Manchester Metropolitan University

About: Manchester Metropolitan University is a education organization based out in Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Context (language use). The organization has 5435 authors who have published 16202 publications receiving 442561 citations. The organization is also known as: Manchester Polytechnic & MMU.

SAMM: A Spontaneous Micro-Facial Movement Dataset

Abstract: Micro-facial expressions are spontaneous, involuntary movements of the face when a person experiences an emotion but attempts to hide their facial expression, most likely in a high-stakes environment. Recently, research in this field has grown in popularity, however publicly available datasets of micro-expressions have limitations due to the difficulty of naturally inducing spontaneous micro-expressions. Other issues include lighting, low resolution and low participant diversity. We present a newly developed spontaneous micro-facial movement dataset with diverse participants and coded using the Facial Action Coding System. The experimental protocol addresses the limitations of previous datasets, including eliciting emotional responses from stimuli tailored to each participant. Dataset evaluation was completed by running preliminary experiments to classify micro-movements from non-movements. Results were obtained using a selection of spatio-temporal descriptors and machine learning. We further evaluate the dataset on emerging methods of feature difference analysis and propose an Adaptive Baseline Threshold that uses individualised neutral expression to improve the performance of micro-movement detection. In contrast to machine learning approaches, we outperform the state of the art with a recall of 0.91. The outcomes show the dataset can become a new standard for micro-movement data, with future work expanding on data representation and analysis.

Effect of ultrasonic processing on food enzymes of industrial importance

Abstract: In the last decade power ultrasound has emerged as an alternative processing option to conventional thermal approaches for pasteurisation and sterilisation of food products. While sonication alone may not be adequate for inactivation of various spoilage and harmful enzymes present in food, ultrasound in combination with mild heat treatment and/or pressure has shown potential for both enzyme and pathogen inactivation. Numerous studies have investigated ultrasound for inactivating enzymes such as pectinmethylesterase, polyphenoloxidases and peroxidases responsible for deterioration of fruit & vegetable juice and various enzymes pertinent to milk quality. The efficacy of ultrasound for the inactivation of enzymes in food is outlined in this review along with a description of the inactivation mechanism to elucidate the effect of ultrasound on important enzymes in fruit juices and dairy products.

Application of novel extraction technologies for bioactives from marine algae.

Abstract: Marine algae are a rich source of bioactive compounds. This paper outlines the main bioactive compounds in marine algae and recent advances in novel technologies for extracting them. Novel extraction technologies reviewed include enzyme-assisted extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, and pressurized liquid extraction. These technologies are reviewed with respect to principles, benefits, and potential applications for marine algal bioactives. Advantages of novel technologies include higher yield, reduced treatment time, and lower cost compared to traditional solvent extraction techniques. Moreover, different combinations of novel techniques used for extraction and technologies suitable for thermolabile compounds are identified. The limitations of and challenges to employing these novel extraction technologies in industry are also highlighted.

Strategic issues in customer relationship management (CRM) implementation

Abstract: The number of customer relationship management (CRM) implementations has grown dramatically in recent years. However, few academic studies of the issues associated with the implementation of the concept are available. This paper offers a modest contribution through the analysis of a case study of a CRM implementation at a UK‐based manufacturing company. The case study illustrates that CRM is a complex and holistic concept, organised around business processes and the integration of information technologies. The study also highlights that implementing CRM requires effective leadership, sourcing, targeting and evaluation strategies.