In this paper we investigate a neural network model in which weights between computational nodes are modified according to a local learning rule. To determine whether local learning rules are sufficient for learning, we encode the network architectures and learning dynamics genetically and then apply selection pressure to evolve networks capable of learning the four boolean functions of one variable. The successful networks are analysed and we show how learning behaviour emerges as a distributed property of the entire network. Finally the utility of genetic algorithms as a tool of discovery is discussed.

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Subsequently, it adapts its model in order to better predict future symbols.

The COVID-19 pandemic response relied heavily on statistical and machine learning models to predict key outcomes such as case prevalence and fatality rates. These predictions were instrumental in enabling timely public health interventions that helped break transmission cycles. While most existing models are grounded in traditional epidemiological data, the potential of alternative datasets, such as those derived from genomic information and human behavior, remains underexplored. In the current study, we investigated the usefulness of diverse modalities of feature sets in predicting case surges. Our results highlight the relative effectiveness of biological (e.g., mutations), public health (e.g., case counts, policy interventions) and human behavioral features (e.g., mobility and social media conversations) in predicting country-level case surges. Importantly, we uncover considerable heterogeneity in predictive performance across countries and feature modalities, suggesting that surge prediction models may need to be tailored to specific national contexts and pandemic phases. Overall, our work highlights the value of integrating alternative data sources into existing disease surveillance frameworks to enhance the prediction of pandemic dynamics.

We extend the formal framework of classifier models used in the legal domain. While the existing classifier framework characterises cases solely through the facts involved, legal reasoning fundamentally relies on both facts and rules, particularly the ratio decidendi. This paper presents an initial approach to incorporating sets of rules within a classifier. Our work is built on the work of Canavotto et al. (2023), which has developed the rule-based reason model of precedential constraint within a hierarchy of factors. We demonstrate how decisions for new cases can be inferred using this enriched rule-based classifier framework. Additionally, we provide an example of how the time element and the hierarchy of courts can be used in the new classifier framework.

Advancements in computer science and AI lead to the development of larger, more complex knowledge bases. These are susceptible to contradictions, particularly when multiple experts are involved. To ensure integrity during changes, procedures are needed. This work addresses the problem from a logical programming perspective. Integrity violations can be interpreted as special operations on proofs of integrity constraints, with SLDNF proofs being the focus. We define a proof tree as a special data structure and demonstrate the implication of the existence of an SLDNF proof through such a tree. Proof trees are more convenient than SLDNF trees and allow set-oriented considerations of proofs. They also present the proof structure more clearly, enabling further applications. Using this structure, we determine a minimal set of conditions that specify when a change in the knowledge base affects the validity of an integrity constraint. Additionally, this approach allows for the reuse of large parts of the old proof when searching for a new one, which reduces the effort compared to previous approaches.