Abstract
Despite their extreme sensitivity, speckle-based fiber optical sensors are typically limited by the camera frame rate and dynamic range. In this context, recent developments in event-based sensors make them a promising and affordable tool for high-speed interrogation for such class of sensors, offering a low-latency approach to detecting dynamic changes in illumination patterns, well-suited for fast interrogation with frequency response up to the MHz range. In this manuscript, we investigate the potential of using an event-based vision sensor (EVS) as an interrogator for a speckle-based optical fiber sensor operating at 532nm to detect vibrations induced by an off-the-shelf sound speaker. In contact with the fiber, these vibrations induce dynamic changes in the speckle pattern, which are tracked by the EVS and processed to construct temporal frames with timestamps below 100 mu s. Approximating the differential operator of the deformation in the linear regime, we show a successful reconstruction of the acoustic signal for two illustrative case studies: i)a single-frequency signal at 1.2 KHz and ii)a linear ramp between 300 Hz to 2.5 kHz. The results demonstrate the ability to accurately identify not only the fundamental frequencies but also their harmonics generated by the speaker up to 5 KHz, paving an innovative path to harness the potential of speckle-based sensors in multiple scenarios of optical metrology and dynamic sensing applications.

Abstract

Abstract
This study seeks to comprehensively analyze the multidimensional determinants underlying perceptions of safety, security, and comfort in transport mode choice, specifically focusing on private transport, public transport and walking. The research begins with an extensive literature review to identify and delve into the factors influencing perceptions of safety, security, and comfort across various transport modes. This inquiry is further enhanced by organizing two focused group sessions. A total of 35 key factors were identified, forming the basis for subsequent investigation. The study then progressed to the development and administration of a survey aimed at capturing responses from a diverse audience, with the goal of exploring the factors influencing perceptions related to different transport modes. A total of 302 responses were collected and meticulously analyzed to discern the factors impacting various relationships and to identify consistent perceptions across diverse transport modes. Additionally, a factor analysis was conducted to validate the findings derived from the data. The outcomes of this research constitute a significant contribution to the existing literature, offering valuable insights that pave the way for a more holistic understanding of the factors guiding transport mode choices.

Abstract
We introduce Fed-VFDT, a federated adaptation of the Very Fast Decision Tree (VFDT) algorithm for classification over streaming data. While VFDT is a widely adopted online learning algorithm, its sequential and order-sensitive nature poses challenges in federated settings, marked by statistical heterogeneity and communication constraints. Fed-VFDT addresses these issues by having each client incrementally train a local VFDT and report split statistics to a central server when a leaf satisfies the Hoeffding criterion. The server selects a global splitting feature by aggregating clients' proposals according to a configurable strategy: quorum, merit-based selection, or majority voting. Once a feature is selected, it is broadcast to all clients, which apply the split at the corresponding tree path using their locally computed thresholds. We evaluate Fed-VFDT against its centralized counterpart using predictive and structural metrics, demonstrating that it maintains comparable performance while reducing communication and preserving synchronized tree growth.

Abstract

Abstract
Monitoring the impacts of selective logging in tropical forests remains challenging due to the reliance on labor intensive field surveys. This study relies on the use of pre- and post-logging airborne LiDAR data to provide a precise and scalable method for quantifying canopy disturbances, carried out within the Sustainable Management Plan for the Jamari National Forest in Rond & ocirc;nia. The analysis of the airborne LiDAR data revealed a significant increase in canopy gaps after logging (F= 63.5,p <0.001 ), with canopy gaps corresponding to an average increase of 3.9 +/- 0.4% relative to the total plot area due to logging activities. The mean canopy gap area per felled tree was 158.29 m(2) ( +/- 35.7). A strong positive correlation was found between canopy gaps that emerged after logging and the logged AGB (18.4 +/- 1.7Mg ha(-1) ). A significant reduction in mean canopy height was also observed, decreasing from 26.26 +/- 0.40 m before logging to 24.62 +/- 0.33 m after logging (F= 9.86,p= 0.005) . The mean canopy gap area shifted from 40.68 +/- 2.30 m(2) to 77.07 +/- 2.82 m(2). Furthermore, there was an increase of 14.6% in the total number of gaps. The average Gini coefficient was 0.50 +/- 0.02 before logging and 0.64 +/- 0.01 in the post-logging areas and the average total impact on the canopy was 16.6 +/- 1.5% of the selectively logged area. The results obtained using the proposed methodology were consistent with field observations, demonstrating high accuracy of LiDAR-detected impacts when compared with inventory and GNSS data. This high detection rate highlights the sensitivity of LiDAR point cloud data in capturing small structural changes. Compared to pre-logging conditions, the observed alterations demonstrate that LiDAR provides a more precise and scalable approach for quantifying the impact of selective logging on forest structure.