bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reconstruction of the initial condition in parabolic equations with Log-Lipschitz coefficients
Authors: Del Santo Daniele , Prizzi Martino 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
We consider a parabolic equation whose coefficients are Log-Lipschitz continuous in t and Lipschitz continuous in x. Combining a recent conditional stability result with a well posed variational problem, we reconstruct the initial condition of an unknown solution from a rough measurement at the final time.
Spatial examination of social and environmental drivers of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) across Kenya
Authors: Lawrence Ted J. , Kangogo Geoffrey K. , Fredman Avery , Deem Sharon L. , Fèvre Eric M. , Gluecks Ilona , Brien James D. , Shacham Enbal 
Published: June 2024

AbstractClimate and agricultural land-use change has increased the likelihood of infectious disease emergence and transmissions, but these drivers are often examined separately as combined effects are ignored. Further, seldom are the influence of climate and agricultural land use on emerging infectious diseases examined in a spatially explicit way at regional scales. Our objective in this study was to spatially examine the climate, agriculture, and socio-demographic factors related to agro-pastoralism, and especially the combined effects of these variables that can influence the prevalence of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in dromedary camels across northern Kenya. Our research questions focused on: (1) How MERS-CoV in dromedary camels has varied across geographic regions of northern Kenya, and (2) what climate, agriculture, and socio-demographic factors of agro-pastoralism were spatially related to the geographic variation of MERS-CoV cases in dromedary camels. To answer our questions, we analyzed the spatial distribution of historical cases based on serological evidence of MERS-CoV at the county level and applied spatial statistical analysis to examine the spatial relationships of the MERS-CoV cases between 2016 and 2018 to climate, agriculture, and socio-demographic factors of agro-pastoralism. Regional differences in MERS-CoV cases were spatially correlated with both social and environmental factors, and particularly ethno-religious camel practices, which highlight the complexity in the distribution of MERS-CoV in dromedary camels across Kenya.
The Impact of Childhood Adversity on Life Course Alcohol Use Patterns and Health Status Among People Living with HIV
Authors: Gasik Rayna E. , Madkour Aubrey Spriggs , Skeen Simone J. , Clum Gretchen , Francis Tishawn , Felker-Kantor Erica , Ferguson Tekeda , Welsh David A. , Molina Patricia E. , Theall Katherine P. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAdverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and financial hardship are associated with increased likelihood of heavier alcohol use and health challenges in adulthood among persons living with HIV (PWH). We examined whether retrospectively captured lifetime drinking trajectories are a pathway through which childhood hardships affect current health in a sample of 365 adult PWH. Childhood economic hardship and ACEs were used as main predictors. Measures of alcohol use included age at first drink and lifetime drinking trajectories. Health indicators included health-related quality of life, frailty, number of comorbidities, and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to estimate both direct and indirect pathways between childhood hardship and physical and mental health. Participants were mostly male; Black (84%); and averaged 48 years of age. SEM results supported both direct and indirect pathways between childhood experiences and adult health. ACEs were connected to physical health directly and mental health both directly and indirectly through age at first drink and drinking heaviness during ages 10–20. Childhood economic hardship related to mental health indirectly through higher drinking levels during ages 10–20. Childhood adverse experiences, economic hardship, and early drinking patterns appear to accumulate, resulting in later life physical and mental health concerns for PWH. Findings support taking a life course approach to health. This includes considering individual trauma histories in HIV care engagement and taking preventative approaches which support the economic and social well-being of vulnerable children to improve health in subsequent decades.
A comprehensive study to learn the impact of augmented reality and haptic interaction in ultrasound-guided percutaneous liver biopsy training and education
Authors: Mangalote Iffa Afsa Changaai , Aboumarzouk Omar , Al-Ansari Abdulla A. , Dakua Sarada Prasad 
Published: June 2024

AbstractSimulation based training methods are gaining popularity as they could provide a platform for practitioners to gain hands-on experience without causing ethical issues. By combining augmented reality (AR) and haptics, a training method for percutaneous liver biopsy (PLB) could be developed providing realistic scenarios, and real-time visualization of the human anatomy and needle. Additionally, it could also provide real-time feedback to the practitioner. In this review, we describe the conventional PLB procedure, then discuss AR technology and its application in the field of medicine for image-guided therapies, especially, hepatic biopsy. Next, we summarize the associated devices, models and methods illustrating a few haptic simulators devised for training and gesture assessment. Lastly, we present a few potential approaches to integrate AR and haptic interaction to develop a PLB training simulator by accounting the existing challenges.
Strategic data navigation: information value-based sample selection
Authors: Balogh Csanád L. , Pelenczei Bálint , Kővári Bálint , Bécsi Tamás 
Published: June 2024

AbstractArtificial Intelligence represents a rapidly expanding domain, with several industrial applications demonstrating its superiority over traditional techniques. Despite numerous advancements within the subfield of Machine Learning, it encounters persistent challenges, highlighting the importance of ongoing research efforts. Among its primary branches, this study delves into two categories, being Supervised and Reinforcement Learning, particularly addressing the common issue of data selection for training. The inherent variability in informational content among data points is apparent, wherein certain samples offer more valuable information to the neural network than others. However, evaluating the significance of various data points remains a non-trivial task, generating the need for a robust method to effectively prioritize samples. Drawing inspiration from Reinforcement Learning principles, this paper introduces a novel sample prioritization approach, applied to Supervised Learning scenarios, aimed at enhancing classification accuracy through strategic data navigation, while exploring the boundary between Reinforcement and Supervised Learning techniques. We provide a comprehensive description of our methodology while revealing the identification of an optimal prioritization balance and demonstrating its beneficial impact on model performance. Although classification accuracy serves as the primary validation metric, the concept of information density-based prioritization encompasses wider applicability. Additionally, the paper investigates parallels and distinctions between Reinforcement and Supervised Learning methods, declaring that the foundational principle is equally relevant, hence completely adaptable to Supervised Learning with appropriate adjustments due to different learning frameworks. The project page and source code are available at: https://csanadlb.github.io/sl_prioritized_sampling/.
Internalizations of Decorated Bicategories via $$\pi _2$$-Indexings
Authors: Orendain Juan , Maldonado-Herrera José Rubén 
Published: June 2024

AbstractWe treat the problem of lifting bicategories into double categories through categories of vertical morphisms. We consider structures on decorated 2-categories allowing us to formally implement arguments of sliding certain squares along vertical subdivisions in double categories. We call these structures $$\pi _2$$

π
2

-indexings. We present a construction associating, to every $$\pi _2$$

π
2

-indexing on a decorated 2-category, a length 1 double internalization.
Randomnet: clustering time series using untrained deep neural networks
Authors: Li Xiaosheng , Xi Wenjie , Lin Jessica 
Published: June 2024

AbstractNeural networks are widely used in machine learning and data mining. Typically, these networks need to be trained, implying the adjustment of weights (parameters) within the network based on the input data. In this work, we propose a novel approach, RandomNet, that employs untrained deep neural networks to cluster time series. RandomNet uses different sets of random weights to extract diverse representations of time series and then ensembles the clustering relationships derived from these different representations to build the final clustering results. By extracting diverse representations, our model can effectively handle time series with different characteristics. Since all parameters are randomly generated, no training is required during the process. We provide a theoretical analysis of the effectiveness of the method. To validate its performance, we conduct extensive experiments on all of the 128 datasets in the well-known UCR time series archive and perform statistical analysis of the results. These datasets have different sizes, sequence lengths, and they are from diverse fields. The experimental results show that the proposed method is competitive compared with existing state-of-the-art methods.
The FreiBurger: a new optotype for P300-based acuity estimation
Authors: Duval Céline Z. , Kaczan Saskia B. , Heinrich Sven P. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Accurate objective assessment of visual acuity is crucial, particularly in cases of suspected malingering, or when the patient’s inability to cooperate makes standard psychophysical acuity tests unreliable. The P300 component of the event-related potentials offers a potential solution and even allows for the use of standard optotypes like the Landolt C. However, low-vision patients with large eccentric visual field defects often struggle to locate the Landolt C gap quickly enough for a P300 to be reliably produced.

Methods
Addressing this challenge, we introduce a novel optotype (the “FreiBurger”) with a critical detail that extends through the optotype’s center. Two experiments, with 16 and 12 participants, respectively, were conducted. In the first, psychophysical acuity estimates were obtained with both the FreiBurger and the Landolt C. In the second, we tested the performance of the FreiBurger, relative to the Landolt C, in eliciting a P300 with undegraded vision, simulated low vision, and in a simulated combination of low vision and visual field constriction.

Results
Comparable psychophysical acuity values (average difference 0.03 logMAR) were obtained for both optotypes. In the P300 recordings, both optotypes produced similar P300 responses under conditions of undegraded vision and low vision. However, with the combination of low vision and constricted visual field, the P300 could only be reliably obtained with the FreiBurger, while the amplitude was drastically reduced with the Landolt C (9.1 µV vs. 2.2 µV; p < 0.0005).

Conclusion
The new optotype extends the applicability of P300-based acuity estimation to the frequently encountered combination of low vision and constricted visual field, where Landolt C optotypes fail. Although impairments were simulated in the present study, we assume that the advantages of the new optotype will also manifest in patients with such impairments. We furthermore expect the advantages to apply to time-sensitive psychophysical examinations as well.
Putting the flesh on the bones: using a fishbone digital learning design method to align educational objectives
Authors: Li Na , Huijser Henk , Zhang Shujuan , Zhang Tao , Zhang Xiaojun 
Published: June 2024

AbstractLearning design has become increasingly important in the context of expanding and dynamic digital learning environments. More traditional teaching approaches are no longer sufficient to engage learners in these changing learning environments. Teachers and aspiring learning designers therefore increasingly need learning design expertise, which takes time to develop. This paper responds to this challenge by outlining a fishbone digital learning design method, which is aligned with updated versions of Bloom’s taxonomy for the digital world, as a scaffolded approach to developing basic learning design expertise. The study integrates three practical tools into one learning design method to ensure constructive alignment. The findings contribute to digital educational development and teacher professional development by proposing a practical and easy to adapt learning design method.
Utilizing AHP and conjoint analysis in educational research: Characteristics of a good mathematical problem
Authors: Sahin Seda 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAHP and Conjoint analysis methods are used to determine the priorities and preferences of groups or individuals in the decision-making process. These methods provide predictive results in many fields such as economics, politics, and environmental sciences. Multi-criteria decision-making methods have the potential to produce effective results in educational research where priorities and preferences, such as perceptions, attitudes, and beliefs, are in question. This study aims to determine the characteristics that teachers seek in a good mathematics problem and the features of problems they prefer in classroom practice, using AHP and Conjoint analysis. In this context, it is aimed to contribute to the literature in two areas. Firstly, to introduce AHP and Conjoint analysis, that are not yet widely used in educational research. Secondly, to examine the consistency between the characteristics sought in a good mathematics problem and the problems preferred in classroom practice. The study involved 35 mathematics teachers who were asked to provide data using pairwise comparison forms for AHP analysis and full profile cards for Conjoint analysis. The results indicate that there are differences between the priorities that teachers consider when defining a good problem and their problem preferences in classroom practice. According to AHP results, teachers determine the qualities of a good problem, functional features are ranked first, and physical features are ranked last. In contrast, when it comes to their problem preferences in classroom practice, solution-oriented features are ranked first, and physical features are ranked second through conjoint analysis results. This study demonstrates the applicability of AHP and conjoint analysis in educational research.
Improvements in learning addition and subtraction when using a structural approach in first grade
Authors: Kullberg Angelika , Björklund Camilla , Runesson Kempe Ulla , Brkovic Irma , Nord Maria , Maunula Tuula 
Published: June 2024

AbstractLearning to calculate with natural numbers by structuring seems promising but how this can be taught in a sustainable manner remains an open question. An eight-month-long intervention based on the idea of using a structural approach to addition and subtraction, and particularly bridging through ten, was implemented in four Swedish first-grade classes. One goal was that by the end of first grade, students would be able to solve tasks such as subtracting 8 from 15 by using part-whole number relations. In this paper, we report on learning outcomes from task-based interviews with intervention and control groups before, immediately after, and one year after the intervention, in order to investigate long-term effects and whether students used a structural approach when solving tasks in a higher number range in the second grade. In comparison to controls, students in the intervention group showed higher increases in their learning outcomes. Moreover, the intervention group used a structural approach to a larger extent when solving tasks in higher number ranges, whereas students in the control group more commonly used single-unit counting to solve such tasks. These findings have implications both for teaching and for research on students’ development of arithmetic skills.
The Torsional Quartz-Crystal Viscometer
Authors: de Castro Carlos A. Nieto , Richardson Stephen M. , Wakeham William A. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe paper describes the theory and practice associated with the torsional quartz-crystal viscometer for the measurement of the viscosity of Newtonian Fluids. It is an instrument that has been less often used than its quality merits, but it has the distinct advantages, shared with the vibrating-wire device, that it involves no bulk motion of fluid or a solid and that all measurements can be electrical. The temperature range that can be covered by the instrument is from 2 to 650 K and pressures have reached as much as 100 MPa. The review summarizes the most recent theory of the instrument and carefully sets out all of the many conditions that have to be satisfied by design so that a practical instrument conforms to the theory. Most of the conditions are readily satisfied. Two working equations are presented that could be used to evaluate the viscosity using the frequency at resonance of the crystal and the bandwidth of that resonance when the crystal is immersed in the fluid and in vacuo. It is explained that at present only one of these equations should be used for the evaluation. Several configurations of instruments that have been employed for measurements over a wide range of conditions are briefly described as well as the corrections necessary to operate the instrument with the highest accuracy. The overall relative uncertainty attainable with the instrument ranges from 0.005 to 0.02 at a 95% confidence level, depending upon the fluid density.
Composite carbon electrode with a coating of nanostructured, reduced graphene oxide for water electrodialysis
Authors: Dybowski Konrad , Romaniak Grzegorz , Kula Piotr , Sobczyk-Guzenda Anna , Januszewicz Bartłomiej , Jędrzejczak Anna , Kaczmarek Łukasz , Burnat Barbara , Krzyczmonik Paweł , Kaźmierczak Tomasz , Siniarski Jan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Electrodialysis (ED) and electrodeionization (EDI) are the new methods that are being used in water desalination processes. Reliable, electrochemically stable and efficient electrodes are the crucial components of the ED/EDI electrodialysers. The article proposes a new material for electrodes in electromembrane desalination systems. Graphene composite electrodes were created by bonding carbon fibres with epoxy resin and then coated with a layer of nanostructured, reduced graphene oxide. The graphene electrode material underwent electrochemical characterization by cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiostatic polarization techniques. FTIR and Raman spectroscopy were used to determine the material’s chemical structure. The change in the surface morphology and elemental composition of the electrodes after fabrication and exploitation of the composite was studied by SEM and EDS. The electrodes were used successfully in multi-electrode electrodialysis devices, resulting in a desalination rate of over 90%. The electrodes were proven to be functional and durable. It was also confirmed that the oxidation/reduction phenomena on the electrode surfaces were fully reversible after changing their polarization, which was used cyclically to clean the electrodialyser. The parameters obtained indicate that this material can also be successfully used in other electrode processes.

Graphical Abstract
Intercalation based synthesis of Chevrel phase superconductors
Authors: Gilmore Tessa , Rochester Jacob , Sumption Michael , Gouma Pelagia-Irene 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis work focuses on the superconducting and magnetic properties of Chevrel phase (CP) compounds (Cu2Mo6S8 and Ni2Mo6S8) processed via a novel self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) method involving ternary cation intercalation in MoS2 high-temperature polymorphs. Green pellets of the precursor materials sealed under vacuum and exposed to 1050 °C or 1200 °C rapidly transformed from a powder mixture into submicron CPs within minutes. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the presence of Cu2Mo6S8 CP (67%), and Ni2Mo6S8 (93%). This group has illustrated the first time CP were formed at low energy cost and full stoichiometry. Magnetization versus temperature data obtained for the samples under different field conditions confirmed the superconducting behavior of the Cu–CP at a critical temperature of 8.3 K. The Ni–CP behaved as a superparamagnetic at low temperature (4.2 K). The results of this work suggest that the novel SHS process offers a viable scalable synthesis route for the Chevrel family of compounds and that it is worth exploring the functional applications of the new compounds of this material system.
The effects of annealing temperature on the thickness, morphology, band gap energy, and photocatalytic performance of ZIF-8-derived ZnO/TiO2 thin films
Authors: İloğlu Onur , Yurtsever Hüsnü Arda 
Published: June 2024

AbstractMulti-oxide photocatalytic materials derived from metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are attracting widespread attention in recent years. The heterostructure originating from oxide–oxide junctions and nonmetal doping due to the combustion of organics from MOFs provide desirable properties to the photocatalytic material. In this study, the effects of annealing temperature on the material properties and photocatalytic activity of ZIF-8-derived ZnO/TiO2 thin films were investigated. XRD, XPS, and FTIR analyses confirmed the oxidation of ZIF-8 to ZnO and SEM analysis revealed the formation of a porous structure at the annealing temperature of 500 °C. UV–Vis analysis indicated that the band gap energy decreased from 3.23 to 2.04 eV with increasing annealing temperature. Photocatalytic methylene blue degradation experiments showed that the thin film annealed at 500 °C had higher activity than the films annealed at lower temperatures. The thin film annealed at 500 °C had more than two times the dye degradation efficiency of the film annealed at 400 °C (72% and 33%, respectively). This film was also active in the photocatalytic degradation of caffeic acid which is a colorless pollutant. The high photocatalytic activity of the thin film annealed at higher temperature was attributed to its narrower band gap energy, higher porosity, and more efficient electron–hole separation, which are due to the presence of heterostructure, nonmetal doping, and deficient zones formed by the oxidation of imidazole rings.