Abstract: In a pre-processing step prior to training a learning machine, pre-processing includes reducing the quantity of features to be processed using feature selection methods selected from the group consisting of recursive feature elimination (RFE), minimizing the number of non-zero parameters of the system (l0-norm minimization), evaluation of cost function to identify a subset of features that are compatible with constraints imposed by the learning set, unbalanced correlation score and transductive feature selection. The features remaining after feature selection are then used to train a learning machine for purposes of pattern classification, regression, clustering and/or novelty detection.

Abstract: In a pre-processing step prior to training a learning machine, pre-processing includes reducing the quantity of features to be processed using feature selection methods selected from the group consisting of recursive feature elimination (RFE), minimizing the number of non-zero parameters of the system (l0-norm minimization), evaluation of cost function to identify a subset of features that are compatible with constraints imposed by the learning set, unbalanced correlation score and transductive feature selection. The features remaining after feature selection are then used to train a learning machine for purposes of pattern classification, regression, clustering and/or novelty detection.

Abstract: Kernels (206) for use in learning machines, such as support vector machines, and methods are provided for selection and construction of such kernels are controlled by the nature of the data to be analyzed (203). In particular, data which may possess characteristics such as structure, for example DNA sequences, documents; graphs, signals, such as ECG signals and microarray expression profiles; spectra; images; spatio-temporal data; and relational data, and which may possess invariances or noise components that can interfere with the ability to accurately extract the desired information. Where structured datasets are analyzed, locational kernels are defined to provide measures of similarity among data points (210). The locational kernels are then combined to generate the decision function, or kernel. Where invariance transformations or noise is present, tangent vectors are defined to identify relationships between the invariance or noise and the data points (222).