A Neural Adaptive Algorithm for Feature Selection and Classification of High Dimensionality Data

In this paper, we propose a novel method which involves neural adaptive techniques for identifying salient features and for classifying high dimensionality data. In particular a network pruning algorithm acting on MultiLayer Perceptron topology is the foundation of the feature selection strategy. Feature selection is implemented within the back-propagation learning process and based on a measure of saliency derived from bell functions positioned between input and hidden layers and adaptively varied in shape and position during learning. Performances were evaluated experimentally within a Remote Sensing study, aimed to classify hyperspectral data. A comparison analysis was conducted with Support Vector Machine and conventional statistical and neural techniques. As seen in the experimental context, the adaptive neural classifier showed a competitive behavior with respect to the other classifiers considered; it performed a selection of the most relevant features and showed a robust behavior operating under minimal training and noisy situations.