Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A comparative analysis of UK and US English accents in recognition and synthesis

In this paper, we present a comparative study of the acoustic speech features of two major English accents: British English and American English. Experiments examined the deterioration in speech recognition resulting from the mismatch between English accents of the input speech and the speech models. Mismatch in accents can increase the error rates by more than 100%. Hence a detailed study of the acoustic correlates of accent using intonation pattern and pitch characteristics was performed. Accents differences are acoustic manifestations of differences in duration, pitch and intonation pattern and of course the differences in phonetic transcriptions. Particularly, British speakers possess much steeper pitch rise and fall pattern and lower average pitch in most of vowels. Finally a possible means to convert English accents is suggested based on above analysis.
Flexible simulators for oBS network architectures

Since the OBS paradigm has become a potential candidate to cope with the needs of the future all optical networks, it has really caught the attention from both academia and industry worldwide. In this direction, OBS networks have been investigated under many different scenarios comprising numerous architectures and strategies. This heterogeneous context encourages the development of flexible simulation tools. These tools should permit both an easy integration of any possible new network protocol design and a rapid adaptation to different performance target goals. In this paper, we present two OBS network simulators, namely, a C-based simulator (ADOBS) and our novel Java-based simulator (JAVOBS). We compare their performances and we provide some exemplary results that point out remarkable flexibility that can be achieved with the JAVOBS simulator.
O R I G I N a L I N V E S T I G a T I O N Open Access Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 Deletion Aggravates Diabetes-induced Pathogenic Changes in the Aorta in Type 1 Diabetic Mice

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is an important regulator in glucose and lipid metabolism, and has been considered as a potential therapy for diabetes. The effect of FGF21 on the development and progression of diabetes-induced pathogenic changes in the aorta has not currently been addressed. To characterize these effects, type 1 diabetes was induced in both FGF21 knockout (FGF21KO) and C57BL/6 J wild type (WT) mice via multiple-dose streptozotocin injection. FGF21KO diabetic mice showed both earlier and more severe aortic remodeling indicated by aortic thickening, collagen accumulation and fibrotic mediator connective tissue growth factor expression. This was accompanied by significant aortic cell apoptosis than in WT diabetic mice. Further investigation found that FGF21 deletion exacerbated aortic inflammation and oxidative stress reflected by elevated expression of tumor necrosis factor α and transforming growth factor β, and the accumulation of 3-nitrotyrocine and 4-Hydroxynonenal. FGF21 administration can reverse the pathologic changes in FGF21KO diabetic mice. These findings demonstrate that FGF21 deletion aggravates aortic remodeling and cell death probably via exacerbation of aortic inflammation and oxidative stress. This marks FGF21 as a potential therapy for the treatment of aortic damage due to diabetes.
FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI NIAT IBU MEMBERIKAN ASI EKSKLUSIF DI KELURAHAN MAGERSARI, SIDOARJO

Breastmilk is a the milk produced by the breast of mother which created specially by God. It was produced according to the needs of infants who were born by a mother. Exclusive breastfeeding is the process of feeding a baby only from breastmilk without other supplementary food until baby is 6 month. One of the factors that aff ect the behavior of breastfeeding is the intention of a mother to breastfeed. The objective of this study is to analyze the factors which aff ect the mother’s intention to exclusively breastfeed in Kelurahan Magersari, Sidoarjo. This study is an observational analytic study with a quantitative approach. This study used cross-sectional study design. The sample of this study were 60 pregnant women who were society’s member of Kelurahan Magersari, Sidoarjo. Independent variables of this study are attitude (behavioral beliefs and evaluation of behavioral outcomes) and subjective norm (normative beliefs and motivation to comply). Study results were obtained from questionnaire. Analysis technique applied is logistic regression test in order to know which factors aff ect the mother’s intention. The dependent variable of this study is the mother’s intention to exclusively breastfeed. The research result are from questionnaire. The results obtained that the factors that infl uence on intention to provide breastmilk exclusively are behavioral beliefs (sig = 0.008, with the Exp (B) = 173,443) and motivation to comply (sig = 0.006, with the Exp (B) = 32,114), owned by the mother associated with exclusive breast. The conclusions there are two factors that aff ect the mother’s intention to provide breastmilk exclusively in Kelurahan Magersari, Sidoarjo there are behavioral beliefs and motivation to comply. Keywords: aff ect, intention, exclusively breastfeeding
TableTalk: integrating personal devices and content for commensal experiences at the family dinner table

This paper joins the ubiquitous computing scholarship that investigates the use of technologies in collocated shared settings like family mealtime. Family mealtimes are an important site for fostering togetherness, sharing everyday experiences, and nurturing familial ties. While technologies, especially television and personal devices are often criticized for disrupting the social aspects of mealtimes, they are widely available and commonly used nevertheless. In this paper, we explore this tension and present a novel system TableTalk, which transforms personal devices into a communal shared display on the table to enrich mealtime interactions and experience. Our field study shows that TableTalk does not undermine togetherness, but supports familial expectations and experiences by stimulating conversation, reminiscing, bonding, education, and socializing. We discuss how technology that is sensitive to the needs of family interactions can augment the commensal experience and reflect on design choices and opportunities that contribute, rather than disrupt, family mealtimes.
Write-optimized reliable design of STT MRAM

Spin transfer torque magnetic random access memory (STT MRAM) is a promising non-volatile memory due to its outstanding potential for high integration density and excellent scalability. Despite the attractive features, high write current and power is still a major challenge. As a result, the optimization of the memory for write is critical. In this work, we analyze asymmetric write currents in STT MRAMs considering process variations, and identify a potential for write power reduction. We propose circuit design techniques 1) bit-line voltage clamping using a pass transistor and 2) 2T-1R dual source-line bit-cell design, to balance out the asymmetric write currents and optimize the memory design from both write-power and reliability aspects. Our proposed techniques can be easily incorporated with previously proposed design techniques without affecting the bit-cell write-ability, read stability, and performance. We analyze the impact of our proposed techniques on write power and MTJ current density and show 30-68% average write power savings and 4-41% reduction in MTJ current density in STT MRAM.
GoldMiner: A genetic programming based algorithm applied to Brazilian Stock Market

The possibility of obtaining financial gain by investing in the Stock Markets is a hard task since it is under constant influence of economical, political and social factors. This paper aims to address the financial technical analysis of Stock Markets, focusing on time series data instead of subjective parameters. An algorithm based on genetic programming, named GoldMiner, has been proposed to perform retrospective study in order to get predictions about the best time for trading top stocks on the BOVESPA, the Brazilian stock exchange market.
The Measurement Structure of School Engagement Among Youth in China: An Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling Study

In this research, we examined the construct of a school engagement scale using exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM). This study involved a translated measurement model that was originally developed by Li and Lerner for U.S. youth, and data from a sample of eighth-, ninth-, and 11th-grade Chinese adolescents (N = 364). First, the results indicated that instead of the three factors (cognitive, emotional, and behavioral engagement) that have been found in previous research on school engagement, four factors emerged for the current sample: school compliance, participation, emotional engagement, and cognitive engagement. Second, the factor structure was gender invariant in the ESEM framework. We further found that female students scored higher than males on school compliance and emotional engagement. Third, the convergent correlations among school engagement subscales and academic performance were in line with theoretical expectations. Finally, based on the differences between this study and previous studies in Western countries, the need for a more thorough investigation in the conceptualization and measurement of school engagement among youth in China was discussed.
Reversal of phenotypes of cellular senescence by pan-mTOR inhibition

Cellular senescence, a state of essentially irreversible proliferation arrest, serves as a potent tumour suppressor mechanism. However, accumulation of senescent cells with chronological age is likely to contribute to loss of tissue and organ function and organismal aging. A crucial biochemical modulator of aging is mTOR; here, we have addressed the question of whether acute mTORC inhibition in near-senescent cells can modify phenotypes of senescence. We show that acute short term treatment of human skin fibroblasts with low dose ATP mimetic pan-mTORC inhibitor AZD8055 leads to reversal of many phenotypes that develop as cells near replicative senescence, including reduction in cell size and granularity, loss of SA-β-gal staining and reacquisition of fibroblastic spindle morphology. AZD8055 treatment also induced rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton, providing a possible mechanism of action for the observed rejuvenation. Importantly, short-term drug exposure had no detrimental effects on cell proliferation control across the life-course of the fibroblasts. Our findings suggest that combined inhibition of both mTORC1 and mTORC2 may provide a promising strategy to reverse the development of senescence-associated features in near-senescent cells.
Maintaining mastery but feeling professionally isolated: experienced teachers’ perceptions of teaching outside the classroom

ABSTRACT Children today spend an increasing amount of time indoors, depriving them of the benefits of a more active outdoor life. In Scandinavia, regularly performed teaching outside the classroom, known as udeskole, is growing in prevalence. This paper examines experienced teachers’ perceptions of udeskole, with the aim of deepening our understanding of the factors that enable their practice. Ten in-service, degreed teachers from different schools participated, being interviewed individually. Data were thematically analysed and discussed within Deci & Ryan’s Self-Determination Theory framework. The teachers’ approach to their professional life is presented as a possible avenue for maintaining professional mastery in a school setting that is considered to be increasingly prescriptive and to have narrowing learning goals. The findings suggest two implications for policy. First, teachers’ space for independent decision-making should be maintained. Second, an enhancement of networks between outdoor practitioners to enable them to share good practice should be prioritized.
Diet-Gene Interactions and PUFA Metabolism: A Potential Contributor to Health Disparities and Human Diseases

The “modern western” diet (MWD) has increased the onset and progression of chronic human diseases as qualitatively and quantitatively maladaptive dietary components give rise to obesity and destructive gene-diet interactions. There has been a three-fold increase in dietary levels of the omega-6 (n-6) 18 carbon (C18), polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) linoleic acid (LA; 18:2n-6), with the addition of cooking oils and processed foods to the MWD. Intense debate has emerged regarding the impact of this increase on human health. Recent studies have uncovered population-related genetic variation in the LCPUFA biosynthetic pathway (especially within the fatty acid desaturase gene (FADS) cluster) that is associated with levels of circulating and tissue PUFAs and several biomarkers and clinical endpoints of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Importantly, populations of African descent have higher frequencies of variants associated with elevated levels of arachidonic acid (ARA), CVD biomarkers and disease endpoints. Additionally, nutrigenomic interactions between dietary n-6 PUFAs and variants in genes that encode for enzymes that mobilize and metabolize ARA to eicosanoids have been identified. These observations raise important questions of whether gene-PUFA interactions are differentially driving the risk of cardiovascular and other diseases in diverse populations, and contributing to health disparities, especially in African American populations.
Sequential methods for DNA sequencing

Methods for determining the letters of our genetic code, known as DNA sequencing, currently depend on clever use of electrophoresis to generate data sets indicative of the underlying sequence. Typically the subsequent off-line data processing is carried out less intelligently using a combination of heuristic methods with little mathematical rigour. In this paper, we present a new robust model which is able to accurately predict the effect of the many biological processes which are involved, and moreover, which is usable on-line. Off-line methods have been hampered by the need for processing in as little time as possible after the data is generated; performing the processing on-line has enabled a more advanced algorithm to be used with associated improved performance. The algorithm is framed within a Bayesian probabilistic framework, thereby allowing representation of the random nature of the generative process, and relies on new advances in the burgeoning field of sequential Monte Carlo methods to perform the required highly non-linear filtering and model selection operations.
XMM-Newton Observations of Four Millisecond Pulsars

I present an analysis of the XMM-Newton observations of four millisecond pulsars, J0437-4715, J2124-3358, J1024-0719, and J0034-0534. The new data provide strong evidence of thermal emission in the X-ray flux detected from the first three objects. This thermal component is best interpreted as radiation from pulsar polar caps covered with a nonmagnetic hydrogen atmosphere. A nonthermal power-law component, dominating at energies E ≳ 3 keV, can also be present in the detected X-ray emission. For PSR J0437-4715, the timing analysis reveals that the shape and pulsed fraction of the pulsar light curves are energy dependent. This, together with the results obtained from the phase-resolved spectroscopy, supports the two-component (thermal plus nonthermal) interpretation of the pulsar's X-ray radiation. Highly significant pulsations have been found in the X-ray flux of PSRs J2124-3358 and J1024-0719. For PSR J0034-0534, a possible X-ray counterpart of the radio pulsar has been suggested. The inferred properties of the detected thermal emission are compared with predictions of radio pulsar models.
The role of dimensions in classification under predicates predicts their status in degree constructions

This paper presents an experimental study of multidimensional gradability across categories. The study tests whether and to what extent the naturalness of multidimensional adjectives and nouns in degree constructions is predictable from their conceptual-semantic properties – the way their dimensions are typically bound to create a unified interpretation. Past research suggests that binding by counting operations is common in multidimensional adjectives, possible in certain nouns (labeled additive nouns ), and rare in others (dubbed multiplicative nouns ; Hampton et al. 2009). We hypothesize that the higher naturalness of adjectives in degree constructions (Kennedy 1999) stems from a preference for dimension-binding by counting operations. Accordingly, we predict that additive nouns would be judged more natural than multiplicative nouns in any construction whose interpretation involves dimension-counting, e.g., dimensional quantifiers (as in: in {some, most, every} respect} ) and degree modifiers (as in more P {than y, than Q, than y is Q} ). The results of a naturalness survey involving 139 English speakers confirm our predictions. Moreover, our results indicate that the naturalness of a predicate in degree constructions and dimensional-quantifier constructions are tightly correlated, suggesting that dimension accessibility for counting is indeed an important predictor of morphological gradability.
Student Veteran Occupational Transitions in Postsecondary Education:A Grounded Theory

ABSTRACT This constructivist grounded theoretical study investigated the individual and collective constructions of veteran transitioning experiences in relation to culture and context. Twelve veterans were theoretically sampled and developed Kawa (river) metaphorical drawings of their transition experiences. An emergent theory from Kawa drawings explained student veteran life flow by two major theoretical concepts: seeking understanding and gaining stability to shape life flow in transition from military to student culture. Both theoretical processes enhanced veterans' transition to postsecondary education and promoted harmony within perceived life flow over time. Pragmatic solutions for enhancing resilience in student veteran populations when transitioning are discussed.
Neoadjuvant Docetaxel before Radical Prostatectomy in Patients with High-Risk Localized Prostate Cancer

Purpose: To determine the clinical, pathologic, and molecular effects of neoadjuvant docetaxel chemotherapy in high-risk localized prostate cancer. Experimental Design: Patients with biopsy Gleason scores of 8 to 10, serum prostate-specific antigen levels >20 ng/mL, and/or clinical stage T3 disease received weekly docetaxel (36 mg/m2) for 6 months, followed by radical prostatectomy, and were monitored with weekly visits, serum prostate-specific antigen measurements, and endorectal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Frozen tumor specimens were collected for microarray analysis. Results: The 19 patients enrolled received 82% of the planned chemotherapy. Toxicity was mild to moderate; fatigue and taste disturbance were common. Prostate-specific antigen declines of >50% were seen in 11 of 19 patients (58%; 95% confidence interval, 33-80%) and endorectal MRI showed maximum tumor volume reduction of at least 25% in 13 of 19 patients (68%; 95% confidence interval, 47-85%) and at least 50% in 4 patients (21%; 95% confidence interval, 6-46%). Sixteen patients completed chemotherapy and had radical prostatectomy; none achieved pathologic complete response. Microarray analysis identified coordinate up-regulation of genes involved in androgen metabolism associated with docetaxel therapy. Specifically, RNA expression for genes that decrease cellular levels of bioactive androgens was coordinately increased in response to chemotherapy. Conclusions: Neoadjuvant docetaxel administered for 6 months before radical prostatectomy is feasible, well tolerated, and often results in prostate-specific antigen declines of >50% and decreased tumor volume on endorectal MRI. No pathologic complete responses were observed. Altered androgen metabolism may partially account for the noted declines in prostate-specific antigen and be a mechanism for chemotherapy resistance.
P. falciparum Infection Durations and Infectiousness Are Shaped by Antigenic Variation and Innate and Adaptive Host Immunity in a Mathematical Model

Many questions remain about P. falciparum within-host dynamics, immunity, and transmission–issues that may affect public health campaign planning. These gaps in knowledge concern the distribution of durations of malaria infections, determination of peak parasitemia during acute infection, the relationships among gametocytes and immune responses and infectiousness to mosquitoes, and the effect of antigenic structure on reinfection outcomes. The present model of intra-host dynamics of P. falciparum implements detailed representations of parasite and immune dynamics, with structures based on minimal extrapolations from first-principles biology in its foundations. The model is designed to quickly and readily accommodate gains in mechanistic understanding and to evaluate effects of alternative biological hypothesis through in silico experiments. Simulations follow the parasite from the liver-stage through the detailed asexual cycle to clearance while tracking gametocyte populations. The modeled immune system includes innate inflammatory and specific antibody responses to a repertoire of antigens. The mechanistic focus provides clear explanations for the structure of the distribution of infection durations through the interaction of antigenic variation and innate and adaptive immunity. Infectiousness to mosquitoes appears to be determined not only by the density of gametocytes but also by the level of inflammatory cytokines, which harmonizes an extensive series of study results. Finally, pre-existing immunity can either decrease or increase the duration of infections upon reinfection, depending on the degree of overlap in antigenic repertoires and the strength of the pre-existing immunity.
A Bipedal Walking Robot with Efficient and Human-Like Gait

Here we present the design of a passive-dynamics based, fully autonomous, 3-D, bipedal walking robot that uses simple control, consumes little energy, and has human-like morphology and gait. Design aspects covered here include the freely rotating hip joint with angle bisecting mechanism; freely rotating knee joints with latches; direct actuation of the ankles with a spring, release mechanism, and reset motor; wide feet that are shaped to aid lateral stability; and the simple control algorithm. The biomechanics context of this robot is discussed in more detail in [1], and movies of the robot walking are available at Science Online and http://www.tam. cornell.edu/~ruina/powerwalk.html. This robot adds evidence to the idea that passive-dynamic approaches might help design walking robots that are simpler, more efficient and easier to control.