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Czech ScienceSpeechLab develops system for automatic transcription of news broadcasts
In one previous edition of Czech Science we reported on a talking computer
image developed by the SpeechLab at the Technical University in Liberec.
As promised, we now bring you more news from the SpeechLab. The team
recently developed a computer programme that can automatically transcribe
news programmes on TV or radio. More
Czech ScienceCzech-speaking computer image lets you read his lips
Computer generated human-like images that can talk are nothing
extraordinary these days, but you would struggle to find one that can
pronounce Czech words. Czech scientists have recently developed a
synthetic human face that can pull off all the tongue-twisters of the
Czech language and move his face accordingly. In today's Czech Science we
meet "Chatter", as the image has been christened, and find out
about the uses of such a device. More
Current AffairsSt. Nicholas's, angels and devils visit Czech children
Those are the footsteps, voices and rattling chains of a memorable trio who
visited children all across the Czech Republic on Sunday night. This was
the annual celebration of St. Nicholas's Day or "Mikulas",
commemorating the third century saint who was persecuted for his beliefs
as Bishop of Myra in today's Turkey. St. Nicholas was known for his
zealous defense and advancing of Christianity, and a host of holy deeds,
such as helping sailors and fishermen in distress, ensuring people had
enough food in times of famine and defending widows, children and all
those persecuted and mistreated. Kate Barrette has more on St. Nicholas
and his special day which for many marks the beginning of the Christmas
season in the Czech Republic.
More
Current AffairsPrague communists pay homage to Klement Gottwald's "contribution"
When Czechoslovakia's first communist president Klement Gottwald seized
power in 1948, it paved the way for over 40 years of totalitarian rule in
this country. Gottwald's presidency is associated with one of the darkest
periods of Czechoslovak history, and his rule was characterised by show
trials, political executions and labour camps. Tuesday marked the 108th
anniversary of Gottwald's birth, and the Prague branch of the Communist
Party, still one of the major political forces in the Czech Republic,
organised a memorial gathering at Gottwald's graveside in honour of the
occasion.
More
Czech ScienceCzech scientists develop breakthrough technology of commercial production of nanofibres
Nanofibres - remember that word well because you might be hearing it more
and more often in the future, and maybe partly thanks to Czech scientists. More
MagazineMagazine
It's not too late to attend a 16 th century ball! If you are on a diet give
your snack to an elephant - the Prague Zoo has a new sponsorship
programme. And, the Prague 5 district shocks its inhabitants with a
controversial new billboard showing a dog poohing alongside its master -
what's it all about? Find out more in Magazine with Daniela Lazarova.
More
Letter from PragueA few notes on Mikulas and friends
In recent years the Czech media has grown increasingly obsessed with one
issue this time of year, which is whether traditional Czech Christmas
figures - like Mikulas, the Czech version of Saint Nicholas, have taken a
beating from western imports like Santa Claus and Rudolph-the-red-nose
reindeer. To a certain extent the fears are justified. For time immemorial
Czech children have looked with anticipation towards the eve of December
the 6th - St Nicholas' Day - but recent years have seen mutations drawing
the holiday closer to a masquerade ball or Halloween.
More
Czechs in HistoryKlement Gottwald
It's time now for this week's edition of Czechs in History, and this week Nick Carey takes a look at the life of Czechoslovakia's first Communist president, Klement Gottwald...
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