Abstract
An adaptive amplifier scheme is presented which allows for estimating and correcting the behaviour of a non-linear amplifier, in order to improve its performance for RF communication. This is attained configuring its operating mode in one of estimation of the amplifier's non-linearity, automatic gain control, and correction of eye diagrams' opening. The theory behind these three operating modes is explained first using simulation results obtained with a behavioural model. Experimental results, obtained with a proof-of-concept prototype, which validate the functional correctness in these three modes are also presented. Issues concerning implementation requirements and limitations are discussed.

Abstract
In this paper we present a new approach to the problem of isolated vowel recognition in real-time. Language learning and speech therapy are examples of application areas that require real-time biofeedback of acoustic features. As the performance of known approaches usually drops for child speakers, we evaluated different alternatives of feature extraction and pattern recognition techniques, including PCA, LDA, ANN and Bayesian classification. In addition, we studied the explicit inclusion of pitch as a main parameter in both simulation and the real-time feature extraction process. Best results were obtained with our dataset when MFCCs are mapped, using LDA, to a 4-dimensional sub-space that is followed by Bayesian classification. An interactive game was designed that implements the selected real-time vowel recognition technique.

Abstract
This paper presents a framework that allows plugging or unplugging grid-related features to legacy code. Those features can, for example, transform sequential-like code to a parallel version or even a distributed version. With this approach scientists could develop their code as they are used to, that is, they could spent their time programming as they are used to instead of learning new programming paradigms. The framework relies on aspect-oriented programming (AOP) techniques to perform non-invasive enhancements to scientific applications to cope with grid specific issues, such as remote execution, load distribution, fault tolerance and monitoring. In addition, framework components are glued together with AOP, making possible to plug (only) features required for each specific application / target platform.

Abstract
The deployment of large mesh-type wireless networks is a challenge due to the multitude of arising issues. Perpetual operation of a network node is undoubtedly one of the major goals of any energy-aware protocol or power-efficient hardware platform. Energy harvesting has emerged as the natural way to keep small stationary hardware platforms running, even when operating continuously as network routing devices. This paper analyses solar radiation, wind and water flow as feasible energy sources that can be explored to meet the energy needs of a wireless sensor network router within the context of precision agriculture, and presents a multi-powered platform solution for wireless devices. Experimental results prove that our prototype, the MPWiNodeX, can manage simultaneously the three energy sources for charging a NiMH battery pack, resulting in an almost perpetual operation of the evaluated ZigBee network router. in addition to this, the energy scavenging techniques double up as sensors, yielding data on the amount of solar radiation, water flow and wind speed, a capability that avoids the use of specific sensors.

Abstract
Sabilizing control for power system stability has been applied to generators equipped with excitation controller and speed governor. Recently, power electronics-based control devices have been the focus of research and development for the improvement of dynamic stability. Power electronics control devices are utilized for control of the power flow on a transmission line or the reactive power in a power system. In this paper it will be presented a thyristor controlled series compensation strategy to improve the dynamic voltage stability of an Electric Power System. In this study it was simulated a significant load demand disturbance in a test power network. The Automatic Voltage Regulator of the generating units, the Under Load Tap Changer and loads were taken into account. The simulation results were obtained using EUROSTAG software package.

Abstract
The development of factory communication system has addressed the interconnection and decentralized requirements of complex automated production plants. Fieldbus networks have provided automation solutions in real-time and provided an adequate mechanism to cope with the communication requirements of control systems at the shop-floor. High-speed LANs are found to be suitable to support traffic with tight timing requirements in the factory automation environment. The automation industrial applications rely on standard TCP/UDP/IP communication for parameterization and process data exchange. Scheduling policies for CAN networks, performance measurements in real-time Ethernet networks, and the theoretical evaluation of CSMA-based networks also address the requirements of a factory communication system.