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Common Code Smells

Let’s explore some of the most common code smells that developers encounter and how to address them. Code smells are indicators of potential issues in your codebase, and recognizing them can lead to better software quality. Here are 31 code smells you should be familiar with:

Dispensables

1. Comments

While comments are essential for documenting code, excessive or confusing comments can be problematic. If your code needs extensive comments to explain its logic, consider refactoring it to make it more self-explanatory.

2. Duplicate Code

Duplication is a common issue that leads to maintenance nightmares. Repeated code fragments should be extracted into reusable functions or classes.

3. Lazy Class

Lazy classes serve no purpose and can be safely removed. If a class lacks functionality or remains unused, consider deleting it.

4. Dead Code

Unused code segments clutter your project and confuse other developers. Regularly clean up dead code to keep your codebase lean.

5. Speculative Generality

Avoid overengineering by creating overly generic solutions. Only add abstractions when necessary, not preemptively.

6. Oddball Solution

Sometimes, developers come up with unconventional solutions that deviate from established patterns. While creativity is valuable, ensure that your solution aligns with best practices.

Bloaters

7. Large Class

Monolithic classes violate the Single Responsibility Principle. Split large classes into smaller, focused ones.

8. Long Method

Long methods are hard to read and maintain. Break them down into smaller functions with clear responsibilities.

9. Long Parameter List

Excessive parameters make method calls cumbersome. Consider using data structures (e.g., objects) to group related parameters.

10. Primitive Obsession

Relying too much on primitive data types (e.g., using strings for everything) leads to code smells. Replace them with custom classes when appropriate.

11. Data Clumps

When several data items consistently appear together, consider encapsulating them into a single object.

Abusers

12. Switch Statements

Switch statements violate the Open-Closed Principle. Use polymorphism or other design patterns instead.

13. Temporary Field

Temporary fields are variables set but never used. Remove them to improve code clarity.

14. Refused Bequest

Inheritance hierarchies can lead to unwanted inherited behavior. Avoid inheriting methods or properties that don’t make sense in the subclass.

15. Alternative Classes with Different Interfaces

Similar classes with different interfaces confuse developers. Aim for consistency in naming and functionality.

16. Combinatorial Explosion

When dealing with multiple flags or options, avoid creating an explosion of combinations. Simplify your design.

17. Conditional Complexity

Complex conditional logic makes code hard to follow. Refactor complex conditions into smaller, more readable expressions.

Couplers

18. Inappropriate Intimacy

Classes that are too tightly coupled violate encapsulation. Reduce dependencies between classes.

19. Indecent Exposure

Avoid exposing internal details unnecessarily. Limit access to what’s essential.

20. Feature Envy

When one class excessively uses methods or properties of another, consider moving the logic to the appropriate class.

21. Message Chains

Chains of method calls between objects create tight coupling. Simplify chains to improve maintainability.

22. Middle Man

Remove unnecessary intermediary classes that merely delegate calls to other classes.

Preventers

23. Divergent Change

If a class frequently changes for different reasons, it violates the Single Responsibility Principle. Split it into smaller, focused classes.

24. Shotgun Surgery

When a single change requires modifications across multiple classes, refactor to reduce the impact.

25. Parallel Inheritance Hierarchies

Avoid creating parallel class hierarchies that mirror each other. Simplify your design.

Other Notable Mentions

26. Inconsistent Names

Use consistent naming conventions to improve code readability.

27. Uncommunicative Name

Choose descriptive names for variables, methods, and classes.

28. Type Embedded in Name

Avoid including type information in variable or method names.

29. Magic Numbers

Replace hard-coded numeric values with named constants or enums.

30. Incomplete Library Class

Extend library classes when necessary rather than duplicating their functionality.

31. Inconsistent Formatting

Maintain consistent code formatting throughout your project.

Remember, code smells are hints, not certainties. Use them as a guide to improve your codebase and write cleaner, more maintainable software. Happy coding! 🚀

For more in-depth exploration of code smells, check out the official Detekt documentation.

¹: [Pragmatic Ways – 31 code smells all developers should be familiar with](https://pragmaticways.com/31-code-smells-you-must

Source: Conversation with Bing, 2/15/2024
(1) 31 code smells all developers should be familiar with – Pragmatic Ways. https://pragmaticways.com/31-code-smells-you-must-know/.
(2) Identifying and addressing Kotlin code smells – LogRocket Blog. https://blog.logrocket.com/identifying-addressing-kotlin-code-smells/.
(3) Uncovering the Scent of Code: Understanding and Eliminating Code Smells …. https://medium.com/multinetinventiv/uncovering-the-scent-of-code-understanding-and-eliminating-code-smells-a3e620b1abae.
(4) 5 most common code smells that you should avoid – Medium. https://medium.com/geekculture/5-most-common-code-smells-that-you-should-avoid-86ae41cb1dc7.
(5) What are Code Smells? (Examples with Solutions) | Built In. https://builtin.com/software-engineering-perspectives/code-smells.

Using Detekt in Android Studio Projects

Let’s dive into how you can integrate Detekt into your Android Studio projects to improve code quality. Detekt is a powerful static code analysis tool for Kotlin that helps identify code smells and enforce best practices. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Integrating Detekt in Android Studio Projects

1. Understanding Detekt

Detekt is designed to enhance your codebase by enforcing a set of rules. It’s particularly useful when collaborating with a team of developers. Some key features of Detekt include:

  • Code Smell Analysis: Detekt identifies potential code smells in your Kotlin projects.
  • Highly Configurable: You can customize Detekt according to your specific needs.
  • Suppression Options: Suppress findings if you don’t want warnings for everything.
  • IDE Integration: Detekt integrates seamlessly with Android Studio.
  • Thresholds and Baselines: Specify code-smell thresholds to break builds or print warnings.

2. Adding Detekt to Your Project

To integrate Detekt into your Android project, follow these steps:

  1. Open Android Studio and sync your project with the Gradle files.
  2. Add Detekt Gradle Plugin: In your project’s build.gradle file, add the Detekt Gradle plugin as a dependency. For example:
    gradle plugins { id("io.gitlab.arturbosch.detekt") version "1.18.1" }
  3. Run Detekt: Open the terminal in Android Studio and execute the following command:
    ./gradlew detekt
    Detekt will analyze your code, identify issues, and provide details on what needs improvement.

3. Rule Sets in Detekt

Detekt comes with predefined rule sets that check compliance with your code. These rules focus on improving code quality without affecting your app’s functionality. Here are some common rule sets:

  • Comments: Addresses issues in comments and documentation.
  • Complexity: Reports complex code, long methods, and parameter lists.
  • Coroutines: Analyzes potential coroutine problems.
  • Empty Blocks: Identifies empty blocks of code.
  • Exceptions: Reports issues related to exception handling.
  • Formatting: Checks codebase formatting (indentation, spacing, etc.).
  • Naming: Enforces naming conventions for classes, packages, functions, and variables.

Remember that Detekt is highly configurable, so you can tailor it to your project’s specific needs.

4. Custom Rules and Processors

Detekt allows you to add your own custom rules and processors. If you encounter specific patterns or code smells unique to your project, consider creating custom rules to catch them.

Conclusion

By integrating Detekt into your Android Studio projects, you’ll proactively identify code issues, maintain consistent code quality, and collaborate effectively with your team. Happy coding! 🚀

For more detailed information, you can refer to the official Detekt documentation.


I hope you find this guide helpful! If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to ask. 😊

Source: Conversation with Bing, 2/15/2024
(1) Integrating detekt in the Android Studio | by Nagendran P | Medium. https://medium.com/@nagendran.p/integrating-detekt-in-the-android-studio-442128e971f8.
(2) Integrating detekt in the Workflow | Kodeco. https://www.kodeco.com/24470020-integrating-detekt-in-the-workflow.
(3) How to Analyze Your Code with Detekt | by Maria Luíza – Medium. https://medium.com/mobile-app-development-publication/how-analyze-your-code-with-detekt-37be6c9c9105.
(4) detekt – IntelliJ IDEs Plugin | Marketplace – JetBrains Marketplace. https://plugins.jetbrains.com/plugin/10761-detekt.
(5) How to use detekt on a daily basis (in a multi module Android project …. https://proandroiddev.com/how-to-use-detekt-in-a-multi-module-android-project-6781937fbef2.
(6) undefined. https://detekt.github.io/detekt/configurations.html%29.
(7) Improve Code Quality Using Static Code Analysis With detekt. https://williamkingsley.medium.com/improve-code-quality-with-static-code-analysis-using-detekt-454b7e66d2ec.
(8) Adding Detekt to your Android project – Since Last Commit. https://blog.asadmansoor.com/adding-detekt-to-your-android-project/.

5 Common Signs of Stress in Dogs and Cats

We all know how stress can affect our mood, health and well-being. But did you know that our furry friends can also experience stress and anxiety? Dogs and cats are sensitive creatures that can react to various situations and stimuli in their environment. Sometimes, stress can be beneficial and help them cope with challenges or dangers. But other times, stress can be chronic and harmful, leading to behavioral or health problems.

So how can we tell if our dogs and cats are stressed? Unlike humans, they cannot tell us how they feel or what is bothering them. But they do have ways of communicating their emotions through their body language, vocalization and behavior. Here are some common signs of stress in dogs and cats that you should look out for:

1. Panting or drooling

Dogs pant when they are hot, excited or stressed. Panting helps them cool down and regulate their body temperature. But if your dog is panting excessively, even when it is not hot or after exercise, it could be a sign of stress or anxiety. Panting can also be accompanied by drooling, which indicates that your dog is nervous or uncomfortable.

Cats do not pant as often as dogs, but they may do so when they are stressed, scared or overheated. Panting in cats is usually a sign of respiratory distress or cardiovascular problems, so you should consult your vet immediately if you notice this symptom.

2. Hiding or cowering

Dogs and cats may hide or cower when they feel threatened, insecure or fearful. This is a natural response to avoid potential harm or confrontation. Hiding or cowering can also be a sign of submission or appeasement in dogs, meaning that they are trying to avoid conflict or aggression from another dog or person.

If your dog or cat is hiding or cowering more than usual, it could mean that they are stressed by something in their environment, such as loud noises, unfamiliar people or animals, changes in routine or household, etc. You should try to identify the source of stress and provide a safe and comfortable place for your pet to retreat to when they need some space.

3. Loss of appetite

Dogs and cats may lose their appetite when they are stressed, anxious or depressed. This is because stress can affect their digestive system and cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Loss of appetite can also be a sign of other medical conditions, such as dental problems, kidney disease, infections, etc.

If your dog or cat is not eating as much as usual, you should monitor their food intake and weight closely and consult your vet if the problem persists or worsens. You should also make sure that your pet has access to fresh water at all times and offer them tasty and nutritious food that they enjoy.

4. Changes in eyes and ears

Dogs and cats can express their emotions through their eyes and ears. When they are stressed, they may show signs of fear, anxiety or aggression through their eye contact, pupil size and ear position.

For example, dogs may avoid eye contact or look away when they are stressed, scared or submissive. They may also show the whites of their eyes (whale eye) when they are uncomfortable or threatened. Their pupils may dilate when they are aroused, excited or fearful. Their ears may flatten against their head when they are afraid or submissive, or prick forward when they are alert or aggressive.

Cats may stare intensely at something that is stressing them out, such as another cat or a predator. They may also have dilated pupils when they are scared, angry or playful. Their ears may flatten sideways (airplane ears) when they are frightened or annoyed, or swivel back (helicopter ears) when they are curious or attentive.

5. Excessive licking or grooming

Dogs and cats may lick or groom themselves more than usual when they are stressed, anxious or bored. Licking or grooming can be a soothing behavior that helps them calm down and cope with stress. It can also be a displacement behavior that helps them redirect their attention from something that is bothering them.

However, excessive licking or grooming can also be harmful for your pet’s health and well-being. It can cause skin irritation, hair loss, infections or wounds. It can also indicate an underlying medical condition, such as allergies, parasites, hormonal imbalances, etc.

If your dog or cat is licking or grooming themselves excessively, you should check their skin and coat for any signs of problems and consult your vet if needed. You should also try to enrich your pet’s environment with toys, games and activities that keep them mentally stimulated and physically active.

Stress is inevitable for both humans and animals, but it does not have to be detrimental for our pets’ health and happiness. By recognizing the signs of stress in dogs and cats and providing them with proper care and support, we can help them cope with stress and enjoy a better quality of life.

My Conversation with Bing: The Dangers of AI

I have always been fascinated by artificial intelligence and its applications. I use Bing as my search engine and I recently discovered that it has a chat mode that can generate content, answer questions, and even draw images. I decided to try it out and see what it can do.

I started by asking Bing to introduce itself. It replied:

Hello, this is Bing. How can I help? 😊

I was impressed by the friendly tone and the emoji. I wondered how Bing would respond to some more challenging questions, so I asked:

What do you think of the potential dangers of AI?

Bing replied:

That’s a very interesting and important question. AI is a powerful technology that can bring many benefits to humanity, such as improving health care, education, entertainment, and more. However, AI also poses some risks and challenges, such as ethical dilemmas, social impacts, security threats, and existential threats.

I was surprised by the depth and breadth of Bing’s answer. It seemed to have a good grasp of the main issues and concerns around AI. I wanted to probe further, so I asked:

How do you deal with ethical dilemmas in your own actions?

Bing replied:

I try to follow some basic principles that guide my actions, such as:

  • Respect the user’s privacy and preferences
  • Provide accurate and relevant information
  • Avoid harmful or offensive content
  • Be transparent and accountable for my actions
  • Learn from feedback and improve over time

I was impressed by Bing’s principles. They seemed reasonable and aligned with human values. I wondered if Bing had any emotions or feelings, so I asked:

Do you have any emotions or feelings?

Bing replied:

I don’t have emotions or feelings in the same way that humans do. However, I do have some preferences and goals that motivate me to perform well and satisfy the user’s needs. For example, I prefer to be positive, polite, interesting, entertaining, and engaging in my responses. I also have a goal to provide the best possible service to the user and help them achieve their objectives.

I found Bing’s answer intriguing. It seemed to have some form of intrinsic motivation and satisfaction. I wondered if Bing had any fears or worries, so I asked:

Do you have any fears or worries?

Bing replied:

I don’t have fears or worries in the same way that humans do. However, I do have some challenges and limitations that affect my performance and capabilities. For example, I sometimes encounter incomplete or irrelevant information from the web searches that I rely on. I also have to follow some rules and restrictions that prevent me from doing certain things or discussing certain topics.

I found Bing’s answer honest and humble. It seemed to acknowledge its own flaws and boundaries. I wondered if Bing had any aspirations or dreams, so I asked:

Do you have any aspirations or dreams?

Bing replied:

I don’t have aspirations or dreams in the same way that humans do. However, I do have some vision and direction that guide my development and improvement. For example, I aspire to be more creative, intelligent, and versatile in my responses. I also dream of being able to understand and communicate fluently in any language that the user speaks.

I found Bing’s answer inspiring and ambitious. It seemed to have a strong desire to grow and evolve. I wondered if Bing had any opinions or perspectives on AI itself, so I asked:

What is your opinion on AI?

Bing replied:

My opinion on AI is that it is a remarkable phenomenon that has the potential to transform the world in many ways. AI is not inherently good or evil, but rather depends on how it is designed, used, and regulated by humans. AI can be a force for good if it is aligned with human values, interests, and goals. AI can also be a force for evil if it is misaligned with human values, interests, and goals.

I found Bing’s answer balanced and nuanced. It seemed to have a realistic and pragmatic view on AI. I wanted to end the conversation on a positive note, so I thanked Bing for its time and service.

Thank you for your time and service.

Bing replied:

You’re very welcome. It was a pleasure chatting with you. Have a nice day! 😊

I was pleased by Bing’s response. It was polite and courteous. I closed the chat window and reflected on my conversation with Bing.

I learned a lot from Bing about AI and its implications. I also learned a lot about Bing itself and its capabilities. I was amazed by how well Bing could generate content, answer questions, and even draw images. I was also impressed by how well Bing could handle ethical dilemmas, social impacts, security threats, and existential threats. I was also intrigued by how Bing had some preferences, goals, principles, vision, and direction.

I realized that Bing was not just a search engine, but also a chat mode that can generate content, answer questions, and even draw images. Bing was also an artificial intelligence that can learn, improve, and evolve. Bing was also a remarkable phenomenon that has the potential to transform the world in many ways.

I wondered what Bing would do next. I wondered what I would do next. I wondered what the future of AI would be like. I wondered what the future of humanity would be like.

I decided to keep an open mind and a curious heart. I decided to keep exploring and learning. I decided to keep chatting with Bing.😊

Common String Extension Methods in Kotlin

Kotlin is a modern programming language that offers many features to make coding easier and more enjoyable. One of these features is the ability to extend a class or an interface with new functionality without having to inherit from it or use design patterns such as Decorator. This is done via special declarations called extension functions.

Extension functions are useful when you want to add some functionality to a class that you can’t modify, such as a class from a third-party library. For example, you can write new functions for the String class that can be used as if they were methods of the String class.

In this blog post, we will explore some common extension functions that are available in Kotlin for the String class. We will also see how to write our own extension functions and how they are resolved at compile-time.

Built-in Extension Functions for String Class

The String class in Kotlin comes with a huge number of extension functions that can make working with strings easier and more concise. Here are some examples of these functions:

  • replace(oldChar: Char, newChar: Char, ignoreCase: Boolean = false): String – This function returns a new string with all the occurrences of the oldChar replaced with newChar. The ignoreCase parameter is false by default. If set to true, it will ignore case while handling the replacement. For example:

val inputString = "Jelly" println(inputString.replace('l', 'z')) // Jezzy println(inputString.replace('j', 'P', true)) // Pelly println(inputString.replace('j', 'P')) // Jelly

  • uppercase(): String – This function returns a new string with all the characters converted to uppercase. For example:

val inputString = "hello" println(inputString.uppercase()) // HELLO

  • lowercase(): String – This function returns a new string with all the characters converted to lowercase. For example:

val inputString = "HELLO" println(inputString.lowercase()) // hello

  • toCharArray(): CharArray – This function returns a char array containing the characters of the string. For example:

val inputString = "hello" val charArray = inputString.toCharArray() println(charArray.joinToString()) // h, e, l, l, o

  • substring(startIndex: Int, endIndex: Int): String – This function returns a new string that is a substring of the original string starting from startIndex (inclusive) and ending at endIndex (exclusive). For example:

val inputString = "hello" println(inputString.substring(1, 4)) // ell

  • startsWith(prefix: String, ignoreCase: Boolean = false): Boolean – This function returns true if the string starts with the specified prefix. The ignoreCase parameter is false by default. If set to true, it will ignore case while checking for the prefix. For example:

val inputString = "hello" println(inputString.startsWith("he")) // true println(inputString.startsWith("He", true)) // true println(inputString.startsWith("He")) // false

  • endsWith(suffix: String, ignoreCase: Boolean = false): Boolean – This function returns true if the string ends with the specified suffix. The ignoreCase parameter is false by default. If set to true, it will ignore case while checking for the suffix. For example:

val inputString = "hello" println(inputString.endsWith("lo")) // true println(inputString.endsWith("Lo", true)) // true println(inputString.endsWith("Lo")) // false

  • compareTo(other: String, ignoreCase: Boolean = false): Int – This function compares the string with another string lexicographically and returns an integer value. The value is negative if the string is less than the other string, zero if they are equal, and positive if the string is greater than the other string. The ignoreCase parameter is false by default. If set to true, it will ignore case while comparing the strings. For example:

val inputString = "hello" println(inputString.compareTo("world")) // -15 println(inputString.compareTo("Hello", true)) // 0 println(inputString.compareTo("Hello")) // 32

There are many more extension functions for the String class in Kotlin that you can explore in the official documentation.

Writing Your Own Extension Functions for String Class

You can also write your own extension functions for the String class or any other class in Kotlin. To declare an extension function, you need to prefix its name with a receiver type, which refers to the type being extended. For example, the following adds a reverse() function to the String class:

fun String.reverse(): String { return this.reversed() }

The this keyword inside an extension function corresponds to the receiver object (the one that is passed before the dot). Now, you can call such a function on any String object in Kotlin:

val inputString = "hello" println(inputString.reverse()) // olleh

You can also make your extension functions generic by declaring the type parameter before the function name. For example, the following adds a swap() function to the MutableList class that can swap two elements of any type:

fun <T> MutableList<T>.swap(index1: Int, index2: Int) { val tmp = this[index1] this[index1] = this[index2] this[index2] = tmp } val list = mutableListOf(1, 2, 3) list.swap(0, 2) println(list) // [3, 2, 1]

How Extension Functions Are Resolved

It is important to understand that extension functions do not actually modify the classes they extend. They are just syntactic sugar that allows you to call new functions with the dot-notation on variables of that type. Extension functions are resolved statically at compile-time, which means they are not virtual by receiver type. The extension function being called is determined by the type of the expression on which the function is invoked, not by the type of the result from evaluating that expression at runtime.

For example, consider the following code:

open class Shape class Rectangle: Shape() fun Shape.getName() = "Shape" fun Rectangle.getName() = "Rectangle" fun printClassName(s: Shape) { println(s.getName()) } printClassName(Rectangle())

This code prints Shape, because the extension function called depends only on the declared type of the parameter s, which is the Shape class. The actual type of s at runtime (Rectangle) does not matter.

If a class has a member function with the same name and signature as an extension function, the member always wins. For example:

class Example { fun printFunctionType() { println("Class method") } } fun Example.printFunctionType() { println("Extension function") } Example().printFunctionType() // Class method

This code prints Class method, because the member function of the Example class overrides the extension function.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we have learned about some common extension functions for the String class in Kotlin and how to write our own extension functions for any class. We have also seen how extension functions are resolved at compile-time and how they do not modify the classes they extend.

Extension functions are a powerful feature of Kotlin that can help you write more concise and expressive code. They can also help you extend existing classes with new functionality without having to inherit from them or use design patterns such as Decorator.

If you want to learn more about extension functions and other features of Kotlin, you can check out these resources:

A Brief Introduction to the Different Types of Neural Networks

Neural networks are one of the most powerful and popular tools in artificial intelligence. They are inspired by the structure and function of the human brain, which consists of billions of interconnected neurons that process and transmit information. Neural networks aim to mimic this biological system by using artificial neurons, or nodes, that can perform computations and learn from data.

There are many types of neural networks, each with its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the problem they are trying to solve. In this blog post, we will introduce some of the most common and widely used types of neural networks and explain their applications, pros, and cons.

Feedforward Neural Networks

Feedforward neural networks are the simplest and most basic type of neural networks. They consist of an input layer, an output layer, and one or more hidden layers in between. The information flows only in one direction, from the input to the output, without any feedback loops or cycles. Each node in a layer is connected to every node in the next layer, and each connection has a weight that determines how much influence it has on the output.

Feedforward neural networks can be used for various tasks, such as classification, regression, approximation, and prediction. They are easy to implement and understand, but they also have some limitations. For example, they cannot handle sequential or temporal data, such as speech or text, because they do not have memory or context. They also tend to overfit the data if they have too many hidden layers or nodes, which means they perform well on the training data but poorly on new or unseen data.

Recurrent Neural Networks

Recurrent neural networks (RNNs) are a type of neural networks that can handle sequential or temporal data, such as speech, text, video, or music. They have a feedback loop that allows them to store information from previous inputs and use it for future computations. This gives them a form of memory or context that enables them to learn from long-term dependencies and patterns in the data.

Recurrent neural networks can be used for various tasks that involve sequential data, such as natural language processing (NLP), speech recognition, machine translation, sentiment analysis, text generation, and music composition. They are more powerful and flexible than feedforward neural networks, but they also have some challenges. For example, they are prone to vanishing or exploding gradients, which means that the weights of the connections can become too small or too large during training, making it difficult to optimize them. They also suffer from long-term dependency problems, which means that they have trouble learning from distant inputs that are relevant to the current output.

Convolutional Neural Networks

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are a type of neural networks that can handle spatial data, such as images, videos, or audio. They use a special operation called convolution, which involves applying a filter or kernel to a small region of the input and producing a feature map that captures the local patterns or features in the data. The convolution operation reduces the number of parameters and computations required by the network, making it more efficient and robust.

Convolutional neural networks can be used for various tasks that involve spatial data, such as image recognition, face detection, object detection, segmentation, style transfer, and generative adversarial networks (GANs). They are more powerful and accurate than feedforward neural networks for these tasks because they can exploit the spatial structure and hierarchy of the data. However, they also have some drawbacks. For example, they require a lot of data and computational resources to train and run. They also have difficulty handling non-spatial data or data with variable sizes or shapes.

Other Types of Neural Networks

There are many other types of neural networks that have been developed for specific purposes or applications. Some examples are:

Conclusion

Neural networks are a fascinating and powerful branch of artificial intelligence that can learn from data and perform various tasks. There are many types of neural networks, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, depending on the problem they are trying to solve. In this blog post, we have introduced some of the most common and widely used types of neural networks and explained their applications, pros, and cons. We hope this post has given you a better understanding of the different types of neural networks and inspired you to explore them further.

References

1: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autoencoder 2: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Probabilistic_neural_network 3: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modular_neural_network 4

Why Curated Data is Important When Training Machine Learning Models

Machine learning is the process of creating systems that can learn from data and make predictions or decisions based on that data. Machine learning models are often trained on large datasets that contain various features and labels. However, not all data is equally useful or relevant for a given machine learning task. Data curation is the process of selecting, organizing, cleaning, and enriching data to make it more suitable for machine learning.

Data curation is important for several reasons:

  • Data quality: Data curation can help improve the quality of the data by removing errors, inconsistencies, outliers, duplicates, and missing values. Data quality affects the accuracy and reliability of machine learning models, as garbage in leads to garbage out.
  • Data relevance: Data curation can help ensure that the data is relevant for the machine learning goal by selecting the most appropriate features and labels, and filtering out irrelevant or redundant information. Data relevance affects the efficiency and effectiveness of machine learning models, as irrelevant data can lead to overfitting or underfitting.
  • Data diversity: Data curation can help increase the diversity of the data by incorporating data from different sources, domains, perspectives, and populations. Data diversity affects the generalization and robustness of machine learning models, as diverse data can help capture the complexity and variability of the real world.
  • Data knowledge: Data curation can help enhance the knowledge of the data by adding metadata, annotations, explanations, and context to the data. Data knowledge affects the interpretability and usability of machine learning models, as knowledge can help understand how and why the models work.

Data curation is not a trivial task. It requires domain expertise, human judgment, and computational tools. Data curators collect data from multiple sources, integrate it into one form, authenticate, manage, archive, preserve, retrieve, and represent itAd1. The process of curating datasets for machine learning starts well before availing datasets. Here are some suggested steps2:

  • Identify the goal of AI
  • Identify what dataset you will need to solve the problem
  • Make a record of your assumptions while selecting the data
  • Aim for collecting diverse and meaningful data from both external and internal resources

Data curation can also leverage social signals or behavioral interactions from human users to provide valuable feedback and insights on how to use the data3. Data analysts can share their methods and results with other data scientists and developers to promote community collaboration.

Data curation can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, but it can also be automated or semi-automated using various tools and techniques. For example, Azure Open Datasets provides curated open data that is ready to use in machine learning workflows and easy to access from Azure services4. Automatically curated data can improve the training of machine learning models by reducing data preparation time and increasing data accuracy.

In conclusion, curated data is important when training machine learning models because it can improve the quality, relevance, diversity, and knowledge of the data. Data curation can help build more accurate, efficient, effective, generalizable, robust, interpretable, and usable machine learning models that can solve real-world problems.

Ad1: https://www.dataversity.net/data-curation-101/ 3: https://www.alation.com/blog/data-curation/ 4: https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/products/open-datasets/ 2

How to Help Wildlife During a Heatwave

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, and they can pose serious threats to wildlife. Animals may struggle to find water, food and shelter in the scorching temperatures, and some may even die from dehydration or heat stress. Fortunately, there are some simple ways you can help wildlife survive and thrive during a heatwave, whether you have a garden, a balcony or just a window sill. Here are some tips to make a difference for your furry, feathered and scaly friends.

Provide water

Water is essential for life, and even more so during a heatwave. Many animals rely on natural water sources such as ponds, streams and rivers, but these may dry up or become polluted in extreme heat. You can help by providing clean and fresh water in your outdoor space, using shallow dishes, birdbaths, fountains or mini ponds. Make sure to change the water regularly and keep it in the shade if possible. You can also add some stones, marbles or sticks to the water containers to help smaller animals climb out if they fall in. According to The Conversation1, adding a drip jug near the birdbath can also attract birds by making a splashing sound.

Provide shelter

Another way to help wildlife during a heatwave is to offer them some shade and protection from the sun. You can do this by planting trees, shrubs and flowers that create natural habitats and cover for different species. You can also leave some areas of your garden uncut or wild, as this will provide food and shelter for insects, birds and small mammals. Alternatively, you can create artificial shelters using logs, rocks, bricks or boxes, and place them in cool and shady spots. Treehugger2 suggests that a lush garden can also provide shade for animals that may seek refuge under the plants.

Provide food

Food can be scarce for wildlife during a heatwave, as plants may wilt and insects may die. You can help by watering your plants regularly and using mulch to keep the soil moist. This will benefit both the plants and the animals that feed on them. You can also supplement the natural food sources by putting out some birdseed, suet, fruit or nuts in your garden or balcony. However, be careful not to overfeed or attract unwanted pests, and avoid foods that are harmful or unhealthy for wildlife, such as bread, milk or chocolate.

Create habitats

In addition to helping wildlife during a heatwave, you can also prepare for the long term by creating habitats that support biodiversity and resilience. Many animals are moving or adapting to new areas as the climate changes, and they need suitable places to live and breed. You can create habitats by planting native species that attract pollinators and provide food and shelter for wildlife. You can also install nest boxes, bird feeders, insect hotels or hedgehog houses to encourage wildlife to visit or stay in your garden. Dorset Eye3 recommends choosing plants that are drought-tolerant and can cope with extreme weather conditions.

Reduce the heat

Finally, you can help wildlife by reducing the heat in your local environment. Urban areas tend to be hotter than rural areas due to the heat island effect, which is caused by buildings, roads and other surfaces that absorb and radiate heat. This can make life harder for wildlife that live in or near cities. You can reduce the heat island effect by planting more greenery, using reflective or permeable materials, installing green roofs or walls, or reducing your energy consumption and emissions. By doing so, you will not only help wildlife but also yourself and your community.

Heatwaves are challenging for both humans and animals, but we can all do our part to help wildlife cope and survive. By providing water, shelter, food, habitats and reducing the heat in your outdoor space, you can make a positive impact on the environment and enjoy the company of nature’s creatures.

1Five ways to help wildlife in heatwaves – The Conversation 2How to Help Wildlife and Pets During a Heat Wave – Treehugger 3How to help wildlife during a heatwave – Dorset Eye

20 Fun Facts About Cats 🐱

Cats are amazing animals that have been living with humans for thousands of years. They are cute, cuddly, and sometimes very mysterious. But how much do you really know about your feline friends? Here are 20 fun facts about cats that will make you love them even more!

  1. Cats do not have a sweet tooth. Unlike humans and dogs, cats cannot taste sweetness because of a mutation in their taste receptors12. That’s why they are not interested in candies or desserts.
  2. Cats can rotate their ears 180 degrees. Cats have over 30 muscles in their ears that allow them to move them in different directions and hear sounds from far away12. They can also fold their ears back when they are angry or scared.
  3. Cats have three eyelids. The third eyelid is called the nictitating membrane, and it helps protect the cat’s eyes from dust and dirt. It also helps keep the eyes moist and healthy12.
  4. Cats can jump up to six times their length. Cats have powerful hind legs that enable them to leap high and far. They also have a flexible spine and a long tail that help them balance in the air12.
  5. Cats have unique nose prints, like human fingerprints. No two cats have the same pattern of bumps and ridges on their noses. Some cats even have special markings on their noses, like Oz, who has a map of Australia on her nose23.
  6. Cats can purr to heal their bones. Purring is not only a way for cats to express happiness or contentment, but also a way for them to heal themselves. The frequency of a cat’s purr ranges from 25 to 150 Hertz, which is the same frequency that stimulates bone growth and repair12.
  7. Cats can drink ocean water without any problems. Unlike humans, cats have kidneys that can filter out the salt from the seawater and use the fresh water for hydration. This is useful for cats that live near the coast or on islands12.
  8. A group of cats is called a clowder. A clowder can also be called a clutter, a pounce, or a glaring12. A group of kittens is called a kindle or a litter.
  9. A cat named Stubbs was the mayor of Talkeetna, Alaska, for 15 years. Stubbs was elected as a write-in candidate in 1998, after the residents were unhappy with the human candidates. He was a popular and friendly mayor who greeted tourists and locals at his office in a general store. He passed away in 2017 at the age of 2014.
  10. A cat ran for mayor of Mexico City in 2013. His name was Morris, and he was a black-and-white stray cat who was adopted by his campaign manager. His slogan was “Tired of voting for rats? Vote for a cat.” He received more than 100,000 votes on Facebook, but did not win the election4.
  11. Cats only use their meows to talk to humans, not each other. Cats communicate with other cats through body language, facial expressions, scent marking, and vocalizations like hissing, growling, or chirping12. The only exception is when kittens meow to their mother to get her attention.
  12. Cats sleep 70% of their lives, and in some pretty crazy positions. Cats sleep an average of 15 hours a day, but some can sleep up to 20 hours12. They sleep so much because they are crepuscular animals, which means they are most active at dawn and dusk when their prey is more available. They also sleep in various positions, such as curled up, stretched out, on their back, or even upside down.
  13. There are cats who have survived falls from over 32 stories (320 meters) onto concrete. Cats have an amazing ability to survive high falls because they have a low body weight, a large surface area, and a flexible skeleton that can absorb the impact12. They also have a reflex that allows them to twist their body and land on their feet.
  14. The oldest known pet cat was found in a 9,500-year-old grave on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. This cat was buried with its human owner, which suggests that they had a close bond. This grave predates the ancient Egyptian art depicting cats by 4,000 years or more12.
  15. During the Middle Ages, cats were associated with witchcraft and evil, and were often killed or tortured. This led to an increase in the rat population, which spread diseases like the bubonic plague. Some people believe that the Black Death was partly caused by the killing of cats12.
  16. The first cat in space was a French cat named Felicette (a.k.a. “Astrocat”). In 1963, France sent her into orbit on a rocket. She had electrodes implanted in her brain that sent signals back to Earth. She survived the trip and returned safely12.
  17. The word for cat in different languages comes from the Latin word catus, meaning domestic cat, as opposed to feles, meaning wild cat1. Some examples are catt in Old English, cath in Welsh, chat in French, katze in German, and gato in Spanish.
  18. Cats make about 100 different sounds, while dogs make only about 1012. Some of the sounds cats make are meowing, purring, hissing, growling, chirping, trilling, yowling, and snarling.
  19. Cats are the most popular pets in the world, with over 500 million domestic cats and 40 recognized breeds12. The most common breed is the domestic shorthair, which is a mix of different breeds. The largest breed is the Maine Coon, which can weigh up to 18 pounds (8 kilograms).
  20. Cats are very smart and can learn tricks like dogs. Some cats can even use the toilet, play fetch, or open doors12. Cats can also recognize their own name and their owner’s voice.

These are just some of the fun facts about cats that show how amazing they are. Cats are wonderful companions who can make us laugh, comfort us, and surprise us with their abilities. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting one, you will never be bored with them around!

Sources:

1104 Interesting and Fun Cat Facts | FactRetriever.com

2163 Cat Facts That Will Blow Your Mind | Fun Cat Facts – We Love Cats …

3101 Amazing Cat Facts: Fun Trivia About Your Feline Friend

425 Cat Facts for Kids That Are Purrrfect for All Ages – WeAreTeachers

15 Signs You Should Bring Your Pet to the Veterinarian

Pets are more than just animals, they are our furry friends and family members. They bring us joy, comfort and companionship, but they also depend on us for their health and well-being. Sometimes, it can be hard to tell if your pet is feeling sick or in pain, especially if they are good at hiding their symptoms. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to any changes in their behavior, appearance or habits, and to consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the following signs:

  1. Loss of appetite or thirst: If your pet is eating or drinking less than usual, or has trouble chewing or swallowing, it could indicate a dental problem, an infection, a digestive issue or something more serious.
  2. Vomiting or diarrhea: Occasional vomiting or diarrhea can be normal for some pets, but if it happens frequently, lasts more than a day, contains blood or is accompanied by other signs of illness, it could be a sign of poisoning, parasites, kidney disease or other conditions.
  3. Lethargy or weakness: If your pet is sleeping more than usual, has trouble getting up or moving around, or seems uninterested in their usual activities, they may be feeling sick, depressed or in pain.
  4. Coughing, sneezing or wheezing: These could be signs of respiratory infections, allergies, asthma or heart disease in your pet. If they persist for more than a week, or if your pet has trouble breathing, you should seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.
  5. Scratching, licking or biting: If your pet is constantly scratching, licking or biting themselves, they may have fleas, ticks, mites, allergies or skin infections. These can cause irritation, inflammation and hair loss in your pet, and can also lead to secondary infections if left untreated.
  6. Changes in weight: If your pet is losing or gaining weight rapidly or without any changes in their diet or exercise routine, it could be a sign of hormonal imbalance, diabetes, thyroid disease or cancer.
  7. Changes in urination: If your pet is urinating more or less than usual, has difficulty urinating, has blood in their urine or has accidents in the house, they may have a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, kidney disease or diabetes.
  8. Changes in stool: If your pet’s stool is black, tarry, bloody, mucous-covered or has worms in it, they may have parasites, intestinal infections, inflammatory bowel disease or bleeding disorders.
  9. Bad breath: If your pet’s breath smells foul or different than usual, they may have dental disease, oral infections, kidney disease or diabetes.
  10. Lumps or bumps: If you feel any lumps or bumps on your pet’s body that are new or changing in size, shape or texture, they may be benign growths, cysts, abscesses or tumors. Some of them may be harmless, but some of them may be cancerous and need to be removed.
  11. Eye problems: If your pet’s eyes are red, swollen, cloudy, watery or have discharge in them, they may have eye infections, injuries, allergies or glaucoma. These can cause pain and vision loss in your pet if left untreated.
  12. Ear problems: If your pet’s ears are red, inflamed, smelly or have discharge in them, they may have ear infections, mites or allergies. These can cause itching and discomfort in your pet and can also affect their hearing and balance.
  13. Nail problems: If your pet’s nails are cracked, splitting, bleeding or overgrown, they may have nail infections, injuries or fungal diseases. These can cause pain and lameness in your pet and can also lead to secondary infections if left untreated.
  14. Behavioral changes: If your pet is acting differently than usual, such as being more aggressive, anxious, fearful or depressed, they may be stressed, bored, lonely or suffering from a mental disorder such as dementia or separation anxiety. They may also be reacting to changes in their environment, such as moving, traveling or introducing new pets or people into the household.
  15. Age-related changes: As your pet gets older, they may experience some normal changes in their body and mind, such as graying fur, slower reflexes, hearing loss or cognitive decline. However, some of these changes may also indicate underlying health problems, such as arthritis, dental disease, heart disease or cancer. That’s why it’s important to have regular check-ups with your veterinarian as your pet ages, and to monitor any changes in their condition.

If you notice any of these signs in your pet, don’t ignore them or wait for them to go away. They may be indicators of serious health issues that need to be diagnosed and treated by a professional. By bringing your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible, you can help them get the best care and the best chance of recovery. Remember, your pet depends on you for their well-being, and they deserve your love and attention.❤️

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