SARAspeech—Feasibility of automated assessment of ataxic speech disturbance

Abstract Ataxias are a group of movement disorders that are characterized by progressive loss of balance, impaired coordination and speech disturbance, which together lead to markedly reduced quality of life. Speech disturbance is clinically diagnosed, but methods for objective assessment of severity are lacking. Using 71 sets of speech recordings from ataxia patients, we developed an automated classification system. With a tolerance of ±1 point, this classification system correctly predicted experts’ ratings of speech disturbance according to item 4 of the Scale for Assessment and rating of ataxia (SARA) in 80% of cases. We thereby demonstrate feasibility of computer-assisted voice analysis for automated assessment of severity of speech disturbance

The military production function

This article analyzes three methods of estimating the military production function which relates military inputs to a measure of military effectiveness. The econometric military production function employs historical data to estimate the relationship between inputs and military effectiveness. A production function estimated during the Vietnam War is provided as an example. The response-surface military production summarizes the input and output data of a large-scale military operations research model. This method is illustrated using a model that links maintenance manpower to aircraft sorties. The technological military production function is derived from underlying technological relationships.Military production function, Cost-effectiveness analysis, Interdiction, Response surface methodology, Isoquants,