Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
End-to-End Multi-View Lipreading

Non-frontal lip views contain useful information which can be used to enhance the performance of frontal view lipreading. However, the vast majority of recent lipreading works, including the deep learning approaches which significantly outperform traditional approaches, have focused on frontal mouth images. As a consequence, research on joint learning of visual features and speech classification from multiple views is limited. In this work, we present an end-to-end multi-view lipreading system based on Bidirectional Long-Short Memory (BLSTM) networks. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first model which simultaneously learns to extract features directly from the pixels and performs visual speech classification from multiple views and also achieves state-of-the-art performance. The model consists of multiple identical streams, one for each view, which extract features directly from different poses of mouth images. The temporal dynamics in each stream/view are modelled by a BLSTM and the fusion of multiple streams/views takes place via another BLSTM. An absolute average improvement of 3% and 3.8% over the frontal view performance is reported on the OuluVS2 database when the best two (frontal and profile) and three views (frontal, profile, 45) are combined, respectively. The best three-view model results in a 10.5% absolute improvement over the current multi-view state-of-the-art performance on OuluVS2, without using external databases for training, achieving a maximum classification accuracy of 96.9%.
Multiple sclerosis and nutrition.

Demonstration of similarities in geographic distribution of multiple sclerosis (MS) and component of diet would strengthen a consideration that diet plays a causal role in MS. Prevalence of MS in many countries was correlated with average daily per capita consumption of fats and oils, protein, and calories, including calories of animal origin. Of these dietary factors, only calories of animal origin and fats and oils correlated significantly with MS prevalence. When the latter two were combined (animal-fats), a significant correlation with MS prevalence of.70 resulted, suggesting that increased consumption of animal-fat may be associated with MS. Experimental and clinical observations relating diet to increased adhesiveness of formed blood elements, to biochemical alteration of central myelin, and to impaired delayed hypersensitivity are plausible mechanisms linking risk of MS to high animal-fat consumption.
The Effects of Management-Board Ties on IPO Performance

This paper studies the two potentially contrasting effects on IPO pricing and post-IPO operating performance of family ties as well as social ties the top management has with board members. While family ties may solve manager–owner conflicts of interests, they may also give rise to minority-shareholder expropriation and/or private benefits of control. Similarly, social ties may either create value or lead to entrenchment and excessive managerial power. Using q-analysis to measure the strength of top manager ties to board members, we find that IPO performance is positively related to the strength of social ties, but negatively to the strength of family ties. We also find that, controlling for social ties, board independence affects both IPO pricing and post-IPO operating performance. Further, we show that the association between IPO performance and ties depends on whether they are with inside or outside directors.
The Effects of Community Characteristics on Polluter Compliance Levels

This paper analyzes the effects of community characteristics on compliance levels—emissions relative to effluent limits—at polluting facilities. In particular, it examines both direct effects and indirect effects; the second type of effects represents the linking of two related effects: (1) effects of community characteristics on regulatory decisions to intervene against specific facilities with inspections and penalties; and (2) effects of regulatory interventions on facility compliance levels. Estimation reveals (1) community characteristics significantly affect both regulatory interventions and facility performance; (2) direct effects and indirect effects are generally comparable in magnitude; and (3) total effects are economically meaningful. (JEL Q25)
Environmental management systems, communicative action and organizational learning

In recent years, an increasing number of private as well as public organizations have been engaged with implementation and use of environmental management systems (EMSs). This raises questions as to the reasons for implementing an EMS and, not least, about the roles and contributions of an EMS in an organization. Based in particular on research on contemporary municipal environmental management in Sweden, and also drawing on EMS research and experiences in other countries, this paper argues that an EMS may be understood not only as a technical tool for analytical management, as is traditionally done, but also as a tool for communicative action and organizational learning. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
The Variation of Economic Risk Premiums

This paper provides an analysis of the predictable components of monthly common stock and bond portfolio returns. Most of the predictability is associated with sensitivity to economic variables in a rational asset pricing model with multiple betas. The stock market risk premimum is the most important for capturing predictable variation of the stock portfolios, while premiums associated with interest rate risks capture predictability of the bond returns. Time variation in the premium for beta risk is more important than changes in the betas.
A review on novel vesicular drug delivery: proniosomes

Abstract Nanotechnology has brought a revolution in the field of science, which has subsequently lead to development of novel dosage forms such as niosomes, liposomes and proniosomes. Proniosomes overcome the demerits involved with niosomal and liposomal drug delivery systems. Proniosomes are liquid crystalline compact niosome hybrids which upon hydration form niosomes. They help in reducing physical stability problems involved with niosomes such as leaking, fusion, aggregation and provide convenience in dosing, distribution, transportation and storage showing improved results than conventional niosomes. This review focuses on different aspects of proniosome such as preparation, characterization, drug release, applications, merits, demerits, present scenario in market and future trends.
Cash flow estimation practices in Mediterranean countries

Purpose – To examine, determine, investigate and compare the extent to which enterprises in Greece and Cyprus use the theoretical framework to evaluate investments which are the discouraging factors concerning the use of this framework with particular emphasis to investigate the type, size and percentage of total capital expenditures detailed cash flow estimates; cash flow estimation practices and forecasting errors experience in the businesses in Greece and Cyprus. Design/methodology/approach - The investigation was conducted by the distribution of a questionnaire to adequate number of small sized companies of Greece and Cyprus. The study was based on a questionnaire that was promoted to 800 firms in Greece and 120 in Cyprus. Findings - The results of our survey have indicated the perceived important of some financial, marketing, and production factors on the cash flow forecasting process, as borrowing and repayment of funds, sales forecast, and operating expenses. The results of our study have indicated that the majority of forecasting methods used to generate cash flow estimates is management's subjective estimates and that the majority of the Greek firms adjust capital expenditure cash flow for inflation. Practical implications - This study could potentially stimulate further research on cash flow forecasting practices of firms in other countries, such as Italy, France, and other Mediterranean countries, in order to compare the results. Originality/value - This study provides evidence on the forecasting practices of small and medium-sized companies of Mediterranean companies.
Phylogenetic and Kinetic Diversity of Aerobic Vinyl Chloride-Assimilating Bacteria from Contaminated Sites

ABSTRACT Aerobic bacteria that grow on vinyl chloride (VC) have been isolated previously, but their diversity and distribution are largely unknown. It is also unclear whether such bacteria contribute to the natural attenuation of VC at chlorinated-ethene-contaminated sites. We detected aerobic VC biodegradation in 23 of 37 microcosms and enrichments inoculated with samples from various sites. Twelve different bacteria (11 Mycobacterium strains and 1 Nocardioides strain) capable of growth on VC as the sole carbon source were isolated, and 5 representative strains were examined further. All the isolates grew on ethene in addition to VC and contained VC-inducible ethene monooxygenase activity. The Mycobacterium strains (JS60, JS61, JS616, and JS617) all had similar growth yields (5.4 to 6.6 g of protein/mol), maximum specific growth rates (0.17 to 0.23 day−1), and maximum specific substrate utilization rates (9 to 16 nmol/min/mg of protein) with VC. The Nocardioides strain (JS614) had a higher growth yield (10.3 g of protein/mol), growth rate (0.71 day−1), and substrate utilization rate (43 nmol/min/mg of protein) with VC but was much more sensitive to VC starvation. Half-velocity constant (Ks) values for VC were between 0.5 and 3.2 μM, while Ks values for oxygen ranged from 0.03 to 0.3 mg/liter. Our results indicate that aerobic VC-degrading microorganisms (predominantly Mycobacterium strains) are widely distributed at sites contaminated with chlorinated solvents and are likely to be responsible for the natural attenuation of VC.
Electronic Limit Order Book and Order Submission Choice Around Macroeconomic News

We investigate the dynamics of the displayed part of the Island ECN limit order book for the equity-index-linked securities market around macroeconomic news releases. Our results indicate that the quality of the electronic market, measured by spread and depth, deteriorates during the releases. Furthermore, they show that traders appear to switch to more aggressive strategies as early as 3 min before an announcement and are most aggressive within the first minute after the announcement. Also, there is a noticeable difference in the response of the limit order book to the macroeconomic news during pre-market hours relative to regular trading hours.
Moment estimation of population diversity and genetic distance from data on recessive markers *

A moment‐based method for estimating a measure of population diversity, θ or Wright's FST, is given for dominant markers such as amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs) or RAPDs in noninbred populations. Basic assumptions are that there is random mating, Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, linkage equilibrium, no mutation from common ancestor and equally distant populations. It is based on the variances between and within populations of genotype frequencies, whereas previously moment methods for dominant markers have been indirect in that they have been based on first estimating allele frequencies and then using the variances of those frequencies. The use of genotype frequencies directly appears to be more robust. Approximate sampling errors of the estimates are given. Methods are extended to estimate genetic distances and their sampling errors. The AFLP data from samples of breeds of pig are used for illustration.
Enhancement of Absorption of Insulin-Loaded Polyisobutylcyanoacrylate Nanospheres by Sodium Cholate After Oral and Subcutaneous Administration in Diabetic Rats

Polyisobutylcyanoacrylate (PIBCA) nanospheres were employed as biodegradable polymeric carriers for oral (p.o.) and subcutaneous (s.c.) delivery of insulin. The polymerization technique used was able to hold 65%–95% of insulin added 30 min after initiation of polymerization. The percentage drug loading was monomer concentration dependent. Insulin adsorption to the nanospheres was measured by radioimmumoassay. Although Pluronic F68 (0.5%) did not significantly alter the in vitro insulin degradation half-life T50%, sodium cholate (0.5%) increased the degradation T50% of insulin by 56% (from 13.6 ± 1.6 to 22.1 ± 2 min). This study also investigated the in vivo performance of insulin-loaded PIBCA in aqueous suspension with or without sodium cholate (0.5%) and Pluronic F68 (0.5%) surfactants after oral and subcutaneous administration to alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Insulin absorption was evaluated by its hypoglycemic effect. Insulin associated with PIBCA nanospheres retains its biological activity up to 15 h and 24 h after oral and subcutaneous administrations, respectively. Administered orally, insulin-loaded (75 U/kg) nanospheres, in the presence of surfactants, significantly reduced the mean blood glucose level from 392 ± 32 to 80 ± 13 mg/dl within 2 h and maintained it at 100 mg/dl or less for more than 8 h. On the other hand, the subcutaneous administration of insulin-loaded (25 U/kg) nanospheres significantly decreased the blood glucose level from 406 ± 33 to 88.5 ± 12.8 mg/dl within 1 h, and the lowered glucose level was maintained at 100 mg/dl or less for more than 12 h; it returned to its initial value 24 h after administration. Insulin-loaded nanospheres with surfactants showed significant P < 05) pharmacological availability (PA%) of 37.6% ± 3.7% and 65.2% ± 2.7% after oral and subcutaneous dosages, respectively. The existence of surfactants with PIBCA nanospheres improved the oral PA% by 49.2%. These findings suggest that the developed PIBCA, in the presence of surfactants, would be useful not only in improving insulin gastrointestinal absorption, but also in sustaining its systemic action by lowering the blood glucose to an acceptable level.
Staphylococcus aureus Pathogenicity Island DNA Is Packaged in Particles Composed of Phage Proteins

ABSTRACT Staphylococcus aureus pathogenicity islands (SaPIs) have an intimate relationship with temperate staphylococcal phages. During phage growth, SaPIs are induced to replicate and are efficiently encapsidated into special small phage heads commensurate with their size. We have analyzed by amino acid sequencing and mass spectrometry the protein composition of the specific SaPI particles. This has enabled identification of major capsid and tail proteins and a putative portal protein. As expected, all these proteins were phage encoded. Additionally, these analyses suggested the existence of a protein required for the formation of functional phage but not SaPI particles. Mutational analysis demonstrated that the phage proteins identified were involved only in the formation and possibly the function of SaPI or phage particles, having no role in other SaPI or phage functions.
Young Women Talking Sports and Careers: A Glimpse at the Next Generation of Women in Sport Media

As the American public is confronted with a more established female sport presence at all levels, the potential for girls to consider a career in sport media has expanded exponentially. Girls growing up in the age of ‘GRRL Power’ envision themselves as professional basketball players, world champion soccer stars, women who run like the wind, and as sports broadcasters. However, the dawn of a new age has also brought with it increasing complexity with regard to the issues aspiring young women seeking careers in sport media encounter. The overall purpose of this study was to extend the frame of our understanding about gender, sport, and the media by documenting the experiences, concerns, and attitudes of undergraduate females who hope to pursue careers as sports journalists, sports broadcasters, and sport media professionals. Based on interviews with ten undergraduate women, the next generation of women in sport media are more than prepared to take on with confidence, assertiveness, and a great deal of soli.
International labour migration and quality of life: findings from rural Thailand

This paper provides one of the few detailed case studies of the costs and benefits of international labour migration within the East Asian labour-market system that developed rapidly in the 1990s. Analysis focuses on communities of migrant-worker origin in Northeastern Thailand. The paper considers quality of life dimensions for households distinguished on the basis of differing participation in international labour migration. Although the highest quality of life based on locally identified indicators is found in households containing returned international migrant workers the differences between the analytical groups are fairly subdued. The implication is that international migration experience has been so widespread in these communities that it has had a ‘demonstration and emulation’ effect on aspirations and achievement throughout the whole of these communities. (authors)
Volunteering and life satisfaction: a closer look at the hypothesis that volunteering more strongly benefits the unhappy

Volunteering positively impacts on life satisfaction and mental well-being over the deciles of the distribution for a sample of the British populace from 1996 to 2008 (BHPS data set); however, this effect is decreasing for those in the upper parts of the well-being distribution. This can be seen as support for the contention that volunteering can play a protective role for individuals and increase their well-being in the face of otherwise unsatisfactory life conditions. Looking at the effect on satisfaction with life domains, there is evidence for a positive impact of volunteering on satisfaction with health, one’s social life and amount and use of leisure time.
Lymphatic spread differs according to tumor location in extrahepatic bile duct cancer.

BACKGROUND/AIMS Identification of nodal involvement according to primary tumor location in extrahepatic bile duct carcinoma may guide surgical therapy. METHODOLOGY Pathologic data of 81 patients who underwent curative operation for bile duct carcinoma were studied to clarify the differences in lymphatic spread from distal bile duct carcinoma, middle bile duct carcinoma, and proximal bile duct carcinoma. RESULTS Lymph node metastases were present in 25 of 41 patients (61%) with distal bile duct carcinoma, 9 of 19 (47%) with middle bile duct carcinoma, and 11 of 21 (52%) with proximal bile duct carcinoma. The number of positive nodes per node-positive patient was greater in patients with middle bile duct carcinoma than in those with distal- or proximal bile duct carcinoma (mean 5.33 vs. 3.56 or 2.64, p < 0.05). Lymph nodes in the hepatoduodenal ligament were most frequently involved regardless of the primary tumor location. The frequency of distal- and middle bile duct carcinoma patients with metastasis to the superior mesenteric or para-aortic nodes was significantly higher than that of proximal bile duct carcinoma patients (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Patterns of lymphatic spread were different according to primary tumor location in bile duct carcinoma. Metastatic nodes were spread widely, from the hepatoduodenal ligament or posterior pancreaticoduodenal region to the nodes around the superior mesenteric artery and abdominal aorta, in distal- and middle bile duct carcinoma.
Altered platelet function and circulation induced by amphotericin B in leukemic patients after platelet transfusion

Four adults, recently diagnosed, acute leukemic patients received 40 separate platelet transfusion treatments before, during, and after intravenous administration of amphotericin B. Fourteen of these platelet transfusions were administered while the patients also received amphotericin B; 26 platelet transfusions were given before or after amphotericin B therapy. The mean platelet increment for platelet transfusions administered while the patients were untreated with amphotericin B was 58 ± 6 per cent. While the same patients were being treated with amphotericin B, the mean platelet increment was significantly decreased to 29 ± 8 per cent (t = 3.1; p < 0.005). In addition, when the patients were not being given amphotericin B, a highly significant negative relationship (r = ‐0.77; p < 0.001) between the values for bleeding time and venous platelet count was present. In contrast, during amphotericin B treatment there was no correlation between the patients' bleeding times and venous platelet counts. We propose that amphotericin B therapy has a direct toxic effect on the function and circulation of transfused platelets. These toxic effects are quickly corrected by discontinuing this antifungal antibiotic.
The corporate effects of equity block creation and elimination

This study examines how changes in block ownership effects firm value and performance for a sample of US firms over the period 1993–2001. We find that the creation of a new block has a significant impact on shareholder wealth while block elimination does not. The wealth effect is most pronounced when the new block-holder is a corporation. We also determine that announcement period returns are larger when purchasers are classified as permanent rather than temporary block-holders. We find that the creation of a permanent block-holder improves industry-adjusted operating performance more than that of a temporary block-holder. Block elimination, however, does not impact the firm's subsequent operating performance. Our analysis of the sequencing of changes in the number of block-holders shows that firm value increases only when a block purchase produces an initial block-holder. We find that the superior long-term market performance of firms with new block-holders is due to the presence of permanent block-holders.