This book deals with the theory and the applications of a new time domain, termed natural time domain, that has been forwarded by the authors almost a decade ago (P.A. Varotsos, N.V. Sarlis and E.S. Skordas, Practica of Athens Academy 76, 294-321, 2001; Physical Review E 66, 011902, 2002). In particular, it has been found that novel dynamical features hidden behind time series in complex systems can emerge upon analyzing them in this new time domain, which conforms to the desire to reduce uncertainty and extract signal information as much as possible. The analysis in natural time enables the study of the dynamical evolution of a complex system and identifies when the system enters a critical stage. Hence, natural time plays a key role in predicting impending catastrophic events in general. Relevant examples of data analysis in this new time domain have been published during the last decade in a large variety of fields, e.g., Earth Sciences, Biology and Physics. The book explains in detail a series of such examples including the identification of the sudden cardiac death risk in Cardiology, the recognition of electric signals that precede earthquakes, the determination of the time of an impending major mainshock in Seismology, and the analysis of the avalanches of the penetration of magnetic flux into thin films of type II superconductors in Condensed Matter Physics. In general, this book is concerned with the time-series analysis of signals emitted from complex systems by means of the new time domain and provides advanced students and research workers in diverse fields with a sound grounding in the fundamentals of current research work on detecting (long-range) correlations in complex time series. Furthermore, the modern techniques of Statistical Physics in time series analysis, for example Hurst analysis, the detrended fluctuation analysis, the wavelet transform etc., are presented along with their advantages when natural time domain is employed.

This monograph contains the advances achieved based on the content of our previous monograph published in 2011. In other words, the present monograph can be considered as "Part II" containing new results accomplished in the last decade. These were published in several reputed international journals based on the concept of natural time discussed in detail in our earlier monograph. The analysis in natural time enables the study of the dynamical evolution of a complex system and identifieswhen the system enters a critical stage. A wide range of applications are discussed, such as the cases of environmental extreme events-disasters and sudden cardiac death. More light is shed on changes of natural time features before major earthquakes like the 2011 M9 Tohoku earthquake in Japan and the 2017 M8.2 Chiapas earthquake in Mexico. Hence, natural time analysis plays a key role in predicting impending catastrophic events in general with a primary audienceResearchers and Academics in Physics, Earth Sciences, and Medicine.

Time Series Analysis in Seismology: Practical Applications provides technical assistance and coverage of available methods to professionals working in the field of seismology. Beginning with a thorough review of open problems in geophysics, including tectonic plate dynamics, localization of solitons, and forecasting, the book goes on to describe the various types of time series or punctual processes obtained from those systems. Additionally, the book describes a variety of methods and techniques relating to seismology and includes a discussion of future developments and improvements. Time Series Analysis in Seismology offers a concise presentation of the most recent advances in the analysis of geophysical data, particularly with regard to seismology, making it a valuable tool for researchers and students working in seismology and geophysics. Presents the necessary tools for time series analysis as it relates to seismology in a compact and consistent manner Includes a discussion of technical resources that can be applied to time series data analysis across multiple disciplines Describes the methods and techniques available for solving problems related to the analysis of complex data sets Provides exercises at the end of each chapter to enhance comprehension

As evidenced dramatically and tragically in 2011 alone,earthquakes cause devastation and their consequences in terms of human suffering and economic disaster can last for years or even decades. The VAN method of earthquake prediction, based on the detection and measurement of low frequency electric signals called Seismic Electric Signals (SES), has been researched and evaluated over 30 years, and now constitutes the only earthquake prediction effort that has led to concrete successful results. This book recounts the history of the VAN method, detailing how it has developed and been tested under international scrutiny. Earthquake Prediction by Seismic Electric Signals • describes, step by step, the development of the VAN method since 1981; • explains both the theoretical model underpinning the research and the physical properties of SES; • analyzes the SES recordings and the prediction for each major earthquake in Greece over the last 25 years; • introduces a new time domain, natural time, which plays a key role in predicting impending catastrophic events.

In a world shaped by the forces of nature, humankind has always sought to understand and mitigate the impacts of natural hazards. Natural Hazards - New Insights delves into the intricate realm of floods, earthquakes, tsunamis, meteoritical hazards, mining-related disasters, and other major catastrophes that afflict our planet. This book takes readers on a journey to gain a deeper understanding of these phenomena, unearthing fresh insights into their causes, impacts, and strategies to mitigate their effects. Organized into six comprehensive sections, this book begins with a global perspective on natural hazards, laying the foundation for understanding the diverse range of challenges they pose. It then explores seismic hazards, analyzing earthquake patterns, urban damage assessment, fault reactivation, and more. Shifting the focus to flooding as a natural hazard, the book examines hydrological extremes, flood mapping, and risk reduction strategies. It further explores climatological hazards, including the intricate relationship between climate change and natural disasters, remote sensing technologies, and the impacts of climate change on agriculture. Landslides are also scrutinized as significant natural hazards, with chapters on polarization analysis, landslide assessment, hazard zonation, and the impact of underground coal mining methods on slope stability. Lastly, the book addresses the social challenges that arise when disasters strike, examining psychological reactions, spontaneous volunteers, urban planning responses, and social vulnerability to earthquake hazards. Through peer-reviewed chapters, this book offers valuable insights and expertise from renowned authors in the field. Their contributions have shaped this comprehensive exploration, which aims to navigate the challenges, minimize risks, and build a safer and more sustainable environment for future generations.

Complexity of Seismic Time Series: Measurement and Application applies the tools of nonlinear dynamics to seismic analysis, allowing for the revelation of new details in micro-seismicity, new perspectives in seismic noise, and new tools for prediction of seismic events. The book summarizes both advances and applications in the field, thus meeting the needs of both fundamental and practical seismology. Merging the needs of the classical field and the very modern terms of complexity science, this book covers theory and its application to advanced nonlinear time series tools to investigate Earth's vibrations, making it a valuable tool for seismologists, hazard managers and engineers. - Covers the topic of Earth's vibrations involving many different aspects of theoretical and observational seismology - Identifies applications of advanced nonlinear time series tools for the characterization of these Earth's signals - Merges the needs of geophysics with the applications of complexity theory - Describes different methodologies to analyze problems, not only in the context of geosciences, but also those associated with different complex systems across disciplines

Acoustic Emission and Related Non-destructive Evaluation Techniques in the Fracture Mechanics of Concrete: Fundamentals and Applications, Second Edition presents innovative Acoustic Emission (AE) and related non-destructive evaluation (NDE) techniques that are used for damage detection and inspection of aged and deteriorated concrete structures. This new edition includes multi-modal applications such as DIC, thermography, X-ray and in-situ implementations, all of which are helpful in better understanding feasibility and underlying challenges. This new edition is an essential resource for civil engineers, contractors working in construction, and materials scientists working both in industry and academia. - Completely updated, with a new chapter on multi-technique damage monitoring - Presents new applications and novel technologies on AE and related NDT in the fracture mechanics of concrete - Features contributions from recognized world-leaders in the application of acoustic emission (AE) and NDE techniques used for the damage assessment of concrete and concrete structures