Operation of Cellular Networks Found Similar to Bacteria Growth in Petri Dish
Scientists at HSE University have discovered an approach to analysing mobile communication quality by applying the principles of surface physics
Scientists at the HSE Laboratory for Computational Physics have developed a new model for analysing communication networks that can significantly enhance the speed of mobile communications. To achieve this, the researchers used computational physics methods and phase transition models. It turns out that the functioning of cellular networks is in many ways similar to the growth of surfaces in physics. The study was performed using the HPC cHARISMa cluster at HSE University. The study findings have been published in Frontiers in Physics.
Mobile networks enable making calls, sending messages, and using the internet. However, for these networks to function smoothly, it is essential to be able to simulate their operation. Simulations help predict how a network will behave in various situations, including extreme conditions, and identify areas for improvement.
One of the key tools for studying mobile networks is parallel discrete-event simulation (PDES). This method is based on splitting a system into numerous subsystems to enable parallel modelling of various processes. Each of these subsystems has its own local virtual time, which does not align with the actual time. When the local times significantly diverge from each other, leading to process desynchronisation, the network may experience slower operation or errors. Lev Shchur and Liliia Zhukova, scientists at HSE MIEM, studied the evolution of local virtual time profiles in a cellular communication model and discovered similarities with the surface growth processes in physics.
Associate Professor, School of Applied Mathematics, HSE Tikhonov Moscow Institute of Electronics and Mathematics
After conducting a thorough analysis of the processes, we observed similarities between changes in local time in cellular communication modelling and alterations in a surface profile as it grows, eg through spray application, as the time only progresses forward. Surface physics is a well-established field with equations that facilitate analysis and modelling of various processes. We have transferred knowledge from this domain to computing technologies and constructed a model simulating the evolution of local virtual time profiles.
By comparing their findings with a model of a real mobile network, the scientists have found that the proposed method enables accurate prediction of critical moments when the network's performance may deteriorate, so that issues can be addressed proactively, leading to improved network operation.
Head, Laboratory for Computational Physics, HSE Tikhonov Moscow Institute of Electronics and Mathematics
With the help of computational physics algorithms, it becomes possible to determine the moment when local time ceases to progress, referred to in physics as the phase transition point. We can describe the events occurring around it and anticipate potential communication disruptions or alterations in load distribution at a cellular communication station. With this model, we can provide the industry with better tools for planning, constructing, and operating mobile networks.
The researchers emphasise that understanding the mechanics of parallel computing in actual high-load networks will facilitate faster and more efficient simulation of mobile networks and other systems employing similar calculations across various domains such as engineering, computer science, economics, and transportation.
See also:
Men Behind the Wheel: Three Times More Violations and Accidents than Women
Men are three times more likely than women to commit traffic violations while driving and to be involved in accidents. Moreover, they are more likely to create situations on the road that are highly dangerous to others. Men are also twice as likely to drive under the influence and nearly one-third more likely to receive a prison sentence for reckless driving. Perhaps it comes down to cultural norms and the different attitudes men and women have toward driving. These are the conclusions reached by Anton Kazun, Assistant Professor at the HSE Faculty of Economic Sciences, and Research Assistant Mikhail Belov.
HSE Scientists Discover How to Predict Charitable Behaviour Through Physiological Reactions
Researchers at the HSE Institute for Cognitive Neuroscience have investigated how the emotional impact of advertising affects the amount people willing to donate to support animal welfare. To accomplish this, the researchers measured physiological responses such as heart rate, electrodermal activity, and facial expressions in individuals viewing various photos of dogs. The findings indicate that willingness to donate is most accurately predicted by heart rate and facial muscle activation. The study has been published in Social Psychology.
'We Are Creating the Medicine of the Future'
Dr Gerwin Schalk is a professor at Fudan University in Shanghai and a partner of the HSE Centre for Language and Brain within the framework of the strategic project 'Human Brain Resilience.' Dr Schalk is known as the creator of BCI2000, a non-commercial general-purpose brain-computer interface system. In this interview, he discusses modern neural interfaces, methods for post-stroke rehabilitation, a novel approach to neurosurgery, and shares his vision for the future of neurotechnology.
First Successful Attempt in 55 years: Physicists in Russia and Germany Confirm 1969 Experiment Results
A team of researchers, with the participation of physicists from HSE University, replicated the 1969 experiment on superconductivity and its properties. The scientists induced superconductivity by deliberately deteriorating the interfaces between the layers of superconductors and ferromagnets in the system, resulting in better performance of spin valves compared to the classical version, where the interfaces between the layers are ideal. This approach could lead to the development of more efficient devices for data storage and computing. The study findings have been published in the Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology.
Healthy Nutrition Saves Public Funds: Strategies to Reduce Healthcare Costs in Russia
In Russia, the annual cost of treating type 2 diabetes alone exceeds 500 billion roubles. Promoting healthy nutrition programmes can ease the burden on the healthcare system and increase life expectancy. This was the conclusion reached by economists at HSE University after analysing global experiences with government involvement in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Conscientious Individuals Live Longer
Personality traits such as conscientiousness, emotional stability, and an internal locus of control significantly influence one's lifestyle and longevity. Not only can personality traits influence health through beneficial and harmful habits but can also have a direct effect on mortality. Higher conscientiousness reduces the risk of premature death by 20 percentage points, while higher neuroticism increases it by 12 percentage points. These are the findings from a new study by Ksenia Rozhkova, Junior Research Fellow at the Laboratory for Labour Market Studies of the HSE Faculty of Economic Sciences.
Esports Players Play Better Online
In competitions, esports players, like other athletes, face stress and show worse results due to pressure. A substantial decrease takes place in the performance of esports players during overtime. This effect, however, is significantly mitigated in online competitions compared to live events—the difference can reach 30%. A study by a team of authors from HSE University’s Moscow and Perm campuses and European University Viadrina (Germany) explores the phenomenon of choking under pressure within the context of esports. The study was published in the Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization.
Analysing Genetic Information Can Help Prevent Complications after Myocardial Infarction
Researchers at HSE University have developed a machine learning (ML) model capable of predicting the risk of complications—major adverse cardiac events—in patients following a myocardial infarction. For the first time, the model incorporates genetic data, enabling a more accurate assessment of the risk of long-term complications. The study has been published in Frontiers in Medicine.
A New Tool Designed to Assess AI Ethics in Medicine Developed at HSE University
A team of researchers at the HSE AI Research Centre has created an index to evaluate the ethical standards of artificial intelligence (AI) systems used in medicine. This tool is designed to minimise potential risks and promote safer development and implementation of AI technologies in medical practice.
Russian Scientists Have Studied Marine Worm with Unique Spermatozoa
Russian scientists at Zhirmunsky National Scientific Centre of Marine Biology, HSE University, and Moscow State University have studied Phoronis embryolabi, a rare species of marine invertebrate found in the waters of the Sea of Japan. This species is notable for its unique reproductive system, which includes the development of larvae within the parent’s body and an unusual sperm structure. The study's findings contribute to our understanding of the evolutionary adaptations of marine organisms to extreme conditions. The study has been published in Zoologischer Anzeiger.