High Level Of Prediction Accuracy Research Articles

Strategic assessment of groundwater potential zones: a hybrid geospatial approach

Groundwater aquifers constitute the primary water supply for populations in arid regions, exemplified by the Goharkooh Plain in Iran's driest drainage basin, where conditions of high evapotranspiration and low precipitation prevail. With the escalating demand for water resources, driven mainly by agricultural expansion, the strategic management of groundwater assets has become increasingly critical. This study focuses on delineating groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) through an integrated approach combining multi-criteria decision analysis and geospatial tools. Based on an extensive literature review, nine thematic layers were selected and developed: lithology, geology, drainage density, slope gradient, elevation, vegetation cover, lineament density, land use, and precipitation. These criteria were initially weighted using the analytical hierarchical process (AHP) and subsequently integrated via weighted overlay analysis. In this research, the strategic selection of thematic layers for assessing groundwater potential in arid regions has been identified as an innovative approach that could significantly advance studies in similar settings. The analysis revealed that approximately 60% of the study area, primarily in the southwestern parts, exhibited moderate to very high groundwater potential. This potential is primarily attributed to the presence of alluvial deposits, low drainage density, and favorable slope and elevation conditions. Applying the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve yields an area under the curve (AUC) of 81.5%, indicating a relatively high level of predictive accuracy. These findings demonstrate the efficacy of this integrated approach, suggesting its broader applicability in regions with analogous groundwater challenges and management needs.

Predicting hospital admissions for upper respiratory tract complaints: An artificial neural network approach integrating air pollution and meteorological factors.

This study uses artificial neural networks (ANNs) to examine the intricate relationship between air pollutants, meteorological factors, and respiratory disorders. The study investigates the correlation between hospital admissions for respiratory diseases and the levels of PM10 and SO2 pollutants, as well as local meteorological conditions, using data from 2017 to 2019. The objective of this study is to clarify the impact of air pollution on the well-being of the general population, specifically focusing on respiratory ailments. An ANN called a multilayer perceptron (MLP) was used. The network was trained using the Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) backpropagation algorithm. The data revealed a substantial increase in hospital admissions for upper respiratory tract diseases, amounting to a total of 11,746 cases. There were clear seasonal fluctuations, with fall having the highest number of cases of bronchitis (N = 181), sinusitis (N = 83), and upper respiratory infections (N = 194). The study also found demographic differences, with females and people aged 18 to 65years having greater admission rates. The performance of the ANN model, measured using R2 values, demonstrated a high level of predictive accuracy. Specifically, the R2 value was 0.91675 during training, 0.99182 during testing, and 0.95287 for validating the prediction of asthma. The comparative analysis revealed that the ANN-MLP model provided the most optimal result. The results emphasize the effectiveness of ANNs in representing the complex relationships between air quality, climatic conditions, and respiratory health. The results offer crucial insights for formulating focused healthcare policies and treatments to alleviate the detrimental impact of air pollution and meteorological factors.

Quantum Extreme Learning of molecular potential energy surfaces and force fields

Abstract Quantum machine learning algorithms are expected to play a pivotal role in quantum chemistry simulations in the immediate future. One of such key applications is the training of a quantum neural network to learn the potential energy surface and force field of molecular systems. We address this task by using the quantum extreme learning machine paradigm. This particular supervised learning routine allows for a resource efficient training, consisting of a simple linear regression performed on a classical computer. We have tested a setup that can be used to study molecules of any dimension and optimized for immediate use on NISQ devices with a limited number of native gates. We have applied this setup to three case studies: lithium hydride, water, and formamide, carrying out both noiseless simulations and actual implementation on IBM quantum hardware. Compared to other supervised learning routines, the proposed setup requires minimal quantum resources, making it feasible for direct implementation on quantum platforms, while still achieving a high level of predictive accuracy compared to simulations. Our encouraging results pave the way towards the future application to more complex molecules, being the proposed setup scalable.

A method for fast and accurate prediction of wind turbine thrust coefficients using classical momentum theory and power curve

Abstract The planning and development of windfarms require accurate prediction of the thrust coefficient (cT ) of wind turbines, which significantly affects the downstream wake. Traditional methods, such as blade element momentum theory (BEMT), often necessitate detailed geometric information of wind turbines for cT computation, information that is not frequently available, especially in the early stages of windfarm planning. This paper aims to address this challenge by presenting a novel and efficient approach to predict cT for horizontal-axis wind turbines (HAWTs). The proposed method integrates classical momentum theory with power curve data to estimate the average axial induction factor (a), thereby enabling the calculation of cT without requiring detailed geometric information of HAWTs. The method was validated against thirty-five existing pitch-controlled HAWTs, with R2 values ranging from 0.9604 to 0.9989. This validation confirms the accuracy of the method, making it a viable alternative to traditional techniques that demand comprehensive wind turbine geometric details. The method has demonstrated both rapidity and precision in cT computation for turbine wake analysis, ensuring high levels of prediction accuracy and potentially lowering the barrier to entry for windfarm development. Unlike existing models predominantly focused on wind turbine power curves, cT modelling has largely been overlooked. This study makes a unique contribution to the field by proposing a novel method for cT prediction, thereby filling a critical gap in windfarm planning and development. However, while the study shows promising results, further research is warranted to explore its applicability in diverse windfarm scenarios and turbine configurations.

Optimizing injection molding parameters to minimize and prediction potential for flashing defects

The injection molding process is a manufacturing process that can produce products in a short time in large quantities, in the injection molding process the factor of setting process parameters plays a significant role in product quality, so it requires special treatment. The purpose of this study is to find the optimal parameters in the injection moulding process of yogurth container lid with polypropylene material, so that the process can reduce the incidence of flashing defects that result in the emergence of initial waste in the industrial environment. The method used in this research is to create a Response Surface Methodology Box-Behnken Design (RSM - BBD) optimization model and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model approach in analyzing optimal parameters and predicting the appearance of flashing defects in a designed cycle. The results obtained from this research are the optimal parameters from the RSM and ANN model recommendations, namely the clamping force setting of 70 tons, holding time 0.1 seconds, and holding pressure. The ANN model provides the highest level of prediction accuracy with an R2 value of 100% and a prediction error rate of 7.9689E-09. In comparison, the RSM model obtains a prediction accuracy level with an R2 of 71% with an error rate of 0.24315.

Machine learning-based screening of fuel properties for SI and CI engines using a hybrid group extraction method

The design of high-performance fuels is crucial for achieving clean and efficient combustion of engines. In the current study, a framework for machine learning (ML) model-based fuel design is presented to identify compounds with desired properties for internal combustion engine (ICE) applications. Descriptors computed from newly proposed structural and positional-based group extraction method in this study are used as input in ML models due to the simplicity and computational-efficiency. The ML models were trained and validated using publically available experimental data for up to 1135 compounds. The results demonstrated a high level of predictive accuracy, with R2 values generally exceeding 0.99 for 11 physicochemical properties including melting point, boiling point, enthalpy of vaporization, surface tension, dynamic viscosity, low heating value, liquid density, yield sooting index, cetane number, research octane number and motor octane number. Furthermore, by employing the developed ML models to predict new data, a Fuel Property Database containing 1135 fuels with 12 fuel properties is established, enhanced by an interface for a user-friendly Fuel Physicochemical Properties Prediction Tool that facilitates swift property predictions and database expansion. The Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) approach is subsequently employed to assess the correlation between descriptors and predicted or experimental properties. The strong agreement between the correlations affirms the effective predictive performance of the ML models within the calibrated data range. Additionally, a PCC analysis is conducted to reveal the individual effects of influential factors and their interactions, highlighting significant features like molecular weight size, degree of branching, and functional group content that influence physical and chemical properties, thereby providing valuable insights for fuel design and optimization. Finally, a initial comprehensive data-driven screening was carried out to identify potential fuel candidates that meet the key property limits for combustion applications in both spark-ignition (SI) and compression-ignition (CI) engines.

Remaining life prediction of aircraft engines based on IGOA-LSTM-FNN

Predicting the remaining life of aircraft engines is paramount in aviation maintenance management. It helps formulate maintenance schedules, reduce maintenance expenses, and enhance flight safety. Traditional methods for predicting the remaining life of an engine suffer from significant errors and limited generalization capabilities. This paper introduces a predictive model based on Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks and Feedforward Neural Networks (FNN) to improve prediction accuracy. Furthermore, the model’s hyperparameters undergo optimization using the Gannet Optimization Algorithm (GOA). Leveraging the N-CMAPSS dataset for prediction and transfer learning experiments, the results highlight the significant advantages of the proposed model in forecasting the remaining life of aircraft engines. When subjected to training and testing on the DS02 equipment dataset, the root mean square error (RMSE) registers at 5.04. At that time, the score function reached a value of 1.39, surpassing the performance of current state-of-the-art prediction methods. Additionally, in terms of its transfer learning capabilities, the model demonstrates minimal fluctuations in RMSE when applied directly to datasets of various other engine models. It consistently maintains a high level of predictive accuracy.

Multi-objective optimization and performance assessment of response surface methodology (RSM), artificial neural network (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy interfence system (ANFIS) for estimation of fouling in phosphoric acid/steam heat exchanger

Fouling is a common occurrence in industrial heat exchangers, leading to a decrease of the thermal efficiency. This research addresses the challenge of applying various machine learning algorithms including Response Surface Methodology (RSM), Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) to effectively model the fouling resistance in a heat exchanger in phosphoric acid concentration loop. Subsequently, a multi-objective optimization approach was employed to minimize the fouling resistance. Confirmatory experiments are then conducted in the phosphoric acid concentration plant using optimized variables.The findings of this study indicate that the three models accurately align with one year of operational data, achieving a remarkably high coefficient of correlation (R). Among the models utilized, RSM demonstrates the highest level of prediction accuracy, with an R of 0.9998, accompanied by the lowest mean square error (MSE) of 5.9388 10−13 and root mean squared error (RMSE) of 7.7064 10−7. The RSM optimization process identifies the optimal conditions for variables such as time, acid inlet and outlet temperature, steam temperature, acid density, and volume flow rate, which are determined to be 114.805 h; 72.214 °C; 80.407 °C; 116.784 °C; 1642.47 kg/m3; and 2308.1 m3/h, respectively. The predicted fouling resistance demonstrates a strong correlation with the actual data, with a negligible percentage difference of 2.19 %, further validating the accuracy and reliability of the RSM model.

Dynamic Fractional-Order Grey Prediction Model with GWO and MLP for Forecasting Overseas Talent Mobility in China

International students play a crucial role in China’s talent development strategy. Thus, predicting overseas talent mobility is essential for formulating scientifically reasonable talent introduction policies, optimizing talent cultivation systems, and fostering international talent cooperation. In this study, we proposed a novel fractional-order grey model based on the Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) and Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) algorithm to forecast the movement of overseas talent, namely MGDFGM(1,1). Compared to the traditional grey model FGM(1,1), which utilizes the same fractional order at all time points, the proposed MGDFGM(1,1) model dynamically adjusts the fractional-order values based on the time point. This dynamic adjustment enables our model to better capture the changing trends in the data, thereby enhancing the model’s fitting capability. To validate the effectiveness of the MGDFGM(1,1) model, we primarily utilize Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) as the evaluation criteria for the prediction accuracy, as well as standard deviation (STD) as an indicator of the model stability. Furthermore, we perform experimental analysis to evaluate the predictive performance of the MGDFGM(1,1) model in comparison to NAÏVE, ARIMA, GM(1,1), FGM(1,1), LSSVR, MLP, and LSTM. The research findings demonstrate that the MGDFGM(1,1) model achieves a remarkably high level of prediction accuracy and stability for forecasting overseas talent mobility in China. The implications of this study offer valuable insights and assistance to government departments involved in overseas talent management.

Nomogram model for predicting cancer-specific mortality in patients with early-onset colorectal cancer: a competing risk analysis insight from the SEER database and an external validation cohort.

Early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) is increasing in incidence and poses a growing threat. Urgent research is needed, especially in survival analysis, to enhance comprehension and treatment strategies. This study aimed to explore the risk factors associated with cancer-specific mortality (CSM) and other-cause mortality (OCM) in patients with EOCRC. Additionally, the study aimed to develop a nomogram predicting CSM using a competitive risk model and validate its accuracy through the use of training, using internal and external cohorts. Data from EOCRC patients were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database (2008-2017). EOCRC patients who were treated at a tertiary hospital in northeast China between 2014 and 2020 were also included in the study. The SEER data were divided into the training and validation sets at a 7:3 ratio. A univariate Cox regression model was employed to identify prognostic factors. Subsequently, multivariate Cox regression models were applied to ascertain the presence of independent risk factors. A nomogram was generated to visualize the results, which were evaluated using the concordance index (C-index), area under the curve (AUC), and calibration curves. The clinical utility was assessed via decision curve analysis (DCA). Multivariable Cox regression analysis demonstrated that factors such as race, tumor differentiation, levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), marital status, histological type, American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) stage, and surgical status were independent risk factors for CSM in EOCRC patients. In addition, age, gender, chemotherapy details, CEA levels, marital status, and AJCC stage were established as independent risk factors for OCM in individuals diagnosed with EOCRC. A nomogram was developed using the identified independent risk factors, demonstrating excellent performance with a C-index of 0.806, 0.801, and 0.810 for the training, internal validation, and external validation cohorts, respectively. The calibration curves and AUC further confirmed the accuracy and discriminative ability of the nomogram. Furthermore, the DCA results indicated that the model had good clinical value. In this study, a competing risk model for CSM was developed in EOCRC patients. The model demonstrates a high level of predictive accuracy, providing valuable insights into the treatment decision-making process.

Flow fields prediction for data-driven model of 5 × 5 fuel rod bundles based on POD-RBFNN surrogate model

The fuel rod bundles are a crucial component of nuclear reactors. Research the flow characteristics of the fuel rod bundles can be computationally expensive, despite some progress made in the past few decades. In this paper, the fast prediction of flow fields for 5 × 5 fuel rod bundles is implemented based on a data-driven algorithm. First, a refined model of the 5 × 5 fuel rod bundles with spacer grid is established, and meshes are generated using a hybrid meshes technology. Then, the flow characteristics of the 5 × 5 fuel rod bundles are extensively analyzed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods. A comparison between the CFD results and experimental data reveals a strong agreement, thereby validating our research findings. Subsequently, a reduced-order model (ROM) called the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD)-radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) surrogate model is proposed. the POD algorithm is utilized to extracting the dominant flow modes, and the RBFNN is employed to predict the POD mode coefficients of non-sample points. By linearly combining the predicted POD mode coefficients with the POD modes, rapid prediction of flow fields for non-sample points can be achieved. Compared to the full-scale CFD simulations, it finds that the proposed POD-RBFNN surrogate model not only significantly improved efficiency, but also maintained a high level of predictive accuracy. It is believed that the research results hold important value for CFD calculations within nuclear reactor cores.

Experimental measurement of thermal conductivity and viscosity of Al2O3-GO (80:20) hybrid and mono nanofluids: A new correlation

This study examines the thermophysical properties of Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and graphene oxide (GO) based mono and hybrid nanofluid mixture at different volume concentrations for heat transfer application. Firstly, Al2O3 and GO nanoparticles were mixed with base fluid (deionized water) separately at 1.0 % of volume concentration for mono nanofluid preparation. Then, Al2O3-GO hybrid nanofluid (80:20) was prepared for volume concentrations of 0.25 %, 0.5 %, 0.75 % and 1.0 %. The stability of both nanofluids was evaluated based on Zeta potential and pH measurements. Meanwhile, the viscosity and thermal conductivity were investigated for temperatures starting from 30 °C to 50 °C. The experimental thermal conductivity and viscosity measurements were correlated using the analytical regression method to predict the thermal conductivity and dynamic viscosity of Al2O3-GO hybrid nanofluid. The maximum thermal conductivity improvement of hybrid Al2O3-GO nanofluid (1 %) was about 4.30 % and 4.34 % higher than Al2O3 and GO mono nanofluid, respectively. In contrast, the viscosity of 1 % Al2O3-GO hybrid nanofluid showed the least reduction of 4.6 %, which is 4.1 % and 6.6 % less than both Al2O3 and GO mono nanofluids. Compared to experimental values, the new model resulted in a high level of predictive accuracy for both thermal conductivity and viscosity, with a maximum error of 6 % and 4 %.

Remaining Useful Life Prediction of Lithium-Ion Batteries Based on Transfer Learning and DAE-LSTM

Predicting the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) of lithium-ion batteries is one of the core tasks in battery health management. This study aims to enhance the accuracy of RUL prediction by proposing a battery RUL prediction method that integrates source domain battery iteration transfer with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural networks. Firstly, multiple batteries with known degradation trends are utilized as source domain batteries, and combined with full-lifetime capacity degradation data to construct the Source Domain Battery Iterations Module (SIM) to obtain the optimal LSTM pre-training model. Secondly, the pre-trained model is transferred to the target domain and fine-tuned using the target domain training set. Finally, the fine-tuned LSTM pre-training model is applied to the task of predicting the capacity of target domain batteries, thereby completing the RUL prediction. The effectiveness of the algorithm is validated on three open-source datasets. Experimental results demonstrate that in scenarios where the source domain and target domain battery types are the same, the absolute error of RUL prediction is less than 2 cycles. Moreover, in cases where the battery types differ, except for the 20% prediction starting point, the RUL prediction error is less than 10 cycles, indicating a high level of prediction accuracy.

A dual-scale hybrid prediction model for UAV demand power: Based on VMD and SSA optimization algorithm

The prediction of power demand for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) is an essential basis to ensure the rational distribution of the energy system and stable economic flight. In order to accurately predict the demand power of oil-electric hybrid UAV, a method based on variational mode decomposition (VMD) and Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA) is proposed to optimize the hybrid prediction model composed of long-short term memory (LSTM) and Least Squares Support Vector Machine (LSSVM). Firstly, perform VMD decomposition on the raw demand power data and use the sample entropy method to classify the feature-distinct mode components into high-frequency and low-frequency categories. Then, each modality component was separately input into the mixed model for rolling prediction. The LSSVM model and LSTM model were used to process low-frequency and high-frequency components, respectively. Finally, the predicted values for each modal component are linearly combined to obtain the final predicted value for power demand. Compared with the current models, the prediction model constructed in this paper stands out for its superior ability to track the changing trends of power demand and achieve the highest level of prediction accuracy.

Evaluation of the strain response of FRP partially confined concrete using FEM and DIC testing

PurposeThis study aims to enhance the understanding of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) applications in partially confined concrete, with a specific focus on improving economic value and load-bearing capacity. The research addresses the need for a more comprehensive analysis of non-uniform vertical strain responses and precise stress–strain models for FRP partially confined concrete.Design/methodology/approachDIC and strain gauges were employed to gather data during axial compression tests on FRP partially confined concrete specimens. Finite element analysis using ABAQUS was utilized to model partial confinement concrete with various constraint area ratios, ranging from 0 to 1. Experimental findings and simulation results were compared to refine and validate the stress–strain model.FindingsThe experimental results revealed that specimens exhibited strain responses characterized by either hardening or softening in both vertical and horizontal directions. The finite element analysis accurately reflected the relationship between surface constraint forces and axial strains in the x, y and z axes under different constraint area ratios. A proposed stress–strain model demonstrated high predictive accuracy for FRP partially confined concrete columns.Practical implicationsThe stress–strain curves of partially confined concrete, based on Teng's foundation model for fully confined stress–strain behavior, exhibit a high level of predictive accuracy. These findings enhance the understanding of the mechanical behavior of partially confined concrete specimens, which is crucial for designing and assessing FRP confined concrete structures.Originality/valueThis research introduces innovative insights into the superior convenience and efficiency of partial wrapping strategies in the rehabilitation of beam-column joints, surpassing traditional full confinement methods. The study contributes methodological innovation by refining stress–strain models specifically for partially confined concrete, addressing the limitations of existing models. The combination of experimental and simulated assessments using DIC and FEM technologies provides robust empirical evidence, advancing the understanding and optimization of FRP-concrete structure performance. This work holds significance for the broader field of concrete structure reinforcement.

An AI-based novel system for predicting respiratory support in COVID-19 patients through CT imaging analysis

The proposed AI-based diagnostic system aims to predict the respiratory support required for COVID-19 patients by analyzing the correlation between COVID-19 lesions and the level of respiratory support provided to the patients. Computed tomography (CT) imaging will be used to analyze the three levels of respiratory support received by the patient: Level 0 (minimum support), Level 1 (non-invasive support such as soft oxygen), and Level 2 (invasive support such as mechanical ventilation). The system will begin by segmenting the COVID-19 lesions from the CT images and creating an appearance model for each lesion using a 2D, rotation-invariant, Markov–Gibbs random field (MGRF) model. Three MGRF-based models will be created, one for each level of respiratory support. This suggests that the system will be able to differentiate between different levels of severity in COVID-19 patients. The system will decide for each patient using a neural network-based fusion system, which combines the estimates of the Gibbs energy from the three MGRF-based models. The proposed system were assessed using 307 COVID-19-infected patients, achieving an accuracy of 97.72%pm 1.57, a sensitivity of 97.76%pm 4.08, and a specificity of 98.87%pm 2.09, indicating a high level of prediction accuracy.

Research on a Multi-Objective Optimization Design for the Durability of High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Based on a Hybrid Algorithm

To achieve durable high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete that meets economic requirements, this paper introduces a hybrid intelligent framework based on the Latin hypercube experimental design, response surface methodology (RSM), and the NSGA-III algorithm for optimizing the mix design of high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete. The developed framework allows for the prediction of concrete performance and obtains a series of Pareto optimal solutions through multi-objective optimization, ultimately identifying the best mix proportion. The decision variables in this optimization are the proportions of various materials in the concrete mix, with concrete’s frost resistance, chloride ion permeability resistance, and cost as the objectives. The feasibility of this framework was subsequently validated. The results indicate the following: (1) The RSM model exhibits a high level of predictive accuracy, with coefficient of determination (R-squared) values of 0.9657 for concrete frost resistance and 0.9803 for chloride ion permeability resistance. The RSM model can be employed to construct the fitness function for the optimization algorithm, enhancing the efficiency of multi-objective optimization. (2) The NSGA-III algorithm effectively balances durability and cost considerations to determine the optimal mix proportion for the concrete. After multi-objective optimization, the chloride ion permeability resistance and frost resistance of the high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete improved by 38.1% and 6.45%, respectively, compared to the experimental averages, while the cost decreased by 2.53%. The multi-objective optimization method proposed in this paper can be applied to mix design for practical engineering projects, improving the efficiency of concrete mix design.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Proportional Nodes Method in Curve Fitting for Surfaces: Application to Data of Dynamic Viscosity of Ammonia-Water Solution

This study used the proportional nodes method, a novel curve fitting approach to correlate data for dynamic viscosity of ammonia-water solution. The approach integrates polynomial equations, generated at various temperatures, with those calculated at selected mole fraction nodes. These nodes are scaling factors that account for variations in dynamic viscosity at different temperatures at selected mole fractions. The accuracy of the polynomial equations ensures a high degree of fitting accuracy. The proportional nodes, computed systematically, were integrated into a robust and highly accurate polynomial model to generate correlations that fit the data for the surface. This model exhibited minimal average percentage differences between predicted and actual viscosity values (±0.2614293 for temperature range, 273.15K to 303.15K and ±1.11 for temperature range, 303.15K to 423.15 K), indicating a high level of predictive accuracy. The proportional nodes method offers a significant contribution to both academic research and industry. It provides a more precise and adaptive model for predicting the dynamic viscosity of ammonia-water solution, which is critical for optimizing and designing various industrial applications, including refrigeration systems.

Preselecting Variants from Large-Scale Genome-Wide Association Study Meta-Analyses Increases the Genomic Prediction Accuracy of Growth and Carcass Traits in Large White Pigs.

Preselected variants associated with the trait of interest from genome-wide association studies (GWASs) are available to improve genomic prediction in pigs. The objectives of this study were to use preselected variants from a large GWAS meta-analysis to assess the impact of single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) preselection strategies on genome prediction of growth and carcass traits in pigs. We genotyped 1018 Large White pigs using medium (50k) SNP arrays and then imputed SNPs to sequence level by utilizing a reference panel of 1602 whole-genome sequencing samples. We tested the effects of different proportions of selected top SNPs across different SNP preselection strategies on genomic prediction. Finally, we compared the prediction accuracies by employing genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP), genomic feature BLUP and three weighted GBLUP models. SNP preselection strategies showed an average improvement in accuracy ranging from 0.3 to 2% in comparison to the SNP chip data. The accuracy of genomic prediction exhibited a pattern of initial increase followed by decrease, or continuous decrease across various SNP preselection strategies, as the proportion of selected top SNPs increased. The highest level of prediction accuracy was observed when utilizing 1 or 5% of top SNPs. Compared with the GBLUP model, the utilization of estimated marker effects from a GWAS meta-analysis as SNP weights in the BLUP|GA model improved the accuracy of genomic prediction in different SNP preselection strategies. The new SNP preselection strategies gained from this study bring opportunities for genomic prediction in limited-size populations in pigs.

Optimising carbon fixation through agroforestry: Estimation of aboveground biomass using multi-sensor data synergy and machine learning

As agricultural land expansion is the primary driver of deforestation, agroforestry could be an optimal land use strategy for climate change mitigation and reducing pressure on forests. Agroforestry is a promising method for carbon sequestration. With recent advancements in geospatial and data science technology, the ability to predict aboveground biomass (AGB) and assess ecosystem services in agroforestry is rapidly expanding. This study was conducted in the Belpada Block of Balangir, Odisha, a forest-dominated region of eastern India. We recorded species occurrence and measured plant parameters, including Circumference at Breast Height (CBH), height, and geolocation, in 196 plots (0.09 ha) in agroforestry intervention sites and noted the tree species. This study used Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 multi sensor data to achieve data synergy in AGB estimation. Three machine learning models were used: Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The RF model exhibited the highest level of prediction accuracy (R2 = 0.69 and RMSE = 17.07 Mg/ha), followed by the ANN model (R2 = 0.63 and RMSE = 19.35 Mg/ha), SVM model (R2 = 0.54, RMSE = 21.97 Mg/ha. The spectral vegetation indices that are (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI), Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), Modified Simple Ratio (MSR), Modified Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (MSAVI), Difference Vegetation Index (DVI), and SAR backscatter values, were found important variables for AGB prediction. The findings revealed that agroforestry interventions and plantations resulted in an average carbon stock increase of 15 Mg/ha over five years in the study area. The Plant Value Index (PVI), which indicates the importance of species in the local economy and biomass carbon storage, showed that Tectona grandis was the dominant species with the highest PVI value (88.35), followed by Eucalyptus globulus (56.87), Mangifera indica (53.75), and Azadirachta indica (15.45). This approach enables the expansion of monitoring efforts to assess carbon stock in agroforestry systems, thereby promoting effective management strategies.