Abstract: A method of adjusting a resource competition threshold for qualifying resource competition participants in resource competition is described. Processing circuitry of an apparatus obtains first competition data associated with a first time period, obtains a first optimal threshold according to the first competition data, and set the resource competition threshold according to the first optimal threshold. The processing circuitry obtains second competition data associated with a second time period, and obtains a second optimal threshold according to the second competition data. When a difference between the second optimal threshold and the resource competition threshold is greater than a difference threshold, the processing circuitry obtains third competition data and updates the resource competition threshold according to the third competition data.

Abstract: A method of adjusting a resource competition threshold for qualifying resource competition participants in resource competition is described. Processing circuitry of an apparatus obtains first competition data associated with a first time period, obtains a first optimal threshold according to the first competition data, and set the resource competition threshold according to the first optimal threshold. The processing circuitry obtains second competition data associated with a second time period, and obtains a second optimal threshold according to the second competition data. When a difference between the second optimal threshold and the resource competition threshold is greater than a difference threshold, the processing circuitry obtains third competition data and updates the resource competition threshold according to the third competition data.

Abstract: A microfluidic device (100) is disclosed. The device comprises a triboelectric sensor (102); an elastically deformable pump (104) arranged to transfer fluid to at least one fluid outlet (108) and triboelectrically activate the sensor; and first and second check valves (106a, 106b) respectively arranged at the inlet and outlet of the pump to control fluid transfer in and out of the pump. When the pump is actuated in conjunction with the check valves to transfer a volume of fluid, at least a portion of the sensor is triboelectrically activated according to an amount of deformation of the pump to generate a corresponding output voltage signal for enabling the volume of fluid transferred by the deformed pump to be determined. A corresponding method of using the device is also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure are directed to non-invasive or essentially non-invasive electrode structures, assemblies, and devices for sensing neural signals carried or produced by peripheral nerves, and/or applying stimulation signals to peripheral nerves. Electrode structures, assemblies, and devices in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure include (a) flexible epineural strip electrode structures having one or more elongate electrode-carrying strips that can be adhered (e.g.