Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Are Praat's default settings optimal for infant cry analysis?

In recent years, the number of studies investigating possible noninvasive health screening techniques for infants have increased exponentially. Amongst those, one of the most prominent is health screening based on the acoustic investigation of infant cry. Clinicians involved in the field moved from visual inspection of the audible spectrum to automatized analysis of cry samples using computer software. A software that has been more widely adopted in recent years is Praat, a free software designed for speech analysis. Unfortunately, the software’s default settings are not suitable for investigation of cry samples, yet rarely used settings are reported in final manuscripts. In this article, we tested 4 different computer generated signals, with frequency features comparable to cry frequencies, and 3 real cry samples using both Praat’s standards and tuned settings. Our results highlight the importance of properly tuning software’s parameters when expanding their field of usage, and provide a starting point for the development of optimal Praat algorithm’s parameters selection for cry analysis.
Revisiting the virtuous cycles between environmental innovations & financial performance of Japanese automotive , electronics & chemical manufacturing industries

Furthering the literature on the virtuous cycles between environmental innovation and financial performance, we revisit the link by challenging conventional wisdom of the resource-based view perspective and the slack availability of resources. In my earlier studies that contrasted the relationships of these constructs for automotive and electronics companies, the virtuous cycles did not appear to hold for longitudinal periods. Automotive companies, although limited in number, seemed to have more virtuous cycles than electronics companies. Revisiting the analysis to include the chemical manufacturing industry paints a bigger if not a better picture of sustainable industries from a green supply chain perspective. In this study, I aim to: (1) explore the directional relationships of environmental innovations and financial performance and if it holds on a longitudinal basis; (2) determine if virtuous cycles exist; (3) establish and contrast patterns of construct relationships for the automotive, electronics, and chemical manufacturing companies; (4) and theorize from a green supply chain perspective. The expectations of my study point to automotive and electronics companies being more susceptible to public perception considering that it is at the end of the green production pipeline. The results of the constructs relationships for automotive companies have stark contrasts with electronics companies; while chemical manufacturing companies exhibit a seeming indifference. This leads us to see that start of pipeline production may not necessarily benefit from the virtuous cycles yet they contribute to the green supply chain in the attainment of sustainable industries. JEL Classifications: Q00, Q56
Tooth extraction : Pattern and etiology from extreme

Objective: Tooth extraction is a commonly performed procedure in dental clinics. It has been shown that the reasons for and pattern of tooth extraction vary across geographical regions. Few reports on the pattern of extraction among a semi-urban populace exist. To the best of our knowledge, there is no study on the pattern and reasons for tooth mortality from Sokoto, Northwestern Nigeria, which is a semi-urban region. Materials and Methods: A review of the records of patients that had tooth extraction at our center between January 2009 and January 2016, was done. Data such as the age, gender, type of tooth extracted, and reasons for extraction were retrieved and analyzed. Cross tabulations for age and gender were also made. The level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: A total of 1167 extractions were performed in 984 patients. An age range of 18–107 years with a mean (±standard deviation) of 34.8 (13.3) was observed. Most of the patients were in the 21–30 years age group accounting for 35.7% of cases. Dental caries and its sequelae (DCS) (631, 54.1%) were the most common reasons for extraction, followed by periodontal disease (192, 16.5%). The difference in proportions of reasons for tooth extraction between the gender was statistically significant (P = 0.02; df = 24). The difference in the reasons for extraction among the age groups was statistically significant (P < 0.001; df = 132). Conclusion: DCS along with periodontal disease were the major reasons for extractions. These are largely preventable causes of tooth extraction; therefore, there is a need for commencement of far-reaching preventative actions.
International Review of Mechanical Engineering ( IREME )

This paper aims to show that shape optimization can be efficiently applied to coastal engineering. This is a feasibility study for the design of defense structures for wave attenuation in deep water and against sandy beach erosion. Hence, we consider short wave propagation on a constant depth toward a vertical wall or sea cliff and long wave propagation in a domain with slow but arbitrary depth variations. The governing equations are either based on the Helmholtz wave propagation model or on a parabolic nonlinear refraction/diffraction model in shallow water. In each case, the shape of defense structures is modified in order to minimize a pre-defined cost function taking into account the strength (energy) of the water waves. Copyright © 2007 Praise Worthy Prize S.r. l. All rights reserved.
Suspended sediment concentration and sediment transport measurements with a new two components ultrasonic profiler

In order to improve understanding of the physical processes involved in sediment transport, and thus improve the capability to model such transport phenomenon, the need of high resolution measurements is evident. The results of high temporal and spatial resolution measurements of concentration and sediment flux with a new acoustic device, the UB-Lab 2C, are displayed in the present paper. This commercial ADVP was developed by the company and its conformity with another well-established acoustic system (the ACVP) and with results from previous studies performed in similar flows conditions supports its good performance for sediment flux profiling. Additionally, the shapes of mean profiles depict the well-known characteristics described in literature, namely the Rouse description of the concentration profile. Streamwise velocity, shear stress and concentration profiles, allowed the estimation of a ratio between momentum and particle diffusivities. At a given vertical range this ratio becomes nearly constant. This value corresponds to the Schmidt number, crucial in sediment flux modeling. Besides the good agreement in the estimation of the referred parameter by the two acoustic systems, it was shown that turbulence effects on settling velocity are determinant in the estimation of the Schmidt number.
Deformation Obtained from Acceleration Data using Wireless Sensor Motes

Real-time deformation monitoring of geotechnical-based infrastructure during construction or during the service life can provide forward predictions of system response. These predictions can later be used to provide warnings if the system response exceeds systems limits. Unfortunately, the majority of the current real-time deformation monitoring technology typically consists of very expensive and bulky systems. In addition, the systems rely on long cable runs to connect the sensor arrays to the data acquisition systems. Wireless systems utilizing micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology will provide an important solution to the real-time monitoring problem. MEMS technology facilitates a reduction in size and cost of the monitoring system while maintaining accuracy. This paper presents the results of experiments that evaluated the ability of MEMS accelerometers to accurately measure the deformation of a structure. To determine the accuracy of the accelerometers, the MEMS were mounted on a planar surface which was rotated to simulate deformation. The actual measured deformations of the planar surface were compared to those obtained from the MEMS accelerometer measurements. From the experimentation, it can be concluded that this technology can be reliably used to measure deformation in a structure.
Engaging the Community in Research with the HealthStreet Model: National and International Perspectives

We report on a model of community engagement known as HealthStreet, which began as community outreach from Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. , USA, in 1989, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). HealthStreet, which developed more expansive services in 2008, includes a physical site (building) which serves as a base of operation in the community from which community health workers (CHWs) can engage community members to capture real-time data on health needs, health and neighborhood concerns, and attitudes towards research through a health intake form. Based on this information, they refer community members to needed services and offer opportunities to participate in research. In November 2011, HealthStreet was opened in Gainesville (Florida, USA) as part of the community engagement efforts of the University of Florida. The HealthStreet CHWs in St. Louis and Gainesville have made contact with over 7,100 community members (83% from minorities) from January 2009 to July 2012. Recruitment and enrollment yields have been high. Participants report positive attitudes towards research and have similar health concerns and conditions across locations. HealthStreet, and other efforts that utilize CHWs to reach the community, may increase the diversity of research participants, help meet community needs, and reduce disparities in care, potentially improving public health. The international reach of the HealthStreet model is evident in the opening of HealthStreet Sydney in Australia.
Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disorders Following Solid Organ Transplantation

Posttrasplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) represent a wide spectrum of pathologic and clinical manifestations that occur in the setting of depressed T-cell function and altered immune surveillance, such as is observed in the setting of solid organ transplantation (SOT). PTLD is a major contributor to long-term morbidity and mortality in this population and is the most common cancer observed in children following SOT. (Webber et al., 2006) Many cases are associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection and most, but not all, are of host origin. (Petit et al., 2002, Taylor et al., 2005) This article reviews the pathology, epidemiology, risk factors, and clinical aspects of PTLD, and identifies the need for ongoing systematic study of complex biologic and therapeutic questions.
Utilisation of deep venous thrombosis prophylaxis in medical / surgical intensive care units

Background: Pulmonary embolism is the most common preventable cause of death in hospitalised patient. It can readily be prevented by adequate prophylaxis. Inspite of multiple guidelines on risk factor assessment for venous thromboembolism (VTE), utilization of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis remains less than satisfactory. Critically ill patient are at increased risk of developing VTE which leads to significant morbidity and mortality in this population. In western intensive care units utilization of DVT prophylaxis varies from 40-90%. There has not been a systematic study to detect the incidence of DVT prophylaxis in India. Objective: To assess the utilization of Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis in Multidisciplinary critical care unit. Design: Prospective Cohort Multi-centre Study. Setting: Multidisciplinary critical care units in the Metropolitan city of Kolkata (India). Method: Prospective chart survey of one hundred consecutive itu admissions. Results: Of 100 consecutive admissions who were eligible for DVT prophylaxis, as per predefined criterias, DVT prophylaxis was administered to 44 of 100 study patients (44%). Fifty-six eligible study patients (56%) did not receive DVT prophylaxis. The study patients had an average of 2.9 risk factors for DVT. Thirty patients received subcutaneous heparin, twenty six of which were low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), thirteen patients received anti embolism stockings, one patient received both LMWH and antiembolism stockings. Conclusion: Forty four percent (44%) of the medical /surgical critically ill patient included in our study received DVT prophylaxis.
A Retrospective Study of Hysterectomy Cases in a Tertiary Care Center-A Study from Jharkhand Region

Introduction: Hysterectomy is the most commonly performed gynaecological surgery in India and well as in other countries. It is frequently done for definitive management of various common gynaecological diseases like fibroids, abnormal uterine bleeding, prolapse and malignancy of uterus and cervix. Aim: To study incidences of different histopathological entities in hysterectomy specimens. Materials and methods: This retrospective study was undertaken in our routine histopathological laboratory during the period of one year (Jan 18Dec 18). A total of 590 hysterectomy specimens were analysed. Observation: A total of 590 hysterectomy specimens were reported during the period of one year. Of these 546 cases (92.54%) were abdominal hysterectomies with or without salpingoophrectomy and 44 cases (7.45%) were vaginal hysterectomies. Most common lesion was leiomyoma. Conclusion: Hysterectomy is curative and acceptable form of treatment in many common gynaecological problems. All hysterectomy specimens should be sent for histopathological examination.
Monitoring of Cadmium and Micronutrients in Spices Commonly Consumed in Turkey

Interest in monitoring heavy metals and trace elements of spices and herbs has recently increased. Some tropical spices commonly consumed in Turkey were monitored as to their cadmium and some trace element contents such as Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn. Fifteen samples of allspice (Pimenta dioica (L.) Merrill), black pepper (Piper nigrum L.), cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum L.), nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtten), clove (Szygium aromaticum L. Merrill), galangal (Alpina officinarum Hance), cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton), ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) and turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) were analyzed.The resultsshowed that cadmiumand trace element contents of ninespices evaluated were withinthe low range. Cd was not detected in any samples of nutmeg. The level of Cd in the rest of the samples ranged from 13 mg kgin clove to 206 mg kg in black pepper. Content of Fe varied between 28 mg kg in nutmeg to 374 mg kg in black pepper. The level of Cu in the samples was within the range of 3.0-11 mg kg. The highestMn content was that of clove sample (355 mg kg) whereas the lowest level was recorded in turmeric (10 mg kg). Zinc content of the plant samples ranged between 4 and 25 mg kg with cardamom containing the highest.
Walking and bicycle catchment areas of tram stops: factors and insights

Pollution and congestion are important issues in urban mobility. These can potentially be solved by multimodal transport, such as the bicycle-transit combination, which benefits from the flexible aspect of the bicycle and the wider spatial range of public transport. In addition, the bicycle can increase the catchment areas of public transport stops. Most transit operators consider a fixed 400m buffer catchment area. Currently, not much is known about what influences the size of catchment areas, especially for the bicycle as a feeder mode. Bicycles allow for reaching a further stop in order to avoid a transfer, but it is not clear whether travelers actually do this. This paper aims to fill this knowledge gap by assessing which factors affect feeder distance and feeder mode choice. Data are collected by an on-board transit revealed preference survey among tram travelers in The Hague, The Netherlands. Both regression models and a qualitative analysis are performed to identify the factors that influence feeder distance and feeder mode choice. Results show that the median walking feeder distance is 380m, and the median cycling feeder distance is 1025m. The tram stop density and chosen feeder mode are most important in feeder distance. For feeder mode choice, the following factors are found to be influential: tram stop density, availability of a bicycle, and frequency of cycling of the tram passenger. Furthermore, the motives of respondents for choosing a stop further away are mostly related to the quality of the transit service and comfort matters, of which avoiding a transfer is named most often. In contrast, the motives for cycling relate mostly to travel time reduction and the built environment. Three important barriers for the bicycle-tram combination have been discovered: unavailability of a bicycle, insufficient and unsafe bicycle parking places. Infrequent users of the bicycle-tram combination are more inclined to travel further to a stop that suits them better.
Performance analysis of audio event classification using deep features under adverse acoustic conditions

Audio event classification has been traditionally performed by extracting standard features based on human perception, such as Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients. However, the trend followed in the last years is primarily based on the information provided by deep features, which are extracted from the responses to complex input patterns learned within deep neural networks. These have been shown to obtain, in general, better performance than the hand-crafted ones. In fact, deep features are known to provide good generalization properties to classify events not seen during training, and can even be extracted from raw audio data. Since the captured audio data is highly dependent on the acoustic properties of the auditory scene, it is important to assess the impact that adverse acoustic conditions have in the final classification performance. In this paper, we analyze the robustness of deep features under controlled acoustic conditions by simulating different degrees of background noise and reverberation. Results show an acute degradation in the performance resulting from adverse acoustic conditions, which suggests there is room for improvement in terms of robustness to different scenarios.
Gabor Frames with Hermite Functions Frames de Weyl-Heisenberg et Fonctions d ’ Hermite

We investigate Gabor frames based on a linear combination of of Hermite functions Hn. We derive sufficient conditions on the lattice Λ ⊆ R such that the Gabor system {e2Hn(t−λ1) : λ = (λ1, λ2) ∈ Λ} is a frame for L(R). An example supports our conjecture that our conditions are sharp. The main tools are growth estimates for the Weierstrass σ-function and a new type of interpolation problem for entire functions on the Bargmann-Fock space.
Deep Learning For Natural Sound Classification

Nowadays, it is very common to use sensors for controlling the population of different animal species in a natural environment. A large number of sensors can be deployed in wide areas and they will capture information relentlessly, producing a huge amount of data. However, analysing the collected data by humans is a big challenge and for that reason, it is necessary to develop automated technologies in order to help experts on that task. Within this context, we present an automatic system to detect and classify sounds, especially those generated by birds and insects among other sounds that can be heard in a natural environment. For the development of the system, it has been necessary to generate a sound database. The recorded database consists of field recordings in three different Natural Parks, with sounds of several bird and insect species, as well as background noises. The automated system employs state of the art neural networks for detecting and classifying sound frames. Experiments were done using several signal preprocessing and acoustic features. The experiments show a good accuracy in detection and classification of sound frames and with results higher or comparable to other state of the art approaches.
Effect of bariatric surgery on asthma control, lung function and bronchial and systemic inflammation in morbidly obese subjects with asthma

Background: The pathogenesis of asthma in obese subjects is poorly understood and has been described as a specific phenotype in these patients. Weight loss improves asthma control and lung function. Whether this improvement is the result of better mechanical properties of the airways or decreased systemic and bronchial inflammation remains unclear. Methods: A longitudinal study in obese patients with asthma (bariatric surgery and asthma group (BS+A), n=27) and obese control (bariatric surgery without asthma group (BS-A), n=39) subjects undergoing bariatric surgery, and obese patients with asthma without intervention (no bariatric surgery and asthma group (NBS+A), n=12). Lung function, asthma control, cellular infiltrates in bronchial biopsies and circulating markers of systemic inflammation were measured during follow up at 3, 6 and 12 months. Results: Bariatric surgery resulted in a profound weight loss at 12 months. In the BS+A group as well as the BS-A group FEV1, functional residual capacity, total lung capacity improved, whereas FEV1/FVC only improved in the BS-A group. In addition, Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ), Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire, inhaled corticosteroid use and PD20 improved in BS+A, whereas in the NBS+A group only ACQ improved. Small airway function R5-R20 improved in both surgery groups, however the change in the BS+A group was greater, resulting in a comparable R5-R20 between BS+A and BS-A at 12 month follow-up. Besides improvement of systemic inflammation (hs-CRP, adiponectin and leptin) after BS, only a decrease in mast cell numbers was detectable in the BS+A group. Conclusions: Bariatric surgery improved small airway function, decreased systemic inflammation and number of mast cells in the airways. These effects could explain the improvement of asthma control, quality of life and lung function. Therefore bariatric surgery, in addition to all other positive effects, also improves asthma in subjects with morbid obesity. Effect of bariatric surgery on asthma 109
Predicting Growing Stock Volume of Eucalyptus Plantations Using 3-D Point Clouds Derived from UAV Imagery and ALS Data

Estimating forest inventory variables is important in monitoring forest resources and mitigating climate change. In this respect, forest managers require flexible, non-destructive methods for estimating volume and biomass. High-resolution and low-cost remote sensing data are increasingly available to measure three-dimensional (3D) canopy structure and to model forest structural attributes. The main objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the individual tree volume estimates derived from high-density point clouds obtained from airborne laser scanning (ALS) and digital aerial photogrammetry (DAP) in Eucalyptus spp. plantations. Object-based image analysis (OBIA) techniques were applied for individual tree crown (ITC) delineation. The ITC algorithm applied correctly detected and delineated 199 trees from ALS-derived data, while 192 trees were correctly identified using DAP-based point clouds acquired from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), representing accuracy levels of respectively 62% and 60%. Addressing volume modelling, non-linear regression fit based on individual tree height and individual crown area derived from the ITC provided the following results: Model Efficiency (Mef) = 0.43 and 0.46, Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) = 0.030 m3 and 0.026 m3, rRMSE = 20.31% and 19.97%, and an approximately unbiased results (0.025 m3 and 0.0004 m3) using DAP and ALS-based estimations, respectively. No significant difference was found between the observed value (field data) and volume estimation from ALS and DAP (p-value from t-test statistic = 0.99 and 0.98, respectively). The proposed approaches could also be used to estimate basal area or biomass stocks in Eucalyptus spp. plantations.