Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Advances in audio and speech signal processing : technologies and applications

Audio and speech processing have achieved important status in development in the last three decades, improving the standard of living of many people. Regarding these applications, several signal processing algorithms have been developed to assist the speech impaired and improve the learning ability of children. "Advances in Audio and Speech Signal Processing: Technologies and Applications" provides a comprehensive approach of signal processing tools regarding the enhancement, recognition, and protection of speech and audio signals. "Advances in Audio and Speech Signal Processing: Technologies and Applications" offers researchers and practitioners the information they need to develop and implement efficient signal processing algorithms in the enhancement field.
International Journal of Advance Research in Computer Science and Management Studies

To establish identity of an individual is becoming critical in our heavy interconnected society. The need for reliable user authentication techniques has increased heightened concerns about security and rapid developments in networking, communication, and mobility. Biometrics, described as the science of recognizing an individual or the person based on his or her physical or behavioral traits. Biometric technologies are crucial components of secure personal identification and verification systems and today beginning to gain acceptance as a legal step for determining an individual’s identity. Biometric systems have now been deployed in various commercial, civilian and forensic applications sectors as a means of establishing identity helping to protect information and automate transaction in information technology. In this chapter, an overview of biometrics and some issues are addressed for making biometric technology an effective tool for providing information security which includes examining applications where biometrics serves as a focal point to solve issues pertaining to development, testing, evaluation and application of biometric based personal identification and verification technology. Information security, enumerating the fundamental challenges encountered by biometric systems in real world applications and solutions to address the scalability and security in large scale authentication system are the issues in today’s ever concerned world.
Graphics Processing Unit acceleration of a memetic algorithm for the Examination Timetabling Problem

In this paper, we present experimental results from the use of Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) as an accelerator for the solution of the uncapacitated examination timetabling problem (uETP). To test the implementation of the proposed algorithm we use the Toronto datasets as the benchmark set. Details about the uETP problem, the datasets and solution methods can be found in the survey by Qu et al. [1]. GPU implementations of genetic algorithms have performed signican t speedups in other application domains [2],[3]. In this work, we use a simple memetic algorithm as the goal of our study was to demonstrate the acceleration possibilities of the GPUs in conjunction with simple algorithmic implementation. We use an array of integers for the direct representation of chromosomes where each cell represents an examination and the corresponding value represents the time slot the examination should be scheduled. For the local search optimization of individual candidate solutions we selected the steepest descend algorithm although it is relative simple to extend the implementation to use more advanced meta-heuristics.
Structural and Functional Predicate Coverage Testing

Predicate testing, also known as (branch) condition testing, is most often filed under structural (white box) test case design techniques. Nevertheless, contract-based specification techniques allow for adapting classical predicate testing as a functional (black box) design technique on the class resp. component test level, too. In this paper we discuss various predicate testing coverage criteria known from the literature, adapt them for functional test case design focusing on “design by contract” specifications, and report on a tool supporting both structural and functional predicate coverage testing for Java programs with OCL specifications for invariants and pre-and postconditions.
THE KINEMATIC VARIATIONS BETWEEN BATSMEN AND FAST BOWLERS WHEN COMPLETING A QUICK SINGLE IN CRICKET

The introduction of the shorter match formats in cricket (i.e. Twenty20 cricket) has led to a greater emphasis placed upon the successful performance of a quick single in match play. Therefore, the study aim was to investigate the kinematic variables between batsmen and fast bowlers when completing a quick single. Eighteen male cricketers completed 17.68-meter (m) sprints utilizing a match-specific start (walking start, bat dragged through crease and leg guards worn). Timing gates recorded 0-5 and 0-17.68 m time. Joint and step kinematics were analyzed through the first and second steps via motion analysis. Participants were split into batsmen and fast bowler groups based on their primary role within a team. A one-way analysis of variance determined significant (p< 0.05) differences between the batsmen and fast bowler groups. Effect sizes (Cohen’s d) were also calculated. Selected between-group kinematic differences were found. Fast bowlers had a significantly greater non-dominant elbow flexion, and second step swing leg ankle dorsi flexion. The requirements of fast bowling may have resulted in a cross-training effect, as increased range of motion in the bowling arm, and increased dorsi flexion on front and back foot landing, is associated with fast bowling technique. Nevertheless, there were no differences between the groups regarding quick single sprint performance. All cricket players should be proficient in the mechanisms of quick single sprint acceleration, regardless of their primary role in the team.
RoboSina 2005 Team Description

A method, article of manufacture and apparatus for executing a browser program to collect and store electronic mail addresses is provided. More particularly, the browser program, when executed, accesses an electronic document containing at least one electronic mail address. The electronic document is then parsed to identify the electronic mail address or addresses, and the electronic mail address or addresses are stored.
Part two : reflections on the sequel

What do "Paradise Regained" and Terminator 2 have in common? They are both sequels, both chronological extensions of narratives that were originally envisioned as closed and complete works. "Part Two" explores the phenomenon of secondary narrative by studying the conditions that determine its production and reception. The volume encompasses works of poetry, drama, prose, and films, moving from Homer to Hollywood. Each piece is grounded in a specific genre or period and while engaging a broader historical or theoretical perspective.
Preexercise strategies: the effects of warm-up, stretching, and massage on symptoms of eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage and performance

Preexercise activity is performed with an expectation to reduce the risk of eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage and enhance performance. There is a lack of information on what type of preexercise activity can benefit both eccentric exerciseinduced muscle damage prevention and performance enhancement. Therefore, the aim of the thesis studies was to examine the effects of preexercise activities (warm-up, stretching, and massage) on passive stiffness and the symptoms of eccentric exerciseinduced muscle damage, and leg stiffness and jumping and sprinting performance. To investigate the effects of preexercise activities on passive stiffness and the symptoms of muscle damage (Study A), thirty healthy adult males were randomly assigned into one of three groups: warm-up, stretching, or massage intervention. On Day 1, measurements (stiffness, range of motion, maximum voluntary isometric strength, and soreness) were taken before and after each intervention. On Day 2 the same procedure was repeated but with the addition of a bout of eccentric exercise immediately after the interventions. On each of Days 3-5 all measures were assessed once. Mean changes in the measures from the baseline were expressed as effect sizes (ES, fractions of baseline between-subject standard deviations). The threshold for a substantial ES was 0.20. Warm-up showed an immediate small effect in reducing stiffness (ES -0.49, 90% confidence limits ±0.26) compared to the baseline. Strength and flexion range of motion decreased immediately after eccentric exercise with all three interventions, but the decrease was least with warm-up (-0.38 ±0.32 and -0.88 ±0.67 for strength and range of motion, respectively). By Day 5, all measures returned to baseline in the warm-up group, whereas the stretching and massage groups still showed substantial negative effects. Therefore, warm-up was the best intervention for reducing passive stiffness and functional loss from eccentric exercise. To investigate the effects of preexercise activities on leg stiffness and jumping and sprinting performance (Study B), twelve healthy adult males with no musculoskeletal problems were randomised into one of the three interventions on Day 1 and performed each intervention on each day over three weeks. The warm-up group ran at a selfselected speed for five minutes. The stretching group performed dynamic stretching exercises on their legs as demonstrated to them by a qualified sports scientist. The
Distributed model predictive control for consensus of sampled-data multi-agent systems with double-integrator dynamics

This study proposes a distributed model predictive control (MPC) strategy to achieve consensus of sampled-data multi-agent systems with double-integrator dynamics. On the basis of the error of state between each agent and the centre of its subsystem, a novel distributed MPC strategy (Algorithm 1) is obtained with the exchange of current states only. Then, a reverse iterative algorithm (Algorithm 2) is specially designed for the receding horizon optimisation of sampled-data double-integrator dynamics. Illustrative examples are finally displayed to verify the effectiveness and advantage of the distributed MPC consensus strategy and the impact of sampling period on consensus.
SYMPOSIUM: RENAL ASPECTS OF CARDIOVASCULAR PHARMACOTHERAPY Treatment of Hypertension in Patients with Renal Disease

Summary. Management of hypertension in people with kidney disease is challenging and generally requires at least three different and complementary acting antihypertensive agents to achieve the recommended blood pressure goal by the JNC VI and WHO guidelines of <130/85 mmHg. This is also true for the recent blood pressure goal for diabetes of <130/80 mmHg recommended by both the National Kidney Foundation and American Diabetes Association for reduction of cardiovascular risk and preservation of kidney function. Commonly used combinations include an ACE inhibitor, which has compelling indications for use in people with kidney disease with a diuretic, generally a thiazide type agent. Angiotensin receptor blockers have clearly shown effectiveness for slowing nephropathy progression in Type 2 diabetes and clearly have a role as first-line agents in that disease. If additional therapy is required, either a beta blocker or calcium antagonist may be added to this antihypertensive ‘cocktail’. Beta blockers are particularly effective in people with a high sympathetic drive, i.e. high pulse rates, to lower pressure and reduce cardiovascular risk. Moreover, in recent studies their benefits on kidney function both by reducing proteinuria and slowing decline of kidney function make them good agents to add in the appropriate clinical setting. Given recent data from an analysis of the NHANES III database showing only 11% of people being treated for hypertension with diabetic kidney disease have achieved the blood pressure goal of <130/85 mmHg, it’s no wonder the incidence of people starting dialysis continues to climb. Physicians need to work harder and educate patients on the importance of achieving these lower blood pressure guidelines.
Traumatic brain-and-spine injury mechanics supported by the Crash Simulator Toolbox

Recently, the first author has proposed a new coupled-loading-rate hypothesis as a unique cause of both brain and spinal injuries, which states that they are both caused by a Euclidean jolt, an impulsive loading that strikes head and spine (or, any other part of the human body)- in several coupled degrees-of-freedom simultaneously. Injury never happens in a single direction only, nor is it ever caused by a static force. It is always an impulsive translational plus rotational force. The Euclidean jolt causes two basic forms of brain, spine and other musculo-skeletal injuries: (i) localized translational dislocations; and (ii) localized rotational disclinations. In the present paper, we first review this unique mechanics of a general human mechanical neuro-musculo-skeletal injury, and then describe how it can be predicted and controlled by the new crash simulator toolbox. This rigorous Matlab toolbox has been developed using an existing third-party toolbox DiffMan, for accurately solving differential equations on smooth manifolds and mechanical Lie groups. The present crash simulator toolbox performs prediction and control of brain and spinal injuries within the framework of the Euclidean group SE(3) of general rigid body motions.
Implementing an iterative reconstruction algorithm for digital breast tomosynthesis on graphics processing hardware

The Maximum Likelihood Expectation Maximization (MLEM) algorithm has been shown to produce the highest quality Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) images. MLEM, however, is computationally intensive. Single-processor image reconstruction times for each breast were on the order of several hours. In order for DBT to be clinically useful, faster reconstruction times using cost-effective software/hardware solutions are needed. We have implemented the MLEM reconstruction algorithm for use with DBT on a graphics processing unit (GPU). Compared to a single optimized 2.8GHz Pentium system this enabled a 113-fold speedup in processing time, while maintaining high image quality. Subsequently, we added various additional processing steps to the reconstruction algorithm in order to improve image quality and diagnostic properties. Since the performance of commercial GPUs increases rapidly, with little change in cost, the increased sophistication in processing does not entail an increase in system cost. The use of GPUs for reconstruction represents a technical breakthrough in the cost-effective application of MLEM to Digital Breast Tomosynthesis.
An overview on urinary tract infections and effective natural remedies

Urinary tract infections are the most commonly occurred disease in male and females in 1:8 ratio. It affects people throughout their lifespan. UTIs are caused by pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis and fungi Candida albicans. Antibiotics can be used to treat UTIs but it is not the proper solution. The use of antibiotics kills beneficial bacteria; which are critical components of an optimally functioning immune system. High rate of antibiotics use increase resistant bacterial strains and decreases antibiotic efficiency. Hence it is advised to use antibiotics judiciously. Antimicrobial agents of nature act as affordable and safe alternative remedy to treat UTIs without increasing the risk of antibiotic resistance. Therefore the present study describes the effective natural remedies to treat UTIs.
THE ANATOMY OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM OF OCTOPUS VULGARIS

times laboured, presumably the result of adding an anatomist to the previous team of authors. Thus in the middle of a description of the removal of a temporal epidural haematoma the anatomy of the middle meningeal artery is introduced, complete with its ganglionic branch and the superior tympanic artery, which really have absolutely no relevance to this vital emergency operation. The preface indicates that the surgery of trauma is particularly stressed, so it is perhaps fair to judge the book by such operations. In describing epidural haematoma no reference is made to diagnostic difficulties arising from haematomas in sites other than the classical temporal one; the term subtemporal decompression is used where most would now talk of craniectomy and we are told that in the experience of the authors half the patients have a bone flap turned and half have a craniectomy. Surely this depends more on local policy than on an absolute need to do one kind of operation or another. The size of the craniectomy is described as that of a silver dollar, which I am assured even American readers may not be wholly familiar with. A lot of words are wasted on statements of the obvious or else permissive instructionsa bone flap of adequate size should be turned, a drain mnay be left in, the dura may be repaired (my italics). Books on operative surgery depend heavily on their pictures and this one has the novel idea of using line diagrams, described as multiple action and multiple plane pictures. As they are on ordinary nongloss paper they could have been distributed at will throughout the text but in fact they are grouped on right-hand pages. Some are clear and helpful but others are crowded too close together and the loss of perspective also makes for difficulties. The legends are difficult to relate to the right part of the picture and it would be wise, before another edition, to pass every page of illustrations to a potential reader and take note of any difficulties he has in interpretation; few of us would dare write anything without inviting scrutiny from an unbiased critic. If this were done and the text balanced up regarding the common versus the rare and the historical versus the practical, this might become a very interesting and effective book.
Defining acute myocardial infarction

The definition of myocardial infarction (MI) has evolved over the last decades, from rather simple criteriain the first World Health Organization documents, to a five-category classification in the 2007 and 2012universal definitions. In particular, the introduction of sensitive and cardiospecific biomarkers in clinicalpractice has had a clear impact in this regard, as well as a more differentiated perspective on thepathophysiology of myocardial injury, in particular in the setting of invasive coronary procedures. Theimplications of the revisions of the definition criteria of MI have been important as they have affected ourperception of MI as a disease state. In addition, they have contributed to an improved identification ofat-risk patients warranting customized treatment regimens. However, several aspects of the definitioncriteria of MI are still debated and will likely be subject to modifications in forthcoming updates of theuniversal definition.
RÉDUCTION OF THE DIMENSION FOR FINANCIAL TIME SERIES FORECASTING - APPLICATION TO THE BEL 20 MARKET INDEX

Prediction of financial time series using artificial neural networks has been the subject of many publications, even if the predictability of financial series remains a subject of scientific debate in the financial literature. Facing this difficulty, analysts often consider a large number of exogenous indicators, which makes the fitting of neural networks extremely difficult. In this paper, we analyze how to aggregate a large number of indicators in a smaller number using -possibly nonlinear- projection methods. As the use of nonlinear projection tools involves the tuning of several coefficients, the core of this work is the development of a sound methodology to adjust these parameters, based on objective criteria. Several of these criteria are presented, and used in appropriated circumstances. Nonlinear projection methods are shown to be equivalent to the linear Principal Component Analysis when the prediction tool used on the new variables is linear. Furthermore, the computation of the nonlinear projection gives an objective way to evaluate the number of resulting indicators needed for the prediction. Finally, the advantages of nonlinear projection could be further exploited by using a subsequent nonlinear prediction model. It is also shown that the use of the determination coefficient is dangerous in the specific case of financial predictions. The methodology developed in the paper is validated on data from the BEL20 market index, using systematic cross-validation results. The application of this methodology on the BEL20 Market Index shows that comparable results are obtained when using a linear projection method or a non-linear one, when a subsequent linear prediction tool is used. The advantage of the methodology presented here is that it automatically evaluates the number of new variables that must be kept after projection, in order to keep the necessary and relevant information needed for the prediction. Finally, the advantages of a nonlinear projection could be further exploited by using a subsequent nonlinear prediction tool, even if the results would be more difficult to illustrate because of the inherent difficulties of nonlinear predictors.
Adaptation cognitive a un environnement virtuel, lors de premieres immersions

Cette recherche vise a mettre en evidence le mode d'adaptation cognitive que l'individu va choisir, lors d'une premiere immersion dans un environnement virtuel. Pour poser une hypothese, une analyse de la structure d'un environnement virtuel a ete realisee. Elle indique qu'un contexte de ce type constitue un monde de symboles. Aussi, a la lumiere de theories qui envisagent une interaction entre les mecanismes de l'adaptation immediate et ceux acquis durant l'ontogenese, nous faisons l'hypothese que les sujets pour la premiere fois immerges, activeront des schemes symboliques archaiques comme reponses adaptatives au virtuel. Au niveau experimental, l'influence de l'environnement virtuel sur la cognition et la mise en oeuvre de schemes symboliques apparaissent dans les resultats. De plus, la mise a l'epreuve de la rationalite des sujets indique qu'une part importante, de sujets adultes raisonnent de maniere preoperatoire, dans le virtuel.
Umsetzung und Optimierung robotischer Hüpfbewegungen mit bio-inspirierter Virtual Model Control

Biological inspired templates can help to control complex robotic movements. In this thesis a control strategy, enabling hopping motions of a segmented robotic leg, is developed. The control bases on the spring loaded inverse pendulum (SLIP) model, which can describe the courses of displacement of the center of mass and the ground reaction force during human or animal hopping motions. To use this template as a calculation model for desired control values a method called virtual model control (VMC) is used. VMC implements virtual components in real structures to design a desired behavior. Existing actuators of the real system are controlled in a manner to mimic the effects, the virtual components would have on the system. The virtual component used in this work is a spring with certain properties. Like in the role model, the SLIP template, the spring is virtually attached between hip and foot of the robotic leg. The knee is the only actuated part of the structure. Through the control of the knee torque the effects of the virtual spring are mimicked. The used test-bed necessitates it to adjust the developed control laws for the compensation of losses. Different methods for the calculation of a variable virtual spring stiffness have been developed, resulting in stable hopping motions of the robotic leg in the used test-bed. The resulting control strategy does not need a feedback loop of the controlled parameter and is therefore a kind of a feed-forward approach. The possibility of an overlaid force-feedback control has been examined and the limits of this method have been estimated.