TayViz – The bi-monthly meeting of the Tayside and Fife network for data visualisation

Talks:

Information Visualization Research in the SACHI group

Speaker: Aaron Quigley

Abstract:

Aaron will provide a quick overview of the incipient InfoViz research and prospects of the SACHI group.

A few examples of visualisation in computational systems biology of anti-inflammatory and anticancer drug actions

Speaker: Alexey Goltsov

Abstract:

Visualization is a key aspect in computational systems biology to analyse results of in silico modelling, generate and test hypothesises.  Some examples of visualisation in computational systems biology of cellular response to drug intervention are discussed. First, the developed method of the complex dynamics visualisation of enzyme kinetics is discussed and illustrated with the dynamic visualisation of cyclooxygenase enzyme function and its inhibition by anti-inflammatory drug, aspirin. Second, 3D dynamic visualisation of thrombosis in blood vessel is demonstrated based on the developed agent-based model of blood clotting and anticoagulation drug effect. Third, visualisation in computational systems biology of cancer are discussed and illustrated with the visualisation methods of the determination of promising drug targets and analysis of changing sensitivity of tumor to anticancer therapy at different oncogenic mutations.

FatFonts: Combining the Symbolic and Visual Aspects of Numbers

Speaker: Miguel Nacenta

Abstract:

In this talk I present a new technique for visualisation that makes use of typography. FatFonts is a technique for visualizing quantitative data that bridges the gap betweennumeric and visual representations. FatFonts are based onArabic numerals but, unlike regular numeric typefaces, theamount of ink (dark pixels) used for each digit is propor-tional to its quantitative value. This enables accurate read-ing of the numerical data while preserving an overall visual context. During the talk, I discuss the challenges of this approach, it’s possible uses, and how to use it in visualizations.

Bio:

Miguel Nacenta is a Lecturer in the School of Computer Science. He is interested in new interaction form factors (e.g., tabletops, multi-touch, multi-display environments), perception, and information visualisation.

Event details

  • When: 15th May 2012 18:30 - 20:30
  • Where: Cole 1.33a
  • Format: Talk

Helen Purchase on An Exploration of Interface Visual Aesthetics

Speaker: Helen Purchase, University of Glasgow
Title: An Exploration of Interface Visual Aesthetics
Abstract:
The visual design of an interface is not merely an ‘add-on’ to the functionality provided by a system: it is well-known that it can affect user preference, engagement and motivation, but does it have any effect on user performance? Can the efficiency or effectiveness of a system be improved by its visual design? This seminar will report on experiments that investigate whether any such effect can be quantified and tested. Key to this question is the definition of an unambiguous, quantifiable characterisation of an interface’s ‘visual aesthetic’: ways in which this could be determined will be discussed.

About Helen:
Dr Helen Purchase is Senior Lecturer in the School of Computing Science at the University of Glasgow. She has worked in the area of empirical studies of graph layout for several years, and also has research interests in visual aesthetics, task-based empirical design, collaborative learning in higher education, and sketch tools for design. She is currently writing a book on empirical methods for HCI research.

Event details

  • When: 15th May 2012 13:00 - 14:00
  • Where: Cole 1.33a
  • Format: Seminar

Connect 4 anyone?

The subhonours lab was busy with the Connect 4 challenge this morning. Students taking CS1006 Programming Projects worked in pairs in a round-robin format, in which every duo plays every other once. Congratulations to Hamish and Mariya who won today’s challenge and received Amazon Vouchers as a reward.

Lectureship in Computer Science

The School of Computer Science are seeking applications for a Lecturer in Computer Science

We seek lectureship applications from researchers who have a strong research background and excellent publication record in any area of functional programming, complementing and enhancing the existing research team, which has a strong focus on parallel programming models and implementation, resource-aware functional programming, dependent type systems, refactoring, static analysis, and performance modelling, and deep connections with the Haskell community. The candidate should be able to form links with and work collaboratively with other research groups in the school, and contribute to teaching and course design across functional programming and theoretical computer science, especially logic and semantics.

Information on how to apply.

Brazilian “Science without Borders” studentships

The Brazilian Government has decided to support a programme of scholarships to promote the consolidation and expansion of science, technology and innovation in Brazil through ‘Science without Borders’. Science and technology scholarships will be made available to support tuition fees, travel and living costs.

Background information and programme details can be located at Brazil Science Without Borders and includes a list of project areas relating to Computer Science.

Senior Honours Project Madness

The dedicated and talented final year Computer Science students presented their projects yesterday. Short presentations were followed by demonstrations and a poster session.
We wish them every success as they approach graduation.

Best Poster: Isobel Hale

Multiple Intrusion Detection System Testing Suite (MISTY)

Best Project Madness Presentation: Thomas Nicholson

Cross-Modal Interactive World Builder