Regulation Of Behavior Research Articles

Estimating forest litter fuel load by integrating remotely sensed foliage phenology and modeled litter decomposition

Litter on the forest floor, or from a fire perspective the litter fuel load (LFL), is a key driver of the occurrence and spread of surface fires and an important regulator of forest fire behavior. High-quality spatiotemporal LFL data are essential for modeling fire behavior and assessing fire risk in forest ecosystems. Traditionally, LFL is estimated from ground-based measurements, but they are difficult to implement on large spatial scales. While remote sensing techniques have the advantage of large-scale observation, they encounter challenges in retrieving LFL because forest canopies generally block signals from the forest floor. Here we present a new method based on modeled litter accumulation to estimate LFL dynamics, integrating litterfall influx from the forest canopy and decomposition outflux through a mass balance approach. Annual litterfall was estimated based on seasonal changes in foliage fuel load which are retrieved from Landsat imagery and a radiative transfer model, while the decomposition rate was derived from meteorological data. Litterfall and decomposition were quantified over the past 20 years with the difference between the two being LFL accumulating over time. We validated the estimated LFL using 105 ground-based measurements in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, China, and this validation demonstrated a reasonably strong performance for estimating LFL (R2 = 0.67, root mean squared error (RMSE) = 2.56 Mg ha−1, relative RMSE = 31.61 %). Our method integrates remote sensing-based foliage phenology with the ecological process of LFL accumulation, enabling large-scale LFL monitoring for forest fire risk assessments.

Which behavioral regulations predict physical activity and sedentary behavior in people with mental illness?

Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is beneficial for health, and reducing sedentary behavior (SB) is recommended in international guidelines. People with mental illnesses are at higher risk of preventable diseases than the general population, partly attributable to lower MVPA and higher SB. Self-determination theory provides a framework for understanding how motivation regulates behavior. This study aimed to evaluate the contribution of different forms of motivation for physical activity (amotivation, controlled, autonomous) to MVPA and SB in people with mental illnesses. Cross-sectional self-reported and accelerometer-derived MVPA and SB in people with a range of mental illnesses across four countries were pooled for analysis (Australia, Belgium, England, Uganda). Motivation for physical activity was measured using the Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire (BREQ). Regression analyses were used to investigate the association of MVPA and SB with amotivation, controlled, autonomous motivations, controlling for mental health and demographic variables. Autonomous motivation was associated with 31% higher self-reported MVPA, and amotivation and controlled motivation were associated with 18% and 11% lower self-reported MVPA, respectively (n = 654). In contrast, controlled motivation was positively associated with SB (n = 189). Having physical comorbidities or an alcohol use disorder was associated with lower MVPA (n = 318). Sub-analyses with accelerometer-derived MVPA and SB (n = 139 and n = 145) did not reveal any associations with motivational forms. Findings with an international sample support the universal relevance of motivation in promoting health-related behavior. Strategies for facilitating autonomous motivation should be utilized by health professionals seeking to support people with mental illnesses to become physically active.

Interface dynamics in electroosmotic flow systems with non-Newtonian fluid frontiers

Abstract Microfluidic applications involving liquid manipulation, selective membranes, and energy harvesting strongly emphasize the importance of the electrokinetic phenomenon, which is widely used at multiple fluid and electrochemical interfaces. However, critical scientific issues that address multifield coupling and multiscale physics have not been well addressed in non-Newtonian fluids. In this paper, electrical field–fluid flow–ion transport coupling is numerically implemented in two mainstream problems, i.e., induced electroconvection phenomena at ion-selective interfaces and induced charge electroosmosis in polarized cylinders. The effects of different non-Newtonian rheological properties, which are absent in Newtonian fluids, on the interfacial dynamics, instability and ion transport are examined. The results reveal that the non-Newtonian rheology significantly modulates the statistical data and interfacial phenomena. Generalized power-law fluids alter velocity and interfacial charge profiles, with shear thinning enhancing ion transport to lower overlimiting current thresholds and shear thickening broadening the limiting current region (with hindered ion transport). In Boger-type Oldroyd-B fluids, the addition of polymer decreases the velocity amplitude and increases the interface resistance. At low voltages, polymer viscoelasticity minimally affects the ohmic and limiting regions, but under convection-dominated flow, different rheological parameters, such as the viscosity ratio, Weissenberg number, anisotropic parameter, and electrohydrodynamic coupling constants, enable controllable regulation of ion transport behavior across a wide range. Finally, this paper states that modulated electroosmosis by complex charged polymers is the future cutting edge. The relevant results supplement the non-Newtonian physics of electrokinetic systems and provide guidance for the design and operation of microfluidic devices.

Research Progress in Shape-Control Methods for Wire-Arc-Directed Energy Deposition.

Wire-arc-directed energy deposition (WA-DED) stands out as a highly efficient and adaptable technology for near-net-shaped metal manufacturing, with promising application prospects. However, the shape control capability of this technology is relatively underdeveloped, necessitating further refinement. This review summarizes the latest advancements in the shape control of WA-DED technology, covering four pivotal areas: the regulation of various process parameters, optimization of the deposition paths, control through auxiliary energy and mechanical fields, and synergy between additive and subtractive manufacturing approaches. Firstly, this review delves into the influence of deposition current, travel speed, wire feed speed and other parameters on the forming accuracy of additively manufactured parts. This section introduces control strategies such as heat input and dissipation management, torch orientation adjustment, droplet behavior regulation, and inter-layer temperature optimization. Secondly, various types of overlap models and techniques for designing overall deposition paths, which are essential for achieving desired part geometries, are summarized. Next, auxiliary fields for shape and property control, including magnetic field, ultrasonic field, and mechanical field, are discussed. Finally, the application of milling as a subtractive post-process is discussed, and the state-of-the-art integrated additive-subtractive manufacturing method is introduced. This comprehensive review is designed to provide valuable insights for researchers who are committed to addressing the forming defects associated with this process.

Light Regulation of Insect Behavior by Azobenzene-modified Flonicamid as Novel Molecular Tools.

Photopharmacology, an emerging interdisciplinary field, enables precise modulation of target biological activity by employing light-controllable photoswitchable molecules. The research on nicotinamidase (Naam), a recently identified target molecule for pesticides, remains relatively underexplored. Therefore, based on the structure of its inhibitor Flonicamid, we designed and synthesized a series of photopharmacological ligands (FABS) by incorporating a light-controllable azobenzene switch, further investigating their effects on insect behavior and activity. Compound FAB03 exhibited an LC50 value of 32.8 μM before light exposure and 154 μM after light exposure against Aedes albopictus, indicating a 4.7-fold difference in activity. Compound FAB05 exhibited an LC50 value of 0.691 μM before light exposure and 2.85 μM after light exposure against nymphs (1 day old) of Aphis craccivora, indicating a 4.1-fold difference in activity. Additionally, this series of photopharmacological ligands has successfully achieved light-mediated modulation of locomotor behavior in both Drosophila melanogaster and A. albopictus larvae. Fluorescence staining experiments with A. albopictus larvae were conducted to explore potential modes of action of the drug. Calcium content analysis showed that Flonicamid at 20 μg/mL significantly caused an inward Ca2+ flux in the ovarian of Spodoptera frugiperda (SF9), and the trans-configurations of the photopharmacological ligands FAB03 and FAB05 also led to a certain increase in the concentration of intracellular Ca2+. AlphaFold2 was employed to predict the three-dimensional structure of Naam, and potential binding modes were elucidated through molecular docking studies.

Effects of public data open on performance of government functions in China: the roles of digital economy and market economic system adopting the perspective of resource- based view

IntroductionThe emergence of the digital economy necessitates effective government guidance and regulation of enterprise behavior to ensure fair market competition. Understanding how public data open can enhance the performance of government functions is crucial, particularly in understanding the roles of key factors like the development of the digital economy and the current state of the market economic system. This study explores the effects of public data open on performance of government functions from a resource-based perspective.MethodsUsing a dataset of 237 Chinese cities from 2017 to 2021, we employed a two-way fixed-effects model to investigate the mechanisms. This includes its interaction with the development of the digital economy and the moderating role of the market economic system.ResultsThe findings reveal that public data open significantly improves performance of government functions, as validated by a multi-temporal DID model and various robustness checks. Notably, the development of the digital economy mediates this relationship, while the market economic system has a strong positive moderating effect. The effects of public data open on performance of government functions also exhibits significant variability.DiscussionRecommendations include coordinating regional public data open resource planning and allocation, enhancing public data open rules and objectives by region, and promoting synergy between public data open, development of digital economy and the market economic system.

A digital neuromorphic system for working memory based on spiking neuron-astrocyte network

Among various types of memory, working memory (WM) plays a crucial role in reasoning, decision-making, and behavior regulation. Neuromorphic computing is a well-established engineering approach that offers promising avenues for advancing our understanding of WM processes by mimicking the structure and operation of the human brain using electronic technology. In this work, a digital neuromorphic system is proposed and then implemented in hardware to illustrate the real-time WM process based on the spiking neuron-astrocyte network (SNAN). The implemented SNAN utilizes a bidirectional neuron-astrocyte interaction to realize the WM process, allowing for a more brain-like memory emulation. Various hardware optimization methods, including piecewise linear approximation, double buffering, and time multiplexing are recruited to minimize the area and power consumption and facilitate the implementation of the WM concept on a single field programmable gate array (FPGA) chip. The proposed neuromorphic system is evaluated by testing its capacity for multi-item memory formation, an essential characteristic of human WM. The results show that the time duration between the store and recall phases is a critical parameter for acceptable retrieval performance. Additionally, the results demonstrate that the proposed neuromorphic system for WM is resilient to noise. Finally, the design modularity of the system facilitates easy extension for implementing larger networks and adapting to real-world applications.

Commercial Wearables for the Management of People with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Review.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) necessitates comprehensive management, addressing complex challenges in social communication, behavioral regulation, and sensory processing, for which wearable technologies offer valuable tools to monitor and support interventions. Therefore, this review explores recent advancements in wearable technology, categorizing devices based on executive function, psychomotor skills, and the behavioral/emotional/sensory domain, highlighting their potential to improve ongoing management and intervention. To ensure rigor and comprehensiveness, the review employs a PRISMA-based methodology. Specifically, literature searches were conducted across diverse databases, focusing on studies published between 2014 and 2024, to identify the most commonly used wearables in ASD research. Notably, 55.45% of the 110 devices analyzed had an undefined FDA status, 23.6% received 510(k) clearance, and only a small percentage were classified as FDA Breakthrough Devices or in the submission process. Additionally, approximately 50% of the devices utilized sensors like ECG, EEG, PPG, and EMG, highlighting their widespread use in real-time physiological monitoring. Our work comprehensively analyzes a wide array of wearable technologies, including emerging and advanced. While these technologies have the potential to transform ASD management through real-time data collection and personalized interventions, improved clinical validation and user-centered design are essential for maximizing their effectiveness and user acceptance.

Self‐Comparing With Virtual Influencers: Effects on Followers' Wellbeing

ABSTRACTWhile there is pervasive research on virtual influencers (VIs) and their impacts on consumer behaviors, there is a lack of understanding of their effects on followers' wellbeing. Drawing on social comparison theory, in this study, we examine how followers self‐compare with VIs and what the effects of this process are on their wellbeing. Based on a qualitative study, involving 31 interviews with followers of VIs on Instagram, we found that they experience both upward and downward comparison. The upward comparison made them feel envious, jealous (i.e., contrastive), or inspired, optimistic, and admired (i.e., assimilative) while the downward assimilative comparison made the followers worry or feel sympathy with the VI they follow. Moreover, we found another set of emotions that can be triggered by the process of social comparison with a VI, such as feelings of shame due to the nature of the influencers not being human. Individuals cope with the negative effects of self‐comparing through emotional and behavioral regulations.

Melanin concentrating hormone projections to the nucleus accumbens enhance the reward value of food consumption and do not induce feeding or REM sleep.

Regulation of food intake and energy balance is critical to survival. Hunger develops as a response to energy deficit and drives food-seeking and consumption. However, motivations to eat are varied in nature, and promoted by factors other than energy deficit. When dysregulated, non-homeostatic drives to consume can contribute to disorders of food intake, adding to the increasing prevalence of restrictive eating disorders and obesity. Melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) neurons have been implicated in the regulation of feeding behavior, in addition to a number of other fundamental behaviors including sleep, anxiety, and maternal behavior. Several studies suggest that MCH peptide increases food consumption, while studies of MCH neurons show effects only on cued feeding, and others show no effect of MCH neuron manipulation on feeding. MCH neurons have widespread projections to diverse downstream brain regions yet few studies have investigated the function of specific projections or differentiated the behaviors they regulate. Here we use optogenetics, in combination with different behavioral paradigms, to elucidate the role of MCH projections to the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in sleep and feeding behavior. We show that MCH neurons projecting to the NAc do not induce changes in baseline feeding or REM sleep, but do enhance the preference for a food paired with optogenetic stimulation. Furthermore, this effect is diminished in female mice relative to males, in line with previous results suggesting sex differences in the functional role of MCH neurons. These results suggest that MCH projections to the NAc can enhance the rewarding value of consumed food.

Technology-Based Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication and repetitive behaviors. Its prevalence has steadily increased, with the CDC reporting a rise from 1 in 100 children in 2006 to 1 in 44 in the United States by 2021. ASD manifests in a spectrum of symptoms, requiring tailored interventions to address each child's unique needs. Recent advancements in technology have shown promise in aiding children with ASD, particularly through robotics and socially assistive robots (SARs). This systematic review explores the impact of technology-based interventions on children with ASD, assessing their efficacy in enhancing social skills, communication, and behavior regulation. Methodology: This review followed PRISMA guidelines, screening 46,580 articles across databases such as PubMed, Cochrane, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and PsychInfo. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 254 studies were selected for in-depth review. The review focused on technology-based interventions, including robotics and socially assistive robots, with MeSH terms such as "Technology," "Artificial Intelligence," "Autism Spectrum Disorder," and "ASD." Results: Technology-based interventions, particularly SARs, demonstrated significant improvements in social interaction, emotional regulation, and communication for children with ASD. Robots such as LEGO Mindstorms and "Kaspar" were effective in enhancing eye contact, cooperation, and emotional recognition. However, results varied depending on the type of technology used, study design, and participant characteristics. Conclusion: While technology-based interventions hold promise for children with ASD, further research is needed to standardize intervention protocols, dosage, and long-term outcomes. These tools offer a non-invasive, scalable solution for enhancing social and cognitive skills, but variability in study designs limits definitive conclusions. Keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Technology, Robotics, Socially Assistive Robots, Communication, Cognitive Skills, Applied Behavioral Analysis

Assessing the effects of cadmium on antioxidant enzymes and histological structures in rainbow trout liver and kidney

Cadmium contamination in aquatic environments poses severe risks to aquatic organisms, particularly fish, where cadmium accumulation in tissues can lead to compromised organ functionality and reproductive issues. The present study aimed to assess the effects of cadmium (Cd) exposure on key biomarkers of oxidative stress, DNA damage, apoptosis, and enzyme activity in the liver and kidney tissues of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Specifically, the study measured 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels, caspase-3 activation, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and oxidative stress indicators (ONOO−, MDA, GSH, SOD, and CAT) following exposure to three Cd concentrations (1, 3, and 5 mg/L) over three time points (24, 48, and 96 h). Tissue samples were collected post-exposure, and the analysis revealed a significant decrease in MDA levels in both tissues. GSH concentrations declined with prolonged exposure, while SOD activity increased, indicating a response to oxidative stress, contrasted by a reduction in CAT activity. An initial increase in ONOO− levels was observed at 24 h, followed by a subsequent decrease at the 48 and 96 h marks. These results suggest that cadmium induces oxidative stress in the liver and kidney tissues of fish. Cadmium exposure also significantly elevated 8-OHdG levels, signaling DNA damage, and increased caspase-3 activity, indicative of apoptosis, across all doses and time points (p < 0.05). The histological examination of liver and kidney showed tissue injury. Additionally, a negative correlation between AChE activity and exposure duration was noted, with prolonged exposure resulting in substantial AChE inhibition. Given the role of AChE in behavior regulation, these findings underscore the importance of exploring time-dependent, tissue-specific changes in AChE activity to further elucidate the mechanisms underlying cadmium-induced behavioral abnormalities.

Toll-like receptor signaling in neurons modulates C. elegans feeding behavior in a hunger state-dependent manner

Animals face the risk of encountering pathogenic microbes while foraging for resources. Assessing the risk of nutrition vs. infection can result in the behavioral regulation of immune processes. Behavioral immunity in the nematode roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is regulated, in part, by the innate immune molecule TOL-1: a homolog of vertebrate Toll-like Receptor (TLR) proteins that influences C. elegans pathogen avoidance behaviors by promoting the development of CO2-detecting chemosensory neurons. While TOL-1′s role in pathogen avoidance is well established, its role in an opposing behavior – foraging – has not been examined. In addition to pathogenic bacteria, preferred food for C. elegans, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), create significant and aversive environmental CO2 levels which may limit feeding behaviors in a tol-1 dependent manner. We have found that in addition to conferring antibacterial immunity, TOL-1 signals in neurons through the p38 MAPK PMK-1 to promote turning behavior and limit foraging when food is abundant and that the anorectic TOL-1/PMK-1 pathway is attenuated during starvation to promote foraging. These data highlight the dynamic role of a conserved innate immune cascade in neurons during both high and low hunger states and identify mechanisms underlying the neuro-immune control of feeding strategies.

Effect of Digital-Based Cognitive Rehabilitation on Executive Functions in Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Background: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in executive functions. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of digital-based cognitive rehabilitation (DBCR) on executive functions, behavioral regulation, and metacognition in children with ADHD. Methods: A total of thirty male participants, aged 6 - 12 years, who met predetermined inclusion criteria, were selected through a random sampling method. Their parents completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) to assess executive functions. The children were divided into experimental and control groups, with the experimental group undergoing 10 DBCR sessions, while the control group participated in generic computer game sessions. Parents completed the BRIEF after the intervention and again five weeks later. The data were analyzed using SPSS 25. Results: Following DBCR, significant improvements were observed in the total score of executive functions and the Metacognition Index (MI) in children with ADHD. The effect sizes for DBCR on the global executive composite (GEC) and MI were 47% and 37%, respectively, while the effect size for the intervention targeting the Behavior Regulation Index (BRI) was approximately 11%. Conclusions: The study suggests that DBCR positively impacts the GEC and MI in children with ADHD, potentially preventing deficits in these areas. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of DBCR on the BRI in children with ADHD.

THE PLACE AND ROLE OF TIME IN HUMAN ACTIVITY

Background: Time is a crucial but usually underappreciated aspect of human life and societal development. It has an impact on many aspects of society and serves as both a change indicator and a regulator of human behavior. Specific Background: Despite the fact that societies usually divide time into "working" and "non-working" periods, efficient time management in both areas significantly affects productivity and personal development. Knowledge Gap: While previous research has looked at the social and economic aspects of working hours, less attention has been paid to the overall impacts of time on people's well-being and the development of society at large. The goal of this research is to examine the several ways that time functions in society, with an emphasis on how it affects awareness, work habits, and the advancement of civilization. Findings: The findings show a strong relationship between effective use of working and non-working time and social efficiency, personal motivation, and conformity to the demands of modern society. Numerous elements, such as financial incentives, organizational structure, and individual accountability, further moderate this link. Uniqueness: This research provides a conceptual framework for analyzing "social time," integrating perspectives from the domains of economics, sociopolitics, and culture. Implications: These findings highlight the need for legislation that encourages effective time management, reiterating that good time management can benefit society and increase personal satisfaction.

WS-BiTM: Integrating White Shark Optimization with Bi-LSTM for enhanced autism spectrum disorder diagnosis

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a multifaceted neurodevelopmental condition marked by challenges in social communication, sensory processing, and behavioral regulation. The delayed diagnosis of ASD significantly impedes timely interventions, which can exacerbate symptom severity. With approximately 62 million individuals affected worldwide, the demand for efficient diagnostic tools is critical. This study introduces a novel framework that combines a White Shark Optimization (WSO)-based feature selection method with a Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) classifier for enhanced autism classification. Utilizing the WSO technique, we identify key features from autism screening datasets, which markedly improves the model's predictive capabilities. The optimized feature set is then processed by the Bi-LSTM classifier, enhancing its efficiency in handling sequential data. We comprehensively address methodological challenges, including overfitting, generalization, interpretability, and computational efficiency. Furthermore, we conduct a comparative analysis against baseline algorithms such as Neural Networks, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks, while also employing Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) for feature selection validation. We evaluate performance metrics, including accuracy, F1-score, specificity, precision, and sensitivity across three ASD datasets: Toddlers, Adults, and Children. Our results demonstrate that the WS-BiTM model significantly outperforms baseline methods, achieving accuracies of 97.6 %, 96.2 %, and 96.4 % on the respective datasets. Additionally, we implemented leave-one-dataset cross-validation and confirmed the statistical significance of our findings through a paired t-test, supplemented by an ablation study to detail the contributions of individual model components. These findings highlight the potential of the WS-BiTM model as a robust tool for ASD classification.

Prosocial Behavior of College Students: A Self-determination Perspective

Students’ prosocial behavior refers to self-determination motivation with the aim of helping others and a caring attitude. The purpose of this research study is to explore the role of college students’ prosocial behavior in terms of self-determination. The age of college students is in the early adulthood category. The research approach in this study is to use a qualitative approach with literature study techniques. The result of this study is that the role of students’ prosocial behavior in terms of self-determination is the existence of students’ autonomous interest and motivation to behave prosocially in real terms. Autonomous prosocial motivation is manifested as the regulation of prosocial behavior determined by the individual himself, the interest and pleasure to help others without coercion from others. However, individuals who are motivated to be prosocial because they want to avoid guilt and shame may cause individuals to experience more negative emotions. This study implies that the role of autonomous motivation as part of self-determination theory becomes strong evidence in individuals achieving desired goals, and specifically also evidence of individuals performing highly prosocial behavior. Keywords: college students, prosocial behavior, self-determination

Sulfonated Penta-Galloyl Glucose (SPGG): The Pharmacological Effects of Promiscuous Glycosaminoglycan Small Molecule Mimetic.

Sulfated glycosaminoglycans (SGAGs), such as heparin, are complex linear polysaccharides attached to core proteins via covalent bonds to form proteoglycans. SGAGs are crucial in assembling extracellular matrix, the regulation of cell signaling and cell behavior, hemostasis, development, and various diseases, including thrombosis, cancer, infectious diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders, through their binding with diverse proteins. Despite the abundant SGAG-protein interactions provided by nature, the development of small SGAG-like molecules remains underexplored. However, sulfonated penta-galloyl glucose (SPGG) represents a promising, easily synthesized, small-molecule mimetic of SGAGs, capable of harnessing these interactions. This minireview discusses the chemical synthesis and characterization of SPGG, along with its pharmacological effects derived from modulating the SGAG-protein interface.

A gated highly variable pseudocapacitor based on redox-window control (G-CAPode)

Iontronic architectures operate via multiple ions or redox processes mimicking neural systems capable to operate with complex ions and biological transmitters with high energy efficiency. Recently, ultracapacitors have emerged as novel iontronic switchable devices with a high on/off ratio. We propose a novel iontronic device offering flexible control of the current output of a switchable electrochemical capacitor diode (CAPode) by introducing an additional “gate” electrode. This device mimics field-effect transistor (FET) semiconductors in controlling current output and recovers energy consumed during the forward charging, marking a significant breakthrough. A recently developed unidirectional CAPode system (Ni3Bi2S2@Ni I 1 mol L-1 KOH I AC@Ni) serves as the “working” capacitor (W-Cap) in the novel architecture. The proposed G-CAPode (gate-controlled CAPode) features a third voltage-controlled connection between the “gate” and the counter electrode of the W-Cap. By varying this third voltage channel the electrodes of W-Cap are shifted in potential toward negative or positive potential windows. Hence, by external voltage control the rectification ratios and blocking efficacy can be tuned which is essential for fully controlling the output signal in logic gates. A new circuit monitors the current and potential distribution of the NOT gate: The G-CAPode system exhibits transistor-like characteristics with a −1.2 V bias. This investigation highlights the versatility of the G-CAPode system across applications where transistor-like behavior and accurate current regulation are beneficial, promising advancements in ionologic devices, sensors, and energy storage systems.

Short-Term Effects of an Outdoor Activities Intervention on Children’s Stress, Socio emotional, Behavioral, and Cognitive Regulation Skills

ABSTRACT Research Findings: In recent years, interest has grown in the potential benefits of outdoor activities (OA) for children’s development, particularly in promoting socioemotional, behavioral, and cognitive regulation skills and reducing stress. However, empirical evidence on the effects of OA programs for children in the first three years of life on these outcomes still needs to be provided. To address this gap, our study involved 95 infants and toddlers (girls = 48, M age = 23.3 months) attending child care centers in north and south Italy and their teachers. Participants were divided into two groups: the Outdoor group (n = 55), actively involved in the OA program for four months, and the Control group (n = 40), who followed the standard curriculum. We assessed the children’s cortisol levels and emotional, behavioral, and cognitive regulation skills before (T1) and after (T2) the implementation of the OA intervention. After the 4-month intervention, improvements in the children’s adaptive behavior (particularly in social interaction) and cognitive-behavioral regulation skills were observed only in the Outdoor group. Children’s stress levels remained stable. Practice or Policy: Our findings show the benefits of daily OA on young children’s self-regulation, suggesting to schools and families that increasing OA from the first years of life may support cognitive and social growth.