A kernel-based framework for learning graded relations from data

Driven by a large number of potential applications in areas like bioinformatics, information retrieval and social network analysis, the problem setting of inferring relations between pairs of data objects has recently been investigated quite intensively in the machine learning community. To this end, current approaches typically consider datasets containing crisp relations, so that standard classification methods can be adopted. However, relations between objects like similarities and preferences are often expressed in a graded manner in real-world applications. A general kernel-based framework for learning relations from data is introduced here. It extends existing approaches because both crisp and graded relations are considered, and it unifies existing approaches because different types of graded relations can be modeled, including symmetric and reciprocal relations. This framework establishes important links between recent developments in fuzzy set theory and machine learning. Its usefulness is demonstrated through various experiments on synthetic and real-world data.Comment: This work has been submitted to the IEEE for possible publication. Copyright may be transferred without notice, after which this version may no longer be accessibl

Choice Rules with Size Constraints for Multiple Criteria Decision Making

In outranking methods for Multiple Criteria Decision Making (MCDM), pair-wise comparisons of alternatives are often summarized through a fuzzy preference relation. In this paper, the binary preference relation is extended to pairs of subsets of alternatives in order to define on this basis a scoring function over subsets. A choice rule based on maximizing score under size constraint is studied, which turns to formulate as solving a sequence of classical location problems. For comparison with the kernel approach, the interior stability property of the selected subset is discussed and analyzed.Combinatorial optimization; Fuzzy preferences; Integer Programming; Location; Multiple Criteria Decision Aid

Consistency of crisp and fuzzy preference relations

In this paper we point out some difficulties in developing rationality measures of fuzzy preference relations, as defined by Cutello and Montero in a previous paper. In particular, we analyze some alternative approaches, taking into account that consistency can not be viewed as an univoque concept in a fuzzy framework, neither in the crisp context, where consistency should not be necessarily represented in terms of linear orders

Learning valued relations from data

Driven by a large number of potential applications in areas like bioinformatics, information retrieval and social network analysis, the problem setting of inferring relations between pairs of data objects has recently been investigated quite intensively in the machine learning community. To this end, current approaches typically consider datasets containing crisp relations, so that standard classification methods can be adopted. However, relations between objects like similarities and preferences are in many real-world applications often expressed in a graded manner. A general kernel-based framework for learning relations from data is introduced here. It extends existing approaches because both crisp and valued relations are considered, and it unifies existing approaches because different types of valued relations can be modeled, including symmetric and reciprocal relations. This framework establishes in this way important links between recent developments in fuzzy set theory and machine learning. Its usefulness is demonstrated on a case study in document retrieval

Changes in connectivity patterns in the kainate model of epilepsy

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by seizures, i.e. excessive and hyper synchronous activity of neurons in the brain. ElectroEncephaloGram (EEG) is the recording of brain activity in time through electrodes placed on the scalp and is one of the most used techniques to monitor brain activity. In order to identify pattern of propagation across brain areas that are specific to epilepsy, connectivity measures such as the Directed Transfer Function (DTF) and the Partial Directed Coherence (PDC) have been developed. These measures reveal connections between different areas by exploiting statistical dependencies within multichannel EEG recordings. This work proposes a framework to identify and compare interdependencies between EEG signals in different brain states. We considered an animal model of epilepsy characterized by spontaneous recurrent seizures. In three rats we identified a normal healthy baseline state and an epileptic state for which we estimated interdependencies between EEG channels using DTF and PDC and extracted significant differences between both states. We showed the feasibility of detection of connectivity patterns in a simple animal model of epilepsy. We found common patterns of propagation in the brain of the three rats during the baseline state. After the kainic acid injection, the connectivity pattern of interictal period is significantly altered compared to the baseline situation. Inter-rat variations are observed, but the intra-rat pattern alterations are consistent in time, revealing that the kainic acid permanently changes the brain connectivity

Expertise-based ranking of experts: An assessment level approach

The quality of a formal decision is influenced by the level of expertise of the decision makers (DMs). The composition of a team of DMs can change when new members join or old members leave, based on their ranking. In order to improve the quality of decisions, this ranking should be based on their demonstrated expertise. This paper proposes using the experts’ expertise levels, in terms of ‘the ability to differentiate consistently’, to determine their ranking, according to the level at which they assess alternatives. The expertise level is expressed using the CWS-Index (Cochran-Weiss-Shanteau), a ratio between Discrimination and Inconsistency. The experts give their evaluations using pairwise comparisons of Fuzzy Preference Relations with an Additive Consistency property. This property can be used to generate estimators, and replaces the repetition needed to obtain the CWS-Index. Finally, a numerical example is discussed to illustrate the model for producing expertise-based ranking of experts

Applying Consistency Fuzzy Preference Relations to Select a Strategy that Attracts Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Developing Supporting Industries for Vietnam

The Vietnamese government has been focused on promoting supporting industries, which may provide a “key” solution for sustained development and thereby improve the national welfare. Coincidentally, Vietnam is also focused on an optimal strategy to attract foreign direct investment (FDI that develops a strategy for supporting industries). However, these results have not been achieved due to the weaknesses of low FDI flow, the limited number of capital projects, and the inclusion of smaller enterprises with lower technology into the mix. This negative situation begs the question as to what might be the best strategy for attracting FDI that developmentally supports the Vietnamese industry. As an intended remedy, this inquiry establishes an analytical, hierarchy framework beneficial to the Vietnamese government on a best strategic method for attracting FDI to develop supporting local industries. This study utilizes fuzzy preference relations to improve the decision-making process to be both consistent and effective. The analytical results demonstrate that institutional policies, domestic supply capacity, human resources, and technological development, coupled with innovation, are the key criteria to be considered when selecting a strategy that attracts regular FDI. Furthermore, analytical results presented in this work demonstrate that the best strategies for attracting FDI to Vietnam are those that motivate sustainable economic growth on an ongoing basis