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Developing and certifying safe - or so-called trustworthy - AI has become an increasingly salient issue, especially in light of upcoming regulation such as the EU AI Act. In this context, the black-box nature of machine learning models limits the use of conventional avenues of approach towards certifying complex technical systems. As a potential solution, methods to give insights into this black-box - devised in the field of eXplainable AI (XAI) - could be used. In this study, the potential and shortcomings of such methods for the purpose of safe AI development and certification are discussed in 15 qualitative interviews with experts out of the areas of (X)AI and certification. We find that XAI methods can be a helpful asset for safe AI development, as they can show biases and failures of ML-models, but since certification relies on comprehensive and correct information about technical systems, their impact is expected to be limited.

We derive time reflection and transmission coefficients for 1D acoustic waves encountering a time boundary at which the properties of the medium change instantaneously. The time reflection and transmission coefficients are shown to be identical to so-called reverse-space reflection and transmission coefficients which appear in the recursive computation of focusing wavefields used in seismology. We establish a bijectivity between the focusing wavefields and the wavefields produced by time scattering and show how this can be used to construct a space-time medium where the time scattering anticipates the space scattering and "computes" the exact inverse for the space scattering. The construction is shown to be independent of the boundary conditions chosen to compute the reflection and transmission coefficients. We demonstrate the construction with a simple numerical example of a single pulse encountering a series of time boundaries before reaching a spatial inhomogeneity. The time boundaries scatter the single pulse into a focusing wavefield that subsequently focuses through the spatial inhomogeneity. Under certain conditions, the transmitted wave has both the same wave shape and amplitude as the original pulse, yielding a transmission coefficient of unity. The reflection coefficient of the space-time medium is always non-zero however., Comment: 23 pages, 5 figures, 2 tables

Waves in space-dependent and time-dependent materials obey similar wave equations, with interchanged time- and space-coordinates. However, since the causality conditions are the same in both types of material (i.e., without interchangement of coordinates), the solutions are dissimilar. We present a systematic treatment of wave propagation and scattering in 1D space-dependent and time-dependent materials. After formulating unified equations, we discuss Green's functions and simple wave field representations for both types of material. Next we discuss propagation invariants, i.e., quantities that are independent of the space coordinate in a space-dependent material (such as the net power-flux density) or of the time coordinate in a time-dependent material (such as the net field-momentum density). A discussion of reciprocity theorems leads to the well-known source-receiver reciprocity relation for the Green's function of a space-dependent material and a new source-receiver reciprocity relation for the Green's function of a time-dependent material. A discussion of general wave field representations leads to the well-known expression for Green's function retrieval from the correlation of passive measurements in a space-dependent material and a new expression for Green's function retrieval in a time-dependent material. After an introduction of a matrix-vector wave equation, we discuss propagator matrices for both types of material. Since the initial condition for a propagator matrix in a time-dependent material follows from the boundary condition for a propagator matrix in a space-dependent material by interchanging the time- and space-coordinates, the propagator matrices for both types of material are interrelated in the same way. This also applies to representations and reciprocity theorems involving propagator matrices., Comment: 46 pages, 5 figures

SDSS-V is carrying out a dedicated survey for white dwarfs, single and in binaries, and we report the analysis of the spectroscopy of cataclysmic variables (CVs) and CV candidates obtained during the final plug plate observations of SDSS. We identify eight new CVs, spectroscopically confirm 53 and refute eleven published CV candidates, and we report 21 new or improved orbital periods. Combined with previously published data, the orbital period distribution of the SDSS-V CVs does not clearly exhibit a period gap. This is consistent with previous findings that spectroscopically identified CVs have a larger proportion of short-period systems compared to samples identified from photometric variability. Remarkably, despite a systematic search, we find very few period bouncers. We estimate the space density of period bouncers to be $\simeq0.2\times10^{-6}\,\mathrm{pc}^{-3}$, i.e. they represent only a few per cent of the total CV population. This suggests that during their final phase of evolution, CVs either destroy the donor, e.g. via a merger, or that they become detached and cease mass transfer., Comment: Accepted by MNRAS. Includes machine readable list of CVs

In biostatistics and medical research, longitudinal data are often composed of repeated assessments of a variable (e.g., blood pressure or other biomarkers) and dichotomous indicators to mark an event of interest (e.g., recovery from disease, or death). Consequently, joint modeling of longitudinal and time-to-event data has generated much interest in these disciplines over the previous decade. In psychology, too, often we are interested in relating individual trajectories (e.g., cognitive performance or well-being across many years) and discrete events (e.g., death, diagnosis of dementia, or of depression). Yet, joint modeling are rarely applied in psychology and social sciences more generally. This tutorial presents an overview and general framework for joint modeling of longitudinal and time-to-event data, and fully illustrates its application in the context of a behavioral (cognitive aging) study. We discuss practical topics, such as model selection and comparison for both longitudinal and time-to-event data, choice of joint modeling parameterization, and interpretation of model parameters. To do so, we examined seven frequently used packages for joint modeling in the R language and environment. We concluded that of these, JMbayes is especially attractive due to its flexibility, its various parameterizations of the association structure, and for its powerful and fully Bayesian implementation. We make available the R syntax to apply the JMbayes package within our example.

We experimentally observe the shear and secondary compression wave inside soft porous water-saturated melamine foams by high frame rate ultrasound imaging. Both wave speeds are supported by the weak frame of the foam. The first and second compression waves show opposite polarity, as predicted by Biot theory. Our experiments have direct implications for medical imaging: Melamine foams exhibit a similar microstructure as lung tissue. In the future, combined shear wave and slow compression wave imaging might provide new means of distinguishing malignant and healthy pulmonary tissue., Comment: 6 pages, 4 figures, has additional supplementary material, accepted in Physical Review Letters (PRL) on 25 July 2019: https://journals.aps.org/prl/accepted/d8073Yb2Q561ed74b02b45f3f2ce801db54da98ac

We consider expansion, break off, and flight of 10 nm molybdenum film deposited onto glass support. These events are initiated by action of subpicosecond laser pulse onto film. Approximations for two-temperature equation of state and electron--ion coupling parameter are developed. Heat conduction is unimportant because film is ultrathin and because radius of a laser beam is rather large $\sim 10$ $\mu$m (thus lateral thermal spreading is insignificant at the considered time scale). We use two-temperature one-dimensional hydrodynamic code to follow evolution of laser induced flow. Additional code for treating transmission and reflection of a monochromatic electromagnetic wave is developed. It is applied to describe interference between transmitted and reflected waves in the layered structure appearing thanks to laser induced expansion and separation of a film., Comment: XXXIII International Conference on Equations of State for Matter, Accepted to Jourmal of Physics: Conference Series

Spectral diffusion is a result of random spectral jumps of a narrow line as a result of a fluctuating environment. It is an important issue in spectroscopy, because the observed spectral broadening prevents access to the intrinsic line properties. However, its characteristic parameters provide local information on the environment of a light emitter embedded in a solid matrix, or moving within a fluid, leading to numerous applications in physics and biology. We present a new experimental technique for measuring spectral diffusion based on photon correlations within a spectral line. Autocorrelation on half of the line and cross-correlation between the two halves give a quantitative value of the spectral diffusion time, with a resolution only limited by the correlation set-up. We have measured spectral diffusion of the photoluminescence of a single light emitter with a time resolution of 90 ps, exceeding by four orders of magnitude the best resolution reported to date.

Integrated quantum optical hybrid devices consist of fundamental constituents such as single emitters and tailored photonic nanostructures. A reliable fabrication method requires the controlled deposition of active nanoparticles on arbitrary nanostructures with highest precision. Here, we describe an easily adaptable technique that employs picking and placing of nanoparticles with an atomic force microscope combined with a confocal setup. In this way, both the topography and the optical response can be monitored simultaneously before and after the assembly. The technique can be applied to arbitrary particles. Here, we focus on nanodiamonds containing single nitrogen vacancy centers, which are particularly interesting for quantum optical experiments on the single photon and single emitter level., Comment: The following article has been submitted to Review of Scientific Instruments. After it is published, it will be found at http://rsi.aip.org/

We have studied spectral diffusion of the photoluminescence of a single CdSe quantum dot inserted in a ZnSe nanowire. We have measured the characteristic diffusion time as a function of pumping power and temperature using a recently developed technique [G. Sallen et al, Nature Photon. \textbf{4}, 696 (2010)] that offers subnanosecond resolution. These data are consistent with a model where only a \emph{single} carrier wanders around in traps located in the vicinity of the quantum dot.

We present two applications of a single nitrogen vacancy center in a nanodiamond as quantum probe for plasmonic nanostructures. Coupling to the nanostructures is achieved in a highly controlled manner by picking up a pre-characterized nanocrystal with an atomic force microscope and placing it at the desired position. Local launching of single excitations into a nanowire with a spatial control of few nanometers is demonstrated. Further, a two dimensional map of the electromagnetic environment of a plasmonic bowtie antenna was derived, resembling an ultimate limit of fluorescence lifetime nanoscopy., Comment: 7 Pages, 4 Figures; assigned to Optics Express Vol. 19, No. 6

Self-avoiding polymers in two-dimensional ($d=2$) melts are known to adopt compact configurations of typical size $R(N) \sim N^{1/d}$ with $N$ being the chain length. Using molecular dynamics simulations we show that the irregular shapes of these chains are characterized by a perimeter length $L(N) \sim R(N)^{\dpm}$ of fractal dimension $\dpm = d-\Theta_2 =5/4$ with $\Theta_2=3/4$ being a well-known contact exponent. Due to the self-similar structure of the chains, compactness and perimeter fractality repeat for subchains of all arc-lengths $s$ down to a few monomers. The Kratky representation of the intramolecular form factor $F(q)$ reveals a strong non-monotonous behavior with $q^2F(q) \sim 1/(qN^{1/d})^{\Theta_2}$ in the intermediate regime of the wavevector $q$. Measuring the scattering of labeled subchains %($s F(q) \sim L(s)$) the form factor may allow to test our predictions in real experiments., Comment: 4 pages, 4 figures, accepted for PRE Rapid Communications

We have observed strong photoluminescence from a single CdSe quantum dot embedded in a ZnSe nanowire. Exciton, biexciton and charged exciton lines have been identified unambiguously using photon correlation spectroscopy. This technique has provided a detailed picture of the dynamics of this new system. This type of semi conducting quantum dot turns out to be a very efficient single photon source in the visible. Its particular growth technique opens new possibilities as compared to the usual self-asssembled quantum dots.

Photoluminescence of a single CdSe quantum dot embedded in a ZnSe nanowire has been investigated. It has been found that the dark exciton has a strong influence on the optical properties. The most visible influence is the strongly reduced excitonic emission compared to the biexcitonic one. Temperature dependent lifetime measurements have allowed us to measure a large splitting of $\Delta E = 6 $ meV between the dark and the bright exciton as well as the spin flip rates between these two states.

ZnSe nanowire heterostructures were grown by molecular beam epitaxy in the vapour-liquid-solid growth mode assisted by gold catalysts. Size, shape and crystal structure are found to strongly depend on the growth conditions. Both, zinc-blende and wurtzite crystal structures are observed using transmission electron microscopy. At low growth temperature, cone-shaped nano-needles are formed. For higher growth temperature, the nanowires are uniform and have a high aspect ratio with sizes of 1-2 $\mu$m in length and 20-50 nm in width as observed by scanning electron microscopy. Growing a nanowire on top of a nano-needle allows us to obtain very narrow nanorods with a diameter less than 10 nm and a low density of stacking fault defects. These results allow us the insertion of CdSe quantum dots in a ZnSe nanowire. An effcient photon anti-bunching was observed up to 220 K, demonstrating a high-temperature single-photon source.

We report on the growth of ZnSe nanowires and nano-needles using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Different growth regimes were found, depending on growth temperature and the Zn--Se flux ratio. By employing a combined MBE growth of nanowires and nano-needles without any post-processing of the sample, we achieved an efficient suppression of stacking fault defects. This is confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and by photoluminescence studies., Comment: 4 pages, 4 figures

We report on quantitative comparisons between simulation results of a bead-spring model and mode-coupling theory calculations for the structural and conformational dynamics of a supercooled, unentangled polymer melt. We find semiquantitative agreement between simulation and theory, except for processes that occur on intermediate length scales between the compressibility plateau and the amorphous halo of the static structure factor. Our results suggest that the onset of slow relaxation in a glass-forming melt can be described in terms of monomer-caging supplemented by chain connectivity. Furthermore, a unified atomistic description of glassy arrest and of conformational fluctuations that (asymptotically) follow the Rouse model, emerges from our theory., Comment: 54 pages, 10 figures

We describe an experiment that generates single photons on demand and measures properties accounted to both particle- and wave-like features of light. The measurement is performed by exploiting data that are sampled simultaneously in a single experimental run., Comment: The following article has been submitted to Proceedings of "Foundations of probability and physics-3", Vaxjo, Sweden 2004. After it is published, it will be found at http://proceedings.aip.org/ . 1 Reference was added in version 2

We analyze structural and conformational properties in a simulated bead-spring model of a non-entangled, supercooled polymer melt. We explore the statics of the model via various structure factors, involving not only the monomers, but also the center of mass (CM). We find that the conformation of the chains and the CM-CM structure factor, which is well described by a recently proposed approximation [Krakoviack et al., Europhys. Lett. 58, 53 (2002)], remain essentially unchanged on cooling toward the critical glass transition temperature of mode-coupling theory. Spatial correlations between monomers on different chains, however, depend on temperature, albeit smoothly. This implies that the glassy behavior of our model cannot result from static intra-chain or CM-CM correlations. It must be related to inter-chain correlations at the monomer level. Additionally, we study the dependence of inter-chain correlation functions on the position of the monomer along the chain backbone. We find that this site-dependence can be well accounted for by a theory based on the polymer reference interaction site model (PRISM). We also analyze triple correlations by means of the three-monomer structure factors for the melt and for the chains. These structure factors are compared with the convolution approximation that factorizes them into a product of two-monomer structure factors. For the chains this factorization works very well, indicating that chain connectivity does not introduce special triple correlations in our model. For the melt deviations are more pronounced, particularly at wave vectors close to the maximum of the static structure factor., Comment: REVTeX4, 16 pages, 16 figures, accepted for publication in Physical Review E

The contribution of sliding-induced, atomic-scale instabilities to the kinetic friction force is investigated by molecular dynamics. For this purpose, we derive a relationship between the kinetic friction force $F_{\rm k}$ and the non-equilibrium velocity distribution $P(v)$ of the lubricant particles. $P(v)$ typically shows exponential tails, which cannot be described in terms of an effective temperature. It is investigated which parameters control the existence of instabilities and how they affect $P(v)$ and hence $F_{\rm k}$. The effects of the interfaces' dimensionality, lubricant coverage, and internal degrees of freedom of lubricant particles on $F_{\rm k}$ are studied explicitly. Among other results we find that the kinetic friction between commensurate surfaces is much more susceptible to changes in $(i)$ lubricant coverage, $(ii)$ sliding velocity, and $(iii)$ bond length of lubricant molecules than incommensurate surfaces., Comment: REVTeX4, 15 pages, 11 figures. Accepted for publication in Physical Review E

A detailed theoretical analysis of the spatiotemporal mode of a single photon prepared via conditional measurements on a photon pair generated in the process of parametric down-conversion is presented. The maximum efficiency of coupling the photon into a transform-limited classical optical mode is calculated and ways for its optimization are determined. An experimentally feasible technique of generating the optimally matching classical mode is proposed. The theory is applied to a recent experiment on pulsed homodyne tomography of the single-photon Fock state (A. I. Lvovsky et al., Phys Rev. Lett. 87, 050402 (2001) - preprint at quant-ph/0101051), Comment: submitted to the special issue of the European Physical Journal D "Quantum interference and cryptographic keys: novel physics and advancing technologies"

A pulsed balanced homodyne detector has been developed for precise measurements of electric field quadratures of pulsed optical quantum states. A high level of common mode suppression (> 85 dB) and low electronic noise (730 electrons per pulse) provide a signal to noise ratio of 14 dB for the measurement of the quantum noise of individual pulses. Measurements at repetition rates up to 1 MHz are possible. As a test, quantum tomography of the coherent state is performed and the Wigner function and the density matrix are reconstructed with a 99.5% fidelity. The detection system can also be used for ultrasensitive balanced detection in cw mode, e.g. for weak absorption measurements., Comment: 3 pages, submitted to Optics Letters

Whereas the first part of this paper dealt with the relaxation in the beta-regime, this part investigates the final (alpha) relaxation of a simulated polymer melt consisting of short non-entangled chains above the critical temperature Tc of mode-coupling theory (MCT). We monitor the intermediate incoherent as well as the coherent chain and coherent melt scattering functions over a wide range of wave numbers q. Upon approaching Tc the coherent alpha-relaxation time of the melt increases strongly close to the maximum of the static structure factor of the melt. At q corresponding to the radius of gyration of the chain the melt relaxation time exhibits another maximum. The temperature dependence of the relaxation times is well described by a power-law with a q-dependent exponent in an intermediate temperature range. The time-temperature superposition principle of MCT is clearly bourne out in the whole range of wave numbers. An analysis of the alpha-decay using Kohlrausch-Williams-Watts (KWW) functions reveals that the collective melt KWW-stretching exponent and KWW-relaxation times are modulated with the structure factor. Furthermore, both incoherent and coherent KWW-times approach the large-q prediction of MCT at q comparable to the maximum of the structure factor. At small q a power law with exponent -3 is found for the coherent chain KWW-times similar to that of recent experiments., Comment: 12 pages, 8 figures. LaTeX2e article with EPJ style files. Accepted for publication in EPJ E

We report results of molecular-dynamics simulations of a model polymer melt consisting of short non-entangled chains in the supercooled state above the critical temperature of mode-coupling theory (MCT). To analyse the dynamics of the system we computed the incoherent, collective chain and melt intermediate scattering functions as well as the Van Hove correlation functions. We find good evidence for the space-time factorization theorem of MCT. From the critical amplitudes we could derive typical length scales of the beta-dyamics. In an extensive quantitative analysis the leading order description of MCT was found to be accurate in the central beta-regime. Higher order corrections extend the validity of the MCT approximation to a greater time window. Indications of polymer specific effects on the length scale of the chain's radius of gyration are visible in the beta-coefficients., Comment: 15 pages, 12 EPS figures, LaTeX2e article with EPJ style file. Accepted for publication in EPJ E

We have reconstructed the quantum state of optical pulses containing single photons using the method of phase-randomized pulsed optical homodyne tomography. The single-photon Fock state |1> was prepared using conditional measurements on photon pairs born in the process of parametric down-conversion. A probability distribution of the phase-averaged electric field amplitudes with a strongly non-Gaussian shape is obtained with the total detection efficiency of (55+-1)%. The angle-averaged Wigner function reconstructed from this distribution shows a strong dip reaching classically impossible negative values around the origin of the phase space., Comment: 4 pages, 4 figures, to appear in Physical Review Letters. Avoid downloading PDF due to extremely poor figure resolution. Use Postscript