bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Road Design And Construction On Low Bearing Capacity Soils Using Piling Method: Experience Of SLLC “Latvian State Roads”
Authors: Ābols Mārtiņš , Dārznieks Ojārs , Spilva Māris 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
The road system in Latvia has evolved over time to a complex network of physical structures that include roads, bridges and overpasses, however, in large it consists of narrow roads of local significance that follow the existing topography and consist of thin foundation and pavement layers. In-depth geotechnical research of road sections before construction has only been carried out in recent decades, thereby with a certain regularity SLLC “Latvian State Roads” has to deal with low bearing capacity soils under the road foundation. As the recent experience shows, there are sections of roads that in the past were constructed on peat. In 2018 during the reconstruction works of the regional road P32 Augšlīgatne – Skrīveri a low bearing capacity soil under the road foundation was determined. An additional in-depth geotechnical research showed a bog section with a peat layer at a depth of 10m in a 320 metres long section. Although at that point it was possible to continue the work using simple soil stabilization methods, there were concerns about the longevity of the investment. To stabilize the road foundation, a combination of gravel columns and unreinforced concrete pile columns was used. A total of 952 columns were constructed. The aim of this paper is to share technical information and our good practice of road design and construction on low bearing capacity soils using piling method, and it gives a summary of field observations, geotechnical research, design considerations and risk management assessments that were carried out in this specific case. The positive outcome of this case led to a number of future projects where similar methods for load bearing capacity improvement were planned and used.
Falling Weight Deflectometre And Plate Load Test: Direct And Indirect Comparative Testing
Authors: Taranovs Andrejs 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Plate load test is a widely used method in Latvia both in quality control and in road design process. This test is performed according to the standard DIN 18134. Such test usually takes at least 30 minutes and requires certain load weight. Considering the relatively long time needed for this test, alternatives were sought and a potential alternative was defined to perform testing with Falling Weight Deflectometre (FWD). In order to check this assumption both direct and indirect testing was performed and correlation between the results of both tests was defined.
In the first case the test was performed in the same location with both pieces of equipment on a surface of unbound pavement. In the second case the test with Falling Weight Deflectometre was performed on the surface of bituminous pavement but plate load test was performed in the same location on the surface of base course with prior demolition of bituminous layers. In order to compare the results of indirect comparative testing, the backcalculation for the data acquired with Falling Weight Deflectometre was performed according to German calculation method.
Results acquired with direct testing showed that the testing with Falling Weight Deflectometre and plate load test are interchangeable if no characterization of the layer compaction is required. The German method of backcalculation (FGSV, 2014) is very simple. Despite positive references from other specialists this method in comparative testing did not show sufficiently good correlation with the results acquired in plate load test.
Adaptation And Resilience From A Maintenance Perspective For Swing Bridge. Lessons Learned In Recent Retrofitting Project Experiences
Authors: Collazos-Arias Felipe , García-Sánchez David 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This paper collects all the existing swing bridges around the world to emphasize the high-level technology performed in the earliest 20th century and analyzes the recent experience in the rehabilitation and retrofitting of a singular swing steel bridge.
The bridge over the Asón estuary at Treto, in the North of Spain, showed significant problems and the structural condition level was critical previously to its intervention in 2015. The rehabilitation project including the restoration of the structural and functional safety level of the structure was deled after material studies and tests were performed. The new updated of the structure from the old nineteenth centuries to the new standard codes was also performed. A part from the historical value of the bridges and the "green" and safe-security aspects, the intervention took into account all the social requirements of the population in the area who recovered the pride in this emblematic and centenarian infrastructure and it is, itself, a successful intervention from the resilient point of view.
High Performance Pavement Markings Enhancing Camera And LiDAR Detection
Authors: Sauter Gernot , Doring Marcel , Nuyttens Rik 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
It is well known that camera and video sensors have limitations in detecting pavement markings under certain conditions e.g. glare from sunlight or other vehicles, rain, fog etc. First generations of lane keeping systems depend on visual light. Erroneous detection is also resulting from irregular road surfaces such as glossy bitumen sealing strips, rain puddles or simply worn asphalt. The role of higher performing markings and better visual camera detection has been studied with Vedecom France. LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology could help to fill remaining gaps, as it actively sends out IR (infrared) light, that returns reliable images of the road scenario and pavement markings both day and nighttime. In order to evaluate the opportunities of LiDAR technology for the detection of road markings, 3M Company and the University of Applied Sciences in Dresden decided to work together in a joint research project. All-Weather Elements AWE, are the latest development of high-performance optics, using high index beads to provide reflectivity both in dry and wet condition. It could be determined that high performance markings help to increase the level of detection by both camera and LiDAR sensors. The AWE marking was detected from significantly longer distances, especially in wet and rainy conditions. In combination with common camera based LKA and LDW systems, the LiDAR sensors can increase the overall detection rate of pavement markings. This is especially important for vehicles with higher SAE levels of automated driving and can support the overall safety of vehicles. The research also evaluated existing test methods for wet and rain reflectivity in EN 1436 and ASTM E 2832 and how measured performance correlates with LiDAR detection.
The Rolling Out Of International Project SMART E263/E77 For Advanced Traffic Management
Authors: Jelisejevs Boriss , Duubas Kristjan 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Intelligent transportation systems (ITS) provide significant added value to road transportation, making the related investments distinctively effective and long-lasting. Moreover, some ITS activities may be eligible for financial support of the European union (EU). That was the way how Estonian Transport Administration and Latvian State Roads worked on the project proposal “Smart corridor Tallinn-Tartu-Luhamaa-Riga E263/E77” (acronym – SMART E263/E77), which was approved by EU program Interreg Central Baltics as CB891 project. The project started on June 1, 2020, and its implementation will last till the end of 2022 according to quite challenging schedule. Project activities primarily include numerous installations or road telemetry and telematics devices (especially, variable message signs) for advanced traffic management to be supported by cross-border traffic plans and improvements of traffic control centers. Project target is to provide general travel time savings at least by 0.88% across the whole corridor, however for the motorway-type sections it should reach more than 5.5%. Expected project results will establish new and improve existing functions on the E263 and E77 road transport corridors, namely: traffic management adaptive to variable road conditions; gathering and dissemination of traffic information; decision-making support for road maintenance operations (especially in winter). This report will summarize the information on project progress with emphasis on traffic management considerations.
Construction Of Economical Pavement Structures With Wood Ash
Authors: Dimter Sanja , Zagvozda Martina , Tonc Tea , Šimun Miroslav 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
Stabilized mixes that are used in pavement structures are composed of aggregate bound with hydraulic binders (cement, lime) or bitumen. The most commonly used for the construction of base layers are mixes stabilized with cement. A long-standing construction practice for pavement structures was based on the use of quality granular materials for the construction of base layers. However, when designing the pavement structure and selecting materials, economy, sustainability, and environmental impact, in addition to their mechanical properties, should also be considered. Clear requirements and guidelines for sustainable development have imposed the need to explore the possibility of using non-standard materials in construction. Wood ash, which is formed as a residue from the combustion of biomass in the production of electricity and heat, is one of the newer and, in Croatia, less researched alternative materials that can be applied in construction. The paper describes compressive strength tests of mixtures of sand from the Drava River and cyclone wood ash stabilized with various contents of cement. The obtained results showed that with wood fly ash (in a content of 30 % mass.) in the stabilization mixture of sand, values of compressive strengths can be achieved within the required limits necessary for the construction of base layers of the pavement structure stabilized by a hydraulic binder.
A comparative study of structural, mechanical & electrical properties of ZnO and AlN thin films for MEMS based piezoelectric sensors
Authors: Srivastava Vinay Kumar , Singh Jaspreet , Kumar Parlad , Arora Sataypal Singh , Singh Satinder Pal , Singh Surinder 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
In this work, a comparative study has been carried out to compare the relative performance of ZnO (Zinc Oxide) and AlN (Aluminum Nitride) thin films for their application in piezoelectric sensors. The thin films material properties are being characterized using various material characterization techniques such as SEM, XRD, and Nanoindentation. Further the MIM (Metal-Insulator-Metal) based devices have been fabricated with piezoelectric films sandwiched between Al electrodes. The devices have been evaluated for mechanical and electrical performances. The natural frequency of the devices recorded as 46.8 kHz (ZnO) and 40.8 kHz (AlN). The average nominal capacitance of the MIM structure is measured as ∼98 pF and ∼120 pF where as corresponding dissipation factor obtained as ∼0.03 and ∼0.0005 respectively for ZnO and AlN devices. The repeatability investigation carried out on the sample devices for up to 90 days and the output has been monitored. The result showed that the AlN devices exhibit better output stability compared to ZnO devices.
Effect of multiple forging on the microstructure and properties of an as-cast Cu–Ni–Si alloy with high Ni and Si contents
Authors: Zhang Jinlong , Lu Zhenlin , Jia Lei , Xie Hui , Wei Xin , Tao Shiping 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
A Cu–Ni–Si alloy with high Ni and Si contents was prepared by the traditional melting and casting method, and then multiple forging and ageing were conducted to investigate their effect on the microstructure and properties. The results show that reticular Ni31Si12 phases are located on the grain boundaries of the dendritic α-Cu(Ni, Si) solution matrix in the as-cast Cu–Ni–Si alloy because of the high Ni and Si contents, and some rice-like Ni2Si phases precipitate in the interior of α-Cu(Ni, Si) grains during cooling. With increasing number of forging passes, the morphology of the α-Cu(Ni, Si) matrix changes from dendrites to elongated dendrites and then equiaxed grains, the Ni31Si12 phase changes from reticular to irregular and then particle-like, while the Ni2Si phase gradually disappears. As a result, the hardness increases continuously up to 18 forging passes, while the electrical conductivity first increases and then decreases significantly. The hardness and electrical conductivity achieve the highest values with 18 forging passes and a subsequent ageing treatment at 450 °C for 4 h, and the corresponding microstructure comprises an equiaxed α-Cu(Ni, Si) matrix with microscale Ni31Si12 particles and sub-microscale Ni2Si precipitates.
V-OG01 Minimally invasive oesophagectomy: Technique of linear stapled anastomosis
Authors: Knight Benjamin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Background
Several anastomotic techniques have been described when performing an oesophagectomy. Each technique has its own merits and drawbacks. The stapled side to side technique creates a widely patent anastomosis with low stricture rate.

Methods
This video highlights the technique adopted and developed over the last 5 years. There are several key steps that need to be adhered to, to create a reliable, robust and reproducible anastomosis. These include the orientation of the oesophagus during transection, the use of mucosal retaining sutures, the use of a 34 bougie for the oesophagotomy and the correct retraction of the conduit when performing the anastomosis.

Results
The anastomosis was successfully performed without complications. Check endoscopy revealed a widely patent secure join. The anastomosis typically now takes 15–18 minutes. At the end of the procedure, the conduit cap was buried under the pleura and the anastomosis wrapped in omental fat. The patient was discharged on day 10 on a low residue diet.

Conclusions
This technique has been adopted and developed over the last 5 years. It has proved reliable and reproducible with a low stricture rate and a very low leak rate. It is easier to perform than a total hand sewn anastomosis and permits visualisation of the luminal oesophagus prior to anastomosis.
V-OG02 Video Demonstration Of Abdominal Lymphadenectomy In A Robotically Assisted Oesophagectomy
Authors: Chmelo Jakub , Brown Joshua , Prasad Pooja , Hayes Nick , Navidi Maziar , Phillips Alexander , Wahed Shajahan , Immanuel Arul 
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Background
Lymphadenectomy is essential for adequate oncological clearance and accurate staging during oesophagectomy for malignant disease. Adequate lymph node clearance has implications on patient outcomes and confers a survival benefit. Abdominal lymph node clearance may be technically challenging due to the location of nodes along key structures such as the common hepatic artery and splenic vessels. Robotic assistance during abdominal lymphadenectomy permits improved 3-D visualisation and instrument articulation in a potentially constricted space. This video demonstrates a technique for robotic abdominal lymphadenectomy during oesophagectomy.

Methods
This video demonstrates a technique for coeliac axis lymph node clearance during the abdominal phase of an oesophagectomy, as practiced at this institution. The intention for such a video is for ongoing appraisal and refinement of robotic techniques within the unit, as well as for teaching and training. The video was edited using iOS software, and text has been used to explain each step in conjunction with the images.

Results
Dissection of all relevant coeliac axis nodal stations is successfully demonstrated, with the lymph nodes resected en-bloc with the specimen. Text has also been used to explain the steps seen in the video images.

Conclusions
Robotic assistance permits safe and adequate lymphadenectomy during minimally invasive oesophagectomy, as demonstrated in this video.
O-B02 Robotic versus Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A comparison of short-term outcomes and weight loss
Authors: Hamdan Mohammed , Messina Gianfranco , Duck Eleanor , Shenoy Aniruddh , Gill Gurpreet Singh , Jones Gregory , Sampson Marianne , Ramus James 
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Background
The benefits of robotic over laparoscopic surgery for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are debatable, with current evidence suggesting no significant differences in short-term outcomes. This study compares short-term outcomes and excess weight loss (EWL) % difference between these two techniques.

Methods
A retrospective study of patients undergoing RYGB between January 2016 and November 2020 at a single centre. Demographic, peri-operative and EWL% data were analysed.

Results
424 RYGB procedures were performed by three surgeons including 77 robotic (RRYGB) and 347 laparoscopic (LRYGB) operations. The first 8 RRYGB were excluded being early in the learning curve and the operative technique was modified afterwards. There were no statistically significant demographic differences. The median operative time was 179 (151 – 195) and 149 (123 -171) minutes in the RRYGB and LRYGB groups respectively (P &lt; 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences between both groups in complications, length of stay, 30-day readmission and EWL% at 6 and 12 months. The EWL% at 2 years was 88.5 (+/-19.1) and 66.6 (+/-29.8) in the RRYGB and LRYGB groups respectively (P = 0.003).

Conclusions
RRYGB increases the operative time with no significant short-term outcome differences. The EWL% was higher at 2 years, probably due to a narrower hand-sewn gastro-jejunal anastomosis.
O-BN03 Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration – Delivered within UK NHS Healthcare Framework
Authors: Kostalas Marcos , Christopoulos Petros , Platt Tim , Sinha Surajit , Bowling Kirk , Srinivas Gandrapu , Andrews Stuart 
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Background
Cholelithiasis is a common problem in the UK affecting approximately 15% of the population. The incidence of synchronous choledocholithiasis is approximately 10-18%. The approach to bile duct stones is variable. Single stage bile duct exploration and cholecystectomy (LC) vs two stage ERCP followed by LC has been shown to be equally safe and as effective with reduced length of stay and number of procedures. We describe the results of a single, high volume centre performing laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) as an alternative to ERCP.

Methods
All patients undergoing LCBDE at our institution from November 2013 – July 2021 were included in the study. Data were collected from a prospectively maintained institutional database and data points corroborated by electronic patient data on hospital systems.

Results
304 patients underwent LCBDE. Median age was 68 (range 21-94). Most cases were performed as urgent/emergency (n = 204, 67% vs n = 100, 33% elective). Bile duct stones were diagnosed pre-operatively in 32.8% cases (n = 100). Intra-operative diagnosis was made using laparoscopic ultrasound (n = 221, 73%), cholangiogram (n = 44, 15%) or combination of both (n = 31, 10%). Laparoscopic completion rate was 92%. Successful stone clearance rate was 98%. 56% were via choledochotomy and 44% trans-cystic. Incidence of bile leak was 4.9% (n = 15). Median length of stay was 2 days post-operatively (range 0–62). The rate of all complications was 13.2%. The rate of mortality was 0.66%.

Conclusions
This is the largest single case series of LCBDE published. This study has demonstrated that a safe and effective LCBDE service can be delivered within the NHS, with outcome data comparable to defined performance standards. With the evolution of specialist training, intra-operative imaging +/- LCBDE is likely to be the preferred modality of treatment.
O-BN09 The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on benign upper GI surgery: The first 12 months at a single centre
Authors: Michel Martin , Fifer Helen , Moran Emily , Hammett Felix , Bonner Clare , Kronberga Madara , Khawgali Mohamed , Balbola Mohamed , Saha Arin 
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Background
The road to recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic has started but no-one knows when it will end. 18 months on from the World Health Organisation declaring a global pandemic on the 11th March 2020 this has had a dramatic impact on both acute and elective hospital services. Whilst, quite rightly, the focus has been on prioritising cancer resections during the pandemic, many patients awaiting benign operations are facing lengthy waiting times. The aim of this study was to quantify the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on benign upper GI surgery at a single centre compared to previous operating activity levels.

Methods
Retrospective analysis of computerised theatre records for the first 12 months of the pandemic (11th March 2020-11th March 2021) were compared to average historical data (HD) over the last five years (2015-2019) over the same time frame. Benign upper Gi operations included were cholecystectomy, anti-reflux/hiatus hernia repairs, cardiomyotomies and bariatric procedures.

Results

Conclusions
The Covid-19 pandemic has dramatically affected benign upper GI surgery at our unit. Overall total operation numbers were down by 31% when compared to HD (440 vs 641). The largest deficit was in bariatrics where no bariatric surgery was performed during the first 12 months of the pandemic, which has restarted as of July 2021. There was also a 30% reduction in the number of cholecystectomies performed likely due to initial guidance recommending non-operative management at the start of the pandemic. Hiatal work numbers remained consistent. This quantitative study can direct future service delivery and help guide the post-pandemic recovery.