bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biocompatible bonding of a rigid off-stoichiometry thiol-ene-epoxy polymer microfluidic cartridge to a biofunctionalized silicon biosensor
Authors: Sønstevold Linda , Yadav Mukesh , Arnfinnsdottir Nina Bjørk , Herbjørnrød Aina Kristin , Jensen Geir Uri , Aksnes Astrid , Mielnik Michal Marek
Published: May 2022

Attachment of biorecognition molecules prior to microfluidic packaging is advantageous for many silicon biosensor-based lab-on-a-chip (LOC) devices. This necessitates biocompatible bonding of the microfluidic cartridge, which, due to thermal or chemical incompatibility, excludes standard microfabrication bonding techniques. Here, we demonstrate a novel processing approach for a commercially available, two-step curable polymer to obtain biocompatible ultraviolet initiated (UVA)-bonding of polymer microfluidics to silicon biosensors. Biocompatibility is assessed by UVA-bonding to antibody-functionalized ring resonator sensors and performing antigen capture assays while optically monitoring the sensor response. The assessments indicate normal biological function of the antibodies after UVA-bonding with selective binding to the target antigen. The bonding strength between polymer and silicon chips (non-biofunctionalized and biofunctionalized) is determined in terms of static liquid pressure. Polymer microfluidic cartridges are stored for more than 18 weeks between cartridge molding and cartridge-to-silicon bonding. All bonded devices withstand more than 2500 mbar pressure, far exceeding the typical requirements for LOC applications, while they may also be de-bonded after use. We suggest that these characteristics arise from bonding mainly through intermolecular forces, with a large extent of hydrogen bonds. Dimensional fidelity assessed by microscopy imaging shows less than 2% shrinkage through the molding process and the water contact angle is approximately 80°. As there is generally little absorption of UVA light (365 nm) in proteins and nucleic acids, this UVA-bonding procedure should be applicable for packaging a wide variety of biosensors into LOC systems.
A unifying network approach for circuits simplification and equivalent resistances, capacitors and inductors evaluation
Authors: Costa V A F
Published: May 2022

It is proposed a network approach for electric circuits simplification, that through a unified systematic procedure allows simplifying circuits of any complexity, and evaluation of the equivalent resistances, capacitors and inductors. Circuits to be simplified are characterized by their nodes, and by the elements of different types (resistances, capacitors and inductors) connecting each pair of nodes. Once that information organized in the matrix form, circuit simplification is straightforward based on the simplification conditions, which are key elements of the proposed approach. Simplification process evolves eliminating nodes from the original circuit, node by node, and evaluating the equivalent element types connecting the remaining nodes, up to the required simplification level. The key elements of the simplification procedure are the same for all the element types. For circuits with elements of different types simplification can be made in a segregated way, each time for one element type, or simultaneously for all the element types. The simplification procedure can be used with pencil and paper, or easily programmed for automatic and fast circuits simplification. Use of the proposed approach is illustrated through some appealing examples.
Quantum statistical fluctuation of energy and its novel pseudo-gauge dependence
Authors: Das Arpan
Published: May 2022

We discuss the quantum statistical fluctuations of energy in subsystems of hot relativistic gas for both spin-zero and spin-half particles. We explicitly show the system size dependence of the quantum statistical fluctuation of energy. Our results show that with decreasing system size quantum statistical fluctuations increase substantially. As the consistency of the framework, we also argue that the quantum statistical fluctuations give rise to the known result for statistical fluctuation of energy in the canonical ensemble if we consider the size of the subsystem to be sufficiently large. For a spin-half particle, quantum fluctuations show some interesting novel features. We show that within a small sub-system quantum statistical fluctuation of energy for spin-half particles depends on the variouspseudo-gaugechoices of the energy-momentum tensor. Interestingly, for sufficiently large subsystems quantum fluctuations obtained for different pseudo-gauge choices converge and we recover the canonical-ensemble formula known for statistical fluctuations of energy. Our calculation is very general and can be applied to any branch of physics whenever one deals with a thermal system. As a practical application, we argue that our results can be used to determine a coarse-graining scale to introduce the concept of classical energy density or fluid element relevant for the strongly interacting matter, in particular for small systems produced in heavy-ion collisions.
Towards better understanding of structural, physical and radiation attenuation properties of the granites in Aegean region of Turkey: İzmir and Kütahya Provinces
Authors: Deliormanlı Aylin M , Deliormanlı Ahmet H , Turan Fatih , Issa Shams A M , ALMisned Ghada , Tekin H O
Published: May 2022

In this study, physical, chemical, structural and radiation attenuation properties of some granite samples collected from Kütahya-Simav and İzmir (Bergama and Karaburun) were investigated. The true particle density of the studied granite samples was in the range of 2.65 g cm−3 to 2.72 g cm−3 and the median particle diameter was between ∼12 μm and 41 μm. According to the structural examination results obtained from the study, the chemical compositions of the extracted granite samples varied by area. While SiO2 was the dominating component in certain locations, it was replaced by Fe2O3 in another. This condition also had a direct effect on the densities of the granite samples extracted. At the conclusion of the study, it was found that the predominant factor affecting the radiation shielding characteristics of granites was the quantity of Fe2O3 in the composition, with the greatest gamma-ray shielding qualities supplied by samples 4 and 5, which had the highest Fe2O3 ratio. Our results indicate that sample 5 and the previously studied Capao Bonita sample had comparable half value layer values at low, medium, and high gamma ray levels. It may be concluded that Izmir granites are a more attractive option to granite for usage as radiation shielding building materials, owing to their high Fe2O3 concentration, and may be a feasible alternative to less desirable concrete materials for shielding applications.
Comparison of empirical models using experimental results of electrical submersible pump under two-phase flow: numerical and empirical model validation
Authors: Ali Asad , Si Qiaorui , Wang Biaobiao , Yuan Jianping , Wang Peng , Rasool Ghulam , Shokrian Ashkan , Ali Amjad , Zaman Muhammad Awais
Published: May 2022

Electrical submersible pumps (ESPs) dealing with gas-liquid multiphase flow face great challenges in the oil and gas industries. The main problem is caused by the accumulation of air bubbles inside the ESP, which degrade the pump performance ranging from minor to major degradation (surging and gas-locking). Several empirical models have been developed to predict head and surging mechanisms. However, the feasibility and versatility of these models are still questionable. Therefore, this study focuses on experimental analysis and their comparison with the existing empirical models (developed to predict Head and surging characteristics under two-phase flow conditions) to examine their validity and versatility in predicting the multiphase performance of pumps. The comparison showed that some models agree well with the given test analysis. However, some models either underestimate or overestimate the predicted values because most of these models were established for high inlet pressure, no water but oil and CO2, several impeller and diffusers, different rotational speed, and different pump geometries. Moreover, this study also compares test results with CFD simulations (using Euler-Euler two-fluid model) and shows that the experimental results are consistent and reliable. Furthermore, this study provides a detailed and close insight into the different aspects of empirical models to check whether they can be applied for wider applications or are limited to the type they were developed.
Design and analysis of a three-dimensional discrete memristive chaotic map with infinitely wide parameter range
Authors: Huang Lilian , Liu Jin , Xiang Jianhong , Zhang Zefeng
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a new discrete memristive chaotic map with infinitely wide parameter range is designed. Firstly, a discrete memristor based on a triangular wave function is constructed. The memristor conforms to the definition of generalized memristor, and a new three-dimensional memristive chaotic map is designed based on it. Numerical simulations show that the map has complex dynamic behavior. An improved perturbation method is proposed to estimate the output sequence of the chaotic system. At the same time, it is proved mathematically that the new map can always be in chaotic or hyperchaotic state with infinitely wide parameter range under certain conditions. By observing the Lyapunov exponent spectrum and the phase diagram, it is found as the absolute value of the parameter increases, the output range and ergodicity of the new map are also enhanced. We demonstrate that the new map has an initial-boosting behavior that depends on the initial conditions of the memristor. By changing the initial values of the memristor, we can control the appearance of attractor at different locations without loss. At the same time, this paper analyzes the mechanism of the discrete memristive chaotic map generating initial-boosting behavior, puts forward a method to make ordinary chaotic maps easier to obtain this behavior. Finally, the DSP hardware platform is used to implement the new map, which proves the physical existence and realizability of the map.
Tuning the electronic, optical, and thermal properties of cubic perovskites CsPbCl3-nBrn (n = 0, 1, 2, and 3) through altering the halide ratio
Authors: Islam Md Rasidul , Moghal Biazid Kabir , Moshwan Raza
Published: May 2022

The metal halide-based perovskites have been used for photovoltaic device applications owing to their outstanding properties, low-temperature solution, and cheap manufacturing cost. The electronic, optical, mechanical, and thermal properties of CsPbCl3-nBrn (where n = 0, 1, 2, and 3) have been calculated using first-principles density functional theory (FP-DFT) calculations. The Perdew, Burke, and Enzerofe (PBE) exchange-correlation functional has been considered for the structural calculations. The calculated electronic properties of CsPbCl3-nBrn (where n = 0, 1, 2, and 3) suggest that these materials are direct bandgap semiconductors at normal pressure. The bandgap of CsPbCl3 has been decreased by substituting the Cl atom with the Br atom. Moreover, it is observed that the values of the bandgap of CsPbCl3-nBrn (where n = 0, 1, 2, and 3) materials diminished by rising the pressure, even the semiconductor phase transitioned to the metallic phase under high pressure. The narrowing bandgap enhances the strong light absorption properties of these materials in visible spectrum region. Elastic constants and thermal characteristics obtained for these compounds also demonstrate their structural integrity. Therefore, these compounds can be the promising candidates for optoelectronic and solar cell applications.
Novel metallic Bi-Pb–Cd-Ag alloys for shielding against neutrons and gamma rays
Authors: Reda A M , El-Daly A A
Published: May 2022

Obtaining high-performance shielding alloys against mixed neutrons and γ-rays is vital in the field of nuclear radiation. In this work, shielding Bi-Pb–Cd-Ag alloys with superior thermal neutron shielding and high ability to attenuate γ-rays were developed. The microstructure, melting behavior, and mechanical properties of the prepared alloys were characterized. The γ-rays mass attenuation coefficients (

μ
/
ρ

) were obtained using WinXCom program in the energy range of 0.015–15 MeV. The shielding parameters including atomic and electronic cross-sections (σ
a and σ
e), effective atomic number (Z

eff
), effective electron density (N

eff
) were calculated. The exposure buildup factor (EBF) using a geometric progression (GP) fitting method was estimated. The experimental measurements were carried out at 662 and 1173, 1332 keV of 137Cs and 60Co isotope sources, respectively using a scintillation gamma spectrometer NaI(Tl) detector. The calculated results of WinXCom are consistent and in agreement with the experimental values of

μ
/
ρ
.

The macroscopic effective removal cross-section (

∑

R

) of the samples for fast neutrons were calculated. Also, the attenuation of thermal neutrons through the prepared alloys has been investigated. It was found that the alloy containing 30% Cd complies with the compromise between superior thermal neutron attenuation besides its superior ability to attenuate γ-rays with good mechanical strength and high ductility.
Chemotactic response of Escherichia coli to polymer solutions
Authors: Yang Yue , Yue Caijuan , Zhang Chi , Yuan Junhua
Published: May 2022

Polymers are important components of the complex fluid environment for microorganisms. The mechanical effects on bacterial motile behavior due to the viscous or viscoelastic properties of polymers were extensively studied, whereas possible chemical effects on bacterial motility through bacterial chemoreception of the polymers were unclear. Here we studied the chemotactic response of Escherichia coli to polymeric solutions by combining the bead assay and FRET measurements. We found that the wild-type E. coli strain exhibited an attractant response to widely used polymers such as Ficoll 400, polyethylene glycol (PEG) 20000 and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) 360000, and the response amplitude from chemoreception was much larger than that from the load-dependence of motor switching due to viscosity change. The chemotactic response depended on the type of receptors and the chain length of the polymers. Our findings here provided important new ingredients for further studies of bacterial motile behavior in complex fluids.
A prototype optical link board with redundancy design for the ATLAS liquid argon calorimeter Phase-2 upgrade
Authors: Huang X. , Liu C. , Deiana A. , Deng B. , Gong D. , Hasley L. , Hou S. , Liu T. , Sun H. , Ye J. , Zhang L. , Zhang W.
Published: May 2022

A prototype optical-link board has been developed for the ATLAS Liquid Argon Calorimeter Phase-2 upgrade. The board consists of 24 lpGBT chips and 8 VTRx+ modules and demonstrates the full optical link design of the future front-end board. The board has 22 simplex optical links to transmit detector data, which are emulated in FPGAs and injected through 6 FMC connectors, to the off-detector electronics. The board implements 2 duplex optical links for clocks, control, and monitoring with redundant design to improve the system reliability. Data transmission and all redundant designs have been verified. A fiber routing scheme, in which 2 or 3 VTRx+ modules are re-connected to the front panel with an MPO connector, has been prototyped.
Prototype design of a timing and fast control system in the CBM experiment
Authors: Sidorenko V. , Fröhlich I. , Müller W.F.J. , Emschermann D. , Bähr S. , Sturm C. , Becker J.
Published: May 2022

The Compressed Baryonic Matter (CBM) experiment is designed to handle interaction rates of up to 10 MHz and up to 1 TB/s of raw data generated. With triggerless streaming data acquisition in the experiment and beam intensity fluctuations, it is expected that occasional data bursts will surpass bandwidth capabilities of the Data Acquisition System (DAQ) system. In order to preserve integrity of event data, the bandwidth of DAQ must be throttled in an organised way with minimum information loss. The Timing and Fast Control (TFC) system provides a latency-optimised datapath for throttling commands and distributes a system clock together with a global timestamp. This paper describes a prototype design of the system with focus on synchronisation and its evaluation.
A system test platform for the CERN power converter control electronics
Authors: Cabrera G. , Grimmer R. , Haynes P. , Nisbet D.
Published: May 2022

The power converters at CERN deliver a broad range of complex functions to assure the correct magnetic field throughout the beam acceleration cycle. The power converter controls are composed of remotely programmable electronics to handle the different characteristics of these power systems, that can supply up to 10 MW, 100 kV and 100 kA. However, such flexibility in the control devices is vulnerable to regression. Avoiding it before the deployment of new or modified software or firmware was the objective for the development of the test platform presented in this paper. It is important to detect possible incompatibilities between versions or errors that could damage the power converters. To achieve this, the platform uses continuous integration and continuous delivery techniques and hardware-in-the-loop modelling to emulate the different power converters range and to validate the controls before deployment.
PAM-4 implementation study for future high-speed links
Authors: Wanotayaroj C. , Mendes E. , Baron S.
Published: May 2022

With the ever-increasing amount of data produced by the high energy physics experiments, the transmission rates from the detectors to the back-end stages must keep up. To mitigate the exponential growth of the total loss due to the increased bandwidth, the 4-Level Pulse-Amplitude Modulation (PAM4) could be envisaged. Where the line rate of Non-Return to Zero (NRZ) modulated signals is capping at 28 Gbps per lane, PAM4 allows the rate of 53.125 Gbps or above in extremely high-end applications. Investigating the implementation of such links in FPGA is one of the activities carried out by the Work Package 6 of the CERN EP Research and Development programme. A proof-of-concept system of high-speed links using PAM4-53.125 Gbps has been built, based on a Xilinx Virtex evaluation platform and various commercial optoelectronics transceivers. PAM4 standard Forward Error Correction (FEC) codes have also been implemented and characterized over electrical and optical layers in terms of coding gain and latency. Finally, the telecom and datacom markets were investigated to identify development perspectives for the research and development for future links. In this paper, the performance of the proof-of-concept implementing these high-speed links is presented and the current and future challenges for an error-free communication are discussed.
Multi-chamber GEM-based concept of radiated power/SXR measurement system for use in high radiation environment of DEMO
Authors: Chernyshova M. , Dobrut M. , Jabłoński S. , Malinowski K. , Fornal T.
Published: May 2022

This work describes the progress of development of total core radiation power and soft X-ray (SXR) diagnostic system designed in accordance with the DEMO control requirements. Monitoring of energy loss through the separatrix is necessary for reliable plasma control. Data gathered by this system could also be helpful for studying spatial distribution of heavy impurities, MHD modes and their localization, plasma shape and position.

Gas electron multiplier (GEM) technology is assessed as a base for a new radiated SXR power measurement system. The main advantages of this technology are the compactness of GEM detector, good temporal and spatial resolution, the ability to discriminate energy of incident photons and better neutron resilience than existing systems. All of these make it potentially a good candidate for SXR diagnostic system in ITER and DEMO.

The scope of the study includes analysis of the feasibility of selected approaches, the design of the diagnostic system, necessary simulations and engineering considerations, and the proposal of an integration scenario. Preliminary design considerations for the GEM-sensor-based system under development have been done. Plasma radiation intensities and spectra have been simulated using data from the appropriate DEMO scenario. A concept of the photosensitive chamber has been assessed. Photoabsorption simulations with the proposed structure and parameters have been conducted and the results have been discussed.
Investigation of the cryogenic scintillation of pure and doped sodium-iodine
Authors: Clark M. , Froborg F. , Di Stefano P.C.F. , Calaprice F.
Published: May 2022

We have studied the scintillation of pure and doped sodium
iodide crystals handled in low humidity conditions under external
α and γ excitation from room temperature down to 4 K.
The light yield of pure sodium iodide was seen to increase at low
temperatures by a factor 30 compared to room temperature, up to a
maximum of 40 photons/keV under γ excitation at 60 K,
stabilizing to 30 photons/keV at lower temperatures. Thallium doped
sodium iodide fluctuates by 20% around the room temperature value,
stabilizing at 40 photons/keV at low temperature. α/γ
quenching factor stabilizes at roughly 0.7 for both materials
beneath 50 K. Time constants of both materials slow greatly at low
temperature, reaching tens of microseconds. Cryogenic applications
of these materials are complexified by their mechanical fragility
and hygroscopicity.
The construction of a self-assembled coating with chitosan-grafted reduced graphene oxide on porous calcium polyphosphate scaffolds for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Ding Hongmei , Peng Xu , Yu Xiaoshuang , Hu Mengyue , Wan Chang , Lei Ningning , Luo Yihao , Yu Xixun
Published: May 2022

Bone regeneration in large bone defects remains one of the major challenges in orthopedic surgery. Calcium polyphosphate (CPP) scaffolds possess excellent biocompatibility and exhibits good bone ingrowth. However, the present CPP scaffolds lack enough osteoinductive activity to facilitate bone regeneration at bone defects that exceed the critical size threshold. To endow CPP scaffolds with improved osteoinductive activity for better bone regeneration, in this study, a self-assembled coating with chitosan-grafted reduced graphene oxide (CS-rGO) sheets was successfully constructed onto the surface of CPP scaffolds through strong electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonds. Our results showed that the obtained CPP/CS-rGO composite scaffolds exhibited highly improved biomineralization and considerable antibacterial activity. More importantly, CPP/CS-rGO composite scaffolds could drive osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and significantly up-regulate the expression of osteogenesis-related proteins in vitro. Meanwhile, the CS-rGO coating could inhibit aseptic loosening and improve interfacial osseointegration through stimulating bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) to secrete more osteoprotegerin (OPG) and lesser receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL). Overall, the CS-rGO coating adjusts CPP scaffolds’ biological environment interface and endows CPP scaffolds with more bioactivity.
Palm oil’s contribution to the United Nations sustainable development goals: outcomes of a review of socio-economic aspects
Authors: Chiriacò Maria Vincenza , Bellotta Matteo , Jusić Jasmina , Perugini Lucia
Published: May 2022

Palm oil is both the world’s most-used vegetable oil and the most criticized for its environmental impact due to the observed reduction in tropical forest areas for its cultivation over the past decades. There is, however, very little discussion on the socio-economic implications associated with the production of palm oil. To contribute to a more informed debate, we conducted an in-depth review of the existing literature addressing the various socio-economic aspects of the production of palm oil, outlining its contribution to the achievement of the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs). The outcomes, findings and conclusions from 82 studies, published from 2010 onward, were considered as positive, negative, neutral or varied, and sometimes even contradicting, with regard to the contribution of palm cultivation and/or oil production to the achievement of a set of eight SDGs, selected to be those most related to socio-economic development, differentiating when possible between sustainable and conventional production. The results show that it is difficult to draw uniform views, highlighting the nuances and varied facets of the contribution of palm oil to the eight SDGs, some of which are inevitably interconnected. In general, it emerges that palm oil plays a crucial role in boosting the economy and livelihoods of local communities in many developing producer countries, substantially contributing to poverty reduction and to food security. However, the expansion of oil palm plantations has, in some cases, exacerbated social inequalities, and the economic growth generated by the palm oil production chain is not always accompanied by decent working conditions. Against this backdrop, the achievement of some SDGs is often facilitated by the implementation of sustainability certification schemes that play a key role in improving the socio-economic and environmental performance of palm oil production. This leads enhanced socio-economic livelihoods for the people living in the production areas in terms of working conditions, infrastructure, services and wages, with a consequent reduction of poverty rates, an increase in education quality, as well as better access to food and healthcare systems.
Impact of temperature and pH on antioxidant activity of green silver nanoparticles fabricated from Ananas comosus peel extracts
Authors: Razali Z , Norrizah J S , Abdullah S
Published: May 2022

Silver nanoparticles arose as a new weapon in the development of green synthesis of these nanoparticles using diverse natural resources such as plant leaf, microorganisms, and fruit extracts. Biosynthesis approach by using waste materials from plant is widely used as it is proven to be environmentally and cost friendly method. This study aims to identify the impact of temperature and pH on antioxidant activities of silver nanoparticles fabricated from pineapple (Ananas comosus) peel extract. Different temperature (70°C, 80°C and 90°C) and pH (7, 8 and 9) have been tested to the samples and characterized using UV-Visible Spectroscopy. Then, antioxidant activities of the AgNPs produced using different temperature and pH were determined using free radical scavenging ability on 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). The results were found at pH 9, the surface plasmon resonance peak for biosynthesized AgNPs was at 425 nm on Day 2 while other treatments took longer time to exhibit the AgNPs peak. Biosynthesized AgNPs treated at temperature 90°C showed the optimum temperature when it exhibited peak at 420 nm on Day 3. The biosynthesized of AgNPs from pineapple peel extracts exhibited potential antioxidant activity in the DPPH scavenging by highest DPPH scavenging percentage is at 84.75% for AgNPs treated at pH 9 and 80.29 % for AgNPs treated at 90°C with concentration of 1000 µg/mL. Temperature and pH gave significant impact in synthesis and increase antioxidant activity of green silver nanoparticles.
Recreational Risks: Human and Wildlife Conflicts at Johor National Parks, Malaysia
Authors: Sidi M.Adli Mohd , Ahmad Badli Esham , Puan Chong Leong , Noor Mohd Iqbal Mohd , Isa Kalam Azad , Norsyam Wan Mohd , Johannis Nik Jazwiri
Published: May 2022

National parks are significant ecotourism destinations providing various nature attractions in a form of biological, physical and/or historical resources. However, risk issues associated with recreational activities in national parks are becoming more pertinent and crucial as safety and threats to humans and wildlife can occur. This study was conducted to identify the risks for human and wildlife for visitors at tropical rainforests, marine parks, and coastal mangroves of Johor National Park. It is a qualitative study and data was collected through semi structured interviews with the National Park Managers, Former National Park Managers, and Instructors of Johor National Park. The study found that snakebite is the main concern for tropical rainforest and coastal mangroves category of national parks while hazardous marine species are the main risk for marine parks. The findings have shown that the risk of human and wildlife conflicts exist at all these three categories of national parks. Visitors’ negligence with the existence of dangerous wildlife may cause serious injury if no preventive measures are taken. The risk of human and wildlife conflict should be managed smartly to reduce the risks and ensure the sustainable development of the national parks.
Phytoremediation Using Ornamental Plants in Removing Heavy Metals from Wastewater Sludge
Authors: Ishak Irra Amirah , Hum Nurul Nadiah Mohd Firdaus
Published: May 2022

Phytoremediation is a low cost and effective soil treatment option for metal reclamation compared to the conventional method which are very expensive and can cause disturbance to the soil. This research examined the ability of ornamental plants namely, hibiscus (Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis) and rose (Rosa sp.) to absorb heavy metals in the wastewater sludge. The objectives of this study were to determine the optimum heavy metals uptake from wastewater sludge using ornamental plants and to determine the overall distribution of heavy metals in the plant parts. The sludge was taken from Mawar wastewater treatment plant that is located at UiTM Shah Alam and treatment was conducted for a period of 30 days. Plants were exposed to the various percentage of sludge amendments in soil (0%-control, 10% - treatment A, 25% - treatment B, 50% - treatment C, 75% - treatment D and 100% - treatment E) for 30 days. The concentration of Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu were measured in each part of plants (roots, stems, leaves). Highest heavy metals removal was in the order of Fe>Mn>Zn>Cu with the treatment of 100% sludge. Root contained the highest concentration of heavy metals in the plant parts. While in comparison between the plants, rose removed more heavy metals as compared to the hibiscus plant.
Smart Campus Geographic Information System (GIS) Mobile Application Reporting System
Authors: Syafuan Wan Mohamed , Husin Rospi Mat , Fauzi Muhammad Faiz MD
Published: May 2022

The Geographical Information System (GIS) mobile application helps the communities in a specific area, the agency related to the maintenance and solving problems related to infrastructure. The purpose of this study is to enhance the location and visualization of the current reporting system. The methodology used in this study starts with a preliminary study to understand the issue, data collection, data processing, and system design using ArcGIS for Desktop, ArcGIS App Studio to design the application, ArcGIS Online to create the computer dashboard, and finished by testing the system. As a result, a mobile geographical information system based on the maintenance and solving problems related to infrastructure was created as a mobile application. Some people tested the Smart Campus GIS Mobile Application Reporting System in the specified area to verify the capabilities. In conclusion, the positive feedback received from the respondent is used to validate the mobile application and is ready to be used by the people in the target area.
The hidden biodiversity of the blowfly Chrysomya megacephala revealed by the Cytochrome b gene
Authors: Kavitha R , Low VL , Azirun MS , Chen CD , Ahmad FMS , Shanti N , Zaibunnisa AH , Farida ZMY
Published: May 2022

Insects or arthropods collected from a human deceased during crime scene investigation often revealed information related to the body of the deceased or the crime scene. Morphologically identical immature larvae or maggots have been identified using DNA identification methods. However, a big challenge to the DNA identification method is the presence of morphologically identical but genetically distinct taxa. The genetic diversity of Chrysomya megacephala flies from Malaysia will be revealed in this study. A total of 74 Chrysomya megacephala from Peninsular Malaysia were subjected to phylogenetic and haplotype analyses based on the Cytochrome b (Cyt b) gene. Chrysomya megacephala from Kuala Lumpur and Selangor are more diverse genetically compared to those from Perak, Johor and Pahang. The Cyt b gene revealed three distinct genetic clades of Chrysomya megacephala, one clade is for populations from Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, whereas the other two clades consisted of specimens from all five studied populations that is Perak, Pahang, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Johor. Detection of hidden lineages of Chrysomya megacephala based on the Cyt b gene may offer some clues for forensic entomological investigation in the country.
Herbal Plant Analysis Based on Leaf Features using K-Means Clustering
Authors: Mutalib Sofianita , Hasbullah Nur Hanani , Abdul-Rahman Shuzlina , Shamsuddin Mohd Razif , Malik Ariff Md Ab
Published: May 2022

Plants are essential in the Earth, as it supplies the oxygen needed by human beings and animals, and becomes the source of foods and medical treatments. Many medicinal plants can treat diseases and it is also called herbal plants. Traditionally, these plants are processed and transformed as traditional medicines to cure any diseases. Nowadays, there are still practices that use medicinal plants. However, it is quite challenging to find herbal plants and these herbal plants come with different features such as size, shape, and colour. Therefore, this paper presents a machine learning approach, namely clustering, to classify the herbal plant species through images. We focused on six herbal plants in Malaysia which are Peacock Fern, Misai Adam, Mempisang, Tapak Sulaiman, Pandan Serapat and Kacip Fatimah. These species were collected from Taman Negara Pahang, Kuala Keniam, Malaysia. The k-means algorithm was employed by experimenting with several numbers of clusters in the range of two, three, four and five. The features extracted were colour and shape and this was performed using Python libraries. This study would benefit the researchers or botanists to identify the plant’s name based on the features. In order to give more interactive elements, a dashboard was developed in which the herbal plants are categorized in the group that has similar characteristics.
An Insight Into Domestic Solid Waste Recycling Facilities And Urban Households’ Behaviour In Shah Alam, Malaysia
Authors: Abdullah Yusfida Ayu , Rauf Nurul Rif’ah Afiqah Abd , Yakob Hamizah , Othman Raja Norashekin Raja , Marzukhi Marlyana Azyyati , Leh Oliver Ling Hoon
Published: May 2022

Domestic solid waste management and recycling have been a continuous effort for local authorities. However, recycling activities are still participatory practices in Malaysia. To date, there is no specific law that enforces urban residents to recycle their solid waste. Therefore, this study is intended to investigate recycling facilities (a mechanism) and the urban household’s behaviour towards recycling in Selangor. Shah Alam was selected as the Case Study using six (6) administrative sections (Seksyen 2, 6, 7, 8, 10 and 11) comprising of landed and high-rise housing schemes as the study areas. Research methods included Site Observation, Questionnaire Survey and a Focus Group Discussion (FGD). The questionnaire survey employed the Convenient Random Sampling technique owing to the new norm of the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results demonstrated significant differences in households’ behaviour for residents living in landed properties compared to the high-rise households. The residents are more inclined to recycle when the recycling facilities are closer to their vicinity. This relates very much to the facilities and recycling program delivered by the city council for areas with landed houses and apartments. The study suggested an improvement in domestic solid waste management through proposals put forward by the FGD participants, including the creation of recycling software Applications, enhanced policies and strategies for recycling and further educate the public on the importance of protecting their environment through recycling. The outcome of this study may be a reference to the authority and waste operators in improving their practice for the benefit of Shah Alam’s environment and public well-being.
Floristic Composition of Trees in the Lowland Dipterocarp Forest of Kuala Keniam, Taman Negara, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Ariff Engku Azlin Rahayu Engku , Ahmad Fitri Z. , Kusin M. , Nik Hazlan N. H. , Sarmin S.N. , Hashim T.T.M.Z. , Yamani S.A.K. , Syarifah Haniera S.K. , Nazip S. , Nik Norafida N. A. , Latiff A.
Published: May 2022

A study was conducted to determine the floristic composition and community structure of trees in lowland dipterocarp forest in Kuala Keniam, Taman Negara, Pahang. This forest is classified as a primary forest and among the oldest rain forest in the world. Five experimental plots with the dimension of 25 m x 20 m each (0.25 ha in total) had been established. The census was carried out for all trees with diameter at breast height (DBH) 5 cm and above. Species composition comprised of 244 individuals from 141 species, 94 genera and 36 families. The total number of taxa is varying across the five plots with the highest total number of families and species recorded in plot 5 with 21 and 43 taxa each. The lowest total number of families and species were recorded in plot 1 with only 14 families and 23 species. Euphorbiaceae is the most speciose family with 20 taxa and 66 individuals followed by Annonaceae with 14 taxa and 19 individuals. These two families are common in the lowland dipterocarp forests in Peninsular Malaysia. Main canopy and understorey and group were recorded with the highest number of species and individuals with 52 and 45 of species and 91 and 75 of individuals, respectively. Pioneer is very rare and was only represented by a single stem of Cratoxylum formosum and Sapium baccatum. Three species, namely Koompassia malaccensis, Elateriospermum tapos and Mallotus leucodermis were represented as the highest total number of individuals for DBH classes of ≥ 5 cm, ≥ 10 cm, ≥ 15 and ≥ 20 cm.
3D Campus Map Towards Sustainable Development and Infrastructure Management In UPNM
Authors: Syafuan Wan Mohamed , Husin Rospi Mat , Azizi Muhammad Izzul Fikri
Published: May 2022

3D technology is used in GIS maps to create descriptive graphics that accurately depict the size of real-world items. In a wide variety of various areas, 3D models aid in appearance and survey. For example, 3D maps may depict the height of a building or a mountain in addition to its location. 3D tools must be utilized in conjunction with 2D GIS and then visualized in a 3D environment. The current UPNM campus map accessible to students and staff is not sufficiently helpful and hardly identified its whereabouts. This project was undertaken to develop a web-based 3D campus map and analyze specifically the campus’s area zoning. This study uses a personal computer with Esri CityEngine software to develop the 3D campus map and ArcGIS Online to publish the web-based 3D campus map. The data was acquired by downloading the base map of UPNM from OpenStreetMap (OSM). Completion of data processing results in a web-based 3D UPNM campus map with area zoning. The finding shows that the 3D map, using the Geographical Information System (GIS) platform, is more informative and attractive than the 2D map due to the attribute and spatial data. In addition, the capabilities of the 3D map to visualize and show the campus area and area zoning in the map can be managed according to the structural information. All in all, it can be concluded that this web-based 3D map contributes towards the sustainability of the UPNM infrastructure and campus while facilitating campus maintenance and rehabilitation.
GIS based Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) for Ecotourism Site Suitability in South Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Othman Ainon Nisa , Salim Pauziyah , Khalid Nafisah , Munsai Asiah , Salleh Siti Aekbal
Published: May 2022

Ecotourism is an important part of sustainable tourism. Thus, the selection of the suitable sites is important in the development of ecotourism site. The objective of this study are to identify the criteria of the potential area for ecotourism and to develop a model to map the potential area of ecotourism and to map the suitable location of the ecotourism in South Kelantan. The criteria such as Land use, slope, elevation and proximity to road were selected following the guidelines and also from the previous study. The method used is Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and GIS. AHP technique were used to calculate the weightage for each of the criteria. At the end of this steps, the model of Site Suitable Area for Ecotourism Model (SSME) was produced. In this study, map of the site suitability area for ecotourism in South Kelantan were process and displayed in ArcGIS.
Notes of Some Rheophytes and Riparian Species of Seed Plants in Taman Negara Kuala Tahan, Pahang
Authors: Ahmad Fitri Z , Nik Hazlan N H , Kusin M , Ariff Engku Azlin Rahayu Engku , Hashim T T M Z , Yamani S A K , Nazip S , Nik Norafida N A , Nizam M S , Latiff A
Published: May 2022

The wet and fast-flowed rivers in the lowland and hill forest at Taman Negara provide a suitable habitat for the rheophytes and riparian flora of seed plants. Fourteen species of rheophytes and riparian are listed and discussed in this paper, of which some taxa are locally common along the riverbanks of Sungai Tahan and Sungai Tembeling.
Wild Fruit Trees in Kuala Keniam at Taman Negara, Pahang, Malaysia
Authors: Nik Hazlan N H , Ahmad Fitri Z , Sarmin S N , Kusin M , Ariff Engku Azlin Rahayu Engku , Ahmad Badli Esham , Hashim T T M Z , Yamani S A K , Nazip S , Latiff A
Published: May 2022

A study was conducted to determine the composition of wild fruit tree in Kuala Keniam, Taman Negara (National Park) Pahang. A method of field specimen collection was used in this study. Five plots of 0.05ha (25 m x 20 m) were established. Trees of ≥ 1 cm diameter at breast height (dbh) were measured within the plot. Additional data was also obtained from a general survey around the forest trails. A total of 41 species from 19 genera and 11 families of wild fruit trees were recorded. Guttiferae was listed the highest with 10 species (24.4%). It was followed by Euphorbiaceae and Sapindaceae with seven species (17.1%). Genus-wise, Garcinia has recorded the highest total number of species with 10 species followed by Baccaurea (six species), and Artocarpus (four species). The low total number of species in this study is due to the limitation time for sampling. A detailed study on the composition of fruit trees in the plot is needed in the future to get more information on the importance of wild fruit trees in Kuala Keniam in Taman Negara Pahang.
Promoting Sustainable Cities and Communities for Older Persons through Understanding their Preferable Social Activities
Authors: Aziz N A , Ahmad Y , Mustapha S Z , Abd Hamid S N F
Published: May 2022

Malaysia is on track to become an aged nation by 2030, with older people accounting for 15% of the total population. Changes in a country’s demographic composition of older people have a significant socioeconomic impact, given that medical and long-term care services account for the majority of government spending. Promoting an active and healthy lifestyle among older people has become critical to their ability to live independently. Social participation among older persons is one way to encourage active ageing. The purpose of this study was to learn more about older people’s preferred social activities to better understand their preferences to promote sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11). A qualitative research approach was used in the study by using a semi-structured interview with a total of 41 older persons. Three states including Penang, Selangor and Kuala Lumpur were selected as the main location to reach the targeted participants in the study. All the older participants were selected based on the inclusion criteria including; (1) older persons aged 60 years and above; (2) older persons who participated in the social activities; (3) activities centres located at three urban areas including Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. The findings of the study found five (5) types of preferred activities among older persons: (1) Leisure learning activities; (2) Religious activities; (3) Community-related activities; (4) Home-based activities; and (5) Job-related activities. In conclusion, there is an apparent need to provide aged–friendly areas and create a good built environment to assist the older persons, in keeping with the national agenda to achieve aged nation status and achieve the SDGs.
A highly selective and sensitive ratiometric fluorescent probe for quantitative detection of Al(III) in different natural matrices
Authors: Shanmugapriya R , Kumar P Saravana , Nandhini C , Satheeshkumar K , Vennila K N , Elango Kuppanagounder P
Published: May 2022

A highly selective and sensitive assay of Al(III) using ratiometric fluorescence enhancement is reported in an aqueous solution. The probe (named RS5) exhibits a red-shift of 54 nm upon binding with Al(III) ion. The significant enhancement response of RS5 at 481 nm is attributed to the formation of a 1:1 complex between the probe and Al(III), wherein RS5 acts as a tridentate NNN-donor ligand. The complexation process is ascertained by 1H, 13C, and 27Al NMR and HR-MS spectral techniques. The binding constant of the complex is determined to be 1.3 × 105 M−1. The ratiometric change in fluorescence upon complexation with Al(III) is ascribed to an increase in intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) transition along with chelation enhanced fluorescence (CHEF) processes. The probe can be applied for monitoring Al(III) in a pH range of 6–8. The limit of detection (LOD) of RS5 for the examination of Al(III) is found to be 0.3 μM. With an aim to understand the sensing behavior of RS5, the optical properties of the probe and its Al(III) complex are investigated using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) methods. The probe is successfully employed for the determination of Al(III), with very high recovery percentages, in natural matrices like deep well water, tap water, drinking water, pond water, river water, bovine serum albumin (BSA) solution and blood serum.
A cuvette-compatible Zn2+ sensing tool for conventional spectrofluorometers prepared by copolymerization of macrocyclic fluoroionophores on quartz glass surface
Authors: Golcs Ádám , Kovács Korinna , Vezse Panna , Bezúr László , Huszthy Péter , Tóth Tünde
Published: May 2022

We report here the development of a surface-modified quartz glass sheet, which affords an opportunity for converting conventional spectrofluorometers to ion-selective optochemical sensors by placing it diagonally into a photometric cuvette. Moreover, we describe a generalizable technique, which allows the usage of any polymerizable ionophores for developing multiple-use fluorescent chemosensors of various selectivity. A fluorescent bis(acridino)-crown ether containing allyl groups was photocatalytically copolymerized with a methacrylate-acrylamide-based monomer mixture to obtain an ion-selective sensor membrane layer on the surface of the cuvette-compatible glass sheet. This glass membrane-based direct optode enabled the analysis of Zn2+ above a lower limit of detection of 2.2 × 10–7 mol·l−1 with an excellent reusability. Limiting factors, like pH and competing ionic or organic agents were thoroughly investigated. Moreover, spiked river-water samples were measured to demonstrate applicability. The proposed sensor placed in any conventional spectrofluorometer provides an innovative method for perturbation-free analysis of Zn2+ for all the chemists in need of a fast, easy-to-use, portable and regenerable analyzer without the requirement of an analyte-specific instrumentation.