bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
pyUPMASK: an improved unsupervised clustering algorithm
Authors: Pera M. S. , Perren G. I. , Moitinho A. , Navone H. D. , Vazquez R. A.
Published: April 2021

Aims.We present pyUPMASK, an unsupervised clustering method for stellar clusters that builds upon the original UPMASK package. The general approach of this method makes it plausible to be applied to analyses that deal with binary classes of any kind as long as the fundamental hypotheses are met. The code is written entirely in Python and is made available through a public repository.

Methods.The core of the algorithm follows the method developed in UPMASK but introduces several key enhancements. These enhancements not only make pyUPMASK more general, they also improve its performance considerably.

Results.We thoroughly tested the performance of pyUPMASK on 600 synthetic clusters affected by varying degrees of contamination by field stars. To assess the performance, we employed six different statistical metrics that measure the accuracy of probabilistic classification.

Conclusions.Our results show that pyUPMASK is better performant than UPMASK for every statistical performance metric, while still managing to be many times faster.
Multiwavelength view of SPT-CL J2106-5844
Authors: Di Mascolo Luca , Mroczkowski Tony , Perrott Yvette , Rudnick Lawrence , James Jee M. , HyeongHan Kim , Churazov Eugene , Collier Jordan D. , Diego Jose M. , Hopkins Andrew M. , Kim Jinhyub , Koribalski Bärbel S. , Marvil Joshua D. , van der Burg Remco , West Jennifer L.
Published: April 2021

Context. SPT-CL J2106-5844 is among the most massive galaxy clusters at z > 1 yet discovered. While initially used in cosmological tests to assess the compatibility with Λ Cold Dark Matter cosmology of such a massive virialized object at this redshift, more recent studies indicate SPT-CL J2106-5844 is undergoing a major merger and is not an isolated system with a singular, well-defined halo.

Aims. We use sensitive, high spatial resolution measurements from the Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) and Atacama Compact Array (ACA) of the thermal Sunyaev-Zeldovich (SZ) effect to reconstruct the pressure distribution of the intracluster medium in this system. These measurements are coupled with radio observations from the pilot survey for the Evolutionary Map of the Universe, using the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP), and the Australia Telescope Compact Array (ATCA) to search for diffuse nonthermal emission. Further, to better constrain the thermodynamic structure of the cluster, we complement our analysis with reprocessed archival Chandra observations.

Methods. We jointly fit the ALMA and ACA SZ data in uv-space using a Bayesian forward modeling technique. The ASKAP and low-frequency ATCA data are processed and imaged to specifically highlight any potential diffuse radio emission.

Results. In the ALMA and ACA SZ data, we reliably identify at high significance two main gas components associated with the mass clumps inferred from weak lensing. Our statistical test excludes at the ∼9.9σ level the possibility of describing the system with a single SZ component. While the components had been more difficult to identify in the X-ray data alone, we find that the bimodal gas distribution is supported by the X-ray hardness distribution. The EMU radio observations reveal a diffuse radio structure ∼400 kpc in projected extent along the northwest-southeast direction, indicative of strong activity from the active galactic nucleus within the brightest cluster galaxy. Interestingly, a putative optical star-forming filamentary structure detected in the HST image is in an excellent alignment with the radio structure, albeit on a smaller scale.
Simulation of the Processing Process in a Glow Discharge Plasma Generator
Authors: Logvin Vladimir A. , Yvarova Ludmila A.
Published: April 2021

A theory has been developed that explains the structure formation in a thin surface layer of a material after low-energy exposure to a glow discharge plasma. This makes it possible to design new methods, technologies and automated devices for the development of an automated technological environment for strengthening various types of tools from various materials. Based on the developed theory, a self-learning system with a developing database was created for monitoring all stages of processing in a glow discharge plasma generator. Any crystal structure can be classified as a complex nonlinear system. When studying the dynamic response of such systems to an external low-energy effect, it was shown that by the time when the nonlinear vibrations stop, the atoms of the crystal lattice are stabilized in new positions. Based on the purpose of the products to be processed in the glow discharge plasma generator, with taking into account their operating conditions, it is possible to increase their production life up to 2 times or more. These technologies should be used at the final stage of the production process because they do not lead to distortion of the shape and size of the working surfaces of products being manufactured. In this case, the residual stresses are redistributed in the surface layer of the material with the formation of an equal structure that improves the running-in conditions of mating parts of devices and mechanisms. For cutting and forming tools, the run-in stage is reduced to the stage of uniform wear.
Mathematical Modeling of Vibration Dampers of Vibration-Insulated Structures
Authors: Sosenushkin Evgeny , Ivanova Oksana , Yanovskaya Elena , Vinogradova Yuliya
Published: April 2021

Vibration dampers are installed on the machine foundations in order to reduce the vibration level. Such technological solutions are most expedient in the case of a harmonic load with a low instability of the vibration frequency. Unfortunately, dampers do not provide such a large reduction in the dynamic effect on the base, as vibration isolation, but in some cases their efficiency turns out to be quite sufficient with a relatively simple implementation and low manufacturing cost. The use of dynamic vibration dampers gives a great effect when an increased vibration of foundations occurs during the operation of equipment in metallurgical production, for example, when processing materials by pressure, reconstructing enterprises and replacing heavy equipment. During the operation of heavy forging equipment and manipulators for various purposes, the foundations of these devices can be considered as a rigid body. The model soil on which this foundation is installed can be considered a homogeneous elastic isotropic half-space. When calculating with such mathematical models, one can use solutions of the corresponding dynamic contact problems. A comparative analysis of the effectiveness of damping foundation vibrations using different foundation models, including the model of an elastic, homogeneous half-space and a system of semi-infinite rods, the modulus of elasticity of which increases with depth according to the quadratic law, shows a fairly close agreement.
Collisional Relaxation of Fast Electrons Energy in Gas
Authors: Metel Alexander , Mustafaev Enver , Melnik Yury , Hamdy Khaled
Published: April 2021

We present results of theoretical and experimental study of collisional relaxation of fast electrons energy in gas. The dependence on the gas pressurepand electron energy ε of the mean pass Λ of fast electrons injected into a gas being sufficient to spend on ionization all their initial energy ε has been calculated. It was found that Λ is directly proportional to ε2and inversely proportional to the gas pressure. To sustain glow discharge with electrostatic confinement of fast electrons, Λ should be less than the mean way to the anode of emitted by the cathode electrons.
Development of a Nonlinear Dependence for Determining the Stress-Strain State of the Pipeline-Composite Bandage System
Authors: Ramazanov Robert А. , Kantemirov Igor F. , Gulin Denis A. , Makhmudova Indira F. , Ismagilova Zulfiya F.
Published: April 2021

The range of applications of polymeric materials in the oil and gas industries is expanding every year. For example, at present, a number of industrial enterprises are engaged in the production of various tape polymer composite structures that are used to repair pipelines. They are widely used due to the significant advantages of polymeric materials over steel such as low costs, low weight, corrosion resistance and strength. Moreover, most of the operated pipelines are about to reach their standard service life. In the course of technical diagnostics, a significant number of defects of mechanical origin from external influences are constantly revealed. Repair work on pipelines must fully restore the bearing capacity of the site. Therefore, the use of polymer materials for pipeline repair is an important task. Here, we propose to use polymer composite bandages, which will increase the overhaul period. However, a coherent methodology for choosing a material and calculating the required thickness of this structure is not available in the literature, and, therefore, the purpose of this work was to develop such a methodology, as well as to assess the stress-strain state of pipeline-bandage systems. The method presented in this work takes into account the possible anisotropy of the shroud material in the longitudinal and transverse directions and the possibility of plastic deformation of the pipeline material in the annular direction. This work is based on the following assumptions: (a) bilinear dependence of stress on deformation for steel; (b) plastic deformations of the band material are absent; and (3) absolute adhesion between the pipeline and the band. The paper presents the analysis of the market of polymeric materials for pipeline repair, their key properties, and the minimum thickness of the band made of these materials was calculated for various values of the stress concentration coefficient.
Evaluation of hydromechanical behavior and macro-structure of an expansive soil in the city of Paulista-PE Brazil
Authors: Barbosa Felipe Araújo Silva , de Araújo Arthur Gomes Dantas , Silva Thalita Cristina Rodrigues , Bezerra Izabela Medeiros de Lima , Antonino Antonio Celso Dantas , Ferreira Silvio Romero de Melo
Published: April 2021

The characterization of the structural arrangement of an unsaturated soil is important for the understanding of its behavior. For expansive soils, obtaining this information and combining it with an understanding of their intrinsic and extrinsic properties, makes it possible to predict their performance. The experimental procedure for this study was developed using the expansive soil of the Maria Farinha formation in the city of Paulista, in Pernambuco, Brazil. Physical and chemical characterization tests, edometric tests with wetting, and structural analysis through X-Ray computed tomography were performed for both undisturbed and compacted samples, before and after wetting and swelling. The compaction process was performed without any prior air drying and without loosening, beginning with the field moisture level. Based on its liquid limit and plasticity index, the soil can be classified as CH according to the USCS, moderately acidic, with a swelling potential ranging from high to very high, depending on the initial suction of the sample. The analysis of the soil macro-structure revealed a smaller number of voids in the compacted samples. In addition, it was found that the wetting process caused a reduction of the soil macro pores, in both cases.
Soil water characteristic curve parameters of collapsible sand in Lambayeque, Peru
Authors: Isidro Miguel , Trejo Pablo , López Marko
Published: April 2021

Several structures are built on collapsible soils in the mining and petroleum industries and on civil sites. In order to analyze the stability of such structures, one must properly study the unsaturated soil behavior. Collapsible soils are frequent sand soil that are susceptible to a significant and sudden reduction in volume upon wetting. An important factor is matric suction, which es related to moisture content through the soil water Characteristic Curve (SWCC), the SWCC is obtained through a filter paper technique and provides a valuable relationship between suction and water content unique to soils. This measures the influence of parameters on the behavior of the structure of collapsible soil. Interactions between structure and soil must be properly evaluated as the bearing capacities of shallow and deep foundations are linked to properties of soil suction, moisture, and grade saturation. This work has experimentally measured the parameters of suction and moisture on the behavior of collapsible sands, where an oil storage tank will be built in the city of Lambayeque in Peru. Undisturbed soil specimens obtained from geotechnical exploration campaigns were used. The filter paper method used in this study was that proposed by models of Brooks-Corey and Van Genuchten. Results show consistent values near reported values from literature.
Estimation of unsaturated flow parameters and hysteresis curve from field instrumentation
Authors: Ahmed Asif , Alam Md Jobair Bin , Pandey Pratibha , Hossain MD Sahadat
Published: April 2021

The negative pore water pressure or soil suction has significant effect on the performance of geotechnical infrastructures (e.g., slope, pavement, embankment etc.). The unsaturated behavior of soil is not static, rather offers variation in response to climatic loading. The objective of the study was to evaluate field-based techniques of SWCC construction in terms of capturing these variation as compared to laboratory methods and predictive models. The field assessment could allow the quantification of hysteresis effect on the SWCC. Instrumentation data from one Texas, USA highway was used in this study. Soil Water Characteristic Curves (SWCCs) were regenerated utilizing co-located moisture and suction data from the field. Laboratory and field measured SWCCs from the instrumented site were fitted by van Genuchten model. Previously developed predicted models were also utilized to evaluate the SWCC parameters. Based on the evapotranspiration and rainfall amounts, distinct drying and wetting cycles were recorded. Though hourly data was collected in this study, average daily values were used for the analysis. Unsaturated flow parameters (α, n, m) were determined from both laboratory testing and field moisture-suction data along with the predictive models. Clear differences were observed between the values obtained from predictive models and field generated SWCC. The outcome from this study revealed that field reconstructed SWCCs can be used to simulate higher precision in numerical modeling in numerous geotechnical applications.
Instrumentation of soil columns for time-lapse monitoring of the phenomenon of capillary rise through spontaneous potential, soil moisture sensor, electrical resistivity, and GPR measurements
Authors: Góis Manuelle Santos , de Matos Moara Maria Oliveira , Guimarães Nicolas Ohofugi , da Costa Katherin Rocio Cano Bezerra , Moreira Gabriela Rodrigues , da Silva Ana Carla Netto , Cavalcante André Luís Brasil
Published: April 2021

The continuous monitoring of capillary rise via indirect measures aims to predict and generate alerts regarding the soil mass deformations, transport leachate from landfills to the soil surface, and carry salts that can damage buildings. Through time-lapse monitoring of the electromagnetic wave's electrical potential and speed, it is possible to correlate via petrophysical relations the measures of electrical potential, electrical resistivity, and dielectric permittivity to the volumetric water content and capillary height. For this, four acrylic columns filled with civil construction material were instrumented. Column 1 - silver electrodes to measure the potential difference with a bench multimeter that measures the spontaneous potential generated by water flow. Column 2 - low-cost soil moisture sensors that measured the electrical potential and converted to bits. Column 3 - resistivimeter that measured the voltage and that was later converted to electrical resistivity and, Column 4 - 2.6 GHz antenna that measured the speed of the electromagnetic wave that was later converted into dielectric permittivity. The instrumentation assembled proved to be satisfactory to monitor the phenomenon. The monitoring lasted 187 h, and it was found that the maximum capillary height remained constant for a long time.
Determination of water retention curves for one residual soil and two distinct non-woven geotextiles
Authors: Graça Raul , Almeida Maria , Villar Lúcio
Published: April 2021

The water retention curves (WRC) presented in this study were determined for materials constituting prototypes of evapotranspirative capillary barrier coverage, which used gneissic residual soil and non-woven geotextile. The determination of the WRC was made possible by the hanging column test for the two distinct non-woven geotextiles and the hanging column and filter paper tests for the residual soil. Both tests were executed with both the drying and wetting trajectories. The curves were adjusted and the hydraulic conductivity functions were estimated, thus enabling a greater understanding of the hydraulic behavior of the materials involved. The non-woven geotextiles and residual soil presented WRC, as expected, similar to the WRC presented in the literature for similar materials.
Effects of drying and shrinkage on the mechanical performance of unsaturated fine/medium- grained soils used as heat storage media
Authors: Hailemariam Henok , Wuttke Frank
Published: April 2021

Studying the mechanical behavior of heat storage media is vital in the safety and design of most sensible and borehole thermal energy storage systems, which are normally built as part of the sub-structure of buildings with load bearing capabilities. In spite of its importance on the efficiency and performance of heat energy storage systems, the mechanical stability and behavior of heat storage materials, mainly at elevated temperatures, has not been given adequate attention in past studies. On this regard, the mechanical behavior of three unsaturated fine- and medium- grained soils from Germany is studied at elevated temperatures, in view of using the soils as a solid sensible heat storage media. The results show a significant dependence of the mechanical behavior of the investigated soils on moisture content and temperature. Furthermore, an increase in shrinkage of the soil specimens with a decrease in the texture of the soils was observed during heating of the soils. The shrinkage behavior is also corroborated with the formation of minor and moderate tensile desiccation cracks of the specimens, which when unaccounted for can result in the lowering of the heat conduction of the heat storage medium, thus lowering the efficiency of the heat storage system.
Examining the predictive capabilities of a bounding surface plasticity-based hyperelastic constitutive model for unsaturated granular soils
Authors: Kadivar Mehdi , Manahiloh Kalehiwot Nega , Kaliakin Victor N.
Published: April 2021

The performance of a recently developed state-dependent constitutive model for unsaturated granular soils is evaluated. The model employs the Bounding Surface plasticity framework and evaluates elastic strains assuming hyperelastic behavior. To realistically simulate the deformation of unsaturated granular soils, the mechanical behavior was modeled without a purely elastic component. The inherent hydro-mechanical coupling was realized by introducing a Bishop-type effective stress, an appropriate work-conjugate variable, and a soil-water characteristic curve function. Relevant details about the model development, parameter estimation, and the assessment of the model’s predictive capabilities are presented. The model performance is evaluated with experimental data obtained for drained and constant-water stress paths. With a given a set of parameter values, the model realistically simulates the main features that characterize the shear and volumetric behavior of unsaturated granular soils over a wide range of matric suction, density, and net confining pressure. This is found to be true for both drained and constant-water stress paths.
A lattice Boltzmann study of dynamic immiscible displacement mechanisms in pore doublets
Authors: Sadeghi Mohammad , Sadeghi Hamed , Choi Clarence E.
Published: April 2021

An advanced chromodynamics, Rothmann-Keller (RK) type lattice Boltzmann model (LBM) is used in this study. The new model benefits from high stability and capability of independently setting the interfacial tension of the fluids as an input parameter. In addition, the model is coupled with a wall-density approach to simulate the hydrophilic or hydrophobic properties of wall surfaces. Finally, injection of a wetting (non-wetting) fluid in a pore doublet geometry which is initially filled with non-wetting (wetting) fluid is simulated. The results of simulation reveal the capability of RK-LBM to simulate relative permeabilities of fluids in porous media for future studies of two-immiscible phase flow in various geoenvironmental problems.
A simple approach for predicting soil water characteristic curve of clayey soils using pore size distribution data
Authors: Yan Wei , Birle Emanuel , Cudmani Roberto
Published: April 2021

The soil water characteristic curve (SWCC) of soils can be derived from the measured pore size distribution (PSD) data by applying capillary models. This method is limited for clayey soils due to the PSD changes during SWCC testing. In this study, a suction-dependent multimodal PSD model based on probability theory is developed and used to derive SWCC. The model is validated by simulating the drying branches of SWCCs of four compacted Lias Clay samples with different initial states. A good consistency between the measured and predicted SWCC is shown.
Performance estimation of a shallow foundation on an unsaturated expansive soil slope subjected to rainfall infiltration
Authors: Tan Mengxi , Vanapalli Sai K.
Published: April 2021

In the last two decades, there has been a significant increase in infrastructure development on slopes of hilly regions of the world, due to population growth. There are many infrastructures on unsaturated expansive slopes, especially in semi-arid and arid regions. Rainfall infiltration is one of the major factors that contributes to the slope and infrastructure foundations failures on hilly slopes with unsaturated expansive soils. In the current study, a rational approach is proposed considering the combined influence of the foundation-slope behavior based on the principles of unsaturated soil mechanics. This is achieved by a novel numerical modelling approach using the commercial software Geo-studio to investigate the performance of strip foundation located on the top of the unsaturated expansive soil slope subjected to various rainfall infiltration conditions. Hydro-mechanical coupling analysis is conducted to evaluate the rainfall water infiltration influence combined with slope stability analysis using limit equilibrium method. Comparisons are made between both the foundation bearing capacity, slope stability before and after rainfall water infiltration. Different failure mechanisms of the foundation and slope system are presented with and without foundation loading for various rainfall scenarios. Results summarized in this paper are helpful for the geotechnical engineers for understanding the performance of shallow foundations on unsaturated expansive soil slopes considering the influence of rainfall infiltration conditions.
A numerical technique for modeling the behavior of single piles in unsaturated soils
Authors: Cheng Xinting , Vanapalli Sai K.
Published: April 2021

Pile foundations are widely used in both saturated and unsaturated soils. In certain scenarios, these foundations are subjected to combined vertical and lateral loads. Conventionally, saturated soil mechanics principles are routinely used for the design of pile foundations in unsaturated soils. Such approaches contribute to unreliable estimates of the behavior of piles due to ignoring the influence of matric suction. In this paper, a comprehensive numerical technique is proposed for simulating the behavior of single piles subjected to combined vertical and lateral loads in unsaturated soils by taking account of the nonlinear behavior of shear strength and the elastic modulus of unsaturated soils. This is achieved through a subroutine that was developed for use in the ABAQUS software. The proposed numerical method provided reliable prediction of the vertical load-displacement behavior of a published model pile tested in saturated and unsaturated sands. In addition, 3D finite element analysis was extended to simulate the influence of variations in ground water table (GWT) on the vertical bearing capacity and the influence of vertical loads on lateral response of piles. The proposed numerical technique is a promising tool for implementing the state-of-the-art understanding of the mechanics of unsaturated soils into conventional engineering practice.
Analysis of water retention in soil horizons of two open trenches on a slope of Serra do Mar, Brazil, susceptible to landslides
Authors: Perdomo Carolina V. , Nogueira Lidiane C. , Miguel Miriam G. , Ladeira Francisco S. B.
Published: April 2021

This research presents and analyzes the results of Soil Water Characteristic Curves (SWCC) for the soil horizons (A, B and C) of two different trenches (TR3 and TR7) opened along a slope located in the Serra da Mar mountain range, Brazil. Microaggregations were observed in soil horizons of both trenches, which changed the textural classification of the soils. TR7 showed more macropores than TR3, especially on horizon C. Unimodal SWCC were obtained for soils of the horizon A for both trenches. Instead, bimodal SWCC were obtained for soils of the deeper horizons (B and C). All soil horizons showed the phenomenon of hysteresis, and it’s more expressive in the macroporosity part. In TR7 the water retention capacity is lower in B and C, facilitating the drainage, however, horizons B and C of TR3 presented greater water retention capacity for the same matric suction value. Depending on the intensity and duration of rainfall, the horizons B and C of both trenches may suffer a decrease of shear strength, without necessarily saturating. The A horizon of TR3 can undergo an erosive process for heavy and short rains.
Influence of soil-atmosphere interactions and unsaturated soil properties on slope stability
Authors: Conceição Murilo Pereira da Silva , Pinto Camilla Maria Torres , Lima Fernando Antonio Leite Vieira , Machado Sandro Lemos
Published: April 2021

Results of coupled slope stability analysis performed on two urban slopes in Salvador-BA, considering suction variations due to soil-atmosphere interactions over the years of 2016 and 2018 are presented. Boundary conditions, unsaturated soil shear strength and hydraulic parameters were determined by surveying the local topography, analysing climatic and hydrological data, and gathering undisturbed soil samples from the slopes. Soil characterization, saturated and suction controlled triaxial tests and permeability, evaporation and soil water retention curve tests were performed. The simulation of the slope stability over time was performed using SEEP/W and SLOPE/W. A “soil-climate interaction function” and a modifier function were used as two distinct approaches to model the interactions between soil and the environment. The Vanapalli et al. (1996) [1] and Fredlund et al. (1978) [2] models were used to fit the cohesionversussuction curves. The most severe stability conditions were obtained in modelling considering the modifier function for soil-atmosphere interaction and Vanapalli et al. (1996) [1] model for slope 2 and the model of Fredlund et al. (1978) [2] for slope 1.
Numerical investigation of the performance of engineered barriers in reducing flood risk
Authors: Petalas Alexandros L. , Tsiampousi Aikaterini , Zdravkovic Lidija , Potts David M.
Published: April 2021

In this paper, 2-dimensional, hydro-mechanically coupled finite element analyses are performed to assess the performance of an engineered barrier aimed at reducing flood risk in urban environments. The barrier consists of an unsaturated compacted soil layer and a drainage layer of a coarse granular material, constructed on top of the natural soil, in this case London clay. The barrier is vegetated so that its water storage capacity is renewed after each rainfall event. Sophisticated boundary conditions are used to simulate the effect of precipitation and evapotranspiration. The rainfall water infiltration and the initiation of water run-off during intense precipitation events are simulated. The effect of the hydraulic properties of the unsaturated soil layer on the performance of the system is investigated by means of parametric analyses. The effect of precipitation rate and geometry of the barrier is also discussed. Design recommendations for the properties of the compacted layer and the dimensions of the system are given at the end of the paper.
Test plot study of a tailings stack final cover prototype
Authors: Rodari Gutierrez Germán Javier , Oldecop Luciano Agustín
Published: April 2021

Waste storage facilities must be protected against weathering once mining operations come to end, in order to ensure structural integrity and to avoid environmental pollution. Cover systems consisting on earthen materials layers that are placed over the wastes are a widely spread solution to fulfil such requirement. This paper presents an experimental study of a cover system intended to protect a waste storage facility study case located in the arid eastern foothills of the Central Andes range, Argentina. At the study case, filtered tailings and waste rock are stored conjunctly. Both materials are stacked as alternating layers, roughly one-meter thickness each. The cover prototype is comprised of the stack topmost tailings layer, which is expected to act as the store-and-release element of a WB cover. The prototype design also includes a waste rock layer placed on top of the tailings, to avoid wind and runoff erosion. A total of 6 study plots have been setup, each equipped with water content and matric suction sensors. The plots location was decided to tackle cover response under sloping and horizontal ground conditions. The performance of three different waste rock layer thicknesses are being studied under both placement inclinations. Available data shows that the prototype comprising a 10cm thick waste rock layer has served satisfactorily to avoid deep percolation and tailings erosion.
SME’s, energy efficiency, innovation: a reflection on materials and energy transition emerging from a research on SMEs and the practice of Energy Audit
Authors: Declich Andrea , Quinti Gabriele , Signore Paolo
Published: April 2021

The paper presents some results emerging from the EC funded INNOVEAS project, particularly from a study on the non-economic factors that prevent (or facilitate) the adoption of energy efficiency measures and energy audits by SMEs. This study and its results are relevant for a reflection on the role of SMEs for the adoption of new business practices and technologies (including materials) that are conducive to a green transition. Attention will be paid also to those obstacles and facilitating factors that are relevant for the promotion of the circular economy – which is also, in fact, a strategy for achieving energy efficiency. The paper is based on the view that materials are a special type of technology and, as such, are the result of a social construction process. From this angle, materials can be thought of also by considering the actors involved in the process of their development and use. The life cycle of materials, in particular, must be analyzed also considering the role that different actors play in it; not only the technical characteristics of the materials have to be considered, but also the social context of development and application of materials. Such assumptions can be used also for interpreting the role of the actors in the challenges that contemporary societies are facing, particularly the promotion of energy saving and of the circular economy and more generally the transition towards decarbonization and dematerialization. In this paper, the focus is on a particular type of actors, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). They constitute a plethora of economic actors operating in numerous production sectors and at different levels of the value chains. SMEs orientations are important for achieving a better knowledge of the cycle of materials, especially in relation to the possibility of directing it towards the pursuit of environmental objectives such as energy saving and the circular economy. The paper stresses that considering the role of SMEs in such wide social and economic innovation process should illustrate peculiar aspects of the “internal” life of SMEs (culture, organizational skills, etc.) as well as the interaction with other actors within the context of operation of SMEs.
Environment 4.0: How digitalization and machine learning can improve the environmental footprint of the steel production processes
Authors: Colla Valentina , Pietrosanti Costanzo , Malfa Enrico , Peters Klaus
Published: April 2021

The concepts of Circular Economy and Industrial Symbiosis are nowadays considered by policy makers a key for the sustainability of the whole European Industry. However, in the era of Industry4.0, this results into an extremely complex scenario requiring new business models and involve the whole value chain, and representing an opportunity as well. Moreover, in order to properly consider the environmental pillar of sustainability, the quality of available information represents a challenge in taking appropriate decisions, considering inhomogeneity of data sources, asynchronous nature of data sampling in terms of clock time and frequency, and different available volumes. In this sense, Big Data techniques and tools are fundamental in order to handle, analyze and process such heterogeneity, to provide a timely and meaningful data and information interpretation for making exploitation of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence possible. Handling and fully exploiting the complexity of the current monitoring and automation systems calls for deep exploitation of advanced modelling and simulation techniques to define and develop proper Environmental Decision Support Systems. Such systems are expected to extensively support plant managers and operators in taking better, faster and more focused decisions for improving the environmental footprint of production processes, while preserving optimal product quality and smooth process operation. The paper describes a vision from the steel industry on the way in which the above concepts can be implemented in the steel sector through some application examples aimed at improving socio-economic and environmental sustainability of production cycles.
Lexico-semantic field of the concept "power" (based on the material of "Domostroy" and "The legend of princess Olga")
Authors: Popova Oksana Vyacheslavovna
Published: April 2021

Quite a large number of linguistic works are aimed at understand-ing the essence of power, the main task of which is to reconstruct the per-ception and attitude to power. This article attempts to analyze the lexical and semantic field of the concept "POWER", with special attention paid to the meanings of the word "power". The illustrative material is the Dictionary of the Russian language, as well as the Old Russian texts "Domostroy" and "The Legend of Princess Olga". The description of the lexical and semantic field of the concept of "Power" based on the material of these texts allows one to identify the initial ideas about the phenomenon of power.
Reception of the B. Shaw’s play "Pygmalion" in Russian literature
Authors: Vaseneva Nadezhda Vladimirovna
Published: April 2021

The article is devoted to the analysis of reception of B. Shaw's play «Pygmalion» in Russian literature. The article emphasizes that Russian literature had a huge impact on the formation and development of B. Shaw's aesthetic system and drama, as a result of which B. Shaw's drama acquired an epic character. The standard of «epic drama» is B. Shaw's play «Pygmalion». The extreme popularity, relevance and significance of B. Shaw's comedy «Pygmalion» for Russian literature are noted. The article examines translations of B. Shaw's play «Pygmalion» and individual-author's interpretations of Russian directors of English comedy as a form of reception of B. Shaw's play in Russian literature. It is said that the plot and images of B. Shaw's play «Pygmalion» received a new life in Russian literature. The author analyzes allusions and reminiscences with B. Shaw's comedy «Pygmalion» in Soviet prose and drama of the 20th – early 21st centuries. It is proved that B. Shaw's play «Pygmalion» is characterized by a rich reception in Russian literature.
Risks of switching to renewable energy sources
Authors: Romanova E.S. , Masalkova A.A.
Published: April 2021

This research work is devoted to the issue of studying the key risks of switching to renewable energy sources. The relevance of the topic of work is determined by the fact that, according to climatologists [5], climate change, which has a negative impact on the environment, is caused by the emission of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2). For this reason, measures to prevent or reduce greenhouse gas emissions are at the heart of the energy transition. International treaties such as the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement lay the foundations for global action to combat climate change and implement a fourth energy transition. The energy transition is characterized by a number of incentives and barriers. Despite the fact that there are many scenarios for the development of the global energy sector by 2050, the expected transformations of the energy market lead to a significant redistribution of the ratio of the shares of hydrocarbon sources and renewable energy sources [16]. The trend towards fossil fuels is on the rise. These transformations in the market are determined not only by the climate agenda, but also by the concept of sustainable economic development.
Target organizational structure and human potential
Authors: Santalova Marianna , Soklakova Irina , Balakhanova Dariko , Lesnikova Elvira , Chudakova Elena
Published: April 2021

The article examines the success of companies depending on the quality of human resources and the organizational structure of their management. Based on the structure of human potential, the work highlights the processes that reduce it; the values of work of employees of the studied companies are ranked: work as a means of subsistence, communication with colleagues, confidence in the future, the installation "work as the main value in life", the possibility of creative growth. Problems in the field of personnel management are identified in two areas: composition of employees; performance management of staff. To improve the work of managers in the studied companies, it is proposed to implement a comprehensive program. It should include the following areas: changing the management structure, where job responsibilities are clearly reallocated; reviewing job descriptions in order to regulate employee responsibilities, support the most effective technology; and building organizational commitment of staff. The organizational structure of the studied trading firms should be made problem-oriented. Changing the structure will allow to: create additional links that deal with strategic planning; organize production and sales, improve quality, and develop production; the line manager will be able to delegate authority on certain issues and tasks.The proposed problem-oriented management structure, which has the advantages of all organizational structures, has no obvious disadvantages. It provides a high level of specialization of employees, performing a specific function; it is combined with the structure of the management system, is easy to form and operate, and is adaptive to changes. We suggest evaluating the effectiveness of human resource management when changing the organizational structure of management by the level of management decisions of organizations.
Model for assessing the effectiveness of rural authorities for a given financial security of the rural budget
Authors: Lukina Tatyana S. , Patlasov Oleg Yu.
Published: April 2021

The consolidation of municipalities of rural settlements in the Russian Federation has been revealed due to low financial security. The budgetary expenditures in rural municipalities have been analyzed; the dependence of the budgetary expenditures insufficiency for the solution of issues of local importance and stabilization of the rural population has been revealed. A model for assessing the effectiveness of the administrating authorities of rural settlements for possible adjustments of managerial influence in overcoming crisis phenomena in rural areas and involving the population in solving issues of local importance and local development has been proposed.
Social aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic in the education system
Authors: Mukhametzyanov I.Sh.
Published: April 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the life of modern society forever. Not only the economy has changed, but also the person himself and his way of life, his communications. The education system and its role in society have also changed. Analysis of public reviews of recent years, as well as national and international programs aimed at compensation of the social consequences of distance learning. The existing stratification of society is changing from an economic to a digital paradigm because of the pandemic and it is impossible to overcome it within the framework of only separate education system. But the simultaneous digital development of the largest possible group of people – students and their parents, their upbringing and development are only possible within the framework of this system. All the social consequences of distance learning during the 2020 pandemic can best be understood in retrospect. There is no doubt that the decline in the quality of education will lead to significant difficulties in offsetting it. Now we can note a significant increase in the inequality among the population in the new area, the area of access to digital technologies and the digital state.
Professional deficits of a graduate of a Pedagogical University: from identification to reimbursement
Authors: Alekseev Sergey , Zhdan Natalia , Kiryash Oksana , Rabochikh Tatyana
Published: April 2021

The paper reveals the issues of organizing postgraduate support of graduates of a pedagogical university through the interaction of the Extended Education Institution and specialized departments of OSPI. The construction of a system of postgraduate support is based on the results of diagnostics of professional deficiencies of young educators. The proposed content and forms of organization of training ensure the choice of an individual educational route for a young educator and the elimination of existing deficiencies.
Development and testing of a model of unified funds of assessment materials for reviewing subject and methodological competencies of biology teachers
Authors: Arbuzova Elena , Loshenko Vitalina , Oparin Roman , Sakharov Andrey , Sumatokhin Sergey
Published: April 2021

The article is devoted to the problem of development and testing of diagnostic tools for monitoring the ability of teachers of general educational institutions to solve professional and pedagogical problems. The model of unified fund of assessment materials (UFAM) is aimed at reviewing subject and methodological competencies of biology teachers. It provides examples of tasks in biology with the methods of teaching it. A brief analysis of the model review results has been provided.
Digital platforms: a new shape of work and business
Authors: Kharisova Aigul , Gaisina Albina , Karachurina Guzel , Yakshibaeva Gulnara , Apokina Kristina
Published: April 2021

The article reveals the main content of digital platforms, as well as analyzes its main indicators. Nowadays, digital platforms have become a basic element of modern life, so the authors reviewed the features of their development, identified the factors influencing the successful development, and presented the impact of digital platforms on the lives of workers and businesses around the globe. Analysis was done by types of platforms, by the level of development of society; as a result of this analysis, the authors came to the main conclusions on the dynamics of digital platforms. One of the primary key points is that networking platforms are a major source of income for a certain portion of the population. The relationship between the main trends in the digitalization of the labor market and social programs was also revealed. The need to regulate the economics of digital platforms is discussed.
Chronic enteropathy in dogs – retrospective case analysis and results of an owner survey
Authors: Treese Julia S. , Nolte Ingo , Bach Jan-Peter
Published: April 2021

Objective Chronic gastrointestinal diseases in dogs are common and often require intensive diagnostic work-up and lifelong therapy. In this study, a survey of owners of affected dogs was conducted in parallel with a retrospective case analysis from the clinic’s documentation system.

Material and methods The records of dogs with gastrointestinal symptomatology and exclusion of an extraintestinal cause, presented from January 2011 to October 2018, were acquired from the clinic’s case system and analysed. Patient owners were interviewed using a questionnaire regarding diagnosis, treatment, course of the disease and improvement in the dog’s quality of life as a result of treatment. To gain a better understanding of influencing factors for the different subtypes of chronic enteropathy, differentiation was made into feed-responsive (FRE), antibiotic-responsive (ARE), immunosuppressant-responsive (IRE), and nonresponsive enteropathy (NRE) according to the success of different therapeutic approaches.

Results Of 125 patient owners contacted, 81 participated in the study. The majority of the 81 dogs had FRE (45; 55.6 %), 11 (13.6 %) dogs had ARE, 23 (28.4 %) had IRE and 2 (2.5 %) had NRE. At the disease onset, dogs in the FRE and ARE groups were significantly younger than those in the IRE group. Interviews with dog owners showed that veterinary recommendations had not been consistently implemented, particularly in dogs in the FRE group. Successful treatment resulted in significant improvement in the quality of life in patients in all 3 groups according to owner assessment, with no differences between the groups.

Conclusion and clinical relevance The majority of the contacted dog owners agreed to participate in the survey. A retrospective case analysis in combination with an owner survey is helpful to elicit the owners’ assessment of their dog’s treatment and disease course and to reveal starting points for improved owner compliance.
OTA – Sprungbrett in eine individuelle Karriere
Authors: Rave Alin
Published: April 2021

Nach der Ausbildung zur Operationstechnischen Assistenz stehen viele Wege offen, um sich beruflich weiterzubilden und die Karriereleiter zu erklimmen. Unsere Autorin stellt einige Optionen vor.