Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Fourier Series Character Animation Adapting and Generating Actions

In this paper, we present a method for synthesizing and analysing rhythmic character motions using signal processing methodologies, such as, the Fourier transform. While the Fourier transform has proven itself in many fields of engineering and computing for providing an uncumbersome and efficient method of representing signal or functional information in the frequency domain. As we show in this paper, applying this concept of converting character joint signals to the frequency domain, allows us to categorise different motion elements. For example, walking styles, such as, stylistic qualities that include happy or tired, that we are able to identify and either filter or amplify. Additionally, the data from the transform provides a set of ground control parameters for recreating animations with similar characteristics. We show how the Fourier transform proposes a novel alternative to pure data-driven methods and how a hybrid system in combination with an adaptable physics-based model can be used to synthesize aesthetically pleasing motions that are controllable and physically-correct. We focus on demonstrating the enormous rewards of using the Fourier transform for motion analysis and in particular its application in extracting and generating unique motions that possess personal qualities.
A Multibiomarker Disease Activity Score for Rheumatoid Arthritis Predicts Radiographic Joint Damage in the BeSt Study

Objective. To determine whether a multibiomarker disease activity (MBDA) score predicts radiographic damage progression in the subsequent year in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis. Methods. There were 180 serum samples available in the BeSt study (trial numbers NTR262, NTR 265): 91 at baseline (84 with radiographs available) and 89 at 1-year followup (81 with radiographs available). Radiographs were assessed using the Sharp/van der Heijde Score (SvdH). Twelve serum biomarkers were measured to determine MBDA scores using a validated algorithm. Receiver-operating curves and Poisson regression analyses were performed, with Disease Activity Score (DAS) and MBDA score as independent variables, and radiographic progression as dependent variable. Results. At baseline, MBDA scores discriminated more between patients who developed radiographic progression (increase in SvdH ≥ 5 points) and patients who did not [area under the curve (AUC) 0.767, 95% CI 0.639–0.896] than did DAS (AUC 0.521, 95% CI 0.358–0.684). At 1 year, MBDA score had an AUC of 0.691 (95% CI 0.453–0.929) and DAS had an AUC of 0.649 (95% CI 0.417–0.880). Adjusted for anticitrullinated protein antibody status and DAS, higher MBDA scores were associated with an increased risk for SvdH progression [relative risk (RR) 1.039, 95% CI 1.018–1.059 for baseline MBDA score; 1.037, 95% CI 1.009–1.065 for Year 1 MBDA score]. Categorized high MBDA scores were also correlated with SvdH progression (RR for high MBDA score at baseline 3.7; low or moderate MBDA score as reference). At 1 year, high MBDA score gave a RR of 4.6 compared to low MBDA score. Conclusion. MBDA scores predict radiographic damage progression at baseline and during disease course.
Fee versus royalty licensing in an endogenous R&D model

The past researches study on the technology licensing considering a fixed-fee and a royalty by utilizing an exogenous research and development (R&D) model with the patentee has a cost-reducing innovation. In this paper, we discuss the patentee's R&D investment licensing under a fixed-fee licensing versus a royalty licensing with an outsider patentee. Two conclusions are: (1) the R&D investment with the fixed-fee licensing is always no less than with the royalty licensing, (2) the fixed-fee licensing is still the best strategy for the patentee himself and for the whole society.
Security Policies Study for Information Systems

Security policies are the key to the security of information systems.It is the precondition for the security of information systems to assure the completeness,correctness and consistency of security policies.The complexity of security policies is closely related to the degree of complexity of a system itself.Security policies must be enforced effectively.The following is studied in this paper:the enforcement of policies,the requirement for policies,and the consistency of policies.Especially a theorem is given for the consistency of access control policies and a method used to check the consistency is presented.
Integration of Quadruple Linearly-Polarized Microstrip Grid Array Antennas for 60-GHz Antenna-in-Package Applications

This paper demonstrates the integration of quadruple linearly-polarized microstrip grid array antennas in Ferro A6M low-temperature cofired ceramic technology for 60-GHz antenna-in-package (AiP) applications. An emphasis is given to the optimization of via transitions in the design of the low-loss array feeding network based on stripline quarter-wave matched T-junctions for the multilayer AiP structure. This paper also demonstrates the capabilities of a fully automatic probe-based antenna measurement setup for 3-D radiation pattern at 60 GHz. A special focus is placed on the calibration procedure to achieve an overall uncertainty of ±1 dB for the measurement of the realized gain of any antenna. The AiP module of dimensions 15 × 15 × 1 mm is fabricated and measured. The measured results are in good agreement with the simulated ones, showing that the AiP achieves excellent antenna performance: 10-dB impedance bandwidth (BW) from 50 to 65.6 GHz (or 25.4% at 61.5 GHz), broadside radiation from 55 to 67 GHz (or 19.5%), and 3-dB gain BW from 58.5 to 67 GHz (or 13.8%) with the maximum gain of 15 dBi at 62 GHz.
3D integrated representation model and visualization based on the global discrete voxel—GeoSOT3D

With the development of earth observation technology, especially the rapid progress of LiDAR technology in recent years, the kinds and quantity of three-dimensional spatial information is increasing. How to effectively model and visualize the 3D spatial data has become a key issue for academic and applied science community. The global discrete voxel divides the earth into a series of different scale voxels according to specific rules. However, it is usually bound to the surface, the data model below the surface belongs to 3D geological modeling while data model above is geographic 3D modeling. The earth itself is a complete whole. Splitting it to two parts or using different model frameworks will bring errors caused by the boundary. In this paper, we propose a new global discrete voxel called GeoSOT3D, which is the abbreviation of Geographical coordinates Subdivision grid with One dimension integral coding on 2n-Tree for space. GeoSOT3D framework is an illimitably divisible, multi-level, multi-scale space division pattern, which can seamlessly fit the global space. Based on the GeoSOT3D, a global multi-scale 3D spatial data representation model can be established. It is a model that is trying to represent the spatial object using subdivision unit according to accuracy of spatial data and the size of the entity. At last, in order to verify the theory presented in this issue, we construct a 3D spatial information subdivision visualization prototype system using the GeoSOT3D representation method. We then use the earth's magnetic field data to demonstrate the 3D representation model.
Electronic Health Records Should Support Clinical Research

One aspect of electronic care records which has received little attention is the potential benefit to clinical research. Electronic records could facilitate new interfaces between care and research environments, leading to great improvements in the scope and efficiency of research. Benefits range from systematically generating hypotheses for research to undertaking entire studies based only on electronic record data. Researchers and research managers must engage with electronic record initiatives to realize these benefits. Clinicians and patients must have confidence in the consent, confidentiality and security arrangements for the uses of secondary data. Provided that such initiatives establish adequate information governance arrangements, within a clear ethical framework, innovative clinical research should flourish. Major benefits to patient care could ensue given sufficient development of the care-research interface via electronic records.
A Profile of the Chinese Casino Vacationer to South Korea

ABSTRACT This study examines the differences between the two groups of Chinese tourists visiting South Korea, casino vacationer vs. non-casino vacationer, with regard to their demographic and socio-economic characteristics and travel behavioral patterns. In addition to descriptive methods, this study employed the multivariate method of correspondence analysis, making it possible to graphically illustrate the unique profile of Chinese casino vacationer in South Korea in comparison with the non-casino vacationer. The findings of the study should help destination marketing organizations in Korea and other travel-related businesses, such as tour wholesalers and operators, to differentiate between the two groups of Chinese tourists.
From infection to autoimmunity.

We have investigated two models of virally-induced autoimmune myocarditis in mice using widely different infectious agents. Infection of susceptible BALB/c mice with either Coxsackievirus or murine cytomegalovirus results in the development of acute myocarditis from day 7-14 after infection, and chronic myocarditis from day 28 onwards. The chronic phase of myocarditis is associated with mononuclear infiltration of the myocardium and the production of autoantibodies to cardiac myosin, although infectious virus cannot be detected past day 14 of infection. T cells and autoantibodies have been shown to be important for the development of autoimmune myocarditis. Many researchers have investigated the role of molecular mimicry in the development of myocarditis after viral infection. This review explores the 'adjuvant' effect of infection on the innate immune response and how this determines the progression to autoimmune disease. We show that NK cells protect against the development of disease, while complement and complement receptors are involved in the development of autoimmune myocarditis induced by inoculation with virus or cardiac myosin, respectively. Our results suggest that the innate immune response to viral and self-antigens may determine whether susceptible strains of mice progress to chronic autoimmune disease. These findings have broad implications for understanding the role of infection in inducing autoimmune disease.
A Micro-Fabricated Force Sensor Using an All Thin Film Piezoelectric Active Sensor

The ability to measure pressure and force is essential in biomedical applications such as minimally invasive surgery (MIS) and palpation for detecting cancer cysts. Here, we report a force sensor for measuring a shear and normal force by combining an arrayed piezoelectric sensors layer with a precut glass top plate connected by four stress concentrating legs. We designed and fabricated a thin film piezoelectric force sensor and proposed an enhanced sensing tool to be used for analyzing gentle touches without the external voltage source used in FET sensors. Both the linear sensor response from 3 kPa to 30 kPa and the exact signal responses from the moving direction illustrate the strong feasibility of the described thin film miniaturized piezoelectric force sensor.
PENSION FORUM TABLE OF CONTENTS

The 1974 passage of ERISA halted the evolution of the actuarial pension model. This frozen model was unable to incorporate the emerging science of financial economics, which in turn revealed fundamental flaws in the model. Contrary to the teachings of financial economics, the actuarial pension model anticipates expected outcomes without reflecting the price of risk. It then camouflages the risky distribution of outcomes by various smoothings and amortizations. The flawed pension model has caused widespread, though rarely recognized, damage to pension plan stakeholders. This paper illustrates the flaws and the injuries they cause. To protect the pension system and the vitality of our profession, we urge pension actuaries to reexamine and redesign the model. The new model must incorporate the market value paradigm and reporting transparency that is rapidly becoming a worldwide minimum standard in finance. THE PENSION FORUM
Knowledge Management and SMEs: A Study of Knowledge Management Utilization by SMEs in Iran

Creating and sustaining a competitive advantage is a knowledge-based activity and those companies that are aware of knowledge management concepts and utilize it within their organizations have an edge over their competitors. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a major role in developing countries’ growth agenda. The purpose of this study is to examine the degree of KM utilization in Iranian SMEs and it conducts a comparative analysis of SMEs in Taiwan and Hong Kong. In order to gauge the degree of utilization, infrastructure and process capabilities of Iranian SMEs are investigated. It is found that KM in Iranian SMEs is partially, not fully, deployed. Further, the results of regression analysis indicate that organizational culture has a significant role in KM adoption amongst Iranian SMEs.
Isolation and quantification of three genes involved in the expression of anthocyanins in rubus glaucus benth by RT-qPCR

Anthocyanins are secondary metabolites involved mainly in the ripening of fruits. These phenolic compounds are found in leaves, flowers and above all in the fruits of plants. They are incorporated into the human body in daily intake, so the greatest interest lies in the fruits of violet colors [1]. According to Wu X et al. [2], the estimated daily intake of anthocyanins is 12.5 mg / day / person in the United States, Germany in 2002, daily intake of 2.7 mg / person, ranging from 0 to 72 mg / person [3].
Insulin and Na-dependent alanine transport in skeletal muscle of obese Zucker (fa/fa) rats.

Obese Zucker (fa/fa) rat skeletal muscle is characterized by a reduced rate of muscle protein deposition possibly due to alterations in amino acid transport. The purpose of the present study was to investigate alanine transport in plasma membrane vesicles from skeletal muscle of lean and obese Zucker rats, facilitating the study of alanine transport independent of cellular metabolism. Initial rates of alanine transport were measured in the presence and absence of Na using a rapid filtration technique, and the properties of membranes from control and maximally insulin-treated lean and obese Zucker rats were studied. For lean rats, the maximal stimulation (Vmax) for Na-dependent alanine transport was 207 pmol.mg-1.s-1, and the half-maximal affinity constant (K1/2) was 2.3 mM. Insulin treatment increased the Vmax to 387 pmol.mg-1.s-1 with no changes in K1/2. For the obese rats, the Vmax for Na-dependent alanine transport was 248 pmol.mg-1.s-1, and the K1/2 was 2.8 mM. These values were not changed by insulin treatment. Thus Na-dependent alanine transport in obese rat skeletal muscle is resistant to stimulation by insulin; this alteration may contribute to the abnormal muscle protein metabolism observed in these animals.
Differences in College Choice Criteria Between Deciding Students and Their Parents

ABSTRACT This paper reports the findings of a study involving the measurement of the relative importance of numerous college choice criteria. This study includes a comparison of importance ratings of these criteria by high school students and their parents. Significant student/parent and student gender differences are discussed and safety is identified as an important choice criterion. Important influencers on college choice decisions from both student and parent perspectives are also identified. The results can help college administrators and recruiters tailor their marketing strategies to each group by providing important information to the principal parties involved in making college choice decisions.
The prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B virus infection in an adult population in Romania: a nationwide survey

Aim The prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in the general population in Romania are still largely unknown. Methods A nationwide cross-sectional survey among a Romanian adult population (18–69 years) was conducted during 2006–2008 using a stratified, multistage sampling design. A total of 17 600 individuals were enrolled randomly into the study; the prevalence of chronic HBV infection (HBsAg-positive and anti-HBcAb-positive samples) was assessed on 13 127 individuals (74.6%) and a history of previous HBV infection (anti-HBcAb-positive, but HBsAg-negative samples) was assessed on 12 470 individuals (70.5%). A questionnaire was used to collect information on the sociodemographic characteristics of the participants and the potential risk factors for HBV transmission. Results The overall prevalence rate of HBV chronic infection among all the participants tested was 4.4% (confidence interval: 4.0–4.8%), with significant differences (P=0.0001) between participants from the main geographical regions of residence (Moldavia 4.5%, Muntenia and Dobrogea 5.4%, and Transylvania and Banat 3.1%). The total prevalence of previous HBV infection of all participants was 27.0% (confidence interval: 26.2–27.8%). The proportion of individuals with previous HBV infection, as well as with chronic HBV infection, showed a statistically significant increasing trend with age. The personal history of blood or blood product transfusion, surgical interventions, tattooing, and alcohol consumption greater than 60 g/day were risk factors associated with both anti-HBcAb and HBsAg seropositivity. Conclusion A prevalence rate of 4.4 and 27.0% for HBsAg and anti-HBcAb, respectively, represents a high figure within the European Union and a strong motivation for developing adequate strategies for prevention, active detection, and treatment of HBV infection in Romania.
Local food: Lithuanian consumers’ perceptions and attitudes

This study aimed to identify the meaning of local food to consumers in Lithuania, to examine the interest in purchasing local food and to uncover the main drivers and barriers towards purchase of local food. Data were gathered through a survey of 415 Lithuanian residents. The analysis of collected data was performed using the methods of mathematical statistics. The results suggest that a majority of Lithuanian consumers perceived local food as being produced within more than 100 km from their home. Respondents also strongly agreed with the definitions of local food as food grown or produced in Lithuania and food sold by Lithuanian famers directly to consumers. Three quarters of Lithuanian consumers regularly purchased local food and one fourth of respondents rarely or never purchased local food. Socio-demographic characteristics were not dominant factors in determining who purchased local food. Social conscience, health concern and shopping benefits were found to be the main drivers of purchasing local food. Alternatively, the main barriers were identified as buying inconvenience, lack of marketing, lack of trust and inadequate quality.
Retail Market Structure and Consumer Prices in the Euro Area

We investigate the empirical relationship between product market competition and prices in the retail grocery sector in the euro area. The study uses micro-data from ACNielsen on chain stores' census characteristics and price levels for a broad variety of products. We construct Herfindahl-Hirschman indices of concentration at different levels of market aggregation (buying group and parent company) to investigate their effects on prices. The analysis confirms the inverse relation between downstream market competition among retailers and price levels for most of the reference products. Though less conclusive in terms of statistical significance, the proposed estimates also point to a welfare enhancing role of buying groups. Our results indicate that buying groups provide a balancing mechanism between retailers' and producers' bargaining power, in support of the countervailing power hypothesis. JEL Classification: L1, L4, L8, E31
[Evaluation of oxidoreductive potential of patients with neuroborreliosis].

AIM The purpose of the study was to evaluate parameters of oxidoreductive system in serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with neuroborreliosis. MATERIAL AND METHODS The cases were 25 patients aged 21 to 64 (x = 42.3) hospitalized with diagnosis of neuroborreliosis. Activity of superoxide dismutase (Cu, Zn-SOD), glutathione reductase (GSSG-R), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and concentration of sulphydryl groups (-SH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in serum and CSF were tested. The control group consisted of 10 patients with diagnosis of discopathy. An examination was performed twice: before and after treatment. RESULTS Results of the study showed lack of stability in an oxidoreductive system during neuroborreliosis both in serum and in CSF. In CSF activity of SOD was increased while activity of GSH-Px and GSSG-R were decreased. Also concentration of -SH and lipid peroxidation products measured as MDA were increased. The increase of SOD, GSH-Px, GSSG-R activity and concentration of -SH and MDA in serum were detected. CONCLUSIONS Disorders of an oxidoreductive system in CSF and serum during neuroborreliosis were observed. These changes persisted despite treatment and normalization of inflammatory CSF markers.
Genome Sequence of the Unclassified Marine Gammaproteobacterium BDW918

ABSTRACT The unclassified marine gammaproteobacterium BDW918, which utilizes volatile fatty acids but not most common carbohydrates and amino acids, was isolated from Dokdo seawater in South Korea. Here we present a draft genome of the strain BDW918, which encodes many putative genes related to fatty acid metabolism and aromatic hydrocarbon degradation.
Service product development in engineering consultancy industry

Abstract This study examines service innovation management in the technical engineering and consulting industry, particularly the product development of services. Literature reviews on the issue of transforming services into products have first been conducted for getting the comprehensive picture on the complex topic. The empirical part of the study consists of expert interviews in eight different organizations representing the Finnish technical engineering and consulting industry. According to the study, only few companies have actually productized their services in the technical engineering and consulting industry this far. The service product was seen to consist of the modulated service package and the implementation process. The product development process was seen difficult to define. However, some general, but very important, phases can be withdrawn from the study. On the basis of integration of theoretical frameworks and results of the empirical study, we propose the product development process for the knowledge-intensive technical engineering and consulting firms.
Management Information Systems And Corporate Decision- Making: A Literature Review

Information has become an essential resource for managing modern organizations. This is so because today’s business environment is volatile, dynamic, turbulent and necessitates the burgeoning demand for accurate, relevant, complete, timely and economical information needed to drive the decision-making process in order to accentuate organizational abilities to manage opportunities and threats . This paper is a reflection of amassed discourse available in literature concerning the nexus between management information systems – MIS and corporate decision- making. The paper suggests that a painstaking development and management of MIS in organizations is capable of triggering decisions that would not only be fast and accurate but would be in line with industry best practices and ultimately result in organizational efficiency and effectiveness.