- Research Article
- 10.1007/s11676-026-01985-5
Modeling Pinus tree taper data using mixed-effects models
- Feb 21, 2026
- Journal of Forestry Research
- Breno Gabriel Da Silva + 8 more +8
Publications from 2021 to 2026
Showing 10 of 93 papers
Modeling Pinus tree taper data using mixed-effects models
Improved prediction of groundwater potential zones using a stacking machine learning model
Sustainable groundwater management in regions with limited data remains a significant challenge. Identifying potential groundwater zones by combining geological and hydrological information is crucial for the effective use and protection of this resource. In the Southwest Shewa Zone of Ethiopia, groundwater is the main source for household, agricultural, and industrial needs. However, limited hydrogeological data often leads to drilling ineffective wells, emphasizing the need for precise, data-driven mapping methods. This study uses a stacked ensemble machine learning approach to identify groundwater potential zones. The framework combines Adaptive Boosting, Random Forest, Histogram-Based Gradient Boosting, and Extreme Gradient Boosting using a meta-learner to improve prediction accuracy and minimize bias. The area was classified into five groundwater potential levels: very low, low, moderate, high, and very high. Results indicate that 55.8% of the area falls within high to very high groundwater potential zones, while 29.8% corresponds to very low to low potential. Model evaluation using recall, precision, F1-score, and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) demonstrates strong predictive capability and reliable class discrimination across all groundwater potential zones.These findings demonstrate the strong predictive performance of the stacked ensemble learning model and provide a scientific basis for identifying groundwater prospecting zones and guiding well siting in the study area.
Read morePost-EOL Cybersecurity Validation for Automotive Production Units
<div class="section abstract"><div class="htmlview paragraph">ISO/SAE 21434 emphasizes comprehensive cybersecurity risk management throughout the automotive lifecycle. However, specific guidance on validating cybersecurity measures at the production level remains limited. This paper addresses the gap in production-stage validation, particularly after End-of-Line (EOL) flashing, which includes configurations of security hardware and software protection (e.g., hardware register configuration, Debug and P-flash password settings etc.)</div><div class="htmlview paragraph">Current automotive cybersecurity validation methods, despite adherence to ISO/SAE 21434, lack specific procedures for the production stage. The existing system-level validation using the ASPICE V-model (e.g., SWE.6, SYS.5) does not ensure the integrity and functionality of cybersecurity features in the final manufactured unit post-EOL flashing. This gap poses a risk of vulnerabilities being introduced during the EOL process, compromising critical security measures.</div><div class="htmlview paragraph">To mitigate the cybersecurity risks in production units, particularly the binary which has been introduced during End-of-Life (EOL) flashing, we propose a dedicated testing phase on the right side of the V-cycle. This phase of testing will be focused on identifying and resolving vulnerabilities stemming from EOL flashing processes, such as incorrect memory addresses or erroneous configuration values to activate the cybersecurity protection.</div><div class="htmlview paragraph">The current ASPICE V-cycle process lacks dedicated validation for software flashed via EOL procedures. This proposal addresses this critical gap by advocating for dedicated testing that will verify the integrity of hardware &amp; Software Cybersecurity configuration (example: UCB addresses, values, DEBUG, BMHD passwords etc.,). By implementing this validation process, we aim to substantially strengthen the overall cybersecurity solutions in <b>production units.</b></div><div class="htmlview paragraph">We have defined the necessary verification criteria and test cases and developed a performance testing strategy for the production unit testing stage. This strategy aims to ensure the robustness and reliability of cybersecurity measures in the final production units.</div></div>
Read moreIntegrated System Architectures for Robotic and IoT Healthcare Solutions
This chapter examines how robotics combined with Internet of Things technologies reshape healthcare by enhancing patient outcomes, streamlining workflows, and addressing challenges such as aging populations and chronic disease. It details system architectures that integrate robotic capabilities with IoT sensors for real-time data processing and adaptive responses. Advantages include early intervention through adaptive rehabilitation, remote patient monitoring, telepresence, and predictive analytics. Key challenges such as interoperability, real-time performance, data security, power efficiency, and workflow integration are analyzed through core components including sensors, networks, data processing, robotic control, and user interfaces. Drawing on global healthcare technology initiatives, the chapter offers practical guidance for researchers, clinicians, and engineers, while also discussing trends such as edge AI, federated learning, neuromorphic computing, and emerging standards.
Read moreAcceptance of dual rehabilitation from rehabilitants' perspectives: results of qualitative interviews
Dual rehabilitation (dR) of patients with physical and mental illnesses comprises equal care and cooperation between two specialist departments. As part of the multi-method project that aimed to evaluate dR in different indications (DUAL), we explored the acceptance from the rehabilitants' perspective.We conducted 36 semi-structured interviews with rehabilitants of different indications (psycho-gastroenterology, -dermatology, -orthopedics, -diabetology, -cardiology, -pneumology). Interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Knowledge and access, expectations, experiences, and subjective benefits were explored as indicators for acceptance.Rehabilitants reported appropriate expectations such as improvement of mental and physical complaints or open expectations. Cross-departmental aspects such as admission and ward rounds were experienced as beneficial if there was sufficient exchange and cooperation between specialist departments. In individual psychotherapeutic consultations and groups, an improved understanding of both disorders and contact with fellow patients were important which also had a positive effect outside therapies. The multimodality of the dR was perceived to be beneficial just as the therapists' behavior and offers for counseling on both diseases. Hindering experiences included a lack of interdisciplinarity/coordination between the specialist areas, a lack of individualization in therapy planning and structural aspects in almost all areas. Subjective benefits were improved self-management and symptoms of both illnesses, as well as occupational performance.Appropriate expectations, beneficial experiences with the multimodal therapy components, therapists, and fellow patients as well as perceived positive effects support rehabilitants' satisfaction and indicate a high level of acceptance. Hindering experiences and modification requests suggest ways for overcoming obstacles, for example, by increasing interdisciplinarity and cooperation between the specialist departments. Providing sufficient information and knowledge about dR available to practitioners and patients can further support acceptance and patient participation.
Read more3D printing in construction: sustainable technology for building industry
Abstract The adoption of 3D printing technology in the construction sector represents a transformative approach to addressing sustainability challenges, resource inefficiencies, and environmental impacts. This study explores the multifaceted potential of 3D printing as a sustainable alternative to conventional construction practices, focusing on material efficiency, architectural flexibility, labor dynamics, and environmental sustainability. Applying the PRISMA framework, the research synthesizes interdisciplinary insights from 75 high-quality journal articles across 2013–2024, emphasizing innovations in material science, digital integration, and circular economy principles. Key findings highlight that 3D printing reduces material waste by up to 60%, enhances construction speed by 50%, and enables the utilization of eco-friendly materials such as geopolymer concrete and biodegradable polymers. Despite these advancements, barriers such as scalability, high initial costs, and regulatory inconsistencies persist. This study concludes by providing lifecycle resources flow model and actionable recommendations for policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers to foster the integration of 3D printing in construction, including standardization efforts, lifecycle assessments, and the adoption of renewable energy in printing processes. This research positions 3D printing as a cornerstone of the sustainable construction paradigm, contributing to a resilient and eco-conscious built environment.
Read moreQuantifying deforestation drivers through multi-temporal LULC analysis and population-forest correlation modeling: A case study of Dara Woreda, Ethiopia
Design of a High-Specific-Power Traction Motor: Innovations and Strategies for Superior Performance
In electric vehicle (EV) traction, energy conversion by electric motors must be material and energy efficient to reduce environmental burden caused by the manufacture and operation of the systems and to help in efficient transition towards net zero future. The scarcity of key materials like rare earths and to some extent copper must be addressed in the design. Novel traction motors need a different approach compared to traditional industrial motor designs. Here, we focus on innovative design and optimization strategies to enhance material and energy efficiency and meet the escalating demand for sustainable transportation solutions. We are developing a prototype motor that achieves a continuous specific power of 7 kW/kg, significantly exceeding current automotive standards. This will be achieved by elevated operational speed of the traction motor, integrating advanced materials, and innovative cooling techniques such as direct liquid cooling (DLC) using hollow hairpin conductors, and insulating them with polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK) extrusion and expandable mainwall insulation material. The approach reduces reliance on rare earth permanent magnet (PM) materials by 60% compared to existing motors, aligning with global sustainability objectives. Through simulation, modeling, and practical case studies, the research demonstrates the feasibility of these innovations in real-world applications, highlighting potential advancements in EV propulsion systems. The article not only represents the insights into the latest developments in the design of electric motors for EV but also delineates the journey towards the creation of such a motor with considering accompanying electromagnetic and mechanical challenges.
Read more<b><span>THE AFRICAN CONTINENTAL FREE TRADE AGREEMENT (Af</span><span>C</span><span>FTA)- </span><span>TAX MATTERS ARISING</span></b>
Le monde en un lieu. Penser en historiens les diasporas et leurs territoires
Ce dialogue porte sur la façon dont les Diaspora Studies ont eu tendance à analyser les groupes diasporiques comme des entités déterritorialisées, superficiellement attachées à leur environnement local et n’ayant d’autre horizon que leurs réseaux transnationaux et l’idée du retour. Or, les diasporas sont autant créatrices d’ancrages dans leurs sociétés de résidences que de mobilités. À travers des exemples étudiés dans les diasporas juives et arméniennes — une bibliothèque et une synagogue à Paris, un quartier arménien à Jérusalem — les auteurs rappellent l’importance de ces espaces construits, qui assurent l’insertion du groupe dans les sociétés environnantes, sans pour autant négliger, ni amplifier, l’importance symbolique ou concrète de la terre d’origine.
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