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Purpose: To study whether, during typical-level running, non-rear-foot strikers (non-RFS) or rear-foot strikers (RFS) presented a similar or different extent of neuromuscular fatigue after a prolonged graded run. Methods: Sixteen experienced male trail runners (8 non-RFS and 8 RFS) performed a 2.5-hour treadmill graded running exercise. Before and after exercise, neuromuscular tests were performed to assess neuromuscular fatigue of the plantar flexors. Biomechanical gait parameters were acquired with an instrumented treadmill, and electromyographic activity of the lower-limb muscles was collected as an index of muscle activation. Results: There were no significant time × foot strike interactions for neuromuscular (all P ≥.742), muscle activation (all P ≥.157), or biomechanical (all P ≥.096) variables. Conclusions: A dominant level running foot-strike pattern did not directly affect the extent of neuromuscular fatigue during a prolonged graded run. This suggests that no ideal running foot-strike pattern exists to minimize neuromuscular fatigue during prolonged-duration races wherein cumulative uphill and downhill segments are high, such as in trail running. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamic response characteristics of high and steep slopes under the action of earthquakes and blasting was focused on, especially the frequency distribution and propagation laws, which are crucial for slope stability assessment. Using stress wave theory as the theoretical basis and advanced FLAC3D numerical simulation technology, we systematically analyze the frequency response of slope under different joint conditions under seismic waves. The nonlinear characteristics of reflected P-wave coefficient and the significant sensitivity of joint to incident wave frequency are revealed when the Angle of incident P-wave changes. The results show that with the increase of the incidence Angle of the incident P-wave, the reflection coefficient of the reflected P-wave decreases slowly at first and then increases sharply to 1.0. The reflection coefficient of the wave at the joint is more sensitive to the frequency of the incident wave. In a biplanar rock mass, multiple reflections of waves between structural planes produce transmitted waves with different time differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of benthic foraminifera and the assemblage dynamics were analysed on piston core GL-54 to understand the changes in paleoecology since Marine Isotopic Stage 5 (MIS 5). The core was drilled on the upper slope of the Campos Basin on the Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) coast. Benthic foraminifera biofacies, ecological indices, lithological facies, biostratigraphy, and isotopic analyses were undertaken to characterise the paleoenvironment in front of Cape of São Tomé. Two distinct biofacies were identified in the GL-54 sedimentary record since the Last Interglacial Period (MIS 5). These two biofacies point to seasonal organic matter and a well-oxygenated environment, however, Biofacies 2 can be differentiated from Biofacies 1 by the presence of significant bottom water currents. Biofacies 2 has the same species as Biofacies 1, except for Miliolinella subrotunda. Benthic foraminiferal species and biofacies from GL-54 were compared to the ones present in the upper portion of the GL-39 piston core, which was drilled from the middle slope of the same basin. Species such as Globocassidulina crassa , Islandiella norcrossi , Alabaminella weddellensis , Bolivina paula , M. subrotunda , Bulimina aculeata , Globocassidulina subglobosa , Rotorbinella lepida , and Uvigerina peregrina were found in both piston cores. The biofacies of both piston cores were correlated, pointing to similarities between the upper slope and the middle slope in the Campos Basin since MIS 5. In general, the upper and middle slopes of the Campos Basin are characterised as a well-oxygenated environment with variation in the deposition of organic matter. In addition to these environmental factors, there is evidence for a strong bottom current in MIS 2 at both sites, probably due to the displacement of Brazil Current and Intermediate Western Boundary Current. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the implementation of a slope stability method for rainfall-induced shallow landslides in CRITERIA-1D, which is an agro-hydrological model based on Richards' equation for transient infiltration and redistribution processes. CRITERIA-1D can simulate the presence and development of roots and canopies over space and time, the regulation of transpiration activity based on real meteorological data, and the evaporation reduction caused by canopies. The slope can be considered composed of a multi-layered soil, leading to the possibility of simulating the bedrock and of setting an initial water table level. CRITERIA-1D can consider different soil horizons characterized by different hydraulic conductivities and soil water retention curves, thus allowing the simulation of capillarity barriers. The validation of the proposed physically based slope stability model was conducted through the simulation of the collected water content and water potential data of an experimental slope. The monitored slope is located close to Montuè, in the north-eastern sector of Oltrepò Pavese (northern Apennines—Italy). Just close to the monitoring station, a shallow landslide occurred in 2014 at a depth of around 100 cm. The results show the utility of agro-hydrological modeling schemes in modeling the antecedent soil moisture condition and in reducing the overestimation of landslides events detection, which is an issue for early warning systems and slope management related to rainfall-induced shallow landslides. The presented model can be used also to test different bioengineering solutions for slope stabilization, especially when data about rooting systems and plant physiology are known. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study uses the Jiweishan landslide in Wulong District, Chongqing City, China, as an example to design a numerical simulation technique to examine two environmental consequences: corrosion deterioration and underground mining. A shear strength prediction model for the corrosion rate of the structural plane was thus proposed by mimicking the time-dependent weakening characteristics of structural planes by using strength reduction. The discrete element simulation method was applied to reproduce the complete process of dangerous rock body movement and slope instability under the effects of these two factors to clarify the influence of environmental and engineering effects on slope deformation behaviour. This was intended to clarify the overburden movement process, fracture evolution law, and rock formation subsidence characteristics of karst mountains affected by mining from the perspective of geomechanics, and the results showed that the deformation evolution process of the Jiweishan landslide can be divided into two stages: the slow chronic deformation caused by long-term corrosion deterioration and the more severe acute deformation caused by short-term underground mining. The overburden movement and fracture evolution seen under corrosion deterioration and underground mining thus represent a progressive evolutionary process with full spatial and temporal continuity. Corrosion is a long-term synchronous process that creates the transformation of numerous structural planes around a dangerous rock body. Underground mining, in contrast, is typically a short-term trigger factor that can nevertheless easily cause significant differential adjustment of the movement characteristics of different parts of a dangerous rock body that result in distinct spatial differentiations of dangerous rock body movement. Further, the subsidence deformation characteristics of the rock formation plane mainly depend on the spatial position and scale of the goaf created by such mining. Analysing the stress characteristics of the relevant inclined rock strata helps clarify the control mechanism of a mountain's spatial structure's adaptive adjustment. The simulation results in this case were also compared with the results of centrifuge tests and physical model tests to verify the rationality of the simulation scheme, and the conclusions thus remove provide an important reference for the study of landslide development processes and instability mechanisms under multi-factor coupling conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that the design, construction, and maintenance of curb ramps provide accessibility to persons with disabilities. Light detection and ranging (lidar) can efficiently collect high-accuracy and high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) geometric data, which can be leveraged for ADA compliance assessment in a virtual environment to help guide and improve field practice. Most existing studies do not consider many aspects of the field inspection process including local variations in slope measurements and the physical instrument characteristics, warranting a more detailed accuracy evaluation. Accordingly, a workflow for virtual ADA compliance inspection of curb ramps using lidar data is proposed and was applied to a controlled experiment using full-size ramp specimens to optimize parameters and compare methods with rigorous accuracy assessments. The proposed workflow consists of data preprocessing, digital elevation model generation, and digital inclinometer simulation. In the digital inclinometer simulation, we developed and implemented four different approaches including surface normal, immediate neighbor linear regression, scaled neighbor linear regression, and touching point extraction. Among these approaches, the novel touching point extraction method considers both the roughness of the surface and the scale in which a digital inclinometer measures the slope. The accuracy and effectiveness of the framework were demonstrated, resulting in a root-mean square error of 0.18% for the mean slope, which is on par with the accuracy of a digital inclinometer (0.2%, 1−σ). An example virtual experiment is provided using the proposed approach to identify the optimal spacing of measurement samples to determine the slope of a curb ramp for ADA compliance assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Przegląd Elektrotechniczny is the property of Przeglad Elektrotechniczny and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Studying slope stability under different water contents and stress conditions is very important for the early warning and prevention of slope disasters. In this study, the stability of a side slope in Xingwen County was studied via field investigations, laboratory tests, and numerical simulations. The results show that a dry sample has a greater rockburst proneness than a water‐rich sample. Compared with that of the dry sample, the strength of the sample representing the water‐rich area of the slope decreased significantly, the peak strength decreases by 28.5% on average under the different confining pressure conditions tested, and the stress–strain curve has more jitter after the peak and shows more obvious plastic characteristics. The peak shear strain in the XZ direction on the lower slope under water‐rich conditions is 48.5% greater than that under dry conditions, and the range of the slope plastic zone is also significantly greater than that under dry conditions. This indicates that the stability of the slope under water‐rich conditions is much lower than that under dry conditions. The safety factors of the three types of slopes are calculated. The slope safety factors under the "water‐rich and deadweight" and "water‐rich and earthquake" conditions are 3.1% and 5.4% lower, respectively, than that under the "dry and deadweight" conditions. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the protection of water‐rich areas on slopes with frequent microearthquakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The limit equilibrium method has been widely used in the study of searching the slip surface of slopes. However, the method ignores the deformation characteristics of the rock mass and assumes that the shape of the slip surface is circular, which is quite different from the actual situation of the slope. For this reason, this paper proposes a fast search method for noncircular slip surface considering the deformation characteristics of the rock mass. The method is able to calculate the compression and shear deformation energies stored in the slip surface, as well as the virtual displacement generated by the slide mass when the slope is in a critical equilibrium state. The direction of motion of the slide mass is further calculated from the magnitude of the virtual displacement. In addition, this paper improves the generation of new solutions in the simulated annealing (SA) algorithm for the structural characteristics of the slip surface of the slope, thus achieving a fast search of the slip surface. Finally, the method of this paper is compared with the test question of ACADS and the simulation results of the finite difference method (FDM) to verify the effectiveness of the method of this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this study was to investigate patterns of abundance and diversity among reptiles and amphibians within the protected area of Mount Chelmos, located in Peloponnese, Greece. Our aim was to examine the drivers influencing abundance (for lizards, snakes, chelonians, anurans, urodels) and diversity (for reptiles and amphibians) within the finely-scaled study area and identify biodiversity hotspots. Land cover significantly impacted the abundance and diversity of all studied groups. Elevation had a significant impact on the abundance of snakes, chelonians, and anurans, as well as on reptile and amphibian diversity. Climate influenced all groups except chelonians. Slope significantly impacted anuran abundance and amphibian diversity. Aspect primarily influenced the abundance of lizards, anurans, and urodels, as well as reptile diversity. We have also identified abundance and diversity hotspots, emphasizing the importance of conservation and management efforts. In reptiles, abundance hotspots were predicted in the west, east, and south of the mountainous massif, whereas amphibian abundance hotspots were mapped to the west and east-southeast of the massif. Regarding diversity, the patterns were similar for both reptiles and amphibians, with hotspots emerging in the west, south, and southeast boundaries of the study area, and a few spots north of the mountainous region. Notably, many of these hotspots coincided with areas susceptible to human exploitation and vehicular transit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the most relevant natural and anthropogenic factors for the occurrence and co‐occurrence of jaguars (Panthera onca) and pumas (Puma concolor) in the eastern Amazon, the most degraded portion of this tropical rainforest in Brazil. We found that in a context of high human pressure, a more significant amount of primary forest and more significant annual rainfall most positively influence the occurrence of jaguars. In contrast, pumas are negatively influenced by proximity to roads and positively by slope. Additionally, the presence of primary forest areas and high annual rainfall also favour the co‐occurrence of jaguars and pumas in the same areas. In contrast, open areas more related to anthropogenic zones disfavour the co‐occurrence of these two species in this degraded portion of the Amazon. Our results support landscape management for conserving big cat species in the Amazon and reinforce the importance of forest conservation for maintaining big cats in altered landscapes. Although these animals occur in open habitats, in the Amazon, these species are dependent on primary forests, as they are better‐structured habitats that maintain the capacity to support prey and shelter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When designing anti-landslide measures, slope stability assessment is an important factor and is determined by conducting comprehensive engineering and geological studies on a slope with potential landslide risks. The results of correct engineering and geological justification for the design of anti-landslide measures lead to the preservation of the structure and safe operation of infrastructure facilities. Our experience shows that to eliminate the negative effects of landslide processes, it is necessary to accurately determine the engineering and geological conditions of the slope, including the stability of the slope, taking into account natural dynamic phenomena (seismicity of the territory and tectonic processes) and, if possible, to see the complete elimination of the causes that lead to landslide processes when developing anti-landslide measures. To achieve these goals, the geotechnical justification of the design is the only correct solution. Geotechnical justification of protective measures intended to protect the structural elements of the Baku-Russian Federation State Border highway, which is part of the north-south transport corridor and passes through the foot of a potentially landslide-hazardous slope west of the city of Shabran, is one of the most important conditions that increase the effectiveness of these measures. On a slope located 1500 meters southwest of the current research area, the results of our scientific research were not properly utilized and many of our warnings were not heeded, resulting in a landslide during construction, leading to serious damage to the road's structural elements (Fig. 1) and additional costs. This event once again confirms that landslides are the most common natural and man-made processes that pose a threat to the safe operation of infrastructure facilities, civil and industrial construction in mountainous and foothill areas (Shiraliyev et al., 2024). The purpose of this study is to determine the geotechnical conditions of the slope that is the object of research, analyze and assess the stability of the slope and provide geotechnical data for geotechnical justification for the design of landslide protection structures. Thanks to the application of the project solutions developed based on the results of the studies presented in the article, the danger of landslides on the mentioned slope has been completely eliminated and the safe operation of infrastructure facilities has been ensured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the rolling wave characteristics of overland flow, this study calibrated the accuracy of the depth measurement system for shallow flow on slopes using acrylic sheets and optimized it as a dual-line laser water depth measurement system. Non-contact measurement methods were used to measure the water depth at the mature cross-section position of rolling waves in real time. This experiment designed a total of 5 measurement intervals, namely 0.04, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20 m. Three horizontal gradients were set for the slope, namely 3°, 9°, and 15°, and six horizontal gradients were set for the flow rate, namely 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 L/min. Each horizontal gradient was repeated for 5 experiments. The results indicated that the accuracy of the depth measurement system for shallow flow on slopes was confirmed to be 0.473 mm per grid, and the optimal spacing for the dual-line laser depth measurement system was 0.04 m. Both flow rate and slope significantly affected the wave speed, wave height, height difference, and frequency of rolling waves. The influence of flow rate (the effect size values were 0.655-0.963) was greater than that of slope (the effect size values were 0.232-0.874). The slope significantly affected the wavelength, while the flow rate did not significantly impact it. Wave speed increased with flow rate but the influence of flow rate on wave speed decreased with increasing slope. Under different slope conditions, wave height responded differently to flow rate. At a 3° slope, wave height initially increased and then decreased with increasing flow rate, whereas at higher slopes (9° and 15°), the wave height increased significantly under low flow conditions (2-8 L/min), with the increases of 3.74 and 4.63 mm, respectively. The difference in wave height between 3° and 9° slopes increased with flow rate, but the difference between 9° and 15° slopes decreased. The variation in height difference with slope was influenced by flow rate, showing a trend of initially increasing and then decreasing. Increased flow rates led to an increase in frequency, with the largest increase at a 15° slope, up to 2.37 Hz. The frequency differences between slopes decreased and then increased as flow rate increased, with a critical flow rate of 8 L/min. At a low slope (3°), wavelength fluctuated with flow rate, whereas at a high slope (15°), higher flow rates inhibited the development of wavelength. Under the high flow conditions (16-20 L/min), the wavelength differences between slopes were significant. This research provides a theoretical basis for improving the accuracy of slope overland flow measurements and further elucidating the dynamic characteristics of overland flow rolling waves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] The aims of this study are to explore the influence of slope, rainfall pattern and sugarcane growth period on soil erosion and nutrient loss on slope surface, and to provide theoretical basis for the mechanism improvement and prevention of soil erosion in sugarcane planting area of lateritic soil. [Methods] In-situ observation method in runoff area was used to explore the characteristics of soil erosion and loss of nitrogen nutrients (nitrate nitrogen and ammonium nitrogen) at different slopes (5° and 10°) under different rain types and sugarcane growth period. [Results] (1) The runoff in each growth period decreased in the order; extension period tillering periodseedling period mature period, and the nitrogen loss in tillering period was significantly higher than that in the other three periods (2.6~905.2 times). The sediment yield and their nitrogen nutrient loss followed the order: tillering stage extension period seedling period maturity period, the sediment yield of sugarcane in the tillering stage was significantly higher than that in other periods (2.9~71.4 times), and the difference was more obvious under the 10° slope. (2) Type B (medium rainfall depth, short duration, strong rainfall intensity) and type C (great rainfall depth, short duration, extremely strong rainfall intensity) were the main rainfall pattern that caused soil erosion and the nitrogen nutrient loss in sugarcane in the research area, contributing more than 70% of the slope runoff, sediment yield and nitrogen loss. In different slope treatments, there were significant differences in the sediment amount under type C, sediment ammonium nitrogen loss under type A and runoff ammonium loss under type B. (3) Rain pattern and sugarcane growth period had significant effects on runoff, sediment and those nitrogen loss on sugarcane slope (p<0.01), and the effect was higher than that of slope, interaction between slope and rain pattern, interaction between slope and growth period. Compared with runoff and those nitrogen loss, slope and its interaction with rain pattern and growth period showed more prominent effects on erosion sediment and nitrogen loss. [Conclusion] The slope had a more significant influence on the sediment and nitrogen nutrient loss process of sugarcane slope. The soil erosion and nitrogen nutrient loss were greatest in the tillering period, mainly contributed by type B and type C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dispersive soil slopes are widely distributed in Northeast China. To analyze the failure caused by such slopes under various rainfall conditions, section K27 of the road-cutting slope of the Sui-Da Expressway in Heilongjiang Province, China, is considered an example. A 3D slope model was created using the similarity theory and visualized through close-range photogrammetry in a self-made model box. Six model tests were conducted under varying rainfall conditions to investigate the failure modes of dispersive soil slopes. Test results revealed that dispersive soil slopes are subject to two types of failure depending on the rainfall intensity. Slope erosion was divided into three stages by surface random roughness (SRR): initial erosion, constant velocity erosion, and accelerated erosion. Similarity theory suggests that the slope enters the accelerated erosion stage in the actual project when the SRR reaches around 31.95–46.5 cm. Furthermore, the reciprocal of the SRR change rate during the accelerated erosion stage exhibits a linear correlation with time. The time of the slope's complete failure can be estimated when the reciprocal of the SRR change rate is 0 min/cm. The research findings are significant for comprehending the failure process of dispersive soil slopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The loess region is characterized by complex geomorphological patterns. This region is prone to frequent earthquakes with serious seismic landslide disasters. Loess seismic landslides are affected by a variety of factors, including the topography and geomorphology of loess slopes, stratigraphic lithology, dynamic responses, strength and dynamic characteristics of loess, and hydrogeological conditions. Current research on loess seismic landslides primarily involves laboratory experiments, physical and numerical simulations, field investigations, and remote sensing and monitoring techniques. The research focuses on the mechanisms, development characteristics, distribution, dynamic responses, and stability of loess seismic landslides. This paper reviews the current state of both domestic and international research on loess seismic landslides, introduces the pseudodynamic method that considers seismic wave propagation characteristics, and outlines future research prospects based on this method. By analyzing the mechanics mechanisms of loess seismic landslide, investigating the seismic liquefaction phenomena of loess landslides, and discussing the instability characteristics of these landslides, this study proposes a calculation method to accurately evaluate the stability of loess seismic landslides. This research can provide a theoretical basis for earthquake disaster prevention and mitigation in loess areas, and it represents a key focus for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slopes suffer damage from waves in coastal environments. Precast blocks with well-designed geometrical characteristics can benefit the construction of revetments by mitigating the issue of wave overtopping and dissipating wave energy. In this study, we numerically studied the effect of the geometrical characteristics of precast blocks on wave overtopping by carrying out a numerical simulation of wave overtopping on a slope covered with precast blocks. A total of three different types of blocks were considered in this study to determine the optimal geometric shape using a validated numerical model. Our numerical investigation demonstrated that the roughness of the precast block plays an important role in lessening the height of the wave run-up. Concave and embedded regular hexagons could reduce the wave run-up height by 44.6% compared with smooth slopes within a 2 s wave period. Herein, we evaluate and discuss the influence of the geometrical characteristics of a given precast block, such as thickness, aperture, and wave dissipation notch, on wave run-up. We also present an empirical formula for predicting wave run-up on a slope covered by a concave and embedded regular hexagon-type prefabricated block. This study provides valuable insights into the design of prefabricated revetment blocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The earth pressure of slope retaining structure is one of the problems that are often encountered in geotechnical engineering but have not yet been fully understood and well solved. At present, there are still a lot of problems that need to be solved. For complex conditions such as stratified soil or containing ground water, the distribution law of earth pressure and the displacement mode of retaining structure need to be further studied. This paper summarizes the existing research on earth pressure of slope retain structures. According to the research methods, it is divided into three categories: research on the theoretical calculation method of earth pressure, research on earth pressure by model test, and research on earth pressure by numerical simulation. Focused discussions are carried out respectively, and the previous research results are summarized. At present, there are still a lot of problems that need to be solved in the research of earth pressure of slope retaining structure, and the calculation formula of earth pressure and the assumed fracture surface of earth are lack of experimental verification and engineering measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Irrigation & Drainage is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Southwest China, represented by Yunnan, Guizhou, Sichuan and Chongqing, is ranked as the second-largest natural forest in China, and is also one of the areas with the most serious forest fire disasters. Hence the research, which quantifies the relationship between topographic factors and spatial distribution of forest fire, is in urgent need and can provide us with a scientific understanding of future climate change influence on natural forest fires. In this study, the statistical relationship and change trends between Southwest China forest fire and topographic factors under climate change were analyzed, where MODIS fire data (MCD14DL, from 2003 to 2020), DEM, and historical climate data were used and combined with data statistics approaches, nuclear density analysis and M-K trend test. The results showed that: (1) forest fires in Southwest China illustrated a decreasing trend from 2003 to 2020, with an annual decreasing rate of 42 times per year and the forest fire mainly occurred in winter and spring. Spatially, the overall spatial pattern was gradually decreasing from southern Yunnan to northern Sichuan. Besides, forest fires were mainly distributed in Ailao Mountain, Hengduan Mountain and Panzhihua. (2) For the average from 2003 to 2020, forest fires had a single-peak relationship with mountain altitude and slope, reaching the peak at altitude of 1400-1600 m and slope of 15-20 °, respectively. Sunny slope was the most, half shade half sunny slope was the least. (3) Under the regional climate change conditions, forest fire appeared "spatial transfer" phenomenon. The increase of relative humidity and precipitation at 600 m to 1200 m resulted in a significant decrease in forest fires at this altitude but an increase at middle and high altitudes above 1400 m. The increase of annual average temperature led to the "lifting" of forest fire from the slope of 20-25° to above 35°. Based on above analysis, it can be concluded that under climate change, forest fires in Southwest China have shifted to high altitude and high slope, resulting in the weakening of flammability barrier at high altitude and high slope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water-rich open-pit mines can have problems with large water inflows, slope reinforcement difficulties, and hazardous mining risks. The construction of a water cut-off curtain to control groundwater in the loose layer of an open-pit mine can effectively reduce the amount of water that must be pumped and eliminate the problem of flooding in the pit. However, the rise of the water level outside the curtain and changes in the geotechnical properties of the slope's material will affect the stability and safety of the pit's slope. A computational model was constructed and limit equilibrium and numerical simulation methods were used to determine the influence of a water cut-off curtain on the stability of the slope. Results show that with the the water cut-off curtain, the water level outside of the cut-off curtain in the loose layer of the open-pit mine continues to rise and the hydrostatic pressure and horizontal thrust of the slope body increases. As a result, the sliding force of the slope increases and the resisting force decreases, ultimately lessening the slope- stability coefficient (factor of safety) of the open pit. If the construction position of the curtain is moved outward, the stability coefficient of the slope will increase, assuming that the water level outside the curtain remains unchanged. Conversely, if the position of the curtain is moved toward the pit, the stability coefficient of the slope will decrease. The maximum shear stress on the slope increases as the water level outside the water curtain rises. The maximum shear stress is mainly concentrated at the toe of the slope of the first bench below the surface and at the interface between the curtain and the bottom of the loose material. If designed properly, the water curtain can control the water table in the slope's material, maintaining the stability of the slope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the acceleration of construction of civil, industrial and infrastructure facilities in our republic and the expansion of their area, the construction of many facilities is carried out in mountainous, and foothill areas with complex relief and geomorphological conditions, which in most cases are potentially dangerous landslide slopes. To protect these facilities from the negative impact of dangerous geological, naturaltechnogenic, and anthropogenic processes, to assess the risks arising from the impact of these processes on building structures, to promptly prevent negative phenomena and dangerous situations, to assess the engineering and geological conditions of the construction area to determine the stability of the slope, conducting research in these areas is of great practical importance. Mountainous regions are characterized by the complexity and diversity of geological, hydrological, hydrogeological, and tectonic conditions. Landslides are the most common natural and man-made processes that pose a threat to the safe operation of infrastructure facilities, civil and industrial construction in mountainous and foothill areas. In addition to infrastructure facilities, landslides can destroy vegetation, destroy the habitat of fauna, and also destroy fertile soils located in the area of their activity (Nikolic, 2015; Krivoguz & Bespalova, 2020). The main objective of this article is to apply the results of practically implemented and verified studies in other territories of our republic with similar geomorphological structure and engineering-geological conditions, to correctly assess the negative manifestations caused by landslides and other man-made and anthropogenic impacts, as well as to calculate the stability of the slope and scientifically and technically substantiate measures for engineering protection against landslides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a 1/10 reduced-scale model tunnel with one end closed was constructed to investigate maximum temperature profiles beneath the tunnel ceiling during fire events. By varying the heat release rates (HRRs) and tunnel slopes (0%, 2%, 5%, and 6%) and measuring horizontal temperatures longitudinally along the tunnel ceiling, the effects of these parameters were systematically examined. The findings reveal that the distribution of maximum temperatures within a one-end-closed tunnel can be categorized into three distinct regions: far-field, transition, and near-field regions. Notably, milder tunnel slopes correspond to an elevated maximum temperature beneath the ceiling. By employing dimensional analysis, two prediction models were formulated to forecast maximum temperatures beneath the ceiling for fire sources located in the far-field and near-field regions, respectively. These predictive models were validated against experimental data, demonstrating favorable agreement. This study enhances our understanding of the impact of tunnel slope on temperature distribution during fire events in one-end-closed tunnels. Furthermore, the prediction models developed offer practical tools for assessing and mitigating fire risks in such tunnel configurations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Banana (Musa sp.) is one of the world's most planted and consumed crops. Analysis of plantations using a geospatial perspective is growing in Costa Rica, and it can be used to optimize environmental analysis. The aim of this study was to propose a methodology to identify areas prone to water accumulation to quantify nitrate concentrations using geospatial modeling techniques in a 40 ha section of a banana plantation located in Siquirres, Limón, Costa Rica. A total of five geomorphometric variables (Slope, Slope Length factor (LS factor), Terrain Ruggedness Index (TRI), Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), and Flow Accumulation) were selected in the geospatial model. A 9 cm resolution digital elevation model (DEM) derived from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) was employed to calculate geomorphometric variables. ArcGIS 10.6 and SAGA GIS 7.8.2 software were used in the data integration and analysis. The results showed that Slope and Topographic Wetness Index (TWI) are the geomorphometric parameters that better explained the areas prone to water accumulation and indicated which drainage channels are proper areas to sample nitrate values. The average nitrate concentration in high-probability areas was 8.73 ± 1.53 mg/L, while in low-probability areas, it was 11.28 ± 2.49 mg/L. Despite these differences, statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in nitrate concentrations between high- and low-probability areas. The method proposed here allows us to obtain reliable results in banana fields worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the various types of polymeric materials, geosynthetics deserve special attention. A geosynthetic is a product made from synthetic polymers that is embedded in soils for various purposes. There are some basic functions of geosynthetics, namely, erosion control, filtration, drainage, separation, reinforcement, containment, barrier, and protection. Geosynthetics for erosion control are very effective in preventing or limiting soil loss by water erosion on slopes or river/channel banks. Where the current line runs through the undercut area of the slope, the curvature of the arch is increased. If this phenomenon is undesirable, the meander arch should be protected from erosion processes. The combination of geosynthetics provides the best resistance to erosion. In addition to external erosion, internal erosion of soils is also a negative phenomenon. Internal erosion refers to any process by which soil particles are eroded from within or beneath a water-retaining structure. Geosynthetics, particularly geotextiles, are used to prevent internal erosion of soils in contact with the filters. Therefore, the main objective of this review paper is to address the many ways in which geosynthetics are used for erosion control (internal and external). Many examples of hydrotechnical and civil engineering applications of geosynthetics will be presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The behavior of slow mass movements like soil creep is well known to be governed by soil composition, slope, and cycles in temperature and rainfall. However, their magnitude and importance vary dramatically in often unpredictable ways, with important consequences for creep rate and infrastructure damage prediction. Here, we present long-term (2015–2022) creep measurements for four regions of the UK characterized by intense mass movement activity but different bedrock lithologies. We also obtained co-located temperature and precipitation time series over this period, as well as local measurements of slope and soil thickness and composition. Our goal was to deconvolve the relative importance of each observable on creep behavior. Our results imply that parent lithology governs first-order creep rates indirectly via hillslope repose angles and soil thickness and composition. Rates of ground movement on peat and sandstone soils are dictated by annual fluctuations in precipitation and temperature, respectively. By employing a simple error-minimizing regression routine, we demonstrate how creep rates can be predicted in these settings as a function of climatological observables. Over thinner limestone and thicker clay soils, however, our model fails: in these settings, we suggest that creep behavior is instead dominated by variations in regolith thickness, and slope and clay mineral content, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, watersheds in the middle Himalayan belt have witnessed land degradation, flood, and landslide disasters. Growing population pressure, intensified use of watershed resources, and development activities—often alleged injudicious, have brought resource productivity and availability to the edge of unsustainability. The threat to precarious ecological balance, sustainable livelihood, and disaster risk is underpinning issues of densely populated Himalayan watersheds. Hence, understanding the essential physical characteristics of watersheds vis-à-vis human dimensions is essential for assessing and prioritizing the watersheds intended for ecological restoration, landslide and erosion control, and disaster risk reduction in upstream and downstream zones. Following these issues, this study using a geographical approach examines watershed variables representing susceptibility, hydrological and geomorphic response, land use, and human pressure to assess sub-watershed conditions and prioritize sub-watersheds. The study used high-resolution satellite imageries, digital elevation model, topographic and geological maps, rainfall and socioeconomic data from government sources to obtain the watershed variables. These variables were analyzed in the GIS platform. The leading variables and their relative importance were identified for assessing the watershed conditions by analyzing the correlation matrix, and AHP supported the expert judgment. These variables are mean basin slope, lineament density, drainage density, landslides, population density, and non-forest-forest ratio. The sub-watersheds condition of the Syangja District was assessed. The calculated overall vulnerability of sub-watersheds is positively related to susceptibility, poor land management, and human pressure index. The present study provided a methodological basis for assessing and prioritizing the watershed condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Nanchang University (Engineering & Technology) is the property of Nanchang University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study introduces a reliable method for simultaneously determining the thickness, slope, and ultrasonic velocities of slope plates using laser ultrasonic techniques without any damage in the thermoelastic regime. The method involves solving a system of Equations to determine the arrival times of multiple signals displayed on a waveform. Numerical simulations indicate that the velocity of the skimming longitudinal wave remains constant when the Rayleigh wave does not overlap with its signal. Consequently, a prediction model for aluminum alloy has been established, enabling the estimation of the constant ratio between the velocities of skimming longitudinal and bulk longitudinal waves based on the skimming longitudinal velocity obtained by scanning the generating laser along the material's surface. This ratio, approximately 0.950, facilitates the combination of the skimming longitudinal wave with the reflected and mode-converted waves from the specimen's back surface to deduce the desired parameters. The method successfully determined the thickness, slope, and wave velocities of several specimens with slopes ranging from 0% to 1.96% and a maximum thickness of about 10 mm. Evaluating the influence of the size of the disk ultrasound source produced by the unfocused laser beam, we found that the radius of the disk source should be considered when calculating the arrival time of the skimming longitudinal wave. The root mean square deviation in measuring thickness, slope, longitudinal wave velocity, and shear wave velocity were approximately 0.100 mm, 0.10%, 70 m/s, and 20 m/s, respectively. An assessment of the measured results, based on the root mean square deviation and uncertainty across all specimens, demonstrates the practical feasibility of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass can serve as an important indicator for measuring the effectiveness of slope ecological restoration, and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) remote sensing provides technical support for the rapid and accurate measurement of vegetation biomass on slopes. Considering a highway slope as the experimental area, in this study, we integrate UAV data and Sentinel-2A images; apply a deep learning method to integrate remote sensing data; extract slope vegetation features from vegetation probability, vegetation indices, and vegetation texture features; and construct a slope vegetation biomass inversion model. The R2 of the slope vegetation biomass inversion model is 0.795, and the p-value in the F-test is less than 0.01, which indicates that the model has excellent regression performance and statistical significance. Based on laboratory biomass measurements, the regression model error is small and reasonable, with RMSE = 0.073, MAE = 0.064, and SE = 0.03. The slope vegetation biomass can be accurately estimated using remote-sensing images with a high precision and good applicability. This study will provide a methodological reference and demonstrate its application in estimating vegetation biomass and carbon stock on highway slopes, thus providing data and methodological support for the simulation of the carbon balance process in slope restoration ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on monthly MODIS EVI and LAI data from 2001 to 2020, combined with the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), this study employs Theil–Sen trend analysis, Mann–Kendall (MK) test, Hurst index analysis, and correlation analysis to comparatively analyze the overall vegetation trends, spatial distribution characteristics, and future trends of different vegetation types in Guizhou Province under varying slope conditions. The study also explores the response of vegetation to SPEI at different time scales across different slopes. The results indicate the following: (1) From 2001 to 2020, the average values of EVI (0.34%/a) and LAI (1.4%/a) during the growing season exhibited an increasing trend, with the improved vegetation areas primarily concentrated in the western region of Guizhou, while the degradation areas were mainly located in the central and eastern regions. (2) Under different slope conditions, EVI generally showed slight improvement, while LAI exhibited significant improvement, with dry-lands experiencing the largest changes. Future trends indicate continuous improvement, but the proportion of vegetation improvement area decreases with increasing slope. When the slope is less than 5°, the proportion of vegetation improvement area is the highest. (3) The positive correlation between EVI, LAI, and SPEI at different time scales is stronger than the negative correlation, with the strongest correlations observed when the slope is less than 5°. When the slope exceeds 35°, the relationship between vegetation and drought response is almost unaffected by the slope. These findings provide a scientific basis for vegetation growth monitoring and the study of climate change and vegetation interactions in Guizhou Province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Resources & Ecology is the property of Journal of Resources & Ecology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The performance of the stability chart (SC), limit equilibrium (LE), and finite element (FE) methods for stability analysis of weathered volcanic rock slopes under static and earthquake loads is not fully understood. This research aimed to evaluate the performance of the SC, LE, and FE methods for slope stability analyses by studying a case of a weathered volcanic rock slope at the Leuwikeris Dam diversion tunnel in Indonesia. Site characterisations were carried out to obtain the input parameters for the static and pseudostatic slope stability analyses. The results showed that using various search methods of failure surface and the suggested optimum number of finite elements, multiple non-circular failure surfaces were predicted from the LE and FE methods that were not anticipated in the initial slope design based on the SC method. The location and shape of the failure surfaces from the LE method agreed with those from the FE method. The difference between the Fs values from the static LE analysis and those from the static FE analyses was less than 14%, but the discrepancy increased up to 78% in the pseudostatic analyses. This study highlights the importance of validating the results from one method with the other methods to prevent slope failures.

Dispersive soil slopes are widely distributed in Northeast China. To analyze the failure caused by such slopes under various rainfall conditions, section K27 of the road-cutting slope of the Sui-Da Expressway in Heilongjiang Province, China, is considered an example. A 3D slope model was created using the similarity theory and visualized through close-range photogrammetry in a self-made model box. Six model tests were conducted under varying rainfall conditions to investigate the failure modes of dispersive soil slopes. Test results revealed that dispersive soil slopes are subject to two types of failure depending on the rainfall intensity. Slope erosion was divided into three stages by surface random roughness (SRR): initial erosion, constant velocity erosion, and accelerated erosion. Similarity theory suggests that the slope enters the accelerated erosion stage in the actual project when the SRR reaches around 31.95–46.5 cm. Furthermore, the reciprocal of the SRR change rate during the accelerated erosion stage exhibits a linear correlation with time. The time of the slope’s complete failure can be estimated when the reciprocal of the SRR change rate is 0 min/cm. The research findings are significant for comprehending the failure process of dispersive soil slopes.

Introduction. A calculation scheme of karst sinkhole in karst territories using the results of laboratory experimental studies is developed, which makes it possible to determine the shape and size of karst sinkhole depending on the karst cavity dimeter (radius), its depth, the base slope angle and the angle of internal friction of soils composing the slope.Materials and methods. The method of calculation of normal contact stresses in the sloping soil base under the bottom of the cross-beam foundation during the formation of karst sinkholes is given, considering three main cases of karst cavity location in the slope massif with the most unfavourable location of the karst cavity relative to the cross-beam foundation structures.Results. The analytical dependence allowing to determine the theoretical value of the design value of the diameter Lc of the cavity in the sloping base is obtained, as well as to establish the main design dependences for determining the normal contact stresses, which allow to estimate the changes in the VAT parameters of the cross-beam foundation operation after the cavity vault collapse and formation of a complex shape of the collapse funnel.Conclusions. The developed methodology is convenient to use for qualitative assessment of design solutions in the design of cross-beam foundations on a sloping base in karst-prone areas. The obtained variant design values of the main VAT parameters according to the proposed methodology will allow to apply rational design solutions in design.

To consider the complex soil-structure interaction in a pile-slope system, it is necessary to analyze the performance of pile-slope systems based on a three-dimensional (3D) numerical model. Reliability analysis of a pile-slope system based on 3D numerical modeling is very challenging because it is computationally expensive and the performance function of the pile failure mode is only defined in the safe domain of soil stability. In this paper, an efficient hybrid response surface method is suggested to study the system reliability of pile-reinforced slopes, where the support vector machine and the Kriging model are used to approximate performance functions of soil failure and pile failure, respectively. The versatility of the suggested method is illustrated in detail with an example. For the example examined in this paper, it is found that the pile failure can significantly contribute to system failure, and the reinforcement ratio can effectively reduce the probability of pile failure. There exists a critical reinforcement ratio beyond which the system failure probability is not sensitive to the reinforcement ratio. The pile spacing affects both the probabilities of soil failure and pile failure of the pile-reinforced slope. There exists an optimal location and an optimal length for the stabilizing piles.

The blood group system of human beings can impact the health and auditory system. There are correlations between various audiological test findings and blood groups. Studies have shown that persons with the O blood group have reduced resonance frequency of the middle ear and amplitude of otoacoustic emissions. Therefore, Otoacoustic emissions (OAE) results could be different across blood groups. The current study aimed to determine the difference in Distortion product otoacoustic emission input–output function in persons with varying groups of blood. A total of sixty college-going young female adults, aged between 18 and 25 years, participated in the current study. They were divided into four groups, each with 15 participants based on the blood group type (A, B. AB. O). The subjects underwent Distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) input–output function on the following frequencies: 703 Hz,1060 Hz,1416 Hz,2114 Hz,2827 Hz,4243 Hz, and 5645 Hz. The analysis showed no significant difference in the area and slope of the Distortion product otoacoustic emission input–output function at all frequencies. Thus, the study's result shows no effect of the blood group on Distortion product otoacoustic emission input- output function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurements of slope displacements can be effective tools for the early warning of the collapse of slopes under excavation in construction projects in mountainous areas, while evaluating of instability based on measured displacement has not yet been accomplished for slopes under excavation. Measurements of displacements on sandy soil slopes under multistep excavation were made, and the measured data were analyzed to determine the characteristics of creep deformation of the slope during and after the excavation and to establish a procedure for evaluating instability of the slope under excavation in this paper. The following facts were derived from the examination of the measured data. Displacement was generated significantly in the latter stage of excavation, and it was generated not only during excavation but also after excavation. The ratio of the displacement after excavation to that from the start of the excavation to the start of the next excavation became larger as the displacement developed immediately before failure. It indicates that creep displacement after the excavation was more significant at latter excavation just prior to failure. The normal displacement converged to constant as the shear displacement increased under a steady state immediately before the failure in direct shear conditions, and the normal displacement can be an indicator of the instability of the slope. The normal displacement cannot remain constant when the inclination of the slope surface is different from that of the slip surface in the excavated slope in this paper. Different indicators are necessary in this case. The angle α between the slope surface and synthetic displacement (RD) on the slope derived from measured data was introduced instead of normal displacement. The synthetic displacement (RD) on the slope indicated the scalar of the synthesis of the displacements normal and downward to the surface of the slope and surface displacement. It converged to constant after excavation immediately before failure, and shear displacement showed an accelerative increase for constant α. This indicated that the angle α could be an indicator of the instability of the slope. This result showed that the angle α being constant indicated that the stress condition was almost in failure and the displacement increased acceleratively. Further examinations based on the measured data on other slope under excavation should be necessary for confirming the results in this paper based on only a case of experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2022 Paktika earthquake (moment magnitude: 6.2) occurred on June 22, 2022, near the border between the Khost and Paktika Provinces of Afghanistan, causing heavy damage and casualties in Paktika Province. This study evaluated the crustal deformation and associated strong motions induced by the Paktika earthquake. Crustal deformations were determined using the Differential Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (DInSAR) technique and three-dimensional finite element method (3DFEM) and the results were compared. The permanent ground displacements obtained from the DInSAR and 3D-FEM analyses were similar in terms of amplitude and areal distribution. Strong motions were estimated using the 3D-FEM with and without considering regional topography. The estimations of maximum ground acceleration, velocity, and permanent ground deformations were compared among each other as well as with those inferred from failures of some simple structures in the Spera and Gayan districts. The inferred maximum ground acceleration and velocity from the failed adobe structures were more than 300 Gal and 50 cm/s, respectively, nearly consistent with the estimates obtained using empirical methods. The empirical method yielded a maximum ground acceleration of 347 Gal, whereas the maximum ground velocity was approximately 50 cm/s. In light of these findings, some surface expressions of crustal deformations and strong ground motions, such as failures of soil and rock slopes and rockfalls, have been presented. The rock slope failures in the epicentral area were consistent with those observed during various earthquakes in Afghanistan and worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rigid pavements and rigid base supporting rails can be considered as a strip footing resting over an embankment. In addition, there can also be single or double-strip footings resting over an embankment. These strip footings are influenced by the properties of the soil, slope angle of an embankment, setback distance, and spacing between the footings and the height of embankment. In this study, the bearing capacity factors for the single- and double-strip footings resting over an embankment are evaluated using the finite element method (FEM). The bearing capacity factors N c ′ and N γ ′ are evaluated for different soil friction angles (ϕ) , slope angles of embankment (β) , setback distances (S) , embankment heights (D) and spacing between the footings (t). Considering the practical aspect, i.e., the surcharge is not present for footing on an embankment, the N q ′ is not evaluated in the study. Based on the analysis, it is observed that the bearing capacity factors N c ′ and N γ ′ increase with increase in friction angle of the soil and setback distance and reduce with increase in the slope angle of the embankment. The effect of depth of embankment on the N c ′ and N γ ′ is negligible for smaller friction angles (ϕ ≤ 2 0 ∘) , whereas it increases marginally for higher friction angles (ϕ > 2 0 ∘). Furthermore, the N c ′ and N γ ′ are influenced by the spacing between the footings. This study's results are compared with the results available in the literature. This study's results are presented as design charts, and these could be adopted in the practice in routine designs of shallow foundations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Banana (Musa sp.) is one of the world’s most planted and consumed crops. Analysis of plantations using a geospatial perspective is growing in Costa Rica, and it can be used to optimize environmental analysis. The aim of this study was to propose a methodology to identify areas prone to water accumulation to quantify nitrate concentrations using geospatial modeling techniques in a 40 ha section of a banana plantation located in Siquirres, Limón, Costa Rica. A total of five geomorphometric variables (Slope, Slope Length factor (LS factor), Terrain Ruggedness Index (TRI), Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), and Flow Accumulation) were selected in the geospatial model. A 9 cm resolution digital elevation model (DEM) derived from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) was employed to calculate geomorphometric variables. ArcGIS 10.6 and SAGA GIS 7.8.2 software were used in the data integration and analysis. The results showed that Slope and Topographic Wetness Index (TWI) are the geomorphometric parameters that better explained the areas prone to water accumulation and indicated which drainage channels are proper areas to sample nitrate values. The average nitrate concentration in high-probability areas was 8.73 ± 1.53 mg/L, while in low-probability areas, it was 11.28 ± 2.49 mg/L. Despite these differences, statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in nitrate concentrations between high- and low-probability areas. The method proposed here allows us to obtain reliable results in banana fields worldwide.

The work investigates the rolling dynamics of a dynamically symmetrical heavy sphere (or a heavy spherical shell) along an inclined rough plane (platform) rotating with constant or periodic angular velocity around an axis, which is perpendicular to the plane and passing through some fixed point of this plane. Nonholonomic and holonomic constraints are imposed at the point of contact of the sphere with the reference plane. The equations of motion of the sphere are constructed. In the case of the constant angular velocity of the plane at any slope and in the case of the periodic angular velocity of the plane located horizontally the boundedness of the velocities of the geometric center of the sphere is proved. Moreover, in the case of the constant angular velocity of the plane, solutions are found analytically. Based on numerical integration, it is shown that for the periodic angular velocity of the plane and for the nonzero slope the square of the velocity vector of the geometric center of the sphere increases indefinitely. Two controls for the slope of the plane proportional to the projections of the velocity vector of the sphere on the coordinate axes lying in the reference plane are introduced. In the case of the constant angular velocity of the plane, a qualitative analysis of the equations of motion has been carried out, the control parameters at which the square of the velocity vector of the geometric center of the sphere will be bounded and at which it will be unbounded have been analytically found. The results of this control are presented for the case of periodic angular velocity of the plane. It is shown that by controlling the slope of the plane, it is possible to achieve the boundedness of the square of the velocity vector of the geometric center of the sphere. The obtained results are illustrated, the trajectories of the contact point and graphs of the desired mechanical parameters are constructed.

This study aims to investigate the stability problems of high road embankment slopes in the Republic of Moldova, revealing shortcomings of classical methods. The authors propose a solution by using the RG system, equipped with specialized vibration drilling equipment from "RTG RAMMTECHNIC Gmbh". The method provides for the creation of piles in deep boreholes using the vibrating d, filling the cavities with soil, with subsequent compaction of soil in stages. Experimental field and laboratory research has demonstrated the effectiveness of this method. The results showed significant improvements in soil properties: increased density, strength, and deformation characteristics. The proposed technology offers advantages such as: increased load-bearing capacity of the soil-pile massif, practically complete elimination of dynamic effects on the ground and structures located in close proximity to the construction site, reduced manual labor costs, and a decrease in the overall cost of the construction work. The study aimed the application of this method in Moldova's road construction, highlighting its potential to counteract slope deformations caused by the action of various factors of any nature. The authors suggest the need for further research for refine the methodology, assess economic feasibility, and perform stress-strain analysis using the Finite Element Method. The study was concluded by outlining plans for future research on embankment slopes stabilized by soil piles using the RG installation.

In our study, we examined the influence of slope gradient on erosion processes and present soil formation and change on loess hills. We analysed data from the two study areas and found that slope gradient is a significant factor influencing soil depth as well as humus horizon thickness. At the Báb locality, we observed a negative correlation between slope gradient and soil depth (r = –0.206, p < 0.05) and a negative correlation between slope gradient and humus horizon thickness (r = –0.227, p < 0.01). At the Nová Vieska locality, there was a negative correlation between slope gradient and soil depth (r = –0.334, p < 0.02), as well as between slope gradient and humus horizon thickness (r = –0.356, p < 0.01). These findings confirm that slope gradient is a key factor influencing soil formation in loess hills, and has a significant impact on its depth and soil profile. The analysis revealed that a critical slope of 3° significantly influences soil formation, with shallower soils and a thinner humus horizon occurring on steeper slopes. Our findings have important implications for planning erosion control measures and soil management depending on the location and slope gradient. Overall, our work provides insights into soil formation processes in loess hills and contributes to a better understanding of the interactions between slope gradient and erosive processes.

In East Java, forest degradation on the slopes resulted landslides during rainy seasons, because of a farming change toward mountainous terrain. Government encouraged community to build agroforestry systems using Hibiscus macrophyllus, therefore this study examined the H. macrophyllus growth on slopes from 15° to 75° in two trials from 6 months to three years, using a variety of eight seed sources. The objectives of this study were to determine the growth responses of H. macrophyllus of various ages on various land slopes in two locations (Mount Kawi and Mount Willis). The trials in two locations were established by Incomplete Block Design (IBD) comprising of 4-6 replications with 50 open pollinated families from 8 seed sources. In both trials, this plant was grown alongside agricultural crops. The General Linear Model (GLM) was used to analyse the growth data from two trials to identify variations in plant age, location, slopes and seed sources. The results showed that growth was significantly different between locations, slopes, seed source and ages. It was found that there was an interaction between site and slope. Height varies, with three times more in Willis (72.6 cm) than in Kawi (26.05 cm). Dramatic changes in slopes, induce more than doubled the height between 75° and 30° slope, which influence considerable wood biomass volume at the end. Increasing growth occurred from 6 months to 3 years i.e.: >7.5 times for height and >6.5 times for diameter. This fast growth at 3 years immediately benefits in ameliorating the mountainside ecosystem. Seed sources perform differently, and considerable variances also occur between families. Comparison between the lowest and greatest seed sources were 40% greater in height and 9% in diameter, indicating that seed sources, as well as family selection, should be considered. The best growth response of H. macrophyllus was found at Willis after 3 years at 30° slope.

Abstract Mallards inhabit soft grounds such as mudflats, marshes, and beaches, demonstrating remarkable proficiency in traversing these grounds. This adeptness is closely linked to the adjustments in the operation of their hindlimbs. This study employs high-speed videography to observe postural adjustments during locomotion across mudflats. Analysis of spatiotemporal parameters of the hindlimbs reveals transient and continuous changes in joints (tarsometatarso-phalangeal joint (TMTPJ), intertarsal joint (ITJ), knee, and hip) during movement on different ground hardness and slope (horizontal and uphill). The results indicate that as the stride length of the mallard increases, its speed also increases. Additionally, the stance phase duration decreases, leading to a decrease in the duty factor. Reduced ground hardness and increased slope lead to delayed adjustment of the TMTPJ, ITJ, and knee. Mallards adjust their stride length by augmenting ITJ flexion on steeper slopes, while reduced hardness prompts a decrease in TMTPJ flexion at touch-down. Additionally, the hip undergoes two brief extensions during the stance phase, indicating its crucial role in posture adjustment and propulsion on uphill grounds. Overall, the hindlimb joints of the mallard function as a whole musculoskeletal system, with each joint employing a distinct strategy for adjusting to adapt to various ground conditions.

The research focuses on solving the important problem of slope stability in the field of civil engineering. The study adopted an advanced strength double reduction coefficient method for slope stability analysis, which considers the different influence weights of cohesion and internal friction angle, and reduces them with different reduction coefficients to describe the stability of the slope. The simulation experiment results indicate that the attenuation degree of cohesion and internal friction angle affects slope stability. When the reduction coefficient of cohesion increases to 1.737 and the reduction coefficient of internal friction angle increases to 1.201, the slope is prone to instability and failure, and the safety factor of the calculated result is 1.493. Moreover, when the anti-slip pile is set in the middle of the slope (1/2), and the slope is in a critical state, the bending moment and shear force suffered by the anti-slip pile are both maximum, so the reinforcement effect is also the best.

This study examines the spatial distribution of soil types and their susceptibility to erosion and accumulation processes in a study area in Slovakia. Field research involving 71 probes identified various soil types, with Regosols and Cutanic Luvisols being predominant. The study found that erosion-accumulation processes were detected in 69.97% of the probes, with changes observed in soil horizons. Soil analysis revealed different relations between soil depth, humus thickness, and terrain characteristics such as slope, slope length, and slope length and steepness factor (LS factor). Specifically, we confirmed a moderately strong positive correlation between soil depth and humus thickness (r = 0.597, n = 71, p < 0.001). Shallow soils (0–30 cm) exhibited a very strong positive correlation between soil depth and humus horizon thickness (r = 0.978, n = 33, p < 0.001). Conversely, no relationship was found in moderately deep soils (30–60 cm) (r = 0.018, n = 14, p < 0.948). For deep soils, we identified a moderately strong positive correlation (r = 0.345, n = 24, p = 0.098). While slope and slope length showed relationships with soil depth and humus thickness, the LS factor did not exhibit a clear correlation. These findings underscore the importance of understanding soil dynamics in informing land management practices, especially in areas susceptible to erosion. Recommendations include continued monitoring of eroded soils and implementing erosion control measures to maintain soil health and sustainability in agricultural production amidst climate change challenges.