From Machine and Tape to Structure and Function: Formulation of a Reflexively Computing System

2006 ◽  
Vol 12 (4) ◽  
pp. 487-512 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chris Salzberg
Keyword(s):  
Structure Function ◽  
Computing System ◽  
Structure And Function ◽  
Structural Constraints ◽  
Static Information ◽  
Biochemical Systems ◽  
Uniform Medium ◽  
Simple Mapping ◽  
Function Relationship ◽  
And Function

The relationship between structure and function is explored via a system of labeled directed graph structures upon which a single elementary read/write rule is applied locally. Boundaries between static (information-carrying) and active (information-processing) objects, imposed by mandate of the rules or physics in earlier models, emerge instead as a result of a structure-function dynamic that is reflexive: objects may operate directly on their own structure. A representation of an arbitrary Turing machine is reproduced in terms of structural constraints by means of a simple mapping from tape squares and machine states to a uniform medium of nodes and links, establishing computation universality. Exploiting flexibility of the formulation, examples of other unconventional “self-computing” structures are demonstrated. A straightforward representation of a kinematic machine system based on the model devised by Laing is also reproduced in detail. Implications of the findings are discussed in terms of their relation to other formal models of computation and construction. It is argued that reflexivity of the structure-function relationship is a critical informational dynamic in biochemical systems, overlooked in previous models but well captured by the proposed formulation.

Structure, Function, and Tort Law

2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 31-79
Author(s):  
Dan Priel
Keyword(s):  
Structure Function ◽  
Tort Law ◽  
Structure And Function ◽  
Vicarious Liability ◽  
Causal Uncertainty ◽  
Popular View ◽  
And Function

AbstractA popular view among tort theorists is that an explanation of tort law must take account its “structure,” since this structure constitutes the law’s “self-understanding.” This view is used to both criticize competing functional accounts of tort law, especially economic ones, that are said to ignore tort law’s structure, and, more constructively, as a basis for explaining various tort doctrines. In this essay, I consider this argument closely and conclude that it is faulty. To be valid, one needs a non-question begging way of identifying the essence of tort law. I argue that law’s “self-understanding” can only make sense if it means the understanding of certain people. Examining those, I conclude that the claim of structuralists is false, for there are many people who take its function to be central. I then further show that if one wishes to understand the development of tort law’s doctrine one must take both structure and function into account. I demonstrate this claim by examining the development of the doctrine dealing with causal uncertainty and vicarious liability.

scholarly journals Network-based approaches to quantify multicellular development

2017 ◽  
Vol 14 (135) ◽  
pp. 20170484 ◽  
Author(s):  
Matthew D. B. Jackson ◽  
Salva Duran-Nebreda ◽  
George W. Bassel
Keyword(s):  
Structure Function ◽  
Spatial Relations ◽  
Higher Order ◽  
Cellular Interaction ◽  
Cellular Organization ◽  
Multicellular Development ◽  
Cell Organization ◽  
Function Relationship ◽  
And Function ◽  
The Relationship

Multicellularity and cellular cooperation confer novel functions on organs following a structure–function relationship. How regulated cell migration, division and differentiation events generate cellular arrangements has been investigated, providing insight into the regulation of genetically encoded patterning processes. Much less is known about the higher-order properties of cellular organization within organs, and how their functional coordination through global spatial relations shape and constrain organ function. Key questions to be addressed include: why are cells organized in the way they are? What is the significance of the patterns of cellular organization selected for by evolution? What other configurations are possible? These may be addressed through a combination of global cellular interaction mapping and network science to uncover the relationship between organ structure and function. Using this approach, global cellular organization can be discretized and analysed, providing a quantitative framework to explore developmental processes. Each of the local and global properties of integrated multicellular systems can be analysed and compared across different tissues and models in discrete terms. Advances in high-resolution microscopy and image analysis continue to make cellular interaction mapping possible in an increasing variety of biological systems and tissues, broadening the further potential application of this approach. Understanding the higher-order properties of complex cellular assemblies provides the opportunity to explore the evolution and constraints of cell organization, establishing structure–function relationships that can guide future organ design.

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