Switching Behavior Research Articles

High autistic traits linked with reduced performance on affective task switching: An ERP study

Few studies have investigated affective flexibility in individuals with high autistic traits. In the present study, we employed affective task-switching paradigm combined with event related potential (ERP) technology to explore affective flexibility in individuals with high autistic traits. Participants were instructed to switch between identifying the gender (gender task) and emotion (emotion task) of presented faces. Two groups of participants were recruited based on the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) scores: a High Autistic Group (HAG) and a Low Autistic Group (LAG). The results confirmed that the HAG exhibited greater behavioral emotion switch costs and increased N2 and decreased P3 components when switching to the emotion task. Additionally, we identified an affective asymmetric switch cost in the HAG, where the switch cost for the emotion task was larger than for the gender task at both behavioral and electrophysiological levels. In contrast, a symmetrical switch cost was observed in the LAG. These findings indicate that the HAG experiences difficulties with affective flexibility, particularly in tasks involving emotional processing. The patterns of affective asymmetric switch costs observed in both groups differed from previous results in autistic children and the general population, suggesting that the relative dominance of gender and emotion tasks may vary between the two groups. We propose that the dominance of emotion tasks declines as autistic traits increase.

Using machine learning to predict investors’ switching behaviour

Individual investors’ decisions to switch investments very often lead to significantly lower investment returns so having an effective predictive model of these switches would be of value to clients, advisors and investment managers. A random forest algorithm was applied to a new dataset of over 20 million observations relating to 95,685 clients on Momentum Investments’ platform between 2018 and 2024. It identified a combination of investor characteristics (number of holdings, past switching behaviour, total assets) and external features (past returns, macroeconomic variables) as the key features of investor switch behaviour. This model exceeds commercially accepted standards in respect of the AUC and Gini metrics showcasing the model’s strength in its ranking capability. It can thus provide a useful basis for client segmentation and engagement by financial advisors.

Content analysis of conversations on Reddit: reactions to FDA’s ENDS prioritized enforcement policy

IntroductionOn January 2, 2020, the FDA announced a policy focused in part on prioritizing enforcement of flavored (other than tobacco- or menthol-flavored) cartridge-based electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) without premarket authorization.MethodsWe used a query to identify Reddit conversations relevant to the policy from January 2 to May 6, 2020. Our sample included 576 posts (46 posts and 530 accompanying comments). Two analysts coded posts for mentions of use behaviors (e.g., switching, quitting), purchasing behaviors (e.g., purchasing from retailer new to the user), and flavored products. We summarized frequencies of coded data and provided illustrative quotes.ResultsOnly 21.0% (121/576) of posts mentioned use behavior. Switching behavior was the most common use behavior mentioned (50.4%, 61/121). Most switching behavior posts focused on ENDS-related switching (91.8%, 56/61). The most common ENDS-related switching behaviors mentioned were switching to an open tank (45.9%, 28/61) or device with refillable pods/cartridges (44.3%, 27/61); 8.2% (5/61) mentioned switching to disposables. Just 15.5% (89/576) of posts mentioned purchasing behavior, with the most common being purchasing from a retailer new to the user (32.6%, 29/89). Only 6.8% (39/576) of posts mentioned specific flavors.ConclusionReddit posts about the policy commonly discussed switching to non-cartridge-based ENDS products, such as open tank systems or disposable devices, and purchasing products from different online sources that were still selling these products. Findings suggest that publicly available Reddit data can complement data from traditional sources (e.g., surveys, sales) to understand potential unintended consequences associated with policies by exploring the public’s reactions.

Interface modeling analysis using density functional theory in highly reliable Pt/HfO2/TaOx/Ta self-rectifying memristor

The self-rectifying memristor (SRM) is a promising device prototype for high-density three-dimensional (3D) integration and high-efficiency in-memory computing (IMC) by virtue of its ability to effectively suppress sneak current, simple device structure, and low energy consumption. Theoretically understanding the intrinsic mechanisms of SRM is a matter of concern. Here, we fabricated a Ta/TaOx/HfO2/Pt-stacked SRM exhibiting >103 on/off ratio, rectification ratio, and nonlinearity. The SRM can be repeatedly programmed by more than 106 pulses and demonstrates robust retention and high scalability (∼59 Mbit). A reasonable interface model for this SRM is established based on first-principles calculations. Using self-energy corrected density function theory, we calculate the barrier heights at each interface. Detailed I–V curve fitting and energy band analysis are performed and computationally verified to explain the intrinsic reasons for resistive switching, self-rectifying, and nonlinear behaviors. The work may advance the development of SRM prototype to enable energy-efficient 3D IMC.

Decreased GABA levels during development result in increased connectivity in the larval zebrafish tectum.

γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an abundant neurotransmitter that plays multiple roles in the vertebrate central nervous system (CNS). In the early developing CNS, GABAergic signaling acts to depolarize cells. It mediates several aspects of neural development, including cell proliferation, neuronal migration, neurite growth, and synapse formation, as well as the development of critical periods. Later in CNS development, GABAergic signaling acts in an inhibitory manner when it becomes the predominant inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. This behavior switch occurs due to changes in chloride/cation transporter expression. Abnormalities of GABAergic signaling appear to underlie several human neurological conditions, including seizure disorders. However, the impact of reduced GABAergic signaling on brain development has been challenging to study in mammals. Here we take advantage of zebrafish and light sheet imaging to assess the impact of reduced GABAergic signaling on the functional circuitry in the larval zebrafish optic tectum. Zebrafish have three gad genes: two gad1 paralogs known as gad1a and gad1b, and gad2. The gad1b and gad2 genes are expressed in the developing optic tectum. Null mutations in gad1b significantly reduce GABA levels in the brain and increase electrophysiological activity in the optic tectum. Fast light sheet imaging of genetically encoded calcium indicator (GCaMP)-expressing gab1b null larval zebrafish revealed patterns of neural activity that were different than either gad1b-normal larvae or gad1b-normal larvae acutely exposed to pentylenetetrazole (PTZ). These results demonstrate that reduced GABAergic signaling during development increases functional connectivity and concomitantly hyper-synchronization of neuronal networks.

MemriSim: A theoretical framework for simulating electron transport in oxide memristors

We have developed a theoretical framework MemriSim for simulating the resistive switching behaviors of oxide memristors. MemriSim comprises two major parts, i) structural evolution of oxygen vacancies during conductive filament formation/rupture by kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC) algorithm, and ii) transport calculations based on the scenario of electron tunneling and thermionic emission with the kMC derived structures. As prototype probes, we have computed the current-voltage (I-V) curves of HfO2 and TaOx based memristors and compared the results with experimental measurements, which show perfect agreement. By tuning the physical parameters, MemriSim can describe resistive switching devices with different oxide layers and metal electrodes. In addition, the pulse transient current can also be simulated by considering the transient response of RLC circuit. The developed framework not only provides a general approach for understanding the fundamental mechanism of resistive switching in oxides, but also opens up new opportunities for designing and optimizing memristor-based architectures for nonvolatile memory, logic-in-memory and neuromorphic computing.Program summaryProgram Title: MemriSim.CPC Library link to program files: https://doi.org/10.17632/8gbbgf8z49.1Licensing provisions: GPLv2.Programming language: C++.Supplementary material: Supplementary material is available.Nature of problem: A general framework for simulating the resistive switching properties of oxide-based memristors; generate the structure of oxide layer during filament formation/rupture; calculate the I-V curves of memristive device; simulate the pulse transient current; predict the resistive switching performance of new devices.Solution method: The framework uses kMC algorithm for structural evolution, the electric field inside oxide layer is computed by the Poisson's equation, and the transport calculation is based on electron tunneling and thermionic emission.

Ni(II)/Yb(III)-metallogels for distinctive fluorescent ‘turn-on’ detection of m-phenylenediamine: Toward construction of multiple logic gates

New versatile Schiff base gelator (HL) and its highly selective Ni(II)-and Yb(III)-based metallogels 1–2 have been synthesized and characterized by spectral techniques. Gelator HL in presence of triethylamine (Et3N) with Ni(NO3)2·6H2O and anhydrous Yb(NO3)3 in DMF/MeOH(1:1) solvents forms MG1 and MG2 supramolecular gels, respectively at room temperature (rt). Rheological results show thermal stability up to 100 ℃ and structurally rigid nature of MG1 and MG2. Remarkably, MG1 and MG2 were examined for identification of cations, anions, nitroaromatics and aromatic amines (AAs) but unable to recognize any analytes except for m-phenylenediamine (MPD) by using MG1. Metallogel MG1 shows highly selective response to MPD environmental pollutant with a limit of detection (LoD) of 7.58 × 10-7 M, without any interference of competing analytes. Interestingly, depending upon fascinating fluorescent On-Off-On switching behavior, molecular logic device has been fabricated with AND and IMPLICATION-logic gates function by employing the chemical inputs (i) HB, Ni(II) (MG1), Yb(III) (MG2) and (ii) HB, MG1 and MPD based on emission change at different wavelengths as output signal.

Switching pattern of healthcare services and its determinants among patients with communicable and non-communicable diseases in India

BackgroundThe current study investigates the switching behaviour and patterns among patients in India, particularly in the context of various ailments such as Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), Communicable Diseases (CDs), and other health issues. To evaluate people's behaviour towards accessing healthcare facilities in public and private healthcare providers separately for CDs, NCDs, and other ailments. Material and methodsThe study design is observational and cross-sectional. The study included data from NSS 71st, NSS 75th, and LASI wave-1 datasets, which provide information on the incidence of switching behaviour among patients with different types of ailments. Statistical analysis usedThe Binary logistic regression analysis has been used to examine the determinants of switching behaviour in usage of healthcare facilities. Prevalence estimates were exhibited using weighted % and 95 % confidence intervals (CI). P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. ResultsPresent study revealed that patients' behaviour in accessing healthcare facilities is influenced by a multitude of factors, including the nature of their ailment, socio-economic status, education, and regional disparities. Notably, patients suffering from NCDs exhibit a higher propensity for switching between public and private healthcare services, with a preference for the latter. The study found that among patients who were paying for special types of wards, there were significantly lower odds of switching behaviour. ConclusionsThe research highlights the nuanced dynamics of healthcare service utilization in India and underscores the need for tailored strategies to address the specific challenges posed by NCDs and communicable diseases while ensuring equitable and accessible healthcare services for all.

Energy Efficient Memristor Based on Green-Synthesized 2D Carbonyl-Decorated Organic Polymer and Application in Image Denoising and Edge Detection: Toward Sustainable AI.

According to the United Nations, around 53 million metric tons of electronic waste is produced every year, worldwide, the big majority of which goes unprocessed. With the rapid advances in AI technologies and adoption of smart gadgets, the demand for powerful logic and memory chips is expected to boom. Therefore, the development of green electronics is crucial to minimizing the impact of the alarmingly increasing e-waste. Here, it is shown the application of a green synthesized, chemically stable, carbonyl-decorated 2D organic, and biocompatible polymer as an active layer in a memristor device, sandwiched between potentially fully recyclable electrodes. The 2D polymer's ultramicro channels, decorated with C═O and O─H groups, efficiently promote the formation of copper nanofilaments. As a result, the device shows excellent bipolar resistive switching behavior with the potential to mimic synaptic plasticity. A large resistive switching window (103), low SET/RESET voltage of ≈0.5/-1.5V), excellent device-to-device stability and synaptic features are demonstrated. Leveraging the device's synaptic characteristics, its applications in image denoising and edge detection is examined. The results show a reduction in power consumption by a factor of 103 compared to a traditional Tesla P40 graphics processing unit, indicating great promise for future sustainable AI-based applications.

Impact of orbital hybridization on spin-polarized electronic transport through Ni-MAPbI3 interfaces

The solution-processed methylammonium lead tri-iodine (MAPbI3), with long spin lifetimes and large spin diffusion lengths, has merit for developing stable perovskite spin valves (PeSV) with low saturation fields. By far, it remains challenging to avoid ill-defined ferromagnet-MAPbI3 interfaces during device fabrications using solution methods and to quantify the hybridized interfacial electronic and magnetic structures. Herein, an annealing-free method was developed for the fabrication of MAPbI3 based PeSV. In comparison to a thermally annealed device, an improved room temperature magnetoresistance (MR) was achieved. We found remarkable interfacial contributions to anisotropic magnetoresistance and MR. The first-principles calculation was further adopted to quantify the interfacial spin and orbital moments. Our results suggest that the orbital hybridization and the spin transfer are remarkable for the formation of the spin-dependent interfacial density of states. It consequently affects magnetic switching behaviors. This study holds an exceptionally important role for a deep understanding of the spin-polarized electronic transport through the Ni-MAPbI3 hybridized interface.

Optimal level of human intracranial theta activity for behavioral switching in the subthalamo-medio-prefrontal circuit

The ability to switch between rules associating stimuli and responses depend on a circuit including the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) and the subthalamic nucleus (STN). However, the precise neural implementations of switching remain unclear. To address this issue, we recorded local field potentials from the STN and from the dmPFC of neuropsychiatric patients during behavioral switching. Drift-diffusion modeling revealed that switching is associated with a shift in the starting point of evidence accumulation. Theta activity increases in dmPFC and STN during successful switch trials, while temporally delayed and excessive levels of theta lead to premature switch errors. This seemingly opposing impact of increased theta in successful and unsuccessful switching is explained by a negative correlation between theta activity and the starting point. Together, these results shed a new light on the neural mechanisms underlying the rapid reconfiguration of stimulus-response associations, revealing a Goldilocks’ effect of theta activity on switching behavior.

Event‐triggered anti‐disturbance control for switched singular systems based on the uncertainty and disturbance estimator

AbstractThis article studies the event‐triggered anti‐disturbance control problem for switched singular systems (SSSs) based on the uncertainty and disturbance estimator (UDE). First, a composite controller consisting of feedback control and anti‐disturbance control based on UDE is proposed. By constructing the multiple Lyapunov functions and using the average dwell time (ADT) method, sufficient conditions are given to ensure that the closed‐loop system is regular, impulse‐free and globally uniformly asymptotically stable (GUAS). Further, in order to save resources, the event‐triggered control method is introduced into the feedback control, and a novel hybrid event‐triggered mechanism (ETM) is proposed, which guarantees that asynchronous switching and Zeno behavior are excluded. And the solvable conditions in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) are given. Finally, the validity of the proposed results is verified by the simulations.

Flexible memristors with low-operation voltage and high bending stability based on Cu2AgBiI6 perovskite

Cu2AgBiI6 films were prepared by a one-step spin coating method, and flexible memristors with an Ag/PMMA/Cu2AgBiI6/ITO structure were constructed. The devices showed a bipolar resistive switching behavior with low switching voltage, which is beneficial for reducing energy consumption. Furthermore, this study found that the device exhibits an endurance of about 900 cycles, a higher ON/OFF ratio of over 103, a long retention time (∼104 s), and high stabilities against mechanical stress. Remarkably, the present flexible memristor displayed extraordinary flexibility and stability, with no significant change for the resistive switching behavior even at various bending angles or after undergoing 900 bending cycles. This study establishes that the lead-free halide perovskite Cu2AgBiI6 can be used for the resistive random-access memory of flexible electronics.

Identifying Predictors of Smoking Switching Behaviours Among Adult Smokers in the United States: A Machine Learning Approach.

Completely abstaining from cigarette smoking or fully switching to e-cigarette (EC) use may be beneficial for reducing the global burden of smoking-related diseases. This study aimed to identify and compare the top 10 prospective predictors of smokers switching away from smoking in the United States. Data from adult exclusive cigarette smokers at Wave 4 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study, who were followed up at Wave 6, were analysed. An Xgboost-based machine learning (ML) approach with a nested cross-validation scheme was utilised to develop a multiclass predictive model to classify smokers' behavioural changes from W4 to W6, including smoking cessation, full and partial switching to EC, and cigarette non-switching. The SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) algorithm was deployed to interpret the top 10 predictors of each switching behaviour. A total of 396 variables were selectedto generate the four-class prediction model, which demonstrated a micro- and macro-average area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (ROC-AUC) of 0.91 and 0.81, respectively. The topthreepredictors of smoking cessation were prior regular EC use, age, and household rules about non-combusted tobacco. Forfull switching to EC use, the leading predictorswere age, type of living space, and frequency of social media visits. Forpartial switching to EC use, the key predictorswere dailycigaretteconsumption, the time from waking up to smoking the first cigarette, and living with tobacco users. ML is a promising techniqueforprovidingcomprehensive insights into predicting smokers' behavioural changes. Public health interventions aimed athelping adults switch away from smoking should consider the predictors identified in this study.

Bio‐p–n Junction–Derived Bio–Diodes With Opto‐Ionotronic Switching and Rectification Effects

AbstractThe advancement of bio‐ionotronics for the brain‐computer interaction necessitates an exploration of the mechanisms of electron‐ion coupled transport in solid state devices. In this study, a bio‐p–n junction composed of n‐type bacteriorhodopsin and p‐type P3HT are proposed. By leveraging electron‐proton synergistic effects, an opto‐ionotronic bio‐diode capable of performing ionotronic switching and rectification functions is fabricated. The switching behavior of the bio‐diode can be controlled both optically and electrically. Under light illumination, the ionotronic bio‐diode exhibits a rectification effect approaching that of an ideal diode, with a reliability of 99% and a rectification ratio of ≈661. Additionally, this bio‐organic composite ionotronic bio‐diode exhibits wide pH responsiveness, good photostability, and high biocompatibility. The proposed opto‐ionotronic bio‐diode can be utilized as a fundamental component in logic circuits, bridging the gap between semiconductor technology and biological systems, and represents a novel paradigm for the advancement of brain‐computer interaction.

Structural and ultrafast third-order nonlinearities of methyl and methoxy substituted anthracene chalcones: Z-scan, four-wave mixing, and DFT approaches

We report on the structural, thermal, linear, and ultrafast third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of two novel anthracene chalcones: (2E)-1-(anthracen-9-yl)-3-(5-methylthiophen-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one (5ML2SANC) and (2E)-1-(9-anthryl)-3-(2,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-one (245TMANC). The chalcones were synthesized by Claisen-Schmidt condensation reaction, and the single crystals were grown by the solvent evaporation method. The molecular structure was confirmed by FTIR and NMR spectroscopy, while the crystal structure was determined using the single crystal XRD. Both crystals belong to centrosymmetric monoclinic crystal system with space group P21/n. The Hirshfeld surface was analyzed to understand intermolecular interactions, and the band structures - including HOMO-LUMO levels, excited state energies, GCRDs and MEPs-were studied using DFT. The ultrafast third-order NLO properties were investigated by Z-scan and degenerate four-wave mixing (DFWM) techniques using Ti: Sapphire amplifier laser delivering ∼50 fs pulses at 800 nm (1 kHz, ∼4 mJ, 2 W). Two-photon absorption, positive nonlinear refraction, optical limiting and optical switching behaviors were observed by Z-scan measurements. The time-resolved DFWM show that the decay time of 5ML2SANC is ∼127 fs, while for 245TMANC it is ∼142 fs. The second hyperpolarizability (γ) measured by Z-scan, DFWM and the estimations from the DFT theory are found to be in good agreement (∼10−34 esu). The ultrafast optical response, significant NLO properties and thermal stability of the synthesized chalcones demonstrate their potential suitability in optical limiting and switching applications.

Analysis of conductive filament heat transfer in TiO2-based RRAM device

Abstract Resistive random access memory (RRAM) has developed into a new type of non-volatile memory that has attracted much attention for its high density and low power; TiO2 has been studied to make RRAM because of its high conductivity. Based on the COMSOL Multiphysics finite element method and domain decomposition method, an electrically-thermally coupled model of TiO2-based RRAM with oxygen vacancy (Vo) conduction mechanism is constructed, the formation and cutting process of RESET and SET conductive filament (CF) under different voltages is simulated. Moreover, the characteristics of the internal temperature distribution of the CF are explored. The results show that the RESET process is more sensitive to heat changes, the transverse direction thermal value of the CF is more obvious than the longitudinal direction, and the rate of change is faster. Additionally, the electric field induces the migration of the Vo in filament, which affects the enthalpy change of the device’s heat transfer and resistive properties. This is an important reference for a deeper understanding of the switching behavior of RRAM devices and the control mechanisms for thermal studies.

Self-Perception of Code-Switching Among Kannada-English Bilingual Adults Who Do and Do Not Stutter

Purpose: Language switch is one of the fluency strategies exhibited by bilingual adults who stutter (BAWS) to avoid stuttering. The present study aimed to compare the self-perceived code-switching (CS) behaviours between bilingual adults who do (BAWS) and do not stutter (BAWNS).Methods: Sixty Kannada-English Bilingual adults (30 BAWS and 30 BAWNS) participated in the study. The participants completed the adapted Bilingual Switching questionnaire (BSWQ) for assessing self-perceived CS behaviours.Results: The results of the current study indicated no significant difference in overall switching scores between BAWNS and BAWS. However, the mean score of L1 switch and L2 switch constructs was significantly higher for BAWNS than BAWS. On the contrary, the mean scores of contextual switching were significantly more for BAWS than BAWNS. It indicates that the BAWS use their switching behaviour in particular situations or environments more than BAWNS. In addition, the BAWS use language switching (LS) more voluntarily than BAWNS.Conclusions: The findings of the present study suggests that the intended switching in BAWS may be to avoid dysfluencies. Moreover, there was a significant difference across the stuttering severity on BSWQ scores, indicating the effect of stuttering severity in CS behaviours.

Bipolar resistive switching behavior of PVA/g-C3N4 quantum dots hybrid thin films

Graphite-phase carbon nitride quantum dots (g-C3N4 QDs) have garnered widespread attention and considerable research interest as active media for resistive random-access memory (RRAM) devices owing to their exceptional physical properties. In this study, g-C3N4 QDs were synthesized via ultrasonic-assisted liquid-phase exfoliation. Subsequently, the obtained g-C3N4 QDs with uniform size were embedded into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) for preparing PVA/g-C3N4 QDs hybrid, and the RRAM devices with Al/g-C3N4 QDs-PVA/ITO/PET structure were fabricated. The obtained memory devices exhibit bipolar resistive switching (BRS) behavior and are primarily influenced by the space charge limited conduction (SCLC) mechanism. The data retention time exceeds 104 s at a read voltage of 0.1 V, accompanied by an impressively low set voltage. In addition, the device exhibits a surprising temperature dependence of the resistive switching performance at different temperatures. The aforementioned properties demonstrate the significant potential of g-C3N4 QDs in RRAM for data storage applications.

Vacancy-driven resistive switching behavior based on wafer-scale MoSe2 artificial synapses

Recently, researches have revealed that synaptic transistors based on two-dimensional materials (2DMs) have substantial advantages and potential for modeling neural synapses. However, the mechanism of artificial synaptic device with 2DMs as conducting channels remains to be further clarified. Here, high-quality wafer-scale MoSe2 nanosheets were achieved by ALD-CVD process, where further 23 × 23 × 4 synaptic arrays were fabricated in situ. Notably, the outstanding MoSe2 synaptic device exhibits an on/off ratio of 3.6 × 107 with hysteresis ratio of 6.8k and simulates crucial biological synaptic behaviors such as paired pulse facilitation and excitatory postsynaptic currents. The mechanism of Se vacancy induction and horizontal diffusion driven is revealed based on high-resolution transmission electron microscopy characterization with first-principles calculations, which suggests a possible mechanistic explanation for the resistive switching behavior of 2DMs transistors. Artificial synaptic devices with 2DMs based on the working mechanism of vacancy diffusion are capable of satisfying the needs of complex neural network applications.