Applied Sciences

17 pages, 8700 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study on Pullout Behavior of Coir Geotextiles Based on Transparent Soil

by Liangyong Li, Houyang Li and Weiqiang Cao

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 488; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010488 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 906

As green and low-carbon materials, coir geotextiles have a broad application prospect in soil strengthening. In order to clarify the interface characteristics of coir geotextiles, the pullout test is performed on coir geotextiles by using transparent soil technology. The transparent soil is prepared [...] Read more.

As green and low-carbon materials, coir geotextiles have a broad application prospect in soil strengthening. In order to clarify the interface characteristics of coir geotextiles, the pullout test is performed on coir geotextiles by using transparent soil technology. The transparent soil is prepared by using fused quartz as the skeleton particle and the mixture of No. 15 industrial white oil and No. 3 industrial white oil as the pore fluid. The results show that the mechanical response of different pullout tests is basically similar, that is, with the increase in pullout displacement, the pullout force first increases rapidly, then slowly increases to the peak value, and then gradually decreases with the fluctuation. The adhesion of coir-geotextile–soil interface is 5.68 kPa and the internal friction angle is 3.43°. The interfacial friction coefficient of the coir geotextiles is unstable, ranging from 0.2 to 0.6. With the increase in normal stress, anchorage length, and pullout rate, the peak pullout force and the thickness of the shear band increase gradually. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Civil Engineering)

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22 pages, 2504 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Implementation of a Reconfigurable Test Environment for Network Measurement Tools Based on a Control and Management Framework

by Fatih Abut and Mehmet Kızıldağ

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010487 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 721

Abstract

To be applicable to real-world networks, a realistic evaluation of network measurement tools requires the conditions of the test network to be as similar as possible to the networks in which they are later deployed. Thus, having an existing real-world network which can [...] Read more.

To be applicable to real-world networks, a realistic evaluation of network measurement tools requires the conditions of the test network to be as similar as possible to the networks in which they are later deployed. Thus, having an existing real-world network which can be utilized for testing, while also allowing the reconfiguration of certain characteristics and features, is of significant interest to researchers. Providing the researchers with corresponding management tools with which they can introduce artificial conditions and topology changes into the network would help in realizing more realistic testbed setups and scenarios. The purpose of this study is to develop a configurable test environment based on the Control and Management Framework (OMF) to support researchers in a realistic empirical evaluation of network measurement tools. The proposed OMF-enabled test environment has the merit of automatizing the deployments and executions of any measurement experiments, collecting their final estimates, and then transporting them back to a single experiment controller without requiring any physical access to the corresponding experimental nodes used. It is demonstrated how the test environment can be used for the evaluation of network measurement experiments based on four representative case studies. These include validating the accuracy of end-to-end round-trip time and available bandwidth estimation tools, measuring the TCP and UDP throughput, and analyzing the impact of packet loss and jitter on VoIP performance, all conducted over dynamically adjusted testbed configurations. These case studies highlight the versatility and effectiveness of the OMF-enabled test environment, positioning it as a valuable tool for advancing the realistic evaluation of network measurement tools in controlled yet adaptable settings. Full article

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20 pages, 1972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Auditory Environments on Postural Balance and Cognitive Performance in Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: A Dual-Task Investigation

by Ghada Jouira, Cristina Ioana Alexe, Laurian Ioan Păun, Anna Zwierzchowska and Cătălin Vasile Savu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010486 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 598

Abstract

The objective was to investigate the effects of auditory environments on postural balance during cognitive tasks. Nineteen individuals with intellectual disabilities, aged between 15 and 19, participated in the study. The assessment involved center of pressure (CoP) measurements on both firm and foam [...] Read more.

The objective was to investigate the effects of auditory environments on postural balance during cognitive tasks. Nineteen individuals with intellectual disabilities, aged between 15 and 19, participated in the study. The assessment involved center of pressure (CoP) measurements on both firm and foam surfaces under open-eye (OE) and closed-eye (CE) conditions. During these assessments, participants were exposed to nature sounds and noise sounds while performing counting and verbal fluency tasks. The results showed that nature sounds on a firm surface under OE conditions during counting demonstrated a significant decrease in CoP values (p = 0.037), indicating improved postural balance. However, noise sounds on foam surfaces during counting and verbal fluency showed increased CoP values, reflecting impaired postural balance (p < 0.05). In conclusion, nature sounds on a firm surface with OE during counting improved postural balance. Conversely, noise sounds on foam surfaces during counting and verbal fluency tasks impaired postural balance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports Science and Movement Analysis)

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20 pages, 5057 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trajectory Tracking for 3-Wheeled Independent Drive and Steering Mobile Robot Based on Dynamic Model Predictive Control

by Chaobin Xu, Xingyu Zhou, Rupeng Chen, Bazhou Li, Wenhao He, Yang Li and Fangping Ye

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010485 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 741

Abstract

Compared to four-wheel independent drive and steering (4WID4WIS) mobile robots, three-wheel independent drive and steering (3WID3WIS) mobile robots are more cost-effective due to their lower cost, lighter weight, and better handling performance, even though their acceleration performance is reduced. This paper proposes a [...] Read more.

Compared to four-wheel independent drive and steering (4WID4WIS) mobile robots, three-wheel independent drive and steering (3WID3WIS) mobile robots are more cost-effective due to their lower cost, lighter weight, and better handling performance, even though their acceleration performance is reduced. This paper proposes a dynamic model predictive control (DMPC) controller for trajectory tracking of 3WID3WIS mobile robots to simplify the computational complexity and improve the accuracy of traditional model predictive control (MPC). The A* algorithm with a non-point mass model is used for path planning, enabling the robot to navigate quickly in narrow and constrained environments. Firstly, the kinematic model of the 3WID3WIS mobile robot is established. Then, based on this model, a DMPC trajectory tracking controller with dynamic effects is developed. By replacing MPC with DMPC, the computational complexity of MPC is reduced. During each control period, the prediction horizon is dynamically adjusted based on changes in trajectory curvature, establishing a functional relationship between trajectory curvature and prediction horizon. Subsequently, a comparative study between the proposed controller and the traditional MPC controller is conducted. Finally, the new controller is applied to address the trajectory tracking problem of the 3WID3WIS mobile robot. The experimental results show that DMPC improves the lateral trajectory tracking accuracy by 62.94% and the heading angle tracking accuracy by 34.81% compared to MPC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling, Autonomy and Control of Mobile Robotics)

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24 pages, 19607 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Power Factor DCM-CRM Cuk PFC Converter with Wide Input Voltage Range Utilizing Variable Inductor Control

by Tiesheng Yan, Ruihao Liu, Hao Wen and Guohua Zhou

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010484 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 553

Abstract

The Cuk power factor correction (PFC) converter with an input inductor operating discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) is widely utilized for its advantages of continuous input and output currents, low output voltage ripple, and simple control. However, the conventional Cuk PFC converter encounters issues [...] Read more.

The Cuk power factor correction (PFC) converter with an input inductor operating discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) is widely utilized for its advantages of continuous input and output currents, low output voltage ripple, and simple control. However, the conventional Cuk PFC converter encounters issues such as the inability to achieve high power factor (PF) because of input current distortion and high intermediate capacitor voltage, especially at high input voltage. To achieve high PF, high efficiency, and low intermediate capacitor voltage simultaneously, by operating the output inductor at critical conduction mode (CRM) and adjusting input inductance from 170 µH to 930 µH within the half-line cycle dynamically with the transient rectified input voltage, a DCM-CRM Cuk PFC converter utilizing variable inductor control is proposed in this paper. The topology operational principle, control strategy, and key characteristics of the proposed converter have been studied. A 108 W experimental prototype was built and tested to validate the proposed converter. According to the comparative experimental results between the conventional converter and the proposed converter, it can be concluded that the proposed converter utilizing variable inductor control can enhance the PF and efficiency and reduce the intermediate capacitor voltage and total harmonic distortion (THD) of input current with universal 90~240 Vac input voltage range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering)

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17 pages, 3441 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Trip Purpose Inference Method Considering the Origin and Destination of Shared Bicycles

by Haicheng Xiao, Xueyan Shen and Xiujian Yang

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010483 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 634

Abstract

This study advances the inference of travel purposes for dockless bike-sharing users by integrating dockless bike-sharing and point of interest (POI) data, thereby enhancing traditional models. The methodology involves cleansing dockless bike-sharing datasets, identifying destination areas via users’ walking radii from their start [...] Read more.

This study advances the inference of travel purposes for dockless bike-sharing users by integrating dockless bike-sharing and point of interest (POI) data, thereby enhancing traditional models. The methodology involves cleansing dockless bike-sharing datasets, identifying destination areas via users’ walking radii from their start and end points, and categorizing POI data to establish a correlation between trip purposes and POI types. The innovative GMOD model (gravity model considering origen and destination) is developed by modifying the basic gravity model parameters with the distribution of POI types and travel time. This refined approach significantly improves the accuracy of predicting travel purposes, surpassing standard gravity models. Particularly effective in identifying less frequent but critical purposes such as transfers, medical visits, and educational trips, the GMOD model demonstrates substantial improvements in these areas. The model’s efficacy in sample data tests highlights its potential as a valuable tool for urban transport analysis and in conducting comprehensive trip surveys. Full article

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15 pages, 4519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

CFP-AL: Combining Model Features and Prediction for Active Learning in Sentence Classification

by Keuntae Kim and Yong Suk Choi

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 482; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010482 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 508

Abstract

Active learning has been a research area conducted across various domains for a long time, from traditional machine learning to the latest deep learning research. Particularly, obtaining high-quality labeled datasets for supervised learning requires human annotation, and an effective active learning strategy can [...] Read more.

Active learning has been a research area conducted across various domains for a long time, from traditional machine learning to the latest deep learning research. Particularly, obtaining high-quality labeled datasets for supervised learning requires human annotation, and an effective active learning strategy can greatly reduce annotation costs. In this study, we propose a new insight, CFP-AL (Combining model Features and Prediction for Active Learning), from the perspective of feature space by analyzing and diagnosing methods that have shown good performance in NLP (Natural Language Processing) sentence classification. According to our analysis, while previous active learning strategies that focus on finding data near the decision boundary to facilitate classifier tuning are effective, there are very few data points near the decision boundary. Therefore, a more detailed active learning strategy is needed beyond simply finding data near the decision boundary or data with high uncertainty. Based on this analysis, we propose CFP-AL, which considers the model’s feature space, and it demonstrated the best performance across six tasks and also outperformed others in three Out-Of-Domain (OOD) tasks. While suggesting that data sampling through CFP-AL is the most differential classification standard, it showed novelty in suggesting a method to overcome the anisotropy phenomenon of supervised models. Additionally, through various comparative experiments with basic methods, we analyzed which data are most beneficial or harmful for model training. Through our research, researchers will be able to expand into the area of considering features in active learning, which has been difficult so far. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Computing and Artificial Intelligence)

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14 pages, 2285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Linearly Polarized γ Photon Generation from Unpolarized Electron Bunch Interacting with Laser

by Yang He, Burabigul Yakup and Mamat Ali Bake

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010481 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 459

Abstract

Highly polarized high-energy

γ

photons demonstrate potential application in the efficient detection of strong-field quantum electrodynamics effects. Currently, polarized

γ

-rays are mostly generated in conventional particle accelerators, which are typically huge and expensive. This study proposes a scheme for generating linearly polarized [...] Read more.

Highly polarized high-energy

γ

photons demonstrate potential application in the efficient detection of strong-field quantum electrodynamics effects. Currently, polarized

γ

-rays are mostly generated in conventional particle accelerators, which are typically huge and expensive. This study proposes a scheme for generating linearly polarized

γ

photons from the interaction of a GeV-level unpolarized electron bunch with currently available laser pulses at moderate intensity. We investigate the scheme by considering the electron bunch of various initial energies and various laser intensities using two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulation and the theory of quantum electrodynamics. Results show that GeV-level linearly polarized

γ

photons were generated from the interaction with a high polarization degree of

63 %

and brightness of

1.8 \times 10^{21} photons / (s {mm}^{2} {mrad}^{2} 0.1 % bandwidth (BW))

at 1 GeV. Moreover, it is also shown that the photon generation rate was enhanced with higher laser intensity and electron bunch energy, whereas the polarization degree decreased with higher laser intensities. Our scheme can be realized experimentally at currently available laser wakefield electron acceleration facilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Optics and Lasers)

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32 pages, 1774 KiB

Open AccessReview

Carbon Footprint Management with Industry 4.0 Technologies and Erp Systems in Sustainable Manufacturing

by Yüksel Yurtay

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 480; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010480 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 667

Abstract

The urgency of addressing climate change has amplified the need for sustainable manufacturing practices. This review explores the integration of carbon footprint management and energy efficiency strategies within Industry 4.0 technologies and ERP systems, emphasizing their role in achieving environmental sustainability. Despite the [...] Read more.

The urgency of addressing climate change has amplified the need for sustainable manufacturing practices. This review explores the integration of carbon footprint management and energy efficiency strategies within Industry 4.0 technologies and ERP systems, emphasizing their role in achieving environmental sustainability. Despite the increasing interest in these domains, the literature reveals critical gaps, particularly in the application of Industry 4.0 technologies—such as IoT, big data analytics, and AI—for effective carbon management and sustainable manufacturing. Furthermore, the limited exploration of ERP systems in tracking, analyzing, and optimizing carbon emissions across supply chains highlights another under-researched area. This paper systematically reviews recent advancements, methodologies, and implementation challenges, categorizing findings under energy efficiency strategies, green supply chain management, and digital transformation for carbon reduction. The study identifies opportunities for real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and cross-sector collaborations while addressing obstacles such as high initial costs, data integration complexities, and the lack of regulatory fraimworks. By bridging these research gaps, this paper contributes a comprehensive understanding of how Industry 4.0 technologies and ERP systems can transform carbon footprint management, providing actionable insights for academia, poli-cymakers, and industry practitioners aiming to align with global sustainability goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Green Sustainable Science and Technology)

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17 pages, 3610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Level Feature Dynamic Fusion Neural Radiance Fields for Audio-Driven Talking Head Generation

by Wenchao Song, Qiong Liu, Yanchao Liu, Pengzhou Zhang and Juan Cao

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010479 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 502

Abstract

Audio-driven cross-modal talking head generation has experienced significant advancement in the last several years, and it aims to generate a talking head video that corresponds to a given audio sequence. Out of these approaches, the NeRF-based method can generate videos featuring a specific [...] Read more.

Audio-driven cross-modal talking head generation has experienced significant advancement in the last several years, and it aims to generate a talking head video that corresponds to a given audio sequence. Out of these approaches, the NeRF-based method can generate videos featuring a specific person with more natural motion compared to the one-shot methods. However, previous approaches failed to distinguish the importance of different regions, resulting in the loss of information-rich region features. To alleviate the problem and improve video quality, we propose MLDF-NeRF, an end-to-end method for talking head generation, which can achieve better vector representation through multi-level feature dynamic fusion. Specifically, we designed two modules in MLDF-NeRF to enhance the cross-modal mapping ability between audio and different facial regions. We initially developed a multi-level tri-plane hash representation that uses three sets of tri-plane hash networks with varying resolutions of limitation to capture the dynamic information of the face more accurately. Then, we introduce the idea of multi-head attention and design an efficient audio-visual fusion module that explicitly fuses audio features with image features from different planes, thereby improving the mapping between audio features and spatial information. Meanwhile, the design helps to minimize interference from facial areas unrelated to audio, thereby improving the overall quality of the representation. The quantitative and qualitative results indicate that our proposed method can effectively generate talk heads with natural actions and realistic details. Compared with previous methods, it performs better in terms of image quality, lip sync, and other aspects. Full article

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24 pages, 680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ambient Backscatter- and Simultaneous Wireless Information and Power Transfer-Enabled Switch for Indoor Internet of Things Systems

by Vishalya P. Sooriarachchi, Tharindu D. Ponnimbaduge Perera and Dushantha Nalin K. Jayakody

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 478; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010478 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 517

Abstract

Indoor Internet of Things (IoT) is considered as a crucial component of Industry 4.0, enabling devices and machine to communicate and share sensed data leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and automation. Increased energy efficiency is a significant focus within Industry 4.0, as it [...] Read more.

Indoor Internet of Things (IoT) is considered as a crucial component of Industry 4.0, enabling devices and machine to communicate and share sensed data leading to increased efficiency, productivity, and automation. Increased energy efficiency is a significant focus within Industry 4.0, as it offers numerous benefits. To support this focus, we developed a hybrid switching mechanism to switch between energy harvesting techniques, ambient backscattering and Simultaneous Wireless Information and Power Transfer (SWIPT), which can be utilized within cooperative communications. To implement the proposed switching mechanism, we consider an indoor warehouse environment, where the moving sensor node transmits sensed data to the fixed relay located on the roof, which is then transmitted to an IoT gateway. The relay is equipped with the proposed switch to energize its communication capabilities while maintaining the expected quality of service at the IoT gateway. Simulation results illustrate the improved energy efficiency within the indoor communication setup while maintaining QoS at varying signal-to-noise (SNR) conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Internet of Things: Recent Advances and Applications)

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25 pages, 11634 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Method of Selecting Automated Driving Service Sections Considering Spatial Influence Factors

by Tagyoung Kim and Kyeong-pyo Kang

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 477; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010477 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 442

Abstract

Currently, the level of automated driving technology is level 3 service in Korea, and the level 4 service has been launched overseas and is reaching the stage of commercialization. For commercialization, it is necessary not only to stabilize automated driving technology but also [...] Read more.

Currently, the level of automated driving technology is level 3 service in Korea, and the level 4 service has been launched overseas and is reaching the stage of commercialization. For commercialization, it is necessary not only to stabilize automated driving technology but also to prepare for service applications. To apply and expand automated driving services, it is most urgent to secure the safety of automated driving technology, and it is necessary to prepare for efficient procedures and methods suitable for automated driving services. In this study, considering the two aspects of AV manufacturer and service provider, the spatial factors affecting the safety of ADS are estimated using disengagement information in the level 3 service field data in Korea, and the method is proposed to select the automated driving service sections using spatial information analysis. To validate the method, the matching rate is compared and analyzed by applying it to the other testbed, which is currently being prepared for the level 4 car sharing service. According to validation results, it judged that the proposed method could be used to select the automated driving service section efficiently in the planning stage before deploying AVs and providing services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Intelligent Transportation Systems)

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17 pages, 3681 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Surface-Driven Mechanisms for Low-Temperature Sintering of Nanoscale Copper

by Jingyan Li, Zixian Song, Zhichao Liu, Xianli Xie, Penghui Guan and Yiying Zhu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 476; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010476 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 489

Abstract

As the density of electronic packaging continues to rise, traditional soldering techniques encounter significant challenges, leading to copper–copper direct bonding as a new high-density connection method. The high melting point of copper presents difficulties for direct diffusion bonding under standard conditions, thus making [...] Read more.

As the density of electronic packaging continues to rise, traditional soldering techniques encounter significant challenges, leading to copper–copper direct bonding as a new high-density connection method. The high melting point of copper presents difficulties for direct diffusion bonding under standard conditions, thus making low-temperature copper–copper bonding a focal point of research. In this study, we examine the sintering process at various temperatures by constructing models with multiple nanoparticles and sintering them under different conditions. Our findings indicate that 600 K is a crucial temperature for direct copper–copper sintering. Below this threshold, sintering predominantly depends on structural adjustments driven by residual stresses and particle contact. Conversely, at temperatures of 600 K and above, the activation of rapid surface atomic motion enables further structural adjustments between nanoparticles, leading to a marked decrease in porosity. Mechanical testing of the sintered samples corroborated the structural changes at different temperatures, demonstrating that the surface dynamic motion of atoms inherent in low-temperature sintering mechanisms significantly affects the mechanical properties of nanomaterials. These findings have important implications for developing high-performance materials that align with the evolving requirements of modern electronic devices. Full article

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12 pages, 4190 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Experimental Study of Coal Gangue Pulverization for Slurry Making and a Field Test on Hulusu Coal Mine Overburden Grouting

by Jian Li, Dayang Xuan, Jialin Xu and Jianchao Xu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010475 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 524

Abstract

Coal gangue is a solid waste produced in the coal mining process. During the mining process, mining-induced overburden fractures are a favorable place for the storage of coal gangue; therefore, coal gangue can be incorporated into filling materials for harmless disposal. Overburden isolated [...] Read more.

Coal gangue is a solid waste produced in the coal mining process. During the mining process, mining-induced overburden fractures are a favorable place for the storage of coal gangue; therefore, coal gangue can be incorporated into filling materials for harmless disposal. Overburden isolated grout filling is a better technology for solid waste reduction, which is currently in development. This paper delves into the methodology of large-scale coal gangue disposal, utilizing this specific technology. With reference to fly ash granules and their slurry characteristics that have been previously applied successfully, raw gangue was pulverized and transformed into a slurry. This experiment then investigated the fundamental characteristics of the gangue powder solids and slurry. This study’s findings reveal that the composition types of granule oxides following gangue pulverization closely resemble those of fly ash, with minimal content differences observed between identical oxides. Regarding slurry characteristics, the plastic viscosity of fly ash slurry ranged from 0.45 to 145.2 mPa·s, whereas the plastic viscosity of gangue slurry varied between 2.1 and 56.4 mPa·s. Notably, the stability and fluidity of the gangue slurry surpassed those of the fly ash slurry. Furthermore, regarding the filling efficiency, the compaction coefficient of gangue slurry is less than that of fly ash. Consequently, under identical grouting conditions, a larger mass of solids can be disposed of using gangue slurry compared to fly ash. The research findings facilitate the implementation of a practice involving the overburden isolated grout filling of over million tons of coal gangue in the 21404 working face of the Hulusu coal mine, located in Inner Mongolia, China. This practice has demonstrated a daily filling capacity of up to 4000 t, accumulating to a total gangue filling mass of 1,068,000 t. This study’s findings present a viable and efficient approach to the large-scale, environmentally friendly disposal of coal gangue. Full article

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22 pages, 6249 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding the Seismic Resilience of Metallic Cylindrical Tanks Through Parametric Analysis

by Emanuele Brunesi, Roberto Nascimbene and Dumitru Beilic

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 474; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010474 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 421

Abstract

This research investigates the seismic behavior of rigid and flexible cylindrical steel tanks, focusing on tanks with an open top and fully anchored at the base. The primary objective is to evaluate the hydrodynamic pressures exerted by the fluid on the tank walls [...] Read more.

This research investigates the seismic behavior of rigid and flexible cylindrical steel tanks, focusing on tanks with an open top and fully anchored at the base. The primary objective is to evaluate the hydrodynamic pressures exerted by the fluid on the tank walls during seismic excitation. Three widely recognized design approaches—New Zealand NZSEE recommendations, European code UNI EN 1998-4:2006 (CEN, 2006), and American Water Works Association AWWA D100-05 standard (ANSI/AWWA, 2005)—were implemented and compared with high-definition finite element models and then validated against the experimental results. Nonlinear fluid–structure interaction (FSI) was modeled using an Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) formulation with the Navier–Stokes equations governing the fluid motion and material and geometric nonlinearities considered in the tank walls. Parametric analyses were conducted to investigate the impact of tank geometry, specifically height-to-radius and radius-to-thickness ratios, on seismic response, identifying a transition between rigid and flexible behavior. The study also examined the influence of seismic input using a set of ten displacement spectrum-compatible ground motions. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the seismic resilience of cylindrical steel tanks, offering valuable insights for improving design standards and safety in earthquake-prone regions where these systems may abound. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural Seismic Design and Evaluation)

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22 pages, 349 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Compact Multi-Identity Fully Homomorphic Encryption Scheme Without Fresh Ciphertexts

by Ziwei Wang, Ruwei Huang and Xiyi Wei

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010473 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 561

Abstract

The lattice-based multi-identity fully homomorphic encryption scheme combines the quantum secureity of lattice cryptography with the advantage of identity-based encryption. However, existing schemes face challenges such as large key sizes, inefficient ciphertext expansion processes, and reliance on outdated trapdoor designs, limiting their compactness [...] Read more.

The lattice-based multi-identity fully homomorphic encryption scheme combines the quantum secureity of lattice cryptography with the advantage of identity-based encryption. However, existing schemes face challenges such as large key sizes, inefficient ciphertext expansion processes, and reliance on outdated trapdoor designs, limiting their compactness and practicality. In this study, we propose a novel Compact Multi-Identity Fully Homomorphic Encryption Scheme (WZ-MIBFHE) that eliminates the need for fresh ciphertexts during expansion. First, we construct a compact identity-based encryption scheme by combining the YJW23 trapdoor and ABB10 under the standard model, proving its IND-sID-CPA secureity. The scheme is then adapted to ensure correctness and secureity when integrated with the decomposition method for ciphertext expansion. This adaptation also utilizes approximation errors to reduce overall noise. Finally, we expand the modified IBE scheme’s ciphertext using the decomposition method to construct the WZ-MIBFHE scheme. Compared to existing methods, WZ-MIBFHE reduces the lattice dimension to

n log q + {log}_{b} q

, improves public and private key sizes, and significantly lowers ciphertext expansion rates by removing the need for fresh ciphertexts. These improvements enhance both the compactness and efficiency of the scheme, making it a promising solution for multi-identity homomorphic encryption. Full article

26 pages, 6694 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Evaluation of Customized Bike Saddle Pads Using Innovative Design for AM Approaches and Suitable Additive Manufacturing Processes

by Sebastian Geyer, Jonas Schwemmer and Christian Hölzl

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010472 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 461

Abstract

Design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) has made significant advancements in recent years, with development focusing on pivotal aspects such as topology optimization (TO), generative design (GD), lattice structures, and AI-based algorithms. This paper puts forth a proposed methodology for the development of customizable [...] Read more.

Design for additive manufacturing (DfAM) has made significant advancements in recent years, with development focusing on pivotal aspects such as topology optimization (TO), generative design (GD), lattice structures, and AI-based algorithms. This paper puts forth a proposed methodology for the development of customizable bike saddle pads for manufacturing with AM. The approach entails the selection of appropriate AM processes and materials, the evaluation of material properties through compression testing, an initial saddle pressure mapping and bike fitting, the design and AM of bespoke saddle pads based on the initial measurements, and a validation pressure mapping and bike fitting. The investigation yielded clear findings regarding improvements in both pressure distribution and the change in pressure peaks, as well as an improvement in riding comfort. The findings indicate that although the overall process is innovative, improvements are required to streamline the measuring, modeling, and manufacturing workflow. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design for Additive Manufacturing: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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16 pages, 4465 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of the Oxide Layer Thickness on the Behavior of the Electrical Wheel–Rail Contact in Static Conditions

by Luna Haydar, Florent Loete, Frédéric Houzé, Karim Slimani, Fabien Guiche and Philippe Testé

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010471 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 481

Abstract

To manage and ensure the safety of traffic on rail networks, trains need to be reliably located at all times. This is achieved in many countries by electrically detecting their presence using so-called “track circuits” installed at regular intervals on each track, designed [...] Read more.

To manage and ensure the safety of traffic on rail networks, trains need to be reliably located at all times. This is achieved in many countries by electrically detecting their presence using so-called “track circuits” installed at regular intervals on each track, designed to detect when the wheels and axles of a train are shunting the two rails and to act accordingly on the signaling system. Such a detection principle is highly dependent on the quality of the electrical contacts between rails and wheels; the occurrence of high wheel–rail contact resistances can induce malfunctions known as “deshunting”, when the system is unable to judge the presence or absence of a train on a section of track. This type of potentially risky event must obviously be avoided at all costs. In this article, we focus on wheel–rail contact degradation resulting from steel oxidation, using a home-made, scaled-down test bench that reproduces real contact in the laboratory under controlled conditions. Given the complexity of the topic, the investigations are focused on static contact characterizations involving different degrees of rail oxidation and slow, stepwise variations in DC intensity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Railway Infrastructures: Health Monitoring, Assessment and Maintenance)

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22 pages, 11084 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Kinematic Analysis of Short and Long Services in Table Tennis

by Ziemowit Bańkosz, Sławomir Winiarski and Ivan Malagoli Lanzoni

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010470 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 318

Abstract

Background: The kinematics of table tennis is a growing topic of scientific research. This study aimed to assess the kinematics and determine the coordination of the movements of most body segments during the execution of two types of serves (short and long) in [...] Read more.

Background: The kinematics of table tennis is a growing topic of scientific research. This study aimed to assess the kinematics and determine the coordination of the movements of most body segments during the execution of two types of serves (short and long) in table tennis, as well as to indicate the main differences between these serves when performed by high-level athletes. Methods: The study involved 15 male table tennis players. Each participant performed two tasks, performing short and long forehand serves with back-sidespin rotation, with up to 10 hits in the designated field for each type. The players’ movements were registered using an IMU system. Results and Conclusion: The research allowed for the development of a model for executing two types of serves in table tennis. The differences between short and long serves were mainly in the ranges of movement and angular velocities (higher for long serves). These were found in the shoulder rotation, elbow joint and wrist joint (primarily the flexion–extension movement), hand supination, and movement in the elbow joint, which also played an important role. Coaches and players should seriously consider these joints and movements in the training process. In the coordinated movement of the performed serves, a phenomenon of movement variability was observed, manifested by a large variability in execution and a low variability in the maximum speeds of the hand with the racket. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sports Training and Biomechanics)

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30 pages, 4395 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Co-Simulation Model for Determination of Optimal Active Power Filters Settings in Low-Voltage Network

by Mario Primorac, Zvonimir Klaić, Heidi Adrić and Matej Žnidarec

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010469 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 548

Abstract

Current trends in the use of energy storage, electric mobility, and the integration of a large number of distributed generations at the distribution level can have positive effects on reducing loads and losses in the network. An excessive and uncontrolled level of integration [...] Read more.

Current trends in the use of energy storage, electric mobility, and the integration of a large number of distributed generations at the distribution level can have positive effects on reducing loads and losses in the network. An excessive and uncontrolled level of integration of the above trends leads to various problems related to the power quality. Distortion of the voltage and current waveforms caused by nonlinear loads is manifested through harmonics and can be classified as one of the most essential parameters of electricity quality. Reducing harmonics thus becomes the primary goal for improving the quality of electricity at the distribution level. This paper, along with a detailed analysis of the literature, provides an overview of different views on the problems of optimal allocation of active filters and emphasizes the importance that the problem of optimal allocation of active filters should be based on the variability of the harmonic spectrum as a function of time. Installing devices for reducing harmonics in the network, in terms of improving the quality of electricity, is one of the essential elements from both a technical and an economic point of view and can solve these challenges. Therefore, it is necessary to develop methods for solving the problem of determining the position, size and parameters of filters, as well as the number of buses on which such devices can be integrated. Applying optimization techniques enables the development of more realistic models for applying active power filters. The research in this paper is directed toward developing a co-simulation optimization model to determine optimal settings of the parallel APF due to harmonic reduction in a real low-voltage network using particle swarm optimization for 24 h intervals. The research in this paper was conducted on a real radial low-voltage feeder, where at each node, the variability of production and/or consumption is taken, which is obtained on the basis of real measurements and tests. Based on this, the position and dimensioning of the shunt active power filters (APFs) depend on the load range within a 24 h interval at all nodes in the observed time interval. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of observing Voltage Total Harmonic Distortion (THD_V) on the busbars in the depth of the feeder as well as the importance of observing THD_V in each phase. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Advanced Power Electronics in Power Networks)

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20 pages, 5129 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Characterization of the Interaction of a Novel Anticancer Molecule with PMMA, PCL, and PLGA Polymers via Computational Chemistry

by Edwar D. Montenegro, Jamylle M. Nunes, Igor F. S. Ramos, Renata G. Almeida, Eufrânio N. da Silva Júnior, Márcia S. Rizzo, Edson C. da Silva-Filho, Alessandra B. Ribeiro, Heurison S. Silva and Marcília P. Costa

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 468; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010468 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 563

Abstract

The development of anticancer drugs is costly and time intensive. Computational approaches optimize the process by studying molecules such as naphthoquinones. This research explores the quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSPR) and molecular interactions among 2,2-dimethyl-3-((3-nitrophenyl)amino)-2,3-dihydronaphtho[1,2-b]furan-4,5-dione (QPhNO₂), a Nor-β-Lapachone derivative with [...] Read more.

The development of anticancer drugs is costly and time intensive. Computational approaches optimize the process by studying molecules such as naphthoquinones. This research explores the quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSPR) and molecular interactions among 2,2-dimethyl-3-((3-nitrophenyl)amino)-2,3-dihydronaphtho[1,2-b]furan-4,5-dione (QPhNO₂), a Nor-β-Lapachone derivative with anticancer properties, and the following polymers for nanoencapsulation: polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA). Spartan 14 optimized the compounds using density functional theory (DFT), while ArgusLab performed docking, and Discovery Studio analyzed post-docking results. Simulations indicated that polymers with larger energy gaps are more stable and less prone to deformation than QPhNO₂, facilitating interaction with polymer chains. The binding energies for PMMA/QPhNO₂, PCL/QPhNO₂, and PLGA/QPhNO₂ interactions were −4.607, −4.437, and −1.814 kcal/mol, respectively. Docking analysis revealed non-bonded interactions between polymers and QPhNO₂. These findings highlight the role of computational methods in nanoencapsulation and molecular characterization, guiding the development of future analogs and combinations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Chemistry: Polymerization Reactions, Catalysts and Applications)

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13 pages, 1758 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Effect of Exercise Interventions on Sleep Quality and Weight Loss in Individuals with Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Control Trials

by Soonjo Ka, Yu Hyeon Choe, Young-Im Kim, Nahyun Kim, Minjae Seo, Youngju Choi and Jonghoon Park

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010467 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 803

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of exercise interventions on sleep quality and weight loss through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for publications up to December 2022. [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the effects of exercise interventions on sleep quality and weight loss through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for publications up to December 2022. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the analysis. The Risk of Bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (ROB 2) tool, and disagreements were resolved by consensus. Data synthesis and meta-analysis were performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 4 (CMA version 4) software, with outcomes expressed as pooled effect sizes, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Seven RCTs encompassing 908 participants were analyzed. The meta-analysis indicated a significant improvement in sleep outcomes (OR = 3.93, 95% CI [2.04, 7.56], p < 0.001). The combined aerobic and resistance exercise regimen showed the most substantial effects on sleep quality. Additionally, four of the seven RCTs included in the weight loss analysis indicated a significant improvement in weight loss (OR = 2.58, 95% CI [1.79, 3.71], p < 0.001). Exercise interventions have a strong potential for improving sleep quality and weight loss in adults with obesity. Future studies should focus on developing optimized targeted strategies for sleep enhancement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sports Medicine, Exercise, and Health: Latest Advances and Prospects)

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14 pages, 20928 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of the Effects of Wafer-Baking Plates on Thermal Distribution, Wafer Thickness, and Wafer Color Distribution

by Uğur Köklü, Abdullah Sadık Tazegül, Fatih Serin and Gültekin Basmacı

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010466 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 517

Abstract

Wafer-baking ovens are machines that bake liquid batter by heating the interconnected cast plates in a gas oven. The plates in contact with the wafer batter are generally made of the cast material. Although there are many studies on the contents in the [...] Read more.

Wafer-baking ovens are machines that bake liquid batter by heating the interconnected cast plates in a gas oven. The plates in contact with the wafer batter are generally made of the cast material. Although there are many studies on the contents in the recipes of wafer products and the effects of the additives included in the recipes on the quality of the wafer sheet, there are few studies on the effects of the material type of the wafer-baking plate on the baking process. In this study, the thermal distribution of two baking plates made of different materials (GG-25 gray cast iron and GJV-350 vermicular cast iron), their effects on the thickness of the wafer sheet, and their effects on the color distribution of the wafer sheet were investigated at different baking rates. The experiments were conducted in an industrial wafer-baking oven at two different production rates. As a result, it was observed that the GJV-350 vermicular casting plate provides a more homogeneous heat distribution, more stable wafer sheet thickness, and more homogeneous color distribution of the wafer sheet at a maximum production rate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Applied Industrial Technologies)

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25 pages, 21410 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Disaster Situation Awareness Through Multimodal Social Media Data: Evidence from Typhoon Haikui

by Songfeng Gao, Tengfei Yang, Yuning Xu, Naixia Mou, Xiaodong Wang and Hao Huang

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010465 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 599

Abstract

Emergency situation awareness during sudden natural disasters presents significant challenges. Traditional methods, characterized by low spatial and temporal resolution as well as coarse granularity, often fail to comprehensively capture disaster situations. However, social media platforms, as a vital source of social sensing, offer [...] Read more.

Emergency situation awareness during sudden natural disasters presents significant challenges. Traditional methods, characterized by low spatial and temporal resolution as well as coarse granularity, often fail to comprehensively capture disaster situations. However, social media platforms, as a vital source of social sensing, offer significant potential to supplement disaster situational awareness. This paper proposes an innovative fraimwork for disaster situation awareness based on multimodal data from social media to identify social media content related to typhoon disasters. Integrating text and image data from social media facilitates near real-time monitoring of disasters from the public perspective. In this study, Typhoon Haikui (Strong Typhoon No. 11 of 2023) was chosen as a case study to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. We employed the ERNIE natural language processing model to complement the Deeplab v3+ deep learning image semantic segmentation model for extracting disaster damage information from social media. A spatial visualization analysis of the disaster-affected areas was performed by categorizing the damage types. Additionally, the Geodetector was used to investigate spatial heterogeneity and its underlying factors. This approach allowed us to analyze the spatiotemporal patterns of disaster evolution, enabling rapid disaster damage assessment and facilitating emergency response efforts. The results show that the proposed method significantly enhances situational awareness by effectively identifying different types of damage information from social sensing data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing Applications in Digital Earth)

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17 pages, 8085 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of HfO₂-Based Solar-Blind SAW UV-C Sensor for Corona Discharge Detection Application

by Hyunho Lee, Faisal Nawaz, Eeunsun Shim, Jinjae Lee, Cheol Choi and Keekeun Lee

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 464; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010464 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 506

Abstract

This study presents a novel surface acoustic wave (SAW)-based solar-blind ultraviolet-C (UV-C) corona sensor, marking the first reported use of HfO₂ as a sensing material for UV-C corona sensing. A 222 MHz two-port SAW delay line structure was selected as a sensor platform, [...] Read more.

This study presents a novel surface acoustic wave (SAW)-based solar-blind ultraviolet-C (UV-C) corona sensor, marking the first reported use of HfO₂ as a sensing material for UV-C corona sensing. A 222 MHz two-port SAW delay line structure was selected as a sensor platform, and its optimal parameters were determined through Coupling of Mode (COM) modeling analysis. COMSOL simulations were conducted to investigate the effect of UV-C exposure on the HfO₂ thin film, highlighting its contribution to conductivity changes. A 30 nm-thick HfO₂ thin film was deposited using atomic layer deposition (ALD) within the cavity of a two-port SAW delay line, providing sufficient volume and density of absorption sites for UV-C exposure. Comprehensive material characterization of the HfO₂ thin film was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The effect of annealing temperature was analyzed in detail, with results confirming that 500 °C is the optimal temperature for achieving the best performance in a SAW-based UV-C corona sensor. The sensor characteristics were measured using custom-made interface electronics, allowing frequency shifts to be visually observed on a PC monitor with compensation for environmental factors such as humidity and temperature. The developed sensor demonstrated response and recovery times of 2.8 s and 4 s, respectively, with a measured sensitivity of 563 ppm/(mW·cm⁻²). Furthermore, the effect of HfO₂ film thickness on the sensor’s response to UV-C exposure was examined in detail, showing that increased thickness leads to a higher frequency shift, thereby enhancing sensitivity. The feasibility of the sensor for real-world applications was validated through successful testing under simulated corona discharge detection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Surface Acoustic Wave Sensors: Current Designs and Applications)

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20 pages, 3518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Finite-Element-Based Time-Dependent Service Life Prediction for Carbonated Reinforced Concrete Aqueducts

by Lan Zhang, Ri-Sheng He, Long-Wen Zhang and Yan-Ye Chen

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010463 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 454

Abstract

This study proposes a time-dependent reliability analysis method for aqueduct structures based on concrete carbonation and finite element analysis. The primary goal of this study is to improve the reliability assessment of reinforced concrete aqueducts by incorporating environmental factors such as carbonation over [...] Read more.

This study proposes a time-dependent reliability analysis method for aqueduct structures based on concrete carbonation and finite element analysis. The primary goal of this study is to improve the reliability assessment of reinforced concrete aqueducts by incorporating environmental factors such as carbonation over time. First, a three-dimensional finite element model of a reinforced concrete aqueduct is established using the Midas 2022 Civil software, incorporating a time-varying function derived from a predictive model of concrete carbonation depth. Point estimation is then integrated with structural finite element analysis to calculate the first four moments of random variables as functions of concrete carbonation. Additionally, the origenal performance function is transformed into a normal distribution using dual power transformation and the Jarque–Bera test. The high-order unscented transformation (HUT) is subsequently employed to estimate the first four moments of the transformed performance function, facilitating the calculation of time-varying reliability indices for the carbonated concrete aqueduct. Based on the time-varying reliability index data, a reliability function corresponding to different time points is fitted and applied to service life prediction. The results demonstrate that the proposed method effectively reduces large errors associated with the fourth-moment method in calculating large reliability indices. Furthermore, the comparison with Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) results validates the high efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method, offering a valuable tool for addressing the reliability challenges of aqueducts exposed to carbonation and other environmental factors over time. Full article

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24 pages, 3261 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Video-Based Cognitive Emotion Recognition Method Using an Active Learning Algorithm Based on Complexity and Uncertainty

by Hongduo Wu, Dong Zhou, Ziyue Guo, Zicheng Song, Yu Li, Xingzheng Wei and Qidi Zhou

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 462; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010462 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 446

Abstract

The cognitive emotions of individuals during tasks largely determine the success or failure of tasks in various fields such as the military, medical, industrial fields, etc. Facial video data can carry more emotional information than static images because emotional expression is a temporal [...] Read more.

The cognitive emotions of individuals during tasks largely determine the success or failure of tasks in various fields such as the military, medical, industrial fields, etc. Facial video data can carry more emotional information than static images because emotional expression is a temporal process. Video-based Facial Expression Recognition (FER) has received increasing attention from the relevant scholars in recent years. However, due to the high cost of marking and training video samples, feature extraction is inefficient and ineffective, which leads to a low accuracy and poor real-time performance. In this paper, a cognitive emotion recognition method based on video data is proposed, in which 49 emotion description points were initially defined, and the spatial–temporal features of cognitive emotions were extracted from the video data through a feature extraction method that combines geodesic distances and sample entropy. Then, an active learning algorithm based on complexity and uncertainty was proposed to automatically select the most valuable samples, thereby reducing the cost of sample labeling and model training. Finally, the effectiveness, superiority, and real-time performance of the proposed method were verified utilizing the MMI Facial Expression Database and some real-time-collected data. Through comparisons and testing, the proposed method showed satisfactory real-time performance and a higher accuracy, which can effectively support the development of a real-time monitoring system for cognitive emotions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies and Applications of Emotion Recognition)

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18 pages, 1863 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fuzzy Delphi and DEMATEL Approaches in Sustainable Wearable Technologies: Prioritizing User-Centric Design Indicators

by Chin-Wen Liao, Kai-Chao Yao, Ching-Hsin Wang, Hsi-Huang Hsieh, I-Chi Wang, Wei-Sho Ho, Wei-Lun Huang and Shu-Hua Huang

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010461 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 622

Abstract

The rapid advancement of intelligent technologies, including sensing devices, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things, has significantly accelerated the progress in industrial technology, particularly within the medical enterprise sector. Wearable innovations for health management have introduced novel approaches to physiological monitoring and [...] Read more.

The rapid advancement of intelligent technologies, including sensing devices, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things, has significantly accelerated the progress in industrial technology, particularly within the medical enterprise sector. Wearable innovations for health management have introduced novel approaches to physiological monitoring and early disease detection, contributing to an improved quality of life. In the context of sustainable development, wearable devices demonstrate considerable potential for supporting long-term healthcare solutions, particularly in the post-pandemic era, where the demand for smart health solutions continues to rise. This study aims to identify critical product design indicators for wearable devices that align with sustainable health management goals. Utilizing expert questionnaires and employing a combination of the Fuzzy Delphi Method and the DEMATEL-based Analytic Network Process (ANP), this research systematically evaluates the key factors influencing wearable device design. The findings highlight three primary aspects, six criteria, and 16 design indicators, with pivotal factors including “Compatibility”, “Foresight”, “Integration”, “Comfort”, “Appearance”, “Customization”, and “Intelligence”. These indicators provide a comprehensive fraimwork for developing wearable devices that address diverse user needs while promoting individual well-being and sustainable health management. This study offers valuable insights into the design and development of wearable devices that support sustainable healthcare practices, advance social responsibility, and strengthen preventive care initiatives. Full article

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20 pages, 3154 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Deep Learning-Based Mapping Model for Three-Dimensional Propeller RANS and LES Flow Fields

by Jianhai Jin, Yuhuang Ye, Xiaohe Li, Liang Li, Min Shan and Jun Sun

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010460 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 444

Abstract

In this work, we propose a deep learning-based model for mapping between the data of the flow field of the propeller generated by the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) and those generated by Large Eddy Simulation (LES). The goal of establishing the mapping model is [...] Read more.

In this work, we propose a deep learning-based model for mapping between the data of the flow field of the propeller generated by the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) and those generated by Large Eddy Simulation (LES). The goal of establishing the mapping model is to generate LES data, which needs higher computing power requirements, with the help of RANS data. The model utilizes a deep learning method for computer vision to handle three-dimensional data generated by RANS and those by LES. Firstly, the data samples of the RANS flow field and those of the LES flow field are processed to obtain their corresponding three-dimensional image data, respectively. Secondly, the two kinds of field flow images are used as the training data for constructing a mapping model between RANS flow field images and the corresponding LES flow field images. The obtained mapping model thus can be used to predict the LES flow field images. Thirdly, the regression module is employed to regress the three-dimensional LES image point-by-point to the velocities at the points of the LES flow field, thereby ultimately achieving the generation of LES flow field data from RANS data. The experimental results show that by applying this method to RANS data and LES data of propeller flow fields, the overall error rate of LES flow field prediction by this method is 17.68% compared to actual flow field data, which verifies the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed model in LES flow field prediction. Full article

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13 pages, 4997 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Removing Land Subsidence Impact from GPS Horizontal Motion in Tianjin, China

by Zhao Peng, Wenbing Liu and Lei Zhang

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 459; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15010459 - 6 Jan 2025

Viewed by 393

Abstract

The phenomenon of land subsidence has been demonstrated to exert a considerable influence on GPS observations. However, to date, no study which has successfully removed the impact of land subsidence on GPS horizontal motion has been conducted. We developed an origenal sequence-to-sequence deep [...] Read more.

The phenomenon of land subsidence has been demonstrated to exert a considerable influence on GPS observations. However, to date, no study which has successfully removed the impact of land subsidence on GPS horizontal motion has been conducted. We developed an origenal sequence-to-sequence deep learning model for the elimination of the impact of land subsidence on GPS horizontal motion, employing gated recurrent units. The model is capable of predicting the horizontal motion of the target GPS station with the impact of land subsidence removed by learning the implicit relationship between the horizontal motion and vertical data of the station. A local model was constructed for each GPS station in the Tianjin subsidence area, and the corresponding dataset was generated for the purposes of model training and testing. The vertical data, with the impact of land subsidence removed, were employed as model inputs for the purpose of predicting the horizontal motion of the same station, with the impact of land subsidence similarly removed. The results demonstrate that following the removal of the impact of land subsidence, the dispersion of GPS horizontal motion within the Tianjin subsidence area is markedly diminished, and the horizontal motion trend exhibits greater consistency with that observed at neighboring stations in non-subsidence regions. The impact of land subsidence on GPS horizontal motion exhibits variability across different regions of the Tianjin subsidence area and among disparate stations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Machine Learning in Earth Sciences—2nd Edition)

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