bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential of Avitourism in Tanjung Laboh, Johor
Authors: Jien L T , Abdul-Halim N S , Hasmi N A , Norazlimi N A
Published: May 2021

Avitourism or birdwatching tourism is currently an emerging sub-sector in nature-based tourism industry. Although birdwatching is well established in Johor, however, the focus only concentrated on the famous birdwatching hotspot areas such as Panti Bird Sanctuary, Endau-Rompin National Park and many more. Other areas in Johor was remained understudied and the potential as Avitourism/birdwatching spot was remained undiscovered. Hence, this study aims to fill in this loophole by providing the checklist of the bird species and investigating the potential of Avitourism in Tanjung Laboh, Johor. The method used was a direct observation by using a binocular (10 x 50 magnifications) and a video recorder. For the evaluation of Avitourism, a set of questionnaire was distributed among Tanjung Laboh villagers consisting of fifteen respondents. Determination of flagship species was done based on the criteria of good nature tourism products modified from WTO/UNDP. A total of 21 bird species were recorded in Tanjung Laboh. From this, 18 bird species are resident, and three bird species are migrant. In terms of conservation status, 18 species are listed as Least Concern (LC) and three species are Vulnerable (VU). Five species were chosen as flagship species due to their high potential to be developed as a product for Avitourism. The species are Red-wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus), White Breasted Waterhen (Amaururnis phoenicurus), Greater Flameback (Chrysocolaptes lucidus), White-bellied Sea-eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) and Lesser Adjutants (Leptoptilos javanicus) because of its higher score as a product in Avitourism which includes the criteria such as safety, reliability of a sighting, morphological attractiveness, behavioral enticement, rarity, endemism, and cultural linkages. Therefore, it can be concluded that Tanjung Laboh has a high potential to be develop as one of the birdwatching and Avitourism spot in Johor.
Phytochemical content and antioxidant properties of Bornean wild durian from Sabah
Authors: Juarah N , Surugau N , Rusdi N A , Abu-Bakar M F , Suleiman M
Published: May 2021

Borneo is the centre of diversity of the genus Durio (family: Malvaceae; local name: durian). Durian fruit is known to contain high amounts of the major bioactive compounds (as antioxidants) such as anthocyanins, carotenoids, polyphenols and flavonoids. Two types of wild durian species, namely Durio kinabaluensis Kosterm. & Soegeng (durian tupoloh) and Durio oxleyanus Griff. (durian sukang) were studied. The 80% methanolic extracts of flesh, seed and peel (mesocarp and exocarp) were analysed for antioxidant activities, total phenolic and total flavonoid content. The antioxidant activities were determined using three parameters; 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical assay (DPPH), 2,2’-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical cation assay, and Ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP). Durio kinabaluensis mesocarp extract displayed the highest antioxidant properties and total phenolic content. The non-edible parts of both durians (seed and peel) exhibited higher phytochemical contents and antioxidant properties compared to the flesh parts. This data may contribute to the pharmaceutical applications, health benefit information of wild durians and helps in popularising the potential of these fruits in international markets and ultimately protects them from extinction.
DNA Barcoding for Authentication of Orthosiphon stamineus Herbal Medicinal Product Using ITS2 Nuclear Marker Originating from Malaysia
Authors: Liow H L , Ahmad Tarmizi A A , Jahari P N S , Ihsan N , Mohd Salleh F
Published: May 2021

Orthosiphon stamineus (Misai Kucing) has become the focus of commercialization in Malaysia due to its potential health treatment benefits that can attract huge consumers’ demand. Although the quality of herbal medicinal product (HMP) remains a major concern for consumers due to its high adulteration rate, there is insufficient testing done to determine whether the herb species used in HMP are as claimed in their ingredients. HMP authentication can be done by using a DNA barcoding approach which is species-specific. In this work, the first nuclear ITS2 barcode (279bp) from the fresh plant of O. stamineus (MKP) originating from Malaysia was successfully generated and deposited in Genbank (MT251295.1). The efficiency of the novel barcode in O. stamineus HMP authentication was tested in two samples, tea (MKT) and capsule (MKC) based on BLAST and NJ-tree analysis. The success of applying DNA barcoding by using ITS2 barcode generated in this work for HMP authentication makes it possible to complement conventional methods for O. stamineus HMP quality assurance testing and authentication in Malaysian herbal industry.
Ecological factors and spatial heterogeneity of Terrestrial Birds in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Martins C.O , Olaniyi O.E , Zakaria M
Published: May 2021

In Malaysia, multiple land use by humans has opened the way to substantial loss of wetland ecosystem, and shrinkage of the populations, habitat and food bases of avian species. However, the study of the avian population especially terrestrial birds becomes eminent to understand the complexity of wetlands ecosystem structure, and also develop appropriate management with robust monitoring tools to ensure their ecological sustainability. The study aimed to determine the eco-climatic factors that influenced the occurrence of terrestrial birds and to develop their habitat suitability models in Paya Indah wetlands (PIW) and Putrajaya wetlands (PW), Malaysia. The distance sampling point count technique using stratified random design was employed to survey (from November 2016 to January 2019) and choose 57 and 54 point stations around 14 and 24 lakes of PIW and PW respectively. An automatic linear modelling algorithm and geographic information systems were employed to compute the importance ratios of seventeen eco-climatic factors (hydrology, 9; climatic, 5; waterscape, 1 and landscape, 2). The result showed that some of the observed terrestrial birds individual and estimated indices were significant. The model showed that more than 50% of the land mass were moderately suitable in Paya Indah wetland while 35.22 % were suitable in Putrajaya wetland. Thus, the models’ adoption as management tools would help in the sustenance of the wetlands’ habitat quality and management effectiveness of the terrestrial bird species.
The effect of water stress on growth rate in Mentha arvensis
Authors: Mohd Nor N N , Pa’ee F , Manan N A
Published: May 2021

Mentha arvensis is commonly known as pudina, corn mint or wild mint belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is also widely cultivated in Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Srilanka, Thailand, and Japan for its use as a food seasoner, household remedy, and industrial purposes. This paper investigated the treatment of drought and flood stress on Mentha arvensis by controlling the irrigation intervals. The growth parameters which include plant height, number of branches, number of leaves, root length and root weight of Mentha arvensis were measured. Mentha arvensis was planted by using stem cutting and irrigation intervals was controlled in three different conditions after 5 weeks of plantation. The vegetation phase was observed after the water treatment started. Based on the result, Mentha arvensis at 4 days and 6 days of water treatment was more affected by the water stress. This shows that 4 days and 6 days of water treatment undergo slower growth rate in their plant height, number of branches and number of leaves compared to 2 days of water treatment. Mentha arvensis grow best under 2 days of water irrigation intervals. Plants showing improved growth with limited water are considered to tolerate drought, regardless of how the improvement occurs.
Birds diversity at Sabak Bernam granary of West Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Mohd-Taib F S , Mohd-Saleh W , Rosli M Z
Published: May 2021

Paddy field ecosystem serves as critical feeding and nesting habitat for various birds, thus compensating the habitat loss and degradation of the natural ecosystem. We want to document the bird species abundance and composition at Sabak Bernam granary area, located in West Peninsular Malaysia. The species distribution pattern was known to associate with rice growing stages. Birds was observed with a week of survey in each rice growing phases using point-count method. Overall, 40 species and 23 families have been recorded from all growing phases. Ploughing phase showed the highest bird abundance (736 individuals), while, maturation phase showed the highest species richness (31 species) and reproductive phase recorded the highest species diversity (H = 2.474). Waterbirds were the most dominant family which consists of Ardeidae, Alcedinidae and Rallidae. Three migrant and one vagrant were recorded in this study. Insectivory was the most abundant guild, dominated by Pacific swallow (Hirundo tahitica). However, there were no significant differences between all feeding guilds at different phases (df = 3, p > 0.05). This study indicates that although several species were pest upon rice buds, many of them play a crucial role in paddy field ecosystem services, particularly for pest control, reduce weeds and scavenging on carcasses. Therefore, this man-made wetland habitat area able to harbour a great diversity of birds and indirectly give benefits to the farmers.
A review on benefits, potential and conservation of Baccaurea lanceolata
Authors: Mojulat M B C , Surugau N
Published: May 2021

Malaysia has introduced the Plant Genetic Resources for food and agriculture (PGR) policy to further research and profile its wild crops to conserve and protect its rich biological diversity. There is an urge for relevant research to be conducted since it may also serve as an identifying accession of desirable traits for crop improvement. One such underutilised plant, Baccaurea lanceolata or locally known as “liposu” by the Dusun people has long played a traditional and cultural role for the local Bornean people. Unfortunately, although in recent years it has gained traction as a traditional food delicacy among the locals, it has remained underutilised and not commercially cultivated due to limited research and exposure. Despite that, limited studies on plants of Baccaurea species have been shown to contain various beneficial properties. The underutilised fruit of Baccaurea lanceolata has a high probability of containing a health beneficial, noteworthy amount of unique, uncovered phytochemicals. Research on this underutilised plant may also provide a path to road of commercialisation as well as preserving this tree from the danger of forest clearing. This review paper has therefore compiled information from available secondary literature on Baccaurea lanceolata in terms of its traditional knowledge, cultural usage as well as studies on its scientifically proven health benefits.
The Diversity of Odonata in Parangkusumo Sand Dune Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Nilamsari E I , Umah N , Daradwinta R , Nicolla A C , Irsyad A N , Firdasia W , Sarifah Z , Sukirno S
Published: May 2021

Parangkusumo sand dune is a one of unique eolian ecosystem in Yogyakarta. The study on the species diversity of dragonflies in this habitat is still limited. The main purpose of this research was to observe the dragonflies species diversity in Parangkusumo sand dune, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The collection of dragonflies was done by aerial collection using sweep net. The specimens identification was done in Entomology Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada based on the morphological characters of the adult stage. The results showed that there were 22 species of Odonata, including 17 dragonflies (Anisoptera) and 5 damselflies (Zygoptera). The diversity index (H’) was 2.51 which inferred medium diversity. Several species such as Anax guttatus, Lestes praemorsus and Tramea transmarina were found to be endemic species. The highest relative abundance of the species was Orthetrum sabina (21.79%) and lowest abundance of species is Orthetrum chrysis (0.14%). Parangkusumo sand dune has medium dragonfly diversity, thus it is recommended this habitat need to be conserved.
Notes on roundleaf bats (Hipposideridae) at selected forest reserves of Central Forest Spine (CFS) landscapes in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Nor Hazwani A R , Shahfiz M A , Faradiana N M F , Kaviarasu M , Alwani N Z , Farhan M S
Published: May 2021

Surveys on Roundleaf bats (Hipposideridae) were conducted at 18 forest reserves in nine CFS ecological corridor networks namely Pedu, Bukit Saiong, Kenderong, Bintang Hijau, Sungai Betis, Sungai Brok, Tembat, Tanum, Sungai Yu, Ulu Jelai, Bukit Bujang, Angsi, Berembun, Labis Timur, Mersing, Lenggor Tengah, Panti and Ulu Sedili FRs. This study mainly aims to record the presence of Hipposideridae at the selected forest reserves. The surveys started from February 2018 until August 2020. A total of three harp traps were set up in each forest reserve, except for Ulu Jelai, Tembat and Berembun FRs with six harp traps. Overall, 67 individuals comprising seven species from genus Hipposideros were recorded in this study. Hipposideros bicolor was the most widely distributed species recorded in nine forest reserves whereas, Hipposideros larvatus is the most abundance species recorded in this study with 25 individuals. Kenderong and Bintang Hijau FRs recorded the highest number of Hipposideridae species in this study, both with four species. The presence of Hipposiderids in this study might be associated with their suitable roosting and foraging areas as well as availability of food sources. Therefore, this information gives an early insight on Hipposideridae distribution and habitat requirement at the forest reserves in CFS ecological corridor landscapes that stakeholders need to consider in establishing the corridors. More sampling efforts need to put in this study, covering more areas in the forest reserves with longer sampling periods and more number of traps used in order to really identify critical corridors for bat conservations.
Promoting carpooling and vanpooling program to reduce the use of private motorised transportation
Authors: Norazlan M A E , Fahmy-Abdullah M , Masrom M A N
Published: May 2021

The increasing dependency on private motorised transportation has brought massive traffic congestion mainly in Batu Pahat, Johor. Apart from a few specialised industrial zones in Batu Pahat, most of the areas are near the urban areas. This is to ensure a smooth supply of manpower and raw materials to the manufacturing sectors. However, it led to an increase in the number of vehicles on the road that needs to be investigated further. This study attempts to investigate the current traffic condition, to examine the smart traffic control and integrated traffic information system and also to analyse the public transport, carpooling and vanpooling programs in Batu Pahat. Mixed methods were used for this research namely in document review, observation and questionnaire. The objectives from the outcomes are to decrease the number of private motorised vehicles, implement smart traffic control and provide public transport, carpooling and vanpooling program. In addition, it would be useful in reducing the amount of private motorised vehicles in the area to decrease traffic congestion and also to prepare Bandar Penggaram, Batu Pahat as a low carbon city in the future.
Temporal changes of bat diversity in the urban habitat island of Batu Caves, Malaysia
Authors: Nordin J , Chew T H , Lim L S , Shamsir M S
Published: May 2021

Batu Caves is an isolated limestone massif surrounded by urban areas located 11km north of Kuala Lumpur and making it a “habitat island” and sanctuary for wildlife. Urban habitat islands are known as biodiversity hotspots and assist conservation in fragmented city landscapes for animals. The Batu Caves complex offer a unique condition as it houses caves that offer refuge for roosting bats out of the twenty explored caves. The most extensive cave complex is the Dark Cave with more than 2000m of surveyed passages. In this study, we compared the temporal changes of bat species diversity in the habitat island of Batu Caves. Species occurrence data was compiled using a bibliographic search in literature databases and compared with a site survey conducted in 2019 using visual, echolocation and LIDAR methods. Result of the comparison showed that there is a significant decline in bat species occurrences and diversity from previous record of eight species to only four species found roosting in the Dark Cave during our survey in 2019. The showed a decline of the number of roosting bat species especially in the Dark Cave of the habitat island Batu Caves.
Mitochondrial Barcodes of Three Malaysian Butterflies Originating from Taman Negara Endau Rompin Johor, Malaysia
Authors: Oon J Y , Kamarudin K R , Ismail N , Omar M S S , Tokiman L , Jahari P N S , Ihsan N , Mohd Salleh F
Published: May 2021

Butterflies are projected as reliable and economical biodiversity indicator. Traditionally, taxonomists identified and classified butterfly species based on highly similar and ambiguous morphological appearances which can result in problematic species identification process leading to misidentification of species. DNA barcoding has been developed for taxonomic identification of butterflies to species level. Nonetheless, this approach is hampered by the paucity of reference barcodes encompassing butterflies of all families and species in Malaysia. This study reported four novel DNA barcodes (two cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and two cytochrome b, cytb) of Malaysian butterflies generated using Sanger sequencing. One barcode (DIB032 COI) supported the species identified by taxonomists whereas the other three barcodes (DIB034 COI, DIB034 cytb and DIB046/049 cytb) deduced that the butterfly species were either misidentified or unidentified up to species level due to the lack of reference barcodes in GenBank. The four novel DNA barcodes were deposited in GenBank under the accession number MT210226.1 (DIB032 COI), MT210227.1 (DIB034 COI), MT210228.1 (DIB034 cytb) and MT210229.1 (DIB046/049 cytb).
Rapid baseline assessment of crab abundance and species richness in mangroves using a video recording method
Authors: Rahim H A , Shuhaida S , Yahya K
Published: May 2021

Crabs are among the most dominant macrofauna in mangrove ecosystems. Crabs play vital roles in maintaining the ecological functions of mangroves. However, there are limitations in assessing crab populations accurately. In previous studies crabs are caught or visually observed by researchers to obtain data on crab abundance and diversity. However, difficulties and biases arise due to complications in sighting crabs accurately and minimizing damage caused by intrusive methods used when attempts are made to capture crabs in situ. Therefore, more accurate observations, and less intrusive method should be implemented to identify crab populations. Two less destructive methods to investigate crab abundance were used in this study and compared to ascertain the efficiency of obtaining mangrove crab population data. Findings show that video recording method was more accurate compared with hand catch method in providing crab abundance data as hand catch method resulted in the under-sampling of crab abundance. This video recording method may be used: (1) to identify the abundance of crabs in a quadrat, (2) to provide crab population data as the quadrat is replicated in multiple sampling sites, and (3) to observe crab behaviour.
The implementation of green transportation towards low carbon city
Authors: Senin S N , Fahmy-Abdullah M , Masrom M A N
Published: May 2021

Green transportation has been introduced to mitigate the global warming and climate change that significantly impact human lives and ecosystems. However, major challenges in green transportation are still driven by the lack of the awareness of the best practices among people or users. The objectives of the study were to identify how much green transportation impact low carbon city and to examine the programme for green transportation in Bandar Penggaram, Batu Pahat. The study was conducted by using mixed method. The data was collected by using questionnaire, document review and observation. The results showed that the green transportation in Bandar Penggaram mostly were from users of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and hybrid cars. By increasing the number of green transportations, the development of infrastructure for the green transportation is needed in order to encourage users to use this transportation. Besides that, future programmes can be drawn to the government in order to encourage more people to use green transportation. The implications of this study show that people need to give their attention to the incentives that the government have proposed to implement and promote green transportation in Malaysia.
Evaluating the rice germplasm for salinity tolerance based on phenotypic traits
Authors: Site Noorzuraini A R , Mohd Ramdzan O , Nur Idayu A R , Muhammad Hafiz M S
Published: May 2021

Salinity is one of the major problems which hampers yield production. Salinity stress can be perceived either in the soil or irrigation water. Forty rice germplasms were selected based on their origin country. Salinity level at 12dSm−1 were imposed at seedling stage (10 Days after sowing). The findings observed shoot length and root length were decreased under salt stress. Although, the rice germplasms responded to salt stress differently, however, leaf injury score and percent of survival seedlings successfully differentiated the salt tolerant genotypes. BULASTOG, AZUCENA and ZHEN-LONG 13 were performed well under salt stress with exhibited lowest leaf injury score compared to the tolerant control varieties. BULASTOG also showed the highest percent of survival seedlings under salt stress. The second highest on percent of survival seedlings observed in KHAO TAH HAENG, and followed with CITANDANG. Cluster analysis was constructed based on leaf injury score, shoot length, root length, and percent of survival seedlings grouped the rice germplasms into three major groups. The tolerant control varieties, POKKALI I and POKKALI II were grouped in Group 2. BULASTONG and KHAO TAH HAENG were obviously closed to tolerant control varieties in the group. In conclusion, BULASTONG and KHAO TAH HAENG are the most promising rice germplasms under salinity condition, the germplasms can be recommended for further improvement program for salt tolerant in rice. In addition, shoot length, leaf injury score, and percent of survival seedlings should be emphasized during selection of salt tolerant genotypes of rice at seedling stage.
Anti-gout potential of selected Malaysian local fruits
Authors: Wan Aziz W N A , Abu Bakar M F , Abu Bakar F I , Dheyab A S , Sabran S F , Kormin F
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to investigate the in vitro xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity and phytochemical content of guava, water rose apple, Malay gooseberry, pineapple and ambarella. The xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity was measured spectrophotometrically at 295 nm. The phytochemical analysis tested were total phenolic, total flavonoid and total anthocyanin contents of each methanolic extract of the fruits. The highest amount of phenolic was found in ambarella (0.245 mg GAE/g) while guava had the highest amount of flavonoid (0.472 mg RE/g). Meanwhile, water rose apple had the highest anthocyanin content (5.001 mg c-3-ge/g). For the XO inhibitory activity, water rose apple displayed the lowest IC50 value (26.86 µg/mL), showing better anti-gout activity as compared to that of other fruit samples. Positive correlation between total phenolic content and XO inhibitory activity was also observed in this study. Further study on the isolation of bioactive compounds from the fruit samples that act as XO inhibitor is greatly needed in the future.
Physicochemical and sensory characteristic of treated sugarcane juice
Authors: Zaidan N L , Mohamad-Fuzi S F , Hailan I M , Roshidi A A , Kormin F , Abu-Bakar M F , Sabran S F
Published: May 2021

Sugarcane juice contains high sugar content which can deteriorate rapidly after the juice extraction process. In large juice industry, the deterioration of sugarcane juice can be reduced by pasteurisation and sterilisation treatment process. However, preservation techniques impart undesirable effect on sugarcane juice in terms of taste, colour, appearance and acceptability of the consumer. Therefore, in this study, the effect of pasteurisation process and addition of Spirulina platensis (S. platensis) water extract (0.2% vol/vol) were investigated for its physicochemical (pH, total soluble solid, colour and turbidity), microbiological evaluation (total plate count) and sensory characteristic of sugarcane juice. The addition of S. platensis water extract in sugarcane juice lower the pH value of tested sample contributing to the increase in the stability of sugarcane juice. The other physicochemical tests (total soluble solid, colour and turbidity) have definite correlation with the changes of pH value but not-significant (p > 0.05) in term of addition of S. platensis water extract into sugarcane juice samples. The microbiological evaluation revealed that high number of colony presence in sugarcane juice after storage for about two weeks and their number were reduced until end of testing period which may result from the depletion of nutrient and inhibition of by-product of reactions that happen in sugarcane juice sample. In terms of sensory testing, the addition of S. platensis water extract in sugarcane juice scored best as compared to control sample even though it does not give significant value (p > 0.05) compared to control sample. In conclusion, the addition of S. platensis water extract for treated sugarcane juice is significant as it improves consumer acceptability. The water extract could also acts as colouring agent in sugarcane juice without affecting the physicochemical and sensory properties of sugarcane juice.
Analysis On Crystal Formation And Physio-Tribological Properties Of Lithium Based Grease Developed From Coconut Oil (Cocos Nucifera)
Authors: Joseph Babu K
Published: May 2021

The increase in demand for alternative base oil for lubricant has led to the study of non-depleting source like vegetable oils. Some studies have reported the development of grease from sunflower oil and castor oil, which establish the probability of use of vegetable oil as potential base oil. In the present study, an eco-friendly NLGI grade 3 grease was developed using coconut oil as base oil and lithium stearate as thickener. The inherent tribological properties of the coconut oil and grease were evaluated. Tests results of newly formulated grease procured from cone penetration, rolling stability, water wash out, grease leakage, friction and wear are compared to a commercial sample of same grade. Even though the newly formulated grease is found to be competent to the commercial sample, the crystal formation at low temperature has restricted its applications at lower temperatures. Crystal formation at low temperature is due to the agglomeration of saturated fatty acids commonly known as wax occurred due to the low cold flow characteristics of the oil (pour point of coconut oil 26.55°C). The tribological results show that the performance of the newly formulated grease is comparable to commercial greases and its application is restricted to moderate climatic conditions.
Nonisothermal Warm Deep Drawing Behavior of Automotive Grade Aluminum Alloy Sheets
Authors: Panicker Sudhy S , Kumar Panda Sushanta
Published: May 2021

In this work, thermomechanical FE modeling of nonisothermal warm deep drawing of automotive grade AA5754 and AA6082 aluminum alloy sheets were performed. The deformable blanks were modeled using temperature dependent Cowper-Symonds constitutive equation along with Barlat-89 yield criterion. The predicted cup heights, earing, % thinning and surface strain distributions were successfully validated within acceptable error of 5%. The development of earing profile, cup thinning pattern and surface strains along 0°, 45° and 90° from rolling direction (RD) were plotted using the validated data. The ear profile developed in AA5754 cups was prominent compared to AA6082 due to relatively higher anisotropy at elevated temperatures. Thickening was more prominent along 45° to RD for AA5754, whereas thinning was higher in this direction for AA6082 material. The strain states developed at cup corner along plane strain condition was lower than the FLD0 values of materials. Thus there was uniform surface strains at cup corner indicating the improved ability of material to withstand more deformations. Comparatively, AA5754 exhibited relatively better formability compared to AA6082 material.
Development of an Efficient Framework for the Distribution of Essential Relief Materials during Floods by Clustering Technique
Authors: Sudeesh S , Rameshkumar K , Anbuudayasankar S P
Published: May 2021

An efficient logistic network is extremely vital to distribute essential items quickly to the region wherever the natural calamities have occurred. This paper focuses on developing an efficient framework for the distribution of essential relief materials to the people in Kuttanad Taluk of Alappuzha District in Kerala, India during the monsoon season. The existing relief distribution network in the flood-affected region has been studied in detail and an improved distribution logistics has been suggested in this study. K-means clustering algorithm has been used to identify the location for the relief material distribution centres in the flood-affected region. The proposed approach reduces the efforts needed to coordinate the relief activities by optimally identifying no. of distribution centres and locations of distribution centres with an objective of reducing the total supply chain transportation distance for the supply of essential items during the flood. The proposed clustering approach reduces the traveling distance of the people during the flood to receive the relief material to an extent of 88%.
Performance analysis of single slope solar still integrated with refrigeration systems
Authors: Aneesh V , Vishnu S , Das Arun P , Ajith M S
Published: May 2021

The over misuse of existing new water supplies has become a major issue in numerous pieces of the world. Hence, recycling of water is necessary to meet the requirements of the growing population. Solar water purification is one of the viable technologies. This work is focused on the productivity enhancement of a single slope solar still by using two types of refrigeration system such as thermoelectric refrigeration system and vapour compression refrigeration system. In the modification of the existing solar still setup, the extra cooling was achieved by adding thermoelectric modules in the external condenser which is used for increasing the condensation area and thus the rate of evaporation. In the second set up, a vapour compression refrigeration system is coupled with the solar still in such a way that the evaporator coil of the refrigeration system is placed inside the external condenser for providing extra cooling effect and the condenser of the refrigeration system is placed in the basin of solar still for enhancing evaporation rate of the basin water. The results show that these modifications enhanced the performance and productivity of the solar still. The enhancement in the productivity of the passive solar still using thermoelectric refrigeration system was found to be 45.77% more and for solar still with external condenser integrated with vapor compression refrigeration system was found to be 167.7% more as compared with the solar still alone.
Aerodynamic Characteristics of Baseball and Tennis Ball using CFD Analysis
Authors: Keerthekesh Nadar S , Amrit T , Sanjay Srinivas S , Balaji K
Published: May 2021

The objective of the project is to determine the aerodynamic characteristics of baseballs and tennis balls using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods. Most realistic initial and boundary conditions are used to simulate each type of ball and to identify key design aspects that can be applied and modified to enhance the performance of the ball and hence improve the game. The basic conservation equations in fluid dynamics are applied to the domain of study to plot the results. For the inlet, different values of velocity based on the motion of the ball in the game were given. A moderate value of surface roughness was given to model the effects of change in the surface between the two balls and the delay in boundary layer separation subsequently affecting the distance travelled by the ball was seen. By observing the values of lift and drag coefficients we can validate computational results with experimental results obtained from reference journals, thus proving that computational simulation has a place in predicting the trajectory and behaviour of moving balls in real-time.

The integration of spin in the simulation also yielded results that showcased the Magnus effect, this visualization is generally not observable on experimental methods since it involves complex processes to simulate spin, hence the trajectory of balls under different shots and pitches has been observed. We further developed an idea that could also be used to determine the trajectory of a dual-axis spinning ball. This would help in building the performance of athletes in the game.
Fabrication and Characterisation of PP/TS Biocomposites
Authors: Sreenivasan S N , David Neethumol M , Maria Hanna J , Thomas Sabu , Haponiuk Józef T
Published: May 2021

Biocomposites are eco-friendly composite materials formed by the combination of any polymer matrix and the reinforcement of any natural fiber. This particular composite is gaining more attention in research field in order to reduce the utilization of inorganic fillers in the reinforcement of thermoplastics and biodegradable plastics. In this study, we used various amounts of turmeric spent (TS) viz, 5%, 7%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% (w/w) for the fabrication of Polypropylene/TS composites. These various composition mixtures are blended and melt on a Haake mixer, then it is placed over a compression mould of 2mm thickness and forms composite films of different composition. The developed composites were characterized using different techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, contact angle measurement and water absorption. SEM images clearly shows the presence of TS content in biocomposites. From contact angle measurement, it is clear that the 7% PP/TS composite shows better hydrophobic nature. From absorption measurement technique, the higher composition samples show better absorption capacity due to the presence of OH-group within the turmeric spent.
Design and Analysis of Minimally Invasive Surgical Robot
Authors: Vasundhara Ch. V S N , Sudheer A P
Published: May 2021

Minimally Invasive Surgical robots are commonly seen in medical centres for surgical purposes. However, the major challenges seen with such robotic systems are its heavy weight, costly and lack of capability to reconfigure according to the patient-specific needs. In this paper, a robot is proposed to overcome the difficulties with existing robotic systems. Six different concepts are proposed in this paper which are modelled in SolidWorks software. The best design has been selected using the concept scoring technique. Besides, the forward and inverse kinematics for the best concept is achieved using the Denavit-Hartenberg (D-H) modelling technique. Finally, results obtained from the analytical model has been verified using Peter Corke Toolbox in MATLAB. The trajectory planning of the selected concept has be done using the third-order polynomial equation and it is plotted using MATLAB.
Effect of wall-slip on natural convection in a square cavity
Authors: Suresh Kartik , Arjun C K , Murali Damu , Ajith Kumar S
Published: May 2021

Numerical simulations are performed to investigate the effect of wall-slip on natural convection inside a square cavity for Rayleigh number (Ra) = 105. The bottom wall is heated and top wall is maintained at a cold temperature keeping the other two vertical walls adiabatic. The analysis is conducted by varying the Slip factor (SF) from 0 (no-slip) to 1 (full-slip) in steps of 0.2. For each value of SF, the flow patterns are visualised using streamlines and heat transfer behaviour is examined using isotherms. Results are quantified using local Nusselt number (Nul
) and average Nusselt number (Nuavg
) along the hot wall. It is observed that for SF=0.8 and SF=1 configurations, the natural convection patterns and heat transfer characteristics undergo notable changes.
Effect of Baffles Position on Thermo-Hydraulic Efficiency of a Solar Air Heater
Authors: Bhatter Rahul Kumar , Abbas Ali , Rai Anant Kumar
Published: May 2021

Providing artificial irregularity in the form of baffles on the bottom plate of a solar air heater improves the thermal performance of the heater, whereas it reduces the hydraulic efficiency due to friction losses. To optimize the thermo-hydraulic performance of a rectangular duct solar air heater, a thermo-hydraulic performance factor (THPF), dependent on shape, position and size of baffles, is considered in this study. The performance of the heater in various configurations related to the position of the baffles was evaluated considering Renormalization group k-£ model to simulate the fully turbulent flow for a forced convection condition. At a constant value of heat flux of 1000 W/m2 on the absorber plate and a fixed value of Reynolds number as 2350, pitch between the baffles was varied from 15mm to 75mm. Further, the distance of 1st row of baffles from the inlet was varied from 200mm to 500mm and the optimum configuration was figured out. For pitch value of 60mm between the baffles and the distance of 1st row of baffles as 200mm from the inlet, the highest value of THPF was obtained as 0.9339. The fluid behavior in presence of baffles was analyzed together with its influence on the thermo-hydraulics parameters.
Design of a sustainable flood carrier system in Cuddalore of Tamilnadu
Authors: Suresh P K , Sakthival S , Sundaravadivelu R , Aneesh P C
Published: May 2021

Cuddalore district is located along the south west coast of Indian in the state of Tamilnadu bordering bay of Bengal.. The district is blessed with presence of wetlands, minor port and beach. The annual rainfall of the place is about 1300 mm. The district receives 70% of rainfall during north east monsoon from October to December. Agriculture is the main occupation. The rainfall along the coast is higher compared to upper regions. The high intensity rainfall occurrence is a common one. The district has anciently constructed hydraulic structures for conserving water called tanks. Perumal tank is the last source. The entire flood water during rainy season flows through a drain called Paravanar. This runs almost parallel to the coast for about 18km and finally merges with Bay of Bengal. Because of length and shallow slope, it takes more time for the water to recede. Hence a new canal was designed to drain some water directly in to the sea. HECRAS numerical model was adopted to study canal performance. The details of hydraulic studies and coastal sediment transport computations are highlighted.
Black phosphorus-based materials for energy storage and electrocatalytic applications
Authors: Xue Xiong-Xiong , Meng Haiyu , Huang Zongyu , Feng Yexin , Qi Xiang
Published: May 2021

Since its successful isolation in 2014, two-dimensional black phosphorus (BP) has triggered considerable interest ffrom physicists, chemists and material scientists. Benefitting from the unique structural and physicochemical properties, BP has been explored in various applications including photoelectric, biological and electrochemical fields. Besides, BP also shows great potential as a promising electrode material and electrocatalyst in energy storage and electrocatalytic applications, and tremendous progress has been made in these electrochemical fields in recent years. Here, this review highlights the recent experimental and theoretical progress of BP-based electrodes and electrocatalysts. The latest recent advances of BP-based functional materials in energy storage applications including lithium-, magnesium- and sodium-ion batteries, lithium–sulfur batteries and supercapacitors, are presented in detail. Further, the emerging electrocatalytic applications of BP for hydrogen evolution reaction, oxygen evolution reaction and nitrogen reduction reaction are systematically reviewed with achievements and challenges. Finally, we offer brief personal comments on the existing challenges and prospective outlook on the basis of current research progress.
The Power of the Copy: Rethinking Replication Through the Cult Image
Authors: Peleggi Maurizio
Published: May 2021

The employment of digital technology in recent instances of artwork replication raises important questions about the perceptual and ontological distinction between original and copy, for the latter is purported to be even more authentic than an original that has undergone alterations. Such instances challenge not only Benjamin’s claim about the loss of aura but also Goodman’s distinction between autographic and allographic arts. The article proposes to rethink the original/copy dualism from the perspective of the cult image. In the devotional traditions of Graeco-Roman polytheism as well as Christianity and Buddhism, cult images are approached not as representations, but as animated entities endowed with thaumaturgic powers that can be ritually transferred onto copies. From this perspective, replication is not about reproducing more or less faithfully the original, but engendering a double as effective as the original. Finally, the bearing of this perspective on contemporary works of art is considered.
VeTra: a tool for trajectory inference based on RNA velocity
Authors: Weng Guangzheng , Kim Junil , Won Kyoung Jae
Published: May 2021

Motivation

Trajectory inference (TI) for single cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) data is a powerful approach to interpret dynamic cellular processes such as cell cycle and development. Still, however, accurate inference of trajectory is challenging. Recent development of RNA velocity provides an approach to visualize cell state transition without relying on prior knowledge.

Results

To perform TI and group cells based on RNA velocity we developed VeTra. By applying cosine similarity and merging weakly connected components, VeTra identifies cell groups from the direction of cell transition. Besides, VeTra suggests key regulators from the inferred trajectory. VeTra is a useful tool for TI and subsequent analysis.

Availability and implementation

The Vetra is available at https://github.com/wgzgithub/VeTra.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Prison Tech: Imagining the Prison as Lagging Behind and as a Test Bed for Technology Advancement
Authors: Kaun Anne , Stiernstedt Fredrik
Published: May 2021

This article explores the ways in which prisons are imagined as sites of technology development. By attending to expos that showcase prison technologies and constitute “live theatres of technology” (L. Cornfeld, 2018), we carve out ambivalent sociotechnical imaginaries of technological backwardness that are combined with the idea of radical technological innovation to reform the justice system. In doing so, we highlight the prison as one site of technology development and actors at technology trade shows catering to the prison and security sector as platforms for technological mediators that range from corporate prison tech companies to educators as well as representatives of the criminal justice system. The expos emerge as sites where technological development is negotiated through performative sociotechnical imaginaries of prison tech.
Extraterritoriality of Chinese Law: Myths, Realities and the Future
Authors: Huo Zhengxin , Yip Man
Published: May 2021

While China strongly opposes the US practice of ‘long-arm jurisdiction’, it has decided to build its own legal system of extraterritoriality. This paradox reflects the crossroads at which China finds itself currently. Being a country weaker than the sole global superpower, it needs to stand firmly against the American ‘legal bullyism’ by invoking the shield of territorial sovereignty. Yet, as an emerging world power, it is in China’s interest to establish a legal system of extraterritoriality to safeguard its own national interests that extend globally. This article has two aims. First, it provides a comprehensive overview of the current model of Chinese extraterritoriality. Second, it proposes four key planks that should support the emerging Chinese system of extraterritoriality such that it will be both distinct from the US system as well as being practically achievable in light of China’s role in the global stage, national interests, and current capacity and conditions.
Consensus recommendations for the standardized histopathological evaluation and reporting after radical oesophago-gastrectomy (HERO consensus)
Authors: Pucher Philip H , Allum William H , Bateman Adrian C , Green Michael , Maynard Nick , Novelli Marco , Petty Russell , Underwood Timothy J , Gossage James
Published: May 2021

Background

Variation in the approach, radicality, and quality of gastroesophageal surgery impacts patient outcomes. Pathological outcomes such as lymph node yield are routinely used as surrogate markers of surgical quality, but are subject to significant variations in histopathological evaluation and reporting. A multi-society consensus group was convened to develop evidence-based recommendations for the standardized assessment of gastroesophageal cancer specimens.

Methods

A consensus group comprised of surgeons, pathologists, and oncologists was convened on behalf of the Association of Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery of Great Britain & Ireland. Literature was reviewed for 17 key questions. Draft recommendations were voted upon via an anonymous Delphi process. Consensus was considered achieved where >70% of participants were in agreement.

Results

Consensus was achieved on 18 statements for all 17 questions. Twelve strong recommendations regarding preparation and assessment of lymph nodes, margins, and reporting methods were made. Importantly, there was 100% agreement that the all specimens should be reported using the Royal College of Pathologists Guidelines as the minimum acceptable dataset. In addition, two weak recommendations regarding method and duration of specimen fixation were made. Four topics lacked sufficient evidence and no recommendation was made.

Conclusions

These consensus recommendations provide explicit guidance for gastroesophageal cancer specimen preparation and assessment, to provide maximum benefit for patient care and standardize reporting to allow benchmarking and improvement of surgical quality.
Third Year Survival, Growth, and Water Relations of West Gulf Coastal Plain Pines in East Texas
Authors: Hooker Jamie M , Oswald Brian P , Stovall Jeremy P , Weng Yuhui , Williams Hans M , Grogan Jason
Published: May 2021

West Gulf Coastal Plain provenance loblolly (Pinus taeda L.), longleaf (Pinus palustris Mill.), shortleaf (Pinus echinata Mill.), and slash pines (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) were planted in December 2015 on three east Texas sites to compare initial growth and survival. Three years after planting, survival ranged from 26.4% to 76.4%. Damage by Texas leafcutter ants (Atta texana) caused significant mortality on one site, and feral hog (Sus scrofa) herbivory and uprooting greatly affected survival at two other sites. Tree heights were greater in loblolly and slash pine than in shortleaf and longleaf pine, whereas diameters were greater in loblolly than in slash, shortleaf, and longleaf. Height and survival rates were greater in Shelby County and were lowest in Cherokee County. Midday leaf-level water potentials were most negative for shortleaf and loblolly pines and varied across the three sites. Tree heights were significantly but weakly (R = −0.23) correlated to leaf-level water potentials.