With the advent of Industry 4.0, smart construction sites have seen significant development in China. However, accidents involving digitized tower cranes continue to be a persistent issue. Among the contributing facto...With the advent of Industry 4.0, smart construction sites have seen significant development in China. However, accidents involving digitized tower cranes continue to be a persistent issue. Among the contributing factors, human unsafe behavior stands out as a primary cause for these incidents. This study aims to assess the human reliability of tower crane operations on smart construction sites. To proactively enhance safety measures, the research employs text mining techniques (TF-IDF-Truncated SVD-Complement NB) to identify patterns of human errors among tower crane operators. Building upon the SHEL model, the study categorizes behavioral factors affecting human reliability in the man-machine interface, leading to the establishment of the Performance Shaping Factors (PSFs) system. Furthermore, the research constructs an error impact indicator system for the intelligent construction site tower crane operator interface. Using the DEMATEL method, it analyzes the significance of various factors influencing human errors in tower crane operations. Additionally, the ISM-MICMAC method is applied to unveil the hierarchical relationships and driving-dependent connections among these influencing factors. The findings indicate that personal state, operating procedures, and physical environment directly impact human errors, while personal capability, technological environment, and one fundamental organizational management factor contribute indirectly. .展开更多
Poyang Lake is a very important wintering place for cranes in China and East Asia.Two crane surveys were conducted at Poyang Lake during the 2011/2012 winter,the first on 18-19 December 2011 and the second on 18-19 Fe...Poyang Lake is a very important wintering place for cranes in China and East Asia.Two crane surveys were conducted at Poyang Lake during the 2011/2012 winter,the first on 18-19 December 2011 and the second on 18-19 February 2012.The survey covered the entire Poyang Lake basin,as well as two main lakes in Jiujiang (Saicheng Hu and Chi Hu),i.e.,a total of 85 sub-lakes were surveyed.Both surveys recorded four species of cranes.The first survey on 18-19 December 2011 recorded 4577 Siberian Cranes (Grus leucogeranus),mostly in Bang Hu,Sha Hu and Dahu Chi,302 Hooded Cranes (G.monacha),885 White-naped Cranes (G.vipio) and 8408 Eurasian Cranes (G.grus),for the most part in the center of the lake basin.The second survey on 18-19 February 2012 recorded 3335 Siberian Cranes (mostly in Poyang Lake National Nature Reserve (PLNR) and its surrounding areas),110 Hooded Cranes (largely in PLNR and its surrounding areas),283 White-naped Cranes (86% in Bang Hu) and 2205 Eurasian Cranes (particularly in Duchang and Nanjishan NNR).The number of Siberian Cranes enumerated in December was 1000 more than the second count in February 2012.It is not possible to rule out double counting due to the close proximity of the main sites of the Siberian Cranes.During winters from 1998 to 2009,the average of the highest counts each winter was 3091,ranging from 2345 in 1996 to 4004 in 2002.By comparison with counts taken at other times,we therefore estimate a wintering population of Siberian Cranes of ~3800-4000 at Poyang Lake.Additional evidence will be needed to raise the world population estimate.Our more recent surveys indicate a continuing decline in the number of White-naped Cranes and an increase in Eurasian Cranes.展开更多
Wetlands worldwide have suffered from serious degradation and transformation,leading to waterbirds increasingly dependent on agricultural fields for feeding.Although gut microbiota is an essential component of host he...Wetlands worldwide have suffered from serious degradation and transformation,leading to waterbirds increasingly dependent on agricultural fields for feeding.Although gut microbiota is an essential component of host health,the impacts of agricultural feeding on gut microbial community and pathogen transmission remain poorly understood.To fill this knowledge gap,we used 16S rRNA sequencing to characterize the fecal bacterial community of the Siberian Crane(Grus leucogeranus),a Critically Endangered species,that recently has shifted its foraging from largely Vallisneria tubers in Poyang Lake natural wetlands to crops(i.e.,rice seeds and lotus rhizomes) in agricultural fields.We compared the bacterial communities between tuber foraging cranes and crop foraging cranes.Our results indicate that diet shift greatly modified the gut microbiota diversity,composition and function.Crop foraging cranes had higher microbiota diversity than tuber foraging cranes.The alteration in microbiota composition and function were correlated with change in food nutrition.Tuber(i.e.,high in fiber)foraging cranes were enriched in Clostridiaceae with fiber digestion ability,and crop(i.e.,high in carbohydrate)foraging cranes were enriched in bacterial taxa and functions related to carbohydrate metabolism.The flexibility of gut microbiota might enhance Siberian Cranes’ ability to adapt to novel diet and environment.However,many enriched families in crop foraging cranes were pathogenic bacteria,which might increase the susceptibility of cranes to pathogenic infection.Special caution should be taken to agricultural feeding waterbirds in Asia,where the widespread poultry-keeping in over-harvested rice fields might increase the transmission probability of pathogenetic bacteria among wild birds,domestic poultry and humans.展开更多
Understanding the diet of threatened wildlife is vital for species-specific conservation and habitat management measures.The Red-crowned Crane(Grus japonensis)is a vulnerable bird distributed in Northeast Asia.Previou...Understanding the diet of threatened wildlife is vital for species-specific conservation and habitat management measures.The Red-crowned Crane(Grus japonensis)is a vulnerable bird distributed in Northeast Asia.Previous dietary studies of this bird focused mainly on its plant food composition based on field observations and microhistological identification.Herein,a total of 45 fecal samples were collected in November,December and January(15 fecal samples each month)from wintering cranes,and then subjected to a high throughput sequencing meta-barcoding approach to determine the primary plant(rbcL)and animal(COI)food items in their diet.A total of 230 operational taxonomic units(OTUs)of plant foods and 371 OTUs of animal foods were obtained.The main plant foods in the wintering period were Miscanthus,Zea,and Hordeum genera,which were similar to those in the breeding and the migration periods.Both agricultural and natural plants were detected,indicating a relatively broad dietary niche for this crane species.However,the main animal foods were representatives of Theridiidae,Megascolecidae,and Agelenidae,in sharp contrast to previous studies.The higher number of small terrestrial arthropods in animal foods might be due to the indirect intake of plants.The composition of both plant and animal foods in the diet showed the highest diversity in December,while it was homogeneous in January.The plant of Zea genus became the main source of nutrition in late winter,as supplementary feeding was performed in the reserve,which could help Red-crowned Cranes to get through the cold season.The results obtained in this work would contribute to the development of effective conservation strategies for the Red-crowned Crane.展开更多
This paper presents a case study on the repair of a mechanical component of an overhead crane.The problem was initially identified through on-site inspection and analysis of the crane’s performance.The mechanical par...This paper presents a case study on the repair of a mechanical component of an overhead crane.The problem was initially identified through on-site inspection and analysis of the crane’s performance.The mechanical part was found damaged,leading to safety concerns and operational inefficiencies.The paper details the process of diagnosing the issue,developing a repair plan,and executing the repair work.The repair plan involved replacing the damaged component with a new one and conducting additional maintenance work to ensure optimal performance.The paper also discusses the outcomes of the repair work,which led to improved safety and increased efficiency of the overhead crane.The case study provides insights into the importance of regular maintenance and on-site inspections in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of mechanical systems.展开更多
In order to measure the impact of changes in the marsh on breeding Red-crowned Cranes (Grus japonensis) and White-naped Cranes (G.vipio) in the Sanjiang Plain,we conducted a complete crane súrvey in each of the s...In order to measure the impact of changes in the marsh on breeding Red-crowned Cranes (Grus japonensis) and White-naped Cranes (G.vipio) in the Sanjiang Plain,we conducted a complete crane súrvey in each of the summers of 2007 and 2008,and obtained information on the changes in its marsh through interpretation of satellite images in 1986,1995,2000 and 2005.A comparison between the 1984 and 2008 census shows that:1) the number of Red-crowned Cranes remained stable at about 300 birds,while the number of White-naped Cranes increased markedly; 2) the estimates of nests of Red-crowned cranes are close to the numbers of 1984,while approximately 90% of the nests of these two crane species were distributed over five national nature reserves (NNRs); 3) the two crane species became more concentrated in three regions,i.e.,the Fuyuan Delta,the middle reaches of the Naoli and Qixing rivers,and the Xingkai Lake wetlands,rather as formerly in six regions.The area of the marsh decreased by 45% within the 20-year period from 1986 to 2005.The major loss of the marsh area was in the form of a conversion to paddy fields and dry land,which can be primarily attributed to direct human activity under various economic and policy drivers.The disappearance of cranes in the Dulu and Abuqin rivers was induced by large-scale agricultural development.The fragmentation into and isolation of small areas of the marsh became increasingly more serious,which resulted in unsuitable condtions for crane breeding in small patches of the marsh.The number of cranes declined from 1984-1995 but had recovered remarkably by 2008,which may be due to theestablishment of a system of nature reserves,in place since 2000.The land ownership of the reserve plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the wetland ecosystem,especially in Sanjiang,Honghe,Naolihe and Qixinghe NNRs,which together accommodated approximately 80% of the population of cranes.However,we did not discover any nests at all in the provincial and municipal reserves,which may be attributed to high human disturbances in these areas.In the end,we propose some recommendations on reserve management.展开更多
A study was aimed to overlook biological status including egg hatching, diet and diseases of common, Grus grus L. and demoiselle, Anthropoidedes virgo L. cranes in captive form in the southern districts of the Norther...A study was aimed to overlook biological status including egg hatching, diet and diseases of common, Grus grus L. and demoiselle, Anthropoidedes virgo L. cranes in captive form in the southern districts of the Northern Pakistan. Field survey, questionnaire and interview with communities were the major tools for the data collection. Total 165 and 85 camps were visited, respectively, in fall, 2008 and spring, 2009. These camps were established in Baran dam, Kurram, Kashu, Kethu and Dowa in Bannu; and Gambilla, Lunder and Chall rivers in Lakki. The numbers of 1,650 hunters have 6,600 demoiselle and 3,300 common captive cranes in Bannu and Lakki, respectively. From 920 breeding pairs, 900 eggs were obtained, from which only 640 were hatched. Among natural foods of the cranes, snails, grasshoppers and earthworms, the pebbles were the most favorite foods. The young ones of cranes were fed on maize bread, eggs of insects and other small animals like wasp's larvae and grasshoppers by hunters. They faced the problems of development of feathers, trapping in mud and parasitic attack during their development. The cranes suffered from many diseases; head tumor, influenza and stomach blockage were the most common in the adults and young ones. The hunters used traditional things, garlic, coriander and brown sugar with antibiotics for treatments of diseases. Migratory cranes were found to be declining viewed by hunters in southern districts of Northern Pakistan. Knowledge about egg hatching, foods and diseases of common and demoiselle captive cranes, might be assisted in their conservation.展开更多
In order to study the fatigue behavior of the damaged reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened by carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminate, three T-shaped beams strengthened by CFRP and one contrasting b...In order to study the fatigue behavior of the damaged reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened by carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminate, three T-shaped beams strengthened by CFRP and one contrasting beam are tested under fatigue loading, with the parameters of different modes of strengthening and different fatigue load levels considered. The main results obtained from the tests are: the width of the crack decreases 50. 2% to 66%, and the development of the crack is limited; the stress of steel decreases 24. 1% to 28. 2%, and the stiffness increases 14.9% to 16. 1% after being strengthened. Based on the technical specification for strengthening concrete structures with CFRP and the conclusions from the tests, a calculating scheme of the flexure stiffness is given, which can be used for reference in engineering design. Finally, some suggestions are given for design in fatigue strengthening.展开更多
There is a lack of information of whether the behavior pattern and physical condition of the Hooded Crane (Grus monacha) have been limited by conditions encountered at stopover sites in Changgou village,which is adjac...There is a lack of information of whether the behavior pattern and physical condition of the Hooded Crane (Grus monacha) have been limited by conditions encountered at stopover sites in Changgou village,which is adjacent to Zhalong Nature Reserve in northeastern China,one of the most important stopover sites of this crane.The objective of our research was to investigatethe impact of human-caused disturbances on the Hooded Cranes.We investigated three behavior activities of the Hooded Cranes,i.e.,flying time,flushing distance and the duration of vigilance.The results indicate that the auditory stimuli caused by local people provoked the most pronounced disturbances to the Hooded Crane.Human-caused disturbances not only frequently interrupt the feeding process of the cranes,but also lead to an increase of 200% in the duration of their vigilance and a significant increase in flying time from 0.4 to 0.7 h (p < 0.05).In addition,high-intensity noise can cause larger flushing distances; foraging cranes will flush away by about 600 m when disturbed by the honking of vehicles.Whistles or shouts by local farmers in the field generated the largest sound intensity,about 120 dB,which caused a flushing distance of over 700 m.In order to reduce the negative effect of human-caused disturbances on these cranes,it is imperative to define a buffer zone around sensitive areas during the fall stopover period.To solve the conflict between the interest of farmers and the demand for crops on the part of the cranes requires financial compensation to the farmers for the crops consumed by the Hooded Crane in order to enhance the conservation of this vulnerable bird species.展开更多
Both the Siberian Crane(Leucogeranus leucogeranus) and Hooded Crane(Grus monacha) have limited population sizes and are considered endangered by domestic Chinese and international agencies.To document the current size...Both the Siberian Crane(Leucogeranus leucogeranus) and Hooded Crane(Grus monacha) have limited population sizes and are considered endangered by domestic Chinese and international agencies.To document the current size of their respective populations and characterize their groups,between October 2012 and April 2013 we undertook fieldwork at four nature reserve areas within the Poyang Lake wetlands.We divided Poyanghu National Nature Reserve(PYH) into the Wucheng(PWC) and Hengfeng areas(PHF),because each are each located in different counties.Our fieldwork showed that the Siberian Crane occurred mainly in PYH(364 in the PHF,158 in the PWC) and the Nanjishan Wetland National Nature Reserve(NJS,with 200 individuals).The Hooded Crane was mainly distributed in PYH(302 in the PHF and 154 in the PWC).Family groups accounted for more than 50% of the total number of groups among both species,with Hooded Cranes forming more family groups than Siberian Cranes.Typically,these groups were formed of two adults with one offspring(Siberian Crane),and two adults with two offspring(Hooded Crane),with the mean family group size of the Siberian Crane and Hooded Crane being respectively 2.65±0.53(n=43) and 3.09±0.86(n=47) individuals per group.The mean collective group size of the Siberian Crane and Hooded Crane included 28.09±24.94(n=23) and 28.94±27.97(n=16) individuals per group,respectively,with the proportion of juveniles among Hooded Cranes being more than double that seen among the Siberian Cranes.展开更多
This paper sets up a robotic manipulator model on slewing crane. The model can synthetically describe the dynamic behavior of the load of slewing crane in rotating, elevating and hoisting motions. The dynamic equation...This paper sets up a robotic manipulator model on slewing crane. The model can synthetically describe the dynamic behavior of the load of slewing crane in rotating, elevating and hoisting motions. The dynamic equations of the system are recursively derived by a Newton Euler method. The dynamic behavior of the load of slewing crane in rotating motion is simulated on a computer. The method of robotic dynamics to derive the dynamic equations of the swing of load is accurate and convenient and it has good regularity. The result of the study provides a base in theory on design of crane and an accurate mathematical model for controlling the swing of load.展开更多
In order to assess the effect of the observer distance on the behavior of Red-crowned Cranes (Grus japonensis),we studied their time budgets with a gradient of observer distances in Yancheng,China from December 2008 t...In order to assess the effect of the observer distance on the behavior of Red-crowned Cranes (Grus japonensis),we studied their time budgets with a gradient of observer distances in Yancheng,China from December 2008 to March 2009.Observer distance was classified into four levels,i.e.,< 200 m,200-300 m,300-400 m and > 400 m.The results indicated that cranes increased their vigilance when the observer was less than 300 m away.A safe distance for the observer was often as far as or more than 300 m.Cranes increased scan frequency when observers were within 200 m,whereas they prolonged the duration of their scan when observers were between 200 m and 300 m away,indicating two distinct vigilant strategies,given the observer distance.We suggest an observer distance of at least 300 m,in order to minimize the observer effect.展开更多
The Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis) is an endemic species of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau,with its population in Xinjiang largely found in the Kunlun and Altun mountain regions.A survey of the distribution,popula...The Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis) is an endemic species of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau,with its population in Xinjiang largely found in the Kunlun and Altun mountain regions.A survey of the distribution,population dynamics,flock size and behavior was conducted in Altun Mountain National Natural Reserve from September to November 2011.We investigated the size and distribution of its population in this area with a sample spot survey and by direct counting.We found Black-necked Cranes on the wetlands of Wuzunxiaoer,Yusup Aleksei,Yaziquan,Qimantag,Tula Ranch and elsewhere,where we recorded 126 individual birds of the species in Yixiekepati (37° 15′-37°23′N,90°11′-90°20′E,elevation 3903 m),the largest population we have observed in this area.In the reserve,the population consists of about 180-200 birds.Combined with previous records,we conclude that more than 260 Black-necked Cranes live in Xinjiang.Cranes gathered conspicuously in the middle of October where the highest number of birds appeared on 29 October.All of the cranes had migrated out of this area by 6 November.Time budgets and diurnal behavior rhythms of Blacknecked Cranes were observed in the Yixiekepati wetland at daylight (from 06:00 to 18:00).Foraging was the most prevalent type of behavior during the autumn period,accounting for 58.9% of the diurnal time budget,followed by preening (13.2%),vigilance (9.5%),walking (8.2%),flying (3.5%),resting (3.4%),chirping (2.7%) and other types of behavior (0.6%).展开更多
Stephen Crane is one of the greatest figures in the history of American literature and his novella The Open Boat is widely known by people all over the world as a representative work of Naturalism. This paper aims at ...Stephen Crane is one of the greatest figures in the history of American literature and his novella The Open Boat is widely known by people all over the world as a representative work of Naturalism. This paper aims at exploring Naturalism in Stephen Crane's The Open Boat,which will guide the readers to understand American Naturalism accurately and thoroughly. It firstly introduces the author and his novel The Open Boat. Secondly,it progressively dissects Naturalism. It not only analyses the general characteristics of Naturalism with details in The Open Boat,but also interprets the distinguishing features of American Naturalism so that readers can better understand the features of American Naturalism. Through textual perusal,it further studies the unique characteristics of Stephen Crane's Naturalism and lays particular emphasis on Crane's special concern on the awakening of humanity. It is hoped that this thesis can help readers get an in-depth comprehension of Naturalism and gain some inspiration from TheOpenBoat.展开更多
A significant negative aspect in the operation of bridge-type cranes are the technical problems associated with wear of the wheels and the crane track,which causes crane skewing.The main causes of crane skewing includ...A significant negative aspect in the operation of bridge-type cranes are the technical problems associated with wear of the wheels and the crane track,which causes crane skewing.The main causes of crane skewing include unevenness of the crane track,unequal loading of the traction drives depending on the position of the crane trolley,slips and different sizes of travel wheels and combinations of these causes.Firstly,this paper presents a design solution that can be used to detect the magnitude of mechanical stress and deformation of the steel structure of the crane,caused by the effects of skewing.The mechanical stress generated by the transverse forces of the deformed geometric shape of the crane bridge structure is recorded by mechanical stress detectors installed in the inner corners of the crane bridge.The resulting electrical signal from element mechanical voltage detectors,loaded by axial forces,can be used for feedback control of separate crane travel drives controlled by frequency converters.Secondly,this paper presents the calculation of the lateral transverse forces according to CSN 270103 and the determination of the values of mechanical stresses of the deformed steel structure of the crane bridge of a two-girder bridge crane using the finite element method in the program MSC.MARC 2019.Finally,this paper presents the structural and strength design of mechanical stress detectors and the conclusions of laboratory tests of axial force loading of mechanical stress detectors on the test equipment.At the same time,it presents records of the measured axial forces acting in the mechanical stress detectors,arising from the deformation and warping of the crane bridge by the known magnitude of the axial force acting on the crossbeam and from the deformation of the crane bridge caused by the crane operating modes.展开更多
The loss and degradation of wetlands have adversely affected waterbirds, which depend on wetland habitats. Interspecific competition has an important effect on habitat utilization of wintering waterbirds. Resource uti...The loss and degradation of wetlands have adversely affected waterbirds, which depend on wetland habitats. Interspecific competition has an important effect on habitat utilization of wintering waterbirds. Resource utilization, including partitioning, in degraded wetlands has become a hot issue in ecological studies of wintering waterbirds. In order to have an insight into the habitat utilization and resource partitioning between a Hooded Crane(Grus monacha) population and the guild of three goose species, i.e., Anser fabalis, A. albifrons and A. erythropus wintering in lake wetlands, we carried out a study at Shengjin Lake National Nature Reserve from November 2011 to April 2012. We surveyed the Hooded Cranes and goose guild foraging in various habitats during the wintering periods with a combined method of fixed route searching and fixed site observations. Resource partitioning was studied by means of calculating habitat utilization rates and the width and overlap of spatial niches. The results showed that the habitat utilization rate and the width of spatial niches of the Hooded Crane population and goose guild shifted with the season. The habitat utilization rates of the cranes in grasslands were high at all three wintering stages. The habitat utilization rates were 0.454, 0.435 and 0.959 respectively for the Hooded Cranes and 0.627, 0.491 and 0.616 for the goose guild. This suggests that the overlap in grasslands was higher between cranes and goose guild. Most habitats were accessible at the middle stage, so the width of the spatial niche of the cranes(1.099) and goose guild(1.133) both reached their peak at this stage. The greatest niche overlap was 0.914 for these two groups at the late stage, followed by 0.906 at the middle stage and the smallest was 0.854 at the early stage. Ecological response to the changes in habitats of wintering waterbirds was clearly shown in the dynamic variations of the niche of both the Hooded Cranes and the three goose species. Coexistence among waterbirds was achieved by regulation of niche width to reduce niche overlap and relieve interspecific resource partitioning.展开更多
This study was carried out to assess the biological status of two crane species, the Common Crane (Grus grus L.) and the Demoiselle Crane (Anthropoides virgo L.), with respect to the hunting pressure in two southern d...This study was carried out to assess the biological status of two crane species, the Common Crane (Grus grus L.) and the Demoiselle Crane (Anthropoides virgo L.), with respect to the hunting pressure in two southern districts of northern Pakistan, Bannu and Lakki. Field surveys, interviews and questionnaires were the major tools for data collection. We visited 165 hunting camps in the fall of 2008 and 85 in the spring of 2009 in the two districts. Of the hunters, most possessed wildlife permits for hunting and most people hunted for recreation. According to our survey, the population of two crane species is declining due to overhunting, destruction of natural habitats, anthropogenic activities and geographical factors. Suggestions for protection of the cranes are proposed.展开更多
Ship-mounted container cranes are challenging industrial applications of nonlinear pendulum-like systems with oscillating disturbance which can cause them unstable.Since wave-induced ship motion causes the hoisted con...Ship-mounted container cranes are challenging industrial applications of nonlinear pendulum-like systems with oscillating disturbance which can cause them unstable.Since wave-induced ship motion causes the hoisted container to swing during the transfer operation,the swing motion may be dangerously large and the operation must be stopped.In order to reduce payload pendulation of ship-mounted crane,nonlinear dynamics of ship-mounted crane is derived and a control method using T-S fuzzy model is proposed.Simulation results are given to illustrate the validity of the proposed design method and pendulation of ship-mounted crane is reduced significantly.展开更多
文摘With the advent of Industry 4.0, smart construction sites have seen significant development in China. However, accidents involving digitized tower cranes continue to be a persistent issue. Among the contributing factors, human unsafe behavior stands out as a primary cause for these incidents. This study aims to assess the human reliability of tower crane operations on smart construction sites. To proactively enhance safety measures, the research employs text mining techniques (TF-IDF-Truncated SVD-Complement NB) to identify patterns of human errors among tower crane operators. Building upon the SHEL model, the study categorizes behavioral factors affecting human reliability in the man-machine interface, leading to the establishment of the Performance Shaping Factors (PSFs) system. Furthermore, the research constructs an error impact indicator system for the intelligent construction site tower crane operator interface. Using the DEMATEL method, it analyzes the significance of various factors influencing human errors in tower crane operations. Additionally, the ISM-MICMAC method is applied to unveil the hierarchical relationships and driving-dependent connections among these influencing factors. The findings indicate that personal state, operating procedures, and physical environment directly impact human errors, while personal capability, technological environment, and one fundamental organizational management factor contribute indirectly. .
基金Financial support for the survey was provided by several ICF directors and the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund
文摘Poyang Lake is a very important wintering place for cranes in China and East Asia.Two crane surveys were conducted at Poyang Lake during the 2011/2012 winter,the first on 18-19 December 2011 and the second on 18-19 February 2012.The survey covered the entire Poyang Lake basin,as well as two main lakes in Jiujiang (Saicheng Hu and Chi Hu),i.e.,a total of 85 sub-lakes were surveyed.Both surveys recorded four species of cranes.The first survey on 18-19 December 2011 recorded 4577 Siberian Cranes (Grus leucogeranus),mostly in Bang Hu,Sha Hu and Dahu Chi,302 Hooded Cranes (G.monacha),885 White-naped Cranes (G.vipio) and 8408 Eurasian Cranes (G.grus),for the most part in the center of the lake basin.The second survey on 18-19 February 2012 recorded 3335 Siberian Cranes (mostly in Poyang Lake National Nature Reserve (PLNR) and its surrounding areas),110 Hooded Cranes (largely in PLNR and its surrounding areas),283 White-naped Cranes (86% in Bang Hu) and 2205 Eurasian Cranes (particularly in Duchang and Nanjishan NNR).The number of Siberian Cranes enumerated in December was 1000 more than the second count in February 2012.It is not possible to rule out double counting due to the close proximity of the main sites of the Siberian Cranes.During winters from 1998 to 2009,the average of the highest counts each winter was 3091,ranging from 2345 in 1996 to 4004 in 2002.By comparison with counts taken at other times,we therefore estimate a wintering population of Siberian Cranes of ~3800-4000 at Poyang Lake.Additional evidence will be needed to raise the world population estimate.Our more recent surveys indicate a continuing decline in the number of White-naped Cranes and an increase in Eurasian Cranes.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.32160132,31772480).
文摘Wetlands worldwide have suffered from serious degradation and transformation,leading to waterbirds increasingly dependent on agricultural fields for feeding.Although gut microbiota is an essential component of host health,the impacts of agricultural feeding on gut microbial community and pathogen transmission remain poorly understood.To fill this knowledge gap,we used 16S rRNA sequencing to characterize the fecal bacterial community of the Siberian Crane(Grus leucogeranus),a Critically Endangered species,that recently has shifted its foraging from largely Vallisneria tubers in Poyang Lake natural wetlands to crops(i.e.,rice seeds and lotus rhizomes) in agricultural fields.We compared the bacterial communities between tuber foraging cranes and crop foraging cranes.Our results indicate that diet shift greatly modified the gut microbiota diversity,composition and function.Crop foraging cranes had higher microbiota diversity than tuber foraging cranes.The alteration in microbiota composition and function were correlated with change in food nutrition.Tuber(i.e.,high in fiber)foraging cranes were enriched in Clostridiaceae with fiber digestion ability,and crop(i.e.,high in carbohydrate)foraging cranes were enriched in bacterial taxa and functions related to carbohydrate metabolism.The flexibility of gut microbiota might enhance Siberian Cranes’ ability to adapt to novel diet and environment.However,many enriched families in crop foraging cranes were pathogenic bacteria,which might increase the susceptibility of cranes to pathogenic infection.Special caution should be taken to agricultural feeding waterbirds in Asia,where the widespread poultry-keeping in over-harvested rice fields might increase the transmission probability of pathogenetic bacteria among wild birds,domestic poultry and humans.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.31800453)the Biodiversity Investigation,Observation and Assessment Program(2019-2023)+1 种基金the Ministry of Ecology and Environment of China(2110404)the Science and Technology Department of Sichuan Province(No.2022YFS0487).
文摘Understanding the diet of threatened wildlife is vital for species-specific conservation and habitat management measures.The Red-crowned Crane(Grus japonensis)is a vulnerable bird distributed in Northeast Asia.Previous dietary studies of this bird focused mainly on its plant food composition based on field observations and microhistological identification.Herein,a total of 45 fecal samples were collected in November,December and January(15 fecal samples each month)from wintering cranes,and then subjected to a high throughput sequencing meta-barcoding approach to determine the primary plant(rbcL)and animal(COI)food items in their diet.A total of 230 operational taxonomic units(OTUs)of plant foods and 371 OTUs of animal foods were obtained.The main plant foods in the wintering period were Miscanthus,Zea,and Hordeum genera,which were similar to those in the breeding and the migration periods.Both agricultural and natural plants were detected,indicating a relatively broad dietary niche for this crane species.However,the main animal foods were representatives of Theridiidae,Megascolecidae,and Agelenidae,in sharp contrast to previous studies.The higher number of small terrestrial arthropods in animal foods might be due to the indirect intake of plants.The composition of both plant and animal foods in the diet showed the highest diversity in December,while it was homogeneous in January.The plant of Zea genus became the main source of nutrition in late winter,as supplementary feeding was performed in the reserve,which could help Red-crowned Cranes to get through the cold season.The results obtained in this work would contribute to the development of effective conservation strategies for the Red-crowned Crane.
文摘This paper presents a case study on the repair of a mechanical component of an overhead crane.The problem was initially identified through on-site inspection and analysis of the crane’s performance.The mechanical part was found damaged,leading to safety concerns and operational inefficiencies.The paper details the process of diagnosing the issue,developing a repair plan,and executing the repair work.The repair plan involved replacing the damaged component with a new one and conducting additional maintenance work to ensure optimal performance.The paper also discusses the outcomes of the repair work,which led to improved safety and increased efficiency of the overhead crane.The case study provides insights into the importance of regular maintenance and on-site inspections in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of mechanical systems.
基金supported by the Conservation Fund of the State Forestry Administration of China and the Siberian Crane Wetland GEF/UNEP Project(GF/2712-03-4627)
文摘In order to measure the impact of changes in the marsh on breeding Red-crowned Cranes (Grus japonensis) and White-naped Cranes (G.vipio) in the Sanjiang Plain,we conducted a complete crane súrvey in each of the summers of 2007 and 2008,and obtained information on the changes in its marsh through interpretation of satellite images in 1986,1995,2000 and 2005.A comparison between the 1984 and 2008 census shows that:1) the number of Red-crowned Cranes remained stable at about 300 birds,while the number of White-naped Cranes increased markedly; 2) the estimates of nests of Red-crowned cranes are close to the numbers of 1984,while approximately 90% of the nests of these two crane species were distributed over five national nature reserves (NNRs); 3) the two crane species became more concentrated in three regions,i.e.,the Fuyuan Delta,the middle reaches of the Naoli and Qixing rivers,and the Xingkai Lake wetlands,rather as formerly in six regions.The area of the marsh decreased by 45% within the 20-year period from 1986 to 2005.The major loss of the marsh area was in the form of a conversion to paddy fields and dry land,which can be primarily attributed to direct human activity under various economic and policy drivers.The disappearance of cranes in the Dulu and Abuqin rivers was induced by large-scale agricultural development.The fragmentation into and isolation of small areas of the marsh became increasingly more serious,which resulted in unsuitable condtions for crane breeding in small patches of the marsh.The number of cranes declined from 1984-1995 but had recovered remarkably by 2008,which may be due to theestablishment of a system of nature reserves,in place since 2000.The land ownership of the reserve plays a key role in maintaining the integrity of the wetland ecosystem,especially in Sanjiang,Honghe,Naolihe and Qixinghe NNRs,which together accommodated approximately 80% of the population of cranes.However,we did not discover any nests at all in the provincial and municipal reserves,which may be attributed to high human disturbances in these areas.In the end,we propose some recommendations on reserve management.
文摘A study was aimed to overlook biological status including egg hatching, diet and diseases of common, Grus grus L. and demoiselle, Anthropoidedes virgo L. cranes in captive form in the southern districts of the Northern Pakistan. Field survey, questionnaire and interview with communities were the major tools for the data collection. Total 165 and 85 camps were visited, respectively, in fall, 2008 and spring, 2009. These camps were established in Baran dam, Kurram, Kashu, Kethu and Dowa in Bannu; and Gambilla, Lunder and Chall rivers in Lakki. The numbers of 1,650 hunters have 6,600 demoiselle and 3,300 common captive cranes in Bannu and Lakki, respectively. From 920 breeding pairs, 900 eggs were obtained, from which only 640 were hatched. Among natural foods of the cranes, snails, grasshoppers and earthworms, the pebbles were the most favorite foods. The young ones of cranes were fed on maize bread, eggs of insects and other small animals like wasp's larvae and grasshoppers by hunters. They faced the problems of development of feathers, trapping in mud and parasitic attack during their development. The cranes suffered from many diseases; head tumor, influenza and stomach blockage were the most common in the adults and young ones. The hunters used traditional things, garlic, coriander and brown sugar with antibiotics for treatments of diseases. Migratory cranes were found to be declining viewed by hunters in southern districts of Northern Pakistan. Knowledge about egg hatching, foods and diseases of common and demoiselle captive cranes, might be assisted in their conservation.
基金The Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(NoBK2004064)the Postdoctoral Foundation of Jiangsu Province(No0701008B)
文摘In order to study the fatigue behavior of the damaged reinforced concrete (RC) beams strengthened by carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminate, three T-shaped beams strengthened by CFRP and one contrasting beam are tested under fatigue loading, with the parameters of different modes of strengthening and different fatigue load levels considered. The main results obtained from the tests are: the width of the crack decreases 50. 2% to 66%, and the development of the crack is limited; the stress of steel decreases 24. 1% to 28. 2%, and the stiffness increases 14.9% to 16. 1% after being strengthened. Based on the technical specification for strengthening concrete structures with CFRP and the conclusions from the tests, a calculating scheme of the flexure stiffness is given, which can be used for reference in engineering design. Finally, some suggestions are given for design in fatigue strengthening.
文摘There is a lack of information of whether the behavior pattern and physical condition of the Hooded Crane (Grus monacha) have been limited by conditions encountered at stopover sites in Changgou village,which is adjacent to Zhalong Nature Reserve in northeastern China,one of the most important stopover sites of this crane.The objective of our research was to investigatethe impact of human-caused disturbances on the Hooded Cranes.We investigated three behavior activities of the Hooded Cranes,i.e.,flying time,flushing distance and the duration of vigilance.The results indicate that the auditory stimuli caused by local people provoked the most pronounced disturbances to the Hooded Crane.Human-caused disturbances not only frequently interrupt the feeding process of the cranes,but also lead to an increase of 200% in the duration of their vigilance and a significant increase in flying time from 0.4 to 0.7 h (p < 0.05).In addition,high-intensity noise can cause larger flushing distances; foraging cranes will flush away by about 600 m when disturbed by the honking of vehicles.Whistles or shouts by local farmers in the field generated the largest sound intensity,about 120 dB,which caused a flushing distance of over 700 m.In order to reduce the negative effect of human-caused disturbances on these cranes,it is imperative to define a buffer zone around sensitive areas during the fall stopover period.To solve the conflict between the interest of farmers and the demand for crops on the part of the cranes requires financial compensation to the farmers for the crops consumed by the Hooded Crane in order to enhance the conservation of this vulnerable bird species.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(3126051731101651)
文摘Both the Siberian Crane(Leucogeranus leucogeranus) and Hooded Crane(Grus monacha) have limited population sizes and are considered endangered by domestic Chinese and international agencies.To document the current size of their respective populations and characterize their groups,between October 2012 and April 2013 we undertook fieldwork at four nature reserve areas within the Poyang Lake wetlands.We divided Poyanghu National Nature Reserve(PYH) into the Wucheng(PWC) and Hengfeng areas(PHF),because each are each located in different counties.Our fieldwork showed that the Siberian Crane occurred mainly in PYH(364 in the PHF,158 in the PWC) and the Nanjishan Wetland National Nature Reserve(NJS,with 200 individuals).The Hooded Crane was mainly distributed in PYH(302 in the PHF and 154 in the PWC).Family groups accounted for more than 50% of the total number of groups among both species,with Hooded Cranes forming more family groups than Siberian Cranes.Typically,these groups were formed of two adults with one offspring(Siberian Crane),and two adults with two offspring(Hooded Crane),with the mean family group size of the Siberian Crane and Hooded Crane being respectively 2.65±0.53(n=43) and 3.09±0.86(n=47) individuals per group.The mean collective group size of the Siberian Crane and Hooded Crane included 28.09±24.94(n=23) and 28.94±27.97(n=16) individuals per group,respectively,with the proportion of juveniles among Hooded Cranes being more than double that seen among the Siberian Cranes.
文摘This paper sets up a robotic manipulator model on slewing crane. The model can synthetically describe the dynamic behavior of the load of slewing crane in rotating, elevating and hoisting motions. The dynamic equations of the system are recursively derived by a Newton Euler method. The dynamic behavior of the load of slewing crane in rotating motion is simulated on a computer. The method of robotic dynamics to derive the dynamic equations of the swing of load is accurate and convenient and it has good regularity. The result of the study provides a base in theory on design of crane and an accurate mathematical model for controlling the swing of load.
基金support from the Chinese Key Technology R&D Program of the Eleventh Five-year Plan(No.2008BAC39B03)the Nanjing University Funds for Starting Research
文摘In order to assess the effect of the observer distance on the behavior of Red-crowned Cranes (Grus japonensis),we studied their time budgets with a gradient of observer distances in Yancheng,China from December 2008 to March 2009.Observer distance was classified into four levels,i.e.,< 200 m,200-300 m,300-400 m and > 400 m.The results indicated that cranes increased their vigilance when the observer was less than 300 m away.A safe distance for the observer was often as far as or more than 300 m.Cranes increased scan frequency when observers were within 200 m,whereas they prolonged the duration of their scan when observers were between 200 m and 300 m away,indicating two distinct vigilant strategies,given the observer distance.We suggest an observer distance of at least 300 m,in order to minimize the observer effect.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.31272291,30970340)the Hong Kong Bird Watching Society China Conservation Fund and the Management Bureau of Altun Mountain Natural Reserve
文摘The Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis) is an endemic species of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau,with its population in Xinjiang largely found in the Kunlun and Altun mountain regions.A survey of the distribution,population dynamics,flock size and behavior was conducted in Altun Mountain National Natural Reserve from September to November 2011.We investigated the size and distribution of its population in this area with a sample spot survey and by direct counting.We found Black-necked Cranes on the wetlands of Wuzunxiaoer,Yusup Aleksei,Yaziquan,Qimantag,Tula Ranch and elsewhere,where we recorded 126 individual birds of the species in Yixiekepati (37° 15′-37°23′N,90°11′-90°20′E,elevation 3903 m),the largest population we have observed in this area.In the reserve,the population consists of about 180-200 birds.Combined with previous records,we conclude that more than 260 Black-necked Cranes live in Xinjiang.Cranes gathered conspicuously in the middle of October where the highest number of birds appeared on 29 October.All of the cranes had migrated out of this area by 6 November.Time budgets and diurnal behavior rhythms of Blacknecked Cranes were observed in the Yixiekepati wetland at daylight (from 06:00 to 18:00).Foraging was the most prevalent type of behavior during the autumn period,accounting for 58.9% of the diurnal time budget,followed by preening (13.2%),vigilance (9.5%),walking (8.2%),flying (3.5%),resting (3.4%),chirping (2.7%) and other types of behavior (0.6%).
文摘Stephen Crane is one of the greatest figures in the history of American literature and his novella The Open Boat is widely known by people all over the world as a representative work of Naturalism. This paper aims at exploring Naturalism in Stephen Crane's The Open Boat,which will guide the readers to understand American Naturalism accurately and thoroughly. It firstly introduces the author and his novel The Open Boat. Secondly,it progressively dissects Naturalism. It not only analyses the general characteristics of Naturalism with details in The Open Boat,but also interprets the distinguishing features of American Naturalism so that readers can better understand the features of American Naturalism. Through textual perusal,it further studies the unique characteristics of Stephen Crane's Naturalism and lays particular emphasis on Crane's special concern on the awakening of humanity. It is hoped that this thesis can help readers get an in-depth comprehension of Naturalism and gain some inspiration from TheOpenBoat.
文摘A significant negative aspect in the operation of bridge-type cranes are the technical problems associated with wear of the wheels and the crane track,which causes crane skewing.The main causes of crane skewing include unevenness of the crane track,unequal loading of the traction drives depending on the position of the crane trolley,slips and different sizes of travel wheels and combinations of these causes.Firstly,this paper presents a design solution that can be used to detect the magnitude of mechanical stress and deformation of the steel structure of the crane,caused by the effects of skewing.The mechanical stress generated by the transverse forces of the deformed geometric shape of the crane bridge structure is recorded by mechanical stress detectors installed in the inner corners of the crane bridge.The resulting electrical signal from element mechanical voltage detectors,loaded by axial forces,can be used for feedback control of separate crane travel drives controlled by frequency converters.Secondly,this paper presents the calculation of the lateral transverse forces according to CSN 270103 and the determination of the values of mechanical stresses of the deformed steel structure of the crane bridge of a two-girder bridge crane using the finite element method in the program MSC.MARC 2019.Finally,this paper presents the structural and strength design of mechanical stress detectors and the conclusions of laboratory tests of axial force loading of mechanical stress detectors on the test equipment.At the same time,it presents records of the measured axial forces acting in the mechanical stress detectors,arising from the deformation and warping of the crane bridge by the known magnitude of the axial force acting on the crossbeam and from the deformation of the crane bridge caused by the crane operating modes.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.31172117)the Graduate Student Innovation Research Projects of Anhui University(Grant No.yqh100118)the Anhui Academic and Technical Leader Fund
文摘The loss and degradation of wetlands have adversely affected waterbirds, which depend on wetland habitats. Interspecific competition has an important effect on habitat utilization of wintering waterbirds. Resource utilization, including partitioning, in degraded wetlands has become a hot issue in ecological studies of wintering waterbirds. In order to have an insight into the habitat utilization and resource partitioning between a Hooded Crane(Grus monacha) population and the guild of three goose species, i.e., Anser fabalis, A. albifrons and A. erythropus wintering in lake wetlands, we carried out a study at Shengjin Lake National Nature Reserve from November 2011 to April 2012. We surveyed the Hooded Cranes and goose guild foraging in various habitats during the wintering periods with a combined method of fixed route searching and fixed site observations. Resource partitioning was studied by means of calculating habitat utilization rates and the width and overlap of spatial niches. The results showed that the habitat utilization rate and the width of spatial niches of the Hooded Crane population and goose guild shifted with the season. The habitat utilization rates of the cranes in grasslands were high at all three wintering stages. The habitat utilization rates were 0.454, 0.435 and 0.959 respectively for the Hooded Cranes and 0.627, 0.491 and 0.616 for the goose guild. This suggests that the overlap in grasslands was higher between cranes and goose guild. Most habitats were accessible at the middle stage, so the width of the spatial niche of the cranes(1.099) and goose guild(1.133) both reached their peak at this stage. The greatest niche overlap was 0.914 for these two groups at the late stage, followed by 0.906 at the middle stage and the smallest was 0.854 at the early stage. Ecological response to the changes in habitats of wintering waterbirds was clearly shown in the dynamic variations of the niche of both the Hooded Cranes and the three goose species. Coexistence among waterbirds was achieved by regulation of niche width to reduce niche overlap and relieve interspecific resource partitioning.
文摘This study was carried out to assess the biological status of two crane species, the Common Crane (Grus grus L.) and the Demoiselle Crane (Anthropoides virgo L.), with respect to the hunting pressure in two southern districts of northern Pakistan, Bannu and Lakki. Field surveys, interviews and questionnaires were the major tools for data collection. We visited 165 hunting camps in the fall of 2008 and 85 in the spring of 2009 in the two districts. Of the hunters, most possessed wildlife permits for hunting and most people hunted for recreation. According to our survey, the population of two crane species is declining due to overhunting, destruction of natural habitats, anthropogenic activities and geographical factors. Suggestions for protection of the cranes are proposed.
基金work supported by Changwon National University in 2011-2012work partly supported by the second stage of Brain Korea 21 Projects
文摘Ship-mounted container cranes are challenging industrial applications of nonlinear pendulum-like systems with oscillating disturbance which can cause them unstable.Since wave-induced ship motion causes the hoisted container to swing during the transfer operation,the swing motion may be dangerously large and the operation must be stopped.In order to reduce payload pendulation of ship-mounted crane,nonlinear dynamics of ship-mounted crane is derived and a control method using T-S fuzzy model is proposed.Simulation results are given to illustrate the validity of the proposed design method and pendulation of ship-mounted crane is reduced significantly.