Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Large margin HMMs for speech recognition

Motivated by large margin classifiers in machine learning, we propose a novel method to estimate a continuous density hidden Markov model (CDHMM) in speech recognition according to the principle of maximizing the minimum multi-class separation margin. The approach is named large margin HMM. First, we show that this type of large margin HMM estimation problem can be formulated as a standard constrained minimax optimization problem. Second, we propose an iterative localized optimization approach to perform the minimax optimization for one model at a time to guarantee that the optimal value of the objective function always exists in the course of model parameter optimization. Then, we show that during each step the optimization can be solved by the GPD (generalized probabilistic descent) algorithm if we approximate the objective function by a differentiable function, such as summation of exponential functions. The large margin HMM-based classifiers are evaluated in a speaker-independent E-set speech recognition task using the OGI ISOLET database. Experimental results show that the large margin HMMs can achieve significant word error rate (WER) reduction over conventional HMM training methods, such as maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) and minimum classification error (MCE) training.
Identity, Competitors & Distinctiveness: Who Are We? Who Are They?

Organizational identity has emerged as an important theoretical concept. However, our understanding of distinctiveness is inadequate since this aspect of organizational identity has received limited research attention. Accordingly, this paper reports the results of a qualitative study designed to explore how managers construe their organization’s identity distinctiveness. Based on this study’s findings, this paper furthers our knowledge of organizational identity by presenting a theoretical model depicting how identity distinctiveness is construed. Overall, the results of this study suggest that managers construct an internal story – via markets, competencies and intangible identity attributes – which they believe both legitimates and distinguishes their organization.
Efficacy and safety of donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine, and memantine for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND The role of currently available drugs for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been controversial, with some national formularies restricting their use, and health economists questioning whether the small clinical effects are economically worthwhile. OBJECTIVE To estimate the efficacy and safety of donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine, and memantine for the treatment of AD. METHODS Double-blind, placebo-controlled, with random assignment to a cholinesterase inhibitor or memantine trials were included into the pooled studies. RESULTS Cognitive effects were significant for all drugs, ranging from a -1.29 points mean difference (95% CI -2.30 to -0.28) in the 20 mg daily memantine trials to -3.20 points (95% CI -3.28 to -3.12) in the 32 mg daily galantamine group. Only memantine had no effect on the Clinicians' Global Impression of Change scale. No behavioral benefits were observed, except for -2.72 (95% CI -4.92 to -0.52) in the 10 mg daily donepezil group and -1.72 (95% CI -3.12 to -0.33) for 24 mg daily galantamine trial. Only 5 mg daily donepezil had no effect on the function outcome. Compared with placebo, more dropouts and adverse events occurred with the cholinesterase inhibitors, but not with memantine. CONCLUSIONS Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine are able to stabilize or slow decline in cognition, function, behavior, and global change.
El Niño–Southern Oscillation and Pacific Decadal Oscillation impacts on precipitation in the southern and central United States: Evaluation of spatial distribution and predictions

Understanding and predicting regional impacts of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) on winter (October–March) precipitation can provide valuable inputs to agricultural and water resources managers. Effects of ENSO and PDO on winter precipitation were assessed in 165 climate divisions throughout the southern United States. A continuous region of significantly (P < 0.05) increased (decreased) winter precipitation in response to El Niño (La Niña) conditions in the preceding summer (June–September Southern Oscillation Index (SOI)) extends across the entire southern United States and as far north as South Dakota. Within this region stronger correlations (r ≤ −0.45) are found along the Gulf of Mexico, southern Arizona, and central Nebraska. Winter precipitation differs significantly (P < 0.1) between warm and cold phase PDO periods only in the south central region, with greatest significance centered in Oklahoma. Enhanced negative La Niña anomalies during PDO cold phases are dominant in the central region (Texas to South Dakota) whereas enhanced positive El Niño anomalies during PDO warm phases are dominant in the southwest (Arizona, Nevada, and California) and southeast (Louisiana to Florida). Validation tests of winter precipitation predictions based on summer SOI and/or PDO‐phase show a decrease of 9% to 16% in the relative Mean Absolute Error (MAE) from the MAE obtained by using the mean as a predictor in areas with strong correlation (r < −0.45) between SOI and precipitation. Logistic regression probability models of having above or below average winter precipitation had up to 77% successful predictions. The advantage of having probabilities of exceeding certain precipitation thresholds at the beginning of a hydrologic year makes logistic regression models attractive for decision makers.
Guidelines on sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) exposure tests

This report reviews the clinical and hisiopathological reactions caused by sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), and the non‐invasive methods that can characterize these reactions. Furthermore, SLS exposure techniques and factors that may influence the outcome of these exposures are discussed. Finally, guidelines are introduced for each exposure technique in order 10 have a uniform approach to SLS jesting in man. Since different study aims warrant different testing conditions, we have proposed 2 categories, namely susceptibility testing and provocative testing, tailored to the aim with which the study is performed.
Do Investors Actually Value Sustainability Indices? Replication, Development, and New Evidence on CSR Visibility

Research Summary In this study, we replicate and expand Hawn et al.’s study (Strategic Management Journal, 2018, 39, 949–976) that used Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI) events to measure variations in firms' Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)‐activism and examined their effect on a firm's stock price. We use DJSI events to capture variations in firms' CSR visibility, holding CSR activism constant by restricting our analyses to CSR‐equivalent firms. First, we find similar results on stock price (i.e., no impact) and on trading volumes. Second, because professional market participants pay more attention to CSR‐oriented firms and use visible cues such as DJSI events, we study and find that additions to DJSI lead to more analysts following a firm, and that continuations on the DJSI lead to an increase in equity being held by long‐term investors. Managerial Summary We replicate and complement a recent study that showed that the events of a firm's addition, continuation, or deletion in a major sustainability index (DJSI) had little impact on stock market reactions (Hawn et al. Strategic Management Journal, 2018, 39, 949–976). We redefine the comparison set that was previously used and compare across observationally equivalent firms in terms of CSR orientation in order to isolate the visibility effect of DJSI events. We find that these events do not significantly impact stock price and trading volumes. However, we expand the analysis and find that sustainability events attract more attention from financial analysts and lead to an increase in the percentage of shares held by long‐term investors indicative of a trend that professional investors pay more attention to CSR‐visible firms over time.
A proton MRSI study of brain N-acetylaspartate level after 12 weeks of citalopram treatment in drug-naive patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder.

OBJECTIVE Reductions in the level of N-acetylaspartate within subcortical structures of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have been reported in several studies. However, there have been, as yet, no reports regarding N-acetylaspartate levels in the prefrontal cortex of adult drug-naive OCD patients. The authors used proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging ((1)H-MRSI) to investigate regional N-acetylaspartate level abnormalities and changes after 12 weeks of pharmacotherapy with citalopram in drug-naive OCD patients. METHOD Thirteen drug-naive OCD patients and 13 age- and sex-matched healthy comparison subjects were included in this study. N-acetylaspartate levels (obtained from ratios of N-acetylaspartate with creatine, choline, and creatine plus choline) in the prefrontal cortex, parietal cortex, anterior cingulate, posterior cingulate, frontal white matter, and parietal white matter were measured by (1)H-MRSI. In OCD patients, measurements were taken before and after 12 weeks of citalopram treatment. Correlations between N-acetylaspartate concentrations in regions of interest and clinical measures were also assessed. RESULTS Drug-naive OCD patients exhibited significantly lower N-acetylaspartate levels in the prefrontal cortex, frontal white matter, and anterior cingulate at baseline than did comparison subjects. Significant increases in N-acetylaspartate level were detected in the prefrontal cortex and frontal white matter in OCD patients after 12 weeks of citalopram treatment. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that reductions in neuronal viability occur in the frontal region of OCD patients and that these reductions may be partly reversible.
Consumers’ anti-consumption behavior toward organic food purchase: an analysis using SEM

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors affecting anti-consumption behavior of the consumers toward organic food purchase: in particular, how do individual beliefs about trustworthiness of organic foods, normative structure of social pressure and self-efficacy affect individual intentions to make organic food purchases and actual purchasing behavior? To answer this question, a theoretical framework of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) as its foundation has been established. Using measurement scales in order to measure different aspects of trustworthiness, normative structure, self-efficacy, attitude, perceived behavioral control (PBC) and subjective norms, a survey instrument has been developed to examine the several associations implied by the model of TPB. Design/methodology/approach In doing so, data on a structured questionnaire were collected from various parts of a city based on convenience random sampling procedure. The respondents were interviewed face-to-face to collect information on a structured questionnaire. Data (n=337) were analyzed using a research framework formulated based on the TPB through the structural equation modeling procedure. Findings The findings of the study indicate that among the seven independent variables of trustworthiness, normative structure, self-efficacy, attitude, subjective norm and PBC, only subjective norm has not been statistically significant to influence organic food purchase behavior. Research limitations/implications The result implies that various sociopolitical forces and skewed monthly incomes are inhibiting the consumers (anti-consumption) to increasingly buy the organic food products. Practical implications In this regard, government, policy planners, academia as well as media have profound roles to play to encourage people to buy more organic food for their health safety and overall consumer well-being. Originality/value This research is based on primary data collected from the respondents of a sub-urban areas of a metropolitan city. The findings will help formulate a sound food policy for ensuring social well-being of the consumers.
Transmission of Rapidly Applied Loads Through Articular Cartilage Part 2: Cracked Cartilage

A model of articular cartilage suffering rapidly applied loads and containing splits and fissures is presented. The possibility of cracks propagating through the cartilage collagen network is analysed using elastic fracture mechanics. Cracks are modelled using the distributed dislocation technique and the crack tip stress intensity factors are thereby evaluated. The mode I (tensile) stress intensity factors are generally much larger than the mode II (shearing) factors for cracks at the articular surface and close to, and at oblique angles to, the cartilage-bone interface, two regions where cartilage cracks have been observed. This suggests an opening, tensile mode of failure. The mode II factors are larger for cracks running along the interface. The rapidly loaded cracked cartilage model may explain the splits observed in osteoarthrotic cartilage.
Patients' readiness for dietary change at the beginning of counselling: a transtheoretical model-based assessment.

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to explore patients' readiness for dietary change within a theoretical framework of the transtheoretical model. The patients were recently diagnosed to have type 2 diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance. We discuss the theoretical aspects of appropriate dietary counselling strategies from a standpoint of patient-specific stages of change. METHODS The data included 32 audiotaped diabetes counselling sessions with 16 patients conducted by two nurses. The transcribed data was analysed by using deductive content analysis. RESULTS The patients were at different stages of change of diabetes-affected dietary behaviour. Their stages of change varied in different dietary areas and within certain dietary habits. These stages of change could involve their overall dietary behaviour or some minor aspects of their diets. CONCLUSIONS Understanding patient-specific stages of change orientates health counsellors to use the most appropriate counselling strategies. The transtheoretical framework helps counsellors to perceive the total range of patients' different stages of change and their effect on the implementation of counselling. However, determining patients' stages of change through examining counselling conversations is occasionally difficult. Further qualitative research is called for.
Biochemical and pharmacological characterization of the human bradykinin subtype 2 receptor produced in mammalian cells using the Semliki Forest virus system

Abstract Bradykinin, a vasoactive peptide, plays a crucial role in many cardiovascular processes via activation of the bradykinin subtype 2 receptor (B2R). B2R, a member of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily, is a potential drug target in the treatment of cardiovascular disorders, pain and inflammation. In this study, human B2R was expressed at high levels in baby hamster kidney (BHK) cells using Semliki Forest virus-based vectors. The recombinant receptor was produced as a fusion protein with affinity tags and an expression level of 11 pmol/mg (i.e., approx. 0.2 mg of active receptor per liter of culture) was obtained. Radioligand binding analysis revealed that the recombinant receptor binds to its endogenous ligand bradykinin with high affinity (K d=0.12 nM) and its pharmacological profile was similar to that of B2R in native tissues. Bradykinin-stimulated accumulation of inositol phosphate was observed in BHK cells expressing the recombinant receptor, which indicated the activation of endogenous Gαq protein by the recombinant B2R. Confocal laser scanning microscopy and immunogold staining revealed that the recombinant receptor was predominantly localized intracellularly. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an affinity-tagged recombinant B2R been expressed at high levels in BHK cells and extensively characterized.
How Do Technical Barriers to Trade Affect Exports? Evidence from Egyptian Firm-Level Data

The paper examines the impact of Technical Barriers to Trade on firms’ exports in Egypt over the period 2005~2011. Firm-level data for Egypt are combined with the WTO’s TBT-specific trade concerns database. Employing a variant of a gravity model with highdimensional fixed effects, the impact of Technical Barriers to Trade on firms’ intensive and extensive margins, and exit and entry probabilities is estimated, as well as impacts on product and market diversification. Regressions examine the heterogeneous effect of Technical Barriers to Trade by firm size. Results indicate an insignificant effect of Technical Barriers to Trade on firms’ intensive margin. On the other hand, the extensive margin and entry probability are negatively affected by Technical Barriers to Trade, whereas exit probability is positively affected. Accordingly, Technical Barriers to Trade mainly induce an increase in the fixed costs of exporting. Importantly, smaller firms are more adversely affected by Technical Barriers to Trade in their export participation and entry and exit decisions. The effect of Technical Barriers to Trade on firms’ product diversification is found to be sector-dependent:positive for agricultural sectors and mixed for non-agricultural ones. Finally, firms generally tend to increase their market diversification in response to Technical Barriers to Trade. This is especially true for large firms within their set of African and Asian destination markets. By contrast, there are lower prospects of firm diversification into less stringent destinations within the European region.
Education, 15-year risk factor progression, and coronary artery calcium in young adulthood and early middle age: the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults study.

CONTEXT The inverse association between education and cardiovascular disease is well established, but little is known about the relationship between education and subclinical disease, which is free from medical access and treatment-related influences, or about possible mediating pathways for these relationships. OBJECTIVE To examine the association of education with coronary artery calcium (CAC), an indicator of subclinical atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular risk factors, and their changes as potential mediators. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A population-based, prospective, observational study (Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults [CARDIA]) of 2913 eligible participants (44.9% black; 53.9% women) recruited from 4 metropolitan areas (Birmingham, Ala; Chicago, Ill; Minneapolis, Minn; and Oakland, Calif) in both the baseline (1985-1986, ages 18-30 years) and year 15 examinations (2000-2001, ages 33-45 years). Education (year 15) was classified into less than high school (n = 128), high school graduate (n = 498), some college (n = 902), college graduate (n = 764), and more than college (n = 621). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Presence of CAC, measured twice by computed tomography (mean total Agatston score >0) at year 15. RESULTS Overall CAC prevalence in this sample was 9.3%. After adjusting for age, race, and sex, the odds ratios (ORs) for having CAC were 4.14 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.33-7.35) for less than high school education, 1.89 (95% CI, 1.23-2.91) for high school graduate, 1.47 (95% CI, 0.99-2.19) for some college, and 1.24 (95% CI, 0.84-1.85) for college graduate compared with those participants with more than a college education (P for trend<.001). This was also consistent within each of the 4 race-sex groups. Adjustment for baseline systolic blood pressure, smoking, waist circumference, physical activity, and total cholesterol reduced the ORs to 2.61 (95% CI, 1.40-4.85) for less than high school, 1.38 (95% CI, 0.88-2.17) for high school graduate, 1.17 (95% CI, 0.78-1.77) for some college, and 1.13 (95% CI, 0.76-1.69) for college graduate compared with more than a college education (P for trend = .01), and only slightly attenuated by further adjustment for 15-year changes in risk factors. CONCLUSION Education was inversely associated with the prevalence of CAC, an association partially explained by baseline risk factors and minimally by 15-year changes in risk factors.
Sfogliatella Riccia Napoletana: realization of a lard- and palm oil- free "ready to eat" product

In the last years, demand for “ready to eat” (RTE) products has exponentially increased because of lifestyle changing and new technologies introducing, such as microwave. This reflects a trend by consumers towards less time and effort in the preparation of food. One of the most important sectors of the RTE product market is the baked confectionery segment. Sfogliatella Riccia Napoletana (SRN), recognized as Traditional Agri-food Product (Prodotti Agroalimentari Tradizionali - PAT) of Campania Region, is worldwide known and appreciated for its goodness. But its production is limited to local markets. In order to extend market area on an international basis, PhD research was divided into two steps focused on - Production of lard- and palm oil- free RTE-SRN Lard is traditionally used in SRN production for its technological properties and low cost, but there is a growing negative perception regarding the implication of animal fats on human health. Palm oil is widely used as a cheaper vegetable alternative to lard, because of the high thermal stability and oil yield, however, it is nowadays under discussion, mostly related to sustainability of its cultivation. So, the replacement of lard (traditionally used) in the formulation of SRN with palm oil- free vegetable blends was studied. Besides, alternative baking methods -microwave and/or infrared- as substitute to traditional one for the production of RTE-SRN were assessed. According to data, a combined baking based on electric-infrared-microwave allowed baking time halving, with the advantage of combining time and energy saving properties of microwave baking with browning and crisping properties of infrared and electric heating. The substitution of lard with palm oil-free vegetable blend, composed of shea butter, coconut oil and sunflower oil at different percentages, led to a reduction of oxidized compounds during cooking. - Storage evaluation SRN is characterized by high moisture and aw content, so its shelf life is limited by microbial spoilage, mostly due to moulds and staling. In order to achieve longer shelf life of RTE-SRN, frozen and refrigerated preservation combined with modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) were employed. Results revealed that it is possible to obtain a RTE-SRN with a stable oxidative and moisture behaviour during prolonged frozen storage. Also substituting lard with palm oil-free fat, it is possible to obtain a product with sensory and textural qualities close to freshly baked SRN made with lard. Indeed, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) (CO2/N2 50/50) combined with refrigerated storage revealed an energy saving alternative preservation method, ensuring acceptable sensory, physical and chemical stability to RTE-SRN stored at 5 °C for 49 days, extending to three times the shelf life compared to air packaging. Palm oil-free RTE-SRN preserved a better oxidative stability for the whole storage time. The above findings can be applicable by baking industry to a large variety of confectionery bakery products.