Comments on 'Optimal training of thresholded linear correlation classifiers' [with reply]

A difficulty with the application of the closed-form training algorithm for the neocognitron proposed by T.H. Hildebrandt (ibid., vol.2, p.557-88, Nov. 1991) is reported. In applying this algorithm the commenters have observed that S-cells frequently fail to respond to features that they have been trained to extract. Results which indicate that this training vector rejection in an important factor in the overall classification performance of the neocognitron trained using Hildebrandt's procedure are presented. In reply, Hildebrandt explains that the negative results obtained by the commenter are not specific to the proposed algorithm and are easily explained in terms of set theory.