Mathematical and Computational Applications — Open Access Journal

The study of synchronization in complex networks is useful for understanding a variety of systems, including neural systems. However, the properties of the transition to synchronization are still not well known. In this work, we analyze the details of the transition to synchronization in complex networks composed of bursting oscillators under small-world and scale-free topologies using recurrence quantification analysis, specifically the determinism. We demonstrate the existence of non-stationarity states in the transition region. In the small-world network, the transition region denounces the existence of two-state intermittency. Full article

The industrial application motivating this work is the fatigue computation of aircraft engines’ high-pressure turbine blades. The material model involves nonlinear elastoviscoplastic behavior laws, for which the parameters depend on the temperature. For this application, the temperature loading is not accurately known and can reach values relatively close to the creep temperature: important nonlinear effects occur and the solution strongly depends on the used thermal loading. We consider a nonlinear reduced order model able to compute, in the exploitation phase, the behavior of the blade for a new temperature field loading. The sensitivity of the solution to the temperature makes the classical unenriched proper orthogonal decomposition method fail. In this work, we propose a new error indicator, quantifying the error made by the reduced order model in computational complexity independent of the size of the high-fidelity reference model. In our framework, when the error indicator becomes larger than a given tolerance, the reduced order model is updated using one time step solution of the high-fidelity reference model. The approach is illustrated on a series of academic test cases and applied on a setting of industrial complexity involving five million degrees of freedom, where the whole procedure is computed in parallel with distributed memory. Full article

The present work addresses a solution algorithm for homogenization problems based on an artificial neural network (ANN) discretization. The core idea is the construction of trial functions through ANNs that fulfill a priori the periodic boundary conditions of the microscopic problem. A global potential serves as an objective function, which by construction of the trial function can be optimized without constraints. The aim of the new approach is to reduce the number of unknowns as ANNs are able to fit complicated functions with a relatively small number of internal parameters. We investigate the viability of the scheme on the basis of one-, two- and three-dimensional microstructure problems. Further, global and piecewise-defined approaches for constructing the trial function are discussed and compared to finite element (FE) and fast Fourier transform (FFT) based simulations. Full article

The statement of the eigenvalue problem for a tensor–block matrix of any order and of any
even rank is formulated. It is known that the eigenvalues of the tensor and the tensor–block matrix
are invariant quantities. Therefore, in this work, our goal is to find the expression for the velocities of
wave propagation of some medias through the eigenvalues of the material objects. In particular, we
consider the classical and micropolar materials with the different anisotropy symbols and for them
we determine the expressions for the velocities of wave propagation through the eigenvalues of the
material objects. Full article

In this study, free vibration behaviors of various embedded nanowires made of different materials are investigated by using Eringen’s nonlocal elasticity theory. Silicon carbide nanowire (SiCNW), silver nanowire (AgNW), and gold nanowire (AuNW) are modeled as Euler–Bernoulli nanobeams with various boundary conditions such as simply supported (S-S), clamped simply supported (C-S), clamped–clamped (C-C), and clamped-free (C-F). The interactions between nanowires and medium are simulated by the Winkler elastic foundation model. The Galerkin weighted residual method is applied to the governing equations to gain stiffness and mass matrices. The results are given by tables and graphs. The effects of small-scale parameters, boundary conditions, and foundation parameters on frequencies are examined in detail. In addition, the influence of temperature change on the vibrational responses of the nanowires are also pursued as a case study. Full article

The study of large arrays of coupled excitable systems has largely benefited from a technique proposed by Ott and Antonsen, which results in a low dimensional system of equations for the system’s order parameter. In this work, we show how to explicitly introduce a variable describing the global synaptic activation of the network into these family of models. This global variable is built by adding realistic synaptic time traces. We propose that this variable can, under certain conditions, be a good proxy for the local field potential of the network. We report experimental, in vivo, electrophysiology data supporting this claim. Full article

In this study, we investigate the existence of chaos in global cryptocurrency market. Specifically, we analyze parameters of chaotic order, nonlinearity, sensitivity to the initial conditions, monofractality, and multifractality. For this purpose, we conduct a comprehensive series of tests, including Brock–Dechert–Scheinkman (BDS) test, largest Lyapunov exponent, box-counting, and monogram analysis for fractal dimension, and multiple tests for long-range dependence (Aggregated Variances, Peng, Higuchi, R/S Analysis, and Multifractal Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (MFDFA)). All tests are performed over a variety of major cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, and Ripple. The empirical results support the existence of chaos in cryptocurrency market. Accordingly, cryptocurrency returns are not random and follow a chaotic order. Therefore, long term predictions are not possible, contrary to most of the discussions ongoing in the media and the public. Full article

In this paper, function approximation is utilized to establish functional series approximations to integrals. The starting point is the definition of a dual Taylor series, which is a natural extension of a Taylor series, and spline based series approximation. It is shown that a spline based series approximation to an integral yields, in general, a higher accuracy for a set order of approximation than a dual Taylor series, a Taylor series and an antiderivative series. A spline based series for an integral has many applications and indicative examples are detailed. These include a series for the exponential function, which coincides with a Padé series, new series for the logarithm function as well as new series for integral defined functions such as the Fresnel Sine integral function. It is shown that these series are more accurate and have larger regions of convergence than corresponding Taylor series. The spline based series for an integral can be used to define algorithms for highly accurate approximations for the logarithm function, the exponential function, rational numbers to a fractional power and the inverse sine, inverse cosine and inverse tangent functions. These algorithms are used to establish highly accurate approximations for π and Catalan’s constant. The use of sub-intervals allows the region of convergence for an integral approximation to be extended. Full article

This paper deals with a parallel hybrid excitation synchronous machine (HESM). First, an expanded literature review of hybrid/double excitation machines is provided. Then, the structural topology and principles of operation of the hybrid excitation machine are examined. With the aim of validating the double excitation principle of the topology studied in this paper, the construction of a prototype is presented. In addition, both the 3D finite element method (FEM) and 3D magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) model are used to model the machine. The flux control capability in the open-circuit condition and results of the developed models are validated by comparison with experimental measurements. The reluctance network model is created from a mesh of the studied domain. The meshing technique aims to combine advantages of finite element modeling, i.e., genericity and expert magnetic equivalent circuit models, i.e., reduced computation time. It also allows taking the non-linear characteristics of ferromagnetic materials into consideration. The machine prototype is tested to validate the predicted results. By confronting results from both modeling techniques and measurements, it is shown that the magnetic equivalent circuit model exhibits fairly accurate results when compared to the 3D finite element method with a gain in computation time. Full article

The statement of the eigenvalue problem for a tensor–block matrix (TBM) of any order and of any even rank is formulated, and also some of its special cases are considered. In particular, using the canonical presentation of the TBM of the tensor of elastic modules of the micropolar theory, in the canonical form the specific deformation energy and the constitutive relations are written. With the help of the introduced TBM operator, the equations of motion of a micropolar arbitrarily anisotropic medium are written, and also the boundary conditions are written down by means of the introduced TBM operator of the stress and the couple stress vectors. The formulations of initial-boundary value problems in these terms for an arbitrary anisotropic medium are given. The questions on the decomposition of initial-boundary value problems of elasticity and thin body theory for some anisotropic media are considered. In particular, the initial-boundary problems of the micropolar (classical) theory of elasticity are presented with the help of the introduced TBM operators (tensors–operators). In the case of an isotropic micropolar elastic medium (isotropic and transversely isotropic classical media), the TBM operator (tensors–operators) of cofactors to TBM operators (tensors–tensors) of the initial-boundary value problems are constructed that allow decomposing initial-boundary value problems. We also find the determinant and the tensor of cofactors to the sum of six tensors used for decomposition of initial-boundary value problems. From three-dimensional decomposed initial-boundary value problems, the corresponding decomposed initial-boundary value problems for the theories of thin bodies are obtained. Full article

Malaria is a deadly infectious disease, which is transmitted to humans via the bites of infected female mosquitoes. Antimalarial drug resistance has been identified as one of the characteristics of malaria that complicates control efforts. Typically, the use of insecticide-treated bed-nets (ITNs) and drug treatment are some of the recommended control strategies against malaria. Here, the use of ITNs, drug treatment, and their efficacies and evolution of antimalarial drug resistance are considered to be the major driving forces in the dynamics of malaria transmissions. We formulate a mathematical model of two-strain malaria to assess the impacts of ITNs, drug treatment, and their efficacies on the transmission dynamics of the disease in a human population. We propose a simple mosquito biting rate function that depends on both the proportion of ITN usage and its efficacy. We show that both disease-free and co-existence equilibrium points are globally-asymptotically stable where they exist. The global uncertainty and sensitivity analysis conducted show that if about 95% of malaria cases can be treated with fewer than 5% treatment failure in a population with 95% ITN usage that remains 95% effective, malaria can be controlled. We find that the order in which numerous intervention measures are taken is important. Full article

An investigation of how the velocity of elasto-viscous fluid past an infinite plate, with slip and variable temperature, is influenced by combined thermal-radiative diffusion effects has been carried out. The study of dynamics of a flow model leads to the generation of characteristic fluid parameters ($G_r$, $G_m$, M, F, $S_c$ and $P_r$). The interaction of these parameters with elasto-viscous parameter $K^{{}^{\prime }}$ is probed to describe how certain parametric range and conditions could be pre-decided to enhance the flow speed past a channel. In particular, the flow dynamics’ alteration in correspondence to the slip parameter’s choice, along with temperature provision to the boundary in temporal pattern, is determined through uniquely calculated exact expressions of velocity, temperature and mass concentration of the fluid. The complex multi-parametric model has been analytically solved using the Laplace and Inverse Laplace transform. Through study of calculated exact expressions, an identification of variables, adversely (M, F, $S_c$ and $P_r$) and favourably ($G_r$ and $G_m$) affecting the flow speed and temperature has been made. The accuracy of our results have also been tested by computing matching numerical solutions and by graphical reasoning. The verification of existing results of Newtonian fluid with varying boundary condition of velocity and temperature has also been completed, affirming the veracity of present results. Full article

The solution of structural problems with nonlinear material behaviour in a model order reduction framework is investigated in this paper. In such a framework, greedy algorithms or adaptive strategies are interesting as they adjust the reduced order basis (ROB) to the problem of interest. However, these greedy strategies may lead to an excessive increase in the size of the ROB, i.e., the solution is no more represented in its optimal low-dimensional expansion. Here, an optimised strategy is proposed to maintain, at each step of the greedy algorithm, the lowest dimension of a Proper Generalized Decomposition (PGD) basis using a randomised Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) algorithm. Comparing to conventional approaches such as Gram–Schmidt orthonormalisation or deterministic SVD, it is shown to be very efficient both in terms of numerical cost and optimality of the ROB. Examples with different mesh densities are investigated to demonstrate the numerical efficiency of the presented method. Full article

In the context of mathematical models applied to social sciences, we present and analyze a model based on differential equations for the intimate partner violence (IPV). Such a model describes the dynamics of a heterosexual romantic couple in which the man perpetrates violence against the woman. We focus on incorporating different key factors reported in the literature as causal or motivational factors to perpetrate IPV. Among the main factors included are the failures in self-regulation, the man’s need to control the woman, the social pressure on the woman to remain married, and empowerment programs. Another aspect that we include is periodic alcohol consumption for the man. The discussion of the model includes a stability analysis of its equilibrium points and the asymptotic behavior of its solutions. Also, the interpretation of results is presented in terms of IPV phenomenon. Finally, a brief review is given on different scales to quantify human behavioral traits and numerical simulations for some IPV scenarios. Full article

This paper concerns the modeling of eddy current losses in conductive materials in the vicinity of a high-frequency transformer; more specifically, in two-dimensional problems where a high ratio between the object dimensions and the skin-depth exists. The analysis is performed using the Spectral Element Method (SEM), where high order Legendre–Gauss–Lobatto polynomials are applied to increase the accuracy of the results with respect to the Finite Element Method (FEM). A convergence analysis is performed on a two-dimensional benchmark system, for both the SEM and FEM. The benchmark system consists of a high-frequency transformer confined by a conductive cylinder and is free of complex geometrical shapes. Two different objectives are investigated. First, the discretizations at which the relative error with respect to a reference solution is minimized are compared. Second, the discretizations at which the trade-off between computational effort and accuracy is optimized are compared. The results indicated that by applying the SEM to the two-dimensional benchmark system, a higher accuracy per degree of freedom and significantly lower computation time are obtained with respect to the FEM. Therefore, the SEM is proven to be particularly useful for this type of problem. Full article

As required by regulations, Finite Element Analyses (FEA) can be used to investigate the behavior of joints which might be complex to design due to the presence of geometrical and material discontinuities. The static behavior of such problems is mesh dependent, thus these results must be calibrated by using laboratory tests or reference data. Once the Finite Element (FE) model is correctly setup, the same settings can be used to study joints for which no reference is available. The present work analyzes the static strength of reinforced T-joints and sheds light on the following aspects: shell elements are a valid alternative to solid modeling; the best combination of element type and mesh density for several configurations is shown; the ultimate static strength of joints can be predicted, as well as when mechanical properties are roughly introduced for some FE topologies. The increase in strength of 12 unreinforced and reinforced (with collar or doubler plate) T-joints subjected to axial brace loading is studied. The present studies are compared with the literature and practical remarks are given in the conclusion section. Full article

This article presents an algorithm for solving the unsteady problem of one-dimensional coupled thermoelastic diffusion perturbations propagation in a multicomponent isotropic half-space, as a result of surface and bulk external effects. One-dimensional physico-mechanical processes, in a continuum, have been described by a local-equilibrium model, which included the coupled linear equations of an elastic medium motion, heat transfer, and mass transfer. The unknown functions of displacement, temperature, and concentration increments were sought in the integral form, which was a convolution of the surface and bulk Green’s functions and external effects functions. The Laplace transform on time and the Fourier sine and cosine transforms on the coordinate were used to find the Green’s functions. The obtained Green’s functions was analyzed. Test calculations were performed on the examples of some technological processes. Full article

We studied the properties of generalized solutions in unbounded domains and the asymptotic behavior of solutions of elliptic boundary value problems at infinity. Moreover, we studied the unique solvability of the mixed Dirichlet–Steklov-type and Steklov-type biharmonic problems in the exterior of a compact set under the assumption that generalized solutions of these problems has a bounded Dirichlet integral with weight ${\left|x\right|}^a$. Depending on the value of the parameter a, we obtained uniqueness (non-uniqueness) theorems of these problems or present exact formulas for the dimension of the space of solutions. Full article

This paper presents a two-dimensional analytical model of outer rotor permanent magnet machines equipped with surface inset permanent magnets. To obtain the analytical model, the whole model is divided into the sub-domains, according to the magnetic properties and geometries. Maxwell equations in each sub-domain are expressed and analytically solved. By using the boundary/interface conditions between adjacent sub-regions, integral coefficients in the general solutions are obtained. At the end, the analytically calculated results of the air-gap magnetic flux density, electromagnetic torque, unbalanced magnetic force (UMF), back-electromotive force (EMF) and inductances are verified by comparing them with those obtained from finite element method (FEM). One of the merits of this method in comparison with the numerical model is the capability of rapid calculation with the highest precision, which made it suitable for optimization problems. Full article