Set Of Possible Solutions Research Articles

Проблемы и перспективы обеспечения российских нефтегазовых компаний технологическим оборудованием в условиях санкционного давления и цифровизации

The study is aimed at examining the problem of high level of depreciation of the material and technical base of the oil and gas complex, the existing restrictions on its renewal as a result of sanctions and the search for pos-sible solutions. The results obtained indicate that the digitalization course adopted several years ago cannot be fully implemented in the current conditions, since its main components, both physical assets and software, were imported primarily from unfriendly states. In this regard, a set of possible solutions to this problem was proposed, divided into two stages, taking into account the priorities set. The first stage involves solving the prob-lem of maintaining the current level of hydrocarbon production by purchasing technological equipment with the help of friendly countries, while simultaneously searching for import substitution solutions in critical areas. At the second stage, taking into account the created reserves, a mass transition to domestic solutions, as well as solutions created on the basis of cooperation with friendly countries, can be carried out. The conducted re-search is consistent with the basic principles of the reproduction approach to economic development, which presuppose the need for continuous development of the oil and gas complex and the balance of all its key el-ements.

Societally optimal expansion of bicycle networks

In this paper, we consider the problem of expanding bicycle networks over time. The expansion of the network at a given point in time is based on the societal cost–benefit performance, which entails system-wide effects from previous expansions. The problem is challenging due to non-linearities of travel time benefits and the dimension of the problem, which is a consequence of the combinatorial complexity of the networks and the planning horizon. It rules out the use of conventional bottom-up cost–benefit analysis as evaluating even a small set of possible solutions becomes computationally infeasible. To circumvent this problem, we introduce a novel reverse geographical mapping approach where the monetary benefits are assigned back onto the network. This allows a more detailed geographical planning breakdown at the level of network links and makes it possible to apply a more stringent optimization approach with respect to the timing and prioritization of network expansions. Based on a linear approximation of travel time savings, we propose several variants of mathematical integer programs to solve the problem. This allows us to consider the case of growing a cycle superhighway network in the Copenhagen region over a time horizon of 50 years. We show that our approximations of travel time savings are largely similar to those obtained through actual traffic assignment. Furthermore, the optimization approach renders a development plan, which yields a net present value that is ten times larger than that of the actual infrastructure upgrades implemented since 2019. In a long-term scenario, it is shown that our solution returns an accumulated benefit–cost ratio of 2.7 over the period, which is a significant improvement over previous findings. This underlines the importance of optimal prioritization schemes of where and when to invest in bicycle network expansions.

A multi-objective approach to identify parameters of compartmental epidemiological models—Application to Ebola Virus Disease epidemics

In this work, we propose a novel methodology to identify parameters of compartmental epidemiological models. It is based on solving a multi-objective optimization problem that consists in fitting some of the model outputs to real observations. First, according to the available data of the considered epidemic, we define a multi-objective optimization problem where the model parameters are the optimization variables. Then, this problem is solved by considering a particular optimization algorithm called ParWASF-GA (Parallel Weighting Achievement Scalarizing Function Genetic Algorithm). Finally, the decision maker chooses, within the set of possible solutions, the values of parameters that better suit his/her preferences. In order to illustrate the benefit of using our approach, it is applied to estimate the parameters of a deterministic epidemiological model, called Be-CoDiS (Between-Countries Disease Spread), used to forecast the possible spread of human diseases within and between countries. We consider data from different Ebola outbreaks from 2014 up to 2019. In all cases, the proposed methodology helps to obtain reasonable predictions of the epidemic magnitudes with the considered model.

A two‐stage method for the shipper lane selection problem with time windows in transportation service procurement

AbstractThe shipper lane selection problem (SLSP) is determining which lanes are to be served by the shipper's vehicle fleet or outsourced to the carriers through auction. While the SLSP in previous studies assumes that each lane is associated with a set of discrete times at which it can be served, this study considers a generalized version assuming a lane service time window for each lane, which is named the SLSP with time windows (SLSPTW). The SLSPTW is formulated as a mixed integer linear programming model that minimizes the sum of the transportation and the service/setup costs incurred by the shipper to auction off the lanes served by the carriers. In the proposed two‐stage solution approach, the first stage is designed to generate quickly a set of possible solutions, the best of which is then verified by a decomposed model of the SLSPTW at the second stage. Besides, an iterative‐improvement mechanism for the proposed algorithm is adopted to achieve the efficiency of the solution quality improvement. The effectiveness and efficiency of the developed solution method is demonstrated by the conducted numerical experiments.

Automation of the conceptual design in engineering project management based on morphological approach

The article discusses the formalization and automation of the search for new engineering and technological solutions. Attention is drawn to some issues associated with approaches relying purely on human estimations and experience for the purpose of solving structural problems. In order to reduce these, the prospect of software tool introduction for the automation of the conceptual design process is presented. Particularly, global requirements for Computer-Aided Innovation tools are outlined and positioned within the classification of such software. The main challenges include the creation of approaches that allow early processing of information flows and produce some set of possible solutions. The focus lies in improving the efficiency of design studies and reducing the time spent on the entire process creation cycle. The Advanced Morphological Approach is presented as a successful example of addressing some of the mentioned challenges. The future implementation of the proposed software would allow to create a space of feasible design problem solutions, ideally resistant to changes of the external environment.

Costly Displays in a Digital World: Signalling Trustworthiness on Social Media

ABSTRACT Placing our trust wisely is both difficult and important. The challenge of knowing who to trust inheres at least partially in the fact that coinciding interests cannot be taken for granted, and that language, as the principal medium through which would-be interactants make their interests known, doesn’t discriminate between true and feigned proclamations of good intent. Because our patterns of trust partition the world into reliable and unreliable sources, trust is also important: it determines how we distribute our social and epistemic dependencies, which in turn informs much of what we believe and do. The fact that our interactions with the world and each other are increasingly mediated by digital communication technologies affects both these elements of trust: though unabated access to the internet invites us to distribute our dependencies more broadly, the kinds of information environments that we encounter online make misplaced trust a more common occurrence. I argue that a large part of the problem, as well as one possible set of solutions, resides in a deceptively simple dictum: the internet makes talk cheap, and cheap talk can’t be trusted.

Fuzzy Model for Decision Support under Uncertainty Based on the «Fztotriangle» Transformation

One of the problems of operations research is the problem of choosing the best solution from the set of possible solutions in conditions of uncertainty, when there is no reliable data about the situation requiring a decision. Classical methods of mathematical modeling are focused on point, numerical estimates that characterize the results of possible choice. Moreover, in a situation of significant uncertainty, these methods do not provide unambiguous and mathematically rigorous recommendations for the choice of a solution method. One of the options to overcome these limitations is the use of the apparatus of the theory of fuzzy sets. We propose the method of finding the best solution on the set of fuzzy elements of the evaluation matrix, when the uncertainties of initial data are represented by fuzzy sets (numbers) with different functions of affiliation, which allows you to represent different levels of incomplete information about the situation requiring a decision. The choice of the best decision in conditions when the assessment of possible consequences is represented in the form of fuzzy sets is based on the application to these assessments of FztoTriangle transformation, which allows to obtain integral values for the results of possible decisions on the whole set of conditions characterizing the situation under study, in the form of an equivalent fuzzy set with a triangular identity function. This simplifies the comparison of fuzzy sets representing possible solutions. Performing such transformations does not impose restrictions on the type of affiliation functions of the evaluations used. The final result will be estimates of the consequences of the chosen solution, as well as the possibility of its implementation. The proposed method does not require complex mathematical transformations and can be easily implemented in software as a component of decision support system.

Traditional ornament in the multimedia space

The subject of this research is the project process of introducing the art of traditional ornament into the multimedia space. The relevance and novelty of the topic are caused by the use of motifs of Russian traditional ornaments in a new technological environment, which also helps to attract the attention of the younger generation to traditional culture, strengthening the connection between traditions and modernity. The aim of the research is to study the interpenetration and mutual influence of artistic techniques and creative methods of creating traditional ornaments for adaptation and application in the process of developing multimedia projects. The main objectives of the research include, firstly, consideration of the use of motifs of Russian traditional ornaments in a new technological environment on the example of student projects; secondly, analysis of the project process for creating motion graphics made using elements of traditional ornament and revealing the sound image of a musical composition created for an orchestra of folk instruments; in-third, the analysis of aspects of the development of elements of traditional ornament with examples of tools that implement a particular technology.In the course of the study, the analytical method of pre-project analysis, the formal-stylistic method of describing and analyzing the art form as the internal organization of the structure of the interaction of elements in the composition of a traditional ornament were applied, the experimental method of designing a multimedia composition was considered. As a result of the research, specific features of synthesizing a set of possible solutions in creating a design project with the active use of the sound component were identified. The role of sound/musical composition in the design of a multimedia project, the main methods, techniques of working with images and applying effects to create a comfortable existence and development of traditional ornamental motifs in a modern digital environment are analyzed. The technological aspect of creating a visual and sound composition was also analyzed.

Low-Cost Geographic Information System for Municipal Road Signs Management in Depopulated and Low-Density Areas

The current national and regional economical conjuncture in many countries, requires a sustainable management of different urban infrastructures, including road signs. From the set of possible solutions to improve the existing infrastructure’s management, analysis and spatial representation, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have proved to be an essential tool for the functional competencies of local administration (municipalities), managers of municipal road networks. This study presents a framework of existing national regulations on road signs, as well as the shortcomings in the definition of methodologies for GIS-based management systems implementation. The paper continues with the critical assumptions considered in their definition and the municipalities specific competences needed for their implementation. A low-cost methodology is proposed and applied to a case study in a small Portuguese village: Belmonte. The results have shown the potential of these low-cost systems, revealing relevant time and economical gains, providing municipalities with fundamental information for the definition of realistic and well-founded strategic plans and budgets, and allowing better information to their citizens. The gathered information can help in inventory, inspections, maintenance and replacement allowing detailed reports and geo-referenced electronic database and maps of a municipality's road signs at reasonable costs. These maps and reports are the starting point to forecast the projected lifespan of the municipality's signage allowing more accurate project sign management budgets for future years. Aspects that need further development in order to improve the proposed system are also addressed.

An adversarial learning framework with cross-domain loss for median filtered image restoration and anti-forensics

As an ill-posed problem, median filtered (MF) image restoration and anti-forensics still face a challenge in improving the visual quality and deceiving the forensic detectors simultaneously. MF image restoration mainly aims at image visual quality recovery, while MF image anti-forensics primarily focuses on deceiving the existing forensic algorithms. Median filtering is popularly used as an operation for image denoising and smoothing. It is also employed by image anti-forensics to conceal or remove the traces of other image manipulating operations, such as JPEG blocking artifacts and the periodicity introduced by image resampling. This work proposes an adversarial learning framework that introduces loss terms spanning three domains for MF image restoration and anti-forensics. The differences of high-frequency coefficients in the discrete wavelet transform (DWT) domain are introduced as a term of loss term to restore high-frequency components. Moreover, high-frequency subband variance loss in the discrete cosine transform (DCT) domain is proposed to make the statistical characteristics of the generated image closer to that of the original image. Together with the Huber loss in the spatial domain, a novel generator network is developed and trained to enhance information flow and feature reuse. A capsule network is applied as a discriminator for differentiating the generated image from the original version. We explore a solution through adversarial learning in an infinite set of possible solutions. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method is able to restore the visual quality of MF images with salt and pepper noise previously more effectively than the existing methods. What is more, our method achieves the best anti-forensic performance in comparison with the existing state-of-the-art MF image anti-forensic methods, while enhancing the quality of anti-forensically restored images.

Construction of a WebGIS Tool Based on a GIS Semiautomated Processing for the Localization of P2G Plants in Sicily (Italy)

The recent diffusion of RES (Renewable Energy Sources), considering the electric energy produced by photovoltaic and wind plants, brought to light the problem of the unpredictable nature of wind and solar energy. P2G (Power to Gas) implementation seems to be the right solution, transforming curtailed energy in hydrogen. The choice of the settlement of P2G plants is linked to many factors like the distances between the gas grid and the settlement of RES plants, the transportation networks, the energy production, and population distribution. In light of this, the implementation of a Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA) into a Geographic Information System (GIS) processing represents a good strategy to achieve the goal in a specific territorial asset. In this work, this method has been applied to the case of study of Sicily (Italy). The paper shows in detail the geomatic semi-automated processing that allows to find the set of possible solutions and further to choose the best localization for new P2G plants, connected to a Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) and integrated with a WebGIS visualization for real-time analysis. This system is useful for the management, the development, and the study of hydrogen technologies, in order to link the electrical network and the gas network datasets with economical and infrastructural assets through GIS processing. In the future new factors will join in the process as policies on hydrogen take shape.

Soliton solutions of the AB system via the Jacobi elliptic function expansion method

Under investigation in this paper is the AB system, which describes propagations of unstable baroclinic wave packets in geophysical fluids and ultra-short pulses in nonlinear optics. Two finite series of N degree and M degree will be proposed in terms of the extended Jacobi elliptic functions as a set of possible solutions for the AB system, the periodic solutions and new type of soliton solutions will be obtained successfully. Finally some physical properties of soliton solutions will be illustrated via graphics simulation.

Finding the globally optimal correlation of cranes drive mechanisms

Optimization of a multi-drive machine, i.e., a tower crane with a pivoting boom, needs to take into account the interactions between cooperating mechanisms. This article outlines a methodology of selecting optimal mechanism structure from a set of possible solutions. By introducing a certain quality criterion, a set of parameters optimized for the full range of motion is determined for each structure. Thus, obtained parameters can be regarded as optimal and guarantee the best mutual adjustment of interacting mechanisms. Accordingly, each structure is assigned the optimum quality index value. Obviously, this index is associated with the type of involved mechanisms and their interactions, allowing us to find the best out of the sets of optimized cranes mechanisms. The method was illustrated for a one-link crane with lever mechanisms, and comparison was made with rope mechanisms. Optimization tasks were formulated assuming the ideal stiffness of the structure in quasi-static conditions. Effectiveness of the optimization was verified under the dynamic conditions, taking into account rope flexibility. Finding globally optimal design solution will yield the best combination of different mechanisms structures such that the dynamic overload values should be significantly reduced at the stage of design of the steel structure.

Eco-Efficiency Assessment of Control Actions in Wastewater Treatment Plants

This work explores the possibilities of improving the eco-efficiency of Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) introducing a plant-wide perspective in the formulation of the control strategy. Eco-efficiency goals are contemplated in the analysis of the appropriateness of control actions, considering the seasonal effects of temperature into the decision-making process. Plant-wide control strategy handles are the operation variables of the activated sludge process, the volume of the primary clarifier, and the temperature of the anaerobic digester. Performance is evaluated in terms of energy use, biogas production, effluent quality, emissions to air and soil, considering annual and bimestrial average values of indicators to capture seasonal effect of temperature. The result is a set of possible solutions, obtained from a multi-objective decision-making procedure, consisting on a sequence of control actions applied at different temporal windows that improve the eco-efficiency indicators of the plant. The results obtained when applying the different solutions make evident how the application of plant-wide control strategies is useful to improve performance indicators that represent individual goals, leading to trade-off solutions that describe WWTPs’ eco-efficiency.

DEXOM: Diversity-based enumeration of optimal context-specific metabolic networks.

The correct identification of metabolic activity in tissues or cells under different conditions can be extremely elusive due to mechanisms such as post-transcriptional modification of enzymes or different rates in protein degradation, making difficult to perform predictions on the basis of gene expression alone. Context-specific metabolic network reconstruction can overcome some of these limitations by leveraging the integration of multi-omics data into genome-scale metabolic networks (GSMN). Using the experimental information, context-specific models are reconstructed by extracting from the generic GSMN the sub-network most consistent with the data, subject to biochemical constraints. One advantage is that these context-specific models have more predictive power since they are tailored to the specific tissue, cell or condition, containing only the reactions predicted to be active in such context. However, an important limitation is that there are usually many different sub-networks that optimally fit the experimental data. This set of optimal networks represent alternative explanations of the possible metabolic state. Ignoring the set of possible solutions reduces the ability to obtain relevant information about the metabolism and may bias the interpretation of the true metabolic states. In this work we formalize the problem of enumerating optimal metabolic networks and we introduce DEXOM, an unified approach for diversity-based enumeration of context-specific metabolic networks. We developed different strategies for this purpose and we performed an exhaustive analysis using simulated and real data. In order to analyze the extent to which these results are biologically meaningful, we used the alternative solutions obtained with the different methods to measure: 1) the improvement of in silico predictions of essential genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using ensembles of metabolic network; and 2) the detection of alternative enriched pathways in different human cancer cell lines. We also provide DEXOM as an open-source library compatible with COBRA Toolbox 3.0, available at https://github.com/MetExplore/dexom.

Technology Stack Selection Model for Software Design of Digital Platforms

The article is dedicated to the development of a mathematical model and methodology for evaluating the effectiveness of integrating information technology solutions into digital platforms using virtual simulation infrastructures. The task of selecting a stack of technologies is formulated as the task of selecting elements from sets of possible solutions. This allows us to develop a mathematically unified approach to evaluating the effectiveness of different solutions, such as choosing programming languages, choosing Database Management System (DBMS), choosing operating systems and data technologies, and choosing the frameworks used. Introduced technology compatibility operation and decomposition of the evaluation of the efficiency of the technology stack at the stages of the life cycle of the digital platform development allowed us to reduce the computational complexity of the formation of the technology stack. A methodology based on performance assessments for experimental research in a virtual software-configurable simulation environment has been proposed. The developed solution allows the evaluation of the performance of the digital platform before its final implementation, while reducing the cost of conducting an experiment to assess the characteristics of the digital platform. It is proposed to compare the characteristics of digital platform efficiency based on the use of fuzzy logic, providing the software developer with an intuitive tool to support decision-making on the inclusion of the solution in the technology stack.

ЕКСПРЕС-АНАЛІЗ ВПЛИВУ ІННОВАЦІЙНИХ РІШЕНЬ МЕХАНІЗМІВ НА НАДІЙНІСТЬ ШКАРПЕТКОВИХ АВТОМАТІВ

Purpose: development of a methodology for operational assessment of the influence of innovative solutions to the technical and operational characteristics of individual mechanisms and systems on the reliability of the sock automatic machine on a posteriori information about failures in production.Methodology: the method of search, description, analogies and analysis of information is used to audit the set of possible solutions to the subject of research, the basics of reliability theory, methods for assessing reliability indicators based on experimental data, matrix theory, elements of numerical methods and methodology of a posteriori reliability analysis of structurally complex technical systems. Findings: the calculation algorithm and mathematical support for operational assessment of influence of technical and operational changes of one of mechanisms on reliability of the sock automatic machine as a whole in the conditions of uncertainty of the information about failures and sources of its receipt are presented. The advantages of the proposed approach in comparison with the traditional one are shown, which allows to reduce the design duration while ensuring the required quality and minimizing costs by limiting tests and calculations. A numerical estimate of the degree of influence on the reliability of the sock automatic machine of changes in the design of the knitting mechanism is obtained. It is shown that the increase in the average failure time to 24.82 hours, when changing the technical characteristics of the knitting mechanism leads to an increase in this indicator for the machine as a whole to 1.24 hours. Originality: it is the further development of the theory and methodology of reliability analysis of sock automatic machines at the stages of design or modernization in cases of controlled variety of options for innovative mechanisms with limited information about failures and while maintaining functional and structural relationships. Practical value: the method of modeling the reliability of the sock automatic machine according to the innovative solutions of its mechanisms is proposed, which minimizes the costs of additional tests and calculations. The results of the above concept of the analysis of the reliability of the machine confirmed the sufficient accuracy of the calculations at the stage before the design preparation, which allows it to be used for other knitting machines.

ПРОИЗВОДНЫЕ В СРЕДНЕМ СЛУЧАЙНЫХ ПРОЦЕССОВ И ДИФФУЗИОННЫЕ МОДЕЛИ В ЭКОНОМИКЕ

The article is devoted to diffusion models. The authors discuss the theoretical and methodological foundations of diffusion models in financial mathematics. Like the economic system, the modern world is developing rapidly. It seems impossible to predict what will happen tomorrow, how the emergence of new technologies will affect the market, and how changes in random factors will affect the product and the market as a whole. Diffusion models are one of the main methods for studying economic objects and processes. This is why it is so important to develop a diffusion model. The authors propose extending the applicability of the models by passing from Itô type stochastic equations to equations with so-called derivatives in the mean. For this, following E. Nelson, the authors introduce the concept of derivatives in the mean on the right and on the left. The equation with the derivative in the mean does not involve the Wiener process, therefore, it is not assumed in advance that the solution is diffusional. The article describes some well-known diffusion models, in which the transition from equations like an Itô type stochastic differential equation to equations satisfying a system of equations with derivatives in the mean leads to an expansion of the set of possible solutions. The authors also consider a generalization of geometric Brownian motion that satisfies a system of stochastic equations with derivatives in the mean and can cover a wider class of problems.

Resource of removal expenses for strong agricultural period of volume of operations

In the article the analysis of existing agricultural machines in a healthy state, followed by work on the maintenance system subject to the conditions of reforming of the agrarian sector. Under maintenance refers to the complex of works on maintenance of working capacity or serviceability of the products during use by adjusting, knowledgeable, filling and retaining work. For the assessment of the alternatives it is advisable to conduct morphological analysis of the entire set of possible solutions to the research problem presented in a morphological matrix, which presents the basic functions of the machine and options the subject of the forms of their implementation. Theoretical research has provided the answer to two fundamental questions – how to change maintenance system depending on the level of development of agricultural production, and what parameters must have the system maintenance service to perform the appropriate intervention with the minimum technologically necessary costs of resources and investment. Assessment of the level of maintenance of agricultural machinery is provided to carry on the totality of organizational and technical factors, formalized through parts and complex indicators, in two phases. The first evaluation of using of the indicators for each factor separately. Second – assessment of a complex indicator (for all factors).

OPTIMIZATION OF CARGO ROUTES BASED ON THE MODIFIED ANT ALGORITHM

Summary. The article is devoted to solving complex problems of optimization of freight transportation, namely search and determination of the most suitable solution for optimizing (finding a minimum or maximum) the target function (price, accuracy, time, distance, etc.) from a discrete set of possible solutions. The article substantiates the direction of modification of the ant algorithm, an algorithm for routing the implementation of the transport process is formed on the basis of the study of the state and determination of the theoretical throughput of individual sites on the projected routes. As well as an analysis of the effectiveness of classical and modified algorithms on the example of designing optimal routes from the point of departure to the destination and to find the maximum freight route. Among the modern methods for solving the problem of a salesman, an ant algorithm is chosen, since its physical basis – the behavior of ants when searching for food – is the closest to formulating this problem, which determines the optimal route for transportation and its profitability for the company. A mathematical model was constructed, an algorithm was proposed and a flowchart was developed to determine the optimal transportation route based on a modified ant algorithm. A program was developed in the Delphi environment to determine the optimal route by the minimum distance criterion based on the proposed algorithm of the salesman problem. The task of determining the shortest route, which includes regional centers of Ukraine, is connected and a graph of this route is constructed. The optimal route was developed: Kyiv - Zhytomyr - Lutsk - Chernivtsi - Uzhgorod - Lviv - Ivano-Frankivsk - Khmelnytsky - Cherkasy - Zaporizhzhia - Kharkiv - Chernihiv - Nikolaev - Kirovograd - Dnipro - Poltava - Sumy - Vinnytsia - Ternopil - Rivne - Kherson - Odessa - Kyiv, with a total distance of 7,930 km and a freight of 190,710 UAH. A program has been developed in the Delphi environment to determine the optimal route according to the maximum freight criterion of the carrier based on the proposed algorithm of the salesman problem. This task is connected for a network of 22 cities – regional centers of Ukraine, and a graph of the received route was constructed. The optimal route was developed: Kyiv – Mykolaiv – Chernivtsi – Zhytomyr – Khmelnytskyi – Dnipro – Lutsk – Kirovohrad – Rivne – Kherson – Sumy – Ternopil – Chernihiv – Vinnytsia – Poltava – Odesa – Lviv – Kharkiv – Uzhgorod – Zaporizhzhia – Ivano-Frankivsk – Cherkasy – Kyiv, with a total freight for the carrier of UAH 357,800 and a distance of UAH 16,170 km. Justification of optimal routes is quite an important task for the effective operation of logistics companies, since freight transportation is extremely important for the economy of the country and the company and is relevant in the present. According to the results of calculations, technical solutions have been developed to improve the efficiency of the logistics company on the basis of a modified ant algorithm.