bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Early Natufian Site of Hof Shahaf, Israel: Subsistence, Environment, and Settlement Dynamics
Authors: Yeshurun Reuven , Lev Ma’ayan , Edeltin Lotan , Amos Linda , Orbach Meir , Lavy-Elbaz Sigal , Ujma Catherine , Wieler Nimrod , Marder Ofer 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The terminal Pleistocene Natufian Culture of the Levant is one of the best-documented cases of preagricultural sedentism in prehistory, thanks to the proliferation of durable architecture, burial grounds, and intensified socioeconomic practices. Hof Shahaf, located on the shore of Lake Kinneret in Israel, is a recently excavated Natufian site whose interpretation presents a conundrum. On the one hand, the site produced evidence of architecture, burial, and diverse subsistence practices, just like the rich and permanently occupied hamlets of this culture. On the other hand, it clearly diverged in the meager accumulation of artifacts (lithics and fauna) and an apparent absence of aquatic resource exploitation. Here, we aim to understand the nature of habitation at Hof Shahaf: whether it was a sedentary hamlet, an ephemeral residential camp, or a task-specific logistic locality. The latter two site types are not well documented in the Early Natufian of the Mediterranean climate zone. We provide a zooarchaeological and taphonomic account of the site, supplemented with lithic data, to investigate the paleoenvironment, subsistence, and site-occupation intensity, all against the backdrop of a specific setting (one of the lowest recorded lake stands). Our results indicate that the site primarily falls within a middle ground between classic sedentary hamlets and more specialized sites. It may have functioned as an ephemeral residential camp for foragers traveling to the Kinneret Basin for specific or seasonal tasks. Nevertheless, the site still held some significance, evidenced by the investment in building a large structure and burying the dead.
Wearable sensors for monitoring caregivers of people with dementia: a scoping review
Authors: Palmese Francesco , Druda Ylenia , Benintende Vittoria , Fuda Domenico , Sicbaldi Marcello , Di Florio Paola , Butt Abdul Haleem , Bedogni Giorgio , Chiari Lorenzo , Silvani Alessandro , Domenicali Marco 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Caregivers of people with dementia often face a demanding care burden that may lead to adverse physical and psychological outcomes. Wearable sensors are becoming a valuable tool for preventive care. We aimed to provide the first systematic map of the published evidence on the use of wearable sensors to monitor caregivers of people with dementia.

Methods
We developed a scoping review protocol following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The searches were conducted on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycInfo, and IEEE.

Results
We identified 1394 articles and selected 37 reports. Sleep measures were the outcome most frequently evaluated (28/37). Among these reports, eight assessed the effectiveness of different interventions targeting both caregivers and care-receivers and found no improvement in caregivers’ sleep; three compared the sleep of caregivers of people with dementia with controls, with conflicting results; five focused on depressive symptoms; and four associated these symptoms with shorter sleep duration and greater sleep fragmentation and sleep latency. A single device was used in 33 reports and sensors were most commonly placed at the wrist (33/37). Most studies monitored caregivers for 1 or more weeks (27/37).

Conclusion
Wearable sensors were mainly used to monitor sleep in informal caregivers of people with dementia based on wrist accelerometry for 1 or more weeks, with conflicting results. There is a need for targeted studies with adequate control groups to identify factors associated with sleep alterations in informal and formal caregivers of people with dementia, leveraging multi-sensor setups with the inclusion of autonomic nervous system metrics.
Lessons for Theory from Scientific Domains Where Evidence is Sparse or Indirect
Authors: Woensdregt Marieke , Fusaroli Riccardo , Rich Patricia , Modrák Martin , Kolokolova Antonina , Wright Cory , Warlaumont Anne S. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractIn many scientific fields, sparseness and indirectness of empirical evidence pose fundamental challenges to theory development. Theories of the evolution of human cognition provide a guiding example, where the targets of study are evolutionary processes that occurred in the ancestors of present-day humans. In many cases, the evidence is both very sparse and very indirect (e.g., archaeological findings regarding anatomical changes that might be related to the evolution of language capabilities); in other cases, the evidence is less sparse but still very indirect (e.g., data on cultural transmission in groups of contemporary humans and non-human primates). From examples of theoretical and empirical work in this domain, we distill five virtuous practices that scientists could aim to satisfy when evidence is sparse or indirect: (i) making assumptions explicit, (ii) making alternative theories explicit, (iii) pursuing computational and formal modelling, (iv) seeking external consistency with theories of related phenomena, and (v) triangulating across different forms and sources of evidence. Thus, rather than inhibiting theory development, sparseness or indirectness of evidence can catalyze it. To the extent that there are continua of sparseness and indirectness that vary across domains and that the principles identified here always apply to some degree, the solutions and advantages proposed here may generalise to other scientific domains.
Coherent feed-forward quantum neural network
Authors: Singh Utkarsh , Goldberg Aaron Z. , Heshami Khabat 
Published: December 2024

AbstractQuantum machine learning, focusing on quantum neural networks (QNNs), remains a vastly uncharted field of study. Current QNN models primarily employ variational circuits on an ansatz or a quantum feature map, often requiring multiple entanglement layers. This methodology not only increases the computational cost of the circuit beyond what is practical on near-term quantum devices but also misleadingly labels these models as neural networks, given their divergence from the structure of a typical feed-forward neural network (FFNN). Moreover, the circuit depth and qubit needs of these models scale poorly with the number of data features, resulting in an efficiency challenge for real-world machine learning tasks. We introduce a bona fide QNN model, which seamlessly aligns with the versatility of a traditional FFNN in terms of its adaptable intermediate layers and nodes, absent from intermediate measurements such that our entire model is coherent. This model stands out with its reduced circuit depth and number of requisite CNOT gates, achieving a more than 50% reduction in both compared to prevailing QNN models. Furthermore, the qubit count in our model remains unaffected by the data’s feature quantity. We test our proposed model on various benchmarking datasets such as the breast cancer diagnostic (Wisconsin) and credit card fraud detection datasets. Our model achieved an accuracy of 91% on the breast cancer dataset and 85% on the credit card fraud detection dataset, outperforming existing QNN methods by 5–10% while requiring approximately 50% fewer quantum resources. These results showcase the advantageous efficacy of our approach, paving the way for the application of quantum neural networks to relevant real-world machine learning problems.
Improved Navigation Performance Through Memory Triggering Maps: A Neurocartographic Approach
Authors: Dickmann Frank , Keil Julian , Korte Annika , Edler Dennis , O´Meara Denise , Bordewieck Martin , Axmacher Nikolai 
Published: December 2024

AbstractWhen using navigation devices the "cognitive map" created in the user's mind is much more fragmented, incomplete and inaccurate, compared to the mental model of space created when reading a conventional printed map. As users become more dependent on digital devices that reduce orientation skills, there is an urgent need to develop more efficient navigation systems that promote orientation skills. This paper proposes to consider brain processes for creating more efficient maps that use a network of optimally located cardinal lines and landmarks organized to support and stabilize the neurocognitive structures in the brain that promote spatial orientation. This new approach combines neurocognitive insights with classical research on the efficiency of cartographic visualizations. Recent neuroscientific findings show that spatially tuned neurons could be linked to navigation processes. In particular, the activity of grid cells, which appear to be used to process metric information about space, can be influenced by environmental stimuli such as walls or boundaries. Grid cell activity could be used to create a new framework for map-based interfaces that primarily considers the brain structures associated with the encoding and retrieval of spatial information. The new framework proposed in this paper suggests to arrange map symbols in a specific way that the map design helps to stabilize grid cell firing in the brain and by this improve spatial orientation and navigational performance. Spatially oriented cells are active in humans not only when moving in space, but also when imagining moving through an area—such as when reading a map. It seems likely that the activity of grid cells can be stabilized simply by map symbols that are perceived when reading a map.
Optimized synthesis and characterization of laterite biochar composite for arsenic removal: examining colloidal stability and As(III) oxidation
Authors: Singh Prashant , Maiti Abhijit 
Published: December 2024

AbstractArsenic contamination of water and soil affects many regions worldwide, and an eco-friendly and sustainable decontamination solution is needed. A promising approach involves preparing a composite adsorbent using biochar and laterite-based adsorbent. The biochar composite (LBC) uses biochar as a stable carbon matrix that distributes treated laterite minerals efficiently and reduces agglomeration. In contrast, treated laterite, rich in mixed metal oxides like iron and aluminum hydroxides, enhances the adsorption capacity, selectivity, and stability of biochar. Process optimization determines the optimal pyrolysis temperature, organic–inorganic content, treatment methodology, biochar incorporation at a particular pH, and colloidal instability. The Langmuir isotherm model estimates maximum arsenic adsorption capacities of 21 g kg–1 for As(V) and 14 g kg–1 for As(III), respectively, with high adsorption rates at both low and high arsenic concentrations. FTIR and XPS analysis suggest hydroxyl and metal oxide aid adsorption, while the quenching experiments with EPR analysis confirm the active role of hydroxyl-free radicles in the oxidation and subsequent adsorption of arsenic species. The used adsorbent can be regenerated using 0.2 M NaOH and shows a safe landfilling option for spent adsorbent based on the TCLP tests. The synergistic combination of laterite with biochar makes LBC an efficient and sustainable solution for the removal of arsenic from water with high adsorption capacity and easy regeneration.
Graphical Abstract
Mapping the spatial patterns of ethnic segregation and its implications to urban policy in Nairobi city
Authors: Ngolanye Nthiwa Alex , Leornard Kisovi , Thomas Kibutu , Philomena Muiruri 
Published: December 2024

AbstractIn modern times, cities around the world have grappled with the challenges of racial and ethnic segregation. In Nairobi city, with its diverse ethnic makeup, there is widening inequalities and emerging patterns of ethnic segregation, where the five main ethnic groups - Kamba, Luo, Kikuyu, Luhyia, and Kisii - experience varying levels of spatial concentration. This study analysed the spatial patterns of ethnic segregation in Nairobi, using geocoded questionnaire data from the 2019 Kenya population and housing census data. We used the Index of Dissimilarity in STATA software and Geo-segregation Analyzer and Anselin’s Local Moran I method in GIS to map ethnic segregation patterns. Our findings uncovered a striking socio-spatial divide based on ethnicity. Anselin Local Moran’s I indicators further pinpointed areas with the highest levels of segregation and spatial clustering of specific ethnic groups. These findings offer crucial insights for urban planners and policymakers. By pinpointing areas experiencing the most severe spatial segregation, our research could inform spatially targeted interventions and resource allocation. This could inform policies that foster inclusivity, reduce spatial inequalities, and build a more equitable and socially cohesive city.
A Listeria monocytogenes aptasensor on laser inscribed graphene for food safety monitoring in hydroponic water
Authors: Cavallaro Nicholas , Moreira Geisianny , Vanegas Diana , Xiang Dong , Datta Shoumen P. A. , Gomes Carmen , McLamore Eric S. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractConsumption of fresh produce, such as leafy greens, is often encouraged as part of a healthy diet. Hence, indoor facilities for hydroponic production of leafy greens are increasingly being established. However, fresh produce entails a higher risk of microbial foodborne illnesses than processed foods. Listeria monocytogenes is a major source of fresh produce contamination and is among the leading causes of severe foodborne illnesses in the United States, with a 16% mortality rate. Tools for rapid monitoring are needed for pathogens such as L. monocytogenes to prevent outbreaks. In this manuscript, we have demonstrated the feasibility of a multi-aptamer approach for development of label-free aptasensors targeting L. monocytogenes in irrigation water for lettuce hydroponic production. We use screening studies with surface plasmon resonance to rationally develop mixtures of relevant aptamers for targeting L. monocytogenes. Based on this screening, multiple aptamers targeting extracellular structures on intact L. monocytogenes were tethered to platinum-modified laser inscribed graphene electrodes. This is the first report of a L. monocytogenes biosensor based on laser inscribed graphene. We show that mixing multiple aptamers with varying affinity improves the diagnostic performance over one aptamer alone in complex sample matrices (lettuce hydroponic water). Multi-aptamer biosensors showed high accuracy for L. monocytogenes and were at least three times more selective than Escherichia coli (Crooks, K12, O157:H7) with an accuracy of 85%. The limit of detection (10 CFU/10 mL) is based on data which were significantly different after calibration toward L. monocytogenes or E. coli (Crooks) and validated against gold standard molecular analysis (polymerase chain reaction). Rapid screening of pathogens is a global need to meet food safety and water quality regulations. This study shows the importance of sensors targeting more than one bacterial surface structure in complex samples relevant to the food-water nexus.
Distant two-qubit gates in atomic array with Rydberg interaction using geometric quantum control
Authors: He Ze-Rui , Fu Zhao-Xin , Liang Jia-Hao , Chen Zi-Yuan , Liu Hong-Zhi , Huang Jia-Yi , Ming Yue , Han Zhi-Wei , Lv Qing-Xian , Du Yan-Xiong , Yan Hui 
Published: December 2024

AbstractConnectivity between qubits plays an irreplaceable role in quantum computation. An urgent task of quantum computation based on atomic arrays is to generate effective coupling between two distant qubits, thereby enhancing connectivity. In this paper, we investigate the realization of two-qubit gates utilizing buffer-atomic configuration, where the non-coding atoms serve as quantum buses to connect the computational qubits. Geometric control is achieved through globally-shined laser pulses in the Rydberg blockade region. It is found that acceleration based on shortcut to adiabaticity can be realized by reshaping the original control waveforms. The proposed distant two-qubit gate demonstrates robustness against systematic errors and random noise. Further numerical simulations indicate that high-fidelity control is maintained even when considering next-nearest-neighbor coupling among the atoms. Thus, our proposal provides a fast and experimentally feasible method for realizing distant two-qubit gates in atomic arrays, which may contribute to improving the scalability of quantum computations.
Communities conquering COVID-19: Black and Latinx community perspectives on the impact of COVID-19 in regions of Michigan hardest hit by the pandemic
Authors: Buyuktur Ayse G. , Cross Fernanda L. , Platt Jodyn , Aramburu Jasmin , Movva Pranati , Zhao Ziyu , Cornwall Tiffany , Hunt Rebecca , McCollum Jo Ann , Reyes Angela , Williams Charles E. , Ramakrishnan Arthi , Israel Barbara , Marsh Erica E. , Woolford Susan J. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
In Michigan, the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted Black and Latinx communities. These communities experienced higher rates of exposure, hospitalizations, and deaths compared to Whites. We examine the impact of the pandemic and reasons for the higher burden on communities of color from the perspectives of Black and Latinx community members across four Michigan counties and discuss recommendations to better prepare for future public health emergencies.

Methods:
Using a community-based participatory research approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews (n = 40) with Black and Latinx individuals across the four counties. Interviews focused on knowledge related to the pandemic, the impact of the pandemic on their lives, sources of information, attitudes toward vaccination and participation in vaccine trials, and perspectives on the pandemic’s higher impact on communities of color.

Results:
Participants reported overwhelming effects of the pandemic in terms of worsened physical and mental health, financial difficulties, and lifestyle changes. They also reported some unexpected positive effects. They expressed awareness of the disproportionate burden among Black and Latinx populations and attributed this to a wide range of disparities in Social Determinants of Health. These included racism and systemic inequities, lack of access to information and language support, cultural practices, medical mistrust, and varied individual responses to the pandemic.

Conclusion:
Examining perspectives and experiences of those most impacted by the pandemic is essential for preparing for and effectively responding to public health emergencies in the future. Public health messaging and crisis response strategies must acknowledge the concerns and cultural needs of underrepresented populations.
Bringing the idea of the environment to law: a comparative study of early environmental law textbooks
Authors: Bartie Susan , Hagger Meredith 
Published: December 2024

AbstractFrom 1948 to 1972 the idea of the environment gained solidity within the sciences and in global politics, as a thing or a concept, which spoke of a need to save humanity from the harms it was inflicting on the natural world. As historians Warde, Robin and Sörlin explain, the idea brought about a revolution in the sciences, casting scientists as environmental problem solvers, fundamentally changing the way they worked. In this paper we connect law and lawyers to this history. We ask, did lawyers contribute new meanings to the idea of the environment when they first presented laws and parts of legal practice as ‘environmental’? Were they mere translators of the scientists’ ideas? And did they envisage the emergence of new environmental legal experts, who might change legal culture? We examine the early environmental law textbooks in five countries (Australia, Canada, England, New Zealand and the US) and devise ideal types to explain the associations, values and choices which underpinned their presentation of the ideas of ‘the environment’, ‘environmental law’ and ‘environmental law expert’. We consider that these types are useful conceptual tools which raise ongoing questions about the relationship between environmental law and its broader context.
The potential of fluorogenicity for single molecule FRET and DyeCycling
Authors: Ghosh Srijayee , Schmid Sonja 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Single Molecule Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (smFRET) is a popular technique to directly observe biomolecular dynamics in real time, offering unique mechanistic insight into proteins, ribozymes, and so forth. However, inevitable photobleaching of the fluorophores puts a stringent limit on the total time a surface-tethered molecule can be monitored, fundamentally limiting the information gain through conventional smFRET measurements. DyeCycling addresses this problem by using reversibly – instead of covalently – coupled FRET fluorophores, through which it can break the photobleaching limit and theoretically provide unlimited observation time. In this perspective paper, we discuss the potential of various fluorogenic strategies to suppress the background fluorescence caused by unbound, freely diffusing fluorophores inherent to the DyeCycling approach. In comparison to nanophotonic background suppression using zero-mode waveguides, the fluorogenic approach would enable DyeCycling experiments on regular glass slides with fluorogenic FRET probes that are quenched in solution and only fluoresce upon target binding. We review a number of fluorogenic approaches and conclude, among other things, that short-range quenching appears promising for realising fluorogenic DyeCycling on regular glass slides. We anticipate that our discussion will be relevant for all single-molecule fluorescence techniques that use reversible fluorophore binding.
The challenges of research in the humanitarian sector: An evolving relationship
Authors: Antouly Julien , Leger Vincent , Raillon Camille , Troit Virginie 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe context of humanitarian action has changed considerably over the past twenty years. These upheavals have given rise to a need to reflect on humanitarian action, as evidenced by the new focus on scientific research by humanitarian actors since the turn of the century. This new approach has led to the creation of numerous organizations dedicated to research within the sector itself, so that scientific knowledge on humanitarian action is no longer produced solely by university researchers. One such organization is the French Red Cross Foundation, founded in 2013. This organization bears witness to the diversity and depth of the issues affecting the humanitarian sector, and the challenges of responding to them. Its history and its past and present difficulties and successes also illustrate the complexity of implementing such a response.This article aims to analyze and capitalize on several examples of scientific programmes built in direct relation to the humanitarian sector, in order to draw lessons from them (success factors, difficulties encountered, testimonials of applications of research results). In the article, we provide retrospective information on collaboration between the humanitarian and social action sectors and the academic sector, and look to the future by anticipating the shortcomings and needs that organizations – like researchers – will have to address in order to nurture the solidarity practices of tomorrow.