical decision support (CDS) was provided via interruptive modal dialogs (ie, pop-ups). The alternative condition featured a graphical opioid history, a cue to visit that history, and noninterruptive CDS. Two attending pain specialists judged prescription appropriateness.ResultsParticipants in the alternative condition wrote more appropriate prescriptions. When asked after the experiment, most participants stated that they preferred the alternative design to the conventional design.ConclusionsHow patient information and CDS are presented appears to have a significant influence on opioid prescribing behavior

The impact of sandwich class housing scheme on adjacent private properties

Thesis (B.Sc)--University of Hong Kong, 2006.published_or_final_versio

A comparison of four functional test in discriminating fallers from non-fallers in older people

Purpose : Which functional tests on mobility and balance can better screen older people at risk of falls is unclear. This study aims to compare the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Tinetti Mobility Score (TMS), Elderly Mobility Scale (EMS) and Timed Up and Go test (TUG) in discriminating fallers from non-fallers in older people. Method : This was a case-control study involving one rater who conducted a mobility and balance assessment on subjects using the four functional tests in random sequence. Subjects recruited included 17 and 22 older people with a history of single and multiple falls respectively from a public Falls Clinic, and 39 community-dwellers without fall history and whose age, sex and BMI matched those of the fallers. All subjects underwent the mobility and balance assessment within one day. Results : Single fallers performed better than multiple fallers in all four functional tests but were worse than non-fallers in the BBS, TMS and TUG. The BBS demonstrated the best discriminating ability, with high sensitivity and specificity. The BBS item \u27pick up an object from the floor\u27 was the best at screening fallers. Conclusion : BBS was the most powerful functional test of the four in discriminating fallers from non-faller

The modular production system (MPS): an alternate approach for control technology in design and technology

Control technology is a compulsory module for all design and technology student- teachers at the Hong Kong Institute of Education. During the class, student-teachers make use of the Microelectronics For All (MFA) Computer Module to assess eight digital input and output lines. The majority of school control languages are based on LOGO and BASIC, and although they are useful for developing mathematical concepts and teaching accepted programming techniques, their applications for real-time processing is limited. The very nature of these languages restricts them to sequential rather than multi-tasking events. This paper explores an alternate approach which employs simulation to real-life industrial production equipment in learning control technology. The rationale for using a Statement List, which is a form of control language will be firstly discussed. Secondly, the features of Modular Production System (MPS) will be introduced. Thirdly, the development, design and implementation of a processing station using MPS will be described. Finally, concluding remarks will be presented on the benefits and limitations of using such an approach in a teacher training context