bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of cognitive functions in the dynamics of work accidents
Authors: Tanasievici Daniel George , Caldarescu Gabriela , Baciu Constantin , Matcovschi Elena
Published: January 2022

This paper brings to the fore the need to study the causality of work accidents starting from the hypothesis that the causes must be identified immediately, respectively the dysfunctions of the work system, which contribute to their occurrence. So, in the causal chain of the work accident, the last link is the “meeting” between the victim and the material agent who injures her, and often the factors of the work system, which are potential causes of injury, are specific to the worker and represent an error inappropriate behaviour in terms of occupational safety, in the form of wrongdoing or omissions. In this regard, cognitive ergonomics is still an untapped area, although it can make significant contributions to improving work performance and creating safe and healthy working environments in industry. Cognitive functions are relevant when we talk about 4 essential skills of the worker, respectively: sensation and perception, attention, short and long term memory. The paper brings more information for the scientific community because the analysis highlights the link between the cognitive functions of workers and the errors generated by them in the dynamics of a work accident, and can also be a starting point for new research.
Social impact assessment in the mining industry
Authors: Trocan Ciprian , Mocan Marian , Ardelean Ben-Oni , Ivascu Larisa
Published: January 2022

Social responsibility for sustainability has become an important dimension in the current context. More and more industries are evaluating this responsibility and are actively involved in addressing human resources to increase motivation, communication and reduce negative factors. The mining industry is important, especially from the perspective of sustainability. For these reasons, this paper reviews the social impact in the mining industry and provides a framework of social indicators for this industry. The methodology used is based on a qualitative assessment of the importance of indicators for industry. This framework is developed based on various social impact reporting tools. This approach can be extended to other fields of activity following the adaptation of its applicability. The main conclusions show that social responsibility is important for the mining industry.
Theoretic and experimental research on the possibilities for moderning and reabilitating the extraction installation of the Slănic Prahova salt mine
Authors: Vitan Daniel Cosmin , Matei Daniel Ion , Lăpăduș (Măceșaru) Ionela Cristina , (Dăjic) Grecea Ionela
Published: January 2022

The paper deals with the subject of rehabilitation and mechanical modernization of the extraction plant within the mining operation of the salt mine from Slanic Prahova region. The extraction plant serves the 23 August mine shaft of the Unirea mine, and also this mine has been converted into a tourist mine. The rehabilitation of the extraction installation consists in the change of the cutting wheels from the extraction tower due to excessive degradation, requiring the redesign under strict conditions, and also the rehabilitation and extension of the saline water extraction system from the tourist mine. The modernization of the extraction plant consists in the change of the DC hoist engine with an asynchronous engine of the same energy power and research on the possibilities of increasing the cable transport capacity with technical changes made to the extraction tower, mine shaft and the sump. Modernization and rehabilitation carried out on the extraction installation at the Slanic Prahova salt mine, will provide a safety in operation and efficiency to using the necessary electricity for hoist engine operations.
Influence of ambient temperature on the efficiency of underground spot cooling system
Authors: Dosa Ion , Anuțoiu Sorina , Petrilean Dan Codrut , Urdea Gheorghe
Published: January 2022

In mine air conditioning systems, the vapour compression refrigeration cycle seems to be currently the most widespread method of artificial cooling. In literature some other methods for cooling a mine are also presented, like using free-cooling in refrigeration systems. Mine workings in Jiu Valley are using the primary and secondary ventilation system for cooling the underground. Today the activities are focused mainly on mine closure as a part of transition to the low carbon economy, and this situation brings new challenges regarding the mine ventilation system, which was designed to meet the needs of a full-scale operation. As a result, locally ambient temperatures can rise, and spot cooling systems can be used, in order to cool the air. Such a system has been considered and calculations have been made to evaluate its thermal efficiency at different ambient temperatures.
Experimental possibilities for industrial ventilation
Authors: Rădoi Florin , Gherghe Ion , Cămărășescu Alexandru
Published: January 2022

The activity of evaluation and verification of industrial ventilation installations has a strong preventive role in terms of explosion risk mainly due to the fact that of the three determining elements that can lead to an explosion phenomenon, ventilation installations can determine the presence of two elements namely the presence of fuel (gases, vapours, dusts, mists) and the source of initiation (hot surface, flame, sparks of mechanical origin, electrical sparks, static electricity, etc.). The development of experimental systems on„ which particular hazardous aspects that may occur during the operation of industrial ventilation systems can be studied are vital to avoid dangerous situations in the current operation of ventilation installations. Knowledge of the dynamics of formation of explosive / toxic / asphyxiating environments is achieved by analysing explosive mixtures in relation to specific explosive intervals and is one of the most important priorities in ensuring optimal health and safety at work in industrial activities. The information obtained by analysing the dynamics of the formation of explosive / toxic / asphyxiating atmospheres is extremely useful for personnel responsible for health and safety at work, because with their help relevant decisions can be made to ensure safety and health conditions at the level of industrial premises. The paper presents an experimental equipment usable for the study of industrial ventilation systems.
Best practices in the field of specific risk evaluation of pyrotechnic entertainment articles subject to legal and illegal market surveillance
Authors: Garaliu-Busoi Bogdan , Rus Daniela Carmen , Miron Claudia , Miclea Olga , Pintilie Dan
Published: January 2022

The field of pyrotechnic articles is very popular and developed, and as a result, the influx of pyrotechnic articles on the market is abundant. However, it should be noted that in addition to compliant products, which meet the applicable essential safety requirements covered by Directive no. 2013/29 / EU, there are also products on the market that can present a significant level of danger when used, handled, transported or stored. Market surveillance authorities frequently find non-compliant products such as pyrotechnic articles offered to the public, some on the legal market, others traded illegally. The establishment of presumptive risks related to pyrotechnic articles can be achieved by applying documented and accredited procedures at national and European level by specialized laboratories, one of these being found within INSEMEX. Technical-scientific expertise activity aims to verify the level of security for products considered suspicious. We have an international collaboration with European authorities, and at the national level, requests for products such as pyrotechnic articles are sent for expertise by the police, the prosecutor’s office or the courts. It was found that most products considered “suspicious” had serious deficiencies that could lead to major risks, and those traded illegally lead to considerable economic losses.
On the estimation of maximum surface temperature for cells
Authors: Darie Marius , Csaszar Tiberiu , Andriș Adriana , Ciobanu Ioana
Published: January 2022

In paperwork is presented the estimation of the maximum surface temperature of cells exposed to specific tests for the intrinsic safety type of protection. Particularly, it presents the thermal resistance of the short-circuit test-stand results. The first part introduces the aspects regarding the risk of explosion. The risk of explosion occurs due to the presence of technical equipment in areas where flammable substances may occur. The second part itemizes the requirements for the testing of cells. Also, is introduced the stand configuration and performance aspects. The third part of the paper has been dedicated to the presentation and the discussion of the obtained results. The analysis of the test results highlighted the range of thermal resistance. This result could help estimation of the surface temperature of cells based on their capacity and internal resistance. The convection coefficients were determined. The process of deep discharge destroys the inner electrochemical of the cell system. Therefore, it permits energy recovery lower than a fraction of a tenth.
Modular automation cabinet for proactive monitoring in ATEX Zone 2
Authors: Nechifor Cristian , Borzea Claudia , Stoicescu Adrian , Lale Daniel , Vasile Mirela
Published: January 2022

The paper presents an automation system dedicated to oil & gas machinery applications, such as electrical gas compressors. The future aim is to introduce it into the Romanian oil & gas industry. The system consists of a low size cabinet and its dependencies, which can be used in ATEX Zone 2. The electronic equipment is dimensioned and chosen according to the standards in force, so that the limited current and voltage requirements for methane gas to be met. The key feature is that this system complies with all ATEX standards for Zone 2. Moreover, it can also be a mobile and modular solution if needed, for a versatile and easy use in proactive monitoring of multiple locations across various compressor plants. The design, wireless transmission and possible implementation of this cabinet are presented. Remote data transmission via Wi-Fi and RS-485 communication interfaces between the devices is considered, due to several advantages: mobility, versatility, wide compatibility, environmentally friendly, as well as higher resources efficiency (reducing time and costs).
Pressurized housings, standardizing possibilities, opportunities and difficulties
Authors: Pupăzan Gabriela , Colda Cosmin , Csaszar Tiberiu , Andriș Adriana , Grecea Dănuț
Published: January 2022

Explosive atmospheres can be caused by gases, vapours, mists, dust, lint or fibres of flammable substance. If enough substance and air are mixed, the imminence of an explosion depends on probability and efficiency of the ignition source. Hazardous areas classified in sectors must be protected from ignition sources. Equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres should be selected to meet the appropriate requirements for protective equipment and systems. The current paper aims to identify opportunities for standardization of pressurized equipment. The first part of the paper presents the risk of explosion associated with the presence of flammable substances and protection against explosions. The concept and opportunities of using pressurization are described in the second part of the paper. The third part refers to considerations regarding size and shape of pressurized equipment. A synthesis of pressurized equipment’s offer - dimensions, shape and functional role, is presented in the last part of the paper. Among the conclusions the existence of a gauge profile that depends on purpose, volume, operating position and assembly of the equipment, was mentioned.
Research on possibilities for monitoring stability of adjacent slopes to transport routes
Authors: Nicola Aurelian , Nan Marin Silviu , Schiopu Adrian , Grecea Ionela , Matei Daniel
Published: January 2022

Development of human society also implies modernization, respectively extension a road and railway transport structures. From this perspective, in order to achieve performance in the field of traffic safety, actions are also required to monitor the slopes, tailings dumps (active or greened) adjacent to transport routes where there are uncertainties regarding their stability. Ignoring stability and landslides can lead to loss of life, as well as significant material damage. Thus, the paper mainly addresses the issue of monitoring the slopes adjacent to road and rail transport routes where there are uncertainties regarding the control of landslides, as well as possibility of alerting before this occurs. From the multitude of possible solutions to be applied in the field, an equipment was developed and realized, which was experienced in real working conditions, and the results confirm validity of assumptions and certify the operation.
Research on the negative effects of the “Valea Arsului” tailings dumps on the environment
Authors: (Soica) Stanimirescu Alexandra , Egri Angela , Radu Mirela Ancuta , Soica Florin Flavius
Published: January 2022

As a result of the exploitation of coal in the mines from the Jiu Valley, significant quantities of tailings result from the mining works, but also from the coal preparation processes. They are stored in piles of different sizes, placed on the ground horizontally or between mountains, piles called tailings dumps. For the construction of tailings dumps the first requirement was the removal of the vegetal layer from the soil surface, a requirement that was often not observed so that the environment was affected. This paper aims to show how the environment around the Vulcan coal mine was affected in 2020..
Aspects of energy efficiency in modern electrical installations
Authors: Stochitoiu Maria Daniela , Utu Ilie
Published: January 2022

This paper emphasises that the implementation of energy efficiency concepts needs to take in consideration multiple aspects of applications, as it must preserve the level of functionality, safety and performance of the equipment and installations.
Dubai, the sustainable, smart city
Authors: AL-Dabbagh Riadh
Published: January 2022

Over the years, Dubai − UAE has achieved undoubtedly fascinating development in city styles and construction. The desert has been transferred to an advanced modern city with the tallest buildings in a considerable time. It has always encouraged achieving healthy and sustainable development in all sectors, explicitly building construction. It has and still working towards maintaining the balance between socio-economic development and environmental protection. It has been announced and put within the national vision that it is of priority for the Government to transform Dubai into a smart city with an eco-friendly economy. This is under the aim to make it the most sustainable city in the world by 2021. The other Emirates are also trying to build their own fully sustainable cities. A sustainable plan is “a building that reduces its environmental impact by decreasing energy and water use and reducing the waste production. Dubai's Green Building Regulations and Specifications encourage all contractors to build toward an eco-friendlier tomorrow, maintaining the future cohorts without negatively impacting the resident's health. It covers a wide range of topics related to green building design, including ecology planning, building vitality, resource efficiency in energy, water, materials, and waste management. Dubai has made the environment a part of its overall strategic plan, including many sub-plans, initiatives, and projects to improve the emirate's environmental conditions and reduce energy use. Dubai's strategic plan to become a green metropolis includes green buildings and green building materials. The difficulties that sustainable urban development presents are considerable. They are working on various techniques to lead today's urbanisation toward sustainability, including urban planning, transportation infrastructure, quality of life, and renewable energy use, to name a few. Green construction and green towns are part of a long-term national drive in the UAE to promote a green economy with the tagline “A green economy for sustainable development”. This paper is highlighting the advanced initiatives, technologies, materials, strategies, difficulties and challenges that Dubai has been through to achieve sustainable smart city goals.
The impact of stem fixation method on Vancouver Type B1 periprosthetic femoral fracture management
Authors: Wang Katherine , Kenanidis Eustathios , Gamie Zakareya , Suleman Khurram , Miodownik Mark , Avadi Mahsa , Horne David , Thompson Jonathan , Tsiridis Eleftherios , Moazen Mehran
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Our understanding of the impact of the stem fixation method in total hip arthroplasty (THA) on the subsequent management of periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF) is still limited. This study aimed to investigate and quantify the effect of the stem fixation method, i.e., cemented vs. uncemented THA, on the management of Vancouver Type B1 periprosthetic femoral fractures with the same plate. Methods: Eight laboratory models of synthetic femora were divided into two groups and implanted with either a cemented or uncemented hip prosthesis. The overall stiffness and strain distribution were measured under an anatomical one-legged stance. All eight specimens underwent an osteotomy to simulate Vancouver type B1 PFF’s. Fractures were then fixed using the same extramedullary plate and screws. The same measurements and fracture movement were taken under the same loading conditions. Results: Highlighted that the uncemented THA and PFF fixation constructs had a lower overall stiffness. Subsequently, the mechanical strain on the fracture plate for the uncemented construct was higher compared to the cemented constructs. Conclusion: PFF fixation of a Vancouver type B1 fracture using a plate may have a higher risk of failure in uncemented THAs.
Assessment of Dental Anxiety and Hemodynamic Changes during Different Dental Procedures: A Report from Eastern Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alghareeb Zainab , Alhaji Kawther , Alhaddad Bayan , Gaffar Balgis
Published: January 2022

Objectives This study aimed to investigate hemodynamic changes in healthy adult patients during different dental procedures and evaluate whether these changes were associated with patients' dental anxiety.

Materials and Methods A convenience sample of 119 patients of both genders undergoing routine dental care participated in the study. Participants responded to the Arabic version of the modified dental anxiety scale (MDAS) and a self-structured questionnaire. Each patient had their blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation measured at three points: before, during, and after the dental procedure using an electronic sphygmomanometer. MDAS scores were categorized into no anxiety, mild, moderate or severe anxiety, while readings of heart rate and blood pressure were categorized into no change, increased or decreased and either “no change” or “increased” for oxygen saturation. Chi-square test was used to investigate the association between the study variables and a p value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. SPSS version 20 was used in the analysis.

Results Mean ( ± standard deviation [SD]) of MDAS was 11.12 ( ±  3.9) an indicative of moderate dental anxiety. No changes in blood pressure, heart rate, or in oxygen saturation were observed on 39.5%, 54.6% and 97.5% among the study participants, respectively. Half of the participants avoided dental care, with dental anxiety being the main reason for that (26.1%). Pattern of dental visits was significantly associated with MDAS scores (p = 0.042). There were significant changes in blood pressure (p = 0.0003), heart rate (p = 0.01) but not in oxygen saturation (p = 0.33). Changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen saturation were not associated with dental anxiety p = 0.15, 0.10, and 0.99, respectively.

Conclusion The results of this study indicate that the type of dental procedure may cause dental anxiety and cause hemodynamic changes. Therefore, close monitoring of patients with dental anxiety during the treatment is advised.
Indonesian Dental Students' Attitudes, Knowledge, Preparation, and Willingness to Treat HIV/AIDS Patients
Authors: Wimardhani Yuniardini Septorini , Ossa Yuli Fatzia , Wardhany Indriasti Indah , Maharani Diah Ayu , Lee Cliff
Published: January 2022

Objective To assess the Indonesian dental students' knowledge of HIV/AIDS in terms of transmission and oral manifestation, the attitudes toward people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), the preparedness in infection control, and willingness to treat PLWHA, and assess the factors for willingness to treat PLWHA.

Materials and Methods A modified version of a questionnaire used to assess dental students' knowledge, attitude, preparedness, and willingness to treat PLWHA in China was used. The questionnaire was cross-culturally adapted into Indonesian and had been pre-tested for face validity and test and retest reliability. The dental students from 32 dental schools in Indonesia were invited to participate in the study.

Results A total of 1,280 dental students from 23 dental schools participated in the study. This study found that only 63% of students scored higher than 70% for knowledge of HIV/AIDS, and the mean score for knowledge was 15.02 (2.4). Higher than 80% of students had a positive professional attitude toward PWLHA; however, 80% of students worried about possible disease transmission in the dental office by PLWHA and 70% of students overestimated the occupational risk when treating PLWHA. The dental students had good preparedness for infection control with a mean score for preparedness of 3.19 (0.4). The mean score for willingness was 2.5 (0.9). Willingness to treat significantly differed by the type of universities, gender, age, and clinical experience. This study showed that knowledge about HIV/AIDS correlated with the willingness to treat PLWHA among dental students.

Conclusion Dental students who have good knowledge about HIV infection tend to have a good willingness to treat PLWHA. The knowledge would in turn affect their attitude, preparedness, and willingness to provide care for PLWHA with confidence and comfort. This study suggests that the improvement of dental training may play an important role in changing students' perception of willingness to treat PLWHA.
Compressive Myelopathy Secondary to TRPV4 Skeletal Dysplasia: Spondylometaphyseal Dysplasia, Kozlowski Type
Authors: Gowda Vykuntaraju K. , Srinivasan Varunvenkat M. , Reddy Varsha M. , Vamyanmane Dhananjaya K. , Shivappa Sanjay K. , Ramesh Rohih H. , Vishwanathan Gurudatta B.
Published: January 2022

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 channel (TRPV4) gene mutations have been described in skeletal system and peripheral nervous system pathology. The case described here is a 9-year-old male child patient, born to a nonconsanguineous marriage with normal birth history who had difficulty in walking and stiffness of joints for the last 7 years, and progressive weakness of all four limbs and urine incontinence for 1 year following falls. Physical examination showed below-average weight and height and short trunk. Musculoskeletal examination revealed bony prominence bilaterally in the knee joints and contractures in knee and elbow joints with brachydactyly; muscle tone was increased, with brisk deep tendon reflexes. Skeletal survey showed platyspondyly with anterior beaking with metaphyseal dysplasia. Magnetic resonance imaging of the spine revealed atlantoaxial instability with hyperintense signal changes at a cervicomedullary junction and upper cervical cord with thinning and spinal canal stenosis suggestive of compressive myelopathy with platyspondyly and anterior beaking of the spine at cervical, thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. Exome sequencing revealed a heterozygous de novo variant c.2389G > A in exon 15 of TRPV4, which results in the amino acid substitution p.Glu797Lys in the encoded protein. The characteristics observed indicated spondylometaphyseal dysplasia, Kozlowski type (SMD-K). The child underwent surgical intervention for compressive myelopathy by reduction of atlantoaxial dislocation with C1 lateral mass and C2 pars fusion using rib graft and fixation using screws and rods. To conclude, for any child presenting with progressive kyphoscoliosis, short stature, platyspondyly, and metaphyseal changes, a diagnosis of SMD-K should be considered and the patient and family should be advised to avoid spinal injuries.
Potential factors in determining cross-border price spillovers in the pork sector: Evidence from net pork-importing countries
Authors: Guo Jin , Tanaka Tetsuji
Published: January 2022

Although food self-sufficiency is regarded as a potent strategy to secure food supply in the policy circle, the efficacy of policy measures, especially in terms of their quantitative effects, is still not fully understood. We analysed the relationships between international and local prices of pork between January 2001 and December 2018 for 10 net pork-importing countries. The primary outcome obtained in our research is that high self-sufficiency and a small trade volume of pig meat commodities could impair price volatility transmission from the global market. This result does not suggest that a protectionist regime should be established to stabilise the national food supply. It presents useful information to balance the benefit from highly efficient resource allocation and the market steadiness gained from higher self-sufficiency in food, considering the maximisation of the expected utility of economic agents.
Symbolic Games in A Garden of Earthly Delights by Joyce Carol Oates
Authors: Horvath Dorota Olivia
Published: January 2022

This article will show that postmodern thoughts play an essential role in Joyce Carol Oates’ Wonderland Quartet. In its opening novel A Garden of Earthly Delights, I will also consider the imagery of Lewis Carroll’s Alice texts that influenced Oates’ Quartet. Oates’ and Carroll’s texts share the depiction of decentralised permissiveness and rejection of all authority that I interpret through the aesthetic conception of postmodern games by Gilles Deleuze. By blurring the lines between fantasy and reality, the aspect of violence is repressed in Carroll’s texts. However, Oates aestheticises violence to maximise the diverse impact of postmodern sentiment on American cultural forms that emerged in the decades of the 1950s and 1960s. In contrast to Carroll’s Alice, who demands order to protect herself from the chaos, Clara in A Garden of Earthly Delights rejects conventions and fabricates chaos to alleviate her unprivileged condition.
Simulating lightning strikes to improve aircraft safety
Authors: Piccone Ashley
Published: January 2022

Approximations of the radiative transfer equation show the interaction between lightning arcs and aerospace materials.
Unsteady aerodynamic characteristics of a bionic flapping wing in three-dimensional composite motion
Authors: Li Lun , Xu Jiulong , Gao Yuan , Yang Jinghong , Bai Fan , Wang Yongtao
Published: January 2022

Owing to continual advances in computational fluid dynamics, simulations of fluids have emerged as an important means of analyzing the aerodynamic characteristics of flapping-wing flight. This study establishes an aerodynamic model of bionic flapping-wing flight and uses dynamic hybrid grid technology to divide its flow field and other parts. We formulate equations to control the discretized flow field and combine the Navier–Stokes equation (N–S equation) with the theory of dynamic vortices to solve the flow field of the motion of flapping wings. We analyzed the lift and drag generated by the flapping wing at different wind speeds, amplitudes, frequencies, and chordal torsion angles. The results show the following: (1) wind speed had a significant influence on the lift resistance of the flapping wing. When the wind speed was 1 m/s, the lift force was 1.544 N and increased 4.3 times to 6.636 N when the wind speed was 5 m/s. The resistance increased from 0.39 to 0.88 N. (2) Changes in the amplitude of flutter had little effect on the average lift resistance. When the amplitude was increased from 15° to 45°, the lift force increased to only 0.757 N and drag changed by little. (3) The increase in the flapping frequency improved flight lift. When the frequency was increased from 1 to 5 Hz, the lift increased by 2.9 N (1.78 times) and resistance increased by only 0.08 N. (4) Increasing the chord torsion angle increased flight lift. The lifts at β = 5° and 15° were 6.636 and 6.654 N, respectively, 0.85 and 0.87 N greater than those at β = 0°. As the torsion angle continued to increase, the lift decreased, while the resistance increased more quickly. When β = 15°, the resistance increased by 1.53 N, 9.6 times larger than that at 0°. Increasing the flight speed and flapping frequency can increase flight lift. A small increase in the chord torsion angle increased flight lift, but an excessively large angle led to a substantial increase in drag. Increasing the amplitude of flapping can increase the instantaneous lift generated but has a smaller effect on the average lift. By revealing the influence of different parameters on the lifting resistance of a flapping wing during flight, this paper provides a theoretical foundation for the design and control of bionic flapping-wing aircraft.
Predicting habitat suitability for wild deer in relation to threatened ecological communities in south-eastern New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Burns Heather , Gibbons Philip , Claridge Andrew , McCreery David
Published: January 2022

Context High density deer populations can cause ecological damage, yet their distribution and impacts are poorly known across much of Australia. As a result, land managers rely on anecdotal reports to make decisions about management and control measures. Aims We aimed to model habitat suitability for deer in the South Coast of New South Wales (NSW), Australia, to be used as a baseline for future management and identify which threatened ecological communities (TECs) in the region are at greatest current risk of being occupied by deer. Methods We compiled 678 presence-only records of wild deer from online databases, observations made by National Parks and Wildlife Service field staff and field-based surveys. We combined these observations with eight environmental variables to model and map habitat suitability for deer across our study area using maximum entropy. Three spatial models of habitat suitability across our study area were produced: one for all deer species; and two species-specific models for fallow and sambar deer. Key results Our models indicate that suitable habitat for deer exists throughout much of the South Coast of NSW. Of the TECs examined, Coastal Saltmarsh, Themeda Grassland, and Swamp Sclerophyll Forest had the highest proportion of area likely to be extremely suitable for deer and thus should be prioritised for protection within our study area. Conclusions Further systematic field-based surveys are needed to improve the quality of models in this region. Implications We recommend that areas having high habitat suitability but are not yet occupied by deer be identified as sites where deer occupancy could be prevented.
Disentangling direct from indirect relationships in association networks
Authors: Xiao Naijia , Zhou Aifen , Kempher Megan L. , Zhou Benjamin Y. , Shi Zhou Jason , Yuan Mengting , Guo Xue , Wu Linwei , Ning Daliang , Van Nostrand Joy , Firestone Mary K. , Zhou Jizhong
Published: January 2022

Significance

Networks are fundamental units for studying complex systems, but reconstructing networks from large-scale experimental data is very challenging in systems biology and microbial ecology, primarily due to the difficulty in unraveling direct and indirect interactions. By tackling several mathematical challenges, this study provides a conceptual framework for disentangling direct and indirect relationships in association networks. The application of iDIRECT (Inference of Direct and Indirect Relationships with Effective Copula-based Transitivity) to synthetic, gene expression, and microbial community data demonstrates that it is a powerful, robust, and reliable tool for network inference. The framework developed here will greatly enhance our capability to discern network interactions in various complex systems and allow scientists to address research questions that could not be approached previously.
Unraveling the origin of higher success probabilities in quantum annealing versus semi-classical annealing
Authors: Starchl Elias , Ritsch Helmut
Published: January 2022

Quantum annealing aims at finding optimal solutions to complex optimization problems using a suitable quantum many body Hamiltonian encoding the solution in its ground state. To find the solution one typically evolves the ground state of a soluble, simple initial Hamiltonian adiabatically to the ground state of the designated final Hamiltonian. Here we explore whether and when a full quantum representation of the dynamics leads to higher probability to end up in the desired ground when compared to a classical mean field approximation. As simple but nontrivial example we target the ground state of interacting bosons trapped in a tight binding lattice with small local defect by turning on long range interactions. Already two atoms in four sites interacting via two cavity modes prove complex enough to exhibit significant differences between the full quantum model and a mean field approximation for the cavity fields mediating the interactions. We find a large parameter region of highly successful quantum annealing, where the semi-classical approach largely fails. Here we see strong evidence for the importance of entanglement to end close to the optimal solution. The quantum model also reduces the minimal time for a high target occupation probability. Surprisingly, in contrast to naive expectations that enlarging the Hilbert space is beneficial, different numerical cut-offs of the Hilbert space reveal an improved performance for lower cut-offs, i.e. an nonphysical reduced Hilbert space, for short simulation times. Hence a less faithful representation of the full quantum dynamics sometimes creates a higher numerical success probability in even shorter time. However, a sufficiently high cut-off proves relevant to obtain near perfect fidelity for long simulations times in a single run. Overall our results exhibit a clear improvement to find the optimal solution based on a quantum model versus simulations based on a classical field approximation.
Building a large-scale quantum computer with continuous-variable optical technologies
Authors: Fukui Kosuke , Takeda Shuntaro
Published: January 2022

Realizing a large-scale quantum computer requires hardware platforms that can simultaneously achieve universality, scalability, and fault tolerance. As a viable pathway to meeting these requirements, quantum computation (QC) based on continuous-variable optical systems has recently gained more attention due to its unique advantages and approaches. This review introduces several topics of recent experimental and theoretical progress in the optical continuous-variable QC that we believe are promising. In particular, we focus on scaling-up technologies enabled by time multiplexing, bandwidth broadening, and integrated optics, as well as hardware-efficient and robust bosonic quantum error-correction schemes.
Assessment of the impact of the kinetic effect of ion parallel heat conduction on DEMO-relevant SOL plasma using integrated SOL-divertor code SONIC
Authors: Homma Yuki
Published: January 2022

In plasmas of lower collisionality, such as the scrape-off layer (SOL) of a fusion tokamak device, the parallel heat conductivity of ions becomes smaller than the classical Spitzer–Harm model due to a nonlocal kinetic effect. We have assessed, by simulation, the impact and role of the kinetic effect of ion heat conductivity (abbreviated as ion KE in this paper) on DEMO-relevant tokamak SOL plasma, using the Japanese demonstration tokamak reactor concept JA DEMO. A series of test simulations, where the ion KE is modeled by a widely used free-streaming energy (FSE)-limited model, has demonstrated: (a) the ion KE decreases the ion parallel heat flux density in JA DEMO SOL (at the baseline operation scenario) around the X-point and further upstream of the low-field side (LFS) area along the separatrix, where the parallel collisionality is smaller. Up to 40%–60% decrease is observed, compared to the case without (w/o) ion KE, among the test cases where the ion KE level is scanned over the possible range (i.e. parameter α
i of the FSE-limited model is varied over

0.2
⩽

α
i

⩽
2.0

); (b) the ion KE leads to significant increase in the ion temperature T
i (up to 600% increase) and significant decrease in the ion density n
i (up to −80%) over wide area of the SOL upstream. Energy balance analysis has suggested that the ion KE affects the upstream n
i and T
i by the power of 0.4 and −0.4, respectively, of the flux limiting factor, as long as spatial changes in plasma parameters are moderate. The results of this study serve as a fundamental assessment of the ion KE for DEMO- relevant SOL plasma, clarifying the need for further sophistication of the model toward more quantitative prediction.
A residual-based message passing algorithm for constraint satisfaction problems
Authors: Zhao Chun-Yan , Fu Yan-Rong , Zhao Jin-Hua
Published: January 2022

Message passing algorithms, whose iterative nature captures complicated interactions among interconnected variables in complex systems and extracts information from the fixed point of iterated messages, provide a powerful toolkit in tackling hard computational tasks in optimization, inference, and learning problems. In the context of constraint satisfaction problems (CSPs), when a control parameter (such as constraint density) is tuned, multiple threshold phenomena emerge, signaling fundamental structural transitions in their solution space. Finding solutions around these transition points is exceedingly challenging for algorithm design, where message passing algorithms suffer from a large message fluctuation far from convergence. Here we introduce a residual-based updating step into message passing algorithms, in which messages with large variation between consecutive steps are given high priority in the updating process. For the specific example of model RB (revised B), a typical prototype of random CSPs with growing domains, we show that our algorithm improves the convergence of message updating and increases the success probability in finding solutions around the satisfiability threshold with a low computational cost. Our approach to message passing algorithms should be of value for exploring their power in developing algorithms to find ground-state solutions and understand the detailed structure of solution space of hard optimization problems.
Study of the degradation level influence of coastal zones on the water trophicity in lakes Turgoyak and Uvildy, Chelyabinsk region (Russia)
Authors: Mashkova I , Kostryukova A , Belov S , Trofimenko V , Mashkov S
Published: January 2022

The man-made impact on hydro-ecological state of water-bodies affects every stage of water ecosystem formation. Such a load has certain patterns of spatial formation distribution of coastal geosystems with different stages of digression as a result of direct recreational impact on hydrological natural monuments Southern Urals - Lake Turgoyak and Lake Uvildy. The current paper researches a degradation level of the coastal zones of the Lakes Turgoyak and Uvildy (Russia). To prepare for measurements and measure recreational load, the methods of trial areas, transect, mathematical-statistical and registration-measuring methods were used. The level of digression at the test site was determined by an integral generalized assessment of fifteen characteristic criteria for anthropogenic transformation of geosystems on a five-point scale. The trophic status of the studied areas of the lakes was determined by the Carlson Trophic State Index (TSI). Determined that, landscape and recreational zones with various degrees of digression were formed around the lakes under the influence of dispersed recreational load. On the territory of camping sites located no further than 30-50 m from the water-bodies, the 4th-5th stage of recreational digression prevails. At a distance of 50-200 m from the lakes, there is a 2-3 stage of digression. At a distance of up to 100-150 m – the 3rd stage, and from 150 m – the 1-2 stage. Within recreation centers, spatial differences in recreational digression are expressed slightly, and geosystems are more often characterized by a 3-5 stage of digression. It is established that the littoral zooplankton is more diversity in those parts of the lake water area where there are optimal conditions for its development, the lowest recreational load and the lowest degree of digression.
A comparison between lumped and distributed hydrological models for daily rainfall-runoff simulation
Authors: Vilaseca F , Narbondo S , Chreties C , Castro A , Gorgoglione A
Published: January 2022

In Uruguay, the Santa Lucía Chico watershed has been studied in several hydrologic/hydraulic works due to its economic and social importance. However, few studies have been focused on water balance computation in this watershed. In this work, two daily rainfall-runoff models, a distributed (SWAT) and a lumped one (GR4J), were implemented at two subbasins of the Santa Lucía Chico watershed, with the aim of providing a thorough comparison for simulating daily hydrographs and identify possible scenarios in which each approach is more suitable than the other. Results showed that a distributed and complex model like SWAT performs better in watersheds characterized by anthropic interventions such as dams, which can be explicitly represented. On the other hand, for watersheds with no significant reservoirs, the use of a complex model may not be justified due to the higher effort required in modeling design, implementation, and computational cost, which is not reflected in a significant improvement of model performance.
Physical characteristics of materials of Ecuadorian origin for water treatment
Authors: Mayacela M , Maldonado L , Morales F , Suquillo B
Published: January 2022

In Ecuador, contaminated water is discharged directly into the sewage system. The treatments carried out for the elimination of wastewater pollutants are classified into three types: Physical, Chemical and Biological. One of the treatments that is frequently used is the physico-chemical treatment in which various reactive substances are used, which is why in this research several reactive substances of Ecuadorian origin, including activated carbon, peat, limestone, volcanic pyroclasts, zeolite clinoptilolite and zeolite modernite, are physically characterized. For this purpose, some laboratory tests were carried out based on national and international standards in order to obtain the granulometry, compactness coefficient, porosity, sphericity and permea-bility.
Comparing the utilities consumptions in Dubai per category and community: MANOVA and cluster analysis approaches
Authors: Saihi A , Alzaatreh A
Published: January 2022

UAE is marked by the increasing demand for water and electricity due to demographic, environmental and economic factors, coupled with the dependence on water desalination process, which is costly, consumes a lot of energy and is non-environmentally friendly. Like most of the authorities in UAE, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority is facing the challenges of balancing supply with demand and responding to consumer requirements, from one side, and addressing the continuously increasing consumption and slowing it down from another side. Therefore, policy makers can benefit from statistical data analysis in order to make informed decisions. This study aims to equip decision makers with useful tools and analysis to address some of their short- and long-term objectives related to production and consumption. The current study focused on three main objectives: (i) analysing the production of the desalination plants in Dubai, (ii) comparing the consumptions of water and electricity based on the four categories residential, commercial, industrial and others, and (iii) segmenting the various communities in Dubai depending on their consumption behavior. The data used for this study is collected from the open government data and SAS Programming is adopted for data analysis. The results of the analysis revealed that the desalinated water production follows an upward trend, yet still not in line with the consumption growth. Furthermore, there are significant differences between the four categories for both water and electricity consumptions. The highest levels of consumptions are associated with the residential and commercial categories. Finally, the cluster analysis technique revealed fifteen clusters of communities depending on the consumption levels.
Modeling of Sediment Transport Using Wave Height action in Fialaka Marina
Authors: Al-Salem K , Al-Rashed A
Published: January 2022

Failaka Island is the second-largest and one of the most important islands of Kuwait from the point of view of tourism located in the north Arabian Gulf. It has a marina constructed in 1979 and managed by the Ministry of Communication (MOC) and a tourism enterprise, and is widely used for its ferry landing facility. The coastal waters around Failaka are turbid and current velocities tend to be as high as ~0.5 m/s during spring tide. The marina basin, with axial plan view dimensions of about 285 m by 260 m experiences shoaling of naturally flocculated fine (cohesive) sediment and coarse sand in the entrance channel and more generally in the southern half of the basin. A particularly noteworthy zone of heavy and visible shoaling is along the inner side of the south breakwater close to the entrance. The marina at Failaka Island is suffering from siltation and sediment deposing issues. This study was carried out numerically to assess the annual sedimentation, sediment direction, and longshore current from locations around the existing marina to help in a suggestion of the solutions to reduce the siltation and sediment deposing based on sediments transport direction on marina entrance. A newly developed numerical solution for annual longshore sediments transport was used to estimate the total sediment transport and its direction. The study shows that the annual sediment transport directions which affect the Fialaka marina entrance are coming from the south to north due to wave action.
Strain variation in the Ti40,7Hf9,5Ni41,8Cu8 alloy during isothermal martensitic transformation under a constant stress
Authors: Demidova E , Pchelnikov P , Belyaev S , Resnina N , Shelyakov A
Published: January 2022

Strain variation on holding under a constant stress was studied in the Ti40,7Hf9,5Ni41,8Cu8 alloy. It was found, that on holding under stress, the isothermal strain rose up to saturation, which value depended on holding temperature and stress. It was found that the dependencies of the isothermal strain on the holding temperature and stress were non-monotonic. This allowed to find the optimal value of stress and time at which the isothermal strain attained the maximum value of 3.2 %. It was found that the maximum isothermal strain in the Ti40,7Hf9,5Ni41,8Cu8 alloy was less than in the Ti40,7Hf9,5Ni44,8Cu5 alloy.