Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Articulatory Information for Noise Robust Speech Recognition

Prior research has shown that articulatory information, if extracted properly from the speech signal, can improve the performance of automatic speech recognition systems. However, such information is not readily available in the signal. The challenge posed by the estimation of articulatory information from speech acoustics has led to a new line of research known as “acoustic-to-articulatory inversion” or “speech-inversion. ” While most of the research in this area has focused on estimating articulatory information more accurately, few have explored ways to apply this information in speech recognition tasks. In this paper, we first estimated articulatory information in the form of vocal tract constriction variables (abbreviated as TVs) from the Aurora-2 speech corpus using a neural network based speech-inversion model. Word recognition tasks were then performed for both noisy and clean speech using articulatory information in conjunction with traditional acoustic features. Our results indicate that incorporating TVs can significantly improve word recognition rates when used in conjunction with traditional acoustic features.
Enterprise Search in the Big Data Era: Recent Developments and Open Challenges

Enterprise search allows users in an enterprise to retrieve desired information through a simple search interface. It is widely viewed as an important productivity tool within an enterprise. While Internet search engines have been highly successful, enterprise search remains notoriously challenging due to a variety of unique challenges, and is being made more so by the increasing heterogeneity and volume of enterprise data. On the other hand, enterprise search also presents opportunities to succeed in ways beyond current Internet search capabilities. This tutorial presents an organized overview of these challenges and opportunities, and reviews the state-of-the-art techniques for building a reliable and high quality enterprise search engine, in the context of the rise of big data.
Ultrasonic and Interlaminar Properties of Highly Porous Composites

The effect of increasing void content (up to 30%) on the ultrasound attenuation coefficient, interlaminar shear strength and Mode I interlaminar fracture toughness properties of a glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite were investigated. Also studied was the effect of increasing the thickness (up to 150 mm) of highly porous GFRP composites on ultrasound attenuation. A pulse-echo ultrasonics technique was used to measure the amount of attenuation through the GFRP, and this increased linearly with thickness up to 150 mm. Attenuation also increased rapidly with void content, and these measurements were used to further test the accuracy of models proposed by Martin and by Hale and Ashton for calculating the attenuation coefficient of porous composites. Poor agreement was found between the measured and calculated attenuation coefficients, and the causes for the discrepancies are discussed. As expected, the interlaminar shear strength and interlaminar fracture toughness decreased rapidly with increasing void content.
Pulsed non-self-sustained glow discharge with a large-area hollow cathode for nitriding of iron-based alloys

The paper reports on a study of a pulsed non-self-sustained glow discharge with a hollow cathode area of 2.3 m2 and pulse current of up to 370 A. The ignition and operation of the discharge at low pressures (0.4-1 Pa) was sustained through electron injection from the plasma of an arc discharge based on a cold hollow cathode. The current-voltage characteristics of the pulsed glow discharge were measured. Specimens of 12 Cr18Ni10Ti, Cr12, and 40Cr steels were nitrided in the glow discharge plasma with double thermal shields at a temperature of 520 °C and pressure of 0.9 Pa for 4 h. The nitrided layer thickness for 40Cr, Cr12, and 12Cr18Ni10Ti steels was 240, 90, and 50 μm, respectively.
Expression of 5-lipoxygenase by human colorectal carcinoma Caco-2 cells during butyrate-induced cell differentiation.

Butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid, modulates proliferation and differentiation of normal and neoplastic colonocytes. We examined the expression of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) and its metabolites in human colorectal carcinoma (Caco-2) cells, exposed to differentiation-inducing doses of butyrate. Treatment with butyrate significantly increased 5-lipoxygenase mRNA and protein in comparison to nontreated cells. Cyclooxygenases (COX)-1 and COX-2 mRNA were not significantly influenced by the treatment. However, 5-LO activity, low in nontreated cells, increased only minimally after butyrate, and its metabolic product (5-HETE) was detectable neither in control nor in treated cells. In contrast, 15-HETE (a product of 15-LO, which is also upregulated by butyrate) rose significantly. We conclude that, although being overexpressed by butyrate on mRNA and protein level, 5-LO remains inactive in differentiating Caco-2 cells. This is likely to be due either to some associated actions of butyrate, or to 5-LO-inhibition by 15-HETE, concomitantly induced by butyrate treatment.
Risk Stratification of Gallbladder Polyps (1–2 cm) for Surgical Intervention with 18F-FDG PET/CT

We assessed the value of 18F-FDG uptake in the gallbladder polyp (GP) in risk stratification for surgical intervention and the optimal cutoff level of the parameters derived from GP 18F-FDG uptake for differentiating malignant from benign etiologies in a select, homogeneous group of patients with 1- to 2-cm GPs. Methods: Fifty patients with 1- to 2-cm GPs incidentally found on the CT portion of PET/CT were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had histologic diagnoses. GP 18F-FDG activity was visually scored positive (≥liver) or negative (<liver). Maximal standardized uptake value of the GP (SUVgp) and ratio of SUVgp to mean SUV of the liver (GP/L ratio) were also measured. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the utility of patient and clinical variables—that is, sex, age, gallstone, polyp size, and three 18F-FDG–related parameters in risk stratification. Results: Twenty GPs were classified as malignant and 30 as benign. Multivariate analyses showed that the age and all parameters (visual criteria, SUVgp, and GP/L) related to 18F-FDG uptake were significant risk factors, with the GP/L being the most significant. The sex, size of GPs, and presence of concurrent gallstones were found to be insignificant. Conclusion: 18F-FDG uptake in a GP is a strong risk factor that can be used to determine the necessity of surgical intervention more effectively than other known risk factors. However, all criteria derived from 18F-FDG uptake presented in this series may be applicable to the assessment of 1- to 2-cm GPs.
Cluster of Serogroup W135 Meningococci, Southeastern Florida, 2008–2009

Recently, 14 persons in southeastern Florida were identified with Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W135 invasive infections. All isolates tested had matching or near-matching pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns and belonged to the multilocus sequence type 11 clonal complex. The epidemiologic investigation suggested recent endemic transmission of this clonal complex in southeastern Florida.
Nonlinear TE-Polarized Surface Plasmons at the Interface between Graphene and Metamaterials

Nonlinear TE-polarized surface plasmons localized at the interface between graphene and metamaterials are investigated analytically. The normalized momentum of graphene surface plasmons at the interface between graphene and metamaterials composed of arrays of wires and split-ring resonators (SRR) embedded into a nonlinear dielectric exhibits bistable behavior with the magnetic field intensity. The effect is explained by the hysteresis-type dependence of the nonlinear permeability of metamaterials on the field intensity.
Basolateral ion transport mechanisms during fluid secretion by Drosophila Malpighian tubules: Na+ recycling, Na+:K+:2Cl– cotransport and Cl– conductance

SUMMARY Mechanisms of ion transport during primary urine formation by the Malpighian tubule of Drosophila melanogaster were analyzed through measurements of fluid secretion rate, transepithelial ion flux, basolateral membrane potential (Vbl) and intracellular activities of K+ (aKi) and Cl– (aCli). Calculation of the electrochemical potentials for both ions permitted assessment of the possible contributions of K+ channels, Na+:K+:2Cl– cotransport, and K+:Cl– cotransport, to net transepithelial ion secretion across the basolateral membrane. The data show that passive movement of both K+ and Cl– from cell to bath is favoured across the basolateral membrane, indicating that both ions are actively transported into the cell. Contributions of basolateral K+ channels or K+:Cl– cotransporters to net transepithelial ion secretion can be ruled out. After prior exposure of tubules to ouabain, subsequent addition of bumetanide reduced fluid secretion rate, K+ flux and Na+ flux, indicating a role for a Na+:K+:2Cl– cotransporter in fluid secretion. Addition of the K+ channel blocker Ba2+ had no effect on aKi or aCli. Addition of Ba2+ unmasked a basolateral Cl– conductance and the hyperpolarization of Vbl in response to Ba2+ was Cl–-dependent. A new model for fluid secretion proposes that K+ and Cl– cross the basolateral membrane through a Na+-driven Na+:K+:2Cl– cotransporter and that most of the Na+ that enters the cells is returned to the bath through the Na+/K+-ATPase.
Critical timing analysis in microprocessors using near-ir laser assisted device alteration (lada)

A scalable laser-based timing analysis technique we call laser assisted device alteration (LADA) is introduced for the rapid isolation and analysis of defect-free performance limiting circuits in advanced flip-chip packaged microprocessors and other complex IC’s. The technique, which has been demonstrated to be widely applicable to production level as well as motherboardhystem level testing, uses a laser incident f iom the backside to perturb the timing of internal nodes by means of temporary alteration of transistor characteristics primarily by means of localized photocurrent injection. The relevant physics describing the effects of near-IR laser sources on modern day CMOS FET devices and circuits is discussed in this paper in the context of achieving precision picosecondscale timing adjustment. A selected case study where this technique was used to isolate a critical path circuit in a leading edge 130 nm generation product is provided. Scaling trends for LADA and other relevant issues are discussed.
A New Hybrid Method for Image Approximation Using the Easy Path Wavelet Transform

The easy path wavelet transform (EPWT) has recently been proposed by one of the authors as a tool for sparse representations of bivariate functions from discrete data, in particular from image data. The EPWT is a locally adaptive wavelet transform. It works along pathways through the array of function values and exploits the local correlations of the given data in a simple appropriate manner. However, the EPWT suffers from its adaptivity costs that arise from the storage of path vectors. In this paper, we propose a new hybrid method for image approximation that exploits the advantages of the usual tensor product wavelet transform for the representation of smooth images and uses the EPWT for an efficient representation of edges and texture. Numerical results show the efficiency of this procedure.
[Association of gene FN1 with pulmonary metastasis of human fibrosarcoma].

OBJECTIVE To investigate the genes involved in pulmonary metastasis of human fibrosarcoma HT1080 cells in nude mice. METHODS HT1080 cells were injected into the tail vein of BALB/ C nude mice. RNA samples were extracted from pulmonary metastatic tissues and normal control lung tissues, purified using Atlas Pure Total RNA labeling System (Clonetech Laboratories). cDNA probes labeled with 32P were prepared and hybridized to a cDNA membrane constructed with spots of 1176 human cancer related genes and radioactivities on the membrane were measeured by BAS 5000. The mRNA expression of gene FN1 was determined by real time RT-PCR using TaqMan methods. Furthermore, cells with FN1 expression were localized and obtained in situ in pulmonary metastatic foci by laser captured microdissection, and the FN1 expression was quantitated by real time RT-PCR. RESULTS Of the total 1176 genes, 27 genes (2. 3%) revealed to be apparently up-regulated and 4 genes (0. 3% ) down-regulated. Real time RT-PCR analysis verified significant up-regulation of gene FN1. Laser captured microdissection/ real time RT-PCR analysis demonstrated up-regulated gene FN1 not in stroma cells but in tumor cell nests. CONCLUSION Gene FN1 expression in fibrosarcoma HT1080 cells may be involved in pulmonary metastasis.
The Role of Semaphorins and Their Receptors in Gliomas

Gliomas are the most common tumor in the central nervous system. High-grade glioblastomas are characterized by their high invasiveness and resistance to radiotherapy, leading to high recurrence rate and short median survival despite radical surgical resection. Characterizations of gliomas at molecular level have revealed aberrations of various growth factor receptors, receptor tyrosine kinases, and tumor suppressor genes that lead to deregulation of multiple signaling pathways, thereby contributing to abnormal proliferation, invasion, and resistance to apoptosis in cancer cells. Recently, accumulating evidence points to the emerging role of axon guidance molecules in glioma progression. Notably, many signaling events harnessed by guidance molecules to regulate cell migration and axon navigation during development are also found to be involved in the modulation of deregulated pathways in gliomas. This paper focused on the signalings triggered by the guidance molecule semaphorins and their receptors plexins and neuropilins, and how their crosstalk with oncogenic pathways in gliomas might modulate cancer progression. The emerging role of semaphorins and plexins as tumor suppressors or oncogenes is also discussed.
High Productive Optoelectronic Pellets Surface Inspection for Nuclear Reactors

The results of development and investigation of computer-vision systems for inspection of the external view of fuel pellets for nuclear fuel elements are presented. The systems developed utilize CCD-cameras to record the images of a fuel pellet’s external view in reflected beams that ensures high contrast of the defects in the picture area. One has developed a database containing images of simulators, as well as real pellets. Tests of an experimental set for fuel pellet inspection have demonstrated its inspection productivity to be 1 pellet per second and its detection probability higher than 95%. The research team has also developed an experimental set with higher inspection productivity (at least 7 pellets per second).
Evaluation of MODIS Land Cover Product of East China

The accuracy of Land Use/Land Cover data derived from remote sensing images is critical for many applications. Classification error is caused by the interaction of numerous factors, including landscape characteristics, sensor resolution, preprocessing algorithms, and classification procedures. The purpose of this paper is to extend the evaluation of the Collection 4 MODIS land cover product (MOD12Q1) to Shandong Province, east China, and to analyze the distribution of errors from a landscape pattern perspective. Logistic regression was employed to assess the impact of landscape characteristics on classification accuracy. A correct classification probability map based on logistic model was given for describing MOD12 land cover product's error distribution. The results indicate that classification accuracy increases as land cover patch size increases and as heterogeneity decreases.
Does Assertive Community Treatment Work with Forensic Populations? Review and Recommendations

Several variations of the Assertive Community Treatment model have been tried with forensic and offender populations, including Forensic Assertive Community Treatment (FACT), Forensic Intensive Case Management (FICM) and Integrated Dual Diagnosis Treatment (IDDT). Based on a comprehensive review of multiple reviews and research studies, it appears that the field is converging on the conclusion that ACT may have a positive impact on mental health for forensic patients, but that it is probably ineffective or minimally effective in reducing criminal recidivism. The author argues that emerging research from the "forensic continuum of care model" and correctional re-entry treatment programs suggests that the community aftercare component is vital with offending populations and that aftercare programs like ACT can be enhanced by a "pre-treatment" residential treatment precursor. Specifically, the provision of enriched or extended residential treatment - in which forensic patients have adequate time to learn, practice and master life management skills - can maximize the effectiveness of follow-up ACT. Most FACT and FICM approaches have lacked this "continuum" feature.
Effect of beta-blockers on perioperative outcomes in vascular and endovascular surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background. To investigate the role of perioperative beta-blocker use in vascular and endovascular surgery. Methods. We performed a systematic review in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement standards. The review protocol was registered with International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number:CRD42016038111). We searched electronic databases to identify all randomized controlled trials and observational studies investigating outcomes of patients undergoing vascular and endovascular surgery with or without perioperative beta blockade. We used the Cochrane tool and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale to assess the risk of bias of trials and observational studies, respectively. Random-effects models were applied to calculate pooled outcome data. Results. We identified three randomized trials, five retrospective cohort studies, and three prospective cohort studies, enrolling a total of 32,602 patients. Our analyses indicated that perioperative use of beta-blockers did not reduce the risk of all-cause mortality [odds ratio (OR) 1.10, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.59-2.04, P = 0.77], cardiac mortality (OR 2.62, 95% CI 0.86-8.05, P = 0.09), myocardial infarction (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.59-1.35, P = 0.58), unstable angina (OR 1.34, 95% CI 0.41- 4.38, P = 0.63), stroke (OR 2.45, 95% CI 0.89-6.75, P = 0.08), arrhythmias (OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.41-1.43, P = 0.40), congestive heart failure (OR 1.12, 95% CI 0.77-1.63, P = 0.56), renal failure (OR 1.48, 95% CI 0.90-2.45, P = 0.13), composite cardiovascular events (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.55-1.40, P = 0.58), rehospitalisation (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.48-1.52, P = 0.60), and reoperation (OR 1.17, 95% CI 0.42-3.27, P = 0.77) in vascular surgery. Conclusions. Beta-blockers do not improve perioperative outcomes in vascular and endovascular surgery.
GPD: A Graph Pattern Diffusion Kernel for Accurate Graph Classification with Applications in Cheminformatics

Graph data mining is an active research area. Graphs are general modeling tools to organize information from heterogeneous sources and have been applied in many scientific, engineering, and business fields. With the fast accumulation of graph data, building highly accurate predictive models for graph data emerges as a new challenge that has not been fully explored in the data mining community. In this paper, we demonstrate a novel technique called graph pattern diffusion (GPD) kernel. Our idea is to leverage existing frequent pattern discovery methods and to explore the application of kernel classifier (e.g., support vector machine) in building highly accurate graph classification. In our method, we first identify all frequent patterns from a graph database. We then map subgraphs to graphs in the graph database and use a process we call "pattern diffusion¿ to label nodes in the graphs. Finally, we designed a graph alignment algorithm to compute the inner product of two graphs. We have tested our algorithm using a number of chemical structure data. The experimental results demonstrate that our method is significantly better than competing methods such as those kernel functions based on paths, cycles, and subgraphs.
Low-cost fault-tolerant switch allocator for network-on-chip routers

Reliable operation that can be checked on-line is of paramount importance to current and future systems-on-chips that are implemented in very deep submicron technologies. In such systems, the communication among architectural modules is handled by a modular network-on-chip infrastructure that should be sufficiently protected from transient faults that may affect its correct operation. The error protection mechanism should cover all fault scenarios and incur the minimum area/energy/delay overhead. In this paper, we propose such an on-line checking mechanism for the switch allocator of the router that detects every possible single transient or permanent fault in the arbiters and handles it appropriately, thus preserving the reliable operation of the switch.
How are identifiers named in open source software? About popularity and consistency

With the rapid increasing of software project size and maintenance cost, adherence to coding standards especially by managing identifier naming, is attracting a pressing concern from both computer science educators and software managers. Software developers mainly use identifier names to represent the knowledge recorded in source code. However, the popularity and adoption consistency of identifier naming conventions have not been revealed yet in this field. Taking forty-eight popular open source projects written in three top-ranking programming languages Java, C and C++ as examples, an identifier extraction tool based on regular expression matching is developed. In the subsequent investigation, some interesting findings are obtained. For the identifier naming popularity, it is found that Camel and Pascal naming conventions are leading the road while Hungarian notation is vanishing. For the identifier naming consistency, we have found that the projects written in Java have a much better performance than those written in C and C++. Finally, academia and software industry are urged to adopt the most popular naming conventions consistently in their practices so as to lead the identifier naming to a standard, unified and high-quality road.
A Dual-Threshold FPGA Routing Design for Subthreshold Leakage Reduction

Field-programmable gate arrays are attractive candidates for wireless applications due to their reconfiguration capability and high performance development. However, sub-threshold leakage power in modern FPGAs has become a critical obstacle for these devices in entering to this application domain. Subthreshold leakage current of programmable interconnections is responsible for most of the static power dissipation. This work proposes and evaluates ten routing designs based on the dual-threshold technique to reduce leakage power. Alternating between buffers and pass transistors, we analyze the percentage constitution of low-Vth and high-Vth transistors as a function of the leakage reduction and delay increment tradeoff. By routing a suite of MCNC benchmark circuits, we show that an average savings of about 28.83% (as high as 48.46%) in total interconnect leakage can be obtained with 8.73% worst case average delay penalty.