Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Calibration of quantum decision theory: aversion to large losses and predictability of probabilistic choices

We present the first calibration of quantum decision theory (QDT) to a dataset of binary risky choice. We quantitatively account for the fraction of choice reversals between two repetitions of the experiment, using a probabilistic choice formulation in the simplest form without model assumption or adjustable parameters. The prediction of choice reversal is then refined by introducing heterogeneity between decision makers through their differentiation into two groups: ‘majoritarian’ and ‘contrarian’ (in proportion 3:1). This supports the first fundamental tenet of QDT, which models choice as an inherent probabilistic process, where the probability of a prospect can be expressed as the sum of its utility and attraction factors. We propose to parameterize the utility factor with a stochastic version of cumulative prospect theory (logit-CPT), and the attraction factor with a constant absolute risk aversion function. For this dataset, and penalising the larger number of QDT parameters via the Wilks test of nested hypotheses, the QDT model is found to perform significantly better than logit-CPT at both the aggregate and individual levels, and for all considered fit criteria for the first experiment iteration and for predictions (second ‘out-of-sample’ iteration). The distinctive QDT effect captured by the attraction factor is mostly appreciable (i.e. most relevant and strongest in amplitude) for prospects with big losses. Our quantitative analysis of the experimental results supports the existence of an intrinsic limit of predictability, which is associated with the inherent probabilistic nature of choice. The results of the paper can find applications both in the prediction of choice of human decision makers as well as for organizing the operation of artificial intelligence.
Unifying nonholonomic and holonomic behaviors in human locomotion

Our motivation is to understand human locomotion to better control locomotion of virtual systems (robots and mannequins). Human locomotion has been studied so far in different disciplines. We consider locomotion as the level of a body frame (in direction and orientation) instead of the complexity of many kinematic joints systems as other approaches. Our approach concentrates on the computational foundation of human locomotion. The ultimate goal is to find a model that explains the shape of human locomotion in space. To do that, we first base on the behavior of trajectories on the ground during intentional locomotion. When human walk, they put one foot in front of the other and consequently, the direction of motion is deduced by the body orientation. That’s what we called the nonholonomic behavior hypothesis. However, in the case of a sideward step, the body orientation is not coupled to the tangential direction of the trajectory, and the hypothesis is no longer validated. The behavior of locomotion becomes holonomic. The aim of this thesis is to distinguish these two behaviors and to exploit them in neuroscience, robotics and computer animation. The first part of the thesis is to determine the configurations of the holonomic behavior by an experimental protocol and an original analytical tool segmenting the nonholonomic and holonomic behaviors of any trajectory. In the second part, we present a model unifying nonholonomic and holonomic behaviors. This model combines three velocities generating human locomotion: forward, angular and lateral. The experimental data in the first part are used in an inverse optimal control approach to find a multi-objective function which produces calculated trajectories as those of natural human locomotion. The last part is the application that uses the two behaviors to synthesize human locomotion in computer animation. Each locomotion is characterized by three velocities and is therefore considered as a point in 3D control space (of three speeds). We collected a library that contains locomotions at different velocities - points in 3D space. These points are structured in a tetrahedra cloud. When a desired speed is given, it is projected into the 3D space and we find the corresponding tetrahedron that contains it. The new animation is interpolated by four locomotions corresponding to four vertices of the selected tetrahedron. We exhibit several animation scenarios on a virtual character.
Feasibility and Acceptability of a Novel Online Program for Mental Health Carers

Abstract. Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a new online program (Minds Together ) for carers of a person with depressive or anxiety symptoms. Methods: Using a two-arm randomised controlled trial design, 108 carers of a person with depressive or anxiety symptomology aged 16 years or over (89% female; mean age 50 years) received immediate or delayed access to the Minds Together program. Feasibility was measured using program activation and survey completion rates. Acceptability was measured using a project-speciﬁc satisfaction scale, semi-structured interviews, and program completion metadata. The study used intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis for participant-reported outcomes (carer burden, coping self-eﬃcacy) across groups. Results: Feasibility and acceptability thresholds were consistent with similar studies: 59% activated their program account, 47% met the program completion threshold, and almost all reported satisfaction with the program. The ITT indicated trends in increased coping self-eﬃcacy and reduced carer burden for the Intervention group, compared to the Waitlist control. Conclusions: The Minds Together program is a feasible and acceptable program for carers supporting a person with depressive or anxiety symptomology. Results support exploration of the program’s eﬃcacy in a full-scale RCT.
Antitumor Effects of Cannabis sativa Bioactive Compounds on Colorectal Carcinogenesis

Cannabis sativa is a multipurpose plant that has been used in medicine for centuries. Recently, considerable research has focused on the bioactive compounds of this plant, particularly cannabinoids and terpenes. Among other properties, these compounds exhibit antitumor effects in several cancer types, including colorectal cancer (CRC). Cannabinoids show positive effects in the treatment of CRC by inducing apoptosis, proliferation, metastasis, inflammation, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, and autophagy. Terpenes, such as β-caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene, have also been reported to have potential antitumor effects on CRC through the induction of apoptosis, the inhibition of cell proliferation, and angiogenesis. In addition, synergy effects between cannabinoids and terpenes are believed to be important factors in the treatment of CRC. This review focuses on the current knowledge about the potential of cannabinoids and terpenoids from C. sativa to serve as bioactive agents for the treatment of CRC while evidencing the need for further research to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action and the safety of these compounds.
Silver Ion High-Performance Liquid Chromatography—Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry: A Tool for Analyzing Cuticular Hydrocarbons

Aliphatic hydrocarbons (HCs) are usually analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) or matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometry. However, analyzing long-chain HCs by GC is difficult because of their low volatility and the risk of decomposition at high temperatures. MALDI cannot distinguish between isomeric HCs. An alternative approach based on silver ion high-performance liquid chromatography (Ag-HPLC) is shown here. The separation of HC standards and cuticular HCs was accomplished using two ChromSpher Lipids columns connected in series. A gradient elution of the analytes was optimized using mobile phases prepared from hexane (or isooctane) and acetonitrile, 2-propanol, or toluene. HCs were detected by atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry (APCI-MS). Good separation of the analytes according to the number of double bonds, cis/trans geometry, and position of double bonds was achieved. The retention times increased with the number of double bonds, and trans isomers eluted ahead of cis isomers. The mobile phase significantly affected the mass spectra of HCs. Depending on the mobile phase composition, deprotonated molecules, molecular ions, protonated molecules, and various solvent-related adducts of HCs were observed. The optimized Ag-HPLC/APCI-MS was applied for characterizing cuticular HCs from a flesh fly, Neobellieria bullata, and cockroach, Periplaneta americana. The method made it possible to detect a significantly higher number of HCs than previously reported for GC or MALDI-MS. Unsaturated HCs were frequently detected as isomers differing by double-bond position(s). Minor HCs with trans double bonds were found beside the prevailing cis isomers. Ag-HPLC/APCI-MS has great potential to become a new tool in chemical ecology for studying cuticular HCs.
A Simple Closed-Form Approximation for Constant Elasticity of Variance Spread Options

By applying the Lie–Trotter operator splitting method and the idea of the WKB method, we have developed a simple, accurate and efficient analytical approximation for pricing the constant elasticity of variance (CEV) spread options. The derived option price formula bears a striking resemblance to Kirk’s formula of the Black–Scholes spread options. Illustrative numerical examples show that the proposed approximation is not only extremely fast and robust, but it is also remarkably accurate for typical volatilities and maturities of up to two years.
Digitization, Marketing 4.0, and Repurchase Intention in E-Tail: A Cross-National Study

The Marketing 4.0 phenomenon has drawn positive attention recently due to digitization and the need for upgraded frameworks. It was recently proposed with four components: brand identity, brand image, brand integrity, and brand interaction (4i). Brand interaction caters to the latest digitization trends in the industry. This study applies the Marketing 4.0 framework in a cross-national emerging economy context. It proposes a model that examines the impact of Marketing 4.0 on the online customer experience (OCE) and online repurchase intention (ORPI). Five hundred twenty-eight online shoppers of the branded apparel segment from two emerging economies participated in the study. The findings indicate the validity of the adapted Marketing 4.0 scale across the samples. All the direct hypotheses are accepted except one proving the positive impact of Marketing 4.0 on the OCE and the ORPI. Furthermore, the OCE significantly mediates the relationships between Marketing 4.0 elements and the ORPI, except for brand interaction (BINT).
The Challenges of Treating Patients with Breast Cancer and Obesity

Simple Summary Obesity is a poor prognostic factor for patients with breast cancer, resulting in increased risk of recurrence and death due to breast cancer. Obesity can affect both the efficacy and toxicity of systemic cancer therapies, including chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. In this review, we summarize the impact of obesity on the clinical outcomes of systemic therapies in patients with breast cancer, describe the molecular mechanisms through which obesity can affect systemic therapies, and highlight additional considerations for treating patients with obesity and breast cancer. Further research that focuses on the clinical outcomes in patients with obesity is needed to guide treatment decision-making. Abstract Obesity is defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or more and is associated with worse outcomes in patients with breast cancer, resulting in an increased incidence of breast cancer, recurrence, and death. The incidence of obesity is increasing, with almost half of all individuals in the United States classified as obese. Patients with obesity present with unique pharmacokinetics and physiology and are at increased risk of developing diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, which leads to specific challenges when treating these patients. The aim of this review is to summarize the impact of obesity on the efficacy and toxicity of systemic therapies used for breast cancer patients, describe the molecular mechanisms through which obesity can affect systemic therapies, outline the existing American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) guidelines for treating patients with cancer and obesity, and highlight additional clinical considerations for treating patients with obesity and breast cancer. We conclude that further research on the biological mechanisms underlying the obesity–breast cancer link may offer new treatment strategies, and clinicals trials that focus on the treatment and outcomes of patients with obesity and all stages of breast cancer are needed to inform future treatment guidelines.
Dynamic moisture sorption and humidity response inside the wooden space to cyclical changing external relative humidity

ABSTRACT Wood is usually processed into various spaces and used in buildings, packaging and furniture. Dynamic moisture sorption and humidity response inside wooden space to sinusoidally changing external relative humidity (RH) were demonstrated by using a self-assembly device, which simultaneously recorded moisture content (MC) and RH changes. Wood has hierarchical structures, which provided the basis of moisture sorption and further influenced RH inside. Internal RH changed sinusoidally, similar to external RH and MC. During internal and external moisture exchange, water molecules experienced dynamic compound actions, including moisture gradient pressure, the attraction of sorption sites and water molecules and diffusing hindrance. Consequently, MC and internal RH exhibited dynamic phase lag of over 0.39 radian. Meanwhile, moisture sorption was higher for thinner wood, especially in a longer cyclic period since more water molecules interacted with sorption sites with less diffusing hindrance. Correspondingly, the humidity change was lower inside thicker wooden spaces in a shorter period. The average internal RH and amplitude decreased by 5% and 83.7%, respectively. Dynamic humidity change hysteresis existed and showed positive relation to the cyclic period but inversely with wood thickness. The study helped better understand dynamic moisture sorption and humidity change in wooden space and facilitated the better application of wood in human life.
Modeling quality, satisfaction and perceived crowding in public healthcare: a study with low-income Brazilian patients

Abstract This paper is one of the first to propose a research model to assess the quality and satisfaction perceived by low-income Brazilian patients using public healthcare services, under the moderating effect of perceived crowding. The model was evaluated from data obtained from 417 patients, and its proposed relationships and statistics were tested through Structural Equation Modeling using a Partial Least Squares approach (PLS-SEM). To explore the moderating effect of perceived crowding, the sample was divided into two groups and tested by employing multi-group analysis (MGA). The results show that Reliability, Safety, Tangibles, Empathy and Responsiveness have a positive effect on Perceived Healthcare Quality (PHQ), which, in turn, has a marked effect on patient satisfaction (PS), ergo, PHQ acts as antecedent of PS. However, perceived crowding has no moderating effect on any relationship in the model.
Effect of Essential Oils of Apiaceae, Lamiaceae, Lauraceae, Myrtaceae, and Rutaceae Family Plants on Growth, Biofilm Formation, and Quorum Sensing in Chromobacterium violaceum, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecalis

The biological role played by essential oils extracted from aromatic plants is progressively being recognized. This study evaluated the potential antibacterial activity of ten essential oils against Chromobacterium violaceum, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus faecalis by measuring their minimum inhibitory concentration. We found that essential oils exert different antimicrobial effects, with Origanum vulgare and Foeniculum vulgare demonstrating the most significant inhibitory effect on bacterial growth for C. violaceum and E. faecalis. The growth of P. aeruginosa was not affected by any essential oil concentration we used. Sub-inhibitory concentrations of essential oils reduced in C. violaceum and E. faecalis biofilm formation, violacein amount, and gelatinase activity, all of which are biomarkers of the Quorum Sensing process. These concentrations significantly affect the global methylation profiles of cytosines and adenines, thus leading to the hypothesis that the oils also exert their effects through epigenetic changes. Considering the results obtained, it is possible that essential oils can find a broad spectrum of applications in counteracting microbial contamination and preserving sterility of surfaces and foods, as well as inhibiting microbial growth of pathogens, alone or in combination with traditional antibiotics.
The Influence of Nitrogen Applications and Low Rainfall Conditions on Yield of Mixed Grass-Legume Grassland for 2 Years

Mixed-species grassland containing legumes were suggested to increase yield compared to monocultures. Furthermore, some legumes were suggested to be able to sustain growth, even under drought conditions. The first aim of the current study was to measure if multispecies grassland with legumes is also more productive when their N input due to symbiotic N2 fixation is taken into account. Our second aim was to determine the benefit of grass–legume mixtures in terms of dry matter production under naturally occurring drought conditions. Mixed-species grasslands, consisting of monocultures and variable mixtures of (a) Trifolium pratense, (b) Trifolium. repens, (c) Lolium perenne, and (d) a mixture of drought-tolerant grasses (GSWT based), were assessed for their dry matter production over two years with contrasting weather patterns. The legume–grass seeding mixtures received either a fixed (180 kg N ha−1) or adapted N-fertilizer application (0–180 kg N ha−1), with the latter taking the assumed symbiotic N2 fixation by legumes into account. Mixed-species grassland showed improved yield compared to monocultures both in comparably humid and drought-affected years. The benefits of multispecies grass–legume mixtures were considerably more obvious under a fixed but still measurable under an adapted N-fertilizer regime. The species diversity effect appears to be significantly dependent on the additional N supply enabled by legumes’ symbiotic N2-fixation. Legumes and drought-tolerant grasses yielded equally well under drought conditions, although legumes showed major advantages during moderate drought and humid conditions. White and red clover, although both legumes, differed significantly in their persistence under elevated-N and their dry matter production under low-N fertilizer application, but were equal in their tolerance towards drought.
Application of Novel Technologies in Cardiac Electrotherapy to Prevent Complications

(1) Background: Cardiac electrotherapy is developing quickly, which implies that it will face a higher number of complications, with cardiac device-related infective endocarditis (CDRIE) being the most frequent, but not the only one. (2) Methods: This is a retrospective case study followed by a literature review, which presents a patient with a rare but dangerous complication of electrotherapy, which could have been prevented if modern technology had been used. (3) Results: A 34-year-old female was admitted with suspicion of CDRIE based on an unclear echocardiographic presentation. However, with no signs of infection, that diagnosis was not confirmed, though an endocardial implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) lead was found folded into the pulmonary trunk. The final treatment included transvenous lead extraction (TLE) and subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD) implantation. (4) Conclusions: With the increasing number of implantations of cardiac electronic devices and their consequences, a high index of suspicion among clinicians is required. The entity of the clinical picture must be thoroughly considered, and various diagnostic tools should be applied. Lead dislocation into the pulmonary trunk is an extremely rare complication. Our findings align with the available literature data, where asymptomatic cases are usually effectively treated with TLE. Modern technologies, such as S-ICD, can effectively prevent lead-related problems and are indicated in young patients necessitating long-term ICD therapy.
The C-shunt Flux Qubit: A New Generation of Superconducting Flux Qubit

Author(s): Birenbaum, Jeffrey | Advisor(s): Clarke, John | Abstract: While quantum computation has the potential to revolutionize the scientific community, to date no architecture has been developed which offers the necessary combination of high coherence times and massive scalability. Superconducting flux qubits satisfy the second requirement well but to date useful devices are limited to coherence times of typically only a few amus. In this dissertation we examine the possibilities of improving the coherence performance of the flux qubit to the levels required for fault-tolerant quantum computation. We find that coherence times for many devices are limited by photon-induced quasiparticles and mitigation of these quasiparticles increases coherence times by more than a factor of two. Beyond this, however, we find little improvement in flux qubit performance compared to prior results. Despite improved fabrication techniques and varied device designs we find flux qubit coherence times are still typically below 5 amus. Furthermore, wide device-to-device variations are observed which prevent effective scaling of the flux qubit to quantum information circuits.Based on the proposal by You, et al. we develop of a capacitively-shunted version of the flux qubit called the C-shunt flux qubit. With the addition of a capacitive shunt across the small junction of the flux qubit we are able to reduce the amplitude sensitivity to both charge and flux noise by more than a factor of three. The result is a predicted ten-fold enhancement in the coherence times compared to the unshunted flux qubit. At the same time we preserve much of the anharmonicity of the flux qubit resulting in a device with coherence times comparable to modern transmons but with a factor of four better anharmonicity and more flexible coupling configurations.By using a high-quality MBE aluminum shunt process on an annealed sapphire substrate coupled with a more conventional electron-beam-evaporated aluminum Josephson junction process we fabricate hybrid C-shunt flux qubits. We also incorporate a new bridgeless junction technique which offers more robust and repeatable fabrication processing. This technique enables improved accuracy of the junction sizing, a trait which will become essential as we move to multi-qubit experiments. T1 and T2 times for these C-shunt devices reach in excess of 40 amus at degeneracy, achieving the predicted ten-fold improvement based on the reduced noise sensitivity. At the same time we see decreased device-to-device variation with typical T1 times exceeding 20andash25 amus at all bias points. Combined with the high anharmonicity and standard planar fabrication techniques these coherence times make the C-shunt flux qubit a competitive candidate for fault-tolerant quantum computation.