bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Reflection Mode Ultrasonic Transceiver Sensor in Pipeline Inspection Guage to Monitor Pipeline Internal Corrosion
Authors: Abd Aziz M. Azreen Firdaus , Idroas Mariani , Zakaria Zainal , Md Zin A. Ridhwan , Ibrahim M. Nasir
Published: January 2015

Aging gas transmission pipelines are prone to internal corrosion due to the presence of carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide in the natural gas constituents. Commonly, the in-line inspection tool known as Pipeline Inspection Gauge (PIG) is applied to perform the corrosion inspection of the pipeline. This paper describes an ultrasonic instrumentation system for PIG to monitor internal corrosion of pipeline. The system consists of ultrasonic transceiver sensor, ultrasonic driving circuitry and data acquisition system. The hardware is equipped with a sensor carrier which is propelled along the test pipeline. The time of flight (TOF) of the ultrasonic wave is measured and was used to evaluate the internal corrosion of pipeline. An initial experimental instrument was set up to perform the distance measurement test at a frequency of 390 kHz, to simulate the changes of pipe wall thickness due to corrosion effect. Surface anomalies were created at different positions to simulate the changes of pipe wall thickness due to the corrosion effect. Variation in measured distances implied the existence of the surface anomalies. The results of the simulated surface anomalies showed that the percentage error was less than + 5%. The large value of average DC voltage gave indication of distance increment due to the depth of the surface anomalies. The developed ultrasonic instrumentation system is capable to monitor the internal corrosion of pipeline.
A Study on Forward and Inverse Problems for an Ultrasonic Tomography
Authors: Rahiman Mohd Hafiz Fazalul , Abdul Rahim Ruzairi , Abdul Rahim Herlina , Zakaria Zulkarnay , Pusppanathan Muhammad Jaysuman
Published: January 2015

This paper studies the solution for inverse and forward problems for an ultrasonic tomography. Transmission-mode approach has been used for sensing the liquid/gas two-phase flow, which is a kind of strongly inhomogeneous medium. The imaging technique for two-phase flow using fan-shaped beam scanning geometry was presented. In this work, the tomographic images are derived from Back-Projection Algorithm. Some of the results based on the Linear Back-Projection algorithm (LBP) and the Hybrid Reconstruction algorithm (HR) was also presented.
Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Measures in Transportation Sector of Malaysia
Authors: Shahid Shamsuddin , Minhans Anil , Che Puan Othman
Published: January 2015

Malaysia has committed to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 40% by the year 2020. The fact that transport sector of Malaysia shares a big portion of national GHG emissions; its role is paramount. The present study reviews the current state of GHG emission, the major technical and policy measures that can be adopted, and the measures that have been initiated in Malaysia for GHG emission reduction in transportation sector. Data related to road vehicles and GHG emission from road transportation are collected from open source databases and analyzed to reveal the present trends and possible future changes in GHG emission due to government initiatives. The result shows deceleration of GHG emission from transportation sector of Malaysia in recent years. However, the study reveals that the present measures may not be enough to reduce GHG emission up to the set target. Malaysia needs more prudent strategies for climate-friendly development of transportation to achieve sustainability goals. The study also examines the potential of Malaysia to reduce GHG and the measures that that can be initiated to streamline the effort towards GHG emission reduction are discussed.
Heavy Truck Rollover Model for Single Vehicle Run–off–Road Crashes in Bangladesh
Authors: Hasanat-E-Rabbi Shahnewaz , Ahmed Ishtiaque , Hoque Md. Shamsul
Published: January 2015

Run-Off-Road (ROR) crashes have always been a serious safety concern around the world as they account for a large number of fatal crashes and fatalities each year. Running off the road may occur as an aftermath of single vehicle accident or any other incidents. Single vehicle ROR accident results in either overturning on the shoulder or hitting off road objects. Accident data analysis shows that in Bangladesh, more than 21% overturning accident involves heavy trucks. What may be the factors behind these accidents? Is it due to the driver performance only or is due to other factors? To find out the answer of the question analytically, a rollover model has been developed which correlates special vehicle loading features such as loading width, height and load shifting with overturning accident in terms of rollover threshold. This paper highlights the model development process and model analysis results.
A Review into Traffic Signal Improvement at Pedestrian Signalised Crossings
Authors: Hassan Sitti Asmah , Che Puan Othman , Mashros Nordiana , Abdul Sukor Nur Sabahiah
Published: January 2015

Signalised pedestrian crossings on busy urban street are used to facilitate the time-sharing of road space between vehicles and pedestrians so that pedestrians can cross the road safely. Puffin crossing is the most recent signalised crossings in UK. The operation of Puffin signal control is mainly based on traffic condition hence could impose longer waiting time on pedestrian. Therefore there is a need to review the operation of the signal control strategy of Puffin crossings to make it more pedestrian responsive without imposing significant delay to other road users. This requires the development of a conceptual model of new signal control strategy. Upstream Detection strategy has been identified as one of the potential alternatives that might enhance pedestrian amenity at signalised crossings. In the Upstream Detection strategy, detection is located at an upstream location of the crossing, so that the pedestrian demand can be registered earlier rather than waiting at the kerbside. Therefore, pedestrian does not need to arrive at the kerbside to activate the demand as in the normal operation of Puffin crossings. By doing so, pedestrian delay can be minimised. Therefore, this paper is intended to provide some insight into traffic signal improvement at pedestrian crossings, so that, it will be more pedestrian friendly without imposing significant interruption to vehicles. This paper seeks to explore the development of Upstream Detection strategy at Puffin crossings and its potential benefits. At this stage, Upstream Detection strategy has not yet been evaluated to explain specific findings of the strategy.
Speed–Flow–Geometry Relationships and Capacity for Two–Lane Single Carriageway Roads
Authors: Che Puan Othman , Muhamad Nor Nur Syahriza , Bujang Zamri
Published: January 2015

The current Malaysian practice in road capacity analysis, Malaysian Highway Capacity Manual 2011 (MHCM) is based on a method adopted from the Highway Capacity Manual(HCM) of the United States. All the analysis elements appear to be taken directly from the manual. The rationale for using such a method for Malaysian conditions is not well defined. This paper deliberates the background of the methodology used in the development of speed, flow and geometry relationships and the capacity for single carriageway roads. A microscopic traffic simulation model which is capable of simulating traffic operations on single carriageway roads for a range of road geometry configurations and traffic flow conditions was developed and used to evaluate the potential capacity of a single carriageway road. The results of the analysis indicate that a two-lane single carriageway road is capable of accommodating traffic flow higher than the values derived from the previous HCM. The current version of the HCM also appears to underestimate the vehicles’ travel speed for a range of traffic flows when compared with the results of the simulation model. The MHCM 2011, on the other hand, estimated travel speeds higher than the travels speeds predicted by both the HCM 2010 and simulation model. It shows that there is a different interpretation of LOS F in term of speed between HCM 2010 and MHCM 2011.
A Comparative Review of the Making of Urban Transport Policies in Metropolitan Areas in Southeast Asia
Authors: Mueth Matthias , Minhans Anil
Published: January 2015

The urban transport systems are primarily the result of political decision-making processes, and only secondarily a matter of technical necessity or technical possibility, because every individual or group does have vested interests in transport policies, which are often conflicting if not inherently incompatible. What constitutes the so-called “common good” is not a technical question but ultimately a political one – while its implementation requires the suitable technical solution. This “comparative review of the making of urban transport policies in metropolitan areas of Singapore and Bangkok” analyses (1) the “input” of different actors into the political decision-making process, (2) how this input is processed by the various actors in government and administration, including the interaction of all participatory actors, and (3) finally how the results of these processes influence the form of the actual transport systems. The results are based on the research of the different polities influencing transport-related decisions in cities of Singapore and Bangkok. The process of decision-making is analysed using seven illustrative examples from these cities and the assessment of the transport systems is made according to pre-defined quantitative and qualitative data. This adopted approach is along the lines of classical policy-field analysis: In this study it examines the policy field of urban transport and draws conclusions, which are specific to the chosen cities and general to the policy field.
Laboratory Investigation on the Effects of Flaky Aggregates on Dynamic Creep and Resilient Modulus of Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Mahmud Mohd Zul Hanif , Yaacob Haryati , Putra Jaya Ramadhansyah , Abdul Hassan Norhidayah
Published: January 2015

This paper presents an investigation on the effects of flaky aggregates in asphalt mixture. In general, aggregate characteristics are critical to the performance of asphalt mixture. Therefore, flaky aggregate is normally avoided simply because it has significant contribution towards the gradation and reduces the interlocking characteristics of aggregates within asphalt mixture. In practice, it is recommended that the amount of flakiness aggregate should be limited to 25% or less. This study evaluates the mechanical properties of asphalt mixture specimens prepared with various percentages of flaky aggregates particularly 10%, 20% and 30% by the total weight of the mixture. Several laboratory tests were conducted including Marshall properties test, Indirect Tensile Modulus test and Dynamic Creep test. The results show that higher bitumen content is required with the increased in the amount of flaky aggregates added to mixture. Furthermore, greater amount of flaky aggregates tends to reduce the mixture’s resilient modulus and its resistance against permanent deformation.
Evaluation of Factors Influencing strength of Foamed Bitumen Stabilised Mix
Authors: Hainin Mohd Rosli , Matori Mohd Yazip , Akin Oluwasola Ebenezer
Published: January 2015

Over recycling of asphalt pavements involves mixing of existing pavement material with stabilizing agent such as foamed bitumen, bitumen emulsion, cement or lime and placed on the milled pavement and compacted. The strength of foamed bitumen stabilized mix is influenced by factors such as cement content, moisture level and curing time. It was found that the strength in terms of resilient modulus, Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) and Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS) values, increased with curing time and percentage of active filler. It was also found that the maximum strength in terms of resilient modulus, Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) and Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS) was not at Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) and the strength decreased as the RAP proportion increased
Effect of Rainfall Intensity and Road Crossfall on Skid Resistance of Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Yaacob Haryati , Hainin Mohd Rosli , Baskara Sudesh Nair A/L
Published: January 2015

Skidding is one of the major factors to road accidents during wet weather condition. Skidding during wet weather happens when water film presents between the tyre and pavement reducing the friction of tyre onto the road surface. This laboratory study was carried out to investigate the factors affecting Pendulum Test Value on Asphaltic Concrete surfaces. The main objective of this study is to determine the pavement type and the crossfall percentage that best resist skid during wet weather condition. Three different types of dense graded mixes were used in this study which are AC10, AC14 and AC20. Those three constructed mixes were tested using Sand Patch Test (SPT) and were then subjected to various rainfall conditions and crossfall percentages using Rainfall Simulator. The rainfall conditions are categorized as low rainfall, medium rainfall and high rainfall while the crossfalls were increased 2% from 0% to 10% crossfalls. During the event of rainfall on each pavement surfaces, a British Pendulum Tester (BPT) was used on the pavements to obtain the Pendulum Test Value (PTV) at different crossfalls. Collected data are analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) to justify the objectives. Results from PTV shows that 4% to 10% crossfall is the best crossfall and AC20 is the best surface type in resisting skid.
A Review of Crumb Rubber Modification in Dry Mixed Rubberised Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Abdul Hassan Norhidayah , Airey Gordon D. , Putra Jaya Ramadhansyah , Mashros Nordiana , A. Aziz Md. Maniruzzaman
Published: January 2015

This paper provides an overview of crumb rubber modified asphalt mixtures with particular reference to the dry process. The dry process involves the blending of crumb rubber with hot aggregates prior to mixing with bitumen. In comparison to the wet process (process of incorporating crumb rubber into bitumen prior to mixing with aggregates), this mixture type has a number technical issues. The lack of standards and inconsistent performance have resulted in scepticism among practitioners and researchers in accepting the dry process for rubber modification even though it has the potential to recycle more crumb rubber compared to the wet process. This has resulted in the overwhelming majority of asphalt paving projects involving crumb rubber using the wet process. Therefore, to better understand the mixture, details pertaining to dry mixed rubberised asphalt are discussed in this paper with sufficient information from previous research. The discussions highlight several critical issues regarding its modification concept (the function and behaviour of rubber particles within the mixture), mixture design criteria and mechanical performance of this mixture type. This is necessary in order to identify the factors that play a significant role in improving the mixtures properties for future studies. Additionally, the review will be a positive step in the direction of achieving an appropriate design standard for dry mixed rubberized asphalt mixtures.
Effective Thickness of Bedding Sand Layer for Shell Groove-Underside Shaped Concrete Blocks for Pavement
Authors: Azman M. , Hasanan M. N. , Hainin M. R. , Hafizah N. A. K.
Published: January 2015

Underside Shaped Concrete Block (USCB) is a groove shaped block on the underside surface. The USCB concept utilizes groove pattern to grip and produce better resistance to the underside surface of block units onto the bedding sand layer. However, the horizontal movement of block units is the major problem in pavement due to vehicle braking and accelerated action. This paper presents the laboratory evaluation on vertical and horizontal displacement of shell groove-USCB pavement laid onto different bedding sand layer thickness. The bedding sand layer thickness an essential parameter to produce better USCB’s performance. A series of laboratory scale test were conducted to study USCB type of the Shell-Rectangular 15 mm (Shell-R15) laid on three different loose bedding sand layer thicknesses of 50 mm,  70 mm and 90 mm respectively.  Then, push-in loading test and horizontal loading test were performed.    The result indicates, the bedding sand layer thickness has significant influence to the vertical and horizontal displacement to USCB Shell-R15 compared to control of 50 mm loose bedding sand layer thickness. The loose bedding sand layer thickness of 70 mm performed better compared to others.
Chemical and Mineralogical Properties of Rice Husk Ash (RHA)
Authors: Usman Hassan Jamo , Zaky Noh Mohamad Kamal , Ahmad Zainal Arifin
Published: January 2015

Rice husk ash (RHA) as a silica source was studied, resulting from burning at a temperature of       700oC in an electric furnace. RHA consists of inorganic, incombustible matter in the rice husk that has been fused into an amorphous structure. Microscopic techniques, such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to observe the surface and internal structure of the RHA. The results among other things revealed that RHA consist of mainly SiO2, with amorphous structure, Microscopic examination showed that has a porous cellular structure and consists of irregular-shaped particles.
Portal Requirement for Senior Citizens Based on Conceptual Knowledge Sharing Framework
Authors: Kaur Sharanjit , Ibrahim Roliana , Selamat Ali
Published: January 2015

This paper aims to investigate common problems faced by senior citizens while using computer technologies. It also aims to identify the most popular computer technologies used among this community in order to develop a web based knowledge sharing portal. The literature is reviewed and the Knowledge Sharing Framework is discussed as a guide. The paper finds that specific computer technology requirement and suitable content of a web portal that suits senior citizens is essential so that the older generation who see computers and new technology as what they have the potential to be-a tool for expanding their horizons, learning new skills and finding new interests. The paper has real and immediate practical benefits for senior citizens and the Social Welfare Department in that it provides a guide for knowledge sharing among this community. This will result in bridging the communication gap among this community. For future research, it is suggested that the study about the content of a web portal and the design guidelines analysis of the portal.
Schema Matching Quality: Thesaurus as the Matcher
Authors: Sabbah Thabit , Selamat Ali
Published: January 2015

Thesaurus is used in many Information Retrieval (IR) applications such as data integration, data warehousing, semantic query processing and classifiers. It was also utilized to solve the problem of schema matching. Considering the fact of existence of many thesauri for a certain area of knowledge, the quality of schema matching results when using different thesauri in the same field is not predictable. In this paper, we propose a methodology to study the performance of the thesaurus in solving schema matching. The paper also presents results of experiments using different thesauri. Precision, recall, F-measure, and similarity average were calculated to show that the quality of matching changed according to the used thesaurus.
Modelling of Tudung Saji Weaving Using Elements in Group Theory
Authors: Zamri Siti Norziahidayu Amzee , Sarmin Nor Haniza , Adam Noor Aishikin , Mohd Sani Atikah
Published: January 2015

This paper describes a relation between the practice of Malay food cover weaving and mathematics. The cover, known as tudung saji, is woven using a specific technique called triaxial or hexagonal weave. Its tessellated parallelograms form an illusion of three dimensional cubes that are found interesting in mathematical studies of symmetrical patterns using group theory. Some of the properties of triaxial template patterns of order n3 are also discussed in this paper.
Knowledge Construction for Wiki Education Applied in Moodle 2.3
Authors: Mohd Suhaimi Shaffika , Yusof Norazah , Othman Mohd Shahizan , Octaviani Dewi , Yunianta Arda , Mohamad Nadirah
Published: January 2015

Wiki is a tool to support collaborative works between learners. Wiki also has proven to provide an efficient, flexible, user friendly and cost effective interface for collaboration, knowledge creation and archive, and learner interaction. Current research finding stated that wiki is an e-learning tool which is very less in terms of use among instructors and learners. Moreover, the learning community is not aware with the capability of wiki to support interactive learning environment as well as effective for their knowledge, skills and attitude. Therefore, this paper highlights the initiative to use wiki in Moodle 2.3 for knowledge construction. The analyses usage of wiki have been done by observing the wiki Moodle data log and survey of learners’ usage in Faculty of Computing, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. The result of analysis is able to determine the active and passive attitude among learners. In addition, to identify the effectiveness of knowledge construction by using wiki towards learners’ knowledge, skills and attitude. Finally, this result guides instructors to improve learning strategies on wiki and motivates learners to enhance their knowledge construction learning method.
Determination of Iodine Value of Palm Oils Using Partial Least Squares Regression-Fourier Transform Infrared Data
Authors: Rasaruddin Nor Fazila , Mohd Ruah Mas Ezatul Nadia , Hasan Mohamed Noor , Jaafar Mohd Zuli
Published: January 2015

This paper shows the determination of iodine value (IV) of pure and frying palm oils using Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression with application of variable selection. A total of 28 samples consisting of pure and frying palm oils which acquired from markets. Seven of them were considered as high-priced palm oils while the remaining was low-priced. PLS regression models were developed for the determination of IV using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra data in absorbance mode in the range from 650 cm-1 to 4000 cm-1. Savitzky Golay derivative was applied before developing the prediction models. The models were constructed using wavelength selected in the FTIR region by adopting selectivity ratio (SR) plot and correlation coefficient to the IV parameter. Each model was validated through Root Mean Square Error Cross Validation, RMSECV and cross validation correlation coefficient, R2cv. The best model using SR plot was the model with mean centring for pure sample and model with a combination of row scaling and standardization of frying sample. The best model with the application of the correlation coefficient variable selection was the model with a combination of row scaling and standardization of pure sample and model with mean centering data pre-processing for frying sample. It is not necessary to row scaled the variables to develop the model since the effect of row scaling on model quality is insignificant.
Penentuan Tempoh Kritikal Untuk Mengawal Rumpai dalam Kawasan Penanaman Padi Wangi MRQ 76, Q 88 dan Q 89
Authors: Tet Vun Chong , Abd Kadir Azimah , Man Azmi , See Eng Chew , Abas Baharudin , Sunyob Norhidayati , Adnan Aqilah , Mohd Rosli Syazwani
Published: January 2015

A study on critical period (CP) for weed control in fragrant rice MRQ 76, Q 88 and Q 89 was conducted in main season 2012/2013 and off season 2013 at MARDI Seberang Perai. The results showed that the CPs (based on 5% acceptable yield loss level (AYL)) for weed control of MRQ 76, Q 88 and Q 89 planted in main season were from 5 to 64, 13 to 68 and 8 to 66 DAS (Days after sowing), respectively. On the other hand, CPs of MRQ 76, Q 88 and Q 89 planted in off season were from 6 to 73, 9 to 81 and 3 to 83 DAS, respectively. If based on 10% AYL, CPs of MRQ76, Q 88 and Q 89 planted in main season were from 19 to 38, 28 to 41 and 14 to 53 DAS, respectively. CPs (based on 10% AYL) of MRQ76, Q 88 and Q 89 planted in off season were from 15 to 55, 19 to 68 and 10 to 66 DAS, respectively. The study clearly demonstrated that CPs of off season were longer than CPs of main season. The dry and hot climate in off season probably caused the slow growth of fragrant rice and eventually affected the competition ability of rice against the weeds.
Penilaian Tahap Kerintangan Baka Padi Berpotensi Terhadap Populasi Benah Perang dari Lokaliti Berbeza di Semenanjung Malaysia
Authors: Mohamad Saad Maisarah , Hashim Habibuddin , Sunian Elixon , Mokhtar Amirrudin , Mohd Yusof Mohamad Najib , Ramli Asfaliza
Published: January 2015

The study was conducted at screening house to determine the resistance levels of several potential varieties against colonies of brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens collected from nine different localities in Peninsular Malaysia. Assessment using SSST method found two varieties, MR286 and MRQ89 have shown high level of resistance to all of the colonies tested, followed by MR284, which was moderate resistant to most of the colonies except colony originate from Seberang Perak of which is moderately susceptible. Rice varieties MR283 and MR278 were moderately resistant to most colonies but susceptible after been tested to colony derived from Kodiang, Kedah. Resistance levels of control varieties MR253, MR263 and MR269 varied between moderate resistant to susceptible depended on colonies used in the testing. Field study found that moderate resistant varieties do not show immunity. Brown planthoppers can still be found in varieties and they play a role in keeping predator populations in the field.
Kaedah Penggantian Tanah untuk Meningkatkan Kekuatan Struktur Tanah di Kawasan Tanah Jerlus
Authors: Nordin Mohd Nadzim , Abd Hamid Ayob , Sharu Eddy Herman , Sulaiman Ahmad Syafik Suraidi , Isa Mohamed Fauzi
Published: January 2015

Soft soil in rice field has a hardpan layer of less than 0.3Mpa. The usage of farm mechanization in rice field cannot be performed due to the hardpan structure cannot accommodate the load of heavy machinery. To overcome this problem, the method of soft soil replacement is used in order to revitalize the hardpan layer which has been damaged due to the stagnant water problem. Field study was conducted to test the soft soil replacement method to solve the problem of land on soft soil plot in Alor Senibung. A total of 4 plots have been prepared for the experiments where the top layer of paddy soil has been removed and replaced with other soil. After the soil has been compacted, the hardness of the hardpan was measured from time to time and is presented in this paper. The results from this study are expected to overcome the soft soil problems.
Exserohilum monoceras: Potensinya untuk Mengawal Rumput Miang (Leptochloa chinensis) dalam Tanaman Padi Tabur Terus
Authors: Baharon Mohd Nazri , Kadir Jugah , Juraimi Abdul Shukor , Man Azmi , Sajili Mohamad Hailmi , Abu Bakar Nur Khairani
Published: January 2015

Potential of Exserohilum monoceras as mycoherbisid had been test for control Leptochloa chinensis L. Ness. also known as red sprangletop. The use of E. monoceras solution with a concentration of 2.2 x 106 conidia / ml (first patogenicity test) and 13 x 106 conidia / ml (second patogenicity test) have caused outbreaks and eventually death in seedlings tested at four leaves stage for 15 days assessment. However, effect of E.monoceras on L. chinensis in paddy fields gives the lower infection about 35% of outbreaks in the entire period of 10 days of assessment. Trials in the field showed no harms growth of L. chinensis using E. monoceras.
Padi Aerob Untuk Mengatasi Masalah Kekurangan Air
Authors: Othman Sariam , Hussain Zainudin P. M. D. , Chee Sheng Chan , Man Azmi , Ahmad Rosniyana , Amzah Badrulhadza
Published: January 2015

Irrigated lowland rice is the most important rice ecosystem in Malaysia. The present and future food security in rice for the country depends largely on the irrigated lowland rice production system which consumes a large amount of water. Signs of declining water availability due to increased demand of water for domestic and industrial uses besides irregularity of rainfall and climate change threatens the sustainability of irrigated rice production. This scenario may change the way rice is produced in the future. Aerobic rice is a potential water saving rice production system and will be the best option of producing rice in water scarce environment. The availability of aerobic rice varieties that can withstand aerobic condition, responds to irrigation and fertilizers, competitive against weeds and deliver a high yield is crucial to make aerobic rice cultivation successful. Since weeds are major constraints to aerobic rice, it must be effectively controlled through integrated weed management. Appropriate nutrient and other crop management practices will ensure successful aerobic rice production system.
Penanaman Padi Merah Tempatan, MRM 16 dalam Keadaan Tanah Semi-Aerob dan Aerob dapat Mengurangkan Pengambilan Arsenik
Authors: Hashim Shahida , Ramli Asfaliza , Musa Zaki
Published: January 2015

Red rice is classified as specialty rice due to its coloured grain. Red colour that surrounded the outer layer of pericarp showed the existence of anthocyanin in red rice grain. However, heavy metal like arsenic in red rice plant become major concern in human health especially so in babies. This is because red rice normally used as a key raw material in the manufacture of infant cereals. In order to overcome this problem, study on effects of water regime on arsenic concentration in local red rice, MRM 16 was conducted during main season 2007/2008 and off season 2008. The water regimes tested were fully flooded, semi-aerobic and aerobic soil conditions. Result showed that arsenic concentration in the soil and grain was markedly highest when MRM 16 was cultivated under fully flooded in both seasons. However, concentration of arsenic in the soil and grain samples was the lower when the red rice was cultivated under semi-aerobic and aerobic soil conditions. Arsenic concentration in the soil and grain samples showed positive relationship. However, analysis of grain yield showed that the yield performance of MRM 16 was better when the soil was fully flooded or maintained semi-aerobically.
Kepelbagaian Sumber Genetik Padi di Bank Gen Padi MARDI Seberang Perai
Authors: Abd Rahman Site Noorzuraini , Mat Ali Mohd Shukri , Muhamod Nor Ismail , Mahmud Latefi , Shafie Fauziah
Published: January 2015

Rice Genebank located in MARDI Seberang Perai was the first seeds bank in Malaysia which was established in year 1989 with the objective for conserving the diversity of Malaysian rice germplasms from extinction and for utilization in future research and breeding program. The germplasms were gathered through collection expeditions in entire Malaysia, while the foreign seed varieties were gathered through collaboration project involved seeds exchange. Until now, a total of 12,258 accessions of rice are conserved in this Genebank comprised of 32% of traditional rice varieties, 35.7% of released rice varieties and breeding lines developed by MARDI and the remaining are consisted of introduced rice varieties. This study observed the rice accessions conserved in the genebank are highly variability. Several morphological traits of rice also shown highly significant correlations between traits; thus this finding is important for research and variety development for produce new high-yielding rice variety for accommodate the national food supply.
MyRice: Pangkalan Data Pengetahuan Padi Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Talkah Nurul Shakina , Mohd Salleh Faezah , Shamsir Mohd Shahir , Rahmat Zaidah , Wagiran Alina , Sarmidi Mohamad Roji , Yusop Mohd Rafii , Musa Mohamed Hanafi
Published: January 2015

Currently, all information regarding rice research in Malaysia are scattered over many different publications, depositories and databases using various digital and analogue formats. Although several international databases of rice research are available, they are not linked to geolocation and other basic archival information. We present MyRice; a systematic Malaysian online rice knowledge database for researchers and citizen scientists to curate their data. The creation of this database will enable   scientific researchers to trace back rice research information and their locality effectively. It is constructed using a digitization pipeline that allow high throughput digitization of archival data and connected with publication search engine such as Google Scholar. The main functions include bibliography, map locational visualization and media uploader to share videos and images. We believe that MyRice will contribute to the digital knowledge ecosystem among rice researchers to elevate access and become a focal point for driving Malaysian rice research towards a sulf-sufficient country on food security. The database is available http://biodiversity.fbb.utm.my/myrice/.
The Effect of Project and Programme Reference Models in Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) System Development
Authors: Muhamad Rawai Norshakila , Abedi Mohammad , Fathi Mohamad Syazli
Published: January 2015

This paper presents the effect of project and programme reference models in Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) system development. The trend towards AEC projects becoming more globalized, with multiple projects and processes being conducted concurrently, requires information systems to be widely implemented in the industry. However, current information systems tend to be specific and individually-centred offerings. Also, the existing knowledge for the implementation of information system integration is not helpful because different organizations have different characteristics regarding work, information, processes, culture, and ideas. To address these issues, research was conducted to review the existing information system models which can be apply to construction project and programme management and their effects on developing an information reference model for an AEC information system. The reference model can be used as guidelines for developing a standardized information system for enterprise project management with information integration practice for various organizations. The model can also be used to outline software requirements in the process of selecting a project and programme management software system in the market. Thus, adoption of this reference model as an essential foundation will affect the data management, knowledge management, information analysis and sustainability aspects in AEC system development.
Occupational Noise Exposure Among Road Construction Workers
Authors: Said K. M. , Haron Z. , A. A. Saim , Abidin M. Z. , Yahya K. , Han L. M.
Published: January 2015

This study aims to evaluate noise exposure and prevalence of hearing loss among typical road construction workers. Personal noise dosimeter was used to obtain the noise exposure profile of heavy equipment operators that are working on various stages; road work, trade work and pavement work. Symptoms of hearing loss among workers were observed through interview session. It was a degradation in human hearing ability. Workers with symptoms of hearing loss may have problem in understanding speech or conversation. There are 73 construction workers that were evaluated, 60 of them are machine’s operators, 7 are site supervisors and 6 are premix workers. The results show that in road works stage there are 6.9% workers exposed to action level ≥85 dBA and 1.4% workers exposed to noise ≥90 dBA. 4.1% workers from trade work and 13.7% workers from pavement work were exposed to noise ≥85 dBA. There are 5.48% of workers from pavement work exposed to hazard level of noise with only 2.74% of worker used Hearing Protection Devices (HPD). There is a prevalence of symptoms of hearing loss among workers with 45% of workers from road works, 32% from trade works and 23% from pavement stage. These exposed workers suggested to have an audiometric testing program annually in order to identify deterioration in their hearing ability as early as possible.
A Conceptual Model of Agreement Options for Value-based Group Decision on Value Management
Authors: Utomo Christiono , Mohamad Zin Rosli , Zakaria Rozana , Rahmawati Yani
Published: January 2015

A group decision must be made when a design process is conducted by more than one person. In this situation, negotiation plays an important role in many design decision. Value Management (VM) is one of design decision methodology in construction. By involving multi disciplines, collaboration and teamwork, negotiation becomes an important role on VM using a value-based group design decision. This paper provides an approach to develop a conceptual model of agreement options for group decision in building wall system selection using value criteria which are function and cost. The characteristic of value criteria has not been applied on previous researches. Existing models which are commonly accepted are optimization-based models, for example aggregation methods, but these are not able to solve the problem of value criteria on VM. Group decision needs to identify the goals that can be optimized and those that can be compromised in order to reach an agreement among decision makers. Agreement options are determined by identifying the potential decision makers followed by determining the optimal solution for each sub-group. Five stages are conducted to identify and determine agreement options as a conceptual model which are determining the weighting factor of criteria for each decision maker; grading alternative for each evaluation criteria; scoring every alternative for every decision maker; determining the optimal solution; and determining the fitness factor of an alternative solution The agreement option model is facilitated to better design decision. The model developed in this research can be used for any development research on group decision and negotiation in design process within the construction industry. Future research in the application of this methodology in many field of decision will build a wide range of knowledge to solve the theoretical and practical gap between automated design and automated negotiation.
Theoretical Framework of Collaborative Design Issues
Authors: Rahmawati Yani , Utomo Christiono , Anwar Nadjadji , Nurcahyo Cahyono Bintang , Negoro Nugroho Priyo
Published: January 2015

Building’s design is developing to involve complexities of engineering systems, where design process requires various disciplines of participants to solve the complex issues. Collaborative design is developed with main purpose to facilitate the integration of multiple participants in design process to produce best design. This paper presents conceptual understanding, current practices, and theoretical framework of collaborative design. Literature review builds the conceptual understanding, exploratory study through in-depth interviews to design managers and designers reveals the current practices, and grounded theory constructs the theoretical framework. The review had found three main indicators of collaborative design, and through those indicators it has been identified that collaborative design is implemented at design process. The interviews had revealed that best design is hard to be achieved although collaborative design has been applied. Through grounded theory analysis, it has been found that the lack understanding of Knowledge Management (KM) roles is found to be main issue collaborative design practices.
Embodied Energy in Building Construction
Authors: Balubaid S. , Zin R. M. , Abd Majid M. Z. , Hassan J. S. , Mardzuki Samihah
Published: January 2015

Building construction systems that come in different forms and types need to be properly selected before being use, this may have different impact on overall embodied energy of the building construction. Hence, in order to achieve and maximize the construction contribution, the designer plays a big role in choosing the appropriate energy efficient construction. The designers need to be equipped with the right knowledge and tool which gathers a possible range of embodied energy indicators in order to select energy efficient construction. This paper aims at confirming the Malaysian common construction systems and compares it with the historical literature while it also explore energy efficiency in building construction. It is based on the common construction knowledge and also on the published literatures through a critical review of the possible range of embodied energy indicators and construction systems. The study demonstrated and confirmed that Malaysian common building construction systems can be categorized into six groups: Structural frame, Slab, Internal wall, External Wall, Roof and Staircase. This finding is highly significant for the future design in the area of energy efficiency.
The Importance of Acoustic Quality in Classroom
Authors: Sarlati S. , Haron Z. , Yahya K. , Darus N. , Dimon N. , Athari P.
Published: January 2015

An effective learning process in a classroom with good speech intelligibility requires good acoustic quality. Low acoustic quality may cause frequent speech repetition and consequently leads to several emotional disorders among the students. The purpose of this study is to improve the acoustic quality of the classroom for a better learning process. Two classrooms at Faculty of Civil Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia have been selected for this study. Reverberation time is the most important factor in acoustics, which was determined using theoretical calculations and simulations. A Dass-21 of self-report questionnaires was used to measure the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among the students.  The results showed that reverberation times of the classrooms were more than 1 second and 34% of the students have suffered from severe and extreme anxiety. The acoustic quality can be improved through the replacement of a painted concrete wall with high sound absorption material made of kenaf fiber in order to ensure reverberation time does not exceed the limit.
Investigation of Future Building Performance Factors Towards Energy Efficient Travel Plan in Regional Developement
Authors: Shafaghat Arezou , Keyvanfar Ali , Zakaria Wan Zahran , Abd Majid Mohd Zaimi , Lamit Hasanuddin , Ali K. N. Kherun Nita , Ahmad Mohd Hamdan , Ariffin Syed Ahmad Iskandar
Published: January 2015

Preliminary research shows the shortcoming of Building Performance field of research to measure outdoor performance of building mainly EETP factors. Accordingly, this research aimed at proposing a future building performance towards Energy Efficient Travel Plan (EETP) based on user friendly EETP factors. The research methodology engaged three research phases. Phase 1 was to identify user friendly EETP factors. In this phase after a literature review, fix-format self reporting interview survey was conducted among experts in Travel Plan implementation in Malaysia. ‘Phase II’ was to investigate effective Building performance factors on user friendly EETP, within the literature review conducted on building performances followed by brainstorming with 5 experts in building management field of research. Final phase was to validate the proposed building performance towards EETP in a futuristic cross-impact scenario study. In summary, this research introduced three main outcomes, first: a list of user friendly EETP factors, second: EETP building performance factors and Third: future building performance factors towards EETP based on futuristic cross-impact analysis. In conclusion, this study introduced lists of new innovative future building performances including; BCS (Building Communication System), BEEM (Building Energy Education Management), EETP (Energy Efficient Travel Plan), BRc.S (Building Recycling System), and BAgr. (Building Agriculture) investigated as future building performance factors.
Open Plan Office Design Features Affecting Staff’s Health and Well-being Status
Authors: Shafaghat Arezou , Keyvanfar Ali , Lamit Hasanuddin , Mousavi Seyed Ali , Abd Majid Mohd Zaimi
Published: January 2015

Sustainable office building indoor environment design is a challengeable issue for professionals in thermal comfort, satisfaction, health, and energy fields of research. The professionals intensively need a comprehensive list of office indoor environment design features to promote the level of performance and productivity of staff. One of the most effective factors dealing with staff performance and productivity is physical and psychological health which has not yet been investigated in depth is open-plan office design. In this regard, the current research aimed at establishing a comprehensive list of Open Plan Offices Design (OPOD) features affecting physical and psychological health and well-being of the staff at office buildings. Research methodology engaged two phases corresponding to two objectives. Phase one was to investigate OPOD features and sub-features through a critical literature review using fishbone cause-and-effect analysis technique. Phase one has clustered the OPOD features into two; positive and negative classes. The cause-and-effect analysis determined 3 positive features and 5 negative features involved in the positive and negative classes, respectively. The Efficient Workflow and Performance, Flexible Design, and Cost Efficient were identified as positive OPOD features which involves a number of sub-features. The Distraction, Decreasing Work Feedback, Job Dissatisfaction, Illness, and stress have been determined as OPOD features which impact negatively on staff’s health. The second phase conducted a content analysis on reviewed literatures to indicate the popularity of citation of each OPOD feature in previous studies. The content analysis determined in the Positive cluster, the sub-feature “Facilitate Communication”, under Efficient Workflow & Performance was investigated more than other sub-features. In addition, in the Negative cluster, the sub-feature Auditory Distraction under Distraction was highly investigated. The research asserts that undertaking the research outputs will promote performance and productivity of staff in office buildings. Architects, facility managers, design consultants, and authority may use the output as a decision support checklist for future office design and/or renovations.
Impact of Bitumen Binder: Scope of Bio-based Binder for Construction of Flexible Pavement
Authors: Rahman Md Tareq , A. Aziz Md Maniruzzaman , Hainin Mohd. Rosli , Abu Bakar Wan Azelee Wan
Published: January 2015

Bitumen (asphalt) is a very complex material which is widely used as binder for flexible pavement but it is a hazardous material during production of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) with low dielectric constant (ε'). This paper provides a review about the bituminous material in the sector of construction of roads and highways. The behavior and adverse effects caused by bitumen binder to the environment as well as to the living being and need of alternative sources are discussed here. Statistics shows that a large number of workers are involved in the construction of flexible pavement around the world and they are exposed to the bituminous fume generated in the Hot-Mix Asphalt (HMA) process which causes severe damage to their health even cause cancer. When the bitumen spill exposed to the environment, bitumen fume and washed away particle mix with the environmental elements and cause pollution. To overcome this situation, world needs an alternative bio-based binder which will be efficient enough, cost effective and environment friendly.