Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Accuracy Comparison using Different Modeling Techniques under Limited Speech Data of Speaker Recognition Systems

Pointing towards programmed machine learning by human, a technique for speaker recognition with speaker identity in light of man machine interface is an interest of science. Motivated by the same, we propose a philosophy to recognize speakers. Inside of our investigation, obtaining speech signal, analysis of spectrogram, neutralization, extraction of speaker specific features for recognition, mapping of speech using Novel Vector Quantization (NFVQ) is presented. NFVQ is particularly suitable for colossal arrangement of information and yield discourse mapping. Furthermore Speaker Recognition by utilizing NFVQ Model additionally will be exhibited in this paper. During feature extraction, traditional triangular shaped bins have been replaced by Gaussian shaped filter (GF) and Tukey filter (TF) to calculate Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCC). This work performs an experimental evaluation of three simple modelling techniques namely, Fuzzy c-means, FVQ2 and NFVQ. Among these NFVQ shows significant improved performance compared to Fuzzy c-means and FVQ2. For about 10 s of training and testing speech data of speakers the efficiency for NFVQ, FVQ2 and Fuzzy c-means are 98.8%, 73.33, and 8, respectively, for a set of 630 speakers taken from the TIMIT database. We additionally got 5% outright EER change for both-sex trials on the 10 s-10 s condition contrasted with the FVQ2 approach.
Unraveling Resistance Mechanisms against New Antimicrobials Using Transposon Mutagenesis

Transposon mutagenesis historically has been an invaluable tool for the discovery of bacterial gene functions and for the identification of numerous cell processes, including those related to bacterial virulence and pathogenesis. This review discusses the role of transposition in the emergent research field of identifying genes involved in the mechanisms of resistance to antivirulence compounds, biofilm inhibitors, and non-redox iron analogs.
Carbonic Anhydrase: An Efficient Enzyme with Possible Global Implications

As the global atmospheric emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases continue to grow to record-setting levels, so do the demands for an efficient and inexpensive carbon sequestration system. Concurrently, the first-world dependence on crude oil and natural gas provokes concerns for long-term availability and emphasizes the need for alternative fuel sources. At the forefront of both of these research areas are a family of enzymes known as the carbonic anhydrases (CAs), which reversibly catalyze the hydration of CO2 into bicarbonate. CAs are among the fastest enzymes known, which have a maximum catalytic efficiency approaching the diffusion limit of 108 M−1s−1. As such, CAs are being utilized in various industrial and research settings to help lower CO2 atmospheric emissions and promote biofuel production. This review will highlight some of the recent accomplishments in these areas along with a discussion on their current limitations.
Mechanical Properties Evaluation of Ti-6Al-4V Thin-Wall Structure Produced by a Hybrid Manufacturing Process

The hybrid manufacturing (HM) process combines the precision of computer numerical control (CNC) and the freeform capability of additive manufacturing to expand the versatility of advanced manufacturing. The intent of this paper is to explore the relationship between HM processing parameters and mechanical properties of the final parts manufactured by one type of HM process that combines laser metal deposition (LMD) and CNC milling. The design of experiment (DOE) is implemented to explore the Ti-6Al-4V thin-wall structure fabrication process with different HM build strategies. Vickers hardness, tensile test, and microstructure analyses are conducted to evaluate the mechanical property variance within the final parts fabricated according to the DOE matrix. Finally, a prediction model of yield strength at 0.2% offset for Ti-6Al-4V parts built through the aforementioned HM process was obtained by an analysis of variance (ANOVA) test, which revealed the significant factors are build height within each LMD process, laser energy input, and the interaction of build height within each LMD process to the preheating condition.
From “Chastity As a Gift” to “Doing It As a Sign of Love”

This study aims to analyze the media discourse about feminine sexuality produced by Portuguese magazines. Texts about female sexuality published in six types of magazines between 1965 and 2006 were content analyzed. The results showed that Portuguese media’s discourse on sexuality is not only becoming more liberal but is also characterized by ambiguity and contradiction. Within a “progressive” discursive framework for sexuality, tensions and double standards for women are still noticeable. The media discourse in Portugal continues to reinforce the established gender hierarchy and inequality in heterosexual relationships and maintain traditional gender roles.
Trust as Moderating Variable in the Relationship between Fairness Perceptions and Voluntary Tax Compliance in Nigeria : A Theoretical Framework

Article history: Received 6 August 2017 Received in revised form 29 January 2018 Accepted 1 February 2018 Available online 21 February 2018 This paper presents a theoretical framework on the moderating effect of trust in the relationship between fairness perception and voluntary tax compliance in Nigeria. The variables proposed under examination are fairness perceptions; trust in authority and voluntary tax compliance. If validated the model would have significance important policy implications to the Nigerian government and other stakeholders. The model would also serve as a basis for reference to other researchers willing to undertake study in the same area.
Political Institutions and the Incidence of FDI in South Asia

This paper attempts to empirically analyse the potential effect of political institutions on the inward foreign direct investments (FDIs) in five developing nations from South Asia, namely, Pakistan, Nepal, India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Making FDI implies committing resources for a long time in the host economy. Therefore, availability of stable political institutions is one of the essential foreign location requisites for the multinationals’ operations. Analysing annual aggregate data for years 1970 to 2009 through random effect panel estimation technique it is found that institutional indicators which count the most for foreign direct investors in SAARC nations are democratic accountability, absence of military and religious influences in politics, corruption-free and honest public office holders, and efficient bureaucracy. The results clearly indicate that changes in institutional variables do not make a significant positive impact on inward FDIs when aggregate measures of political institutional efficiency are employed. However, when these collective measures are disaggregated to a more clearly focused set of factors, their increased effectiveness significantly leads to additional FDI inflows. These results suggest that the findings are robust to alternative proxies of institutional strength, but sensitive to using catch-all composite measures of institutions
Feature extraction of weld groove image based on laser vision

Xueqin Lü*, Dongxia Gu, Yudong Wang, Yan Qu, Chao Qin, Fuzhen Huang School of Automation Engineering, Shanghai University of Electric Power, Shanghai 200090, China * Xueqin Lü, lvxueqin@shiep.edu. cn, +86-021-35303136 Abstract: This paper addresses the feature extraction algorithm of the weld groove image for a welding robot system. The purpose is to improve the speed and the precision of the weld seam recognition. The acquisition of the weld image is a complex process, and consequently, it will be disturbed by a lot of noise. Specific methods must be used to process images. In this work, the seam images with laser stripe under different types of groove are captured. After an analysis of the common methods in laser stripe center extraction, ridge line tracking and direction template, which have not only excellent performance in the aspect of consuming time, but also considerable line detection accuracy that agrees with the industrial application requirement well, are applied in the center extraction of stripe-shaped images. On the basis of the central line, the least square method based on the slope analysis method is used to detect the features of the weld groove image. Results of the validation are presented to demonstrate the accuracy of feature extraction. In addition, compared with the running time 212.708ms of the direction template, the operation time of this paper is improved to 22ms, which can meet the requirement of real time.
METAEVALUATION AS A TOOL FOR THE IMPROVEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE EVALUATION FUNCTION IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATIONS

Nowadays, in most European countries, evaluations are becoming a reality, so that there is a certain increase on empirical references of evaluation experiences in different policy fields. However, most of these experiences have not been already studied in a systematic way. In other words, there are very few investigations which have the evaluations that are being done in a concrete field as their main object of study. Doing metaevaluations can be an original approach for these kinds of studies. A metaevaluation is defined here as the systematic gathering, analysis and assessment of a pre-determined set of evaluation processes. Thus, the (meta)evaluation can be a useful tool for the best understanding and improvement of the evaluation function around a concrete policy sector.
speciation in poison frogs Aposematism increases acoustic diversification and Supplementary data tml

Supplementary data tml http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing. org/content/suppl/2014/10/15/rspb.2014. 1761.DC1. h "Data Supplement" References http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing. org/content/281/1796/20141761.full. html#ref-list-1 This article cites 39 articles, 9 of which can be accessed free Subject collections (201 articles) taxonomy and systematics  (1919 articles) evolution  (1240 articles) behaviour  Articles on similar topics can be found in the following collections
Power-Efficient Design for Secure SWIPT Relaying Systems

A model in wireless communication systems which is called energy harvesting makes it possible for batteries of terminals being recharged by environmental energy resources. This model could be applied in wireless power transfer where the resources are electromagnetic radiation. Recently, an arising scenario where simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT) are performed is currently becoming challenging and attractive. Although SWIPT is able to extend the life-span of wireless terminals as a feasible alternative to traditional energy harvesting methods, there still exists some issues due to the characteristics of radio frequency such as the power efficiency of the whole system and some worries about the security. In this report, an introduction of SWIPT Relaying systems will be provided in which the power efficiency and the security will be focused mainly. To ensure a power-efficient and secure system, a system mode will be proposed then. Aiming at this mode, there is a problem formulation. And this non-convex problem could be converted into a convex optimization problem by SDP relaxation so that it can be figured out quickly and efficiently. In the end, simulation results are presented as well as the performance.
Bulk behavior of ball milled AA2124 nanostructured powders reinforced with TiC

In the current research work, a top-down approach was employed for the refinement of a micron scale AA2124 alloy powder 40 µm in average size using high-energy ball milling up to 60 hours. The produced nanopowders were investigated compared to the micron gas atomized powder both in the monolithic and the reinforced composite states. 1 µm powder of TiC with internal structure <100nm was used for the reinforcement of the 2124-Al matrices. Milling time of 36 hours produced a <100nm nanopowders with internal structure size <20 nm. The nanopowder monolithic consolidates exhibited compressive strength of 388MPa compared to 313MPa for micronpowder one. Addition of TiC nanostructured powder to the nanopowder consolidated matrix resulted in increase of 130% in compressive strength compared to that produced for the microscale one. Nanopowder of Alalloys produced by mechanical milling reinforced with 10wt% TiC is recommended for products suitable for high wear and erosion resistance applications. Peak aging increased the hardness and compressive strength of the as compacted micronpowder matrices by an average of 188% and 123%, while increased that of the nanopowder matrices by an average of 110% and 117%, respectively.
Home automation as an example of construction innovation

Home automation can contribute to the health of (older) adults. Home automation covers a broad field of ‘intelligent’ electronic or mechanical devices in the home (domestic) environment. Realizing home automation is technically possible, though still not common. In this paper main influential factors for home-automation diffusion are identified by applying innovation management theory to this specific domain. An innovation is defined as an idea, practice, or object that is perceived as new by an individual or other ‘unit of adoption’. For home automation, three units of adoption are involved: the user, the health professional and the building specifier. User adoption of home automation is influenced by its (i) relative advantage, (ii) compatibility, and (iii) complexity. Known influential factors for home-automation diffusion are age and health of the user and home-automation’s contribution to either independence and autonomy, or safety of older users, as well as convenience and comfort of younger users. However, user and innovation characteristics often do not match. Adoption by health professionals might be influenced by the absorptive capacity and technophobia of care organisations, number of stakeholders, and financial structure within the care sector. Adoption decisions of building specifiers might benefit from learning capacity, innovativeness, and absorptive capacity of the company, and will be hampered by the building industries fragmentation and short term orientation as is known for the adoption of sustainable construction products. The influential factors mentioned for health professionals and building specifiers still lack sufficient empirical support. To have home automation adopted and diffused we need to develop tools to assess home-automation functionality for all units of adoption during its design
VALIDATION OF GOCE GRAVITY FIELD MODELS BY ASTROGEODETIC VERTICAL DEFLECTIONS IN GERMANY

The validation of GOCE products is one of the main objectives within the framework of the German REAL GOCE project. Within the work package “GOCE Cal/Val, Quasigeoid and Height System”, global gravity field models are evaluated by various terrestrial data sets in Germany. In this contribution, the focus is on the evaluation of global gravity field models by means of astrogeodetic vertical deflections observed with the digital transportable zenith camera system TZK2-D in Germany. The terrestrial data set comprises approx. 300 vertical deflections along a North-South and a West-East profile. Regarding accuracy (standard deviation of 0.1"), dimension (profile lengths of 500 km) and resolution (station spacings of 2.5 to 5 km), the astrogeodetic vertical deflections are well applicable for a spot check of global gravity field models. In connection with a multistage filtering process, accounting for the different spectral content of the different data sets, the comparisons are performed, meeting the accuracy requirements of the GOCE mission. The analyses are carried out with actual global gravity field models from GOCE data, GRACE data and from combination solutions of GOCE and GRACE as well as from GRACE and terrestrial data. The first generation of GOCE models, based on an observation period of approx. 2 months, already reveal a considerable improvement within the spectral range between degree and order 150 and 180 over the GRACE models. For the second generation GOCE models, based on a longer observation period of approx. 8 months, a further significant improvement within the spectral range up to degree and order 224 can be stated. For higher degrees up to 250, however, the quality of the GOCE models still degrades with respect to the combined models from GRACE and terrestrial data.
Prevalence of pathogenic and antibiotics resistant Escherichia coli from effluents of a slaughterhouse and a municipal wastewater treatment plant in Dakar

The aim of this study was to detect and characterize pathogenic and antibiotic resistant Escherichia coli isolated from slaughterhouse wastewater and the effluents of a municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Dakar, Senegal. Genetic markers associated with enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) and extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli (ExPEC) were screened in 268 E. coli isolates from slaughterhouse and 272 E. coli isolates from WWTP. Concerning antimicrobial resistance, 40 E. coli isolates were studied for each of the two sampling sites. None of the E. coli isolates harboring the genes associated with EHEC was detected in WWTP. Of the 13 tested virulence genes, fuyA and f17 were the most prevalent. The pathogenic and resistant E. coli was found in the raw wastewater and the influent of slaughterhouse. The final rejection used for urban gardening, including the watering of vegetables does not contain E. coli. These results showed that, after treatment, the sanitation risks associated with the reuse water from WWTP were low.
Agricultural tractor cabin evaluation from users’ perspective

Several ergonomic studies have shown that operators are more productive when their work environment is designed for the best human performance. Ergonomic requirements are issued in various standards and EU directives and need to be met by tractor manufactures. Among those, ISO 9241 defines usability as the effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction with which users achieve specified goals in a particular context. The aspect of satisfaction in use is the most difficult to investigate as it is based on the evaluation of comfort and acceptability of the system by its users. Indeed, comfort is a subjective construct, requiring operators’ direct involvement. The objective of this study was to evaluate tractors cabin comfort focusing on operators’ perspective. Twenty tractor operators completed a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview after performing a series of tasks on an agricultural medium power tractor. Operators’ opinions on ease of accessing the seat and the cabin, ease of exiting the cabin, concentration required in tasks execution, ease of locating and operating the controls, noise and visibility were collected. Results showed the need of improvements in different design aspects. Indeed, elements of bad ergonomic design were identified (e.g. some controls of the control panel did not match operators’ task mental model).
Climatic Risk Analysis in Horticulture - a Methodological Approach in Hungary

Experts of risk analysis aim to help decisions with efficient information. The decision itself is not included in their duties; nevertheless, they are responsible for confronting the decision makers with the expected consequences of their decisions. To this high standard data gained by modelling or monitoring are needed. Most of them have not yet been collected and integrated in a unique data system. One of the aims of this paper is to call the attention to the importance of common data management and joint research projects between different disciplines with a methodical summary.
The macroeconomic determinants of technological progress in Nigeria

This study empirically examines the macroeconomic determinants of technological progress (total factor productivity) in Nigeria that is consistent with the endogenous growth theory. The estimations are carried out with time-series data from 1970 to 2006 using the Johansen estimation techniques. The study is distinct from most of the existing literature since it made an attempt in generating a time-varying technological progress. It employs the Kalman filter technique to determine the evolution of the Solow residual estimated from a Cobb-Douglas production function. The results conform to the existing literature that macroeconomic instability, the level of financial development, and the level of human development are highly significant determinants of technological progress in Nigeria.
Productivity decompositions: Computation and inference

This paper shows how a moment-based estimation procedure can be used to compute point estimates and obtain standard errors for the two components of the productivity decomposition proposed by G. S. Olley and A. Pakes (The Dynamics of Productivity in the Telecommunications Equipment Industry, Econometrica, Vol. 64, No. 6, Nov. 1996). When applied to business-level microdata, the procedure allows for panel-robust inference and hypothesis testing about, e.g., the coevolution of the productivity components in different groups of firms. We provide an application to Finnish firm-level data and find that formal statistical inference is important for the interpretation of productivity dynamics and its sources. JEL Classification: C10, O47.
Mining of Resistance Gene Analogues for Anthracnose Disease in Greater Yam ( Dioscorea alata L.)

Nucleotide-binding site- leucine-rich repeat (NBS- LRR) gene family holds the vast majority of resistance genes identified in plants. Primers based on the conserved motifs were used to isolate NBS type sequences in tolerant and susceptible greater yam ( Dioscorea alata ) cultivars. Cloning and sequencing of identified NBS-type sequences called resistance gene analogues (RGAs) depicted similarity to other cloned RGA sequences available in the public database. The deduced amino acid sequences of the RGAs showed the presence of conserved domains, viz. P-loop, RNBS-B, RNBS-C, Kinase-2 and GLPL, categorising them with the NBS–LRR class gene family. Amino acid sequence alignment of the Dioscorea RGAs with RGAs of other plant species grouped them with the non-toll interleukin receptor subclasses of the NBS sequences. The sequence comparison of RGAs in susceptible and tolerant variety showed very little difference between them. This study represents the first report of isolation and characterisation of RGAs from Dioscorea alata and will act as a stepping stone for future studies aiming at identifying candidate anthracnose resistance genes in Dioscorea spp.
An iterative procedure for calculating minimum generalised cross validation smoothing splines

This study analyses a simple iterative procedure for estimating minimum generalised cross-validation (GCV) univariate smoothing splines. The results provide guidelines for the development of a similar methodology to estimate minimum GCV bivariate thin plate smoothing splines. The methodology is based on the techniques described in Hutchinson [ ANZIAM J , 42(E):C774--C796, 2000], which uses nested grid SOR iterative methods in order to solve finite element thin plate smoothing spline systems efficiently for large data sets. The method also uses the stochastic approximation to the GCV developed by Hutchinson [ Commun. Stats --- Sim. and Comp. , 18:1059--1076, 1989]. A double iteration is used to produce increasingly accurate estimates of the minimum GCV smoothing parameter and the smoothing spline. First and second derivatives of the GCV with respect to the smoothing parameter are used to update the smoothing parameter. Convergence of the SOR iteration is improved significantly by correcting the solution estimate after each smoothing parameter update using the estimate of the derivative of the solution with respect to the smoothing parameter.