bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Behavior of Swelling Soil Treated by Grid Geocell Columns under a Tank Footing
Authors: Al-Omari Raid R. , Fattah Mohammed Y. , Ali Haifaa A. 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
Fuel tanks usually induce large settlements due to heavy loading which requires treatment for the underlying soils. In this paper, a method of treating the swelling of expansive soil is presented. The method is simply based on the embedment of a geogrid (or a geomesh) in the soil. The geogrid is extended continuously inside the volume of soil where the swell is required to be controlled and orientated in the direction of swell. Soils with different swelling potentials were employed; bentonite-based Na and kaolinite mixed with bentonite. To investigate the swell, swell- partial shrinkage and other phenomena for untreated soils in comparison with their counterparts of treated soils, laboratory model tests were carried out in 800 × 200 mm box container and 600 mm in height. Swelling and cyclic wetting along with drying tests were carried out on each sample with pore water pressure measurement. Swelling test in the model reveals promising results of the proposed treatment technique. The improvement factors, range between 30% to 60 % depending on the geogrid stiffness, soil plasticity, fill martial (sand or clay) and dry density of sand fill. The geocell has a significant effect on the experimental results. The reduction in swell increases with increasing the geogrid stiffness and when using sand as a fill material, the reduction is apparently due to a strong interference bond which restricts the relative movement between the clay and the grid. The use of geocell filled with the same expansive soil causes a decrease by about 19% and 42 % in the final swelling of soils, whereas filling the cell with sand causes about 35 % and 64 % reduction for the soils, respectively. The treatment method shows the activity of geocell fill material in reducing the matric suction (pore water pressure). When sand is used, a new channel is created for the dissipation of pore water pressure.
The influence of pile groups configuration on its stability in dry sand under lateral loads
Authors: Al-Neami Mohammed A. , Samueel Zeena W. , Al-Noori Marwah M. 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
This paper aims to investigate the effect of the arrangement of aluminum pipe piles closed from both ends on its response under lateral loads in terms of a lateral load and bending moment. Twenty - four model tests for laterally loaded aluminum pipe piles were investigated to study the effect of sand relative density, the ratio (S/D=3, 4 and 5) of spacing between pile in the group(s) / diameter of aluminum pipe pile (D), loading direction or piles configuration. It was found that the lateral resistance of the pipe piles loaded with a configuration of 2 × 1 is higher than that loaded in the direction of the configuration 1 × 2. Relative sand density has a significant effect on the lateral capacity of the pile group. The increase of the relative density caused increase load resistance but the bending moment increased. The effect of (S/D) is very obviously on the behavior of bending moment and the load resistance of piles models, bending moment increased as S/d increased as well as for load resistance.
Impact of Mixing process on the physical and Rheological Characteristics of Asphalt Binder Modified with Nano- Silica Powder
Authors: Zghair Hussein H , Joni Hasan H , Hassan Maan S 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
In Iraq pavements materials are exposed to various distresses due to the adverse environmental conditions and heavy traffic. The improvement of performance of flexible pavements is necessary for decreasing these distresses. The objective of this research is to improve the mixing efficiency of nano-silica particles with asphalt binder. Two mixer type (mechanical and high shear), rotational speeds (2000, 4000 and 6000 rpm), and mixing period (30 and 60 minutes) were assessed. Three nano-silica per cent 2%, 4%, and 6% by weight of asphalt were added and the asphalt binder mixtures were prepared by heating at mixing temperature 140 °C. Furthermore, comparisons were made to assess the modified asphalt binder characteristics such as penetration value, softening point, temperature sensitivity (penetration index), ductility and rotational viscosity. Results showed that the use of nano silica as an additive was useful in improving the asphalt binder characteristics. Generally, has been found that the penetration value decreased and softening point increased, as well as the viscosity, were increased and the temperature sensitivity was developed. Additionally, high shear mixing was more useful especially to obtain a good dispersion of nano silica powder in asphalt binder and got a homogenous composite material.
Properties of self compacting concrete exposed to wetting and drying cycles in oil products
Authors: Salih S A , Khalil W I , Ali A A 
Published: August 2019

AbstractAlthough the early deterioration of concrete exposed to petroleum products has being observed yet, the behavior of Self Compacting Concrete (SCC) being exposure to oil products is still unknown. In the present investigation, the mechanical and physical properties of hardened SCC cyclically being exposed to oil products (crude oil, gas oil, motor oil and fuel oil) have tested and discussed. The numbers of exposure cycles are 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Each exposure cycle consists of twenty days immersion in water or different oil products followed by air drying at ambient temperature for a period of ten days. The results have been compared to other specimens cured in water or continuously exposed to oil products for the same period. The results show that the effect of continuous exposure to oil products on the mechanical properties is more severe than that of cyclic exposure of SCC specimens. The compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, modulus of rupture, and static modulus of elasticity of SCC specimens have slightly deteriorated until the fifth cycle of exposure for all types of oil products comparing to reference specimens (cured in water). Eventually at the sixth cycle all properties have decreased.
New coumain derivatives as corrosion inhibitor
Authors: Al-Majedy Y K , Ibraheem H H , Falih M S , Al-Amiery A A 
Published: August 2019

AbstractElectrocoagulation can be considered as a simple and an efficient method for treating both wastewater and water. In this work, a synthetic bentonite suspension water was treated using this technique to reduce turbidity caused by solid particles pollutants. This process was carried out in a batch glass reactor of 1000 ml operated with aluminium electrodes with and without agitation. The removal efficiency as a turbidity removal procedure has been examined using bentonite clay as a turbidity source. The effects of some parameters such as contact time, and electrolyte concentration on the removal efficiency were investigated and compared. The mixing effect over the range (0-800 rpm) on the removal efficiency was also evaluated. The process was found to achieve excellent turbidity removal with mild mixing (550 rpm). In addition, the effect of using Ultrasonic as a mixing source has also been studied. The lowest residual turbidity was found to be 1.0 NTU for the samples with initial turbidities of 500 NTU. Similar final turbidity of 1.0 NTU was obtained after 25 min with initial turbidity of 200 NTU. This was obtained at a current of 750 mA, a contact time of 60 min, and a calculated dissolved aluminium concentration of 10 mg/l.
New derivative of 1,2-Dihydropyridine-3-Carbonitrile as Corrosion Inhibitor
Authors: Ibraheem Hiba H. 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
New 1,2-dihydropyridine-3-carbonitrile derivative compound as corrosion inhibitor namely, 3,3’-(3,3’-(1E,1‘E)-1,4-phenylenebis(diazene-2,1-diyl)bis(4-(dimethylamino)-3,1-phenylene))bis(2-oxo-6-(2,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl)-1,2-dihydropyridine-3-carbonitrile) (PDPTD) was synthesized by cyclization of compound (1) with 1-(2,4,6-trihydroxyphenyl) ethenone in presence of ethyl cyano acetate and ammonium acetate. The new synthesized compound has been characterized using Melting point, FT-IR spectroscopy and 1H-NMR. The new synthesized compound (PDPTD) has been tested on mild steel (MS) in 1 M HCl media by a weight loss method and identification of the surface technique employed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) studies. The weight loss investigation demonstrated that inhibition performances have been improved via concentration raising of inhibitor. To support our results scanning electron microscopy has employed about clarify the surface from the MS with and without (PDPTD) in 1.0 M HCl media. The inhibition performance rate was 83% at the maximum utilized concentration of (PDPTD).
Optimization of axial volumetric drive aviation pump
Authors: Protopopov A , Mukhlaeva A , Melnichuk E 
Published: August 2019

Annotation
This article discusses a volumetric drive aircraft axial pump and solves the problem of its optimization by the Sobol method. The optimization criteria were the radial dimension and the power expended. In this case, the non-uniformity of the pump operation over time and the variable value of the pressure consumed by the network were taken into account. The last two parameters act as constructive variable parameters. As a result of the work, we obtained a compromise curve. The radial dimension is the power expended.
Hydrodynamic modelling of the impact of viscosity on the characteristics of a centrifugal pump
Authors: Tkachuk V , Navas H , Petrov A , Protopopov A 
Published: August 2019

AnnotationDuring operation of industrial centrifugal pumps, the main factor affecting its performance is viscosity, which can change its value during operation of the pump unit. In most cases, the main cause of such changes is a change in the environmental conditions or an increase in the temperature of the unit during operation. This paper explores the possibility of using computer simulation to calculate a centrifugal pump at various viscosities of the working fluid. The results obtained are compared with data from the American Hydraulic Institute.
Research of centrifugal gas-liquid separator
Authors: Budaev G , Danilov D , Kuznechov A , Lomakin V , Cheremushkin V 
Published: August 2019

Abstract
The article is devoted to research of centrifugal gas-liquid separator.The fields of application of gas separators are described. Parameters on which depends the separation process are revealed. The mathematical model used in computer simulation of the two-phase flow is presented . The figures of the scalar physical quantities distribution in the flow part of the separator are shown. Graphs of the gas separator’s characteristics are given.
Decreased warfarin sensitivity among patients treated with elbasvir and grazoprevir for hepatitis C infection
Authors: DeCarolis Douglas D , Chen Yi-Chieh , Westanmo Anders D , Conley Christopher , Gravely Amy A , Khan Fatima B 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Purpose
We previously reported an interaction with warfarin anticoagulation when initiating treatment with direct-acting antiviral agents for hepatitis C infection. A decreased warfarin sensitivity led to subtherapeutic anticoagulation. To study this interaction further, we expanded our research to include patients treated with the combination of elbasvir and grazoprevir concurrent with warfarin anticoagulation and investigated changes in warfarin sensitivity during and after treatment.

Methods
Using electronic health records of the Veterans Health Administration, patients starting treatment with elbasvir–grazoprevir for hepatitis C infection concurrent with warfarin anticoagulation were identified. Inclusion required stable warfarin anticoagulation prior to 12 weeks of treatment with elbasvir–grazoprevir. A warfarin sensitivity index (WSI) was calculated at the start and end of treatment and 12 weeks after treatment. The primary endpoint was the difference in WSI from pre- to end-treatment. The secondary endpoint was the WSI difference from pretreatment to 12 weeks posttreatment. Changes in International Normalized Ratio, warfarin doses, and time in therapeutic range were measured.

Results
In the final sample of 43 patients, the mean WSI decreased during treatment from 0.53 to 0.40, or 25.2%. After treatment, the mean WSI rose to 0.51. Although the mean weekly warfarin dose increased from 40.3 to 44.6 mg during treatment, the mean International Normalized Ratio decreased from 2.40 to 1.96, recovering to 2.59 after treatment. The time spent in therapeutic range decreased from 74.1% before treatment to 39.8% during treatment and back to 64.9% 12 weeks posttreatment.

Conclusion
When elbasvir–grazoprevir was added to stable warfarin anticoagulation, warfarin sensitivity decreased significantly during treatment and returned to baseline after treatment.
Implementation of a centralized mail-order pharmacy service
Authors: Kappenman Ashley M , Ragsdale Russell , Rim Matthew H , Tyler Linda S , Nickman Nancy A 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Purpose
The development and implementation of centralized mail-order pharmacy services in an academic healthcare system are described.

Summary
The use of mail-order pharmacy services continues to increase, as mail-order services offer patient benefits such as reduced copayments and improved clinical outcomes. Prior to undertaking an initiative to improve its mail-order pharmacy services, the University of Utah Health system’s pharmacy department offered decentralized mail-order pharmacy services at all of its retail pharmacies, but there was no standardized process for processing mail-order prescriptions or providing phone support to mail-order patients. Centralized mail-order pharmacy services were developed and implemented by creating (1) a standard process for mail-order pharmacy services, (2) a centralized mail-order prescription filling center, and (3) a call center to support mail-order pharmacy services. Implementation of centralized mail-order pharmacy services resulted in an almost 50% reduction in time spent by pharmacy team members on mail-order prescription filling and packaging tasks. Use of a central call center resulted in a decreased call abandonment rate and contributed to a decreased pharmacy workload resulting from an overall reduction in call volume due to an increased rate of first-call issue resolution.

Conclusion
Establishment of a centralized mail-order pharmacy service along with operational and infrastructure improvements resulted in improved quality and regulatory compliance and enhanced labor efficiency and patient communication.
Effects of an automatic discontinuation of antibiotics policy: A novel approach to antimicrobial stewardship
Authors: Bolten Bailey C , Bradford J Lacie , White Brittany N , Heath Gregory W , Sizemore James M , White Cyle E 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Purpose
A novel automatic discontinuation policy implemented within an antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) is described, and results of an evaluation of the policy’s effects on antibiotic usage are reported.

Methods
A retrospective, before-and-after study was conducted at an 800-bed, tertiary care, academic teaching hospital to evaluate selected antibiotic usage outcomes in both intensive care unit (ICU) and non-ICU adult patients targeted for ASP interventions before and after implementation of an automatic discontinuation of antibiotics policy (ADAP) authorizing the ASP team to automatically halt antibiotic therapy in cases involving inappropriate duplicate antimicrobial coverage or excess duration of therapy. The primary outcome was total days of antibiotic therapy. Secondary outcomes included excess days of therapy and rates of 30-day readmission, Clostridioides difficile infection, and multidrug-resistant infection.

Results
There were no statistically significant differences in group demographics or clinical characteristics. The most common indication for antibiotics was hospital-acquired pneumonia, and the most common reason for ASP intervention was excess duration of therapy. The mean total number of antibiotic days per patient was reduced from 7.6 days in the pre-ADAP group to 6.6 days in the post-ADAP group (p < 0.05). The mean number of excess days of antibiotics was similarly reduced, from 2.3 days to 1.5 days, after implementation of the ADAP (p < 0.05).

Conclusion
Adoption of an ADAP—a more active approach to ASP interventions—was effective in reducing overall antibiotic usage and improving the efficiency of the ASP.
Elevated micro-topography boosts growth rates in Salicornia procumbens by amplifying a tidally driven oxygen pump: implications for natural recruitment and restoration
Authors: Fivash Gregory S , Belzen Jim van , Temmink Ralph J M , Didderen Karin , Lengkeek Wouter , Heide Tjisse van der , Bouma Tjeerd J 
Published: August 2019

AbstractBackground and AimsThe growth rate of pioneer species is known to be a critical component determining recruitment success of marsh seedlings on tidal flats. By accelerating growth, recruits can reach a larger size at an earlier date, which reduces the length of the disturbance-free window required for successful establishment. Therefore, the pursuit of natural mechanisms that accelerate growth rates at a local scale may lead to a better understanding of the circumstances under which new establishment occurs, and may suggest new insights with which to perform restoration. This study explores how and why changes in local sediment elevation modify the growth rate of recruiting salt marsh pioneers.MethodsA mesocosm experiment was designed in which the annual salt marsh pioneer Salicornia procumbens was grown over a series of raised, flat and lowered sediment surfaces, under a variety of tidal inundation regimes and in vertically draining or un-draining sediment. Additional physical tests quantified the effects of these treatments on sediment water-logging and oxygen dynamics, including the use of a planar optode experiment.Key ResultsIn this study, the elevation of sediment micro-topography by 2 cm was the overwhelming driver of plant growth rates. Seedlings grew on average 25 % faster on raised surfaces, which represented a significant increase when compared to other groups. Changes in growth aligned well with the amplifying effect of raised sediment beds on a tidally episodic oxygenation process wherein sediment pore spaces were refreshed by oxygen-rich water at the onset of high tide.ConclusionsOverall, the present study suggests this tidally driven oxygen pump as an explanation for commonly observed natural patterns in salt marsh recruitment near drainage channels and atop raised sediment mounds and reveals a promising way forward to promote the establishment of pioneers in the field.
Clinical and Epidemiological Aspects of Diphtheria: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis
Authors: Truelove Shaun A , Keegan Lindsay T , Moss William J , Chaisson Lelia H , Macher Emilie , Azman Andrew S , Lessler Justin 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background
Diphtheria, once a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality, all but disappeared following introduction of diphtheria vaccine. Recent outbreaks highlight the risk diphtheria poses when civil unrest interrupts vaccination and healthcare access. Lack of interest over the last century resulted in knowledge gaps about diphtheria’s epidemiology, transmission, and control.

Methods
We conducted 9 distinct systematic reviews on PubMed and Scopus (March–May 2018). We pooled and analyzed extracted data to fill in these key knowledge gaps.

Results
We identified 6934 articles, reviewed 781 full texts, and included 266. From this, we estimate that the median incubation period is 1.4 days. On average, untreated cases are colonized for 18.5 days (95% credible interval [CrI], 17.7–19.4 days), and 95% clear Corynebacterium diphtheriae within 48 days (95% CrI, 46–51 days). Asymptomatic carriers cause 76% (95% confidence interval, 59%–87%) fewer cases over the course of infection than symptomatic cases. The basic reproductive number is 1.7–4.3. Receipt of 3 doses of diphtheria toxoid vaccine is 87% (95% CrI, 68%–97%) effective against symptomatic disease and reduces transmission by 60% (95% CrI, 51%–68%). Vaccinated individuals can become colonized and transmit; consequently, vaccination alone can only interrupt transmission in 28% of outbreak settings, making isolation and antibiotics essential. While antibiotics reduce the duration of infection, they must be paired with diphtheria antitoxin to limit morbidity.

Conclusions
Appropriate tools to confront diphtheria exist; however, accurate understanding of the unique characteristics is crucial and lifesaving treatments must be made widely available. This comprehensive update provides clinical and public health guidance for diphtheria-specific preparedness and response.
Associations of Hearing Sensitivity, Higher-Order Auditory Processing, and Cognition Over Time in Middle-Aged Adults
Authors: Merten Natascha , Fischer Mary E , Tweed Ted S , Breteler Monique M B , Cruickshanks Karen J 
Published: August 2019

Abstract

Background
Age-related hearing loss (impairment in hearing sensitivity and/or higher-order auditory processing) and cognitive decline are common co-occurring impairments in elderly adults. Their relation in the process of aging remains insufficiently understood. We aim to assess the temporal relations of decline in hearing sensitivity, higher-order auditory processing, and cognition in middle-aged adults.

Methods
This study included 1,274 Beaver Dam Offspring Study participants who participated in three examinations (baseline, 5-year, and 10-year follow-up). We assessed hearing sensitivity through pure-tone audiometry (PTA, averaged thresholds of 0.5, 1, 2, 4 kHz of the better ear), higher-order auditory processing as word recognition in competing message (WRCM) using the Northwestern University 6 word list in the better ear, and cognition through trail-making test performance (TMT). Linear mixed-effects models and linear regression models were used to determine associations over time and to what extent these measures influence each other over time.

Results
The longitudinal decline between all functions was associated with the strongest relationships between PTA and WRCM. The effect of baseline PTA on WRCM 10 years later (standardized ß = –.30) was almost twice as big as the effect of baseline WRCM on PTA 10 years later (standardized ß = –.18). The effect of baseline WRCM on TMT 10 years later and vice versa were small (standardized ß = –.05). No directional relationship between PTA and TMT was identified (standardized ß ≤ .02).

Conclusions
While hearing sensitivity might affect higher-order auditory processing, associations between hearing and cognition appear bidirectional and weak in midlife. We need to be cautious before inferring causal effects of hearing on cognition.