Adaptive Lens Research Articles

Adaptive Fresnel lens: basic theory

We present a design for an adaptive Fresnel lens. The focal length can be altered by rotating two components relative to each other, each comprising modified cylindrical lenses wound into spirals. The main light-ray-direction change is due to transmission through pairs of parallel cylindrical lenses whose focal lengths have equal magnitude but opposite signs. Shifting the cylindrical lenses relative to each other perpendicular to the common cylinder-axis direction changes the directions of transmitted light rays, and by designing each component to be one long, thin, cylindrical lens whose focal length changes along its length and is bent into a suitable spiral, rotation of the components relative to each other shifts the cylindrical lenses as required. Adding the thickness profiles of the two parts of a cylindrical Alvarez–Lohmann lens to those of the two cylindrical lenses significantly improves the optical performance. We support our construction with raytracing simulations and discuss potential applications.

Precision autofocus in optical microscopy with liquid lenses controlled by deep reinforcement learning

AbstractMicroscopic imaging is a critical tool in scientific research, biomedical studies, and engineering applications, with an urgent need for system miniaturization and rapid, precision autofocus techniques. However, traditional microscopes and autofocus methods face hardware limitations and slow software speeds in achieving this goal. In response, this paper proposes the implementation of an adaptive Liquid Lens Microscope System utilizing Deep Reinforcement Learning-based Autofocus (DRLAF). The proposed study employs a custom-made liquid lens with a rapid zoom response, which is treated as an “agent.” Raw images are utilized as the “state”, with voltage adjustments representing the “actions.” Deep reinforcement learning is employed to learn the focusing strategy directly from captured images, achieving end-to-end autofocus. In contrast to methodologies that rely exclusively on sharpness assessment as a model’s labels or inputs, our approach involved the development of a targeted reward function, which has proven to markedly enhance the performance in microscope autofocus tasks. We explored various action group design methods and improved the microscope autofocus speed to an average of 3.15 time steps. Additionally, parallel “state” dataset lists with random sampling training are proposed which enhances the model’s adaptability to unknown samples, thereby improving its generalization capability. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed liquid lens microscope with DRLAF exhibits high robustness, achieving a 79% increase in speed compared to traditional search algorithms, a 97.2% success rate, and enhanced generalization compared to other deep learning methods.

Effects of dual plasticizers for improved PVC gel-based varifocal tiny lens

Abstract Electroactive polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gel-based varifocal lenses are attractive due to their excellent transparency, simple fabrication, compact structure, and good flexibility. In this work, dibutyl adipate (DBA) and propylene carbonate (PC) were utilized to plasticize PVC for fabricating transparent, soft, and flexible gels by solvent casting method. The PVC gels were characterized by various experimental techniques to investigate their optical, electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties. Further, the PVC gels were examined to construct a compact plano-convex tiny lens structure for varifocal lens application under electrical stimulation. The work revealed that the introduction of a co-plasticizer PC improves the overall dielectric property as well as transparency of the PVC gels. The observed enhancement in dielectric constant of the PC incorporated gels increased up to 6 times of the only DBA plasticized PVC gel (D9) while the transmittance value is ~5% higher than that of D9 gel. Moreover, the optimal ratio of DBA and PC in PVC gel was found to be 8.6: 0.4: 1 (wt %) and the optimized D8.6P0.4 gel induces better actuation properties resulting in improved focal length variation for the developed lens. The proposed adaptive tiny lens could change its focal length from 3 mm to 20.5 mm with increasing input voltage from 0 V to 1000 V. The developed tiny lens exhibited excellent optical characteristics including fast response speed and good stability. Moreover, this study broadens the scope for property tuning strategies for the EAP design and application.

Crossroads of arts: intercultural dialogue of choreographic and theatrical practices of the Ukrainian diaspora in the second half of the 20th century

The article explores the role of choreographic and theatrical practices in the Ukrainian diaspora during the second half of the 20th century as a means of preserving national identity and fostering intercultural dialogue. Through the lens of migration and cultural adaptation, the study examines how Ukrainian artists, spread across North America, Europe, and Australia, utilized dance and theatre as tools for both cultural preservation and artistic innovation. The fusion of traditional Ukrainian folk elements with the artistic traditions of host countries became a key feature of this creative process, resulting in performances that resonated with diverse audiences while maintaining a strong connection to Ukrainian heritage. The article investigates the contributions of prominent figures and ensembles, highlighting their impact on both the Ukrainian community and the broader cultural landscape. By integrating historical analysis with an exploration of contemporary practices, the study reveals the transformative potential of diaspora arts in bridging cultural divides, enriching global artistic practices, and reinforcing a sense of collective identity. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the cultural dynamics within the Ukrainian diaspora and their role in the global dialogue of artistic exchange.

Enabling value retention in circular ecosystems for the second life of electric vehicle batteries

Enabling value retention in circular ecosystems for the second life of electric vehicle batteries

Conformal Ordered Solid–Liquid Coupled Piezoelectric Units for Programmable Adaptive Optics

AbstractOrdered piezoelectric units are designed to achieve unnaturally large strains and artificial vibrational modes, owing to the synergistic effects of multiple units. However, when interfacing with another physical field, the challenge for ordered piezoelectric units is to achieve precise control of individual unit independently while maintaining a large manipulation range. In this study, conformal ordered solid–liquid coupled piezoelectric units are introduced, which effectively reduce stress transfer by as much as 84% between units via incorporating a liquid phase into each unit. This design allows for the generation of considerable strain levels (up to ɛZ = 1.13%) when used with a flexible layer and optimized structure. Hence, these conformal ordered piezoelectric units achieve simultaneous production of large strains and independent electromechanical control for each individual unit. As a practical illustration, a biomimetic piezoelectric adaptive lens and a lens array based on solid–liquid coupled piezoelectric units are designed and fabricated. They offer an extensive zoom range from 100.3 mm to infinity, ultra‐high diopter sensitivity of 70 D mV−1, ultra‐rapid response time of 50 µs, and programmable optical focusing through individual manipulation of each unit. This research paves the way for inspiring new designs for piezoelectric metamaterials and devices for intelligent electromechanical systems.

A - 89 Systemic Inflammation and Cognitive Performance during Mid-Life: a Complex Longitudinal Relationship

Abstract Objective Systemic inflammation, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP), can affect an individual’s functioning and is a consequence of stress-related physiological changes, especially as one ages. Cognitive functioning is a critical factor of healthy aging and strongly associated with sleep and chronic conditions/symptoms. IL-6 can induce CRP production, leading to downstream effects, however IL-6 levels may also contextualize how CRP may be linked to cognition. Methods Using MIDUS waves 2 (M2) and 3 (M3) data, the participants included 770 adults (58.1% Female; 84.9% white; 53.28 ± 10.7 years) who completed two BTACT cognitive assessments over a ten-year period and provided blood samples and psychosocial self-report data at M2. Using PROCESS macro (model 1), we examined the interaction of proinflammatory markers on cognitive decline. Results M2 IL-6 interacted with M2 CRP to predict M3 cognition while accounting for age, education, race, gender, sleep, and M2 cognition (ΔR2 = 0.002, F(1,759) = 4.74, p = 0.030). Specifically, among those with lower IL-6, their CRP levels were negatively linked to M3 cognitive performance (b = −0.114, p = 0.007), while for those with higher IL-6, there was no relationship (b = −0.008, p = 0.842). Conclusion Findings suggest that a dynamic relationship exists between inflammatory markers and cognitive function. Not only can IL-6 directly affect CRP, it may also provide additional context on how a clinically relevant inflammatory marker may be related to cognitive decline. From a stress and adaptive systems lens, further research should investigate how IL-6 may highlight the accumulation of stressful life events or other chronic psychosocial factors, using a more holistic approach to cognitive aging.

A Path Planning Method Based on Hybrid Sand Cat Swarm Optimization Algorithm of Green Multimodal Transportation

Aiming at the difficulty of measuring various costs and time-consuming elements in multimodal transport, this paper constructs a green vehicle comprehensive multimodal transport model which incorporates transportation, transit, quality damage, fuel consumption, and carbon emission costs and proposes a hybrid embedded time window to calculate the time penalty cost in order to reflect the actual transport characteristics. Furthermore, in order to better solve the model, a hybrid sand cat swarm optimization (HSCSO) algorithm is proposed by introducing Logistic–Tent chaotic mapping and an adaptive lens opposition-based learning strategy to enhance the global search capability, and inspired by the swarm intelligence scheme, a momentum–bellicose strategy and an equilibrium crossover pool are introduced to improve the search efficiency and convergence ability. Through testing nine benchmark functions, the HSCSO algorithm exhibits superior convergence accuracy and speed in dealing with complex multi-dimensional problems. Based on the excellent global performance, the HSCSO algorithm was utilized for multimodal vehicle transportation in East China, and a path with a lower comprehensive cost was successfully planned, which proved the effectiveness of the HSCSO algorithm in green intermodal transport path planning.

Bricolage for Innovative Qualitative Social Science Research: A Perspective on Its Conceptual Hallmarks

In the ever-evolving landscape of qualitative social science research, innovative methodologies are crucial for capturing the complexities of human behavior and societal dynamics. Bricolage, a versatile approach derived from Claude Lévi-Strauss’s structuralist inquiry, has flourished within post-structuralism, post-modernism, critical theories, feminism, and cultural studies. Despite its growing recognition, challenges persist in comprehending and applying bricolage due to its interdisciplinary and eclectic nature. More established research methodologies face limitations in adapting to contemporary realities, whereas bricolage offers a pliable and adaptive lens. This paper explores bricolage’s conceptual underpinnings and real-world application, aiming to underline the importance of embracing innovative research methodologies. By presenting bricolage as a potent tool for generating knowledge, this study seeks to inspire researchers to explore its rich potential in understanding the multifaceted landscapes of human experience.

Adaptation and Adversity Acceptance as Resilience to Flooding at World Heritage Sites: A Case Study of Hoi An Ancient Town, Vietnam

ABSTRACT This article investigates long-term adaptation and resilience to floods at World Heritage sites through a case study of Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam, Vietnam. Drawing on fieldwork observation, document review, and unstructured interviews conducted in Hoi An, we examine the enduring processes and experiences of co-living with floods. The article considers residents’ ability to comprehend, acknowledge, and address the challenges of flooding using the conceptual lens of adaptation and adversity acceptance as resilience. Our findings reveal an inseparable bond between residents and their built environment, encompassing invaluable lessons and experiences, local beliefs, resource availability, and adaptive strategies aimed at harmonious cohabitation with flooding described as ‘leaning into nature’. Strikingly, residents have developed their own practices and identities shaped by the town’s inundation by flood waters over a few centuries. Various modern flood prevention measures trace their origins to historical efforts, underscoring the vital role of traditional knowledge and practices in coping with the impacts of climate change. Those efforts are also framed within the local policy context such as Heritage Management Plan, Disaster Risk Management Plan, and Regulation for the Protection of the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town.

An adaptive drug-releasing contact lens for personalized treatment of ocular infections and injuries

This research introduces an innovative solution to address the challenges of bacterial keratitis and alkali burns. Current treatments for bacterial keratitis and alkali burns rely on the frequent use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops. However, these approaches suffer from poor bioavailability and fluctuating concentrations, leading to limited efficacy and potential drug resistance. Our approach presents an adaptive drug-releasing contact lens responsive to reactive oxygen species (ROS) at ocular inflammation sites, synchronously releasing Levofloxacin and Diclofenac. During storage, minimal drug release occurred, but over 7days of wear, the lens maintained a continuous, customizable drug release rate based on disease severity. This contact lens had strong antibacterial activity and biofilm prevention, effectively treating bacterial keratitis. When combined with autologous serum, this hydrophilic, flexible lens aids corneal epithelial regeneration, reducing irritation and promoting healing. In summary, this ROS-responsive drug-releasing contact lens combines antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, offering a promising solution for bacterial keratitis and alkali burns.

Enhanced chimp hierarchy optimization algorithm with adaptive lens imaging for feature selection in data classification

Feature selection is a critical component of machine learning and data mining to remove redundant and irrelevant features from a dataset. The Chimp Optimization Algorithm (CHoA) is widely applicable to various optimization problems due to its low number of parameters and fast convergence rate. However, CHoA has a weak exploration capability and tends to fall into local optimal solutions in solving the feature selection process, leading to ineffective removal of irrelevant and redundant features. To solve this problem, this paper proposes the Enhanced Chimp Hierarchy Optimization Algorithm for adaptive lens imaging (ALI-CHoASH) for searching the optimal classification problems for the optimal subset of features. Specifically, to enhance the exploration and exploitation capability of CHoA, we designed a chimp social hierarchy. We employed a novel social class factor to label the class situation of each chimp, enabling effective modelling and optimization of the relationships among chimp individuals. Then, to parse chimps’ social and collaborative behaviours with different social classes, we introduce other attacking prey and autonomous search strategies to help chimp individuals approach the optimal solution faster. In addition, considering the poor diversity of chimp groups in the late iteration, we propose an adaptive lens imaging back-learning strategy to avoid the algorithm falling into a local optimum. Finally, we validate the improvement of ALI-CHoASH in exploration and exploitation capabilities using several high-dimensional datasets. We also compare ALI-CHoASH with eight state-of-the-art methods in classification accuracy, feature subset size, and computation time to demonstrate its superiority.

Designing transparent piezoelectric metasurfaces for adaptive optics

Simultaneously generating various motion modes with high strains in piezoelectric devices is highly desired for high-technology fields to achieve multi-functionalities. However, traditional approach for designing multi-degrees-of-freedom systems is to bond together several multilayer piezoelectric stacks, which generally leads to cumbersome and complicated structures. Here, we proposed a transparent piezo metasurface to achieve various types of strains in a wide frequency range. As an example, we designed a ten-unit piezo metasurface, which can produce high strains (ε3 = 0.76%), and generate linear motions along X-, Y- and Z-axis, rotary motions around X-, Y- and Z-axis as well as coupled modes. An adaptive lens based on the proposed piezo metasurface was demonstrated. It can realize a wide range of focal length (35.82 cm ~ ∞) and effective image stabilization with relatively large displacements (5.05 μm along Y-axis) and tilt angles (44.02′ around Y-axis). This research may benefit the miniaturization and integration of multi-degrees-of-freedom systems.

Factors associated with smallholders’ uptake of intercropping in Southeast Asia: A cross-country analysis of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia

Factors associated with smallholders’ uptake of intercropping in Southeast Asia: A cross-country analysis of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia

Networking in action: Taking collaborative capacity development seriously for disaster risk management

Networking in action: Taking collaborative capacity development seriously for disaster risk management

PAIDEIA ADAPTATION: CAN WE TRANSFORM PEDAGOGICAL MATERIALS INTO ANTHROPOMORPHIC NARRATIVES?

Paideia philosophy urges education and anything derived or related to it to respond to the zeitgeist of an era. Thus, techniques to deliver any pedagogical materials should position the target users as the axis to disclose them more possibilities to comprehend the materials. One of the techniques is designing anthropomorphic narratives. Studies on this topic circumnavigate around educational domains. Perceiving this issue from the lens of literary adaptation is the gap left by the previous studies. We argue that narrating pedagogical materials anthropomorphically is better termed paideia adaptation. This study attempts to prove the existence of this adaptation type by utilizing qualitative method, indicating the narrative and language features of the adaptation. Implementing the theories of onto fiction by Couceiro-Bueno, ergodic literature by Aarseth, second degree of literature by Genette, anthropomorphism by Weemans and Prévost on a corpus of animated films and games, the findings indicate that paideia adaptation has four narrative features namely anthropomorphic narratives, pseudoreferentiality, metalepsis, and metafictionality. This adaptation also has distinctive language features namely thematization, proairetic decoding, and didacticization. The result discloses a new viewpoint in the study of adaptation.

International Students’ Academic Adjustment in Private Universities in Malaysia

Malaysia is known for having a mixed population with diverse backgrounds and religions living in peace. Malaysian education systems opened their doors to foreign countries in 1996, allowing for the establishment of branch campuses, and the private education system entered our educational sector. Since then, many international students have travelled to Malaysia to study. According to the Star Online in 2019, Malaysian higher education institutions have registered more than 170,000 international students from over 135 countries for their intercultural adaptation experiences. The top three countries are from Bangladesh, Indonesia, and China. This qualitative study investigates the academic adjustment experiences of international students in private universities in Malaysia through the lens of Cross-Cultural Adaptation (CCA) theory. Employing in-depth interviews, the research seeks to unveil the intricate processes, challenges, and adaptive strategies that shape the academic trajectories of international students within the Malaysian higher education landscape. The study aims to explore how cultural, linguistic, and academic factors influence the academic adaptation of international students. Through purposive sampling, participants will share their personal narratives, shedding light on the dynamic interplay between cultural nuances and the pursuit of academic success. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data will uncover patterns and insights into the ways in which international students negotiate academic challenges and integrate into the Malaysian educational milieu. The findings aim to contribute to the broader understanding of cross-cultural adaptation in academic settings, providing context-specific knowledge that can inform institutional policies and practices to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for international students in Malaysian private universities. Keywords: International Students, undergraduate, adaptation, challenges, Malaysia.

Place-Based Philanthropy With an Adaptive Lens: Actively Balancing Community-Driven and Foundation-Driven Orientations

Place-Based Philanthropy With an Adaptive Lens: Actively Balancing Community-Driven and Foundation-Driven Orientations

Parametric multiphysics study of focus-variable silicone lenses.

By exploiting their inherent elasticity, focus-variable silicone lenses shift their focal length reversibly when deformed. Although biconcave and meniscus lenses contribute to optical systems just as well as biconvex lenses, studies primarily revolve around the latter. Thus, we aim to reveal the focal length shifting potential of all aforementioned lens types. Covering a wide parameter range of varying lens curvature radii, we present a coupled mechanical and optical simulation in which a lens deformation is applied. The results show significant differences in focal length shifting effectiveness for different lens types. Within the domains of specific lens types, trends in this effectiveness emerge for different combinations of curvature radii. Matching these radii when incorporating adaptive silicone lenses in optical systems may guide optics engineers toward more effective system designs through this study.

Exploring first semester allied health students’ transition to graduate school through the lens of Occupational Adaptation

Exploring first semester allied health students’ transition to graduate school through the lens of Occupational Adaptation