bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of balance disorder and associated factors in patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: İzki Alparslan Ali , Yılmaz Halim , Göksu Hamit
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT
Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate balance disorder and the factors associated with it in patients with ankylosing
spondylitis (AS).
Patients and Methods: The study included 75 patients diagnosed with AS and 75 healthy volunteers. Patients and controls were
analysed for demographic characteristics, and AS patients were also investigated for disease activity indices and disease duration.
Patient and control groups were compared using static and dynamic balance tests.
Results: The scores of AS patients were found to be worse than the control group (p=0.000) in terms of Static Double-Feet Balance
Index (SDFBI), Static Single-Feet Balance Index (SSFBI), Dynamic Balance Index (DBI), Timed Up and Go test (TUGT), Berg Balance
Scale (BBS), Functional Reach Test (FRT) and Hand to Ground Distance (HGD). Balance impairment was significantly higher in
patients with kyphosis and advanced stage of sacroiliitis. Kyphosis angle, stage of sacroiliitis, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology
Index (BASMI), OWD (occiput-to-wall distance) scores, presence of contracture in hip or knee joint and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis
Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) were correlated with poor balance when evaluated with balance evaluation scales for correlation.
Conclusions: Balance was impaired in AS patients. Appropriate treatment and rehabilitation protocols for spinal and peripheric joint
stiffness may improve balance disorder in AS patients.
AMPLIAÇÃO DA FAIXA PREPARADA DO AEROPORTO EDUARDO GOMES DE MANAUS
Authors: Soares Marcelo Oneido Felix , Pinheiro Érika Cristina Nogueira Marques
Published: October 2024

O Aeroporto Internacional Eduardo Gomes, situado em Manaus, Amazonas, é um dos principais terminais aéreos da região Norte do Brasil. Atualmente, a faixa preparada do aeroporto tem uma extensão de 3.600 metros, permitindo a operação de diversas aeronaves comerciais. No entanto, a crescente demanda por voos e a necessidade de modernização das operações tornam a ampliação dessa faixa uma prioridade. A ampliação da faixa preparada é importante devido ao aumento no número de passageiros e na movimentação de cargas. A região Amazônica tem experimentado um crescimento econômico significativo, resultando em um maior fluxo de voos. Com a introdução de aeronaves maiores e mais eficientes, a infraestrutura atual pode se tornar inadequada, limitando a capacidade operacional e a eficiência do aeroporto. A ampliação da faixa preparada não apenas melhorará a capacidade de atendimento do aeroporto, mas também terá um impacto positivo no desenvolvimento econômico da região. Um aeroporto mais robusto pode atrair mais investimentos, estimular o turismo e fortalecer o comércio local. Além disso, garantir que a infraestrutura atenda aos padrões internacionais de segurança é fundamental para a confiabilidade das operações aéreas.
Heat Transfer Enhancement for Rarefied Flow Within a Microchannel Featuring Obstructions
Authors: Hammid Siham , Naima Khatir , Liazid Abdelkrim , Kezrane Cheikh
Published: October 2024

The present study investigates forced convection heat transfer of rarefied flow within a microchannel containing obstacles using the thermal lattice Boltzmann method using a double distribution function model and BGK approximation. Slip velocity and temperature jump conditions were employed across microchannel walls. The microchannel temperature and velocity input are constant. The microchannel configuration has three obstacles imposed along the lower microchannel wall. The study simulates rarefied fluid flow and heat transmission of forced convection inside the microchannel, considering separation between obstacles as the primary study objective. The findings represent the distribution of temperature and velocity. In addition, temperature jump and slip velocity in the function of Knudsen numbers were also represented. The findings highlight the substantial influence of barriers on temperature and velocity. As the distance between obstacles drops, the temperature diminishes. Additionally, a rise in separation distances significantly aids in the dropping of velocity. The results reveal a significant reduction in slip velocity as Knudsen numbers increase across the microchannel length. The outcomes of the present investigation could assist and be used as a cooling solution for various technologies, such as microelectronics and nanoelectromechanical systems. Additionally, the suggested configuration might be utilized to improve microfluidic device design.
Implementing Crowbar Protection To Maintain System Stability In Doubly Fed Induction Generator Wind Turbines
Authors: Medjadji Nassira , Medjahed Driss Meddah , Mahamedi Abdelkader , Abdelmajid Kaddour , Yahiaoui Mostapha , Aris Abdelkader
Published: October 2024

Doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) wind turbines play a crucial role in wind energy production. However, system stability during symmetrical voltage dips remains a significant challenge. This research area focuses on enhancing protection and regulation strategies to ensure that DFIG wind turbines operate stably and efficiently even when the electrical grid experiences disturbances. In-depth simulations and behavioral analyses are utilized to propose effective control solutions, minimizing the impact of voltage dips without compromising system stability. The findings from these studies are essential for wind turbine manufacturers and operators, contributing to the overall improvement of wind energy systems.
Comparative study of control algorithms MPPT based photovoltaic system with a DC–DC boost converter
Authors: Ayhar Lakhder , Safa Ahmed , Gouichiche Abdelmadjid , Benmohamed Fayssal Elyamani
Published: October 2024

Photovoltaic (PV) electricity is a single of more useful forms of clean energy which is seen as being kinder to the environment. The sole drawback of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems is their inefficient energy conversion, which makes it increasingly crucial to extract as much electricity as possible from them. External factors have an impact on the Photovoltaics Current-Voltage (I-V) then and Power-Voltage (P-V) characteristics since they are nonlinear and alter in reaction to temperature and solar light. An electrical circuit known as an MPP tracker (MPPT) is applied to avoid power losses. The literature has a large number of developed and published MPP tracking techniques. Performance comparisons are covered in this study along with the traditional approach (Perturb & Observe) and the more advanced techniques (Fuzzy Logic Control and Sliding Mode Control).
Load Frequency PID Controller Design Based on Pole Placement Method of an Islanded Microgrid
Authors: Alouache Benali , Helaimi M'hamed , Belhadj Djilali Abdelkadir , Allouache Hadj , Yahdou Adil
Published: October 2024

This research paper addresses the issue of frequency deviation in MG, which has emerged as a significant challenge in the context of power supply to loads, particularly in the context of unpredictable and random climate shifts. The system was evaluated under two distinct scenarios: one lacking any control methodologies, relying on conventional techniques to guarantee uninterrupted power supply to the load, and the other utilizing a PID controller calibrated through the Pole Placement method. The uncontrolled system exhibited considerable frequency fluctuations, exceeding ±1.5 Hz, which undermined its stability and rendered it unsuitable for supplying power to loads that require precise frequency levels. Conversely, the introduction of the controller resulted in substantial enhancements, reducing frequency distortion and facilitating more rapid stabilization, with the frequency remaining within ±0.5 Hz shortly after system startup. These outcomes underscore the viability of this approach in ensuring stable frequency regulation in MG environments.
A Rare Case of the Bladder Endometriosis and Overview of the Literature
Authors: Atalay Mert Şule , Dilbaz Berna , Yılmaz Ergani Seval , Kınay Tuğba , Öcal Aslı , Moraloğlu Tekin Özlem
Published: October 2024

Endometriosis is a chronic, non-cancerous condition characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. Isolated involvement of the bladder is rare and often part of a broader deep infiltrating pelvic endometriosis. Bladder endometriosis should be considered in cases of unexplained dysuria and urinary symptoms not clarified by imaging or pelvic examination. Magnetic resonance imaging can be used as a diagnostic aid. This case report presents two patients diagnosed with bladder endometriosis postoperatively. Conservative treatment with gestagen preparations was administered. After 3-6 months of follow-up, ultrasonography and symptom assessment showed no recurrence. Clinicians should be aware of bladder endometriosis as a potential cause of persistent urinary symptoms, given its rarity and often delayed diagnosis.
Chemotherapy-Associated Pneumatosis Intestinalis
Authors:   General and Digestive Surgery Department, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain, Ortiz- Ciruela David , López- Andreu Aitana ,   General and Digestive Surgery Department, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain, Madrazo- González Zoilo ,   General and Digestive Surgery Department, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain, Rebassa- Torrens María ,   Radiodiagnosis Department, Bellvitge University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
Published: October 2024

A 65-year-old woman underwent surgery for squamous cell carcinoma of the left tonsil (pT2pN1M0) requiring adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy (cisplatin). After the second cycle of chemotherapy, the patient arrived at the Emergency Department complaining of dysphagia, dyspnoea, and cervical subcutaneous emphysema, with unremarkable abdominal examination and laboratory tests. Contrast- enhanced cervico-thoraco-abdominal CT scan with oral and intravenous contrast (fig. 1 and 2) revealed cervical and thoracic subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, pneumoperitoneum, retropneumoperitoneum and pneumatization of the colon wall (pneumatosis coli), without free intra-abdominal fluid. Conservative treatment was established with corticosteroids, antibiotics and parenteral nutrition1-2. She presented progressive reduction of emphysema and radiological resolution of ectopic air. Oral diet was progressively reintroduced, and the patient was uneventful discharged from hospital3-4. This case-report highlights the importance of considering the possibility of a benign chemotherapy-associated pneumatosis intestinalis to avoid unnecessary surgical intervention5
FORMULATION OF AN EMULGEL LOADING A SYNERGISTIC ANTIBACTERIAL COMBINATION OF α-MANGOSTIN ENRICHED EXTRACT AND LAWSONE METHYL ETHER
Authors: Pumjan Saravoot , Kaewnopparat Nattha , Panichayupakaranant Pharkphoom
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to formulate a stable topical emulgel containing a synergized anti-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) combination of α-mangostin enriched extract (AME) and lawsone methyl ether (LME). AME (containing 84.9% w/w α-mangostin) was prepared using green technology, while pure LME was semi-synthesized from lawsone. Synergistic antibacterial effects against MRSA were evaluated using a broth microdilution assay coupled with the checkerboard method. Four AME and LME-loaded emulgels (F1–F4) containing 0.025% w/w AME and 0.2% w/w LME were formulated and evaluated for their physical, chemical, and biological stabilities under accelerated conditions for 6 months. The antibacterial assay followed by the checkerboard method revealed the best synergistic anti-MRSA effect between AME and LME at concentrations of 0.5 and 4 µg/mL, respectively. Based on the stability evaluations, the F4 formula exhibited good physical, chemical, and biological stabilities for at least 6 months. These results indicate that the emulgel containing a synergistic cocktail of 0.025% w/w AME and 0.2% w/w LME possesses high potential for further in vivo studies on the treatment of wounds associated with MRSA infection.
ADANA TUFANBEYLİ İLÇESİNDE KIRSAL MİMARİ: MUHARREM ÖNER EVİ
Authors: Burak Başak
Published: October 2024

Tufanbeyli Adana iline 196 km uzaklıkta yer alan şehrin en uzak ilçesidir. Taşpınar Köyü ise Tufanbeyli ilçesine 7.8 km uzaklıktadır. Tarihi bakımından Tufanbeyli ilçesi Hititler döneminde Kizvatna Kralığı’nın önemli bir dini merkezi konumundaydı. Zaman içinde bölge Kummanni, Höketçe, Mağara, Tufanbeyli adlarıyla anılmıştır. Araştırmaya konu olan Taşpınar köyünde yer alan Muharrem Öner Evi, kırsal mimaride ahşap tavan süslemeleri, yapım tekniği ve kendine özgü nitelikleri ile ön plana çıkmış, mimari alanda yer edinmiş bir konuttur. İç sofalı plan tipinde inşa edilmiş olan ev odalar, sofa, evlik, hazınlık, ahır, samanlık birimlerinden meydana gelmektedir. Ölçüleri itibari ile köydeki diğer evlere oranla büyük ebatlarda inşa edilmiştir ve iki katlıdır. Alt katta sofada yer alan ahşap bir merdiven ile üst kata çıkılmaktadır. Bu mimari anlayış yörede pek karşılaşılan bir durum değildir. Yörenin karasal iklimi, coğrafyası, yörede bulunan malzeme ev mimarinin Resimlenmesini etkileyen temel unsurlardandır. Engebeli arazi üzerine konumlanan evin cephe duvarları kalın tutulmuştur. Alt ve üst kat planları genel olarak birbirine paraleldir. Bazı odaların kapı girişlerinin yerlerinde değişiklik olmuştur. Bu çalışma ile amaç; Muharrem Öner Evi’nin plan, cephe, malzeme ve süsleme özelliklerini detaylı bir şekilde tanıtmak, Adana’nın en uzak ilçesinin köyünde yer alan bu özgün konutu tanıtarak literatüre kazandırmak, koruma tedbirleri bağlamında özgünlüğünün korunması amacıyla öneriler sunmak ve Türk mimarisindeki yerini ortaya koymaktır. Ev birimlerine verilen adlar yöre halkının hala kullanmakta olduğu terimlerdir. Bu yönüyle çalışma ayrıca önem kazanmıştır. Çalışmada saha araştırması, literatür tarama ve gözlem yöntemi kullanılmıştır. Bu çalışmanın bölgede çalışılan ilk sivil mimari örnek olması ve sanat tarihinin sivil mimari alanına sağlayacağı katkı önemlidir.
Ensino do direito no Brasil
Authors: Silva Lucilenny Nunes da
Published: October 2024

O presente artigo tem como objetivo examinar a evolução histórica do ensino de Direito no Brasil, desde o período colonial até a República, destacando as principais transformações ocorridas em cada fase. A análise abrange as mudanças no sistema de ensino superior, especialmente no que diz respeito à sua regulamentação e estruturação, abordando também o contexto social e político que influenciou o ensino jurídico ao longo do tempo. No que concerne à docência no curso de Direito, enfatiza-se que a prática de ensino não pode desconsiderar ou subestimar a relevância dos saberes pedagógicos. Esses conhecimentos são fundamentais para garantir a qualificação dos docentes e, por consequência, a formação adequada dos discentes. O desenvolvimento de competências pedagógicas permite ao professor criar um ambiente de aprendizado que valorize não apenas o conteúdo técnico do Direito, mas também o desenvolvimento crítico e reflexivo dos estudantes. Dessa forma, busca-se uma educação que vá além da mera transmissão de informações, almejando a formação de profissionais capazes de atuar de forma consciente, crítica e autônoma em suas respectivas áreas. Tal formação deve estar ancorada no compromisso com a função social do ensino e no desenvolvimento do saber jurídico em sua plenitude.
A crise de paradigmas do Estado moderno e as repercussões da adoção de um modelo ultrapassado de aplicação do direito no contexto brasileiro
Authors: Bedê Júnior Américo , Cruz Rômulo Lago e
Published: October 2024

Este estudo aborda a crise de paradigmas que afeta o Estado moderno, com ênfase nas implicações do uso de um modelo ultrapassado de aplicação do direito no contexto brasileiro. O objetivo geral da pesquisa é analisar as consequências jurídicas e sociais da manutenção de um sistema de interpretação do direito que já não atende às demandas contemporâneas da sociedade. Como objetivos específicos, a pesquisa pretende: investigar as lacunas entre o modelo jurídico vigente e as necessidades atuais; identificar os impactos sociais desse descompasso; e sugerir caminhos para a renovação do pensamento jurídico. O problema de pesquisa centraliza-se na seguinte questão: como a adoção de um modelo ultrapassado de aplicação do direito impacta a sociedade brasileira e a efetividade do Estado moderno? A metodologia utilizada foi de natureza bibliográfica, permitindo uma análise crítica das teorias jurídicas e sua relação com a realidade social brasileira. Os resultados indicam que a insistência em um modelo tradicional de aplicação do direito gera insegurança jurídica, impede a inovação no sistema legal e perpetua desigualdades sociais. A conclusão sugere a necessidade urgente de reformulação do pensamento jurídico no Brasil para um modelo mais dinâmico e adaptado às transformações sociais contemporâneas.
Syagrus coronata (Mart.) Becc: importância biológica, nutricional e socioeconômica
Authors: Alves Simone da Paz Leôncio , Santana Débora Lopes de , Silva Márcia Vanusa da , Oliveira Marcela Albuquerque de , Hatzlhofer Betânia Lucena Domingues , Souza Ivone Antonia de , Aguiar Jaciana dos Santos
Published: October 2024

Syagrus coronata, é uma das principais palmeiras nativas do semiárido do Nordeste brasileiro, conhecida popularmente como “árvore salvadora da vida”. Syagrus coronata desempenha importante papel do ponto de vista socioeconômico, cultural e ambiental. Além disso, o licuri, também é muito utilizada na medicina popular para tratamento de enfermidades, como infecções bacterianas por Staphylococcus aureus, antiinflamatório, antifúngico, frente a cepas de Candida albicans, inflamações oculares, etc. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma revisão bibliográfica da espécie Syagrus coronata, evidenciando sua importância econômica, bem como possíveis potenciais biológicos e nutricionais. Para esse fim, se fez uso das bases de dados Pubmed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, Science Direct e Web of Science, no período estabelecido de janeiro de 2000 até setembro de 2024. Foram incluídos 59 artigos de pesquisa original, estudos relacionados a atividades biológicas e aspectos gerais de Syagrus coronata, aos metabólitos secundários: purificados, frações ou isolados e comerciais. Neste estudo foram abordados uma coletânea de pesquisas que poderão auxiliar em maiores esclarecimentos sobre o uso de Syagrus coronata pela população e sua importância nas áreas socioeconômicas e culturais, nutricionais e no seu potencial biológico.
Representações de médicos sobre o manejo da COVID-19 na atenção primária à saúde
Authors: Domingues Alessandro Leipnitz , Kotinscki D’Angela Analdina da Silva , Abdala Gina Andrade , Oliveira Natália Cristina de , Meira Maria Dyrce Dias
Published: October 2024

Objetivo: Analisar a percepção de médicos sobre o manejo clínico de pacientes sob suspeita de COVID-19 no contexto da Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS). Método: Investigação qualitativa, exploratória e descritiva. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevista semiestruturada e analisados com auxílio da técnica do Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo (DSC), fundamentada na Teoria da Representação Social. Resultados: Participaram da pesquisa 18 médicos, de ambos os sexos, com faixa etária entre 25 e 45 anos. A maioria deles tinha mais de 10 anos de formados (45%), sem pós-graduação (55%) e com apenas um vínculo empregatício (67%). Da análise emergiram 15 Ideias Centrais com os respectivos DSC. Em suas representações, os médicos destacaram que: “A prevenção de doenças deixou de ser a prioridade na APS”; “Falta de um protocolo e excesso de trabalho”; “Estão cansados e com medo”; “Se sentem afetados emocionalmente” e para o manejo de futuras pandemias, sugeriram: “Melhorar a articulação entre os serviços da Rede de Saúde” e que “Precisa trabalhar mais a prevenção”. Considerações finais: A mudança da dinâmica do trabalho preventivo para o foco em um tratamento curativo, a falta de protocolos, o excesso de trabalho e a saúde emocional dos médicos foram aspectos extremamente afetados durante seu trabalho na pandemia.
OAB e a formação de advogados: um exame de competência
Authors: Pereira Kalyl Lamarck Silvério
Published: October 2024

Este estudo analisa se os requisitos de seleção da OAB são eficazes em aprovar advogados com competências éticas, práticas e técnicas necessárias. A qualidade da formação dos advogados no Brasil é frequentemente criticada, especialmente o Exame de Ordem, considerado insuficiente para garantir competência. Críticos defendem a reforma do ensino jurídico e do processo de seleção, dada a baixa qualidade dos cursos e o alto índice de reprovação no Exame. O estudo aborda a prudência jurídica, explorando capacidades como visão contextual, reflexão crítica, valores éticos e integração dos saberes. Também examina a profissionalização da advocacia pela OAB e analisa três competências fundamentais: interpretativa, argumentativa e técnico-procedimental. A metodologia inclui revisão bibliográfica e análise documental das normas institucionais. Conclui-se que, apesar de garantir padrões mínimos, o Exame possui lacunas, sugerindo a inclusão de uma fase oral e outra de títulos, além da especialização do processo para diferentes áreas do Direito, visando uma formação mais crítica e abrangente.
The possibility of using machine learning for network-wide predictive maintenance on urban railway tracks – URITMIS project case study
Authors: Haladin Ivo , Burnać Krešimir , Baniček Maja , Vranesic Katarina , Trifunović Nenad
Published: October 2024

Manual measurements with hand-held measuring equipment have become ineffective due to their time consumption and disruption of the regular operation schedule. In recent years, new measuring methods have been established, using specialized or in-service vehicles to collect significant amounts of data on condition of railway or tramway track infrastructure. However, accessing large datasets requires an extensive amount of time to process and evaluate the data before providing valuable information on track infrastructure condition to the operator. Effective large dataset analysis method could simplify the maintenance and intervention plan for the tramway infrastructure and improve the quality of track monitoring system. Several researchers and authors have investigated the possibility of implementing various machine learning approaches to speed up and automate the evaluation of track condition data. Based on historic and real-time data from in-service vehicles, using machine learning it is possible to detect irregularities and update digital twin model of the track for predictive maintenance. As part of the project URITMIS - Urban Railway Infrastructure Maintenance System, machine learning techniques and digital twin models of the tramway track will be investigated to improve maintenance efficiency and track reliability and resilience of Zagreb's tramway network. This paper presents current state of art as well as case-study of weld detection and evaluation from in-service vehicle bogie acceleration signals using machine learning techniques.
LCA comparison of slab track vs. ballasted track
Authors: Knabl Dieter , Landgraf Matthias
Published: October 2024

When it comes to reducing the rail systems' ecological footprint, it is essential to assess and compare lifecycle (LC) greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In the presented study this is executed for the two main railway track construction types: ballasted track and slab track. Preexisting soil conditions are considered as they significantly influence maintenance demands, service life and consequently life cycle costs. This study is executed for Austrian boundary conditions with speeds up to 250 km/h. The degree of emission reduction varies according to the additional soil reinforcement treatments employed, which in turn depend on the preexisting soil conditions. The findings indicate that the use of ballasted track leads to 11-20% lower LC GHG emissions. Poor soil conditions can increase LC GHG emissions for both track designs by as much as 26%, underscoring the importance of incorporating this parameter into the railway track lifecycle assessment (LCA). Compared to slab track construction, this type results in increased concrete mass and necessitates more extensive soil enhancement measures due to the track panel's greater rigidity, despite its longer service life. In tunnel areas, GHG emissions are lower using slab track as soil reinforcements are not required owing to the pre-existing concrete base. Material production accounts for more than 80% of GHG emissions in both construction styles. Therefore, the circular economy and advancements in steel and concrete production processes have vast potential for decreasing GHG emissions.
Project NONIs - development of optimized and sustainable insulated rail joint systems
Authors: Bürgler Maximilian , Marschnig Stefan
Published: October 2024

Insulated rail joints are critical elements of the traffic control system that are submitted to heavy dynamic loads. Apart from turnouts, these joints contribute to about 40% of railway disruptions in Austria, significantly causing train delays. The objective of this project is to develop a more sustainable insulated rail joint system by investigating new design strategies and materials. This paper deals in the first instance with the analysis of data gathered from insulated rail joints by the measurement car of the Austrian Federal Railways. The data analysis is primarily based on the rail surface signal and longitudinal level signal. As the signals from the measurement runs are shifted in relation to each other, it is necessary to carry out a stationing process. After creating time series for 150 insulated rail joints, the 14 with a deterioration rate above 0.1 mm/year were defined as “Hot-Spots”. The comparison between these "Hot-Spots" and the entire data set indicates that insulated rail joints in tracks with concrete sleepers perform better than on those with wooden sleepers. The rail profile 49E1 is rarely represented in the tracks of the entire data set, but counts for almost the half of the "Hot-Spots", while the rail profile 60E1 seems to have a positive impact. The steel grade appears to have a rather small impact on the occurrence of “Hot-Spots”. However, the steel grades for the turnout areas were not available, which may affect this result. Further steps in the project are in situ measurements and the analysis of the newly obtained data, the design of a validated simulation model, the development, installation, and monitoring of a prototype. As a result, an intervention will be proposed in order to protect the ballast from high deterioration due to defect insulated rail joints.
Risk assessment for passengers on station platforms: a quantitative approach
Authors: Baldassarra Alessandro , Marinacci Cristiano , Ricci Stefano
Published: October 2024

The time spent by passengers on the station platforms, including boarding and alighting processes, is a phase of the rail travel where accidents concentrate. Therefore, systematic analyses and robust methodologies to assess the risks in these phases are a priority to ensure the safety integrity of the railway system. The key aspects are the elements that play a role in generating hazards. Analyses and methodologies should be able to consider the large variety of infrastructural and traffic conditions to reach a quantitative risk assessment and pondering them. The paper describes the preliminary results of an ongoing research, developed in cooperation with the Infrastructure Manager RFI, specifically focused on these aspects. The inputs of the study are the various accessibility systems of the passengers to the platforms, rules and standards for their design, operational rules, mainly concerning maximum speed in stations, composition of trains, dwell times, etc. The research activities carried out include: 1) to study the state of the assets to identify common standards and infrastructure-specific elements (in terms of typology and accessibility) at network level; 2) to qualify the platforms in terms of number of served tracks, calling passenger services, passing through trains; 3) to analyse the accidents database from the stochastic viewpoint to identify recurrent locations, periods, causal factors; 4) to correlate accidents with single or groups of infrastructural and operational features; 5) to elaborate a specific risk analysis methodology; 6) to apply the elaborated risk analysis to a set of sampling stations for tuning and validating the methodology. As soon as the methodology has been setup, the application is focused on the expected results: A) to apply widely and systematically it at network level to rank the stations and the single platforms according to the risk level; B) to identify corrective actions, such as morphological, technological, operational measures.
Applicability of front-wheel braking procedure to evaluate road available grip
Authors: Coiret Alex , Le Cam Vincent
Published: October 2024

Tire manufacturers and road managers use specific vehicles and systems to assess road grip between reference roads or tires. This study details the development of a front-wheel braking method, enabling grip measurement with or without anti-lock braking systems (ABS). By modifying a vehicle to apply brakes only to the front wheels on a test track, this approach simplifies the grip calculation and increases safety by preventing rear wheel slip on low-texture roads and in wet conditions. Thus, this method provides the necessary safety conditions for evaluating braking with locked wheels on slippery surfaces, in addition to conventional tests with ABS. Both grip values, with and without ABS, can be used to construct a complete slip-grip curve, using a Pacejka model, from 0 to 100% slip. An instrumented passenger car was then used to measure grip on a test track and two highway sections at initial speeds of 50, 65, and 80 km/h. The method shows good repeatability across tests for given road conditions. A comparison between our "406" vehicle with the front braking method and a continuous grip measurement vehicle (CGM) showed about a 5% difference at key points of the curve, corresponding to locked and fully sliding wheel scenarios. Thus, our 406 vehicle's results may more accurately represent the grip of similar light vehicles than a dedicated vehicle using a small instrumented fifth wheel.
Investigation of the environmental degradation of asphalt pavement mixtures
Authors: Remišová Eva , Briliak Dušan
Published: October 2024

The complex factors during the asphalt production process and subsequent traffic loading, climatic and weather conditions lead to a decrease in durability of asphalt thereby reducing pavement surface service life. The physical and mechanical properties of asphalts change over time and are different than at the beginning. The paper focuses on the laboratory research on effect of thermo-oxidative aging (short term and long term), ultraviolet radiation and water on stiffness and indirect tensile strength of asphalt mixtures. Experimental measurements were performed with different asphalts in terms of mix type (asphalt concrete AC, stone mastic asphalt SMA) and composition (paving grade bitumen 50/70, polymer modified bitumen PMB45/80-75, coarse aggregate andesite and granodiorite). The stiffness modulus at different temperatures (10, 20 and 30oC) using the indirect tension method and indirect tensile strength have been evaluated in relation to the degree of aging, water and UV radiation. The experimental analysis showed a significant increase in the stiffness of polymer-modified asphalt with increasing aging intensity. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation adds to an increase of 35 to 40% in stiffness for unaged PMB asphalt and 12 to 17% for short-term aged mixtures. Accelerated water conditioning reduced the indirect tensile strength of asphalt by an average of 9%, significant in long-term aged samples using the loose mixture method (9 to 17%). The indirect tensile strengths for dry and wet conditioning showed greater changes due to the degree of aging. An understanding of the changes in asphalt properties during design allows for predicting asphalt surface behaviour after a period of use.
Modern spatial monitoring methods for geotechnical structures along the transportation networks
Authors: Car Marijan , Kovačević Meho Saša , Bačić Mario , Stipanovic Irina , Gavin Kenneth
Published: October 2024

This paper provides an overview of the field observation methods used in the monitoring of geotechnical structures along the transportation networks. The focus is on modern field observation methods to evaluate the behaviour of structures relevant to transportation infrastructure. Various advanced remote sensing methods such as photogrammetry, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) together with ground-based geodetic methods such as GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) will be investigated for their effectiveness in providing real-time and accurate displacement data. The integration of modern advanced methods aims to improve the data acquisition process and provides a holistic understanding and visualisation of asset behaviour and environmental conditions. By using the power of modern monitoring methods, transport authorities can improve their decision-making processes, prioritize maintenance, and ensure the long-term resilience and safety of infrastructure. As accurate information from inspection and monitoring is crucial to make the right decisions regarding maintenance and safety, the advantages and disadvantages of the above methods are discussed.
INFRACOMS toolbox for NRAs to leverage technological evolutions for bridge and pavement monitoring and maintenance
Authors: Workman Robin , McPherson Kevin , Saberi Mogens , Zhang Fengqiao , Yang Yuguang , Arvidsson Anna , Fjendbo Simon , Kokot Darko , Anžlin Andrej , Sloth Mette , Yeganeh Ali
Published: October 2024

National Road Authorities (NRA) draw on a wide range of technologies and tools to support decisions on asset maintenance. Recently, there has been significant progress in developing sensing technologies for data collection and advanced techniques for data processing. While these technologies present an opportunity to improve asset management decisions, they also challenge NRAs as they seek to realise the benefits. The INFRACOMS project, commissioned by Conference of European Directors of Roads (CEDR), aims to understand current and emerging remote asset condition monitoring and data collection techniques to enable European NRAs to implement such technologies and approaches as standard practice. The project focuses on carriageways and bridges. INFRACOMS has developed an openly accessible Technology Database that identifies and provides an appraisal of the technical capability of current and emerging remote monitoring technologies showing potential to fill a previously identified gap in the bridge or carriageways management processes. A flexible, sustainable, and future-proofed appraisal toolkit is developed, enabling NRAs to continue to appraise emerging technologies and add them to the database. INFRACOMS has also considered the wider requirements that must be met to implement new technologies as business as usual. A self-assessment toolkit has been developed that enables NRAs to establish the general environment for adopting innovation within their organisations. A technology implementation framework has been produced that assists in the development of roadmaps to adapt and implement specific gap-filling technologies. With these tools the NRAs should be better equipped to take on the challenge of innovation and realise the benefits of new technologies.
Application of the IHSDM for analysis of road design consistency and assessment of the number and type of traffic accidents: a case study of the Croatian state road DC1
Authors: Maljković Biljana , Cvitanić Dražen , Breški Deana
Published: October 2024

Generally, statistical data show that more than 50% of fatal traffic accidents occur on rural two-lane roads, with over half being related to horizontal curves. Accident locations indicate that road alignment consistency has a significant impact on accident occurrence. Many crash prediction models and road design consistency models have been developed, mostly based on operating speed and road geometric characteristics. In this paper, the Interactive Highway Safety Design Model (IHSDM) was used to analyse the consistency of road horizontal and vertical elements, as well as to predict the number and type of crashes on a section of the state road DC1 from Vrlika to Hrvace, covering a length of approximately 24 km. Two modules within the software were utilized: the module for predicting the number and types of accidents (Crash Prediction Module - CPM) and the consistency of the road alignment module (Design Consistency Module - DCM). In this regard, two types of road alignment consistency analyses were conducted: one according to the Croatian road design guidelines and another using the IHSDM tool. Furthermore, a comparison between the estimated and actual number of accidents was performed. The comparison showed that the number of accidents predicted by the IHSDM software does not deviate significantly from the actual number of traffic accidents on the analysed section. Based on the results of the conducted analyses, locations along the road section with reduced safety were identified, and infrastructure measures were proposed to improve traffic safety, specifically in terms of reducing the number of accidents.
Utilization of regional lines as alternative routes for the improvement of the resilience of the railway infrastructure in case of emergencies
Authors: Pálková Adriana , Bulková Zdenka , Mašek Jaroslav
Published: October 2024

For many companies and logistics centres, rail transport is a key aspect and an essential part of their business. End customers expect their goods to be transported by carriers in a fast, reliable, and efficient manner. However, in many cases, the efficiency and resilience of rail transportation is affected by emergencies such as natural disasters, accidents, and track maintenance. In such cases, situations can arise that make it difficult for carriers to meet their customers' expectations and can even significantly impact the entire transportation process. In an attempt to address these challenges, this paper analyses the impact of emergencies on the overall progress of rail freight transportation. The aim of the paper is to explore the possibilities of using regional lines as alternative routes in the event of an emergency on the corridors, and to describe the possible benefits for end users, but also for the carriers themselves, in case of using regional lines as alternative routes. The article also compares the strengths and weaknesses of regional lines in their use in rail freight transportation, with an emphasis on their ability to ensure reliable transportation of goods. The article compares and evaluates selected routes in the Czech Republic from an economic and operational point of view, which may help carriers react better and more efficiently to unexpected events that may occur on the railway infrastructure.
Optimizing rail integrity – defining new stress-free temperature intervals for continuously welded rail (CWR)
Authors: Mărculescu Laurențiu , Orban Zsolt
Published: October 2024

For continuously welded rail (CWR), according to the Romanian technical prescription in force (Railway Instruction no.341), the final stress-free temperature interval is set between 17⁰C and 27⁰C. Admitted temperatures in a rail that is part of a CWR are between -30⁰C and +60⁰C. There is only one situation when the Romanian Railway Company deviated from the prescribed CWR stress-free temperature interval prescribed by the Railway Instruction No.341. Thus, for a project on a European Corridor located in a "hot" plain in the east of the country, where the prescribed stress-free temperature interval was defined between 20⁰C and 30⁰C. However, there is an increasing concern of the Regional Railway Maintenance Departments from all over the country that this interval should be adapted to their regions and their climate. The aim of the work is to define prescribed stress-free temperature intervals according to the climatic regime, i.e. according to the maximum temperatures, but also the maximum temperature differences. The work also considers the influence of seasonal warm and cold winds, as well as other parameters that can influence the behavior of the CWR.
Potential application of Maglev Derived System to improve railway performance
Authors: Bardhi Arbra , Carcasi Giuseppe , de Belen Marjorie , De Blasio Giovanni , Nocita Angela , Patiño Puerta Camilo , Radziszewski Pawel , Ricci Stefano , Rizzetto Luca
Published: October 2024

The paper provides with a categorized overview of existing Maglev-Derived Systems (MDS) and delineates their maturity levels and the technologies employed therein. The analysis focuses on the main functional, technical, and operational, parameters, with a systematic discussion of merits and limitations of the various technologies, aiming at identifying available avenues for the potential integration of MDS into the existing railway network within the European Union. The paper also presents the formulation of a standardized MDS architecture, serving as a foundational reference for deeper and broader development. The paper highlights various existing transport systems, all using linear motors, but not designed for EU railway compatibility. However, emerging interoperable MDS systems, such as MagRail, MagRail Booster, Ironbox subsystems, etc. are arising as promising solutions, and their feasibility is worth assessing. Despite different suspensions, magnetic levitation, wheels or air cushions, almost all MDS primarily employ linear motors, whose compatibility with conventional railways require deeper analysis. Nevertheless, the focus of the paper is the potential of MDS solutions to operate within the current EU railway network. Therefore, sample generic use cases are also presented, taking into consideration the various configurations of the MDS. The achievements described in the paper are the first results of the ongoing MaDe4Rail Project, funded under the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking Research and Innovation programme.
Pavement subbase layers for reconstruction and repair of lower class roads
Authors: Spies Karel
Published: October 2024

Today's construction industry is increasingly putting concepts such as sustainability, recycling, emission, and energy reduction at the forefront. This article follows the same path, looking at the design of new, recycled road subbase layers. These layers are almost 100 % composed of reclaimed asphalt, milled to the appropriate fraction. This reclaimed asphalt is either mixed with a suitable binder, heated to a low temperature or a combination of both effects occurs. The research described in this paper is partially related to the newly developed standard CSN 73 6147 Cold recycling of pavement structural layers [1]. The aim of the research is to economically and environmentally reuse even lower quality reclaimed asphalt, specifically in the subbase layer of pavements. Otherwise, this precious material is mainly used for the backfilling of roadsides.
Composite bridge deck slab crack design for erection with precast omnia plates
Authors: Vlašić Anđelko , Mujkanović Nijaz , Srbić Mladen , Kušter Marić Marija
Published: October 2024

Limiting the crack width in reinforced concrete structures is essential to ensure a durable structure as it prevents accelerated corrosion of the reinforcement. For composite bridges, Eurocode HRN EN 1994-2 defines a very strict condition of a maximum crack width of 0.15-0.2 mm, which must be met for frequent combinations of actions. Since cracks in the deck slab of continuous girder composite bridges are to be expected and are unavoidable in the areas of middle supports, a considerable amount of reinforcement must be installed in a very limited deck slab thickness of only 25 to 30 cm. Depending on the local load bearing plate direction, the deck plate can be subjected to both, a very large longitudinal bending moment derived from the local behaviour, and an axial tensile force derived from the composite action of the main girder. The summation of these internal actions in the areas where the most unfavourable superposition occurs leads to a complex calculation and design procedure, that results in a very large reinforcement area. Omnia panels are often used instead of conventional formwork to enable a faster and more efficient erection process. In this case, additional reinforcement must be placed in the limited in-situ part of the slab thickness to allow a continuous action between the precast elements of the omnia slabs. This paper presents a numerical model investigation of such an example, used to determine the crack reinforcement in a continuous composite girder bridge with a deck slab erected using omnia panels, whose longitudinal load bearing direction coincides with the direction of the main girder span. The derived reinforcement must satisfy the ULD design and SLS crack verification, taking into account both the local behaviour of the deck slab and the global behaviour of the main girder simultaneously.
Instability detection for high-speed weigh-in-motion systems towards direct enforcement
Authors: Warscotte Loïc , Boreux Jehan
Published: October 2024

High Speed Weigh-In-Motion (HS-WIM) systems are used to automatically enforce weight restrictions on heavy vehicles operating within specified maximum weight limits. In Belgium, these systems have recently been implemented into the road surfaces of highways at several locations. They accurately estimate the weight of semi-trailers and vans moving at high speeds, meeting Class I standards according to the E1318-94 criterion. Despite the initial precision in weight measurement, it is crucial for the system to maintain calibration for reliable estimations over an extended period. Currently, periodic tests of estimation errors are conducted, and the parameters of the system are calibrated when necessary. The main objective of this research is to develop a complete automatic monitoring of this HS-WIM system, operating without the need for constant supervision. In the field of changepoint detection methods, papers have laid the theoretical background for developing such monitoring, assuming strong mathematical characteristics on the nature of the analyzed data and the changes. More recently, a breakthrough research on locally stationary time series extended the previous theory avoiding strong assumptions on the dataset. However, extensive calculations are required to perform these changepoint detections. Despite lower bounds of thresholds are suggested, no exhaustive solution is provided in the initial research. This paper then aims to present the complete practical implementation of unsupervised monitoring used for the HS-WIM. First, it especially addresses the issue of natural dependence between the HS-WIM data and external variables to the system by performing a pre-processing stage. Second, we propose parametrized approximations of the theoretical background thanks to characteristics of the HS-WIM data. These parameters are user-defined, considering the available time and memory capabilities. Third, we show that we can enhance the sensitivity of the monitoring by using our procedure compared to the usual parametric method.