bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Multivariate Statistical Analysis (MVA) in Complimenting Building Condition Assessment as a Diagnosis Tool for Reinforced Concrete Structures Rated as Category 3, 4 and 5
Authors: Pirah J. , Lozitin J. , Samshuddin N. , Roslee R. , Zulkipli M.F. 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
In most structural repair works or building condition assessment, structural appraisal has been done through visual inspection for tell-tale signs which highlight the possible defect. This method is extended to the standard guideline by Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR) in their BCA format in determining the physical condition rating. Consulting engineers or structural specialists are to participate when it is determined that the structure requires material testing in order to come up with diagnoses and prognosis. The use of descriptive statistics in both reconnaissance or desktop studies as well as in standard specifications have limitation in determining the actual structural issues. This study demonstrates the advantages of using Multivariate Statistical Analysis (MVA) in summating the right diagnosis and prognosis for structural repair works.
Monitoring strength development of concrete using the wave propagation technique: A practical study
Authors: Tang Z S , Lim Y Y , Smith S T , Choi M M H , Mostafa A 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Concrete is one of the most commonly used materials in the construction industry for structural members such as slabs, beams, columns and foundations due to its low cost, high durability and long service life. When concrete is freshly mixed it is in a paste form, which eventually develops into a hard solid once it has cured over time. Concrete typically takes 28 days for full-strength development. In bottom-up concrete construction, it is important to monitor the strength development of concrete under curing to ensure the concrete members are strong enough before casting additional structural elements above. In this study, an attempt is made at a construction site to monitor the strength development of concrete under curing with the non-destructive piezoelectric-based wave propagation (WP) technique. The WP technique employs two piezoelectric sensors and offers the capability of real-time monitoring on the strength development of concrete. The pressure wave (P-wave) velocity can be acquired after applying voltage to the sensor. The P-wave velocity can then be related to the strength of concrete at different curing durations. Based on the on-site experimental study, the P-wave velocities correlate well with the compressive strength of concrete from destructive compressive tests. This on-site experimental study shows the applicability of the WP technique for predicting the strength of concrete in a practical application.
Ground track response behaviour induced by train speed using seismic wave method
Authors: Yahaya N N , Ibrahim A , Ahmad J , Ahmad A , Rozli M I F , Ramli Z 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Ground track response analysis is an alternative method utilized to investigate the influence of ground-borne vibrations induced by speed train on track. This study intended to get an understanding about the responsive of ground towards vibration induced from moving train. To facilitate this study, non-destructive seismic wave method was performed using new application, Sirius M instrument to identify the peak vertical acceleration generated at various running speed and track locations. The result shows the vertical acceleration data signalized from transition wave generate through passing Electric Train Service (ETS) with maximum 140km.hr−1 speed train is higher than commuter with 120km.hr−1 speed train which are 1.935m.s−2 and 1.051m.s−2 respectively. Analysis of vertical acceleration data based on different track locations corresponding to the ETS speed resulting higher peak acceleration at stable track, KM21 compared to settlement susceptible track, KM20.75 which are 6.565m.s−2 and 1.935m.s−2 respectively. The values obtained from this study indicated ground-borne vibration influenced by speed of train and different type of embankment foundation. This data can be used to assess the influences of train type and speed. Moreover, this on-site ground response measurement is potentially useful as an alternative method to determine the soil stiffness which provide an indication to the possible problematic ground susceptible to the settlement.
Physical properties of palm oil boiler ash modified bitumen with Rediset
Authors: Mohd Akhir N , Idiajir B , Gungat L , Harun S , Borhan M N , Md Yusoff N I 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
This study examines the physical properties of a 60/70 penetration grade bitumen modified using warm mix asphalt (WMA) additive, Rediset and palm oil boiler ash (POBA) as a modifier. Modified binders were prepared by adding 2% of Rediset with different POBA contents (3, 5, 7, and 9%) through wet mixing process. Physical properties of modified bituminous binder were obtained from penetration, softening point, rotational viscosity and ductility tests. The addition of 7% POBA in WMA binder has the best characteristics in term of its physical properties. The penetration values, softening point temperatures and ductility characteristics show inconsistent patterns. However, the rotational viscosity of each combination had decreased with the increment of temperature even though the trend was not significantly constant. Penetration index (PI) showed an increment with 3 and 5% and decrement pattern on 7 and 9% as well as penetration viscosity number (PVN) showing an inconsistent decrement with the addition of POBA. From the results, it can be concluded that using POBA in WMA binder for pavement construction is a viable option and can be further investigated.
Performance of Ozone/SnCl4 Oxidation in Stabilized Landfill Leachate Treatment
Authors: Zakaria S N F , Bolong N , Saad I , Aziz H A 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Landfill leachate is well known as contains a high concentration of pollutants and threatens our environment as well as human life. Therefore, this study investigates the potential of ozonation (O3) and tin tetrachloride (SnCl4) in remedying stabilised landfill leachate (SAL). The performance of this treatment is evaluated by measuring the percentage removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and colour at different dosages, pH, and reaction times. The optimum percentage removals recorded for colour and COD were 98% and 83.2%, respectively, at an optimum dosage ratio (COD: SnCl4) 1:1.25, reaction time of 60 min and pH 8.5. Moreover, the biodegradability ratio of the sample also shows an improvement from 0.03 to 0.28, using this treatment. Thus, these data show that the oxidation process has a great potential to remediate recalcitrant pollutants like leachate
Three-step, transfer-free growth of MoS2/WS2/graphene vertical van der Waals heterostructure
Authors: Sitek Jakub , Pasternak Iwona , Czerniak-Łosiewicz Karolina , Świniarski Michał , Michałowski Paweł P , McAleese Clifford , Wang Xiaochen , Conran Ben R , Wilczyński Konrad , Macha Michał , Radenović Aleksandra , Zdrojek Mariusz , Strupiński Włodek 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHSs) provide a unique playground to study fundamental physics and practical applications of two-dimensional (2D) materials. However, most 2D heterostructures are prepared by transfer, hindering their technological implementation. Here, we report the first chemical vapour deposition of monolayered MoS2/WS2/graphene vertical vdWHS without transfer step. By atomic force microscopy, photoluminescence, Raman spectroscopy, and secondary ion mass spectroscopy, we confirmed the vertical stacking of three different 2D materials. The use of WS2, graphene, and sapphire as growth substrates allowed us to describe the 2D materials growth process better. We determined that for the synthesis of 2D materials, only the chemical potential of the crystal formation and the substrate-layer adhesion energy are relevant factors. In addition, we used MoS2/WS2/graphene vdWHS to fabricate a photoresponsive memory device, showing the application potential of such heterostacks. Our results clarify the growth mechanisms of 2D materials and pave the way for the growth of more complex vdWHSs.
Thermal conductivity, diffusivity and specific heat capacity of as-grown, degenerate single-crystalline ZnGa2O4
Authors: Boy Johannes , Mitdank Rüdiger , Galazka Zbigniew , Fischer Saskia F 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
This work provides the first experimental determination of the low-temperature thermal properties for novel highly pure single-crystalline ZnGa2O4. The temperature dependence of the thermal conductivity, diffusivity and specific heat capacity of as-grown, degenerated ZnGa2O4 single crystals is measured using the 2ω-method between T = 27 K and room temperature. At room temperature the thermal diffusivity is D ≈ 6.9 · 10−6 m2s, the thermal conductivity is λ ≈ 22.9 W mK−1 and the specific heat capacity is C
V ≈ 537 J kgK−1. The thermal conductivity increases with decreasing temperatures due to reduced phonon-phonon Umklapp scattering down to T = 50 K. For lower temperatures the thermal conductivity is limited by boundary scattering.
Effect of nano ZrB2 particles on physical, mechanical and corrosion properties of Al6061 metal-matrix nano composites through stir casting route
Authors: Morampudi Priyadarsini , Ramana V S N Venkata , Vikas K Sri ram , Rahul R , Prasad Chitrada 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
The present study investigated the microstructure, mechanical and corrosion behaviour of Al6061 alloy reinforced with nano zirconium diboride (ZrB2) particles. The stir casting route is carried out to fabricate the Al6061 metal matrix nanocomposites (AMMNCs) by varying 0 to 2 Wt% of ZrB2 nanoparticles. X-ray Diffraction (XRD)was used to study the crystalline size and phase distribution of AMMNCs. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis reveals the uniform dispersion of ZrB2 nano particulates in AMMNCs. Ultimate tensile strength and yield strength, hardness of the AMMNCs were increased by 33.58%, 27.54%, and 40.57%, respectively, with the addition of ZrB2 nano particulates, while the elongation decreased to 46.03%. with the increase in ZrB2 Wt%. The corrosion rate of AMMNCs (2 Wt% ZrB2) decreased by 86% compared to Al6061 alloy. Fracture analysis of the samples showed that the fracture behaviour of Al6061 matrix alloy changed from ductile intergranular fracture to cleavage. The results show that the developed nanocomposite enhances mechanical properties and corrosion resistance with an increase in Wt% of reinforcement.
The Need for an Economically Feasible Nursing Home Staffing Regulation: Evaluating an Acuity-Based Nursing Staff Benchmark
Authors: Bowblis John R 
Published: March 2022

Abstract

Background and Objectives
Despite concerns about the adequacy of nursing home (NH) staffing, the federal agency responsible for NH certification and regulation has never adopted an explicit quantitative nursing staff standard. A prior study has proposed a benchmark for this purpose based on the 1995/97 Staff Time Measurement (STM) studies. This article aims to assess the extent to which NHs staff to this proposed STM benchmark, the extent to which regulators already implicitly apply the STM benchmark, and compute the additional operating expenses NHs would incur to adhere to the STM benchmark.

Research Design and Methods
Using NH Compare Archive data, the STM benchmark was compared to staffing levels reported by the facility and whether NHs received a nursing staff deficiency. Using financial information from Medicare Cost Reports, the additional annual operating expenses required to staff to the STM benchmark were calculated for each state and nationwide.

Results
The vast majority of NHs did not staff to the STM benchmark; 80.2% for registered nurses and 60.0% for total nursing staff. Deficiency patterns showed that NH regulators were not using the STM benchmark to determine sufficiency of nursing staff. Implementing the STM benchmark as a regulatory standard would increase operating expenses for 59.1% of NHs, at an average annual cost of half-million dollars per facility. The nationwide increase in operating expense is estimated to be at least $4.9 billion per year.

Discussion and Implications
Without clear guidance on the staffing level needed to be sufficiently staffed, most NHs are subject to a community standard of care, which some have argued could be associated with suboptimal staffing levels. Implementing an acuity-based benchmark could result in improved staffing levels but also comes with significant economic costs. The STM benchmark is not economically feasible at current Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement levels.
Climate Competence: Youth Climate Activism and Its Impact on International Human Rights Law
Authors: Daly Aoife 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Those who are under-18 are not often associated with the exercise of political rights. It is argued in this article however that youth-led climate activism is highlighting the extensive potential that children and young people have for political activism. Moreover, youth activists have come to be seen by many as uniquely competent on climate change. Youth activists have moved from the streets to the courts, utilising national and international human rights law mechanisms to further their cause. They are not the first to do so, and the extent of their impact is as yet unclear. Nevertheless, it is argued here that through applications such as Saachi (an application to the Committee on the Rights of the Child) and Duarte Agostinho (an application to the ECtHR) they are shifting the human-centric, highly procedural arena of international human rights law towards an approach which better encompasses person-environment connections.
Big data approaches to the spatial ecology and conservation of marine megafauna
Authors: Grémillet David , Chevallier Damien , Guinet Christophe 
Published: March 2022

Abstract
Satellite remote-sensing and wildlife tracking allow researchers to record rapidly increasing volumes of information on the spatial ecology of marine megafauna in the context of global change. This field of investigation is thereby entering the realm of big data science: Information technology allows the design of completely new frameworks for acquiring, storing, sharing, analysing, visualizing, and publicizing data. This review aims at framing the importance of big data for the conservation of marine megafauna, through intimate knowledge of the spatial ecology of these threatened, charismatic animals. We first define marine megafauna and big data science, before detailing the technological breakthroughs leading to pioneering “big data” studies. We then describe the workflow from acquiring megafauna tracking data to the identification and the prediction of their critical habitats under global changes, leading to marine spatial planning and political negotiations. Finally, we outline future objectives for big data studies, which should not take the form of a blind technological race forward, but of a coordinated, worldwide approach to megafauna spatial ecology, based on regular gap analyses, with care for ethical and environmental implications. Employing big data science for the efficient conservation of marine megafauna will also require inventing new pathways from research to action.
Late Effects Screening of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Survivors in the Military Healthcare System
Authors: Zanetti Richard , Warwick Anne , Sicignano Nicholas , Feldman Brian 
Published: March 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) survivors are a growing portion of the population with unique health screening needs. These survivors receive care within late effects oncology clinics and primary care clinics. Prior attempts to quantify compliance with follow-up recommendations have shown variable rates ranging from 28% to 73%. This study set out to assess rates of adherence to recommended health screening among pediatric ALL survivors within the U.S. DoD, identify potential risk factors contributing to patient compliance, and better define the prevalence of chronic health conditions.

Materials and Methods
This Institutional Review Board–approved, retrospective cohort study used data from the U.S. DoD MHS database and identified incident cases of pediatric ALL during 2007-2011 using a conservative case identification algorithm. Minimum duration of follow-up was instituted in order to ensure the entire study population had sufficient time for the assessment of each screening exam according to recommended guidelines. Rates of adherence to recommended screening measures were calculated across the full study follow-up period, and regression analyses assessed protective factors for compliance.

Results
One hundred and forty-four incident ALL cases were identified. During the follow-up period, 31.3% developed a new mental health diagnosis. In terms of recommended screening, 94.4% had an annual complete blood count for the entire study period, 90.3% had a liver function screening, 81.9% had an echocardiogram, 34% had a bone density scan, and 54.2% had a mental health visit. Adolescents were less likely to have a bone density scan (odds ratio [OR] 0.32, 95% CI, 0.11-0.95) or a mental health visit (OR 0.28, 95% CI, 0.11-0.7).

Conclusion
The MHS provides universal access to healthcare for all beneficiaries. In this population with universal access to care, there is increased compliance with screening recommendations. Our results reflect actual screening testing as opposed to general screening visits that have been previously reported in the literature. We also highlight the significant number of mental health diagnoses among pediatric ALL survivors.
Utilizing a “Crawl, Walk, Run” Training Model to Enhance Field Sanitation Capabilities for Peacekeeping Forces: A Recommendation for the Department of Defense Global Health Engagement Enterprise
Authors: Button Graham J , Acosta Michael , Ramsey Sueann , Francis Yara , Zuerlein Scott 
Published: March 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction
DoD Global Health Engagement (GHE) planners can follow a number of models to effectively plan and execute successful GHE activities. One recommendation that could provide a significant return on investment for the DoD GHE enterprise is to utilize a “Crawl, Walk, Run” training model to build or enhance a specific medical capability for a Partner Nation (PN). Through the African Peacekeeping Rapid Response Partnership (APRRP) program, U.S. military medical subject matter experts serving as instructors for a Field Sanitation Course (FSC) delivered to the Senegalese Armed Forces (SAF), gained first-hand experience of the positive outcomes that resulted from incorporating this training model into the DoD GHE process.

Materials and Methods
The SAF completed three APRRP-led, in-person FSC iterations: May 2019 (crawl phase), September 2019 (walk phase), and February 2020 (run phase). Approximately 1 year after the completion of the in-person FSCs, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, USU’s CGHE offered a Field Sanitation Virtual Engagement to augment the FSC, emphasize specific field sanitation topics, and discuss lessons learned with the SAF on the deployment of their Level 2 Hospital.

Results
Before deploying their Level 2 Hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic, the SAF conducted a base camp assessment and found multiple ways to apply the knowledge and skills learned through the APRRP FSC to address issues related to waste management, pest control, and personal protective measures to protect against COVID-19. The SAF’s progress in strengthening and institutionalizing their field sanitation capabilities can be seen by their execution of their own variation of the FSC—in preparation for their deployment, the SAF conducted three of their own FSCs, which closely resembled the APRRP-administered course.

Conclusions
The “Crawl, Walk, Run” training model demonstrates an excellent teaching method that develops PN instructors so they can train more personnel in the long-term, thus building both capacity and capability. This gives the PN the opportunity to sustainably institutionalize a course, allowing them to continue training it in perpetuity. Implementing this training model flexibly to adapt to the differing needs of each PN and each line of effort would increase the success of DoD GHE activities when training PNs. It would also ensure the PN has the capability to sustainably institutionalize a course and can independently train future cohorts through internal iterations of the course.
Implementation of IV Push Antibiotics for Outpatients During a National Fluid Shortage Following Hurricane Maria
Authors: Yagnik Kruti J , Brown L Steven , Saad Hala A , Alvarez Kristin , Mang Norman , Bird Cylaina E , Cerise Fred , Bhavan Kavita P 
Published: March 2022

Abstract

Background
Prior to the introduction of intravenous (IV) drip infusion, most IV drugs were delivered in a syringe bolus push. However, intravenous drip infusions subsequently became the standard of care. Puerto Rico is the largest supplier of IV fluid bags and in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, there was a nationwide fluid bag shortage. This shortage required stewardship measures to maintain the operation of the self-administered outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) program at Parkland Health.

Methods
Parkland pharmacists evaluated all self-administered antimicrobials for viability of administration as an IV syringe bolus push (IVP) instead of an IV-drip infusion. Medications deemed appropriate were transitioned to IVP. The hospital EMR was used to identify patients discharged to the OPAT clinic using all methods of parenteral drug delivery. Data was collected for patient demographics, patient satisfaction, and clinical outcomes. Finally cost of care was calculated for IVP and IV drip administration.

Results
One-hundred and thirteen self-administered IVP and 102 self-administered IV drip treatment courses were identified during the study period. Individuals using IVP had a statistically significant decrease in hospital length of stay. Patient satisfaction was greater with IVP and IVP saved 504 liters of normal saline resulting in a savings of $43,652 over 6 months. The 30-day readmission rate and mortality were similar.

Conclusion
The abrupt IV fluid shortage following a natural disaster led to implementation of a high value care model that improved efficiency, reduced costs, and did not affect safety or efficacy.