Abstract: Strategies for improved neural network fine tuning. Parameters of the task-specific layer of a neural network are initialized using approximate solutions derived by a variant of a linear discriminant analysis algorithm. One method includes: inputting training data into a deep neural network having an output layer from which output is generated in a manner consistent with one or more classification tasks; evaluating a distribution of the data in a feature space between a hidden layer and the output layer; and initializing, non-randomly, the parameters of the output layer based on the evaluated distribution of the data in the feature space.

Abstract: A method of stimulating an immune response in a subject including administering a micrometer-sized particle coupled with an antigen to the subject, wherein increasing the aspect ratio of the micrometer-sized particle increases the immune response. A method of stimulating an immune response in a subject including administering to the subject a plurality of particles, wherein each particle is coupled with an immuno stimulating agent and a protein. A vaccine particle composition including a plurality of particles configured to release a first protein at a first rate and a second protein at a second rate and configured to provide priming and boosting capability in a single dose.

Abstract: A method of stimulating an immune response in a subject including administering a micrometer-sized particle coupled with an antigen to the subject, wherein increasing the aspect ratio of the micrometer-sized particle increases the immune response. A method of stimulating an immune response in a subject including administering to the subject a plurality of particles, wherein each particle is coupled with an immuno stimulating agent and a protein. A vaccine particle composition including a plurality of particles configured to release a first protein at a first rate and a second protein at a second rate and configured to provide priming and boosting capability in a single dose.