Non Parametric Distributed Inference in Sensor Networks Using Box Particles Messages

This paper deals with the problem of inference in distributed systems where the probability model is stored in a distributed fashion. Graphical models provide powerful tools for modeling this kind of problems. Inspired by the box particle filter which combines interval analysis with particle filtering to solve temporal inference problems, this paper introduces a belief propagation-like message-passing algorithm that uses bounded error methods to solve the inference problem defined on an arbitrary graphical model. We show the theoretic derivation of the novel algorithm and we test its performance on the problem of calibration in wireless sensor networks. That is the positioning of a number of randomly deployed sensors, according to some reference defined by a set of anchor nodes for which the positions are known a priori. The new algorithm, while achieving a better or similar performance, offers impressive reduction of the information circulating in the network and the needed computation times

The Impact of Tax Aggressiveness and Gender Diversity on the Corporate Social Responsibilities of Listed Firm in Jordan

Purpose:  The aim associated with the current article is to examine the role of tax aggressiveness along with gender diversity on the corporate social responsibilities (CSR) reporting of the Jordanian listed firms.   Theoretical framework:  The data of the selected firm has been extracted from the Jordan Stock Exchange from 2007 to 2018.   Design/methodology/approach:  The Logit model has been executed because of the binary nature of the predictive variable of the study.   Findings:  The results have indicated that tax aggressiveness along with gender diversity has positive along with significant linked with CSR reporting.   Research, Practical & Social implications: These findings have been guided to the policymakers along with the upcoming studies while formulating the policies related to the CRS reporting and investigation this area in future.      Originality/value:  These findings have been guided to the policymakers along with the upcoming studies while formulating the policies related to the CRS reporting and investigation this area in future. 

A Comparative Earthquakes Risk Assessment Approach Applied to the United Arab Emirates

This paper presents the preliminary results of a long research project on the assessment and mitigation of seismic risk in major cities in the UAE. UAE’s earthquake activity has long been recognized as one of the lowest in the world. All cities have experienced moderate earthquakes in the past, and will again do in the future. Recent earthquakes in Iran (e.g., Bam in 2003, --- in 2005) have killed thousands of people. Because of the different design and construction practices, different population density concentrations and economic activities in the UAE, different damages and losses are likely to be experienced. The impact of an earthquake is not limited to direct losses, such as the loss of life, loss of structures and business interruptions. Earthquakes also cause indirect losses by producing supply shortages and demand reductions in various economic sectors. In a country such as the UAE, which is undergoing an unprecedented constructionbased development with high-rise buildings being the main feature, a large earthquake in a major city can actually cause a considerable economic loss. In this study, a framework for assessing and comparing the risk associated with the adverse consequences of earthquakes in the UAE is presented. The framework is based on a simple risk-characterization model that is used to assess the health risks associated with toxic chemicals. The model: Risk = D × RF × Pop × ER, adopted to fit our purpose of estimating the risk associated with the consequences of earthquakes, the various parameters in the above mentioned model are translated as follows: Dose (D)= seismic “force” at a specific location or weighted for an area; Response Factor (RF) = degree of damage or losses per unit “force”; Population (Pop) = a factor representing exposed population. Equivalent populations may also include exposed environment or exposed infrastructure. Emergency Response (ER) = effectiveness of available emergency response programs to reduce risk immediately as the adverse effects take place. It should be noted that emergency response in this case is different than deliberate risk management. First, the earthquake hazard and risk in the UAE, including the estimation of the amplitudes of the ground motion parameters, is stochastically assessed. Then the comparative risk framework to assess the relative impacts on people and buildings in the seven emirates and the major cities of the UAE is applied. The result is a ranking system for risk that is being integrated within a geographic information system (GIS). The database is intended for detailed development to maximize benefits to the various stake holders in the community

Data Rates Conditions for Network Control System Stabilization

In this paper we present sufficient conditions on the rate of a packet network to guarantee asymptotic stability of unstable discrete LTI system with linear state feedback control. Two types of network control systems are considered in the absence of communication delays. For one type we consider the case where we have invertible B matrix and the case where this does not occurred. Examples and simulations are provided to demonstrate the results

Rate-Limited Stabilization for Network Control Systems

In this paper, we extend results from packet-based control theory, and present sufficient conditions on the rate of a packet network to guarantee asymptotic stability of unstable discrete LTI system, with less inputs than states. Two types of network control systems are considered in the absence of communication delays, then for one of the two types, the case of a constant time delay is discussed. Examples and simulations are provided to demonstrate the results

Analisis Minat Menabung pada Bank Syariah di Kalangan Siswa SMA di Kota Medan (Studi Kasus: Siswa Madrasah Aliyah Negeri)

This study aims to determine Madrasah Aliyah Negeri students in Medan interest of saving Islamic bank in Medan. This research is descriptive quantitative research using primary data. The variables used in this research consisted of a bank's reputation, confidence, and location as the independent variable and the interest of saving the student as the dependent variable. Sampling technique is done by simple random sampling using 100 students of Madrasah Aliyah Negeri in Medan as a sample. The Methods of data collection use a self administrated survey, by giving questionnaires. The method used in this research is the descriptive analysis. Based on the results of analysis, it was found that Madrasah Aliyah Negeri students' interest in saving in Islamic banks in Medan is still low. Based on the data obtained it is known that bank reputation variables, beliefs, and location affect student interest in the Madrasah Aliyah Negeri decided to save the Islamic bank in Medan. The main obstacle that affects Madrasah Aliyah Negeri students' interest to save their money in Islamic banks is the location away from home