Integrative functional statistics in logic programming

Abstract

We present r..eal , a library that integrates the R statistical environment with Prolog. Due to R's functional programming affinity the interface introduced has a minimalistic feel. Programs utilising the library syntax are elegant and succinct with intuitive semantics and clear integration. In effect, the library enhances logic programming with the ability to tap into the vast wealth of statistical and probabilistic reasoning available in R. The software is a useful addition to the efforts towards the integration of statistical reasoning and knowledge representation within an AI context. Furthermore it can be used to open up new application areas for logic programming and AI techniques such as bioinformatics, computational biology, text mining, psychology and neuro sciences, where R has particularly strong presence. © 2013 Springer-Verlag.