Search Results (103)

This paper presents an enhanced hub location model tailored to port–hinterland logistics planning, grounded in the Capacitated Multiple-Allocation Hub Location Problem (CMAHLP). The formulation incorporates nonlinear cost structures, hub-specific operating costs, adaptive capacity constraints, and a feasibility condition based on the Social Net Present Value (NPVsocial) to support the design of intermodal freight networks under asymmetric spatial and socio-environmental conditions. The empirical case focuses on Spain, leveraging its strategic position between Asia, North Africa, and Europe. The model includes four major ports—Barcelona, Valencia, Málaga, and Algeciras—as intermodal gateways connected to the 47 provinces of peninsular Spain through calibrated cost matrices based on real distances and mode-specific road and rail costs. A Genetic Algorithm is applied to evaluate 120 scenarios, varying the number of active hubs (4, 6, 8, 10, 12), transshipment discounts (α = 0.2 and 1.0), and internal parameters. The most efficient configuration involved 300 generations, 150 individuals, a crossover rate of 0.85, and a mutation rate of 0.40. The algorithm integrates guided mutation, elitist reinsertion, and local search on the top 15% of individuals. Results confirm the central role of Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona, frequently accompanied by high-performance inland hubs such as Málaga, Córdoba, Jaén, Palencia, León, and Zaragoza. Cities with active ports such as Cartagena, Seville, and Alicante appear in several of the most efficient network configurations. Their recurring presence underscores the strategic role of inland hubs located near seaports in supporting logistical cohesion and operational resilience across the system. The COVID-19 crisis, the Suez Canal incident, and the persistent tensions in the Red Sea have made clear the fragility of traditional freight corridors linking Asia and Europe. These shocks have brought renewed strategic attention to southern Spain—particularly the Mediterranean and Andalusian axes—as viable alternatives that offer both geographic and intermodal advantages. In this evolving context, the contribution of southern hubs gains further support through strong system-wide performance indicators such as entropy, cluster diversity, and Pareto efficiency, which allow for the assessment of spatial balance, structural robustness, and optimal trade-offs in intermodal freight planning. Southern hubs, particularly in coordination with North African partners, are poised to gain prominence in an emerging Euro–Maghreb logistics interface that demands a territorial balance and resilient port–hinterland integration. Full article

This study aimed to compare the external peak physical demands (PDs) of under-19-year-old (U19) and professional male football players according to playing position. Positional data derived from Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking during 15 matches in the 2023/24 season for both groups were analyzed. The following variables were measured: total distance, high-intensity running distance, sprint distance, acceleration count, and high-intensity actions. A linear mixed-effects model was employed, with category and playing position included as fixed effects to compare these metrics at the player level. The results revealed only a few significant differences in physical demands between the U19 and professional players. Notably, central defenders and central midfielders exhibited lower performance in HSR distance compared to other positions, with the professional players registering higher values than their U19 counterparts. However, no significant differences were observed for total and relative sprint distances, the number of accelerations, high intensity and relative sprint running efforts. These findings highlight the overall similarity in physical demands between U19 players and professional players, suggesting that elite youth athletes may be adequately prepared to meet the physical challenges of professional competition, with the exception of HSR distance. These conclusions have practical implications for coaches and performance staff, supporting the development of position-specific training programs, optimizing workload management through GPS monitoring, improving microcycle planning, and enhancing injury prevention strategies. Full article

This paper presents an initial output of the project “Augmented Intelligence in Mathematics Education through Modeling, Automatic Reasoning and Artificial Intelligence (IAxEM-CM/PHS-2024/PH-HUM-383)”. The starting hypothesis of this project is that the use of technological tools, such as mathematical modeling, visualization, automatic reasoning and artificial intelligence, significantly improves the teaching and learning of mathematics, in addition to fostering positive attitudes in students. With this hypothesis in mind, in this article, we describe an investigation that has been developed in initial training courses for mathematics teachers in several universities in Madrid, where students used GeoGebra Discovery automated reasoning tools to explore geometric properties in real objects through mathematical paths. Through these activities, future teachers modeled, conjectured and validated geometric relationships directly on photographs of their environment, with the essential concourse of the automated discovery and verification of geometric properties provided by GeoGebra Discovery. The feedback provided by the students’ answers to a questionnaire concerning this novel approach shows a positive evaluation of the experience, especially in terms of content learning and the practical use of technology. Although technological, pedagogical and disciplinary knowledge is well represented, the full integration of these components (according to the TPACK model) is still incipient. Finally, the formative potential of the approach behind this experience is highlighted in a context where Artificial Intelligence tools have an increasing presence in education, as well as the need to deepen these three kinds of knowledge in similar experiences that articulate them in a more integrated way. Full article

Air quality modeling has become a strategic area within data science, particularly in urban contexts where pollution exhibits high variability and nonlinear dynamics. This study provides a mathematical and computational comparison between two predictive paradigms: the classical Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model, designed for sequential analysis of time series, and the quantum model Quantum Support Vector Machine (QSVM), based on kernel methods applied in Hilbert spaces. Both approaches are applied to real PM2.5 concentration data collected at the Plaza Castilla monitoring station (Madrid) over the period 2017–2024. The LSTM model demonstrates moderate accuracy for smooth seasonal trends but shows limited performance in detecting extreme pollution events. In contrast, the QSVM achieves perfect binary classification through a quantum kernel based on angle encoding, with significantly lower training time and computational cost. Beyond the empirical results, this work highlights the growing potential of Quantum Artificial Intelligence as a hybrid paradigm capable of extending the boundaries of classical models in complex environmental prediction tasks. The implications point toward a promising transition to quantum-enhanced predictive systems aimed at advancing urban sustainability. Full article

Background: Understanding the physical demands of basketball at different competitive levels is essential for optimizing training and performance. While elite players are often assumed to experience the highest physical loads, evidence comparing peak external demands (PDs) between elite and non-elite athletes using time-window analysis is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine how player level (Elite vs. Non-Elite) influences the external PDs experienced by male basketball players. Methods: This study examined PlayerLoad™ (PL) PDs in elite (n = 10) and non-elite (n = 11) male basketball players during the 2023–2024 season. Players were monitored using inertial measurement units (IMUs) during official and friendly matches (elite = 8 games; non-elite = 29 games). Peak PL values were computed using rolling averages across 30-s, 1-min, and 3-min time windows. Linear mixed-effects models were employed to examine differences between groups, adjusting for age and match nature. A secondary analysis was carried out including only friendly matches. Results: Non-elite players exhibited significantly higher PL PDs across all the time windows (p < 0.001), with effect sizes ranging from small to very large in the main analysis (ES = −0.41 to −2.11) and from very large to extremely large in the secondary analysis (ES = −2.68 to −5.06). Differences were more pronounced in longer durations. These results suggest that non-elite athletes sustain higher physical loads, possibly due to less efficient movement patterns and lower tactical regulation. Conclusions: Elite players display lower peak external loads than their non-elite counterparts, likely due to superior cognitive, tactical, and perceptual abilities that enhance movement economy. Training programs should incorporate tasks that combine physical intensity with decision-making demands to foster efficiency and potentially reduce injury risk. Full article

The current climate and energy crises demand innovative approaches to operating buildings more sustainably. HVAC systems, which significantly contribute to a building’s energy consumption, have been a major focus of research aimed at improving operational efficiency. However, a critical factor often overlooked is the seasonal and hourly variation in solar radiation and the resulting solar heat gain, which heats specific rooms differently depending on their orientation, type, and location within the building. This study proposes a simulation-based strategy to reduce HVAC energy use in hotels by allocating guests to rooms with more favorable thermal characteristics depending on the season. A high-resolution building energy model (BEM) was developed to represent a real 17-floor hotel tower in Madrid, incorporating detailed geometry and surrounding shading context. The model includes 439 internal thermal zones and simulates solar radiation using EnergyPlus’ Radiance module. The simulation results revealed large room-by-room differences in thermal energy demand. When applying an energetically optimized guest allocation strategy based on these simulations and using real occupancy data, potential reductions in HVAC energy demand were estimated to reach around 6% during summer and up to 20% in winter. These findings demonstrate that data-driven guest allocation, informed by physics-based building simulations, can provide substantial energy savings without requiring physical renovations or equipment upgrades, offering a promising approach for more sustainable hotel operation. Full article

Background: Patellar tendinopathy is a musculoskeletal pain condition capable of impairing physical or sport activities. Preliminary evidence supports the efficacy of percutaneous electrolysis (PE) in reducing pain and related disability in patients with patellar tendinopathy. Objective: This study proposes a theoretical model for the application of a percutaneous electrolysis approach targeting the deep zone of the proximal and distal parts of the patellar tendon in both human (ultrasound-guided) and fresh cadaver (not ultrasound-guided) models. Methods: A filiform solid needle was inserted from the lateral side of the patellar tendon targeting two areas: 1, the deep proximal interface of the Hoffa’s fat pad; and 2, the distal insertion of the patellar tendon at the tibial tuberosity in 10 fresh cadavers and in 10 healthy individuals. The patellar tendon, the saphenous nerve, and the infrapatellar nerve and its branches were identified by dissecting fresh cadavers to determine the anatomical trajectory of the infrapatellar nerve branches in relation to the needle. Results: The cadaveric model shows an anatomical relationship between the patellar tendon and infrapatellar nerve branches at the medial part of the knee. Infrapatellar nerve branches ran subcutaneously obliquely from the medial to the anterior and lateral parts of the knee, crossing in front of the patellar tendon. In all cadavers, the superior and inferior infrapatellar branches ran through the superior or inferior parts of the medial knee area. Only in 2/10 knees infrapatellar nerve branches reached the lateral part of the knee, specifically the superior lateral part. No neurovascular bundle of infrapatellar nerve branches was pierced in any insertion when the needle was inserted from the lateral part of the knee. Conclusion: This anatomical model supports the use of a lateral approach as a potentially safe approach to apply in needling interventions, e.g., percutaneous electrolysis for patellar tendinopathies. The infrapatellar nerve branches are vulnerable to needle procedures applied through the anteromedial side of the knee. Full article

Urban decarbonisation requires governance models that overcome the fragmentation and rigidity of traditional urban planning. This article presents a systemic and digital framework for managing urban decarbonisation portfolios aligned with the EU Mission for Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities. Grounded in systems thinking and portfolio theory, this study develops an analytical taxonomy and an interactive digital tool to support strategic coordination, multistakeholder collaboration, and adaptive decision-making. The framework is empirically validated through the case of Madrid’s Climate City Contract, demonstrating its functionality and transferability. Using a mixed-method approach—combining co-creation workshops, interviews, document analysis, and iterative prototyping—this research maps interdependencies among projects, actors, and levers of change. The digital tool enables real-time visualisation of collaboration patterns, gaps, and synergies, enhancing strategic foresight and coordination capacity. Findings reveal that 75% of initiatives in Madrid’s CCC address climate adaptation, 80.36% are linked to knowledge generation, and key anchor projects serve as integrative hubs within the portfolio. This study concludes that the portfolio approach strengthens systemic innovation and reflexive governance by integrating digital infrastructures with collaborative planning processes. While challenges persist—including data integration, institutional capacity, and political dynamics—this research offers a replicable methodology for embedding mission-oriented strategies into urban governance. The digital portfolio emerges as a complementary governance tool that enhances transparency, organisational learning, and alignment across governance levels. Full article

The aim of this study was to explore new dimensions in the classification of positions in women’s basketball through a comprehensive statistical approach. A total of 386 players from the last three seasons (2021–2024) of the Women’s Euroleague were analyzed based on official performance statistics. Inclusion criteria required players to have participated in all three seasons, with a minimum of 20 min per game across at least five games per season. Using data from the last three seasons of the Women’s Euroleague, analysis of variance, principal component analysis, and k-means clustering were performed to identify specific playing patterns and roles. All performance indicators were normalized per minute to ensure comparability. ANOVA tests revealed significant statistical differences between traditional positions (p < 0.05), validating the relevance of positional analysis. PCA was then used to reduce dimensionality and extract the key performance components, while k-means clustering grouped players according to similar in-game behaviors. The results revealed significant differences between traditional positions (with a significance criterion of p < 0.05) and suggested the need for an updated position classification to better reflect the current dynamics of modern gameplay. According to Euroleague players’ performance, the cluster analysis revealed that three main roles emerged: “perimeter specialists”, “defensive specialists”, and “primary scorers and rebounders”. This reclassification highlights the increasing tactical and statistical complexity of women’s basketball, moving beyond rigid position labels. This new framework can positively influence training and competition strategies. It also provides coaches, analysts, and talent developers with a data-driven tool for roster optimization, role assignment, and game planning in elite-level women’s basketball. Full article

This study investigates the impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) certifications on the performance of Class A office buildings within Madrid’s Central Business District (CBD). Employing a Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methodology, the research evaluates 21 office properties, analyzing the influence of ESG certifications on key performance indicators, including green building certifications, valuation, market perception, and financial outcomes. The findings reveal that ESG-certified buildings demonstrate superior performance, commanding higher valuations, mitigating brown discounts, and achieving increased rental rates, thereby enhancing their investment attractiveness. These results underscore the importance of ESG certifications in the Spanish office market and provide valuable insights for investors, developers, and policymakers navigating the integration of sustainability and commercial real estate. Full article

This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle on the performance of female athletes. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases using the keywords: (“Menstrual cycle”) AND (“performance” OR “female athlete” OR “sport” AND NOT “male”); AND NOT (“contraceptive”). Inclusion criteria focused on original studies published between 2013 and 2023, in English or Spanish, involving eumenorrheic female athletes without menstrual disorders or oral contraceptive use. The studies were critically assessed using the McMaster scientific review method. Results: Thirteen eligible articles were reviewed, comprising a total sample of 152 athletes. Significant findings include increased flexibility during the ovulatory phase and enhanced aerobic and anaerobic capacities in the luteal phase. Additionally, the menstrual and premenstrual phases notably influenced aerobic and anaerobic capacities, performance perception, symptomatology, and exercise-induced muscle damage. Conclusion: Hormonal fluctuations can impact female athletes’ performance. However, further research is warranted due to inconsistent results stemming from variations in cycle phases studied, lack of standardized methodologies, small sample sizes, and short observation periods. Full article

This study proposes a methodology that integrates real-time data and predictive modeling to identify the passenger flow and occupancy levels within a multimodal transport hub. This tool enables the implementation of control and planning strategies to ensure a high Level of Service (LOS). The tool is based on a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model and heterogeneous data sources, including an Automatic Passenger Counting (APC) system, which are utilized to estimate the real-time passenger flow and area occupancy. The Module A of the Moncloa Interchange in Madrid is the case study, and the results reveal that transport-dedicated zones have higher occupancy levels. Methodologically, time series data were standardized to a uniform frequency to ensure consistency, and the training set consisted of seven months of available data. The model performs better in high-occupancy zones. Despite maintaining a LOS A, some periods experience temporary congestion. These findings indicate that the variations in occupancy levels influence the service quality and highlight the essential role of dynamic interchange management. Tailored operational strategies can optimize the service levels and improve the user experience by anticipating congestion through predictive modeling. This can help enhance public transport’s attractiveness, minimize the perceived transfer penalties, make transfers more efficient, and reinforce transport hubs’ role in sustainable urban mobility. Full article

Background: Early-maturing players tend to have physical advantages during formative stages, but it remains unclear whether these advantages translate into long-term professional success. This study examines how biological maturation influences participation and career trajectories in youth football. Methods: Anthropometric and competitive data were collected from 47 players (13.53 ± 1.08 years) in a top-tier academy during the 2010–2011 season. The maturation status was assessed using the Tanner–Whitehouse II RUS method, and the career outcomes were tracked in 2024–2025. Results: Early-maturing players showed higher anthropometric values and greater participation. However, late maturers were more likely to reach professional football (p = 0.003), with all players competing in the top five European leagues belonging to the late-maturing group. Conclusions: Early maturation does not guarantee professional success. Strategies such as bio-banding and personalized training can reduce biases and support talent development, highlighting the need for a more holistic approach to player evaluation. Full article

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are a major concern in female soccer players, with change of direction (COD) movements being a key contributor to non-contact injuries. Traditional injury prevention programs have shown limited effectiveness in addressing individual biomechanical deficits. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a 10-week unilateral strength training program on COD mechanics and ACL injury risk factors. Methods: Eleven female soccer players participated in a pre–post intervention study. Movement mechanics was assessed using the Cutting Movement Assessment Score (CMAS) at 45°, 75°, and 90° angles. The training program included unilateral lower limb strengthening exercises designed to enhance neuromuscular control and reduce biomechanical risk factors. Risk profiles were analyzed before and after the intervention. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests and effect size calculations. Results: Significant improvements in CMAS scores were observed at all COD angles (p < 0.05), with the largest effect at 90° (Cohen’s d = 2.1). The percentage of high-risk players decreased from 82% to 0%, while the proportion of low-risk players increased from 36% to 73%. Improved knee alignment, foot placement, and trunk stability were key contributors to the observed movement enhancements. Conclusions: Unilateral strength training may effectively improve COD mechanics and reduces biomechanical risk factors associated with ACL injuries in female soccer players. Our findings suggest that individualized training interventions can influence current injury prevention strategies. Full article

Technological advancements have led to the development of various devices designed to monitor training loads and athletic performance. Power meters, particularly in cycling, allow for the precise quantification of power output, which is crucial for managing training loads and evaluating performance improvements. This study evaluates the validity of the Quarq D-Zero power meter for measuring cycling power output by comparing it with two previously validated devices—the Favero Assioma Duo (FAD) and the Hammer Saris H3 (H3)—noting that, although it shares the same measurement location as the SRM (the gold standard), it has not been directly validated against it. Thirty-one trained male cyclists participated in this study, undergoing tests across various power outputs (100–500 W) and three 10-s sprint efforts. The protocol incorporated different cadences (70, 85, and 100 revolutions per minute), randomized in order, and two cycling positions (seated and standing). Significant differences (p < 0.05) in power readings were observed among the three power meters, except during sprint efforts. However, pairwise comparisons revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05) between the FAD and Quarq power meters, except for the 500 W block. Strong to very strong correlations were observed between the FAD and Quarq power meters (r > 0.883, ICC > 0.879). The coefficient of variation (CV) between the FAD and Quarq devices ranged from 0.62% to 4.89%, and from 0.39% to 6.59% between the H3 and Quarq power meters. In conclusion, the Quarq power meter, integrated into the spider of the bicycle’s bottom bracket, provides valid power output measurements in cycling. Full article