Search Results (57)

Curling requires precise sweeping to control both the speed and trajectory of a stone, making quantitative analysis of sweeping behavior an important challenge for performance evaluation and tactical support. However, existing curling studies have primarily focused on stone motion analysis, while automatic estimation of sweep positions and brush orientations from monocular video remains largely unexplored. To address this problem, this study proposes a vision-based system for estimating the position and orientation of curling brushes during sweeping using a single RGB camera. The proposed framework integrates a two-stage YOLOv8-OBB detection pipeline for identifying sweeping players and brush regions, ByteTrack-based multi-object tracking for temporal association, and a geometric calibration model that transforms image coordinates into real-world curling-sheet coordinates through nonlinear optimization. The system enables frame-by-frame reconstruction of sweeping trajectories and brush orientations without requiring specialized sensing equipment. Experiments were conducted at a curling facility using synchronized monocular video and a Qualisys Miqus M3 motion-capture system as ground truth. The proposed method achieved position estimation errors of 0.03–0.06 m and orientation estimation errors of 4.80°–5.10°, while maintaining a high detection rate of 0.96–0.99 over a measurement range of 15 m. Additional analyses showed that estimation accuracy was influenced by camera placement, sweep style, and the apparent size of the detected brush region. These results demonstrate that accurate sweep-position and orientation estimation can be achieved using only a monocular camera under realistic curling conditions. The proposed system provides a practical framework for objective sweep analysis and has potential applications in technical training, performance assessment, and tactical support in curling. Full article

To investigate the rutting resistance of Large Stone Asphalt Mixture (nominal maximum aggregate size of 53 mm, abbreviated as LSAM-50), this study evaluated the effects of temperature, load, and their interaction on the rutting performance of LSAM-50 through large-thickness rutting tests. It analyzed the characteristics of rutting deformation under varying thermal and loading conditions, established a permanent deformation-temperature-load dependency model, and explored the correlations between permanent deformation and high-temperature evaluation indicators. The findings indicate that the temperature-load interaction fundamentally alters the load-transfer mechanism between the viscoelastic matrix and coarse aggregates within LSAM-50, thereby activating the interlocking effect of its thick structural skeleton. The dynamic stability undergoes a pronounced reduction as temperature or load increases, peaking at a degradation rate of 40–57% within the 40–50 °C interval. Furthermore, the rutting deformation of the LSAM-50 mixture demonstrates significant temperature and load dependency; as the number of loading cycles increases, the deformation exhibits an initial rapid escalation before reaching a plateau. During temperature elevation and load escalation, the rutting deformation increases in a step-wise manner. Notably, the preliminary application of low temperatures and light loads imparts a substantial “training” effect on the material’s rutting resistance. Once the mixture is wheel-tracked to densification under high temperatures or heavy loads, negligible new deformation is generated during the subsequent cooling or unloading phases. Specifically, upon the initial unloading from 1.1 MPa to 0.9 MPa, the incremental deformation is merely 0.04 mm; upon further unloading to 0.7 MPa, the additional deformation approaches 0 mm. The established permanent deformation-temperature-load dependency model for LSAM-50 yields a high predictive correlation of 96%. Moreover, the permanent deformation exhibits robust linear relationships with 1-h rutting depth (R² = 0.95), compressive strength (R² = 0.91), and shear strength (R² = 0.97). These indicators can thus facilitate the rapid and precise estimation of permanent pavement deformation. Full article

Real-time feedback is increasingly valued in sports training, yet in curling it is commonly delivered through off-stone displays or post hoc review, forcing disruptive gaze shifts while athletes track a moving and continuously rotating stone, especially during collaborative sweeping. To address this gap, we present TabletStone, a stone-mounted tablet interface that provides in situ, glanceable feedback with role-aware layouts and rotation-robust visualization. TabletStone is implemented as a lightweight, UDP-driven endpoint that renders upstream training signals on the stone while adapting the UI to throwers and sweepers. To preserve readability under rotation, we formalize an absolute-position fixation strategy based on an on-device yaw estimate and counter-rotation transforms. We evaluate TabletStone through an initial controlled user study with six experienced curlers performing sweeping while reading on-stone values under two conditions (baseline and absolute-position fixation). The study showed higher subjective readability together with improved accuracy and recall for absolute-position fixation, while precision remained high in both conditions; missed readouts remained the dominant failure mode under workload. Overall, these results support the feasibility and potential usefulness of combining role-aware UI/UX with rotation-aware stabilization for on-object feedback in curling training, while broader training effects remain to be validated. Full article

Radon is a significant indoor air pollutant and a leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. While geogenic radon potential is well-documented, the specific contribution of building materials—particularly historic stones and those containing industrial by-products—requires precise in situ characterization to ensure public safety. This study investigates radon activity concentrations and surface exhalation rates across three distinct case studies in Slovakia: a mid-20th-century structure with cinder blocks, a UNESCO-protected Gothic building featuring volcanic andesite, and a historic stone plinth. Continuous radon monitoring and accumulation chamber measurements were employed, integrated with the tracking of meteorological parameters. The results revealed the highest surface exhalation rate in cinder block masonry (8.98 Bq m⁻² h⁻¹), followed by andesite ashlars (7.9 Bq m⁻² h⁻¹) and stone (1.87 Bq m⁻² h⁻¹). A clear correlation was observed between indoor radon levels and barometric pressure, whereas the influence of outdoor temperature appeared negligible. An estimated Activity Concentration Index of 0.30 suggests that the volcanic rock is likely radiologically safe for use as a bulk building material. The study concludes that while specific materials contribute to exhalation, indoor radon stability is primarily governed by barometric variations and the effectiveness of floor barriers against geogenic ingress rather than the masonry itself. Full article

The traditional craft of Buddha statue carving represents an important form of cultural heritage in many Asian societies, yet the transmission of this knowledge is increasingly threatened by modernization and the declining number of skilled artisans. This study explores the use of Virtual Reality (VR) as an innovative tool for preserving and teaching the cultural knowledge associated with Salah Lanna stone Buddha carving. A VR-based learning environment was developed to simulate traditional carving techniques, tools, and cultural narratives related to Lanna Buddhist art. The system was designed using Unity 3D and integrated hand-tracking interaction to enable immersive practice of carving procedures. The prototype was evaluated through expert review involving ten specialists in Buddha carving, art education, and VR technology. The evaluation assessed five dimensions: usability, authenticity, cultural relevance, immersion, and perceived learning potential. Results indicate high levels of expert evaluation results regarding the effectiveness of the system, with average scores of 4.6 for usability, 4.8 for authenticity, 4.7 for cultural relevance, 4.5 for immersion, and 4.9 for perceived learning potential on a five-point scale. The findings suggest that VR technology can provide a promising platform for preserving traditional craftsmanship and supporting immersive cultural learning. By integrating technical training with cultural narratives, the system demonstrates potential for enhancing access to traditional craft education while contributing to the digital preservation of Salah Lanna cultural heritage. Full article

Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) mixtures are widely used in high-capacity road pavements due to their durability and resistance to permanent deformation. However, although electric arc furnace (EAF) steel slag and recycled crumb rubber have been individually investigated as alternative materials in asphalt mixtures, evidence regarding their simultaneous incorporation in SMA mixtures under full-scale construction and real traffic conditions remains limited. Moreover, quantitative environmental assessments are often restricted to simplified or qualitative approaches, with limited reporting of carbon footprint results. This study investigates the combined use of electric arc furnace (EAF) steel slag aggregates and recycled crumb rubber in SMA mixtures, integrating laboratory evaluation with full-scale field application on a high-traffic motorway. Two SMA 11 mixtures were designed and assessed: one incorporating steel slag aggregates as a replacement for natural coarse aggregates, and another combining steel slag aggregates with recycled crumb rubber added through the dry process (0.8% by mixture mass). Laboratory testing included volumetric characterization, moisture sensitivity and rutting resistance, while field validation covered surface macrotexture, skid resistance, executed thickness and interlayer bonding. Both mixtures fully complied with the applicable technical specifications, achieving indirect tensile strength ratios (ITSR) above 90% and wheel-tracking slopes below 0.07 mm/10³ cycles. A simplified comparative life-cycle assessment (LCA), limited to modules A1–A3, showed a reduction in CO₂-equivalent emissions of approximately 2% for the mixture containing steel slag and up to 27% for the mixture combining steel slag and recycled crumb rubber, mainly due to the valorization of industrial by-products and end-of-life tyres. Overall, the results demonstrate the technical feasibility and potential environmental benefits of these SMA mixtures within the defined scope of laboratory verification, short-term field performance and screening LCA. The contribution of this study lies in providing applied evidence from a full-scale motorway intervention, complementing predominantly laboratory-based studies and offering a quantified environmental comparison under consistent methodological assumptions. Full article

This study investigates the synergistic use of Fischer–Tropsch wax (FTW) and recycled rubber powder (RP) as dual modifiers in stone mastic asphalt (SMA11) to improve its mechanical and functional performance. Rheological analysis demonstrated that an FTW content of 4% achieves the optimal balance of high-temperature rutting resistance, aging resistance, and workability, with a binder viscosity of 1.6 Pa·s at 135 °C. When incorporated into SMA11 mixtures at 15%, RP yielded the best overall mechanical performance, including a reduction in rut depth to 1.22 mm and a 25% decrease in wheel tracking slope (WTS). The 15% RP mixtures also exhibited superior long-term skid resistance (μ_m = 0.329 after 180,000 polishing cycles, corresponding to a 13% reduction in braking distance) and enhanced thermal cracking resistance (failure temperature improved by 8.0 °C to −32.7 °C). An RP content of 5% maximized moisture resistance (ITSR = 100%), while 10% RP produced the highest mid-frequency sound absorption coefficient (α = 0.050). The hybrid modification system enables a 20 °C reduction in production temperature, consistent with published data on wax-based warm-mix technologies, and is associated with reduced energy consumption and lower emissions. The approach simultaneously supports sustainable pavement design through the high-value reuse of waste tire rubber. Full article

This study investigates the industrial validation of a granular additive derived from waste tire textile fibers (WTTF) developed to replace the conventional cellulose stabilizing additive in stone mastic asphalt (SMA) mixtures while enhancing their mechanical performance. Building on previous laboratory-scale findings, this work evaluates the feasibility and mechanical behavior of this recycled-fiber additive under real asphalt-plant production conditions, advancing a sustainable solution aligned with circular economy principles. Three asphalt mixtures were fabricated in a batch plant: a reference SMA (SMA-R) containing a commercial cellulose additive, an SMA incorporating the WTTF additive (SMA-F), and a reference hot mix asphalt (HMA-R). The WTTF additive was incorporated in a 1:1 proportion relative to the cellulose additive. Performance was assessed through tests of cracking resistance (Fénix test), stiffness modulus, fatigue resistance (four-point bending test), moisture susceptibility (ITSR), and resistance to permanent deformation (Hamburg wheel tracking). Industrial validation results showed that the SMA-F mixture met the design criteria and achieved superior mechanical performance relative to the reference mixtures. In particular, SMA-F exhibited greater ductility and toughness at low temperatures, reduced susceptibility to moisture-induced damage, and higher fatigue resistance, with an increase in fatigue durability of up to 44% compared to SMA-R. The results confirm that the WTTF additive is both feasible and scalable for industrial production, offering a solution that not only improves pavement mechanical performance but also promotes the valorization of a challenging waste material. Full article

Active propelled micro robots (MRs) represent a transformative shift in biomedical engineering, engineered to navigate physiological environments by converting chemical, acoustic, or magnetic energy into mechanical propulsion. Unlike passive delivery systems limited by diffusion and systemic clearance, MRs offer autonomous mobility, enabling precise penetration and retention in hard-to-reach tissues. This review provides comprehensive analysis of MR technologies within urology, a field uniquely suited for microrobotic intervention due to the urinary tract’s anatomical accessibility and fluid-filled nature. We explore how MRs address critical therapeutic limitations, including the high recurrence of kidney stones and the rapid washout of intravesical bladder cancer therapies. The review categorizes propulsion mechanisms optimized for the urinary environment, such as urea-fueled nanomotors and magnetic swarms. Furthermore, we detail emerging applications, including bioresorbable acoustic robots for tumor ablation and magnetic grippers for minimally invasive biopsies. Finally, we critically assess the path toward clinical translation, focusing on challenges in biocompatibility, real-time tracking (MRI, MPI, photoacoustic imaging), and the regulatory landscape for these advanced combination products. Full article

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation of ultra-widefield swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) in characterizing peripheral retinal degenerations and rhegmatogenous lesions, and to assess its potential implications for clinical management. These lesions are often challenging to visualize with conventional techniques, highlighting the need for advanced imaging modalities to improve detection and characterization. Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study involving patients diagnosed with peripheral retinal degenerations and/or rhegmatogenous lesions referred to our center. All participants underwent comprehensive ophthalmological evaluation, including slit-lamp biomicroscopy, dilated fundus examination, and peripheral SS-OCT imaging. Key parameters assessed included the presence of vitreoretinal attachment, vitreous traction, full-thickness retinal defects, and subretinal fluid associated with the peripheral lesions under investigation. Results: A total of 107 eyes from 95 patients were included. The mean spherical equivalent was −2.18 ± 2.5 diopters, and mean BCVA was 0.03 ± 0.11. Peripheral SS-OCT imaging successfully captured and characterized 130 retinal lesions, including retinal tears (n = 34), lattice degeneration (n = 25), retinal holes (n = 21), peripheral retinoschisis (n = 17), and schisis/detachment (n = 7). Less commonly observed lesions were snail track degeneration (n = 4), white without pressure (n = 4) microcystic degeneration (n = 2), dialysis (n = 2), condensed vitreous (n = 2), and paving stone degeneration (n = 1). SS-OCT provided high-resolution visualization of the peripheral retina and vitreoretinal interface, revealing findings such as vitreous traction, everted edges in retinal holes, and associated subretinal fluid, some of which were not clinically detectable and, in several cases, directly influenced management decisions. Conclusions: Ultra-widefield SS-OCT significantly enhanced the visualization of peripheral retinal degenerations and rhegmatogenous lesions, providing clinically meaningful details that may influence diagnosis and clinical decision-making. Full article

Monitoring humidity is essential for the protection and long-term preservation of historical monuments and cultural heritage structures, particularly those made of stone, marble, or iron. Excess moisture can accelerate material degradation and compromise structural integrity. This paper presents an alternative, low-cost method for enhancing the sensitivity of a raindrop sensor, aiming to detect micro-droplets such as early morning dew—an important factor in environmental monitoring around such sensitive sites. The proposed method involves covering the sensor’s surface with a fine nylon mesh, such as a stocking, which allows tiny water droplets to accumulate and spread more effectively across the sensor. This modification improves the electrical conductivity between the copper tracks when droplets are present, enabling the sensor to detect moisture levels that would otherwise go unnoticed. Experimental results demonstrate that the modified sensor performs significantly better than the original, unaltered version, offering greater sensitivity and consistency in its readings. The sensor responds more reliably to low volumes of moisture without requiring internal changes to its circuitry, making it both practical and cost-effective. The outcomes of this work are encouraging, suggesting that this approach is suitable for moisture detection in both research and real-world conservation scenarios. It provides a simple and scalable solution for integrating humidity monitoring into broader environmental sensing systems. Full article

Extreme rainfall events characterized by small catchments with high-velocity flows pose critical challenges to infrastructure resilience, particularly the rail infrastructure, due to its partial location near rivers and in mountainous regions, and the limited availability of alternative routes. This can lead to severe damages, often resulting in long-term route closures. To mitigate flash flood damage, detailed information about affected structures and damage processes is necessary. Therefore, this study presents a newly developed multi-criteria flash flood damage assessment framework for the rail infrastructure and a QGIS-based analysis of the most frequent damages. Applying the framework to Eifel route damages in Western Germany after the July 2021 flood disaster shows that nearly 45% of the damages affected the track superstructure, especially tracks and bedding. Additionally, power supply systems, sealing and drainage systems, as well as railway overpasses or bridges, were impacted. Approximately 30% of the railway section showed washout of ballast, gravel and soil. In addition, deposit of wood or stones occurred. Most damages were classified as minor (47%) or moderate (34%). Furthermore, damaged track sections were predominantly located within a 50 m distance to the Urft river, whereas undamaged track sections are often located at a greater distance to the Urft river. These findings indicate that the proposed framework is highly applicable to assess and classify damages. Critical elements and relations could be identified and can help to adapt standards and regulations, as well as to develop preventive measures in the next step. Full article

Epoxy Resin System (ERS) steel bridge pavement, which comprises a resin asphalt (RA) base layer and a modified asphalt wearing course, offers cost efficiency and rapid installation. However, the combined effects of traffic loads and environmental conditions pose significant challenges, requiring greater high-temperature stability than conventional pavements. The thermal sensitivity of resin materials and the use of conventional asphalt mixtures may weaken deformation resistance under elevated temperature conditions. This study investigates the thermal field distribution and high-temperature performance of ERS pavements under extreme conditions and explores temperature reduction strategies. A three-dimensional thermal field model developed using finite element analysis software analyzes interactions between the steel box girder and pavement layers. Based on simulation results, wheel tracking and dynamic creep tests confirm the superior performance of the RA05 mixture, with dynamic stability reaching 23,318 cycles/mm at 70 °C and a 2.1-fold improvement in rutting resistance in Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA)-13 + RA05 composites. Model-driven optimization identifies that enhancing internal airflow within the steel box girder is possible without compromising its structural integrity. The cooling effect is particularly significant when the internal airflow aligns with ambient wind speeds (open-girder configuration). Surface peak temperatures can be reduced by up to 20 °C and high-temperature durations can be shortened by 3–7 h. Full article

This study employs a multi-model coupling and multi-scenario simulation approach to construct a framework for identifying and optimizing avian ecological corridors in the urban core of Kunming. The framework focuses on the ecological needs of resident birds (64.72%), woodland-dependent birds (39.87%), and low-mobility birds (47.29%) to address habitat fragmentation and enhance urban biodiversity conservation. This study identifies 54 core ecological corridors, totaling 183.58 km, primarily located in forest–urban transition zones. These corridors meet the continuous habitat requirements of resident and woodland-dependent birds, providing a stable environment for species. Additionally, 55 general corridors, spanning 537.30 km, focus on facilitating short-distance movements of low-mobility birds, enhancing habitat connectivity in urban fringe areas through ecological stepping stones. Eighteen ecological pinch points (total area 5.63 km²) play a crucial role in the network. The northern pinch points, dominated by forest land, serve as vital breeding and refuge habitats for woodland-dependent and resident birds. The southern pinch points, located in wetland-forest ecotones, function as critical stopover sites for low-mobility waterbirds. Degradation of these pinch points would significantly reduce available habitat for birds. The 27 ecological barrier points (total area 89.79 km²), characterized by urban land use, severely impede the movement of woodland-dependent birds and increase the migratory energy expenditure of low-mobility birds in agricultural areas. Following optimization, resistance to resident birds in core corridors is significantly reduced, and habitat utilization by generalist species in general corridors is markedly improved. Moreover, multi-scenario optimization measures, including the addition of ecological stepping stones, barrier improvement, and pinch-point protection, have effectively increased ecological sources, met avian habitat requirements, and secured migratory pathways for waterbirds. These measures validate the scientific rationale of a multidimensional management strategy. The comprehensive framework developed in this study, integrating species needs, corridor design, and spatial optimization, provides a replicable model for avian ecological corridor construction in subtropical montane cities. Future research may incorporate bird-tracking technologies to further validate corridor efficacy and explore planning pathways for climate-adaptive corridors. Full article

We report on the results of investigations of atomic layer deposited (ALD) amorphous alumina (Al₂O₃) coatings for the protection of limestone with a wide range of porosity against acid-based dissolution. The protective effects of the ALD coatings were investigated by aqueous acid immersion. The solution pH was tracked over time for a constant volume of acetic acid solution with an initial pH of 4 with the stone samples immersed. We find the protective effect of ALD alumina coatings is extremely promising, with 90 nm thick coatings slowing the initial and total rate of substrate mass loss significantly by up to two orders of magnitude. The eventual failure of the ALD coatings during immersion was also investigated. Pitted areas on the substrate were discovered and were found to have an area fraction that correlates to the changing pH of the acid solution during immersion. The variation of the protective action of the films with thickness is consistent with kinetics, which are limited by diffusion within the pits rather than through the films. Our findings point to the dominant role of defects in the coatings in their eventual failure. We also show that the appearance of the stone does not change significantly for the thickest and most protective ALD films, making the treatment promising for cultural heritage applications. Full article