Modal Form Research Articles

Relatio in Christian Wolffs Ontologie

Wolffs’ peculiar treatment of the notion of ‘relatio’ is situated in the Latin Ontologia within the section on the dependentia rerum, of which it is seen as a modal form. Yet, whereas dependentia reveals an asymmetrical structure, relatio is thought as fundamentally symmetrical (dependentia unius ad alterum). Moreover, Wolff defends a realistic ontology of relation instead of a merely semantic one: relations belong to things, altough not in an absolute manner, but rather in the sense that relations have in them a foundation in terms of a disposition.A further question concerns in general the status of Wolff’s ontology as mostly a relational ontology. It is demonstrated that the properties of being reveal a kind of ontological surplus which turns out to be a relational one.In the conclusions the problem of the notion of ‘relation’ is further discussed from the point of view of natural theology: it is here demonstrated that the relationship between God and creature can be considered, on the one hand, in ter...

A Modal Identification Algorithm Combining Blind Source Separation and State Space Realization

A modal identification algorithm is developed, combining techniques from Second Order Blind Source Separation (SOBSS) and State Space Realization (SSR) theory. In this hybrid algorithm, a set of correlation matrices is generated using time-shifted, analytic data and assembled into several Hankel matrices. Dissimilar left and right matrices are found, which diagonalize the set of nonhermetian Hankel matrices. The complex-valued modal matrix is obtained from this decomposition. The modal responses, modal auto-correlation functions and discrete-time plant matrix (in state space modal form) are subsequently identified. System eigenvalues are computed from the plant matrix to obtain the natural frequencies and modal fractions of critical damping. Joint Approximate Diagonalization (JAD) of the Hankel matrices enables the under determined (more modes than sensors) problem to be effectively treated without restrictions on the number of sensors required. Because the analytic signal is used, the redundant complex conjugate pairs are eliminated, reducing the system order (number of modes) to be identified half. This enables smaller Hankel matrix sizes and reduced computational effort. The modal auto-correlation functions provide an expedient means of screening out spurious computational modes or modes corresponding to noise sources, eliminating the need for a consistency diagram. In addition, the reduction in the number of modes enables the modal responses to be identified when there are at least as many sensors as independent (not including conjugate pairs) modes. A further benefit of the algorithm is that identification of dissimilar left and right diagonalizers preclude the need for windowing of the analytic data. The effectiveness of the new modal identification method is demonstrated using vibration data from a 6 DOF simulation, 4-story building simulation and the Heritage court tower building.

Scattered acoustic field above a grating of parallel rectangular cavities

The aim of this research project was to predict the sound pressure above a wall facing composed of N parallel rectangular cavities. The diffracted acoustic field is processed by generalizing the Kobayashi Potential (KP) method used for determining the electromagnetic field diffracted by a rectangular cavity set in a thick screen. This model enables the diffracted field to be expressed in modal form. Modal amplitudes are subsequently calculated using matrix equations obtained by enforcing boundary conditions. Solving these equations allows the determination of the total reflected acoustic field above the wall facing. This model was compared with experimental results obtained in a semi-anechoic room for a single cavity, a periodic array of three rectangular cavities and an aperiodic grating of nine rectangular cavities of different size and spacing. These facings were insonified by an incident spherical acoustic field, which was decomposed into plane waves. The validity of this model is supported by the agreement between the numerical and experimental results observed.

“That small and unsensible shape”: Visual Representations of the Euclidean Point in Sixteenth-Century Print

This paper probes the foundations and limits of visual representation in the sciences through a close reading of the diagrams that accompanied definitions of the geometric point in the first century of printed editions of Euclid’s Elements. I begin with the modal form for such diagrams of Euclid’s “small and unsensible shape,” showing how it incorporates a broad spectrum of conventions and practices related to the point’s philosophical and practical roles in the surrounding Euclidean geometry. I then explore the form’s several variations in order to consider the role of “mere representation” in geometric exegesis, and conclude by characterizing the curious relationship between things and their images and that relationship’s implications for understanding scientific knowledge and practice.

Efficacy of Multimodality Approach at Sudden Hearing Loss

Objective: The etiological spectrum of sudden hearing loss is ample and ambiguous. The combined form of different treatment modalities geared toward the hypothetical etiologies given at once must work better theoretically . This study is a trial to see whether addition of intratympanic steroid to systemic steroid and hyperbaric oyygen treatment works better or not. Method: Prospective randomized study in a tertiary referral hospital. Fifty-eight patients who presented with sudden hearing loss between 2008 and 2011 were enrolled into the study. Twenty patients who had received systemic steroid and hyperbaric oxygen composed group I while 38 patients who had received intratympanic steroid in addition to systemic steroid and hyperbaric oxygen composed group II. Results: Posttreatment hearing improvement was statistically significant in both groups in terms of pure tone average according to Siegel’s criteria ( P < .05). Treatment was successful for 55% of patients in group I and 63% in group II. Although there is an increase in success rate with the addition of intratympanic steroid, this was not statistically significant ( P > .05). Regarding profound hearing loss over 90 dB, there seems a strong statistically significant difference. Treatment didn’t work in group I for a total of 6 patients (0%) while addition of intratympanic steroid to the protocol yielded success for 6 patients over 12 (50%) in group II ( P < .05). Conclusion: Addition of intratympanic steroids to systemic steroid and hyperbaric oxygen yielded better results, but this was not statistically significant in general. However, intratympanic steroid injection seems beneficial for patients with profound sudden hearing loss.

The Surprising Success of Multiparty Presidentialism

The common wisdom is that when presidential political systems coincide with multiparty systems the result is gridlock; parties squabble and presidents are not able to stitch together the majorities they need to move forward with the business of governing. Latin America’s presidential systems were supposed to have been a disaster. Contrary to the conventional wisdom, however, presidentialism and multipartism seem to work rather well. E pur se muove , to quote Galileo. Over the last decade or so, multiparty presidentialism has become the modal form of presidential democracy, especially in Latin America. Once thought to be a precursor of democratic breakdowns, no compelling explanations have emerged to account for its success in countries such as Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay. The surprising sustainability of coalition-based presidentialism demands an explanation, yet political scientists are ill-equipped to answer this puzzle.

Modal decomposition and normal form for hydrodynamic flows: Examples from cellular flame patterns

Spatio-temporal complexity of hydrodynamic flows may be reduced through modal decomposition, especially in systems with symmetries. The symmetries of the most significant modes can then be used to deduce normal form equations associated with the observed state. In turn, the normal form equations can be used to deduce bifurcations to and from the given state. We illustrate this process using two spatio-temporal cellular states on a circular flame front. The first example contains a pair of uniformly rotating cells. Principle component analysis shows that two coherent structures capture most of the dynamics and suggests that the state is a broken-parity traveling mode. Other experimentally observed states, such as modulated rotating states and a heteroclinic cycle between two spatially orthonormal states result from secondary bifurcations from the rotating state. The second example, referred to as the hopping mode, visually appears to have significantly more complicated dynamics. However, modal decomposition shows that it consists of two parity broken states moving at different angular velocities. The corresponding normal form contains a codimension-three steady-state bifurcation leading to a homoclinic cycle whose spatio-temporal characteristics are similar to those of hopping states. We use these examples to propose a methodology to combine coherent structures that form a single, possibly time-dependent entity which we refer to as a generalized coherent structure. The process can reduce the number of entities needed to expand complex spatio-temporal states. The paper is dedicated to the memory of Michael Gorman, whose experiments on cellular flame fronts and relentless demands for better theoretical understanding of the patterns motivated the study.

Development of Integrated Simulation Tool for Jitter Analysis

Pointing stability of high precision observation satellites must satisfy the stringent requirements to perform at a designed level. As even a small vibrational disturbance can result in severe degradation of the optical performance, the effects of inorbit vibrational environment on the performance of optical payload must be predicted and analyzed in the design phase in order to ensure that the requirements imposed on the payload are fully met. In this paper, an integrated framework for the evaluation of the performance of optical payloads is developed. The developed simulation tool comprises of the reaction wheel induced disturbance model, state space model of a structure in modal form and Cassegrain reflector model. The performance degradation of the optical system due to jitter is expressed by using modulation transfer function (MTF) and image simulation. Moreover, vibration isolator model is also added to show the effectiveness of using a vibration isolator for the elimination of the effects of jitter in the acquisition of an image.

Dynamic behavior of an axially functionally graded beam under action of a moving harmonic load

In the present study, linear dynamic analysis of an axially functionally graded (AFG) beam with simply-supported edges due to a moving harmonic load has been analyzed by using Euler–Bernoulli beam theory. Elasticity modulus and mass density of the beam vary continuously in the axial direction of the beam according to a power–law form. The equation of motion is derived by using Lagrange’s equations. The unknown functions denoting the transverse deflections of the AFG beam is expressed in modal form, and Newmark method is employed to find the dynamic responses of AFG beam. In this study, the influences of material distribution, velocity of the moving load and excitation frequency on the dynamic response of the beam are investigated. In order to establish the accuracy of the present formulation and results, the first three free vibration frequencies are obtained, and compared with the published results available in the literature. Good agreement is observed. Results indicate that the above-mentioned effects play a very important role on the dynamic responses of the beam, and it is believed that new results are presented for non-linear dynamics of FG beams under moving loads which are of interest to the scientific and engineering community in the area of FGM structures.

Obesity and human biology: Toward a global perspective

Overweight bodies will soon be the modal human form. In this special issue of American Journal of Human Biology, authors use varied approaches to examine the expansion of obesity globally, particularly what shape variability in people's vulnerability to weight gain and its negative effects. The contributions together highlight how complex pathways between biology and health related to excess weight are strongly medicated, at multiple levels, by both socio-ecological context and life history. A systems approach, which can place human biological and biocultural variation iteratively within the broader contexts of developing and globalizing adiposity, will be a useful next step to informing effective prevention and intervention efforts.

Are Modal Auxiliaries in Malaysian English Language Textbooks in Line with Their Usage in Real Language?

Based on the discrepancies found in many Malaysian English language textbooks, a detailed analysis on the way modal auxiliary verb forms and their semantic functions were introduced and presented in texts and exercises in five Malaysian textbooks was done. For that to be achieved, a qualitative page-by-page content analysis was applied. From the discussion of the grammatical progression in the textbooks, we can see that the presentation of modal auxiliaries in Malaysian English language textbooks is not fully in accordance with their use in natural English. Besides that, although recycling modal auxiliaries throughout different levels in order for the students to fully grasp their various meanings is advised by many linguists, we could see that Malaysian textbook authors used only a few of the same modals to express repetitive semantic functions. Accordingly, changes are recommended in order to bring the English taught in textbooks into accordance with real-life language use.

The Analysis Of The Songs Get Involved In The 6.7.8. Class Music Text Books In Terms Of Musicial Purposes

The Purpose of this study is to determine the musical features, subjects, the tonal and modal forms, the kinds (composition, anonymous etc.) and repated or not of the songs in the Music text books of 2011-2012 academic year. At the end of the study it’s revealed that to print the books by Ministry of Education is a correct application. It was seen that the songs are the same of the songs which had been in the books of 80’ and 90’s. It is o bserved that the tonal and modal songs had place in the books in a balanced way. Most of the songs are composed monophthongly. It is seen that the polyphonic songs are too low. Love, music and nature subjects highest- ly used at songs. Patriotism, heroism a nd Ataturk follows these songs

Zirkumstantielle Modalität im Bairischen: das verbale Präfix der-

Drawing on the results of a questionnaire administered in the region between and around Altotting and Trostberg in south-eastern Bavaria, this contribution focuses on the Bavarian verbal prefix der-, particularly on its syntactic and semantic characteristics. The investigation reveals that a distinction needs to be drawn between a specifically Bavarian use of der- and one that corresponds to the Standard German usage of the prefix. In syntactic terms, the specifically Bavarian der- is characterized by its need for a direct object and an agentive, intentional subject; semantically it can be described as a narrow, goal-directed path. The characteristic modal affinity of verbs which take the der- prefix can be attributed to the interaction of these traits. This affinity is apparent not just in the frequent combination of der- verbs with konnen, but also in the modal interpretation of such verbs, possible even in the absence of a modal operator. The modal interpretation of derverbs is, however, confined to a particular form of dynamic modality - namely circumstantial modality, i.e., the ability, within specific circumstances, of a subject to successfully execute a deed or action up to a defined end point.

Free vibration of an axially functionally graded pile with pinned ends embedded in Winkler-Pasternak elastic medium

In the present study, free vibration of an axially functionally graded (AFG) pile embedded in Winkler-Pasternak elastic foundation is analyzed within the framework of the Euler-Bernoulli beam theory. The material properties of the pile vary continuously in the axial direction according to the power-law form. The frequency equation is obtained by using Lagrange's equations. The unknown functions denoting the transverse deflections of the AFG pile is expressed in modal form. In this study, the effects of material variations, the parameters of the elastic foundation on the fundamental frequencies are examined. It is believed that the tabulated results will be a reference with which other researchers can compare their results.

On Volume Based 3D Display Techniques

In the case of certain applications in which a need exists to visualize and interact with voluminous data sets and complex 3-D geometrical models, the conventional computer interface inhibits key human-computer interaction processes. Here, several deficiencies of the standard interface are identified with emphasis on a failure to make optimal use of the complex human sensory systems. Various general forms of interaction modality are outlined together with several types of image space. This provides a basis for brief discussion of emerging ‘creative’ 3-D display systems with emphasis on computational holography, varifocal techniques, and volumetric systems.

Meta-media and meta-communication - Revisiting the concept of genre in the digital media environment

As analytical categories, genres have traditionally occupied a middle ground – between media as technologies and institutions, on the one hand, and discourses as material and modal forms of expression and interaction, on the other. With digitalization, the very concept of genre is in doubt: is the world wide web, Facebook, or the writing on its walls the genre? This article situat es genre in relation to the concepts of meta-media and meta-communication. First, I characterize the computer and the internet as metamedia, incorporating previous genres of embodied communication as well as mass communication. Second, I describe genres as a variety of meta-communication, which serves to configure communication in the first place. In conclusion, I discuss whether and how a category of meta-genres might help to account for some distinctive features of the digital media environment.

Enhanced Processing Fluency Leads to Biases in Source Memory

The present experiments were conducted to determine whether processing fluency affects source memory decisions. In the first three experiments, participants decided whether test items appeared in the same sensory modality (Experiments 1A, 1B) or perceptual form (font type, Experiment 2) at study and test. The results were consistent across the three studies and showed that perceptual priming leads to an increase in reports that stimuli were presented in the same sensory or perceptual form during the study and test phase. Experiment 3 showed that conceptual fluency affects source attributions in much the same way as perceptual fluency, and Experiment 4 showed that fluency is associated with a subjective experience of familiarity even when it might serve as a basis for source inference. These results are consistent with recent neuropsychological and neuroimaging evidence that familiarity-based processes contribute to source memory decisions under some circumstances, such as when items and contexts are unitized rather than merely bound together at encoding.

Transient thermoelastic waves in an anisotropic hollow cylinder due to localized heating

This paper presents a theoretical study of transient ultrasonic guided waves generated by concentrated heating of the outer surface of an infinite anisotropic hollow circular cylinder. Generalized thermoelastic theory proposed by Lord and Shulman is adopted to model the dynamic thermoelastic behavior of the cylinder. The concentrated heat source model used is to represent heating due to a pulsed laser beam, which is focused on the outer surface of the cylinder. A semi-analytical finite element (SAFE) method is employed to evaluate guided wave modes in the cylinder. Using integral transform techniques, the modal wave forms are obtained in frequency and wave number domains. Time histories of the propagating modes are then calculated by applying inverse Fourier transformation in the time domain. Numerical results showing the dispersion curves for the group velocities of the propagating modes and transient radial displacements are presented. For this purpose it is assumed that the cylinder is made of transversely isotropic silicon nitride (Si 3N 4). Attention is focused on the propagation characteristics of longitudinal and flexural modes separately.

Developing a Nonendoscopic Screening Test for Barrett‘s Esophagus

Barrett's esophagus (BE) arises as a complication of chronic gastro-esophageal reflux disease and is the precursor lesion for esophageal adenocarcinoma. The prevalence of esophageal adenocarcinoma has been increasing in Western countries and the overall prognosis from this cancer remains dismal. Surveillance for BE is highly controversial since although early cancer detection through surveillance programs benefits individuals, surveillance has not been proven to reduce population mortality from the disease. One factor contributing to this apparent paradox is that an estimated >80% cases of BE are undiagnosed and, therefore, do not have the benefit of surveillance. Some form of screening modality is required to achieve more comprehensive detection of BE, which in turn, may lead to early detection of cancerous lesions and early intervention in order to reduce progression to invasive and symptomatic cancer. The advent of endoscopic therapy makes this paradigm attractive. A number of methods could be considered for screening. These include a nonendoscopic sampling method using a Cytosponge that needs to be coupled with a biomarker to obtain required levels of sensitivity and specificity. For screening to be recommended consideration needs to be given to the point of delivery, cost and acceptability to patients.

Cell phone usage among adolescents in Uganda: acceptability for relaying health information

The increase in cell phone use has manifested a growing interest in using this technology for health promotion. The portability and 'always on' features of the cell phone, along with increasing capability for the devices to carry and transfer data suggest that they will reach more people than computers and the Internet in coming years. Self-reported quantitative survey data from 1503 secondary school students in Mbarara, Uganda collected in 2008-2009 suggest that 27% currently have cell phones and about half (51%) of all students and 61% of those who owned a cell phone believe that they would access a text messaging-based HIV prevention program if it were available. Other forms of program delivery modality (e.g. Internet, religious organizations, schools) were preferred to text messaging however. We are in need of effective HIV prevention programs that can reach large audiences at low cost and are culturally relevant for the East African context. Researchers are encouraged to consider translation of effective HIV prevention programs for cell phone delivery in Africa.