OCR



The Code Project has an interesting article on the implementation of a simplified neural network for OCR (optical character recognition).



The concept behind a neural network is tantalizing: construct a series of simulated neurons -- actually, virtual circuits -- connected to one another in patterns that mimic a very simplified "brain". Then, train the network by feeding it input and judging its output. Reward correct results by changing the weights that are used to feed connection signals.



Creating Optical Character Recognition (OCR) applications using Neural Networks



More on Neural Nets: Back Propagation



A proof of the Back Propagation Weight Update Rule exists here.



Prematurely Dead



Plastic has an interesting article and cogent discussion on Pro Wrestling's plethora of deaths. I've heard that about 65 current and former pro wrestlers have died in recent years. Abuse of steroids, HGH, pain-killers and other drugs would appear to be the primary culprit.



Every other week, it seems that another pro wrestler has dropped dead at a young age. Mike Lockwood, known professionally as Mad Mikey and Crash Holly, is the latest casualty, but there's a long list of premature deaths which include Road Warrior Hawk, Ravishing Rick Rude, "Mr. Perfect" Curt Hennig, Davey Boy Smith, Brian Pillman, Yokozuna, Terry Gordy, Rocco Rock, Louie Spicoli, Miss Elizabeth, Eddie Gilbert, Art Barr, and Kerry Von Erich. Sadly, this list is far from complete," a somber KJames199 writes. "While Owen Hart died in the ring when a stunt went wrong and the Junkyard Dog perished in an auto accident, quite a few of the deaths can be tied to drug use. Many wrestlers use steroids and/or Human Growth Hormone (HGH) to look like they do, then follow it up with painkillers to let them handle a life where bumps, bruises, and broken bones are a part of the job, and where you often don't get paid if you don't (or can't) work. The cost of this drug use is now being seen with young wrestlers dying at an alarming rate. If NFL football players were passing away at the same rate, it would be an enormous scandal. However, the media (with a few exceptions) seems to turn a blind eye to these deaths, possibly not willing or able to cover fake wrestling in a serious manner...



Last Man Standing — Pro Wrestlers Dying Young and a gallery of deceased wrestling figures can be found at The Dead Wrestler Tribute.