Randomized Latent Factor Model for High-dimensional and Sparse Matrices from Industrial Applications

Latent factor(LF) models are highly effective in extracting useful knowledge from High-Dimensional and Sparse(HiDS) matrices which are commonly seen in various industrial applications. An LF model usually adopts iterative optimizers,which may consume many iterations to achieve a local optima,resulting in considerable time cost. Hence, determining how to accelerate the training process for LF models has become a significant issue. To address this, this work proposes a randomized latent factor(RLF) model. It incorporates the principle of randomized learning techniques from neural networks into the LF analysis of HiDS matrices, thereby greatly alleviating computational burden. It also extends a standard learning process for randomized neural networks in context of LF analysis to make the resulting model represent an HiDS matrix correctly.Experimental results on three HiDS matrices from industrial applications demonstrate that compared with state-of-the-art LF models, RLF is able to achieve significantly higher computational efficiency and comparable prediction accuracy for missing data.I provides an important alternative approach to LF analysis of HiDS matrices, which is especially desired for industrial applications demanding highly efficient models.

The Criticism and Amendment for the Dual-Factor Model of Mental Health: From Chinese Psychological Suzhi Research Perspectives

Aiming at the limitations of psychopathology (PTH), the dual-factor model of mental health (DFM) was proposed as a new mental health concept and methodology under the background of positive psychology trend. In this paper we propose giving an overview of DFM, and doubt, criticize, and modify DFM from the perspective of Chinese psychological suzhi research. The available literature from 1983 to 2012 that is related to DFM and concerning psychological suzhi research in the past 20 years has been reviewed. In addition, we also absorbed the idea of positive psychology and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Constitution theory to develop theoretically the relationship model between psychological suzhi and mental health. The relationship model between psychological suzhi and mental health modifies and transcends PTH and DFM. It will be the new research area of mental health research.

Analysis of US Sector of Services with a New Fama-French 5-Factor Model

In this paper, we empirically test a new model with the data of US services sector, which is an extension of the 5-factor model in Fama and French (2015) [1]. 3 types of 5 factors (Global, North American and US) are compared. Empirical results show the Fama-French 5 factors are still alive! The new model has better in-sample fit than the 5-factor model in Fama and French (2015).

Analysis of 48 US Industry Portfolios with a New Fama-French 5-Factor Model

In this paper, we analyze US stock market with a new 5-factor model in Zhou and Li (2016) [1]. Data we use are 48 industry portfolios (Jul. 1963-Jan. 2017). Parameters are estimated by MLE. LR and KS are used for model diagnostics. Model comparison is done with AIC. The results show Fama-French 5 factors are still alive. This new model in Zhou and Li (2016) [1] fits the data better than the one in Fama and French (2015) [2].

An Accurate and Computationally Efficient Explicit Friction Factor Model

The implicit Colebrook equation has been the standard for estimating pipe friction factor in a fully developed turbulent regime. Several alternative explicit models to the Colebrook equation have been proposed. To date, most of the accurate explicit models have been those with three logarithmic functions, but they require more computational time than the Colebrook equation. In this study, a new explicit non-linear regression model which has only two logarithmic functions is developed. The new model, when compared with the existing extremely accurate models, gives rise to the least average and maximum relative errors of 0.0025% and 0.0664%, respectively. Moreover, it requires far less computational time than the Colebrook equation. It is therefore concluded that the new explicit model provides a good trade-off between accuracy and relative computational efficiency for pipe friction factor estimation in the fully developed turbulent flow regime.

Fama-French-factor model,size and book-to-market effect:An empirical investigation of the Chinese stock market

In this study, we use Chinese A-share stock market data from 1995 to 2005 to test the persistence of the size and valueeffect and the robustness of the Fama-French three-factor model in explaining the variation in stock returns.Wefind that the three-factor model can explain the common variation in stock returns well.However, it is mis-specifiedfor the Chinese stock market.We demonstrate that the size effect and the book-to-market effect are significant andpersistent over our sample period.Interestingly, the book-to-market effect for China is much stronger than the averageones in mature markets and other emerging markets documented by Fama and French (1998).Moreover, we find noevidence to support the argument that seasonal effects can explain the results of the multifactor model.Last, our mixedobservations on firm-specific fundamentals suggest that the risk-based explanation proposed by Fama and French(1995) cannot shed light on the size and BM effect for China.In view of the features of the Chinese stock market, weinstead argue that China’s size and book-to-market effect may be attributed to syndicate speculators’ manipulation andmispricing caused by irrational investor behavior.

Modeling Analysis of Factors Influencing Wind-Borne Seed Dispersal: A Case Study on Dandelion

A weed is a plant that thrives in areas of human disturbance, such as gardens, fields, pastures, waysides, and waste places where it is not intentionally cultivated. Dispersal affects community dynamics and vegetation response to global change. The process of seed disposal is influenced by wind, which plays a crucial role in determining the distance and probability of seed dispersal. Existing models of seed dispersal consider wind direction but fail to incorporate wind intensity. In this paper, a novel seed disposal model was proposed in this paper, incorporating wind intensity based on relevant references. According to various climatic conditions, including temperate, arid, and tropical regions, three specific regions were selected to establish a wind dispersal model that accurately reflects the density function distribution of dispersal distance. Additionally, dandelions growth is influenced by a multitude of factors, encompassing temperature, humidity, climate, and various environmental variables that necessitate meticulous consideration. Based on Factor Analysis model, which completely considers temperature, precipitation, solar radiation, wind, and land carrying capacity, a conclusion is presented, indicating that the growth of seeds is primarily influenced by plant attributes and climate conditions, with the former exerting a relatively stronger impact. Subsequently, the remaining two plants were chosen based on seed weight, yielding consistent conclusion.

R-Factor Analysis of Data Based on Population Models Comprising R- and Q-Factors Leads to Biased Loading Estimates

Effects of performing an R-factor analysis of observed variables based on population models comprising R- and Q-factors were investigated. Although R-factor analysis of data based on a population model comprising R- and Q-factors is possible, this may lead to model error. Accordingly, loading estimates resulting from R-factor analysis of sample data drawn from a population based on a combination of R- and Q-factors will be biased. It was shown in a simulation study that a large amount of Q-factor variance induces an increase in the variation of R-factor loading estimates beyond the chance level. Tests of the multivariate kurtosis of observed variables are proposed as an indicator of possible Q-factor variance in observed variables as a prerequisite for R-factor analysis.

Realized volatility forecast of financial futures using timevarying HAR latent factor models

We forecast realized volatilities by developing a time-varying heterogeneous autoregressive(HAR)latent factor model with dynamic model average(DMA)and dynamic model selection(DMS)approaches.The number of latent factors is determined using Chan and Grant's(2016)deviation information criteria.The predictors in our model include lagged daily,weekly,and monthly volatility variables,the corresponding volatility factors,and a speculation variable.In addition,the time-varying properties of the best-performing DMA(DMS)-HAR-2FX models,including size,inclusion probabilities,and coefficients,are examined.We find that the proposed DMA(DMS)-HAR-2FX model outperforms the competing models for both in-sample and out-of-sample forecasts.Furthermore,the speculation variable displays strong predictability for forecasting the realized volatility of financial futures in China.

Comparative Analysis of the Factors Influencing Metro Passenger Arrival Volumes in Wuhan, China, and Lagos, Nigeria: An Application of Association Rule Mining and Neural Network Models

This study explores the factors influencing metro passengers’ arrival volume in Wuhan, China, and Lagos, Nigeria, by examining weather, time of day, waiting time, travel behavior, arrival patterns, and metro satisfaction. It addresses a significant research gap in understanding metro passengers’ dynamics across cultural and geographical contexts. It employs questionnaires, field observations, and advanced data analysis techniques like association rule mining and neural network modeling. Key findings include a correlation between rainy weather, shorter waiting times, and higher arrival volumes. Neural network models showed high predictive accuracy, with waiting time, metro satisfaction, and weather being significant factors in Lagos Light Rail Blue Line Metro. In contrast, arrival patterns, weather, and time of day were more influential in Wuhan Metro Line 5. Results suggest that improving metro satisfaction and reducing waiting times could increase arrival volumes in Lagos Metro while adjusting schedules for weather and peak times could optimize flow in Wuhan Metro. These insights are valuable for transportation planning, passenger arrival volume management, and enhancing user experiences, potentially benefiting urban transportation sustainability and development goals.

Flexible Factor Model for Handling Missing Data in Supervised Learning

This paper presents an extension of the factor analysis model based on the normal mean-variance mixture of the Birnbaum-Saunders in the presence of nonresponses and missing data.This model can be used as a powerful tool to model non-normal features observed from data such as strongly skewed and heavy-tailed noises.Missing data may occur due to operator error or incomplete data capturing therefore cannot be ignored in factor analysis modeling.We implement an EM-type algorithm for maximum likelihood estimation and propose single imputation of possible missing values under a missing at random mechanism.The potential and applicability of our proposed method are illustrated through analyzing both simulated and real datasets.

Navigating breast cancer brain metastasis:Risk factors,prognostic indicators,and treatment perspectives

In this editorial,we comment on the article by Chen et al.We specifically focus on the risk factors,prognostic factors,and management of brain metastasis(BM)in breast cancer(BC).BC is the second most common cancer to have BM after lung cancer.Independent risk factors for BM in BC are:HER-2 positive BC,triplenegative BC,and germline BRCA mutation.Other factors associated with BM are lung metastasis,age less than 40 years,and African and American ancestry.Even though risk factors associated with BM in BC are elucidated,there is a lack of data on predictive models for BM in BC.Few studies have been made to formulate predictive models or nomograms to address this issue,where age,grade of tumor,HER-2 receptor status,and number of metastatic sites(1 vs>1)were predictive of BM in metastatic BC.However,none have been used in clinical practice.National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends screening of BM in advanced BC only when the patient is symptomatic or suspicious of central nervous system symptoms;routine screening for BM in BC is not recommended in the guidelines.BM decreases the quality of life and will have a significant psychological impact.Further studies are required for designing validated nomograms or predictive models for BM in BC;these models can be used in the future to develop treatment approaches to prevent BM,which improves the quality of life and overall survival.

24Model与LCM原因因素定义对比研究

为探究损失致因模型(LCM)原因因素定义与事故致因“2-4”模型(24Model)存在的异同和优缺点,梳理2个模型各层面原因和结果的定义,对比定义内容及其对事故原因分析等安全实务的指导作用,并以一起瓦斯爆炸事故为例加以实证分析,获得二者分析结果之间的差异。研究结果表明:LCM是首个将管理因素纳入事故致因分析的一维事件序列模型,可明确各层面原因因素的定义和因素间的逻辑关系,但部分定义存在交叉重复的问题,并没有揭示安全工作指导思想等深层次事故致因因素;24Model作为系统性事故致因模型,对各类因素的定义均以组织为主体,描述事件、事故、安全的概念内涵,划分个体安全动作、安全能力和组织安全管理体系的类别并给出含义解析,探究组织安全文化层面的问题并以32个元素体现;2个模型的事故原因分析方法均建立在对各层级原因因素定义的基础上,并适用于模型理论体系本身。

Analysis of the Spatiotemporal Variation Characteristics and Driving Factors of Land Vegetation GPP in a Certain Region of Asia

Gross primary productivity (GPP) of vegetation is a critical indicator of ecosystem growth and carbon sequestration. The spatiotemporal variation characteristics of land vegetation GPP trends in a specific region of Asia from 2001 to 2020 were analyzed by Sen and MK trend analysis methods in this study .Moreover , a GPP change attribution model was established to explore the driving influences of factors such as Leaf Area Index (LAI), Land Surface Temperature (LST), Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD), Soil Moisture, Solar Radiation and Wind Speed on GPP. The results indicate that summer GPP values are significantly higher than those in other months, accounting for 60.8% of the annual total GPP;spring and autumn contribute 18.91% and 13.04%, respectively. In winter, due to vegetation being nearly dormant, the contribution is minimal at 7.19%. Spatially, GPP shows a decreasing trend from southeast to northwest. LAI primarily drives the spatial and seasonal variations of regional GPP, while VPD, surface temperature, solar radiation, and soil moisture have varying impacts on GPP across different dimensions. Additionally, wind speed exhibits a minor contribution to GPP across different dimensions.

Modeling Study of the Evolution of the Climate Crisis over Time

The research proposal has the following scope. In relation to the general objective, the aim is to model the evolution of the climate crisis over time taking as variables global warming, greenhouse gases, atmospheric temperature and ocean temperature, as well as the continuity of the natural phenomena in terms of their measurement, temporality and projection. To achieve the above, the description of the following specific objectives is proposed: - Identify the variables corresponding to the climate crisis, their relationship and correlation between them;- Develop projection models with mathematical and statistical arrangements to project them in a given time and, in this way, - Propose mitigation measures for different unfavorable scenarios. The main variables that are currently directly linked to Climate Change are: CO2, the atmospheric index, precipitation, temperature and wind speed. The correlation that exists between climatic elements is very high, both in historical behavior and projected behavior for 2035, their correlation is estimated at 0.90, 0.95, 0.93 and 91 respectively. The mathematical models used to manipulate the historical and projected analysis of the variables studied: are the normal arrangements, this ensures that the values can be used on a common scale;Then there is the analysis of the historical variables using the linear trend, and finally there is the analysis of the variables projected to the year 2035 using the polynomial trend. In both situations, the direct relationship of greenhouse gases, mainly CO2, is directly related to the variations of the variables over time, which is a very worrying result because we can no longer talk about climate change, but rather about CLIMATE CRISIS. To a large extent, a change in the paradigm of exploitation of the resources of our mother earth is required. Alert in an SOS manner to the great powers, which make reasonable use of technology, for this attenuation measures are proposed.

Discrete Choice Analysis of Temporal Factors on Social Network Growth

Social networks like Facebook, X (Twitter), and LinkedIn provide an interaction and communication environment for users to generate and share content, allowing for the observation of social behaviours in the digital world. These networks can be viewed as a collection of nodes and edges, where users and their interactions are represented as nodes and the connections between them as edges. Understanding the factors that contribute to the formation of these edges is important for studying network structure and processes. This knowledge can be applied to various areas such as identifying communities, recommending friends, and targeting online advertisements. Several factors, including node popularity and friends-of-friends relationships, influence edge formation and network growth. This research focuses on the temporal activity of nodes and its impact on edge formation. Specifically, the study examines how the minimum age of friends-of-friends edges and the average age of all edges connected to potential target nodes influence the formation of network edges. Discrete choice analysis is used to analyse the combined effect of these temporal factors and other well-known attributes like node degree (i.e., the number of connections a node has) and network distance between nodes. The findings reveal that temporal properties have a similar impact as network proximity in predicting the creation of links. By incorporating temporal features into the models, the accuracy of link prediction can be further improved.

Advancing Malaria Prediction in Uganda through AI and Geospatial Analysis Models

The resurgence of locally acquired malaria cases in the USA and the persistent global challenge of malaria transmission highlight the urgent need for research to prevent this disease. Despite significant eradication efforts, malaria remains a serious threat, particularly in regions like Africa. This study explores how integrating Gregor’s Type IV theory with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) improves our understanding of disease dynamics, especially Malaria transmission patterns in Uganda. By combining data-driven algorithms, artificial intelligence, and geospatial analysis, the research aims to determine the most reliable predictors of Malaria incident rates and assess the impact of different factors on transmission. Using diverse predictive modeling techniques including Linear Regression, K-Nearest Neighbor, Neural Network, and Random Forest, the study found that;Random Forest model outperformed the others, demonstrating superior predictive accuracy with an R2 of approximately 0.88 and a Mean Squared Error (MSE) of 0.0534, Antimalarial treatment was identified as the most influential factor, with mosquito net access associated with a significant reduction in incident rates, while higher temperatures correlated with increased rates. Our study concluded that the Random Forest model was effective in predicting malaria incident rates in Uganda and highlighted the significance of climate factors and preventive measures such as mosquito nets and antimalarial drugs. We recommended that districts with malaria hotspots lacking Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) coverage prioritize its implementation to mitigate incident rates, while those with high malaria rates in 2020 require immediate attention. By advocating for the use of appropriate predictive models, our research emphasized the importance of evidence-based decision-making in malaria control strategies, aiming to reduce transmission rates and save lives.

Two of a kind or the ratings game？ Adaptive pairwise preferences and latent factor models

Latent factor models have become a workhorse for a large number of recommender systems. While these sys- tems are built using ratings data, which is typically assumed static, the ability to incorporate different kinds of subsequent user feedback is an important asset. For instance, the user might want to provide additional information to the system in order to improve his personal recommendations. To this end, we examine a novel scheme for efficiently learning （or refining） user parameters from such feedback. We propose a scheme where users are presented with a sequence of pair- wise preference questions： ＂Do you prefer item A over B？＂ User parameters are updated based on their response, and subsequent questions are chosen adaptively after incorporat- ing the feedback. We operate in a Bayesian framework and the choice of questions is based on an information gain cri- terion. We validate the scheme on the Netflix movie ratings data set and a proprietary television viewership data set. A user study and automated experiments validate our findings.