Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Adaptation of hidden Markov models using multiple stochastic transformations

The recognition accuracy in recent large vocabulary Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) systems is highly related to the existing mismatch between the training and test sets. For example, dialect di erences across the training and testing speakers result to a signi cant degradation in recognition performance. Some popular adaptation approaches improve the recognition performance of speech recognizers based on hidden Markov models with continuous mixture densities by using linear transforms to adapt the means, and possibly the covariances of the mixture Gaussians. In this paper, we propose a novel adaptation technique that adapts the means and, optionally, the covariances of the mixture Gaussians by using multiple stochastic transformations. We perform both speaker and dialect adaptation experiments, and we show that our method signi cantly improves the recognition accuracy and the robustness of our system. The experiments are carried out with SRI's DECIPHER speech recognition system.
Improvements in Iron Status and Cognitive Function in Young Women Consuming Beef or Non-Beef Lunches

Iron status is associated with cognitive performance and intervention trials show that iron supplementation improves mental function in iron-deficient adults. However, no studies have tested the efficacy of naturally iron-rich food in this context. This investigation measured the hematologic and cognitive responses to moderate beef consumption in young women. Participants (n = 43; age 21.1 ± 0.4 years) were randomly assigned to a beef or non-beef protein lunch group [3-oz (85 g), 3 times weekly] for 16 weeks. Blood was sampled at baseline, and weeks 8 and 16, and cognitive performance was measured at baseline and week 16. Body iron increased in both lunch groups (p < 0.0001), with greater improvement demonstrated in women with lower baseline body iron (p < 0.0001). Body iron had significant beneficial effects on spatial working memory and planning speed (p < 0.05), and ferritin responders (n = 17) vs. non-responders (n = 26) showed significantly greater improvements in planning speed, spatial working memory strategy, and attention (p < 0.05). Lunch group had neither significant interactions with iron status nor consistent main effects on test performance. These findings support a relationship between iron status and cognition, but do not show a particular benefit of beef over non-beef protein consumption on either measure in young women.
Socialisation and learning to teach using the teaching personal and social responsibility approach

ABSTRACT Occupational socialisation theory (OST) is a dialectical approach to understanding teachers’ recruitment, training, and lived experiences in school settings. Research using this model has shown that socialisation influences how physical educators interpret or ‘read’ pedagogical models. However, this research has not been extended to the teaching personal and social responsibility (TPSR) model, which differs from other models in its concurrent focus on responsibility and physical activity outcomes. This study, therefore, sought to understand how physical educators learned to use the model in light of current and prior socialisation. Participants included eight physical education teachers (five females, three males) from two schools in New Zealand. Data collection included four individual interviews with each teacher and systematic and ethnographic observations of teaching. Results indicated that prior socialisation and influences within the current school influenced fidelity to the TPSR model. Social support and alignment of the model with other school initiatives supported implementation, whereas a lack of clarity and competing priorities reduced fidelity. Results are discussed in relation to OST, and future directions for research are proposed.
Permutations as a means to encode order in word space

We show that sequence information can be encoded into high-dimensional fixed-width vectors using permutations of coordinates. Computational models of language often represent words with high-dimensional semantic vectors compiled from word-use statistics. A word's semantic vector usually encodes the contexts in which the word appears in a large body of text but ignores word order. However, word order often signals a word's grammatical role in a sentence and thus tells of the word's meaning. Jones and Mewhort (2007) show that word order can be included in the semantic vectors using holographic reduced representation and convolution. We show here that the order information can be captured also by permuting of vector coordinates, thus providing a general and computationally light alternative to convolution.
Trust Cluster Head Election Algorithm Based on Ant Colony Systems

The cluster head is playing an important role in clustering wireless sensor networks. If a malicious or compromised node is elected as the cluster head, it’ll be a disaster to the whole network. In light of this, we present a trust cluster head election algorithm based on ant colony system. Experiments and results demonstrate our framework can effectively prevent the malicious nodes from being selected as a cluster head.
Fitness to stand trial evaluation challenges in the United States: Some comparisons with South Africa

Like the Republic of South Africa, the United States faces serious challenges regarding fitness to stand trial evaluations, including long waitlists for individuals awaiting such evaluations. Some similarities exist between the RSA and US evaluation systems, including an increasing number of referrals for fitness to stand trial evaluations, limited evaluator resources, and concerns about the significant restrictions on civil liberties for those awaiting evaluation. Recently, the United States has implemented several different solutions to address these issues. These have included broadening the eligibility requirements for fitness to stand trial evaluators, utilizing localized and short-term settings for fitness to stand trial evaluations, and a host of other ideas. This article examines these different solutions, discusses their relevance and potential effectiveness for the RSA evaluation system, and makes recommendations for consideration by policy makers and mental health professionals.
Identification of Contractile P 2 Y 1 , P 2 Y 6 , and P 2 Y 12 Receptors in Rat Intrapulmonary Artery Using Selective Ligands

ATP and UDP constrict rat intrapulmonary arteries, but which receptors mediate these actions is unclear. Here, we used selective agonists and antagonists, along with measurements of P2Y receptor expression, to characterize the receptor subtypes involved. Isometric tension was recorded from endotheliumdenuded rat intrapulmonary artery rings (i.d. 200–500 m) mounted on a wire myograph. Expression of P2Y receptor subtype expression was determined by using reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction with receptor-specific oligonucleotide primers. The selective P2Y1 agonist (N)-methanocarba-2methylthioadenosine-5 -O-diphosphate (MRS2365) induced small, concentration-dependent contractions that were inhibited by the P2Y1 antagonist N -methyl-2 -deoxyadenosine-3 ,5 bisphosphate (MRS2179). Contractions evoked by ATP were unaffected by MRS2179, but inhibited by approximately one-third by the P2Y12 antagonist N -(2-methylthiomethyl)-2-(3,3,3-trifluoropropylthio)dichloro-methylene ATP (AR-C69931MX). Combined blockade of P2X1 and P2Y12 receptors virtually abolished the response to ATP. ADP also evoked contractions that were abolished by AR-C69931MX. The selective P2Y6 receptor agonist 3-(2-oxo-2-phenylethyl)-UDP (PSB 0474) evoked concentrationdependent contractions and was approximately three times more potent than UDP, but the P2Y14 agonist UDP-glucose had no effect. Contractions evoked by UDP were inhibited by the P2Y6 receptor antagonist N,N -1,4-butanediylbis-N -(3-isothiocyanatophenyl)thiourea (MRS2578), but not the cysteinyl leukotriene 1 (CysL1) antagonist 3-(3-(2-(7-chloro-2-quinolinyl)ethenyl)phenyl)((3-dimethylamino-3-oxopropyl)thio)methyl)thiopropanoic acid (MK571). Higher concentrations of MRS2578 inhibited contractions to KCl, so they were not studied further. mRNA for P2Y1, P2Y6, and P2Y12 receptors was identified. Our working model is that P2Y12 and P2X1 receptors are present in rat intrapulmonary arteries and together mediate ATP-induced vasoconstriction. Contractile P2Y6, but not P2Y14 or CysLT1, receptors are also present and are a major site through which UDP evokes constriction.
The z = 0.8 precursors of today's bulges

Abstract We study the color structure of disk galaxies in the Groth strip at redshifts 0.1 < z < 1.2. Our aim is to test formation models in which bulges form before/after the disk. We find smooth color distributions with gentle outward blueing across the galaxy image: bulges are not distinctly redder than their disks; and bulge colors strongly correlate with global colors. The results suggest a roughly coeval evolution of bulges and disks. About 50% of the nuclei of galaxies with central light excesses above the outer exponential profile hold passively evolving red populations. The remainder 50% are galaxies with central blue colors similar to their disks. They may be bulges in formation, or the central parts of disks with non-exponential surface brightness profiles.
The PITX3 gene in posterior polar congenital cataract in Australia.

PURPOSE Congenital cataract is a significant cause of blindness worldwide. Many genes are known to cause the disorder. A large multigenerational pedigree was investigated for the genetic cause of a posterior polar autosomal dominant congenital cataract. METHODS A genome wide scan was conducted in a large multigenerational family with autosomal dominant cataract to identify the linked region of the genome. The PITX3 gene was investigated through direct sequencing and detection of fluorescently labeled PCR products. RESULTS Linkage was detected to a region of chromosome 10q23-26 which contains the candidate gene PITX3. A segregating 17 bp insertion mutation was identified. This mutation was not identified in 100 additional unrelated sporadic and familial congenital cataract patients. No mutations of the PITX3 gene were identified in 9 families with posterior polar congenital cataract. CONCLUSIONS The 657ins17bp duplication of the PITX3 gene is the cause of the cataract phenotype in the large pedigree, however, this gene appears responsible for only a small proportion of congenital cataract in Australia.
Neurometric Profiling of Autism Spectrum Disorder using The Brief Neurometric Battery: A Novel Eeg Based Task

PAGE Autism spectrum disorder is a pervasive developmental disorder characterized by heterogeneous deficits in social communication and interaction, as well as repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. Due to the dramatic increase in prevalence, a major theme in contemporary research has been the identification of biomarkers for ASD that can shed light on etiological factors, facilitate diagnosis and serve as markers for tracking the efficacy of behavioral and pharmacological treatments. Electroencephalography (EEG) metrics, such as event-related potentials (ERPs), resting state oscillatory activity (OA), and resting state complexity (multiscale entropy), are well-suited for the measurement of such biomarkers. Due to the complexity and heterogeneity of ASD symptoms, it is important that research aiming to use EEG to identify biomarkers of autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders focus on determining the relationships between electrophysiological neurometrics and clinical presentation. The objective of the present research was two-fold; 1) synthesize a profile of ERP and OA metrics, collected during a novel Brief Neurometric Battery, that differentiates between youth with ASD and controls, and 2) determine if a relatively novel analysis of resting state EEG complexity (MSE) can be used to differentiate between ASD and controls. Through a two study approach, this research was able to synthesize a multivariate profile that classified youth with and without ASD at an accuracy rate comparable to that of the gold standard methods (ADI-R/ADOS) and identify an additional neurometric, multiscale entropy, that can accurately differentiate between youth with ASD and controls.
From CAATTs Adoption to Continuous Auditing Systems Implementation: An Analysis Based on Organizational Routines Theories

Previous studies on the use of computer assisted auditing technology and techniques (CAATTs) mostly focus on computer skills and perceived usefulness of auditors, and the influential factors from organizational environments; however, they seldom emphasize the group level. In this research, we study the technological adaptation process of a case company, which continuously implemented four CAATTs projects in three years. We summarized and analyzed the routinization process of how the case company adapted their computer-aided audit procedures from an experimental action to daily usage. An approach based on organizational routines theories was adopted to study group learning and interactions among project members, and to understand how they integrated automated auditing techniques and mechanisms into the existing manual auditing procedures. The process also reveals the incremental progress of an emerging routine from CAATTs adoption to continuous auditing systems.The research results show that the documentation of CAATTs projects and group learning among different functions contribute to the routinization of automated auditing procedures; the continuous auditing system based on the automated auditing program also contributes to routinely audited tasks. However, the improvisational nature of auditing activities, implicit characteristics within general auditing software, and rigidity of automatic auditing programs cause the resistance of auditors on CAATTs use, and also impede the emergence and flexibility of computer-aided auditing procedures.
Analysis and Design Procedure of Transmission-Line Transformers

Transmission-line transformers are devices used to match RF and microwave devices, to make the conversion balanced-unbalanced, or both things simultaneously. Transmission-line transformers are mandatory at frequencies where traditional magnetic coupling transformers do not operate properly. In this paper, a procedure to design transmission-line transformers with different configurations is presented. The procedure is based on the theoretical analysis of the device and has been validated via experimental study.
Narcissism and affirmation of the ideal self on social media in Thailand

Narcissists, characterised by an excessive need for admiration, are among the most prolific users of social media as it may aid narcissists reach their goals of being admired by many people, without needing to build intimacy. Adapted from the Michelangelo phenomenon, this thesis proposes to test the Facebook affirmation model in Thailand. The model asserts that individuals, particularly those with high levels of narcissism, can benefit from using Facebook to receive affirmation of the ideal self and move closer to their ideal selves. Given that the benefits of Facebook for narcissists may depend on their cultural background, a cross-cultural correlational study was conducted in Study 1. A comparison between Thai and British Facebook users found basic support for the model and showed a similar pattern of the Facebook affirmation model across cultures. The application of cognitive and behavioural strategies was further investigated in Study 2 using an experimental design. The findings suggest that Facebook offers benefits for communal narcissists under specific circumstances, such as when they engage in other-oriented behaviours. The mechanisms underlying the Facebook affirmation process was also examined in Study 3. Results provide evidence that self-esteem influences the way in which communal narcissists experience Facebook affirmation. Lastly, the association between selfie-posting behaviour and affirmation of the ideal self was explored to test whether affirmation of the ideal self can occur under specific activities on other social media platforms. Results demonstrate that selfie-posting on Instagram helps agentic narcissists experience affirmation of the ideal self. In general, findings provide new evidence that social media facilitates agentic and communal narcissists to feel their best and move towards their ideal self, particularly when cognitive and behavioural strategies used on social media match their orientation towards goals.
Dietary Fatty Acids Differentially Associate with Fasting Versus 2-Hour Glucose Homeostasis: Implications for The Management of Subtypes of Prediabetes

Over-nutrition has fuelled the global epidemic of type 2 diabetes, but the role of individual macronutrients to the diabetogenic process is not well delineated. We aimed to examine the impact of dietary fatty acid intake on fasting and 2-hour plasma glucose concentrations, as well as tissue-specific insulin action governing each. Normoglycemic controls (n = 15), athletes (n = 14), and obese (n = 23), as well as people with prediabetes (n = 10) and type 2 diabetes (n = 11), were queried about their habitual diet using a Food Frequency Questionnaire. All subjects were screened by an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and studied using the hyperinsulinemic/euglycemic clamp with infusion of 6,62H2-glucose. Multiple regression was performed to examine relationships between dietary fat intake and 1) fasting plasma glucose, 2) % suppression of endogenous glucose production, 3) 2-hour post-OGTT plasma glucose, and 4) skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity (glucose rate of disappearance (Rd) and non-oxidative glucose disposal (NOGD)). The %kcal from saturated fat (SFA) was positively associated with fasting (β = 0.303, P = 0.018) and 2-hour plasma glucose (β = 0.415, P<0.001), and negatively related to % suppression of hepatic glucose production (β = -0.245, P = 0.049), clamp Rd (β = -0.256, P = 0.001) and NOGD (β = -0.257, P = 0.001). The %kcal from trans fat was also negatively related to clamp Rd (β = -0.209, P = 0.008) and NOGD (β = -0.210, P = 0.008). In contrast, the %kcal from polyunsaturated fat (PUFA) was negatively associated with 2-hour glucose levels (β = -0.383, P = 0.001), and positively related to Rd (β = 0.253, P = 0.007) and NOGD (β = 0.246, P = 0.008). Dietary advice to prevent diabetes should consider the underlying pathophysiology of the prediabetic state.
The flat synchrotron spectra of partially self-absorbed jets revisited

Flat radio spectra with large brightness temperatures at the core of active galactic nuclei and X-ray binaries are usually interpreted as the partially self-absorbed bases of jet flows emitting synchrotron radiation. Here we extend previous models of jets propagating at large angles to our line of sight to self-consistently include the effects of energy losses of the relativistic electrons due to the synchrotron process itself and the adiabatic expansion of the jet flow. We also take into account energy gains through self-absorption. Two model classes are presented. The ballistic jet flows, with the jet material travelling along straight trajectories, and adiabatic jets. Despite the energy losses, both scenarios can result in flat emission spectra; however, the adiabatic jets require a specific geometry. No re-acceleration process along the jet is needed for the electrons. We apply the models to observational data of the X-ray binary Cygnus X-1. Both models can be made consistent with the observations. The resulting ballistic jet is extremely narrow with a jet opening angle of only 5 arcsec. Its energy transport rate is small compared to the time-averaged jet power and therefore suggests the presence of non-radiating protons in the jet flow. The adiabatic jets require a strong departure from energy equipartition between the magnetic field and the relativistic electrons. These models also imply a jet power of two orders of magnitude higher than the Eddington limiting luminosity of a 10-M ⊙ black hole. The models put strong constraints on the physical conditions in the jet flows on scales well below achievable resolution limits.
A Case Report of Fanconi Anemia Diagnosed by Genetic Testing Followed by Prenatal Diagnosis

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare genetic disorder affecting multiple body systems. Genetic testing, including prenatal testing, is a prerequisite for the diagnosis of many clinical conditions. However, genetic testing is complicated for FA because there are often many genes that are associated with its development, and large deletions, duplications, or sequence variations are frequently found in some of these genes. This study describes successful genetic testing for molecular diagnosis, and subsequent prenatal diagnosis, of FA in a patient and his family in Korea. We analyzed all exons and flanking regions of the FANCA, FANCC, and FANCG genes for mutation identification and subsequent prenatal diagnosis. Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification analysis was performed to detect large deletions or duplications in the FANCA gene. Molecular analysis revealed two mutations in the FANCA gene: a frameshift mutation c.2546delC and a novel splice-site mutation c.3627-1G>A. The FANCA mutations were separately inherited from each parent, c.2546delC was derived from the father, whereas c.3627-1G>A originated from the mother. The amniotic fluid cells were c.3627-1G>A heterozygotes, suggesting that the fetus was unaffected. This is the first report of genetic testing that was successfully applied to molecular diagnosis of a patient and subsequent prenatal diagnosis of FA in a family in Korea.