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Search Results (218)

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15 pages, 1982 KiB  
Review
Stellar Evolution Through the Red Supergiant Phase
by Sylvia Ekström and Cyril Georgy
Galaxies 2025, 13(4), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/galaxies13040081 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 376
Abstract
Massive stars less massive than ∼30 M evolve into a red supergiant after the main sequence. Given a standard IMF, this means about 80% of all single massive stars will experience this phase. RSGs are dominated by convection, with a radius that [...] Read more.
Massive stars less massive than ∼30 M evolve into a red supergiant after the main sequence. Given a standard IMF, this means about 80% of all single massive stars will experience this phase. RSGs are dominated by convection, with a radius that may extend up to thousands of solar radii. Their low temperature and gravity make them prone to losing large amounts of mass, either through pulsationally driven wind or through mass-loss outburst. RSGs are the progenitors of the most common core-collapse supernovae, type II. In the present review, we give an overview of our theoretical understanding about this spectacular phase of massive star evolution. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Red Supergiants: Crucial Signposts for the Fate of Massive Stars)
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11 pages, 495 KiB  
Article
On Extremal Values of the Nk-Degree Distance Index in Trees
by Zia Ullah Khan and Quaid Iqbal
Mathematics 2025, 13(14), 2284; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13142284 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 192
Abstract
The Nk-index (k-distance degree index) of a connected graph G was first introduced by Naji and Soner as a generalization of the distance degree concept, as [...] Read more.
The Nk-index (k-distance degree index) of a connected graph G was first introduced by Naji and Soner as a generalization of the distance degree concept, as Nk(G)=k=1d(G)vV(G)dk(v)k, where the distance between u and v in G is denoted by d(u,v), the diameter of a graph G is denoted by d(G), and the degree of a vertex v at distance k is denoted by dk(v)={u,vV(G)d(u,v)=k}. In this paper, we extend the study of the Nk-index of graphs. We introduced some graph transformations and their impact on the Nk-index of graph and proved that the star graph has the minimum, and the path graph has the maximum Nk-index among the set of all trees on n vertices. We also show that among all trees with fixed maximum-degree Δ, the broom graph Bn,Δ (consisting of a star SΔ+1 and a pendant path of length nΔ1 attached to any arbitrary pendant path of star) is a unique tree which maximizes the Nk-index. Further, we also defined and proved a graph with maximum Nk-index for a given number of n vertices, maximum-degree Δ, and perfect matching among trees. We characterize the starlike trees which minimize the Nk-index and propose a unique tree which minimizes the Nk-index with diameter d and n vertices among trees. Full article
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18 pages, 2282 KiB  
Article
Quantifying the Unwinding Due to Ram Pressure Stripping in Simulated Galaxies
by Rubens E. G. Machado, Caroline F. O. Grinberg and Elvis A. Mello-Terencio
Galaxies 2025, 13(4), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/galaxies13040076 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 433
Abstract
Galaxies moving through the gas of the intracluster medium (ICM) experience ram pressure stripping, which can leave behind a gas tail. When a disk galaxy receives the wind edge-on, however, the characteristic signature is not a typical jellyfish tail, but rather an unwinding [...] Read more.
Galaxies moving through the gas of the intracluster medium (ICM) experience ram pressure stripping, which can leave behind a gas tail. When a disk galaxy receives the wind edge-on, however, the characteristic signature is not a typical jellyfish tail, but rather an unwinding of the spiral arms. We aim to quantify such asymmetries both in the gas and in the stellar component of a simulated galaxy. To this end, we simulate a gas-rich star-forming spiral galaxy moving through a self-consistent ICM gas. The amplitude and location of the asymmetries were measured via Fourier decomposition. We found that the asymmetry is much more evident in the gas component, but it is also measurable in the stars. The amplitude tends to increase with time and the asymmetry radius migrates inwards. We found that, when considering the gas, the spiral arms extend much further and are more unwound than the corresponding stellar arms. Characterizing the unwinding via simulations should help inform the observational criteria used to classify ram pressure stripped galaxies, as opposed to asymmetries induced by other mechanisms. Full article
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17 pages, 898 KiB  
Article
Extraction of Physical Parameters of RRab Variables Using Neural Network Based Interpolator
by Nitesh Kumar, Harinder P. Singh, Oleg Malkov, Santosh Joshi, Kefeng Tan, Philippe Prugniel and Anupam Bhardwaj
Universe 2025, 11(7), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe11070207 - 24 Jun 2025
Viewed by 401
Abstract
Determining the physical parameters of pulsating variable stars such as RR Lyrae is essential for understanding their internal structure, pulsation mechanisms, and evolutionary state. In this study, we present a machine learning framework that uses feedforward artificial neural networks (ANNs) to infer stellar [...] Read more.
Determining the physical parameters of pulsating variable stars such as RR Lyrae is essential for understanding their internal structure, pulsation mechanisms, and evolutionary state. In this study, we present a machine learning framework that uses feedforward artificial neural networks (ANNs) to infer stellar parameters—mass (M), luminosity (log(L/L)), effective temperature (log(Teff)), and metallicity (Z)—directly from Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) light curves. The network is trained on a synthetic grid of RRab light curves generated from hydrodynamical pulsation models spanning a broad range of physical parameters. We validate the model using synthetic self-inversion tests and demonstrate that the ANN accurately recovers the input parameters with minimal bias. We then apply the trained model to RRab stars observed by the TESS. The observed light curves are phase-folded, corrected for extinction, and passed through the ANN to derive physical parameters. Based on these results, we construct an empirical period–luminosity–metallicity (PLZ) relation: log(L/L) = (1.458 ± 0.028) log(P/days) + (–0.068 ± 0.007) [Fe/H] + (2.040 ± 0.007). This work shows that ANN-based light-curve inversion offers an alternative method for extracting stellar parameters from single-band photometry. The approach can be extended to other classes of pulsators such as Cepheids and Miras. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Discoveries in Astronomical Data)
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8 pages, 2549 KiB  
Communication
Blinkverse 2.0: Updated Host Galaxies for Fast Radio Bursts
by Jiaying Xu, Chao-Wei Tsai, Sean E. Lake, Yi Feng, Xiang-Lei Chen, Di Li, Han Wang, Xuerong Guo, Jingjing Hu and Xiaodong Ge
Universe 2025, 11(7), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe11070206 - 24 Jun 2025
Viewed by 210
Abstract
Studying the host galaxies of fast radio bursts (FRBs) is critical to understanding the formation processes of their sources and, hence, the mechanisms by which they radiate. Toward this end, we have extended the Blinkverse database version 1.0, which already included burst information [...] Read more.
Studying the host galaxies of fast radio bursts (FRBs) is critical to understanding the formation processes of their sources and, hence, the mechanisms by which they radiate. Toward this end, we have extended the Blinkverse database version 1.0, which already included burst information about FRBs observed by various telescopes, by adding information about 92 published FRB host galaxies to make version 2.0. Each FRB host has 18 parameters describing it, including redshift, stellar mass, star-formation rate, emission line fluxes, etc. In particular, each FRB host includes images collated by FASTView, streamlining the process of looking for clues to understanding the origin of FRBs. FASTView is a tool and API for quickly exploring astronomical sources using archival imaging, photometric, and spectral data. This effort represents the first step in building Blinkverse into a comprehensive tool for facilitating source observation and analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Planetary Radar Astronomy)
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26 pages, 4473 KiB  
Review
Red Supergiant Mass Loss and Mass-Loss Rates
by Jacco Th. van Loon
Galaxies 2025, 13(4), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/galaxies13040072 - 20 Jun 2025
Viewed by 826
Abstract
This review discusses the causes, nature, importance and observational evidence of mass loss by red supergiants. It arrives at the perception that mass loss finds its origin in the gravity which makes the star a star in the first place, and is a [...] Read more.
This review discusses the causes, nature, importance and observational evidence of mass loss by red supergiants. It arrives at the perception that mass loss finds its origin in the gravity which makes the star a star in the first place, and is a mechanism for the star to equilibrate. This is corroborated by a careful examination of various popular historical and recent empirical mass-loss rate prescriptions and theoretical works, and which provides no evidence for an explicit dependence of red supergiant mass loss on metallicity though dust-associated mass loss becomes less prevalent at lower metallicity. It also identifies a common problem in methods that use tracers of mass loss, which do not correct for varying scaling factors (often because there is no information available on which to base such correction) and as a result tend to underestimate mass-loss rates at the lower end. Conversely, dense, extended chromospheres in themselves do not translate into high mass-loss rates, and the significance of stochastic mass loss can be overstated. On a population scale, on the other hand, binary interaction acts as a stochastic agent of mass loss of great import. In all, evidence is overwhelming that points at red supergiants at the lower mass end losing mass at insufficient rates to shed their mantles before core collapse, but massive (at birth) red supergiants to be prone to intense, dusty mass loss which sees them become hotter stars before meeting their fate. This is consistent with the identified progenitors of hydrogen-rich supernovae. Supernova evolution holds great promise to probe the mass loss but we caution against confusing atmospheres with winds. Finally, promising avenues are looked into, which could forge step-change progress in what has been a long and arduous search for the holy grail of red supergiant mass loss. We may yet find it! Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Red Supergiants: Crucial Signposts for the Fate of Massive Stars)
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10 pages, 270 KiB  
Article
Star-Convexity of the Eigenvalue Regions for Stochastic Matrices and Certain Subclasses
by Brando Vagenende, Brecht Verbeken and Marie-Anne Guerry
Mathematics 2025, 13(12), 2038; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13122038 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 316
Abstract
Star-convexity of the eigenvalue region for the set of n×n stochastic matrices has already been proven, for n2, by Dmitriev and Dynkin. The star-convexity property enables full determination of the eigenvalue region by its boundary. This study offers [...] Read more.
Star-convexity of the eigenvalue region for the set of n×n stochastic matrices has already been proven, for n2, by Dmitriev and Dynkin. The star-convexity property enables full determination of the eigenvalue region by its boundary. This study offers a more straightforward proof that extends to other subclasses of the stochastic matrices. Furthermore, the proof is constructive as it includes the explicit construction of the corresponding realizing matrices. Explicit sufficient conditions for star-convexity of the eigenvalue regions of stochastic subclasses are presented. In particular, star-convexity of the eigenvalue region is proved for the n×n doubly stochastic and the n×n monotone stochastic matrices. Full article
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26 pages, 411 KiB  
Article
Attitudinal Segmentation and the Perceived Value of Sustainable Practices in Luxury Hotels: Evidence from Chinese Tourists
by Nathakorn Loedphacharakamon and Therdchai Choibamroong
Sustainability 2025, 17(12), 5525; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17125525 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 635
Abstract
This study examines how Chinese tourists perceive the value of sustainable practices implemented in five-star hotels in Phuket, Thailand, through the lens of the perceived value theory and the service experience framework. While luxury hotels increasingly adopt green initiatives, research exploring how tourists [...] Read more.
This study examines how Chinese tourists perceive the value of sustainable practices implemented in five-star hotels in Phuket, Thailand, through the lens of the perceived value theory and the service experience framework. While luxury hotels increasingly adopt green initiatives, research exploring how tourists evaluate these efforts across the full guest journey is limited. Addressing this gap, this study aimed to examine how attitudinally distinct tourist segments perceive sustainable practices across three service stages: pre-consumption, consumption, and post-consumption. A cross-sectional survey of 400 Chinese tourists was conducted, applying k-means clustering to segment respondents by sustainability attitudes, followed by multi-group structural equation modeling. Two segments emerged: environmentally engaged travelers and conventional comfort travelers. The results indicate that the emotional value dominates during the stay, the functional value drives pre-stay decisions, and the ethical/social value shapes post-stay reflections. Environmentally engaged tourists were more responsive to ethical and social cues. The findings highlight sustainability as a multidimensional, stage-specific construct moderated by guest attitudes. Theoretically, this research extends perceived value frameworks by mapping sustainability perceptions across the guest journey. Practically, it offers actionable insights for hotel managers seeking to design value-aligned green strategies and segmented communication. Tailoring sustainability initiatives to tourist profiles can enhance satisfaction, loyalty, and advocacy in the luxury hospitality sector. Full article
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26 pages, 3377 KiB  
Article
Which Offers Greater Techno-Economic Potential: Oil or Hydrogen Production from Light Oil Reservoirs?
by Chinedu J. Okere, James J. Sheng and Princewill M. Ikpeka
Geosciences 2025, 15(6), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences15060214 - 9 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 519
Abstract
The global emphasis on clean energy has increased interest in producing hydrogen from petroleum reservoirs through in situ combustion-based processes. While field practices have demonstrated the feasibility of co-producing hydrogen and oil, the question of which offers greater economic potential, oil, or hydrogen, [...] Read more.
The global emphasis on clean energy has increased interest in producing hydrogen from petroleum reservoirs through in situ combustion-based processes. While field practices have demonstrated the feasibility of co-producing hydrogen and oil, the question of which offers greater economic potential, oil, or hydrogen, remains central to ongoing discussions, especially as researchers explore ways to produce hydrogen exclusively from petroleum reservoirs. This study presents the first integrated techno-economic model comparing oil and hydrogen production under varying injection strategies, using CMG STARS for reservoir simulations and GoldSim for economic modeling. Key technical factors, including injection compositions, well configurations, reservoir heterogeneity, and formation damage (issues not addressed in previous studies), were analyzed for their impact on hydrogen yield and profitability. The results indicate that CO2-enriched injection strategies enhance hydrogen production but are economically constrained by the high costs of CO2 procurement and recycling. In contrast, air injection, although less efficient in hydrogen yield, provides a more cost-effective alternative. Despite the technological promise of hydrogen, oil revenue remains the dominant economic driver, with hydrogen co-production facing significant economic challenges unless supported by policy incentives or advancements in gas lifting, separation, and storage technologies. This study highlights the economic trade-offs and strategic considerations crucial for integrating hydrogen production into conventional petroleum extraction, offering valuable insights for optimizing hydrogen co-production in the context of a sustainable energy transition. Additionally, while the present work focuses on oil reservoirs, future research should extend the approach to natural gas and gas condensate reservoirs, which may offer more favorable conditions for hydrogen generation. Full article
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15 pages, 1418 KiB  
Article
Detection and Inhibition of Clostridium perfringens by Cocktail of Star Anise and Thymus Extracts in Chicken Meat Products
by Gamal M. Hamad, Shenoda Gaber Monir Henry, Gamal E. A. El-Rokh, Nadia H. A. Ramadan, Hany S. Abdel Raoof, Ahmed M. Sulaiman, Ahmed M. El-Mesallamy, Samy E. Elshaer, Sara M. Gaber, Ibrahim M. Rabah, Ahmed R. Mahmoud, Mahmoud S. A. Salama, Taha Mehany and Hesham E. A. Abdelfttah
Pathogens 2025, 14(6), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14060552 - 1 Jun 2025
Viewed by 796
Abstract
Background: The presence of C. perfringens in chicken meat products leads to significant economic losses for the industry and is associated with human food poisoning. It inspires creative answers for novel substances and techniques, such natural antibacterials, for improved prospects in the future. [...] Read more.
Background: The presence of C. perfringens in chicken meat products leads to significant economic losses for the industry and is associated with human food poisoning. It inspires creative answers for novel substances and techniques, such natural antibacterials, for improved prospects in the future. The objective of this study was to examine the antibacterial properties of thymus and star anise extracts for the suppression of Clostridium perfringens in products made from chicken meat. Methods: Thymus and star anise extracts were phytochemically analyzed using the Folin–Ciocalteu spectrophotometric method, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to determine the phenolic compounds, DPPH to determine the antioxidant activity, and the agar disk diffusion assay to determine the antibacterial effect of the star anise. Following treatment with the mixture extract, an experimental application was conducted on chicken burgers. C. perfringens was also found in poultry samples. Lastly, the sensory evaluation of the chicken burger was detected. Results: The findings showed that Clostridium perfringens was present in a large number of chicken meat products, with a significant concentration in chicken thighs (84%), as well as in the mixture extract has the largest concentration of phytochemical components (TPC:123.88 ± 7.42 mg GAE/g, TFC: 69.04 ± 6.37 mg quercetin/g) with strong antibacterial action (the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the mixed extract was 3.12 mg/mL, with an inhibition zone of 13.06 ± 0.91 mm). Also, the addition of mix. extract to chicken burgers extends their shelf life, particularly when the mix content is high. Additionally, the mix. extract shows non-significant effect (p < 0.05) on the chicken burger’s sensory qualities. Conclusions: Finally, we can make use of the mix. extract of thymus and star anise as a natural preservative in chicken meat products especially the chicken burger. Full article
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20 pages, 542 KiB  
Article
Neutron Star Inner Crust at Finite Temperatures: A Comparison Between Compressible Liquid Drop and Extended Thomas–Fermi Approaches
by Guilherme Grams, Nikolai N. Shchechilin, Théau Diverrès, Anthea F. Fantina, Nicolas Chamel and Francesca Gulminelli
Universe 2025, 11(6), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe11060172 - 27 May 2025
Viewed by 741
Abstract
We investigate the effects of temperature on the properties of the inner crust of a non-accreting neutron star. To this aim, we employ two different treatments: the compressible liquid drop model (CLDM) and the temperature-dependent extended Thomas–Fermi (TETF) method. Our systematic comparison shows [...] Read more.
We investigate the effects of temperature on the properties of the inner crust of a non-accreting neutron star. To this aim, we employ two different treatments: the compressible liquid drop model (CLDM) and the temperature-dependent extended Thomas–Fermi (TETF) method. Our systematic comparison shows an agreement between the two methods on their predictions for the crust thermodynamic properties. We find that the CLDM description can also reproduce reasonably well the TETF composition especially if the surface energy is optimized on the ETF calculation. However, the neglect of neutron skin in CLDM leads to an overestimation of the proton radii. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Universe: Feature Papers 2024 – Compact Objects)
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14 pages, 3588 KiB  
Review
Intermediate-Mass Mergers: A New Scenario for Several FS CMa Stars
by Daniela Korčáková, Nela Dvořáková, Iris Bermejo Lozano, Gregg A. Wade, Alicia Moranchel Basurto, Pavel Kroupa, Raul Ortega Chametla, Colin Peter Folsom and Ondrej Juhás
Galaxies 2025, 13(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/galaxies13030046 - 22 Apr 2025
Viewed by 519
Abstract
We summarise the properties and nature of a peculiar group of B-type stars called FS CMa stars. These stars show the B[e] phenomenon, i.e., their spectra exhibit both forbidden emission lines and infrared excess. Such properties point to an extended circumstellar gas and [...] Read more.
We summarise the properties and nature of a peculiar group of B-type stars called FS CMa stars. These stars show the B[e] phenomenon, i.e., their spectra exhibit both forbidden emission lines and infrared excess. Such properties point to an extended circumstellar gas and dust component. Although the phenomenon has been explained in most B[e] stars, the origin and nature of FS CMa stars is disputed. Here, we focus on the merger hypothesis, for which evidence has recently been discovered. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circumstellar Matter in Hot Star Systems)
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17 pages, 6577 KiB  
Article
Multi-Beam STAR MIMO Using Differential Arrays
by Yinyi Zhao, Satheesh Bojja Venkatakrishnan, Constantinos L. Zekios, Soumyajit Mandal and Arjuna Madanayake
Information 2025, 16(4), 321; https://doi.org/10.3390/info16040321 - 18 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1549
Abstract
As we are witnessing the surge of ongoing wireless communication systems, simultaneous transmit and receive (STAR) schemes are proving to be advantageous due to the doubling of spectral efficiency. However, for the successful realization of STAR, we need to overcome a major bottleneck [...] Read more.
As we are witnessing the surge of ongoing wireless communication systems, simultaneous transmit and receive (STAR) schemes are proving to be advantageous due to the doubling of spectral efficiency. However, for the successful realization of STAR, we need to overcome a major bottleneck in suppressing the self-interference from the transmitter onto the colocated receiver. Currently, mitigating this interference requires complex hardware and advanced algorithms when employing an array for applications such as multiple input, multiple output (MIMO), and beamforming. This interference can arise from both near-field and far-field coupling in a MIMO beamforming system. Consequently, this paper presents a unique STAR approach that provides an average isolation of 40 dB between Tx and Rx ports across all elements of the MIMO beamforming system. The proposed approach can be extended to large antenna arrays. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Telecommunication Networks and Wireless Technology)
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11 pages, 9181 KiB  
Article
Extraplanar [C II] and Hα in the Edge-On Galaxy NGC 5775
by William T. Reach, Dario Fadda, Richard J. Rand and Gordon J. Stacey
Universe 2025, 11(4), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/universe11040127 - 9 Apr 2025
Viewed by 351
Abstract
Spiral galaxies are thin and susceptible to being disrupted vertically. The largest star clusters, and nuclear starbursts, generate enough energy from winds and supernovae to send disk material to the halo. Observations of edge-on galaxies allow for the clearest view of vertical disruptions. [...] Read more.
Spiral galaxies are thin and susceptible to being disrupted vertically. The largest star clusters, and nuclear starbursts, generate enough energy from winds and supernovae to send disk material to the halo. Observations of edge-on galaxies allow for the clearest view of vertical disruptions. We present new observations of the nearby, edge-on galaxy NGC 5775 with SOFIA in [C II] 157.7 μm and archival images from Hubble in Hα to search for extraplanar gas. The extraplanar [C II] extends 2 kpc from the midplane over much of the star-forming disk. The extraplanar [C II] at 2 kpc from the midplane approximately follows the rotation of the disk, with a lag of approximately 40 km s1; this lag is similar to what has been previously reported in Hα. Significant vertical extensions (to 3 kpc) are seen on the northeast side of the galaxy, potentially due to super star clusters in the NGC 5775 disk combined with gravitational interaction with the companion galaxy NGC 5774. The Hα narrow-band image reveals a narrow plume that extends 7 kpc from the nucleus and is almost exactly perpendicular to the disk. The plume shape is similar to that seen from the comparable galaxy NGC 3628 and may arise from the nuclear starburst. Alternatively, the Hα plume could be a relic of past activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Universe: Feature Papers 2024—"Galaxies and Clusters")
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18 pages, 2713 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Crack Segmentation Network with Multiple Selective Fusion Mechanisms
by Yang Chen, Tao Yang, Shuai Dong, Like Wang, Bida Pei and Yunlong Wang
Buildings 2025, 15(7), 1088; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15071088 - 27 Mar 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 843
Abstract
Automated crack detection is vital for structural maintenance in areas such as construction, roads, and bridges. Accurate crack detection allows for the timely identification and repair of cracks, reducing safety risks and extending the service life of structures. However, traditional methods struggle with [...] Read more.
Automated crack detection is vital for structural maintenance in areas such as construction, roads, and bridges. Accurate crack detection allows for the timely identification and repair of cracks, reducing safety risks and extending the service life of structures. However, traditional methods struggle with fine cracks, complex backgrounds, and image noise. In recent years, although deep learning techniques excel in pixel-level crack segmentation, challenges like inadequate local feature processing, information loss, and class imbalance persist. To address these challenges, we propose an encoder–decoder network based on multiple selective fusion mechanisms. Initially, a star feature enhancement module is designed to resolve the issues of insufficient local feature processing and feature redundancy during the feature extraction process. Then, a multi-scale adaptive fusion module is developed to selective capture both global and local contextual information, mitigating the information loss. Finally, to tackle class imbalance, a multi-scale monitoring and selective output module is introduced to enhance the model’s focus on crack features and suppress the interference from background and irrelevant information. Extensive experiments are conducted on three publicly available crack datasets: SCD, CFD, and DeepCrack. The results demonstrate that the proposed segmentation network achieves superior performance in pixel-level crack segmentation, with Dice scores of 66.2%, 54.2%, and 86.8% and mIoU values of 74.4%, 67.5%, and 87.9% on the SCD, CFD, and DeepCrack datasets, respectively. These results outperform those of existing models, such as U-Net, DeepLabv3+, and Attention UNet, particularly in handling complex backgrounds, fine cracks, and low-contrast images. Furthermore, the proposed MSF-CrackNet also significantly reduces computational complexity, with only 2.39 million parameters and 8.58 GFLOPs, making it a practical and efficient solution for real-world crack detection tasks, especially in scenarios with limited computational resources. Full article
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