Showing papers on "Character (mathematics) published in 2000"

Ecological Character Displacement in Adaptive Radiation

Abstract: I give an overview of the observational and experimental evidence for ecological character displacement in adaptive radiation. Sixty‐one published cases of character displacement involving closely related species (congeners) make up the observational data set. All cases involve divergence, even though parallel and convergent displacement are theoretically possible. Character ratios in sympatry were greatest when displacement was symmetric (mean 1.54) and least when asymmetric (mean 1.29), perhaps because the most symmetric resource distributions are also the broadest. Carnivores are vastly overrepresented in the data compared with other trophic groups, with herbivores the next most common category. I consider five hypotheses to explain this pattern, including the possibility that the likelihood of divergence via competition depends on position in food webs. Overall, the quality and completeness of observational data has improved in recent years, as judged by the extent to which individual cases ...

The Rush Hour: The Character of Leisure Time and Gender Equity

Abstract: The distribution of leisure time between the genders is contested. Becker's theory of specialization suggests that there is an underlying gender equity in leisure, while the competing view suggests that women are now bearing a "dual burden" as both family providers and family carers. Using indicators of the quantity and quality of leisure drawn from the Multinational Time Budget Data Archive and the Australian Time Use Survey, we find some support for both views. Although men and women have similar quantities of free time; when the character of leisure is considered the gap between genders reemerges.

Mixing Rules with Complex Dielectric Coefficients

Abstract: This article discusses the determination of effective dielectric properties of hetereogeneous materials, in particular media with lossy constituents that have complex permittivity parameters. Several different accepted mixing rules are presented and the effects of the structure and internal geometry of the mixture on the effective permittivity are illustrated. Special attention is paid to phenomena that the mixing process causes in the character of the macroscopic dielectric response of the mixture when the losses of one or several of the components are high or when there is a strong dielectric contrast between the component permittivities.

History repeats itself, but how? City character, urban tradition, and the accomplishment of place

Abstract: This study shows how places, and by implication other societal units as well, achieve and reproduce distinctiveness. It does this by specifying how actors in two California urban areas, over approximately 100 years, responded differently to the same exogenous forces. Each place is examined to determine how unlike elements conjoin to produce a particular character at any given moment and how this character travels through time to constitute a local tradition. Borrowing from advances in analyses of structure and agency, this study displays character and tradition as accomplished interaction and helps make an elusive process empirically evident and accessible for study

Data entry apparatus having a limited number of character keys and method

Abstract: A data entry apparatus (10) receives a first character key from a keypad (12). A set of characters associated with the first character key is displayed. A second character key from the keypad (12) is received, wherein a second set of characters is associated with the second character key. A character from the first set of characters is combined with a character from the second set of characters. A set of alternative n-grams is displayed, derived from the step of combining, in descending order based on a probability of frequency of use in a given language. When an alternative n-gram is detected as being actively highlighted, the n-gram is locked to create a locked n-gram and characters associated with subsequent character keys vary in their combinations with respect to the locked n-gram.

Speech synthesis with prosodic model data and accent type

Abstract: A speech synthesizing method includes determining the accent type of the input character string, selecting the prosodic model data from a prosody dictionary for storing typical ones of the prosodic models representing the prosodic information for the character strings in a word dictionary, based on the input character string and the accent type, transforming the prosodic information of the prosodic model when the character string of the selected prosodic model is not coincident with the input character string, selecting the waveform data corresponding to each character of the input character string from a waveform dictionary, based on the prosodic model data after transformation, and connecting the selected waveform data with each other. Therefore, a difference between an input character string and a character string stored in a dictionary is absorbed, then it is possible to synthesize a natural voice.

Method, system and media for entering data in a personal computing device

Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention a user can rapidly enter and search for data, such as text, using a data entry system by entering one or more characters on a digital keyboard with a pointing device. With the digital keyboard the user can create words, phrases and other character sequences. As the user enters a character sequence, a mechanism for character prediction visually informs the user of which set of characters on the digital keyboard are most likely to have the character that the user wishes to next enter as part of the text. In another aspect of the present invention, as the user forms a character sequence (partial text entry), the character sequence is used to search a dictionary for a set of completion candidates that begin with the character sequence. The data entry system retrieves completion candidates from the dictionary by determining which completion candidates in the dictionary are more likely to be the ones that the user is attempting to type. A rapid navigation system provides for enhanced navigation and retrieval of completion candidates from the dictionary.

New bounds for Gauss sums derived from KTH powers, and for Heilbronn's exponential sum

Abstract: where p is prime, e(x) = exp(2πix), and ep(x) = e(x/p). In each case we shall assume that p | / a unless the contrary is explicitly stated. Gauss sums arise in investigations into Waring’s problem, and other additive problems involving k-th powers. Although they are amongst the simplest complete exponential sums, the question as to their true order of magnitude is far from being resolved. We remark at the outset that if (k, p− 1) = k0, then Gp(a, k) = Gp(a, k0). Thus it suffices to suppose, as indeed we shall, that k|p− 1. When p | / a the trivial bound for G(a) states that |G(a)| ≤ p. The next simplest estimate takes the form |G(a)| ≤ (k − 1)√p. (1) This may be obtained by writing G(a) in terms of the character Gauss sum as

Comparative analyses for adaptive radiations.

Abstract: Biologists generally agree that most morphological variation between closely related species is adaptive. The most common method of comparative analysis to test for co-evolved character variation is based on a Brownian-motion model of character evolution. If we are to test for the evolution of character covariation, and we believe that characters have evolved adaptively to fill niches during an adaptive radiation, then it is appropriate to employ appropriate models for character evolution. We show here that under several models of adaptive character evolution and coevolution during an adaptive radiation, which result in closely related species being more similar to each other than to more distantly related species, cross-species analyses are statistically more appropriate than contrast analyses. If the evolution of some traits fits the Brownian-motion model, while others evolve to fill niches during an adaptive radiation, it might be necessary to identify the number of relevant niche dimensions and the modes of character evolution before deciding on appropriate statistical procedures. Alternatively, maximumlikelihood procedures might be used to determine appropriate transformations of phylogenetic branch lengths that accord with particular models of character evolution.

System and method for mapping multiple identical consecutive keystrokes to replacement characters

Abstract: A computer implemented method (100) for allowing the entry of text in any number of languages using any keyboard (107) chosen by the user. The computer implemented method (100) monitors a user's keystrokes detecting the entry of multiple identical consecutive keystrokes of any diacritical character in a predefined set of characters, then maps the keystrokes to replacement character. A diacritical character is a character with diacritical variations that change the sound or accent of that character. A predefined set of characters is that set of characters defined as the characters in a predefined or selected language that have diacritical variations. Thus, one multiple identical consecutive keystrokes of any key are detected, the method determines whether the multiple keystrokes are of a diacritical character or whether they are some other characters. If they are of a diacritical character, then the method maps the multiple keystrokes to a replacement character that is distinct from the diacritical character, otherwise, normal keystroke processing continues.

Exhaustion of morphologic character states among fossil taxa

Abstract: Frequencies of new character state derivations are analyzed for 56 fossil taxa. The hypothesis that new character states are added continuously throughout clade history can be rejected for 48 of these clades. Two alternative explanations are considered: finite states and ordered states. The former hypothesizes a limited number of states available to each character and is tested using rarefaction equations. The latter hypothesizes that there are limited possible descendant morphologies for any state, even if the character has infinite potential states. This is tested using power functions. The finite states hypothesis explains states: steps relationships significantly better than does the ordered states hypothesis in 14 cases; the converse is true for 14 other cases. Under either hypothesis, trilobite clades show appreciably more homoplasty after the same numbers of steps than do molluscs, echinoderms, or vertebrates. The prevalence of the exhaustion pattern among different taxonomic groups implies that worker biases are not to blame and instead implicates biological explanations such as intrinsic constraints or persistent selective trends. Regardless of the source of increased homoplasy, clades appear to exhaust their available character spaces. Nearly all examined taxa show significant increases in proportions of incompatible character pairs (i.e., those necessarily implying homoplasy) as progressively younger taxa are added to character matrices. Thus, a deterioration of hierarchical structure accompanies character state exhaustion. Exhaustion has several implications: (1) the basic premise of cladistic analyses (i.e., that maximum congruence reflects homology rather than homoplasy) becomes increasingly less sound as clades age; (2) sampling high proportions of taxa probably is needed for congruence to discern homoplasy from homology; (3) stratigraphic data might be necessary to discern congruent homoplasy from congruent homology; and (4) in many cases, character states appear to have evolved in ordered patterns.

Tell Me a Story: An evaluation of a literature-based character education programme

Abstract: This article reports the results of an evaluation of a popular literature-based character education programme. The sample consisted of 965 first to sixth graders at two geographically remote school districts in the United States. A quasi-experimental research design was utilised. It was found that the curriculum had a positive effect on cognitive outcomes, but more mixed results were found on affective and behavioural outcomes. Regression analyses on selected classroom dimensions found that an emphasis on matters of character throughout the curriculum contributed greatly to achieving character outcomes. Finally, the important role of theory in the development and improvement of character education programmes is discussed. The lack of an explicit theoretical perspective for this and other character education curricula was noted, and the implications for interpreting research and building effective programmes was discussed.

Chinese language inputting and converting processing device and method, and recording medium

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To efficiently obtain a desired KANJI (Chinese character) by reducing an inputting burden in the case of performing Pin-yin input by a normal Pin-yin system. SOLUTION: When a character string expressing the reading of the KANJI of Chinese language is inputted through an input part 21, an accuracy checking processing part 25 checks whether or not the inputted character string can stand up as Pin-yin. With the timing of detecting that the inputted character string cannot stand up as Pin-yin, a prediction processing part 27 starts prediction processing to retrieve a Chinese dictionary 24 based on character strings inputted until just before then to predict a character string as Pin-yin including the inputted character string. Dictionary retrieval is carried out with this Pin-yin character string (predicted candidate) as the input of a dictionary retrieving part 23 and the candidate of the KANJI obtained by the dictionary retrieval is presented to a user by an output part 28.

Geochemical character and tectonic environment of Neotethyan ophiolitic fragments and metabasites in the Central Anatolian Crystalline Complex, Turkey

Abstract: Abstract The Central Anatolian Crystalline Complex (CACC) or Kırşehir Block is part of the metamorphosed leading edge of the Tauride-Anatolide Carbonate Platform. It contains oceanic remnants derived from the Neotethys Ocean (İzmir-Ankara-Erzincan branch) which separate it from the Sakarya microcontinent. Two tectonic units are distinguished: an amphibolite facies Mesozoic ‘basement’, dominated by platform marbles, over which is thrust a younger fragmented Upper Cretaceous ophiolite sequence. Three metabasite horizons were sampled to reconstruct the development of the oceanic components: (1) fragmented Upper Cretaceous (90-85 Ma) stratiform ophiolitic members comprising gabbros, sheeted dykes, basalt lavas and pelagic sediments thrust over all other units; (2) a tectonised admixture of basite, ultramafic and felsic blocks in an ophiolitic mélange (Upper Cretaceous matrix) thrust over the basement metamorphic rocks; and (3) amphibolites concordant with ‘basement’ marbles and minor pelagics of the largely (?)Triassic Kaleboynu Formation in the lower part of the carbonate platform. Metabasalts and metagabbros from isolated fragments of the stratiform ophiolites form geochemically coherent groups and indicate the influence of a subduction component during their development. It is considered that the suprasubduction zone ophiolites record the association of a tholeiitic arc and an adjacent back-arc basin with more mid-ocean ridge basalt (MORB)-like compositions. Metabasite blocks within the tectonised ophiolitic mélange slice are MORB like, together with minor ocean island basalt (OIB) and island arc basalts, and may be tectonically related to ophiolitic units within the accretionary wedge of the Ankara Mélange. Concordant amphibolites of the Kaleboynu Formation are largely OIB types and reflect an early ensialic rifting stage of the Tauride-Anatolide Carbonate Platform. Small ocean basins also developed at this time, as recorded by the presence of MORB and associated pelagics. The CACC block, together with parts of the Ankara Mélange, are considered to represent oceanic lithosphere (comprising both early spreading centre and latter subduction-influenced crust) and continental carbonate platform that were subsequently ejected from an accretionary-subduction complex on collision with the Sakarya microcontinent.

Large character sums

Abstract: Assuming the Generalized Riemann Hypothesis, the authors study when a character sum over all n infinity and q -> infinity (q is the size of the finite field).

Entropic Measures of Bond Multiplicity from the Information Theory

Abstract: The entropic character of the bond multiplicity concept of chemistry is explored within the information theory. The probability schemes of finding a single and two electrons on specified atoms are ...

Character Expansions, Itzykson-Zuber Integrals, and the QCD Partition Function

Abstract: A combinatorial formula to generate U(N) character expansions is presented. It is shown that the resulting character expansion formulas greatly simplify a number of problems where integrals over the group manifolds need to be calculated. Several examples are given, including direct and very quick calculations of the Itzykson-Zuber integral and the finite volume effective partition function of QCD in the sector with a given topological charge.

Connection-fighting type game machine and connection-fighting type game method

Abstract: A connection-fighting type game machine and a connection-fighting type game method enable game character progression in an independent use state, or in a connected-fighting use state. The connection-fighting type liquid crystal game machine can be used independently, thereby causing a built-in character to grow according to input information from an operation input section that stores growth degree information of the grown character. The game machine may also be connected to another game machine of the same kind. An outcome processing section reads out the growth degree information of the characters stored in the respective game machines, and then causes them to fight in a predetermined fighting manner. A growth degree changing processing section improves the growth degree of the character that has gained a victory, performs a growth degree changing processing by leaving as it is or lowering the growth degree of the character that has suffered a defeat. The growth degree information of the characters for the respective machines is stored in respective storing sections.

Voice-enabled directory look-up based on recognized spoken initial characters

Abstract: A novel voice-enabled directory look-up system is disclosed. In one embodiment, an operator reads the first few characters from each of the first and last names of a mail addressee. The system captures the speech as an audio signal, which is parsed into character position segments. The system determines one or more candidate characters that might have resulted in the audio signal for each character position segment. The system then expands the list of candidate characters for at least one character position to include one or more characters that sound like the original candidate characters for that character position. The candidate characters for the respective character positions are composed into a regular expression, which is applied using an inexact string matching look-up routine to a directory of records. Records with the best matches are returned in a menu for the operator. The operator selects the desired record from the menu. In another embodiment, an operator reads aloud the thousands and hundreds digits of the street number and the first three letters of the street name from a mail piece. A voice engine parses and decodes the speech into candidate characters for each character position. The system selects alternative characters that sound similar to candidate characters in a given character position. An inexact string matching routine retrieves records from a carrier route directory that match either a candidate character or an alternative character in each position of each data field.

Method for animating 3-D computer generated characters

Abstract: A character animation system translates high-level commands from an external application into motions and deformations of a character model. The character animations are (1) composed in real-time from a sequence of basic actions and expressions, (2) calculated based on the desired end position and orientation of a hand or other body part, or (3) are generated randomly to simulate natural fidgets of the human body. In each case, the character animation system assures (1) that each action blends naturally with the succeeding action, (2) that collisions between body parts are avoided, and (3) that facial expressions are coordinated in parallel with the actions.

The role of phonological codes in integrating information across saccadic eye movements in Chinese character identification.

Abstract: Prior research has generally assumed either that phonological codes do not contribute to Chinese character identification or that they do so only through a look-up process at the character level. In 3 experiments, a homophone seen parafoveally aided the identification of a target character that was fixated following an eye movement to the preview location. Moreover, high-frequency phonetically regular characters were named faster than high-frequency, phonetically irregular characters. Thus, both lexical and sublexical phonological codes of Chinese characters are involved early in the process of character identification. Orthographic information from the preview was also used in character identification, as orthographically similar previews facilitated target identification as well. The evidence for the extraction of semantic information from parafoveal previews was mixed, as synonym previews facilitated in Experiment 2 but not in Experiment 1.

Interactive character system

Abstract: An interactive character system that includes one or more toy characters and an environment, such as a theme park. Each toy character has one or more one or more electronic signal receivers, and an electronic system. The electronic system is structured to produce oral communication and has a programmable memory structured to store software. The software is structured to interact with the electronic signals and to cause the electronic system to produce the oral communication. The environment has one or more environmental electronic signal transmitters disposed therein. The toy character, one or more one or more electronic signal receivers interact with the one or more environmental electronic signal transmitters to cause the toy character electronic system to produce the oral communication.

Video game device, character growth control method for video game and readable storage medium storing growth control program

Abstract: A video game device of this invention comprises a speech/action storage device for storing contents of various speeches and actions of a leader character to be given to a main character as an ability growth object; an ability value updating device for successively updating an ability value of the main character according to the execution result of the content of the speech/action; a parameter storage device for storing an enthusiasm parameter which is set to be a positive value for each training-related speech/action and a negative value for any other speech/action; an enthusiasm parameter adding device for adding a set value to a present enthusiasm parameter given to the main character every time the speech/action is executed; a reliability degree calculating means for calculating a reliability degree between the main character and the leader character; and a judging device for judging a successful growth of the main character.

Some simple groups which are determined by the set of their character degrees I

Abstract: The following conjecture is studied. Let $G$ be a simple nonabelian group. If $H$ is any group which has the same set of character degrees as $G$, then $H \cong G \times A$, where $A$ is abelian. In the present paper this is proved if $G$ is a Suzuki group on some $SL(2,2^{f})$.

Live performance control of computer graphic characters

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for performing a computer graphic character live in a manner homologous to a live puppetry performance. Character representation information is created and stored (302) using a first computer. Performer movement information is received at the first computer from a manual input device (304) that receives live manual manipulations and converts the manipulations into the performer movement information. Character motion information is created and stored based on combining the performer movement information with the character representation information (306). The character motion information is communicated (308) in real time to a second computer. The second computer converts the character motion information into movements of a computer graphic character, which is displayed substantially synchronized to the live manual manipulations (310). Control objects define elements of the manual input device. Actuators define movable elements of the computer graphic character. Expression objects tie controls to actuators and may be used to develop and store complex character expressions. The system may also drive robotic or electromechanically actuated puppet creatures.