Bridge Technology Research Articles

AI-Enhanced Epidemiology Education: Bridging Technology and Conceptual Understanding

This article explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and innovative teaching methods in epidemiology education, emphasizing a balanced approach to enhance learning outcomes. While traditional teaching focuses on core concepts and rubric-based evaluation offers consistency, overreliance on these methods can lead to superficial understanding. Creative and experiential learning activities, such as poems, cartoons, and ungrading, foster deeper engagement and mastery. Technological tools such as simulated outbreak investigations, virtual epidemiology games, and augmented reality programs provide hands-on experience and inspire motivated learning. Emphasizing critical thinking and practical skills, a balanced approach leveraging rubrics, AI, and innovative methods is essential for comprehensive and effective epidemiology education.

Personalized Heart Failure Management: Bridging Technology and Care.

Personalized Heart Failure Management: Bridging Technology and Care.

A bridge to clean cooking? The cost-effectiveness of energy-efficient biomass stoves in rural Senegal

Rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa have experienced limited progress towards the sustainable development goal of universal access to clean cooking. Energy-efficient biomass cookstoves (EEBCs) are considered a potential bridge technology, but EEBC models vary widely, and there is a lack of understanding about their real-world use implications. We conduct a randomized controlled trial in rural Senegal to compare a low-cost, locally produced stove designed to achieve fuel savings and an expensive, imported stove shown to be more efficient and emissions-reducing in the laboratory. We find that the two EEBCs perform similarly: both reduce fuel consumption but have no significant impact on cooking time and fuel collection, emissions, or objective health measures. We conclude that the technically advanced option is not cost effective for most of our sample, while the low-cost EEBC can be seen as a stop-gap solution that primarily reduces fuel use. The findings underpin the importance of customizing EEBC dissemination to local context and baseline cooking patterns.

Transplantation, bridging, and support technologies in pulmonary hypertension.

Despite the progress made in medical therapies for treating pulmonary hypertension (PH), a subset of patients remain susceptible to developing a maladaptive right ventricular phenotype. The effective management of end-stage PH presents substantial challenges, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach and early identification of patients prone to acute decompensation. Identifying potential transplant candidates and assessing the feasibility of such a procedure are pivotal tasks that should be undertaken early in the treatment algorithm. Inclusion on the transplant list is contingent upon a comprehensive risk assessment, also considering the specific type of PH and various factors affecting waiting times, all of which should inform the decision-making process. While bilateral lung transplantation is the preferred option, it demands expert intra- and post-operative management to mitigate the heightened risks of pulmonary oedema and primary graft dysfunction in PH patients.Despite the availability of risk assessment tools, the occurrence of acute PH decompensation episodes can be unpredictable, potentially leading to refractory right ventricular failure even with optimal medical intervention, necessitating the use of rescue therapies. Advancements in right ventricular assist techniques and adjustments to graft allocation protocols for the most critically ill patients have significantly enhanced the survival in intensive care, affording the opportunity to endure while awaiting an urgent transplant. Given the breadth of therapeutic options available, specialised centres capable of delivering comprehensive care have become indispensable for optimising patient outcomes. These centres are instrumental in providing holistic support and management tailored to the complex needs of PH patients, ultimately enhancing their chances of a successful transplant and improved long-term prognosis.

Experimental study on seismic performance of a new precast segmental assembled single column bridge pier

Prefabricated bridge technology has come into wide spread use as fabricated technology has advanced, but engineering applications of fabricated bridge technology are primarily focused on the bridge superstructure, considerably restricting the use of prefabricated bridge technology for the bridge substructure due to the uncertainty in the seismic performance and damage mechanism of segmental assembled piers. Based on this, two new segment connection methods were proposed and applied to the prefabricated piers. Four specimens with a scale of 0.4 were designed and manufactured. The seismic performance of two new types of assembled single column piers, namely cone sleeve-FRC (CSF) wet joint segmental assembled pier and main reinforcement lap-UHPC (MRLU) wet joint segmental assembled pier, is investigated and compared with integral cast-in-place pier to analyze the effects of FRC and UHPC on the seismic performance of the piers, using the proposed static test. The results show that the pier connected by cone sleeve-FRC wet joint exhibits a good energy dissipation and ductility, small deformation, the highest peak bearing capacity and the best seismic performance. Based on the tests, finite element models of the members were created, and the member CSF-1, which has the best seismic performance, was parametrically analyzed by taking three influencing factors into account: axial compression ratio, longitudinal reinforcement area and hoop reinforcement spacing. It is indicated that a significant improvement in seismic performance can be achieved by reducing the hoop spacing, increasing the longitudinal reinforcement diameter and axial compression ratio.

Embracing the metaverse: cultivating sustainable tourism growth on a global scale

ABSTRACT The tourism sector must integrate sustainability to mitigate environmental impacts, ensure destination profitability, and promote responsible travel. Emerging technologies, particularly the metaverse, have the potential to revolutionise environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Although recent research on metaverse-based sustainable development has expanded, studies on its application within tourism remain limited. This paper addresses this gap by exploring the metaverse’s potential to advance sustainable practices in tourism, aligning with sustainable development goals (SDGs).By integrating three behavioural theories – the Theory of Planned Behavior, Technology Acceptance Model, and Self-Determination Theory – this research provides a comprehensive framework to assess the impact of metaverse tourism on sustainability and identify the most relevant SDGs. Through a systematic meta-analysis, the study presents four key propositions: foundational technologies will redefine travel experiences through immersive engagements; metaverse tourists may develop more realistic expectations, altering travel dynamics; understanding the diverse identities of metaverse tourists is crucial; and metaverse tourism introduces an innovative business model aligned with the creative economy. This interdisciplinary approach offers insights into the transformative potential of metaverse tourism, bridging technology, tourism, and behavioural psychology. The research underscores the importance of exploring these intersections, contributing valuable insights to the evolving tourism landscape amidst changing consumer expectations and sustainability imperatives.

Research on spatial corrosion behavior and durability protection technology of concrete box girder bridge in cold regions

In order to study the corrosion behavior of concrete box girder in deicing salt environment, a series scaled model of concrete box girders were made to study the deterioration mode of concrete box girder under load, chloride corrosion, freeze-thaw cycle and their combined action. Combined with silane impregnation, the durability protection technology of concrete box girder bridges in cold regions was proposed. The experimental results show that under freezing-thawing action, the top plate of the box girder has the most serious deterioration, and the performance of the web is better. The surface erosion of the top plate is 65.38 % and 80.77 % different from that of the bottom plate and web plate, respectively. The freezing-thawing erosion of the concrete box girder has a significant spatial multi-dimension. The chloride ion erosion law of the top plate and bottom plate of concrete box girder is similar to the distribution law of shear lag effect under load. The inhibition effect of compressive stress on chloride ion is 9.67 %, and the overall inhibition effect is not large. The maximum difference of chloride ion concentration at each measuring point on the bottom plate is 30.14 %. Silane can be used as a protective coating for concrete bridges in cold areas, and the coating thickness of 2 mm can meet the requirements of anti-freezing. With the increase of freeze-thaw time, the silane protection ability began to decline. The maximum silane protection effect of 0–1 cm from the surface at 90d and 180d decreased by 40.8 % and 71.7 %, respectively. After the silane coating was applied, the chloride ion erosion rate of the bottom plate still showed a faster trend. When the freeze-thaw cycle exceeded 30 times, the silane protection ability decreased almost at a linear rate with the freeze-thaw time. Regardless of whether the silane coating protection technology is adopted, the chloride ion concentration of the bottom plate of concrete box girders is at least 10 % more than that of the top plate for freeze-thawing 90d and 180d, and the maximum can reach 32.1 %. The deterioration behavior of concrete box girders in cold regions has significant spatial multi-dimension. The existing single-parameter durability design methods, which mainly focus on solid section, are no longer suitable for box girder structures.

The Future of Speech Therapy for Autism: Bridging Technology and Personalized Care

Researchers have been working on autism since the 1980s [1]. Autism spectrum disorder (AUD) is a complex neurodevelopment condition that affects people's interaction with others, behavior, communication, and social interaction. Although autism may be a lifelong condition, appropriate support, services, and treatments can improve a person's symptoms and daily functioning. Individuals with autism often face challenges with speech and language development are prominent. Speech therapy (ST) plays a role in gaining control over verbal communication. An effective speech therapy can enhance the quality of life by addressing communication difficulties. Traditionally, the treatment of autism has a multidisciplinary approach that aims to address the diverse needs of individuals on the spectrum. Advancements in technology are revolutionizing the field by offering various possibilities for personalized care and improved outcomes. Healthcare professionals diagnose autism by assessing a person's development patterns and behaviors. Currently, speech therapy is delivered through face-to-face interactions with a trained therapist. Because parents of autistic children consistently identify language and social communication skills as a top priority. This approach has limitations, like scheduling conflicts, limited access to geographical constraints, and specialized care [2]. Telepractice platforms and virtual reality systems (VR), offer novel opportunities for accessible, personalized, and engaging therapy experiences. Telepractice is an online therapy service via technology-based platforms that allows long-distance interventions, breaking geographical barriers and expanding access to specialized care. Specifically, telepractice capitalized on communication practices such as video conferencing, and data tracking tools to facilitate effective communications and reduce barriers like distance. It is a very effective and low-cost method for conducting and completing online sessions for individuals with autism spectrum disorder [3]. The use of mobile technology in various countries become a necessity in the lives of people and also makes it a potential medium of intervention for people diagnosed with autism. It also enhances social skills, language development, and communication abilities. Virtual reality is an essential tool for healthcare intervention, offering realistic scenarios for practicing communication strategies and social interaction. Virtual reality interventions can lead to more stable and faster communication skills over time [4]. Advancements in artificial intelligence has enabled therapists to analyze data and identify patterns to meet the unique needs of each individual with autism. Technology is poised to facilitate collaboration and communication among individuals, and promote consistency across various settings. Researchers are involved in creating and training robots to interact with autistic children. We can empower individuals with autism to reach their full communication potential with the help of these latest technologies.

Review and Prospect of Research on Structural Health Monitoring Technology for Bridges

As a crucial infrastructure in the transport system, the safe operation of bridges is directly related to all aspects of people’s daily lives. The development of bridge structural health monitoring technology and its application play an important role in ensuring the safety and extending the service life of bridges. This paper carries out in-depth research and analysis on the related technology of bridge structural health monitoring. Firstly, the existing monitoring technologies at home and abroad are sorted out, and the advantages and problems of various methods are compared and analyzed, including nondestructive testing, stress measurement, vibration characteristic identification, and other commonly used monitoring technologies. Secondly, the key technologies and equipment in the bridge health monitoring system, such as sensor technology, data acquisition, and processing technology, are introduced in detail. Finally, the development trend in the field of bridge health monitoring is prospected from both theoretical research and technical application. In the future, with the development of emerging technologies such as big data, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things, it is expected that bridge health monitoring with intelligent and systematic features will be more widely applied to provide a stronger guarantee for the safe and efficient operation of bridges.

Defect Inspection Technology for Steel Truss Suspension Bridges

Defect Inspection Technology for Steel Truss Suspension Bridges

Development of a method to investigate the influence of engine oil and its additives on combustion anomalies in hydrogen engines

To counteract the anticipated consequences of climate change, significant efforts are required across all industries. The use of hydrogen in internal combustion engines can make a valuable contribution as a carbon-neutral bridging technology. One challenge in developing a suitable combustion process is the high ignition propensity of hydrogen, impacting combustion stability due to combustion anomalies. Avoiding such combustion phenomena is of utmost relevance to ensure a long-term stable engine operation. Oil entry into the combustion chamber can impact the occurrence of combustion anomalies. Therefore, a specific method for controlled oil entry into the combustion chamber has been developed, and this method is detailed in the following article.

Cybersecurity’s Role in Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development: Bridging Technology and Sustainability Goals

This study investigates the pivotal role of cybersecurity in bolstering environmental protection and sustainable development, a critical yet underexplored nexus in contemporary research. Employing a systematic literature review and content analysis, the research scrutinizes peer-reviewed articles, conference proceedings, and industry reports from 2015 to 2023, sourced from databases such as IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The methodology is anchored in a rigorous search strategy, leveraging keywords related to cybersecurity, sustainability, and communication technologies, and adheres to defined inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure the relevance and quality of the literature reviewed. Key findings highlight cybersecurity as an indispensable enabler of sustainable development initiatives, safeguarding the technological infrastructure essential for environmental conservation efforts. The study identifies evolving cyber threats as a significant challenge, necessitating adaptive security measures that anticipate and mitigate potential vulnerabilities. Furthermore, it underscores the opportunities presented by advanced cybersecurity technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, in enhancing the security and efficiency of sustainable practices. Strategic recommendations emphasize the need for comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks, stakeholder collaboration, cybersecurity education, and alignment with regulatory standards to fortify the resilience of sustainability initiatives against cyber threats. The study concludes that integrating robust cybersecurity measures is paramount in the pursuit of sustainable development goals, calling for ongoing vigilance, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration to navigate the complex landscape of digital threats and opportunities. This research contributes valuable insights into the critical intersection of cybersecurity and sustainability, offering a foundation for future studies and strategic initiatives aimed at securing sustainable development in the digital age. Keywords: Cybersecurity, Sustainable Development, Environmental Protection, Advanced Security Technologies.

Research on Quality Inspection and Reinforcement Technology of Road Bridge

With the acceleration of urbanization, road bridges play a crucial role in urban transportation, and their quality condition is directly related to traffic safety and urban development. The article analyzes the common problems of existing road bridges, mainly including cracks, settlement problems and other aspects, to provide a reliable basis for the maintenance and reinforcement of road bridges. Based on this, the article mainly researches the quality inspection technology of road bridges and the reinforcement technology of old bridges at the present stage, and analyzes the application of quality inspection technology and reinforcement technology in improving the structural quality of road bridges according to the construction cases of Jialingjiang Bridge, Qiuyun Bridge and Luoxi Bridge in Heyang, so as to improve the safety of road bridges and prolong the service life of bridges.

Carbon Farming: Bridging Technology Development with Policy Goals

This paper conducts an in-depth exploration of carbon farming at the confluence of advanced technology and EU policy, particularly within the context of the European Green Deal. Emphasizing technologies at technology readiness levels (TRL) 6–9, the study critically analyzes and synthesizes their practical implementation potential in the agricultural sector. Methodologically, the paper integrates a review of current technologies with an analysis of EU policy frameworks, focusing on the practical application of these technologies in alignment with policy directives. The results demonstrate a symbiotic relationship between emerging carbon farming technologies and evolving EU policies, highlighting how technological advancements can be effectively integrated within existing and proposed legal structures. This alignment is crucial for fostering practical, market-ready, and sustainable agricultural practices. Significantly, this study underscores the importance of bridging theoretical research with commercialization. It proposes a pathway for transitioning current research insights into innovative, market-responsive products, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. This approach not only aligns with the European Green Deal but also addresses market demands and environmental policy evolution. In conclusion, the paper serves as a critical link between theoretical advancements and practical applications in sustainable carbon farming. It offers a comprehensive understanding of both the technological and policy landscapes, aiming to propel practical, sustainable solutions in step with dynamic environmental policy goals.

Techniques and graft materials for repairing peripheral nerve defects.

Peripheral nerve defects refer to damage or destruction occurring in the peripheral nervous system, typically affecting the limbs and face. The current primary approaches to address peripheral nerve defects involve the utilization of autologous nerve transplants or the transplantation of artificial material. Nevertheless, these methods possess certain limitations, such as inadequate availability of donor nerve or unsatisfactory regenerative outcomes post-transplantation. Biomaterials have been extensively studied as an alternative approach to promote the repair of peripheral neve defects. These biomaterials include both natural and synthetic materials. Natural materials consist of collagen, chitosan, and silk, while synthetic materials consist of polyurethane, polylactic acid, and polycaprolactone. Recently, several new neural repair technologies have also been developed, such as nerve regeneration bridging technology, electrical stimulation technology, and stem cell therapy technology. Overall, biomaterials and new neural repair technologies provide new methods and opportunities for repairing peripheral nerve defects. However, these methods still require further research and development to enhance their effectiveness and feasibility.

Physical Variability in Meter-Scale Laboratory CO2 Injections in Faulted Geometries

Carbon, capture, and storage (CCS) is an important bridging technology to combat climate change in the transition toward net-zero. The FluidFlower concept has been developed to visualize and study CO2 flow and storage mechanisms in sedimentary systems in a laboratory setting. Meter-scale multiphase flow in two geological geometries, including normal faults with and without smearing, is studied. The experimental protocols developed to provide key input parameters for numerical simulations are detailed, including an evaluation of operational parameters for the FluidFlower benchmark study. Variability in CO2 migration patterns for two different geometries is quantified, both between 16 repeated laboratory runs and between history-matched models and a CO2 injection experiment. The predicative capability of a history-matched model is then evaluated in a different geological setting.

Digital Health Humanities: Bridging Technology and Humanistic Approaches in Medical Education

Digital Health Humanities: Bridging Technology and Humanistic Approaches in Medical Education

Empowering Rural Development and Enhancing Technical skills and Nurturing Universal Human Values of Students: Gujarat Technological University Innovative Initiative

Abstract— This paper illuminates an inventive initiative by Gujarat Technological University (GTU) that encompasses rural development and the cultivation of universal human values within students. Engineering students, specializing in civil and electrical fields, plays a pivotal role, actively immersing themselves in a holistic project. Their involvement entails conducting vital techno-economic and demographic surveys in close coordination with local stakeholders and officials. A vivid illustration of this collaboration is evident through the case study of Jasapar village in Jamnagar, Gujarat. Beyond traditional classroom learning, this initiative offers a transformative real-world experience, fostering indispensable attributes like communication, leadership, teamwork, and empathy through profound community engagement. The project additionally serves as a crucible for technical growth, propelling students to navigate intricate challenges, design sustainable solutions, and bridge technology with societal welfare. As students translate theoretical insights into tangible rural benefits, their ability to innovate, adapt, and resourcefully optimize gains refinement. A significant facet of this initiative lies in its contribution to mitigating rural-urban migration, harmonizing with broader sustainable development objectives. . By synergizing surveys, analysis, and collaboration, students evolve into adept problem solvers and leaders. The initiative's impact extends beyond empowering rural communities with sustainable solutions; it nurtures the early-stage development of universal human values through direct communication with rural India. In this journey, the thought process itself emerges as a driving force, propelling communities towards comprehensive and sustainable development. Keywords— Rural-urbanization, empathy, village development, universal human values, Real time problem, Skill enhancement. Vishwakarma Yojana

Discussion on low-carbon energy supply and scour protection technology for cross-sea bridges combined with tidal current energy

In the context of achieving carbon peak and carbon neutrality, the construction and maintenance of transportation infrastructure should also comply with the requirements of green and low-carbon development. There are many long-span cross-sea bridges in Zhejiang Province, which consume large amounts of electricity for lighting, dehumidification, and anticorrosion, etc., and the energy required usually relies on external energy transfer, which is costly and intermediate losses are high. Tidal current energy, which is the kinetic energy generated during ebb and flood tides, is abundant along the coast of Zhejiang Province, mainly concentrated in Hangzhou Bay and Zhoushan Islands, which is also a dense area of sea-spanning bridges, and the foundation of sea-spanning bridges often suffers from severe scouring to the strong tidal current action. This paper discusses two forms of joint development of tidal current power generators and cross-sea bridges, analyses the advantages and disadvantages as well as the feasibility of each scheme, and gives suggestions for subsequent development.

Analysis of Railway Bridge Girder Installation and Construction Technology--Based on BIM Technology

Abstract The emergence of BIM technology has caused changes in the field of construction, which is of great significance to improving the construction technology and management level of roads and bridges. In this paper, the overall framework of the railroad bridge BIM model is constructed by utilizing several BIM software to display its corresponding geometric construction information and line information. Based on the relevant information, construction simulation technology is combined with BIM technology to propose a lean management model for a railroad bridge construction site. Specifically, it first checks the mechanical properties of the bridge plate to ensure the safety of its installation, and then optimizes the progress of the construction phase under the constraints of the construction site, realizes the deviation warning, and ensures the optimal completion of the construction project. The results show that the paving layer connection structure has an optimal load transfer effect in the range of 0-502kN. However, cracking at the critical point of the pressure plate can result in plastic deformation before. At the same time, the vibration of the abutment plays an important role in the safety of the overall bridge structure, and the abutment height of the bridge should be controlled within 40M. By optimizing the construction schedule of beams and slabs, the contract period can be shortened by up to 19 days, and the expected cost can be reduced by 760,000 yuan. The research results accumulate methods for applying BIM technology in the installation and construction stages of railway bridge beams and slabs.