bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health literacy measurement: a comparison of four widely used health literacy instruments (TOFHLA, NVS, HLS-EU and HLQ) and implications for practice
Authors: Jessup Rebecca L. , Beauchamp Alison , Osborne Richard H. , Hawkins Melanie , Buchbinder Rachelle
Published: December 2024

Background Health literacy has evolved from a focus on individual skills to an interactive process influenced by relationships and the health system. Various instruments measure health literacy, developed from different conceptions and often for different measurement purposes. The aim of this study was to compare the properties of four widely used health literacy instruments: Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (TOFHLA), Newest Vital Sign (NVS), European Health Literacy Survey (HLS-EU-Q47), and Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ). Methods This was a within-subject study comparing instrument performance. Composite reliability and Cronbach’s alpha was used to measure internal consistency, floor/ceiling effects determined discriminate ability across low-to-high score ranges, and Spearman’s R correlation coefficient was used to assess the relationship between instruments, particularly scales aiming to measure similar constructs. Results Fifty-nine patients consented, with 43 completing all four instruments. Internal consistency was high for all scales (composite reliability range 0.76–0.95). Floor and ceiling effects were observed, with TOFHLA demonstrating the largest ceiling effect (>62) and NVS the only floor effect (18%). Only moderate correlations were found between TOFHLA and NVS (r = 0.60) and between HLS-EU-Q47 and HLQ scales (r ~0.6). Conclusion Our study found low to moderate correlations between the instruments, indicating they measure different constructs of health literacy. Clinicians and researchers should consider the intended measurement purpose and constructs when choosing an instrument. If the purpose of measurement is to understand reading, comprehension, and numeracy skills in individuals and populations, then performance based functional health literacy instruments such as the TOFHLA and NVS will be suitable. However, if the purpose is to generate insights into broader elements of health literacy, including social supports and relationships with health providers, then the HLS-EU and HLQ may be useful. The findings highlight the need for careful instrument selection to ensure meaningful and appropriate data interpretation. As improving population health literacy is a national priority in many countries, it is important that clinicians and researchers understand the measurement differences offered by different instruments to assist them to choose the right instrument for their measurement purpose.
N-N compounds in L2 French and L3 English
Authors: Hermas Abdelkader
Published: December 2024

This study considers the acquisition of nominal compounding in L2 French and L3 English among L1 Arabic speakers.
Arabic N‑N compounds have the structure [NHead-NModifier]; English has the structure
[NModifier-NHead]. French uses phrasal compounds [N-PP], also found in Arabic and English. The
participants completed a forced-choice selection task. In L2 French, the L2 beginners converged with the L1 French speakers
regarding phrasal compounds; however, they significantly transferred the Arabic N-N. L1 Arabic had (non)-facilitative influence on
L2 French. In contrast, the advanced L2 learners showed nativelike performance in using both structures. In L3 English, the L3
beginners used phrasal compounds and L1 N‑N forms, supporting the L1 transfer scenario and the Linguistic Proximity Model
in early L3 acquisition. In the L3 advanced stage, proficiency overrode native non-facilitative transfer. Overall, the findings
support surface overlap and derivation simplicity as predictors of transfer in L2 and L3 acquisition.
Comparison in humidity (dew-point temperature high range) dew point temperature +30 °C to 95 °C
Authors: Deschermeier Regina , Bell Stephanie , Benyon Puig Robert , Bonde Kentved Anders , Carroll Paul , Fernicola Vito , García Gallegos Jamie , Heinonen Martti , Hudolkin Domen , Jarosz Rafał , Kokkini Evmorfia , Mac Lochlainn Dubhaltach , Mitter Helmut , Oğuz Aytekin Seda , Panman Matthijs , Senn Remo , Šestan Danijel , Smorgon Denis , Stevens Mark , Zvizdić Davor
Published: December 2024

Main text

The report summarises the results of the EURAMET.T-K8 key comparison (EURAMET Project No. P 717) in the field of humidity. The comparison covers the dew-point temperature range from +30 °C up to + 95 °C dew point temperature. The report gives details of the scheme, procedure and analysis of the comparison. The overall results display a very good agreement of the 16 participating laboratories. The two dew-point hygrometers used as travelling standard were sufficiently stable. The linkage to the corresponding CCT-K8 comparison will be calculated when the final results for both comparisons are available. Possible procedures are described in the text. In the conclusion, some remarks for improvement for future RMO key comparisons are given.

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCT, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Residual stress chevron preloading amplifier for large-stroke stiffness reduction of silicon flexure mechanisms
Authors: Tissot-Daguette Loïc , Cosandier Florent , Gubler Quentin , Pétremand Yves , Despont Michel , Henein Simon
Published: December 2024

Residual stresses can be advantageously used to permanently preload flexure micro-mechanisms in order to modify their deflection and stiffness. This paper presents a new preloading chevron mechanism (PCM) used to amplify the preloading effect of thin film residual stress. To evaluate the preloading performances of this structure, the deflection characteristics of buckled beams and flexure linear stages preloaded by a PCM is investigated experimentally. All the mechanisms are manufactured from a monocrystalline silicon substrate using deep reactive ion etching and residual stress is provided by wet thermal oxidation. Measurements show that the deflection magnitude of fixed-fixed oxidized silicon buckled beams can be increased by up to 5 times when a PCM is integrated. The flexure linear stages studied in this research are composed of a parallel leaf spring stage connected to two fixed-guided buckled beams preloaded by a PCM. Depending on the beam dimensions, the stage translational stiffness can be set to a specific value. We designed a near-zero positive stiffness linear stage revealing a measured stiffness reduction of 98%, and a bistable linear stage with a constant negative stiffness region. Thanks to the elevated preloading displacement supplied by the PCM, the operating stroke (actuation region where the stiffness remains constant) is relatively large (more than 0.4 mm travel for 2.59 mm leaf spring length). The analytical and numerical models carried out to design the mechanisms are in good agreement with the experimental data. The results show that the fixed frame stiffness has a significant effect on the preloading performances due to the substantial forces exerted by the PCM. Furthermore, the presented preloading concept, modeling and sizing method could be applied to other compliant mechanism designs, scales and materials, enabling applications in microelectromechanical systems and watchmaking.
Probe of a Randall–Sundrum-like model from muon pair production at a high-energy muon collider
Authors: İnan S. C. , Kisselev A. V.
Published: December 2024

We have examined a production of a muon pair through vector boson fusion and direct μ
+
μ
− annihilation at future high-energy muon colliders in the framework of the Randall–Sundrum-like model with a small curvature of spacetime. The collision energies of 3 TeV, 14 TeV and 100 TeV are addressed. Differential and total cross sections are both calculated, and exclusion bounds on a five-dimensional gravity scale are obtained depending on collision energy and the integrated luminosity of the muon colliders. For comparison, the effects of extra dimensions in the Arkani-Hamed–Dimopoulos–Dvali model at the muon collider are studied.
Ultrawide bandgap optimization of porous 3D two-material phononic crystals aided by a 2D-based PnC construction method
Authors: Xiong Cheng , Xiao Yi , Qin Qing-Hua
Published: December 2024

Three dimensional (3D) porous two-material phononic crystals (PnCs), as a type of periodic structures, are of practical significance thanks to their ability to achieve omnidirectional absorption of acoustic waves. However, the vast search space inherent in the optimization algorithm presents a major challenge in the topology optimization of 3D PnCs. To date, there has been no reported work on the topology optimization of 3D porous two-material PnCs. To address this gap, a 2D-based PnC construction method is proposed. This method produces highly-symmetrical 3D PnCs from 2D PnCs, greatly decreasing the number of design variables that make up the search space. A genetic algorithm-based topology optimization incorporating this proposal is conducted for maximizing the bandgap of porous 3D two-material PnCs. The effectiveness of the optimization framework has been demonstrated, showcasing its capability to effectively reduce the number of design variables and its applicability to two materials with various disparities. The proposed method, which represents the key innovation of this work, enables the successful topology optimization of 3D porous two-material PnCs. Various structures have been obtained by constrained topology optimization. The results reveal that the optimized porous two-material structures demonstrate more advantages over both porous single-phase and non-porous two-material optimized structures.
Linear response of equilibrium measures for piecewise expanding unimodal maps
Authors: Chen Jianyu , Lin Huiping , Zhang Yufeng
Published: December 2024

Baladi and Smania proved in (2008 Nonlinearity
21 677–711; 2010 Ergod. Theory Dyn. Syst.
30 1–20) the linear response of the SRB measures for a family of the piecewise expanding unimodal maps. In this paper, we extend their methods in Baladi and Smania (2010 Ergod. Theory Dyn. Syst.
30 1–20) to establish the linear response formula of general equilibrium measures with respect to hyperbolic potentials. Moreover, we obtain explicit formulae for the linear response of equilibrium measures.
Atmospheric chemical source signatures from proton-transfer reaction mass spectrometry aid in the interpretation of ambient aerosol distributions
Authors: Striednig Marcus , Stichaner Michael , Graus Martin , Mühlegger Martin , Lamprecht Christian , Peron Arianna , Karl Thomas
Published: December 2024

Trace gases and aerosols play a fundamental role for climate and air quality, yet predicting their ambient distributions remains challenging, particularly in urban environments. Primary and secondary sources of trace gases and aerosols in the urban atmosphere are diverse and dominated by combustion sources (e.g. traffic or residential energy use), direct emissions (e.g. solvents), or secondary formation processes (e.g. gas to particle conversion). Novel instrumentation is needed to better constrain the fate of these species. With the advance of chemical ionisation mass spectrometry it is now possible to quantify a range of important atmospheric species. Here we use selected volatile organic compound (VOC) and organic aerosol (OA) observations obtained by PTR-TOF-MS and CHARON PTR-TOF-MS technology to decipher chemical source signatures in the urban area of Innsbruck. Chemically speciated gas phase and aerosol measurements were analyzed using positive matrix factorization, suggesting an externally mixed aerosol population with characteristic source contributions from domestic biomass burning, traffic, secondary sources from atmospheric oxidation, gas-fired furnaces and possibly from aircraft operations. We identified specific ions in the mass spectra associated with biomass burning, (e.g. levoglucosan (C6H10O5.H+ and fragment ions), furan (C4H4O.H+), methyl furans (C5H6O.H+), benzene (C6H6.H+) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (C10H8.H+)) that were elevated after the passage of a cold front leading to increased domestic biomass burning activities. Overall, the influence of biomass burning on PM1 (particulate matter <1 μm) is heavily dependent on meteorology as wood operated fireplaces are predominantly used as additional heating in the residential sector. Our observations show that the cumulative number density of fine particulate (CFP) matter (defined as 190–1357 nm) was dominated by secondary (e.g. photochemically aged) sources with contributions from primary sources such as traffic, local primary sources and biomass burning, whilethe traffic sector contributes notably to ultrafine particulate matter (UFP) (<90 nm). In addition, a second source of ultrafine particulate matter was identified in the west sector, which includes likely emissions from a nearby airport and/or a gas-fired district heating plant.
Fractional-order interactive systems of calcium, IP3 and nitric oxide in neuronal cells
Authors: Pawar Anand , Pardasani Kamal Raj
Published: December 2024

Calcium ions (Ca
2+
), 1, 4, 5-inositol trisphosphate (IP
3), and nitric oxide (NO) function as signaling molecules and are crucial for controlling several physiological mechanisms in neuronal cells. Nevertheless, there is a lack of research investigating the interplay between Ca
2+
, IP
3 and NO in neuronal cells, in terms of fractional-order dynamics. The investigation of fractional-order interacting dynamical systems including calcium, IP
3, and NO is of crucial significance as it sheds light on several phenomena such as superdiffusion and the emergence of cell memory exhibiting Brownian motion (BM) in neurons. These aspects have not yet been thoroughly examined in neurons. The theoretical framework employed in this study is a fractional model that describes the interacting calcium, IP
3, and NO systems incorporating the nonlinear reaction-diffusion equations, fractional diffusion processes, and memory effects. The Crank-Nicholson (CN) method with the Grunwald technique is utilized to address the fractional-order space derivatives, while the L1 technique is applied to solve the fractional-order temporal derivatives. The Gauss-Seidel (GS) procedure is employed to solve the system of nonlinear equations governing the dynamics of Ca
2+
, IP
3, and NO. The previously unexplored bidirectional feedback mechanisms between calcium and NO and calcium and IP
3 have been explored. The current study includes the incorporation of several critical parameters, including the voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC), Orai channel, IP
3-receptor (IP
3
R), Sarcoendoplasmic Reticulum Calcium ATPase (SERCA) pump, leak, plasma membrane Ca
2+
ATPase (PMCA) channel, sodium-calcium exchanger (NCX), ryanodine receptor (RyR), and [NO]-dependent Ca
2+
flux. The numerical findings show that superdiffusion and cell memory with several cellular mechanisms significantly affect the regulation of the interacting nonlinear calcium, IP
3, and NO dynamical systems in neuronal cells. Neurotoxic events potentially contributing to disease-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s may result from dysfunction in the superdiffusion and memory of signaling ions and molecules, as well as the cellular mechanisms within neurons.
Pulsed loading of a magneto-optical trap on an atom chip with fast recovery of ultrahigh vacuum
Authors: Singh Vivek , Tiwari V B , Chaudhary A , Sarkar S , Mishra S R
Published: December 2024

Here, we present studies on pulsed loading of a rubidium (Rb) magneto-optical trap (MOT) in an ultra-high vacuum (UHV) environment on an atom chip. We have used a parallel combination of Rb dispensers for better heat dissipation to achieve fast UHV recovery in the chamber after the end of the current pulse to the dispensers. We have estimated the threshold heat energy required for activation of the dispensers for different values of current pulses. Although a pulse with a higher current value and shorter duration has a lower threshold heat energy, we operated the dispensers at moderate current pulse parameters (24 A, 10 s) for protection of the circuits. Nearly,

3
×

10

7

cold

87

Rb

atoms were loaded in the MOT using this current pulse, with a UHV recovery time of ∼600 ms in the chamber. This fast recovery of UHV in the MOT chamber is useful for further experiments such as magnetic trapping and evaporative cooling of atoms in the same chamber.
Complexity growth for AdS black holes in the presence of backreaction*
Authors: Guo 郭 Long 龙 , Zhang 张 Zi-qiang 自强
Published: December 2024

We investigate the holographic complexity in backreacted gravity backgrounds according to the complexity-action conjecture. The backreaction considered here originates from the presence of static strings evenly distributed over the system. We exploit a probe string in the bulk and evaluate the Nambu-Goto action and its dependence on backreaction. The results suggest that, for slower strings, the complexity increases with increasing backreaction, in accordance with the findings of holographic entanglement entropy. However, for faster strings, the situation is different. Furthermore, we analyze the relationship between complexity and space dimension as well as string velocity.
Effective potential and topological photon spheres: a novel approach to black hole parameter classification
Authors: Afshar Mohammad Ali S. , Sadeghi Jafar
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we base our analysis on the assumption that the existence of a photon sphere is an intrinsic characteristic of any ultra-compact gravitational structure with spherical symmetry. Utilizing the concept of a topological photon sphere, we categorize the behaviors of various gravitational models based on the structure of their photon spheres. This innovative approach enables us to define boundaries for black hole parameters, subsequently enabling us to classify the model as either a black hole or naked singularity. We demonstrate that the presence of this interplay between the gravitational structure and the existence of a photon sphere is a unique advantage that can be utilized from both perspectives. Our observations indicate that a gravitational model typically exhibits the behavior of a horizonless structure (or naked singularity) when a minimum effective potential (a stable photon sphere) appears within the studied spacetime region. Additionally, in this study, we investigate the effect of this structure on the behavior of the photon sphere by selecting models that are affected by Perfect Fluid Dark Matter (PFDM). Finally, by analyzing a model with multiple event horizons, we show that the proposed method remains applicable even in such scenarios.
Evaluating surface quality of heterogeneous surfaces produced by non-conventional machining technologies: methodological advances and challenges
Authors: Vrbová H , Bilek O , Pata V , Endlerová D , Knedlová J , Hořava C
Published: December 2024

This paper is focused on the evaluation of heterogeneous surface quality. In the realm of scientific practice, there exists a significant inconsistency in the methodologies employed to investigate heterogeneous surfaces produced by non-conventional machining technologies. Traditional approaches are inadequate for these types of surfaces due to the presumption of surface roughness homogeneity, which does not account for the complexities and variations inherent in heterogeneous surfaces. The utilization of unsuitable assessment methods can significantly hinder the research and development efforts related to these advanced technologies, potentially stalling innovation and the optimization of machining processes. However, through an initial investigation of roughness data obtained from heterogeneous surfaces, discernible patterns have emerged. These patterns suggest a promising opportunity for the development of a coherent and standardized approach to surface quality assessment. Such an approach would enhance the accuracy and reliability of evaluations, thereby supporting the continued advancement and refinement of non-conventional machining technologies. The findings underscore the necessity for a shift towards more sophisticated and tailored assessment methods that can accommodate the unique characteristics of heterogeneous surfaces.
Statistical evaluating the effect of the plasma process parameters on the material removal rate and the cutting edge radius sizes of carbide cutting inserts
Authors: Vopát T , Podhorský Š , Ludrovcová B , Jurina F
Published: December 2024

The paper introduces an innovative method for rounding the edges of cemented carbide cutting tools using plasma discharges in an electrolyte. The aim of the article is to statistically evaluate the influence of the process parameters on the material removal rate (MRR) and the cutting edge radius sizes (r
β). The measured data were analyzed in the software Minitab. From the results of the ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) for material removal rate it is noticeable, that observed input process parameters (electrolyte concentration, temperature of the electrolyte and voltage) had a significant influence on measured responses. Specifically, MRR increases as the electrolyte concentration, voltage, and temperature of the electrolyte decrease. Similar to MRR and r
β are significantly influenced by these process parameters. Specifically, the radius increases more rapidly with decreasing electrolyte concentration, voltage, and temperature of the electrolyte.
Influence of final turning on SCC susceptibility and corrosion properties of austenitic stainless steel 08Ch18N10T
Authors: Kudláč M , Dománková M , Bártová K , Gavalec M , Slnek D
Published: December 2024

Final machining, such as final turning or final milling, aims to smooth the given machined surface of the material and obtain dimensional tolerance. However, with tough materials like austenitic stainless steels, where deformation hardening also occurs, the machining of these materials is complicated, and consequently the character and properties of the machined surface of these steels can have a negative impact on corrosion resistance. The affected parameters may include surface microhardness, roughness or residual stresses. In this work, the influence of final tur 10ning on stress corrosion cracking susceptibility and corrosion resistance of austenitic stainless steel 08Ch18N10T was monitored where as a tool a replaceable double sided sintered carbide cutting plate with a negative rake angle was used. A combination of two machining parameters was set up: feed (0.12, 0.2 and 0.3 mm) and cutting speed (100 and 250 m min −1). The roughness, microhardness and the surface deformation zone depth were analysed on the machined surface. It was found that hardness but also roughness increased with increasing tool feed. Using the exposure of samples in a boiling MgCl2 solution, susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking was observed. Density of cracks as well as the depth or length of cracks into the material were studied and evaluated using SEM and ImageJ software. Within increasing feed, the density of cracks decreased, on the contrary, the length and depth of cracks increased. Electrochemical potentiokinetic reactivation analysis, a double loop method, was used to determine sensitization to intergranular corrosion. The samples were determined to be non-sensitized. This method also showed the effect of roughness on the resulting polarization scans.
The impact of generator parameters on cutting width in machining nickel alloys using WEDM technology
Authors: Šimna V , Nekrasov S , Oliinyk Yaroslav
Published: December 2024

The objective of this study is to analyze the influence of generator parameters on the kerf width in Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (WEDM) technology for the nickel alloy Inconel 718. An experiment was designed using selected parameters that could affect the kerf width based on the acquired knowledge. The introduction covers the general principles of EDM and WEDM technology, discusses the method of spark generation using a generator, and focuses on how electrical discharge machining impacts Inconel 718. The experimental part was conducted on a WEDM machine from Charmilles Technologies. During the experiment, two responses were recorded: the kerf width, measured using DinoLite and Alicona optical devices, and the cutting speed. The final part of the thesis presents a statistical evaluation of the influence of individual parameters on the cut.
Evidence of charge multiplication in thin 25 μm × 25 μm pitch 3D silicon sensors
Authors: Gentry A. , Boscardin M. , Hoeferkamp M. , Povoli M. , Seidel S. , Si J. , Dalla Betta G.-F.
Published: December 2024

Characterization measurements of
25 μm × 25 μm pitch 3D silicon
sensors are performed, for devices with active thickness of
150 μm. Evidence of charge multiplication caused by impact
ionization below the breakdown voltage is observed in sensors
operated at -45 ∘C. Small-pitch 3D silicon sensors
have potential as high precision 4D tracking detectors that are also
able to withstand radiation fluences beyond
1016 neq/cm2. This is applicable for use at future
facilities such as the High-Luminosity Large Hadron Collider and the
Future Circular Collider. Characteristics of these devices are
compared to those of similar sensors of pitch
50 μm × 50 μm, showing
comparable charge collection at low voltage, and acceptable leakage
current, depletion voltage, breakdown voltage, and capacitance
despite the extremely small cell size. The unirradiated
25 μm × 25 μm sensors exhibit
charge multiplication above about 90 V reverse bias, while, as
predicted, no multiplication is observed in the
50 μm × 50 μm sensors below
their breakdown voltage. The maximum gain observed below breakdown
is 1.33.
Investigation of the effects of bioinspired vortex generators on aerodynamic performance of a NACA0015 airfoil
Authors: Kaya Fatih , Akbıyık Hürrem
Published: December 2024

An experimental study was carried out to investigate the effects of biomimetic vortex generators (biomimetic-VGs) on the aerodynamic performance of the NACA0015 airfoil. Aerodynamic force measurements and titanium dioxide (TiO2) based flow visualization technique experiments were performed for test models at Re = 1.2 × 105. Aerodynamic force measurement experiments were carried out in the wind tunnel at angles of attack of 0°–18° with an increment of 1°. As a result of the experiments, it was revealed that the lift coefficient (C
L) increased and the drag coefficient (C
D) decreased by using the seaconchshell structure as a VG for the wing model. In addition, it has been observed that biomimetic models (BMs) shifted the stall angle of the airfoil by 1°. In the surface oil flow visualization experiment results, the flow structure around the NACA0015 airfoil of BMs was revealed and interpreted. Moreover, it has been revealed that the aerodynamic performance of the airfoil increases as a result of the use of BMs. It is also revealed that the seaconchshell structure, which has not been studied before in the literature and which is the subject of this study, can be used as an effective flow control device.
A local meteoric water line for interior Alaska constrains paleoclimate from 40 000 year old relict permafrost
Authors: Douglas Thomas A , Barker Amanda J , Monteath Alistair J , Froese Duane G
Published: December 2024

Anthropogenic climate warming is degrading permafrost across interior Alaska. Information from past warming events provides long-term perspectives for future trajectories; however, late Quaternary seasonal temperatures are poorly constrained. We have established a stable water isotope meteoric water line for interior Alaska and measured stable water isotope values from 126 permafrost cores representing different ice types deposited over the past ∼40 ka (thousand years before 1950 CE). Samples represent two late Quaternary warm periods: marine isotope stage three (MIS3; 57–29 ka) and the Holocene (11.7 ka-present). Older samples provide insight into local climatic conditions slightly before the first archeological evidence for Paleolithic hunter-gatherers in the region. From permafrost ice we calculate that summer temperatures warmed by ∼10 °C between late MIS3 and today, with six degrees of warming between 40–30 ka and 3 ka and an additional 4 °C of warming since 3 ka. Half this recent 4 °C warming has occurred over the past 70 years.
Continual Developmental Neurosimulation Using Embodied Computational Agents
Authors: Alicea B , Chakrabarty R , Dvoretskii S , Gopiiswaminathan AV , Lim A , Parent J
Published: December 2024

There is much to learn through synthesis of Developmental Biology, Cognitive Science and Computational Modeling. Our path forward is to present a design for developmentally-inspired learning agents based on Braitenberg Vehicles. Using these agents to exemplify the embodied nature of computational autonomy, we move closer to modeling embodied experience and morphogenetic growth as components of cognitive developmental capacity. We consider biological and cognitive development which influence the generation of adult phenotypes and the contingency of available developmental pathways. Continual developmental neurosimulation allows us to consider the role of developmental trajectories in bridging the related phenomena of nervous system morphogenesis, developmental learning, and plasticity. Being closely tied to continual learning, our approach is tightly integrated with developmental embodiment, and can be implemented using a type of agent called developmental Braitenberg Vehicles (dBVs). dBVs begin their lives as a set of undefined structures that transform into agent-based systems including a body, sensors, effectors, and nervous system. This phenotype is characterized in terms of developmental timing: with distinct morphogenetic, critical, and acquisition (developmental learning) periods. These properties produce emergent connectivity with shifting weights and adaptive network topologies in the context of developmental processes and spatially-dependent embodiment in training a dBVs neuronal network. We further propose that network morphogenesis can be accomplished using a genetic algorithmic approach, while developmental learning can be implemented using a number of computational methodologies. This approach provides a framework for adaptive agent behavior that might result from a developmental approach: namely by exploiting critical periods or growth and acquisition, an explicitly embodied network architecture, and a distinction between the assembly of neuronal networks and active learning on these networks. In conclusion, we will consider agent learning and development at different timescales, from very short (<100ms) intervals to long-term evolution. The development, evolution, and learning in an embodied agent-based approach is key to an integrative view of biologically-inspired intelligence.
Optical skyrmions in nonlinear birefringence media: semiclassical approach incorporating effective gauge field
Authors: Kuratsuji Hiroshi
Published: December 2024

A theoretical study is presented for the optical skyrmion (or optical spin vortex) which is expected to occur in nonlinear birefringence media. This is investigated from the aspect of the quantum spinor condensate, whose order parameter is given by the photon field (vector potential). The procedure is based on an extended paraxial approximation; namely, the low-energy oscillation amplitude of the vector potential is decoupled from the high-frequency part. The result is the (2+1) field theory, which is described by a two-component spinor and is expressed in terms of the Stokes parameters. First, we consider the skyrmion for the case of a pure photon field. There are two specific topics: one concerns the polarization singularity, which is a trajectory of the center line of the skyrmion, called the ‘C-line’, which means the trajectory of circular polarization. The other is semiclassical quantization, which is derived for the equation of motion of the vortex (or skyrmion) center. Here, a brief comment is given for an analogy with the Hall effect occurring in the superconductivity vortex. The theory is extended such that the photon field allows a coupling with an effective gauge field. We examine the skyrmion–gauge field coupling from two aspects: one is strong coupling, in which the gauge field acts so as to stabilize the skyrmion. The other is weak coupling, for which the interaction between the gauge phonon and skyrmion motion is treated by a perturbation scheme, which provides the basis for the possible detection of gauge phonons.
A perspective on suspended membrane waveguides for gas sensing applications in mid-infrared spectrum
Authors: Butt Muhammad Ali
Published: December 2024

Suspended membrane waveguides (SMWs) are crucial for sensing in the mid-infrared (MIR) spectrum due to their exceptional ability to confine light within an ultra-thin dielectric core supported by the membrane, enhancing sensitivity to environmental changes. Properly designed SMWs exhibit minimal optical losses and strong mode confinement, enabling them to maintain high performance even at longer MIR wavelengths, unlike ridge, slot, and subwavelength grating waveguides. This is particularly important for chemical and biological sensing, where precise detection of molecular vibrations in the MIR range is vital. Additionally, the open geometry of suspended membranes allows for better interaction between the guided light and surrounding analytes, leading to improved sensing efficiency and lower limit of detection. These unique characteristics make SMWs especially advantageous for advanced MIR sensing applications.
AI-enhanced interface for colonic polyp segmentation using DeepLabv3+ with comparative backbone analysis
Authors: Oğuz Faruk Enes , Alkan Ahmet
Published: December 2024

Polyps are one of the early stages of colon cancer. The detection of polyps by segmentation and their removal by surgical intervention is of great importance for making treatment decisions. Although the detection of polyps through colonoscopy images can lead to multiple expert needs and time losses, it can also include human error. Therefore, automatic, fast, and highly accurate segmentation of polyps from colonoscopy images is important. Many methods have been proposed, including deep learning-based approaches. In this study, a method using DeepLabv3+ with encoder-decoder structure and ResNet architecture as backbone network is proposed for the segmentation of colonic polyps. The Kvasir-SEG polyp dataset was used to train and test the proposed method. After images were preprocessed, the training of the proposed network was performed. The trained network was then tested and performance metrics were calculated, and additionally, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) was designed to enable the segmentation of colonoscopy images for polyp segmentation. The experimental results showed that the ResNet-50 based DeepLabv3+ model had high performance metrics such as mean DSC: 0.9873, mean IoU: 0.9751, demonstrating its effectiveness in the segmentation of colonic polyps. In conclusion, our method utilizing DeepLabv3+ with a ResNet-50 backbone achieves highly accurate colonic polyp segmentation. The obtained results demonstrate its potential to significantly enhance colorectal cancer diagnosis and planning for polypectomy surgery through automated image analysis.
Profiling quantum circuits for their efficient execution on single- and multi-core architectures
Authors: Bandic Medina , le Henaff Pablo , Ovide Anabel , Escofet Pau , Ben Rached Sahar , Rodrigo Santiago , van Someren Hans , Abadal Sergi , Alarcón Eduard , Almudever Carmen G , Feld Sebastian
Published: December 2024

Application-specific quantum computers offer the most efficient means to tackle problems intractable by classical computers. Realizing these architectures necessitates a deep understanding of quantum circuit properties and their relationship to execution outcomes on quantum devices. Our study aims to perform for the first time a rigorous examination of quantum circuits by introducing graph theory-based metrics extracted from their qubit interaction graph and gate dependency graph (GDG) alongside conventional parameters describing the circuit itself. This methodology facilitates a comprehensive analysis and clustering of quantum circuits. Furthermore, it uncovers a connection between parameters rooted in both qubit interaction and GDGs, and the performance metrics for quantum circuit mapping, across a range of established quantum device and mapping configurations. Among the various device configurations, we particularly emphasize modular (i.e. multi-core) quantum computing architectures due to their high potential as a viable solution for quantum device scalability. This thorough analysis will help us to: i) identify key attributes of quantum circuits that affect the quantum circuit mapping performance metrics; ii) predict the performance on a specific chip for similar circuit structures; iii) determine preferable combinations of mapping techniques and hardware setups for specific circuits; and iv) define representative benchmark sets by clustering similarly structured circuits.
Delineating potential sites for Natech due to climate change in the Selangor River Basin, Malaysia
Authors: Yahaya Nurul Syazwani , Pereira Joy Jacqueline , Taha Mohd Raihan , Yaacob Wan Zuhairi Wan
Published: December 2024

Climate change is expected to result in intensifying extreme weather that would increase the risks of climate hazards; leading to natural hazards triggering technological disasters (Natech) events. This paper highlights a simple method using easily available information to identify potential sites for Natech associated with climate change based on a case study of the Selangor River Basin in Malaysia. The approach draws heavily on susceptibility modelling, in combination with screening processes to delineate exposed potential point sources, followed by field inspection to validate the information. Findings reveal that with the onset of climate change, over 55% of the manufacturing industries in the Selangor River Basin are exposed to the risk of Natech due to floods and coastal inundation. The approach can be applied to river basins where industrial activities are prevalent and local information on future climate conditions is limited. It is useful for raising awareness, providing early warning of emerging hazards in worst-case scenarios, and prioritizing climate actions on Natech risk due to climate change.
Non-Fatal Suicidal Self-Directed Violence among U.S. Veterans (2022): The Assessing Social and Community Environments with National Data (ASCEND) for Veteran Suicide Prevention Study
Authors: Hoffmire Claire A , Barnes Sean M , Holliday Ryan , Kittel Julie A , Schneider Alexandra L , Brenner Lisa A , Tock Jamie L , Monteith Lindsey L
Published: December 2024

From 2001-2021, the age- and sex-adjusted Veteran suicide rate increased 76.3%. Surveillance of suicidal ideation (SI) and non-fatal suicidal self-directed violence (NF-SSDV) is a critical component of public health-oriented suicide prevention efforts. To facilitate national NF-SSDV surveillance, a biennial, population-based survey was initiated: Assessing Social and Community Environments with National Data (ASCEND) for Veteran Suicide Prevention. 17,396 Veterans participated in the first large-scale ASCEND survey (2022). This manuscript reports on SI and NF-SSDV prevalence among Veterans residing in the continental U.S., Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Lifetime SI was reported by 31.98% (95%CI=30.97-32.99), post-military SI by 25.88% (95%CI=24.91-26.85) and past-year SI by 12.69% (95%CI=11.90-13.47). The most commonly considered SI method among those with past-year SI was gunshot. Additionally, 34.42% (95%CI=33.07-35.78) of Veterans with lifetime SI reported lifetime preparatory behaviors. Moreover, 9.13% (95%CI=8.43-9.82) of Veterans reported lifetime interrupted attempts. Lifetime suicide attempts (SA) were reported by 6.99% (95%CI=6.41-7.56) of Veterans, with 4.88% (95%CI=4.39-5.36) reporting post-military SA. The most common method in prior attempts was medication overdose. ASCEND provides a novel opportunity to elucidate the prevalence of SI and different types of NF-SSDV in the Veteran population. Recurring administration will elucidate changes in SI and NF-SSDV prevalence in the Veteran population over time.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals 3 important carbohydrate-active enzymes contributing to starch degradation of the oleaginous yeast Lipomyces starkeyi
Authors: Mine Kentaro , Taki Hiroya , Kim Juyoung , Seto Jiro , Matsuo Shinji , Sato Rikako , Takaku Hiroaki
Published: December 2024

The oleaginous yeast Lipomyces starkeyi has a high capacity for starch assimilation, but the genes involved and specific mechanisms in starch degradation remain unclear. This study aimed to identify the critical carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme) genes contributing to starch degradation in L. starkeyi. Comparative transcriptome analysis of cells cultured in glucose and soluble starch medium revealed that 55 CAZymes (including transcript IDs 3772, 1803, and 7314) were highly expressed in soluble starch medium. Protein domain structure and disruption mutant analyses revealed that 3772 encodes the sole secreted α-amylase (LsAmy1p), whereas 1803 and 7314 encode secreted α-glucosidase (LsAgd1p and LsAgd2p, respectively). Triple-gene disruption exhibited severely impaired growth in soluble starch, dextrin, and raw starch media, highlighting their critical role in degrading polysaccharides composed of glucose linked by α-1,4-glucosidic bonds. This study provided insights into the complex starch degradation mechanism in L. starkeyi.
The Naïve Bayes classifier++ for metagenomic taxonomic classification—query evaluation
Authors: Duan Haozhe (Neil) , Hearne Gavin , Polikar Robi , Rosen Gail L
Published: December 2024

Motivation

This study examines the query performance of the NBC++ (Incremental Naive Bayes Classifier) program for variations in canonicality, k-mer size, databases, and input sample data size. We demonstrate that both NBC++ and Kraken2 are influenced by database depth, with macro measures improving as depth increases. However, fully capturing the diversity of life, especially viruses, remains a challenge.

Results

NBC++ can competitively profile the superkingdom content of metagenomic samples using a small training database. NBC++ spends less time training and can use a fraction of the memory than Kraken2 but at the cost of long querying time. Major NBC++ enhancements include accommodating canonical k-mer storage (leading to significant storage savings) and adaptable and optimized memory allocation that accelerates query analysis and enables the software to be run on nearly any system. Additionally, the output now includes log-likelihood values for each training genome, providing users with valuable confidence information.

Availability and implementation

Source code and Dockerfile are available at http://github.com/EESI/Naive_Bayes.
18F-PI-2620 Tau PET is associated with cognitive and motor impairment in Lewy body disease
Authors: Winer Joseph R , Vossler Hillary , Young Christina B , Smith Viktorija , Romero America , Shahid-Besanti Marian , Abdelnour Carla , Wilson Edward N , Anders David , Pacheco Morales Aimara , Andreasson Katrin I , Yutsis Maya V , Henderson Victor W , Davidzon Guido A , Mormino Elizabeth C , Poston Kathleen L
Published: December 2024

Co-pathology is frequent in Lewy body disease, which includes clinical diagnoses of both Parkinson’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. Measuring concomitant pathology in vivo can improve clinical and research diagnoses and prediction of cognitive trajectories. Tau PET imaging may serve a dual role in Lewy body disease by measuring cortical tau aggregation as well as assessing dopaminergic loss attributed to binding to neuromelanin within substantia nigra. We sought to characterize 18F-PI-2620, a next generation PET tracer, in individuals with Lewy body disease. We recruited 141 participants for 18F-PI-2620 PET scans from the Stanford Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center and the Stanford Aging and Memory Study, most of whom also had β-amyloid status available (139/141) from PET or cerebrospinal fluid. We compared 18F-PI-2620 uptake within entorhinal cortex, inferior temporal cortex, precuneus and lingual gyrus, as well as substantia nigra, across participants with Lewy body disease [Parkinson’s disease (n = 29), dementia with Lewy bodies (n = 14)] and Alzheimer’s disease (n = 28), in addition to cognitively unimpaired healthy older adults (n = 70). Mean bilateral signal was extracted from cortical regions of interest in 18F-PI-2620 standard uptake value ratio (inferior cerebellar grey reference) images normalized to template space. A subset of participants received cognitive testing and/or the Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Part III motor exam (off medication). 18F-PI-2620 uptake was low overall in Lewy body disease and correlated with β-amyloid PET in temporal lobe regions and precuneus. Moreover, inferior temporal 18F-PI-2620 uptake was significantly elevated in β-amyloid positive relative to β-amyloid negative participants with Lewy body disease. Temporal lobe 18F-PI-2620 signal was not associated with memory in Lewy body disease, but uptake within precuneus and lingual gyrus was associated with worse executive function and attention/working memory performance. Finally, substantia nigra 18F-PI-2620 signal was significantly reduced in participants with Parkinson’s disease, and lower substantia nigra signal was associated with greater motor impairment. These findings suggest that although levels are lower than in Alzheimer’s disease, small elevations in cortical tau are associated with cognitive function in Lewy body disease relevant domains, and that reduced 18F-PI-2620 binding in substantia nigra may represent loss of dopaminergic neurons. Cortical tau and neuromelanin binding within substantia nigra represent two unique signals in the same PET image that may be informative in the context of cognitive and motor deficits, respectively, in Lewy body disease.
Experimental determination of deviation from spherical electron densities of atoms in cyclohexane molecules in the liquid state
Authors: Kameda Yasuo , Takaku Akane , Amo Yuko , Usuki Takeshi , Nawa Kazuhiro , Sato Taku J , Honda Takashi , Otomo Toshiya
Published: December 2024

Deviation from the spherical electron distribution of atoms in liquid cyclohexane has been determined through the difference interference term between the observed x-ray intermolecular interference term and the sum of the intermolecular partial structure factors weighted by x-ray atomic scattering factors. The difference distribution function indicates a broadened negative peak at r ∼ 3.7 Å, suggesting that the electron density decreases in the radial distance that corresponds to the intermolecular distances of neighboring cyclohexane molecules.
Lichen sclerosus and me: the male perspective
Authors: Stanton Chris , Simpson Rosalind C
Published: December 2024

This patient viewpoint describes the lived experience of lichen sclerosus from the male patient’s perspective. Chris is a patient representative with lichen sclerosus. He is the cofounder and chief creative officer of a marketing agency, as well as a writer of both fiction and nonfiction.