bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Key Strategies in Undertaking International Construction Project: Contractors’ Perspective
Authors: Sarpin Norliana , Chia Yi Ling , Kasim Narimah , Mohd Noh Hamidun , Omar Roshartini , Zainal Rozlin
Published: February 2019

The pressures of internationalisation have generated a high competitive market on Malaysian construction industry. However, the competitive and saturated of domestic market has driven many Malaysian contractor to undertake international projects. Without any denial, participation in international projects is a challenging task. It requires Malaysian contractors to develop strategy to enable them to operate successfully abroad. Therefore, the objectives of this research is to examine the key challenges for Malaysian contractors to undertake international construction projects thus identify strategies for Malaysian contractors to undertake international construction projects. To achieve the objectives of this research, quantitative method were adopted by using questionnaires. Questionnaire were distributed to participants from well experienced management team of G6 and G7 companies that have vast involvement in international projects. The findings of this research revealed that skilled worker shortage, high cost of financing of international project and limited experience with similar projects are the top three key challenges encountered by the Malaysian contractors in international construction project. The research identifies risk management and forming joint venture are the key strategies for Malaysian contractor to undertake international projects. In conclusion, this research can assist Malaysian contractor who wish to embark in international projects in supporting the current Construction Industry Transformation Programme (CITP) and the 4th Industrial Revolution in construction industry.
Challenges of Building Information Modelling (BIM) from the Malaysian Architect’s Perspective
Authors: Ahmad Jamal Khairool Aizat , Mohammad Mohammad Fadhil , Hashim Norfashiha , Mohamed Mohamed Rizal , Ramli Mohd Adib
Published: February 2019

Malaysia is experiencing high economic growth which requires the construction industry to fulfill development demands. Building Information Modelling (BIM) had been widely publicized by the government in order to increase the industry’s productivity by instigating numerous initiatives aimed to spearhead its progression. In contrast with the aspiration, architects as key players of construction industry are still facing issues in adopting BIM into practice. Previous researches had broadly covered about BIM in construction industry, but few concentrations in specific to the local architect thus imposing gap of knowledge. In addressing the issues, the research aim to probe the current state of BIM implementation, primarily on the challenges that hinders its adoption. The BIM factors which covers people, process, policy and technology were derived and investigated through the use of 322 questionnaires distributed to architects at management and operational level. The study revealed the key barriers that contributes towards the problem is within the people factor, where majority highlighted the lacked of skilled and experienced BIM workforce which contributes towards steep learning environment as well as high cost of applying BIM. Consequently, several key strategic solutions had been indicated through both external and internal factors in addressing the challenge of BIM. Results suggested that there is a need of further support from the industry’s professional bodies, development of legal instruments, BIM enforcement, specific BIM education as well as BIM R&D programs.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Industrial Revolution (IR) 4.0 in Construction Engineering Education
Authors: Zabidin Nadia Safura , Belayutham Sheila , Che Ibrahim Che Khairil Izam
Published: February 2019

Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0) is a further development stage of high-tech digitization to enhance communication networks, organization and management as well as production and processes across industries. The rate of changes and its convergence towards IR 4.0 would require new talent, knowledge and skills for current and future generation to retain and generate workforce. As technology in the construction industry is evolving at a fast pace, the current teaching-learning syllabus and pedagogy should change accordingly to accommodate future job requirements. Due to the rawness of this concept in the construction industry, particularly in relation to its education, this study aims to explore the state of the art as well as the state of practice of IR 4.0 and Education 4.0 from the perspectives of construction engineering. Therefore, a systematic review was conducted to analyze the relevant research papers related to IR 4.0 and Education 4.0 within the Scopus database ranging from year 2011 until present. A bibliometric analysis has been outlined following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Findings of this study would provide a thorough understanding on past efforts in advancing the construction engineering education aspect, subsequently highlighting gaps to be filled for future endeavors, particularly in equipping the construction engineering education for IR 4.0.
A Review of Safety Issues among Small Grade Contractors in Construction Industry
Authors: Yusof Noorhayatie , Misnan Mohd Saidin
Published: February 2019

The construction industry is one of the largest industries in Malaysia. There were too many factors that contribute to construction project success. Construction industry comprises different participants including clients, consultants, and contractors (as construction business) that perform different roles from conception in order to complete the project. The contractors in Malaysia were categorized into seven Grades of contractors starting from contractor G1 to G7. These categories were graded based on a number of employees and the value of the project. In Malaysia, G1 to G4 contractors (small grade contractors) are the highest company were registered with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB). Unfortunately, small grade contractors are widely exposed to the highest rate of accidents or risky compared to medium and large grade contractors (G5-G7) in this industry. In order to adequately clarify the issues on this safety matter, this paper has discussed the problems faced by small grade contractors that influence the implementation of safety practice in a construction site. The objective of study is to identify the problems in small grade contractors in order to implement safety practice on site. This study was focused on small grade contractor in Malaysia. The data for this study were supported by previous studies are reported in the journal; statistic of accidents in the construction industry by Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH); contractor information; statistic of contractors are registered under CIDB; safety book; and internet sources. This study had found that the small grade contractors have some issues related to safety practice whereas they did not have proper standard of safety (general safety act and regulation); they cannot appoint Safety Health Officer (SHO) to handle the site safety; have limited external resource; and also small grade contractors have financial constraints. Based on this review, it can be concluded that small grade contractors have more lacking in safety management and consequently, the rate of accidents still higher in the construction industry. However, safety management in small grade contractors can be improved with support by external resources such as researcher, large grade contractor, government, and pressure from authorities.
Strategic Level Implementation: Development Criteria for IBS Formwork System Readiness Framework (IBS FOSREF) for Malaysian Construction Industry
Authors: Baharuddin Mohd Nurfaisal , Bahardin Nur Fadhilah , Zaidi Mohd Azian , Yusof Mohd Reeza
Published: February 2019

The Industrialized Building System (IBS) was introduced by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) are classified to precast concrete framing, panel and box systems, steel formwork systems, steel framing systems, prefabricated systems and block work system which is mainly components based systems and products (CIDB, 2007). According to Nawi (2011), the benefit of IBS formwork system implementation will lead to environmental friendly which reduce the harmful impact on the environment by better use of available resources and reuse of molds will affect less of waste materials. Since there is no theory about readiness factors of IBS formwork system in Malaysia, the stakeholders will not realize the significance of IBS formwork system. Most of the challenges factor in implementation of IBS formwork system is the attitude of Malaysian construction stakeholders which are un-readiness in facing of globalization era since it was already stated by IBS Roadmap (2003-2010). Hence, the goals of this research are to analyses the critical factors of driving or hindering the used of IBS formwork system in the Malaysian construction industry. A survey among 157 respondents which are construction personnel was employed for the study. The survey result shows that fifteen (15) identified factors for IBS formwork implementation are further ranked according to the average mean score perceived by construction personnel as follow: (F6: Government Initiative), (F12: Roles of Agencies), (F13: Procurement), (F7: Training), (F14: Incentives), (F15: Manufacturer Availability), (F11: Familiarity of IBS System), (F4: Qualified Technical Team), (F8: Cost … Financial), (F3: IBS Score Index), (F1: Project Trend), (F10: Compliance of Policy), (F5: IBS Scoring Manual), (F9: Promotion) and (F2: Contractor Involvement). Other than that, the development of IBS Formwork System Readiness Framework (IBS FOSREF) incorporated with Strategic Level Implementation Mc Kinsey 7s for Malaysian Construction Industry which are the main outcome for this research could facilitate the Malaysian construction stakeholders to ensure IBS formwork system implementation will be success.
The Challenges of the Implementation of Construction Robotics Technologies in the Construction
Authors: Yahya Mohd Yamani Bin , Lee Hui Yin , Yassin Azlina Binti Md. , Omar Roshartini , Robin Rolyselra Orbintang anak , Kasim Narimah
Published: February 2019

Robotics is one of the advanced technologies that is used in various aspects of the construction industry to improve the efficiency and the performance of construction projects. The adoption of construction robotics technologies is significant strategies to maintain and improve productivity in the construction industry. Even though the implementation of construction robotics technologies can improve productivity, many Malaysian contractors do not embrace the existence of robotic technology and still practicing the traditional method due to many challenges. Therefore, the objectives of the study were to investigate the challenges of the implementation of construction robotics technologies in the Malaysian construction industry and the improvement method. The data of the research were achieved through a quantitative method, which questionnaires were distributed to 180 G7 contractors in Kuala Lumpur. Subsequently, 50 valid responses were retrieved and the collected data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The findings revealed that the two (2) main challenges of the implementation of construction robotics in Malaysia were the high cost to maintain and update process the technologies. The finding also showed that strategic partnership with a high technology company was the best method to improve robotics implementation. In conclusion, this study is believed to be useful information in improving the implementation of robotics technologies in construction projects particularly around Klang Valley.
Land Productivity Of A Traditional Market In Urban Area
Authors: Utomo Christiono , Rahmawati Yani , Akhmad Taufik Tatang , Nurcahyo Cahyono B. , Pararta Laksmi Dian
Published: February 2019

A land requires use analysis to obtain the best increase in the land value. Likewise with the land of an urban traditional market. Highest and Best Use (HBU) analysis is needed to get the best alternative property on the land. A traditional market is one place where the activity of trading centre. However, along with the development of the era of the existence of traditional markets increasingly abandoned. One of them is Pucang Anom market located in Pucang Anom Street, Surabaya. Market conditions on the second floor are quiet and lack of interest. In addition, the market conditions are old and look shabby. Therefore, it is necessary to revive Pucang Anom market so that it can produce the highest land value. Alternative land use is analysed using HBU method. The analysis began with an explorative study to explore alternatives of land use, afterwards it continued with four stages analysis including regulatory compliance and permits, possibility and affordability of construction, financial feasibility, and maximum productivity of land. The results of this study found an alternative mixed use between market and apartment as the best options with the highest land value and maximum productivity is 210%.
A Study on the Benefits of Transit Oriented Development in Malaysia And Incoporation of Those Benefits in Planning
Authors: Gomez Christy P. , Omar Masitah , Nallusamy Rameson
Published: February 2019

In Malaysia Transit Oriented Development (TOD) is increasingly becoming a priority for developers and property companies to lead urban planning towards creating a quality, prosperous and sustainable living environment. Malaysia is still relying heavily on traditional planning for its infrastructure development. The objectives of this study are to analyze current planning related to TOD in Malaysia and identify the economic, social and environmental benefits of TOD. A mixed method research approach was used. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaire survey and qualitative data obtained through interviews. The respondents for the questionnaire survey aimed at determining the benefits of TOD consisted of the transit community using the KL Sentral Station. Whilst the investigation on the current planning by the local authority with regards to TOD was undertaken based on data obtained from Johor state local council town planners. The results indicate that from a general perspective social benefits are perceived to be the greatest and from a personal perspective the environmental benefits are greatest. Whilst the current planning regarding TOD in Malaysia is very much at initial planning stages in the case of Johor state and the main emphasis is on reducing the number of people using private transport vehicles on the road. This study provides a reliable transit community perspective regarding the real economic, social and environmental benefits of TODs and provides a timely reflection for local council town planner and key stakeholders to review thier approach to leverage on the wider benefits of TOD.
Protein reduction of natural rubber films through leaching solvent
Authors: Yu Lih Jiun , Chi Christopher Wong Yoke , Tangavaloo Vishantini , Lim Keuw Wei , A Tarawneh Mou’ad
Published: February 2019

The finished product natural rubber latex gloves consist of latex proteins, which may pose a risk of allergic reactions in some latex-sensitive individuals. The allergic reactions depend on mild exposure to heavy exposure. An alternative solution to allergic users, usage of latex-free gloves are lack of elasticity and less comfort. This study aims to investigate natural rubber films protein reduction via three types of leaching solvent: acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, and ethanol in the leaching process. Then the influence of leaching solvent concentration on the physical properties of natural rubber gloves was analyzed. It was found that the acetic acid performed greater protein reduction effect (30.07%), followed by sodium hydroxide (27.77%), whereas the ethanol was shown to be less significant to protein reduction. All samples were fulfilling the mechanical properties as required in ASTM standard.
Ultimate pretreatment of lignocellulose in bioethanol production by combining both acidic and alkaline pretreatment
Authors: Nguyen Dinh Quan , Nguyen Le Nhat Minh , Tran Thi Tuong An , Cao Hoai Nhan , Le Thi Kim Phung , Mai Thanh Phong
Published: February 2019

Alkaline pretreatment has been known as the most popular method to process lignocellulosic materials for bioethanol production due to its simplicity and high efficiency. However, the waste water of the process has a very high basicity, which requires neutralization with acids upon further disposal. In this study, rubber wood saw dust (Hevea brasiliensis) was employed as lignocellulosic material and its pretreatment was inspected with both diluted H2SO4 and NaOH in different combination ways. Hereby, acid was used not only for waste water neutralization but also to contribute to lignin removal. Analysis results showed that an aqueous solution of 2.0 - 2.5 wt.% H2SO4 can be used to treat the biomass followed by alkaline pretreatment. By this so-called combo-pretreatment technique, cellulose was well preserved without significant hydrolysis while the final pretreatment efficiency was up to 63.0%, compared to 48.2% of using only the alkaline solution and 13.7% of using only the acidic solution. Finally, alkaline waste water can be mixed to be neutralized with acidic waste water from the two previous steps. This innovated technique improved the pretreatment efficiency almost without increasing in chemical cost.
Degradation of PVC insulated cable by Small Punch test considering molecular weight change
Authors: Yasutomo Koga , Yoshihiko Arao , Masatoshi Kubouchi
Published: February 2019

PVC used as insulation material for industrial power cable was tried to evaluate degradation by Small Punch test (SP test) as a simple and easy assessment method. It was suggested that the SP test can analyze chemical changes from the correlation with IR. Qualitative assessment shows agreement between SP test and tensile test, and it is possible to apply to evaluation of strength at long aging times. However, the failure load in the SP test samples is complex and scattered, so that detailed study on SP test is required. Thus, we focused chemical reaction mechanisms and tried to clarify their influence on SP behavior. Molecular weight change was measured for each aging time by SEC and discussed how polymer chains are cut based on IR result. We discuss the relationship between molecular weight and the mechanical properties of PVC by SP test. The effectiveness of SP test as the evaluation method for residual life prediction will be addressed.
CeO2-dolomite as fire retardant additives on the conventional intumescent coating in steel substrate for improved performance
Authors: Zoleta Joshua , Itao Gevelyn , Resabal Vannie Joy , Lubguban Arnold , Corpuz Ryan , Tabelin Carlito , Ito Mayumi , Hiroyoshi Naoki
Published: February 2019

Multiple combinations of CeO2-Dolomite as fillers and Intumescent Flame Retardant (IFR) ingredients were used to optimize the intumescent coatings designed for I-beam steel substrates. The influenced of fillers and various combinations of flame-retardants on the fire protective performance of the coatings were evaluated using vertical Bunsen burner fire test and various characterization techniques. Formula C and Formula F having 1:1 and 2:2 CeO2-Dolomite ratio, obtained the lowest substrate temperature around 150oC and 150.4oC, respectively after 90 minutes fire exposure. Also, the morphological structures of intumescent char observed by SEM-EDX, demonstrated that Formula C and Formula F stimulated the formation of homogeneous and more compacted surface structure. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) provide the binding energies of C and O constituents, it was observed that [-(C2H4)n-] was the most important free radical as it could promote the formation of aromatic carbon chain in the char surface. Finally, the findings of this study revealed that the selection of appropriate fillers and combinations of flame-retardant ingredients significantly influenced the morphological structure of the char layer, of which, Formula C and Formula F produced a char with higher thermal stability, resulting to a more fire resistive IFR coating during fire exposure.
Investigation of superabsorbent polymer absorbency at reduced chemical potential of water
Authors: Melendres Ariel , Antang Judy An , Manacob Christian Jake
Published: February 2019

Different types of superabsorbent polymers (SAP) exhibiting varied absorbency properties were investigated for their performances at varying concentrations of an electrolyte. Water chemical potential, which is a function of concentration and pressure, was interpreted as a major parameter for absorbency and swelling properties of SAP. Superabsorbent polymers that were investigated gave different values of permeability which was carried out in a layer of swelled superabsorbent polymer. This result revealed differences on the structure of the superabsorbent polymers particularly on the crosslinking density. SAP’s absorbency properties were further tested and a correlation between the quantity of absorption and the chemical potential of water in terms of sodium chloride concentration was developed using experimental data on free swelling capacity and absorption under pressure. Results showed decreasing quantity of absorption by the superabsorbent polymers with decreasing chemical potential of water with higher reduction in the absorbency at higher pressure applied on the swelled SAP.
Production of composite membrane from waste Kappa-Carrageenan and Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fishbone
Authors: Olay Jerry , Ambas Kristine , Glino Novelyn , Rubi Vicente Rugi
Published: February 2019

Kappa-Carrageenan has been widely used as a gelling agent and stabilizer in the food industry. This research is an application of Kappa Carrageenan as polymer membrane with the combination of Hydroxyl Apatite obtained from the fishbone. Different weight percentages of K-Carrageenan and Fishbone were mixed to make a filtering media with the use of Glutaraldehyde as a crosslinking agent. Before the crosslinking, K carrageenan were pretreated with monochloroacetic acid, ethanol and sodium hydroxide to become an alkali-based solution that will be readily mixed with the hydroxyl apatite. Fishbone were converted to hydroxyl apatite through subjection in a high temperature dryer. Polymer membrane were characterized by evaluating its mechanical and physical properties such as elastic resistance, water permeability and mean pore size diameter with the use of force gauge, filtration due to gravity and scanned electron microscopy respectively. Based from the evaluation, composite with 60% KCarrageenan-40% Fishbone displayed the most feasible characteristic of a filtering media such as its mechanical strength and water permeability. Composite with 80% KCarrageenan-20% Fishbone has the smallest pore size in which a good characteristic also of a filtering media.
Development of nanosilver-coated geopolymer beads (AgGP) from fly ash and baluko shells for antimicrobial applications
Authors: Dela Cerna Kimmie , Janairo Jose Isagani , Promentilla Michael Angelo
Published: February 2019

Geopolymers are a class of materials formed from treating alumina (Al2O3) and silica (SiO2) containing materials with an alkali activator. They are most notable for being environmentally-friendly substitutes to Ordinary Portland Cement; however, recent findings have shown that they may have potential as support matrices for antimicrobial agents such as nanosilver, particularly with the addition of foaming agents and setting time accelerators. In this study, nanosilver-coated geopolymer beads (AgGP) were made from fly ash (FA), calcined Baluko shells or pen shells (BS), and hydrogen peroxide (H). Addition of BS and H reduces the setting time and increases the porosity of the geopolymer beads. The beads were then dipped in AgNO3 and NaBH4 respectively to provide the nanosilver coating. When immersed in water, a controlled release of silver ions leaches out from the beads, neutralizing any bacteria in the water. It was found that the AgGP removed as much as 99.96% of the E. coli in a suspension originally at 105 CFU/mL.
The removal of copper (II) and lead (II) from aqueous solution using Fuller’s earth and Fuller’s earth-immobilized nanoscale zero valent iron (FE-NZVI) by adsorption
Authors: Malacas Manases , Balberan Marvie Christian , Bederi Nurul Amal Janna , Ramos Chriztian Jay , Rato Marvin , Salazar Allen Grace , Roque Erison
Published: February 2019

The present study investigates the propensity of Fuller’s Earth, a diatomaceous earth that is cheap and abundant in several locations whose application is yet to be fully ventured, and Fuller’s Earth-Immobilized Nanoscale Zero Valent Iron in removing heavy metal contaminants, particularly Pb2+ and Cu2+ , from aqueous solutions through adsorption method. FE-nZVI were synthesized through the borohydride reduction method and subsequently characterized through SEM, FTIR, and XRD. The SEM analysis shows an increase in the agglomeration of the nZVI on the immobilized Fullers’ Earth with an increase in the loading of Fe0. Tests were conducted on various samples in order to determine the effect of three parameters on the efficiency of the adsorbent which includes the initial concentration of the heavy metal, adsorbent dosage and pH with respect to time. The results show that the FE-nZVI can be used as a new adsorbent for the sole application of heavy metal remediation in aqueous systems due to its efficiency in removing the contaminants that would allow individuals to conform to the stringent requirements dictated by environmental laws.
Carrier-microencapsulation using Al-catecholate complex to suppress arsenopyrite oxidation: Evaluation of the coating stability under simulated weathering conditions
Authors: Seno Kensuke , Park Ilhwan , Tabelin Carlito , Magaribuchi Kagehiro , Ito Mayumi , Hiroyoshi Naoki
Published: February 2019

Arsenopyrite (FeAsS) is the most common primary arsenic-sulfide mineral in nature, and its oxidation causes the release of toxic arsenic (As). To mitigate these problems, carrier-microencapsulation (CME), a technique that passivates sulfide minerals by covering their surfaces with a protective coating, has been developed. In the previous study of authors on CME, Al-catecholate complex significantly suppressed arsenopyrite oxidation via electron donating effects of the complex and the formation of an Al-oxyhydroxide coating. For the application of this technique to real tailings, however, further study should be carried out to elucidate long-term effectiveness of the coating to suppress arsenopyrite oxidation. This study investigates the stability of the coating formed on arsenopyrite by Al-based CME using weathering tests. The Al-oxyhydroxide coating suppressed arsenopyrite oxidation until about 50 days of the experiment, but after this, the amounts of oxidation products like dissolved S and As increased due to the gradual dissolution of the coating with time as a result of the low pH of leachate. This suggests that co-disposal of Al-based CME-treated arsenopyrite with minerals that have appropriate neutralization potentials, so that the pH is maintained at around 5 to 8 where Al-oxyhydroxide is stable.
Preparation of oil palm empty fruit bunch based activated carbon for adsorption of dye from aqueous solution
Authors: Intarachandra Narisara , Siriworakon Sukum , Sangmanee Theerapol
Published: February 2019

The objectives of this research are to determine an optimum condition for producing the activated carbon from oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) and used as an adsorbent to remove methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solution. Chemical activation by phosphoric acid (H3PO4) was used as a procedure to modify OPEFB, in which in this study the carbonization and activation were done simultaneously. The concentrations of phosphoric acid were varied from 20-60% by weight and carbonization temperature and time were varied from 500-800oC and 30-60 minutes, respectively. It was found that among the conditions used, the best condition for producing activated carbon was obtained when using 60% H3PO4 and carbonized at 500oC for 30 minute. The produced activated carbon had a surface area of 362.5 m2/g and average pore size of 2.94 nm. Methylene blue and Iodine numbers were 13.62 and 356.46 mg/g, respectively, which were comparable to the results of commercial activated carbon; i.e. 6.96 and 778.7 mg/g. The optimum condition for the adsorption of MB from synthetic wastewater by produced activated carbon was found at pH 8-12 with equilibrium time of 4 hours. Results demonstrated that the equilibrium data was well fitted by Freundlich isotherm model with the isotherm constants KF of 7.75 mg/g and 1/n of 0.13.
Parametric and Optimization Studies on the entrapment of Potassium Fertilizer into Chitosan-Poly(methacrylic acid) Carrier via Ionic Gelation
Authors: Plofino Diana Jane M. , Brutas Clint Charles P. , Alfafara Catalino G. , Maguyon-Detras Monet Concepcion , Migo Veronica P.
Published: February 2019

Nanofertilizer is an emerging technology for exhibiting slow release mechanism of fertilizer application. This slow release mechanism allows increase in nutrient uptake of plants while minimizing environmental pollution; specifically, reducing eutrophication in bodies of water. This study includes parametric and optimization studies for ionic gelation process in the formulation of potassium fertilizer in chitosan polymethacrylic acid (CS-PMAA) carrier, and subsequent characterization of the formulated K fertilizer. A 2k factorial experimnental design was initially implemented to determine significant factors. Results show that polymerization time inversely affects the K content concentration of the K-CS-PMAA fertilizer due to the swelling behavior of chitosan, while K:CS-PMAA ratio directly affects the K content concentration. Upon numerical optimization, the conditions found to maximize K content of the formulated fertilizer are 3000 ppm K+ corresponding to 1.5:1 ratio of the K loading concentration to CS-PMAA carrier for 30 mins polymerization time. The optimum K content of K-CS-PMAA fertilizer is about 34.98% w/w – less than the 44.27% w/w K content of the fertilizer grade, muriate of potash (MOP). The Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) results of 368.1 nm and 75.4 nm, respectively, indicated that K-CS-PMAA is nanosized. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) results proved the presence of CS-PMAA with deviations at 1483.01 and 1405.07 caused by the vibration in the --COO-anion groups of PMAA indicating the attachment of potassium in the nanoparticle. Furthermore, the fertilizer formulated was proved to exhibit slow release behavior with the value of 83.70% K+ release after 48 hours compared to the 99.43% release of MOP.
Sustainability assessment of xylitol production from empty fruit bunch
Authors: Hafyan Rendra , Bhullar Lupete , Putra Zulfan , Bilad MR , Wirzal MDH , Nordin NAHM
Published: February 2019

Empty fruit bunch (EFB), one of the wastes from palm oil production, can be utilized into fuels and chemicals. The aim of this paper is to find the optimum capacity to produce xylitol from EFB. The optimum capacity was found by simultaneously considering its profitability, hazard potential and environmental performances. The process was developed and simulated using Aspen Plus to analyze its technical challenges and economic performances, covering net present values, internal rate of returns and payback period. On the other hand, hazard identification and ranking (HIRA) was used to evaluate its safety performances, while Simapro V.8.5.2 was used to assess the environmental impact via a life cycle assessment (LCA). The results show that the high consumption of steam in chemical hydrogenation causes the main contribution of Global warming potential (GWP) by 62%. This acid pre-treatment is also considered the most toxic part of the process while the hydrogenation of xylitol is the most hazardous part based on fire and explosion perspectives. Then, multi-objective optimization using Genetic Algorithm (GA) was performed in Matlab to find the optimum capacity. The methodology and result of this work lay the foundation of future works in utilizing.
La tomographie en cohérence optique pour examiner les objets du patrimoine
Authors: Koch Dandolo Corinna Ludovica , Lopez Maxime , Bai Xueshi , Detalle Vincent
Published: February 2019

Après avoir connu un essor sans précédent pour les applications biomédicales dès 1991, la tomographie en cohérence optique (OCT) s’est étendue à différentes disciplines d’étude des matériaux. Parmi les plus intéressantes on peut aujourd’hui y ajouter l'histoire de l'art technique et matériel, la conservation et la restauration d'objets du patrimoine culturel. En effet, la technique OCT permet d’obtenir une vision non-invasive de la stratigraphie et de la structure interne des oeuvres d’art et peut contribuer à résoudre des questions telles que l'authenticité et la provenance des oeuvres d'art, mais également donner des réponses sur leurs conditions de conservation et l'efficacité ou le contrôle de certains traitements de restauration.
MRT-Bildgebung der Orbita: Indikationsspektrum und diagnostische Möglichkeiten
Authors: Posch Helena , Erb-Eigner Katharina
Published: February 2019

Die Magnetresonanztomografie gilt heute als bevorzugte Bilddiagnostik für Auge und Orbita. In diesem Beitrag werden die Charakteristika relevanter Pathologien illustriert (die Bandbreite reicht fallbasiert von vaskulären, entzündlichen und neoplastischen Ätiologien bis zum Trauma-Setting). Dabei wird das Potenzial innovativer Sequenzen gezeigt, die neben der reinen Morphologie funktionelle Gewebemerkmale abbilden und so die Beurteilung erleichtern.
Gesundheit von Asylsuchenden in Bielefeld: eine Querschnitt-Pilotstudie
Authors: Heuvel Rick van den , Stammnitz Anke
Published: February 2019

Seit 2015 sind viele Flüchtlinge nach Deutschland gekommen, dennoch fehlen adäquate Gesundheitsdaten dieser heterogenen Gruppe. Ziel dieser Querschnitt- Pilotstudie ist es, relevante demografische und gesundheitliche Daten der Asylsuchenden der Erstaufnahmeeinrichtung (EAE) in Bielefeld zu identifizieren. Diese Studie basiert auf der Analyse von Managementdaten der Einrichtung und der Auswertung von 99,6 % der erstellten Gesundheitskarten von 2671 Bewohnern der EAE Bielefeld. Die Studie zeigt, dass die meisten Asylsuchenden jung und ohne nennenswerte gesundheitliche Probleme waren. Dennoch präsentierte sich 3 % der Gruppe mit komplexen Gesundheitsthemen. Weiterhin gab es bemerkenswerte Unterschiede in Gesundheits- und Krankheitsprävalenzen zwischen Asylsuchenden aus unterschiedlichen Herkunftsländern. Weitere Studien mit Beteiligung von mehreren Asylzentren in Deutschland sind zur Feststellung von validen Gesundheitsdaten der Asylsuchenden in diesem Land notwendig.
Eindellende Operationstechniken
Authors: Bopp Silvia
Published: February 2019

Ein hoher Anteil der primär lochbedingten Netzhautablösungen kann durch eindellende chirurgische Verfahren behandelt werden. Dieser Artikel stellt diese Operationsmethoden vor, die – bei prinzipiell gleichem Konzept – erheblich variieren. Die Erfolgsraten betragen 54 – 97%. Re-Operationen werden in der Regel als Vitrektomie durchgeführt, diese werden in einem folgenden Artikel beschrieben.
„Crystal“ und Schwangerschaft – erste Ergebnisse einer retrospektiven Studie zum Schwangerschafts- und Geburtsverlauf Methamphetamin-konsumierender Frauen in Sachsen
Authors: Schmidt Uwe , Capek Claudia , Birdir Cahit , Erfurt Christine , Nitzsche Katharina
Published: February 2019

Einleitung Im Freistaat Sachsen ist seit Jahren ein zunehmender Methamphetamin-(MA-)Konsum zu beobachten. Untersuchungen zum Risiko des MA-Konsums für Schwangerschaft und Geburt liegen aus dem deutschsprachigen Raum bislang nicht vor.

Methoden Es wurden die Behandlungsakten aller betreuten Schwangerschaften und Geburten der Klinik und Poliklinik für Frauenheilkunde und Geburtshilfe der Jahre 2010–2015 mit dokumentiertem MA-Konsum retrospektiv untersucht. 119 Schwangerschaften mit 113 Geburten von 115 Frauen mit MA-Konsum konnten ausgewertet werden. 88 Frauen räumten den Konsum anamnestisch ein, 28 Frauen bestritten ihn, in 3 Fällen lag keine Information in der Akte vor. In 113 Fällen erfolgte ein immunochemischer Drogentest auf MA mit Zustimmung der Frauen, der in 93 Fällen positiv war. Als Vergleichsgruppe dienten die Daten des jährlich erscheinenden Qualitätssicherungsberichts Geburtshilfe des Jahres 2015.

Ergebnisse MA-Konsumentinnen sind signifikant jünger, ohne festen Partner, ohne Berufstätigkeit und mit geringer beruflicher Qualifikation. Die Erstfeststellung der Schwangerschaft erfolgt später und die Zahl der Vorsorgeuntersuchungen einschließlich Ultraschall ist geringer im Vergleich zur Referenzgruppe. 7 Frauen nahmen gar keine Vorsorgeuntersuchung wahr. Signifikant häufiger bestanden vorzeitige Wehen, eine Zervixinsuffizienz sowie ein Gestationsdiabetes. Während der Schwangerschaft benötigten die MA-Patientinnen signifikant häufiger eine Tokolyse, eine ANS Prophylaxe bzw. einen präpartalen stationären Aufenthalt. Unter der Geburt kam es häufiger einem vorzeitigen Blasensprung sowie zu einem Amnioninfektionssyndrom. Die Rate der intrauterinen Fruchttodesfälle lag mit 3,5% weit über dem Wert der Referenzgruppe (0,35%).

Diskussion Der Konsum von MA führte zu einem signifikant erhöhten Risiko für Mutter und Kind während Schwangerschaft und Geburt im Vergleich zur Normalpopulation (Schwangerschaftskomplikationen, Frühgeburtlichkeit, erhöhte Abortrate, Totgeburt). Ein besonderes Augenmerk ist auf jüngere Schwangere mit verspäteter und unregelmäßiger Inanspruchnahme von Vorsorgeuntersuchungen, ohne festen Partner und ohne berufliche Tätigkeit zu richten.
Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse Elastography and Ultrasonographic Findings of Achilles Tendon in Patients With and Without Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: İyidir Özlem Turhan , Rahatlı Feride Kural , Bozkuş Yusuf , Ramazanova Lala , Turnaoğlu Hale , Nar Aslı , Tütüncü Neslihan Başçıl
Published: February 2019

Aims We aimed to evaluate the elastographic features of Achilles tendon with Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse in patients with and without diabetic neuropathy.

Methods According to the presence of peripheral neuropathy, 45 patients with type 2 diabetes were divided into 2 subgroups. Those with peripheral neuropathy were defined as group I (22 patients) and those without peripheral neuropathy were defined as group II (23 patients). A total of thirty age-, gender-, and body mass index-matched healthy individuals were selected as controls. All participants underwent both ultrasonographic and Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse elastographic examination in order to evaluate Achilles Tendon thickness and stiffness.

Results Achilles tendon thicknesses were similar between groups (p=0.991). Achilles tendon thicknesses of both patient groups were significantly higher than the control group (group I vs control p=0.01; group II vs control p=0.006). Stiffness values of Achilles tendons were similar between the control group and group II (p=0.993). Shear Wave Velocity was significantly lower in group I than group IIand control group (p<0.001).

Conclusion Diabetic patients with neuropathy have thicker and softer Achilles tendon while the elasticity of Achilles tendon in diabetic patients without neuropathy is similar to the healthy controls. Softening of the Achilles tendon may be an early sign of diabetic foot and reveal the patients with a risk of diabetic foot.
Digital cholangioscopy-guided laser versus mechanical lithotripsy for large bile duct stone removal after failed papillary large-balloon dilation: a randomized study
Authors: Angsuwatcharakon Phonthep , Kulpatcharapong Santi , Ridtitid Wiriyaporn , Boonmee Chaloemphon , Piyachaturawat Panida , Kongkam Pradermchai , Pareesri Wattana , Rerknimitr Rungsun
Published: February 2019

Background Endoscopic papillary large-balloon dilation (EPLBD) allows for the complete removal of large common bile duct (CBD) stones without fragmentation; however, a significant proportion of very large stones and stones floating above a tapering CBD require lithotripsy. Mechanical lithotripsy and cholangioscopy-guided laser lithotripsy are both effective for stone fragmentation. This study aimed to directly compare, for the first time, the efficacy of these two techniques in terms of stone clearance rate, procedure duration, patient radiation exposure, and safety.

Methods 32 patients with very large CBD stones or with stones floating above a tapering CBD, and in whom extraction after standard sphincterotomy and/or EPLBD had failed, were randomly assigned to mechanical lithotripsy or cholangioscopy-guided laser lithotripsy at two tertiary referral centers. Crossover was allowed as a rescue treatment if the assigned technique failed.

Results Patients’ demographic data were not different between the two groups. Mechanical lithotripsy had a significantly lower stone clearance rate in the first session compared with laser lithotripsy (63% vs. 100%; P < 0.01). Laser lithotripsy rescued 60% of patients with failed mechanical lithotripsy by achieving complete stone clearance within the same session. Radiation exposure of patients was significantly higher in the mechanical lithotripsy group than in the laser lithotripsy group (40 745 vs. 20 989 mGycm2; P  = 0.04). Adverse events (13% vs. 6%; P  = 0.76) and length of hospital stay (1 vs. 1 day; P  = 0.27) were not different.

Conclusions Although mechanical lithotripsy is the standard of care for a very large CBD stone after failed EPLBD, where available, cholangioscopy-guided laser lithotripsy is considered the better option for the treatment of this entity as it provides a higher success rate and lower radiation exposure.
Using Electronic Health Records to Identify Adverse Drug Events in Ambulatory Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Feng Chenchen , Le David , McCoy Allison
Published: February 2019

Objective We identified the methods used and determined the roles of electronic health records (EHRs) in detecting and assessing adverse drug events (ADEs) in the ambulatory setting.

Methods We performed a systematic literature review by searching PubMed and Google Scholar for studies on ADEs detected in the ambulatory setting involving any EHR use published before June 2017. We extracted study characteristics from included studies related to ADE detection methods for analysis.

Results We identified 30 studies that evaluated ADEs in an ambulatory setting with an EHR. In 27 studies, EHRs were used only as the data source for ADE identification. In two studies, the EHR was used as both a data source and to deliver decision support to providers during order entry. In one study, the EHR was a source of data and generated patient safety reports that researchers used in the process of identifying ADEs. Methods of identification included manual chart review by trained nurses, pharmacists, and/or physicians; prescription review; computer monitors; electronic triggers; International Classification of Diseases codes; natural language processing of clinical notes; and patient phone calls and surveys. Seven studies provided examples of search phrases, laboratory values, and rules used to identify ADEs.

Conclusion The majority of studies examined used EHRs as sources of data for ADE detection. This retrospective approach is appropriate to measure incidence rates of ADEs but not adequate to detect preventable ADEs before patient harm occurs. New methods involving computer monitors and electronic triggers will enable researchers to catch preventable ADEs and take corrective action.
Transport theory of phase space zonal structures
Authors: Falessi Matteo Valerio , Zonca Fulvio
Published: February 2019

We adopt gyrokinetic theory to extract the phase space zonal structure from the flux surface averaged particle response, that is, the nonlinear response that is undamped by collisionless processes. We argue that phase space zonal structures are a proper definition for the nonlinear distortion of the plasma reference state and, thus, of the generally non-Maxwellian neighboring nonlinear equilibria consistent with toroidal symmetry breaking fluctuations. Evolution equations for phase space zonal structures are derived and discussed, along with the corresponding density and energy transport equations. It is shown that this approach is consistent with the usual evolution of macroscopic plasma profiles under the action of fluctuation induced fluxes, when the deviation of the reference state from local Maxwellian response is small. In particular, the present results recover those of a previous article [M. V. Falessi and F. Zonca, Phys. Plasmas 25, 032306 (2018)], where transport equations holding on the reference state length scale have been derived using the moment approach introduced in the classical review work by Hinton and Hazeltine.
Bandgap of cubic ZnS1-xOx from optical transmission spectroscopy
Authors: Huso Jesse , Bergman Leah , McCluskey Matthew D.
Published: February 2019

ZnS1-xOx is a highly mismatched semiconductor alloy with potential light-emitting and solar-cell applications. In this work, optical transmission spectroscopy and a modified derivative method were employed to determine the room-temperature bandgap of cubic (zinc blende) ZnS1-xOx from x = 0.01 to 0.3. The bandgap drops steeply for dilute oxygen concentrations, followed by a more gradual decrease for x > 0.05. This nonlinear behavior is attributed to a transition from isolated oxygen impurities to pairs and larger clusters. Alloying with x = 0.3 causes bandgap to drop from 3.7 to 3.1 eV. Previous work showed that the bandgap of wurtzite ZnS1-xOx shifts from 3.7 to 2.8 eV over the same composition range.
Efficiency loss processes in hyperfluorescent OLEDs: A kinetic Monte Carlo study
Authors: Gottardi S. , Barbry M. , Coehoorn R. , van Eersel H.
Published: February 2019

In hyperfluorescent OLEDs, fluorescent emitter molecules are sensitized by molecules utilizing thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). In principle, obtaining an internal quantum efficiency (IQE) approaching 100% combined with a small IQE roll-off should be feasible. However, the actual device performance depends on the balance between the transfer of singlet and triplet excitons from the TADF emitters to the fluorescent molecules and on the role of excitonic loss processes. Here, we study these factors governing the IQE using kinetic Monte Carlo simulations, for prototypical OLEDs based on the green TADF emitter (2s,4r,6s)-2,4,5,6-tetrakis(3,6-dimethyl-9H-carbazol-9-yl)isophthalonitrile (4CzIPN-Me) and the yellow fluorescent emitter 2,8-di-tert-butyl-5,11-bis(4-tert-butylphenyl)-6,12-diphenyltetracene. Making use of the experimental photophysical interaction rates, the simulated voltage versus current density characteristics and IQE roll-off agree well with experiment. The simulations show that the IQE can be enhanced by carefully avoiding the formation of charge-transfer excitons.