CSEE Professor Tülay Adali and Professor Kelly Westlake from the University of Maryland School of Medicine received an award from the joint UMBC-UMB Research and Innovation Partnership Seed Grant Program for a project  that ultimately will improve the recovery of stroke victims. The new joint UMBC-UMB Seed Grant Program pairs primary investigators from UMBC and the University of Maryland, Baltimore to conduct research as a team. Successful partners are offered research funding of up to $75,000 over twelve months to pursue their collaboration.

Nearly 800,000 U.S. citizens have a stroke each year, making it the leading cause of long-term disability. Treatment for stroke victims is mainly targeted towards residual functional deficits, especially regaining hand functions. Their project (“Independent Vector Analysis to Investigate Cognitive Neural Networks after Stroke: A Comparison between Two Rehabilitation Interventions”) will have a direct impact on stroke rehabilitation through objective evaluation of the two main treatment paradigms currently in use: unimanual (involving one hand) and bimanual (involving both hands) training. The evaluation will use the new class of medical image analysis techniques, independent vector analysis (IVA) algorithms, developed by Dr. Adali and her research group. The new class of IVA algorithms successfully captures subject variability and perform significantly better than the approaches traditionally used for the problem.

The initial results of the project demonstrate the advantages using IVA for the problem and will be presented this month at the 48th Annual Conference on Information Sciences and Systems in Princeton, NJ. The PIs are preparing two journal submissions, one based on the methods developed for the task and a second one emphasizing clinical significance of the results. These results will also provide the preliminary data for the proposal that Professors Adali and Westlake plan to submit to the NIH later this year.

CSEE Professor Tülay Adali and Professor Kelly Westlake from the University of Maryland School of Medicine received an award from the joint UMBC-UMB Research and Innovation Partnership Seed Grant Program for a project  that ultimately will improve the recovery of stroke victims. The new joint UMBC-UMB Seed Grant Program pairs primary investigators from UMBC and the University of Maryland, Baltimore to conduct research as a team. Successful partners are offered research funding of up to $75,000 over twelve months to pursue their collaboration.

Nearly 800,000 U.S. citizens have a stroke each year, making it the leading cause of long-term disability. Treatment for stroke victims is mainly targeted towards residual functional deficits, especially regaining hand functions. Their project (“Independent Vector Analysis to Investigate Cognitive Neural Networks after Stroke: A Comparison between Two Rehabilitation Interventions”) will have a direct impact on stroke rehabilitation through objective evaluation of the two main treatment paradigms currently in use: unimanual (involving one hand) and bimanual (involving both hands) training. The evaluation will use the new class of medical image analysis techniques, independent vector analysis (IVA) algorithms, developed by Dr. Adali and her research group. The new class of IVA algorithms successfully captures subject variability and perform significantly better than the approaches traditionally used for the problem.

The initial results of the project demonstrate the advantages using IVA for the problem and will be presented this month at the 48th Annual Conference on Information Sciences and Systems in Princeton, NJ. The PIs are preparing two journal submissions, one based on the methods developed for the task and a second one emphasizing clinical significance of the results. These results will also provide the preliminary data for the proposal that Professors Adali and Westlake plan to submit to the NIH later this year.

• Advice on a strong proposal http://www.umbc.edu/undergrad_ed/research/URA/documents/successfulURAproposals10_Evergreen.doc
• Your proposal content must be on the form provided on the URA web site. The two page narrative must be only two pages long. Longer proposals are not accepted.
  
• Print the cover sheet, proposal, and your transcript all SINGLE SIDED and deliver with NO STAPLES.
• You and your mentor should both sign the cover page of the proposal. IF your mentor is not available to sign in person on Tuesday, AND has read and approved your final proposal copy, the mentor signature can be skipped. Just let me know of the situation.
  
• Mentor materials include a letter from your mentor and the very short form linked from the URA forms page. Mentor materials may be submitted by e-mail. Student materials must be delivered in hard copy.
  
• Deliver on Tuesday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. to Sherman Hall Suite 114.
  

Predictive Analytics for Insider Threats

Ben Shariati
Visiting Lecturer & Interim Assistant CYBR GPD

4:00pm Wednesday, 5 March 2014, ITE325b

This talk will discuss how using operational cyber analytics for predictive security intelligence support a powerful defensive cybersecurity capability. Specifically, I will share elements of my commercial research on how organizations can predict malicious behavior (both user and digital) on their networks by incorporating tailored algorithms and artificial intelligence capabilities as part of an overall cybersecurity sensor architecture. Additionally, this talk will briefly discuss the impact that mobile devices have on the insider threat vulnerability within the government and private sector.

Ben Shariati is a Ph.D. candidate in Information Assurance/Cybersecurity at the George Washington University, where his dissertation work examines the analysis and management of cybersecurity concerns of critical infrastructures. His research and professional interests include mobile device security, emerging technology evaluation, risk analysis, audit, and compliance. For AY13-14, Mr. Shariati is a visiting lecturer and Interim Assistant Director of the Graduate Cybersecurity Program overseeing program activities at The Universities at Shady Grove. In addition to teaching several courses at UMBC, Mr. Shariati has taught graduate cybersecurity courses at George Washington University and undergraduate technical certification classes Hagerstown Community College.

Mr. Shariati is a technology and business executive with over 20 years of experience specializing in strategic and operational cybersecurity program activities and development for international organizations. His career highlights include serving as a lead enterprise security architect at the Federal Reserve Bank in Richmond, VA, a cybersecurity advisor at Cell Trust Corporation, and Technology Advisor/Cybersecurity Architect for the United Nations Pan American Health Organization.

Predictive Analytics for Insider Threats

Ben Shariati
Visiting Lecturer & Interim Assistant CYBR GPD

4:00pm Wednesday, 5 March 2014, ITE325b

This talk will discuss how using operational cyber analytics for predictive security intelligence support a powerful defensive cybersecurity capability. Specifically, I will share elements of my commercial research on how organizations can predict malicious behavior (both user and digital) on their networks by incorporating tailored algorithms and artificial intelligence capabilities as part of an overall cybersecurity sensor architecture. Additionally, this talk will briefly discuss the impact that mobile devices have on the insider threat vulnerability within the government and private sector.

Ben Shariati is a Ph.D. candidate in Information Assurance/Cybersecurity at the George Washington University, where his dissertation work examines the analysis and management of cybersecurity concerns of critical infrastructures. His research and professional interests include mobile device security, emerging technology evaluation, risk analysis, audit, and compliance. For AY13-14, Mr. Shariati is a visiting lecturer and Interim Assistant Director of the Graduate Cybersecurity Program overseeing program activities at The Universities at Shady Grove. In addition to teaching several courses at UMBC, Mr. Shariati has taught graduate cybersecurity courses at George Washington University and undergraduate technical certification classes Hagerstown Community College.

Mr. Shariati is a technology and business executive with over 20 years of experience specializing in strategic and operational cybersecurity program activities and development for international organizations. His career highlights include serving as a lead enterprise security architect at the Federal Reserve Bank in Richmond, VA, a cybersecurity advisor at Cell Trust Corporation, and Technology Advisor/Cybersecurity Architect for the United Nations Pan American Health Organization.

CSEE Professor Samuel Lomonaco will give an invited talk on “The Strange World of Quantum Computing” as art of the NASA Goddard Engineering Colloquium Series at 3:00pm Monday, March 10 in the Building 3 Auditorium.

Abstract: Quantum computers have the potential to greatly increase computational power beyond the capabilities of conventional computers by exploiting the bizarre quantum properties of the subatomic world. This talk will give an introductory overview of quantum computing in an intuitive and conceptual fashion. No prior knowledge of quantum mechanics will be assumed.

CSEE Professor Samuel Lomonaco will give an invited talk on “The Strange World of Quantum Computing” as art of the NASA Goddard Engineering Colloquium Series at 3:00pm Monday, March 10 in the Building 3 Auditorium.

Abstract: Quantum computers have the potential to greatly increase computational power beyond the capabilities of conventional computers by exploiting the bizarre quantum properties of the subatomic world. This talk will give an introductory overview of quantum computing in an intuitive and conceptual fashion. No prior knowledge of quantum mechanics will be assumed.

Despite the unusual weather, there was a great turnout for Leadership Panel this past Wednesday, February 26th.  For those who could not attend, additional information is posted below. 

SALAR KHALEGHZADEGAN, RESEARCHER, BRADY UROLOGICAL INSTITUTE & SIDNEY KIMMEL COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER, JOHNS HOPKINS SCHOOL OF MEDICINE, CLASS #2 LEADERSHAPER, 2012-13 FRANCE & MERRICK FELLOW, & UMBC ALUM (CLASS OF ‘13)

 It was after his freshman year that Salar realized he wanted to get involved.  Salar described several leadership roles he had while at UMBC, notably Health Leads, Baltimore Collegetown Network’s Class #2 LeaderShaper and Class #3 On-Site Coordinator.  He described true leadership as knowing and admitting when you've made a mistake.  It is highly beneficial to take the time to work with your group to get their suggestions about how to improve the next time.

 As a past participant in with Summer Urological Research Experience (SURE), Salar recommends this summer internship -http://urology.jhu.edu/research/sure.php.  The application is due March 3rd (SOON!).  Per Salar, the website is pretty informative, the online application easy to complete.  He welcomes any questions at skhaleg1@umbc.edu.

 POULOMI BANERJEE, STRiVER (2013 WINTER PARTICIPANT, 2014 SUMMER COACH)

Poulimi shared "my adviser, Jen Dress, always tells us that when we started in our positions, none of us were technically qualified. It's the experience we got by being in the leadership positions that strengthened our leadership skills and made us qualified. I think that if there's a leadership opportunity, big or small, students should take that opportunity regardless of their experience and skills so that they can gain leadership skills. The great thing about STRiVE is that students learn about how and where they can find those opportunities and make the most out of them."  Poulomi also emphasized that one should not underestimate what they can contribute.  She described that she did not expect she would serve in a leadership role until later in her UMBC career.  She looks forward to her ASB experience with the Gesundheit Institute, eager to connect with and cheer up children who are working through major health challenges.

With great excitement, Poulimi encouraged members to consider STRiVE, which traditionally has been held over Winter Session.   The first Summer Leadership Session will be held May 27th-31st.  Applications will open on Monday, March 3rd at http://my.umbc.edu/groups/lc

Poulimi is happy to answer any questions at sb52379@umbc.edu.

 EMMA GREGER, FELLOW, 2013-14 FRANCE & MERRICK SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM Emma shared how influential her Honors College Team Leader Sunaina Khandewal was when Emma was a freshman in the Honors College Forum.  With Sunaina's encouragement, Emma volunteered at Education Based Latino Outreach (EBLO), where Sunaina was the Service-Learning Intern through The Shriver Center.  When Sunaina graduated, Emma became the EBLO Intern.

Emma shared how much she loved being a WOOLIE during Welcome Week.  It was in this leadership role that she experienced the importance of being flexible and thinking quickly on your feet when things don't go as you initially planned.  “Plan B” can be an excellent experience for all of those involved.

As a Scholar her junior year and now as a Fellow, Emma values the network and opportunities for collaboration gained through the France & Merrick Scholarship Program.  Emma is currently applying to the Peace Corps while finishing her last semester as an undergraduate.  Emma welcomes any questions at egreg1@umbc.edu.

Applications for 2014-15 are due by April 1st.  Please see the attachment for application requirements.  

JULICIA COLEMAN, CHOICE JOBS FELLOW, THE CHOICE PROGRAM  Important support systems got Julicia to where she is today.  Julicia provides that to youth through The Choice Jobs Program, placing youth in vocational settings to promote employment readiness.  She described the benefits and challenges in working with youth at the Flying Fruit Fantasy Shake stands at Camden Yards and the Inner Harbor.  There is so much to learn about the food industry (managing a business, safe handling of food, etc.).  Additionally, figuring out a balance between mentor and supervisor can be challenging, especially considering that many of the youth are used to people talking at them.  Julicia recently was promoted as Service Coordinator to lead the team of Fellows in the Prince George’s County, where the program just expanded.  

For more info on the Choice Jobs’ Paid Summer Internship, review the position description below. ACT SOON as interviews have already begun! The majority of the full-time AmeriCorps Fellowship positions (stipend, benefits, an Educational Award) are open in late spring/early summer.  You can begin the interview process now!  For more info on The Choice Program, go to www.choiceprograms.org

KRISTEN GUY, PROGRAM MANAGER, BALTIMORE COLLEGETOWN NETWORK’S LEADERSHAPE PROGRAM Kristen became a LeaderShaper when she was an undergraduate at Towson University.  A number of leadership roles followed, to include LeaderShape On-site Coordinator and SGA President.  Her leadership skills were constantly being put to the test.  Kristen highly recommends the book, “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team,” by Patrick Lencioni.  Playing to group members’ strengths are critical in having a cohesive team.  Contact Kristen with any questions at kguy@baltimorecollegetown.org.

Baltimore Collegetown Class #5 LeaderShape - deadline March 13th -http://www.baltimorecollegetown.org/resources/leadershape/about-the-program/

HANNAH SCHMITZ, PROGRAM COORDINATOR, THE SHRIVER CENTER’S SUMMER PUBLIC SERVICE INTERNSHIPS (GOVERNOR’S SUMMER INTERNSHIP PROGRAM, WALTER SONDHEIM, JR. MARYLAND NONPROFIT LEADERSHIP PROGRAM, & MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

 The newest member of The Shriver Center, Hannah’s experience runs deep in leadership in the field of higher education (to include West Chester University and Drexel University).  In her role, Hannah liaises with these unique public service internship programs to ensure that state-wide participants will have meaningful experiences.  Hannah recently attended a hearing at the Maryland State House of Delegates with several UMBC students who testified to promote the expansion of the Walter Sondheim Jr. Public Service Summer Internship Program to become a year-long experience (for more info, go to http://my.umbc.edu/groups/shriver/news/41765). When working on teams, it is important to meet your colleagues where they are.   Hannah emphasized that being a leader means knowing when to lead and when to follow.

Shriver Center Paid Summer Public Service Internship Programs - varied deadlines, close soon! - http://shrivercenter.umbc.edu/students/the-scholars-programs/