Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
You're Not You When You're Angry: Robust Emotion Features Emerge by Recognizing Speakers

The robustness of an acoustic emotion recognition system hinges on first having access to features that represent an acoustic input signal. These representations should abstract extraneous low-level variations present in acoustic signals and only capture speaker characteristics relevant for emotion recognition. Previous research has demonstrated that, in other classification tasks, when large labeled datasets are available, neural networks trained on these data learn to extract robust features from the input signal. However, the datasets used for developing emotion recognition systems remain significantly smaller than those used for developing other speech systems. Thus, acoustic emotion recognition systems remain in need of robust feature representations. In this article, we study the utility of speaker embeddings, representations extracted from a trained speaker recognition network, as robust features for detecting emotions. We first study the relationship between emotions and speaker embeddings and demonstrate how speaker embeddings highlight the differences that exist between neutral speech and emotionally expressive speech. We quantify the modulations that variations in emotional expression incur on speaker embeddings and show how these modulations are greater than those incurred from lexical variations in an utterance. Finally, we demonstrate how speaker embeddings can be used as a replacement for traditional low-level acoustic features for emotion recognition.
Vitamin D intake and lung cancer risk in the Women ’ s Health Initiative 1 – 3

Background: Prior research suggests that vitamin D protects against lung cancer only among certain subgroups. Objectives: We investigated whether vitamin D intake was associated with lung cancer and explored whether vitamin A intake modified the association. Design: Prospective cohort data from 128,779 postmenopausal women, including 1771 incident lung cancers in the Women’s Health Initiative (Clinical Trials and Observational Study) 1993–2010, were analyzed. Twelve percent of women received active intervention (1 g Ca + 400 IU vitamin D3/d) in the Calcium/Vitamin D Trial. Baseline total intake included both dietary intake (from food-frequency questionnaires) and supplement intake (from bottle labels). HRs were estimated by Cox proportional hazard models. Results: No significant association was observed overall. Among never smokers, a total vitamin D intake$400 IU/d was significantly associated with lower risks of lung cancer (HR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.18, 0.77 for $800 compared with ,100 IU/d; P-trend = 0.01). No significant effect modification of total vitamin A intake on the association between total vitamin D intake and lung cancer was found. However, the Calcium/Vitamin D Trial active intervention was significantly associated with a lower lung cancer risk only among women with a vitamin A intake ,1000 mg/d retinol activity equivalents (HR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.50, 0.96; P-interaction = 0.09). Conclusions: Vitamin D intake was associated with a lower lung cancer risk in never-smoking, postmenopausal women. Lower vitamin A intake may be important for a beneficial association of 1 g Ca + 400 IU vitamin D3 supplementation with lung cancer. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00000611. Am J Clin Nutr 2013;98:1002–11.
Immersive Virtual Reality as an Effective Tool for Second Language Vocabulary Learning

Learning a second language (L2) presents a significant challenge to many people in adulthood. Platforms for effective L2 instruction have been developed in both academia and the industry. While real-life (RL) immersion is often lauded as a particularly effective L2 learning platform, little is known about the features of immersive contexts that contribute to the L2 learning process. Immersive virtual reality (iVR) offers a flexible platform to simulate an RL immersive learning situation, while allowing the researcher to have tight experimental control for stimulus delivery and learner interaction with the environment. Using a mixed counterbalanced design, the current study examines individual differences in L2 performance during learning of 60 Mandarin Chinese words across two learning sessions, with each participant learning 30 words in iVR and 30 words via word–word (WW) paired association. Behavioral performance was collected immediately after L2 learning via an alternative forced-choice recognition task. Our results indicate a main effect of L2 learning context, such that accuracy on trials learned via iVR was significantly higher as compared to trials learned in the WW condition. These effects are reflected especially in the differential effects of learning contexts, in that less successful learners show a significant benefit of iVR instruction as compared to WW, whereas successful learners do not show a significant benefit of either learning condition. Our findings have broad implications for L2 education, particularly for those who struggle in learning an L2.
Fatal error of the relativity and the research for dark matter,dark energy -the physical "dark world"

The hard facts we given in text prove that, relativity theory is the fallacy from mathematical errors and experimental perjuries. 2.Conclusion of the study show that one called "fundamental gravitino" (the theoretical mass-energy value given at mw = 3.636 x 10 -45 kg) is the Material composition of dark matter in the universe and also it's the material composition of all the elementary particles too. This is the root cause that the gravitation has universality. In-depth research, the results show that the fundamental gravitino" in all space is the material foundation of the electromagnetic interaction and propagation of light and other physical phenomena. Furthermore it shows that Stable elementary particles are the "droplets" under the strong gravitino pressure (strength calculated are consistent with the strong interaction) in the entire universe, similar to the droplets in the saturated gas. There are steady-state solutions in Mathematical models corresponding to the proton, the electron and the neutron.The theory for topics such as the dark matter, the dark energy, and the Higgs particle has the perfect explanation and reasonable conclusion. It seems, Chinese began to keep up with the world's physical trend, started a new physics era of fundamental gravitino- the mass energy source of the universe.
Potential Effects of Congressional Welfare Reform Legislation on Family Incomes

Table 1: Summary of Major Changes in Income Security Programs Proposed by H.R. 3734 Table 2: Budget and Caseload Effects of Major Provisions of the Welfare Reform Act (H.R. 3734) Table 3: Effects of H.R. 3734 on Total Family Income and Poverty Table 4: Characteristics of Families Losing Income Under H.R. 3734 Table 5: Effects of H.R. 3734 on Poverty Using Alternative Labor Supply Assumptions Table 6: Effects of Modifications to H.R. 3734 on Poverty and the Poverty Gap
Reproducibilidad y replicabilidad en la investigación en ciencias naturales: ¿Hay una crisis?

We assume that because of the self-correction nature of the scientific knowledge, every published study will be revised by somebody that will replicate it and, eventually, publish a correction. Therefore, the process will discard errors and keep successes to build the established scientific knowledge. However, because of questionable research practices, the process does not work as well as expected, and has driven a reproducibility and replicability crisis (although some will deny such crisis). This document considers in general the state-of-the-art of the problem and presents a local example (at least as a proof of concept) showing that questionable research practices are more prevalent than we think. I conclude calling for spaces to reflect on the problem and I suggest ideas to reduce the impact of its causes, especially important for the training of young researchers.
CHUNKING LANGUAGE FOR EFL CLASSROОM LEARNERS

In this article it is examined how Chunking Language is perceived by online EFL students, and analyzed how this strategy enriches students’ vocabulary based on their ideas and experiences in online classes. The study used a qualitative research methodology through thematic analysis, where descriptive analysis was performed on the responses. Interview guide questions were used to explore participants’ insights and ideas on how to use the strategy. The findings showed that most EFL students fully understand the importance of vocabulary, but it was very difficult to use them in sentences. In addition, participants adopted Chunking Language as a life strategy in the module, which is important in language learning and an important approach in vocabulary literacy. As a strategy, it helps students learn new vocabulary and use it in appropriate contexts. Research shows that the spoken language module should be enriched taking into account grammar and usage in teaching vocabulary and used for more EFL learners.
Isomorphism Check of Structurally Identical kinematic Chains using Coding Technique

The kinematic structure of mechanisms is basic to understanding their function[1]. The structure or topology of a mechanism is defined by the number of links, number and type of joints, the connectivity of the links and joints and also the consideration as to which links are to be considered as frame and input. Decimal codes of kinematic chains are readily amenable to retrieval of parent chain and, as such, they hold the key to enumeration process. An optimum selection of range of Decimal codes of chains of a given type, which permits all possible types of connectivity to the link with highest degree (i.e., with highest number of elements), can provide a computerized method of enumeration. The concept is also shown useful in identifying Structurally identical kinematic chains. As these identification codes (Decimal codes)are decodable, they enable reconstruction of topology of kinematic chains/mechanisms on computer.
REDUCING INDOOR AIR POLLUTION THROUGH PARTICIPATORY DEVELOPMENT IN RURAL KENYA

Objective: To evaluate effectiveness of smoke reduction interventions in rural homes. Methods: 24-hour kitchen respirable particles (kPM3.5), kitchen CO (kCO), and personal CO (pCO) for the cook were assessed before and after interventions in Kajiado (n=25) and West Kenya (n=25). Women participated in developing interventions, including improved stoves (12), enlarged windows (all) and eaves (27), and hoods (17). Results: Pollution/exposure levels were high: mean 24h kPM3.5 5,530 µg/m 3 (Kajiado), 1,710 µg/m 3 (West Kenya); 24h kCO 74.7 and 8.8 ppm respectively; 24h pCO 6.98 and 4.16 ppm respectively. Following interventions, there were marked reductions in all measures. For 15 homes receiving hoods, kPM3.5 was reduced 75% (p=0.001), kCO by 77% (p=0.001) and pCO by 35% (p=0.011). Enlarged eaves and windows reduced kPM3.5 by 62% (p=0.001) in West Kenya. Residents appreciated better lighting, ventilation and smoke reduction, although concerns about privacy required attention. Conclusion: This participatory approach achieved effective smoke reduction, and promoted interest in further development (155).
The Role of Embodiment in Open-Ended Evolution

Open-ended evolution (OEE) has long served as a goal and guiding principle for Artificial Life researchers. However, despite the common use of embodied agents in OEE simulations, the role of embodiment in facilitating OEE has received relatively little attention. Here we introduce three recent research projects that demonstrate how the body of a learning and/or evolving agent can provide more opportunity for approaching OEE than an equivalent yet non-embodied system. In the first example, evolution of morphology, if done correctly, along with the neural control of embodied machines is shown to sustain OEE for over 6000 generations. In the second example, morphology is shown to be a way to resist catastrophic interference, a phenomenon that often frustrates OEE. The final example deals with the crowdsourcing of Artificial Life studies, one way to scale up such studies to realize OEE (assuming sustained crowd involvement), and how morphology can help or hinder this form of crowdsourcing. We hope that these examples will inspire other researchers to discover yet other ways in which embodiment may increase the probability of realizing OEE in future simulations or real world settings.
Protocol Use of Dental Practices for the Identification of Adults With Undiagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus or Nondiabetic Hyperglycemia : Protocol for a Systematic Review

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a growing global health burden and is expected to affect more than 590 million people by the year 2035. Evidence exists to demonstrate that dental settings have been used for risk assessment and identification of individuals who may be at high risk for T2DM or who may already unknowingly have the condition. Objective: This protocol aims to outline the methodology that will be undertaken to synthesize the literature relating to the use of primary care (nonhospital-based) dental services for the identification of undiagnosed T2DM or prediabetes—often termed nondiabetic hyperglycemia—in adult patients. Methods: This paper outlines the protocol that will be followed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available literature. The protocol outlines the aims, objectives, search strategy, data extraction and data management methods, as well as the statistical analysis plan. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols guidelines were followed in developing the protocol as were elements of the Cochrane handbook. Results: We expect the systematic review to be completed within 18 months of publication of this protocol and expect to see a high degree of heterogeneity in the existing literature. Conclusions: This review is of importance as it will synthesize the existing evidence base and inform future studies in the field. Following the publication of the protocol, the review will be registered on Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. Following the completion of the review, results will be published in a suitable peer-reviewed journal. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID): PRR1-10.2196/11843 (JMIR Res Protoc 2018;7(11):e11843) doi:10.2196/11843
Corporate governance in Egypt: The landscape, the research, and future directions

How to cite this paper: Abdel-Meguid, A. M. (2021). Corporate governance in Egypt: The landscape, the research, and future directions [Special issue]. Corporate Ownership & Control, 18(3), 296–306. http://doi.org/10.22495/cocv18i3siart5 Copyright © 2021 The Author This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.
Description of unrecorded bacterial species belonging to the phylum Actinobacteria in Korea

The phylum Actinobacteria is one of the largest groups in the domain Bacteria (Goodfellow, 2012). In recent years, a proper hierarchical classification system for this group was established based on genome analysis. Conse­ quently, on August 2020, the phylum Actinobacteria con­ sisted of 6 classes, 46 orders, 78 families and more than 400 genera [LPSN (https://www.bacterio.net/); Salam et al., 2020]. Members of the phylum Actinobacteria showed great diversity in terms of their habitat, morphology and physi­ o logy (Goodfellow and Williams, 1983). Actinobacterial species are relatively abundant in terrestrial and aquatic environments where they are involved in the decomposi­ tion and recycling of organic matter (Servin et al., 2008). In addition to their saprophytic property, several genera, such as Mycobacterium, Corynebacterium (Dangle et al., 2019) and Clavibacter (Hwang et al., 2019), are patho­ genic to animals (including humans) and plants (Qin et al., 2011). Also, endophytic actinobacteria have been isolated from a variety of healthy plants (Qin et al., 2011). In Korea, 329 species with valid names were isolated from various natural environments, fermented foods, waste water, compost and clinical specimens [LPSN (https:// www.bacterio.net/); Bae et al., 2016]. Moreover, 249 un­ Journal of Species Research 10(1):23­45, 2021
Unsupervised Learning of Disentangled 3D Representation from a Single Image

Learning 3D representation of a single image is challenging considering the ambiguity, occlusion, and perspective project of an object in an image. Previous works either seek image annotation or 3D supervision to learn meaningful factors of an object or employ a StyleGAN-like framework for image synthesis. While the ﬁrst ones rely on tedious annotation and even dense geometry ground truth, the second solutions usually cannot guarantee consistency of shapes between different view images. In this paper, we combine the advantages of both frameworks and propose an image disentanglement method based on 3D representation. Results show our method facilitates unsupervised 3D representation learning while preserving consistency between images.
A Study on the Experience of Children's Participatory Playground Design: Based on the Experiences of Architects Who Participated in the Protect the Playground Project by Save the Children

This study examines the experiences of operating a children’s participation workshop by architects for Protect the Playground project, a play space creation project funded by Save the Children. This study discusses the development of the children's participation workshop as a tool for the realization of children's rights. To this end, four architects who participated in the design and creation of the play space project for Save the Children were selected and In-Depth Interviews (IDI) with them were conducted by the researchers. The consensus among the interviewees was that the children’s participation workshop allowed children to have a sense of ownership of their play space and also highlighted to the architects their responsibilities to the children involved. Although there were difficulties in conducting the workshop due to internal and external challenges associated with the children’s involvement, it was found that the participation of the children and their resulting opinions played an essential role in completing the play space design and led to changes in the perception of the adults involved in the projects. The researchers found that the children’s participation workshop provided opportunities for adults to recognize children's rights and that it had a meaningful impact on the architects, teachers, parents, local residents, and everyone involved in this project. From the results of this study the researchers believe it is necessary to place more emphasis on children's participation workshops in the creation of play space projects, and that the children’s participation workshop should be used as a model when implementing child-related policies in other areas in order to better represent children and safeguard their rights .
Ex Ante and Ex Post Willingness to Pay for Hosting a Large International Sport Event

Using the contingent valuation method, we estimate residents’ ex ante and ex post willingness to pay (WTP) for hosting a large international sport event: The “big start” of the 2016 Giro d’Italia, which was held in the Gelderland region of the Netherlands. The percentage of residents with a positive WTP changed from 29.7% before the event to 39.3% immediately after the event, while average WTP increased significantly from €3.58 to €4.45, leading to an increase of residents’ valuation from €5.8 million to €7.1 million. Additionally, following the event in the media and attending the event play an important role in explaining residents’ WTP.
Physiological and oxidative defense responses of local rice cultivars “Nusa Tenggara Timur-Indonesia” during vegetative drought stress

Drought is the main abiotic factor that reduces productivity of crops such as rice in the suboptimum area. This study aimed to identify drought-tolerance of local rice cultivars “Nusa Tenggara Timur-Indonesia” through their oxidative defense mechanism. In this study, 17 local rice cultivars and two control cultivars (Ciherang and Situ Bagendit) were used. Drought was imposed by using three levels of FTSW: FTSW 1 (control), 0.5 (moderate drought), and 0.2 (severe drought) during the vegetative stage. Growth parameters such as plant height, number of tillers, number of leaves, and total dry weight were higher in Boawae 100 Malam, Hare Tora, and Padi Putih Kuatnana than other cultivars. The analysis of relative water content, chlorophyll, carotenoid, and proline content also indicated that the Boawae 100 Malam, Gogo Sikka, and Hare Tora cultivar showed a higher result compared to control and other cultivars. These characters tend to correlate with the higher activity of antioxidant enzymes in Boawae 100 Malam and Gogo Sikka, when exposed to severe drought conditions. Based on principal component analysis of the physiological changes and enzymatic antioxidant activity, the Gogo Sikka, Boawae 100 Malam, and Hare Tora cultivars were classified as rice cultivars with higher drought tolerance.
Image Visibility Restoration Using Fast-Weighted Guided Image Filter

The Weighted guided image filter (WGIF) avoids halo artifacts, preserves edges well which are drawbacks of Guided image filter (GIF) at a cost of increment on running times. In Fast Weighted Guided Image Filter (FWGIF), a speedup method is included, which can speed up WGIF from O (N) time to O (N/s 2 ). It can be applicable in all applications in which WGIF can be used. Experimental results show that it can produce images with better visual quality compared to WGIF along with decrement on running times.
Marine distribution and foraging habitat highlight potential threats at sea for the Endangered Bermuda petrel Pterodroma cahow

: Marine spatial planning relies on detailed spatial information of marine areas to en - sure effective conservation of species. To enhance our understanding of marine habitat use by the highly pelagic Bermuda petrel Pterodroma cahow , we deployed GPS tags on 6 chick-rearing adults in April 2019 and constructed a habitat suitability model using locations classified as foraging to explore functional responses to a selection of marine environmental variables. We defined 15 trips for 5 individuals, ranging from 1−6 trips per bird, that included both short and long foraging excursions indicative of a dual foraging strategy that optimizes chick feeding and self maintenance. The maximum distance birds flew from Bermuda during foraging trips ranged from 61 to 2513 km (total trip lengths: 186−14 051 km). Behaviourally deduced foraging habitat was best predicted at shorter distances from the colony, under warmer sea surface temperature, greater sea surface height, and in deeper water compared to transiting locations; our model results indicated that suitable foraging habitat exists beyond the core home range of the population, as far north as the highly productive Gulf Stream frontal system, and within the territorial waters of both the USA and Canada. Our results are crucial to inform management decisions and international conservation efforts by better identifying potential threats encountered at sea by this globally rare seabird and highlighting jurisdictions potentially responsible for mitigating those threats.