Full Value Research Articles

A Mystery of the Inconsistency Between Microwave Polarimetric Observations and Radiative Transfer Simulations

AbstractA factor of 2 difference is found between microwave brightness temperature (TB) observations and simulations from vector radiative transfer models. A physical explanation of this difference is related to the calibration process. In principle, for the calibration of polarimetric instruments of a total power radiometer, the radiation should be only half of the values derived from Planck function but in the actual calibration process, a full value is used. When this full value is converted to a TB it is approximately, but not exactly, twice the TB simulated by a vector radiative transfer model. This inconsistency is verified by simulations of three conically scanning microwave imagers (WindSat, AMSR2 and MWRI) and one cross‐track scanning microwave sounder (AMSU‐A). This difference cannot be compensated simply by dividing a factor of 2 to the processed TBs, especially at high frequencies or at low physical temperatures due to the nonlinear property of Planck function.

The 3D Euler equations with inflow, outflow and vorticity boundary conditions

The 3D incompressible Euler equations in a bounded domain are most often supplemented with impermeable boundary conditions, which constrain the fluid to neither enter nor leave the domain. We establish well-posedness with inflow, outflow of velocity when either the full value of the velocity is specified on inflow, or only the normal component is specified along with the vorticity (and an additional constraint). We derive compatibility conditions to obtain regularity in a Hölder space with prescribed arbitrary index, and allow multiply connected domains. Our results apply as well to impermeable boundaries, establishing higher regularity of solutions in Hölder spaces.

The dynamic adjusted system of sea use fees: an empirical research on the sea use management in Zhejiang province

To prevent excessive exploitation of sea resources by developers, countries around the world have established systems for managing sea use. The system of sea use fees in China is continually improving, but it cannot reflect the full value of marine natural resources. Therefore, an optimization mechanism for dynamic adjustment which considered the value of marine natural resources and the adjustment coefficient of sea area fees was constructed in the study. This study explored the difference between marine resources zoning and the dynamic adjustment standard of sea use fees collection and took Zhejiang province as an example. The results showed that the comprehensive scores of coastal marine resources were generally higher than those of the open sea in Zhejiang province. Furthermore, the comprehensive scores of important ecological areas such as bays and islands were higher than those of other marine areas, and the comprehensive score of Ningbo sea area was significantly higher than those of other sea areas. On the basis, there are six classes of the adjustment range of the sea use fees standard were divided in Zhejiang province in the study. The overall increase of fee was 3.9% to 8.0%. The results of study can assist decision-making by evaluating the value of marine resources and the adjustment of sea area usage royalties, which will help to improve the efficiency of sea area management.

Optimizing Control of a Hybrid Quantum System of Nitrogen-Vacancy Centers and Superconducting Transmon Qubits

Abstract The control of hybrid quantum systems via the application of external fields is rapidly evolving field of research for the development of quantum applications and technologies. We model and optimize the dynamics of a hybrid quantum system consists of two non-local ensembles of nitrogen-vacancy centers and a superconducting transmon qubit mediated by two transmission line resonators. We apply a set of optimized time-dependent external driving field to enhance the system performance to function as a high fidelity state-to-state transfer. The Hamiltonian of the externally driven transmission line resonators is modelled by considering the non-linear transmons. The numerical simulation of the system is done using the optimized parameters of the external fields. By applying the optimized pulses, we have increased the fidelity of the state transfer from 0.7 to 1.0 within 100 ns. By varying the full wave half maxima value (FWHM) of the Gaussian pulse, it result in decreasing the amplitude of the fast oscillating states of the transmon and nitrogen-vacancy ensembles. These optimized external pulses also created a strong coupling between the components of under-consideration physical quantum system, which will eventually increase the fidelity of the system in a relatively faster time.

Ecological-economic assessment of environmental quality as a natural basis for territorial sustainable development: conceptual-categorical analysis

In the context of growing global problems of resource using and environmental protection the development of a sustainable environmental-economic development strategy, including at the territorial level is becoming increasingly actual. The purpose of the research is conceptual-categorical analysis of ecological-economic assessment of environmental quality as a natural basis for territorial systems of different levels sustainable development, elaboration and justification of the conceptual assessment model and methods of its implementation. Methodological issues focus on how to comprehensively assess the environmental quality of the territory and how this assessment can be taken into account in the formation of a strategy for environmentally sustainable development of spatial-economic systems. The scientific novelty of the research results lies in the consolidation of the theories of territorial development sustainability and environmental quality environmental-economic assessment in the conceptual model, as well as in the substantiation of tools for quantitative measurement of environmental quality, increasing the accuracy and reliability of the obtained environmental-economic assessments. The significance of the research results lies in providing decision-makers with comprehensive information on the long-term consequences of environmental-economic decisions and facilitating the transition to environmentally sustainable economic development of territories. This information can be obtained as a result of systematic application of multi-dimensional environmental-economic assessment tools that take into account not only the full socio-economic value of natural environmental resources, but also the spatial characteristics of territories.

Resource Valuation of Kalilingseng-Cave Manganese Mining Site as a Tourist Destination Using the Travel Cost Method

General Background: Kalilingseng Cave, a former Dutch-era manganese mine in Kulon Progo, has untapped potential for educational and cultural tourism. Specific Background: Despite its historical and aesthetic value, the cave remains underdeveloped as a tourist site, lacking comprehensive economic valuation. Knowledge Gap: Prior research has not addressed the cave's economic potential as a tourism destination, leaving a gap in understanding its full value. Aims: This study aims to evaluate the tourism potential of Kalilingseng Cave using SWOT analysis and estimate its economic value through the Travel Cost Method (TCM). Results: The SWOT analysis highlights the cave’s accessibility and proximity to public facilities. TCM results show an average WTP of IDR 67,000.00, with annual economic benefits of IDR 21,775,000.00. Novelty: This research uniquely integrates SWOT and TCM to assess the tourism potential of an abandoned mining site. Implications: Proper development could make Kalilingseng Cave a sustainable tourist destination, benefiting the local economy and supporting geotourism education. Highlights: Tourism Potential: Kalilingseng Cave's historical and aesthetic value positions it as an educational and geotourism destination. Economic Valuation: The Travel Cost Method reveals an annual benefit of IDR 21,775,000.00 from visitors, indicating potential for community development. SWOT Insights: The SWOT analysis highlights strengths like accessibility and opportunities for geotourism while addressing weaknesses such as poor air circulation and lack of official management. Keywords: Ex-Manganense Mining, Kalilingseng, SWOT, Travel Cost Method

An Application of an Initial Full Value of Vaccine Assessment Methodology to Measles-Rubella MAPs for Use in Low- and Middle-Income Countries.

Measles and rubella micro-array patches (MR-MAPs) are a promising innovation to address limitations of the current needle and syringe (N&S) presentation due to their single-dose presentation, ease of use, and improved thermostability. To direct and accelerate further research and interventions, an initial full value vaccine assessment (iFVVA) was initiated prior to MR-MAPs entering phase I trials to quantify their value and identify key data gaps and challenges. The iFVVA utilized a mixed-methods approach with rapid assessment of literature, stakeholder interviews and surveys, and quantitative data analyses to (i) assess global need for improved MR vaccines and how MR-MAPs could address MR problem statements; (ii) estimate costs and benefits of MR-MAPs; (iii) identify the best pathway from development to delivery; and (iv) identify outstanding areas of need where stakeholder intervention can be helpful. These analyses found that if MR-MAPs are broadly deployed, they can potentially reach an additional 80 million children compared to the N&S presentation between 2030-2040. MR-MAPs can avert up to 37 million measles cases, 400,000 measles deaths, and 26 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). MR-MAPs with the most optimal product characteristics of low price, controlled temperature chain (CTC) properties, and small cold chain volumes were shown to be cost saving for routine immunization (RI) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) compared to N&S. Uncertainties about price and future vaccine coverage impact the potential cost-effectiveness of introducing MR-MAPs in LMICs, indicating that it could be cost-effective in 16-81% of LMICs. Furthermore, this iFVVA highlighted the importance of upfront donor investment in manufacturing set-up and clinical studies and the critical influence of an appropriate price to ensure country and manufacturer financial sustainability. To ensure that MR-MAPs achieve the greatest public health benefit, MAP developers, vaccine manufacturers, donors, financiers, and policy- and decision-makers will need close collaboration and open communications.

Proposal for a General Outcome-Based Value Attribution Framework for Combination Therapies

ObjectivesValuing and pricing the components of combination therapies can be difficult because of competition law issues, difficulty implementing different prices for the same product in alternative uses, and attributing value to each component of the combination. We propose a value attribution solution that allows all combination components to be priced according to their relative value in the combination. MethodsWe developed a value attribution solution that is universal, symmetrical, and neutral to each combination constituent, regardless of whether it is the backbone or the add-on, and complete, meaning that it will always attribute the full value of the combination between the component parts. Moreover, it can be applied to any number of components in the combination (eg, triplets or quadruplets). We compared this solution with 2 other existing approaches. ResultsThe results of the proposed value attribution solution sit between those of the 2 other value attribution approaches as it combines elements of each. As the degree of additivity moves further away from one in either direction, then our general approach ratios also move, reflecting the impact of the incremental value. ConclusionsThe proposed value attribution solution for combination therapies differs from 2 existing approaches by being universally applicable and allowing for symmetry when neutral to the constituent components of the combination. To optimally contribute to policy debate and practice, various requirements for its implementation need to be well understood, including how to overcome (1) partial information, (2) whether its assumptions can be relaxed, and (3) implementation issues.

A Structured Narrative Literature Review of the Broader Value of Adult Immunisation Programmes.

Vaccine-preventable diseases continue to generate a substantial burden on health, healthcare systems, and societies, which is projected to increase with population ageing. There is a need to better understand the full value of adult immunisation programmes corresponding to the broader value of vaccine frameworks that are recommended for evidence-based decision-making. This review aims to summarise and map evidence for the value of selected adult immunisation programmes (seasonal influenza, pneumococcal disease, RSV, and HZ) in ten diverse countries. We conducted a structured literature review of evidence published from 2017 to 2023. An existing framework was used to structure the assessment, developing matrices demonstrating the elements of value evidenced for each vaccine and country of focus. Our analysis showed substantial evidence base on the value of adult immunisation programmes, but the availability of evidence varied by value element and by vaccine. The impact on the quality of life of the vaccinated individual was the most evidenced value element. Mortality benefits for vaccinated individuals and cost-offsets to healthcare systems were also well-evidenced. The availability of evidence for 'broader' societal value elements (such as transmission value, carer productivity and impact on social equity, and antimicrobial resistance prevention) varied. No evidence was identified relating to the broader value elements of macroeconomic effects, value to other interventions, or effects on the quality of life of caregivers. Robust evidence exists to show that adult immunisation programmes generate substantial value for population health and health systems, yet some elements of broader value remain underrepresented in the academic literature. Without such evidence, the full value of immunisation programmes is underestimated, risking suboptimal policy decisions.

Reparation as a condition of the non-prosecution agreement in crimes against the tax system

This article problematizes the reparation of damage as a condition of the non-prosecution agreement (NPA) in crimes against Brazilian tax system. The applicability of this condition is addressed in crimes where the full reparation of the damage (payment of the tax) already has the effect of extinguishing criminal liability. This research is intended to answer the following problems: (i) Is the NPA applicable in tax crimes? (ii) Must the reparation of the damage, as a condition of the NPA, cover the full value of the tax, including interests and fines? (iii) Is the reparation of the damage always necessary to sign a NPA? The expectation of advantage to the accused, provided by the agreement as a negotiated justice instrument, is considered as a condition of its own meaning and effectiveness. On the other hand, the expectation of protection of the legal interest is considered in light of the sufficiency of the agreement as an instrument of prevention and repression of tax crimes. Possible ways of reconciling these expectations are delimited as hypotheses, through solutions such as a restricted understanding of the reparation of damage and the viability of partial reparation. The research is qualitative, exploratory, and propositional, based on the analysis of specialized legislation and literature.

Combination of Variable Loads in Structural Design

This study delves into the intricacies of variable load combination factors (ψ) within structural codes under fundamental design scenarios, with Eurocodes serving as the primary reference. Currently, variable loads are combined by adding one load, the leading load with its full value, and the other load, the accompanying load, with a reduced value multiplied by a combination factor ψ. This approach employs an independent load combination methodology, utilizing hypothetical reference materials. In contrast, this paper advocates for a shift towards dependent load combination, anchored in the use of actual reference materials. Specifically, it is proposed that imposed loads be combined without the combination factor, i.e., ψ = 1. Given that combination factors are in approximate unity or pertain to infrequent load cases, this research recommends the elimination of ψ from codes altogether. This recommendation stems from the recognition that the current combination factor calculation excels in cases with approximately equal loads with a significant reliability gain, while more frequent unequal loads introduce a minor reliability gain and harmful unsafe errors. Despite the overall minor safety advantage of about 2–3% being negligible considering unavoidable safe errors of about 7% in codes, this simplification significantly reduces code complexity, enhances user-friendliness, and substantially decreases the workload associated with design processes.

Selecting Resilient Strategies for Cost Optimization in Prefabricated Building Supply Chains Based on the Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-Ⅱ: Facing Diverse Disruption Scenarios

As a new sustainable building production mode, prefabricated building supply chains can realize energy saving, environmental protection and full cycle value maximization of building products. Prefabricated building supply chains often experience disruptions due to supply instability, transportation delay and force majeure, resulting in project delays and cost escalations and posing challenges to the sustainable development objectives of enterprises. Therefore, it is important and essential to study the strategy of enhancing the resiliency of prefabricated building supply chains, which has not been comprehensively explored in previous papers. This paper constructs decision-making models for supply chain cost resilience strategies under varying scenarios of supply disruptions, incorporating both redundant inventory and back-up supplier strategy. It considers the total cost and resilience of the supply chain as dual objective functions. Parameter-tuned non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm-П (NSGA-П) algorithms were used innovatively to solve the project case, and the impacts of the redundant inventory coefficient and back-up supplier supply price coefficient on the model result were analyzed. The results indicate that the supply chain with resilience construction has a superior capability to cope with disruption. The results show that when there is a mild supply disruption, the general contractor uses the capacity within the supply chain and chooses a redundant inventory strategy to restore resilience. In the event of moderate disruption, both the easy inventory strategy and back-up supplier strategy are selected to maintain supply chain stability. In the event of a severe disruption, only the back-up supplier strategy is selected to cover the losses and maintain the project schedule. In addition, the choice of resilience strategy is impacted by the inventory levels and component prices of back-up suppliers. It further verifies the effectiveness of the model and the impacts of uncertain parameters in the model on the results. This study contributes to enhancing the resilience management of the prefabricated building supply chain by the general contractor, thereby elevating the overall efficiency and competitiveness of the supply chain and furthering the sustainable development of prefabricated buildings.

Vaccine value profile for invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella disease

Invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella (iNTS) disease is an under-recognized high-burden disease causing major health and socioeconomic issues in sub-Saharan Africa (sSA), predominantly among immune-naïve infants and young children, including those with recognized comorbidities such as HIV infection. iNTS disease is primarily caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium sequence type (ST) 313 and ‘African-restricted clades’ of Salmonella Enteritidis ST11 that have emerged across the African continent as a series of epidemics associated with acquisition of new antimicrobial resistance. Due to genotypes with a high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance and scarcity of therapeutic options, these NTS serovars are designated by the World Health Organization as a priority pathogen for research and development of interventions, including vaccines, to address and reduce NTS associated bacteremia and meningitis in sSA. Novel and traditional vaccine technologies are being applied to develop vaccines against iNTS disease, and the results of the first clinical trials in the infant target population should become available in the near future.The “Vaccine Value Profile” (VVP) addresses information related predominantly to invasive disease caused by Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Typhimurium prevalent in sSA. Information is included on stand-alone iNTS disease candidate vaccines and candidate vaccines targeting iNTS disease combined with another invasive serotype, Salmonella Typhi, that is also common across sSA. Out of scope for the first version of this VVP is a wider discussion on either diarrheagenic NTS disease (dNTS) also associated with Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Typhimurium or the development of a multivalent Salmonella vaccines targeting key serovars for use globally.This VVP for vaccines to prevent iNTS disease is intended to provide a high-level, holistic assessment of the information and data that are currently available to inform the potential public health, economic, and societal value of pipeline vaccines and vaccine-like products. Future versions of this VVP will be updated to reflect ongoing activities such as vaccine development strategies and a “Full Vaccine Value Assessment” that will inform the value proposition of an iNTS disease vaccine. This VVP was developed by a working group of subject matter experts from academia, non-profit organizations, public private partnerships, and multi-lateral organizations, and in collaboration with stakeholders from the World Health Organization African Region. All contributors have extensive expertise on various elements of the iNTS disease VVP and collectively aimed to identify current research and knowledge gaps. The VVP was developed using only existing and publicly available information.

Merit beyond metrics: Redefining the value of higher education

In this provocative opinion piece, I challenge entrenched norms and encourage re-evaluating higher education’s true purpose and impact in today’s complex, volatile, and uncertain world. I argue for a paradigm shift to consider alternative ways to define the value of higher education beyond existing metrics. I propose (i) abandoning degree classifications, (ii) acknowledging that earnings alone fail to capture the full value of a degree, and (iii) ditching league table rankings to boost collaboration. By reconceptualising the value of higher education, we can foster a more inclusive environment and promote a sustainable career ecosystem to benefit all actors.

OPTIMIZING THE PRODUCTION OF LAYERED SYSTEMS INCORPORATING MFC TRANSDUCERS AND MODELING BOLT JOINT LOOSENING DETECTION WITH THEIR APPLICATION

This article offers a concise overview of cutting-edge techniques for monitoring bolt joint looseness and optimizing Macro Fiber Composite (MFC) based structure manufacturing for structural health monitoring emphasizing MFC-host structure attachment methods, optimal MFC placement, and the impact of adhesive layers between MFC and the host structure. The study also employs Ansys software to conduct Multiphysics modelling and characterization of bolt joint conditions using MFC piezoelectric transducers. Emphasizing joint looseness under varying pretension loads, the results demonstrate that increasing preload, up to the full tightening torque value (14.5 Nm), increases the natural frequency, indicating enhanced joint stiffness. Conversely, looser connections result in lower natural frequencies, signifying decreased joint stiffness. The article focuses on assessing the effectiveness of Macro-Fiber Composite (MFC) for monitoring the health of bolt joints, providing a simple and efficient method for modelling the structural response of MFC-integrated bolt joints, facilitating convenient and rapid engineering analysis and testing.

Organizing for value creation in blockchain information systems

Many blockchain consortia have been established to build blockchain information systems. While the developed blockchain information systems were promising, few have reached market entry. Indeed, blockchain consortia often lost development focus due to high system complexity and a lack of understanding of how to create a system that will serve the needs and bring value to all stakeholders. Thus, stakeholders struggled to leverage blockchain information systems' full value. Prior studies demonstrated that blockchain systems pose not only technical but also organizational challenges. Analysing six blockchain consortia, we identify their value mechanisms, organizational problems, and organizational solutions that successful blockchain consortia experience while organizing themselves for value. As a result, we propose a new organizational form, i.e., a layered organization, for blockchain consortia to achieve better value creation.

EE57 Missed Opportunities? Gaps in Capturing the Full Value of Vaccination Across Health Economic Studies of COVID-19 Vaccination

EE57 Missed Opportunities? Gaps in Capturing the Full Value of Vaccination Across Health Economic Studies of COVID-19 Vaccination

Apples inside orange peels: Exploring the use of functional equivalents for comparing curriculum processes across contexts.

Comparative education research is complicated by the difficulty of identifying comparable units across contexts. This paper considers the advantages and limitations of a functional equivalence approach to comparative education. The functional equivalence approach allows us to meaningfully compare the operations that serve each function in the full curriculum value chain of design, application, and updating. We use a theory-based list of common processes in each phase to develop a survey for experts from nine countries, then code their responses to derive ten key common functions. The functional equivalence approach allows us to aggregate some operations that serve the same functions, so our set of functional equivalents is slightly shorter than the theory-based list of processes. In comparing across contexts, we find easily identifiable functional equivalents, functional equivalents that manifest through very different operations, functional equivalents carried out by a wide variety of actors and institutions, similar operations that are not functionally equivalent, and functional equivalents that are not consistently present in all contexts. The functional equivalence approach helps identify comparable operations despite contextual diversity.

Treatment Preferences for Acute Allergic Reactions: A Discrete Choice Experiment

Background: Timely treatment of acute allergic reactions (AARs) is important to minimize reaction severity. Corticosteroid tablets dissolved in water are commonly used in mainstay treatment. A new oral film that dissolves on the tongue provides a faster and less cumbersome alternative to tablets for corticosteroid administration during AARs. This study evaluated patients’ preferences for attributes related to administration mode of corticosteroids in AARs. Methods: A web-based survey was sent to a sample from the adult Swedish population (≥18 years) with experience of corticosteroid treatment for AAR. We assessed the willingness to pay (WTP) for attributes related to corticosteroid treatment by applying a discrete choice experiment (DCE) approach. DCE attributes were administration mode, time to symptom relief, and price. The WTP for each attribute was derived using the attribute’s coefficient in a logistic regression analysis. We specified a forced choice (FC) and an unforced choice (UC) model. In the FC model, the respondents chose between 2 hypothetical treatments and in the UC model, between any of 2 hypothetical treatments and their current treatment. Results: The final study population included 348 subjects, of which 80% were women. All the evaluated DCE attributes were significant predictors for the treatment choice (p<.001). In the FC model, the incremental WTP for an oral film compared with tablets was 409 Swedish kronor (SEK [≈€36.7]), with no other factors considered. In the UC model, the incremental WTP for the oral film compared with tablets was 574 SEK (≈€51.7). After considering the value of the respondents’ current treatment, the WTP for the oral film decreased to 336 SEK (≈€30.3). The total WTP was reduced by 17 SEK (≈€1.5) per minute of shorter time to symptom relief. Subgroup analyses showed that people with circulatory symptoms and experience of swallowing difficulties related to allergy medication had higher WTP for the oral film than the average respondent. Conclusion: The findings show a substantial economic benefit of the oral film vs tablets for patients with AARs in Sweden. This result remained also after compensation for the full value of the patients’ current treatment.

Treatment Preferences for Acute Allergic Reactions: A Discrete Choice Experiment

Background: Timely treatment of acute allergic reactions (AARs) is important to minimize reaction severity. Corticosteroid tablets dissolved in water are commonly used in mainstay treatment. A new oral film that dissolves on the tongue provides a faster and less cumbersome alternative to tablets for corticosteroid administration during AARs. This study evaluated patients’ preferences for attributes related to administration mode of corticosteroids in AARs. Methods: A web-based survey was sent to a sample from the adult Swedish population (≥18 years) with experience of corticosteroid treatment for AAR. We assessed the willingness to pay (WTP) for attributes related to corticosteroid treatment by applying a discrete choice experiment (DCE) approach. DCE attributes were administration mode, time to symptom relief, and price. The WTP for each attribute was derived using the attribute’s coefficient in a logistic regression analysis. We specified a forced choice (FC) and an unforced choice (UC) model. In the FC model, the respondents chose between 2 hypothetical treatments and in the UC model, between any of 2 hypothetical treatments and their current treatment. Results: The final study population included 348 subjects, of which 80% were women. All the evaluated DCE attributes were significant predictors for the treatment choice (p<.001). In the FC model, the incremental WTP for an oral film compared with tablets was 409 Swedish kronor (SEK [≈€36.7]), with no other factors considered. In the UC model, the incremental WTP for the oral film compared with tablets was 574 SEK (≈€51.7). After considering the value of the respondents’ current treatment, the WTP for the oral film decreased to 336 SEK (≈€30.3). The total WTP was reduced by 17 SEK (≈€1.5) per minute of shorter time to symptom relief. Subgroup analyses showed that people with circulatory symptoms and experience of swallowing difficulties related to allergy medication had higher WTP for the oral film than the average respondent. Conclusion: The findings show a substantial economic benefit of the oral film vs tablets for patients with AARs in Sweden. This result remained also after compensation for the full value of the patients’ current treatment.