bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-Objective Scheduling Optimization of Prefabricated Components Production Using Improved Non-Dominated Sorting Generic Algorithm II
Authors: Zhao Yishi , Du Shaokang , Tu Ming , Ma Haichuan , Shang Jianga , Xiang Xiuqiao
Published: February 2025

The traditional construction industry is characterized by high energy consumption and significant carbon emissions, primarily due to its reliance on on-site manual labor and wet operations, which are not only low in mechanization but also result in low material efficiency and substantial construction waste. Prefabricated construction offers a new solution with its efficient production methods, significantly enhancing material utilization and construction efficiency. This paper focuses on the production scheduling optimization of prefabricated components. The production scheduling directly affects the construction speed and cost of prefabricated buildings. Given the complex modeling and numerous constraints faced by the production of prefabricated components, we propose an improved Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) for multi-objective optimization. The algorithm incorporates adaptive operators and greedy concepts for local search, enhancing solution exploration and diversity. We segment the production of prefabricated components into six stages, analyzing dependencies and constraints, and form a comprehensive scheduling model with objectives of minimizing contract penalties, storage costs, and production time. Extensive experiments demonstrate that the improved NSGA-II provides a more balanced and larger set of solutions compared to baseline algorithms, offering manufacturers a wider range of options. This research contributes to the optimization of production scheduling in the prefabricated construction industry, supporting coordinated, sustainable, automated, and transparent production environments.
Research on Carbon Reduction Path for Whole-Process Design of Prefabricated Envelope System Based on SEM
Authors: Chen Qiong , Huang Baolin , Wu Yanhua , Zhang Hong , Habib Ullah , Che Zhen
Published: February 2025

Prefabricated buildings, characterized by factory production, on-site assembly, and efficient and refined management, enhance construction efficiency, reduce building time, and promote material reuse and recycling. The energy consumption (and carbon emissions) during the building operational stage are significantly influenced by the performance of the building envelope component system. To minimize carbon emissions throughout the building’s lifecycle, it is essential to focus on a comprehensive optimization design for carbon reduction in prefabricated envelope systems. This paper draws on grounded theory to construct a system of factors influencing carbon emissions throughout the lifecycle of prefabricated building envelopes. Using a questionnaire survey and leveraging Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), this study identifies key pathways and factors, influencing carbon emissions throughout the lifecycle of building envelope components. It provides insights into carbon emission mechanisms in these components and establishes a comprehensive design pathway for carbon control throughout the lifecycle of building envelope systems. Subsequently, the survey results were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to identify key factors influencing carbon emissions throughout the lifecycle and their interrelationships. These findings were integrated into the various stages of the whole-process design, yielding actionable recommendations for carbon control in the design process. Additionally, the case study method was employed to illustrate how carbon control design and optimization techniques can be applied at each stage of a specific project, providing a practical demonstration of the research outcomes. The study offers optimized methods for carbon control across the entire process, utilizing optimization strategies to reduce carbon emissions at each stage of the building’s lifecycle.
Numerical Analysis of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) Buildings: A Parametric Study on Steel Connectors When Subjected to Seismic Loading Under Eurocode 8 and NBR 15421
Authors: Victoria Lucas C. , Aquino Caroline D. , Branco Jorge M. , Miguel Letícia Fleck Fadel
Published: February 2025

Cross-laminated timber (CLT) presents significant potential for sustainable construction but requires further investigation under seismic conditions. This study develops a numerical model to evaluate the seismic design requirements of CLT buildings according to European (Eurocode 8) and Brazilian (NBR 15421) standards. Experimental data from a full-scale CLT building were used to validate the model. The model was then applied to assess seismic design according to standard requirements across different geographic locations, and a parametric investigation was conducted to evaluate the impact of the connector design on structural performance. The results indicate that the tested CLT building was overdesigned for all evaluated regions, and a significant reduction in displacements—up to 33%—is achieved by adjusting the quantity of the connectors. Additionally, the analysis shows limitations in NBR 15421, as it resulted in higher average lateral displacements due to insufficient consideration of energy dissipation. These findings underscore the importance of optimising connector configurations to enhance the seismic performance of CLT buildings while reducing overdesign. Additionally, properly considering energy dissipation in design standards is crucial. In particular, the Brazilian standard would benefit from a comprehensive review to better address energy dissipation, ensuring safer and more efficient seismic designs.
Micro-Renovation Method of Old Residential Areas Based on Parametric Energy Simulation: An Aging Community in Middle China as an Example
Authors: Ye Ziyun , Ouyang Shulin , Gao Xiong , Ren Yaming
Published: February 2025

In the context of urbanization, the renewal of old communities constitutes a crucial aspect for enhancing the living environment. Currently, the social benefits and utilization efficiency achieved through the renewal of such neighborhoods fall short of meeting the demands of society, urban management, and residents. Existing research on old community renewal predominantly centers on environmental beautification and infrastructure augmentation or relies on diverse data for interpreting and analyzing the current state of these spaces while overlooking in-depth investigations into the design methodologies for public spaces within old communities. This paper presents a comprehensive strategy, termed “Demands–Design–Verify (DDV)”. This paper selected an old community in Changsha City (China) as a case study and used the following: (1) a questionnaire investigation and observation (Demands); (2) parameterized simulation data and UTCI energy data put forward for the optimization strategy of aging community public space (Design); (3) space syntax, physical environmental simulation data, and a one-way analysis of variance to validate the effectiveness of the design (Verify). The research results indicate that the public space renewal outcomes of old-aged communities under the guidance of this method have positive effects in aspects such as solar radiation, thermal comfort, spatial accessibility, and pedestrian flow. The method exhibits universality and ease of implementation for public space renewal in old communities, thus providing scientific methodological guidance for urban residential renewal.
Evaluation of the Slovenian Breast Cancer Screening Programme: Years of Life Gained and Avoided Deaths
Authors: Tomšič Sonja , Zadnik Vesna , Pohar Perme Maja , Žagar Tina , Jarm Katja , Vratanar Bor
Published: February 2025

Background: Most commonly, mortality is used for evaluation of organized breast cancer screening programmes. Survival analyses are also being employed to provide more timely assessment. A novel approach has been introduced for calculating survival using Slovenian data. Methods: Breast cancer cases from the Slovenian Cancer Registry between 2008–2021 in women aged 50 to 72 were included, supplemented by data on the screening history from the screening registry. The comparison was made in two scenarios—invited or not invited to the screening. Survival, years of life gained, and number of avoided deaths over 10 years were calculated and standardized. The comparison was adjusted for confounding covariates, and a biological tumour growth model was used to adjust the survival of the invited group for lead time bias and over-detection. Results: A total of 9392 breast cancer cases were included in the study. Estimated median lead time for screen-detected cases was 1.23 years. The survival probability accounting for lead time bias and covariates of cancers patients invited to the programme was 4.3 percentage points higher than the not invited (0.81 vs. 0.76). Standardized to 100,000 women in the 2-year period, this would result in 22 avoided deaths. On average, the invited cancer patient lived 0.22 years longer, which amounts to a total of 114 years of life gained. Conclusions: The results show the overall benefit of the breast cancer screening programme. The standardized results enable cross-country comparisons. The calculation of years of life gained and avoided deaths can provide additional opportunities for communicating the results to non-expert populations.
Clinical Characteristics and Long-Term Prognosis of Colorectal Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma According to the Endoscopic Classification and Treatment Modality: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Hong Seung Min , Baek Dong Hoon , Song Geun Am , Lee Hong Sub , Lee Seung Bum , Cha Ra Ri , Kim Tae-Oh , Kim Jae Hyun , Lee Jong Hoon ,   Busan Ulsan Gyeongnam Intestinal Study Group Society (BIGS)
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The clinical characteristics of colorectal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma remain poorly defined, and there is no standardized treatment for the disease. Therefore, we investigated the clinical characteristics of colorectal MALT lymphoma and its prognosis based on different treatment modalities. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on patients diagnosed with colorectal MALT lymphoma from 2003 to 2021 across six hospitals in Korea’s Busan–Ulsan–Gyeongnam area. Macroscopic findings classified all cases into polyposis type, mass-forming type, subepithelial lesion type, and inflammatory type. Results: Fifty-one patients were enrolled. The median age was 59 years, and 27 patients (52.9%) were male. Five patients (9.8%) were stage IV at initial diagnosis. As for the endoscopic type, the polyposis type was the most common (39.2%). There was no statistically significant difference in disease progression according to the endoscopic type (p = 0.813). Three cases of disease progression were confirmed in stage I after treatment, and one of them died due to disease progression. No disease progression was identified in other stages. According to the treatment modality, disease progression was identified in 1 of 16 patients who underwent endoscopic resection and 2 of 16 patients who underwent chemotherapy. There was no disease progression in the observation group. However, there was no statistically significant difference in disease progression according to treatment modality (p = 0.889). Conclusions: Colorectal MALT lymphoma showed good prognosis regardless of the initial stage, endoscopic type, or treatment modality.
A Simple Nomogram to Predict Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer at MRI-Guided Biopsy in Patients with Mild PSA Elevation and Normal DRE
Authors: Kamecki Hubert , Tokarczyk Andrzej , Dębowska Małgorzata , Białończyk Urszula , Malewski Wojciech , Szostek Przemysław , Tayara Omar , Gonczar Stefan , Poletajew Sławomir , Nyk Łukasz , Kryst Piotr , Szempliński Stanisław
Published: February 2025

Background: Evidence to help avoid unnecessary prostate biopsies is being actively pursued. Our goal was to develop and internally validate a nomogram for predicting clinically significant prostate cancer (csPC) in men with low suspicion of disease (prostate specific antigen [PSA] < 10 ng/mL, normal digital rectal examination [DRE]), in whom magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings are positive. Methods: Patients with no prior prostate cancer diagnosis who underwent MRI–ultrasound fusion biopsy of the prostate were retrospectively analyzed. Inclusion criteria were PSA < 10 ng/mL, normal DRE, Prostate Imaging Reporting And Data System (PIRADS) category ≥ 3, and no extraprostatic extension or seminal vesicle invasion reported on MRI. Associations between csPC diagnosis and patient or lesion characteristics were analyzed, and a multivariable model was developed. Internal validation of the model with 5-fold cross-validation and bootstrapping methods was performed. Results: Among 209 patients, 67 were diagnosed with csPC. Factors incorporated into the model for predicting csPC were age, 5-alpha reductase inhibitor use, PSA, prostate volume, PIRADS > 3, and lesion location in the peripheral zone. The model’s ROC AUC was 0.86, with consistent performance at internal validation (0.84 with cross-validation, 0.82 with bootstrapping). With an empirical threshold of <10% csPC probability to omit biopsy, 72 (50.7%) unnecessary biopsies would have been avoided, at the cost of missing 2 (3.0%) csPC cases. Conclusions: Our nomogram might serve as a valuable tool in refining selection criteria in men considered for prostate biopsy. The major limitation of the study is its retrospective character. Prospective, external validation of the model is warranted.
Baseline Characteristics of Participants in the Alberta Cancer Exercise Hybrid Effectiveness–Implementation Study: A Wake-Up Call for Action
Authors: McNeely Margaret L. , Shallwani Shirin M. , Williamson Tanya , Sellar Christopher , Gobeil Elaine , Joy Anil Abraham , Lau Harold , Easaw Jacob , Sexsmith John , Courneya Kerry S. , Culos-Reed S. Nicole
Published: February 2025

Background: Alberta Cancer Exercise (ACE) is a hybrid effectiveness–implementation study evaluating a cancer-specific community-based exercise program across urban sites in Alberta, Canada. The purpose of this paper is to describe the baseline characteristics of participants. Methods: Adults with any type and stage of cancer, who were undergoing cancer treatment or up to three years post treatment completion, were eligible. ACE was delivered in person at 18 sites across 7 cities in Alberta, with video conferencing introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants took part in 60 min of mild-to-moderate intensity exercise twice weekly for a 12-week period and were encouraged to increase overall physical activity. Results: From January 2017 to February 2023, 2570 individuals enrolled. Participants were a mean age of 57.8 years, 71.3% were female, 45.4% had breast cancer, and 49.4% were undergoing cancer treatment. At baseline, only 22.4% of participants self-reported meeting recommended physical activity levels, 66.0% were overweight/obese, and 71.4% reported one or more comorbidities. Most participants were below normative levels for the six-minute walk and 30 s sit-to-stand tests, and 75.9% reported fatigue. Conclusion: Participants were largely inactive, unfit, and symptomatic. ACE attracted more females and individuals with breast cancer but was otherwise representative of the Alberta cancer population.
Modern Therapeutic Approaches in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: A Meta-Analytic Review of Randomised and Single Arm Studies on Efficacy and Survival
Authors: Tunio Mutahar A. , Hinder Donna , Emery Blaise , Riaz Muhammad H. , Ibraheem Yusef A. , Nayak Krishnendu Kumar , Mohamed Wael
Published: February 2025

Background: Meta-analyses aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of targeted and contemporary therapies utilised in locally advanced and metastatic anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). Methods: Employing PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library and Web of Science were explored from the inception of targeted therapy until December 2024. A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effectiveness, toxicity and survival outcomes of various mutationally directed agents, chemotherapy and radiotherapy in locally advanced/metastatic ATC cases. Results: A total of 47 studies (26 prospective phase II trials and 21 retrospective studies) involving 980 patients met the inclusion criteria. The pooled results showed an overall response rate (ORR) of 29.7% (95% CI: 25.4–34.2%; I2 = 42.4%; p < 0.0001). A total of 49.9% deaths were reported, although a significant number remained alive compared to baseline (mean difference [MD]: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.90–2.24; I2 = 88.6%; p < 0.0001). The pooled median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5.4 months (95% CI: 4.0–6.7 months; I2 = 97.9%; p < 0.0001). Dabrafenib/trametinib (DT) with and without pembrolizumab and lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab (LP) were associated with higher ORR rates and improved OS and PFS. About 51.% of studies mentioned bio-marker analysis (BRAFV600 [14.7%], PDL1 [9.2%], RAS [1.1%], PIK3CA [1.0%] and NTRK1/3 [0.7%]). Toxicity was reported in 94.7% of patients. Conclusions: This meta-analysis found that DT could be a promising first-line treatment option for BRAFV600-mutated ATC, with or without immunotherapy. Alternatively, LP shows potential in BRAFV600 wild-type and PDL1-overexpressing cases. Routine biomarker analysis remains critical for optimising ATC management strategies.
Editorial for Special Issue “Image Analysis and Machine Learning in Cancers”
Authors: Oliveira Helder C. R. , Mencattini Arianna
Published: February 2025

Cancer detection has been a great challenge in many fields of science [...]
Trapped in the NETs: Multiple Roles of Platelets in the Vascular Complications Associated with Neutrophil Extracellular Traps
Authors: Sennett Christopher , Pula Giordano
Published: February 2025

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have received significant attention in recent years for their role in both the immune response and the vascular damage associated with inflammation. Platelets have been described as critical components of NETs since the initial description of this physio-pathological response of neutrophils. Platelets have been shown to play a dual role as responders and also as stimulators of NETs. The direct interaction with DNA leads to the entrapment of platelets into NETs, a phenomenon that significantly contributes to the thrombotic complications of inflammation and neutrophil activation, while the direct and paracrine stimulation of neutrophils by platelets has been shown to initiate the process of NET formation. In this review, we provide a comprehensive description of our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the entrapping of platelets into NETs and, in parallel, the platelet-driven cellular responses promoting NET formation. We then illustrate established examples of the contribution of NETs to vascular pathologies, describe the important questions that remain to be answered regarding the contribution of platelets to NET formation and NET-dependent cardiovascular complication, and highlight the fundamental steps taken towards the application of our understanding of platelets’ contribution to NETs for the development of novel cardiovascular therapies.
Origin and Diversification of the Genera Aratinga, Eupsittula, and Psittacara (Aves: Psittacidae)
Authors: Padilla-Jacobo Gabriela , Monterrubio-Rico Tiberio Cesar , Cano-Camacho Horacio , Zavala-Páramo María Guadalupe
Published: February 2025

The arrival of psittacine in North America is well known but undefined. It is widely accepted that these birds originated in South America, and it has been suggested that different factors have promoted the biodiversity of birds in Mexico. However, in general, for North American psittacine, there are no proposed divergence times, and the possible influence of different geological events on these processes is unknown. In this study, phylogenetic relationships, divergence times, and ancestral areas of the genera Aratinga, Eupsittula, and Psittacara and related genera were estimated to propose hypotheses of the origin, diversification, and dispersal of groups under a Bayesian inference framework based on mitochondrial molecular markers. Of seven monophyletic clades within the Arini tribe, four coincided with the genera Psittacara, Eupsittula, Rhynchopsitta, and Pyrrhura, while Aratinga was grouped with Conuropsis and Cyanopsitta. Diversification of the analyzed genera probably occurred during the Miocene and around the Miocene–Pliocene boundary. The results suggest that the most likely origin of these genera is the Amazonian or Chaco regions. The diversification of these groups seems to be related to geoclimatic events associated with the uplift of the central and northern portions of the Andes and the closure of the Isthmus of Panama. We propose routes from south to north in the Neotropics and the use of the Greater and Lesser Antilles as a northward path.
Data Quality Tools to Enhance a Network Anomaly Detection Benchmark
Authors: Camacho José , Rodríguez-Gómez Rafael A.
Published: February 2025

Network traffic datasets are essential for the construction of traffic models, often using machine learning (ML) techniques. Among other applications, these models can be employed to solve complex optimization problems or to identify anomalous behaviors, i.e., behaviors that deviate from the established model. However, the performance of the ML model depends, among other factors, on the quality of the data used to train it. Benchmark datasets, with a profound impact on research findings, are often assumed to be of good quality by default. In this paper, we derive four variants of a benchmark dataset in network anomaly detection (UGR’16, a flow-based real-world traffic dataset designed for anomaly detection), and show that the choice among variants has a larger impact on model performance than the ML technique used to build the model. To analyze this phenomenon, we propose a methodology to investigate the causes of these differences and to assess the quality of the data labeling. Our results underline the importance of paying more attention to data quality assessment in network anomaly detection.
Are Exotic Monks Better at Chanting Sutras? Tension and Integration Between Performance-Based Personnel Management and Indigenous Guanxi Culture
Authors: Zhao Qian , Li Wen , Fan Yan
Published: February 2025

Enhancing rural teacher agency to foster more proactive and enthusiastic teaching practices is crucial for addressing the underdeveloped state of rural education. In recent years, the introduction of performance-based personnel management, such as performance-based pay, has been a significant reform initiative. This study focuses on the first county in Beijing to implement performance-based personnel management, conducting a three-year longitudinal investigation to explore how established Western management policies perform when confronted with guanxi (Chinese-style relationships) that emphasize familiarity and personal ties. Using Hierarchical Linear Modeling, the study analyzes three waves of longitudinal data from 516 teachers in a Beijing county, examining the impact of performance-based personnel management on teacher agency and the mediating and moderating roles of guanxi. The findings reveal that (1) Performance-based personnel management did not enhance teacher agency as anticipated. In fact, the stronger the initial guanxi among teacher groups, the more negative the policy’s impact on teacher agency. (2) Guanxi culture exerted a suppressing effect on the policy. In rural China, the indigenous guanxi culture hindered the implementation of performance-based personnel management, eroding collaborative networks among teachers and obscuring the policy’s intended positive effects. Performance-based personnel management weakened work connections among strong-guanxi groups while directly boosting the agency of weak-guanxi groups. (3) Instrumental guanxi demonstrated greater adaptability to policy changes compared to affective guanxi. Overall, externally imposed performance-based personnel management faces significant adaptive challenges within China’s deeply rooted guanxi culture. The effectiveness of such policies is constrained by their degree of alignment with local cultural and social structures. Therefore, policymakers should consider local cultural characteristics in educational policy design to enhance the adaptability and effectiveness of these policies.
A Semantic Segmentation Method for Road Sensing Images Based on an Improved PIDNet Model
Authors: Tan Guangxing , Jin Yangying
Published: February 2025

Semantic segmentation, as a critical technology in intelligent transportation and autonomous driving, plays a significant role in accurately parsing scene information and enhancing environmental perception capabilities. However, the complexity of road environments poses challenges to the robustness and real-time performance of existing algorithms. Although PIDNet achieves a certain balance between performance and efficiency, it still falls short in fine-grained object segmentation and multi-scale feature fusion. To address these issues, this paper proposes an improved algorithm based on PIDNet. The proposed method includes the following: (1) introducing a multi-branch high-resolution feature extraction module to reduce information loss; (2) adopting a dense atrous spatial pyramid pooling module to enhance multi-scale feature fusion capabilities; and (3) incorporating cross-attention mechanisms into the Bag module to optimize feature interaction. Experimental results on the CityScapes dataset show that the improved algorithm increases the mean intersection-over-union (MIoU) from 78.6% to 81.1%, demonstrating higher segmentation accuracy and robustness in complex scenarios while maintaining real-time performance, thereby validating the effectiveness of the approach.
Reference Phone Number: A Secure and Quality of Service-Improved SIP-Based Phone System
Authors: Hsieh Wen-Bin
Published: February 2025

With the improvement of the internet and the widespread adoption of digital communication devices such as smartphones, VoIP has largely replaced traditional telephone systems. Many companies are deploying VoIP systems due to their scalability and low cost. In this paper, we address the issue of remote clients or traveling employees being unable to contact business partners due to specific phone numbers. We propose a reference phone number mechanism that combines a set of related business partners’ phone numbers to enhance call availability. To ensure the confidentiality of calls, we also designed an algorithm to integrate key exchange protocols into the proposed mechanism. The mechanism can flexibly customize the required security protocols. A performance analysis was conducted by deploying the proposed mechanism in a medium-sized company. The results prove that the mechanism is feasible and the effect is satisfactory.
A Study on Novel Current Controller for Improving Transient Characteristics in Direct Current Power Systems
Authors: Lim Sang-Kil , Park Sung-Jun , Lee Jung-Hwan
Published: February 2025

This study proposes a novel current controller to enhance the transient response characteristics and control responsiveness of energy storage systems (ESSs) in DC power systems. To achieve this, an Enhanced Transient High-Speed Controller (ETHSC) is introduced, which improves upon the conventional Transient High-Speed Controller (THSC) by incorporating real-time error compensation for excitation voltage application time. The ETHSC calculates the inductor’s flux linkage λ in real-time and corrects errors caused by the nonlinear characteristics of inductance, ensuring more stable control performance. This study further analyzes the limitations of the conventional THSC and mathematically formulates the ETHSC architecture, introducing a real-time inductance correction algorithm to enhance transient response and stability. The proposed controller was implemented in a boost converter topology and compared with the conventional THSC. Through PSIM simulations and a 500 W prototype experiment, the ETHSC demonstrated its ability to maintain fast transient response while significantly reducing overshoot caused by inductor nonlinearity. These results confirm that the ETHSC provides a more stable and efficient control strategy compared to conventional transient controllers, making it a promising solution for high-performance DC power systems.
Simulation of Human Behavior Recognition Based on WiFi Signal
Authors: Li Lanxin , Chen Ping , Wu Yangxu
Published: February 2025

WiFi (wireless fidelity) signals, renowned for their extensive coverage, absence of electromagnetic pollution, and robust penetration capabilities, are exceptionally well suited for serving as an external radiation source in target detection and environmental perception applications. The current paper delves into the viability of leveraging WiFi signals for the purpose of human behavior recognition. Initially, the paper elucidates the distinctive attributes of typical WiFi signals. Subsequently, it formulates a parametric mathematical model to represent human walking, encompassing an analysis of several prevalent translational and rotational motions. Building upon this human body kinematic model, this study generates echo data corresponding to human walking patterns. A comprehensive simulation, analysis, and validation of the micro-Doppler characteristics associated with various body parts and the whole body in motion are then conducted. The findings from these simulations and analyses affirm the efficacy of the proposed methodology.
A Novel Framework Based on Complementary Views for Fault Diagnosis with Cross-Attention Mechanisms
Authors: Liu Xiaorong , Chen Zhonghan , Hu Dongfeng , Zong Liansong
Published: February 2025

Bearing fault diagnosis is critical for the reliability and safety of rotating machinery in industrial applications. Traditional fault diagnosis methods and single-view deep learning models often fail to capture the complex, multi-dimensional nature of vibration signals, limiting their effectiveness in accurately identifying faults under varying conditions. To address this, we propose a novel multi-view framework that leverages complementary views—time, frequency, and wavelet domains—of vibration signals for robust fault diagnosis. Our framework integrates a cross-attention mechanism (CAM) that combines self-attention and cross-attention to capture both intra-view and inter-view dependencies, enabling the effective fusion of multi-domain information. By modeling the interactions between different views, the proposed approach enhances feature representation, leading to improved diagnostic accuracy even under noisy industrial conditions. Experimental results on public bearing datasets demonstrate the superior performance of our method compared to state-of-the-art approaches, with significant improvements in robustness and accuracy. This framework provides a promising solution for intelligent fault diagnosis in complex industrial environments.
How the Choice of LLM and Prompt Engineering Affects Chatbot Effectiveness
Authors: Pawlik Lukasz
Published: February 2025

Modern businesses increasingly rely on chatbots to enhance customer communication and automate routine tasks. The research aimed to determine the optimal configurations of a telecommunications chatbot on the Rasa Pro platform, including the selection of large language models (LLMs), prompt formats, and command structures. The impact of various LLMs, prompt formats, and command precision on response quality was analyzed. Smaller models, like Gemini-1.5-Flash-8B and Gemma2-9B-IT, can achieve results comparable to larger models, offering a cost-effective solution. Specifically, the Gemini-1.5-Flash-8B model achieved an accuracy improvement of 21.62 points when using the JSON prompt format. This emphasizes the importance of prompt engineering techniques, like using structured formats (YAML, JSON) and precise commands. The study utilized a dataset of 400 sample test phrases created based on real customer service conversations with a mobile phone operator’s customers. Results suggest optimizing chatbot performance does not always require the most powerful models. Proper prompt preparation and data format choice are crucial. The theoretical framework focuses on the interaction between model size, prompt format, and command precision. Findings provide insights for chatbot designers to optimize performance through LLM selection and prompt construction. These findings have practical implications for businesses seeking cost-effective and efficient chatbot solutions.
Context Geometry Volume and Warping Refinement for Real-Time Stereo Matching
Authors: Liu Ning , Zhao Nannan , Yang Ou , Wu Qingtian , Ouyang Xinyu
Published: February 2025

In the past three years, the stereo matching method based on 3D CNNs has achieved surprising results and has received more and more attention. However, most stereo matching approaches aim to improve prediction accuracy by constructing and aggregating cost volumes through extensive 3D convolutions, which not only does not fully utilize the geometric information, but also overlooks the computational speed. Thus, achieving high-accuracy, high-efficiency stereo matching has become challenging. In this paper, we present a rapid and precise stereo matching network named CGW based on 3D CNNs, which simultaneously achieves real-time functioning, considerable accuracy, and a strong generalization capability. The network is divided into two parts. The first part constructs the geometric attention cube through a lightweight feature extraction network and a lightweight 3D regularization network. The second part filters the context features using the geometric attention cube to obtain the context geometric cube, and finally, the disparity is predicted and refined to obtain the final disparity. We adopted MobileNetV3 as an efficient backbone for feature extraction and designed 3D depthwise separable convolutions with residual structures to replace traditional 3D convolutions for constructing the cost volume and performing cost aggregation, aiming to reduce the model size and improve the computational speed. Additionally, we designed the context geometric attention (CGA) module and embedded it into the lightweight 3D regularization network, as well as designed the Warped Disparity Refinement (WDR) network to further improve the disparity prediction accuracy. CGA effectively guides cost aggregation by integrating rich contextual and geometric information, while also providing feedback for feature learning to guide more efficient context feature extraction. WDR constructs a warping cost volume using the obtained initial disparity, combined with image features, the initial disparity map, and reconstruction errors, to optimize the disparity. According to the initial disparity, it searches for the accurate disparity within a refined range. By narrowing the search range, WDR simplifies the task for the network to locate the correct disparity (residual), while simultaneously improving the computational efficiency. Experiments conducted on multiple benchmark datasets showed that, compared to other fast methods, CGW has advantages in both speed and accuracy and exhibits better generalization performance.
Improved Electric Eel Foraging Algorithm for Shielding Optimization of Wireless Power Transfer Systems
Authors: Huang Wencong , Shu Cheng , Wang Aoli , Chang Yufang , Yan Huaicheng
Published: February 2025

There is a problem of magnetic leakage in the charging process of wireless power transfer systems, which can threaten human safety and affect the normal operation of electronic equipment. In this paper, the wireless power transfer system adopts a bilateral LCCS hybrid topology to address this problem. It proposes a magnetic field shielding suppression method based on the improved electric eel foraging optimization algorithm. Firstly, the Fuch infinite folding chaos strategy and the Cauchy–Gauss variation strategy are introduced to optimize the electric eel foraging optimization algorithm, which further improves the global optimal parameter search capability of the improved electric eel foraging optimization algorithm. Then, the improved electric eel foraging optimization algorithm is proposed to perform a parameter search for the inductance of the shielded coil. Finally, simulation and experimental verification show that when the shielding coil inductance is optimal, the method proposed in this paper can effectively shield and suppress the magnetic leakage of the system, reducing the magnetic leakage field by 67.05%. The magnetic induction intensity in the space region meets the international safety standards, which verifies the effectiveness and feasibility of the method.
A Bidirectional Resonant Converter Based on Partial Power Processing
Authors: Liu Junfeng , Wu Zhouzhou , Zhao Qinglin
Published: February 2025

This article proposes a bidirectional half-bridge resonant converter based on partial power regulation. The converter adopts an LLC converter as a DC-DC transformer (LLC-DCX) in the main power circuit and works in the open loop at the resonant frequency to give full play to the performance advantages of the LLC resonant converter. The partial power regulation circuit incorporates a synchronous Buck converter, enabling forward and backward power transmission by controlling the power flow direction. The converter achieves soft switching in both forward and backward directions, thereby reducing switching losses and enhancing conversion efficiency. Compared with the LLC-DCX converter, this converter can achieve wide voltage gain regulation while having high efficiency, which makes it suitable for charge–discharge applications between energy storage systems and DC Buses. In order to verify the performance of the proposed converter, a 1 kW prototype was constructed, maintaining a constant primary voltage of 400 V and a secondary voltage range of 350 V to 450 V. Experimental results indicate that the prototype achieves peak efficiencies of 97.74% in forward operation and 96.92% in backward operation, thoroughly demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed converter.
A Distributed Photovoltaic Aggregation Method Considering Photovoltaic Output Characteristics and Active Voltage Sensitivity
Authors: Yang Shaobo , Hu Xuekai , Tu Zengze , Yin Rui , Zhang Yufei , Li Jiapeng , Wang Lei , Meng Liang
Published: February 2025

With the large-scale integration of distributed photovoltaics, the morphology and characteristics of distribution networks are becoming increasingly complex. Accurate and efficient modeling of distributed photovoltaic aggregation is of significant importance for the planning and operation of new distribution networks. In this study, we first evaluated the similarity of different photovoltaic generation units by integrating the output characteristics of photovoltaic systems and the sensitivity indicators of grid connection points, proposing a distributed photovoltaic clustering method based on the K-means algorithm. Secondly, the output of the photovoltaic aggregation cluster was calculated using the capacity-weighting method. An equivalent network connecting various photovoltaic clusters was constructed based on the node elimination of the admittance matrix, and a modeling method for distributed photovoltaic aggregation was developed. Finally, the effectiveness of the method proposed in this paper was verified through the IEEE-33 test system. The results show that the distributed photovoltaics aggregation modeling method proposed in this paper can effectively simplify network topologies and improve the accuracy of the calculation results while also improving the efficiency of power flow analysis.
Characteristics of Coal-Bearing Shale Reservoirs and Gas Content Features in the Carboniferous–Permian System of the Qinshui Basin, Shanxi Province, China
Authors: Xu Shen , Wang Meng , Gao Jie , Li Wenhao , Zhang Xiaorong , Zhou Wenxin , Zheng Yanzixian
Published: February 2025

The evaluation of reservoir properties and gas-bearing characteristics is critical for assessing shale gas accumulation. This study aimed to improve the precision of characterizing the properties and gas-bearing features of the Carboniferous and Permian shale reservoirs within the Qinshui Basin, Shanxi Province, China. It specifically focuses on the shale from the Late Carboniferous to Early Permian Shanxi and Taiyuan formations at Well Z1, located in the mid-eastern region of the basin. A comprehensive suite of analytical techniques, including organic geochemical analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), high-pressure mercury intrusion, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, isothermal adsorption experiments, and gas content measurements, was used to systematically evaluate the reservoir properties and gas-bearing characteristics of the Carboniferous–Permian shale in Well Z1. The findings reveal the following. (1) The organic matter in the Shanxi and Taiyuan formations of Well Z1 is predominantly Type III humic kerogen, exhibiting high maturity and abundance. Specifically, 67.40% of the samples have TOC > 1.00%, classifying them as medium- to high-quality source rocks. The vitrinite reflectance (Ro) ranges from 1.99% to 2.55%, and Tmax varies from 322.01 °C to 542.01 °C, indicating a high to over-mature stage. (2) The mineral composition of the shale is dominated by kaolinite, illite, and quartz, with a moderate brittleness index. The average clay mineral content is 52.12%, while quartz averages 45.53%, and the brittleness index averages 42.34. (3) The pore types in the shale are predominantly macropores, with varying peak intervals among different samples. (4) The surface area and specific pore volume of macropores show positive relationships with TOC, Tmax, kaolinite, and the amount of desorbed gas, while they are negatively correlated with quartz. In contrast, mesopores exhibit positive correlations with TOC and illite. (5) Desorbed gas content exhibits a positive correlation with porosity, Ro, and illite. These insights enhance the comprehension of the reservoir’s properties, the characteristics of gas presence, and the determinant factors for the Carboniferous–Permian shale located in the Qinshui Basin, providing a robust practical procedure for the exploration and extraction of coal-measure shale gas resources within this area.
Modern Energy Sources for Sustainable Buildings: Innovations and Energy Efficiency in Green Construction
Authors: Lewandowski Krzysztof
Published: February 2025

Faced with increasing challenges related to energy efficiency and sustainable development, green buildings play a pivotal role in reducing energy consumption and lowering carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. This article reviews modern energy sources, including renewable systems such as solar, wind, and geothermal energy, and their applications in green construction. This literature review synthesizes the latest research and trends, focusing on the efficiency and reliability of these technologies. Furthermore, this study examines innovative energy management methods, such as smart grids (SGs) and energy storage solutions (ESSs), that support the development of sustainable buildings. The findings highlight the significant potential of modern energy sources to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. Additionally, this study addresses the challenges associated with implementing these technologies and the necessity of integrating renewable solutions into large-scale energy management systems. The final conclusions emphasize future directions in green construction, underscoring the importance of innovation and cross-sector collaboration to achieve a sustainable future.
Enhanced Oil Recovery Mechanism Mediated by Reduced Miscibility Pressure Using Hydrocarbon-Degrading Bacteria During CO2 Flooding in Tight Oil Reservoirs
Authors: Wang Chengjun , Li Xinxin , Xia Juan , Ni Jun , Wang Weibo , Jin Ge , Cui Kai
Published: February 2025

CO2 flooding technology for tight oil reservoirs not only effectively addresses the challenge of low recovery rates, but also facilitates geological CO2 sequestration, thereby achieving the dual objective of enhanced CO2 utilization and secure storage. However, in the development of continental sedimentary tight oil reservoirs, the high content of heavy hydrocarbons in crude oil leads to an elevated minimum miscibility pressure (MMP) between crude oil and CO2, thereby limiting the process to non-miscible flooding. Conventional physical and chemical methods, although effective in reducing MMP, are often associated with high costs, environmental concerns, and limited efficacy. To address these challenges, we propose a novel approach utilizing petroleum hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria (PHDB) to biodegrade heavy hydrocarbons in crude oil. This method alters the composition of crude oil, thereby lowering the MMP during CO2 flooding, facilitating the transition from non-miscible to miscible flooding, and enhancing oil recovery. Results demonstrated that, after 7 days of cultivation, the selected PHDB achieved a degradation efficiency of 56.4% in crude oil, significantly reducing the heavy hydrocarbon content. The relative content of light-saturated hydrocarbons increased by 15.6%, and the carbon atom molar percentage in crude oil decreased from C8 to C6. Following the biodegradation process, the MMP of the lightened crude oil was reduced by 20.9%. Core flood experiments indicated that CO2 flooding enhanced by PHDB improved oil recovery by 17.7% compared to conventional CO2 flooding. This research provides a novel technical approach for the green and cost-effective development of tight oil reservoirs with CO2 immiscible flooding.
Mycorrhization of Quercus dentata Seedlings with Laccaria bicolor Enhances Salt Tolerance of Plants Only Under Relatively Moderate Soil Salinity Level
Authors: Sun Wenlong , Qi Luyu , Chen Haonan , Song Yixin , Jiang Jiaqi , Zhang Puyi , Wang Bojian , Wang Qiang , Meng Gaode , Ji Tianyu , Sun Xinke , Guo Weihua , Du Ning , Zwiazek Janusz J.
Published: February 2025

Soil salinization is a growing global concern in many ecosystems. Although ectomycorrhizal fungi have been shown to alleviate the effects of salinity in some tree species, uncertainties persist concerning their effectiveness when plants are exposed to different salinity levels that are commonly present in salt-affected soils. Quercus dentata seedlings either non-inoculated (mycorrhizal control) or inoculated with the ectomycorrhizal fungus Laccaria bicolor were then treated with three NaCl concentrations (0, 0.4%, and 0.8%). The physiological, stoichiometric, and growth characteristics of the plants were examined. NaCl significantly affected seedling growth and physiology. However, the impact of L. bicolor on Q. dentata seedlings could shift in response to varying salt concentrations. Under moderate salinity, inoculation of L. bicolor increased root biomass by 4.55% and leaf chlorophyll concentrations by 46.8%, and decreased leaf Na+ concentrations and the Na+/K+ ratios. Under high salinity, L. bicolor decreased leaf water content and fluorescence parameters, and increased leaf Na+ concentrations. The effect of ectomycorrhizal fungus L. bicolor on Q. dentata seedlings was dependent on NaCl concentration, and our results indicate that the use of L. bicolor in afforestation efforts with Q. dentata would only be effective under relatively low soil salinity levels.