Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Non-Linear Compensation Using the Gauss-Newton Method for Noise-Robust Speech Recognition

In this paper, we present the Gauss-Newton method as a unified approach to estimating noise parameters of the prevalent non-linear compensation models, such as vector Taylor series (VTS), data-driven parallel model combination (DPMC), and unscented transform (UT), for noise-robust speech recognition. While iterative estimation of noise means in a generalized EM framework has been widely known, we demonstrate that such approaches are variants of the Gauss-Newton method. Furthermore, we propose a novel noise variance estimation algorithm that is consistent with the Gauss-Newton principle. The formulation of the Gauss-Newton method reduces the noise estimation problem to determining the Jacobians of the corrupted speech parameters. For sampling-based compensations, we present two methods, sample Jacobian average (SJA) and cross-covariance (XCOV), to evaluate these Jacobians. The proposed noise estimation algorithm is evaluated for various compensation models on two tasks. The first is to fit a GMM model to artificially corrupted samples, and the second is to perform speech recognition on the Aurora 2 database. The significant performance improvements confirm the efficacy of the Gauss-Newton method to estimating the noise parameters of the non-linear compensation models.
The Costs and Benefits of Homogeneity , with an Application to Culture Clash

Firms are more homogenous than society in general. This paper studies the costs and benefits of, in particular, homogeneity in beliefs and preferences. It shows that, in a world with differing priors, such homogeneity facilitates delegation and coordination, reduces monitoring and influence activities, improves the quality of communication, and increases effort and expected utility. It reduces, however, the incentives to collect new information. Starting from the definition of culture as shared beliefs and preferences, these results have implications for an economic theory of ‘culture clash’ in mergers and acquisitions. In particular, when two firms that are each internally homogenous but different from each other, try to merge, agency problems will generally increase and hurt their performance, although the decrease in homogeneity may sometimes have beneficial effects. The paper derives specific empirical implications.
A polynomial time algorithm for computing an Arrow-Debreu market equilibrium for linear utilities

We provide the first polynomial time exact algorithm for computing an Arrow-Debreu market equilibrium for the case of linear utilities. Our algorithm is based on solving a convex program using the ellipsoid algorithm and simultaneous diophantine approximation. As a side result, we prove that the set of assignments at equilibria is convex and the equilibria prices themselves are log-convex. Our convex program is explicit and intuitive, which allows maximizing a concave function over the set of equilibria. On the practical side, Ye developed an interior point algorithm (Ye, 2004) to find an equilibrium based on our convex program. We also derive separate combinatorial characterizations of equilibrium for Arrow-Debreu and Fisher cases. Our convex program can be extended for many non-linear utilities (Codenotti and Varadarajan, 2004; Jain and Ye) and production models (Jain). Our paper also makes a powerful theorem even more powerful in the area of geometric algorithms and combinatorial optimization. The main idea in this generalization is to allow ellipsoids not to contain the whole convex region but a part of it. This theorem is of independent interest.
From perceptual to lexico‐semantic analysis—cortical plasticity enabling new levels of processing

Certain kinds of stimuli can be processed on multiple levels. While the neural correlates of different levels of processing (LOPs) have been investigated to some extent, most of the studies involve skills and/or knowledge already present when performing the task. In this study we specifically sought to identify neural correlates of an evolving skill that allows the transition from perceptual to a lexico‐semantic stimulus analysis. Eighteen participants were trained to decode 12 letters of Morse code that were presented acoustically inside and outside of the scanner environment. Morse code was presented in trains of three letters while brain activity was assessed with fMRI. Participants either attended to the stimulus length (perceptual analysis), or evaluated its meaning distinguishing words from nonwords (lexico‐semantic analysis). Perceptual and lexico‐semantic analyses shared a mutual network comprising the left premotor cortex, the supplementary motor area (SMA) and the inferior parietal lobule (IPL). Perceptual analysis was associated with a strong brain activation in the SMA and the superior temporal gyrus bilaterally (STG), which remained unaltered from pre and post training. In the lexico‐semantic analysis post learning, study participants showed additional activation in the left inferior frontal cortex (IFC) and in the left occipitotemporal cortex (OTC), regions known to be critically involved in lexical processing. Our data provide evidence for cortical plasticity evolving with a learning process enabling the transition from perceptual to lexico‐semantic stimulus analysis. Importantly, the activation pattern remains task‐related LOP and is thus the result of a decision process as to which LOP to engage in. Hum Brain Mapp 36:4512–4528, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. Human Brain Mapping Published byWiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recent progress on development of sputtered PZT film at FUJIFILM

FUJIFILM has developed a method of forming lead zirconate titanate (PZT) films with unusual piezoelectric properties using RF sputtering. The film has a piezoelectric coefficient of d31= -250pm/V which is ~70% higher than conventional PZT film. This was made possible by high content of Nb dopant (13 at. %) and a precise control of crystal orientation. One of the most unique features of the film is observed in its polarization behavior. The film is spontaneously poled as being deposited, and the polarization is highly resistant to high temperatures. This unique feature of the film gives us great advantages during development of PZT film devices and building production lines.
Local Linear GMM Estimation of Functional Coefficient IV Models with Application to the Estimation of Rate of Return to Schooling

We consider the local linear GMM estimation of functional coefficient models with a mix of discrete and continuous data and in the presence of endogenous regressors. We establish the asymptotic normality of the estimator and derive the optimal instrumental variable that minimizes the asymptotic variance-covariance matrix among the class of all local linear GMM estimators. Data-dependent bandwidth sequences are also allowed for. We propose a nonparametric test for the constancy of the functional coefficients, study its asymptotic properties under the null hypothesis as well as a sequence of local alternatives and global alternatives, and propose a bootstrap version for it. Simulations are conducted to evaluate both the estimator and test. Applications to the 1985 Australian Longitudinal Survey data indicate a clear rejection of the null hypothesis of the constant rate of return to education, and that the returns to education obtained in earlier studies tend to be overestimated for all the work experience. JEL Classifications: C12, C13, C14
Bridging the gap between the digital and the physical: design and evaluation of a mobile augmented reality guide for the museum visit

Can Augmented Reality (AR) techniques inform the design and implementation of a mobile multimedia guide for the museum setting? Drawing from our experience both on previous mobile museum guides projects and in AR technology, we present a fully functional prototype of an AR-enabled mobile multimedia museum guide, designed and implemented for the Museum of Fine Arts in Rennes, France. We report on the life cycle of the prototype and the methodology employed for the AR approach as well as on the selected mixed method evaluation process; finally, the first results emerging from quantitative evaluation are discussed, supported by evidence and findings from the qualitative part of the assessment process. We conclude with lessons learned during the full circle of conception, implementation, testing and assessment of the guide.
Zero-Shot Object Recognition Using Semantic Label Vectors

We consider the problem of zero-shot recognition of object categories from images. Given a set of object categories (called "known classes") with training images, our goal is to learn a system to recognize another non-overlapping set of object categories (called "unknown classes") for which there are no training images. Our proposed approach exploits the recent work in natural language processing which has produced vector representations of words. Using the vector representations of object classes, we develop a method for transferring the appearance models from known object classes to unknown object classes. Our experimental results on three benchmark datasets show that our proposed method outperforms other competing approaches.
Correlations of Hepatic Hemodynamics, Liver Function, and Fibrosis Markers in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Comparison with Chronic Hepatitis Related to Hepatitis C Virus

The progression of chronic liver disease differs by etiology. The aim of this study was to elucidate the difference in disease progression between chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by means of fibrosis markers, liver function, and hepatic tissue blood flow (TBF). Xenon computed tomography (Xe-CT) was performed in 139 patients with NAFLD and 152 patients with CHC (including liver cirrhosis (LC)). The cutoff values for fibrosis markers were compared between NAFLD and CHC, and correlations between hepatic TBF and liver function tests were examined at each fibrosis stage. The cutoff values for detection of the advanced fibrosis stage were lower in NAFLD than in CHC. Although portal venous TBF (PVTBF) correlated with liver function tests, PVTBF in initial LC caused by nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH-LC) was significantly lower than that in hepatitis C virus (C-LC) (p = 0.014). Conversely, the liver function tests in NASH-LC were higher than those in C-LC (p < 0.05). It is important to recognize the difference between NAFLD and CHC. We concluded that changes in hepatic blood flow occurred during the earliest stage of hepatic fibrosis in patients with NAFLD; therefore, patients with NAFLD need to be followed carefully.
Partially-erupting prominences: a comparison between observations and model-predicted observables

AIM: To investigate several partially-erupting prominences to study their relationship with other CME-associated phenomena and to compare these observations with observables predicted by a model of partially-expelled flux ropes (Gibson & Fan, 2006a, b). METHODS: We have studied 6 selected events with partially-erupting prominences using multi wavelength observations recorded by the Extreme-ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (EIT), Transition Region and Coronal Explorer (TRACE), Mauna Loa Solar Observatory (MLSO), Big Bear Solar Observatory (BBSO) and soft X-ray telescope (SXT). The observational features associated with partially-erupting prominences were then compared with the predicted observables from the model. RESULTS: The partially-expelled-flux-rope (PEFR) model of Gibson & Fan (2006a, b) can explain the partial eruption of these prominences, and in addition predicts a variety of other CME-related observables that provide evidence for internal reconnection during eruption. We find that all of the partially-erupting prominences studied in this paper exhibit indirect evidence for internal reconnection. Moreover, all cases showed evidence of at least one observable unique to the PEFR model, e.g., dimmings external to the source region, and/or a soft X-ray cusp overlying a reformed sigmoid. CONCLUSIONS: The PEFR model provides a plausible mechanism to explain the observed evolution of partially-erupting-prominence-associated CMEs in our study.
Bluetooth based collaborative crowd density estimation with mobile phones

We present a technique for estimating crowd density by using a mobile phone to scan the environment for Bluetooth devices. The paper builds on previous work directed to use Bluetooth scans to analyze social context and extends it with more advanced features, leveraging collaboration between close by devices, and the use of relative features that do not directly depend on the absolute number of devices in the environment. The method is evaluated on a data set from an experiment at the public viewing event in Kaiserslautern during the European soccer championship showing over 75% recognition accuracy on seven discrete classes.
Inclusivity in Interagency Responses to Domestic Violence and Child Protection

ABSTRACT The integrated response model offers opportunities for agencies to unite to address domestic violence and its intersections with other elements of oppression including colonialism, racism, and heterosexism. This article explores the workings of a well-established integrated response in relation to minoritised populations. Thirty staff from member organisations of the integrated response participated in semi-structured interviews. Using qualitative methodology, study findings indicated that service providers were cognisant of minoritised populations and open to assisting all. However, lack of recognition of the needs of minoritised populations, and challenges in incorporating cultural knowledge with specialist domestic violence knowledge, inhibited engagement. Enhanced collaboration between agencies and self-reflexivity in a culturally responsive approach may assist in assimilating narratives of racism, colonialism, and sexuality into integrated responses’ core philosophies. IMPLICATIONS The social work profession has an important role in enhancing understanding and responses to diversity where there are domestic violence and child protection concerns. The social work profession's ecological approach and eclectic knowledge base positions the profession well to support inclusive multi-agency collaborations. The social work profession's commitment to anti-oppressive practice could promote partnership between domestic violence services and child protection services working with families experiencing violence.
Type 2 diabetes and cancer: umbrella review of meta-analyses of observational studies

Objectives To summarise the evidence and evaluate the validity of the associations between type 2 diabetes and the risk of developing or dying from cancer. Design An umbrella review of the evidence across meta-analyses of observational studies of type 2 diabetes with risk of developing or dying from any cancer. Data sources PubMed, Embase, Cochrane database of systematic reviews, and manual screening of references. Eligibility criteria Meta-analyses or systematic reviews of observational studies in humans that examined the association between type 2 diabetes and risk of developing or dying from cancer. Results Eligible meta-analyses assessed associations between type 2 diabetes and risk of developing cancer in 20 sites and mortality for seven cancer sites. The summary random effects estimates were significant at P=0.05 in 20 meta-analyses (74%); and all reported increased risks of developing cancer for participants with versus without diabetes. Of the 27 meta-analyses, eventually only seven (26%) compiled evidence on more than 1000 cases, had significant summary associations at P≤0.001 for both random and fixed effects calculations, and had neither evidence of small study effects nor evidence for excess significance. Of those, only six (22%) did not have substantial heterogeneity (I2>75%), pertaining to associations between type 2 diabetes and risk of developing breast, cholangiocarcinoma (both intrahepatic and extrahepatic), colorectal, endometrial, and gallbladder cancer. The 95% prediction intervals excluded the null value for four of these associations (breast, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, colorectal, and endometrial cancer). Conclusions Though type 2 diabetes has been extensively studied in relation to risk of developing cancer and cancer mortality and strong claims of significance exist for most of the studied associations, only a minority of these associations have robust supporting evidence without hints of bias.
Emotional Labor Within Teams: Outcomes of Individual and Peer Emotional Labor on Perceived Team Support, Extra-Role Behaviors, and Turnover Intentions

We investigated the relationship of emotional labor to perceived team support, extra-role behaviors, and turnover intentions. Our primary research question involved whether the relationships of individual deep acting with perceived team support and extra-role behaviors were conditional on the level of peer deep acting in the team. The possibilities were explored in two field studies. Study 1 sampled 195 students in 47 project teams multiple times over the course of a semester. Study 2 surveyed 202 nurses and their supervisors within 35 teams in a hospital. The multilevel results of both studies showed that the relationships between individual deep acting and outcome variables were dependent upon the level of peer deep acting in the team. As expected, individual and peer surface acting had only direct relationships with the same outcomes. These findings provided general support for our model and suggested that team-level effects are an important theoretical and practical consideration for understanding emotional labor within teams and organizations.
Sex differences in the effects of maternal vitamin supplements on mortality and morbidity among children born to HIV-infected women in Tanzania

We examined whether there are sex differences in the effect of vitamin supplements on birth outcomes, mortality and morbidity by 2 years of age among children born to HIV-infected women in Tanzania. A randomised placebo-controlled trial was conducted among 959 mother–infant pairs. HIV-infected pregnant women were randomly assigned to receive a daily oral dose of one of four regimens: multivitamins (vitamins B-complex, C and E), vitamin A plus β-carotene, multivitamins including vitamin A plus β-carotene or placebo. Supplements were administered during pregnancy and continued after delivery. The beneficial effect of multivitamins on decreasing the risk of low birth weight was stronger among girls (relative risks (RR) = 0·39, 95 % CI 0·22, 0·67) than among boys (RR = 0·81, 95 % CI 0·44, 1·49; P for interaction = 0·08). Maternal multivitamin supplements resulted in 32 % reduction in mortality among girls (RR = 0·68, 95 % CI 0·47, 0·97), whereas no effect was found among boys (RR = 1·20, 95 % CI 0·80, 1·78; P for interaction = 0·04). Multivitamins had beneficial effects on the overall risks of diarrhoea that did not differ by sex. Vitamin A plus β-carotene alone increased the risk of HIV transmission, but had no effects on mortality, and we found no sex differences in these effects. Sex differential effects of multivitamins on mortality may be due to sex-related differences in the immunological or genetic factors. More research is warranted to examine the effect of vitamins by sex and better understand biological mechanisms mediating such effects.
Response of neurons in the cat's lateral geniculate nucleus to moving bars of different length

It is well recognized that in the visual cortex of the cat, some of the cells (hypercomplex) are sharply tuned for the length of a bar moving backwards and forwards across their receptive fields. Other cells (simple) exhibit no such tuning but appear to respond proportionately over a range of bar lengths. The tuning seen in hypercomplex cells is already observable to a lesser degree in retinal ganglion cells. Our experiments were carried out to determine the extent of this tuning in the lateral geniculate nucleus, which relays information from the retina to the cortex. Results show that geniculate cells have tuning properties intermediate between those of ganglion cells and hypercomplex cells. By adding together a linear array of geniculate cells, it is possible to model the characteristics of a simple cell and to demonstrate that while an elongated bar gives a minimal response in hypercomplex cells, it should have little effect on the response of simple cells.
La Enseñanza Virtual del Derecho. Una aproximación en la Universidad cubana.

El articulo realiza un esbozo de los referentes teoricos que se han tenido en cuenta para el desarrollo de las habilidades en el proceso docente educativo, las principales ideas desde un enfoque historico-cultural, se fundamenta la necesidad e importancia de la formacion de los estudiantes de Derecho para crear en habilidades sociales que le permitan demostrar sus competencias en el mercado laboral. Es realizada para ello una revision de la introduccion de la actividad cientifica dentro del proceso de ensenanza-aprendizaje que le permita el desarrollo de habilidades en la Universidad Cubana. A partir de la perspectiva de las nuevas tecnologias digitales en el desarrollo cognitivo de los jovenes en sus valores, estilos de vida y expectativas educativas, para apropiarse de conocimientos o saberes juridicos, y dotarlos de una serie de competencias y habilidades basicas que lo capaciten para el ejercicio de su profesion una vez que este acceda al mercado laboral desde los modos de actuacion como fiscal, juez, abogado, asesor, profesor, entre otros. Para ellos nos auxiliamos en los metodos de la investigacion como el historico logico, el de analisis y sintesis, y el de induccion deduccion.
Usefulness of Conventional and Tissue Doppler Echocardiography to Predict Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs with Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease

Background Systolic and diastolic functions have been evaluated to predict outcome in congestive heart failure (CHF). Recently, tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) has become useful for the estimation of myocardial function in cardiac diseases of humans and animals. Objective This study was designed to assess whether myocardial function as assessed by TDI is associated with the occurrence of CHF in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and whether additional information is gained over conventional Doppler variables. Animals Forty‐one privately owned dogs (15 healthy dogs and 26 dogs with MMVD) were included. Dogs with MMVD were divided into non‐CHF (n = 10) and CHF groups (n = 16). Methods Conventional echocardiographic examinations were performed. In addition, TDI‐derived variables, including radial and longitudinal velocities, strain, and strain rate were assessed. Results Several (12 of 47, 26%) conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography variables were significant predictors of CHF in a univariate analysis (P < .05). However, TDI‐derived E/E m sept was the only load‐independent significant predictor of CHF (P < .05) after multivariate logistic regression analysis. The E/E m sept cut‐off value of >18.7 had a sensitivity of 56% and specificity of 90% in predicting CHF in dogs with MMVD. Conclusions and Clinical Importance The combination of TDI of the mitral annulus and mitral inflow velocity provided better estimates of diastolic dysfunction in dogs with MMVD and CHF. Additional study is warranted to assess TDI‐derived E/E m sept, an index of diastolic function that could contribute to the management of dogs with MMVD and CHF.