Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Role of Meteorological Factors in the Vertical Variation in PM2.5 by Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Measurement

Clarifying the effects of meteorology on the vertical variation in PM2.5 is critical to understanding the formation of haze. We investigated the PM2.5 and synchronous meteorological variations in a three-dimensional space by measuring them with a lightweight unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with portable monitors. Our field campaign was conducted on 5 separate days selected between August 2014 and February 2015 at altitudes ≤ 1000 m above a 4 × 4 km2 area in Lin’an, China. The UAV measurement was performed 4 times on each of the selected days, and every flight followed a designed spiral route from ground level up to an altitude of 1000 m. The PM2.5 mass concentration and meteorological factors, viz., the air temperature, relative humidity, dew point temperature and air pressure, were sampled at three-dimensional spatial locations during each flight. The measurements indicate that the PM2.5 distribution is more homogeneous horizontally than vertically. The PM2.5 concentration also decreases as the height increases; furthermore, it exhibits obvious stratification in the morning but more homogeneity in the afternoon. The concentrations above 500 m slightly rise in the afternoon , especially on days that display more stratification. The vertical gradient of the concentrations shows a decrease from the morning to the afternoon, which is smaller during winter than summer and autumn. Meteorologically induced changes in the planetary boundary layer height and inversion layer also significantly affect the PM2.5 variation in the lower troposphere. Our results serve as a reference for analyzing and forecasting PM2.5 pollution and provide a basis for smarter and more targeted air pollution management and governance.
Ethics and HRD: A New Approach To Leading Responsible Organizations

As corporations become increasingly more powerful, their decisions have a larger impact on the social and ecological landscape both domestically and internationally. In Ethics and HRD, Tim Hatcher shows how human resource development departments can foster ethical consciousness and play an important role in transforming their organizations into responsible corporate citizens. He describes the relationship between ethical leadership, social responsibility, and HRD and shows how to synthesize them into a new and more sustainable paradigm for HRD. The first book of its kind, it will serve as a guide for managers, human-resource professionals, and students of HRD alike.
Mental commit robot and its application to therapy of children

This paper describes the research on mental commit robot that seeks a different direction that is not so rigidly dependent on such objective measures as accuracy, speed, and cost. The main goal of this research is to explore a new area in robotics, with an emphasis on human-robot interaction. In the previous research, we categorized robots into four categories in terms of appearance. Then, we introduced a cat robot and a seal robot, and evaluated them by interviewing many people. The results showed that physical interaction improved subjective evaluation. Moreover, a priori knowledge of a subject has much influence into subjective interpretation and evaluation of the robot. In this paper, 785 subjects were asked to evaluate the seal robot and the results were analyzed by multivariate analysis. In addition, we applied the mental commit robot to therapy of children similar to the animal assisted therapy. This paper describes some of the results of the "robot assisted therapy".
A CAI Approach to Teaching an Office Technology Course

Computerized instruction has already affected our accepted notions of “teaching” to a considerable extent, and is certain to have increasing influence in the future. As we cultivate computerized technology into our educational systems, care must be taken to insure that these new computerized methods are in accordance with our hard-earned knowledge concerning teaching and learning. This study investigates the difference between Computer-assisted Instruction (CAI) and the more traditional lecture instruction in teaching an office technology course. Results using t-tests indicated that students in the CAI group performed better on achievement tests than those students in the lecture group. There was also a significant positive change in students' attitudes toward CAI.
The EFL Students' Problems in Answering the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): A Study in Indonesian Context

The focus of this paper is to explore the students’ problems in answering the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). TOEFL is a type of language testing to reveal the students’ English proficiency. This is a descriptive study based on in-depth semi-structured interview and classroom observation. The subject of this research was the students of Graduate Program at one state university in Makassar, Indonesia. This study took three classes as sample, namely one from English education department, one from Social Science, and one from Natural Science. To gain data, the three classes were observed and twelve (12) representatives of the three classes were interviewed. Findings showed that the main problems of the students in answering the TOEFL test were due to several conflicting reasons, such as fewer basic skills, less practice, less motivation, and students’ individual differences such as age and social status.
Representation of temporal knowledge in events: The formalism, and its potential for legal narratives

Abstract Whereas temporal interval algebras appear to be the class of formalisms from Artificial Intelligence that is currently privileged by such researchers who are trying to handle temporal information as found in legal documents, there does not appear to be a consensus, within AI for Law, about a structured method of integrating the representation of the temporal data into the broader picture of treating the events or the overall plot. We describe here a knowledge representation formalism well‐suited to take into account the temporal characteristics of narratives (of narrative documents). In these documents, the main part of the information content consists in the description of ‘events’ that relate the real or intended behaviour of some ‘actors’ (characters, personages, etc.). Narrative documents of an industrial and economic interest correspond, for example, to news stories, corporate documents (memos, policy statements, reports and minutes), normative and legal texts, intelligence messages, represe.
A log-polar image sensor fabricated in a standard 1.2-μm ASIC CMOS process

A CMOS log-polar or foveated image sensor for use in mobile robotic and machine vision applications has been designed, fabricated, and tested. The sensor benefits from a high degree of integration, minimal power consumption, and ease of manufacture due to the use of a standard 1.2 /spl mu/m ASIC CMOS process. The sensor is composed of two distinct CMOS imager arrays which together solve the problem of obtaining good image resolution over a wide field of view. With resolution sensing is accomplished with a 40/spl times/40 array of individual pixels each measuring 9.6 /spl mu/m on a side. A wide field of view is provided by an array of 64/spl times/16 pixels arranged on a log-polar grid. The maximum measured dynamic range for the fabricated log-polar array is 46 dB, while the lowest observed fixed-pattern noise is 0.5% of saturation. Combined power consumption of both arrays is under 2 mW when operating from a single 5-V supply at a frame rate of 30 frames/s.
Textbook evaluation: A reflection on the New Interchange Series

The present study set out to evaluate the efficiency of the New Interchange course books in terms of providing sufficient and comprehensible pragmatic input for Iranian learners of English to fulfill their basic communicative needs based on the content of the books. The study also intended to evaluate the ability of Iranian learners of English in dealing with different speech situations. An oral discourse completion test, developed by the researcher, was administered to 50 students at upper intermediate level of proficiency who already finished the whole New Interchange Series (third edition). Descriptive statistical analyses revealed a high index of standard deviation which indicated a large disparity in pragmatic knowledge of students at the above mentioned level of proficiency. Also Since high achiever’s managed to respond to all speech situations using the information provided in their books, it was concluded that the books provided enough pragmatic input for language learners to deal with their basic communicative needs. Findings of the study pedagogically call for using EFL materials which provide sufficient pragmatic input for language learners.
Improvement of data throughput in wireless packet systems with link adaptation and efficient frequency reuse

Wireless broadband access networks are expected to employ packet access with high peak-bandwidth demands. This will impose a significant challenge for frequency reuse, especially for the case of ubiquitous services deployed in a wide area. In this paper, we present simulation results and give insights to the EDGE (enhanced data-rate for GSM evolution) system with low reuse factor (1/3). This system employs link adaptation between a number of modulation and coding schemes as a means for providing several hundred kb/s peak rates in a macro-cellular environment, when combined with multi-slot operation and under favorable channel conditions, and it provides lower rates under different conditions. We also introduce a simple but effective slot-reassignment method for improving packet data throughput. The technique is applicable for any packet-based frequency-reuse wireless systems. It is shown that high peak-rates achieved by link adaptation can provide high throughput, but the user QoS (quality of service) is strongly impacted by the tight frequency reuse. Our proposed method can significantly improve the QoS.
Adaptive secure channel coding based on punctured turbo codes

Both security and error control coding are very extensive subjects, each with a variety of sub-disciplines. A secure channel coding (joint encryption-channel coding) scheme provides both data secrecy and data reliability in one process to combat problems in an insecure and unreliable channel. In this paper, an adaptive secure channel coding scheme based on serial or parallel concatenated turbo codes is developed. Recent results indicate that the turbo principle delivers near-to-optimal strategies for the channel coding. Reliability and security are achieved by adapting the pseudo-random puncturing strategy to the conditions of the noisy channel. Simulation results show the relevance and superior performance of the proposed scheme at all signal-to-noise ratio levels.
A 14-bit 1.8-V 20-mW 1-mm2 CMOS DAC

A low-voltage low-power small-area and high-resolution digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for mixed-signal applications is Introduced. A binary weighted current steering DAC is a power-efficient architecture, because almost all the current taken from the supply is used for the output signal. The current steering architecture is also highly suitable for high-speed operation. Typically, the architecture suffers from poor linearity characteristics, but the problem can be prevented with a novel calibration method, where the currents generated for the most significant bits are fine tuned. As a result, a very compact and low-power solution can be implemented by using a low-voltage digital technology.
Anomaly detection system based on sparse signal representation

Anomaly detection system based on sparse signal representation In this paper we present further expansion of our matching pursuit methodology for anomaly detection in computer networks. In our previous work we proposed new signal based algorithm for intrusion detection systems based on anomaly detection approach on the basis of the Matching Pursuit algorithm. This time we present completely different approach to generating base functions (atoms) dictionary. We propose modification of K-SVD [1] algorithm in order to select atoms from real 1-D signal which represents network traffic features. Dictionary atoms selected in this way have the ability to approximate different 1-D signals representing network traffic features. Achieved dictionary was used to detect network anomalies on benchmark data sets. Results were compared to the dictionary based on analytical 1-D Gabor atoms.
Evaluating Search Results: An Empirical Analysis of Middle School Students' Use of Source Attributes to Select Useful Sources

The present investigation examined middle school students' evaluations of the usefulness for addressing a social studies inquiry question of a variety of sources of information, and the basis of these judgments. This task situation simulates an early phase of information gathering and selection in the context of inquiry. For each of nine sources, students were provided with, and asked to rate, the usefulness of six attributes (i.e. title, author, venue, date, type of publication, and a two-three sentence content summary) and the overall usefulness of each source. The sources varied in usefulness as determined by expert ratings. Students' overall ratings showed that some clearly differentiated the usefulness of the sources while others did not. Analyses of the ratings of individual attributes indicated that “higher” differentiators primarily considered content indicators (i.e., title and summary) when making usefulness judgments; “lower” differentiators considered author and venue of publication, with much less emphasis on source content. Discussion focuses on the instructional and practical implications of skill at differentiating more from less useful sources of information during initial information gathering and selecting in the context of 21st century Internet resources.
Analysis of the Time Indexed List Procedure for Synchronization of Discrete Event Simulations

Increasingly simulations have been required as supportive evidence to management of proposed system changes. It has long been recognized that the computer running costs of simulations are strongly influenced by the synchronization mechanism used. Recently the time indexed list has been proposed as a superior alternative to existing event synchronization mechanisms for computer simulations. Intuition and empirical data indicate that such a mechanism should result in substantial savings of computer time; the mathematical results of this paper substantiate this. This paper undertakes a rigorous mathematical and probabilistic analysis of the mechanism. Several different probabilistic event arrival models and arbitrary event schedule time distributions are considered. Results for several specific cases are calculated. It is shown that the distribution is quite insensitive to the arrival process and is usually a simple integral of the interarrival time distribution. Next, the cost of scheduling new arrivals is .
Temporal Learning Analytics for Adaptive Assessment

Accurate and early predictions of students’ performance could significantly affect interventions during teaching and assessment, which gradually could lead to improved learning outcomes. In our research work, we seek to identify and formalize temporal parameters as predictors of performance (“temporal learning analytics”-TLA) and examine students' temporal behaviour (i.e. in terms of time-spent) during testing. The goal is to specify a functional set of parameters that will be embedded in an adaptive assessment system in order to contribute to personalization of feedback services. We adopted the Partial Least-Squares (PLS) analysis method for formulating the causal dependencies between latent variables and the relations to their indicators. In this paper we present the motivation and rationale of our work, along with the followed methodology, initial results and contributions so far, and our plans on future work.
Processing and Visualizing Data in Complex Learning Environments

The ability to capture large amounts of data that describe the interactions of learners becomes useful when one has a framework in which to make sense of the processes of learning in complex learning environments. Through the analysis of such data, one is able to understand what is happening in these networks; however, deciding which elements will be of most interest in a specific learning context and how to process, visualize, and analyze large amounts of data requires the use of analytical tools that adequately support the phases of the research process. In this article, we discuss the selection, processing, visualization, and analysis of multiple elements of learning and learning environments and the links between them. We discuss, using the cases of two learning environments, how structure affects the behavior of learners and, in turn, how that behavior has the potential to affect learning. This approach will allow us to suggest possible ways of improving future designs of learning environments.
Dynamic Programming and Optimal Control, Vol. II

A major revision of the second volume of a textbook on the far-ranging algorithmic methododogy of Dynamic Programming, which can be used for optimal control, Markovian decision problems, planning and sequential decision making under uncertainty, and discrete/combinatorial optimization. The second volume is oriented towards mathematical analysis and computation, and treats infinite horizon problems extensively. New features of the 3rd edition are: 1) A major enlargement in size and scope: the length has increased by more than 50%, and most of the old material has been restructured and/or revised. 2) Extensive coverage (more than 100 pages) of recent research on simulation-based approximate dynamic programming (neuro-dynamic programming), which allow the practical application of dynamic programming to large and complex problems. 3) An in-depth development of the average cost problem (more than 100 pages), including a full analysis of multichain problems, and an extensive analysis of infinite-spaces problems. 4) An introduction to infinite state space stochastic shortest path problems. 5) Expansion of the theory and use of contraction mappings in infinite state space problems and in neuro-dynamic programming. 6) A substantive appendix on the mathematical measure-theoretic issues that must be addressed for a rigorous theory of stochastic dynamic programming. Much supplementary material can be found in the book's web page: http://www.athenasc. com/dpbook.html
Phonological and Orthographic Influences on Children's Vowel Spelling

Vowel representations are particularly difficult for children to learn because most vowel phonemes can be spelled in several different ways. Children in Grades 1, 2, and 3 spelled nonwords with an ambiguous vowel and reported their spelling strategies. Analysis of the children's spellings and strategy reports revealed a shift in relying solely on phonological information to considering orthographic information for making vowel letter choices. Implications for vowel spelling development are discussed.
In-Library Book Usage in Relation to Circulation

The relationship between in-library use and circulation data is critical to decisions concerning discarding and relegation to secondary storage-and, therefore, to library space costs. An inexpensive and unobtrusive statistical technique is presented for examining the relationship and also a measure of relative intensity of in-library use. Statistical evidence indicates a strong positive correlation between the two types of usage.
Practising Information Systems Approach for Developing Information Technology Skills Used in Business

Abstract The changing information technology (IT) skill requirements for business professionals in the new millennium have forced many universities to review their IT curriculum. The concept of a traditional approach to developing IT skills to meet the educational needs of all future business professionals is becoming obsolete, and other approaches are needed. This article describes the practice of Information Systems Approach (ISA) along with the Traditional Approach (TA) for developing IT skills in the College of Commerce and Economics of Sultan Qaboos University, the only national university in Oman. In order to study the effectiveness of the ISA, two groups were randomly selected; one followed the ISA, and the other group used the TA. The design was pretest-posttest, control group. The initial and final IT skills were compared. This study was repeated three times and was segmented into Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III in order to increase the validity and reliability of the results.
Language learning in a MOO: creating a transoceanic bilingual virtual community

From January to May 1998, the authors tested the possibility of language instruction in a MOO employing the principles of tandem learning. The project participants were members of two language classes: a group of adult evening school enrollees learning English as a second language in Germany and a group of American college students in their fourth semester of college German. The two groups met together once per week for 2 h in real time in a MOO. Partnerships were formed with one member from the German group and one from the American group. The partners then cooperated in accomplishing certain tasks in their respective L2. The results of the project tend to confirm the efficacy of applying the primary tenets of tandem learning theory, learner autonomy, and reciprocity to language learning in a virtual reality community. The independence and sense of personal space which a learner can establish within a MOO as well as the partner relationships established as part of the tandem work fostered a growing sense of community as well as a strong commitment to the learning process within the group of learners.
Space Syntax: Standardised Integration Measures and Some Simulations

Central to the space syntax method (a technique for morphological analysis of urban areas) is the concept of integration. Unfortunately, the integration values are not independent of the size of urban areas. Consequently it is difficult to compare areas of different size, implying a need for standardisation of integration measures. In this paper three such standardised integration measures are discussed. The properties of these measures are simulated for differently sized urban areas, with the assumption of a spatial structure with morphological constants. The results of these simulations suggest that a measure based on a comparison with an ‘axial grid’ has most desirable properties. Comments regarding the interpretation and use of the chosen standardised integration measure are provided.
Teaching Self-Management: The Design and Implementation of Self-Management Tutorials

Learning the skills of self-management is an essential task for students in the 21st century. A total of 223 undergraduate students participated in 4 self-management tutorials that presented the components of understanding and mastering self-management skills including (a) self-assessment, (b) goal setting, (c) time management, and (d) self-regulation. The author assessed students' self-management skills pre- and posttraining and reactions to the tutorials. Results revealed significant increases in self-management skills posttraining and favorable student reactions to the tutorials. Follow-up data on a subset of participants (n = 44) 2 years later indicated additional significant increases in use and perceived usefulness of self-management skills.