Scientific Computing: Artificial Neural Network

Artificial Neural Networks are computational models that are capable of machine learning and pattern recognition.  They were inspired by the animal central nervous system. Today, they are used in many fields and have been well-established in any discipline, especially medicine.  They can extract information from raw data and then build computer models for medical decision-making.
Now you know what they are capable of doing but what exactly are they? They  are basically systems of connected neurons that compute values from inputs by pushing information through the network.  According to the Wiley Online Library, these models contain computing nodes that operate as nonlinear summing devices.  The nodes are interconnected by weighted connection lines, and the weights are adjusted when data are presented to the network.  If successfully trained, the artificial neural networks can perform tasks such as classifying an object, predicting an outcome value, recognizing a pattern, and completing a known pattern.  

Since applications of artificial neural networks serve such broad spectrum of fields, they help validate research in those areas.  For example, medical decision support in medical applications.  These networks must be understood thoroughly before being used. Check out this list in which neural networks have been successfully applied.  

Computer Graphics: Computer-generated Imagery

Have you seen the latest Ender's game movie? No!? What are you doing reading this post then? In most movies like Ender's game, computer-generated imagery (CGI) is used.  It is an application of Computer Science (commonly referred to 3D graphics) to create special effects in films, television shows, simulators, commercials, etc.  Content is able to be produced without the use of extra props, and expensive set pieces. The real question is how are these special effects done? There are a few steps to incorporate CGI into a film:

1. Modeling
2. Animation
3. Rendering
4. Compositing

The first step is for an artist to create the images the director wants by the use of clay models, photographs, or drawings.  This could be the hybrid human-alien race in the movie Avatar in which actors take the place of them.  

The second step starts when the model is perfected. The animator tells the computer how the model moves.  An example of this could be how the Transformers move or how their face moves when they talk.
The next step is for a renderer (program that contains lighting, texture, shading, and more features) to create images showing the moving 3D models.  The director modifies the lighting and materials, often doing so until it looks perfect. 

Lastly, the CG images are combined with the live-action part using compositing software.

Communications and Security: Computer Security

Our idea on computer security has changed a lot in the recent years.  When people thought of computer security, they thought about protecting the physical machine that contained important data.  However, nowaday only the hardware is secure and the data is vulnerable to attacks.  With each major technological advance in computing comes more security threats. Technology advances too fast for solutions to be developed.  Therefore, developing security is just too difficult.  The penetrator tries to find the holes while the designer tries to close them.  The issue here is that we can never know if a system is perfectly secure, and that there is a likelihood that the penetrator will find a hole.  Of course, with the appropriate techniques, the system can be built so it is highly unlikely to penetrate its security.  BUT who prioritizes securitiy? When looking at a system, people often look at its price, functions, performance, reliability, compatibility, etc.  Security will be at the bottom of the list!  It may even just be a nuisance.

The bottom line is to protect yourself.  The problem is not the computer, but THE PEOPLE. Download anti-virus programs to prevent your personal information from being stolen.

Artificial Intelligence: Video Games

Can you think of a game without an AI or computer controlled opponent? I certainly can't! One of the most interesting fields of Computer Science is Artificial Intelligence, or known as AI.  There are many applications for AI such as speech recognition (like Siri on iPhone), natural language processing, computer vision, etc.  However, I find games are some of the more interesting applications that utilize AI.  Well what is AI in games? They are techniques used to produce the illusion of intelligence in the behavior of non-player characters.  You could have competent opponents or helpful allies!

How it is implemented depends on the type of game, such as RTS (Real-time strategy), FPS (First-Person shooter), RPGs, sport games, etc.  Here are some common elements in which AI are implemented:

• Event Driven Engine: AI reacts based on events.
• Specific AI Structure: how the AI moves and determines reasoning and its behavior.
• Path-Finding: finding the shortest path to a certain destination.
• Animation sequences for different body parts such as shooting/reloading in FPS.
• Scripted Behavior: show their personality through dialogue, contributing to the overall storyline of the game.
• Collision: detect obstacles in game.

As an SJSU student, I have yet to learn about the algorithms used in video games to create AI. The most popular algorithms used are A(*),  Finite State machines, and Artificial Neural Networks.  Every game you've played has definitely used some sort of AI, and have implemented these algorithms.  

History of Computer Science: Mobile Application Development

How long ago do you think Apple released the Itunes App Store? Only five years, but it feels like ten years to me! In just five years, smartphones have become ubiquitous as well as its mobile applications. These mobile applications have now become a great part of our daily lives. The birth of the Itunes App Store in 2008 led to the creation of the millions of apps that we have today.  What apps you may ask? Well, a well-designed app has the potential to help increase productivity and even revolutionize the job market.

The history of mobile application development actually dates back to 2003, introduced first by IBM. It was not popular back then and only had basic features.  However, a later major advancement arrived in 2002, when the Blackberry-smartphone was introduced.  Thus began wireless emailing.  As time went on, new mobile platforms(iOS and android) were introduced which further boosted mobile app development.  With these smartphones, mobile technology became completely revolutionized.  Mobile apps have allowed people to become more efficient and allow new experiences.  For me, I have used the Udemy app which allows me to take a course anywhere, without the need for laptop or desktop.

File Sharing: Client-Server Downloading vs. P2P Sharing

I’m sure you have downloaded something off the web but do you know the process?  When you download something, your computer, the client, tells the server (computer that holds the web page and file) to transfer a copy of the file to your computer.  This transfer goes through a protocol, or set of rules. The transfer speed is affected by the type of protocol (FTP or HTTP), amount of traffic on server, and number of other users downloading the file.  How does this traditional client-server download contrast with peer-to-peer sharing?

In peer-to-peer sharing, you use a software program, such as BitTorrent.  BitTorrent downloads torrents, which are files that point to the computer with the desired file. BitTorrent sends a request for the file by communicating with a tracker (central server with the file) to locate other computers connected to the internet.  The tracker finds a swarm, or a group of connected computers that are file sharing.  Once BitTorrent finds a seeder, or a computer that has the complete file, it will start downloading the file.   Basically, you are downloading small bits of files from different sources at the same time.   Once you finish downloading, you will become a seeder and help others download the file. 

BitTorrent is sometimes used for distributing copyrighted material but the program is still legal.  If you choose to download any copyrighted material, you are at risk of being caught, since the download can be traced back to you.  Be careful and happy downloading!

Data Structures: Real World Applications

If you’re a CS major, I am sure you have come across a data structure.  You may have worked with arrays, linked lists, graphs, or trees.  These are all ways of storing and organizing data for efficient usage. There is no “best” data structure and are used depending on the task at hand; all data structures have pros/cons.  The question is HOW are these structures used in the real world? Let’s take a look at a few common ones:

1) Linked List

An example on how a linked list may be used in the real world is managing a train.  These trains are linked together in a calculated way so that items can be loaded, transferred, unloaded, and picked up efficiently.  Like a linked list, trains can be added or removed at any point of the train.  Also, the train at the end can be removed easier than the train in the middle.  Therefore, one may use a linked list in order to plan the order of the trains, and the contents of the trains.  

2) Binary Search Trees

Binary Search Trees are often used for data that is constantly added or removed, such as a map or set of objects.  For example, any language library (C++, Java, .Net, etc) uses binary search to find items; items are inserted in order, and items can be easily accessed.  

3) Hash Tables 

Internet Routers use Hash Tables; a router table may contain millions of entries.  Therefore, the router must determine the best route by querying the router table when the packet is routed to a specific IP address.  In this case, the key is the IP address and the value is the address.

Knowing when to implement these data structures is important because some are more efficient, depending on the task!

Hacking: iOS Jailbreaking

Jailbreaking is the legal process of bypassing restrictions on Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch) running the iOS system. If you want to know how it exactly works, an explanation on how the evasi0n jailbreak works is shown here. 

Essentially, what happens is a modified set of kernel patches is installed. The kernel is the supervisor of the OS and allows you to run unsigned code.  When you jailbreak, you’re able to use unauthorized software and download tweaks.  However, there is a reason why Apple made the iOS to be a closed environment! Let’s go over some pros/cons. 

Pros

• New apps. Apps like Cydia allow you to install apps that are not in the Itunes App Store.
• Customization.  Winterboard allows you to change your icons and wallpaper, customize sounds, etc.
• Secure Shell Client (SSH).  You can manage all of your iPhone’s files. 

Cons

• No security and limited antivirus protection. You never know if the unauthorized app you are downloading contains malware.
• Instable; can brick your phone and render it useless.
• No warranty. 

If you decide to jailbreak your phone, do it at your own risk! If you are careful in what you download, you can maximize the true potential of your device.  I have jailbroken my iphone (iOS 6) and have downloaded some useful apps myself.  TheiOS 7 jailbreak is not released yet so sit tight.  If you do happen to jailbreak your phone, check out these.

1. Nitrous: significantly speeds up web browsing on mobile device
2. BiteSMS: quicker way to compose/reply to messages.
3. MapsOpener: forces map links to open in Google Maps instead of stock Apple Maps app.  

For me, jailbreaking my iphone has allowed me to take advantage of unauthorized but useful apps.  I highly recommend anybody to jailbreak to make the best use of the device.  Just remember to be careful!

Open Source: Free Tools

Everything comes with a price. Except free open source software! Open source refers to something that can be modified because its design is publicly accessed.  Therefore, open source software is software whose source code is available for modification by anyone. You may have heard of Firefox, Thunderbird, Open Office, BitTorent, VLC Media Player, Audacity, etc.  These are all FREE tools that everyone should take advantage of! Here is my favorite open source software list:

1) Open Office: This is a great alternative to Microsoft Office that handles most of Microsoft Office's productivity tasks from document production to creating full multi-media presentations.

2) VLC Media Player: very simple and powerful media player since it can play most codecs  (MPEG-2, DivX, H.254, MKV, WebM, WMW, MP3..)., plays everything (files, discs, webcams...) and runs on all platforms (Windows, Linux, Mac OS X...).

3) Audacity: a multiplatform audio edittor that can import and export in numerous formats (WAV, FLAC, AU...). It is useful for anyone that needs to manipulate audio.

Of course there's benefits of being a consumer of these tools but what about on the developing side?
Public collaboration.  Most open source projects, like Wordpress,  are created by a large number of programmers, all working together to create a software package.  Also, because it's open source, source code is available to ALL developers that want to contribute.

Go take advantage of these free tools!

Agile: Understanding Agile Methodology

      When I first heard of agile in my CS100W class, I was thinking of the actual definition: Characterized by quickness, lightness, and ease of movement.  I continued to learn that the term "agile" in class refers to a software development method! You may have heard of other software development methods such as Waterfall, Spiral, Iterative and Incremental, etc. These are all methods that work as a framework which controls project development and maintenance.  Agile Methodology is an alternative to traditional project management, based on iterative and incremental development. Requirements and solutions through cooperation between self-organizing, cross-functional teams.

Here are some underlying principles of Agile Methodology:

1) Complex projects are broken into smaller, attainable goals.

2) Simplicity

3) Face to face communication (the best kind of communication!)

4) Close, daily cooperation between business people and developers

5) Regular adaption to changing circumstances

A framework that uses agile methodology is Scrum.  Projects are broken down into smaller pieces that are managed and completed in short intervals called sprints.  These sprints, which are often two to four weeks, involve short term goals that are part of the main goal.  Following the process above, customers receive the "Release" often and are able to evaluate it so that modifications can be made.

Agile is a very powerful tool that can be used efficiently in any project. Although it may not be the best option, it provides a productive approach for teams and product development.

LinkedIn and Branding: Expand Your Network

Are you looking for a job? Yes? No? In either case, you NEED LinkedIn.  Why? LinkedIn is basically a social networking website that is all about NETWORKING.  Having connections is the key to your SUCCESS.  LinkedIn helps you expand your professional network and increase your chances of being found and evaluated. Nowadays, employers have been increasingly using LinkedIn to seek talent by conducting background research, sourcing candidates, and acquiring references. But what if you already have a job and you're not looking one? It doesn't matter. 80% of users on LinkedIn are currently not seeking employment. By having a large network, you can use it in case you are laid off and then have a higher chance to be employed again.  If you are seeking employment, 77% of all job openings are posted on LinkedIn!  You are missing out on many opportunities of landing a job by not having a profile.  Once you make a profile and put yourself out in the world, you allow employers to connect with you, even if you're not log in all the time.  

Expand your network

So maybe you have a LinkedIn account already but are you utilizing it to its fullest? The most important thing is having a very strong and complete profile.  To make a great impression, you need to fill it out to increase your chances of being offered a job. You are your own brand and you need to advertise your professional resume.  You want to show WHY people should hire YOU.  Start building your Network today!

QR Codes: What are they and how do they work?

Created using Quickmark

     
       You see that weird looking square on the left side there? If you have a smart phone, download the QR code reader app if you haven't already and scan it.  Well what is it!? That's right, it is direct link to my blog!  How does it do that? That square is called a QR code, which is basically a two-dimensional bar code that stores information.  You are already familiar with the 1-dimensional bar code, which you've seen at grocery stores. Bar codes are stored only in its horizontal widths and its spaces while its vertical makes no difference.

Sample barcode taken from http://freebarcodefonts.dobsonsw.com/

The QR code differs from the bar code by having a larger amount of data in a smaller space, is more reliable, and reads at a higher speed.  They can be scanned from any direction within 360 degrees and because of their design, they can be read up to 20 times faster than regular matrix codes.  The QR code conveys its information by the arrangement of black and white elements called "modules" in both the horizontal and vertical direction.  Each module represents either a 0 or 1, which allows the smart phone to use the code and access information. But what information!?  When scanned, it can link you to any URL whether it be Facebook, Google, YouTube, or Richard's blog!  In our society today, they are being used for marketing, entertainment, commercial tracking, etc.  If you have a product you want to advertise, go ahead and make a QR code to allow people to access your website or any information about your product! 

A poster used in Japan made by Disney to allow people to access exclusive information

Pros/Cons of Social Networking

       When we think of social networking sites, we think of Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest,  etc.  Their purposes are to build communities in which people share interests and activities or explore interests of others. According to Craig Smith, Facebook has currently 1.15 billion users, which is currently the most used social networking site! It has provided great communication (personal and professional) between friends, family, and colleagues, allowing people to build stronger connections. It has also allowed businesses to promote their brand, garnering more attention than they ever would without social networks.  Not only will people have recognition of their brand, but also they can provide feedback.  Although there are many reasons to promote these social networks, there are also cons. Here are my pros/cons for using social medias:

Pros:

• Maintain connections and create closer bonds.
• Allows job employment by letting businesses to reach out to potential employees.
• Find others who share same interest.
• Increase overall quality of life by communication among friends.
• a platform for communication between professors and students that promotes education.
• Allow businesses to promote their brand.

Cons:

• Lack of privacy, allowing intrusions of government.
• Can lead to stress due to conflicting relationships or having no companionship.
• Discourages people to make physical interactions.
• Dissemination of false information.
• Easily allows people to waste time.
• Negative publicity for a business's brand.

Despite these pros and cons, an important aspect of social networking is its security.  Anyone using any kind of social media is at risk because of hacks, and viruses.  Confidential information could be stolen. Tech companies such as Facebook, Microsoft, NBC, and New York times have been hacked!  The latest hacks involve the victim to visiting "infected pages" first and result in computers allowing hackers access to the network's private information.  It is no doubt that these hacks will ever stop so be cautious whenever using social networking sites!

Welcome!

Welcome Professor Caires and my fellow peers!

My expertise in Computer Science:

As a senior at San Jose State University, I have not discovered my expertise in computer science yet.  Having taken courses that teach Java, windows programming, and C, I am still learning many things about the field and have not found my specialty.  However, I hope to specialize in a field that relates to my passion for games, such as game programming.

Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborm

What I find exciting about Computer Science:

Computer science is always growing and has limitless opportunities to impact aspects of everyday life.  For any area there will always be some application of computer technology.  The thought that I could create any application I want excites me and motivates me to pursue this career.  I could be part of a video game developing company, helping to program the best role playing game of all time.  Or I could create a program that allows robots to perform surgery in hospitals.  Or I could work with a company that does Mobile Application Development, building e-commerce apps. The opportunities are endless and I like that freedom.  Although it’s very challenging, that’s what makes it exciting.  There are always new skills to learn, problems to solve, and applications to create.  What I’m particularly interested in the Computer Science field is video game design.  I want to know HOW my favorite games are all made, and how I can contribute to that field.  I want to be part of the development of a worldwide known game.

Screenshot of Final Fantasy XIV

Challenges I believe I can tackle with what I know as a Computer Scientist:

With my knowledge and developed problem-solving skills, I believe I can tackle real world problems.  Since I'm working in the IT department at U.S. Merchant Systems, a credit-card processing company, I've worked with real data from merchants (our customers) and have learned to manage a database using Visual Studio and C#.  Of course, I'm still learning so I have the potential to address other difficult problems.