bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vascular abnormalities in fellow eyes of patients with unilateral coats’ disease
Authors: Lee Seung Min , Kim Kang Hyun , Kang Hyun Goo , Choi Eun Young , Lee Junwon , Kim Min
Published: November 2023

Coats’ disease is an idiopathic retinal vascular disorder, known to usually occur unilaterally; however, recent studies have highlighted vascular abnormalities in the fellow unaffected eyes. This retrospective study investigated the peripheral vascular features and macular vascular structure of unaffected fellow eyes in patients with unilateral Coats’ disease using multimodal imaging tools. We analysed images of patients, including bilateral ultra-widefield imaging, fluorescein angiography (FA), ultra-widefield FA, or standard fundus photography. Available bilateral optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) images were used for macular vascular structure analysis. OCT-A parameters, including foveal avascular zone (FAZ), perfusion index, and vessel density (VD) in the superficial and deep capillary plexuses (SCP, DCP), were calculated using Image J software. The mean age at diagnosis was 34.5 ± 17.9 years. The mean final best-corrected visual acuity of the affected eyes was logMAR 0.78 ± 0.79, while that of the fellow eyes was logMAR 0.04 ± 0.12. Ten fellow eyes had microaneurysms (47.6%), two had tortuous vessel abnormalities (9.5%), and 11(52.4%) had abnormal vascular findings on FA. Although there was a trend towards larger DCP FAZ (1.201 ± 0.086 vs. 1.072 ± 0.226), and lower DCP VD (8.593 ± 1.583 vs. 10.827 ± 3.392) in the affected eyes as measured by the Cirrus machine, the difference was not statistically significant between affected and fellow eyes when measured using the Zeiss Cirrus machine (P = 0.686, P = 0.343, respectively). However, when measured with the Spectralis machine, DCP FAZ was larger in affected eyes (0.828 ± 0.426 vs. 0.254 ± 0.092, P = 0.002) and DCP VD was lower in affected eyes (6.901 ± 2.634 vs. 17.451 ± 7.207, P = 0.002) compared to the fellow eyes, while other parameters showed no significant variations. These findings indicate that there may be subtle vascular abnormalities primarily located in the peripheral regions of the unaffected fellow eyes in patients with unilateral Coats’ disease, while the macular microvasculature remains unaffected.
Multi-class deep learning architecture for classifying lung diseases from chest X-Ray and CT images
Authors: Al-Sheikh Mona Hmoud , Al Dandan Omran , Al-Shamayleh Ahmad Sami , Jalab Hamid A. , Ibrahim Rabha W.
Published: November 2023

Medical imaging is considered a suitable alternative testing method for the detection of lung diseases. Many researchers have been working to develop various detection methods that have aided in the prevention of lung diseases. To better understand the condition of the lung disease infection, chest X-Ray and CT scans are utilized to check the disease’s spread throughout the lungs. This study proposes an automated system for the detection multi lung diseases in X-Ray and CT scans. A customized convolutional neural network (CNN) and two pre-trained deep learning models with a new image enhancement model are proposed for image classification. The proposed lung disease detection comprises two main steps: pre-processing, and deep learning classification. The new image enhancement algorithm is developed in the pre-processing step using k-symbol Lerch transcendent functions model which enhancement images based on image pixel probability. While, in the classification step, the customized CNN architecture and two pre-trained CNN models Alex Net, and VGG16Net are developed. The proposed approach was tested on publicly available image datasets (CT, and X-Ray image dataset), and the results showed classification accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 98.60%, 98.40%, and 98.50% for the X-Ray image dataset, respectively, and 98.80%, 98.50%, 98.40% for the CT scans dataset, respectively. Overall, the obtained results highlight the advantages of the image enhancement model as a first step in processing.
Inter-laboratory comparison of a digital multimeter measurement in Turkey
Authors: Patan Alper M.
Published: November 2023

The standard ISO/IEC 17043:2023 specifies the general requirements for proficiency testing providers and covers the development, operation, and reporting of proficiency testing schemes. The standard aims to ensure that the measurement results obtained by different laboratories are comparable and traceable to international measurement standards. Inter-laboratory comparisons are still rare in the meteorological services network of calibration laboratories, and there are not enough bodies accredited with the ISO/IEC 17043:2023 standard in Turkey. The existing inter-laboratory comparison measurements do not fully comply with the requirements of ISO/IEC 17043:2023 and are not compatible with the measurement capabilities and scopes of the laboratories, leading to difficulties when comparing meteorological data from different laboratories. This article presents a case study of a digital multimeter interlaboratory comparison measurement in accordance with the ISO/IEC 17043:2023 standard. The results obtained were analysed using statistical methods (En score) and compared to the reference values provided by a secondary accredited calibration laboratory. The analysis showed that the measurement results obtained by the participants were consistent and generally within the acceptable range of En. The case study presented in this paper demonstrates the effectiveness of the standard in ensuring reliable measurement results in a practical setting.
Copula-based modeling and simulation of 3D systems of curved fibers by isolating intrinsic fiber properties and external effects
Authors: Weber Matthias , Grießer Andreas , Mosbach Dennis , Glatt Erik , Wiegmann Andreas , Schmidt Volker
Published: November 2023

In this paper we lay the foundation for data-driven 3D analysis of virtual fiber systems with respect to their microstructure and functionality. In particular, we develop a stochastic 3D model for systems of curved fibers similar to nonwovens, which is fitted to tomographic image data. By systematic variations of model parameters, efficient computer-based scenario analyses can be performed to get a deeper insight how effective properties of this type of functional materials depend on their 3D microstructure. In a first step, we consider single fibers as polygonal tracks which can be modeled by a third-order Markov chain. For constructing the transition function of the Markov chain, we formalize the intuitive notions of intrinsic fiber properties and external effects and build a copula-based transition function such that both aspects can be varied independently. Using this single-fiber model, in a second step we derive a model for the entire fiber system observed in a bounded sampling window and fit it to two different 3D datasets of nonwovens measured by CT imaging. Considering various geometric descriptors of the 3D microstructure related to effective properties of the pore space, we evaluate the goodness of model fit by comparing geometric descriptors of the 3D morphology of model realizations with those of tomographic image data.
A novel in silico scaffold-hopping method for drug repositioning in rare and intractable diseases
Authors: Tanabe Mao , Sakate Ryuichi , Nakabayashi Jun , Tsumura Kyosuke , Ohira Shino , Iwato Kaoru , Kimura Tomonori
Published: November 2023

In the field of rare and intractable diseases, new drug development is difficult and drug repositioning (DR) is a key method to improve this situation. In this study, we present a new method for finding DR candidates utilizing virtual screening, which integrates amino acid interaction mapping into scaffold-hopping (AI-AAM). At first, we used a spleen associated tyrosine kinase inhibitor as a reference to evaluate the technique, and succeeded in scaffold-hopping maintaining the pharmacological activity. Then we applied this method to five drugs and obtained 144 compounds with diverse structures. Among these, 31 compounds were known to target the same proteins as their reference compounds and 113 compounds were known to target different proteins. We found that AI-AAM dominantly selected functionally similar compounds; thus, these selected compounds may represent improved alternatives to their reference compounds. Moreover, the latter compounds were presumed to bind to the targets of their references as well. This new “compound-target” information provided DR candidates that could be utilized for future drug development.
Minimal detectable change in inertial measurement unit-based trunk acceleration indices during gait in inpatients with subacute stroke
Authors: Igarashi Tatsuya , Tani Yuta , Takeda Ren , Asakura Tomoyuki
Published: November 2023

Gait analysis using inertial measurement units (IMU) provides a multifaceted assessment of gait characteristics, but minimal detectable changes (MDC), the true change beyond measurement error, during gait in patients hospitalized with subacute stroke has not been clarified. This study aimed to determine the MDC in IMU-based trunk acceleration indices during gait in patients hospitalized with subacute stroke. Nineteen patients with subacute stroke (mean ± SD, 75.4 ± 10.9 years; 13 males) who could understand instructions, had a pre-morbid modified Rankin Scale < 3 and could walk straight for 16 m under supervision were included. As trunk acceleration indices, Stride regularity, harmonic ratio (HR), and normalized root mean square (RMS) during gait were calculated on three axes: mediolateral (ML), vertical (VT), and anterior–posterior (AP). MDC was calculated from two measurements taken on the same day according to the following formula: MDC = standard error of measurement × 1.96 × 2. The MDCs for each trunk acceleration index were, in order of ML, VT, and AP: 0.175, 0.179, and 0.149 for stride regularity; 0.666, 0.741, and 0.864 for HR; 4.511, 2.288, and 2.680 for normalized RMS. This finding helps determine the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions in the gait assessment of patients with stroke.
Distinguishing common SARS-CoV2 omicron and recombinant variants with high resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Lanyon Henry E. , Todd Benjamin P. , Downard Kevin M.
Published: November 2023

A selected ion monitoring (SIM) approach combined with high resolution mass spectrometry is employed to identify and distinguish SARS-CoV2 recombinant virus variants by means of mutated peptide segments in the surface spike protein.
Unusual thermo-mechanical properties of the Janus Mo2ScC2OH MXene monolayer
Authors: Bölen Emre , Deligöz Engin
Published: November 2023

The Janus Mo2ScC2OH monolayer is stable, has high negative Grüneisen parameters, and exhibits a relatively low lattice thermal conductivity.
Gold nanocrystal-loaded 2D supramolecular network for plasmon-enhanced nitrogen fixation
Authors: Wang Gengxin , Li Bingjin , Li Bao , Wu Lixin
Published: November 2023

Plasmon-enhanced catalysis showing high NH3 production rate and recyclability over polyoxometalate-based two-dimensional supramolecular frameworks loading gold nanocrystals is conducted under visible and near-infrared light irradiation.
Bispidine as a promising scaffold for designing molecular machines
Authors: Singh Hanuman , Chenna Akshay , Gangwar Upanshu , Dutta Souvik , Kurur Narayanan D. , Goel Gaurav , Haridas V.
Published: November 2023

Here, we show a versatile design strategy based on bispidine. The conformational study of bispidine diamides showed that syn/anti-forms exist. The bispidine–amino acid conjugate behaves like a molecular machine with stops at the syn/anti-position.
The Effect of Perceived Tinnitus Disturbance on Hope
Authors: Grayless Brittany , Combs Jesse , Hausladen Jennifer , Hedrick Mark
Published: November 2023

Background:

Although there are systematic reviews of the effects of tinnitus on quality of life, the relationship of tinnitus to hopefulness has not been examined.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between tinnitus distress and hope by comparing the severity of tinnitus to measures of hopefulness. This was done by comparing the Tinnitus Reaction Questionnaire (TRQ) to the following hope scales: the Herth Hope Scale (HHS) and the Herth Hope Index (HHI).

Method:

Patients seen for a tinnitus evaluation in the University of Tennessee audiology clinic completed the TRQ, HHS, and HHI scales. Investigation of relationships between tinnitus assessment using the TRQ and measurements of hope (HHS and HHI) was performed via correlation analyses using Pearson coefficients and linear regression.

Results:

Significant correlations were found between overall scores on the TRQ and HHS, and TRQ and HHI, indicating that greater tinnitus distress was associated with lower levels of hope. Further analyses showed the HHS and HHI Domain 1, regarding temporality and future, as significantly related to tinnitus distress.

Conclusion:

Significant correlations between tinnitus disturbance and hope suggest that potential interventions based on hopefulness may be of benefit for individuals suffering from tinnitus.
Extended state observer based fractional order sliding mode control for steer‐by‐wire systems
Authors: Shi Quangang , He Shuping , Wang Hai , Stojanovic Vladimir , Shi Kaibo , Lv Wenjun
Published: November 2023

In this paper, an extended state observer based fractional‐order sliding mode control strategy is studied for vehicle steer‐by‐wire systems (SBWSs). The parameter perturbation and external interference are considered in the dynamic model of SBWSs. A fractional‐order sliding mode control scheme is designed to solve the tracking problem and improve the control performance. An extended state observer is further used to estimate the lumped disturbance, and then the estimated value is considered as a feedforward compensation to reduce the chattering phenomenon. Finally, comparison simulation results show that the excellent steering tracking and strong robustness performance have been achieved by the proposed control strategy for SBWSs.
Electric vehicle charging as a source of nordic fast frequency reserve—proof of concept
Authors: Manner Pekka , Tikka Ville , Honkapuro Samuli , Tikkanen Kyösti , Aghaei Jamshid
Published: November 2023

Demand‐side flexibility or demand response (DR) has long been recognized as a potential source of balancing capacity. The charging of electric vehicles (EVs) is a known source of flexible capacity, and the vast amount of charging capacity available can be utilized for valuable applications, including ancillary power markets, by controlling the charging sessions according to the needs of the power system. One identified and unexplored potential market for EV DR capacity is the Fast Frequency Reserve (FFR) market for the Nordic system area. This article proposes and demonstrates that a home charger can participate in this extremely fast reacting ancillary service market with only software modifications made to the charger. The biggest challenge in the FFR market is the response time requirement for capacity activation. When a certain frequency limit is exceeded, the activation must happen within 0.7 s in the worst case. In this study, a laboratory test setup was constructed to test the capabilities of the FFR‐enabled EV charger. The tests were conducted by building a laboratory microgrid capable of changing the grid frequency. Additionally, an economic feasibility study was carried out to evaluate the business potential of the concept in Finland. The economic study included an analysis of the concept's potential with different levels of DR service availability. The laboratory tests demonstrated the FFR capabilities of the charger and as a final outcome of the research, the Norwegian transmission system operator (TSO) approved the tested charger as a type‐prequalified FFR‐providing entity. The economic study revealed that the approach has good business potential, primarily because of the almost non‐existent cost side even if the availability rate decreases significantly.
Issues of Digital Transformation of Biological Agriculture in the South-West of the Central Region of Russia
Authors: Torikov Vladimir , Pogonyshev Vladimir , Pogonysheva Dina , Ivanova Natalya , Bychkova Tatiana
Published: November 2023

Intensification of world agriculture on the basis of scientific and technological achievements improves labour productivity and the living conditions of commodity producers. It is shown that in the agricultural sector alternative agriculture has been formed due to activation of biological processes. The directions of digital transformation of biological agriculture in the south-west of the Central region of the country are studied in the paper. It is established that smart farming technologies are currently being used in the Bryansk region; they are based on the application of geoinformation and satellite systems, as well as equipment monitoring systems. Digital solutions are being introduced in animal husbandry. The areas and specifics of consulting services to economic entities in order to develop biological agriculture are substantiated.
European spring wheat varieties in the conditions of the Tyumen region
Authors: Timofeev Vyacheslav , Vyushina Olga
Published: November 2023

The comparative evaluation of varieties of European selection on the signs of resistance to major diseases and elements of productivity was carried out in the research. Varieties of European selection were conditionally resistant to diseases of root system during the period of sprouting - full maturity, in phyto-examination of seeds the number of fungal infection increased to the standard level with each year of the study. Diseases spreading on the aboveground vegetative part of the plant had a significant impact and subsequently reduced the yield of the crop by 0.3-0.8 t/ha. The resistance of the compared varieties to Septoria nodorum and susceptibility to Puccinia graminis, Septoria tritici was determined. The highest yield of 3.6-4.1 t/ha was obtained in the varieties Goplana, Arabella, which is higher than the standard by 14-20% The varieties Goplana and Arabella with sufficiently high yield and grain quality are suitable for cultivation in these conditions, but for varieties need intensive technology, development of agronomic techniques, which determines the possibility of commercial and scientific use.
Justification of the width of the tooth spacing and the distance between the rows of teeth of the ripper for the harrower
Authors: Bababekov U.J. , Kurbanov E.S. , Tukhtakuziev A. , Davlatov P.D. , Kurbanov E.E. , Xudayberdiyev R.H.
Published: November 2023

The article substantiates the degree of immersion of working bodies in the soil and soil deformation on the basis of scientific and experimental studies of the harrowing unit used. The parameters of the harrow teeth, the qualitative performance of the technological process of the accepted parameters are also theoretically justified.
Prospects for the use of sweeteners in the production of pastille confectionery
Authors: Snegireva Anna , Meleshkina Larisa
Published: November 2023

Data on the current health condition of the population convincingly proves the need to reduce the caloric content of the diet, reducing the amount of added sugar and animal fats in products. However, people cannot give up confectionery and sweet dishes, which have a positive effect on the feeling of completion of a meal and mood. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to develop a recipe and marshmallow technology with a full replacement of sugar for erythritol. Moreover, the author partially replaced the traditional mashed apple with black currant puree in the marshmallow recipe to improve organoleptic characteristics and increase the content of essential nutrients. The author also studied the effect of erythritol and black currant puree on the marshmallow mass and finished products quality parameters. The author carried out the research using commonly accepted methods. The author experimentally proved a positive effect of replacing apple puree with 40% black currant puree on the quality indicators of semi-finished and finished products. The author substantiated the possibility of replacing sugar with erythritol and investigated the addition of the FitParad No. 10 sweetener mixture to enhance the sweetness of the finished product. Considering the results of the research, the author has developed a recipe and technology for sugar- free white marshmallows. It is proved that marshmallow based on erythritol as a sugar substitute is not available according to literature data and market analysis of pastry confectionery products.
Remote monitoring of chlorophyll content in soybean crops in the conditions of the Ryazan region
Authors: Gureeva E.V. , Levakova O.V.
Published: November 2023

The article considers research on the supervision of soybean crops, conducted in 2021 on the fields of the Institute of Seed Production and Agrotechnologies (a branch of the Federal State Budget Scientific Institution “Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM”). The purpose of the research is to analyze and collect data on the photosynthetic state (PSS) of soybean plants (using the chlorophyll content as an example) and their impact on yield and quality indicators. The object of research is the early ripe varieties Kasatka, Mageva, Georgiy and Svetlaya. The study used a DJI Phantom 4 pro quadcopter, ground-based scanning - an N-tester express diagnostic device. Monitoring was carried out in three stages: 1st stage - phase R5 (beginning of seed formation); 2nd stage - phase R6 (seed filling); 3rd stage - phase R7 (beginning of ripeness). It has been established that with the use of UAV aerial photography, a reproducible picture of the spatial distribution of the ClGreen chlorophyll index is achieved, which is highly consistent with the results of ground-based scanning. It was revealed that varieties Kasatka, Mageva and Georgiya gradually reduce the chlorophyll content, starting from the R6 phase (with an average chlorophyll content of 511-588 units of the device) to the R7 phase, the chlorophyll content decreases by 44.8-56.1% (comprising 258 - 282 units of the device). A close positive relationship (r=+0.893) with the state of chlorophyll in the R6 phase with yield was established, an average (r=+0.597) - with oil content; significant negative relationship (r=-0.728) with protein content. Thus, when monitoring the UAV and the obtained ground information on the content of chlorophyll in the soybean seed filling phase (R6), it is possible to obtain predictable data on the yield and quality indicators of the future crop in advance.
Black germ of wheat in the conditions of the Krasnoyarsk forest-steppe
Authors: Neshumaeva N.A.
Published: November 2023

Black germ is a ubiquitous disease of wheat, which, without particularly affecting crop yields, can affect the parameters of the technological evaluation of grain. Until now, there is no consensus on the nature of the occurrence of this disease. In our study, we studied the relationship between the visible symptoms of damage by a black germ and infection of seeds of spring soft wheat samples with fungi of the genera Alternaria and Biporalis in the conditions of the Krasnoyarsk forest-steppe. The phytopathological analysis of asymptomatic and black-embryonic grains revealed in the latter a significant excess of infestation with p. Alternaria fungi in two out of ten samples. There were no differences in seed infection with p. Biporalis micromycetes between the variants. Only in one sample, the germination of seeds with manifested symptoms of the disease was lower than in visually healthy ones. The percentage of germination of other varieties and lines in both variants did not differ statistically significantly.
Concept of forming individualization of smart village methodology using AI cognitive processes
Authors: Shvets Yury , Tolkachev Sergey , Molchanov Igor , Nezamaikin Valery , Kharlamov Andrey , Morkovkin Dmitry
Published: November 2023

The study examines the role of digital agriculture in rural transformation and optimization of agricultural production, especially in the context of Russia. The article discusses the application of advanced sensors for soil and fertility analysis, which helps in determining potential yields and effective fertilizer application. Digital agriculture is presented as a tool to improve efficiency and productivity in rural areas, contributing to their economic growth. In addition, the study emphasizes the importance of adequate use of data and modern technology in farming. The analyses presented are based on extensive use of statistical and mathematical methods using various Python software packages. The conclusions of the study emphasize the need to integrate digital technologies in agriculture for sustainable rural development.
Fundamentals of smart Village modeling in the context of integration of cognitive processes of artificial intelligence in the era of modern infrastructure challenges
Authors: Shvets Yury , Morkovkin Dmitry , Romanova Julia , Aleeva Gulnara , Shikhalieva Dzhannet , Rudenko Lyudmila , Osipovskaya Anna , Chernikina Elena
Published: November 2023

The study focuses on the stages of implementation and development of smart villages, which are digital technologies for agriculture that increase efficiency and productivity in this area. We uncovered the stages of development of smart villages, then we looked at what is included in the Internet of Things within a smart village. After that, we looked at the specific digital solutions for agriculture and the purpose of smart village. As part of the study, we analyzed a number of indicators characterizing the development of the sphere of agriculture and its prospects. As the results of the study, we constructed and analyzed correlation matrices of indicators.
Wave roller research on barley crops
Authors: Kurdyumov Vladimir , Proshkin Vyacheslav , Streltsov Sergey , Bogatsky Roman , Sharonov Ivan
Published: November 2023

A completely new design of the wave roller is presented, which has no analogues produced by the industry. As a result of research on barley crops, it was revealed that the optimization criterion kse after treatment with the developed wave roller is 0.81. The density and aggregate composition of the soil in all parts of the field (in the ridges and in the troughs of the wave relief) fully meets the agrotechnical requirements. In the area after treatment with a serial roller KKZ-6, the optimization criterion kse = 0.67, which is significantly lower than that of the proposed wave roller. At the same time, soil clods were found on the soil surface, the size of which exceeds 50 mm, which does not meet the agrotechnical requirements for rolling. Studies conducted under production conditions made it possible to determine that the rolling of barley crops with the proposed wave roller increased its yield to 47.2 centners per hectare (by 12.4%) compared to 42 centners per hectare after rolling the crops with ring-toothed rollers KKZ-6.
Ensuring environmental safety using Internet of Things (IoT) technologies
Authors: Iordanova Anastasia , Yushin Vasily , Timofeev Gennady , Gladilin Daniil , Kurasova Julia
Published: November 2023

The article discusses the features of using industrial Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to ensure the environmental safety of territories. The authors analyzed the main problems in the implementation of IoT systems in environmental monitoring, as well as the prospects for using the considered technologies for biodiversity conservation. In addition, the article analyzes the use of Internet of Things technologies as a tool for ensuring the sustainable development of the region.
MALAT1 affects atherosclerosis by regulating endothelial cell’s microautophagy
Authors: Zhang Runqi
Published: November 2023

Autophagy of vessels endothelial cells is the critical pathological process in atherosclerosis (AS). Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) is a kind of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) that regulates the autophagy of vessels endothelial cells, including microautophagy. However, the relationship between AS and MALAT1 is not completely understood, and microautophagy has been ignored. In this study, I designed the experiments to research the impact of MALAT1 in endothelial cells, which could regulate the progression of AS. In the present study, I design to establish the AS model mice with low MALAT1 level. The expression level of MALAT1 needs to be detected to verify the mouse model. Then, the intensity of microautophagy of endothelial cells of mouse model and normal mouse are detected by RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence assay, and observation directly with electron microscope. The atherosclerosis progression and plaque stability are detected by comparing the rations of macrophage/vascular smooth muscle cell and collagen/lipid. This paper only provides theoretical experiment design and possible results about how MALAT1 affects AS by regulating microautophagy of vascular endothelial cells (VECs) which needs additional research in the pathology of atherosclerosis. This paper provided the possibility that MALTA1 regulates the microautophagy in VECs and MALTA1 may be the target to cure AS.
Safeguarding serenity: Assessing tree risks and hazards in UMK Jeli Campus for sustainable management
Authors: Majid Syafinie , Najid Farah Najwa , Jemali Noor Janatun Naim
Published: November 2023

The UMK Campus Jeli, a renowned public university in Malaysia, has been operating for a decade. This study aimed to investigate potential risks and hazards associated with trees located near campus buildings. Such proximity can impact drainage, leading to water pooling that increases the risk of mold and rot formation. This study covered an extensive sampled area of 0.05 km²within the campus area. The Basic Tree Risk Assessment Survey was employed using a quantitative approach to systematically record and categorize information while conducting visual evaluations to assess tree risks. A total of 44 individual trees were recorded, representing 15 different species and 12 families. The Clusiaceae family dominated, accounting for 17% of the recorded trees, while the Malvaceae family constituted the smallest proportion at 2%. Notably, the Prunus avium tree posed the highest risk due to its proximity to buildings, which could potentially lead to mold and mildew growth over time. Implementing the Basic Tree Risk Assessment methodology holds significant value for the management unit at UMK Campus Jeli, providing essential insights for planning and maintaining tree health while preserving the campus's aesthetic appeal.
Visitor Willingness to Pay using Travel Cost Method at Taman Negeri Gunung Stong, Kuala Krai, Kelantan
Authors: Ruhaized Ilya Syuhada , Hassin Nor Hizami , Abas Muhamad Azahar , Hambali Kamarul Ariffin , Sulaiman Chindo , Muhamad Noor Amal Najihah , Abdullah Mukrimah , Mamat Mohd Parid , Koshy Nitanan , Kamaludin Mahirah
Published: November 2023

Forest Park Recreation is a place that offers a vast experience and scenic views to visitors. However, there isn't a proper market transaction for ecosystem services, so it might not be reflected in market transactions. Therefore, it's critical to consider travel and time expenses when determining what individuals value in the absence of a market price. This study aims to estimate the visitor's willingness to pay for forest park recreation using the Travel Cost Method (TCM) at Taman Negeri Gunung Stong, Kuala Krai, Kelantan. A convenience sampling technique is employed in this study. The data was collected from 379 respondents using face-to-face interviews with the visitors who entered the park. The TCM result revealed that the recreational value at TNGS is RM 1,286,531.80 per year, with a mean of the willingness to pay value is RM4.34 per visitor. The regression analysis results indicated that gender, age, income, total travel cost and time access to the site are the variable effects on the willingness to pay and visit people to the forest park. The findings of this study could be an effective instrument for raising the standard of environmental services and enhancing the infrastructure and services in the studied area.
Environmental Tax – Economic Growth Nexus in ASEAN-4 Countries
Authors: Othman Norashida , Hewage Rishan Sampath , Pyeman Jaafar , Ismail Farah Raihana
Published: November 2023

In the modern world, energy consumption, carbon emissions, and economic growth are concerns for all nations that want to continue expanding by striking a balance between energy and carbon emissions. One reason for this is that these fuels will cause global warming due to climate change. Environmental taxes are increasingly seen as a crucial component of economic policy, where a well-constructed tax can encourage innovation and economic incentives. The nexus of the economic growth and environment is now becoming one of the essential relations for policymakers. Nevertheless, most of the previous studies are limited to European countries. Thus, this research investigates the cointegration of Environmental Tax (ET) towards Economic Growth (EG) with Interest Rate (IR) as a control variable for the case of selected ASEAN countries, namely Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. The yearly data set covering the period from 2014 to 2021 was utilized as the sample period for the panel autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL) approaches. Results revealed that both the Environmental Tax and Interest Rate have a long-run negative effect on Economic growth but have a positive influence in the short run. From this finding, the implication of environmental tax toward economic growth also may depend on the economic conditions of an economy.
The perception on halal label of MAMEE products among consumers in Selangor
Authors: Muhamad Nursalwani , Ghazali Siti Ainul Mardiah , Abdullah Palsan Sannasi , Ibrahim Ahmad Syukri , Abdul Latiff Zul Ariff
Published: November 2023

The halal label on food products is important to provide health and create awareness among MAMEE consumers. The official halal label on food packaging has been investigated as one of the good health indicators that is beneficial for people who consume it. A shift towards sustainable halal labels should be taken to ensure good absorption of food nutrition. Consumers’ perception of the halal label on MAMEE products has changed due to their awareness of the halal label’s effect on consumer health. This study is conducted to investigate the relationship between demographic factors and the perception of consumers towards MAMEE products based on the halal label. The questionnaire was distributed to 114 respondents in Selangor. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). From this study, the consumers are able to give a positive perception towards MAMEE products based on the halal label. The result showed a relationship between demographic factors and the perception of MAMEE consumers in Selangor, with significance values below 0.1. The significance of this study is to be a reference for the MAMEE Company to conduct research and development (R&D) in producing halal food products for the consumers.
Perception of safety intervention practices in the laboratory among students in higher education sector
Authors: Sukri Nor Sayzwani , Safrin Nur Syakilah , Kedri Farah Khaliz , Hanie Nurul Irene , Sukri Muhammad Aiman
Published: November 2023

Safety is one of the crucial elements in the educational sector. Safety intervention is one of the elements that must be highlighted to increase workplace safety. In general, safety intervention is the alteration of internal or external aspects that may minimize workplace accidents such as safety procedures, safety committees, safety expertise and others. Hence, this study aims to analyze the safety intervention in the laboratory among higher education students. A questionnaire survey was distributed to 338 students from three Universiti Malaysia Kelantan Jeli Campus faculties including the Science Foundation Program. Most of the respondents are Year 1 students with 31.7%. Most (45.9%) of students spend between four to six hours daily in the laboratory. Furthermore, 49.1% of students, participated in the laboratory three to four times per week. This study divided safety intervention practices into three components: management, technical and human. The results from the descriptive analysis show that management component practices are the highest intervention safety practices adopted by the students when working in the laboratory with an overall mean score of 4.64. Compared with the technical component (overall mean score of 4.61) and human component (overall mean score of 4.53). To prevent laboratory accidents in higher education, the human element in safety intervention practices should also be emphasized. The information obtained from this study could be used by the authorities in charge of occupational health and safety as well as by the stakeholders in higher education to reduce the accident rate in higher education institutions.
Inversion of 1-D Resistivity Data using RR-PSO algorithm to identify Shallow Gas in Balikpapan
Authors: Arung-Laby Dharma , Suprayitno Abdi , J Waskita Kukuh , Lutfi Mohammad
Published: November 2023

In recent years shallow gas blowouts have occurred several times in Balikpapan residential areas due to drilling activities for groundwater exploration and geological structures that play as a gas trap. It is necessary to identify structures containing shallow gas by implementing geophysical methods namely Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES). VES is an electrical resistivity method which involves the rapid measurement of variations of the ground resistivity with increasing electrode spaces. The output of this method is a 1-D resistivity model used to identify shallow gas. The 1-D resistivity model can be obtained by the inversion technique. In general, the inversion of VES data is conducted using local optimization method. However, this method has several limitations hence we need to implement a global optimization method in VES data inversion. In this work, the RRPSO algorithm was implemented, which is a global optimization method, in VES data inversion to obtain 1-D resistivity model. First, the RR-PSO algorithm is built and tested to invert synthetic data to evaluate the algorithm's performance. In this stage, the similarity index and several statistical parameters of the inversion results were calculated. After the synthetic test, the algorithm is implemented on field data inversion. The result shows that the RR-PSO algorithm has successfully inverted both the synthetic and field data. In the synthetic test, the similarity index obtained is more than 95%. The 1-D resistivity model from field data inversion indicates at the depth of 20 – 55 m a high resistivity anomaly that is identified as shallow gas. For further study, the RR-PSO algorithm could be implemented for other VES data to construct 2-D resistivity model in the study area (Palm Hills Resident area, south Balikpapan) for imaging the shallow gas presence as a mitigation measure.
FLUX 2.0: Sustainable Furniture Production with Modular 3D Printed Joinery System
Authors: Zainal Abdullah Muhamad Ezran , Abdul Hamid Nor Hamizah , Jaafar Jarfrulhizam , Mohd Anwar Mohd Firuz , Sukri Siti Nurul Diana
Published: November 2023

The Malaysian furniture industry confronts a complex landscape defined by conventional wood joinery practices, resulting in rising material wastage, labour-intensive procedures, and intricate logistical challenges. This research explores designers' perceptions regarding sustainable furniture production and the feasibility of integrating modular 3D-printed joinery within an ergo-aesthetic framework. Data was collected through a survey (n = 424) in Malaysia. The analysis revealed significant correlations for senses and external influence (r = 0.325, p < 0.05), strong external influence with design attributes (r = 0.549, p < 0.05), and substantive design attributes with external influence connection (r = 0.580, p < 0.05). Ergonomic components highlight the correlations between physical with cognitive (r = 0.525, p < 0.05), cognitive with organisational (r = 0.547, p < 0.05), and organisational with physical (r = 0.546, p < 0.05). Incorporating physical ergonomics, comfort, usability, and user interaction, alongside cultural considerations, provides opportunities to improve functionality and user satisfaction in prototypes. By understanding designers' perspectives on sustainable furniture production and assessing modular 3D printed joinery, the study explains the relationship between design elements, sensory factors, aesthetics, and sustainable practices.
The Potential of High Flow Concrete Mixtures Utilizing Recycled Coal Bottom Ash as Underground Cable Trench Backfill Material
Authors: Yusop Hanafi , Yapandi Md. Fauzan Kamal Md. , Zainal Mohamed Fetri , Abbas Nor Aishah , Pangah Mohd. Azraei , Nor Arifin Nur Amira
Published: November 2023

In this study, the potential recycling Coal Bottom Ash (CBA) through replacing sand in flowable fill for cable trench backfill is determined. The new material is targeted to replace the soil backfill of narrow trenches to mitigate problems related to compacting soil backfill.. Targets were set for the workability, flowability, compressive strength and thermal resistivity, which corresponds to suitable properties for cable trench backfill. Three (3) concrete mixes were made as preliminary trial mixes for preliminary testing. Mix No.1 is a control mix made with cement and sand. Mix No.2 was prepared through substituting 50% of the natural sand content of Mix No.1 with CBA. In Mix No.3, CBA is fully used as the aggregate. In the Slump test, only that Mix No.3 fulfils the workability and flowability targets. All three mixes exceeded the limits for compressive strength. It is found that only Mix No.1 and Mix No.2 fulfils the requirement for thermal resistivity. In conclusion, recycled CBA can potentially be utilized in flowable fill for underground cable trench backfill, however more studies must be conducted to further improve the mix design to fulfil the requirements.
A Study on The Abundance of Microplastic Pollutant in Residential Tap Water
Authors: Mohd Nor Nur Afifah Nasuha , Shamsul Azahar Izzat Muqri , Saipolbahri Nurain , Subki Noor Syuhadah
Published: November 2023

Plastic pollution is one of the most pervasive and sinister ecological threats worldwide. Microplastics (MP), is a small piece of plastic and its size is less than 5 millimetres. They were existed from various sources, including personal care products, synthetic clothing, and plastic litter. Microplastics have been found in a wide range of environmental matrices, including soil, sediment, and surface water. The presence of microplastics in tap water has received considerable attention in recent years. This study focuses on the presence of microplastics (count) and the types of microplastics pollutants (chemical properties) in tap water as the drinking water sources in the residential area. Approximately, 120 L of water samples was collected from tap water in houses/shops using random sampling method in four sampling sites. The presence of microplastic in the tap water might come from many sources. In this study, a light microscope and Micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy instrument have been used to identify the presence of microplastics precisely. From the analysis, three types of microplastics were found in the tap water samples which are cellulose, cellophane, and poly (2, 2, 2-trifluoroethyl vinyl ether). In conclusion, there are presence of microplastic in tap water at the residential area which is used as the drinking water sources. Since microplastics found in drinking water is one of the potential health risks to human by exposing direct plastic ingestion, microplastic contamination in water supply systems should be controlled.
Assessment of traffic noise pollution at residential and school areas in Jeli, Kelantan
Authors: Kedri Farah Khaliz , Ahamed Fatin Nurzulaikha Nazeer , Sukri Nor Sayzwani , Christianus Irene
Published: November 2023

The development of roads interconnects communities and has become important for economic and social development. Higher traffic noise level is often reflected by the increase in the number of vehicles. This paper discussed the relationship between noise level and vehicle density in the study area. The aim of this study was to assess the traffic noise pollution occurring in the residential and school areas in Jeli, Kelantan. The traffic noise measurement was collected using a sound level meter for three consecutive months (July, August and September 2023). The traffic volume was recorded by traffic surveying. The assessments were carried out from 8.00 a.m – 8.00 p.m. The recorded noise levels were compared with the permissible limit (Malaysian noise limit). The highest noise level recorded was 85.9 dBA, well over the permissible limit of 60 dBA by DOE. This was due to the high number of vehicles passing by the road in the study area and the highest number of vehicles recorded was 4976 during sampling time in July at Kg Gemang. Overall, the traffic noise assessments for this study were beyond the standard limit set by DOE during daytime. This considerably high noise could lead to other health effects for the residents.
Reshaping History: Modernising Heritage Timber Buildings through Adaptive Reuse - Lessons from Istana Jahar
Authors: Mohamad Juliza , Hanafi Nik Nurul Hana , Anuar Nor Hafizah , Md Alwi Najah , Che Mohd Nasir Siti Nuratirah
Published: November 2023

This study examines the modernisation of heritage timber buildings through adaptive reuse, focusing on the case of Istana Jahar. It aims to explore the challenges and opportunities of integrating modern building services like electricity, air-conditioning, and water plumbing into these historical structures while preserving their significance. The central research problem involves finding strategies to balance introducing modern services with preserving authenticity. The study uses a mixed-methods approach involving qualitative analysis of historical records, architectural documentation, and site visits. By analysing Istana Jahar's historical context, architectural features, and current state, it assesses how modern building services can be incorporated with minimal impact on the building's historic fabric. The findings reveal best practices for integrating modern building services while maintaining historical authenticity. The study identifies trends in Istana Jahar's adaptation to modern needs, emphasising the need for a careful balance between heritage preservation and contemporary functionality. The conclusions drawn from this case offer context-specific recommendations for adaptive reuse of similar heritage timber buildings. Drawing lessons from Istana Jahar demonstrates how heritage timber buildings can be thoughtfully modernised while preserving their cultural and architectural integrity, reshaping history, and safeguarding our built heritage for future generations.