Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Text to speech synthesis system in Indian English

Grapheme to phoneme conversion modules are essential components in text-to-speech (TTS) systems. These modules operate before the phone sequence is fed into the synthesis routine. However, additional challenges emerge when such conversion modules are implemented with non-native varieties of languages, such as Indian English. As many of the the existing grapheme to phoneme dictionaries represent American English pronunciation, they are not suitable for use in Indian English TTS systems. Hence, in this work, an effort has been made to modify the existing English grapheme to phoneme dictionary by implementing specific rules for one particular variety of Indian English, namely Assamese English. The proposed method of dictionary modification is applied at the front end of the Indian English TTS, developed using unit selection synthesis and statistical parametric speech synthesis frameworks. In both frameworks, significant improvement is achieved in subjective evaluation when the dictionary is adapted to Assamese English pronunciation. The word error rate decreased from 46.67% to 7.69% after incorporating the variety specific modifications to the dictionary, indicating significant perceptual improvement.
A Note on Sample Size Calculation Based on Propensity Analysis in Nonrandomized Trials

In nonrandomized trials, patients are not randomly assigned to treatment groups with equal probability. Instead, the probability of assignment varies from patient to patient depending on patients baseline covariates. This often results in a non-comparable treatment groups due to treatment imbalance. As a result, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommended that the method of propensity score analysis be employed to overcome this problem. In this note, a formula for sample size calculation is developed based on a proposed weighted Mantel–Haenszel test on the strata defined by the propensity score analysis. It was shown that the sample size formula derived by Nam (1998) based on the test statistic proposed by Gart (1985) is a special case of the sample size formula derived in this note.
Mental Rotations, a Group Test of Three-Dimensional Spatial Visualization

A new paper-and-pencil test of spatial visualization was constructed from the figures used in the Chronometric study of Shepard and Metzler (1971). In large samples, the new test displayed substantial internal consistency (Kuder-Richardson 20 = .88), a test-retest reliability (.83), and consistent sex differences over the entire range of ages investigated. Correlations with other measures indicated strong association with tests of spatial visualization and virtually no association with tests of verbal ability.
Pengaruh Informasi Arus Kas terhadap Return Saham Perusahaan Studi Kasus Pada Perusahaan Yang Tercatat Di Bei Pada Indeks LQ45

The purpose of this study was to determine the cash flow information , stock returns , as well as to determine the effect of cash flow information on stock returns , the company entered in the LQ’45 group , by looking at the share price a week before and a week after the financial statements published. Methods This study uses descriptive method , namely decipher cash flow information and stock returns and cash flow of information influence on stock returns in LQ’45 companies.The results showed the average of total cash flow who increased in LQ’45 Companies group , and stock returns has increased as well , the cash flow of information has influence on stock returns after reporting cash flow published for three consecutive years
Heat-Killed Streptococcus suis Capsular Type 2 Strains Stimulate Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha and Interleukin-6 Production by Murine Macrophages

ABSTRACT Streptococcus suis capsular type 2 is an important etiological agent of swine meningitis, and it is also a zoonotic agent. Since mononuclear phagocytes have been suggested to play a central role in the pathogenesis of meningitis, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the capacity of whole killed S. suis type 2 organisms to induce the release of the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) by murine macrophages. Induction of cytokines was evaluated in the presence or absence of phorbol ester (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate [PMA]) costimulation. Results showed that S. suis type 2 stimulated the production of both cytokines in a concentration- and time-dependent fashion. Although large doses of bacteria were required for maximal cytokine release, titers were similar to those obtained with the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) positive control. An increase in cytokine release was observed with both S. suis and LPS with PMA costimulation. Experiments with cytochalasin-treated macrophages showed that the stimulation of cytokine production was phagocytosis independent. When macrophages were stimulated with an unencapsulated mutant, an increase in TNF production was observed, but the absence of the capsule had no effect on IL-6 production. In fact, whereas purified capsular polysaccharide of S. suis failed to induce cytokine release, purified S. suis cell wall induced both TNF and, to a lesser extent, IL-6. IL-6 secretion probably requires some distinct stimuli which differ from those of TNF. Finally, the S. suis putative virulence factors suilysin and extracellular protein EF showed no cytokine-stimulating activity. The ability of S. suis to trigger macrophages to produce proinflammatory cytokines may have an important role in the initiation and development of meningitis caused by this microorganism.
Innovation Capabilities: Technology Use, Productivity Growth and Business Performance: Evidence from Canadian Technology Surveys

This paper summarizes the results of several research studies conducted by the Micro-economic Analysis Division of Statistics Canada that investigate the impact of advanced technology use on business performance. These studies combine establishment-level survey data on advanced technology practices with longitudinal data that measure changes in relative performance. Together, these studies provide strong evidence that technology strategies have considerable bearing on competitive outcomes after other correlates of plant performance are taken into account. Advanced communications technologies warrant special emphasis, as the use of these technologies has been shown to be closely associated with changes in relative productivity.
On Asymmetric Funding of Swaps and Derivatives - A Funding Cost Explanation of Negative Swap Spreads

To a large extent the global financial crisis has much to do with liquidity and funding. Floating rate funding and short dated funding roll in particular have experienced unprecedented difficulties which caused sudden and large funding cost to otherwise routine funding operation of swap and derivative transactions and stressed out many financial institutions. This experience poses serious challenges to the fundamental assumption of unlimited, risk free funding underlying derivatives pricing theories and practice. This paper considers the impact of non-riskfree funding and bank's funding strategy on valuation of swap and derivatives, especially those with long tenors and funded by short term floating rate rolls. To maintain and enhance its liquidity position as well as credit quality, a bank has incentive to keep a portion of cash flow in cash and to fund its liability in senior unsecured form. Cash and non-cash earn different interest rates and are therefore asymmetric. The partition of cashflow to cash and non-cash constitutes the bank's funding strategy. We incorporate the funding asymmetry into cash flow balancing equation of the replicating portfolio. A funding charge can be computed under the same risk neutral pricing measure. As a by-product, a Black-Scholes type partial differential equation for credit default swap is also obtained. We apply the setup to the study of the negative swap spread phenomenon and show that a simple factor model of the risk free short rate and default intensity combined with asymmetric funding can adequately produce market observed 10 and 30 year US dollar negative swap spreads. Funding cost thus is a significant factor that prohibits banks and investors from arbitraging away the negative swap spread.
Antioxidant Potential of Most Commonly Used Vegetable - Onion (Allium cepa L.)

Antioxidants are known to play a vital role in inhibiting and scavenging free radicals, thus, provide immunity to human body against various infections and chronic diseases. Nowadays the modern research is moving towards plant based “Natural antioxidants” due to their safety, easy availability and better curative value. So the main reason of the present study was to assess the in-vitro antioxidant activity of the extracts of Allium cepa which is a very commonly used food worldwide. Aim: Estimation of in-vitro antioxidant activity of the Allium cepa extract. Study Design: Red onions were purchased from the market, washed in water to remove the dust and then dried for 20 days. The methanol and aqueous extracts of the bulb were prepared and investigated for their antioxidant activity. Methodology: The methanol and aqueous extracts of the bulb were prepared and investigated for their antioxidant activity by using FeCl3, DPPH, Superoxide scavenging and FRAP methods. The total phenolic content was determined by Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. Results: The total phenolic content showed a higher value (47 mg/100 ml) in the aqueous extract compared to (41 mg/100 ml) in the methanol extract. The antioxidant activity of aqueous extract by using FeCl3, DPPH, Superoxide scavenging and FRAP methods were found to be 13.1%, 23%, 33%, 21.7% and that of methanol extract were 17.5%, 35.5%, 37.8%, 38.7% respectively. Conclusion: From the above study it has been concluded that, both extracts showed an important antioxidant activity. However the methanol extract proved to have higher antioxidant activity. It was Short Communication Kaur et al.; JOCAMR, 1(1): 1-5, 2016; Article no.JOCAMR. 26718 2 further observed that the phenolic content was higher in the aqueous extract of Allium cepa. Further study will be conducted to isolate the active components responsible for the activity.
Population Stratification in a Case-Control Study of Brain Arteriovenous Malformation in Latinos

Background: Genetic association studies conducted in admixed populations may be confounded by population stratification resulting in spurious associations. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the presence and effect of population stratification in a case-control study of brain arteriovenous malformation (BAVM). Methods: We tested 83 ancestry informative markers in BAVM cases and healthy controls of self-reported Latino race/ethnicity (n = 294). Individual ancestry estimates (IAE) were obtained using the Structure program, assuming 3 underlying subpopulations. Summary χ2 tests comparing genotype frequency of ancestry informative markers were used to detect stratification and IAE were included as covariates in logistic regression analysis to account for differences in genetic background. Results: Admixture estimates for Latinos (overall 47% native American, 45% European and 8% African ancestry) revealed heterogeneity between individuals within ancestral groups. The summary χ2 test was significant (p = 0.005), suggesting ancestral differences between cases and controls. Furthermore, genetic ancestry was associated with frequency differences in a promoter variant in the IL-6 gene (IL-6 –174G>C). On average, subjects with the IL6 –174 GG genotype had 6% greater Native American ancestry (p = 0.023). Age- and sex-adjusted risk of BAVM associated with the IL-6 –174 GG genotype was 1.85 (95% CI 0.99–3.48, p = 0.055), and further adjustments for IAE yielded an OR of 1.96 (95% CI 1.03–3.72, p = 0.039). Conclusion: The IL-6 –174G>C polymorphism was associated with increased risk of BAVM among Latinos after accounting for differences in ancestral background. These results suggest subtle, negative confounding and illustrate the importance of addressing population stratification in case-control studies conducted in admixed populations.
Efficient C-RAN Random Access for IoT Devices: Learning Links via Recommendation Systems

We focus on C-RAN (Centralized Radio Access Network) random access protocols for IoT devices that yield low-latency high-rate active-device detection in dense networks of large- array remote radio heads. In this context, we study the problem of learning the strengths of links between detected devices and network sites. In particular, we develop recommendation-system inspired algorithms, which exploit random-access observations collected across the network to classify links between active devices and network sites across the network. Our simulations and analysis reveal the potential merit of data-driven schemes for such on-the-fly link classification and subsequent resource allocation across a wide-area network.
Optimal Bank Capital and Securitization: The Case of Corporate Loans for U.S. Commercial Banks

This paper derives a bank capital allocation model and applies it in the determinants of securitization. According to Bank for International Settlements (BIS), banks are required to prepare regulatory capital for investment and loans, based on the quality and quantity of assets. Hence, the required regulatory capital should be larger when holding riskier assets. In order to allocate banks capital efficiently, banks will consider between return and risk. For example, banks could increase riskier loans to raise capital return, or to decrease loans to alleviate risk.Securitization is one way to alleviate risk. By allowing banks to convert illiquid loans into marketable securities, required capital is released. However, risky loans would yield higher rate of returns if not default. Therefore, banks would reduce their yields when their assets are securitized to cash. Obviously, there is a trade-off between risk and return so that a bank could choose an optimal ratio of securitization to maximize utility. To derive a bank capital allocation model, HJB equation in control theory and a specific utility function is used. Besides, stochastic features of interest rates are considered. To verify this model, we use corporate loans for U.S. commercial banks. Using this model, the optimal capitals used in low risk loan, high risk loan, surplus, and securitization ratio are determined. The main contribution of the paper is to provide a theoretical framework in which to identify factors affecting optimal capital allocation for banks.
Synthesis, characterization, and reactivity of cationic hydride [HPd(diphosphine)(2)](+)CF(3)SO(3)(-), the missing member of the family [HM(dppe)(2)](+)X(-) (M = Ni, Pd, Pt). DFT QM/MM structural predictions for the [HPd(dppe)(2)](+) moiety.

The synthesis, characterization, and properties of the cationic hydride [HPd(dppe)(2)](+)CF(3)SO3(-). 1/8THF, the missing member of the family [HM(dppe)(2)](+)X(-) (M = Ni, Pd, Pt), are described. The Pd hydride is not stable in solution and may react as either a proton or a hydride donor. DFT QM/MM calculations of the [HPd(dppe)(2)](+) moiety have allowed us to predict its structure and reactivity.
A Strategy Perspective on the Performance Relevance of the CFO

Research on functional members of top management teams (TMTs) has increasingly drawn interest to the strategic management field over the past few years. Studies have documented the rise of the chief financial officer (CFO) to pivotal importance and considerable power within the organization. By adopting a contingency perspective and drawing on the coalitional view of the firm, we investigate whether and when a relatively powerful CFO in the TMT is beneficial to firm performance. Multi-source panel data on 292 US firms over the five-year period from 2006 to 2010 revealed that the positive impact of powerful CFOs on performance is strengthened by the degree of unrelated diversification and the firmâ€™s tendency toward Defender-type strategies but not by its degree of internationalization.
An investigation into gamification as a customer engagement experience environment

Purpose – This study aims to provide empirically generated insights into a gamification approach to online customer engagement and behavior (CE and CEB). There is a substantive discrepancy between popular coverage and empirically based research as to the effectiveness of virtual brand gamification in engaging customers. Design/methodology/approach – Using Samsung Nation as a unit of analysis, a mixed-methods research design using netnography and participant observation is adopted to address the research aim. Findings – Taken holistically, the findings identify key processes and outcomes of CE and CEB within virtual gamified platforms. Additionally, insights are provided into implementation flaws deriving from gamification that may potentially impact the CE experience. Originality/value – The contribution of this paper is twofold. First and from a theoretical perspective, it offers both a conceptual foundation and empirical-based evaluation of CE and CEB through a gamified brand platform. Second and from a.
Colourings of cubic graphs inducing isomorphic monochromatic subgraphs

A k ‐bisection of a bridgeless cubic graph G is a 2 ‐colouring of its vertex set such that the colour classes have the same cardinality and all connected components in the two subgraphs induced by the colour classes ( monochromatic components in what follows) have order at most k . Ban and Linial Conjectured that every bridgeless cubic graph admits a 2 ‐bisection except for the Petersen graph. A similar problem for the edge set of cubic graphs has been studied: Wormald conjectured that every cubic graph G with ∣ E ( G ) ∣ ≡ 0 ( mod 2 ) has a 2 ‐edge colouring such that the two monochromatic subgraphs are isomorphic linear forests (ie, a forest whose components are paths). Finally, Ando conjectured that every cubic graph admits a bisection such that the two induced monochromatic subgraphs are isomorphic. In this paper, we provide evidence of a strong relation of the conjectures of Ban‐Linial and Wormald with Ando's Conjecture. Furthermore, we also give computational and theoretical evidence in their support. As a result, we pose some open problems stronger than the above‐mentioned conjectures. Moreover, we prove Ban‐Linial's Conjecture for cubic‐cycle permutation graphs. As a by‐product of studying 2 ‐edge colourings of cubic graphs having linear forests as monochromatic components, we also give a negative answer to a problem posed by Jackson and Wormald about certain decompositions of cubic graphs into linear forests.
Design and characterization of piezoelectric inkjet for micro patterning of printed electronics

A design verification system based on multiphysics modeling and micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) fabrication has been established to develop piezoelectric inkjet printheads for micro-patterning on printed electronics. Piezoelectric printheads have been fabricated with silicon and silicon on insulator (SOI) wafers by MEMS fabrication and post-processing package. Transient displacements of a piezoelectric actuator according to voltage waveform are measured by Laser Doppler Vibrometer (LDV), and compared with numerical predictions by the three-dimensional piezoelectric-structure interaction modeling. Key issues in design and fabrication of piezoelectric inkjet printheads are investigated: printhead configuration, input voltage waveform, hydrodynamic and structural crosstalks, acoustic wave propagation (or effect of limited compressibility), and meniscus instability at high frequency. The present design verification system has shown its promising applicability to novel-concept designs of inkjet printheads for wide range of printed electronics and bio-applications.
Medical education in the public versus the private setting: a qualitative study of medical students’ attitudes

Public hospitals serve as primary training sites for medical students. Public patients may therefore bear a disproportionate burden of medical student education. The purpose of this study was to critically examine the ethics of medical education in the public setting. Attitudes of first- and fourth-year students towards the role of public patients in medical education were elicited in focus groups. Inductive qualitative analysis was utilized to organize data into conceptual groups, which were then analyzed within an ethical framework. All patients have an equal obligation to participate in medical education. Students identified modifying factors that could affect a patient's obligation to educate future physicians. Available data highlight a concern that public teaching hospitals may provide a lower quality of care. If true, then the public teaching setting is creating an unfair burden upon that patient population who would then have a weakened obligation to participate in medical education.
Prolyl-tRNAPro in the A-site of SecM-arrested Ribosomes Inhibits the Recruitment of Transfer-messenger RNA*

Translational pausing can lead to cleavage of the A-site codon and facilitate recruitment of the transfer-messenger RNA (tmRNA) (SsrA) quality control system to distressed ribosomes. We asked whether aminoacyl-tRNA binding site (A-site) mRNA cleavage occurs during regulatory translational pausing using the Escherichia coli SecM-mediated ribosome arrest as a model. We find that SecM ribosome arrest does not elicit efficient A-site cleavage, but instead allows degradation of downstream mRNA to the 3′-edge of the arrested ribosome. Characterization of SecM-arrested ribosomes shows the nascent peptide is covalently linked via glycine 165 to \batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \(\mathrm{tRNA}_{3}^{\mathrm{Gly}}\) \end{document} in the peptidyl-tRNA binding site, and \batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \(\mathrm{prolyl}\mathrm{-}\mathrm{tRNA}_{2}^{\mathrm{Pro}}\) \end{document} is bound to the A-site. Although A-site-cleaved mRNAs were not detected, tmRNA-mediated ssrA tagging after SecM glycine 165 was observed. This tmRNA activity results from sequestration of \batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \(\mathrm{prolyl}\mathrm{-}\mathrm{tRNA}_{2}^{\mathrm{Pro}}\) \end{document} on overexpressed SecM-arrested ribosomes, which produces a second population of stalled ribosomes with unoccupied A-sites. Indeed, compensatory overexpression of \batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \(\mathrm{tRNA}_{2}^{\mathrm{Pro}}\) \end{document} readily inhibits ssrA tagging after glycine 165, but has no effect on the duration of SecM ribosome arrest. We conclude that, under physiological conditions, the architecture of SecM-arrested ribosomes allows regulated translational pausing without interference from A-site cleavage or tmRNA activities. Moreover, it seems likely that A-site mRNA cleavage is generally avoided or inhibited during regulated ribosome pauses.