Abstract: Unified Speech Audio Coding (USAC), the latest MPEG standardization for unified speech and audio coding, uses a speech/audio classification algorithm to distinguish speech and audio segments of the input signal. The quality of the recovered audio can be increased by well-designed orchestra/percussion classification and subsequent processing. However, owing to the shortcoming of the system, introducing an orchestra/percussion classification and modifying subsequent processing can enormously increase the quality of the recovered audio. This paper proposes an orchestra/percussion classification algorithm for the USAC system which only extracts 3 scales of Mel-Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCCs) rather than traditional 13 scales of MFCCs and use Iterative Dichotomiser 3 (ID3) Decision Tree rather than other complex learning method, thus the proposed algorithm has lower computing complexity than most existing algorithms. Considering that frequent changing of attributes may lead to quality loss of the recovered audio signal, this paper also design a modified subsequent process to help the whole classification system reach an accurate rate as high as 97% which is comparable to classical 99%.
Abstract: A new genetic algorithm, termed the 'optimum individual monogenetic genetic algorithm' (OIMGA), is presented whose properties have been deliberately designed to be well suited to hardware implementation. Specific design criteria were to ensure fast access to the individuals in the population, to keep the required silicon area for hardware implementation to a minimum and to incorporate flexibility in the structure for the targeting of a range of applications. The first two criteria are met by retaining only the current optimum individual, thereby guaranteeing a small memory requirement that can easily be stored in fast on-chip memory. Also, OIMGA can be easily reconfigured to allow the investigation of problems that normally warrant either large GA populations or individuals many genes in length. Local convergence is achieved in OIMGA by retaining elite individuals, while population diversity is ensured by continually searching for the best individuals in fresh regions of the search space. The results given in this paper demonstrate that both the performance of OIMGA and its convergence time are superior to those of a range of existing hardware GA implementations.
Abstract: Diffuse viral encephalitis may lack fever and other cardinal signs of infection and hence its distinction from other acute encephalopathic illnesses is challenging. Often, the EEG changes seen routinely are nonspecific and reflect diffuse encephalopathic changes only. The aim of this study was to use nonlinear dynamic mathematical techniques for analyzing the EEG data in order to look for any characteristic diagnostic patterns in diffuse forms of encephalitis.It was diagnosed on clinical, imaging and cerebrospinal fluid criteria in three young male patients. Metabolic and toxic encephalopathies were ruled out through appropriate investigations. Digital EEGs were done on the 3rd to 5th day of onset. The digital EEGs of 5 male and 5 female age and sex matched healthy volunteers served as controls.Two sample t-test indicated that there was no statistically significant difference between the average values in amplitude between the two groups. However, the standard deviation (or variance) of the EEG signals at FP1-F7 and FP2-F8 are significantly higher for the patients than the normal subjects. The regularisation dimension is significantly less for the patients (average between 1.24-1.43) when compared to the normal persons (average between 1.41-1.63) for the EEG signals from all locations except for the Fz-Cz signal. Similarly the wavelet dimension is significantly less (P = 0.05*) for the patients (1.122) when compared to the normal person (1.458). EEGs are subdued in the case of the patients with presence of uniform patterns, manifested in the values of regularisation and wavelet dimensions, when compared to the normal person, indicating a decrease in chaotic nature.
Abstract: The concentrations of aliphatic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were determined in atmospheric aerosol samples collected at a rural site in Hungary (K-puszta, summer 2008), a boreal forest (Hyytiälä,
April 2007) and a polluted rural area in Italy (San Pietro Capofiume, Po Valley, April 2008). A clear distinction between “clean" and “polluted" periods was observed. Concentrations obtained for Hyytiälä are significantly lower than those for the other two sites. Source reconciliation was performed using diagnostic parameters, such as the carbon preference index and ratios between PAH. The presence of an unresolved complex mixture of hydrocarbons, especially for the Finnish and Italian samples, is indicative of petrogenic inputs. In K-puszta, the aliphatic hydrocarbons are dominated by leaf wax n-alkanes. The long range transport of anthropogenic pollution contributed to the Finnish aerosol. Industrial activities and vehicular emissions represent major sources in San Pietro Capofiume. PAH in K-puszta consist of both pyrogenic and petrogenic compounds.
Abstract: In this paper, we develop a Spatio-Temporal graph as
of a key component of our knowledge representation Scheme. We
design an integrated representation Scheme to depict not only present
and past but future in parallel with the spaces in an effective and
intuitive manner. The resulting multi-dimensional comprehensive
knowledge structure accommodates multi-layered virtual world
developing in the time to maximize the diversity of situations in the
historical context. This knowledge representation Scheme is to be used
as the basis for simulation of situations composing the virtual world
and for implementation of virtual agents' knowledge used to judge and
evaluate the situations in the virtual world. To provide natural contexts
for situated learning or simulation games, the virtual stage set by this
Spatio-Temporal graph is to be populated by agents and other objects
interrelated and changing which are abstracted in the ontology.
Abstract: This paper describes the optimization of a complex
dairy farm simulation model using two quite different methods of
optimization, the Genetic algorithm (GA) and the Lipschitz
Branch-and-Bound (LBB) algorithm. These techniques have been
used to improve an agricultural system model developed by Dexcel
Limited, New Zealand, which describes a detailed representation of
pastoral dairying scenarios and contains an 8-dimensional parameter
space. The model incorporates the sub-models of pasture growth and
animal metabolism, which are themselves complex in many cases.
Each evaluation of the objective function, a composite 'Farm
Performance Index (FPI)', requires simulation of at least a one-year
period of farm operation with a daily time-step, and is therefore
computationally expensive. The problem of visualization of the
objective function (response surface) in high-dimensional spaces is
also considered in the context of the farm optimization problem.
Adaptations of the sammon mapping and parallel coordinates
visualization are described which help visualize some important
properties of the model-s output topography. From this study, it is
found that GA requires fewer function evaluations in optimization
than the LBB algorithm.
Abstract: The aim of the study was to identify seat belt wearing
factor among road users in Malaysia. Evidence-based approach
through in-depth crash investigation was utilised to determine the
intended objectives. The objective was scoped into crashes
investigated by Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research
(MIROS) involving passenger vehicles within 2007 and 2010. Crash
information of a total of 99 crash cases involving 240 vehicles and
864 occupants were obtained during the study period. Statistical test
and logistic regression analysis have been performed. Results of the
analysis revealed that gender, seat position and age were associated
with seat belt wearing compliance in Malaysia. Males are 97.6%
more likely to wear seat belt compared to females (95% CI 1.317 to
2.964). By seat position, the finding indicates that frontal occupants
were 82 times more likely to be wearing seat belt (95% CI 30.199 to
225.342) as compared to rear occupants. It is also important to note
that the odds of seat belt wearing increased by about 2.64% (95% CI
1.0176 to 1.0353) for every one year increase in age. This study is
essential in understanding the Malaysian tendency in belting up
while being occupied in a vehicle. The factors highlighted in this
study should be emphasized in road safety education in order to
increase seat belt wearing rate in this country and ultimately in
preventing deaths due to road crashes.
Abstract: This paper presents the decoder design for the single error correcting and double error detecting code proposed by the authors in an earlier paper. The speed of error detection and correction of a code is largely dependent upon the associated encoder and decoder circuits. The complexity and the speed of such circuits are determined by the number of 1?s in the parity check matrix (PCM). The number of 1?s in the parity check matrix for the code proposed by the authors are fewer than in any currently known single error correcting/double error detecting code. This results in simplified encoding and decoding circuitry for error detection and correction.
Abstract: Due to the environmental and price issues of current
energy crisis, scientists and technologists around the globe are
intensively searching for new environmentally less-impact form of
clean energy that will reduce the high dependency on fossil fuel.
Particularly hydrogen can be produced from biomass via thermochemical
processes including pyrolysis and gasification due to the
economic advantage and can be further enhanced through in-situ
carbon dioxide removal using calcium oxide. This work focuses on
the synthesis and development of the flowsheet for the enhanced
biomass gasification process in PETRONAS-s iCON process
simulation software. This hydrogen prediction model is conducted at
operating temperature between 600 to 1000oC at atmospheric
pressure. Effects of temperature, steam-to-biomass ratio and
adsorbent-to-biomass ratio were studied and 0.85 mol fraction of
hydrogen is predicted in the product gas. Comparisons of the results
are also made with experimental data from literature. The
preliminary economic potential of developed system is RM 12.57 x
106 which equivalent to USD 3.77 x 106 annually shows economic
viability of this process.
Abstract: Tread design has evolved over the years to achieve the common tread pattern used in current vehicles. However, to meet safety and comfort requirements, tread design considers more than one design factor. Tread design must consider the grip and drainage, and the manner in which to reduce rolling noise, which is one of the main factors considered by manufacturers. The main objective of this study was the application the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique to simulate the contact surface of the tire and ground. The results demonstrated an air-Pumping and large pressure drop effect in the process of contact surface. The results also revealed that the pressure can be used to analyze sound pressure level (SPL).
Abstract: With major technological advances and to reduce the
cost of training apprentices for real-time critical systems, it was
necessary the development of Intelligent Tutoring Systems for
training apprentices in these systems. These systems, in general, have
interactive features so that the learning is actually more efficient,
making the learner more familiar with the mechanism in question. In
the home stage of learning, tests are performed to obtain the student's
income, a measure on their use. The aim of this paper is to present a
framework to model an Intelligent Tutoring Systems using the UML
language. The various steps of the analysis are considered the
diagrams required to build a general model, whose purpose is to
present the different perspectives of its development.
Abstract: Information regarding early onset neonatal sepsis
(EONS) pathogens may vary between regions. Global perspectives
showed Group B Streptococcal (GBS) as the most common causative
pathogens, but the widespread use of intrapartum antibiotics has
changed the pathogens pattern towards gram negative
microorganisms, especially E. coli. Objective of this study is to
describe the pathogens isolated, to assess current treatment and risk
of EONS. Records of 899 neonates born in three General Hospitals
between 2009 until 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Proven was
found in 22 (3%) neonates. The majority was isolated with gram
positive organisms, 17 (2.3%). All grams positive and most gram
negative organisms showed sensitivity to the tested antibiotics. Only
two rare gram negative organisms showed total resistant. Male was
possible risk of proven EONS. Although proven EONS remains
uncommon in Malaysia, nonetheless, the effect of intrapartum
antibiotics still required continuous surveillance.
Abstract: There is an urgent need to develop novel
Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) drugs that are active against drug
resistant bacteria but, more importantly, kill persistent bacteria. Our
study structured based on integrated analysis of metabolic pathways,
small molecule screening and similarity Search in PubChem
Database. Metabolic analysis approaches based on Unified weighted
used for potent target selection. Our results suggest that pantothenate
synthetase (panC) and and 3-methyl-2-oxobutanoate hydroxymethyl
transferase (panB) as a appropriate drug targets. In our study, we
used pantothenate synthetase because of existence inhibitors. We
have reported the discovery of new antitubercular compounds
through ligand based approaches using computational tools.
Abstract: This paper presents the effects of migration at the
urban sites with an integrated model under the sustainable local
development policies for the conservation and revitalization of the
site areas as a case at Reyhan heritage site in Bursa. It is known as
the “City of immigrants" because of its richness of cultural plurality.
The city has always regarded the dynamic impact of immigration as a
positive contribution. As a result of this situation, the city created the
earliest urbanization practices: being the first capital city of the
Ottoman Empire. Bursa created the first modern movement practices
and set the first Organized Industrial Zone. The most important aim
of the study is to be offer a model for the similar areas with the
context of conservation and revitalization of the historical areas,
subjected to the local integrated sustainable development policies of
local goverments.
Abstract: In a world worried about water resources with the
shadow of drought and famine looming all around, the quality of
water is as important as its quantity. The source of all concerns is the
constant reduction of per capita quality water for different uses.
Iran With an average annual precipitation of 250 mm compared to
the 800 mm world average, Iran is considered a water scarce country
and the disparity in the rainfall distribution, the limitations of
renewable resources and the population concentration in the margins
of desert and water scarce areas have intensified the problem.
The shortage of per capita renewable freshwater and its poor
quality in large areas of the country, which have saline, brackish or
hard water resources, and the profusion of natural and artificial
pollutant have caused the deterioration of water quality.
Among methods of treatment and use of these waters one can refer
to the application of membrane technologies, which have come into
focus in recent years due to their great advantages. This process is
quite efficient in eliminating multi-capacity ions; and due to the
possibilities of production at different capacities, application as
treatment process in points of use, and the need for less energy in
comparison to Reverse Osmosis processes, it can revolutionize the
water and wastewater sector in years to come. The article studied the
different capacities of water resources in the Persian Gulf and Oman
Sea watershed basins, and processes the possibility of using
nanofiltration process to treat brackish and non-conventional waters
in these basins.
Abstract: This paper attempts to establish the fact that Multi
State Network Classification is essential for performance
enhancement of Transport protocols over Satellite based Networks. A
model to classify Multi State network condition taking into
consideration both congestion and channel error is evolved. In order
to arrive at such a model an analysis of the impact of congestion and
channel error on RTT values has been carried out using ns2. The
analysis results are also reported in the paper. The inference drawn
from this analysis is used to develop a novel statistical RTT based
model for multi state network classification.
An Adaptive Multi State Proactive Transport Protocol consisting
of Proactive Slow Start, State based Error Recovery, Timeout Action
and Proactive Reduction is proposed which uses the multi state
network state classification model. This paper also confirms through
detail simulation and analysis that a prior knowledge about the
overall characteristics of the network helps in enhancing the
performance of the protocol over satellite channel which is
significantly affected due to channel noise and congestion.
The necessary augmentation of ns2 simulator is done for
simulating the multi state network classification logic. This
simulation has been used in detail evaluation of the protocol under
varied levels of congestion and channel noise. The performance
enhancement of this protocol with reference to established protocols
namely TCP SACK and Vegas has been discussed. The results as
discussed in this paper clearly reveal that the proposed protocol
always outperforms its peers and show a significant improvement in
very high error conditions as envisaged in the design of the protocol.
Abstract: This paper illustrates the use of a combined neural
network model for classification of electrocardiogram (ECG) beats.
We present a trainable neural network ensemble approach to develop
customized electrocardiogram beat classifier in an effort to further
improve the performance of ECG processing and to offer
individualized health care.
We process a three stage technique for detection of premature
ventricular contraction (PVC) from normal beats and other heart
diseases. This method includes a denoising, a feature extraction and a
classification. At first we investigate the application of stationary
wavelet transform (SWT) for noise reduction of the
electrocardiogram (ECG) signals. Then feature extraction module
extracts 10 ECG morphological features and one timing interval
feature. Then a number of multilayer perceptrons (MLPs) neural
networks with different topologies are designed.
The performance of the different combination methods as well as
the efficiency of the whole system is presented. Among them,
Stacked Generalization as a proposed trainable combined neural
network model possesses the highest recognition rate of around 95%.
Therefore, this network proves to be a suitable candidate in ECG
signal diagnosis systems. ECG samples attributing to the different
ECG beat types were extracted from the MIT-BIH arrhythmia
database for the study.
Abstract: Daily production of information and importance of the sequence of produced data in forecasting future performance of market causes analysis of data behavior to become a problem of analyzing time series. But time series that are very complicated, usually are random and as a result their changes considered being unpredictable. While these series might be products of a deterministic dynamical and nonlinear process (chaotic) and as a result be predictable. Point of Chaotic theory view, complicated systems have only chaotically face and as a result they seem to be unregulated and random, but it is possible that they abide by a specified math formula. In this article, with regard to test of strange attractor and biggest Lyapunov exponent probability of chaos on several foreign exchange rates vs. IRR (Iranian Rial) has been investigated. Results show that data in this market have complex chaotic behavior with big degree of freedom.
Abstract: In this paper, the C1-conforming finite element method is analyzed for a class of nonlinear fourth-order hyperbolic partial differential equation. Some a priori bounds are derived using Lyapunov functional, and existence, uniqueness and regularity for the weak solutions are proved. Optimal error estimates are derived for both semidiscrete and fully discrete schemes.
Abstract: Wireless mobile communications have experienced
the phenomenal growth through last decades. The advances in
wireless mobile technologies have brought about a demand for high
quality multimedia applications and services. For such applications
and services to work, signaling protocol is required for establishing,
maintaining and tearing down multimedia sessions. The Session
Initiation Protocol (SIP) is an application layer signaling protocols,
based on request/response transaction model. This paper considers
SIP INVITE transaction over an unreliable medium, since it has been
recently modified in Request for Comments (RFC) 6026. In order to
help in assuring that the functional correctness of this modification is
achieved, the SIP INVITE transaction is modeled and analyzed using
Colored Petri Nets (CPNs). Based on the model analysis, it is
concluded that the SIP INVITE transaction is free of livelocks and
dead codes, and in the same time it has both desirable and
undesirable deadlocks. Therefore, SIP INVITE transaction should be
subjected for additional updates in order to eliminate undesirable
deadlocks. In order to reduce the cost of implementation and
maintenance of SIP, additional remodeling of the SIP INVITE
transaction is recommended.