bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tafenoquine following G6PD screening versus primaquine for the treatment of vivax malaria in Brazil: A cost-effectiveness analysis using a transmission model
Authors: Price David J. , Nekkab Narimane , Monteiro Wuelton M. , Villela Daniel A. M. , Simpson Julie A. , Lacerda Marcus V. G. , White Michael T. , Devine Angela
Published: January 2024

Background

Malaria transmission modelling has demonstrated the potential impact of semiquantitative glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) testing and treatment with single-dose tafenoquine for Plasmodium vivax radical cure but has not investigated the associated costs. This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of P. vivax treatment with tafenoquine after G6PD testing using a transmission model.

Methods and findings

We explored the cost-effectiveness of using tafenoquine after G6PD screening as compared to usual practice (7-day low-dose primaquine (0.5 mg/kg/day) without G6PD screening) in Brazil using a 10-year time horizon with 5% discounting considering 4 scenarios: (1) tafenoquine for adults only assuming 66.7% primaquine treatment adherence; (2) tafenoquine for adults and children aged >2 years assuming 66.7% primaquine adherence; (3) tafenoquine for adults only assuming 90% primaquine adherence; and (4) tafenoquine for adults only assuming 30% primaquine adherence. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were estimated by dividing the incremental costs by the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) averted. These were compared to a willingness to pay (WTP) threshold of US$7,800 for Brazil, and one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed.

All 4 scenarios were cost-effective in the base case analysis using this WTP threshold with ICERs ranging from US$154 to US$1,836. One-way sensitivity analyses showed that the results were most sensitive to severity and mortality due to vivax malaria, the lifetime and number of semiquantitative G6PD analysers needed, cost per malaria episode and per G6PD test strips, and life expectancy. All scenarios had a 100% likelihood of being cost-effective at the WTP threshold. The main limitations of this study are due to parameter uncertainty around our cost estimates for low transmission settings, the costs of G6PD screening, and the severity of vivax malaria

Conclusions

In our modelling study that incorporated impact on transmission, tafenoquine prescribed after a semiquantitative G6PD testing was highly likely to be cost-effective in Brazil. These results demonstrate the potential health and economic importance of ensuring safe and effective radical cure.
An investigation of the modulatory effects of empathic and autistic traits on emotional and facial motor responses during live social interactions
Authors: Hsu Chun-Ting , Sato Wataru , Yoshikawa Sakiko
Published: January 2024

A close relationship between emotional contagion and spontaneous facial mimicry has been theoretically proposed and is supported by empirical data. Facial expressions are essential in terms of both emotional and motor synchrony. Previous studies have demonstrated that trait emotional empathy enhanced spontaneous facial mimicry, but the relationship between autistic traits and spontaneous mimicry remained controversial. Moreover, previous studies presented faces that were static or videotaped, which may lack the “liveliness” of real-life social interactions. We addressed this limitation by using an image relay system to present live performances and pre-recorded videos of smiling or frowning dynamic facial expressions to 94 healthy female participants. We assessed their subjective experiential valence and arousal ratings to infer the amplitude of emotional contagion. We measured the electromyographic activities of the zygomaticus major and corrugator supercilii muscles to estimate spontaneous facial mimicry. Individual differences measures included trait emotional empathy (empathic concern) and the autism-spectrum quotient. We did not find that live performances enhanced the modulatory effect of trait differences on emotional contagion or spontaneous facial mimicry. However, we found that a high trait empathic concern was associated with stronger emotional contagion and corrugator mimicry. We found no two-way interaction between the autism spectrum quotient and emotional condition, suggesting that autistic traits did not modulate emotional contagion or spontaneous facial mimicry. Our findings imply that previous findings regarding the relationship between emotional empathy and emotional contagion/spontaneous facial mimicry using videos and photos could be generalized to real-life interactions.
Challenges with pediatric antiretroviral therapy administration: Qualitative perspectives from caregivers and HIV providers in Kenya
Authors: Sliefert Michala , Maloba May , Wexler Catherine , Were Frederick , Mbithi Yvonne , Mugendi George , Maliski Edward , Nicolay Zachary , Thomas Gregory , Kale Shadrack , Maosa Nicodemus , Finocchario-Kessler Sarah
Published: January 2024

Background

Current formulations of pediatric antiretroviral therapy (ART) for children with HIV present significant barriers to adherence, leading to drug resistance, ART ineffectiveness, and preventable child morbidity and mortality. Understanding these challenges and how they contribute to suboptimal adherence is an important step in improving outcomes. This qualitative study describes how regimen-related challenges create barriers to adherence and impact families.

Methods

We conducted key informant interviews (KIIs) with 30 healthcare providers and 9 focus group discussions (FGDs) with a total of 72 caregivers, across three public hospitals in Siaya and Mombasa Kenya. The KIIs and FGDs were audio recorded, translated, and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were hand coded based on emergent and a-priori themes.

Results

Caregivers discussed major regimen-related challenges to adherence included poor palatability of current formulations, complex preparation, and administration (including measuring, crushing, dissolving, mixing), complex drug storage, and frequent refill appointments and how these regimen-related challenges contributed to individual and intrapersonal barriers to adherence. Caregivers discussed how poor taste led to child anxiety, refusal of medications, and the need for caregivers to use bribes or threats during administration. Complex preparation led to concerns and challenges about maintaining privacy and confidentiality, especially during times of travel. Providers corroborated this patient experience and described how these challenges with administration led to poor infant outcomes, including high viral load and preventable morbidity. Providers discussed how the frequency of refills could range from every 2 weeks to every 3 months, depending on the patient. Caregivers discussed how these refill frequencies interrupted work and school schedules, risked unwanted disclosure to peers, required use of financial resources for travel, and ultimately were a challenge to adherence.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the need for improved formulations for pediatric ART to ease the daily burden on caregivers and children to increase adherence, improve child health, and overall quality of life of families.
El quehacer jurídico
Authors: Rivero Ortega Ricardo
Published: January 2024

La inteligencia artificial no remplazará a los juristas si somos capaces de adaptar nuestro enfoque con pragmatismo y orientación social. Una metodología docente e investigadora dirigida a resolver problemas y atender necesidades demostrará las valiosas capacidades de los futuros profesionales del Derecho, que siempre han de reservar tiempo para el estudio.
protección y promoción jurídica de los lugares de memoria en Colombia
Authors: Castaño Zuluaga Luis Ociel , Restrepo Hernández Natalia Andrea , Sánchez Diez Ingrid Estíbaliz
Published: January 2024

El texto constituye una argumentación en favor del reconocimiento y dotación de protección jurídica a los espacios físicos de memoria generados por la interacción de las víctimas y la sociedad civil en los territorios de Colombia.

Con el objetivo de reivindicar y contribuir a evitar la desaparición de estos lugares, referimos una práctica global y permanente en el tiempo ejemplificada a través de la resignificación del cementerio de La América (Comuna 13, Medellín) como espacio de memoria. Se pretende, desde una perspectiva jurídica, evitar que se pierdan y desaparezcan las iniciativas sociales con capacidad de construir memoria colectiva y de contribuir a la generación de marcos de convivencia destinados a la consolidación de la paz.

La siguiente exposición refiere el valor de este tipo de iniciativas, advierte que el ordenamiento jurídico colombiano carece de un instrumento de protección efectivo y argumenta en favor de la emisión de una Ley de Memoria que incluya un procedimiento adecuado de reconocimiento, identificación y protección de los espacios de memoria generados por la interacción de víctimas y sociedad civil en los territorios.
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect net working capital in industrial production companies?
Authors: Grofčíková Janka , Musa Hussam , Streimikis Justas
Published: January 2024

Industry is one of the key sectors of Slovakia's economy and accounts for approximately 22% of GDP. Industrial production accounts for an average of 85% of the industry's contribution to GDP. The period of 2020 and 2021 was a crisis for all sectors of the economy due to the announcement of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Regarding the importance of industrial production in Slovakia's economy, we examine the impact of the coronavirus crisis on a sample of companies operating in this sector. Changes in the operational activity of enterprises are directly reflected in the volume of their net working capital. The aim of the study is to research changes in the volume of net working capital of enterprises in individual branches of the manufacturing industry in Slovakia from 2017 to 2021. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to examine the significance of interannual changes in this indicator. The findings point to the growth of the volume of net working capital in crisis periods in almost all branches of industrial production and confirm the increase in requirements for managing working capital in periods of economic decline.
Macroeconomic stability of the country: the nexus of institutional and behavioural dimensions
Authors: Lyulyov Oleksii , Pimonenko Tetyana , Chen Yang , Kwilinski Aleksy
Published: January 2024

The ongoing globalisation, recessions, and fluctuations in world development require the acceptance of timely government interventions and decisions to save the country's macroeconomic stability. The literature analysis has confirmed a gap in research on assessing and comparing macroeconomic stability at different levels of development, especially in terms of studies that consider the behavioural (culture and trust) dimensions and the quality of institutions. This paper aimed to empirically assess how the achievement of macroeconomic stability depends on the quality of institutions, increasing society's trust, and cultural diversity. This study investigated post-communist economies among EU countries and Ukraine (as the candidate for EU) over 2005-2020. Pearson correlation, OLS and FGLS, robustness test output, GEE, and stochastic frontier model were applied to achieve the paper's aims. The findings confirmed that countries with high-quality of institutions had a higher value of macroeconomic stability. In addition, social trust positively affected the relationship between the quality of institutions and macroeconomic stability. At the same time, various national cultural dimensions had different effects on macroeconomic stability. The four indicators of Hofstede Insights (power distance, masculinity, uncertainty avoidance, and indulgence) had a statistically significant impact on macroeconomic stability.
Social and economic determinants of quality of life: Case of European countries
Authors: Vasylieva Tetyana , Witczak-Smolnik Wioleta , Tiutiunyk Inna , Filep Bálint
Published: January 2024

The article is devoted to the study of economic and social drivers of quality of life. The method of weighted sums and the Fishburn formula were employed to assess the level of quality of life. Using Ward's method and the Kalinsky-Kharabash test, three clusters of countries were identified. The relationship between indicators was modeled with the Johansen, Dickey-Fuller and Phillips-Perron tests. Five indicators of social development (children out of school, unemployment, literacy rate, hospital beds, total population) and six indicators of economic development (GDP, minimum wage, government expenditure on education, current health expenditure, state expenditure on physical culture and sports industry) were chosen to establish the relationship between the indicators. The research was focused on the data of 30 European countries. Two hypotheses were proposed and tested in the study. Hypothesis H1 was that public spending on education, health care, and sports stimulates an increase in the quality of life. This hypothesis was confirmed for all countries. Hypothesis H2 assumed that the number of children out of school, the level of unemployment, and illiteracy negatively affect the quality of life. This hypothesis was confirmed only for a small number of countries.
Ranking the importance of multi-criteria evaluation indicators based on their transitivity
Authors: Ginevicius Romualdas , Nazarko Joanicjusz , Gedvilaite Dainora , Petraskevicius Vladislavas
Published: January 2024

In recent decades, multi-criteria methods have been increasingly used for the quantitative assessment of the development of socioeconomic systems. Their essence lies in weighted indicators, i.e., combining the values multiplied by the weights into one summarizing index. However, determining the significance of indicators is important in such approaches. It can be done in one or two stages. In the first case, the significance is assessed immediately, in the second case, the importance ranks of the indicators are determined before the assessment. Today, most people are satisfied with the first method, i.e., determining significance without knowing the importance ranks. This makes sense when the number of indicators is small. Socio-economic phenomena are, by their nature, complex and multifaceted, so in practice they manifest in many aspects. Therefore, their condition can be adequately assessed only with a large number of indicators. The significance of the indicators of such systems is assessed by comparing the importance of paired indicators. However, in the presence of a large number of indicators, there are constantly recurring problems - excessive volumes of expert evaluations and, as a result, a decrease in the adequacy of the evaluation. Transitive analysis of index importance (TAII) is the proposed methodology that allows to significantly increase the number of evaluated indicators while reducing the volume of expert evaluations and increasing their adequacy. This can be achieved by integrating their transitivity as a property into the ranking procedure of determining the importance of indicators. In this way, the volume of expert evaluations can be reduced by 40%. The suitability of the proposed methodology has been verified using real problems.
Disseminating extra-role service behavior in the public sector: The effect of health-oriented leadership and work engagement
Authors: Kerse Gökhan , Özdemir Şefik , Soyalın Mesut
Published: January 2024

This study focused on health-oriented leadership (HoL), attempting to determine whether this new type of leadership affects extra-role service behavior either directly or indirectly (through work engagement). Data were collected from public employees working in the service sector in a province in Turkey through the convenience sampling method. The study hypotheses were tested with structural equation modeling (SEM) using the SmartPLS software. The analysis findings have revealed that the perception of health-oriented leadership positively affects extra-role service behavior. Moreover, this effect was present not only directly, but also indirectly (through work engagement). The findings have also confirmed that health-oriented leadership is important in increasing public employees' engagement and extra-role service behaviors. Therefore, it was determined that health-oriented leadership brings positive outcomes in the public sector.
South Korea’s economic revitalization strategy post COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Yoon Donghun
Published: January 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused serious problems in South Korea that led to an economic recession, stunted national growth, a huge gap between the real estate market and the asset market, and job instability in almost all sectors. Like most countries around the world, South Korea has aggressively implemented economic policies to overcome the debilitating effects of the pandemic, actively pursuing policy countermeasures that focused on what it called the Korean New Deal. To measure the effects of the Korean New Deal on the revitalization of the nation, this research paper used a dynamic regression model to analyze its impact on the economy. Our research used panel data on South Korea’s resulting economic growth rate and the supplementary budget the government provided to attain it. Our analysis showed that the supplementary budget created by the South Korean government did have an effect on the quarterly economic growth rate compared to that of the previous quarter. However, compared to the previous year’s economic growth rate, the government’s supplementary budget investment was unable to augment the yearly growth rate. It is our hope that these findings and the analysis of these outcomes will contribute to the formulation and implementation of a more efficient set of economic policies by the South Korean government for overcoming the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the nation’s economic life and well-being.
Identifying the envelope wages phenomenon based on LFS and SES data sets – evidence from Poland
Authors: Grabowski Wojciech , Korczak Karol
Published: January 2024

This paper deals with the problem of identifying envelope wages based on the Labour Force Survey (LFS) and the Structure of Earnings Survey (SES). The research samples have been adjusted so that the distribution of individuals in both databases is the same. The maximum likelihood method is used and the parameters of multilevel models that explain wages are estimated. Theoretical wages for selected workers groups are calculated. Based on differences between the theoretical wages of individuals from the LFS and SES databases, a measure associated with envelope wages is calculated. The novelty of this study lies in providing a new method for evaluating the phenomenon of envelope wages. The analysis indicates that various features of the employees and enterprises significantly affect the propensity to receive an envelope wage. This propensity is also strongly determined by affiliation to a NACE section. Regional differentiation of the propensity to receive envelope wages was also identified. This problem is urgent in light of the negative demographic tendencies in Poland and similar countries of the Central and Eastern Europe that lead to an intensified competition for employees. However, cost competition does not allow for significant increases of labour costs. Therefore, fiscal authorities in Poland and similar countries should rethink their taxation policies.
The relationship assessment between human resources and innovation performance in EU countries
Authors: Masárová Jana , Ivanová Eva
Published: January 2024

The scientific study aims to explore the impact of human capital quality on the final score of the Summary Innovation Index (SII) and to identify differences in the values of some indicators within the Human Resources (HR) dimension in EU countries. We use Pearson´s and Spearman´s correlation coefficients to verify the dependence between human capital and innovation performance. We use the comparison method to compare the differences in the values of SII and individual indicators in the HR dimension. When processing the task, we used statistical data within the year 2022, which we drew from the European Commission publication "European Innovation Scoreboard 2022". As a result of our assessment, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and the Netherlands perform best in the Human Resources dimension as well as in the SII. The worst performers are Romania, Bulgaria, followed by Latvia, Poland and Slovakia. The largest differences among EU countries in the HR dimension are in the “Population involved in lifelong learning” indicator. Hungary shows the most balanced values within the individual indicators of the HR dimension, while the Netherlands shows the most noticeable differences. We confirmed the hypothesis of statistical dependence between the HR dimension and the SII.
Expatriation and permanent emigration intention among youth in Azerbaijan
Authors: Aliyev Khatai , Abbasova Aysu , Alishada Royala , Jafarova Alsu
Published: January 2024

What are the major factors affecting Azerbaijani youth to boost their motivation for emigration? The research explores a complex interplay of possible factors that shape the temporary and permanent emigration intentions among Azerbaijani youth, using a survey of 1085 respondents aged 17 to 35 (47% males, 53% females). According to the study, youth’s emigration intention in Azerbaijan should be concerning, as more than half are willing to leave the country permanently. More and more young individuals dream of moving abroad since they attract to the allure of higher earnings, higher standards of living, and many other factors. Social and environmental factors, such as the quest for personal freedom, satisfaction from ecological conditions, marital status, family ties, and age factor are the strongest contributors to youth’s expatriate motivation. Besides, almost all life domains significantly influence the permanent emigration intentions of youth. To sum it up, this research sheds light on the considerations of Azerbaijani youth and provides insights into the factors that drive or hinder emigration. The study concludes that to prevent youth emigration, policymakers in Azerbaijan must address the root causes of emigration. Research findings offer a unique perspective for policymakers to design a migration policy to help retain young talent.
Dimensions of brand equity for the banking sector: A study in the elderly segment
Authors: López-Rodríguez Campo Elías , Sandoval-Escobar Marithza
Published: January 2024

The main objective of this research was to construct and validate an instrument to measure the value dimensions of banking brands in the elderly segment. For this purpose, a quantitative study was developed with a descriptive correlational design and participation of 403 Colombian seniors. An instrumental study also employed exploratory factor analysis to identify the underlying constructs and the most statistically robust item structure. The results show the existence of six dimensions: "loyalty and brand friendliness", "brand performance", "brand awareness", "brand association", "brand importance", and "perceived quality". All of these correspond to previous brand equity literature, except for the dimension "loyalty and brand friendliness", which emerges from the study as a single construct. Given the particularities of the elderly as a consumer, it is concluded that the banking sector should continue consolidating its brand value in this market segment. Since this sector has been showing a representative demographic growth at a global level, such goal is positioned as a fundamental objective for organisations that have a high market orientation.
Traditional commercial banking and systemic risk: Evidence from Hungary
Authors: Szüle Borbála
Published: January 2024

Systemic risk reduction in banking is a key component in maintaining financial stability. Even after extensive explorations, the role of nontraditional activites in systemic risk still offers several questions to study. The paper aims to contribute to the literature on the topic by empirically examining whether traditional and nontraditional banking activities differ in terms of systemic risk. To answer this question, traditional commercial banking is assumed to be represented by the loan-deposit interest margin income component. Hungarian banking sector data between 2003 and 2020 are analyzed with principal component analysis and multidimensional scaling. The primary measure in systemic risk quantification is the return covariance-based absorption ratio. Empirical findings suggest that, when compared to a more diverse range of banking activities, traditional commercial banking may be characterized by lower systemic risk. Although in these two cases the most influential components of systemic risk may be considered as similar, the other components exhibit significant differences.
Convergence in transport and ICT infrastructure: Evidence of EU member states
Authors: Mačiulytė-Šniukienė Alma , Dargenytė-Kacilevičienė Laura , Matuzevičiūtė Kristina
Published: January 2024

While countries' social and economic well-being depends on various factors, recent research emphasises the importance of transport and ICT infrastructure. To reduce the welfare differences among EU countries, the European Commission and governments have to ensure the convergence of this infrastructure as well. Previous studies have shown that convergence is taking place at the national level, however the situation at the regional level still needs to be determined. In light of this, the study examines transport and ICT infrastructure convergence in EU member states and NUTS 2 regions at different periods. The research methodology is based on the neoclassical approach of convergence, i.e., β-convergence model presented by Barro and Sala-i-Martin (1992). This approach is deemed most appropriate for determining whether the disparities in terms of infrastructure among EU members and regions are diminishing. Research findings present clear evidence of absolute β-convergence in infrastructure development across EU member states and NUTS 2 regions. Strong evidence of transport convergence is identified among EU member states and among NUTS 2 regions, however, it is observed only in one out of the three types of infrastructure. In contrast, the robust evidence of ICT infrastructure convergence is prominent across EU countries and NUTS 2 regions, showcasing substantial reductions in disparities.
Transformation of Islamic Religious Education Through The Use of E-Learning and Interactive Technology
Authors: Masdul Muhammad Rizal , Firmansyah Eka , Kuliawati Kuliawati , Suardi Wekke Ismail
Published: January 2024

Islamic Religious Education is experiencing a significant transformation in the digital era and industry 4.0. This article explores the impact of using E-Learning and interactive technology in improving the quality of Islamic Religious Education learning. Involving an innovative approach, this research discusses how digital technology can be used to enrich students' learning experiences, facilitate wider access to teaching materials, and stimulate active engagement in the understanding of religious concepts. By utilizing case studies and field research, the author highlights the implementation of best practices in technology-based curriculum development for Islamic Religious Education. Utilizing E-Learning not only includes delivering material, but also introducing interactive elements such as online discussion platforms, simulations, and multimedia resources that support collaborative learning. The results of this research illustrate increased student motivation, better understanding of concepts, and development of critical skills through the use of interactive technology. Additionally, this article describes the challenges that may be encountered in implementing this approach and provides recommendations for overcoming these barriers. This research provides an in-depth view of the potential transformation of Islamic Religious Education through the integration of E-Learning and interactive technology. Pedagogical implications and future research directions are also discussed to provide guidance for practitioners, policy makers, and researchers in the fields of religious education and educational technology.
Directions and Essential Experimental Findings of Statin Treatment in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Gavat Cristian-Catalin
Published: January 2024

The purpose of conducted study was to determine which of the different types of statins ensure a better control of biological markers in diabetic patients and which of the lipid molecules studied, could be a first choice of lipid-lowering therapy in people suffering from diabetes. The measurement of blood glucose levels depending on type of statin used, was another target of this research. Dyslipidemia was a major risk factor for cardiovascular complications in people with diabetes. According to ROC statistical analysis it was found that
Atorvastatin was the most effective statin in controlling dyslipidemia in diabetic patients, because has ensured optimum control of HDL, LDL - cholesterol, triglycerides and glycemic values, effect which was resulted from the particular chemical structure of Atorvastatin. Atorvastatin was discovered to be the best predictor in diabetes mellitus type 2 treatment, with a
sensitivity about
78% and
specificity to
45%., the most highest values compared to Rosuvastatin and Simvastatin. Area Under the Curve
(AUC = 0.610; AUC ˃ 0.600)
Evaluation of Characteristics and Turn-off dV/dt Controllability of 1.2 kV SiC Si Hybrid Power Switch
Authors: Sheikhan Alireza , Narayanan E. M. Sankara
Published: January 2024

Maintaining high efficiency and low power loss during different load conditions are key requirements for power electronic applications including electrical motor drives. Silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs offer fast switching with low losses. However, the cost of SiC MOSFETs is significantly higher compared to silicon (Si) trench IGBTs and will remain so for a considerable future. Also, at high currents, the on-state resistance of SiC MOSFETs becomes higher compared to the slope resistance of Si trench IGBTs. Furthermore, the sharp switching edges of SiC MOSFETs and their high dV/dt can cause degradation of motor winding or failure, detrimental bearing current and electromagnetic interference (EMI). This paper reports the device characteristics, working principle, and dV/dt controllability during turn-off of a 1200V hybrid power switch (HPS) based on parallel configuration of Si IGBT and SiC MOSFET technologies. The results, which are based on the latest IGBT and SiC technologies, show a significant reduction in switching as well as conduction losses and show that such a combination can combine the advantages of both of these technologies while being cost effective. It is demonstrated that the hybrid power switch can achieve switching losses as low as a SiC MOSFET with intelligent control of the device.
Adapted temperature calibration for Schottky p-GaN power HEMTs
Authors: Goller Maximilian , Franke Jörg , Fischer Max , Mouhoubi Samir , Curatola Gilberto , Lutz Josef , Basler Thomas
Published: January 2024

The determination of the junction temperature in power semiconductor devices is an important but challenging task. For GaN HEMTs, no universal temperature sensitive electrical parameter (TSEP) is available. In this study, different GaN HEMTs with Schottky p-GaN gate were subjected to stress by positive gate bias and temperature. The gate leakage current is one parameter to determine the junction temperature of Schottky p-GaN gate devices. An adapted calibration routine is applied to stabilize the desired TSEP of different GaN HEMTs. The gate current method can be applied to GaN Systems devices. Furthermore, the investigations indicate stability of the on-state resistance of Innoscience devices and threshold voltage of EPC devices, respectively.
Power Diode Structures Realized on (113) oriented Boron Doped Diamond
Authors: Hazdra Pavel , Laposa Alexandr , Šobáň Zbyněk , Povolný Vojtěch , Voves Jan , Lambert Nicolas , Taylor Andrew , Mortet Vincent
Published: January 2024

Molybdenum, ruthenium, and platinum contacts covered by the gold capping layer were used for preparation of pseudo-vertical Schottky barrier diodes on (113) oriented homoepitaxial boron-doped diamond. After metal deposition, diodes were stabilized by annealing for 20 minutes at 300 ˚C and their IV characteristics were measured at temperatures from 30 to 180 °C. Results show that all three metals can be used to realize Schottky diodes with sufficient forward and blocking capability. Moreover, molybdenum and ruthenium can also be used to create a stable ohmic contact on heavily doped contact p ++ layer. Molybdenum provides optimum properties: a sufficient Schottky barrier height providing low leakage at a level of 10-8 A/cm2 and an acceptable forward voltage drop of 3.80V@JF=1kA/cm2 (measured at 150 °C), the rectifying ratio then reaches 1011 over the entire temperature range under study. Ruthenium contacts exhibit lower Schottky barrier, their forward voltage drop is thus lower (2.85V@JF=1kA/cm2@150 °C), but leakage increases rapidly with temperature. Platinum provides the highest Schottky barrier and guarantees the lowest level of the leakage (<10-8 A/cm2). However, the diodes have poorer forward characteristics: their ideality factor and forward voltage is high (7.35V@JF=1kA/cm2@150 °C). Maximum realizable diode area and achievable breakdown field (0.8MV/cm) then depend on the number of crystal defects (namely threading dislocations) appearing in the diode low-doped drift region.
High-Voltage Thyristors with Enhanced Dynamic Robustness
Authors: Pína Libor , Hájek Jiří , Boháček Jan , Vobecký Jan
Published: January 2024

Two cathode design concepts of phase control thyristor (PCT) are compared for 6.5 kV class in the housing with 47mm pole piece (5STP 08F6500). For the same technology curve VT-Qrr, the achievement of different combination of dynamic parameters like commutation turn-off time tq, dV/dt and di/dt capability are discussed. This work expands the know-how on the cathode emitter engineering previously presented for 1.8, 2.8 and 8.5 kV voltage classes.
Compact GaN-based Bidirectional Polarization Super Junction HFETs with Schottky Gate on Sapphire
Authors: Tan Xiao , Narayanan Ekkanath Madathil Sankara
Published: January 2024

Performance evaluation of compact GaN-Based Bidirectional Polarization Super-Junction Heterojunction Field Effect Transistors with Schottky Gate (Bi PSJ SG HFET) fabricated on the sapphire substrate is presented in this paper. The on-state performance under various bias conditions is simulated and measured, and the operating mechanisms are analysed. Measured electric characteristics of fabricated Bi PSJ SG HFETs show symmetrical characteristics in the first and third quadrants, successfully realizing the bidirectionality. The logic function of the on-state performance of Bi PSJ HFETs is summarized. Numerical simulations show that a device can withstand high blocking voltages with a “box” like electric field in the common drift region. The measured average area-specific on-state resistance Ron. A of a Bi PSJ SG HFET is 64 mΩ.cm2 in both directions at room temperature for a device with a 40µm length of PSJ. In addition, temperature dependence on the area-specific on-state resistance of Bi PSJ SG HFETs with 40μm is also measured. Using analytical models of on-state resistance, the Ron. A is calculated and fit well with measured results with different PSJ length.
High power thyristor with enhanced case non-rupture current capability
Authors: Tilšer Michal , Ptáková Zuzana , Degiampietro Nino , Radvan Ladislav
Published: January 2024

A new packaging technology for a phase-control thyristor providing enhanced case non-rupture current capability is presented. The new housing with 100 mm pole piece diameter is developed for thyristors and rectifier diodes rated at 6.5 kV to withstand currents applied in reverse direction up to 95 kA.
A Preliminary Study on Evaluation of Time-Dependent Radionuclide Removal Performance Using Artificial Intelligence for Biological Adsorbents
Authors: Lee Janghee , Jang Seungsoo , Lee Min-Jae , Cho Woo-Sung , Kim Joo Yeon , Han Sangsoo , Shin Sung Gyun , Lee Sun Young , Jang Dae Hyuk , Yun Miyong , Kim Song Hyun
Published: January 2024

Background: Recently, biological adsorbents have been developed for removing radionuclides from radioactive liquid waste due to their high selectivity, eco-friendliness, and renewability. However, since they can be damaged by radiation in radioactive waste, a method for estimating the bio-adsorbent performance as a time should consider the radiation damages in terms of their renewability. This paper aims to develop a simulation method that applies a deep learning technique to rapidly and accurately estimate the adsorption performance of bio-adsorbents when inserted into liquid radioactive waste.Materials and Methods: A model that describes various interactions between a bio-adsorbent and liquid has been constructed using numerical methods to estimate the adsorption capacity of the bio-adsorbent. To generate datasets for machine learning, Monte Carlo N-Particle (MCNP) simulations were conducted while considering radioactive concentrations in the adsorbent column.Results and Discussion: Compared with the result of the conventional method, the proposed method indicates that the accuracy is in good agreement, within 0.99% and 0.06% for the R2 score and mean absolute percentage error, respectively. Furthermore, the estimation speed is improved by over 30 times.Conclusion: Note that an artificial neural network can rapidly and accurately estimate the survival rate of a bio-adsorbent from radiation ionization compared with the MCNP simulation and can determine if the bio-adsorbents are reusable.
Determination of Exposure during Handling of 125I Seed Using Thermoluminescent Dosimeter and Monte Carlo Method Based on Computational Phantom
Authors: Poorbaygi Hosein , Salimi Seyed Mostafa , Torkzadeh Falamarz , Hamidi Saeid , Sheibani Shahab
Published: January 2024

Background: The thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) and Monte Carlo (MC) dosimetry are carried out to determine the occupational dose for personnel in the handling of 125I seed sources.Materials and Methods: TLDs were placed in different layers of the Alderson-Rando phantom in the thyroid, lung and also eyes and skin surface. An 125I seed source was prepared and its activity was measured using a dose calibrator and was placed at two distances of 20 and 50 cm from the Alderson-Rando phantom. In addition, the Monte Carlo N-Particle Extended (MCNPX 2.6.0) code and a computational phantom with a lattice-based geometry were used for organ dose calculations.Results and Discussion: The comparison of TLD and MC results in the thyroid and lung is consistent. Although the relative difference of MC dosimetry to TLD for the eyes was between 4% and 13% and for the skin between 19% and 23%, because of the existence of a higher uncertainty regarding TLD positioning in the eye and skin, these inaccuracies can also be acceptable. The isodose distribution was calculated in the cross-section of the head phantom when the 125I seed was at two distances of 20 and 50 cm and it showed that the greatest dose reduction was observed for the eyes, skin, thyroid, and lungs, respectively. The results of MC dosimetry indicated that for near the head positions (distance of 20 cm) the absorbed dose rates for the eye lens, eye and skin were 78.1±2.3, 59.0±1.8, and 10.7±0.7 µGy/mCi/hr, respectively. Furthermore, we found that a 30 cm displacement for the 125I seed reduced the eye and skin doses by at least 3- and 2-fold, respectively.Conclusion: Using a computational phantom to monitor the dose to the sensitive organs (eye and skin) for personnel involved in the handling of 125I seed sources can be an accurate and inexpensive method.
Monte Carlo Calculation for Production Cross-Sections of Projectile’s Isotopes from Therapeutic Carbon and Helium Ion Beams in Different Materials
Authors: Nizam Quazi Muhammad Rashed , Ahmed Asif , Ahmed Iftekhar
Published: January 2024

Background: Isotopes of the projectile may be produced along the beam path during the irradiation of a target by a heavy ion due to inelastic interactions with the media. This study analyzed the production cross-section of carbon (C) and Helium (He) projectile’s isotopes resulting from the interactions of these beams with different materials along the beam path.Materials and Methods: In this study, we transport C and He ion beams through different materials. This transportation was made by the Monte Carlo simulation. Particle and Heavy Ion Transport code System (PHITS) has been used for this calculation.Results and Discussion: It has been found that 10C, 11C, and 13C from the 12C ion beam and 3He from the 4He ion beam are significant projectile’s isotopes that have higher flux than other isotopes of these projectiles. The 4He ion beam has a higher projectile’s isotope production cross-section along the beam path, which adds more impurities to the beam than the 12C ion beam. These projectile’s isotopes from both the 12C and 4He ion beams have higher production cross-sections in hydrogenous materials like water or polyethylene.Conclusion: It is important to distinguish these projectile’s isotopes from the primary beam particles to obtain a precise and accurate cross-section result by minimizing the error during measurement with a nuclear track detector. This study will show the trend of the production probability of projectile’s isotopes for these ion beams.
Classroom Teachers' Cognitive Fictions on the Concept of Value
Authors: ERGÜN Asuman , KOÇ Sevgi
Published: January 2024

This study investigated classroom teachers’ cognitive fictions on the concept of value. The sample consisted of 40 primary school classroom teachers using purposive sampling. The study adopted a qualitative phenomenological research design. Data were collected using a Repertory Grid Interview Questionnaire. The data were analyzed using content analysis. Four hundred cognitive fictions were developed and categorized into ten fundamental values theorized by Schwartz. The cognitive fictions were addressed based on participants’ gender and training in values education. As a result classroom teachers considered the value groups ‘‘achievement’’, ‘‘conformity’’, ‘‘self-direction’’ the most important.
Green synthesis of AgNPs using plant extract and investigation of its anti-human colorectal cancer application
Authors: Zhai Yuze , Wang Benjun , Han Weiwei , Yu Bianfang , Ci Jichen , An Fan
Published: January 2024

Recently, the plant extracts used to synthesize nanoparticles (NPs) have been considered an excellent alternative to physical and chemical ways. The applications of NPs in the fields of agriculture, industry, and medicine are so many and diverse that they cannot be counted. In recent years, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have attracted the consideration of several scientists because of their special characteristics and many applications in various fields, including optoelectronic catalysts, biological markers, and pharmaceutical and medical applications. In the current experiment, the cytotoxic potential of the properties of AgNPs green formulation using green tea on human colorectal cancer cells were determined. The NPs characterization was done by field emission-scanning electron microscopes, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis. The average diameter of the particles was about 35 nm. The presence of (111), (200), (220), and (311) peaks at the positions of 38°, 44°, 63°, and 77° indicate the presence of AgNPs, which confirms the correct synthesis of AgNPs. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to measure anti-colorectal carcinoma (on HCT-8, HT-29, MDST8, HCA-7 Colony 29, HCT 116, and Ramos.2G6.4C10 cells) properties of AgNPs. The findings indicate that in 3 days, the cancer cell survival percentage in various dilations reduced as much as the NPs concentration increased. The best anticancer effect was reported at 1,000 μg/mL dilation. The IC50 was 141, 46, 149, 125, 125, and 44 µg/mL against HCT-8, HT-29, MDST8, HCA-7 Colony 29, HCT 116, and Ramos.2G6.4C10 colorectal cancer cells, respectively. The results indicated that these NPs could inhibit colorectal cancer cells more strongly than normal cells. After doing the clinical trial studies, the recent AgNPs are a suitable option for colorectal cancer treatment.
Predicting part quality early during an injection molding cycle
Authors: Bogedale Lucas , Doerfel Stephan , Schrodt Alexander , Heim Hans-Peter
Published: January 2024

Data-based process monitoring in injection molding plays an important role in compensating disturbances in the process and the associated impairment of part quality. Selecting appropriate features for a successful online quality prediction based on machine learning methods is crucial. Time series such as the injection pressure and injection flow curve are particularly suitable for this purpose. Predicting quality as early as possible during a cycle has many advantages. In this paper it is shown how the recording length of the time series affects the prediction performance when using machine learning algorithms. For this purpose, two successful molding quality prediction algorithms (k Nearest Neighbors and Ridge Regression) are trained with time series of different lengths on extensive data sets. Their prediction performances for part weight and a geometric dimension are evaluated. The evaluations show that recording time series until the end of a cycle is not necessary to obtain good prediction results. These findings indicate that early reliable quality prediction is possible within a cycle, which speeds up prediction, allows timely part handling at the end of the cycle and provides the basis for automated corrective interventions within the same cycle.
Equity, diversity, and inclusion in sports analytics
Authors: Fernandes Craig , Vescovi Jason D. , Norman Richard , Bradish Cheri L. , Taback Nathan , Chan Timothy C. Y.
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a landmark study of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in the field of sports analytics. We developed a survey that examined personal and job-related demographics, as well as individual perceptions and experiences about EDI in the workplace. We sent the survey to individuals in the five major North American professional leagues, representatives from the Olympic and Paralympic Committees in Canada and the U.S., the NCAA Division I programs, companies in sports tech/analytics, and university research groups. Our findings indicate the presence of a clear dominant group in sports analytics identifying as: young (72.0 %), White (69.5 %), heterosexual (89.7 %) and male (82.0 %). Within professional sports, males in management positions earned roughly $30,000 (27 %) more on average compared to females. A smaller but equally alarming pay gap of $17,000 (14 %) was found between White and racialized management personnel. Of concern, females were nearly five times as likely to experience discrimination and twice as likely to have considered leaving their job due to isolation or feeling unwelcome. While they had similar levels of agreement regarding fair processes for rewards and compensation, females “strongly agreed” less often than males regarding equitable support, equitable workload, having a voice, and being taken seriously. Over one third (36.3 %) of females indicated that they “strongly agreed” that they must work harder than others to be valued equally, compared to 9.8 % of males. We conclude the paper with concrete recommendations that could be considered to create a more equitable, diverse and inclusive environment for individuals working within the sports analytics sector.