Neuromorphic Tactile Edge Orientation Classification in an Unsupervised Spiking Neural Network.

Dexterous manipulation in robotic hands relies on an accurate sense of artificial touch. Here we investigate neuromorphic tactile sensation with an event-based optical tactile sensor combined with spiking neural networks for edge orientation detection. The sensor incorporates an event-based vision system (mini-eDVS) into a low-form factor artificial fingertip (the NeuroTac).

An update on nuclear calcium signalling.

Over the past 15 years or so, numerous studies have sought to characterise how nuclear calcium (Ca2+) signals are generated and reversed, and to understand how events that occur in the nucleoplasm influence cellular Ca2+ activity, and vice versa. In this Commentary, we describe mechanisms of nuclear Ca2+ signalling and discuss what is known about the origin and physiological significance of nuclear Ca2+ transients. In particular, we focus on the idea that the nucleus has an autonomous Ca2+ signalling system that can generate its own Ca2+ transients that modulate processes such as gene transcription.

Solution stability of factor Xa inhibitors as a function of pH.

The stability of two factor Xa inhibitors (MLN1021 and CT54004) as a function of pH was investigated in order to better characterize the compounds and to locate the optimum pH for a stable formulation that might be used in a first-in-person (FIP) clinical study. The compounds prepared in buffer solutions over a pH range of 1-10 were stored at 60 degrees C, and assayed for pH and purity at different time points. The pH-rate profiles indicated that both compound was quite stable in the middle pH range, and least stable at pH<3 and >8.