bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Steps from traditional design to BIM
Authors: Pancic Isidora
Published: October 2024

The rapid development of techniques and technology in recent decades causes the development and improvement of technological processes. The development, increase in quality and demand for the usage of modern materials cause an increase in the need for various resources, which directly affects the increase in the volume of transport. The need for the fastest possible delivery from the manufacturer to the user has a significant impact on the development of both passenger and transport vehicles. Vehicle characteristics have been changed in the period of 30 years. Vehicles have become larger and faster. As a result, existing infrastructure is becoming insufficient and doesn’t provide the expected level of service. There is a need to build new roads and railways. The traditional way of designing, building, maintaining and managing infrastructure is not fast enough to keep up with economic growth, so we need to start to look for ways to improve this process. The main topic of this scientific work is dealing with all the difficulties that may occur in the process of using traditional tools. The first part of this scientific work is dealing with the daily problems which may occur in the process of developing designs and the process of construction work. The second part of this scientific work gives suggestions and directions for the further development of software, which should keep track of the entire process from feasibility study, through geotechnical and geological investigation, surveying the terrain, developing all stages of designs, dealing with construction works and commissioning of the investor of managing institutions. The process does not stop there, but continues throughout management and maintenance during exploitation. The purpose of this is to increase the efficiency and quality of all the listed processes listed from the idea to reality.
Reliability of GPR data interpretation methods for determining the thickness of asphalt layer
Authors: Domitrović Josipa , Dukić Marija , Bezina Šime , Stančerić Ivica , Rukavina Tatjana
Published: October 2024

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is mainly used in pavement engineering to determine the thickness of pavement layers. The accuracy of layer thicknesses determined from GPR data depends largely on the accuracy of the dielectric properties of the construction materials used for interpretation. Different GPR data interpretation methods that use the GPR reflected signal to estimate the dielectric properties of construction materials have been developed. The most used methods are using data from the literature, known height method, common midpoint method, wide-angle reflection and refraction method and surface reflection method. Each of these methods has its own benefits and drawbacks. The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of asphalt layer thickness determined by the surface reflection method and the known height method. Data collection was performed using a survey vehicle equipped with a GPR system with 1 GHz air-coupled antenna. The GPR survey was carried out in seven measurement lines and a core was extracted from the pavement in each line. Thickness data from the core was used to determine the dielectric properties of the asphalt layer and to evaluate the reliability of interpretation methods.
Evaluation of a shared cycle applying a queueing network
Authors: Miyazawa Takashi , Takada Kazuyuki
Published: October 2024

In recent years, the need for bicycles as a means of transportation that does not emit carbon dioxide has increased. In addition, shared bicycles are being introduced all over the world as a means of urban public transportation. However, the concentration of bicycles at certain cycle ports requires a relocation of bicycles. Since this is putting pressure on the operating business, a new method to get unbalanced is needed to replace this method. Therefore, this study aims to smooth ports without relying on trucks and other transportation, and to clarify the relationship between the number of bicycles initially placed and the total waiting time through simulation analysis. Simulation of queues was constructed using data of a social experiment conducted by Nerima Ward, Tokyo, in October 2018. The data includes the usage results of share bike system on five weekdays and two holidays, for a total of seven days. Using the simulation, we calculated how large the total waiting time varied by changing the number of bicycles initially placed at the port and the total number of bicycles, and clarified the relationship. I moved the number of initially placed bicycles from the low-demand port to the high-demand port in front of the station by one unit, but found no decrease in total waiting time. Next, the simulation was conducted by increasing the number of bicycles at the nine high-demand ports one each. At this time, the total waiting time for all ports decreased. Simulation experiments showed that changing the initial number of bicycles in accordance with demand did not lead to a decrease in waiting time for the entire system. One reason for this is that although the waiting time at high-demand ports decreased, the waiting time at low-demand ports exceeded the decrease. It became clear that measures to increase the total number of bicycles must be taken to reduce wait times.
Analysis of crash severity at intersections and roundabouts using ordered and generalized ordered probit models
Authors: Kamali Roya , Mazaheri Arash , Rahimi Amir
Published: October 2024

Accidents are considered as one of the leading causes of death around the world. Investigating the causes of various accidents, identifying the primary factors and accident blackspots can be used to prevent severe injuries and the associated costs and casualties. Many studies are conducted around the world to investigate the impacts of accidents and to identify the main factors. This study investigates the accidents and the severity of their injuries at intersections and squares. Accident data related to Zanjan is used to assess the severity of accidents at urban squares and intersections, which are modeled by SAS software. For this purpose, two models of OP and cumulative Probit are used. The results show that the cumulative probit model is better able to interpret the dependent variable based on the independent variables than the OP model. Based on the overall results of the models, it can be seen that the occurrence of an accident in daytime compared to nighttime, on holidays compared to non-holidays and in winter compared to other seasons, reduces the injury severity. Heavy vehicles reduce the injury severity compared to cars, while two-wheeled vehicles, including motorcycles and bicycles, increase the injury severity. Accidents at intersections also increase injury severity.
Digital decision-making support for railway node capacity optimization: an application to the Port of Trieste
Authors: Caramuta Caterina , Longo Giovanni , Montrone Teresa , Poloni Carlo
Published: October 2024

In a context of private operators competing for the same infrastructure, digitalisation is essential to support public entities in decision-making processes to ensure both fairness and efficiency when managing transport systems. This contribution presents the methods and instruments which have been integrated to face such task in the Port of Trieste, which is the first Italian port for throughput and rail movements. According to the proposed approach, railway transport processes have been first modelled through a standardized modelling language to facilitate the analysis of the operational model and the identification of possible bottlenecks. Then, graphical models have been parametrized to serve process simulation, which has been carried out by means of a discrete-event simulation engine. This latter has represented the black box of a multi-disciplinary optimization framework implementing genetic algorithms, which enabled to compute the optimal port railway capacity on varying of the destination sequence of arriving trains. Further optimization runs have been performed maximising also the capacity of the most potentially critical terminal in terms of traffic volumes, in order to evaluate the consequences on the productivity of the remaining terminals. Finally, obtained outcomes have been gathered into a database and visualized using a parallel coordinates plot, which displays the capacity of the entire port railway system and of every individual terminal as the numerical variables under investigation. Thanks to this resulting chart, authorities in the Port of Trieste now dispose of an effective digital tool to estimate changes in railway capacity at terminal and port level, and to assess the system responsiveness by comparing optimized values with expected trends. The successful application of the adopted methodology to a real-word case study demonstrates its validity and suggests its transferability to other freight transport and logistics issues and environments, fostering the use of digitalisation to make more informed decisions.
Modelling and static analysing for a cable stayed bridge considering the construction stages
Authors: Chiotan Claudia , Răcănel Ionut
Published: October 2024

This paper presents the results, in terms of forces and displacements, during the construction process of a cable-stayed bridge over the Dâmboviţa River in Bucharest. To determine the stress-strain state in the structural elements, a 3D finite element analysis model was developed. For modeling the superstructure, a planar grillage was created and finite elements used were straight space beams with two nodes and six degrees of freedom for each node: three translations and three rotations. To model the concrete slab, plane finite elements with 4 nodes were used, exhibiting both plate and membrane behavior. In the static analyses conducted considering the construction stages, characteristic and frequent actions were considered according to Eurocode standards for load combinations. The main purpose of the conducted analyses was to monitor the internal forces and displacements in both, the cables and the superstructure elements, as well as in the pylons and their foundations. The results of the nonlinear analyses conducted in construction stages have indicated that the chosen construction technology is suitable, and the safety level achieved for the structure is appropriate.
Enhancing rail defect detection: comparative analysis of two-layer and five-layer CNN networks
Authors: Mohammadkhah Saeed , Tinoco Joaquim , Frias Jesus , Matos José
Published: October 2024

Effective railway infrastructure maintenance is vital for ensuring the safety and reliability of transportation systems. This paper investigates the efficacy of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) in detecting railway rail defects without and with data preprocessing. Utilizing a database comprising 556 images of both defective and non-defective rails, we deployed two CNN configurations: (a) a two-layer CNN; and (b) a more complex five-layer CNN. Our study encompasses the evaluation of these networks before and after data balancing and implementation of different augmentation techniques. The results consistently demonstrated superior performance from the simpler two-layer CNN across all scenarios. This observation underscores the significance of network architecture over complexity, highlighting the two-layer CNN as an effective and efficient solution for rail defect detection. The model exhibits impressive performance metrics, with an accuracy of 91.58% and an F1 score of 83.49%. The findings provide valuable insights for optimizing defect detection systems in railway maintenance applications.
Early life field performance of innovative sustainable semi-flexible pavements
Authors: Marradi Alessandro , Mignini Chiara , Friani Alessandro , Stimilli Arianna , Caraffa Tullio
Published: October 2024

Semi-flexible pavements in heavy loads areas are recommended to guarantee good performance and safety. They are usually constructed by placing a wearing layer of grouted macadam, a composite material consisting of a porous Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) skeleton grouted with a cementitious matrix. However, its use is limited as the production process is quite complex and laborious. An effective alternative to grouted macadam can be represented by the Ready to Mix (RTM), recently implemented to offer performances comparable to those of the grouted macadam and a most effortless put-in-place process, and contemporarily leading to environmental and economic advantages. The present research investigated the early life field performance of a semi-flexible pavement including an RTM base. Three Falling Weight Deflectometer testing campaigns were carried out from 2017 to 2021. In particular, the semi-flexible pavement was compared to a reference flexible pavement entirely made with HMA in terms of temperature sensitivity as well as bearing capacity.
Evaluation of traffic control measures during tsunami evacuation using traffic simulation
Authors: Matsuura Chika , Saito Runa , Takada Kazuyuki
Published: October 2024

The 2011 off the Pacific coast of Tohoku Earthquake occurred on 11 September 2011 and caused extensive tsunami damage along the Pacific coast of Japan. Many citizens used their cars to evacuate from the tsunami. This caused traffic congestion on the roads, preventing smooth evacuation and consequently leading to increased human casualties. This highlighted the dangers of using cars during tsunami evacuation. The purpose of this study is to verify the hazards of car use during tsunami evacuation and to evaluate the limitation of car use. The study was conducted in the western part of the old-Kitakamigawa River in Ishinomaki City, where there was significant tsunami inundation damage and traffic congestion has been reported. A tsunami evacuation simulation of the target area was constructed using the open-source software SUMO. Questionnaire survey data from the Tsunami Evacuation Joint Study Group of the Japan Association for Earthquake Engineering were used to analyze evacuation behavior such as place of departure and destination, and means of transport, and the results were used in the simulation. Scenarios were set up by controlling vehicle traffic at intersections and generated traffic volume. The simulation results suggest that traffic control at intersection where congestion is expected, may reduce the risk of evacuation by automobiles. The hazards of car-dependent evacuation were also confirmed, suggesting that the number of vehicles that can be used is extremely limited.
Identifying isolated defects in the ballast bed using a fractal analysis approach with reduced window length
Authors: Korenjak Andrea , Offenbacher Stefan , Marschnig Stefan
Published: October 2024

Due to increasing demands on the availability of railway infrastructure, accurate estimates of safety-critical track condition as well as breakdowns of individual track components are crucial. This task can be supported by analysing track measurement data. Ballast breakdown can be determined by analysing the longitudinal level using fractal analysis. Typically, a window of 150 meters is drawn over the signal and an approximation of a fractal dimension of the signal is calculated for each position of the window. While a large window length can be used to describe the condition of ballast and substructure simultaneously, it fails to precisely localize isolated defects in the track (short-section ballast breakdown). To describe local effects in the ballast bed, this work analyses a set of 114 known weak ballast spots. By reducing the window length, the position of short-section ballast breakdowns can be reliably depicted. Using a smaller window size in modified fractal analysis allows for targeted maintenance of specific components. Ultimately, fractal analysis with reduced window sizes facilitates allocating maintenance resources and helps reducing unexpected downtime and saving on costs.
Analysis of cycling infrastructure - a case study of Split
Authors: Breški Deana , Maljković Biljana , Matić Martin
Published: October 2024

Many cities in the world have recognized cycling as one of the alternative ways of urban transport and are increasingly investing in the development of cycling and appropriate infrastructure, which helps to ensure the sustainable development of both the city and mobility in general. Cycling has numerous advantages compared to motorized transport because it contributes to a healthier lifestyle, reduces the use of personal vehicles and thus the traffic volumes, and affects the reduction of fuel consumption and air pollution. Adequate cycling infrastructure and its connections to other modes of transportation are necessary for cycling to be both safe and attractive to the general public. The city of Split started investing in bicycle lanes and promoting this mode of transportation only in the last fifteen years. This paper presents an analysis of the existing bicycle infrastructure in the city area in terms of construction and network connectivity, as well as the compliance of geometric elements with the current Rulebook on Bicycle Infrastructure. Furthermore, the method of organization and use of the public bicycle system is presented. This system which was introduced in July 2019 and was upgraded in the following years, significantly contributed to the development of bicycle traffic in Split. Following the analysis, some recommendations for enhancing the cycling infrastructure were made. In general, urban planning and design of city roads and public areas can have a substantial impact on the safety, comfort and connectivity of the cycling infrastructure, which will help promote and develop cycling and sustainable mobility.
Development of a method for identifying the number of times to turn around during a driving for parking
Authors: Harada Ryo , Arasawa Rika , Takada Kazuyuki , Fujiu Makoto
Published: October 2024

In Japan, a super-aging society, fatal and injury accidents caused by elderly drivers have become a serious social problem. Traffic accidents caused by elderly drivers are caused partly by driving errors (e.g., misjudging the brake and accelerator pedals, reversing, missing a traffic signal, etc.) resulting from cognitive decline. As many researchers have stated, it is necessary for elderly drivers to avoid driving or return their driving licenses through appropriate evaluation of their own driving ability to continue a safe traffic society. Driving ability has been evaluated subjectively by using questionnaires or objectively by observing driving behavior. The authors have analyzed driving behavior at intersections, where driving operations are most complex. Meanwhile, it is said that declining cognitive function can lead to the appearance of unsteady driving, lowered parking skills, and wandering driving. Therefore, in this study, we focused on parking behavior and attempted to construct a method to measure the number of vehicle turns related to parking skill. In this study, the driving data of 95 elderly people living in Hakui, Ishikawa Prefecture, who participated in the observation survey were used for analysis. Data items included time, location (latitude and longitude), 3-axis acceleration, and speed. In analyzing parking behavior, the part of driving intended for parking was extracted from the driving data. Next, since it was difficult to determine whether the vehicle was moving forward or backward only from the acceleration information in the direction of moving, we calculated direction vectors from changes in the vehicle's position, and identified the turnaround operation by calculating the narrow angle between these direction vectors in a time-series sequence. A threshold value must be set for the narrow angle, and in this study, trial and error was done by applying a peak detection method for time-series data. As a result, it was confirmed that it is possible to generally identify the turnaround by setting the narrow angle to about 140 degrees.
Effect of zeolite addition to modified bitumen for application in wearing course
Authors: Pacholak Roman , Gardziejczyk Wladyslaw , Wasilewska Marta , Gierasimiuk Pawel , Woszuk Agnieszka
Published: October 2024

Generally, asphalt mixtures intended for wearing surfaces subject to heavy traffic are made on the basis of polymer-modified binders. Their production requires high energy consumption. Warm mix asphalt (WMA) technologies are an excellent solution for fulfilling these requirements. Foaming based WMA have shown great potential in reducing the mixing and compaction temperature of asphalt mixtures by decreasing the viscosity of the binder. Foaming based WMA can be obtained by adding to the binder water-bearing additives such as zeolites. This paper presents the results of a study of two zeolite additives differing in their crystal structure for polymer modified bitumen binder (PMB 45/80-55): one is natural zeolite of the clinoptilolite type, and the other is synthetic zeolite Na-P1 produced from fly ash. Both additives, previously soaked with water, were added in amounts of 5% by weight of the modified binder. Based on the results, obtained from the conducted tests (i.e. softening point, penetration, dynamic viscosity and cohesion), it was concluded that both zeolites do not significantly affect the viscoelastic properties of PMB 45/80-55. Only the effect on cohesion was observed, indicating that the binder becomes stiffer, making the pavement less resistant to cracking. It was determined that from the perspective of the impact on the viscoelastic properties of the modified binder PMB 45/80-55, the best solution is to use a natural zeolite of the clinoptilolite type. The test results obtained on modified bitumen with the addition of zeolites were compared to the results of modified binders with styrene–butadiene–styrene copolymer (SBS) and crumb rubber (CR). It was found that modified binders with SBS and CR shows comparable properties to zeolite-modified bitumen.
Earthworks calculation – analysis of existing formulas and showcasing the future method for volume calculation
Authors: Šokac Fran
Published: October 2024

Calculation of quantities in the design of infrastructure structures has been calculated for many years by use of classical formula of the Arithmetic mean between two cross sections multiplied by the length between them. This equation has been synonymous with the accurate calculation of quantities in infrastructure projects. Other equations that have been used, but not so frequently, are the prismoid formula or mid sectional area method. This paper analyses the accuracy of several equations (formulas) for calculating quantities and compares the results with the volume of 3D modelled terrain on different types of sections, terrain category and type of infrastructure road. 3D modelled terrain is a 3D solid element derived by calculating volume surface. The volume surface is a difference between a base surface and comparison surface which means that Z-value (vertical value) of any given point is the difference between Z-values of the surfaces. In the infrastructure context, volume surface calculates the difference between new top surface or planum surface and existing ground which provide accurate calculation results. The purpose of this paper is also to examine using volume surface method as an appropriate substitute method for volume calculation.
Development of a speed-measuring device for vehicles using laser distance sensor
Authors: Kaneko Shuhei , Tachibana Aoi , Yanagimachi Kenta , Takada Kazuyuki
Published: October 2024

In Japan, the speed of vehicles on residential roads (roads used mainly by local residents for their daily activities) is in principle limited to 30 km/h. Various measures such as the introduction of Zone 30 have also been taken to limit driving speeds. However, even in areas designated as Zone 30, there is a constant flow of vehicles running in over the speed limit. If driving speeds could be measured accurately and inexpensively, there are many situations where this would be useful, such as speed surveys on residential roads. Therefore, this study attempted to develop an inexpensive speed measurement system by connecting a laser distance sensor with high measurement accuracy to a small PC. The speed measurement method is as follows. A laser is irradiated at an angle to the running vehicle from outside the roadway. The measurement distance is constant while the sides of the vehicle are irradiated and changes while the front or rear of the vehicle is irradiated. The distance to the front or rear of the vehicle, the laser irradiation angle and the three-square theorem are then used to determine the change in distance in the direction of the driving, and a regression analysis is applied in relation to the time of measurement to calculate the driving speed. It was confirmed that the error between the speed obtained by measuring from an angle and the speed measured from the front was small. In addition, it was confirmed that the speed of vehicles running continuously can also be measured. Furthermore, the frequency of the laser irradiation used in this study was about 70 Hz, and it was confirmed that the speed of a vehicle running at about 70 km/h could be observed with high accuracy.
Road asset evaluation models, case study
Authors: Bardhi Diana
Published: October 2024

This article is dedicated to the problem of modelling for the technical-economic value of roads, as public assets. Carrying out asset valuation helps us to fulfil the legal requirements, for an effective financing of infrastructure and the improvement of management through the provision of technical data and financial perspective. Addressing the problem of their evaluation requires a careful treatment, but also the introduction of other disciplines. It is very important that road authorities and specialists involved in the evaluation process understand the nuances of modelling and, most important, the interpretation of the results. In this article, we guarantee a discussion of the problem of evaluation of road assets, we show the properties, which through a "Typical-example-ideal" model can give some relevant instructions to the implementers. This article concludes with a discussion of three examples of real-life assessments conducted in Albania.
Enhancement of railways in Dalmatia
Authors: Schöbel Andreas
Published: October 2024

When first railway lines were built in Dalmatia before the outbreak of World War I tourism was less important for the region than today. Nowadays, every Saturday during summer time tourists are blocking all major cities in Dalmatia with their cars although a lot of investment has been carried out to upgrade streets to deal with this demand. On the other hand, the railway lines are in a poor condition and still not electrified which requires a change of engine at Ogulin. During summer time state owned passenger companies like HZPP, MAV and ZSSR offer night trains to cover long travel times. Private railway company RegioJet also offer touristic trains in combination with local bus connections to connect touristic places along the coast which do not have a direct railway link. In this paper we present short term, mid term and long term solutions to improve railways in Dalmatia.
Development of a low-cost train patrol support method for railway track maintenance using a smartphone
Authors: Tanaka Hirofumi , Zhao Boyu , Su Di , Nagayama Tomonori
Published: October 2024

Japan is home to over 200 railway companies of various sizes. Small-scale regional railway companies, in particular, are grappling with challenging business conditions due to a declining birthrate, an aging population, and the recent coronavirus pandemic. Despite these challenges, it is imperative for these companies to conduct thorough inspections and maintenance of railway facilities and rolling stock to ensure the safety and stability of train operations. In this study, we developed a train patrol support application software that aligns with the requirements outlined in the “Maintenance Standard for Railway Structures (Track Part)” in Japan. This application software is designed to facilitate a practical approach to train patrol support using smartphones, offering a cost-effective track condition management solution suitable for small regional railway companies. We conducted experimental measurements on the commercial lines of several railway companies using the developed application software and analyzed the utility of the obtained measurement data, including acceleration data and forward-view video data, from different angles of dip. Our findings suggest that acceleration data could be instrumental in managing train vibrations by offsetting the impact of the smartphone’s angle of dip. Similarly, forward-view video data could be crucial for inspecting the condition of the railway line and its immediate surroundings, with the effectiveness of the data varying according to the angle of dip at which the smartphone is positioned. By integrating this method into regular train patrols, we propose that it could enable track inspections to be conducted remotely from an office, thereby assisting in the maintenance and management efforts of regional railway companies.
Vibrations tests of a Bailey-type suspension bridge over the Jablanica lake
Authors: Karavelić-Hadžimejlić Amina , Medić Senad
Published: October 2024

This paper presents results of vibration tests conducted on a recently reconstructed suspension bridge in Ostrožac, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Ostrožac bridge spans 200 m over the Jablanica Lake and represents a case of exceptional engineering. However, it is also a typical example of ageing infrastructure characterized by a lack of adequate maintenance and severe degradation by corrosion. The main girders are a complex steel portable Bailey-type trusses suspended by Ø30 mm steel hangers and 6Ø52 mm primary load-bearing cables. The curved cables support the road pass over 18 m high reinforced concrete pylons. Six 44 m long straight inclined back-stay cables transfer the tensile force using threaded rods to the reinforced concrete block anchorages at both ends. The dynamic parameters were obtained by on-site measurements using Digitex xWave triaxial accelerometers and the output-only operational modal analysis which does not require knowledge of the input excitation. The vibrations were induced by wind and by the passage of cars. The structure vibrates spatially even though the nature of excitation is dominantly vertical and the adjacent structural segments of the Bailey truss oscillate almost independently. Power spectrum, damping and Scruton number were determined from acceleration and displacement measurements of the inclined cables. Natural frequency was employed for estimation of the cable axial force. Even though the inclined cables have solid dynamic parameters, notable wind-induced vibrations were visually detected implying the need for structural strengthening intervention.
Designing elder-friendly public transport systems: a case study at AIA railway and metro station
Authors: Giannoulaki Maria , Christoforou Zoi
Published: October 2024

On the one hand, population ageing is growing and is expected to influence many aspects of everyday life including transportation. On the other hand, most public transport systems were designed on the basis of requirements and norms that today seem rather outdated. Consequently, there is a growing need to review and update the design parameters of public transport systems considering the needs of seniors as transport operators should provide safe, convenient, and reliable services to all users. The aim of this paper is to identify behavioural patterns, specific needs and challenges faced by the elderly in transportation hubs. In this purpose, field observations with videographic techniques were conducted at Athens International Airport (AIA) railway and metro station. Special emphasis was given on the ticketing service area and restroom areas. Regarding the ticketing service, a consistent trend of longer service durations for the elderly was observed. This observation is confirmed by a clustering analysis that indicates age to be a major classifier. The elders’ cluster has service durations approximately 50% longer than the youngers’ cluster. Regarding restroom areas, results indicate that seniors use them more frequently, but the duration of the usage is not substantially different to the one of younger populations. Findings are useful for both researchers and practitioners who can develop evidence-based station design protocols.
Life cycle sustainability assessment of reinforced concrete bridges
Authors: Milić Ivana , Bleiziffer Jelena
Published: October 2024

Achieving sustainability in infrastructure requires a new design approach and implies an improvement of the standardized materials commonly used for the design and construction of structures. Environmental impact, which together with economic and social aspects is one of the three fundamental pillars of a holistically integrated definition of sustainability, is becoming an important factor in the requirements for designing sustainable structures. This paper gives a short summary of a research into state-of-the-art of life cycle sustainability assessment (LCSA) and their application to bridges, highlighting the phases of the life cycle and the methods employed. Considering that reinforced concrete is one of the most used materials for load-bearing elements of bridges and has a large application potential for all types and lengths of bridges, improving its sustainability is an important task. In that context, different types of concrete for structural use and the possible aspects of improving the sustainability of concrete mixes are discussed, including the “green” concrete.
Refining finite element model of concrete viaduct with error-domain model falsification technique using vibration and strain data
Authors: Herič Doron
Published: October 2024

This study employs acceleration and strain-based finite element model updating (FEMU) techniques on a half-century-old multi-span concrete highway viaduct. While most FEMU studies on bridges rely only on acceleration data due to lower costs and ease of implementation, this research incorporates strain measurements taken at mid-span under truck passages, in addition to frequencies and mode shapes from acceleration data. The analyses were conducted separately for acceleration data (natural frequencies and mode shapes), strain data and a combination of acceleration and strain data. Three variables representing Young's modulus adjustment factors for different structural elements were updated. The intuitive error-domain model falsification (EDMF) proved itself over traditional FEMU techniques, such as residual minimisation, as it allows the incorporation of acceleration and strain data without the need to specify the weights for each of them. Furthermore, once an additional source of data (strains) is added, the information gained becomes clearly visible, and the results of the FEMU are more sensible from an engineering perspective. This confirms the necessity of having data from various sources for a quality FEMU. The results showed an overestimation of the internal main girders' design stiffness, ranging from 25-50%.
Repeatability and validity regarding food groups, energy, and macro-nutrients intake of a semiquantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire for children: the Stance4Health-FFQ
Authors:   Allergology and Pulmonology Unit, 3rd Pediatric Department, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, “Attikon” University General Hospital, 12462, Athens, Greece., Kogias Christos
Published: October 2024

The aim of this work was to evaluate the repeatability and the validity of a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ).
The impact of regular physical training on the function of the autonomic nervous system in patients with inappropriate sinus tachycardia
Authors: Urbanek Irmina , Kaczmarek Krzysztof , Wranicz Jerzy Krzysztof , Ptaszyński Paweł
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Sympathetic overactivity plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of inappropriate sinus tachycardia (IST). It has been shown that regular physical activity positively affects the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which may benefit patients with IST.Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of regular physical training on the autonomic nervous system (ANS) function in patients with IST, focusing on heart rate variability (HRV) as an indicator of autonomic balance.Methods:The study included 32 female patients diagnosed with IST, with 16 in the study group (Group A) and 16 in the control group (Group B). The women in Group A participated in a structured physical training program lasting 12 weeks. HRV was analyzed based on 24-hour Holter monitoring recordings before and after the intervention. The statistical data obtained were presented as graphs illustrating changes in selected HRV parameters in response to physical training.Results:The study results indicate a significant improvement in heart rate variability (HRV) after 12 weeks of regular physical training in the study group. Notably, there was an increase in parameters associated with parasympathetic activity, such as the HF (High Frequency) index. Additionally, the SDNN index, which measures overall heart rate variability, also improved. These observations suggest that physical training contributed to an improvement in autonomic balance. The graphs in the study clearly depict changes in individual HRV parameters, confirming the positive impact of physical activity on the function of the autonomic nervous system in patients with IST.
Estrategia educativa para favorecer la educación en valores de los niños de 3 a 5 años
Authors: Barahona-Morán Argentina Bélgica , Pinargote-Macías Eleticia Isabel
Published: October 2024

El marasmo de valores que actualmente experimenta la sociedad, es un serio problema que requiere la intervención conjunta escuela - familia; la educación desde el ámbito axiológico necesita una mirada crítica que cuestione la problemática social que ha generado una crisis de inseguridad e inestabilidad a nivel global. Hacer frente a este escenario requiere replantear los objetivos de la educación, encaminados a inculcar en los niños desde temprana edad valores éticos y morales en la búsqueda de formar ciudadanos íntegros, que direccionen su  accionar al bien común, donde prime el respeto hacia los demás, la solidaridad y la honestidad. El estudio tuvo como objetivo diseñar una estrategia educativa basada en pictogramas para favorecer la educación en valores de los niños de 3 a 5 años de la Unidad Educativa Juan Eulogio Paz y Miño. La metodología aplicada fue de carácter descriptivo con enfoque mixto. La población considerada estuvo conformada por 42 niños de 3 a 5 años, 38 padres de familia y 2 docentes de la Unidad Educativa Juan Eulogio Paz y Miño. Los métodos teóricos que guiaron el estudio fue el analítico sintético y los empíricos la observación participante, la encuesta y la entrevista que coadyuvaron al alcance de los objetivos. Los principales resultados revelan que los niños denotan debilidad en hábitos como    saludar al llegar a un lugar, cumplir disposiciones, pedir de favor o agradecer; aunque son acciones que los padres aseveraron inculcar en la cotidianeidad. Entre las conclusiones se considera necesario fortalecer los valores desde la primera infancia tanto en el ámbito familiar como escolar. Las derivaciones alcanzadas dieron paso al diseño de una estrategia educativa basada en el uso de pictogramas, que favorezca la práctica de los valores en los niños de 3 a 5 años de edad.
EXPERIENCE OF UNDERGROUND HYDRAULIC MINING IN USSR AND RUSSIA
Authors:   Institute of Comprehensive Exploitation of Mineral Resources Russian Academy of Sciences, KRAVTSOV Alexey Aleksandrovich , DMITRAK Yuriy Vitalievich ,   Institute of Comprehensive Exploitation of Mineral Resources Russian Academy of Sciences, ATRUSHKEVICH Victor Arkadievitch
Published: October 2024

The article provides an analysis of the mining and geological conditions and the experience of coal mines in the USSR and Russia, in which hydraulic mining technology was used. The applied technical solutions and technological schemes of mining are also considered. The preferred mining and geological conditions for the use of hydrotechnology have been determined. Promising areas of hydro extraction research have been identified, such as the development of efficient underground dehydration complexes and automation of basic technological processes. The results of the research can be useful for further improving the efficiency, safety and realization of the potential of hydromechanization of coal mining and other minerals.
WORLD TRENDS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF TECHNOLOGIES OF HYDROMETALLURGICAL PROCESSING OF NICKEL ORES AT OPERATING ENTERPRISES
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Institution of Science Research Geotechnological Center of the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, POPOV Grigory Vasilievich , POPOVA Marina Ivanovna ,   Federal State Budgetary Institution of Science Research Geotechnological Center of the Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: October 2024

The paper provides a critical analysis of sources, a generalization of factual and theoretical material on the main hydromet-allurgical technologies for processing nickel ores. It has been established that the use of autoclave leaching of ores is the most common method of processing. This process takes place mainly in capacitive reactors with a stirrer. It was found that, depending on the type of ore, there are two main ways to carry out autoclave leaching: acid leaching under high pressure and the Caron process (ammonia leaching during roasting). The review shows that sulfuric acid leaching is predominantly used in Cuba and Western Australia, as well as in Finland, South Africa and Canada. Nitric acid leaching is being used in pilot plants in Australia at the CSIRO facility. Chlorine leaching is used in Japan, Norway, France and Canada. Ammonia processes have been implemented in Cuba, the Czech Republic and Australia, as well as in Brazil, Canada and the Philippines, India and Gag Island in Indonesia. The article presents the latest achievements in the field of extraction of nickel and cobalt from productive solutions, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of existing schemes at operating enterprises in the world. Having analyzed the main technologies for processing nickel ore, we can say that traditionally Ni and Co are extracted from productive solutions after leaching in one of three ways: 1. Precipitation of mixed nickel and cobalt sulfide; 2. Precipitation of mixed nickel and cobalt hydroxide; 3. Direct solvent extraction. The analysis showed that the most optimal and least time-consuming process, providing a relatively high degree of extraction of target metals, is extraction. Impurity removal is most expediently carried out by precipitation, however, the loss of nickel and cobalt should be taken into account.
IMPROVEMENT OF REGULATORY SUPPORT FOR THE USE OF HYDRAULIC LIFTS ON THE UNDER-ROOF MONORAIL TRANSPORT
Authors:   Rivalsit LLC, TARASOV Vladimir Mikhailovich , FOMIN Anatoly Iosifovich ,   JSC «NC VostNII»,   KuzSTU
Published: October 2024

In this article, the authors consider some regulatory legal acts concerning monorail transport and the calculation of anchor support for underground monorail cargo trucks (lifting technical devices with hydraulic control from a diesel-hydraulic locomotive) with attachments used in mines. Evaluation of the effect of a regulatory legal act is an important stage, the essence of which is to obtain and analyze information concerning the impact of a regulatory legal act on social, industrial relations, which, in turn, allows improving the current legislation, as well as taking into account the role of legal practice in the development of new regulatory legal acts. A huge role is played by the prevention, detection and elimination of defects in regulatory legal acts. Identification of defects in regulatory legal acts is carried out after the entry into force of a regulatory legal act by evaluating the results of its action. Elimination of defects in a regulatory legal act is carried out within the framework of additional law-making, aimed at eliminating the identified defect of a regulatory legal act, is a unified system of actions and procedures that allow to establish the presence of a defect, the cause of its occurrence, and, taking into account the information received, make appropriate changes to the legislation. In regulatory legal acts, the term «hydraulic lift» is not used, lifting devices with hydraulic control from a diesel-hydraulic locomotive operating (moving) along a monorail beam in a mine. There is a need and the possibility of finalizing regulatory legal acts concerning the solution of tasks related to the organization of the technological scheme of hydraulic lifts with cargo, that is, slinging, lifting cargo and moving cargo by hydraulic lifts in the mine, in underground mining conditions. Understanding that the laws of slinging, mechanics and physics concerning the process of lifting and moving loads both on the surface, for all kinds of lifting devices, structures, and in underground conditions, work the same way, and in the legal field is not specifically defined.
ON THE ISSUE OF IMPORT SUBSTITUTION OF NON-ELECTRIC INITIATION SYSTEMS IN ORDER TO INCREASE THE EFFICIENCY OF BLASTING OPERATIONS IN MODERN CONDITIONS OF FUNCTIONING OF MINING ENTERPRISES
Authors:   Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University, DOMOZHIROV Dmitry V. , PYTALEV Ivan A. ,   Nosov Magnitogorsk State Technical University, STRUKOV Konstantin I.
Published: October 2024

In modem conditions, the quality and safety of drilling and blasting operations depends on the means used to initiate and implement the principles of short-delayed blasting, especially with high-grade open geotechnology and the penetration of vertical underground mine workings by borehole drilling. The article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the initiation tools used in terms of their interchangeability in modern conditions of import substitution. The main methods of penetration of vertical underground mine workings are given and the possibility of using borehole rebounding in one step or with the preliminary creation of a compensation space taking into account downhole and downhole deceleration is justified. The passports of the borehole rebound during the sinking of the ore pass and the results of the experimental explosions performed in the conditions of the underground mine of AO «UGC» are presented. The current situation of import substitution of non-electric initiation systems is analyzed and the constraining factors are considered. Restraining factors and identified technical solutions for the transition to electric initiation systems and to detonating with a detonating cord in conditions of high-grade geotechnology.
IDENTIFICATION AND LIMITATION OF OUTSTANDING ("HURRICANE") CONTENTS OF USEFUL COMPONENTS AT THE "BURGALI" DEPOSIT
Authors:   «North-Eastern State University (Polytechnic Institute)», ARNO Veronika Vladimirovna , KALININA Lada Yurievna ,   «North-Eastern State University (Polytechnic Institute)», VOLIN Alexander Mikhailovich ,   «North-Eastern State University (Polytechnic Institute)», GARIFULINA Irina Yuryevna ,   «North-Eastern State University (Polytechnic Institute)», LOMAKINA Natalia Evgenievna ,   «North-Eastern State University (Polytechnic Institute)», GLOTOVA Ekaterina Aleksandrovna
Published: October 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the existing experience of the methodology for identifying and limiting outstanding («hurricane») contents of useful components at the «Burgali» deposit. It is determined that the initial data for identifying the threshold of outstanding values are the minimum hierarchical units of counting - samples. At the same time, the reduction of sample contents, rather than cross sections, is impressive from the point of view of working with the initial data, and not with figures obtained after arithmetic transformations of data characterizing different structural and lithological units of the structure of ore bodies in the counting contours.