Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
On Growing and Pruning Kneser–Ney Smoothed  $ N$-Gram Models

N-gram models are the most widely used language models in large vocabulary continuous speech recognition. Since the size of the model grows rapidly with respect to the model order and available training data, many methods have been proposed for pruning the least relevant -grams from the model. However, correct smoothing of the N-gram probability distributions is important and performance may degrade significantly if pruning conflicts with smoothing. In this paper, we show that some of the commonly used pruning methods do not take into account how removing an -gram should modify the backoff distributions in the state-of-the-art Kneser-Ney smoothing. To solve this problem, we present two new algorithms: one for pruning Kneser-Ney smoothed models, and one for growing them incrementally. Experiments on Finnish and English text corpora show that the proposed pruning algorithm provides considerable improvements over previous pruning algorithms on Kneser-Ney smoothed models and is also better than the baseline entropy pruned Good-Turing smoothed models. The models created by the growing algorithm provide a good starting point for our pruning algorithm, leading to further improvements. The improvements in the Finnish speech recognition over the other Kneser-Ney smoothed models are statistically significant, as well.
Factor Mobility, Income Differentials and Regional Economic Integration

This paper examines regional integration when mobility or adjustment costs are relevant for the deployment of production factors across space. Not only are these costs a central determinant of both dynamic and steady state allocation of factors across regions, but they also drive observable factor income differentials along the equilibrium path to the new steady state. The model predicts that under competitive conditions, observed differentials can be used to infer information about these costs. This result survives as long as mobility decisions retain aspects of an investment. Proper consideration of adjustment costs is essential for correctly assessing future migration and capital mobility, especially in the case of eastern enlargement of the European Union.
Evaluation of the Accuracy of Capillary Hydroxybutyrate Measurement Compared with Other Measurements in the Diagnosis of Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Systematic Review

A complication of diabetes is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which if left untreated is a life threatening condition. Prompt and accurate diagnosis of DKA is required for the commencement of life saving interventions. Measurements of ketone bodies in DKA have usually been through nitroprusside urine acetoacetate testing. The aim of this systematic review was to examine whether capillary β-hydroxybutyrate (β-OHB) testing is more accurate compared to other diagnostic methods of DKA. The following electronic databases were searched: EBSCO Host, MEDLINE, PSYCHInfo, CINAHL and Science Direct for publications from 1 January 2005 and up to and including 1 January 2016. Inclusion criteria were: Adults 18 years and over and known type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Retrospective and prospective observation studies were included. A total of nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Capillary β-OHB was found to have high sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value in identifying DKA compared to urinary ketone testing.
Optimized Feature Extraction for Learning-Based Image Steganalysis

The purpose of image steganalysis is to detect the presence of hidden messages in cover photographic images. Supervised learning is an effective and universal approach to cope with the twin difficulties of unknown image statistics and unknown steganographic codes. A crucial part of the learning process is the selection of low-dimensional informative features. We investigate this problem from three angles and propose a three-level optimization of the classifier. First, we select a subband image representation that provides better discrimination ability than a conventional wavelet transform. Second, we analyze two types of features-empirical moments of probability density functions (PDFs) and empirical moments of characteristic functions of the PDFs-and compare their merits. Third, we address the problem of feature dimensionality reduction, which strongly impacts classification accuracy. Experiments show that our method outperforms previous steganalysis methods. For instance, when the probability of false alarm is fixed at 1%, the stegoimage detection probability of our algorithm exceeds that of its closest competitor by at least 15% and up to 50%
Self‐affine (fractal) topography: Surface parameterization and radar scattering

Starting with the assumption that planetary surfaces are self-affine (fractal) over the scales applicable to radar scattering, we derive various surface parameters, e.g., rms slopes and autocorrelation functions, and examine the implications for radar scattering models. The results of this work provide several new insights of interest to planetary geologists and others using radar to study surface features. First, the unidirectional slope histograms of self-affine surfaces are Gaussian, and the adirectional slope histograms are Rayleigh. Normalization of the adirectional histogram by solid angle results in a Gaussian adirectional slope density function and therefore a Gaussian quasi-specular angular scattering function. Next, the wavelength dependent behavior of surface roughness inferred from lunar radar observations is consistent with self-affine topography. Finally, surface rms height measurements are functions of profile length. Therefore, when determining the applicability of the small perturbation model to a surface based on those measurements, it is necessary to consider the length of the profile with respect to the sampling wavelength.
Long‐period hydromagnetic waves at very high geomagnetic latitudes

Low-frequency (∼ 5 mHz) geomagnetic fluctuations are investigated at Antarctic ground-based locations ranging from ∼ 71° to ∼ 80° geomagnetic latitude, and in the northern conjugate region. We show that a narrow band spectral feature at about this frequency often appears in the data, especially at the lower latitudes. We conclude that the demarcation in latitude between the appearance or not of the spectral tone indicates the location of the magnetopause, and that the ∼ 5 mHz frequency is the frequency of standing Alfven waves on the last closed magnetosphere field lines.
Subglacial hydrology and the formation of ice streams

Antarctic ice streams are associated with pressurized subglacial meltwater but the role this water plays in the dynamics of the streams is not known. To address this, we present a model of subglacial water flow below ice sheets, and particularly below ice streams. The base-level flow is fed by subglacial melting and is presumed to take the form of a rough-bedded film, in which the ice is supported by larger clasts, but there is a millimetric water film which submerges the smaller particles. A model for the film is given by two coupled partial differential equations, representing mass conservation of water and ice closure. We assume that there is no sediment transport and solve for water film depth and effective pressure. This is coupled to a vertically integrated, higher order model for ice-sheet dynamics. If there is a sufficiently small amount of meltwater produced (e.g. if ice flux is low), the distributed film and ice sheet are stable, whereas for larger amounts of melt the ice–water system can become unstable, and ice streams form spontaneously as a consequence. We show that this can be explained in terms of a multi-valued sliding law, which arises from a simplified, one-dimensional analysis of the coupled model.
Octopus-inspired multi-arm robotic swimming

The outstanding locomotor and manipulation characteristics of the octopus have recently inspired the development, by our group, of multi-functional robotic swimmers, featuring both manipulation and locomotion capabilities, which could be of significant engineering interest in underwater applications. During its little-studied arm-swimming behavior, as opposed to the better known jetting via the siphon, the animal appears to generate considerable propulsive thrust and rapid acceleration, predominantly employing movements of its arms. In this work, we capture the fundamental characteristics of the corresponding complex pattern of arm motion by a sculling profile, involving a fast power stroke and a slow recovery stroke. We investigate the propulsive capabilities of a multi-arm robotic system under various swimming gaits, namely patterns of arm coordination, which achieve the generation of forward, as well as backward, propulsion and turning. A lumped-element model of the robotic swimmer, which considers arm compliance and the interaction with the aquatic environment, was used to study the characteristics of these gaits, the effect of various kinematic parameters on propulsion, and the generation of complex trajectories. This investigation focuses on relatively high-stiffness arms. Experiments employing a compliant-body robotic prototype swimmer with eight compliant arms, all made of polyurethane, inside a water tank, successfully demonstrated this novel mode of underwater propulsion. Speeds of up to 0.26 body lengths per second (approximately 100 mm s−1), and propulsive forces of up to 3.5 N were achieved, with a non-dimensional cost of transport of 1.42 with all eight arms and of 0.9 with only two active arms. The experiments confirmed the computational results and verified the multi-arm maneuverability and simultaneous object grasping capability of such systems.
Serum sialic acid level in diabetic retinopathy.

BACKGROUND The purpose of the study was to investigate the previously reported observations that patients with elevated levels of serum sialic acid are more prone to develop retinopathy. METHODS Fasting blood glucose and serum sialic acid levels were estimated in sixty diabetic patients with and without retinopathy between 30-60 years of age. Thirty normal persons of same age group were included as controls. Fundoscopy was done to confirm retinopathy. Serum sialic acid concentration was elevated in diabetic patients both with and without retinopathy but the increase was much significant in patients with diabetic retinopathy. RESULTS A significant correlation of serum sialic acid level with duration of diabetes and degree of retinal involvement was noticed in this study.
Theory of hydrogen diffusion and reactions in crystalline silicon.

Les proprietes de l'hydrogene dans le silicium (configurations stables, chemins de migration, interactions cooperatives etc.) sont etudiees. Les calculs sont faits sur une geometrie de supercellule ou supermaille par une theorie de fonctionnelle de densite locale utilisant des pseudopotentiels ab initio. Un nouveau mecanisme d'endommagement induit par l'hydrogene est propose
Impact of gas(less) laparoscopy and laparotomy on peritoneal tumor growth and abdominal wall metastases.

OBJECTIVE A tumor model in the rat was used to study peritoneal tumor growth and abdominal wall metastases after carbon dioxide (CO2) pneumoperitoneum, gasless laparoscopy, and laparotomy. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA The role of laparoscopic resection of cancer is under debate. Insufflation of the peritoneal cavity with CO2 is believed to be a causative factor in the development of abdominal wall metastases after laparoscopic resection of malignant tumors. METHODS In the solid tumor model, a lump of 350-mg CC-531 tumor cells was placed intraperitoneally in rats having CO2 pneumoperitoneum (n = 8), gasless laparoscopy (n = 8), or conventional laparotomy (n = 8). After 20 minutes, the solid tumor was removed through a laparoscopic port or through the laparotomy. In the cell seeding model, 5 x 10(5) CC-531 cells were injected intraperitoneally before CO2 pneumoperitoneum (n = 12), gasless laparoscopy (n = 12), or laparotomy (n = 12). All operative procedures lasted 20 minutes. After 6 weeks, in the solid tumor model and after 4 weeks in the cell seeding model, tumor growth was scored semiquantitatively. All results were analyzed using the analysis of variance. RESULTS In the solid tumor model, peritoneal tumor growth in the laparotomy group was greater than in the CO2 pneumoperitoneum group (p < 0.01). Peritoneal tumor growth in the CO2 group was greater than in the gasless group (p < 0.01). The size of abdominal wall metastases was greater at the port site of extraction of the tumor than at the other port sites (p < 0.001). In the cell seeding model, peritoneal tumor growth was greater after laparotomy in comparison to CO2 pneumoperitoneum (p < 0.02). Peritoneal tumor growth in the CO2 group was greater than in the gasless group (p < 0.01). The port site metastases in the CO2 group were greater than in the gasless group (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The following conclusions can be made: 1) that direct contact between solid tumor and the port site enhances local tumor growth, 2) that laparoscopy is associated with less intraperitoneal tumor growth than laparotomy, and 3) that insufflation of CO2 promotes tumor growth at the peritoneum and is associated with greater abdominal wall metastases than gasless laparoscopy.
Nonpoint source contamination of the Mississippi River and its tributaries by herbicides

A study of the Mississippi River and its tributaries during July-August 1991, October-November 1991, and AprilMay 1992 has indicated that the entire navigable reach of the river is contaminated with a complex mixture of agrochemicals and their transformation products derived from nonpoint sources. Twenty-three compounds were identified, including triazine, chloroacetanilide, thiocarbamate, phenylurea, pyridazine, and organophosphorus pesticides. The upper and middle Mississippi River Basin farm lands are major sources of herbicides applied to corn, soybeans, and sorghum. Farm lands in the lower Mississippi River Basin are a major source of rice and cotton herbicides
Iron, Manganese, Boron and Zinc: Effects on Growth of Merion Kentucky Bluegrass1

Iron and boron were detrimental to turf when used at high rates. Low rates of iron, manganese, and boron improved color of turf under low soil fertility. High rates of iron and zinc impaired rhizome development. Boron, the only element that affected shoot growth, produced a slight temporary increase in regrowth between mowings.
The use of biomonitoring data in exposure and human health risk assessment: benzene case study

Abstract A framework of “Common Criteria” (i.e. a series of questions) has been developed to inform the use and evaluation of biomonitoring data in the context of human exposure and risk assessment. The data-rich chemical benzene was selected for use in a case study to assess whether refinement of the Common Criteria framework was necessary, and to gain additional perspective on approaches for integrating biomonitoring data into a risk-based context. The available data for benzene satisfied most of the Common Criteria and allowed for a risk-based evaluation of the benzene biomonitoring data. In general, biomarker (blood benzene, urinary benzene and urinary S-phenylmercapturic acid) central tendency (i.e. mean, median and geometric mean) concentrations for non-smokers are at or below the predicted blood or urine concentrations that would correspond to exposure at the US Environmental Protection Agency reference concentration (30 µg/m3), but greater than blood or urine concentrations relating to the air concentration at the 1 × 10−5 excess cancer risk (2.9 µg/m3). Smokers clearly have higher levels of benzene exposure, and biomarker levels of benzene for non-smokers are generally consistent with ambient air monitoring results. While some biomarkers of benzene are specific indicators of exposure, the interpretation of benzene biomonitoring levels in a health-risk context are complicated by issues associated with short half-lives and gaps in knowledge regarding the relationship between the biomarkers and subsequent toxic effects.
Experimental evidence of fluid secretion of rabbit lacrimal gland duct epithelium.

PURPOSE To investigate the osmotic water permeability of lacrimal gland (LG) duct epithelium by means of calculation of filtration permeability and to investigate LG ductal fluid secretion. METHODS Experiments were performed on isolated rabbit LG duct segments maintained in short-term culture. Osmotically determined fluid movement or fluid secretion into the closed intraluminal space of cultured LG interlobular ducts was analyzed using video microscopic technique. RESULTS The end of the LG ducts sealed after overnight incubation forming a closed luminal space. For the calculation of osmotic water permeability, ducts were initially perfused with isotonic HEPES buffered solution, and then with hypotonic HEPES buffered solution. Filtration permeability was calculated from the initial slope of the relative volume increase. Secretory responses to carbachol or to forskolin stimulation were also investigated. Forskolin stimulation resulted in a rapid and sustained secretory response in both solutions. Forskolin-stimulated fluid secretion was completely inhibited by bumetanide both in HEPES buffered and in HCO3 (-)/CO2 buffered solutions, suggesting the central role of Na(+)-K(+)-2Cl(-) cotransporter type 1 (NKCC1). Administration of carbachol initiated a rapid but short secretory response in both HEPES buffered and in HCO3 (-)/CO2 buffered solutions. Atropine completely abolished the carbachol-evoked fluid secretion. CONCLUSIONS A new method was introduced to investigate LG duct function. Water permeability of rabbit LG duct epithelium was measured by calculating filtration permeability. Fluid secretion of LG duct cells induced by carbachol or forskolin was also demonstrated. These results provide calculated values of lacrimal duct osmotic permeability and direct experimental evidence of LG duct fluid secretion.
MODELING THE HYDRODYNAMICS AND WATER QUALITY FOR THE COASTAL WATERS OF YUNLIN, TAIWAN

Land reclamation is being undertaken along the seashore of Yunlin, Taiwan. A modeling study presented in this paper was proposed to evaluate the impact on water quality of the coastal waters of Yunlin by the pollutant discharge from the inland. A two-dimensional, vertically averaged mathematical model was developed and calibrated in an attempt to understand variability of water quality of the coastal waters. In addition to the construction of the hydrodynamic module to simulate the tidally varied water surface elevation and current, we calibrated the transport module with regard to biological oxygen demand (BOD) and dissolved oxygen (DO) by a real time simulation. The model ability was then evaluated by comparing the low-slack prediction, the predicted maximum (for BOD) and predicted minimum (for DO) with the 1996 to 1999 observations. Results of model prediction and measurements both indicated that water quality of BOD and DO in the coastal waters during the dry season was worse than that during the wet season, and the worst BOD and DO conditions probably did not occur during the low-slack tide. Assessing the BOD and DO conditions under different coastline and bathymetric configurations, this model further showed that, under completeness of the land reclamation and the dredging of Mailiao and Hsinshin waterwatays, the BOD and DO conditions in the waterways and the inshore region might not be better than the conditions under the coastline configuration of year 1999.
Salient Object Detection via Augmented Hypotheses

In this paper, we propose using augmented hypotheses which consider objectness, foreground and compactness for salient object detection. Our algorithm consists of four basic steps. First, our method generates the objectness map via objectness hypotheses. Based on the objectness map, we estimate the foreground margin and compute the corresponding foreground map which prefers the foreground objects. From the objectness map and the foreground map, the compactness map is formed to favor the compact objects. We then derive a saliency measure that produces a pixel-accurate saliency map which uniformly covers the objects of interest and consistently separates fore-and background. We finally evaluate the proposed framework on two challenging datasets, MSRA- 1000 and iCoSeg. Our extensive experimental results show that our method outperforms state-of-the-art approaches.
IMPACT OF RIPARIAN FOREST BUFFERS ON AGRICULTURAL NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION 1

ABSTRACT: A field monitoring study of a riparian forest buffer zone was conducted to determine the impact of the riparian ecosystem on reducing the concentration of agricultural nonpoint source pollutants. Groundwater samples were collected from 20 sampling locations between May 1993 and December 1994, and analyzed for NO3‐N, PO4, and NH4‐N. Statistical analyses such as Friedman's test, cluster analysis, cross correlation analysis and Duncan's test were performed for the nutrient data. The study showed that the ripanan buffer zone was effective in reducing nitrate concentrations originating from upland agricultural fields. Instream nitrate concentrations were 48 percent less than those measured in the agricultural field. Reductions in concentrations in sampling locations at the wetland edge ranged from 16 to 70 percent. The mean nitrate concentrations in forested hill slope were 45 percent less than concentrations in a well located in an upland agricultural field. Meanwhile, the concentrations of phosphate and ammonia did not follow any specific spatial trend and were generally higher during the summer season for most sampling locations.
Complement activation by photooxidation products of A2E, a lipofuscin constituent of the retinal pigment epithelium

Recent studies have implicated local inflammation and activation of complement amongst the processes involved in the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Several lines of investigation also indicate that bis-retinoid pigments, such as A2E, that accumulate as lipofuscin in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells, contribute to the disease process. In an investigation of a potential trigger for complement activation in AMD, we explored the notion that the complex mixture of products resulting from photooxidation of A2E might include a range of fragments that could be recognized by the complement system as “foreign” and that could serve to activate the complement system, leading to low-grade inflammation. To this end, we established an in vitro assay by using human serum as a source of complement, and we measured products of C3 activation by enzyme immunoassay. Accordingly, we found that the C3 split products inactivated C3b (iC3b) and C3a were elevated in serum, overlying ARPE-19 cells that had accumulated A2E and were irradiated to induce A2E photooxidation. Precoating of microtiter plates with two species of oxidized A2E, peroxy-A2E, and furano-A2E, followed by incubation with serum, also activated complement. We suggest that products of the photooxidation of bis-retinoid lipofuscin pigments in RPE cells could serve as a trigger for the complement system, a trigger than would predispose the macula to disease and that, over time, could contribute to chronic inflammation. These findings link four factors that have been posited as being associated with AMD: inflammation, oxidative damage, drusen, and RPE lipofuscin.