@phdthesis{Tiwari2019, author = {Tiwari, Abhishek}, title = {Enhancing Users' Privacy: Static Resolution of the Dynamic Properties of Android}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, pages = {xiii, 111}, year = {2019}, abstract = {The usage of mobile devices is rapidly growing with Android being the most prevalent mobile operating system. Thanks to the vast variety of mobile applications, users are preferring smartphones over desktops for day to day tasks like Internet surfing. Consequently, smartphones store a plenitude of sensitive data. This data together with the high values of smartphones make them an attractive target for device/data theft (thieves/malicious applications). Unfortunately, state-of-the-art anti-theft solutions do not work if they do not have an active network connection, e.g., if the SIM card was removed from the device. In the majority of these cases, device owners permanently lose their smartphone together with their personal data, which is even worse. Apart from that malevolent applications perform malicious activities to steal sensitive information from smartphones. Recent research considered static program analysis to detect dangerous data leaks. These analyses work well for data leaks due to inter-component communication, but suffer from shortcomings for inter-app communication with respect to precision, soundness, and scalability. This thesis focuses on enhancing users' privacy on Android against physical device loss/theft and (un)intentional data leaks. It presents three novel frameworks: (1) ThiefTrap, an anti-theft framework for Android, (2) IIFA, a modular inter-app intent information flow analysis of Android applications, and (3) PIAnalyzer, a precise approach for PendingIntent vulnerability analysis. ThiefTrap is based on a novel concept of an anti-theft honeypot account that protects the owner's data while preventing a thief from resetting the device. We implemented the proposed scheme and evaluated it through an empirical user study with 35 participants. In this study, the owner's data could be protected, recovered, and anti-theft functionality could be performed unnoticed from the thief in all cases. IIFA proposes a novel approach for Android's inter-component/inter-app communication (ICC/IAC) analysis. Our main contribution is the first fully automatic, sound, and precise ICC/IAC information flow analysis that is scalable for realistic apps due to modularity, avoiding combinatorial explosion: Our approach determines communicating apps using short summaries rather than inlining intent calls between components and apps, which requires simultaneously analyzing all apps installed on a device. We evaluate IIFA in terms of precision, recall, and demonstrate its scalability to a large corpus of real-world apps. IIFA reports 62 problematic ICC-/IAC-related information flows via two or more apps/components. PIAnalyzer proposes a novel approach to analyze PendingIntent related vulnerabilities. PendingIntents are a powerful and universal feature of Android for inter-component communication. We empirically evaluate PIAnalyzer on a set of 1000 randomly selected applications and find 1358 insecure usages of PendingIntents, including 70 severe vulnerabilities.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Decker2009, author = {Decker, Gero}, title = {Design and analysis of process choreographies}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus-40761}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, year = {2009}, abstract = {With the rise of electronic integration between organizations, the need for a precise specification of interaction behavior increases. Information systems, replacing interaction previously carried out by humans via phone, faxes and emails, require a precise specification for handling all possible situations. Such interaction behavior is described in process choreographies. Choreographies enumerate the roles involved, the allowed interactions, the message contents and the behavioral dependencies between interactions. Choreographies serve as interaction contract and are the starting point for adapting existing business processes and systems or for implementing new software components. As a thorough analysis and comparison of choreography modeling languages is missing in the literature, this thesis introduces a requirements framework for choreography languages and uses it for comparing current choreography languages. Language proposals for overcoming the limitations are given for choreography modeling on the conceptual and on the technical level. Using an interconnection modeling style, behavioral dependencies are defined on a per-role basis and different roles are interconnected using message flow. This thesis reveals a number of modeling "anti-patterns" for interconnection modeling, motivating further investigations on choreography languages following the interaction modeling style. Here, interactions are seen as atomic building blocks and the behavioral dependencies between them are defined globally. Two novel language proposals are put forward for this modeling style which have already influenced industrial standardization initiatives. While avoiding many of the pitfalls of interconnection modeling, new anomalies can arise in interaction models. A choreography might not be realizable, i.e. there does not exist a set of interacting roles that collectively realize the specified behavior. This thesis investigates different dimensions of realizability.}, language = {en} } @article{SteinertStabernack2022, author = {Steinert, Fritjof and Stabernack, Benno}, title = {Architecture of a low latency H.264/AVC video codec for robust ML based image classification how region of interests can minimize the impact of coding artifacts}, series = {Journal of Signal Processing Systems for Signal, Image, and Video Technology}, volume = {94}, journal = {Journal of Signal Processing Systems for Signal, Image, and Video Technology}, number = {7}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {New York}, issn = {1939-8018}, doi = {10.1007/s11265-021-01727-2}, pages = {693 -- 708}, year = {2022}, abstract = {The use of neural networks is considered as the state of the art in the field of image classification. A large number of different networks are available for this purpose, which, appropriately trained, permit a high level of classification accuracy. Typically, these networks are applied to uncompressed image data, since a corresponding training was also carried out using image data of similar high quality. However, if image data contains image errors, the classification accuracy deteriorates drastically. This applies in particular to coding artifacts which occur due to image and video compression. Typical application scenarios for video compression are narrowband transmission channels for which video coding is required but a subsequent classification is to be carried out on the receiver side. In this paper we present a special H.264/Advanced Video Codec (AVC) based video codec that allows certain regions of a picture to be coded with near constant picture quality in order to allow a reliable classification using neural networks, whereas the remaining image will be coded using constant bit rate. We have combined this feature with the ability to run with lowest latency properties, which is usually also required in remote control applications scenarios. The codec has been implemented as a fully hardwired High Definition video capable hardware architecture which is suitable for Field Programmable Gate Arrays.}, language = {en} } @article{HuangRichterKleickmannetal.2021, author = {Huang, Yizhen and Richter, Eric and Kleickmann, Thilo and Wiepke, Axel and Richter, Dirk}, title = {Classroom complexity affects student teachers' behavior in a VR classroom}, series = {Computers \& education : an international journal}, volume = {163}, journal = {Computers \& education : an international journal}, publisher = {Elsevier}, address = {Oxford}, issn = {0360-1315}, doi = {10.1016/j.compedu.2020.104100}, pages = {15}, year = {2021}, abstract = {Student teachers often struggle to keep track of everything that is happening in the classroom, and particularly to notice and respond when students cause disruptions. The complexity of the classroom environment is a potential contributing factor that has not been empirically tested. In this experimental study, we utilized a virtual reality (VR) classroom to examine whether classroom complexity affects the likelihood of student teachers noticing disruptions and how they react after noticing. Classroom complexity was operationalized as the number of disruptions and the existence of overlapping disruptions (multidimensionality) as well as the existence of parallel teaching tasks (simultaneity). Results showed that student teachers (n = 50) were less likely to notice the scripted disruptions, and also less likely to respond to the disruptions in a comprehensive and effortful manner when facing greater complexity. These results may have implications for both teacher training and the design of VR for training or research purpose. This study contributes to the field from two aspects: 1) it revealed how features of the classroom environment can affect student teachers' noticing of and reaction to disruptions; and 2) it extends the functionality of the VR environment-from a teacher training tool to a testbed of fundamental classroom processes that are difficult to manipulate in real-life.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Holz2013, author = {Holz, Christian}, title = {3D from 2D touch}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus-67796}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, year = {2013}, abstract = {While interaction with computers used to be dominated by mice and keyboards, new types of sensors now allow users to interact through touch, speech, or using their whole body in 3D space. These new interaction modalities are often referred to as "natural user interfaces" or "NUIs." While 2D NUIs have experienced major success on billions of mobile touch devices sold, 3D NUI systems have so far been unable to deliver a mobile form factor, mainly due to their use of cameras. The fact that cameras require a certain distance from the capture volume has prevented 3D NUI systems from reaching the flat form factor mobile users expect. In this dissertation, we address this issue by sensing 3D input using flat 2D sensors. The systems we present observe the input from 3D objects as 2D imprints upon physical contact. By sampling these imprints at very high resolutions, we obtain the objects' textures. In some cases, a texture uniquely identifies a biometric feature, such as the user's fingerprint. In other cases, an imprint stems from the user's clothing, such as when walking on multitouch floors. By analyzing from which part of the 3D object the 2D imprint results, we reconstruct the object's pose in 3D space. While our main contribution is a general approach to sensing 3D input on 2D sensors upon physical contact, we also demonstrate three applications of our approach. (1) We present high-accuracy touch devices that allow users to reliably touch targets that are a third of the size of those on current touch devices. We show that different users and 3D finger poses systematically affect touch sensing, which current devices perceive as random input noise. We introduce a model for touch that compensates for this systematic effect by deriving the 3D finger pose and the user's identity from each touch imprint. We then investigate this systematic effect in detail and explore how users conceptually touch targets. Our findings indicate that users aim by aligning visual features of their fingers with the target. We present a visual model for touch input that eliminates virtually all systematic effects on touch accuracy. (2) From each touch, we identify users biometrically by analyzing their fingerprints. Our prototype Fiberio integrates fingerprint scanning and a display into the same flat surface, solving a long-standing problem in human-computer interaction: secure authentication on touchscreens. Sensing 3D input and authenticating users upon touch allows Fiberio to implement a variety of applications that traditionally require the bulky setups of current 3D NUI systems. (3) To demonstrate the versatility of 3D reconstruction on larger touch surfaces, we present a high-resolution pressure-sensitive floor that resolves the texture of objects upon touch. Using the same principles as before, our system GravitySpace analyzes all imprints and identifies users based on their shoe soles, detects furniture, and enables accurate touch input using feet. By classifying all imprints, GravitySpace detects the users' body parts that are in contact with the floor and then reconstructs their 3D body poses using inverse kinematics. GravitySpace thus enables a range of applications for future 3D NUI systems based on a flat sensor, such as smart rooms in future homes. We conclude this dissertation by projecting into the future of mobile devices. Focusing on the mobility aspect of our work, we explore how NUI devices may one day augment users directly in the form of implanted devices.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Mueller2016, author = {Mueller, Stefanie}, title = {Interacting with personal fabrication devices}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus4-100908}, school = {Universit{\"a}t Potsdam}, pages = {xxi, 108}, year = {2016}, abstract = {Personal fabrication tools, such as 3D printers, are on the way of enabling a future in which non-technical users will be able to create custom objects. However, while the hardware is there, the current interaction model behind existing design tools is not suitable for non-technical users. Today, 3D printers are operated by fabricating the object in one go, which tends to take overnight due to the slow 3D printing technology. Consequently, the current interaction model requires users to think carefully before printing as every mistake may imply another overnight print. Planning every step ahead, however, is not feasible for non-technical users as they lack the experience to reason about the consequences of their design decisions. In this dissertation, we propose changing the interaction model around personal fabrication tools to better serve this user group. We draw inspiration from personal computing and argue that the evolution of personal fabrication may resemble the evolution of personal computing: Computing started with machines that executed a program in one go before returning the result to the user. By decreasing the interaction unit to single requests, turn-taking systems such as the command line evolved, which provided users with feedback after every input. Finally, with the introduction of direct-manipulation interfaces, users continuously interacted with a program receiving feedback about every action in real-time. In this dissertation, we explore whether these interaction concepts can be applied to personal fabrication as well. We start with fabricating an object in one go and investigate how to tighten the feedback-cycle on an object-level: We contribute a method called low-fidelity fabrication, which saves up to 90\% fabrication time by creating objects as fast low-fidelity previews, which are sufficient to evaluate key design aspects. Depending on what is currently being tested, we propose different conversions that enable users to focus on different parts: faBrickator allows for a modular design in the early stages of prototyping; when users move on WirePrint allows quickly testing an object's shape, while Platener allows testing an object's technical function. We present an interactive editor for each technique and explain the underlying conversion algorithms. By interacting on smaller units, such as a single element of an object, we explore what it means to transition from systems that fabricate objects in one go to turn-taking systems. We start with a 2D system called constructable: Users draw with a laser pointer onto the workpiece inside a laser cutter. The drawing is captured with an overhead camera. As soon as the the user finishes drawing an element, such as a line, the constructable system beautifies the path and cuts it--resulting in physical output after every editing step. We extend constructable towards 3D editing by developing a novel laser-cutting technique for 3D objects called LaserOrigami that works by heating up the workpiece with the defocused laser until the material becomes compliant and bends down under gravity. While constructable and LaserOrigami allow for fast physical feedback, the interaction is still best described as turn-taking since it consists of two discrete steps: users first create an input and afterwards the system provides physical output. By decreasing the interaction unit even further to a single feature, we can achieve real-time physical feedback: Input by the user and output by the fabrication device are so tightly coupled that no visible lag exists. This allows us to explore what it means to transition from turn-taking interfaces, which only allow exploring one option at a time, to direct manipulation interfaces with real-time physical feedback, which allow users to explore the entire space of options continuously with a single interaction. We present a system called FormFab, which allows for such direct control. FormFab is based on the same principle as LaserOrigami: It uses a workpiece that when warmed up becomes compliant and can be reshaped. However, FormFab achieves the reshaping not based on gravity, but through a pneumatic system that users can control interactively. As users interact, they see the shape change in real-time. We conclude this dissertation by extrapolating the current evolution into a future in which large numbers of people use the new technology to create objects. We see two additional challenges on the horizon: sustainability and intellectual property. We investigate sustainability by demonstrating how to print less and instead patch physical objects. We explore questions around intellectual property with a system called Scotty that transfers objects without creating duplicates, thereby preserving the designer's copyright.}, language = {en} } @article{BrewkaEllmauthalerKernIsberneretal.2018, author = {Brewka, Gerhard and Ellmauthaler, Stefan and Kern-Isberner, Gabriele and Obermeier, Philipp and Ostrowski, Max and Romero, Javier and Schaub, Torsten H. and Schieweck, Steffen}, title = {Advanced solving technology for dynamic and reactive applications}, series = {K{\"u}nstliche Intelligenz}, volume = {32}, journal = {K{\"u}nstliche Intelligenz}, number = {2-3}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Heidelberg}, issn = {0933-1875}, doi = {10.1007/s13218-018-0538-8}, pages = {199 -- 200}, year = {2018}, language = {en} } @article{LutherTiberiusBrem2020, author = {Luther, Laura and Tiberius, Victor and Brem, Alexander}, title = {User experience (UX) in business, management, and psychology}, series = {Multimodal technologies and interaction : open access journal}, volume = {4}, journal = {Multimodal technologies and interaction : open access journal}, number = {2}, publisher = {MDPI}, address = {Basel}, issn = {2414-4088}, doi = {10.3390/mti4020018}, pages = {19}, year = {2020}, abstract = {User Experience (UX) describes the holistic experience of a user before, during, and after interaction with a platform, product, or service. UX adds value and attraction to their sole functionality and is therefore highly relevant for firms. The increased interest in UX has produced a vast amount of scholarly research since 1983. The research field is, therefore, complex and scattered. Conducting a bibliometric analysis, we aim at structuring the field quantitatively and rather abstractly. We employed citation analyses, co-citation analyses, and content analyses to evaluate productivity and impact of extant research. We suggest that future research should focus more on business and management related topics.}, language = {en} } @misc{LamprechtMargariaSteffen2009, author = {Lamprecht, Anna-Lena and Margaria, Tiziana and Steffen, Bernhard}, title = {Bio-jETI : a framework for semantics-based service composition}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:517-opus-45066}, year = {2009}, abstract = {Background: The development of bioinformatics databases, algorithms, and tools throughout the last years has lead to a highly distributedworld of bioinformatics services. Without adequatemanagement and development support, in silico researchers are hardly able to exploit the potential of building complex, specialized analysis processes from these services. The Semantic Web aims at thoroughly equipping individual data and services with machine-processable meta-information, while workflow systems support the construction of service compositions. However, even in this combination, in silico researchers currently would have to deal manually with the service interfaces, the adequacy of the semantic annotations, type incompatibilities, and the consistency of service compositions. Results: In this paper, we demonstrate by means of two examples how Semantic Web technology together with an adequate domain modelling frees in silico researchers from dealing with interfaces, types, and inconsistencies. In Bio-jETI, bioinformatics services can be graphically combined to complex services without worrying about details of their interfaces or about type mismatches of the composition. These issues are taken care of at the semantic level by Bio-jETI's model checking and synthesis features. Whenever possible, they automatically resolve type mismatches in the considered service setting. Otherwise, they graphically indicate impossible/incorrect service combinations. In the latter case, the workflow developermay either modify his service composition using semantically similar services, or ask for help in developing the missing mediator that correctly bridges the detected type gap. Newly developed mediators should then be adequately annotated semantically, and added to the service library for later reuse in similar situations. Conclusion: We show the power of semantic annotations in an adequately modelled and semantically enabled domain setting. Using model checking and synthesis methods, users may orchestrate complex processes from a wealth of heterogeneous services without worrying about interfaces and (type) consistency. The success of this method strongly depends on a careful semantic annotation of the provided services and on its consequent exploitation for analysis, validation, and synthesis. We are convinced that these annotations will become standard, as they will become preconditions for the success and widespread use of (preferred) services in the Semantic Web}, language = {en} } @article{LamprechtMargariaSteffen2014, author = {Lamprecht, Anna-Lena and Margaria, Tiziana and Steffen, Bernhard}, title = {Modeling and Execution of Scientific Workflows with the jABC Framework}, series = {Process Design for Natural Scientists: an agile model-driven approach}, journal = {Process Design for Natural Scientists: an agile model-driven approach}, number = {500}, editor = {Lambrecht, Anna-Lena and Margaria, Tiziana}, publisher = {Springer Verlag}, address = {Berlin}, isbn = {978-3-662-45005-5}, issn = {1865-0929}, pages = {14 -- 29}, year = {2014}, abstract = {We summarize here the main characteristics and features of the jABC framework, used in the case studies as a graphical tool for modeling scientific processes and workflows. As a comprehensive environment for service-oriented modeling and design according to the XMDD (eXtreme Model-Driven Design) paradigm, the jABC offers much more than the pure modeling capability. Associated technologies and plugins provide in fact means for a rich variety of supporting functionality, such as remote service integration, taxonomical service classification, model execution, model verification, model synthesis, and model compilation. We describe here in short both the essential jABC features and the service integration philosophy followed in the environment. In our work over the last years we have seen that this kind of service definition and provisioning platform has the potential to become a core technology in interdisciplinary service orchestration and technology transfer: Domain experts, like scientists not specially trained in computer science, directly define complex service orchestrations as process models and use efficient and complex domain-specific tools in a simple and intuitive way.}, language = {en} }