A novel GPASS architecture is proposed for jointly learning pinching beamforming and transmit beamforming in pinching antenna systems (PASS). The GPASS is with a staged architecture, where the positions of pinching antennas are first learned by a sub-GNN. Then, the transmit beamforming is learned by another sub-GNN based on the antenna positions. The sub-GNNs are incorporated with the permutation property of the beamforming policy, which helps improve the learning performance. The optimal solution structure of transmit beamforming is also leveraged to simplify the mappings to be learned. Numerical results demonstrate that the proposed architecture can achieve a higher SE than a heuristic baseline method with low inference complexity.
Diffusion MRI (dMRI) provides unique insights into fetal brain microstructure in utero. Longitudinal and cross-sectional fetal dMRI studies can reveal crucial neurodevelopmental changes but require precise spatial alignment across scans and subjects. This is challenging due to low data quality, rapid brain development, and limited anatomical landmarks. Existing registration methods, designed for high-quality adult data, struggle with these complexities. To address this, we introduce FetDTIAlign, a deep learning approach for fetal brain dMRI registration, enabling accurate affine and deformable alignment. FetDTIAlign features a dual-encoder architecture and iterative feature-based inference, reducing the impact of noise and low resolution. It optimizes network configurations and domain-specific features at each registration stage, enhancing both robustness and accuracy. We validated FetDTIAlign on data from 23 to 36 weeks gestation, covering 60 white matter tracts. It consistently outperformed two classical optimization-based methods and a deep learning pipeline, achieving superior anatomical correspondence. Further validation on external data from the Developing Human Connectome Project confirmed its generalizability across acquisition protocols. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of deep learning for fetal brain dMRI registration, providing a more accurate and reliable alternative to classical techniques. By enabling precise cross-subject and tract-specific analyses, FetDTIAlign supports new discoveries in early brain development.
Forecasting multiscale chaotic dynamical systems with deep learning remains a formidable challenge due to the spectral bias of neural networks, which hinders the accurate representation of fine-scale structures in long-term predictions. This issue is exacerbated when models are deployed autoregressively, leading to compounding errors and instability. In this work, we introduce a novel approach to mitigate the spectral bias which we call the Binned Spectral Power (BSP) Loss. The BSP loss is a frequency-domain loss function that adaptively weighs errors in predicting both larger and smaller scales of the dataset. Unlike traditional losses that focus on pointwise misfits, our BSP loss explicitly penalizes deviations in the energy distribution across different scales, promoting stable and physically consistent predictions. We demonstrate that the BSP loss mitigates the well-known problem of spectral bias in deep learning. We further validate our approach for the data-driven high-dimensional time-series forecasting of a range of benchmark chaotic systems which are typically intractable due to spectral bias. Our results demonstrate that the BSP loss significantly improves the stability and spectral accuracy of neural forecasting models without requiring architectural modifications. By directly targeting spectral consistency, our approach paves the way for more robust deep learning models for long-term forecasting of chaotic dynamical systems.
Side-channel analysis (SCA) represents a realistic threat where the attacker can observe unintentional information to obtain secret data. Evaluation labs also use the same SCA techniques in the security certification process. The results in the last decade have shown that machine learning, especially deep learning, is an extremely powerful SCA approach, allowing the breaking of protected devices while achieving optimal attack performance. Unfortunately, deep learning operates as a black-box, making it less useful for security evaluators who must understand how attacks work to prevent them in the future. This work demonstrates that mechanistic interpretability can effectively scale to realistic scenarios where relevant information is sparse and well-defined interchange interventions to the input are impossible due to side-channel protections. Concretely, we reverse engineer the features the network learns during phase transitions, eventually retrieving secret masks, allowing us to move from black-box to white-box evaluation.
This work investigates a novel approach to boost adversarial robustness and generalization by incorporating structural prior into the design of deep learning models. Specifically, our study surprisingly reveals that existing dictionary learning-inspired convolutional neural networks (CNNs) provide a false sense of security against adversarial attacks. To address this, we propose Elastic Dictionary Learning Networks (EDLNets), a novel ResNet architecture that significantly enhances adversarial robustness and generalization. This novel and effective approach is supported by a theoretical robustness analysis using influence functions. Moreover, extensive and reliable experiments demonstrate consistent and significant performance improvement on open robustness leaderboards such as RobustBench, surpassing state-of-the-art baselines. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work to discover and validate that structural prior can reliably enhance deep learning robustness under strong adaptive attacks, unveiling a promising direction for future research.
The purpose of this paper is to review the most popular deep learning methods used to analyze astroparticle data obtained with Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes and provide references to the original papers.
In this position paper, we promote the study of function spaces parameterized by machine learning models through the lens of algebraic geometry. To this end, we focus on algebraic models, such as neural networks with polynomial activations, whose associated function spaces are semi-algebraic varieties. We outline a dictionary between algebro-geometric invariants of these varieties, such as dimension, degree, and singularities, and fundamental aspects of machine learning, such as sample complexity, expressivity, training dynamics, and implicit bias. Along the way, we review the literature and discuss ideas beyond the algebraic domain. This work lays the foundations of a research direction bridging algebraic geometry and deep learning, that we refer to as neuroalgebraic geometry.
This paper explores a deep learning based robot intelligent model that renders robots learn and reason for complex tasks. First, by constructing a network of environmental factor matrix to stimulate the learning process of the robot intelligent model, the model parameters must be subjected to coarse & fine tuning to optimize the loss function for minimizing the loss score, meanwhile robot intelligent model can fuse all previously known concepts together to represent things never experienced before, which need robot intelligent model can be generalized extensively. Secondly, in order to progressively develop a robot intelligent model with primary consciousness, every robot must be subjected to at least 1~3 years of special school for training anthropomorphic behaviour patterns to understand and process complex environmental information and make rational decisions. This work explores and delivers the potential application of deep learning-based quasi-consciousness training in the field of robot intelligent model.
We propose a novel deep learning method which combines classical regularization with data augmentation for estimating myelin water fraction (MWF) in the brain via biexponential analysis. Our aim is to design an accurate deep learning technique for analysis of signals arising in magnetic resonance relaxometry. In particular, we study the biexponential model, one of the signal models used for MWF estimation. We greatly extend our previous work on \emph{input layer regularization (ILR)} in several ways. We now incorporate optimal regularization parameter selection via a dedicated neural network or generalized cross validation (GCV) on a signal-by-signal, or pixel-by-pixel, basis to form the augmented input signal, and now incorporate estimation of MWF, rather than just exponential time constants, into the analysis. On synthetically generated data, our proposed deep learning architecture outperformed both classical methods and a conventional multi-layer perceptron. On in vivo brain data, our architecture again outperformed other comparison methods, with GCV proving to be somewhat superior to a NN for regularization parameter selection. Thus, ILR improves estimation of MWF within the biexponential model. In addition, classical methods such as GCV may be combined with deep learning to optimize MWF imaging in the human brain.
Automated tracking of surgical tool keypoints in robotic surgery videos is an essential task for various downstream use cases such as skill assessment, expertise assessment, and the delineation of safety zones. In recent years, the explosion of deep learning for vision applications has led to many works in surgical instrument segmentation, while lesser focus has been on tracking specific tool keypoints, such as tool tips. In this work, we propose a novel, multi-frame context-driven deep learning framework to localize and track tool keypoints in surgical videos. We train and test our models on the annotated frames from the 2015 EndoVis Challenge dataset, resulting in state-of-the-art performance. By leveraging sophisticated deep learning models and multi-frame context, we achieve 90\% keypoint detection accuracy and a localization RMS error of 5.27 pixels. Results on a self-annotated JIGSAWS dataset with more challenging scenarios also show that the proposed multi-frame models can accurately track tool-tip and tool-base keypoints, with ${<}4.2$-pixel RMS error overall. Such a framework paves the way for accurately tracking surgical instrument keypoints, enabling further downstream use cases. Project and dataset webpage: https://tinyurl.com/mfc-tracker
With over 2 million new cases identified annually, skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer globally and the second most common in Bangladesh, following breast cancer. Early detection and treatment are crucial for enhancing patient outcomes; however, Bangladesh faces a shortage of dermatologists and qualified medical professionals capable of diagnosing and treating skin cancer. As a result, many cases are diagnosed only at advanced stages. Research indicates that deep learning algorithms can effectively classify skin cancer images. However, these models typically lack interpretability, making it challenging to understand their decision-making processes. This lack of clarity poses barriers to utilizing deep learning in improving skin cancer detection and treatment. In this article, we present a method aimed at enhancing the interpretability of deep learning models for skin cancer classification in Bangladesh. Our technique employs a combination of saliency maps and attention maps to visualize critical features influencing the model's diagnoses.
The design of wireless communication receivers to enhance signal processing in complex and dynamic environments is going through a transformation by leveraging deep neural networks (DNNs). Traditional wireless receivers depend on mathematical models and algorithms, which do not have the ability to adapt or learn from data. In contrast, deep learning-based receivers are more suitable for modern wireless communication systems because they can learn from data and adapt accordingly. This survey explores various deep learning architectures such as multilayer perceptrons (MLPs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), generative adversarial networks (GANs), and autoencoders, focusing on their application in the design of wireless receivers. Key modules of a receiver such as synchronization, channel estimation, equalization, space-time decoding, demodulation, decoding, interference cancellation, and modulation classification are discussed in the context of advanced wireless technologies like orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), multiple input multiple output (MIMO), semantic communication, task-oriented communication, and next-generation (Next-G) networks. The survey not only emphasizes the potential of deep learning-based receivers in future wireless communication but also investigates different challenges of deep learning-based receivers, such as data availability, security and privacy concerns, model interpretability, computational complexity, and integration with legacy systems.
In this paper, we introduce si4onnx, a package for performing selective inference on deep learning models. Techniques such as CAM in XAI and reconstruction-based anomaly detection using VAE can be interpreted as methods for identifying significant regions within input images. However, the identified regions may not always carry meaningful significance. Therefore, evaluating the statistical significance of these regions represents a crucial challenge in establishing the reliability of AI systems. si4onnx is a Python package that enables straightforward implementation of hypothesis testing with controlled type I error rates through selective inference. It is compatible with deep learning models constructed using common frameworks such as PyTorch and TensorFlow.
Functional brain connectome is crucial for deciphering the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive functions and neurological disorders. Graph deep learning models have recently gained tremendous popularity in this field. However, their actual effectiveness in modeling the brain connectome remains unclear. In this study, we re-examine graph deep learning models based on four large-scale neuroimaging studies encompassing diverse cognitive and clinical outcomes. Surprisingly, we find that the message aggregation mechanism, a hallmark of graph deep learning models, does not help with predictive performance as typically assumed, but rather consistently degrades it. To address this issue, we propose a hybrid model combining a linear model with a graph attention network through dual pathways, achieving robust predictions and enhanced interpretability by revealing both localized and global neural connectivity patterns. Our findings urge caution in adopting complex deep learning models for functional brain connectome analysis, emphasizing the need for rigorous experimental designs to establish tangible performance gains and perhaps more importantly, to pursue improvements in model interpretability.
Cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) enables 3D visualization of cellular environments. Accurate reconstruction of high-resolution volumes is complicated by the very low signal-to-noise ratio and a restricted range of sample tilts, creating a missing wedge of Fourier information. Recent self-supervised deep learning approaches, which post-process initial reconstructions done by filtered backprojection (FBP), have significantly improved reconstruction quality, but they are computationally expensive, demand large memory, and require retraining for each new dataset. End-to-end supervised learning is an appealing alternative but is impeded by the lack of ground truth and the large memory demands of high-resolution volumetric data. Training on synthetic data often leads to overfitting and poor generalization to real data, and, to date, no general end-to-end deep learning reconstructors exist for cryo-ET. In this work, we introduce CryoLithe, a local, memory-efficient reconstruction network that directly estimates the volume from an aligned tilt-series, overcoming the suboptimal FBP. We demonstrate that leveraging transform-domain locality makes our network robust to distribution shifts, enabling effective supervised training and giving excellent results on real data -- without retraining or fine-tuning.
The rapid expansion of connected devices has made them prime targets for cyberattacks. To address these threats, deep learning-based, data-driven intrusion detection systems (IDS) have emerged as powerful tools for detecting and mitigating such attacks. These IDSs analyze network traffic to identify unusual patterns and anomalies that may indicate potential security breaches. However, prior research has shown that deep learning models are vulnerable to backdoor attacks, where attackers inject triggers into the model to manipulate its behavior and cause misclassifications of network traffic. In this paper, we explore the susceptibility of deep learning-based IDS systems to backdoor attacks in the context of network traffic analysis. We introduce \texttt{PCAP-Backdoor}, a novel technique that facilitates backdoor poisoning attacks on PCAP datasets. Our experiments on real-world Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) and Internet of Things (IoT) network traffic datasets demonstrate that attackers can effectively backdoor a model by poisoning as little as 1\% or less of the entire training dataset. Moreover, we show that an attacker can introduce a trigger into benign traffic during model training yet cause the backdoored model to misclassify malicious traffic when the trigger is present. Finally, we highlight the difficulty of detecting this trigger-based backdoor, even when using existing backdoor defense techniques.
Wheat yellow rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia striiformis, is a critical disease affecting wheat crops across Britain, leading to significant yield losses and economic consequences. Given the rapid environmental changes and the evolving virulence of pathogens, there is a growing need for innovative approaches to predict and manage such diseases over the long term. This study explores the feasibility of using deep learning models to predict outbreaks of wheat yellow rust in British fields, offering a proactive approach to disease management. We construct a yellow rust dataset with historial weather information and disease indicator acrossing multiple regions in England. We employ two poweful deep learning models, including fully connected neural networks and long short-term memory to develop predictive models capable of recognizing patterns and predicting future disease outbreaks.The models are trained and validated in a randomly sliced datasets. The performance of these models with different predictive time steps are evaluated based on their accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. Preliminary results indicate that deep learning models can effectively capture the complex interactions between multiple factors influencing disease dynamics, demonstrating a promising capacity to forecast wheat yellow rust with considerable accuracy. Specifically, the fully-connected neural network achieved 83.65% accuracy in a disease prediction task with 6 month predictive time step setup. These findings highlight the potential of deep learning to transform disease management strategies, enabling earlier and more precise interventions. Our study provides a methodological framework for employing deep learning in agricultural settings but also opens avenues for future research to enhance the robustness and applicability of predictive models in combating crop diseases globally.
Deep learning algorithms -- typically consisting of a class of deep artificial neural networks (ANNs) trained by a stochastic gradient descent (SGD) optimization method -- are nowadays an integral part in many areas of science, industry, and also our day to day life. Roughly speaking, in their most basic form, ANNs can be regarded as functions that consist of a series of compositions of affine-linear functions with multidimensional versions of so-called activation functions. One of the most popular of such activation functions is the rectified linear unit (ReLU) function $\mathbb{R} \ni x \mapsto \max\{ x, 0 \} \in \mathbb{R}$. The ReLU function is, however, not differentiable and, typically, this lack of regularity transfers to the cost function of the supervised learning problem under consideration. Regardless of this lack of differentiability issue, deep learning practioners apply SGD methods based on suitably generalized gradients in standard deep learning libraries like {\sc TensorFlow} or {\sc Pytorch}. In this work we reveal an accurate and concise mathematical description of such generalized gradients in the training of deep fully-connected feedforward ANNs and we also study the resulting generalized gradient function analytically. Specifically, we provide an appropriate approximation procedure that uniquely describes the generalized gradient function, we prove that the generalized gradients are limiting Fr\'echet subgradients of the cost functional, and we conclude that the generalized gradients must coincide with the standard gradient of the cost functional on every open sets on which the cost functional is continuously differentiable.
Current deep learning powered appearance based uncertainty-aware gaze estimation models produce inconsistent and unreliable uncertainty estimation that limits their adoptions in downstream applications. In this study, we propose a workflow to improve the accuracy of uncertainty estimation using probability calibration with a few post hoc samples. The probability calibration process employs a simple secondary regression model to compensate for inaccuracies in estimated uncertainties from the deep learning model. Training of the secondary model is detached from the main deep learning model and thus no expensive weight tuning is required. The added calibration process is lightweight and relatively independent from the deep learning process, making it fast to run and easy to implement. We evaluated the effectiveness of the calibration process under four potential application scenarios with two datasets that have distinctive image characteristics due to the data collection setups. The calibration process is most effective when the calibration and testing data share similar characteristics. Even under suboptimal circumstances that calibration and testing data differ, the calibration process can still make corrections to reduce prediction errors in uncertainty estimates made by uncalibrated models.
We introduce a multimodal deep learning framework, Prescriptive Neural Networks (PNNs), that combines ideas from optimization and machine learning, and is, to the best of our knowledge, the first prescriptive method to handle multimodal data. The PNN is a feedforward neural network trained on embeddings to output an outcome-optimizing prescription. In two real-world multimodal datasets, we demonstrate that PNNs prescribe treatments that are able to significantly improve estimated outcomes in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures by reducing estimated postoperative complication rates by 32% and in liver trauma injuries by reducing estimated mortality rates by over 40%. In four real-world, unimodal tabular datasets, we demonstrate that PNNs outperform or perform comparably to other well-known, state-of-the-art prescriptive models; importantly, on tabular datasets, we also recover interpretability through knowledge distillation, fitting interpretable Optimal Classification Tree models onto the PNN prescriptions as classification targets, which is critical for many real-world applications. Finally, we demonstrate that our multimodal PNN models achieve stability across randomized data splits comparable to other prescriptive methods and produce realistic prescriptions across the different datasets.