bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization Algorithms for Sustainable Operation of Multi-Unit Hydropower Plants
Authors: Lewandowski Mariusz , Góralczyk Adam , Janicki Waldemar
Published: December 2024

The work presented in this article concerns numerical studies on optimization methods used for the sustainable utilization of the energy potential of water, converting it into electricity in a hydropower plant equipped with more than one unit. These methods allow for maximization of production in given hydrological conditions, leading to the balanced, lossless, and environmentally friendly use of the renewable energy source that is water. Methods are selected from three groups, i.e., analytical, enumeration, and randomized. The results of calculations of optimal points of selected test functions carried out using the Broyden–Fletcher–Goldfarb–Shanno Limited-Memory Version (L-BFGS-B), Explicit Complete Enumeration (ECE), and Genetic Algorithm (GA) methods provided basic information on the features of these methods. Based on these tests, the GA method was selected to solve the problem of the optimal load distribution in a hydropower plant equipped with three identical hydro units. The defined optimization problem consisted of finding a configuration of hydro units in operation that would guarantee the maximum efficiency of the power plant under the imposed hydrological conditions. During the numerical studies, a number of calculations were performed to identify the impact of procedures and parameters characteristic of the optimization methods on the obtained results. Particular attention was paid to the GA method and penalty functions, enabling the elimination of results from the area of prohibited solutions.
Are Family Firms More Entrepreneurial than Non-Family Firms? A Multidimensional Comparative Approach
Authors: Suder Marcin , Okręglicka Małgorzata , Wodecka-Hyjek Angelika , Mior Harun Mior Harris , Kłobukowski Paweł , Tora Justyna
Published: December 2024

Entrepreneurship is considered one of the key factors in facilitating a company’s pursuit of sustainable development. The findings of this study can help firms improve their entrepreneurial capacity and highlight its significance for sustainable development; therefore, the levels of entrepreneurship serve as indicators of the potentials of enterprises to achieve sustainable development goals. The existing literature has explored whether there are differences in the approaches between family and non-family firms as well as in their levels of entrepreneurship. Contributing to this ongoing debate, this article aims to compare the levels of entrepreneurship between these two types of companies in a selected small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector. The analysis encompasses eight dimensions of entrepreneurship: risk-taking, innovativeness, proactiveness, inter-organizational cooperation, competitiveness, diversification, flexibility, and digitalization. This study was conducted on a sample of 145 small printing companies that operated in Poland in 2023. The results of the statistical analysis revealed that family firms exhibited a higher level of entrepreneurship when treated as a multidimensional construct. Moreover, family firms outperformed non-family firms across all of the analyzed dimensions, with statistically significant differences being observed in four dimensions: innovativeness, proactiveness, diversification, and competitiveness. This study confirmed the existing indications in the literature that family firms demonstrated higher levels of entrepreneurship, which may suggest their greater potential in pursuing sustainable development. The novelty of this research lies in its multidimensional approach, which offers a comprehensive analysis that integrates eight dimensions of entrepreneurship. This allowed for a deeper understanding of entrepreneurial behaviors and attitudes when highlighting the unique characteristics of family and non-family firms. The findings are particularly relevant for the owners and managers of family and non-family businesses; they provide tools for diagnosing entrepreneurship levels in a more comprehensive manner and applying tailored management practices for addressing areas that require improvement. One limitation of this study is its focus on a single sector; this may have affected the generalizability of the results. Future research could explore governance and ownership structures when analyzing entrepreneurial dimensions—particularly in the context of family firms.
Unlocking Organizational Success: A Systematic Literature Review of Superintendent Selection Strategies, Core Competencies, and Emerging Technologies in the Construction Industry
Authors: Mokhlespour Esfahani Mahdiyar , Khanzadi Mostafa , Hasanzadeh Sogand , Moradi Alireza , Martek Igor , Banihashemi Saeed
Published: December 2024

An organization’s success depends on its ability to attract and retain skilled personnel. Superintendents play a critical role in overseeing project sites in the construction industry and can adapt to the increasingly complicated requirements of modern construction projects. This study examines traditional and modern personnel selection methods to determine effective tactics, essential competencies, and emerging trends regarding supervisory personnel. The research methodology follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework. First, this study examines traditional and modern selection methods used by organizations and engineering firms to provide a comprehensive overview of the topic and assist in selecting appropriate staff recruitment procedures. Second, the Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were reviewed to identify superintendent selection approaches and competencies, over the period January 2000 to September 2024. A total of 22 relevant papers were analyzed. Superintendent selection processes included questionnaires (57%), interviews (26%), literature reviews (14%), and data-driven AI tools (3%). Forty competency criteria were identified, with the top five being knowledge, communication skills, leadership, health and safety expertise, and commitment. As a result, novel approaches employing Industry 4.0 technologies, including virtual reality (VR), wearable sensing devices (WSDs), natural language processing (NLP), blockchain, and computer vision, are recommended. These findings support a better understanding of how best to identify the most qualified supervisory personnel and provides enhanced methods for evaluating job applicants.
Enhancing Sustainability in Marine Structures: Nonlinear Energy Sink for Vibration Control of Eccentrically Stiffened Functionally Graded Panels Under Hydrodynamic Loads
Authors: Foroutan Kamran , Torabi Farshid
Published: December 2024

The research examines the impact of nonlinear energy sinks (NES) on the reduction in the nonlinear vibratory responses of eccentrically stiffened functionally graded (ESFG) panels exposed to hydrodynamic loads. To simulate real marine environments, hydrodynamic forces, such as lift and drag that change with velocity, have already been determined experimentally using Matveev’s equations for a particular ship. The material composition of both the panel and the stiffeners varies across their thickness. The stiffeners are modeled using Lekhnitskii’s smeared stiffener approach. Additionally, analytical approaches implement the classical shell theory (CST) with considerations for geometric nonlinearity, along with the Galerkin method for calculations. The P-T method is subsequently employed to determine the nonlinear vibratory behavior of ESFG panels. In this method, the piecewise constant argument is used jointly with the Taylor series expansion, which is why it is named the P-T method. The findings reveal that NES can effectively dissipate vibrational energy, contributing to the extended service life of marine structures while reducing the need for frequent maintenance. This study supports sustainability objectives by increasing energy efficiency, lessening structural fatigue, and improving the overall environmental impact of marine vessels and infrastructure.
Prioritizing Pathways Based on Satisfaction of Individuals Using Mobility Aids with Urban Road Infrastructure—Application of FSE and PROMETHEE II in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Haider Husnain , Jamal Arshad , Almoshaogeh Meshal , Alharbi Fawaz
Published: December 2024

The convenience of commuting for individuals using mobility aids (IMAs) depends on various features of urban road infrastructure. The present research selected different pathways based on the relevance and convenience of IMAs in three regions of Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh, Qassim, and Hail. A survey questionnaire was developed to evaluate the satisfaction of IMAs with four critical criteria of road infrastructure, including travel distance, slope, availability of footpaths, and number of junctions, using a 5-point Likert scale from very low to very high. A sufficient sample size of this exceptional proportion of the population from different genders, age groups, education levels, employment status, number of disability years, and types of mobility aid participated in the survey. The main reasons for dissatisfaction of more than 50% of the participants were inadequate infrastructure design of entrances to public facilities, pedestrian crossings, and junctions. Social stigma and inadequate assistive technology were also highlighted by around 20% of the participants. The fuzzy synthetic evaluation identified length, slope, and footpaths along the pathway as the most critical features based on the subjective opinion of the participants, of which around 65% have been using artificial limbs or manual wheelchairs. PROMETHEE II aggregated the importance of weights estimated by the participants’ opinion and performance scores of infrastructure features to effectively rank ten pathways in three major cities of the selected regions, using partial and complete outranking. The framework developed in the present study helps concerned organizations to comply with the Vision 2030 goal of a vibrant society in Saudi Arabia by identifying critical pathways and improving infrastructure design to ensure safety, convenience, and satisfaction for IMAs.
The Impact of Digital Inclusive Finance on Residents’ Cultural Consumption in China: An Urban-Rural Difference Perspective
Authors: Sun Xiaohui , Cai Zhijian , Wang Chongyu , Wang Jing
Published: December 2024

This paper uses panel data from the 2014–2020 China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) to study the impact of digital inclusive finance (DIF) on the cultural consumption of urban and rural residents using two-way fixed effects. The results show that DIF can promote the growth of cultural consumption of urban and rural residents, and the promotion effect is greater for rural residents. Mechanism analysis shows that DIF increases the cultural consumption of urban and rural residents mainly through easing liquidity constraints, reducing precautionary savings, and increasing payment convenience. Moreover, reducing precautionary savings has a greater impact on the cultural consumption of urban residents, while the other two mechanisms have a greater impact on rural residents. In the heterogeneity analysis, credit business and some indicators reflecting the convenience of payment have a greater impact on rural residents. The insurance business has a greater impact on urban residents. This paper provides policy references for the development of DIF and the enhancement of residents’ cultural consumption.
Ochratoxin A and AFM1 in Cheese and Cheese Substitutes: LC-MS/MS Method Validation, Natural Occurrence, and Risk Assessment
Authors: Pavicich María Agustina , Compagnoni Stefano , Meerpoel Celine , Raes Katleen , De Saeger Sarah
Published: December 2024

Cheese is vulnerable to contamination with mycotoxins, particularly ochratoxin A (OTA) and aflatoxin M1 (AFM1). This study aims to develop and validate an analytical method for the detection and quantification of OTA and AFM1 in cheese and to assess their prevalence and associated risks. A liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was validated for detecting these mycotoxins in 41 cheese samples, including firm-ripened, spreadable, and plant-based alternatives. The results showed that OTA was detected exclusively in grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, while AFM1 was found in both Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino cheeses. This study goes beyond analytical method development by providing a preliminary exposure assessment and risk characterization for OTA and AFM1 in cheese, bridging the gap between analytical chemistry and public health implications. This study identified potential health risks associated with OTA, particularly for children and adolescents categorized as high consumers of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. The findings underscore the need for monitoring of OTA and AFM1 in cheese and further research to establish regulatory limits for these contaminants.
Assessment of Green Space Dynamics Under Urban Expansion of Senegalese Cities: The Case of Dakar
Authors: Cissé Mariama , Morenikeji Oluwole , Mertens Elke , Fall Awa Niang , Okhimamhe Appollonia Aimiosino
Published: December 2024

Senegalese cities have experienced rapid urbanisation, leading to profound landscape changes. Dakar, one of Senegalese’s fastest-growing cities, is experiencing rapid urban expansion, significantly reducing green spaces. These green spaces, essential for urban sustainability and resilience, have become increasingly scarce, affecting the city’s environment and the quality of life for its residents. This study aims to assess the spatiotemporal changes in Dakar’s green spaces from 1990 to 2022. Using satellite imagery, this study produces land use maps to quantify green space coverage over the years. The results show a gradual decline in green spaces in Dakar between 1990 and 2022. In 1990, green spaces covered an estimated 13.36% of Dakar’s area, which decreased significantly to 9.54% by 2022. In contrast, other land uses, such as built-up areas, increased significantly over this period, rising from 19.23% in 1990 to 39.34% in 2022. Moreover, built-up areas are not the sole contributor to the reduction of green spaces in Dakar. The study revealed that, between 1990 and 2022, 5.49% of green spaces were converted into bare soil due to excessive tree cutting. This pattern highlights the growing challenge of green space availability as built-up areas expand rapidly, particularly when growth is unplanned. This study underscores the importance of sustainable urban planning that integrates the protection and conservation of Dakar’s vegetation to preserve vital ecosystem services.
Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Computational Algorithms to Optimize the 15-Minute City Model
Authors: Abouhassan Marwa , Elkhateeb Samah , Anwar Raneem
Published: December 2024

The 15-minute city concept, designed to ensure that all essential services and amenities are accessible within a 15 min walk or bike ride from home, presents a transformative vision for urban living. This paper explores the concept of a 15-minute city and its implications, along with its main features and pillars. Furthermore, it elaborates on how the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and computational tools can be utilized in optimizing the 15-minute city model. We reveal how AI-driven algorithms, machine learning techniques, and advanced data analytics can enhance urban planning, improve accessibility, and foster social integration. Our paper focuses on the practical applications of these technologies in creating pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods, optimizing public transport coordination, and enhancing the quality of life for urban residents. By executing some of these computational models, we demonstrate the potential of AI and computational tools to realize the vision of the 15-minute city, making urban spaces more inclusive, resilient, and adaptive to the evolving needs of their inhabitants.
Reality vs. Expectations in the Implementation of Urban Agricultural Projects—A Polycentric Governance Analysis
Authors: Boukharta Ouiam Fatiha , Sauvée Loïc , Chico-Santamarta Leticia , Pena-Fabri Fabiana , Navas-Gracia Luis Manuel
Published: December 2024

Population growth and urbanization are threatening food security. Urban agriculture is therefore a solution for urban food production and distribution. This paper investigates a multi-level governance framework to evaluate how local authorities implement their prescriptions at different levels of decision-making and objectives for urban agricultural projects and their role in building urban resilience. A qualitative assessment based on interviews and fieldwork over two periods in 2023 and 2024 was conducted with stakeholders from different entities in the Normandy Region of France, including the metropolis, the city, and two projects’ presidents. The findings revealed a positive alignment on polycentric governance between different entities in terms of socio-economic integration, climate improvement, and nutritional diversity, all of which were achieved by the cases evaluated. Additionally, local authorities are seeking to achieve urban food self-sufficiency in order to reduce the scale of food imports, thus highlighting a limitation and challenging aspect of this study, given that urban areas are compromised by population density, limited space capacity, and the impermanence of projects. This investigation clearly shows that using this combined systematic approach of interviews and fieldwork provides an in-depth understanding of authorities’ needs and assesses the existence of polycentric governance compliance across multiple units.
Development and Evaluation of a Newcastle Disease Virus-like Particle Vaccine Expressing SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein with Protease-Resistant and Stability-Enhanced Modifications
Authors: Chen Yu , Tian Fan , Hu Shunlin , Liu Xiufan
Published: December 2024

The ongoing global health crisis caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) necessitates the continuous development of innovative vaccine strategies, especially in light of emerging viral variants that could undermine the effectiveness of existing vaccines. In this study, we developed a recombinant virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine based on the Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) platform, displaying a stabilized prefusion form of the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein. This engineered S protein includes two proline substitutions (K986P, V987P) and a mutation at the cleavage site (RRAR to QQAQ), aimed at enhancing both its stability and immunogenicity. Using a prime-boost regimen, we administered NDV-VLP-S-3Q2P intramuscularly at different doses (2, 10, and 20 µg) to BALB/c mice. Robust humoral responses were observed, with high titers of S-protein-specific IgG and neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus, reaching titers of 1:2200–1:2560 post-boost. The vaccine also induced balanced Th1/Th2 immune responses, evidenced by significant upregulation of cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-4) and S-protein-specific IgG1 and IgG2a. Furthermore, strong activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the spleen and lungs confirmed the vaccine’s ability to promote cellular immunity. These findings demonstrate that NDV-S3Q2P-VLP is a potent immunogen capable of eliciting robust humoral and cellular immune responses, highlighting its potential as a promising candidate for further clinical development in combating COVID-19.
A Global Collaborative Comparison of SARS-CoV-2 Antigenicity Across 15 Laboratories
Authors: Brangel Polina , Tureli Sina , Mühlemann Barbara , Liechti Nicole , Zysset Daniel , Engler Olivier , Hunger-Glaser Isabel , Ghiga Ioana , Mattiuzzo Giada , Eckerle Isabella , Bekliz Meriem , Rössler Annika , Schmitt Melanie M. , Knabl Ludwig , Kimpel Janine , Tort Luis Fernando Lopez , de Araujo Mia Ferreira , de Oliveira Any Caroline Alves , Caetano Braulia Costa , Siqueira Marilda Mendonça , Budt Matthias , Gensch Jean-Marc , Wolff Thorsten , Hassan Tarteel , Selvaraj Francis Amirtharaj , Hermanus Tandile , Kgagudi Prudence , Crowther Carol , Richardson Simone I. , Bhiman Jinal N. , Moore Penny L. , Cheng Samuel M. S. , Li John K. C. , Poon Leo L. M. , Peiris Malik , Corman Victor M. , Drosten Christian , Lai Lilin , Hunsawong Taweewun , Rungrojcharoenkit Kamonthip , Lohachanakul Jindarat , Sigal Alex , Khan Khadija , Thiel Volker , Barut G. Tuba , Ebert Nadine , Mykytyn Anna Z. , Owusu Donkor Irene , Aboagye James Odame , Nartey Prince Adom , Van Kerkhove Maria D. , Cunningham Jane , Haagmans Bart L. , Suthar Mehul S. , Smith Derek , Subissi Lorenzo
Published: December 2024

Setting up a global SARS-CoV-2 surveillance system requires an understanding of how virus isolation and propagation practices, use of animal or human sera, and different neutralisation assay platforms influence assessment of SARS-CoV-2 antigenicity. In this study, with the contribution of 15 independent laboratories across all WHO regions, we carried out a controlled analysis of neutralisation assay platforms using the first WHO International Standard for antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (source: NIBSC). Live virus isolates (source: WHO BioHub or individual labs) or spike plasmids (individual labs) for pseudovirus production were used to perform neutralisation assays using the same serum panels. When comparing fold drops, excellent data consistency was observed across the labs using common reagents, including between pseudovirus and live virus neutralisation assays (RMSD of data from mean fold drop was 0.59). Utilising a Bayesian model, geometric mean titres and assay titre magnitudes (offsets) can describe the data efficiently. Titre magnitudes were seen to vary largely even for labs within the same assay group. We have observed that overall, live Microneutralisation assays tend to have the lowest titres, whereas Pseudovirus Neutralisation have the highest (with a mean difference of 3.2 log2 units between the two). These findings are relevant for laboratory networks, such as the WHO Coronavirus Laboratory Network (CoViNet), that seek to support a global surveillance system for evolution and antigenic characterisation of variants to support monitoring of population immunity and vaccine composition policy.
Immunoprophylaxis with MV140 Is Effective in the Reduction of Urinary Tract Infections—A Prospective Real-Life Study
Authors: Lopes Filipe Abadesso , Miranda Miguel , Ye André , Rodrigues Joana , Pé-Leve Paulo , Palma Reis José , Pereira e Silva Ricardo
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Urinary tract infections (UTI) represent a highly frequent and debilitating disease. Immunoactive prophylaxis, such as the polyvalent bacterial whole-cell-based sublingual vaccine MV140, have been developed to avoid antibiotic use. However, the effectiveness of this tool in the Portuguese population is still unknown. This study aims at assessing the effectiveness of treatment with MV140 in a cohort of Portuguese patients presenting with recurrent UTIs. Methods: Prospective observational real-life study of 125 patients with complicated and uncomplicated recurrent UTIs treated with MV140. The primary outcome was a reduction in frequency and severity of UTIs after a follow-up of 12 months. Overall satisfaction, adverse events, and assessment of the effectiveness of MV140 in subgroups of patients with specific risk factors for UTIs were secondary outcomes. Results: In the 12 months after treatment outset, 38% of patients were UTI-free, 34% reported 1 or 2 UTI episodes, and the remaining 28% presented 3 or more UTIs, corresponding to a mean reduction of 3.20 (2.87–3.53, 95% C.I.; p < 0.001) UTI episodes per year per patient. The effectiveness of MV140 was the same regardless of sex, BMI, regular sexual activity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, depression, paraplegia, performance of intermittent self-catheterization, indwelling bladder catheter, or previous use of other UTI-preventing vaccines. We observed a higher effectiveness in post-menopausal women compared to pre-menopausal (74.7% vs. 59.4%, respectively, p = 0.029). A total of 73% of patients reported a reduction in symptom severity or days of disease, and the mean global satisfaction was 7.52/10. Conclusions: MV140 demonstrated to be effective in the reduction rate of recurrent UTIs in a cohort of adult Portuguese patients.
Post-COVID-19 Vaccination and Long COVID: Insights from Patient-Reported Data
Authors: Quach Tom C. , Miglis Mitchell G. , Tian Lu , Bonilla Hector , Yang Phillip C. , Grossman Lauren , Paleru Amogha , Xin Vincent , Tiwari Anushri , Shafer Robert W. , Geng Linda N.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: COVID-19 vaccinations reduce the severity and number of symptoms for acute SARS-CoV-2 infections and may reduce the risk of developing Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC). Limited and heterogenous data exist on how these vaccinations received after COVID-19 infection might impact the symptoms and trajectory of PASC, once persistent symptoms have developed. Methods: We investigated the association of post-COVID-19 vaccination with any SARS-CoV-2 vaccine(s) on PASC symptoms in two independent cohorts: a retrospective chart review of self-reported data from patients (n = 128) with PASC seen in the Stanford PASC Clinic between May 2021 and May 2022 and a 2023 multinational survey assessment of individuals with PASC (n = 484). Findings: Within the PASC Clinic patient cohort (n = 128), 58.6% (n = 75) were female, and 41.4% (n = 53) were male; 50% (n = 64) were white, and 38.3% (n = 49) were non-white. A total of 60.2% (n = 77) of PASC Clinic patients reported no change in their PASC symptoms after vaccination, 17.2% (n = 22) reported improved symptoms, and 22.7% (n = 29) reported worsened symptoms. In the multinational survey cohort (n = 484), 380 were from the U.S., and 104 were from outside the U.S.; 88.4% (n = 428) were female, and 11.6% (n = 56) were male; and 88.8% (n = 430) were white, and 11.2% (n = 54) were non-white. The distribution of survey self-reported vaccine effects on PASC symptoms was 20.2% worsened (n = 98), 60.5% no effect (n = 293), and 19.2% improved (n = 93). In both cohorts, demographic features, including age, sex, and race/ethnicity, were not significantly associated with post-vaccination PASC symptom changes. There was also a non-significant difference in the median dates of COVID-19 infection among the different outcomes. BMI was significant for symptom improvement (p = 0.026) in the PASC Clinic cohort, while a history of booster doses was significant for symptom improvement (p < 0.001) in the survey cohort. Conclusions: Most individuals with PASC did not report significant changes in their overall PASC symptoms following COVID-19 vaccinations received after PASC onset. Further research is needed to better understand the relationship between COVID-19 vaccinations and PASC.
Improving the Perception of Objects Under Daylight Foggy Conditions in the Surrounding Environment
Authors: Chaar Mohamad Mofeed , Raiyn Jamal , Weidl Galia
Published: December 2024

Autonomous driving (AD) technology has seen significant advancements in recent years; however, challenges remain, particularly in achieving reliable performance under adverse weather conditions such as heavy fog. In response, we propose a multi-class fog density classification approach to enhance the AD system performance. By categorizing fog density into multiple levels (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) and generating separate datasets for each class using the CARLA simulator, we improve the perception accuracy for each specific fog density level and analyze the effects of varying fog intensities. This targeted approach offers benefits such as improved object detection, specialized training for each fog class, and increased generalizability. Our results demonstrate enhanced perception of various objects, including cars, buses, trucks, vans, pedestrians, and traffic lights, across all fog densities. This multi-class fog density method is a promising advancement toward achieving reliable AD performance in challenging weather, improving both the precision and recall of object detection algorithms under diverse fog conditions.
Challenges and Opportunities for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Latin America
Authors: Martínez-Gómez Javier , Espinoza Vicente Sebastian
Published: December 2024

This research addresses the challenges and opportunities for electric vehicle charging stations in Latin America. The transition to electric mobility is crucial to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, modernize the quality of life in urban areas, update public policies related to transportation, and promote economic development. However, this is not an easy task in this region; it faces several obstacles, such as a lack of liquidity in governments, a lack of adequate infrastructure, high implementation costs, the need for clear regulatory frameworks, and limited public awareness of the benefits of electric mobility. To this end, the current panorama of electric mobility in the region is analyzed, including current policies, the state of the charging infrastructure, and the prospects for growth regarding electric vehicles in Latin America. Factors that could lead to their successful implementation are promoted, highlighting the importance of public policies adapted to Latin American countries, collaboration between the public–private industry, the industry’s adoption of new technologies in this region, and the education of the population, and the benefits of these policies are considered. Successful case studies from the region are presented to provide us with an idea of practices that can be carried out in other countries. The implementation of a charging system in Latin America is also studied; the successful implementation of charging systems is found to depend largely on the existence of integrated public policies that address aspects other than the charging infrastructure. Finally, the value of the work and the research findings are presented to indicate what this study can help with. These strategies are key to overcoming the challenges and maximizing the benefits of electric mobility in Latin America.
A new preconditioned Richardson iterative method
Authors: Jamali Hassan , Pourkani Reza
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we propose a new iterative technique for solving an operator equation \(Ax=y\) based on the Richardson iterative method. Then, by using the Chebyshev polynomials, we modify the proposed method to accelerate the convergence rate. Also, we present the results of some numerical experiments that demonstrate the efficiency and effectivenessof the proposed methods compared to the existing, state-of-the-art methods.
Ácido acético como aditivo alimentario para mejorar el rendimiento productivo en pollos Cobb 500
Authors: Loor Vera Cindy Dayana , Lara Alcívar Mildred Daneska , Robalino Briones César Aníbal
Published: December 2024

Los ácidos orgánicos como el acético ayudan a mejorar la digestión e ingestión de alimentos, previenen la diarrea e inhibe el crecimiento de patógenos. Por lo que, se pretende conocer, ¿cuáles son los efectos positivos y ventajas del empleo del ácido acético como probióticos en los indicadores productivos en el engorde de pollo, y su tracto intestinal. Se emplearon fuentes artículos científicos donde se seleccionaron 45 de bases de datos como PubMed, ScienceDirect y Google Scholar. La ecuación de búsqueda ácido acético+probióticos+ceba de pollo+intestino+microbiota intestinal. Se seleccionaron 20 artículos científicos, el 70% en idioma ingles y 30% en español, indexados el 47,06 y 35,29% de las revistas en SCOPUS y WEB SCIENCE, como principales ventajas del ácido acético pueden incrementar la palatabilidad del alimento, conversión alimenticia, disminuir la mortalidad y mejor salud intestinal. Los resultados destacan que la adición de ácido acético en la alimentación aumenta el peso corporal y eficiencia alimenticia, y por consiguiente mejorar la producción de pollos Cobb 500.
Composición química y actividad antibacteriana de aceites esenciales e hidrolato de Chikchimpay (Tagetes multiflora Kunth)
Authors: Tapia Tadeo Fidelia , Delgado Laime Maria Del Carmen , Palomino Rincón Henry , Mescco Caceres Edwin , Alarcon Camacho Juan
Published: December 2024

Los aceites esenciales y los hidrolatos obtenidos de plantas aromáticas han sido objeto de creciente interés debido a sus diversas propiedades biológicas, entre ellas la actividad antibacteriana. El enfoque cuantitativo, tipo descriptivo, observacional. Se consideró como población aceite esencial de Chikchimpay. El objetivo es describir la composición química y actividad antibacteriana de aceites esenciales e hidrolato de Chikchimpay (Tagetes multiflora Kunth). Se investigaron los aceites esenciales (AE) y los hidrolatos (HY) de Tagetes multiflora Kunth para definir sus composiciones químicas y propiedades antibacterianas. El aceite esencial se obtuvo por arrastre a vapor de agua, posteriormente se determinó su rendimiento de extracción, densidad relativa, índice de refracción y solubilidad en etanol (70 % v/v). La composición química fue evaluada mediante cromatografía de gases acoplada a espectrometría de masas (GC-MS). Resultados: La actividad antioxidante fue determinada mediante el método del radical libre 2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidracilo (DPPH). La composición química de EO y HY fue Dihydrotagetone (42,2 %, 33,5 %) y el ?-pineno (16,7 %, 39,0 %) fueron los principales compuestos del A.E. el 1,8- cineol (30,3 %, 48,4 %) y el alcanfor (17,1 %, 8,7 %) fueron para HY respectivamente. Conclusiones: El aceite esencial presentó una notable capacidad antioxidante, con un valor de EC50 de 1117.78 ?mol Trolox/mL. Por el contrario, el hidrolato mostró una actividad antioxidante significativamente menor, con un valor de EC50 de 0.29 ?mol Trolox/mL. Estos resultados indican que el principal componente antioxidante se encuentra concentrado en el aceite esencial y no en el hidrolato.
Inferência de uma informação implícita em um texto: uma análise da habilidade nas avaliações externas e internas de língua portuguesa na educação básica
Authors:   , Conegundes Fábio Citrole
Published: December 2024

O objetivo principal desta pesquisa é investigar a produção de atividades de compreensão de texto que avaliam, durante as aulas de Língua Portuguesa do 9° ano do Ensino Fundamental, a habilidade leitora de inferência de uma informação implícita em um texto, considerando o fato de que saber ler, com proficiência, as entrelinhas textuais é um exercício que demanda uma aprendizagem mais sofisticada por parte dos estudantes. Em específico, a pesquisa em questão busca ter uma dimensão mais clara da estrutura (formato) dessas atividades; da concepção de leitura mobilizada por seus elaboradores; dos gêneros textuais escolhidos para compô-las e dos níveis de complexidade das inferências exploradas na avaliação dos discentes. Para tanto, é feita uma análise detalhada de itens da Prova Brasil (Avaliação Nacional do Rendimento Escolar) e do SIMAVE (Sistema Mineiro de Avaliação da Educação Pública), bem como de questões criadas por professores de Língua Portuguesa para o trabalho com a habilidade leitora mencionada no dia a dia escolar. A pesquisa proposta é uma análise documental e enquadra-se nos princípios da pesquisa qualitativa-interpretativista (PÁDUA, 1997). Para o embasamento do trabalho, aborda-se a perspectiva interacionista de leitura (ANTUNES, 2003; KLEIMAN, 1989; SOLÉ, 1998), a dimensão emancipatória de avaliação (HOFFMANN, 2009; LUCKESI, 2018; ROMÃO, 1998) e a valorização das tarefas escolares para o desenvolvimento da competência leitora (ARAÚJO, 2017; MELCHIOR, 2002). Os resultados da pesquisa revelam a criação de atividades interessantes para a avaliação da habilidade leitora de inferência de uma informação implícita em um texto no contexto das aulas de Língua Portuguesa. Os itens e questões elaboradas pelos professores foram confeccionados de acordo com uma concepção interacionista de leitura e abarcaram uma multiplicidade de gêneros textuais, como apregoam as novas perspectivas de ensino de língua materna em prol das práticas de letramento. Diferente dos itens analisados, elaborados no formato múltipla escolha, as tarefas criadas pelos professores foram formuladas ora no modelo discursivo ora no modelo múltipla escolha, uma estratégia importante para uma avaliação mais dinâmica dos estudantes, embora algumas questões apresentem fragilidades que poderiam dificultar a interpretação textual dos discentes. A pesquisa evidencia também haver por parte dos avaliadores uma intenção de preparar os estudantes para produção de inferências de baixo e alto grau de complexidade.
Comportamento assintótico para sistemas de Timoshenko com dissipações na fronteira : boa colocação e estabilidade
Authors:   , Zambrano Enmanuel José Nava
Published: December 2024

Neste trabalho, analisaremos a existência, unicidade e comportamento assintótico para um sistema de Timoshenko com distintos tipos de dissipação, empregando a técnica de semigrupos de operadores lineares. Ao longo do trabalho, estudaremos a boa colocação para três tipos de dissipação na fronteira e vamos impor condições sobre o sistema para garantir estabilidade exponencial. Para existência e unicidade, vamos fazer uma abordagem estudando o sistema como um problema de Cauchy Abstrato na teoria de semigrupos de operadores, fazendo uso de ferramentas como: espaços de Sobolev, Espaços de Hilbert e análise funcional, isto para cada um dos casos estudados. Para a estabilidade exponencial das soluções do Problema abstrato de Cauchy, vamos utilizar distintas técnicas incluindo: imersões nos espaços de Sobolev, teoria espectral de operadores lineares e algumas desigualdades clássicas da análise funcional.
Aprendizado de máquina para a classificação automática de pratos de bateria conforme a proporção de estanho presente em suas ligas de bronze
Authors:   , Boratto Tales Humberto de Aquino
Published: December 2024

Os diversos fatores que influenciam no som de um prato de bateria, combinados com os aspectos externos que modificam a sua percepção sonora, tornam o estudo da acústica destes instrumentos mais desafiadora. Pesquisas que focam no estudo de pratos de bateria são encontradas na literatura com diversas abordagens e métodos de investigação. Entretanto, ao considerar o contexto de aprendizado de máquina, a aplicação deste tipo de técnica para o estudo de pratos de bateria ainda é pouco explorada e, normalmente, foca na identificação das categorias de pratos e o modo como foram tocados. Dessa forma, o uso de ferramentas computacionais baseadas na aprendizagem de máquina para investigar os elementos acústicos destes instrumentos torna-se um tópico de estudo com potencial para ser desenvolvido. Inspirado nisso, este trabalho propõe a classificação de pratos de bateria conforme seus materiais constituintes, uma vez que a liga metálica assume uma parcela de responsabilidade significativa em sua acústica. Para tanto, um procedimento para a captura padronizada dos sons destes instrumentos foi desenvolvido e possibilitou construir uma base de dados composta por 276 áudios, referente a 4 pratos de bateria. Diferentes conjuntos de atributos, técnicas de seleção e classificadores foram avaliados, com a finalidade de propor um modelo computacional eficiente para a resolver tal problema. Como resultado, uma acurácia média de 99, 75% foi alcançada ao aplicar a regressão logística em um subconjunto de 30 atributos formados por 17 características temporais e 13 Coeficientes Mel-Cepstrais de Frequência (MFCC), selecionados por uma técnica baseada na análise do limiar de correlação entre as variáveis. Por outro lado, ao priorizar a dimensionalidade do subconjunto selecionado, a utilização de uma técnica de seleção baseada na regressão LASSO, seguida da análise de correlação, proporciona identificar um subconjunto de 5 atributos que promovem uma acurácia média de 99, 37%, também utilizando a regressão logística como classificador.
Avaliação dos espaços ao ar livre do campus daUniversidade Federal de Juiz de Fora
Authors:   , Tourinho Ana Clara Carvalho
Published: December 2024

Os campi universitários fornecem atributos importantes para a vida universitária, pois são um local importante para a disseminação do conhecimento. Também se configuram como um ambiente onde os usuários passam grande parte de seu tempo e estabelecem relações sociais, culturais e pessoais. Nesse sentido, as universidades devem integrar mais espaços ao ar livre para incentivar a interação social, para que sejam partes essenciais dos campi universitários com impactos fundamentais na qualidade de vida dos usuários e no seu desempenho acadêmico. No entanto, faltam investigações sobre os impactos do projeto e planejamento desses espaços na promoção da vitalidade e interação social. Assim, justifica-se a necessidade de avaliar tais espaços, por ser um tema ainda pouco explorado. Além disso, ainda é necessário identificar os aspectos físicos no uso destes espaços abertos no campus, por meio de abordagens multimétodos que englobam achados quantitativos e qualitativos. Assim, utilizando um campus de uma universidade pública brasileira como estudo de caso, esta pesquisa tem como objetivo identificar quais aspectos dos espaços ao ar livre são os mais significativos na atração de pessoas. Esta pesquisa utiliza a aplicação de diferentes métodos de Avaliação PósOcupação (APO), incluindo rastreamento de usuários, mapeamento comportamental, aplicação de questionários e levantamento de campo por meio de geoprocessamento, além da análise de sintaxe espacial. Três grupos de aspectos (socialização, proximidade e infraestrutura) foram identificados como elementoschave para explicar o impacto das características físicas dos espaços ao ar livre no comportamento dos usuários. Os achados comparam os resultados de três áreas fisicamente distintas do campus e mostram que o atributo mais relevante para a atração de pessoas para os espaços ao ar livre é a existência de infraestrutura física, enquanto a proximidade desses espaços aos serviços dos edifícios é o fator menos importante. Os resultados contribuem para o planejamento de espaços ao ar livre, bem como para propostas que potencializem as virtudes e minimizem as fragilidades dos campi universitários.
An architectural framework for expert identification based on social network analysis
Authors:   , Silva Tales Lopes
Published: December 2024

A análise de redes sociais tem sido amplamente utilizada em diferentes contextos de aplicação. Por exemplo, em Desenvolvimento Global de Software, onde vários desenvolvedores com diversos conhecimentos e habilidades estão envolvidos, o uso de modelos de redes sociais ajuda a entender como esses desenvolvedores colaboram. Encontrar especialistas que possam ajudar a abordar elementos ou problemas críticos em um projeto é uma tarefa desafiadora e crítica. Isso é especialmente verdade em projetos no contexto de Desenvolvimento Global de Software, onde desenvolvedores com habilidades e conhecimentos específicos geralmente precisam ser identificados. Nesse sentido, buscar membros essenciais é uma tarefa valiosa, pois eles são fundamentais para a evolução da rede. Este trabalho propõe um framework arquitetural para a identificação de especialistas como uma solução híbrida que inclui análise sintática e semântica em redes sociais. Buscamos abordar desafios de pesquisa relacionados ao projeto de sistemas de recomendação que envolvam a análise de estruturas sociais no contexto de Desenvolvimento Global de Software. Nesta solução, definimos um modelo para a rede social capaz de capturar a colaboração entre desenvolvedores, incorporamos estratégias de análise temporal da rede, exploramos a rede usando algoritmos de aprendizado de máquina, propomos uma ontologia para enriquecer os dados semanticamente e consideramos uma abordagem performativa para métodos de análise de redes de grande volume. Realizamos quatro estudos de caso usando dados extraídos do GitHub para avaliar a abordagem proposta, bem como um conjunto de dados de grande volume para os estudos de performance. Os estudos de caso fornecem evidências de que o método proposto pode identificar especialistas, destacando sua expertise e importância para a evolução da rede social.
Revolutionizing EFL learning through ChatGPT: A qualitative study
Authors: Alshammari Jawza
Published: December 2024

Incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) technologies has a significant role in teaching and learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL). ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI as a conversational generative AI tool, has the potential to enhance the teaching and learning of English effectively. This study aims to explore the role of using ChatGPT in learning English among students at the University of Hail in Saudi Arabia. The results from six individual interviews and four focus group interviews revealed several contributions to students’ learning. Students recognise that ChatGPT has enhanced their English language skills, such as reading, writing, grammar. and spelling, Also, it promoted self-directed learning, and facilitated effective interaction by providing personalised support and occasionally substituting the role of the teacher. Additionally, ChatGPT has improved students' research skills by facilitating brainstorming, feedback, and access to diverse resources. Students noted that ChatGPT has fostered curiosity in learning and seeking knowledge through asking questions and receiving prompt answers. However, despite the benefits, students also revealed challenges, such as over-reliance on technology and occasional inaccuracies in the information provided. These findings are particularly important in the current context of AI integration in education, where educators and students are exploring new ways to enhance learning experiences and outcomes. Also, they call for intensive training on how to effectively utilize ChatGPT in the field of teaching EFL. This study provides valuable information for teachers, administrators, and curriculum developers who aim to use AI to enhance language learning. Future research should explore the long-term effects of AI tools like ChatGPT on language retention, the integration of AI into diverse curricula and ethical implications of its use in EFL education.
Innovation challenges and benefits in high-tech start-ups: A quantitative analysis of university student entrepreneurs in Romania
Authors: Nicolau Cristina , Bărbulescu Oana
Published: December 2024

This article analyses the entrepreneurial students’ attitudes towards innovations developed in high-tech industries, with the aim of identifying the benefits brought to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. It also identifies the main challenges that entrepreneurial students are faced with when developing innovations in high-tech start-ups. The empirical study used the quantitative methodology with the hypotheses tested with the independence tests for a sample of 98 students (n=98) from Romanian universities. The results confirm that students would start-up a new business in the activity fields connected to their studies whereas an association between their start-up idea and innovation in high-tech businesses was identified, with the need of proper managerial education. Hence, our findings demonstrate that there are variances between genders with regard to the challenges of implementing innovations in high-tech start-ups. They also show that the start-up ideas, according to their innovation type (application, platform or device with software), bring different benefits to entrepreneurs, within the three business fields they belong to: Earth problem-solving, business engineering and human and animal welfare. In this respect, our conclusions have significant implications for both the literature and practice of entrepreneurship.