Search Results (243)

Crown-level tree species semantic segmentation enables fine-grained forest inventory and management. Current high-precision tree species classification typically relies on multi-source remote sensing data, the acquisition and processing of which remain costly for large-area applications, making low-cost unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) RGB imagery an attractive option for large-scale forest mapping. However, in heterogeneous forests, complex canopy structures and the limited spectral discriminability of low-cost UAV RGB imagery make 2D appearance cues alone insufficient for reliable species discrimination, crown delineation, and accurate separation of adjacent crowns. This often leads to inter-class confusion, blurred crown boundaries, and poor recognition of small crowns. To address these limitations, this paper proposes MonoCrown (MCrown), which strengthens geometric and contextual representation for distinguishing visually similar species and delineating crowns from single-temporal UAV RGB imagery. To compensate for the insufficiency of appearance cues, MCrown introduces monocular depth inferred offline from the same RGB image as a frozen geometric prior, and integrates cross-window global–local attention (CW-GLA), bidirectional cross-modal attention (BiCoAttn), and depth-adaptive injection (DAI) to capture long-range dependencies and promote complementary use of appearance and geometric features, especially for small crowns with similar visual patterns in complex scenes. To validate the method’s effectiveness, a crown-level UAV RGB dataset covering approximately 40 km² was constructed. Systematic comparative experiments were conducted on the proposed dataset and on public benchmarks, supporting the effectiveness of the proposed approach across ten dominant classes, especially for small crowns and visually similar categories. Its mean Intersection over Union (mIoU) and overall accuracy (OA) reached 74.1% and 87.3%, respectively. The method achieves high-precision crown-level tree species semantic segmentation using single-temporal UAV RGB as the sole acquired modality, while monocular depth inferred from the same RGB image serves only as a frozen geometric prior, without requiring multispectral, multi-temporal, or active-sensor acquisitions. This offers a practical solution for crown-level tree species mapping in heterogeneous forests. Full article

The electrification of floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) units has emerged as a strategic solution to meet the growing demand for increased oil production while reducing carbon emissions associated with onboard gas turbine generation. Power-from-shore (PFS) systems represent a promising approach to achieving this goal, with transmission technologies based on high-voltage direct current (HVDC) and high-voltage alternating current (HVAC) solutions. Although HVDC is more suitable for long-distance and high-power applications, HVAC systems offer advantages in terms of robustness, simplicity, and operational maturity. Nevertheless, the reactive power compensation requirements arising from the high capacitance of submarine cables remain a major technical challenge. This study investigates and compares several reactive power compensation topologies applied to three distinct PFS systems. The proposed methodology enables a comprehensive evaluation of both onshore and subsea reactor placement strategies under technically and technologically feasible conditions. The results demonstrate that long-distance transmission of 75 MW over 250 km was achieved exclusively through subsea compensation configurations, which maintained efficiencies above 90% and voltage and current profiles within operational limits. Conversely, onshore-only compensation proved to be the most efficient solution for shorter transmission distances. The results demonstrate that the full electrification of an FPSO is technically feasible, with voltage and current profiles remaining within acceptable operational limits. The findings also indicate that mid-cable reactor placement (at 50%) is not the most effective configuration, with superior results observed for placements at 20–80% and 40–70% of the cable length. Overall, the outcomes confirm that subsea reactor placement enables higher power transfer over longer distances, significantly extending the technical boundaries traditionally separating HVDC and HVAC solutions. These results emphasize the need for continued technological development to make subsea shunt reactor installation a viable and reliable option for future FPSO electrification projects. Full article

There have been multiple examples in recent years of nationalisation being used as a strategy for protecting the functions of failing public service providers. In the UK, at present, there is a demand for the nationalisation of Thames Water, which supplies water to 16 million users but is struggling financially and operationally. Proponents of nationalisation often overlook the complexity of the process, which involves the expropriation of shares and can be an expensive option. The expense arises in part due to the globalised investment context, where bilateral investment treaties (BITs) between various countries require compensation from foreign investors who suffer expropriation. There is wide foreign ownership of Thames Water, as well as many other UK public service suppliers. The practical and legal obstacles to nationalisation may mean that compensation must be paid at full market value, or not far short of it, even where the nationalised company is insolvent or failing. This paper examines the compensation frameworks applicable to the nationalisation of distressed public service providers with foreign ownership, analysing both bilateral investment treaties and the European Convention on Human Rights. Using Thames Water as a detailed case study, we demonstrate that current international investment law standards, which were developed for the expropriation of profitable enterprises, prove ill-suited when applied to the nationalisation of insolvent companies. Requiring “prompt, adequate and effective” compensation at fair market value for failing public service providers, such as utilities, creates perverse outcomes, as the taxpayers are asked to fund both the rescue of failed private ownership and the infrastructure investments that private owners neglected, while the shareholders who presided over the decline receive windfalls from state intervention. We propose an alternative framework based on four graduated responses: (1) enhanced regulatory intervention before failure occurs; (2) the use of upstream insolvency procedures, including restructuring plans; (3) the use of ordinary insolvency procedures of liquidation and administration; and (4) nationalisation as a last resort when market-based solutions are exhausted. Crucially, in this last case, we advocate for compensation to be calculated on a basis that reflects the insolvency of the nationalised entity. This entails valuing expropriated interests at what shareholders and creditors would have received through the insolvency proceedings that nationalisation displaces, which will typically be well below market value, even zero. Full article

Background/Objectives: The aztreonam/avibactam combination represents a promising therapeutic option for severe infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens, particularly in critically ill patients. Due to marked pharmacokinetic variability and the need to achieve joint pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) targets of both agents, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) may play a pivotal role in optimizing treatment. This study aimed to develop and validate two rapid, accurate, and sensitive UHPLC–qTOF MS/MS sequential methods for quantifying aztreonam and avibactam in human plasma, suitable for routine clinical TDM. Methods: Plasma concentrations were determined by means of ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–qTOF MS/MS), operating in positive and negative electrospray ionization modes for aztreonam and avibactam, respectively. Sample preparation consisted of protein precipitation with isotopically labeled internal standards. The method’s validation was performed according to the European Medicines Agency guidelines, by assessing selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy, recovery, matrix effects, carry-over, and stability. Clinical applicability was evaluated by reprocessing plasma samples, which were already previously collected for routine clinical practice from 20 hospitalized patients undergoing treatment with ceftazidime-avibactam plus aztreonam. Results: The methods showed excellent linearity (R² ≥ 0.999) over ranges of 0.2–100 µg/mL for aztreonam and 0.1–50 µg/mL for avibactam. Lower limits of quantification were 0.2 µg/mL and 0.1 µg/mL, respectively. Intra- and inter-day precision and accuracy met the EMA criteria at all of the quality control levels. Extraction recovery exceeded 90% for both analytes, and matrix effects were effectively compensated by internal standards. Stability testing highlighted the need for careful sample handling, particularly for aztreonam under repeated freeze–thaw conditions. Clinical application revealed substantial inter-individual variability in steady-state concentrations. Conclusions: The validated UHPLC–qTOF MS/MS assays provide robust and sensitive sequential quantification of aztreonam and avibactam in human plasma, supporting TDM-guided dose optimization in clinical practice. Full article

Chemical coagulation is a highly important step of the conventional treatment processes, determination of the optimum coagulant dose to meet the demand of particulate materials and natural organic matters (NOMs) in raw water is crucial for good drinking water quality. WTC-Coag is a universal non-site-specific coagulant prediction model using three raw water quality parameters, UV₂₅₄, colour, and turbidity, as model inputs. The empirical model can determine the dose for maximum dissolved organic carbon (DOC) removal to achieve the conditions of enhanced coagulation; it also features an operator-selectable input—% setpoint (as % DOC removal)—to establish a dose for the desirable treated water quality. This hybrid modelling and control approach in practice is extremely useful for operators to be able to optimise the process by balancing between water quality and use of resources (chemical and sludge disposal costs) for sustainable operation. This paper discusses the practicality of this hybrid modelling approach via a long-term evaluation by comparing the plant dose against predicted dose using five years historical operations and water quality data. The assessment covered raw water quality change against treatment performance, predictability, usability and operator behaviour in response to the dose change situation. During the study period, five “black water” events were captured, and the performance of the predictability due to operational changes and operator’s response in these extreme events have been analysed. The comparison between the predicted enhanced dose and the plant dose indicated enhanced coagulation would not be always required. Furthermore, the selection of 50% setpoint from the targeted dose option matched well with the plant dose during which the lower-dose situation would be sufficient, with 90% of the predicted doses within ±10 mg/L of the plant dose and 95% of the predicted doses within ±15 mg/L of the plant dose during the normal period. The use of a correction factor to compensate for the particulate demand due to powdered activated carbon (PAC) dose during “black water” events has shown to be effective. The 50% setpoint matches with the plant alum dose over the entire period after accounting for the PAC dose, with 70% of the predicted doses within ±10 mg/L and 80% within ±15 mg/L of the plant dose. All the coagulation-related prediction functions have been evaluated and confirmed their non-site-specific nature. This study is unique in terms of using real operations data for an extended period to evaluate this novel hybrid modelling concept towards the sustainability goal. Full article

Background: Chronic Achilles tendon ruptures present a major surgical challenge due to tendon retraction, degeneration, and large defects. Autologous hamstring tendon grafts have emerged as a reliable reconstructive option, yet their biomechanical consequences remain poorly understood. This study investigated whether Achilles tendon reconstruction with semitendinosus and gracilis autografts alters the plantar flexor moment arm and whether such changes affect muscle strength. Methods: A cohort of 25 patients (mean age: 44.5 years) underwent minimally invasive endoscopic reconstruction using hamstring autografts. This secondary salvage procedure was performed in patients with neglected ruptures or failed primary treatment. Five patients were excluded from the original intervention group due to inadequate radiographic quality. Radiographic measurements of the Achilles tendon moment arm and isometric plantar flexor strength assessments were performed at 12 and 24 months postoperatively. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and correlation analyses. Results: Results showed a significant shortening of the Achilles tendon moment arm after reconstruction compared with the preoperative imaging length (mean reduction: 6.6 mm; p < 0.0001). Despite this, plantar flexor strength in the operated limb improved significantly over time at 12 and 24 months (+388.6 N at 24 months; p = 0.0067) and did not correlate with the degree of moment arm shortening (p > 0.3). By 24 months, the operated limb demonstrated comparable or greater strength than the contralateral side, with nearly half of the patients achieving substantial clinically meaningful improvements. Conclusions: In conclusion, Achilles tendon reconstruction with hamstring autografts leads to consistent moment arm shortening, yet this does not impair long-term restoration of plantar flexor strength. A progressive rehabilitation program extending up to two years appears essential to optimize recovery and compensate for biomechanical alterations. Full article

Infiltrative lipomas involving the upper cervical spine present a significant surgical challenge, as the extensive muscular resection required for tumor control often leads to severe structural instability. This report describes the surgical treatment of an infiltrative lipoma that extensively invaded the cervical area in a 9-year-old dog. Following wide surgical debulking, a dual-plane stabilization strategy was employed. Ventral stabilization was attempted using standard C1–C2 transarticular screw fixation, while a modified dorsal stabilization technique anchored the occipital protuberance to the C2 spinous process using an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) suture construct, combined with nuchal ligament reconstruction. Follow-up at 78 days revealed failure of the ventral implants, characterized by immediate improper positioning of the right screw and subsequent migration of the left screw. Despite these complications and confirmed tumor recurrence, the patient maintained normal neurological function and clinical cervical stability. This clinical course was suggestive of fibrous or early osseous union at the atlantoaxial joint. These findings suggest that the modified dorsal stabilization technique provided critical biomechanical support, effectively compensating for the compromised ventral fixation, and may represent a potential surgical option for managing extensive occipito-cervical instability in dogs. Full article

This paper presents a comprehensive power system transition-planning model positioned between conventional generation and transmission expansion planning (GTEP) formulations and broader macro-energy system (MES) tools. Existing planning models are typically unable to simultaneously represent detailed network constraints, adaptive long-term uncertainty, and a broad set of grid-enhancing transition technologies within a single tractable optimization framework; this work enables such integrated, scenario-based planning. The framework remains rooted in detailed electrical system modeling while expanding the decision space to include transition-relevant technologies: conventional and renewable generation, transmission, advanced flow-control devices, dynamic line rating, energy storage, and retrofit options, all within a long-term-planning model under uncertainty. The contribution is the integrated representation of these options and the modeling constructs required to capture their interactions, including expressions enabling concurrent investment decisions across FACTS, dynamic line rating, and transmission expansion; network-embedded modeling of series compensation devices; a battery degradation model that avoids exogenous degradation cost proxies; and a GIS-based zoning resolution methodology balancing spatial fidelity and computational tractability. The resulting formulation is a mixed-integer multi-stage stochastic program. Analytical value is demonstrated through a detailed small-scale example based on Alberta’s power system. To overcome the computationally prohibitive results encountered when scaling the formulation to a practical test case consistent with Alberta’s long-term power-system-planning practices, Stochastic Dual Dynamic Programming is employed in parallel. The resulting solution demonstrates the feasibility of a subclass of highly detailed, transition-oriented electrical system planning models that are otherwise intractable under monolithic workstation-based approaches. Full article

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is defined by hepatic steatosis in individuals with at least one cardiometabolic risk factor, most commonly type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). People with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, even without other metabolic factors, have a higher risk of T2DM. MASLD includes isolated liver steatosis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and MASH-related hepatocellular carcinoma. MASLD patients are also at a higher risk of developing T2DM than the general population. International guidelines recommend a stepwise approach for identifying those at high risk of fibrotic progression, using the FIB-4 index for initial screening, followed by transient elastography. The link between MASLD and T2DM is notable due to shared pathophysiological mechanisms, some of which are reversible with treatment used in T2DM. Many new glucose-lowering drugs have also proven effective in improving anthropometric and metabolic parameters, as well as the stage of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Recent evidence suggests that GLP-1RAs and SGLT2is have beneficial effects in MASLD patients with T2DM. Specifically, GLP-1RAs improve hepatic insulin signaling, modulate lipid metabolism, reduce inflammation, and decrease hepatocyte oxidative stress. European guidelines recommend resmetirom as a MASH-targeted therapy, if locally approved, for adults with non-cirrhotic MASH and significant liver fibrosis (stage ≥ 2) and GLP-1RAs in MASH, including compensated cirrhosis, but they should be used for their respective indications, such as T2DM and obesity. Given the post-COVID burden of MASLD and its high risk of liver fibrosis progression among T2DM patients, this review specifically provides an overview of the complex relationship between MASLD and T2DM. Additionally, it examines current understanding of liver fibrosis evaluation and the effects of novel treatment options, with a particular focus on glucose-lowering therapies and their effects on necroinflammation, hepatic fat accumulation, and fibrosis progression in patients with MASLD and T2DM. Full article

Parabolic cylindrical antennas are characterized by their structural simplicity, high radiation efficiency, and low manufacturing costs. Consequently, they are widely used in Earth observation and serve as a viable option for spaceborne Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) systems. However, structural errors in the phased array feed and the parabolic cylindrical reflector are inevitable during manufacturing, assembly, and operation. These errors significantly degrade the accuracy of antenna pattern models. To address this issue, this paper proposes a comprehensive radiation pattern model that accounts for structural errors in both the linear feed and the reflector. This approach enables precise pattern prediction and efficient in-orbit calibration. Specifically, the reflected far-field pattern is first calculated using the field superposition principle and the Physical Optics (PO) method. Specifically, the combined phase effects resulting from feed and reflector structural errors are superimposed to establish a direct integration pattern model for the parabolic cylindrical antenna. Given the high computational complexity of the direct integration model, a simplified model based on Fresnel approximation is proposed. This approach significantly reduces integration complexity while preserving the quadratic phase characteristics of the main lobe, thereby substantially improving computational efficiency. Simulation results verify that the simplified model maintains high accuracy in both normalized amplitude and phase. Furthermore, a partitioned calibration method is proposed to compensate for the absolute gain deviation inherent in the simplified model. By integrating weighting relationships derived from sensitivity analysis of individual errors, an empirical parameter is defined to quantify the correlation between total structural errors, antenna performance, and the prediction accuracy of the simplified model. The results indicate that reflector structural errors are the dominant factor affecting the overall performance of the antenna. In contrast, the prediction accuracy of the simplified model is found to be more sensitive to feed structural errors. The simplified model exhibits tolerance to structural errors far exceeding the wavelength, enabling it to effectively replace the direct integration model. This work provides new theoretical foundations and technical methods for tolerance design, performance assurance, in-orbit testing, and calibration of parabolic cylindrical antennas. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Treating severe skeletal Class III malocclusions in adults who refuse orthognathic surgery remains challenging. Orthodontic camouflage offers a non-surgical option to improve occlusion and esthetics. Case Presentation: A 26-year-old male with a full bilateral Class III malocclusion and anterior crossbite was treated following the “Sagittal First” philosophy. The Carriere^® Motion 3D Class III appliance was used for mandibular distalization, combined with active maxillary aligners and Class III elastics. After 32 months, a stable Class I occlusion with proper overjet, overbite, and improved sagittal balance was obtained. Cephalometric analysis showed clockwise mandibular rotation and satisfactory dentoalveolar compensation. Conclusions: Combining the Carriere^® Motion 3D appliance with clear aligners can successfully camouflage severe skeletal Class III malocclusions in adults, providing a predictable and esthetic non-surgical alternative. Full article

As the three-phase four-bridge inverter (3P4B) can effectively compensate for the unbalanced three-phase loads in the grid, it is an important converter option for distributed generation grid connection. As in a three-phase three-bridge inverter (3P3B), the wide variation in grid impedance also poses instability issues for 3P4B. This issue has been well-addressed for 3P3B, which can be seen as a differential-mode circuit. However, 3P4B has an extra common-mode circuit, and the solution to the instability problem has not been investigated so far. To address this issue, this paper first analyzes the mechanism of 3P4B common-mode circuit instability and discovers its stability range difference from its differential-mode circuit. Then, an equivalent control delay compensator is independently introduced into the common-mode loop, which extends its stable range. This paper also conducts a detailed analysis of the control delay compensator’s impacts on the common-mode control loop and proposes a quantitative design method for the compensator accordingly. Experimental results validate that the proposed method effectively mitigates common-mode loop instability even under a wide range of grid impedance variations. Full article

Freshwater resources are on the verge of depletion due to the rapid increase in population, lifestyle changes, and especially during climate change in Iraq. Therefore, treating domestic wastewater correctly will significantly contribute to keeping the balance of water purity and its usage. To fulfil this, the Sustainable Project Appraisal Routine (SPeAR^TM) program, which leverages Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis with operational sustainability indicators, is used to compare the relative sustainability performance of the novel Modified Sequencing Batch Reactor by visualising the results of the degree of its sustainability compared to the Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor and the conventional Sequencing Batch Reactor system. Although selecting the most sustainable treatment depends on specific treatment goals, available resources, site conditions, and stakeholder preferences, this study considers the equal weighting of sustainability assessment across environmental, social, and economic indices to inform sustainable decision making. The results show that integrating both conventional treatment plants into the novel modified treatment plant demonstrates a comparatively more balanced and stable sustainability performance under the assessed operational conditions. As at a design capacity of 100 m³·day⁻¹, the MSBR achieved a higher organic and nutrient removal efficiencies relative to the conventional SBR and MBBR systems while operating at an intermediate energy demand (187.7 kWh·day⁻¹) compared with the SBR (121.7 kWh·day⁻¹) and the MBBR (211.8 kWh·day⁻¹). Thus, it can compensate for the weaknesses and combines the strengths of the sustainability indices of the two systems, which supports the Modified Sequencing Batch Reactor as a comparatively favourable option for wastewater treatment within the assessed sustainability framework. Full article

Background/Objectives: Considering the increasing importance placed on the quality of life among those who survive cancer, breast reconstruction is no longer limited to only compensating for breast loss; achieving the patient’s preferences is now considered. However, the optimal surgical approach (subpectoral plane vs. prepectoral plane) in single-stage direct-to-implant breast reconstruction (DTIBR) has not been established. The aim of this study was to summarize the principles for selecting between the subpectoral and prepectoral planes in DTIBR. Methods: In this retrospective study, we evaluated 543 patients with breast cancer who underwent DTIBR between March 2018 and October 2025. Postmastectomy reconstruction was performed in the subpectoral plane when the defect showed greater breast height than width, whereas the prepectoral plane was used when breast width exceeded height. Complications requiring reoperation were analyzed. Patient satisfaction was evaluated based on overall satisfaction, esthetic outcome, physical symptoms, psychosocial impact, and decision satisfaction using a visual analog scale. Results: The subpectoral dual-plane approach was most commonly used between 2018 and 2019, while the prepectoral plane became predominant after 2020. Overall, 83 (14.4%) patients developed major complications. The overall satisfaction score was 4.1 ± 0.80 in the subpectoral group and 4.35 ± 0.70 in the prepectoral group, showing a statistically significant difference (p value = 0.012). Conclusions: The subpectoral and prepectoral planes have distinct advantages and limitations. Ultimately, the reconstructive surgeon should determine the most appropriate option in DTIBR. Selecting the surgical plane based on the postmastectomy defect reduces complications while improving patient satisfaction. Full article

Background: Compared with normal weight, obese individuals display a variety of deviant measures in neuroenergetic status, food intake behavior, glucose metabolism, and circulating vitamin C levels. A chronically lowered neuroenergetic content is associated with increased food intake and disturbed glucose metabolism in obesity. In turn, a vitamin C deficiency found in obesity may be connected to these disturbances. Therefore, we investigated the effects of vitamin C application in the human brain. Methods: We intranasally applied vitamin C (80 mg ascorbic acid/day) vs. placebo for 8 consecutive days in 15 normal weight (BMI 20–25 kg/m²) and 15 obese (BMI > 30 kg/m²) men. The neuroenergetic content of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and phosphocreatine (PCr) was assessed by ³¹phosphorous magnetic resonance spectroscopy, a non-invasive real-time technique to measure high-energy phosphate compounds in living tissues. Peripheral vitamin C, glucose, and insulin concentrations were measured, and spontaneous food intake was quantified by the standardized buffet test. Results: In the obese group, vitamin C application acutely suppressed the physiological insulin response on the first experimental day (p = 0.003). The following eight days of intranasal vitamin C led to higher serum vitamin C concentrations as compared to placebo (p = 0.011), compensated for the missing food intake-induced serum vitamin C rise (p ≤ 0.002), and attenuated a PCr decline (p = 0.008) in this group. Correlation analyses revealed a general link between serum vitamin C concentrations and the neuroenergetic state in both groups (p ≤ 0.033). Food intake was not influenced. Conclusions: Intranasal vitamin C application acutely improves insulin sensitivity, compensates for a vitamin C deficiency, and may act in a neuroprotective way in obese men. It could therefore be a future candidate as an adjuvant therapeutic option in obesity treatment. Full article