Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Novel Tactile Sensor Technology and Smart Tactile Sensing Systems: A Review

During the last decades, smart tactile sensing systems based on different sensing techniques have been developed due to their high potential in industry and biomedical engineering. However, smart tactile sensing technologies and systems are still in their infancy, as many technological and system issues remain unresolved and require strong interdisciplinary efforts to address them. This paper provides an overview of smart tactile sensing systems, with a focus on signal processing technologies used to interpret the measured information from tactile sensors and/or sensors for other sensory modalities. The tactile sensing transduction and principles, fabrication and structures are also discussed with their merits and demerits. Finally, the challenges that tactile sensing technology needs to overcome are highlighted.
Mitochondrial DNA deletion mutations colocalize with segmental electron transport system abnormalities, muscle fiber atrophy, fiber splitting, and oxidative damage in sarcopenia

The in vivo cellular impact of age‐associated mitochondrial DNA mutations is unknown. We hypothesized that mitochondrial DNA deletion mutations contribute to the fiber atrophy and loss that cause sarcopenia, the age‐related decline of muscle mass and function. We examined 82,713 rectus femoris muscle fibers from Fischer 344 ×Brown Norway F1 hybrid rats of ages 5, 18, and 38 months through 1000 microns by serial cryosectioning and histochemical staining for cytochrome c oxidase and succinate dehydrogenase. Between 5 and 38 months of age, the rectus femoris muscle in the hybrid rat demonstrated a 33% decrease in mass concomitant with a 30% decrease in total fibers at the muscle mid‐belly. We observed significant increases in the number of mitochondrial abnormalities with age from 289 ± 8 ETS abnormal fibers in the entire 5‐month‐old rectus femoris to 1094 ± 126 in the 38‐month‐old as calculated from the volume density of these abnormalities. Segmental mitochondrial abnormalities contained mitochondrial DNA deletion mutations as revealed by laser capture microdissection and whole mitochondrial genome amplification. Muscle fibers harboring mitochondrial deletions often displayed atrophy, splitting and increased steady‐state levels of oxidative nucleic damage. These data suggest a causal role for age‐associated mitochondrial DNA deletion mutations in sarcopenia. —Wanagat, J., Cao, Z. , Pathare, P., Aiken, J. M. Mitochondrial DNA deletion mutations colocalize with segmental electron transport system abnormalities, muscle fiber atrophy, fiber splitting, and oxidative damage in sarcopenia. FASEB J. 15, 322‐332 (2001)
Measurement and simulation of water transport during freezing in mammalian liver tissue.

Optimization of cryosurgical procedures on deep tissues such as liver requires an increased understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of ice formation and water transport in tissues during freezing. In order to further investigate and quantify the amount of water transport that occurs during freezing in tissue, this study reports quantitative and dynamic experimental data and theoretical modeling of rat liver freezing under controlled conditions. The rat liver was frozen by one of four methods of cooling: Method 1-ultrarapid "slam cooling" (> or = 1000 degrees C/min) for control samples; Method 2-equilibrium freezing achieved by equilibrating tissue at different subzero temperatures (-4, -6, -8, -10 degrees C); Method 3-two-step freezing, which involves cooling at 5 degrees C/min. to -4, -6, -8, -10 or -20 degrees C followed immediately by slam cooling; or Method 4-constant and controlled freezing at rates from 5-400 degrees C/min. on a directional cooling stage. After freezing, the tissue was freeze substituted, embedded in resin, sectioned, stained, and imaged under a light microscope fitted with a digitizing system. Image analysis techniques were then used to determine the relative cellular to extracellular volumes of the tissue. The osmotically inactive cell volume was determined to be 0.35 by constructing a Boyle van't Hoff plot using cellular volumes from Method 2. The dynamic volume of the rat liver cells during cooling was obtained using cellular volumes from Method 3 (two-step freezing at 5 degrees C/min). A nonlinear regression fit of a Krogh cylinder model to the volumetric shrinkage data in Method 3 yielded the biophysical parameters of water transport in rat liver tissue of: Lpg = 3.1 x 10(-13) m3/Ns (1.86 microns/min-atm) and ELp = 290 kJ/mole (69.3 kcal/mole), with chi-squared variance of 0.00124. These parameters were then incorporated into the Krogh cylinder model and used to simulate water transport in rat liver tissue during constant cooling at rates between 5-100 degrees C/min. Reasonable agreement between these simulations and the constant cooling rate freezing experiments in Method 4 were obtained. The model predicts that the water transport ceases at a relatively high subzero temperature (-10 degrees C), such that the amount of intracellular ice forming in the tissue cells rises from almost none (= extensive dehydration and vascular expansion) at < or = 5 degrees C/min to over 88 percent of the original cellular water at > or = 50 degrees C/min. The theoretical simulations based on these experimental methods may be of use in visualizing and predicting freezing response, and thus can assist in the planning and implementing of cryosurgical protocols.
Optimization of symbol timing recovery for DTMB receivers

This paper proposes a symbol timing recovery (STR) scheme for DTMB (digital terrestrial/television multimedia broadcasting) receivers, which is implemented by an all digital DLL (delay locked loop) in time domain. Compared with the conventional early-late synchronizer, the improved timing error detector is self-normalized and bears sampling frequency offset up to plusmn 90 ppm, three times as much as the former method. Besides, automatic adjustment of loop bandwidth, controlled by a lock detector, is realized to provide better loop performance in both convergence speed and jitter. Simulation and hardware test results show that the new STR scheme can work reliably in both AWGN and multipath channels.
Cells Expressing mRNA for Neurotrophins and their Receptors During Embryonic Rat Development

In situ hybridization analysis of cells expressing messenger RNAs (mRNAs) for the neurotrophins nerve growth factor (NGF), brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin‐3 (NT‐3) and their high‐affinity receptors (trk, trkB and trkC) in the rat embryo revealed a complex but specific expression pattern for each of these mRNAs. For all mRNAs a developmentally regulated expression was seen in many different tissues. BDNF and NT‐3 mRNAs were expressed in the sensory epithelia of the cochlea and vestibule macula of the sacculus and utricle, and both trkB and trkC mRNA were expressed in the spiral and vestibule ganglia innervating these sensory structures. NGF and NT‐3 mRNA were found in the iris, innervated by the sympathetic neurons of the superior cervical ganglion and sensory neurons from the trigeminal ganglion, which expressed both trk and trkC mRNAs. Both NGF and NT‐3 mRNAs were also expressed in other target fields of the trigeminal ganglion, the epithelium of the whisker follicles (NT‐3 mRNA) and in the epithelium of the nose, tongue and jaw. NT‐3 mRNA was found in the cerebellar external granule layer and trkC mRNA in the Purkinje layer of the cerebellar primordia. These sites of synthesis are consistent with a target‐derived neurotrophic interaction for NGF, BDNF and NT‐3. However, in some cases mRNAs for both the neurotrophins and their high‐affinity receptors were detected in the same tissue, including the dorsal root, geniculate, superior, jugular, petrose and nodose ganglia, as well as in the hippocampus, frontal cortical plate and pineal recess, implying a local mode of action. Combined, these data suggest a broad function for the neurotrophins and their receptors in supporting neural innervation during embryonic development. The results also identify several novel neuronal systems that are likely to depend on the neurotrophins in vivo.
Exploring the influence of absorptive capacity on German SMEs and their choice for a strategic alliance : Organizational learning through exploration and exploitation

Since the last decades, the formation of strategic alliances increases and were recognized as helpful strategy to create competitive advantage. Furthermore, it represents an effective way to develop new skills, to penetrate new markets or to explore new technologies. Strategic alliances are partnerships of at least two organizations that want to achieve strategically objectives. In strategic alliances learning takes place, which relates to the absorptive capacity of the participating organizations and represents one of various reasons to form a strategic alliance. The individual level of absorptive capacity might influence the organizational learning process and finally cause the choice for which type of alliance. The aim of this thesis is to observe the level of absorptive capacity in SMEs and afterwards to determine whether it influences those companies in the formation of alliances. Also a possible moderating effect of environmental turbulence is tested. To achieve these aims the research questions are: ´To what extent does the level of absorptive capacity of SMEs influence the decision to enter either an exploratory or exploitative alliance? ´ and ´How is this influence moderated by the level of environmental turbulence? ´ In this study, a quantitative research method was used in German SMEs. An online survey was prepared and sent out to 910 German SMEs who fulfill the criteria of a small- or medium sized company according to the definition of the European Commission from 2003. The questions were formulated in German and adopted from different research to test for the level of absorptive capacity and environmental turbulence, and whether more explorative or exploitative relationships takes place. Using a 5-point Likert scale tested all questions. During a time period of 40 days a total of 184 respondents participated in the survey, while 63 respondents finalized the survey. Finally, 53 completed surveys were useable for the data analysis with smartPLS to conduct a structural equation modeling. The analysis of the dataset with smartPLS revealed that a high level of absorptive capacity cause the choice both an explorative and exploitative relationship. The hypothesis that a low degree of absorptive capacity causes the choice for an exploitative relationship was rejected. Additionally, for SMEs no significant moderating effect of environmental turbulence could be proven with this study. This thesis was inspired by the growing amount of strategic alliances across all industries and types of companies. Furthermore, the current literature lacks on actual studies that focus on strategic alliances as learning opportunity for SMEs. From the findings it can be concluded that a high level of absorptive capacity does not only lead to explorative relationships and that environmental turbulence has no influence on the formation.
Seek or destroy? Examining value creation and destruction in behaviour maintenance in social marketing

ABSTRACT This article presents an empirical investigation of how behaviour maintenance is supported or hindered through value creation and destruction in social marketing. Using a longitudinal, netnographic approach, we identify and examine the key facilitators and barriers encountered during the maintenance of physical and mental health behaviours. Data were collected over a 12-week observation period via Twitter from a sample of 242 participants. A total of 5212 tweets were analysed using content and thematic analysis facilitated by NVivo software program. The findings identify key barriers to and facilitators of behaviour maintenance at the individual level (downstream), meso level (midstream), and policy level (upstream) that have an influence on value creation and destruction in social marketing. These findings demonstrate the importance of employing a strategic and integrated approach to social change management.
Delta-connected static var compensator (SVC) based hybrid active power filter (SVC-HAPF) and its control method

In this paper, a new structure and the coordinated control method of a delta connected static var compensator (SVC) based hybrid active power filter (SVC-HAPF) for reactive current, harmonic current and unbalanced current compensation are proposed. The proposed delta-connected SVC-HAPF has the desirable characteristics of wide compensation range with low voltage/current rating requirement in the active inverter part. Simulation results are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed structure and control method.
Aggregated Royalties for Top-Down FRAND Determinations

In an environment in which widely adopted technical standards may each be covered by large numbers of patents, there have been increasing calls for courts to determine “fair, reasonable, and nondiscriminatory” (FRAND) royalties payable to holders of standards-essential patents (SEPs) using “top-down” methodologies. Top-down royalty approaches begin with the aggregate royalty that should be payable with respect to all SEPs covering a particular standard, and then allocate a portion of the total to individual SEPs. Top-down approaches avoid many drawbacks associated with bottom-up approaches in which royalties for individual SEPs are assessed, often in an inconsistent and piecemeal manner, without regard for the other SEPs that cover the standard. Yet despite the potential benefits of top-down methodologies, one of the most promising means for determining aggregate royalty levels—joint agreement by the members of the relevant standards-development organization (SDO)—has gained little traction. The idea of SDO participants jointly negotiating FRAND royalties attracted the attention of commentators and antitrust agencies about a decade ago, when a handful of SDOs began to explore mandatory ex ante rate disclosure requirements. But few SDOs adopted such policies, and joint negotiations were never incorporated into the mainstream standardization process. One reason that SDOs have been hesitant to endorse joint royalty negotiations is the perceived risk of antitrust liability arising from concerted action among competitors. But as numerous commentators and antitrust officials have reiterated, this fear is largely misplaced in the context of industry standard-setting. Thus, SDOs should follow the lead of patent pools and begin more actively to determine aggregate patent royalty burdens for standards that they develop. In addition, antitrust and competition authorities should assure the market that collective agreement on aggregate royalty rates alone should not give rise to antitrust liability.
Enhanced translocation of bacteria across metabolically stressed epithelia is reduced by butyrate†

Background: The gut microflora in some patients with Crohn's disease can be reduced in numbers of butyrate‐producing bacteria and this could result in metabolic stress in the colonocytes. Thus, we hypothesized that the short‐chain fatty acid, butyrate, is important in the maintenance and regulation of the barrier function of the colonic epithelium. Methods: Confluent monolayers of the human colon‐derived T84 or HT‐29 epithelial cell lines were exposed to dinitrophenol (DNP (0.1 mM), uncouples oxidative phosphorylation) + Escherichia coli (strain HB101, 106 cfu) ± butyrate (3–50 mM). Transepithelial resistance (TER), and bacterial internalization and translocation were assessed over a 24‐hour period. Epithelial ultrastructure was assessed by transmission electron microscopy. Results: Epithelia under metabolic stress display decreased TER and increased numbers of pseudopodia that is consistent with increased internalization and translocation of the E. coli. Butyrate (but not acetate) significantly reduced the bacterial translocation across DNP‐treated epithelia but did not ameliorate the drop in TER in the DNP+E. coli exposed monolayers. Inhibition of bacterial transcytosis across metabolically stressed epithelia was associated with reduced I‐&kgr;B phosphorylation and hence NF‐&kgr;B activation. Conclusions: Reduced butyrate‐producing bacteria could result in increased epithelial permeability particularly in the context of concomitant exposure to another stimulus that reduces mitochondria function. We speculate that prebiotics, the substrate for butyrate synthesis, is a valuable prophylaxis in the regulation of epithelial permeability and could be of benefit in preventing relapses in IBD. (Inflamm Bowel Dis 2010)
Celiac Disease–Associated Autoimmune Hepatitis in Childhood: Long-Term Response to Treatment

Objectives: Celiac disease (CD) is common in patients with autoimmune liver disease (AILD); however, the long-term response to treatment of patients with AILDs coexistent with CD has not been explored in detail. The aim of the present study was to analyze the features and the long-term response to immunosuppressive treatment in children with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) associated with CD. Methods: Retrospective and prospective evaluation of patients followed at a single center. Results: Among 79 patients with AIH, 15 (19%) had CD (9 type 1, 3 type 2, 3 seronegative). In the group of patients with AIH and CD, female sex was significantly more represented than in the group of patients with AIH alone; also, in the former group, diagnosis was made significantly earlier (P < 0.05). All of the 15 patients on a gluten-free diet achieved sustained remission when treated with prednisone and azathioprine or cyclosporine. The mean period of follow-up was 73 months; discontinuation of therapy was attempted in 9 patients while in remission: 4 patients relapsed, 5 (33%) could definitively stop immunosuppressive treatment with a mean period of treatment-free sustained remission of 89 months (range 26–174). In the same period, treatment discontinuation, attempted in 24 of 64 patients with AIH without CD, was successful in 5 patients (8%; P < 0.05). Conclusions: Patients with AIH coexisting with CD achieve treatment-free sustained remission in a significantly higher proportion, when compared with patients with AIH without CD, suggesting a possible long-term adjuvant effect of a gluten-free diet.
Marketing spending and aftermarket performance of IPO firms

Purpose Increasingly, marketing managers are asked to consider the financial implications, in terms of both book and market values, when making strategic decisions. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of marketing expenditures in explaining the variation in the aftermarket performance of a sample of firms conducting initial public offerings (IPOs). Design/methodology/approach Theories from marketing and finance – market-based assets (MBA) theory and signaling theory respectively – serve as the conceptual basis of this paper. The results of this study, based on a sample of 2,103 IPOs covering the 1996 to 2008 time period, suggest that increased marketing spending positively impacts aftermarket (i.e. stock price) performance. Findings The authors find that while short-run aftermarket performance is positively and significantly impacted by pre-IPO marketing spending, long-run firm performance measures do not appear to be impacted by pre-IPO marketing spending. Further, pre-IPO marketing spending does not incrementally reduce underpricing or improve long-run performance when the IPO takes place during extreme market conditions such as recessions or hot markets, and these results are important to the shareholders and potential investors in the firm. Research limitations/implications Theoretically this paper advances the literature on the marketing-finance interface by extending the MBA and signaling theories. For practice, the results indicate that spending more money on marketing before the IPO and disclosing this information produces positive bottom-line results for the firm. Originality/value While Luo (2008) documents a significant relationship between the firms’ pre-IPO marketing spending and IPO underpricing, few studies explore the impact of marketing spending on stock price performance beyond the first day of trading. This paper makes three unique contributions. First, the authors extend Luo’s study by investigating the effect of marketing expenditures on underpricing during extreme market conditions. Second, the authors are the first to examine IPO performance in the long-run as well as the short-run. Finally, the authors assess how long-run performance is impacted by marketing spending during extreme market conditions. The findings of this study has implications for managers and shareholders of firms considering going public through a traditional IPO.
Tense-Lax Vowel Classification with Energy Trajectory and Voice Quality Measurements

This work examines energy trajectory and voice quality measurements, in addition to conventional formant and duration properties, to classify tense and lax vowels in English. Tense and lax vowels are produced with differing articulatory configurations which can be identified by measuring acoustic cues such as energy peak location, energy convexity, open quotient and spectral tilt. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) is conducted, and dialect effects are observed. An overall 85.2% classification rate is obtained using the proposed features on the TIMIT database, resulting in improvement over using only conventional acoustic features. Adding the proposed features to widely used cepstral features also results in improved classification.
Apples of Discord 1

My first thought of a title for this lecture was'Apples of Sodom': but I felt that this might be misconstrued. So I have settled for 'Apples of discord', which is merely cryptic, and not positively misleading. You will recall that the original apple of discord was the one which Eris threw on the table at the wedding of Peleus and Thetis, saying 'For the most beautiful'. This led to the judgment of Paris, and so to the Trojan War. The apples of Sodoin, on the other hand, are described thus: 'There are apple-trees on the sides of the Dead Sea which bear lovely fruit, but within are full of ashes. ' Disappointing, perhaps, but scarcely catastrophic. There are other famous apples those of the Hesperides; the golden apples of perpetual youth, the food of the gods in Valhalla; that thrown by Virgil's Galatea, and equally legendary perhaps that which startled Isaac Newton. From the USA, we have 'apple-polishing' as a synonym for flattery; and the Apple Tree Gang, who introduced golf at Yonkers, NY, in a six-hole orchard an implant which seems to have taken. But I think I may have sufficiently discharged my Plain-Dealer's obligation to the first word of my title; and I proceed to divulge what this lecture is to be about. I propose to consider one or two of the conflicts between those of us who practise medicine, and those who purport to speak for society: and, for good measure, one or two of the issues which seem to divide our own profession. And to end, it may be paradoxically, with a plea that perhaps so much conflict is not necessary, and that we should be deploying more charity in an effort to agree.