Mapping the Structure and Evolution of Software Testing Research Over the Past Three Decades

Background: The field of software testing is growing and rapidly-evolving. Aims: Based on keywords assigned to publications, we seek to identify predominant research topics and understand how they are connected and have evolved. Method: We apply co-word analysis to map the topology of testing research as a network where author-assigned keywords are connected by edges indicating co-occurrence in publications. Keywords are clustered based on edge density and frequency of connection. We examine the most popular keywords, summarize clusters into high-level research topics, examine how topics connect, and examine how the field is changing. Results: Testing research can be divided into 16 high-level topics and 18 subtopics. Creation guidance, automated test generation, evolution and maintenance, and test oracles have particularly strong connections to other topics, highlighting their multidisciplinary nature. Emerging keywords relate to web and mobile apps, machine learning, energy consumption, automated program repair and test generation, while emerging connections have formed between web apps, test oracles, and machine learning with many topics. Random and requirements-based testing show potential decline. Conclusions: Our observations, advice, and map data offer a deeper understanding of the field and inspiration regarding challenges and connections to explore.Comment: To appear, Journal of Systems and Softwar

Interactive Real-Time Embedded Systems Education Infused with Applied Internet Telephony

The transition from traditional circuit-switched phone systems to modern packet-based Internet telephony networks demands tools to support Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) development. In this paper, we introduce the XinuPhone, an integrated hardware/software approach for educating users about VoIP technology on a real-time embedded platform. We propose modular course topics for design-oriented, hands-on laboratory exercises: filter design, timing, serial communications, interrupts and resource budgeting, network transmission, and system benchmarking. Our open-source software platform encourages development and testing of new CODECs alongside existing standards, unlike similar commercial solutions. Furthermore, the supporting hardware features inexpensive, readily available components designed specifically for educational and research users on a limited budget. The XinuPhone is especially good for experimenting with design trade-offs as well as interactions between real-time software and hardware components

Evaluation of growth in clinical genetics competency among PCPs participating in the UVMHN Genomic DNA Testing Program

Recently UVM Health Network Family Medicine practices have implemented “The Genomic DNA Test” pilot program to begin a concerted effort toward offering genetically informed primary care to all patients. The program aims to increase the number of participating primary care providers stepwise over time. However, some providers may find integration of genomic testing and discussion of clinical genetics issues with patients to be challenging given the relatively recent change toward emphasis on these topics in medical training curricula. The aim of this project was to develop a pilot survey to gather information from current participating providers about how participation in the genomic testing program has influenced their personal knowledge of and comfort with clinical genetics topics and patient counseling.https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/fmclerk/1777/thumbnail.jp

Dynamic topic modeling of the COVID-19 Twitter narrative among U.S. governors and cabinet executives

A combination of federal and state-level decision making has shaped the response to COVID-19 in the United States. In this paper, we analyze the Twitter narratives around this decision making by applying a dynamic topic model to COVID-19 related tweets by U.S. Governors and Presidential cabinet members. We use a network Hawkes binomial topic model to track evolving sub-topics around risk, testing, and treatment. We also construct influence networks amongst government officials using Granger causality inferred from the network Hawkes process

A Re-examination of network address translation security

The use of Network Address Translation (NAT) has greatly expanded in recent years. While originally an address management technique it has often been used for security. However, there are many implementations of NAT that are inherently insecure. Recently investigation into some of these has shown increased potential for security holes in NAT deployments. An understanding of the risks associated with NAT and the basic networking topics supporting a research in this area are critical to an information assurance student. This paper describes the basic operation of NAT, outlines one such security problem and its’ mitigation, develops a testing methodology for use in information security curricula and suggests topics to be covered for student success