bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electromagnetically induced transparency and absorption cross-over with a four-level Rydberg system
Authors: Oyun Yağız , Çakır Özgür , Sevinçli Sevilay
Published: May 2022

Electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) and absorption (EIA) are quantum coherence phenomena which result from the interference of excitation pathways. Combining these with Rydberg atoms have opened up many possibilities for various applications. We introduce a theoretical model to study Rydberg-EIT and Rydberg-EIA effects in cold Cs and Rb atomic ensembles in a four-level ladder type scheme taking into account van der Waals type interactions between the atoms. The proposed many-body method for analysis of such systems involves a self-consistent mean field approach and it produces results which display a very good agreement with recent experiments. Our calculations also successfully demonstrate experimentally observed EIT-EIA cross-over in the Rb case. Being able to simulate the interaction effects in such systems has significant importance, especially for controlling the optical response of these.
Change Volmer–Weber to Frank–van der Merwe growth model of epitaxial BiVO4 film
Authors: Zhai Pengwei , Kou Shiwen , Peng Yaru , Shi Yuxin , Jiang Haoxiang , Li Guoqiang
Published: May 2022

A continuous bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) thin film is necessary for the study of physical properties. In previous studies, it grows in the Volmer–Weber model, and shows the island morphology. Here, we realize the change of growth model from the Volmer–Weber to the Frank–van der Merwe growth model by selecting the different substrates during the preparation via magnetron sputtering method. The BiVO4 thin films on strontium titanate (STO (100)) substrate and yttrium stabilized zirconia (YSZ (001)) substrate was grown in in Frank–van der Merwe model and Volmer–Weber model, respectively. The BiVO4 thin films on STO (100) and YSZ (001) is oriented on (h00) and (0k0) of monoclinic structure.
Effect of semiconducting nature of ZnO interfacial layer on inverted organic solar cell performance
Authors: Sreedharan Anjusree , Das Bikas C
Published: May 2022

The light-soaking effect is one of the major drawbacks for inverted organic solar cells (OSCs) if metal oxides are used as the electron transport layer (ETL). The oxide ETL primarily originates the above effect from the energy barrier, deep level defects, and excess carriers tunneling. Here, electron-beam evaporated high-quality pristine and post-treated e-ZnO thin films are utilized to fabricate inverted OSC as the ETL between the transparent cathode and active bulk-heterojunction PBDB-T-2Cl:PC61BM layer to study the influence on device performance. Various experimental techniques, including AFM, XRD, XPS, and UPS, are utilized to identify the surface and semiconducting properties of differently treated interfacial e-ZnO films precisely. XPS results reveal the variation of oxygen vacancies and adsorbed oxygen species on the surface of e-ZnO layers. The semiconducting nature of various e-ZnO thin films for the use of ETL are also probed with the help of UPS results, which accurately locate the valence band maximum and Fermi level position. After correlating the property of e-ZnO systematically with the respective OSC device performance, it is found that the deeper valence band top and higher n-type nature of e-ZnO is desirable to depict the light soaking free highest solar cell efficiency and large open-circuit voltage of about 0.97 V in a single junction. The presence of lesser chemisorbed oxygen species over the e-ZnO surface might be an added advantage to demonstrate the light soaking free operation in inverted OSC devices.
Temperature effects on the conductance, spin-valley polarization and tunneling magnetoresistance of single magnetic silicene junctions
Authors: Rojas-Briseño J G , Villasana-Mercado P , Briones-Torres J A , Oubram O , Molina-Valdovinos S , Rodríguez-Vargas I
Published: May 2022

Magnetic silicene junctions are versatile structures with spin-valley polarization and magnetoresistive capabilities. Here, we investigate the temperature effects on the transport properties of single magnetic silicene junctions. We use the transfer matrix method and the Landauer–Büttiker formalism to calculate the transmittance, conductance, spin-valley polarization and tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR). We studied the case for T = 0 K, finding the specific parameters where the spin-valley polarization and the TMR reach optimized values. Regarding the temperature effects, we find that its impact is not the same on the different transport properties. In the case of the conductance, depending on the spin-valley configuration the resonant peaks disappear at different temperatures. The spin polarization persists at a considerable value up to T = 80 K, contrary to the valley polarization which is more susceptible to the temperature effects. In addition, a stepwise spin-valley polarization can be achieved at low temperature. The TMR is attenuated considerably as the temperature rises, decreasing more than two orders of magnitude after T = 20 K. These findings indicate that in order to preserve the spin-valley polarization and magnetoresistive capabilities of magnetic silicene junctions is fundamental to modulate the temperature adequately.
Novel training method for metal-oxide memristive synapse device to overcome trade-off between linearity and dynamic range
Authors: Seo Jongseon , Han Geonhui , Lee Daeseok
Published: May 2022

Synapse devices are essential for the hardware implementation of neuromorphic computing systems. However, it is difficult to realize ideal synapse devices because of issues such as nonlinear conductance change (linearity) and a small number of conductance states (dynamic range). In this study, the correlation between the linearity and dynamic range was investigated. Consequently, we found a trade-off relationship between the linearity and dynamic range and proposed a novel training method to overcome this trade-off.
On characterising assemblages in Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen scenarios
Authors: Rossi Vinicius P , Hoban Matty J , Sainz Ana Belén
Published: May 2022

Characterising non-classical quantum phenomena is crucial not only from a fundamental perspective, but also to better understand its capabilities for information processing and communication tasks. In this work, we focus on exploring the characterisation of Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen inference (a.k.a. steering): a signature of non-classicality manifested when one or more parties in a Bell scenario have their systems and measurements described by quantum theory, rather than being treated as black boxes. We propose a way of characterising common-cause assemblages from the correlations that arise when the trusted party performs tomographically-complete measurements on their share of the experiment, and discuss the advantages and challenges of this approach. Within this framework, we show that so-called almost quantum assemblages satisfy the principle of macroscopic noncontextuality, and demonstrate that a subset of almost quantum correlations recover almost quantum assemblages in this approach.
SARS-CoV-2 RNA load and detection rate in exhaled breath condensate collected from COVID-19 patients infected with Delta variant
Authors: Sawano Makoto , Takeshita Kyousuke , Ohno Hideaki , Oka Hideaki
Published: May 2022

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Delta variant is considered responsible for worldwide surges in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in 2021, with increased infectivity compared to the wild type (Wuhan-1). In a previous study, we identified temporal changes in wild-type SARS-CoV-2 RNA load and detection rate in EBC collected from COVID-19 patients. The primary objective of this study was to clarify temporal changes in Delta-variant SARS-CoV-2 RNA load and detection rates in EBC collected from patients, and to validate the feasibility of Delta-variant SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection from EBC for diagnosing COVID-19. The secondary objective was to compare SARS-CoV-2 RNA loads in EBC between Delta-variant and wild-type. Subjects were 41 COVID-19 patients infected with the Delta-variant. EBC samples were collected from subjects on the day of or the day after admission using R-tube® (Respiratory Research, Austin, Texas, USA), as in our previous study. SARS-CoV-2 RNA in EBC samples was detected and quantified by RT-PCR assay targeting the E gene, using the same settings and reagents as in the previous study. The results indicated that SARS-CoV-2 RNA load in EBC collected from subjects infected with Delta-variant decreased exponentially with the passage of days from symptom onset. Sustained high detection rates support the feasibility of Delta-variant SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection from EBC by RT-PCR assay as a diagnostic test for COVID-19 within 8 d of onset. SARS-CoV-2 RNA load in EBC collected 2–8 d from onset was significantly higher in Delta-variant-infected subjects than in wild-type-infected subjects on a day-to-day basis (p = 0.005–0.029). However, because of the heterogeneity of the study cohort, conclusions cannot be reached regarding differences in viral RNA load between strains, regardless of the timing of EBC collection.
Approaching to Energy Delivery Services Model for Royal Belum Orang Asli Community
Authors: Mahmud A M , Shaffii H , Mohamed Yunus M S
Published: May 2022

As the nation continues to develop to become developed country, the need for rural area development is essential to ensure no one is left behind. Development for rural area requires improvement in basic infrastructure such as road, electricity and water; and growth in economic that to enhancing the lifestyle of rural community and to preserve the ecosystem, culture and heritage values. Even though so much rural development programs and initiatives has been in place for many years now, some part of the Orang Asli community is still un-developed such as those who lives in Royal Belum Park. Their basic needs of energy, clean water and road access are considered lacking as compared to other populations and poverty is the main issue that need to be addressed properly. The research aim was to examine, understand and align the Orang Asli community needs, opportunity & constraint for sustainable livelihood in terms of socio-economic, technology, cultural & heritage context. It was found that the needs and demand of the Orang Asli community in Royal Belum shall focus on the requirement to having electricity supply to the village that gives direct influence on other needs and demand in term of socio-cultural context. Subsequently, the study concludes with a list of approaches and strategies of action plan to establish an energy delivery services model that inclusively utilize all factors and context in socio-cultural, environmental and support services.
Comparative Study between Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) and IBS 2D: A Case Study of School Extension Project in Malaysia
Authors: Tambichik M A , Sherliza Z S , Abdullah N A
Published: May 2022

Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) is a modular construction system that adopts modern practices in the construction industry. It is an innovative approach introduced to increase construction productivity and reduce high reliance on on-site manpower. PPVC uses prefabricated technology whereby the production of 3-dimensional (3D) modules complete with building finishes and fittings is carried out under controlled conditions at the factory before being brought and installed at the construction site. However, lack of study has been done to see whether this system could be implemented in Malaysia. Therefore, this study is conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of PPVC method in the construction industry in Malaysia. The objective of this study is to make a comparison, in terms of time and cost, between PPVC method and the conventional Industrialized Building System (IBS) 2D method. The results shows that the PPVC method was able to shorten the construction period up to 34.9% compared to when using IBS 2D. However, the construction cost per classroom using PPVC method was increases up to 10.5% higher.
The Technology Landscape of Construction Material in The Indonesian Construction Industry
Authors: Pradoto R G K , Soemardi B W , Gazali A , Putri A T , Purba R P , Mahardika I
Published: May 2022

The Indonesian construction industry is one of the main sectors to support the economic growth in the country. According to a report published by the World Economic Forum, the construction industry currently accounts for about 6% of the world’s GDP. It is expected to reach around 14.7% by 2030. However, on the other hand, the image experienced by the construction sector is dominated by something low-tech, still relying on craft-based methods, characterized by poor performance and low quality. Therefore, it is essential that to better support the nation’s development, it is necessary for the Indonesian construction industry to invest more in the adoption, development, and application of technology. Material technology plays an essential role in construction projects. Based on a survey conducted to 40 Indonesian contractors, it was found that the priority of using concrete and steel materials ranked at the top during normal conditions and the covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, data about the history of development, utilization, and potential of construction technology, especially concrete and steel materials in Indonesia, is almost non-existent. This study aims to present the technological landscape of concrete and steel construction material, providing an overall view of the historical development of the utilization, contribution, and strategy for developing future construction material technology in Indonesia. In contrast, the information data is considered essential to help formulate policies regarding developing and utilizing construction technology in Indonesia. Therefore, this study will map the landscape of technology material in Indonesia. The methodology to be used is literature studies, interviews, and questionnaires.
Waste Polyethylene Terephthalate granules modified by gamma irradiation and their effect as fine aggregates on moisture damage of asphalt mixtures
Authors: Usman A , Sutanto M H , Napiah M , Al-Sabaeei A M , Yaro N S A , Kumalasari I , Saeed S M
Published: May 2022

Recently, the excessive quantity of waste polyethylene terephthalate (WPET) creates a significant environmental concern globally. One way to reuse WPET is in the pavement industry as secondary materials. Nevertheless, based on works of literature review on the use of WPET in asphalt materials, inconsistent findings were reported with an increase and decrease in mechanical properties. To overcome this issue, gamma radiation has been utilized on the WPET. This study investigated the effect of using non-irradiated and irradiated WPET on some engineering properties of asphalt mixes. Marshall Samples incorporating a various amount of WPET (Plastiphalt); 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0% and 2.5% by weight of total aggregates were tested based on Marshall Stability (MS), indirect tensile strength (ITS), and resistance to moisture damage. The results of x-ray diffraction (XRD) on the irradiated WPET showed that the degree of crystallinity had increased. The results of Marshall Stability (MS) showed an enhancement with increasing WPET content up to 2.0% for the plastiphalt mixes. Marshall Quotient, and ITS show a decreasing trend with increasing WPET amount for the plastiphalt mixes. Furthermore, results on moisture damage resistance indicated that indirect tensile strength and Marshall Stability ratios were marginally increased for plastiphalt mixes compared to the reference mixture (0% WPET). Comparing the moisture sensitivity tolerance results for the WPET modified mixes shows that irradiated WPET plastiphalt mixes had a better outcome than non-irradiated WPET plastiphalt mixes.
An overview of speed model study under different types of facilities in Malaysian roadway system
Authors: Syed Abbas S K , Md Diah J , Adnan M A , Rosli A Y
Published: May 2022

The present paper reviewed past studies related to speed model studies and the measured traffic parameters used by other researchers. The purpose of the paper is to discover the relationships between speeds with the differences in roadway condition & characteristics, traffic composition, driver behaviour and to propose a research gap related to the future study of Malaysian road conditions. Fundamental relationships were observed over different parameters and were found to be significantly different. However, under uninterrupted flow facilities, using free-flow speed as a prediction for highway capacity analysis and determining the level-of-service (LOS), the time headway threshold, and the speed of observations at certain flow rates must be carefully studied to represent the free-flow speed in ideal conditions. The paper review helps the authors find research gaps for an in-depth investigation of the free-flow speed on Malaysian highways or expressways. Hence, the finding from the paper reviewed will be used in a future research study on developing a free-flow speed model based on the basic section of roadway in Malaysia.
GIS communicate emergency preparedness mapping: the usability for rural area
Authors: Johari N S , Abdullah N M , Mohd Bukari S
Published: May 2022

The importance of geographic information system (GIS) in daily life is well known as it is really helpful and eases the user. GIS is basically a database system with software that can analyse and display data using digitized maps and tables for planning and decision-making. Unfortunately, there are people in rural area that far from unreachable to apply this GIS tool in life. Thus, this reviewed study aimed to provide further understanding of the application of GIS in emergency preparedness for rural areas. It also will be able to recognize a management information system for rural planning. This systematic literature review concentrates on previous research starting from 2015 to 2020 to evaluate the application of GIS in mapping, transportation planning and network service. From 24 papers that have been analysed under eligibility test, 37.5% of them reviewed on the application of GIS, another 37.5% on emergency preparedness and 25% for rural area. The result shows there is a common type of knowledge and the way it can respond to emergency preparedness. Nevertheless, there are fewer cases related to rural areas and it shows the need for more case studies and experimental research to support this promising field. In conclusion, to meet present day and future information needs for emergency preparedness, more attention needs to be given to evaluate the effectiveness of GIS in rural areas.
A Study of Traffic Congestion Influenced by the Pattern of Land Use
Authors: Yap J Y , Omar N , Ismail I
Published: May 2022

Traffic congestion has contributed to economic loss and increased the number of traffic accidents. Previous studies have revealed that the land use pattern in Kuala Lumpur is dispersed and leads to traffic congestion. Thus, this study is to investigate the type of land use that affect the traffic congestion in Kuala Lumpur. The data in this study was collected by using 384 design questionnaires and analysed by using descriptive analysis. The results showed that the high proportion of commercial land use causes the highest level of traffic congestion. This study makes contributions as a reference for the students to gain knowledge on how traffic congestion is influenced by the land use pattern and appropriate land use planning such as mixed-land use or grid plan are important to reduce traffic congestion.
A Study on Check Dam Design at Peat Soil Area for Peat Fire Management
Authors: Malikhazulkifli M F D , Yusoff N A , Tuan Chik T N , Muhamad Sa’ed M I , Yahya M A
Published: May 2022

In the past decade, incidents of peatland fires have occurred in Malaysia, especially during the prolonged dry weather between February to May and July to October of each year. The canal blocking system or check dam is commonly used to control water tables in peatland. The objectives of this paper are to review the common check dam used for peat fire management. Next to propose a suitable check dam for peat fire management and to prepare a Sketchup model. The case study at Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve (AHFR) is located in the district of Muar, Johor State, with a total area of 3,797 ha. There are four phases in designing a check dam. There are four phases in designing a check dam. Phase I is to review the check dam that have has been produced before. Next, phase II is a design concept for a check dam that is suitable for construction on peatland areas. Phase III, engineering design, involves calculations related to engineering, AutoCAD drawings, and construction price estimates. Phase IV is the last phase to produce a model using a paper model or Sketchup software. In conclusion, the study manages to innovate a check dam for peat fire management at Ayer Hitam, Muar.
A Review: GGBS as a Cement Replacement in Concrete
Authors: Ainie Mat Dom Adek , Jamaluddin Norwati , Azlina Abdul Hamid Noor , Siok Hoon Chew
Published: May 2022

Numerous infrastructures have been effectual on the list with the demands of Malaysia’s economic growth due to the country’s explosive growth. As a result, demand for cement has increased, prompting one of the country’s largest cement producers to increase production. Cement production necessitates a significant quantity of finite supplies, such as stock and hydrocarbon deposit which is expected to produce 5-6 percent of all carbon dioxide greenhouse emissions. This paper emphasizes the viability of GGBS for certain value in cement, as implied by earlier studies. GGBS is a waste product deduced from the iron and steel industries. The use of GGBS as a cement replacement in concrete is desirable since it has equivalent cement fineness and cementitious properties. The specific gravity, specific surface, GGBS’s chemical composition and impact of GGBS on water absorption were discussed in this study. Replacing GGBS in concrete production reduced the highest point heat of hydration rate and time. The use of GGBS as a partial cement substitute in the range of 30% to 60% developed strength at longer hardening periods.
Initial properties of 3D printing concrete using Rice Husk Ash (RHA) as Partial Cement Replacement
Authors: Samad Nur Afifah Izzati Abd , Abdullah Siti Radziah , Ibrahim Mustaffa , Shahidan Shahiron , Ismail Noorli
Published: May 2022

3D printing concrete is an alternative technology for construction industry that are gaining interest among the developers and contractors worldwide. 3D printing concrete requires a good quality printing material that are buildable, strong and durable to be used as construction material. This present study uses Rice Husk Ash (RHA) as cement material replacement in in 3D printing concrete. Initial investigation was carried out to assess the suitability of RHA as cement replacement by conducting basic cement test such as cement consistency, setting time and workability of the mortar. The amount of RHA was constant at 20% used as cement replacement. From this study, the appropriate water-binder ratio of RHA cement replacement was 0.45:1. As for setting time, the time required for mortar mix to be transport and delivered through the nozzles for 3D printing was achieved by implemented the 20% RHA as cement replacement which are initial time at 155 minutes and final time at 312 minutes. The flowability of the mortar with RHA were found to be printable and achieve the requirements of mortar for 3D printing. Hence, RHA exhibits promising material to be used as cement replacement in 3D printing construction.
Study of Water Quality Based on Diversity of Macroinvertebrates Using Average Score Per Taxon Method in Corporate Social Responsibility Program Approach at Gunung Belumut and Gunung Lambak Waterfall
Authors: Aqilah Zakiah J , Mohd Ariff A N , Noor Aliza A
Published: May 2022

Bio-monitoring techniques used in evaluating water quality helps in monitoring the ecosystem balanced of the water. This study aims to focus on the water quality properties such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, and the bio-indicator method by evaluating macroinvertebrates diversity using the Average Score Per Taxon (ASPT) method. Besides, a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program was conducted with an approach with primary school students of Sekolah Kebangsaan LKTP Ulu Dengar, and Sekolah Kebangsaan Abdul Rahman Yassin, Kluang as a pilot program as it is effective in student learning platform and knowledge transfer program. The water quality according to ASPT analysis for upstream of Hutan Lipur Gunung Belumut waterfall is scored 7.94 (very clean water) while for downstream of Hutan Rekreasi Gunung Lambak waterfall scored 5.53 (rather clean to clean water). It is a relevant outcome of water quality level based on the diversity of macroinvertebrates in the river using the ASPT method and the correlation with the in-situ analysis has been supporting the preferred properties of water condition for the macroinvertebrates cycle. In conclusion, the result of water quality in the upstream is relatively good compared to the downstream. The methods and approaches applied were dependable in estimating the current water quality level of the river.
Pre-Treatment of Laundry Greywater by Steel Slag for Safe Disposal
Authors: Ramdzan S N , Mohamed R M S R , Kamaruzaman N H , Gheeti A A S A , Hamdan R , Musa Sabariah
Published: May 2022

Direct discharge of laundry greywater without any water pre-treatment in the drainage system has become a common practice in Malaysia. The study aimed to utilise steel slag as an adsorbent material for commercial laundry shop runoff (CLSR) to reduce chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total phosphorus (TP). Optimisation of the pollutants removal efficiency in CSLR by steel slag used Response Surface Methodology (RSM) using independent variables; different percentages of CLSR with tap water and contact time. The highest removal efficiency obtained for COD was 54.49% at 100% CLSR with tap water and 60 minutes of contact time. TP removal efficiency was 45.45% at 10% CLSR with tap water and 90 minutes of contact time. Thus, steel slag can increase the pH value, reducing the COD and TP values from CLSR in a short period. Hence, steel slag has the potential to be included in the “pre-treatment” system for CLSR based on its performance at COD and TP removal efficiency. From RSM, the model F-value and P-value for COD and TP were 5.89 and 10.62, 0.0166 and 0.0036, respectively. These values validated that the model was significant. Therefore, the study can contribute to the safe disposal of untreated laundry greywater to minimise environmental degradation.
Evaluation of Rainwater Harvesting Systems in Three Major cities of New South Wales
Authors: Preeti P , Rahman A
Published: May 2022

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems are becoming more popular to reduce pressure on mains water as well as to serve as a sole freshwater supply system in rural areas. Australia is a large continent with highly variable rainfall and hence performance of a RWH system varies from location to location. This paper presents reliability and water-saving potential of a RWH system in three major cities namely Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong of New South Wales (NSW) State of Australia. A python-based daily water balance model is built to analyse the performance of a RWH system, which uses rainfall, loss, water demand and roof catchment data. To enable selection of ideal rainwater tank size for the selected locations, three different water uses (toilet and laundry, irrigation, and combined use) and five tank sizes (1, 5, 10, 20 and 30 kL) are considered. It is found that the rainwater tank size is influenced by roof area, number of users, water demand and rainfall characteristics. This study will help in decision-making regarding implementation of a RWH system in these Australian cities. This research also contributes towards achieving water related sustainable development goals (SDG).
Innovative Trend Analysis of Reference Crop Evapotranspiration in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Yong S L S , Ng J L , Huang Y F , Ang C K
Published: May 2022

The inconsistencies in reference crop evapotranspiration (ET0) trends due to the occurrence of climate change have been detected over the world. This has substantially affected both the local and global water resources. The objective of this study is to investigate the historical trend of ET0 and its meteorological variables in Peninsular Malaysia. The meteorological data in daily scale, such as minimum, maximum and mean air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and solar radiation covering the 2000-2019 period were obtained from Malaysian Meteorological Department and used to compute the ET0 estimation using FAO-56 Penman Monteith model. Then, innovative trend analysis was employed to detect the variations trends in ET0 and its meteorological variables. In the study area, the results showed that significant positive ET0 trends were found at Ipoh (8.09), Kuantan (15.10) and Subang (12.7620) stations respectively and no significant negative ET0 trend can be found. The finding of the study can be used to achieve support and improvement in the efficiency of irrigation regions and optimal water resources planning and utilization.
Frequency Analysis on Groundwater Consumption and Water Billed to the Community in Kelantan
Authors: Aqilah Fatini Che Ayob Nur , Musa Sabariah
Published: May 2022

Groundwater use in Malaysia is natural due to its high frequency. The survey study was conducted in northern Kelantan because the problem in this area is the increased use of groundwater, specially sourced from shallow aquifers among the local community. As a result, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the elements that influence the frequency of groundwater consumption and the projected expenses that the community will be responsible for paying in the state. The population of Kelantan was 1.88 million in 2019[1]. The number of people who participated in this survey is 89 people from 10 districts. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) manages and analyses social science data obtained from the study. Studies show that the frequency of using groundwater is high (94.4%) among the community. The cost of electricity bills is low when getting a high percentage value (98.9%) which supports the statement. The “Chi-square” test was used to determine some of the relationships studied, such as groundwater knowledge in the community, frequency of groundwater use, electricity bills charged to each home, and groundwater quality. The results show that the p-value is more effective than 0.05, referring to the relationship between groundwater knowledge and groundwater use. The p-value is also more significant than 0.5, referring to the relationship between groundwater quality and groundwater use.Meanwhile, the relationship between groundwater consumption and electricity bill, knowledge of groundwater benefits with groundwater consumption, and the relationship between groundwater color and odoris less than 0.05. With the study done, it can be proven that groundwater is very high in the community and the bills charged are very cheap and affordable. Therefore, groundwater use needs to be highlighted for its widespread use throughout Malaysia.
Potential Alternative Evapotranspiration Estimation Methods for Batu Pahat Climatic Condition: A Quantitative Comparison
Authors: Kasmin H , Abd Razak K A , Buzaimi A S , Mohd Azman H N , Muhammad Suhaimi A F , Wan Mohamed W A , Rahmat S N , Ahmad N A
Published: May 2022

Urbanisation had replaced the vegetation and soil cover, increasing heat retention by reducing the benefits of natural cooling mechanisms provided by evapotranspiration. The objective of this study is to investigate the potential of the alternative estimation performance for selected evapotranspiration (ET) methods for Batu Pahat station; for further prediction on the changes of future climatic parameters. Since the data is limited, ET0 estimation using temperature-based used are the Thornthwaite, Blaney-Criddle (original) and FAO Blaney-Criddle methods. Standard data formulation based on Batu Pahat latitude for meteorological parameters were used to estimate ET0 using basic radiation-based, the Penman (original) and Turc methods. Correlation results show that all three temperature-based methods estimated a similar range of ET0. For the radiation-based method, the Turc method seems slightly overestimated than the other four methods. However, these estimation needs to be explored further using the benchmark method, i.e., the FAO-56 Penman-Monteith, for the accuracy and reliabilities of these methods. Apart from temperature, it was found that ET0 did not correlate with rainfall and evaporation.
Fluorescence intensity ratio technique and its reliability
Authors: Kesarwani Vishab , Rai Vineet Kumar
Published: May 2022

The present article reports the optical absorption and upconversion (UC) studies of 1.0 mol% Er3+/2.0 mol% Yb3+ doped/codoped glasses prepared by melt-quenching technique. The elements present and the composition of the prepared glass have been confirmed from XPS and XRF analysis respectively. Judd-Ofelt intensity parameters have been calculated using the absorption spectrum which is further utilized to predict the nature of Er_O bond, the transition probabilities, branching ratios and radiative lifetimes. The CIE study shows non-colour tunable and highly pure green emission (94.2%). The temperature-dependent UC emission spectra of the 2.0 mol% Yb3+ sensitized glass have been recorded at three different pump power densities to establish a reliable FIR based temperature scale. Furthermore, the Arrhenius fitting of the temperature-dependent spectra reveals low thermal quenching of green luminescence in the codoped glass.
Scalable production of p-MoTe2/n-MoS2 heterostructure array and its application for self-powered photodetectors and CMOS inverters
Authors: Chen Xinyu , Chen Honglei , Sun Yangye , Zhang Simeng , Xia Yin , Zhang David Wei , Zhou Peng , Li Wenwu , Sun Zhengzong , Bao Wenzhong
Published: May 2022

Recent advances in van der Waals heterostructures have extensively promoted the development of new-generation electronic devices. However, the normally utilized mechanical exfoliation method for preparing two-dimensional semiconductors is not scalable for circuit-level application. Herein, the fabrication and characterization of wafer-scale heterostructure arrays composed of multilayer 2H-MoTe2 and single-layer 2H-MoS2 are demonstrated. Owing to the type-II band alignment facilitating efficient electron–hole separation, the devices fabricated by the p-MoTe2/n-MoS2 heterostructure exhibit an excellent gate-tunable PN diode behavior, with a rectification ratio of over 103 and a self-powered photocurrent with a remarkable on–off ratio of ∼103 at a zero bias voltage. Complementary inverter arrays based on p-MoTe2/n-MoS2 are also demonstrated. The scalable production of p–n junction devices and complementary inverters paves the way for future integrated platforms in photoelectric detection and logic computation.
The information-theoretic foundation of thermodynamic work extraction
Authors: Marletto Chiara
Published: May 2022

In this paper I demonstrate a novel distinction between work and heat, in terms of the distinguishability of states. Specifically, I show that if it is possible to extract different amounts of work deterministically from a physical system prepared in any one of a set of states, then those states must be distinguishable from one another. This result is formulated independently of scale and of particular dynamical laws; it also provides a novel connection between thermodynamics and information theory, established via the law of conservation of energy. This connection, unlike the well-known one between information and the second law, is exact, i.e., it does not depend on coarse-graining or ensemble approximation. Albeit compatible with these conclusions, existing thermodynamics approaches cannot provide a result of such generality, because they are scale-dependent (relying on ensembles or coarse-graining) or tied to particular dynamical laws. This result provides a foundation for thermodynamics that is both broader and more secure than existing ones, with implications for the theory of von Neumann’s universal constructor.
Ternary metal oxide substrates for superconducting circuits
Authors: Degnan Zach , He Xin , Frieiro Alejandro Gomez , Sachkou Yauhen P , Fedorov Arkady , Jacobson Peter
Published: May 2022

Substrate material imperfections and surface losses are one of the major factors limiting superconducting quantum circuitry from reaching the scale and complexity required to build a practical quantum computer. One potential path towards higher coherence of superconducting quantum devices is to explore new substrate materials with a reduced density of imperfections due to inherently different surface chemistries. Here, we examine two ternary metal oxide materials, spinel (MgAl2O4) and lanthanum aluminate (LaAlO3), with a focus on surface and interface characterization and preparation. Devices fabricated on LaAlO3 have quality factors three times higher than those of earlier devices, which we attribute to a reduction in the interfacial disorder. MgAl2O4 is a new material in superconducting quantum devices, and even in the presence of significant surface disorder, it consistently outperforms LaAlO3. Our results highlight the importance of materials exploration, substrate preparation, and characterization for identifying materials suitable for high-performance superconducting quantum circuitry.
Efficient nanozyme engineering for antibacterial therapy
Authors: Feng Yonghai , Chen Funing , Rosenholm Jessica M , Liu Lei , Zhang Hongbo
Published: May 2022

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a huge threat to human health. It is urgent to explore efficient ways to suppress the spread of AMR. Antibacterial nanozymes have become one of the powerful weapons to combat AMR due to their enzyme-like catalytic activity with a broad-spectrum antibacterial performance. However, the inherent low catalytic activity of nanozymes limits their expansion into antibacterial applications. In this regard, a variety of advanced chemical design strategies have been developed to improve the antimicrobial activity of nanozymes. In this review, we have summarized the recent progress of advanced strategies to engineer efficient nanozymes for fighting against AMR, which can be mainly classified as catalytic activity improvement, external stimuli, bacterial affinity enhancement, and multifunctional platform construction according to the basic principles of engineering efficient nanocatalysts and the mechanism of nanozyme catalysis. Moreover, the deep insights into the effects of these enhancing strategies on the nanozyme structures and properties are highlighted. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives of antibacterial nanozymes are discussed for their future clinical potential.
The Special Commission to Advance Macro Practice
Authors: Bailey Darlyne , Mizrahi Terry , Smith Jenay
Published: May 2022

The original goal of the Special Commission to Advance Macro Practice in Social Work was to increase macro social work courses and enrollments in master of social work programs to 20% nationally by 2020. Some saw this as more of a vision, with the numbers in 2013 closer to 8%. Nonetheless, through partnerships with other organizations, forming collaborations and networks, and joining advocacy coalitions, the Special Commission continues to move forward to achieve this goal. The essence of the Special Commission’s purpose remains the same: to monitor and reinforce the viability of macro social work education in professional schools and programs to ensure the most effective social work practice for all served.

This article provides the story of the Special Commission from inception through early 2022. It begins with the history (i.e., mission, leadership, structure, staffing, systems, and strategy), highlights accomplishments to date, and concludes with the envisioned future directions of the Special Commission along with anticipated challenges and opportunities. A case example in the appendix describes the process by which the Special Commission engaged its allies and supporters to complete major projects.
Coupling cognitive and brainstem dysfunction in multiple sclerosis-related chronic neuropathic limb pain
Authors: Foley Peter , Kong Yazhuo , Dirvanskiene Ramune , valdes-Hernandez Maria , Bastiani Matteo , Murnane Jonathan , Sellar Robin , Roberts Neil , Pernet Cyril , Weir Christopher , Bak Thomas , Colvin Lesley , Chandran Siddharthan , Fallon Marie , Tracey Irene
Published: May 2022

Chronic pain in multiple sclerosis is common and difficult to treat. Its mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Dysfunction of the descending pain modulatory system is known to contribute to human chronic pain conditions. However, it is not clear how alterations in executive function influence this network, despite healthy volunteer studies linking function of the descending pain modulatory system, to cognition. In adults with multiple sclerosis-associated chronic neuropathic limb pain, compared to those without pain, we hypothesized altered functional connectivity of the descending pain modulatory system, coupled to executive dysfunction. Specifically we hypothesized reduced mental flexibility, because of potential importance in stimulus reappraisal. To investigate these hypotheses, we conducted a case-control cross-sectional study of 47 adults with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (31 with chronic neuropathic limb pain, 16 without pain), employing clinical, neuropsychological, structural, and functional MRI measures. We measured brain lesions and atrophy affecting descending pain modulatory system structures. Both cognitive and affective dysfunctions were confirmed in the chronic neuropathic limb pain group, including reduced mental flexibility (Delis Kaplan Executive Function System card sorting tests P < 0.001). Functional connectivity of rostral anterior cingulate and ventrolateral periaqueductal gray, key structures of the descending pain modulatory system, was significantly lower in the group experiencing chronic neuropathic pain. There was no significant between-group difference in whole-brain grey matter or lesion volumes, nor lesion volume affecting white matter tracts between rostral anterior cingulate and periaqueductal gray. Brainstem-specific lesion volume was higher in the chronic neuropathic limb pain group (P = 0.0017). Differential functional connectivity remained after correction for brainstem-specific lesion volume. Gabapentinoid medications were more frequently used in the chronic pain group. We describe executive dysfunction in people with multiple sclerosis affected by chronic neuropathic pain, along with functional and structural MRI evidence compatible with dysfunction of the descending pain modulatory system. These findings extend understanding of close inter-relationships between cognition, function of the descending pain modulatory system, and chronic pain, both in multiple sclerosis and more generally in human chronic pain conditions. These findings could support application of pharmacological and cognitive interventions in chronic neuropathic pain associated with multiple sclerosis.
Presurgical temporal lobe epilepsy connectome fingerprint for seizure outcome prediction
Authors: Morgan Victoria L , Sainburg Lucas E , Johnson Graham W , Janson Andrew , Levine Kaela K , Rogers Baxter P , Chang Catie , Englot Dario J
Published: May 2022

Temporal lobe epilepsy presents a unique situation where confident clinical localization of the seizure focus does not always result in a seizure-free or favourable outcome after mesial temporal surgery.

In this work, magnetic resonance imaging derived functional and structural whole-brain connectivity was used to compute a network fingerprint that captures the connectivity profile characteristics that are common across a group of nine of these patients with seizure-free outcome. The connectivity profile was then computed for 38 left-out patients with the hypothesis that similarity to the fingerprint indicates seizure-free surgical outcome. Patient profile distance to the fingerprint was compared with 1-year seizure outcome and standard clinical parameters. Distance to the fingerprint was higher for patients with Engel III–IV 1-year outcome compared with those with Engel Ia, Ib-d, and II outcome (Kruskal–Wallis, P < 0.01; Wilcoxon rank-sum pcorr <0.05 Bonferroni-corrected). Receiver operator characteristic analysis revealed 100% sensitivity and 90% specificity in identifying patients with Engel III–IV outcome based on distance to the fingerprint in the left-out patients. Furthermore, distance to the fingerprint was not related to any individual clinical parameter including age at scan, duration of disease, total seizure frequency, presence of mesial temporal sclerosis, lateralizing ictal, interictal scalp electroencephalography, invasive stereo-encephalography, or positron emission tomography. And two published algorithms utilizing multiple clinical measures for predicting seizure outcome were not related to distance to the fingerprint, nor predictive of seizure outcome in this cohort. The functional and structural connectome fingerprint provides quantitative, clinically interpretable and significant information not captured by standard clinical assessments alone or in combinations. This automated and simple method may improve patient-specific prediction of seizure outcome in patients with a clinically identified focus in the mesial temporal lobe.