bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity Score Is Predictive of Perioperative Adverse Events in Operatively Treated Thoracic and Lumbar Fractures
Authors: Liu Gabriel , Tan Jiong Hao , Kong Jun Cheong , Tan Yong Hao Joel , Kumar Nishant , Liang Shen , Shawn Seah Jing Sheng , Ting Chiu Shi , Lim Lau Leok , Dennis Hey Hwee Weng , Kumar Naresh , Thambiah Joseph , Wong Hee-Kit
Published: December 2022

Study Design: A retrospective cohort study of patients with surgically treated thoracolumbar fractures.Purpose: This study aimed to describe the incidence of adverse events (AEs) after surgical stabilization of thoracolumbar spine injuries and to identify predictive factors for the occurrence of AEs. Overview of Literature: Thoracolumbar spine fractures are frequently present in patients with blunt trauma and are associated with significant morbidity. AEs can occur due to the initial spinal injury or secondary to surgical treatment. There is a lack of emphasis in the literature on the AEs that can occur after operative management of thoracolumbar fractures.Methods: We performed a retrospective review of 199 patients with surgically treated thoracolumbar fractures operated between January 2007 and January 2018. The potential risk factors for the development of AEs as well as the development of common complications were evaluated by univariate analysis, and a multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors predictive of the above.Results: The overall rate of AEs was 46.7%; 83 patients (41.7%) had nonsurgical AEs, whereas 24 (12.1%) had surgical adverse events. The most common AEs were urinary tract infections in 43 patients (21.6%), and hospital-acquired pneumonia in 21 patients (10.6%). On multivariate logistic regression, a Thoracolumbar Injury Classification and Severity (TLICS) score of 8–10 (odds ratio [OR], 6.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.33–17.51), the presence of polytrauma (OR, 2.64; 95% CI, 1.17–5.99), and undergoing open surgery (OR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.09–4.88) were significant risk factors for AEs. The absence of neurological deficit was associated with a lower rate of AEs (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.31–0.70).Conclusions: This study suggests the presence of polytrauma, preoperative American Spinal Injury Association score, and TLICS score are predictive of AEs in patients with surgically treated thoracolumbar fractures. The results might also suggest a role for minimally invasive surgical methods in reducing AEs in these patients.
PENERAPAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN KOOPERATIF TIPE NHT MELALUI BLENDED LEARNING UNTUK MELATIH KETERAMPILAN METAKOGNITIF SISWA PADA MATERI LAJU REAKSI
Authors: Cindy Kumala Sari  , Harun Nasrudin
Published: December 2022

Penelitian bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan keterampilan metakognitif siswa menggunakan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe NHT melalui blended learning pada materi laju reaksi. Rancangan penelitian menggunakan One Group Pre-test Post-test design dengan subyek penelitian siswa kelas XI MIPA-3 SMA Negeri 1 Gedangan. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan berupa pengamatan, tes dan angket. Analisis data menggunakan teknik skor, persentase, n-gain dan paired sample t-test. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan rata-rata persentase keterlaksanaan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe NHT selama 3 pertemuan pada tiap fase berturut-turut sebesar 100; 94; 97,22; 91,67; 100; 97,2 dengan kriteria sangat baik dan siswa aktif selama pembelajaran. Nilai gain keterampilan metakognitif pada dimensi planning skills sebesar 0,72 dalam kategori tinggi, monitoring skills sebesar 0,50 dalam kategori sedang, dan evaluating skills memiliki nilai gain 0,47 dalam kategori sedang yang didukung oleh angket inventori metakognitif dalam kategori baik. Pada pretest dan posttest keterampilan metakognitif siswa memiliki perbedaan yang signifikan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe NHT melalui blended learning dapat melatihkan keterampilan metakognitif siswa pada materi laju reaksi.
PENGEMBANGAN E-MODUL TERINTEGRASI PENDIDIKAN KARAKTER BERBASIS SETS PADA MATERI SISTEM KOLOID
Authors: Saputri Sri Dewi , Syuhada Feri Andi
Published: December 2022

Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi kurangnya penggunaan bahan ajar dalam proses pembelajaran serta kurangnya perhatian peserta didik terhadap lingkungan dan sesama. Kemampuan peserta didik dalam menghubungkan materi dengan teknologi, lingkungan, dan masyarakat juga menjadi tuntutan dalam pembelajaran kimia. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui tingkat validitas, dan respon peserta didik terhadap e-modul pembelajaran yang dikembangkan. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah R&D dengan model pengembangan ADDIE. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di SMA Negeri 1 Labuhan Deli. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah guru, peserta didik dan dosen. Sampel dalam penelitian ini diambil secara purposive sampling sebanyak satu kelas yakni kelas XI MIPA. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa e-modul yang dikembangkan dinyatakan valid oleh validator ahli dengan kriteria “Sangat Layak”. Kemudian, berdasarkan hasil pengolahan angket respon siswa, diperoleh bahwa e-modul termasuk kedalam kriteria “Sangat Baik”.
PENENTUAN LOGAM Pb PADA AIR LAUT BEKAS TAMBANG BAUKSIT MENGGUNAKAN METODE VOLTAMETRI STRIPPING ADSORPTIF-CALCONCARBOXYLIC ACID
Authors: Pardi Hilfi , Silitonga Friska , Fitriyah Dina , Ramdhani Eka
Published: December 2022

Metode elektroanalitik sederhana dan sensitif dikembangkan untuk penentuan timbal dengan metoda voltametri stripping adsorptif (VSAD) dengan adanya Calconcarboxylic Acid (CCA). Kompleks Pb-CCA terakumulasi pada permukaan elektroda drop merkuri gantung (HMDE) dan arus puncak diukur dengan metoda VSAD. Kompleks berkurang pada -0,46 V dan arus puncak meningkat ketika konsentrasi rendah CCA ditambahkan ke larutan sampel. Variabel eksperimen pH, konsentrasi CCA; waktu akumulasi (tacc); potensial akumulasi (Eacc), serta potensi gangguan, diselidiki. Di bawah kondisi yang dioptimalkan (pH 3,4; CCA: 0,6 mol/L; tacc: 60 detik; Eacc: 0,35 V; konsentrasi buffer 40 mmol), arus puncak sebanding dengan konsentrasi Pb(II) selama 0,05–100 µg/L, dengan batas deteksi 0,01 µg/L. Simpangan baku relatif untuk larutan yang mengandung 10,0 µg/L larutan Pb(II) adalah 0,5% untuk sepuluh pengujian berturut-turut. Metode ini divalidasi dengan menentukan Pb(II) dalam air laut bekas tambang bauksit yang dibandingkan dengan metoda Spektrofotometri Serapan Atom (AAS). Akhirnya, metode VSAD berhasil diterapkan pada penentuan Pb(II) dalam air laut bekas tambang bauksit.
PENGARUH CLAY CONTENT PADA BATU KAPUR DI AREA BUKIT KARANG PUTIH INDARUNG SEBAGAI MATERIAL TAMBAHAN TERHADAP KUALITAS SEMEN PORTLAND KOMPOSIT
Authors: Yusuf Yulizar , Putri Ayu Deliana , Aziz Hermansyah
Published: December 2022

Kandungan Clay (clay content) merupakan jumlah senyawa Al2O3 atau SiO2 dalam suatu material alam dengan satuan persentase. Material alam yang digunakan sebagai material tambahan  yakni batu kapur untuk menghasilkan semen PCC (Portland Composite Cement). Persentase nilai clay content didapatkan dengan melakukan analisis uji menggunakan metode adsorpsi Metilen Biru (MB) dengan menggunakan alat Spektrofotometer UV-Vis. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat pengaruh nilai clay content pada batu kapur terhadap kualitas semen PCC. Berdasarkan uji yang telah dilakukan, diperoleh nilai clay content yang berbeda tiap sampelnya, dimana nilai tertinggi 0.214% pada Soil dan terendah 0.013% pada LS Front 1A.  Nilai clay content dapat mempengaruhi kualitas semen salah satunya dapat dilihat pada kuat tekan. Kuat tekan semen berbanding terbalik dengan nilai clay content. Kuat tekan pada Soil untuk usia 3 hari yaitu 226 Kg/cm2 dilanjutkan untuk usia 7 hari 324 Kg/cm2 dan pada usia 28 hari 411Kg/cm2, namun waktu pengikatan sebanding dengan kenaikan nilai clay content.
PENGEMBANGAN MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN VIRTUAL LAB UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KETERAMPILAN PROSES SAINS DAN PENGUASAAN KONSEP MATERI TITRASI ASAM BASA PADA SISWA SMA TAHUN PEMBELAJARAN 2020/2021
Authors: Rusdi Muhammad Alhimni , Herliani Herliani , Rijai Laode
Published: December 2022

Media pembelajaran adalah satu hal penting dalam proses belajar mengajar. Pemanfaatan teknologi masa kini menjadi salah satu pilihan dalam meningkatkan kualitas pembelajaran. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan media pembelajaran virtual lab untuk meningkatkan keterampilan proses sains siswa dan penguasaan konsep materi titrasi asam basa pada siswa SMA yang valid, efektif, dan praktis. Model pengembangan yang digunakan adalah model 4-D (Four D Models) yang terdiri atas Define, Design, Development, dan Dessiminate. Subjek penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas XI IPA B SMA IT Granada Samarinda. Instrumen penelitian berupa lembar validasi, soal pretest dan posttest, dan angket respon siswa. Hasil validasi media pembelajaran virtual lab titrasi asam basa oleh ahli materi, ahli IT, dan praktisi mendapat skor rata-rata 3,64 dengan kategori sangat baik. Keefektifan media didasarkan pada peningkatan keterampilan proses sains dan penguasaan konsep materi siswa yaitu pada praktikum I , II, dan III berturut-turut 71%, 80% dan 90%, serta hasil analisis pretest-posttest menunjukkan nilai N-Gain sebesar 0,71 dengan kriteria sangat efektif. Kepraktisan media berdasarkan hasil analisis angket respon siswa sebesar 3,04 dengan kriteria baik.
The impact of an environmentally safe growth regulator on the redistribution of carbohydrates and nitrogen between the organs of oil crop plants
Authors: Polyvany Stepan , Shevchuk Oksana , Khodanitska Olena , Tkachuk Olesia , Matviichuk Oleksandr , Polyvana Alina
Published: December 2022

The aim of the research. Given that the existing data on the effect of growth inhibitors on the redistribution of assimilates in oil crops are not numerous and the controversial data on the effect of the anti-gibberellin drug chlormequat chloride on the content of carbohydrates and nitrogen the purpose of the experiment was to find out the influence of CCC on the redistribution of assimilates in oil crops.Methodology. Oil poppy and rapeseed plants of the Halytsky variety were treated during the budding period with a 0.5% solution of chlormequat chloride with a Mastertool hydraulic sprayer, while the plants of the control sample were treated with water. Experimental plots were laid in farms of the Podilskyi region in 2020-2021. The number of experimental plots of each of the experimental options is 5, the area is 5 m2. The content of total nitrogen was determined by the Kjeldahl method, sugars and starch content was measured using the iodometric method.

The novelty of the research. The effect of a growth regulator on the redistribution of carbohydrates between plant organs during the growing season was for the first time investigated on the oil poppy culture. The accumulation of excessive carbohydrates in the leaves and roots of the experimental samples has a positive meaning due to the creation of a powerful reserve fund of assimilates. It is used for the formation and growth of the fruits of the oil poppy, the number of which increased. An increase in the content of carbohydrates in the vegetative organs of oil poppy plants under the action of chlormequat chloride was found to go along with a decrease in the content of total nitrogen in the roots and leaves both in the control sample and in the plants of the experimental variant.Conclusions. The usage of growth regulators in the budding phase causes an increase in the productivity of oil poppy and rapeseed culture. Under the action of these preparations, a correction of donor-acceptor relations in the plant is observed. It is implemented through the redistribution of assimilates from vegetative organs to the needs of carpogenesis. The formation of a more powerful acceptor sphere is associated with laying a larger number of fruits - the main acceptors of assimilates in the second half of the growing season. An increase in the load of the plant with fruits in the plants of the experimental variants also affected a more intensive flow of carbohydrates and nitrogen-containing compounds to them, which ultimately led to an increase in the seed yield.
Environmental education and the formation of ecological consciousness in the structure of professional training: theoretical aspect
Authors: Klybanivska Tetiana
Published: December 2022

The article reveals the theoretical aspects of environmental education and environmental awareness in the structure of professional training. It is noted that the state of the environment and the ecological crisis actualize the need for the development of environmental awareness and culture through the prism of environmental education for modern Ukrainian society. The article also analyzes several interpretations of the concept of "ecological consciousness". As a result of this, It is concluded that the individual ecological consciousness is understood as the highest level of individual’s reflection of the environment and reality, which ensures the harmonious coexistence and interaction of man and nature. The signs, structure, and main properties of the individual ecological consciousness are specified. It is indicated that its development takes place throughout a person's life, but in older youth, this process becomes especially intensive in connection with the acquisition of professional education, which sets personal worldview guidelines and principles of attitude to the environment. Environmental education plays an important role in the formation of a person's ecological consciousness. It is a complex process, that is designed to form a person's responsibility for the preservation and renewal of nature, to realize its vital value in practice. As a result of environmental education, environmental knowledge is transformed into environmental beliefs, the development of environmental skills, and environmental behavior. Education for sustainable development should contribute to the further spread of the teaching of the subject "Social ecology" in higher education institutions that train specialists in socionomic professions. In conclusion, It is determined that by forming an ecological worldview, we form an ecologically conscious and responsible personality of the future specialist, thereby providing a path to the sustainable development of our country.
Remediation of Oil Production by Matrix Acidizing Method on an Oil Well
Authors: Kasi Njeudjang , Justine Yandjimain , Madeleine Nitcheu , Théophile Ndougsa-Mbarga
Published: December 2022

The remediation oil production by matrix acidizing method on the well named "X" (for confidential reasons) is scrutinized in this paper. Initial production of 1150 bpd, production index of 2.8 STB/Psi/d and permeability of 150md, in 2018 two years down the lane this dropped to 450 bpd, production index 0.7 STB/Psi/d. The declined observed on the production index is trouble shouted and after elimination of (no completion damage/perforation damage), the skin is calculated by carrying out a well test (build-up test) whose extrapolation in excel over times gave us a skin of 40.The reservoir heterogeneity, containing >20% of feldspar, carbonates and paraffin’s guided thematrix acidizing design and treatment proposition to remedy this problem. A positive displacement pump (HT400), boosted by a centrifugal pump were used to pump the acid treatment through high pressure treating line downhole. Halliburton insite for stimulation the (IFS) software monitored treating pressure and surface flow rate, keeping injection rate below fracturing pressure. PipeSim software is used to run the nodal analysis before and after treatment this helped to forecast optimal production rates and pressure after treatments. Matrix acidizing method applied on the well X increased the production to 850 bpd with production index of 2 STD/psi/d, skin - 1.5. The economic benefit to the company stood at (profit oil 21,699,500 USD.) over a two years period of production. Meanwhile uncertainties in demand and supply of crude oil at the international market cause constant fluctuation in oil prices, this should be strongly considered upon execution of this project. Overall applications of this acidizing treatment can be carried out on reservoirs with similar mineralogy. HCl/HF blend dissolves sandstone, mud stone and calcite minerals thus reservoir porosity and permeability can be enhanced in regions extending several meters around the injection well.
Effect of Solvent Type on PAN–Based Nonwoven Nanofibers Membranes Characterizations
Authors: Sabeeh Haneen , Waisi Basma I.Waisi
Published: December 2022

Electrospun nanofiber membranes are employed in a variety of applications due to its unique features. the nanofibers' characterizations are effected by the polymer solution. The used solvent for dissolving the polymer powder is critical in preparing the precursor solution. In this paper, the Polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-based nanofibers were prepared in a concentration of 10 wt.% using various solvents (NMP, DMF, and DMSO). The surface morphology, porosity, and the mechanical strength of the three prepared 10 wt.% PAN-based nanofibers membranes (PAN/NMP, PAN/DMF, and PAN/DMSO) were characterized using the Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Dry-wet Weights method, and Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA). Using DMF as a solvent resulted in a long, beaded, homogeneous, and smooth surface fibrous structure with an average diameter of 260 nm, which was the best among the solvents tested in this study in terms of porosity and mechanical strength.
Challenges on bonds and guarantees under the payment security regime in the construction industry of Sri Lanka
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Manohara P.W.V. , Abeynayake M.D.T.E
Published: December 2022

The construction industry is a significant contributor to the national economy. Since construction has been facing risk management issue, bonds and guarantees have become a feasible solution, as a management too and mechanism. Professionals will have to undertake consequential responsibilities in managing bonds and guarantees. However, no significant efforts have been taken to identify how bonds and guarantees affect the construction industry of Sri Lanka. This research aims to explore the challenges and problems in bonds and guarantees, which are used in Sri Lankan construction projects, and to make recommendations to projects in the Sri Lankan context. Initially, a literature review has been carried out on different bonds and guarantees. Consequently, a mixed research approach has been used, which included expert interviews and a questionnaire survey. The collected data from expert interviews were analysed using content analysis that supported the design of the questionnaire. To achieve the study's aim, the bonds and guarantees were ranked against merits, demerits, issues, and suggestions in questionnaires using a Likert scale, considering the significance of those competencies in bonds and construction guarantees. The collected data were also analysed using the Relative Importance Index The research findings are revealed that there are several suggestions to overcome the barriers in bonds, guarantees and payment securities in Sri Lanka. Additionally, contractors' requirement to set up a special guarantee fund to protect business practices and it was identified as new suggestions that would aid the challenges and problems in line with bonds and guarantees in Sri Lankan construction projects.
Construction industry on the brink: The COVID-19 impact
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Parameswaran A , Ranadewa K.A.T.O.
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all industries globally, including the construction industry. As a result, the construction industry is experiencing several challenges in terms of delivering projects on time and on budget. However, a few studies have shown that the COVID-19 pandemic has a positive impact on the construction industry. Hence, analysing the issues caused by COVID-19 is vital to lessen the effects of the pandemic. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the construction industry. Accordingly, a detailed literature review was carried out to gain a theoretical understanding of the topic. A quantitative research approach was used to collect data. The questionnaire survey was conducted using snowball sampling with a total of one 108 respondents. Statistical Package for Social Science" (SPSS) was used to analyse the collected data. The findings revealed 86 negative impacts for the construction industry owing to the pandemic, which was classified as resources-related issues, project management issues, quality issues, financial issues, contractual issues, safety issues, technology-related issues, and other issues for the construction industry. An increase in the price of materials and equipment, project cost, exchange rate, and inflation rate were noted as significant negative impacts to the construction industry. The research further identified twelve (12) favourable impacts for the construction industry as a result of the pandemic. Encouraging risk assessment and collaboration and encouraging Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) were highlighted as the significant positive impacts. Therefore, strategies need to be identified to neutralise the negative impacts using the positive impacts caused by the pandemic. This study contributes to the body of knowledge to advance the construction industry towards the next level during the post- COVID-19 scenario, which will be the focus of the next phase of this research.
Defining critical infrastructure for Sri Lanka
Authors:   University of Peradeniya, Kandy, Sri Lanka, Randeniya M , Palliyaguru R , Amaratunga D
Published: December 2022

In the last few decades, infrastructure has played a major role in supporting modern society. Moreover, there has been an increase in natural and human-induced disasters worldwide. In these situations, securing infrastructure is a major requirement. Confusion and misinformation can result if the boundaries of what constitutes critical infrastructure for a country are not clearly defined. Identification of critical infrastructure is the first step in the process of securing and protecting the available critical assets. This study aims to establish the infrastructure that can be classified as "critical infrastructure" in Sri Lanka. This includes establishing a clear margin for subsectors that fall within and operate within critical infrastructure and, consequently, ascertaining a clear definition for the critical infrastructure of the nation. This study adopted a mixed-method approach, which included an initial comprehensive literature analysis on infrastructure and the parameters involved in determining the criticality of infrastructure. Secondly, a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were conducted to determine which infrastructure sectors would be most critical to Sri Lanka. The most significant infrastructures with the parameters of national security, economic sustainability, quality of life, public health, and safety, the criticality of infrastructure were ranked in both pre- and post-disaster scenarios, and an appropriate margin for the Sri Lankan critical infrastructure was demonstrated. The emergency services sector was found to have the most significant infrastructure in both pre- and post-disaster situations. Accordingly, the study reveals emergency services, water, energy, transportation, telecommunication, and finance as the critical infrastructures for Sri Lanka.
A review on unexploited features of n-dimensional BIM: An Indian construction scenario
Authors:   IEM division, Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Guwahati, Sood R , Laishram B
Published: December 2022

Infrastructure sector is a backbone of economic development for most of the countries worldwide. Indian AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) industry is one of the leading sectors in terms of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employment. With the increasing demand for infrastructure and continuous development in field of technology, the speed of construction has been improved in various countries. But most of the projects still face the issues of cost and time overruns due to un-exploitation of digital tools and technology. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is one such promising technology that spans several levels of maturity (Level 0, 1, 2, and 3) and dimensions (3D, 4D, 5D, 6D and 7D). Many studies have shown that the construction industry is still lagging behind the rate with which technology should have been adapted, particularly in developing countries including India. This paper, therefore aims to answer systematically about various dimensions and level of maturity and its current status in Indian construction industry and the key factors responsible for un-exploitation of BIM’s features due to low maturity. Finally, the paper presented some future research agendas. The study’s findings may be of significant value to the practitioners and policymakers in incorporating mandatory BIM based framework for Indian construction industry and also in other developing nations.
Housing quality indicators: A systematic review
Authors:   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Auckland, New Zealand, Wimalasena NN , Chang-Richards A , Wang KIK , Dirks K
Published: December 2022

A wealth of studies has demonstrated the significance of adequate or quality housing on occupant’s productivity, performance, comfort and health. However, insufficient data on the conditions of existing housing stocks and a lack of consensus measures of housing quality hinder housing developments from achieving residential needs. Due to the lack of quality indicators, the quality of housing is not often assessed. Therefore, this paper presents a systematic review using the PRISMA protocol to provide an overview of the housing quality indicators that can be employed to evaluate housing quality. The review consisted of 62 studies investigating 66 housing quality indicators. Each fall into one of eight categories, namely 1) dwelling unit architectural design characteristics and features; 2) user comfort; 3) housing site location and neighbourhood; 4) building services; 5) construction quality and stability; 6) economic aspect; 7) building maintenance; or 8) sustainability. The results show that investigating housing quality indicators is a growing research field where adequate ventilation was the most critical indicator of a quality home. Since the identified indicators are essential determinants of a quality house, architects and engineers can integrate these features at the design and construction stages in upgrading the conditions of dwellings while satisfying occupant’s comfort and quality of life. Further, governments can develop housing quality standards or regulations using these indicators to improve the quality of new housing constructions.
Industry 4.0 enabled predictive maintenance of facilities: A study on applicability, benefits and challenges
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Sivanuja T , Sandanayake YG
Published: December 2022

Maintenance management is an important function under Facilities Management (FM). Industries moved to preventive maintenance models to counteract the inefficiencies of reactive maintenance and further evolved into predictive maintenance (PdM) models. The demand for Industry 4.0 enabled PdM for FM has risen as a result of the industrial revolution and the dynamic nature of the FM functions. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the applicability, benefits, and challenges of applying Industry 4.0 concept for effective PdM in FM. The qualitative research approach was undertaken to accomplish the aim. A comprehensive literature review followed by 15 semi-structured interviews was carried out with experts in the maintenance sector who have Industry 4.0 knowledge. The data was collected from experts in Australia, Qatar, Dubai, Singapore, and Sri Lanka, and analysed through code-based content analysis using NVivo 12. The results demonstrate that there is a huge potential for using Industry 4.0 smart technologies such as big data analytics, Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), autonomous robots, Cloud Computing, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), cybersecurity, Machine Learning (ML), Augmented Reality (AR), Data Mining (DM), system integration, and simulation for PdM under FM. Applying Industry 4.0 concept for effective PdM under FM provides significant benefits such as the deployment of a zero-failure strategy, establishment of machine-to-machine communication and interaction, detection of early anomalies and extended equipment lifetime. Lack of technological knowledge, capital, data management, employees’ interest, integration between systems, standardized procedures, and internet access are identified key challenges.
A study of liquid waste management practices in construction projects in Australia
Authors:   Western Sydney University, Australia, Ratnasabapathy S , Perera S , Hardie M
Published: December 2022

The construction industry is increasingly under pressure to improve environmental performance and reduce environmental degradation, which often results from carbon emissions and a high volume of waste generated from unprecedented levels of development associated with urbanisation and industrialisation. Construction projects consume a significant amount of water at the same time; they generate liquid waste (LW) from several wet processes during construction on-site, which is often unmetered. At the same time, LW or wastewater generated from construction projects is detrimental to the environment and human health, adversely polluting the surface and groundwater as well as the ground soil. It is, therefore, indispensable to manage LW appropriately while utilising the water efficiently. Limited studies have paid attention to explore the importance of effective liquid waste management (LWM) practices in construction projects and their implications on environmental sustainability. This study aimed to investigate the current practices of LWM in construction projects through the analysis of expert user views and quantitative data analysis while providing an account of LWM related legislative requirements. Moreover, this study estimated the average volume of water consumed for tool washing and water saving for different types of projects and compared it against the use of sustainable LWM systems, notably a closed-loop washout system employed in construction projects. The outcome of this study has the potential to add new and under-measured factors to the current LWM systems and to promote sustainable LWM practices in construction projects. While it highlights issues related to LWM, it provides criteria that can be considered for the green rating of buildings.
Quantity surveyors working from home during COVID-19 pandemic: Does place matter?
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, De Silva GHAHN , Sandanayake YG
Published: December 2022

COVID-19 pandemic affected people in many ways. To prevent the spread of the virus, governments-imposed travel restrictions. This became the main reason for many sectors to adopt work from home (WFH) concept. Although WFH grew prominently with the COVID-19 pandemic, it was already practiced in several sectors even before the pandemic. However, there was lack of evidence regarding the quantity surveyor’s practice in WFH. This research therefore attempts to investigate how the quantity surveyors WFH during COVID-19 pandemic and factors that affected the successful functioning of their job. To achieve the aim, a mixed method research approach was undertaken. Initially, a comprehensive literature review was carried out and an interview guideline was developed as the data collection instrument. Subsequently, 30 semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data. Collected qualitative data was analysed through code-based content analysis using NVivo 10 and quantitative data was analysed by using descriptive statistical analysis. Results shows that nature of job role, personal qualities, technology, organization related factors, gender, home-work interface, and economic condition of the country affects the QS’s function during WFH. Further, age, location of home, weather condition, job experience and performance of other employees were identified as factors that have a potential to affect QSs during WFH. This research findings can be used to implement WFH concept effectively to optimise quantity surveyor performance in the construction industry by controlling each factor that affects when QSs WFH
Selection approaches and methods of construction industry consultant: A systematic literature review
Authors:   Centre for Smart Modern Construction, School of Engineering Design & Built Environment, Western Sydney University, Australia, Hummadi MA , Perera S , Jin XH , Alashwal A
Published: December 2022

Selecting the most appropriate construction industry consultant (CIC) is a crucial process if projects are going to be successful. However, poor performance of CICs and failure to meet a client's needs are common, and the CIC selection process has not been adequately analysed in previous research. A systematic literature review of the CIC selection process will help to clarify the different approaches and methods. The study concluded with three common approaches for selecting the appropriate CIC: pricebased selection, qualification-based selection, and qualification-price-based selection. The selection approach is conducted either by using a direct or a comparative method. The direct approach is based on reputation or past experience with the client, while the comparative selection method occurs through an evaluation process and a list of selection factors. There are two processes involved in the comparative selection method: interview-based selection process and Multi Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM)-based selection process. However, while there are different opinions about what is the best way to select a consultant, the authors assert that the ideal process depends mainly on client and project conditions. Future study is recommended on this topic. This study contributes to the literature on the CIC selection and open the door to further studies such as developing a new selection approach or method and studying factors and criteria of CIC selection.
Strategies adopted by design and build contractors to enhance the implementation of sustainable construction practices
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Nadeetharu BKM , Kulatunga U
Published: December 2022

Despite of design and build (D&B) procurement being a feasible solution, the status of the implementation of sustainable construction practices (SCP) in the Sri Lankan construction industry is below the trend. Since unwillingness and unawareness of the D&B contractors have identified as a cause for the issue, strategies to overcome the problem are required. Accordingly, an extensive literature review was conducted to identify the SCP, and D&B concepts to provide a basis for a reliable set of strategies. Subsequently, the survey strategy under the qualitative research approach was accompanied to derive strategies. Accordingly, collected data from nine expert interviews from the purposively selected clients, contractors, consultants, and subcontractors have been analysed using deductive thematic analysis under eight main pre-defined themes. Appointment of a sustainability manager, market survey to recognise the status of sustainability, concern on passive construction technologies and identification of sustainable design requirements have identified as key strategies. Finally, this can be used by D&B contractors to identify the loopholes and enhance sustainable development
Stressors of quantity surveyors working on-site: Female vs male
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Gunasekara KA , Perera BAKS
Published: December 2022

The World Health Organization has identified stress, which can cause a devastating effect on the emotional and physical wellbeing of a person, as the health epidemic of the 21st century. Occupational stress is a severe problem among male and female professionals. This study aimed to compare the significant stressors of male Quantity Surveyors (QSs) working on-site with their female counterparts. A mixed approach consisting of a series of interviews and a questionnaire survey was adopted to collect the data required for the study. Purposive sampling was used to select the interviewees and questionnaire survey participants from among the QSs working on-site for contractors. Heavy workload/overtime/inflexible work was identified as the most significant stressor of both male and female QSs. Heavy domestic responsibilities and inadequate earned income were the second most significant stressor of female and male QSs, respectively. Shortcomings of the tendering process (document discrepancies, under-priced quotations) were the third most significant stressor for male and female QSs, though not mentioned in the literature. The study findings revealed that the stressors affecting male and female QSs working on-site must be considered separately.
Successful delivery of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in the construction projects of Sri Lankan higher education sector
Authors:   Department of Quantity Surveying, Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Kandawinna N , Mallawaarachchi H , Vijerathne D
Published: December 2022

To gain economic advantages in the competitive world, governments tend to adopt new financing methods in construction projects. Accordingly, Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects are a popular choice mainly due to the reduction in transaction cost and innovation. PPP projects have spread from the typical use on infrastructure projects such as airports, roads, railways, ports, and water sanitation to the more recent use for projects in the higher education sector such as universities and colleges. Thus, adopting PPP for the higher education sector related construction projects in Sri Lanka is vital to consider. Accordingly, this research aims to observe the Critical Success Factors (CSF) for the successful delivery of PPP projects in the construction projects of the higher education sector in Sri Lanka. A comprehensive literature review was first conducted to identify the CSFs of PPP in higher education construction projects and 22 CSFs were identified. The survey method was used under quantitative phenomenon since this research required evaluating the identified CSFs. The identified factors were evaluated through a questionnaire survey, which was conducted among the 30 selected professionals who are aware on PPPs, such as Quantity Surveyors, Project Managers, Government Professionals, and Academic Professionals. As the key findings derived through analysis, “communication between parties”, “transparency in the procurement process”, financial capability and support”, “project technical feasibility” and “appropriate risk allocation and risk-sharing” were determined as the top five CSFs for PPP projects in the higher education sector related construction projects in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, strategies were also proposed to ensure the successful implementation of CSFs in the higher education sector in Sri Lanka.
Sustainable challenges and strategies for managing stakeholders in megaprojects: Review of cases from Australia
Authors:   Western Sydney University, Australia, Senaratne S , Rai S
Published: December 2022

Megaprojects are an essential part in social, economic, and environmental developments and they attract a consortium of stakeholders ranging from governments, communities, international consumers, and suppliers. Hence, stakeholder management in these projects contributes significantly to projects’ success and sustainability. The research project, on which this paper is based on, aims to identify key challenges and propose suitable strategies to manage stakeholders in megaprojects for better sustainability outcomes. In achieving this aim, the research re-viewed key concepts related to project stakeholder management in megaprojects, explored sustainable challenges and analysed appropriate stakeholder management strategies through a secondary review of two major case studies of megaprojects in Sydney, Australia. The key findings discovered that the main factors influencing stakeholders were related to social, economic and environmental impacts of the project and, the need for managing them through proactive stakeholder management strategies. The implications of this research guide project managers on managing stakeholders on megaprojects and inform on possible challenges and solutions to achieve sustainable outcomes. Further research could extend and replicate on other case studies in different contexts and project types.
The applicability of regulations for the disposal of construction and demolition waste in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Hayleys Fentons Limited, Sri Lanka, Tissera WDAC , Dahanayake R , Edirisinghe V
Published: December 2022

Effective and efficient waste management plans/systems are vital in reducing and maintaining the generation of construction and demolition waste. It was proved in previous research, proper rules and regulations affect the effectiveness of the waste management strategies used in disposing of construction and demolition waste. Therefore, this research aim is to identify the regulations applicable for the disposal of construction and demolition waste in Sri Lanka to propose improvements in the available rules and regulations. Comprehensive literature and document review were conducted to approach the aim of this research. Questionnaire surveys and expert interviews were carried out to validate the findings of the literature survey and to gather required data in identifying the issues related to current rules and regulations and proposing improvements. The findings revealed that many gaps can be identified with the current regulations used in the disposal of construction and demolition waste. The results of the research identified a lack of intention in government regarding recycling, avoiding improper landfilling, and avoiding illegal dumping of construction and demolition waste as major issues. The study finally concluded the necessity of modified rules and regulations regarding the disposal of construction and demolition waste.
The impact of COVID-19 on the business continuity of the Sri Lankan apparel industry: Human resource management (HRM)
Authors:   University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Gowsiga M , Kartheepan T
Published: December 2022

The Sri Lankan apparel industry is having a high demand for exports all over the world and is a leading apparel producer in the South Asian region. It has started to fight for its survival due to the pandemic, Covid-19. It guesses a bracing for a 50% drop in demand by the following one to one and a half years from Covid-19. Thus, the industry is in a position to reinvent itself by forcing itself to live. Thus, business continuity is necessary to proceed with the business without any interruption at this time. Moreover, human resource professionals act a major role to continue the business after the new normal, as handling the main resource of the organisation which is humans. Hence, this study aims to investigate the level of impact and consequences of Covid-19 in the business continuity process of the Sri Lankan apparel industry from the human resource management perspective. Initially, the literature review delivered a theoretical understanding of the research area and three large-scale apparel organisations were selected, a case study research strategy with a quantitative approach. Collected data were analysed using the Likert scale and weighted average manual content analysis. The findings revealed that Training and development help to compensate for the labour shortage, and technology improvements have modified the recruitment pattern. The difficulty of measuring performance has a negative impact on employee engagement; however, job uncertainty and providing satisfactory opportunities for development have increased employee engagement; thus, there is a balance in employee engagement, and communication plays an important role in that. Furthermore, flexible working hours have a positive impact on employee performance and job satisfaction.
Adapting the standard forms of contract to minimize the contractual effects of COVID-19 on construction projects
Authors:   Department of Quantity Surveying, University of Vocational Technology, Sri Lanka, Perera C , Palliyaguru R
Published: December 2022

The construction industry is a major economic driver in Sri Lanka. However, the construction industry was significantly affected by the responses made by the Sri Lankan government to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The effects of those government responses on construction projects are diverse as time, cost, and qualityrelated impacts. These effects resulted in numerous contractual effects that were mostly to be dealt with reference to the provisions made in the standard forms of contracts such as ICTAD/SBD/02 and FIDIC 1999 in Sri Lanka. Since no similar pandemic has affected Sri Lanka at this magnitude before, neither ICTAD/SBD/02 nor FIDIC 1999 have been drafted giving due consideration to such exceptional circumstances. Furthermore, no studies that researched these kinds of aspects can be found in the existing literature. Hence, this research aims to explore the effects of the responses made by the Sri Lankan government to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic on the construction industry and the possible adaptations of standard forms of contracts to address the contractual implications of those effects to mitigate the effects on the contractual parties in both building and civil engineering projects. A desk review was carried out to identify the existing provisions of ICTAD/SBD/02 and FIDIC 1999 to overcome the effects of pandemic situations, and three case studies, including two building projects and one civil engineering project, were used for the empirical data collection. Representing contractors, consultants, and employers, twelve semi-structured interviews were conducted within the three case studies. The research findings reveal that a collaborative approach with cost and time-sharing is the best approach to address the effects of a pandemic situation. Furthermore, defining terminologies, developing transparency in contractual relationships, and establishing an equal assessment basis can all aid in the contractual development of the ICTAD/SBD/02. As a result, the study suggests improving documentation practices, developing guidelines for amicable settlement, and eliminating the adversarial effects of ICTAD/SBD/02 through an equal assessment process. Thus, this research contributes to the further development of ICTAD/SBD/02 while also improving Sri Lankan building and civil engineering projects by reducing contractual issues in future pandemics.