Wood Logs Research Articles

A Novel Approach for the Counting of Wood Logs Using cGANs and Image Processing Techniques

This study tackles the challenge of precise wood log counting, where applications of the proposed methodology can span from automated approaches for materials management, surveillance, and safety science to wood traffic monitoring, wood volume estimation, and others. We introduce an approach leveraging Conditional Generative Adversarial Networks (cGANs) for eucalyptus log segmentation in images, incorporating specialized image processing techniques to handle noise and intersections, coupled with the Connected Components Algorithm for efficient counting. To support this research, we created and made publicly available a comprehensive database of 466 images containing approximately 13,048 eucalyptus logs, which served for both training and validation purposes. Our method demonstrated robust performance, achieving an average Accuracypixel of 96.4% and Accuracylogs of 92.3%, with additional measures such as F1 scores ranging from 0.879 to 0.933 and IoU values between 0.784 and 0.875, further validating its effectiveness. The implementation proves to be efficient with an average processing time of 0.713 s per image on an NVIDIA T4 GPU, making it suitable for real-time applications. The practical implications of this method are significant for operational forestry, enabling more accurate inventory management, reducing human errors in manual counting, and optimizing resource allocation. Furthermore, the segmentation capabilities of the model provide a foundation for advanced applications such as eucalyptus stack volume estimation, contributing to a more comprehensive and refined analysis of forestry operations. The methodology’s success in handling complex scenarios, including intersecting logs and varying environmental conditions, positions it as a valuable tool for practical applications across related industrial sectors.

MultiProduct Optimization of Cedrelinga cateniformis (Ducke) Ducke in Different Plantation Systems in the Peruvian Amazon

This study addressed multi-product optimization in Cedrelinga cateniformis plantations in the Peruvian Amazon, aiming to maximize volumetric yields of logs and sawn lumber. Data from seven plantations of different ages and types, established on degraded land, were analyzed by using ten stem profile models to predict taper and optimize wood use. In addition, the structure of each plantation was evaluated using diameter distributions and height–diameter ratios; log and sawn timber production was optimized using SigmaE 2.0 software. The Garay model proved most effective, providing high predictive accuracy (adjusted R2 values up to 0.963) and biological realism. Marked differences in volumetric yield were observed between plantations: older and more widely spaced plantations produced higher timber volumes. Logs of optimal length (1.83–3.05 m) and larger dimension wood (e.g., 25.40 × 5.08 cm) were identified as key contributors to maximizing volumetric yields. The highest yields were observed in mature plantations, in which the total log volume reached 508.1 m3ha−1 and the sawn lumber volume 333.6 m3ha−1. The findings demonstrate the power of data-driven decision-making in the timber industry. By combining precise modeling and optimization techniques, we developed a framework that enables sawmill operators to maximize log and lumber yields. The insights gained from this research can be used to improve operational efficiency and reduce waste, ultimately leading to increased profitability. These practices promote support for smallholders and the forestry industry while contributing to the long-term development of the Peruvian Amazon.

A Study of Heat Insulation Methods for Enhancing the Internal Temperature on Artificial Stingless Bee Hive

The stingless bees have gained a large popularity among the beekeepers, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions such as the Americas, Africa, and Southeast Asia. This is because the honey of stingless bees has a distinct flavour and is highly valued for its medicinal qualities. Traditionally, stingless bee colonies constructed from wood logs are fragile and vulnerable to outside attacks. These predator or parasite attacks can cause Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) if not eliminated. Thus, a PVC, 3D-printed PET-G, and acrylic artificial hive has been created to replace the old one. According to earlier research, stingless bees are especially susceptible to temperatures above 38°C. This paper's main goal is to discuss the results of studies on the best artificial hive insulation method. Over a month and a half, clay, wood powder, polystyrene, bubble aluminium foil, and a water- cooling system were tested as insulators. Results shows that artificial hives with bubble aluminium foil have the biggest average difference between internal and external temperatures (6.4°C) and are closest to traditional hives (8.6°C). The average temperature difference between the artificial hive's exterior and inside was 2.9°C without heat insulation. Clay-insulated artificial hives have the lowest standard deviation value for humidity at 0.46. Since temperature is vital to stingless bee survival, bubble aluminium foil container is the best insulation solution since it increases heat resistance more than other materials.

Interplay of Linguistic and Semiotic Choices in Shaping Meaning: A Critical Analysis of Political Cartoon in Pakistani English Newspaper

In today's world, where nations are interconnected through media, the analysis of media discourse from different perspectives on societal issues has gained much currency. The present study analyzes the satirical representation of a newspaper cartoon to find out how these media persons utilize cartoons and the accompanying linguistic choices to affect readers' opinions and understandings. Guided by qualitative research methodology, the data for this study is collected in the form of one cartoon selected through purposive sampling from a Pakistani English newspaper i.e., Dawn. Taking insights from Barthes's (1957) theory of semiotics and Fairclough’s (1995) Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) model, the study utilizes an integrated framework for a fine-grain analysis of cartoon discourse. The intermingling of these two models of analysis has helped the researchers to highlight how newspaper cartoon discourse can be utilized to construct and highlight certain ideologies. The selected cartoon under the caption "OIC seeks global intervention to halt Gaza genocide," highlights the themes of victimization and powerlessness. By utilizing the signs of a man and a wooden log for the OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) and Gaza, respectively, the cartoonist has evoked feelings of sympathy for the innocent killing of Palestinians. Hence, the study has found a logical connection between linguistic and semiotic systems to highlight the OIC's inefficacy and the world's indifference and hypocritical response towards the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Selected Aspects of Testing the Strength of Movable Joints of a Prototype Intermodal Platform-Regulations and Practice

A cheap, easy-to-build basic module and multiplatform configurations obtained by connecting basic modules with dimensions corresponding to typical rail containers (10-foot, 20-foot, or larger) can be used to support intermodal rail-road transport of wooden and metal logs, including pipes, products transported on pallets and loose materials. This paper presents assumptions of the hybrid numerical research method and selected aspects of numerical strength tests of platform-containers in the basic 10-foot configuration. Multibody analyses (MBS), the finite element method (FEM), the original methodology, and various class mathematical models of the tested platforms were used appropriately in numerical tests. In the analysis of the results of multi-variant tests with the use of maximum operating loads, special attention was paid to the stress exerted on the joints between the movable components of the intermodal platform.

A comparative study of turbulent flow fields in the wake of an isolated boulder, vegetation patch, and wooden log

A comparative study of turbulent flow fields in the wake of an isolated boulder, vegetation patch, and wooden log

Automatic Wood Species Classification and Pith Detection in Log CT Images

This article focuses on the need for digitalization in the forestry and timber sector using information from CT scans of logs. The National Forest Centre (Slovak Republic) operates a unique 3D CT scanner for wooden logs at the Stráž Biotechnology Park. This real-time scanner generates a 3D model of a log, displaying the wood’s internal features/defects. To optimize log-cutting plans effectively, it is necessary to automatically detect and classify these features and defects in real time, leveraging computer vision principles. Artificial intelligence, specifically neural networks, addresses this need by enabling solutions for tasks of this nature. Building a highly efficient neural network for detecting wood features and defects requires creating a database of log scans and training the network on these data. This is a time-intensive process, as it involves manually marking internal features and defects on hundreds of CT scans of various wood types. A functional neural network for detecting internal wood defects represents a significant advancement in sector digitalization, paving the way for further automation and robotization in wood processing. For the forestry sector to remain competitive, efficiently process raw materials, and improve product quality, the effective application of CT scanning technology is essential. This technological innovation aligns the sector more closely with leaders in other fields, such as the automotive, engineering, and metalworking industries.

Impact of forest exploitation on soil stability in the Ukrainian Carpathians and ways to improve it

Evaluation of erosion processes occurring during logging is of great importance for a balanced approach to the use of natural resources and forest ecosystems preservation. The article evaluates erosion processes during logging in the Ukrainian Carpathians. The influence of mountain topography on the risks of erosion and pollution of water streams due to the high steepness of the slopes and the need for specialized equipment for logging operations was analyzed. The need for measures to minimize the impact of logging on the natural environment of mountain regions has been substantiated. The study examines the influence of the hilly and mountainous terrain on the logging activities of the «Putyl Forestry», «Verkhovyna Forestry», «Osmolod Forestry» and «Chernivtsi Forestry» branches. It has been found that more than half of timber harvesting is carried out by tractor skidding. Average skidding distances significantly exceed the optimal values for transport, which complicates the process of exploitation of forest resources and increases their cost. The study shows that the company mainly uses tracked equipment for timber skidding (53.8%), wheeled equipment (11.8%) and horse-drawn transport (34.4%) to a lesser extent. The distribution of developed forest areas indicates the dominance of tracked tractors (88.7%) in final felling, and horsedrawn transport (50.7%) in forest formation and improvement fellings. The data on average distances indicate the high efficiency of tracked tractors and the use of horse-drawn transport at distances exceeding the optimal values in mountainous terrain. The data show that in most areas the distance between horses skidding and a tractor does not exceed 60 meters. The length of skidding trails in the logging areas varies depending on their area, where the main skidding roads are used to transport timber to loading points. The practical significance of the research includes requirements implementation of the «Framework Convention on Protection and Sustainable Development of the Carpathians» and the «Strategic Action Plan for the Implementation of the Protocol on Sustainable Forest Management». The introduction of modern ecological methods of preventing erosion processes on mountain slopes will contribute to greening of logging in the region and will have a significant positive effect in terms of nature conservation. Key words: wood logging, timber transportation, tractor skidding, felling volume, mountain logging technology, slope steepness, average skidding distance, terrain, loading facilities.

Meta-analysis of spatial genetic patterns among European saproxylic beetles

AbstractThe phylogeography of many forest-dwelling species in Europe is well understood. However, our knowledge regarding the genetics of saproxylic beetles remains insufficient. This knowledge gap extends to understanding the influence of both quaternary history and contemporary forest dynamics on population genetics. To fill this gap, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of recent literature concerning saproxylic beetle taxa with available genetic data. We include both threatened and common species in our study, which enabled us to generalize our findings to the whole saproxylic community. Results suggest a latitudinal decrease in diversity in most species, likely influenced by Pleistocene glaciation and subsequent population expansions from southern refugia. Additionally, we observed an east–west gradient in diversity, with threatened species exhibiting higher diversity towards the east. This may reflect historical forest dynamics and anthropogenic pressures, such as heavy wood logging in Western Europe. Similarly, we found a pattern along altitude, with populations in higher elevation forests, which are often more natural, exhibiting higher diversity. Furthermore, we identified distinct phylogenetic units or genetic clusters in southern Europe reflecting the distribution of glacial refugia. For some taxa, distinct units were also reported in eastern Europe where populations spread from Asian refugia. Central Europe showed a high number of phylogenetic units, although unique (private) clades or clusters were absent. Most likely it is an effect of the presence of beetles that originated from various refugia belonging to different phylogenetic units.This study brings insights into general phylogeographic patterns, which have previously been examined only for single representatives of saproxylic beetles. It should also help in the proper planning of conservation and management efforts for wood-dwelling beetles.

Exploring Ganoderma lucidum: morphology, cultivation and market potential.

Ganoderma lucidum, known as the "mushroom of immortality," is a white rot fungus renowned for its medicinal properties, attributed to its bioactive compounds. Although species with similar morphological traits to G. lucidum are found across the globe, precise identification is made possible through DNA barcoding and molecular phylogenetic analysis. Global cultivation and wild harvesting of G. lucidum are both done in response to the growing market needs. Artificial cultivation is typically performed on sawdust, but other woody substrates and the wood log method are also employed. This cultivation leverages the fungus's ecological role in converting industrial and agricultural solid wastes into biomass, thereby producing functional food and potential pharmaceutical sources. The review consolidates research on various aspects of, including cultivation methods (sawdust, agricultural waste, wood logs, and submerged fermentation), and the current global market conditions.

Augmented reality guidance improves accuracy of orthopedic drilling procedures

In several orthopedic procedures, the accurate use of surgical power tools is critical to avoid damage to surrounding tissues. As such, various guidance techniques and safety measures were developed. Augmented reality (AR) guidance shows promise but requires validation. We evaluated a new approach using an inside-out infrared tracking solution for the HoloLens to compensate for its limited tracking performance. Eighteen participants with varying levels of experience (student, trainee, expert) each drilled twelve trajectories (six perpendicular, six oblique) in equidimensional wooden logs. Three different techniques were evaluated: freehand drilling; proprioception-guided drilling towards the contralateral index finger; and AR-guided drilling using a tracked drill and a virtual overlay of the log with predefined guidance vectors. The angular errors between planned and performed trajectories were compared using a mixed-design ANOVA. The results demonstrated that guidance technique (p < 0.001) and drilling direction (p < 0.001) significantly affected drilling accuracy, while experience (p = 0.75) did not. AR outperformed both other techniques, particularly for oblique trajectories (p < 0.001). For perpendicular trajectories, it only outperformed proprioception guidance (p = 0.04). Target plots revealed an important scatter perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the log during freehand and proprioception-guided drilling, especially for oblique trajectories. This inaccuracy disappeared during AR-guided drilling. As such, we were able to conclude that AR guidance using inside-out infrared tracking reduced angular uncertainty during directional drilling, resulting in improved drilling accuracy. This improvement was particularly noticeable for complex trajectories and angles. The benefits of AR guidance were observed across all experience levels, highlighting its potential for orthopedic applications. We believe this study opens the way for the methodical evaluation of AR guidance in specific orthopedic use cases.

Structural characterization of wild edible Pleurotuscollected from Punjab, India

Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus spp.) belongs to the class Basidiomycetes, family Agaricaceae, commonly known as ‘dhingri’ in India and proliferates naturally on dead, decay wooden logs or trunks of deciduous or coniferous woods in tropical and temperate forests. Although Pleurotus mushrooms are commercially important mushrooms but wild Pleurotus still require public recognition. Hence, the present study aimed to conduct a field survey for collection of Pleurotus mushrooms from wild regions of of Punjab Two wild Pleurotus were collected and domesticated at Mushroom Research Complex, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab which were further analyzed at molecular and biochemical levels. These mushrooms were identified at species level through ITS (Internal transcribed spacer region) based method (18S ribosomal RNA gene, internal transcribed spacer, 5.8S ribosomal RNA gene, complete sequence; and 28S ribosomal RNA gene) was carried out. The gene bank accessioned Pleurotus sapidus as MK 281339 and Pleurotus floridanus as MK 281340. Hyphae of Pleurotus sapidus was observed to be packed tightly to a greater extent as compared to Pleurotus floridanus according to the ultra-structure recorded by scanning electron microscope. Both species of Pleurotus share two different proteins of same molecular weight 24.81 KDa and 28.43 KDa. Collecting and identifying wild species is crucial to preserve the wild fruits and fathom out the benefits of wild edible Pleurotus spp.

New records of Gemeneta opilionoides (Orthoptera, Catantopinae) in the world's second largest rainforest.

Gemeneta opilionoides (Bolívar 1905) is a rare grasshopperpresently known fromthree localities, Biafra (in Equatorial Guinea), Makak, and Ngutadjap (in Cameroon). Few data exist on the biology and ecology of this species in the central Africa rainforests, while its natural habitat is being rapidly destroyed by deforestation. It has been recently found at two new localities, Ngoyla in Cameroon, and Bioko Island in Equatorial Guinea. From 2019 to 2023 some specimens of the species were recorded and collected at these two localities. This study increased the number of known G. opilionoides localities to five: Biafra, Makak, Ngutadjap, Ngoyla and Bioko Island. Here the species natural habitat, the threats to this habitat, and relevant conservation action are further described. The species habitat is swamp in the humid forest with ferns, and standing surface water. This species doesn't appear to have a strong seasonality. Threats to the habitat observed in Cameroon were wood logging, market gardening, bush fire, bamboo exploitation, and sand mining. There is no special conservation action in place for G. opilionoides apart from the general regulations affecting protected areas. As a contribution to the conservation of this species, we brought the matter to the attention of the Cameroon Minister of Forest and Wildlife.

3775-year-old wood burial supports "wood vaulting" as a durable carbon removal method.

Six-times more carbon dioxide (CO2) is removed each year by terrestrial photosynthesis than fossil fuel emissions. However, the carbon is mostly returned to the atmosphere by decomposition. We found a 3775-year-old ancient wood log buried 2 meters belowground that was preserved far beyond its expected lifetime. The wood had near-perfect preservation, with carbon loss less than 5% compared to a modern sample. The lack of decay is likely due to the low permeability of the compact clay soil at the burial site. Our observation suggests a hybrid nature-engineering approach for carbon removal by burying woody biomass in similar anoxic environments. We estimate a global sequestration potential of up to 10 gigatonnes CO2 per year with existing technology at a low cost of $30 to $100 per tonne after optimization.

Comparative Study of Different Rapid Multiplication Methods in Black Pepper (Piper nigrum L.) cv. Panniyur - 1

The present investigation was conducted during the year 2023-2024. The experiment was conducted in randomized block design with seven treatments namely T1: Raised bed method, T2: Soil mound method, T3: Wooden log method, T4: Serpentine method, T5: Split halves of PVC method, T6: Modified serpentine method, T7: Trench method and each treatment were replicated four times. Among the various treatments studied, the treatment T4 (Serpentine method) recorded maximum number of cuttings per harvest, total number of cuttings harvested per year, sprouting percentage at 30 days after planting (DAP), survival percentage at 45 DAP.

Assessing the Potential of Biomass Power Generation for Renewable Energy Transition in South Papua Province, Indonesia

This study aims to explore the potential for biomass-based power plant to accelerate the development of renewable energy to replace the role of fossil energy in Merauke district, South Papua Province. The method used in this study is, first, to collect data and analyze the load on the grid system and the portion of the energy mix as well as the availability of woody biomass from forest areas by making a simulation of the development of a 2 x 12 MW Biomass Power Plant. Second, by conducting experiments to obtain woodchip conversion, as the fuel of the Biomass Power Plant, from the wood log and conversion from Biomass Power Plant capacity to the required biomass plantation area. The results provide an overview of the big potency for developing biomass-based power generation by utilizing biomass from the local industrial plantation forest and show the energy transition towards energy independence. This study can be useful for policy makers and opportunities for entrepreneurs or suppliers of wood biomass, as well. For the future, in terms of fuel efficiency, it is necessary to reduce the plantation area as a source of biomass for power plants by reducing the moisture content of the woodchip to increase the calorific value and utilizing the forest residue. Furthermore, the comparison cost study between fossil power plant and biomass power plant, as well as the strategy for preserving the plantation to ensure a steady biomass supply is conducted.

Isolation of bacteria from Grifola frondosa cultivation on wood logs to find mycelial growth-promoting bacteria.

This study aimed to isolate bacteria that coexist with the edible mushroom Grifola frondosa when it is cultured on wood, and to determine their interactions; in turn, the aim was to find bacteria that stimulate mycelial growth so as to decrease the time required for spawn preparation on potato dextrose agar (PDA). Some Pseudomonas, Dyella, Bacillus, and Priestia spp. isolated from the cultivation surroundings of G. frondosa had a positive effect on the mycelial growth of the fungus in PDA. However, some isolated bacteria had a severe negative effect on the mycelial growth, especially Burkholderia spp. Thus, both mycelial-promoting bacteria and potentially pathogenic bacteria coexist with G. frondosa in cultivation. Enzyme activity assays indicated that some wood-degrading bacteria inhabit the cultivation surroundings of G. frondosa, and these bacteria probably help the fungus to degrade wood (especially cellulose).

Structure Formation in Engineered Wood Using Wood Waste and Biopolyurethane.

This research aims to find suitable processing methods that allow the reuse of wood waste to produce wood waste-based engineered wood logs for construction that meet the strength requirements for structural timber for sawn structural softwood. Three types of wood waste were examined: wood packaging waste (W), waste from the construction and furniture industry (PLY), and door manufacturing waste (DW). The wood waste was additionally crushed and sieved, and the granulometric composition and shape of the particles were evaluated. The microstructure of the surface of the wood waste particles was also analysed. A three-component biopolyurethane adhesive was used to bind wood waste particles. An analysis of the contact zones between the particles and biopolyurethane was performed, and the adhesion efficiency of their surfaces was evaluated. Analysis was performed using tensile tests, and the formation of contact zones was analysed with a scanning electron microscope. The wood particles were chemically treated with sodium carbonate, calcium hypochlorite, and peroxide to increase the efficiency of the contact zones between the particles and the biopolyurethane adhesive. Chemical treatment made fillers up to 30% lighter and changed the tensile strength depending on the solution used. The tensile strength of engineered wood prepared from W and treated with sodium carbonate increased from 8331 to 12,702 kPa compared to untreated waste. Additionally, the compressive strength of engineered wood made of untreated and treated wood waste particles was determined to evaluate the influence of the wood particles on the strength characteristics.

Mobile software for automated segmentation, counting, and management of wood logs

This article presents a software solution for object counting, aiming to simplify the quantification process across various domains. Accurate and efficient object counting plays a crucial role in numerous applications such as inventory management, crowd monitoring, quality control, resource planning, statistical analysis, and operational efficiency. The proposed solution uses image generation algorithms that employ Conditional Generative Adversarial Networks (CGANs) as the primary machine learning tool in computer vision and image processing techniques to automate the counting process. This offers a reliable and time-saving alternative to manual counting methods. CGANs are particularly effective for this task due to their ability to generate precise segmentations of objects in images. These networks are trained using a large dataset of labeled images, allowing the model to learn to segment objects with high accuracy. During training, the images generated by the CGANs are compared with real images to ensure the accuracy of the results. The application of this software holds great potential for assisting in object quantification tasks across multiple domains. For instance, in inventory management, accurate item counting can lead to better stock management and cost savings. In crowd monitoring, the ability to count people accurately can be crucial for public safety and event management. In quality control, precise counting of products can ensure high standards and reduce waste. Additionally, in resource planning and statistical analysis, efficient and accurate data collection can significantly improve decision-making processes. Therefore, the implementation of this object counting software based on CGANs promises not only to enhance operational efficiency but also to improve economic savings and data accuracy, benefiting a wide range of industries and applications.

Woodlog Inventory Optimization using Object Detection and Object Tracking

In the timber industry, keeping track of wood stacks is crucial to avoid stockpiles that are too large or too small ensuring efficient operations. Traditional methods are often time-consuming and inaccurate, leading to inefficiencies. This research proposes a novel solution for timber yard inventory management using cutting-edge technology.The approach utilizes YOLOv8, a powerful object detection algorithm, to identify wood logs in live video feeds. DeepSORT, a tracking algorithm, then follows these identified logs over time. This automation eliminates the need for manual tracking, minimizes errors, and enforces the "First-In-First-Out" (FIFO) principle for efficient inventory use.The study also compares DeepSORT to other tracking algorithms like OC-SORT and ByteTrack to identify the most effective option for this specific application. The results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly improves detection accuracy and reliability, leading to better inventory management.In essence, this research highlights how integrating advanced detection and tracking technologies can revolutionize timber yard operations. By automating processes and ensuring accurate inventory control, these technologies can significantly reduce costs and boost overall efficiency in the timber sector.