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13 pages, 3914 KiB  
Article
Biomechanical Analysis of Different Pacifiers and Their Effects on the Upper Jaw and Tongue
by Luca Levrini, Luigi Paracchini, Luigia Ricci, Maria Sparaco, Stefano Saran and Giulia Mulè
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8624; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158624 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Aim: Pacifiers play a critical role in the early stages of craniofacial and palate development during infancy. While they provide comfort and aid in soothing, their use can also have significant impacts on the growth and function of the oral cavity. This study [...] Read more.
Aim: Pacifiers play a critical role in the early stages of craniofacial and palate development during infancy. While they provide comfort and aid in soothing, their use can also have significant impacts on the growth and function of the oral cavity. This study aimed to simulate and predict the behavior of six different types of pacifiers and their functional interaction with the tongue and palate, with the goal of understanding their potential effects on orofacial growth and development. Materials and Methods: Biomechanical analysis using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) mathematical models was employed to evaluate the behavior of six different commercial pacifiers in contact with the palate and tongue. Three-dimensional solid models of the palate and tongue were based on the mathematical framework from a 2007 publication. This allowed for a detailed investigation into how various pacifier designs interact with soft and hard oral tissues, particularly the implications on dental and skeletal development. Results: The findings of this study demonstrate that pacifiers exhibit different interactions with the oral cavity depending on their geometry. Anatomical–functional pacifiers, for instance, tend to exert lateral compressions near the palatine vault, which can influence the hard palate and contribute to changes in craniofacial growth. In contrast, other pacifiers apply compressive forces primarily in the anterior region of the palate, particularly in the premaxilla area. Furthermore, the deformation of the tongue varied significantly across different pacifier types: while some pacifiers caused the tongue to flatten, others allowed it to adapt more favorably by assuming a concave shape. These variations highlight the importance of selecting a pacifier that aligns with the natural development of both soft and hard oral tissues. Conclusions: The results of this study underscore the crucial role of pacifier geometry in shaping both the palate and the tongue. These findings suggest that pacifiers have a significant influence not only on facial bone growth but also on the stimulation of oral functions such as suction and feeding. The geometry of the pacifier affects the soft tissues (tongue and muscles) and hard tissues (palate and jaw) differently, which emphasizes the need for careful selection of pacifiers during infancy. Choosing the right pacifier is essential to avoid potential negative effects on craniofacial development and to ensure that the benefits of proper oral function are maintained. Therefore, healthcare professionals and parents should consider these biomechanical factors when introducing pacifiers to newborns. Full article
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18 pages, 3741 KiB  
Article
The Mechanical Behavior of a Shield Tunnel Reinforced with Steel Plates Under Complex Strata
by Yang Yu, Yazhen Sun and Jinchang Wang
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2722; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152722 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 80
Abstract
The stability of shield tunnel segmental linings is highly sensitive to the lateral pressure coefficient, especially under weak, heterogeneous, and variable geological conditions. However, the mechanical behavior of steel plate-reinforced linings under such conditions remains insufficiently characterized. This study aims to investigate the [...] Read more.
The stability of shield tunnel segmental linings is highly sensitive to the lateral pressure coefficient, especially under weak, heterogeneous, and variable geological conditions. However, the mechanical behavior of steel plate-reinforced linings under such conditions remains insufficiently characterized. This study aims to investigate the effects of varying lateral pressures on the structural performance of reinforced tunnel linings. To achieve this, a custom-designed full-circumference loading and unloading self-balancing apparatus was developed for scaled-model testing of shield tunnels. The experimental methodology allowed for precise control of loading paths, enabling the simulation of realistic ground stress states and the assessment of internal force distribution, joint response, and load transfer mechanisms during the elastic stage of the structure. Results reveal that increased lateral pressure enhances the stiffness and bearing capacity of the reinforced lining. The presence and orientation of segment joints, as well as the bonding performance between epoxy resin and expansion bolts at the reinforcement interface, significantly influence stress redistribution in steel plate-reinforced zones. These findings not only deepen the understanding of tunnel behavior in complex geological environments but also offer practical guidance for optimizing reinforcement design and improving the durability and safety of shield tunnels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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21 pages, 4176 KiB  
Article
Anti-Overturning Performance of Prefabricated Foundations for Distribution Line Poles
by Liang Zhang, Chen Chen, Yan Yang, Kai Niu, Weihao Xu and Dehong Wang
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2717; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152717 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 128
Abstract
To enhance the anti-overturning performance of poles and prevent tilting or collapse, a prefabricated foundation for distribution lines is developed. Field tests are conducted on five groups of foundations. Based on the test results, finite element analysis (FEA) is employed to investigate the [...] Read more.
To enhance the anti-overturning performance of poles and prevent tilting or collapse, a prefabricated foundation for distribution lines is developed. Field tests are conducted on five groups of foundations. Based on the test results, finite element analysis (FEA) is employed to investigate the influence of different factors—such as pole embedment depth, foundation locations, soil type, and soil parameters—on the anti-overturning performance of pole prefabricated foundations. The results indicate that under ultimate load conditions, the reaction force distribution at the base of the foundation approximates a triangular pattern, and the lateral earth pressure on the pole follows an approximately quadratic parabolic distribution along the depth. When the foundation size increases from 0.8 m to 0.9 m, the bearing capacity of the prefabricated foundation improves by 8%. Furthermore, when the load direction changes from 0° to 45°, the foundation’s bearing capacity increases by 14%. When the foundation is buried at a depth of 1.0 m, compared with the ground position, the ultimate overturning moment of the prefabricated foundation increases by 10%. Based on field test results, finite element simulation results, and limit equilibrium theory, a calculation method for the anti-overturning bearing capacity of prefabricated pole foundations is developed, which can provide a practical reference for the engineering design of distribution line poles and their prefabricated foundations. Full article
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12 pages, 2261 KiB  
Communication
Technological Challenges for a 60 m Long Prototype of Switched Reluctance Linear Electromagnetic Actuator
by Jakub Rygał, Roman Rygał and Stan Zurek
Actuators 2025, 14(8), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/act14080380 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 410
Abstract
In this research project a large linear electromagnetic actuator (LLEA) was designed and manufactured. The electromagnetic performance was published in previous works, but in this paper we focus on the technological challenges related to the manufacturing in particular. This LLEA was based on [...] Read more.
In this research project a large linear electromagnetic actuator (LLEA) was designed and manufactured. The electromagnetic performance was published in previous works, but in this paper we focus on the technological challenges related to the manufacturing in particular. This LLEA was based on the magnet-free switched-reluctance principle, having six effective energised stator “teeth” and four passive mover parts (4:6 ratio). Various aspects and challenges encountered during the manufacturing, transport, and assembly are discussed. Thermal expansion of steel contributed to the decision of the modular design, with each module having 1.3 m in length, with a 2 mm longitudinal dilatation gap. The initial prototype was tested with a 10.6 m length, with plans to extend the test track to 60 m, which was fully achievable due to the modular design and required 29 tons of electrical steel to be built. The stator laminations were cut by a bespoke progressive tool with stamping, and other parts by a CO2 laser. Mounting was based on welding (back of the stator) and clamping plates (through insulated bolts). The linear longitudinal force was on the order of 8 kN, with the main air gap of 7.5–10 mm on either side of the mover. The lateral forces could exceed 40 kN and were supported by appropriate construction steel members bolted to the concrete floor. The overall mechanical tolerances after installation remained below 0.5 mm. The technology used for constructing this prototype demonstrated the cost-effective way for a semi-industrial manufacturing scale. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section High Torque/Power Density Actuators)
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22 pages, 11766 KiB  
Article
Seismic Performance of Tall-Pier Girder Bridge with Novel Transverse Steel Dampers Under Near-Fault Ground Motions
by Ziang Pan, Qiming Qi, Ruifeng Yu, Huaping Yang, Changjiang Shao and Haomeng Cui
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2666; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152666 - 28 Jul 2025
Viewed by 151
Abstract
This study develops a novel transverse steel damper (TSD) to enhance the seismic performance of tall-pier girder bridges, featuring superior lateral strength and energy dissipation capacity. The TSD’s design and arrangement are presented, with its hysteretic behavior simulated in ABAQUS. Key parameters (yield [...] Read more.
This study develops a novel transverse steel damper (TSD) to enhance the seismic performance of tall-pier girder bridges, featuring superior lateral strength and energy dissipation capacity. The TSD’s design and arrangement are presented, with its hysteretic behavior simulated in ABAQUS. Key parameters (yield strength: 3000 kN; initial gap: 100 mm; post-yield stiffness ratio: 15%) are optimized through seismic analysis under near-fault ground motions, incorporating pulse characteristic investigations. The optimized TSD effectively reduces bearing displacements and results in smaller pier top displacements and internal forces compared to the bridge with fixed bearings. Due to the higher-order mode effects, there is no direct correlation between top displacements and bottom internal forces. As pier height decreases, the S-shaped shear force and bending moment envelopes gradually become linear, reflecting the reduced influence of these modes. Medium- to long-period pulse-like motions amplify seismic responses due to resonance (pulse period ≈ fundamental period) or susceptibility to large low-frequency spectral values. Higher-order mode effects on bending moments and shear forces intensify under prominent high-frequency components. However, the main velocity pulse typically masks the influence of high-order modes by the overwhelming seismic responses due to large spectral values at medium to long periods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seismic Analysis and Design of Building Structures)
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18 pages, 392 KiB  
Article
Semantic Restoration of Snake-Slaying in Chan Buddhist Koan
by Yun Wang and Yulu Lv
Religions 2025, 16(8), 973; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16080973 - 27 Jul 2025
Viewed by 307
Abstract
In the Chan Buddhism koan (gong’an 公案) tradition, the act of “slaying the snake” functions as a signature gesture imbued with complex, historically layered cultural meanings. Rather than merely examining its motivations, this paper emphasizes tracing the semantic transformations that this motif has [...] Read more.
In the Chan Buddhism koan (gong’an 公案) tradition, the act of “slaying the snake” functions as a signature gesture imbued with complex, historically layered cultural meanings. Rather than merely examining its motivations, this paper emphasizes tracing the semantic transformations that this motif has undergone across different historical contexts. It argues that “snake-slaying” operated variously as an imperial narrative strategy reinforcing ruling class ideology; as a form of popular resistance by commoners against flood-related disasters; as a dietary practice among aristocrats and literati seeking danyao (elixirs) 丹藥 for reclusion and transcendence; and ultimately, within the Chan tradition, as a method of spiritual cultivation whereby masters sever desires rooted in attachment to both selfhood and the Dharma. More specifically, first, as an imperial narrative logic, snake-slaying embodied exemplary power: both Liu Bang 劉邦 and Guizong 歸宗 enacted this discursive strategy, with Guizong’s legitimacy in slaying the snake deriving from the precedent set by Liu Bang. Second, as a folk strategy of demystification, snake-slaying acquired a moral aura—since the snake was perceived as malevolent force, their slaying appeared righteous and heroic. Finally, as a mode of self-cultivation among the aristocracy, snake-slaying laid the groundwork for its later internalization. In Daoism, slaying the snake was a means of cultivating the body; in Chan Buddhism, the act is elevated to a higher plane—becoming a way of cultivating the mind. This transformation unfolded naturally, as if predestined. In all cases, the internalization of the snake-slaying motif was not an overnight development: the cultural genes that preceded its appearance in the Chan tradition provided the fertile ground for its karmic maturation and discursive proliferation. Full article
24 pages, 74760 KiB  
Article
The Application of Mobile Devices for Measuring Accelerations in Rail Vehicles: Methodology and Field Research Outcomes in Tramway Transport
by Michał Urbaniak, Jakub Myrcik, Martyna Juda and Jan Mandrysz
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4635; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154635 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 407
Abstract
Unbalanced accelerations occurring during tram travel have a significant impact on passenger comfort and safety, as well as on the rate of wear and tear on infrastructure and rolling stock. Ideally, these dynamic forces should be monitored continuously in real-time; however, traditional systems [...] Read more.
Unbalanced accelerations occurring during tram travel have a significant impact on passenger comfort and safety, as well as on the rate of wear and tear on infrastructure and rolling stock. Ideally, these dynamic forces should be monitored continuously in real-time; however, traditional systems require high-precision accelerometers and proprietary software—investments often beyond the reach of municipally funded tram operators. To this end, as part of the research project “Accelerometer Measurements in Rail Passenger Transport Vehicles”, pilot measurement campaigns were conducted in Poland on tram lines in Gdańsk, Toruń, Bydgoszcz, and Olsztyn. Off-the-shelf smartphones equipped with MEMS accelerometers and GPS modules, running the Physics Toolbox Sensor Suite Pro app, were used. Although the research employs widely known methods, this paper addresses part of the gap in affordable real-time monitoring by demonstrating that, in the future, equipment equipped solely with consumer-grade MEMS accelerometers can deliver sufficiently accurate data in applications where high precision is not critical. This paper presents an analysis of a subset of results from the Gdańsk tram network. Lateral (x) and vertical (z) accelerations were recorded at three fixed points inside two tram models (Pesa 128NG Jazz Duo and Düwag N8C), while longitudinal accelerations were deliberately omitted at this stage due to their strong dependence on driver behavior. Raw data were exported as CSV files, processed and analyzed in R version 4.2.2, and then mapped spatially using ArcGIS cartograms. Vehicle speed was calculated both via the haversine formula—accounting for Earth’s curvature—and via a Cartesian approximation. Over the ~7 km route, both methods yielded virtually identical results, validating the simpler approach for short distances. Acceleration histograms approximated Gaussian distributions, with most values between 0.05 and 0.15 m/s2, and extreme values approaching 1 m/s2. The results demonstrate that low-cost mobile devices, after future calibration against certified accelerometers, can provide sufficiently rich data for ride-comfort assessment and show promise for cost-effective condition monitoring of both track and rolling stock. Future work will focus on optimizing the app’s data collection pipeline, refining standard-based analysis algorithms, and validating smartphone measurements against benchmark sensors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Sensors and Actuators for Intelligent Vehicles)
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20 pages, 274 KiB  
Article
Bulgarian Forced Assimilation Policy and the So-Called ‘Revival Process’ Towards Turks and Muslims in Bulgaria 40 Years Later: Documents, Studies and Memories
by Yelis Erolova
Histories 2025, 5(3), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/histories5030033 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 566
Abstract
The article is aimed at building on the existing studies devoted to the last stage of the assimilation policy directed at the Muslim population in Communist Bulgaria during the second half of the 1980s. The 40th anniversary of the forced change of the [...] Read more.
The article is aimed at building on the existing studies devoted to the last stage of the assimilation policy directed at the Muslim population in Communist Bulgaria during the second half of the 1980s. The 40th anniversary of the forced change of the given Turkish–Arabic and Persian names of this population is an occasion to revisit this dark period of the recent past. This study focuses on the short- and long-term consequences of the political measures, which became known as the ‘Revival process’ (1984/1985–1989). For the first time, the author presents new written sources, including analytical and field reports commissioned by the Central Committee of the Bulgarian Communist Party and prepared by Bulgarian scholars during the second half of the 1980s, as well as later collected biographical data related to Muslims affected by the events, derived through an (auto)ethnographic method of research among Turks, Crimean Tatars and Muslim Roma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Political, Institutional, and Economy History)
19 pages, 3090 KiB  
Article
Motion Sickness Suppression Strategy Based on Dynamic Coordination Control of Active Suspension and ACC
by Fang Zhou, Dengfeng Zhao, Yudong Zhong, Pengpeng Wang, Junjie Jiang, Zhenwei Wang and Zhijun Fu
Machines 2025, 13(8), 650; https://doi.org/10.3390/machines13080650 - 24 Jul 2025
Viewed by 189
Abstract
With the development of electrification and intelligent technologies in vehicles, ride comfort issues represented by motion sickness have become a key constraint on the performance of autonomous driving. The occurrence of motion sickness is influenced by the comprehensive movement of the vehicle in [...] Read more.
With the development of electrification and intelligent technologies in vehicles, ride comfort issues represented by motion sickness have become a key constraint on the performance of autonomous driving. The occurrence of motion sickness is influenced by the comprehensive movement of the vehicle in the longitudinal, lateral, and vertical directions, involving ACC, LKA, active suspension, etc. Existing motion sickness control method focuses on optimizing the longitudinal, lateral, and vertical directions separately, or coordinating the optimization control of the longitudinal and lateral directions, while there is relatively little research on the coupling effect and coupled optimization of the longitudinal and vertical directions. This study proposes a coupled framework of ACC and active suspension control system based on MPC. By adding pitch angle changes caused by longitudinal acceleration to the suspension model, a coupled state equation of half-car vertical dynamics and ACC longitudinal dynamics is constructed to achieve integrated optimization of ACC and suspension for motion suppression. The suspension active forces and vehicle acceleration are regulated coordinately to optimize vehicle vertical, longitudinal, and pitch dynamics simultaneously. Simulation experiments show that compared to decoupled control of ACC and suspension, the integrated control framework can be more effective. The research results confirm that the dynamic coordination between the suspension and ACC system can effectively suppress the motion sickness, providing a new idea for solving the comfort conflict in the human vehicle environment coupling system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vehicle Engineering)
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24 pages, 7034 KiB  
Article
Transient Simulation of Aerodynamic Load Variations on Carrier-Based Aircraft During Recovery in Carrier Airwake
by Xiaoxi Yang, Baokuan Li, Yang Nie, Zhibo Ren and Fangchao Tian
Aerospace 2025, 12(8), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerospace12080656 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 202
Abstract
Carrier-based aircraft recovery is a critical and challenging phase in maritime operations due to the turbulent airwake generated by aircraft carriers, which significantly increases the workload of flight control systems and pilots. This study investigates the airwake effects of an aircraft carrier under [...] Read more.
Carrier-based aircraft recovery is a critical and challenging phase in maritime operations due to the turbulent airwake generated by aircraft carriers, which significantly increases the workload of flight control systems and pilots. This study investigates the airwake effects of an aircraft carrier under varying wind direction conditions. A high-fidelity mathematical model combining delayed detached-eddy simulation (DDES) with the overset grid method was developed to analyze key flow characteristics, including upwash, downwash, and lateral recirculation. The model ensures precise control of aircraft speed and trajectory during landing while maintaining numerical stability through rigorous mesh optimization. The results indicate that the minimum lift occurs in the downwash region aft of the deck, marking it as the most hazardous zone during landing. Aircraft above the deck are primarily influenced by ground effects, causing a sudden increase in lift that complicates arresting wire engagement. Additionally, the side force on the aircraft undergoes an abrupt reversal during the approach phase. The dual overset mesh technique effectively captures the coupled motion of the hull and aircraft, revealing higher turbulence intensity along the glideslope and a wider range of lift fluctuations compared to stationary hull conditions. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing carrier-based aircraft recovery procedures, offering more realistic data for simulation training and enhancing pilot preparedness for airwake-induced disturbances. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aeronautics)
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26 pages, 2219 KiB  
Article
Predicting Cognitive Decline in Parkinson’s Disease Using Artificial Neural Networks: An Explainable AI Approach
by Laura Colautti, Monica Casella, Matteo Robba, Davide Marocco, Michela Ponticorvo, Paola Iannello, Alessandro Antonietti, Camillo Marra and for the CPP Integrated Parkinson’s Database
Brain Sci. 2025, 15(8), 782; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15080782 - 23 Jul 2025
Viewed by 389
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The study aims to identify key cognitive and non-cognitive variables (e.g., clinical, neuroimaging, and genetic data) predicting cognitive decline in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients using machine learning applied to a sample (N = 618) from the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative database. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The study aims to identify key cognitive and non-cognitive variables (e.g., clinical, neuroimaging, and genetic data) predicting cognitive decline in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients using machine learning applied to a sample (N = 618) from the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative database. Traditional research has mainly employed explanatory approaches to explore variable relationships, rather than maximizing predictive accuracy for future cognitive decline. In the present study, we implemented a predictive framework that integrates a broad range of baseline cognitive, clinical, genetic, and imaging data to accurately forecast changes in cognitive functioning in PD patients. Methods: An artificial neural network was trained on baseline data to predict general cognitive status three years later. Model performance was evaluated using 5-fold stratified cross-validation. We investigated model interpretability using explainable artificial intelligence techniques, including Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) values, Group-Wise Feature Masking, and Brute-Force Combinatorial Masking, to identify the most influential predictors of cognitive decline. Results: The model achieved a recall of 0.91 for identifying patients who developed cognitive decline, with an overall classification accuracy of 0.79. All applied explainability techniques consistently highlighted baseline MoCA scores, memory performance, the motor examination score (MDS-UPDRS Part III), and anxiety as the most predictive features. Conclusions: From a clinical perspective, the findings can support the early detection of PD patients who are more prone to developing cognitive decline, thereby helping to prevent cognitive impairments by designing specific treatments. This can improve the quality of life for patients and caregivers, supporting patient autonomy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neurodegenerative Diseases)
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14 pages, 3997 KiB  
Article
Investigation of Die Design Influence on Required Forces in Near-Solidus Forging of Complex Components
by John Damilola Sunday, Alberto Murillo-Marrodán, Eduardo García and Carl Slater
J. Manuf. Mater. Process. 2025, 9(7), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmmp9070245 - 21 Jul 2025
Viewed by 375
Abstract
This study investigates the influence of die design parameters on forging forces and thermomechanical responses during near-solidus forging (NSF) of complex steel components. Finite element simulations using Forge NxT analyzed six die configurations varying geometry orientation, gating system design (conical, cylindrical, curvilinear), and [...] Read more.
This study investigates the influence of die design parameters on forging forces and thermomechanical responses during near-solidus forging (NSF) of complex steel components. Finite element simulations using Forge NxT analyzed six die configurations varying geometry orientation, gating system design (conical, cylindrical, curvilinear), and draft angles (20° and 30°), with 42CrMo4E steel modeled at 1360 °C. Key responses including punch and lateral forces, temperature distribution, strain localization, and die stress were evaluated to assess design effects. Results showed that the gating system geometry critically controls material flow and load requirements. The conical gating design with a 30° draft angle yielded the lowest punch (141.54 t) and lateral (149.44 t) forces, alongside uniform temperature and strain distributions, which improve product quality by minimizing defects and incomplete filling. Lower lateral forces also reduce die opening risk, enhancing die life. In contrast, the base case with a 20° draft angle exhibited higher forces and uneven strain, increasing die stress and compromising part quality. These findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate gating systems and draft angles to reduce forming loads, increase die life, and improve uniform material flow, contributing to better understanding of die design in NSF of complex steel components. Full article
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16 pages, 5442 KiB  
Communication
Analysis of the Impact of Frog Wear on the Wheel–Rail Dynamic Performance in Turnout Zones of Urban Rail Transit Lines
by Yanlei Li, Dongliang Zeng, Xiuqi Wei, Xiaoyu Hu and Kaiyun Wang
Lubricants 2025, 13(7), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants13070317 - 20 Jul 2025
Viewed by 319
Abstract
To investigate how severe wear at No. 12 turnout frogs in an urban rail transit line operating at speeds over 120 km/h on the dynamic performance of the vehicle, a vehicle–frog coupled dynamic model was established by employing the 2021 version of SIMPACK [...] Read more.
To investigate how severe wear at No. 12 turnout frogs in an urban rail transit line operating at speeds over 120 km/h on the dynamic performance of the vehicle, a vehicle–frog coupled dynamic model was established by employing the 2021 version of SIMPACK software. Profiles of No. 12 alloy steel frogs and metro wheel rims were measured to simulate wheel–rail interactions as the vehicle traverses the turnout, using both brand-new and worn frog conditions. The experimental results indicate that increased service life deepens frog wear, raises equivalent conicity, and intensifies wheel–rail forces. When a vehicle passes through the frog serviced for over 17 months at the speed of 120 km/h, the maximum derailment coefficient, lateral acceleration of the car body, and lateral and vertical wheel–rail forces increased by 0.14, 0.17 m/s2, 9.52 kN, and 105.76 kN, respectively. The maximum contact patch area grew by 35.73%, while peak contact pressure rose by 236 MPa. To prevent dynamic indicators from exceeding safety thresholds and ensure train operational safety, it is recommended that the frog maintenance cycle be limited to 12 to 16 months. Full article
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19 pages, 8978 KiB  
Article
Integration of Space and Hydrological Data into System of Monitoring Natural Emergencies (Flood Hazards)
by Natalya Denissova, Ruslan Chettykbayev, Irina Dyomina, Olga Petrova and Nurbek Saparkhojayev
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(14), 8050; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15148050 - 19 Jul 2025
Viewed by 299
Abstract
Flood hazards have increasingly threatened the East Kazakhstan region in recent decades due to climate change and growing anthropogenic pressures, leading to more frequent and severe flooding events. This article considers an approach to modeling and forecasting river runoff using the example of [...] Read more.
Flood hazards have increasingly threatened the East Kazakhstan region in recent decades due to climate change and growing anthropogenic pressures, leading to more frequent and severe flooding events. This article considers an approach to modeling and forecasting river runoff using the example of the small Kurchum River in the East Kazakhstan region. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the numerical performance of the flood hazard model by comparing simulated flood extents with observed flood data. Two types of data were used as initial data: topographic data (digital elevation models and topographic maps) and hydrological data, including streamflow time series from stream gauges (hourly time steps) and lateral inflows along the river course. Spatially distributed rainfall forcing was not applied. To build the model, we used the software packages of HEC-RAS version 5.0.5 and MIKE version 11. Using retrospective data for 3 years (2019–2021), modeling was performed, the calculated boundaries of possible flooding were obtained, and the highest risk zones were identified. A dynamic map of depth changes in the river system is presented, showing the process of flood wave propagation, the dynamics of depth changes, and the expansion of the flood zone. Temporal flood inundation mapping and performance metrics were evaluated for each individual flood event (2019, 2020, and 2021). The simulation outcomes closely correlate with actual flood events. The assessment showed that the model data coincide with the real ones by 91.89% (2019), 89.09% (2020), and 95.91% (2021). The obtained results allow for a clarification of potential flood zones and can be used in planning measures to reduce flood risks. This study demonstrates the importance of an integrated approach to modeling, combining various software packages and data sources. Full article
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10 pages, 997 KiB  
Article
Does Malpositioning of Pedicle Screws Affect Biomechanical Stability in a Novel Quasistatic Test Setup?
by Stefan Schleifenbaum, Florian Metzner, Janine Schultze, Sascha Kurz, Christoph-Eckhard Heyde and Philipp Pieroh
Bioengineering 2025, 12(7), 781; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering12070781 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 390
Abstract
Pedicle screw fixation is a common spinal surgery technique, but concerns remain about stability when screws are malpositioned. Traditional in vitro pull-out tests assess anchorage but lack physiological accuracy. This study examined the stability of correctly placed and intentionally malpositioned pedicle screws on [...] Read more.
Pedicle screw fixation is a common spinal surgery technique, but concerns remain about stability when screws are malpositioned. Traditional in vitro pull-out tests assess anchorage but lack physiological accuracy. This study examined the stability of correctly placed and intentionally malpositioned pedicle screws on forty vertebrae from five cadavers. Optimal screw paths were planned via CT scans and applied using 3D-printed guides. Four malposition types—medial, lateral, superior, and superior-lateral—were created by shifting the original trajectory. A custom setup applied three consecutive cycles of tensile and compressive load from 50 N to 200 N. Screw inclination under load was measured with a 3D optical system. The results showed increasing screw inclination with higher forces, reaching about 1° at 50 N and 2° at 100 N, similar in both load directions. Significant differences in inclination were only found at 100 N tensile load, where malpositioned screws showed a lower inclination. Overall, malpositioning had no major effect on screw loosening. These findings suggest that minor deviations in screw placement do not significantly compromise mechanical stability. Clinically, the main concern with malpositioning lies in the potential for injury to nearby structures rather than reduced screw fixation strength. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Spine Biomechanics)
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