Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Title : Modulation of Rolandic Beta-Band Oscillations during Motor Simulation of Joint Actions Year : 2015 Version : Final

Successful joint actions require precise temporal and spatial coordination between individuals who aim to achieve a common goal. A growing number of behavioral data suggest that to efficiently couple and coordinate a joint task, the actors have to represent both own and the partner’s actions. However it is unclear how the motor system is specifically recruited for joint actions. To find out how the goal and the presence of the partner’s hand can impact the motor activity during joint action, we assessed the functional state of 16 participants’motor cortex during observation and associated motor imagery of joint actions, individual actions, and non-goal-directed actions performed with either 1 or 2 hands. As an indicator of the functional state of the motor cortex, we used the reactivity of the rolandic magnetoencephalographic (MEG) beta rhythm following median-nerve stimulation. Motor imagery combined with action observation was associated with activation of the observer’s motor cortex, mainly in the hemisphere contralateral to the viewed (and at the same time imagined) hand actions. The motor-cortex involvement was enhanced when the goal of the actions was visible but also, in the ipsilateral hemisphere, when the partner’s hand was visible in the display. During joint action, the partner’s action, in addition to the participant’s own action, thus seems to be represented in the motor cortex so that it can be triggered by the mere presence of an acting hand in the peripersonal space.
Robust pose estimation for 3D face modeling from stereo sequences

Proposes a robust pose estimation algorithm from 2D correspondences, which is a key issue of a 3D face modeling system from calibrated stereo sequences. The estimated rigid motion parameters are utilized to obtain the perspective projection of a generic face model, which is then matched with 2D clues extracted from the image under corresponding pose to decide the shape of a specified face. The main merits of our method are: (1) In order to obtain robust and accurate results under the situation of dramatic pose variation, we first evaluate the reliability of 2D tracker. Then after eliminating erroneous 2D correspondences, we refine the rigid motion parameters estimated between successive poses by performing a non-linear, batch estimator to compute the parameters of all poses in a clip of stereo sequences simultaneously. (2) Full automaticity is achieved by detecting and matching new features when there are not enough reliable 2D tracking results. Experiments show that this algorithm is accurate and robust, and help our system reach a satisfactory face modeling result.
Optimal data compression techniques for Smart Grid and power quality trend data

The article concludes on various options for lossless compression algorithms (LCA) of archives of smart grid or power quality data series - the main archive aggregated from a typical continuous monitoring - which contains huge amount of different quantity readings. We have benchmarked a range of available LCA and we proposed the LZMA algorithm as a best performing one. In this article we also describe several methods which further improve the performance of this compression algorithm. We propose to process the input data with relatively simple prediction models to utilize common features in the data sets. We select aggregating model in combination with differential encoding and we develop an interval selection optimization technique specially fitted to define interval distributions to achieve better compression ratio. As a side effect the evaluated modeling technique does also provide an abstraction of recorded data and can be directly used in the superset analytical modules which are so often mentioned in relation with the emerging “Smart Grid” technology.
Wide null control of linear antenna arrays using Particle Swarm Optimization

In this paper, the method of nullifying the radiation pattern of a symmetrical linear antenna array in a particular direction is propounded using Particle Swarm Optimization with Constriction Factor Approach (PSOCFA). Single or multiple wide nulls are achieved by optimum perturbations of elements current amplitude weights to have either symmetric nulls about the main beam. Different numerical examples are presented to illustrate the capability of PSOCFA for pattern synthesis with a prescribed wide nulls locations and depths.
Modélisation de dispositifs électriques par réseaux de neurones en vue de l'émulation en temps réel

Dans ce travail, l'auteur presente la conception et l'etude de reseaux de neurones destines a la modelisation de dispositifs electriques. Ces modeles sont concus en vue d'une future realisation en temps reel s'integrant dans des emulateurs d'ensembles convertisseurs statiques / machines electriques / capteurs. La premiere partie rappelle les principes de base de l'emulation temps reel. L'auteur presente ensuite les techniques du connexionnisme, et plus particulierement l'utilisation des reseaux de neurones pour la modelisation de processus dynamiques. La realisation d'un modele neuronal de la machine a courant continu est la premiere application de ces techniques. Puis l'auteur decrit la demarche qui a permis de realiser un modele neuronal de la machine asynchrone. Cette demarche comporte trois points essentiels : 1) Choix d'une structure de reseau, 2) Identification d'une sequence d'apprentissage representative du processus, 3) Mise en oeuvre d'une procedure de validation du modele. Cette partie est conclue par l'etude de la structure d'un reseau apte a reproduire les phenomenes de saturation magnetique de la machine asynchrone. Pour conclure ce memoire, une methode originale de modification du pas de calcul des modeles neuronaux a temps discret est presentee. Cette methode a permis d'obtenir un modele de machine asynchrone dont le pas de calcul est suffisamment fin pour repondre aux exigences du concept d'emulation.
A Replication-Competent Retrovirus Arising from a Split-Function Packaging Cell Line Was Generated by Recombination Events between the Vector, One of the Packaging Constructs, and Endogenous Retroviral Sequences

ABSTRACT Previously we reported the presence of a replication-competent retrovirus in supernatant from a vector-producing line derived from a widely used split-function amphotropic packaging cell line. Rigorous routine screening of all retroviral stocks produced in our laboratory has not, previously or since, indicated the presence of such a virus. Replication-competent retroviruses have never previously been used in our laboratory, and stringent screening of all routinely used cell lines has not revealed the presence of any helper viruses. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that this virus represents an adventitious cross-contaminant or had been imported unknowingly with our cell line stocks. PCR studies with DNA from infected cell lines and Northern blot analysis and reverse transcriptase PCR with RNA from infected cells suggest that the helper virus arose by recombination events, at sites of partial homology, between sequences in the vector, one of the packaging constructs, and endogenous retroviral elements. These recombinations were not present in stocks of the packaging cell line or in an initial stock of the vector-producing line, indicating that these events occurred while the vector-producing line was being passaged for harvest of supernatant stocks.
Tackling social media data analysis

PurposeThis paper aims to offer insights into the ways two computer-aided qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS) applications (QSR NVivo and Leximancer) can be used to analyze big, text-based, online data taken from consumer-to-consumer (C2C) social media communication.Design/methodology/approachThis study used QSR NVivo and Leximancer, to explore 200 discussion threads containing 1,796 posts from forums on an online open community and an online brand community that involved online brand advocacy (OBA). The functionality, in particular, the strengths and weaknesses of both programs are discussed. Examples of the types of analyses each program can undertake and the visual output available are also presented.FindingsThis research found that, while both programs had strengths and weaknesses when working with big, text-based, online data, they complemented each other. Each contributed a different visual and evidence-based perspective; providing a more comprehensive and insightful view of the characteristics unique to OBA.Research limitations/implicationsQualitative market researchers are offered insights into the advantages and disadvantages of using two different software packages for research projects involving big social media data. The “visual-first” analysis, obtained from both programs can help researchers make sense of such data, particularly in exploratory research.Practical implicationsThe paper provides practical recommendations for analysts considering which programs to use when exploring big, text-based, online data.Originality/valueThis paper answered a call to action for further research and demonstration of analytical programs of big, online data from social media C2C communication and makes strong suggestions about the need to examine such data in a number of ways.
Mechanocaloric effects in shape memory alloys

Shape memory alloys (SMA) are a class of ferroic materials which undergo a structural (martensitic) transition where the associated ferroic property is a lattice distortion (strain). The sensitiveness of the transition to the conjugated external field (stress), together with the latent heat of the transition, gives rise to giant mechanocaloric effects. In non-magnetic SMA, the lattice distortion is mostly described by a pure shear and the martensitic transition in this family of alloys is strongly affected by uniaxial stress, whereas it is basically insensitive to hydrostatic pressure. As a result, non-magnetic alloys exhibit giant elastocaloric effects but negligible barocaloric effects. By contrast, in a number of magnetic SMA, the lattice distortion at the martensitic transition involves a volume change in addition to the shear strain. Those alloys are affected by both uniaxial stress and hydrostatic pressure and they exhibit giant elastocaloric and barocaloric effects. The paper aims at providing a critical survey of available experimental data on elastocaloric and barocaloric effects in magnetic and non-magnetic SMA. This article is part of the themed issue ‘Taking the temperature of phase transitions in cool materials’.
Hydrodynamic modulation of embryonic stem cell differentiation by rotary orbital suspension culture

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) can differentiate into all somatic cell types, but the development of effective strategies to direct ESC fate is dependent upon defining environmental parameters capable of influencing cell phenotype. ESCs are commonly differentiated via cell aggregates referred to as embryoid bodies (EBs), but current culture methods, such as hanging drop and static suspension, yield relatively few or heterogeneous populations of EBs. Alternatively, rotary orbital suspension culture enhances EB formation efficiency, cell yield, and homogeneity without adversely affecting differentiation. Thus, the objective of this study was to systematically examine the effects of hydrodynamic conditions created by rotary orbital shaking on EB formation, structure, and differentiation. Mouse ESCs introduced to suspension culture at a range of rotary orbital speeds (20–60 rpm) exhibited variable EB formation sizes and yields due to differences in the kinetics of cell aggregation. Computational fluid dynamic analyses indicated that rotary orbital shaking generated relatively uniform and mild shear stresses (≤2.5 dyn/cm2) within the regions EBs occupied in culture dishes, at each of the orbital speeds examined. The hydrodynamic conditions modulated EB structure, indicated by differences in the cellular organization and morphology of the spheroids. Compared to static culture, exposure to hydrodynamic conditions significantly altered the gene expression profile of EBs. Moreover, varying rotary orbital speeds differentially modulated the kinetic profile of gene expression and relative percentages of differentiated cell types. Overall, this study demonstrates that manipulation of hydrodynamic environments modulates ESC differentiation, thus providing a novel, scalable approach to integrate into the development of directed stem cell differentiation strategies. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2010; 105: 611–626. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of Mobile Telecommunication Technologies on Globalization of Nigerian Rural Areas

The globalization of a country is today measured with respect to indices of globalization such as the Maastricht Globalization Index (MGI) and the Konjunkturforschungsstelle (KOF). These indices of national globalization often have an urban bias. This study however explores the extent to which these international measures include rural environments of the globalizing country. Application of the MGI/KOF indices for determination of the Nigerian rural environment inclusion in globalization showed that the country’s rural communities were mainly integrated technologically by virtue of telephony (communication technology) penetration of rural areas. An attempt to modify the MGI/KOF globalization indexes for rural inclusion showed that the Nigerian rural communities were technologically integrated but only partially integrated politically and socio-culturally. Based on this, it was recommended that a globalization index for rural inclusion needs to be developed to establish countrywide globalization in absolute terms.
Surrogate-driven motion models from cone-beam CT for motion management in radiotherapy treatments

This thesis details a variety of methods to build a surrogate-driven motion model from a cone-beam CT (CBCT) scan. The methods are intended to form a key constituent of a tracked RT treatment system, by providing a markerless means of tracking tumour and organs at risk (OAR) positions in real-time. The beam can then be adjusted to account for the respiratory motion of the tumour, whilst ensuring no adverse e.ects on the OAR from the adjustment in the beam. An approach to describe an iterative method to markerlessly track the lung tumour region is presented. A motion model is built of the tumour region using the CBCT projections, which then gives tumour position information during treatment. For simulated data, the motion model was able to reduce the mean L2-norm error from 4.1 to 1.0 mm, relative to the mean position. The model was used to account for the motion of an object placed within a respiratory phantom. When used to perform a motion compensated reconstruction (MCR), measured dimensions of this object agreed to within the voxel size (1 mm cube) used for the reconstruction. The method was applied to 6 clinical datasets. Improvements in edge contrast of the tumour were seen, and compared to clinically-derived positions for the tumour centres, the mean absolute errors in superior-inferior directions was reduced to under 2.5 mm. The model is then subsequently extended to monitor both tumour and OAR regions during treatment. This extended approach uses both the planning 4DCT and CBCT scans, focusing on the strengths of each respective dataset. Results are presented on three simulated and three clinical datasets. For the simulated data, maximal L2-norm errors were reduced from 14.8 to 4.86 mm. Improvements in edge contrast in the diaphragm and lung regions were seen in the MCR for the clinical data. A final approach to building a model of the entire patient is then presented, utilising only the CBCT data. An optical-flow-based approach is taken, which is adapted to the unique nature of the CBCT data via some interesting conceptualisations. Results on a simulated case are presented, showing increased edge contrast in the MCR using the fitted motion model. Mean L2-norm errors in the tumour region were reduced from 4.2 to 2.6 mm. Future work is discussed, with a variety of extensions to the methods proposed. With further development, it is hoped that some of the ideas detailed could be translated into the clinic and have a direct impact on patient treatment.
A phase I/II study of gemcitabine during radiotherapy in children with newly diagnosed diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma

INTRODUCTION The purpose of this phase I/II, open-label, single-arm trial is to investigate the safety, tolerability, maximum tolerated dose and preliminary efficacy of the potential radiosensitizer gemcitabine, administered concomitantly to radiotherapy, in children with newly diagnosed diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). METHODS Six doses of weekly gemcitabine were administered intravenously, concomitantly to 6 weeks of hyperfractionated radiotherapy. Successive cohorts received increasing doses of 140, 175 and 200 mg/m2 gemcitabine, respectively, following a 3 + 3 dose-escalation schedule without expansion cohort. Dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) were monitored during treatment period. Clinical response was assessed using predefined case report forms and radiological response was assessed using the modified RANO criteria. Quality of life (QoL) was assessed using PedsQL questionnaires. RESULTS Between June 2012 and December 2016, nine patients were enrolled. Treatment was well tolerated, and no DLTs were observed up to the maximum dose of 200 mg/m2. All patients experienced reduction of tumor-related symptoms. QoL tended to improve during treatment. PFS and MOS were 4.8 months (95% CI 4.0–5.7) and 8.7 months (95% CI 7.0–10.4). Classifying patients according to the recently developed DIPG survival prediction model, intermediate risk patients (n = 4), showed a PFS and MOS of 6.4 and 12.4 months, respectively, versus a PFS and MOS of 4.5 and 8.1 months, respectively, in high risk patient (n = 5). DISCUSSION Gemcitabine up to 200 mg/m2/once weekly, added to radiotherapy, is safe and well tolerated in children with newly diagnosed DIPG. PFS and MOS were not significantly different from literature.
The tangible file system

The "tangible file system"/sup 1/ is a document management and access infrastructure for the ubiquitous computing era. It provides a transparent user interface which takes advantage of physical user actions for the purpose of directory management, data sharing and document location tracking. This is achieved by digitally augmenting both documents and document containers to detect the location of physical information and to trigger corresponding update actions in the electronic world. The system is built using the Datlet [9] architecture to allow any 'tool-objects' to be applied to 'data-objects', thereby enabling an even more natural user interaction based on affordances.
How multi-optional experts maintain and enhance their employability

How do freelancers and workers with frequently changing employment relationships top up their know-how and make themselves more employable? Highly skilled experts with multiple employment options must stay ahead of the game as they move from one job to market themselves for the next one. This article analyses how multi-optional experts improve their employability. It is based on a qualitative study of 17 multi-optional experts in knowledge-intensive industries such as information technology (IT), the media and consultancy as flexible employment is increasing and employability is critical in these highly dynamic fields. The study shows that multi-optional experts maintain and enhance their employability with various, mainly informal and self-organised learning methods. It identifies four types of worker – Flexible Adapter, Flexible Independent, Permalancer and Independent Freelancer – whose vocational development includes reactive, organisation-focused, active and self-focused strategies. In order to contribute to a better understanding of multi-optional experts’ employability this article focuses on their strategies, particularly on how they select and combine learning methods, and examines their motives to enhance their further development.
Subsidized and Non-subsidized R&D Projects: Do They Differ?

Little is known about whether and to what extent the outcome of subsidized and non-subsidized R&D projects differ. In this paper we exploit a novel dataset of patent applications filed in Germany between 1995-2005, which allows us to identify if a patent application stems from a subsidized project or not. We use a variety of patent indicators to elucidate to what extent successful subsidized and non-subsidized R&D projects within the same firm differ. Results show that patent applications from subsidized R&D projects have a higher private value, are more often co-applied, more general, but less original, and have larger inventor teams when compared to all other patent applications filed by the same firms. These differences seem to reflect that thematic R&D programs aim to support collaborative R&D projects that have an immediate economic utilization of results.
Measuring Customer-Based Brand Equity: the case of the MICE destination

The concept of brand equity has emerged in the academic literature since the 1980s and it has become one of the most important research issues in the marketing management field. In the tourism industry, the theme of destination brand equity is a relatively recent phenomenon and it is still developing. While academic studies on brand equity measurement systems have been made for leisure destinations, other tourism contexts have been little explored. This dissertation deeply analyses the issues of the building, management and measurement of the brand equity for a MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Events) destination. The empirical analysis consists in the elaboration of a brand equity measurement model for a MICE destination through a case study analysis of the city of Naples, Italy.
EVALUATION OF CROATIA’S REGIONAL HOSPITAL EFFICIENCY: AN APPLICATION OF DATA ENVELOPMENT ANALYSIS

Due to expenditure increases that can be attributed to several reasons, healthcare systems throughout the world strive towards cost containment. In order to conduct it in a satisfactory manner, it is necessary fi rst to determine the sources of inefficiency in the process of providing healthcare services. In this paper regional healthcare effi ciency of Croatian counties is measured based on hospital performance in three-year period (2007-2009) using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). Th eset of inputs and outputs consists of six indicators. Four of them are directly related to the healthcare effi ciency, while two are external/uncontrollable factors included in order to take into account great regional socio-economic disparities. Analysis is carried out using models with assumption of variable returns-to-scale (BCC). Since the hospitals have little control over their outputs and more opportunities to reduce inputs used to produce them, inputoriented models are used. In terms of providing hospital healthcare services, DEA identifi eseffi cient counties as examples of good operating practices (benchmark members) and inefficient counties that are analyzed in detail to determine not only the sources but also the amounts of their inefficiency in each source. To enable proper monitoring of efficiency dynamics and make conclusions on behaviour of the county (whether its efficiency has improved, deteriorated or stagnated), window analysis is applied. Based on the results, guidelines for implementing necessary improvements to achieve efficiency are given. Analysis reveals great disparities among counties.