Abstract
Lock-freedom offers significant advantages in terms of algorithm design, performance and scalability. A fundamental building block in software development is the usage of hash map data structures. This work extends a previous lock-free hash map to support a new simplified design that is able to take advantage of most state-of-the-art safe memory reclamation methods, thus outperforming the previous design.

Abstract
With the global population on the rise and a declining agricultural labor force, the realm of robotics research in agriculture, such as robotic manipulators, has assumed heightened significance. This article undertakes a comprehensive exploration of the latest advancements in controllers tailored for robotic manipulators. The investigation encompasses an examination of six distinct controller paradigms, complemented by the presentation of three exemplars for each category. These paradigms encompass: (i) adaptive control, (ii) sliding mode control, (iii) model predictive control, (iv) robust control, (v) fuzzy logic control and (vi) neural network control. The article further introduces and presents comparative tables for each controller category. These controllers excel in tracking trajectories and efficiently reaching reference points with rapid convergence. The key point of divergence among these controllers resides in their inherent complexity.

Abstract

Abstract
This paper presents the guidelines for game experiences integration into Learning Management Systems (LMS) through the IMS LTI (Learning Tools Interoperability) specification. At the same time, it also introduces a dynamic scoring formula, based on a given taxonomy, that goes beyond traditional metrics, allowing for the inclusion of any number of game elements, such as levels, challenges, hints used, and time taken, within the game framework. These elements are assigned weight factors, which can be configured by instructors within the LMS platform, facilitating personalized assessment criteria tailored to specific learning objectives. In order to apply these approach in a real educational scenario, an Escape Room (ER) for math skills testing was used. Using the LTI specification for integration in combination with the dynamic scoring formula provides a comprehensive assessment of student performance, giving a single score which will be vital to enhance the LMS gamified workflow. This research contributes to the field of gamification in education, offering insights into the integration of (serious or regular) games in LMS platforms.

Abstract
IntroductionThe economic development, well-being of the population, and environmental protection are all strongly linked to a sustainable transportation network. In this sense, in order to ensure a high level of sustainability, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of this sector. As an integrated element of these transportation systems, the efficiency assessment of taxis' operations is essential in setting managerial strategies for leveraging the sustainability of taxi system.MethodologyThis study employs a two-stage bootstrap Data Envelopment Analysis approach to assess the efficiency of taxis' operations, with a focus on minimizing service time and distance traveled. Additionally, this study innovates on investigating the impact of distinct contextual factors on efficiency scores attained to uncover the determinants of taxi operations' efficiency. The methodology is validated using real data collected from onboard devices of a fleet operating in a Portuguese city over a one-year period.ResultsThe results obtained show that taxis of the fleet can significantly reduce service time and distance traveled, without affecting output levels. Moreover, the decisive role of the stands where taxis queue on the efficiency of their operation is also verified.ConclusionsThe findings can support practitioners in reaching a more suitable and efficient allocation of resources, leading to a more sustainable transportation combined with improved business results. Furthermore, this study contributes to the current literature by suggesting recommendations to assist managers and public administrators in defining improvement actions for the taxi sector.

Abstract
When directional data fall on the positive orthant of the hypersphere, they can be modeled using a folded directional distribution. In this paper, we introduce the folded von Mises-Fisher distribution and propose the Bayes classification rule for this distribution. Then we evaluate the performance of this rule and we compare it with the classification rule for the von Mises-Fisher distribution. Finally, we present examples using spherical data from the literature, determining the error rate using the folded von Mises-Fisher rule and comparing it with the error rate obtained using the von Mises-Fisher rule.