bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State Observer for Time Delay Systems Applied to SIRS Compartmental Epidemiological Model for COVID-19
Authors: Villafuerte-Segura Raúl , Hernández-Ávila Jorge A. , Ochoa-Ortega Gilberto , Ramirez-Neria Mario
Published: December 2024

This manuscript presents a Luenberger-type state observer for a class of nonlinear systems with multiple delays. Sufficient conditions are provided to ensure practical stability of the error dynamics. The exponential decay of the observation error dynamics is guaranteed through the use of Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals and the feasibility of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Additionally, a time delay SIRS compartmental epidemiological model is introduced, where the time delays correspond to the transition rates between compartments. The model considers that a portion of the recovered population becomes susceptible again after a period that follows its recovery. Three time delays are considered, representing the exchange of individuals between the following compartments: τ1,2,3, the time it takes for an individual to recover from the disease, the time it takes for an individual to lose immunity to the disease, and the incubation period associated to the disease. It is shown that the effective reproduction number of the model depends on the rate at which the susceptible population becomes infected and, after a period of incubation, starts to be infectious, and the fraction of the infectious that recovers after a a certain period of time. An estimation problem is then addressed for the resulting delay model. The observer is capable of estimating the compartmental populations of Susceptible S(t) and Recovered R(t) based solely on the real data available, which correspond to the Infectious population Ir(t). The Ir(t) data used for the state estimation are from a 55-day period of the pandemic in Mexico, reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), before vaccination.
Graft Selection in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Comprehensive Review of Current Trends
Authors: Ostojic Marko , Indelli Pier Francesco , Lovrekovic Bruno , Volcarenghi Jerome , Juric Doria , Hakam Hassan Tarek , Salzmann Mikhail , Ramadanov Nikolai , Królikowska Aleksandra , Becker Roland , Prill Robert
Published: December 2024

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common in sports and often require surgical intervention, e.g., ACL reconstruction (ACLR), aimed at restoring knee stability and enabling a return to pre-injury activity levels. The choice of graft is crucial, impacting biomechanical properties, clinical outcomes, and complication rates, and is especially important in revision surgeries after graft failure. Over the past 30 years, trends in graft selection have evolved towards more individualized approaches, considering factors such as patient activity level, prior injuries, and tissue availability. In Europe, autografts like hamstring tendon (HT), bone-patellar tendon-bone (BTB), and quadriceps tendon (QT) are preferred, with the increasing use of QT grafts. This review synthesizes the current literature on graft selection and its influence on ACLR outcomes.
Reproductive Health in Women with Major β-Thalassemia: Evaluating Ovarian Reserve and Endocrine Complications
Authors: Tsilionis Vasileios , Moustakli Efthalia , Dafopoulos Stefanos , Zikopoulos Athanasios , Sotiriou Sotirios , Zachariou Athanasios , Dafopoulos Konstantinos
Published: December 2024

Thalassemia is an autosomal recessive hereditary chronic hemolytic anemia characterized by a partial or complete deficiency in the synthesis of alpha- or beta-globin chains, which are essential components of adult hemoglobin. Mutations in the globin genes lead to the production of unstable globin chains that precipitate within cells, causing hemolysis. This shortens the lifespan of mature red blood cells (RBCs) and results in the premature destruction of RBC precursors in the bone marrow. Regular red blood cell transfusions are the standard treatment for thalassemia. However, these transfusions can lead to increased iron overload, which can impair vital systems such as the liver, heart, ovaries, and endocrine system. Focusing on female reproductive endocrinology, recurrent blood transfusions can cause iron accumulation in the pituitary and hypothalamus, leading to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH), the most common endocrinopathy in these patients, affecting 40–91% of women. Recurrent transfusions and the resulting iron overload can also lead to oxidative stress and ovarian damage in patients with beta-thalassemia major (BTM). Despite advancements in iron chelation therapy, hypothalamic–pituitary damage associated with HH contributes to subfertility and sexual dysfunction, often with little to no recovery. In women exposed to gonadotoxic drugs, particularly those with BTM, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH)—a marker of ovarian reserve—is frequently used to assess ovarian damage. This review aims to explore the pathophysiology of β-thalassemia and its major clinical manifestations, with a focus on endocrine complications and their impact on ovarian reserve. It also investigates how metabolomics can provide insights into the disease’s metabolic alterations and inform current and emerging therapeutic strategies to mitigate complications and optimize patient outcomes, potentially leading to more effective and personalized treatments.
Elimination of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus from Mammary Glands of Dairy Cows by an Additional Antibiotic Treatment Prior to Dry Cow Treatment
Authors: Tenhagen Bernd-Alois , Wörmann Mirka Elisabeth , Gretzschel Anja , Grobbel Mirjam , Maurischat Sven , Lienen Tobias
Published: December 2024

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) have been isolated from quarter milk samples of dairy cows, raising concerns over transmission to consumers of raw milk. This study investigates whether pre-treatment before dry-off can increase the success rate of dry cow treatment against MRSA. MRSA positive cows were assigned to two treatment groups. Both groups received dry cow treatment with a licensed product. The test group was additionally treated intramammarily with pirlimycin over seven days prior to the dry-off treatment. The use of pirlimycin increased the elimination of MRSA from previously MRSA positive udder quarters significantly (96.0 vs. 53.3%). However, MRSA were still present in noses and udder clefts of cows in MRSA negative quarter milk samples. New infections were observed in some quarters in both groups. Quarters that remained positive carried the same strain as prior to treatment. All MRSA isolates were associated with clonal complex CC398. Resistance to pirlimycin associated with the genes erm(C) or lnu(B) was observed in one isolate each from new infections after calving. Pretreatment supported the elimination of MRSA from the udder but did not eliminate MRSA from other body sites. Using the treatment will not eliminate the bacteria from the herd.
Studies on Square Wave and Cyclic Voltammetric Behavior of 1,2- and 1,4-Dihydroxybenzenes and Their Derivatives in Acetic Acid, Ethyl Acetate and Mixtures of the Two
Authors: Kiss László
Published: December 2024

An electrochemical investigation of 1,2- and 1,4-dihydroxybenzenes was carried out with platinum macro- and microelectrodes using square wave and cyclic voltammetry techniques. Furthermore, the effect of the two solvents—acetic acid and ethyl acetate—was compared. When using square wave voltammetry, signals only appeared at lower frequencies and only when the supporting electrolyte was in excess, as expected due to the relatively low permittivity of the used solvents. The behavior of hydroquinone and catechol did not differ significantly from that of their derivatives (dihydroxybenzaldehydes, dihydroxybenzoic acids and 2′,5′-dihydroxyacetophenone). When the cyclic voltammetric experiments using a microelectrode were extended to higher anodic potentials, electrode fouling was very significant in ethyl acetate after the potential region where steady-state oxidation to the corresponding quinone occurs. The substituent effect was not significant here either, which was proven by using different functional groups in different positions. In contrast, the position had a dramatic influence on the susceptibility to electropolymerization, as 1,2-dihydroxybenzenes—independent of the nature of the substituent on the benzene ring—deactivated the electrode, while 1,4-dihydroxybenzenes did not, possibly due to the different solubilities of the polymers formed from the primary oxidation product (quinones). A user-friendly analytical procedure is also proposed that uses an electropolymerization reaction and does not require frequent cleaning of the electrode via polishing, which is required usually especially with a microelectrode.
Flexible and Stable GaN Piezoelectric Sensor for Motion Monitoring and Fall Warning
Authors: Chen Zhiling , Lv Kun , Zhao Renqiang , Lu Yaxian , Chen Ping
Published: December 2024

Wearable devices have potential applications in health monitoring and personalized healthcare due to their portability, conformability, and excellent mechanical flexibility. However, their performance is often limited by instability in acidic or basic environments. In this study, a flexible sensor with excellent stability based on a GaN nanoplate was developed through a simple and controllable fabrication process, where the linearity and stability remained at almost 99% of the original performance for 40 days in an air atmosphere. Moreover, perfect stability was also demonstrated in acid–base environments, with pH values ranging from 1 to 13. Based on its excellent stability and piezotronic performance, a flexible device for motion monitoring was developed, capable of detecting motions such as finger, knee, and wrist bending, as well as swallowing. Furthermore, gesture recognition and intelligent fall monitoring were explored based on the bending properties. In addition, an intelligent fall warning system was proposed for the personalized healthcare application of elders by applying machine learning to analyze data collected from typical activities. Our research provides a path for stable and flexible electronics and personalized healthcare applications.
MOCVD Grown InGaAs/InAlAs Quantum Cascade Lasers Emitting at 7.7 μm
Authors: Bugajski Maciej , Kolek Andrzej , Hałdaś Grzegorz , Strupiński Włodzimierz , Pasternak Iwona , Kołkowski Walery , Pierściński Kamil
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we report the growth of high-quality In0.59Ga0.41As/In0.37Al0.63As strain-balanced quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) in the low-pressure MOCVD production type multi-wafer planetary reactor addressing, in particular, quality and scaled manufacturing issues. Special attention was given to achieving the sharp interfaces (IFs), by optimizing the growth interruptions time and time of exposure of InAlAs layer to oxygen contamination in the reactor, which all result in extremely narrow IFs width, below 0.5 nm. The lasers were designed for emission at 7.7µm. The active region was based on diagonal two-phonon resonance design with 40 cascade stages. For epitaxial process control, the High Resolution X-Ray Diffraction (HR XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize the structural quality of the QCL samples. The grown structures were processed into mesa Fabry-Perot lasers using dry etching RIE ICP processing technology. The basic electro-optical characterization of the lasers is provided. We also present results of Green’s function modeling of QCLs and demonstrate the capability of non-equilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) approach for sophisticated, but still computationally effective simulation of laser’s characteristics. The sharpness of the grown IFs was confirmed by direct measurements of their chemical profiles and as well as the agreement between experimental and calculated wavelength obtained for the bandstructure with ideally abrupt (non-graded) IFs.
Evaluation of Chemical Composition and Anti-Staphylococcal Activity of Essential Oils from Leaves of Two Indigenous Plant Species, Litsea leytensis and Piper philippinum
Authors: Albarico Genesis , Urbanova Klara , Houdkova Marketa , Bande Marlito , Tulin Edgardo , Kokoskova Tersia , Kokoska Ladislav
Published: December 2024

Many indigenous plants of the Philippines, including essential oil-bearing species, remain phytochemically and pharmacologically unexplored. In this study, the chemical composition of leaf essential oils (EOs) hydrodistilled from Litsea leytensis (Lauraceae) and Piper philippinum (Piperaceae) was determined using dual-column (HP-5MS/DB-WAX)/dual-detector gas chromatography and mass spectrometry analysis. Caryophyllene oxide (15.751/16.018%) was identified as the main compound in L. leytensis EO, followed by β-caryophyllene (11.130/11.430%) and α-copaene (9.039/9.221%). Ishwarane (25.937/25.280%), nerolidol (9.372/10.519%) and 3-ishwarone (6.916/2.588%) were the most abundant constituents of P. philippinum EO. Additionally, the in vitro growth-inhibitory activity of the EOs in the liquid and vapour phases against Staphylococcus aureus was evaluated using the broth microdilution volatilisation assay. Although the results showed no anti-staphylococcal effect, the presence of various bioactive compounds in both EOs suggests their potential future use in industrial applications.
Bioprospecting of Natural Products from Medicinal Plants
Authors: Rodrigues Maria João
Published: December 2024

The exploration of natural products derived from medicinal plants that provide an abundance of bioactive compounds has long been a cornerstone of scientific discovery, revolutionizing fields such as medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology [...]
A Comprehensive Review of the Functional Potential and Sustainable Applications of Aronia melanocarpa in the Food Industry
Authors: Xu Jing , Li Fusen , Zheng Meizhu , Sheng Li , Shi Dongfang , Song Kai
Published: December 2024

Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry) is gaining attention in the food and health sectors due to its rich polyphenolic compounds and potent antioxidant properties. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current research on the functional applications, bioavailability improvement strategies, and potential uses of Aronia melanocarpa in the food industry. The review highlights key developments in processing techniques, such as microencapsulation and nanotechnology, aimed at enhancing the stability and bioavailability of its active compounds. In addition, the paper explores the diversification of Aronia products, including juices, fermented beverages, and functional foods, and the growing market demand. The potential uses of Aronia melanocarpa leaves and by-products for sustainable production are also examined. Finally, the paper addresses the challenges of consumer acceptance, astringency removal, and the need for further research into the metabolic mechanisms and health benefits of Aronia melanocarpa. Future prospects for the Aronia melanocarpa industry, particularly its role in natural and sustainable food markets, are discussed, with an emphasis on innovative product development and the efficient use of by-products.
Energy Recovery Decision of Electric Vehicles Based on Improved Fuzzy Control
Authors: Zu En-Hou , Shu Ming-Hung , Huang Jui-Chan , Lin Hsiang-Tsen
Published: December 2024

With the advancement of electric vehicles, their low energy recovery efficiency has become the main obstacle to development. This study focuses on the problem of braking energy loss in electric vehicles during urban road driving and proposes an improved fuzzy control strategy to optimize the energy management of electric vehicles. The exploration first introduces fuzzy control logic to adjust and optimize the energy recovery system of electric vehicles and then introduces a sparrow search algorithm to optimize the adjustment parameters. Finally, using MATLAB R2022a simulation software environment, a comparative analysis is conducted on two driving cycles: urban dynamometer driving schedule and New York City conditions. Simulation results show that the improved fuzzy control strategy can recover 906.41 kJ of energy under urban driving cycle conditions, and the energy recovery rate reaches 49.00%, while the ADVISOR strategy is 507.47 kJ and 27.13%, respectively. The energy recovery rate of the research method is 21.87% higher than that of the comparison method. Improved energy recovery rate of 80.68%. In the driving cycle with New York City, the improved strategy recovered 294.45 kJ of energy, and the energy recovery rate was 48.54%. Compared with the ADVISOR strategy, the energy recovery rate increased by 100.20%, and the energy recovery rate increased by about 110.77%. The research results indicate that the improved fuzzy control strategy is significantly superior to the ADVISOR control strategy, effectively improving energy recovery efficiency and battery charge state maintenance ability under an urban dynamometer driving schedule, achieving more efficient energy management.
Spatiotemporal Analysis and Risk Prediction of Water Quality Using Copula Bayesian Networks: A Case in Qilu Lake, China
Authors: Cheng Xiang , Wang Shengrui , Dong Yue , Ni Zhaokui , Hong Yan
Published: December 2024

Lake water pollution under anthropogenic influences exhibits characteristics of high uncertainty, rapid evolution, and complex control challenges, presenting substantial threats to ecological systems and human health. Quantitative risk prediction provides crucial support for water quality deterioration prevention and management. This study employed the Copula Bayesian Network model to conduct a comprehensive risk assessment of water quality in Qilu Lake, China (2010–2020), incorporating inter-indicator correlations and multiple uncertainty sources. Analysis revealed generally “worse” water quality conditions (5.10 ± 1.35) according to established index classifications, with predicted probabilities of reaching “deteriorated” status ranging from 11.80% to 47.90%. Significant spatial and temporal variations in water quality and pollution risk were observed, primarily attributed to intensive agricultural non-point source loading and water resource deficiency. The study established early warning thresholds through key indicator concentration predictions, particularly for the southern region where “deteriorated” risk levels corresponded to specific ranges: TN (3.42–8.43 mg/L), TP (0.07–1.29 mg/L), and CODCr (27.75–67.19 mg/L). This methodology effectively characterizes lake water quality evolution while enabling risk prediction through key indicator monitoring. The findings provide substantial support for water pollution control strategies, risk management protocols, and regulatory decision-making for lake ecosystem administrators.
Study on Dense Phase Separation of Associated Gas with High Carbon Dioxide Content
Authors: Jing Yuxiao , Zhang Ming , Wang Qihang , Zhu Jianlu , Xie Naiya , Li Yuxing
Published: December 2024

With the continuous exploitation of offshore natural gas, the content of CO2 produced gradually increases. It is not economical to separate more CO2 from natural gas after transportation, and more CO2 will aggravate the corrosion of pipelines. The commonly used decarburization process is not suitable for offshore platforms, and there are problems of high energy consumption and large space occupation. Therefore, dense phase separation of associated gas with high carbon dioxide content is a better separation method. In this paper, the equation of state is optimized by comparing the experimental and CO2 system phase characteristics simulation. Based on the selected equation of state (EOS), a three-level separation model of phase equilibrium characteristics is established. The separation efficiency is simulated to complete the separation of CO2 and methane. The separation process is optimized by a genetic algorithm, and the temperature and pressure under the best separation efficiency are determined. The PR-EOS was selected as the equation with the highest calculation accuracy. Through process simulation and algorithm optimization, the best separation efficiency was 72.23%.
Modeling and Experimental Verification of In-House Built Portable Ultrafiltration (PUF) System to Maintain Water Quality
Authors: Ariffin Azman , Abdul Wahab Ahmad Khairi , Hussain Mohd Azlan
Published: December 2024

At present, over 2.6 billion people live without access to a continuous water supply, and nearly 900 million people do not obtain drinking water from reliable sources. To solve these problems, one of this study’s goals is to come up with a water-supply system that uses a simple, inexpensive, portable ultrafiltration (PUF) unit. To determine the effectiveness of the portable system, water-quality analysis has been carried out to determine if the system produces filtered water from various sources of water, reaching drinking-water standards. A simple model of the system using Darcy’s Law was also obtained to predict permeate flux and transmembrane pressure (TMP). Initially, simulation was performed using nominal values taken from the literature for four (4) parameters, i.e., membrane hydraulic resistance, initial rapid fouling constant, mass transfer coefficient, and foulant bulk concentration. By minimizing the error between the model with these nominal values and experimental values, an improved model with updated parameters was obtained using the Evolutionary Programming (EP) approach. With the updated model, the average error between the model and the experiment was reduced from 32% to 9%. This was further validated with new data taken from the experiment. This improved model with the updated parameter was then used to predict the TMP and compared with the experimental value. Contrasting the optimized model with the existing model indicates that the optimized model predicts membrane performance better, leading to a competent and reliable model for the purification of water using a PUF system built in-house.
Seeing Jung’s Shadow in a New Light: Decolonizing the Undisciplined Depths
Authors: Boscaljon Daniel
Published: December 2024

This paper explores two paths that depth psychology, particularly the work of C. G. Jung, offers to the project of decolonizing knowledge. Jung was a complex intellectual pioneer who embodied and projected the limiting colonialist scientific presuppositions of his time also spent much of his career attempting to become familiar with the undisciplined domain of the Unconscious that offered access to ways of thinking that erased disciplinary boundaries that would separate psychology, religion, and science. Offering a close reading of Jung’s early work demonstrates how colonizing forms of knowledge perpetuate themselves through a self-legitimating mythic structure. Acknowledging Jung’s later work, which explored psyche as both “material” and “spiritual”, illustrates the potential that depth psychology offers for an undisciplined approach to thinking and reality. The focus throughout will be on the Shadow, one of the core archetypes in Jungian psychology. The first section, which associates Jung’s colonial bias with his ideas about rational consciousness, is followed by a second section that provides a critique of Jung’s colonialism, highlighting the implicit violence that accompanies Jung’s story about rationality. The third section provides an overview of different ways that shadows can be used, building on other depth psychological modes of exploring the unconscious. The paper concludes with a description of how embracing Shadow invites the concept of an undisciplined playfulness back into a decolonized, experiential approach to knowledge. This presents an improved version of the Shadow based on a framework of participation, rather than polarization, which opens a mode of belonging that bridges rifts that colonialism created. This demonstrates how depth psychology opens a path toward decolonizing knowledge and moving toward a consciously undisciplined form of experiential understanding.
Ultra-High Sensitivity Methane Gas Sensor Based on Cryptophane-A Thin Film Depositing in Double D-Shaped Photonic Crystal Fiber Using the Vernier Effect
Authors: Zhou Di , Ullah Sajid , Zhang Sa , Li Shuguang
Published: December 2024

Methane gas leakage can lead to pollution problems, such as rising ambient temperature. In this paper, the Vernier effect of a double D-shaped photonic crystal fiber (PCF) in a Sagnac interferometer (SI) is proposed for the accurate detection of mixed methane gas content in the gas. The optical fiber structure of the effective sensing in the sensing SI loop and the effective sensing in the reference SI loop are the same. Both of them adopt the polarization-maintaining photonic crystal fiber (PM-PCF) designed in this paper. The optical fiber structure of the effective sensing in the sensing SI loop deposited with the methane gas-sensitive film is polished to obtain a double-D structure. This operation makes it easier for methane gas to contact the sensitive film and realize the sensor’s repeated use. The sensing capability of the methane gas sensor was evaluated utilizing the finite element method (FEM). The numerical simulation results show that when the concentration of methane gas in the environment is 0~3.5%, the average sensitivity of two parallel Sagnac loops is 409.43 nm/%. Using Vernier effect cascade SI loops, the sensitivity of the sensor for detecting methane gas increased by four times. Without considering air and humidity, we provide a practical scheme for the development and design of high-sensitivity methane gas sensors.
Modeling Cost-Effectiveness of Photovoltaic Module Replacement Based on Quantitative Assessment of Defect Power Loss
Authors: Lofstad-Lie Victoria , Aarseth Bjørn Lupton , Roosloot Nathan , Marstein Erik Stensrud , Skauli Torbjørn
Published: December 2024

The degradation of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules over time, which are aggravated by defects, significantly affects the performance of utility-scale PV parks. This study presents a quantitative assessment of the power loss from module defects and evaluates the cost-effectiveness of replacing defective modules at various stages of degradation. A module test site was established in Norway with six different defects, and continuous thermographic monitoring, combined with light IV measurements and electroluminescence (EL) imaging, provides partial support for further calculations on the long-term effects of the defects. The cumulative module energy loss is calculated over a 25-year park lifespan under both Norwegian and Chilean environmental conditions, with the latter representing higher solar irradiation levels. The energy gain from replacing the defective modules at various stages of degradation is compared to the costs of replacement, both for infant-life failures and mid-life failures. It is likely not beneficial to replace minor infant-life defects of 1% power loss in low-irradiation regions like Norway. For Chilean conditions, it can be cost-effective, but primarily if the module is replaced around mid park life, which gives a larger yield when replaced with a new module. For more severe defects of 10% loss, the replacement gain is above the replacement cost for high-irradiation locations, and replacing the 33% power loss defect is cost-effective for both locations, even when discovered late in the park lifetime. It is primarily beneficial to replace mid-life defects in high-irradiation locations.
Potential Note Degree of Khong Wong Yai Based on Rhyme Structure and Pillar Tone as a Novel Approach for Musical Analysis Using Multivariate Statistics: A Case Study of the Composition Sadhukarn from Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia
Authors: Eambangyung Sumetus
Published: December 2024

Diverse multivariate statistics are powerful tools for musical analysis. A recent study identified relationships among different versions of the composition Sadhukarn from Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia using non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) and cluster analysis. However, the datasets used for NMDS and cluster analysis require musical knowledge and complicated manual conversion of notations. This work aims to (i) evaluate a novel approach based on multivariate statistics of potential note degree of rhyme structure and pillar tone (Look Tok) for musical analysis of the 26 versions of the composition Sadhukarn from Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia; (ii) compare the multivariate results obtained by this novel approach and with the datasets from the published method using manual conversion; and (iii) investigate the impact of normalization on the results obtained by this new method. The result shows that the novel approach established in this study successfully identifies the 26 Sadhukarn versions according to their countries of origin. The results obtained by the novel approach of the full version were comparable to those obtained by the manual conversion approach. The normalization process causes the loss of identity and uniqueness. In conclusion, the novel approach based on the full version can be considered as a useful alternative approach for musical analysis based on multivariate statistics. In addition, it can be applied for other music genres, forms, and styles, as well as other musical instruments.
Collaborative Game-Theoretic Optimization of Public Transport Fare Policies: A Global Framework for Sustainable Urban Mobility
Authors: Eriskin Ekinhan
Published: December 2024

Urbanization intensifies the need for sustainable public transportation that balances financial viability, environmental sustainability, and social equity. Traditional fare-setting methods often focus narrowly on financial objectives, neglecting broader impacts. This study introduces a novel collaborative game-theoretic model integrating user sentiment analysis to optimize fare policies. By incorporating utilities of passengers, operators, and governments, and employing the Shapley value for fair benefit distribution, this model aims to maximize social welfare. The methodology frames fare optimization as a cooperative game among stakeholders, integrating passenger preferences through sentiment analysis. The social welfare function combines the utilities of all stakeholders and is maximized under operational, environmental, and financial constraints. Implemented in Python and applied to Isparta, Turkey, the model identifies an optimal fare of 19.5 TL (ranged between 14 and 26.50 TL) that maximizes social welfare, aligning closely with existing fares. Shapley value analysis distributes the benefits, assigning 221,457 (35.6%) units to passengers, 54,562 (8.7%) units to operators, and 347,433 (55.7%) units to the government, highlighting significant environmental gains for the government. Sensitivity analyses confirm the model’s robustness across varying trip volumes, suggesting its applicability to diverse urban settings. This research contributes to socially equitable and user-centric fare policies by providing a comprehensive framework aligning stakeholder interests. Policymakers can leverage this model to design fare strategies promoting sustainability, efficiency, and collaboration in public transportation systems.
Surface Characteristics and Performance Optimization of W-Doped Vanadium Dioxide Thin Films
Authors: Tien Chuen-Lin , Chiang Chun-Yu , Tien Jia-Kai , Wang Ching-Chiun , Lin Shih-Chin
Published: December 2024

This study explores the surface characteristics evaluation and performance optimization of tungsten (W)-doped vanadium dioxide (VO2) thin films. W-doped vanadium dioxide films were deposited on B270 glass substrates using an electron beam evaporation technique combined with the ion beam-assisted deposition (IAD) method. The Taguchi method was used to analyze the performance optimization of VO2 thin films, and L16 orthogonal array design and Minitab software were used for optimization calculations. The surface roughness, visible light transmittance, infrared transmittance, and residual stress of un-doped and tungsten-doped (3–5%) VO2 thin films are set as the quality performance indicators of thin films. The goal is to identify the key factors that affect the performance of VO2 thin films during deposition and optimize their process parameters. The experimental results showed that a VO2 thin film with 3% tungsten doping, an oxygen flow rate of 60 sccm, a heating temperature of 280 °C, and a film thickness of 60 nm exhibited the lowest surface roughness of 2.12 nm. A VO2 thin film with 5% tungsten doping, an oxygen flow rate of 0 sccm, a heating temperature of 280 °C, and a film thickness of 60 nm had the highest visible light transmittance at 64.33%. When the oxygen flow rate was 60 sccm, the heating temperature was 295 °C, the film thickness was 150 nm, and the tungsten doping was 5%, the VO2 thin film showed the lowest infrared transmittance of 31.34%. A thin film with 5% tungsten doping, an oxygen flow rate of 20 sccm, a heating temperature of 265 °C, and a film thickness of 120 nm exhibited the lowest residual stress of −0.195 GPa.
Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus Among Schistosomiasis mansoni Patients Residing in Endemic Zone in Brazil
Authors: Gomes Cristiane Tiburtino de Oliveira , Mariz Carolline Araujo , Batista Andrea Dória , Morais Clarice Neuenschwander Lins de , Araújo Lílian , Sá Barreto Ana Virgínia Matos , Gomes-Gouvêa Michele Soares , Domingues Ana Lúcia , Lopes Edmundo Pessoa
Published: December 2024

The occurrence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in patients with Schistosomiasis mansoni (SM) is still poorly understood in Brazil. The objective of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence of anti-HEV IgG in patients with SM and its association with the periportal fibrosis (PPF), assessed by serum markers and ultrasound criteria. This cross-sectional study was carried out in an endemic area in Pernambuco, Brazil, with schistosomal patients who underwent coproscopic survey. Anti-HEV antibody IgG were evaluated by using ELISA (Euroimmun®, Lübeck, Germmany). In positive cases, HEV-RNA was tested by using real-time PCR. Among the 286 patients (60.8% women; 56% 18–44 years), 116 (40.6%) had advanced PPF (Niamey pattern D/E/F). Anti-HEV IgG was positive in 15 (5.24%), and all were HEV-RNA negative. Anti-HEV IgG was more frequent in patients with an advanced PPF (D/E/F) pattern (p = 0.034) and those with the largest spleen diameter (p = 0.039). In this study, the occurrence of anti-HEV IgG in patients with SM was higher than described in the same region and more frequent among patients with evidence of advanced liver fibrosis.
A Telemetric Framework for Assessing Vehicle Emissions Based on Driving Behavior Using Unsupervised Learning
Authors: Muhammad Auwal Sagir , Wang Cheng , Chen Longbiao
Published: December 2024

Urban vehicular emissions, a major contributor to environmental degradation, demand accurate methodologies that reflect real-world driving conditions. This study presents a telemetric data-driven framework for assessing emissions of Carbon Monoxide (CO), Hydrocarbons (HCs), and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) in real-world scenarios. By utilizing Vehicle Specific Power (VSP) calculations, Gaussian Mixture Models (GMMs), and Ensemble Isolation Forests (EIFs), the framework identifies high-risk driving behaviors and maps high-emission zones. Achieving a Silhouette Score of 0.72 for clustering and a precision of 0.88 in anomaly detection, the study provides actionable insights for policymakers to mitigate urban emissions. Spatial–temporal analysis highlights critical high-emission areas, offering strategies for urban planners to reduce environmental impacts. The findings underscore the potential of interventions such as speed regulation and driving behavior modifications in lowering emissions. Future extensions of this work will include hybrid and electric vehicles, alongside the integration of granular environmental factors like weather conditions, to enhance the framework’s accuracy and applicability. By addressing the complexities of real-world emissions, this study contributes to bridging significant knowledge gaps and advancing sustainable urban mobility solutions.
Bending Fatigue Behavior Analysis and Fatigue Life Prediction of Spot-Welded Steel T-Profiles: An XFEM Analysis
Authors: Demiral Murat
Published: December 2024

Steel T-profiles are extensively used across various sectors due to their versatility and reliability. Spot welding plays a crucial role in their production. These profiles are subjected to cyclic bending loads in numerous engineering applications. Understanding the failure mechanisms is essential for enhancing fatigue resistance and extending the operational lifespan of spot-welded assemblies. Key aspects include accurately predicting where damage initiates, how it propagates under increasing cyclic loads, and the failure point. For this purpose, XFEM analysis was conducted and validated with experimental results from the literature. The study emphasizes the significant impact of bending moment magnitude, load ratio, the diameter of spot welds, and component thickness on the fatigue performance of spot-welded assemblies under bending loads. All these parameters significantly affected the fatigue response. Notably, thinner components showed 8.55 times faster crack propagation, accompanied by more localized and severe cracking.
Individual Variations in Vergence and Accommodation Responses Following Virtual Reality Gameplay
Authors: Sumarokova Alona , Alksnis Reinis , Rappo Dagni , Panke Karola , Krumina Gunta , Pladere Tatjana
Published: December 2024

Virtual reality (VR) can challenge the visual system, leading to temporary oculomotor changes, though the degree of change varies among individuals. While the vergence and accommodation system plays a crucial role in VR perception, it remains unclear whether individuals whose visual functions fall outside clinical norms experience larger changes. Thus, our study aimed to investigate whether changes in vergence and accommodation responses following VR gameplay differ between individuals with and without non-strabismic binocular and accommodative disorders. To assess this, both subjective and objective measurements were conducted before and after 20 min of playing Beat Saber. Results revealed significant alterations across both subjective measurements—near point of convergence and near point of accommodation—and objective measurements, including eye refraction, accommodation lag, and accommodative microfluctuations at far. Moreover, individuals with non-strabismic binocular and accommodative disorders exhibited larger accommodative microfluctuations at far compared to the control group. Overall, these findings indicate that considering individual differences in vergence and accommodation responses is important when evaluating the impact of VR on the visual system and can be helpful in the design and use of VR systems, particularly for individuals with binocular and accommodative disorders.
Las sociedades cooperativas de ahorro y préstamo en México. Un panorama general (2010-2022)
Authors: García Marín Christopher , Pérez Sánchez Alfonso
Published: December 2024

Este artículo revisa el crecimiento del sector cooperativo de ahorro y préstamo en México durante el período 2010-2022. Toma el año 2010 como inicio del análisis por ser el inmediato posterior a la publicación de la Ley para Regular las Actividades de las Sociedades Cooperativas de Ahorro y Préstamo (LRASCAP). La metodología es mixta e incluye el análisis documental de los reportes trimestrales de la Comisión Nacional Bancaria y de Valores (CNBV) de las sociedades cooperativas de ahorro y préstamos (SOCAP), la estimación de coeficientes de correlación entre variables cuantitativas y la deflactación del importe de los activos fijos y de la cartera vencida durante el período 2010-2022. Los resultados muestran que, durante el período estudiado, el número de SOCAP aumentó un 259%, agrupando a casi 8.6 millones de socios (236.7% más), con 235 242 millones de pesos en activos totales (457%) y una cartera vigente de 127 753 millones de pesos (333.7% más). Además, los activos fijos de las SOCAP crecieron casi el doble que los de la banca múltiple, lo que evidencia un sector cooperativo más dinámico. Sin embargo, el estudio se limita a la revisión de información secundaria obtenida de la CNBV. La originalidad del trabajo radica en que se revisa el crecimiento de las SOCAP durante un período de 13 años, partiendo del año siguiente a la publicación del marco normativo vigente. En cuanto a las conclusiones, se observa que el sector de las SOCAP ha mostrado un crecimiento continuo durante el período de estudio, aunque está altamente concentrado y ha presentado una evolución heterogénea.
Productividad, capital humano y población: sus efectos sobre el crecimiento económico en México (1961-2019)
Authors: Rodríguez Arana Alejandro
Published: December 2024

Este trabajo estima una función producción anual para México similar a la propuesta por la Penn World Table (PWT) 10.0 (Feenstra, Inklar y Timmer, 2015). Para ello, utiliza datos de la misma base señalada. Como la productividad factorial total (PFT) es inobservable, se supone que sigue un proceso autorregresivo de primer orden.
La estimación descrita se lleva a cabo por el método generalizado de momentos (MGM). Uno de los resultados principales de la estimación es que hay rendimientos decrecientes conjuntos del capital y del trabajo, de forma que la PFT calculada en este ejercicio tiene un comportamiento más suave que el que surge de la PWT 10.0. Esto se debe a que en la estimación de este artículo no se imponen los supuestos de competencia perfecta y rendimientos constantes a escala de los factores, mismos que sí impone la PWT 10.0 (Feenstra et al., 2015).
Los resultados del artículo se utilizan en un modelo de crecimiento económico. Con ellos es posible obtener los efectos de largo plazo que tienen en México los crecimientos de la PFT, el capital humano y el empleo sobre el crecimiento del PIB por hora empleada y el crecimiento del producto per cápita. Una limitación es que la función producción no puede estimarse como en otros trabajos, pues falta información sobre el precio de los factores a lo largo del tiempo.
Construction of Women's Beauty in Newspaper Advertisements in Batak Land, North Sumatra, 1940–1945
Authors: Lukitaningsih Lukitaningsih , Sakdiah Halimatun , Siregar Mhd. Agung Permana , Akbar Muhammad Fazlan , Amelia Pidia , Lukitoyo Pristi Suhendro
Published: December 2024

This research examines newspapers in North Sumatra that published beauty advertisements, catering to the aesthetic needs of individuals, especially women seeking self-care and beauty enhancement. The study aims to track the development in types and content of cosmetics advertisements and the advertising stages during the period from 1940 to 1945. Employing semiotics and discourse analysis, this research integrates data collection through interviews and analysis techniques to explore advertisements on women's beauty in mass media published in the Batak region of North Sumatra from 1940 to 1945. Advertisements in these media often depict European women, reflecting an ideology that positioned Europeans as inherently superior to natives. Through visual and narrative strategies, cosmetics advertisements propagated a concept of Western beauty to the indigenous population of the archipelago. This article discusses beauty concepts, such as the allure of a slim physique, a prominent nose, and curly hair, as conveyed by pre-independence media advertisements.
A polarização de opiniões sobre o uso de hidroxicloroquina no tratamento para Covid19: os efeitos do filtro-bolha e da câmara de eco na construção dos discursos
Authors:   , Castro Paula Freitas Monteiro de
Published: December 2024

As institucionalizações são entendidas como estruturas construídas e mantidas por convenções sociais para legitimar e manter significados. As objetivações da ordem institucional ocorrem por meio da legitimidade conferida aos significados construídos socialmente. Tal construção não ocorre de forma homogênea entre todos os indivíduos da sociedade, o que faz com que existam diferentes subuniversos de significação. Considerando que o discurso funciona como um mecanismo de manutenção e sustentação destes subuniversos, esta dissertação objetiva analisar como ocorre a construção dos discursos em dois subuniversos de significação distintos com posicionamentos antagônicos. Para tanto, será realizada uma análise discursiva de um corpus composto por oitenta comentários publicados em 2020 por usuários de duas páginas do Facebook, ”Pleno.News”, com posicionamento reconhecidamente alinhado ao governo do atual presidente Jair Bolsonaro, e “Burguesia Fede”, com posicionamento contrário ao governo de Bolsonaro. Os comentários foram realizados em publicações envolvendo o uso da hidroxicloroquina no tratamento para Covid-19. A discussão sobre o uso do medicamento com tal propósito ocorre em um contexto de profunda polarização, intensificada pelas novas configuração das mídias sociais. As implicações envolvendo o acesso e distribuição das informações online nesta nova configuração, e a consequente formação de opiniões polarizadas, são explicadas pelas teorias do filtro bolha e da Câmara de Eco, que orientarão a análise discursiva proposta deste estudo.
Ouvidoria especializada em ações afirmativas: o papel mediador desempenhado em uma universidade pública
Authors:   , Gomes Kátia dos Reis
Published: December 2024

Esta dissertação busca compreender, a partir da experiência pioneira da Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, o papel que pode ser desempenhado por uma ouvidoria especializada em ações afirmativas na universidade pública brasileira contemporânea. A pesquisa se se caracteriza por meio de um estudo de caso, de natureza qualitativa-exploratória. Para tanto, foram realizadas entrevistas em profundidade com atores institucionais que possuíram ou possuem algum vínculo com a ouvidoria especializada e a análise documental. Os dados levantados em campo foram sistematizados e organizados para compreensão e interpretação dos resultados, por meio da análise temática. Os resultados sugerem que propósitos, configuração institucional e rotinas da ouvidoria estão se colocando à serviço de demandas identitárias, potencializadas pelo desequilíbrio de forças sociais e organizacionais. Constata-se que o papel a ser desempenhado é de salvaguarda simbólica e concreta no combate às condutas contrárias ao pluralismo. Por meio da atuação em situações conflituosas, do reconhecimento de fatos, argumentos e contraargumentos contribui para mediações justas. Pode, ainda, monitorar fatos recorrentes, tipificálos, mensurá-los e traduzi-los em subsídios para a construção de culturas contrárias à discriminação, à violência e à arbitrariedade.