bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Truth is not (Very) Intrinsically Valuable
Authors: Wrenn Chase B.
Published: October 2015

We might suppose it is not only instrumentally valuable for beliefs to be true, but that it isintrinsicallyvaluable – truth makes a non‐derivative, positive contribution to a belief's overall value. Some intrinsic goods are better than others, though, and this article considers the question ofhow goodtruth is, compared to other intrinsic goods. I argue that truth is the worst of all intrinsic goods; every other intrinsic good is better than it. I also suggest the best explanation for truth's inferiority is that it is not really an intrinsic good at all. It is intrinsically neutral.
Child Poverty and Ecological Contexts of Deprivation and Well‐being: A Critical Review of Budgeting and Social Policy in India
Authors: Nakray Keerty
Published: October 2015

In the context of global developments in the measurement of child poverty, this article critiques the limited success of the Indian government to develop a comprehensive social policy approach to address multi‐faceted deprivation suffered by Indian children. Since independence in 1947, Indian governments have focused on childhood deprivation through various programmes to improve food security, education and health. However, these programmes have functioned in siloes without any linkages to each other, along with poor budgetary commitment which has resulted in sub‐optimal policy outcomes. Based on the theoretical approaches of Amartya Sen's capability approach and Townsend's consensual approach to poverty measurement, this article highlights the intrinsic importance of child well‐being to society. To achieve its objectives, the article is organized into four main parts. First, the article provides an overview of Indian children's deprivation and poverty, and the policy approach. Second, it provides conceptual advancements globally on the measurement of child poverty and deprivation. Third, it highlights the importance of utilizing these indicators to measure child poverty in the Indian context. Fourth, it concludes with a critical analysis of children's budgets and social policy in India to highlight that the Indian government's approach towards child well‐being is not only conceptually flawed, but that its commitment is extremely poor.
Evaluation of community‐based treatment for drug‐resistant tuberculosis in Bangladesh
Authors: Cavanaugh Joseph S. , Kurbatova Ekaterina , Alami Negar N. , Mangan Joan , Sultana Zinia , Ahmed Shahriar , Begum Vikarunessa , Sultana Sabera , Daru Paul , Ershova Julia , Golubkov Alexander , Banu Sayera , Heffelfinger James D.
Published: October 2015

Objective

Drug‐resistant tuberculosis (TB) threatens global TB control because it is difficult to diagnose and treat. Community‐based programmatic management of drug‐resistant TB (cPMDT) has made therapy easier for patients, but data on these models are scarce. Bangladesh initiated cPMDT in 2012, and in 2013, we sought to evaluate programme performance.

Methods

In this retrospective review, we abstracted demographic, clinical, microbiologic and treatment outcome data for all patients enrolled in the cPMDT programme over 6 months in three districts of Bangladesh. We interviewed a convenience sample of patients about their experience in the programme.

Results

Chart review was performed on 77 patients. Sputum smears and cultures were performed, on average, once every 1.35 and 1.36 months, respectively. Among 74 initially culture‐positive patients, 70 (95%) converted their cultures and 69 (93%) patients converted the cultures before the sixth month. Fifty‐two (68%) patients had evidence of screening for adverse events. We found written documentation of musculoskeletal complaints for 16 (21%) patients, gastrointestinal adverse events for 16 (21%), hearing loss for eight (10%) and psychiatric events for four (5%) patients; conversely, on interview of 60 patients, 55 (92%) reported musculoskeletal complaints, 54 (90%) reported nausea, 36 (60%) reported hearing loss, and 36 (60%) reported psychiatric disorders.

Conclusions

The cPMDT programme in Bangladesh appears to be programmatically feasible and clinically effective; however, inadequate monitoring of adverse events raises some concern. As the programme is brought to scale nationwide, renewed efforts at monitoring adverse events should be prioritised.
The molecular and genetic basis of inherited cancer risk in gynaecology
Authors: Beirne James P , Irwin Gareth W , McIntosh Stuart A , Harley Ian JG , Harkin D Paul
Published: October 2015

Key content

The role of the Fanconi Anaemia‐BRCA pathway in hereditary breast‐ovarian cancer syndrome. Recent research has led to the identification of further inherited mutations associated with ovarian carcinoma.

The improved knowledge of the mismatch repair pathway has led to a greater understanding of how hereditary mutations influence hereditary gynaecological cancer.

Unusual carcinomas are often associated with unusual germline mutations.

Learning objectives

An outline of the incidence, prevalence and inheritance patterns of germline mutations associated with gynaecological cancer.

Discussion of the molecular mechanisms that are interrupted due to these mutations and the carcinomas they are likely to influence.

Ethical issues

The future implications of advanced sequencing technologies on genetic screening.
Consent in clinical practice
Authors: Treharne Alan , Beattie Bryan
Published: October 2015

Key content

This article reviews the best practice for taking written consent for elective procedures.

This article reviews the best practice for taking consent in an emergency situation and examines the up‐to‐date advice from several professional bodies and provides clarity on the legal position.

What constitutes capacity and the role of the Mental Health Act, the Mental Capacity Act and the Court of Protection?

Considerations for capacity and labour.

Treating the unconscious patient.

A look at some examples of case law relevant to obstetrics and gynaecology that have formed the basis of core legal arguments.

Learning objectives

To understand the importance of informed choice and consent.

To be familiar with the most recent professional advice.

Ethical issues

Maintaining patient autonomy in complex clinical situations.
Do Remittances Facilitate a Sustainable Current Account?
Authors: Hassan Gazi M. , Holmes Mark J.
Published: October 2015

We examine how workers' remittances impact on the current account. In doing so, we focus on how remittances affect the sustainability rather than the size of current account balances. We find that the presence of remittances makes it more likely that exports and imports are cointegrated, thereby lending support to current account sustainability. Furthermore, quantile regression analysis suggests that increased remittances are associated with a faster speed of current account adjustment towards long‐run equilibrium, particularly for those countries characterised by already highly persistent current account balances. In contrast to a literature that emphasises an adverse Dutch disease impact of workers' remittances on the real exchange rate in terms of reduced external competitiveness, our findings suggest that remittances are actually beneficial to the current account balance.
Accuracy and precision of oscillometric blood pressure in standing conscious horses
Authors: Olsen Emil , Pedersen Tilde Louise Skovgaard , Robinson Rebecca , Haubro Andersen Pia
Published: October 2015

Background

Arterial blood pressure (BP) is a relevant clinical parameter that can be measured in standing conscious horses to assess tissue perfusion or pain. However, there are no validated oscillometric noninvasive blood pressure (NIBP) devices for use in horses.

Animals

Seven healthy horses from a teaching and research herd.

Hypothesis/Objective

To evaluate the accuracy and precision of systolic arterial pressure (SAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) in conscious horses obtained with an oscillometric NIBP device when compared to invasively measured arterial BP.

Methods

An arterial catheter was placed in the facial or transverse facial artery and connected to a pressure transducer. A cuff for NIBP was placed around the tail base. The BP was recorded during normotension, dobutamine‐induced hypertension, and subnormal BP induced by acepromazine administration. Agreement analysis with replicate measures was utilized to calculate bias (accuracy) and standard deviation (SD) of bias (precision).

Results

A total of 252 pairs of invasive arterial BP and NIBP measurements were analyzed. Compared to the direct BP measures, the NIBP MAP had an accuracy of −4 mm Hg and precision of 10 mm Hg. SAP had an accuracy of −8 mm Hg and a precision of 17 mm Hg and DAP had an accuracy of −7 mm Hg and a precision of 14 mm Hg.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

MAP from the evaluated NIBP monitor is accurate and precise in the adult horse across a range of BP, with higher variability during subnormal BP. MAP but not SAP or DAP can be used for clinical decision making in the conscious horse.
Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy Plate Contouring and Proximal Load Screw Angulation Affect Osteotomy Compression
Authors: Mathis Karl R. , Roe Simon C. , Johnson Kenneth A.
Published: October 2015

Objective

To evaluate the effect of contouring a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) plate, the associated angulation of the dynamic compression plate (DCP) hole relative to the long axis of the tibia, and angulation of the screw relative to the DCP hole on the osteotomy compression generated by load screws in a TPLO model.

Study Design

In vitro biomechanical study.

Study Population

Polyoxymethylene (POM) rod and synthetic cortical bone substitute model (n = 9).

Methods

The distal portion of a Slocum TPLO plate was attached to a horizontally positioned POM rod that was connected to a load cell. A segment of synthetic cortical bone substitute was attached to the end mount of the testing frame and adjusted to conform to the angle of the proximal portion of the TPLO plate. A 3.5 mm cortical bone screw was inserted in the proximal DCP hole and tightened to 1.5 Nm. The peak longitudinal load (N) was recorded. Screw insertion and data collection were repeated for proximal plate angles of 0−40° at 5° increments.

Results

A significant increase in the compression generated was observed as the plate angle was increased from 0° to 10°. The compression ceased to significantly increase until the plate was bent more than 20°, after which a significant decrease in compression was noted. A marked reduction in the compression generated occurred at plate angles greater than 30°.

Conclusion

Angulation of the DCP hole and screw insertion angle can have deleterious effects on the magnitude of osteotomy compression.
COMPARISON OF SOIL INDEX PROPERTIES VALUE FOR DIFFERENT PRE-DRYING CONDITIONS ON CLAYEY SOIL
Authors: Yoon Teing Chai , Mohd Yunus Zurairahetty , Marto Aminaton , Hezmi Muhammad Azril , Jusoh Siti Norafida , Ahmad Kamarudin
Published: October 2015

Pre-test treatment prior to soil index properties testing particularly pre-drying plays an important role in order to obtain accurate and reliable results. According to British Standard, BS1377:1990-Part 1, soil sample shall be dried by either air drying or oven drying before testing. However, permanent alteration of soil physical properties will eventually influence the characteristic and behavior of the soil. Hence, effect of pre-drying conditions on the soil index properties is studied on three number of disturbed clayey soil samples pre-treated in five (5) different pre-drying conditions at different temperatures and drying duration. Soil specimens were tested based on index properties in accordance to BS1377:1990-Part 2. The results obtained revealed that increase of pre-drying temperature and duration has significant effect on the plasticity index of about 13%, shrinkage limit of about 4% and the classification of the clayey soils consisted higher percentage of fine particles. Conclusively, oven drying method should not be used in soil preparation for plasticity and shrinkage testing.
STRENGTH CHARACTERISTIC OF BROWN KAOLIN TREATED WITH LIQUID POLYMER ADDITIVES
Authors: Marto Aminaton , Boss Sanjay , Makhtar Ahmad Mahir , Latifi Nima
Published: October 2015

Kaolin deposits are considered to have poor engineering characteristics, exhibiting expansive properties, high plasticity, poor workability, and low shear strength. This may cause severe damage to civil engineering structures and facilities. Hence, these soils must be treated prior to construction operations, so that desired properties can be achieved. SS 299 is a liquid polymer stabilizers used as a compaction aid or a stabilizer for soil improvement. Yet, it is not used as a common approach when comes to soil stabilization due to its uncertainties in strength improvement when mixed with soils. As a result, laboratory testing programs were conducted to study the strength development of brown kaolin when treated with the liquid polymer with 3 %, 6 %, 9 %, 12 % and 15 % of soil’s dry mass. The result indicated that the increase in the percentage of SS 299, increases the unconfined compression strength. The maximum value of the unconfined compressive strength of 385 kPa was observed at 15 % SS 299 content, cured at 28 days, which was twice the strength of the untreated brown kaolin. The increment of strength was really steep for the first 7 days but the rate decreased thereafter. The optimum content of liquid polymer SS 299 was found as 12 %.
MANAGING EVOLUTION FROM MECHATRONICS TO INTELLIGENT TECHNICAL SYSTEMS
Authors: Kühn Arno , Dumitrescu Roman , Gausemeier Jürgen
Published: October 2015

Technological change from mechanics to intelligent technical systems leads to a fast evolution of products. This evolution is characterized by manifold product generations and product versions, each of them comprising a bunch of new product features and technical changes. To cope with these changes, companies need to systematically manage product evolution in terms of concerted innovation and adaptation steps. Based on this need, this paper outlines a framework for managing evolution of intelligent technical systems. The need for evolving technical systems is detailed and the main fields of action in managing evolution of intelligent technical systems are introduced. The paper concludes by deriving release planning as a suitable approach and an important discipline for future development of intelligent technical systems.
GUIDELINE FOR ORIENTED SYSTEMS ENGINEERING PROCESS IN SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED ENTERPRISES
Authors: Czaja Anja , Dumitrescu Roman
Published: October 2015

Technical systems of tomorrow will go beyond current traditional mechatronics designs by incorporating inherent intelligence. This adds high demands on the product development process, such as the need for a comprehensive understanding of the system and consideration of the full product life-cycle. Systems engineering (SE) is an approach that has a potential to fulfill these requirements. However, until now it could not be applied through a wide range of different industries and segments, especially in small and medium sized enterprises. This paper discusses different obstacles for the use of SE and presents a concept for a systems engineering guideline to face these challenges. The aim of the systems engineering guideline is to enable a target-oriented application of systems engineering methods and tools. The objective is to overcome the barriers of introduction of SE for enterprises. It links a design process to methods and tools in the field of systems engineering.
TOWARDS A CLINICALLY COMPLIANT UPPER LIMB PART-TASK TRAINER IN SIMULATED LEARNING PROGRAM
Authors: Othman Nurul Atiqah , Che Zakaria Noor Ayuni , Yee Low Cheng , Hanapiah Fazah Akhtar , Komeda Takashi , Inoue Kaoru
Published: October 2015

Patient simulator is one of the methods physiotherapists and occupational therapists trainee use to improve their skills. The focus here is on spasticity as part of the upper motor neuron (UMN) syndrome. The rehabilitation process for patients with UMN syndrome and management of spasticity is very important because spasticity will affect function and quality of life. A rehabilitation process requires physicians, occupational therapists and physiotherapists to assess the spasticity level using clinical assessment methods. To engage directly with the patients, the clinicians should have enough skill and experience to reduce risk of injury to the patients. Thus, it is mandatory for the physiotherapists and occupational therapists trainee to go through comprehensive training before they can conduct the therapy session. This paper reveals the research urgency in therapist education tools for upper limb rehabilitation training and points out the significance of having compliance with clinical assessment scales.
A SIMULATION STUDY OF ENERGY UTILISATION IN A VARIABLE LINK LENGTH 3 DOF REVOLUTE ARTICULATED MANIPULATOR
Authors: Wan Mohamad Wan Sulaiman , Mohamed Zulkifli , Solihin Zainoor Hailmee , Mohamed Kamrol Amri
Published: October 2015

Determination of manipulator link lengths is one of the important criteria in robotic design. The purpose of this study is to find the minimum energy utilization for a 3 DOF revolute articulated manipulator to perform certain point-to-point task by varying the link lengths of the manipulator. The lengths of the second and third link of the developed manipulator can be varied accordingly. The investigation of energy for different link length combinations is carried out theoretically. In the simulation, the work-energy method is constituted in order to determine the average mechanical energy of the manipulator. The simulation shows that, different trajectory of motions results in different link length combinations that could give optimum average energy utilization. Results of the simulations shows that, improvement of mechanical energy utilization could be achieved by having variable link length of manipulator rather than having fixed length of manipulator’s arms.
IN-HOUSE DEVELOPMENT OF UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE AUTOMATIC ANTENNA TRACKING SYSTEM
Authors: Abd Samad Md Fahmi , Harun Mohd Izhar
Published: October 2015

The control of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) requires a two-way radio communication between the UAV and ground control station (GCS). This radio communication is achieved through the use of antennas as medium of recital and transmission in the data-link system. This paper presents the project of an in-house low-cost development of a UAV automatic antenna tracking system. The presentation includes the control system design, hardware and software development, system integration and testing stage. The development ended with a successfully operational automatic antenna tracking system in a benchtop testing and validation.
POLYETHERETHERKETONE/HYDROXYAPATITE BIOCOMPOSITES COMPOUNDED VIA NANO-MIXER SINGLE SCREW EXTRUDER: THERMAL AND CHARACTERIZATION
Authors: Rashidi Ahmad Ramli , Wahit Mat Uzir , Abdullah Mohamed Ruslan , Abdul Kadir Mohammed Rafiq
Published: October 2015

The aim of this study is to produce polyetheretherketone/hydroxyapatite (PEEK/HA) biocomposite using a nano-mixer single screw extruder. The use of a special design compounding machine, nano-mixer single screw extruder as a processing route could probably induce PEEK/HA composite with uniform compounding. Thermal testing and characterization were conducted to obtain information concerning the effects of single screw on the thermal properties and compounding characteristic. From this study, TGA analysis showed a minimal loss of weight for all  composite samples up to 500oC and above this temperature, the decomposition occured for PEEK/HA composite. Significant change in crystallinity was observed from DSC study of this composite where the increase in HA content was proportional to the crystalline structure in the composite. Apart from that, XRD measurement showed that HA was successfully embodied into PEEK matrix as the peak of intensity increased proportionally with the increase in HA content.
EFFECT OF NANOCLAY CONTENT ON FLEXURAL PROPERTIES OF GLASS FIBER REINFORCED POLYMER (GFRP) COMPOSITES
Authors: Amir Widia Wahyuni , Jumahat Aidah , Mahmud Jamaluddin
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a study on the flexural properties of glass fiber reinforced polymer composites. The epoxy-nanoclay resin was milled using a three roll mill machine to produce exfoliated structure nanocomposites. The fiber laminates specimens were manufactured by vacuum bagging system. These specimens were tested in the three point bend configuration following the ASTM D7264. The flexural modulus, flexural strength and strain to failure were then determined based on the flexural test results. The results showed that flexural modulus and flexural strength increases when a certain amount of nanoclay was included in the resin system. A maximum of 80% and 37% improvement of flexural strength and flexural modulus, respectively, were found at 5 wt% nanoclay content when compared to the neat GFRP composite. The improved properties of GFRP composites were achieved mostly due to an increase on the interfacial surface areas as well as a well-dispersion of nanoclay in the GFRP composite system. The fracture surfaces of specimens after flexural test were observed under FESEM. The results showed that the compressive failure region in the fiber was a dominant failure mechanism of the specimens due to a large compressive area on the fracture surface.
CONDUCTIVITY AND DIELECTRIC STUDIES OF PURE AND DOPED POLY (ETHYLENE OXIDE) (PEO) SOLID POLYMER ELECTROLYTE FILMS
Authors: Mohd Sapri Mohd Noor Zairi , Ahmad Azizah Hanom
Published: October 2015

The solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) composed of Poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) with sodium trifluoromethanesulfonate (NaCF3SO3) salt has been prepared by solution casting technique. The conductivity and dielectric of the solid polymer electrolyte systems were studied within the broad frequency range of 50 Hz–1 MHz and within a temperature range of 30 ˚C to 100 ˚C. The samples were prepared by various salt concentrations ranging from 2 wt% to 22 wt%. The sample containing 18 wt% of NaCF3SO3 salt exhibit the highest ionic conductivity of 1.091 x 10-5 Scm-1 at 30 ˚C. The conductivity of the SPEs has been found to depend on the salt concentration that was added to the sample. When higher salt concentration was added, ionic conductivity decreased due to the association of ions. The temperature of conductivity from 30 ˚C to 100 ˚C of SPEs was found to obey the Arrhenius rule. The dielectric permittivity decreased rapidly towards high frequencies due to the electrode polarization effects.
SHAPE MEMORY INVESTIGATION OF SMART CAMAR LOGO USING NITI ALLOY WIRE
Authors: Shuhaimi Muhammad Safwan , Abd. Hamid Nubailah , Razali Rosliza , Ismail Muhammad Hussain
Published: October 2015

This project is investigates of NiTi shape memory alloy for simple smart application. The shape memory effect (SME) is attributed from the reversible phase transformation when subjected to stress and temperature. In this study, a small model of CAMAR logo was designed to mimic the shape memory effect. Three samples of wire were investigated; (i) Austenitic NiTi (ii) Martensitic NiTi and (iii) commercial plain carbon steel. The reversible austenite to martensite transformation of the NiTi wire was investigated by a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) at temperatures ranging from -50 and 200oC. The wire was shaped into CAMAR logo using a mould and then heated at 500°C for 30 minutes in a high temperature furnace. To observe the shape effect recovery, the wire was straighten and reheated in warm water at different temperatures. Results showed that the austenitic wire exhibited complete shape memory recovery after heated at temperature approximately 35°C and  80°C. For the martensitic wire, complete recovery was only observed when the water temperature was ~ 80°C and no recovery was observed at ~30°C. This recovery effect was significantly influenced by the reversible phase transformation temperatures (PTTs) which attributed from the Austenite finish (Af) temperature.
DESIGN PARAMETERS SELECTION OF SPRINGBACK EFFECT IN AIR-V BENDING USING TAGUCHI APPROACH ON ADVANCE HIGH STRENGTH STEEL-DP590
Authors: Abdullah Shahrul Azam , Buang Muhamad Sani , Saedon Juri , Abdullah Hashim
Published: October 2015

Advanced High Strength Steels (AHSS) are increasingly utilized especially in automotive industry. However, forming of AHSS is challenging particularly in prediction of springback effect caused by material properties, tools and dies parameters, work material and bending technique factors. An air V-bending process was chosen as an evaluation problem because it showed larger springback effect. This paper presents an optimization to predict the influence of various parameters on springback of sheet metal in air V-bending process using Taguchi method (TM). The experimental study was conducted on DP590 sheets with plate thickness of 1 and 2 mm under different process parameters such as punch radius, die radius, die gap and punch travel. A significant level of springback parameters was further described by using the analysis of variance (ANOVA). It showed that the contribution percentage of each factor to springback was calculated to optimum level and the significant levels of entire factor were observed. The thickness of material, die width, punch travel and punch radius were found to be the most significant factor affecting springback while die radius is insignificant.
SILICON CARBIDE FORMATION FROM NATURAL WOODS
Authors: Hyie Koay Mei , Muda Siti Sajidah , Md Elias Husna , Abdul Rahman Noor Leha , Kalam Anizah
Published: October 2015

Processing of cellular ceramics with anisotropic pore structure by using silicon infiltration into carbonized template was investigated. Biomorphic silicon carbide (bioSiC) was produced by using two different types of natural woods which are Kapur and Dark Red Meranti. Carbon template was produced from a pyrolysis process followed by an infiltration process of melting silicon to produce bioSiC. The samples were dried in an oven in order to remove the moisture of the samples. The pyrolysis was done in two stages at a temperature of 500°C followed by 850°C. This study was to investigate the effect of infiltration temperature in the formation of SiC composites. Two different infiltration temperatures of 1500°C and 1600°C were used with constant holding time of 1 hour. The characteristic of the biomorphic silicon carbide was analyzed using the TGA, FESEM and EDX analysis. A wide variety of microstructures, densities and porosities were found depending on the type of wood used. Instead of carbon, it was found that both woods also reacted with nitrogen gas, which reduced the formation of SiC. The density of samples was increased as the working temperature increased.  Dark Red Meranti was found to be denser and exhibit higher porosity than Kapur due to the higher formation of SiC.
BIO-HYDROGEN FROM LOW TEMPERATURE THERMO-CHEMICAL CONVERSION OF OIL PALM EFB
Authors: Zailani Ramlan , Kamarudin Khairul Ashraf , Raja Deris Raja Razuan , Ismail Khudzir
Published: October 2015

A low temperature thermo-chemical conversion of biomass to maximise the hydrogen-rich sync gas product to replicate a one-step hydrogen production using oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB) as an alternative process for renewable hydrogen production is studied. The slow pyrolysis with inexpensive and abundant selected catalysts alkali metal hydroxides such as NaOH is conducted in a pyrolyser unit with a continuous feeding system. The bio-hydrogen is expected to be free of CO and CO2, and the process could be optimized at relatively low temperature of 500-600K, which is significantly lower than the normal temperature ranges for biomass gasification process.
EFFECT OF PH TOWARDS HYDROGEN GAS OUTPUT OF A SMALL AND PORTABLE ALKALINE ELECTROLYSER
Authors: Zakaria Muhammad Zulfattah , Saaduna Mohd Noor Asril , Idris Norain , Haminudin Nor Faizah , Abdollah Mohd Fadzli , Ahmad Emy Zairah
Published: October 2015

Experiments have been conducted to test the hydrogen gas output of a small and portable alkaline electrolyser, a device which converts electricity into hydrogen and oxygen gases via electrolysis process. This cell will be mounted on a vehicle with 12VDC electricity system to supply hydrogen gas to the air intake which will react as a fuel catalyst to enhance combustion and emission while the oxygen will be released back to the atmosphere. The small cell is made of 16 stainless steel plates type SS316 with size of 15 cm x 10 cm x 0.06 cm and the electrolyte is made of distilled water mixed with potassium hydroxide. The aim of this study was  to obtain  optimal pH level for the electrolyte. Result showed that the hydrogen gas output started to increase when the pH of the electrolyte approached pH14. Almost zero gas production wasrecorded at pH below 13.5. However, by increasing the amount of potassium hydroxide even when the pH was  already 14 showed increased amount of gas released. The same result was recorded for distilled water and reverse osmosis water (RO for drinking).
ENERGY ANALYSIS FOR LIGHTING AND AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM OF AN ACADEMIC BUILDING
Authors: Boon Tuan Tee , Yahaya Ahmad Zubair , Breesam Younus Fahad , Mat Dan Reduan , Zakaria Muhammad Zulfattah
Published: October 2015

Energy analysis is important to analyze energy consumption pattern, monitoring on how the energy used varies with time in the building and how the system element interrelate. In this case study, a preliminary energy audit is done on lighting and air-conditioning system. The lighting and airconditioning system consume the highest amount from the total building energy usage. The study was conducted in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Building, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia (UTeM) Technology Campus. From the result shows  that the air-conditioning system has contributed approximately 48.8% from the total monthly energy usage. The estimation of Building Energy Index (BEI) for the cooling load is 655.19 kWh/m²/year. Meanwhile, the BEI for lighting system is found approximately 150 kWh/m2/year.
SINGLE PASSAGE CFD ANALYSIS FOR NON-RADIAL FIBRE ELEMENT OF LOW PRESSURE TURBINE
Authors: Ahmad Bin , Fattah Abdul , A. M. I. Bin Mamat,
Published: October 2015

Low Pressure Turbine (LPT) is a mixed-flow low pressure turbine meant for extracting energy from the exhaust of internal combustion engine. It converts the expanded exhaust energy into mechanical energy to drive an electric generator. The current available design of the LPT is only able to recover the exhaust energy efficiently with a pressure ratio range of 1.04 to 1.30. However, the performance efficiency deteriorates significantly when the pressure ratio exceeds 1.25. In the previous studies, flow field analysis has shown that the entropy is largely generated at the exit due to bigger vorticity. This vorticity can be minimized by optimizing the exit flow direction. This can be done by adjusting the exit camberline which reduces the deflection angle of the flow. This will effect exit flow of the fluid; subsequently reduces the exit loss as stipulated in the 1-Dimensional analysis of the turbine. Results have shown that the overall efficiency of the turbine has been improved as much as 7% at pressure ratios of 1.20. Its swallowing capacity is not largely affected at this point and its velocity ratio has shifted slightly from its design point of 0.70 to 0.65.
CFD ANALYSIS OF FIRST STAGE NOZZLE COOLING OPTIMIZATION IN POWER STATION GAS TURBINE
Authors: Hasini Hasril , Fadhil Siti Sarah Ain , Mohd Jaafar Mohd Nasharuddin , Abdul Malek Norhazwani , Ujir Mohd. Haffis
Published: October 2015

Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis on First Stage Nozzle in full scale multi-stage power station gas turbine has been carried out. The main aim is to investigate the turbine thermal performance when cooling rate decreases at certain level. All calculations were executed using commercial CFD code, ANSYS FLUENT which is able to accurately predict the flow and conjugate heat transfer problem as demonstrated in this investigation. The modelling of gas turbine nozzle is assisted by geometric cloud data obtained from 3D scan. Preliminary calculation shows that at the given worst case scenario for, the maximum thermal stress experienced by the component is within the maximum yield strength of the nozzle material. However, the safety margin between the predicted stress and maximum allowable stress is very small.
INVESTIGATION OF DYNAMIC PROPERTIES OF ELASTOMERIC BEARING COMPONENTS VIA MODAL ANALYSIS
Authors: Yusuf A. I. , Norliyati M. A. , Yunus M. A. , Abdul Rani M. N.
Published: October 2015

Elastomeric bearing is a significant device in structures such as in bridges and buildings. It is used to isolate the ground structure (substructure) and the above ground structure (superstructure) from seismic loads such as earthquake load. Understanding the dynamic behavior of the elastomeric bearing in terms of natural frequencies, mode shapes and damping are increasingly important especially in improving the design and the failure limit of the elastomeric bearing. Modal analysis is one of the methods used to determine the dynamic properties of any materials. Hence, the main objective of this research is to determine the dynamic properties of elastomeric bearing components in terms of natural frequencies, mode shapes, and damping via numerical and experimental modal analysis. This method had been successfully performed in investigating the dynamic behavior of rubber and steel shim plate.
FAULT DETECTION OF PEM FUEL CELL FOR VEHICLE SYSTEMS USING NEUTRAL NETWORK MODELS
Authors: Md Kamal Mahanijah , Yu Dingli
Published: October 2015

This paper presents the neural network modeling method to perform fault detection for proton exchange membrane fuel cell dynamic systems under an open-loop scheme. These methods use a radial basis function neural network and a multilayer perceptron neural network to perform fault identification. Five types of faults which commonly happened in the vehicle systems have been introduced to the modified benchmark model developed by Michigan University. The developed algorithm of RBF and MLP network models are implemented on Matlab/Simulink environment using the healthy data sets and faulty data sets obtained from the simulation. All five simulated faults have been successfully detected where the residual is designed sensitive to fault amplitude as low as +10% of their nominal values. Thus, it is possible to apply the developed algorithm to real dynamics system of vehicles for monitoring and maintenance purposes.
AN INVESTIGATION OF EIGENVALUES OF SHEET METAL UNDERGOING BENDING STRESSES
Authors: Wan Mohamad Wan Sulaiman , Mat Isa Ahmad Azlan , Abu Talib Ahmad Syahmi
Published: October 2015

Accurate prediction of dynamic properties of system is important to ensure the dynamic based design integrity of its member is not compromise. It will reduce or possibly eliminate the possibilities of further modifications in-situ of real system. On this account, this study investigates the modal parameters of the pre-stress sheet metals undergoing bending stresses which is commonly used in practice as structural members. In addressing this issue, three different shapes of sheet metals of similar thickness were studied i.e. straight plate, U-shaped and V-shaped plates. The natural frequencies of these configurations were determined experimentally using the Operational Modal Analysis (OMA). Numerical values were obtained using ANSYS software. Results of these shapes acquired experimentally and numerically were then compared and analyzed. Significant reduction in the eigenvalues of is observed on bent plates both experimentally and numerically as compared to flat plate.
MODELING OF STEEL FIBRES AS FLEXURAL CRACKS INHIBITOR IN REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAM
Authors: Musa Mohd Yuasrizam , Hamzah Siti Hawa , Mohd Amin Norliyati
Published: October 2015

Flexural cracks are most common problem on structural members which are subjected to bending moments. The introduction of steel fibres in concrete beam has been proposed as flexural cracks inhibitor. This research was conducted focusing on simply supported beam to determine the crack propagations in flexure by varying the 25 kg/m3 steel fibre content placement in the beam. The results showed stress patterns from ANSYS software are similar to the experimental findings with minimal magnitude difference of about 11 %. It is concluded that the steel fibre inhibits flexural cracks and delayed the flexural failure in beams as depicted in the experimental results from 11 beams.
EFFECT OF SKIRT ANGLE AND FEATHERS FORMATION ON SHUTTLECOCK AERODYNAMICS PERFORMANCE
Authors: Md. Jahi Tajuddin , Zawawi Haziq Ikhwan , Abd Rahman Norazah
Published: October 2015

Aerodynamic characteristics of badminton shuttlecock are significantly different from balls used in other sports. Shuttlecock can achieve a very high initial speed and at the same time, it can decelerate very fast. This is due to the significant aerodynamic drag it experiences during its in-flight motion. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis was carried out to understand the aerodynamics of a feathers shuttlecock approved by Badminton World Federation (BWF) for international tournaments. The aerodynamics performance of a standard shuttlecock at steady-state flight was investigated. The shuttlecock was assumed to be rigid and have no spin rotation; and velocity considered was 92 m/s. Effects of parameters such as angle of attack, α; angle of skirt, Ɵ; and angle of feathers, β; on the shuttlecock drag coefficient, Cd; were studied. It is found that smaller Ɵ leads to smaller Cd. Analysis shows that the Cd is the largest when the shuttlecock is at α = 0°. Besides that, the Cd is also influenced by β which the standard shuttlecock has fairly small Cd. Formation of feathers of the standard shuttlecock may be further twisted to the optimal value of β in order to increase its drag. As a result, Ɵ and β may be considered as design parameters in order to obtain the desired aerodynamics performance.
A CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF MAIN COMPONENTS SIZING FOR PHERB POWERTRAIN
Authors: Salisa A. R. , Norbakyah J. S. , Atiq W. H.
Published: October 2015

A conceptual design of main components sizing for series-parallel Plug-in Hybrid Electric Recreational Boats (PHERB) powertrain is introduced in this paper. The PHERB powertrain has only one electric machine to function as either an electric generator or motor in different time intervals specified by a special developed energy storage strategy that control the power flow according to desired operating mode. The PHERB uses a hybrid energy storage system combining batteries and ultra-capacitors, which can work together effectively to improve drive performance and energy efficiency. Subsequently the size of the internal combustion engine can be reduced since it is operated during certain operation mode only. The PHERB powertrain component sizing begins with calculation of boat energy and power requirements for typical driving conditions according to the boat power parameters, specifications and performance requirements. The size and capacity of the main components are determined through a power flow analysis so as to fulfill the PHERB powertrain design specifications and requirements. After that, the parameters and specifications for each component that make up the overall structure of the PHERB powertrain are defined based on the developed Kuala Terengganu river drive cycle. The results obtained from this analysis are within reasonable range and satisfactory.
MODELING OF ALKALI-SILICA REACTION IN A TWO-PHASED MATERIAL MODEL
Authors: Itam Zarina , Husain Hazran
Published: October 2015

Alkali-silica reaction causes major problems in concrete structures due to the rapidity of its deformation. Factors that affect ASR include the alkali and silica content, relative humidity, temperature and porosity of the concrete, making the relationship a complex phenomenon to be understood. Hence, the finite element technique was used to build models to study the damage propagation due to ASR. Seeing that ASR initializes in the mesoscopic regions of the concrete, the damage model for ASR at the mesoscale level is studied. The heterogeneity of the mesoscale model shows how difference in material properties between aggregates and the cementitious matrix facilitates ASR expansion. With this model mesoscopic, two-phased material model, the ASR phenomenon under thermo-chemo-hygro-mechanical loading can be understood.
WEAR MECHANISM OF TICN AND TIALN COATED DRILL IN DRILLING OF CARBON STEEL
Authors: Talib R. J. , Firdaus S. M. , Ismail N. I. , Basri M. Hisyam , Ariff H. M.
Published: October 2015

TiCN and TiAlN coated twist drills were subjected to drilling tests to investigate the failure mechanisms during drilling operation. The drilling tests were performed on a carbon steel plate with a thickness of 25 mm and the depth of drill was set at 20 mm. The drill performance parameters were set at a spindle rotation of 1,600 rpm and feed rate of 20 mm/min. Each sample was then subjected to Scanning Electron Microscopy examination to investigate the wear mechanisms operated during drilling. Microstructural examination showed that the abrasion, adhesion and thermal wear mechanisms are operated during drilling process.
KENAF AS MATERIAL FOR LABORATORY TABLETOP
Authors: Salleh Zuraidah , Yunus Syarifah , Berhan Mohamad Nor , Mei Hyie Koay , Kalam Anizah , Nik Masdek Nik Rozlin
Published: October 2015

Nowadays, kenaf are gaining attention in the development and is used in many types of engineering application. This new type of composite also contribute towards the green technology making it favorable in various applications. This research is focused on making a laboratory tabletop by utilizing the unidirectional oriented kenaf fiber as the main material which is layered with woven fiberglass. The project methodology is divided into three sections; preparing the specimen, conducting the experiment and testing as well as data analysis. The mould that contains a layer of woven fiberglass and kenaf fiber were poured from a mixture of polyester resin and polyester hardener. The specimen was then compressed and left to dry  completely before further testing. Tensile test was carried out by following the ASTM D3039, ASTM D7264 standard for flexural test and ASTM D7136 for drop weight impact test. The results data obtained was found to be suitable for lightweight use only.
INVESTIGATION OF TRIBOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF PALM OIL BIOLUBRICANT MODIFIED NANOPARTICLES
Authors: Shaari Mohd Zulfadhli , Nik Roselina N. R. , Kasolang Salmiah , Mei Hyie Koay , Che Murad Mardziah , Abu Bakar Mimi Azlina
Published: October 2015

The performance of a biolubricant especially palm oil is well known to be lower than a mineral oil lubricant. Due to a huge demand towards sustainability, it is extremely important to make an effort for biolubricant to be competitive at the same shelf as the mineral oil in the world’s lubricants market. In this study, tribological properties of the palm oil biolubricant modified with Titanium Oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles as additives were investigated. Palm oil biolubricant with TiO2 nanoparticles at weight ratios of 0 to 0.2 wt% were mixed using an ultrasonic technique. The viscosity of biolubricant modified additives was conducted using standard of ASTMD445. The tribological behavior was investigated using a four-ball tribotester. Results indicate that the viscosities of samples increased as the weight percentage of the TiO2 nanoadditives increased for both 40°C and 100°C temperatures Sample of lubricant with 0.1% wt of the TiO2 nanoadditives produced the lowest coefficient of friction (COF) and wear scar diameter.
STANDARDIZED WORK IN TPS PRODUCTION LINE
Authors: Abdul Halim Nurul Hayati , Jaffar Ahmed , Yusof Noriah , Jaafar Roseelena , Adnan Ahmad Naufal , Mohd Salleh Noor Azlina , Azira Nur Nida
Published: October 2015

This paper presents a case study implementation of one of the Toyota Production System (TPS) tools, known as Standardized Work (SW), in an automotive assembly line in Malaysia. The main functions of SW are to design, develop, document and visualize a set of a manufacturing process with detail and proper study of it. SW is conducted to raise production consistency and quality of a produced product and the job performed. With the proper SW implementation, good results have been obtained from the increase in efficiency, productivity, quality and process stability of the operator’s performance. Thus, the findings are consistent with TPS philosophies which are waste elimination and continuous improvement in any manufacturing area.
EFFECT OF HYBRIDIZATION ON OPEN-HOLE TENSION PROPERTIES OF WOVEN KEVLAR/GLASS FIBER HYBRID COMPOSITE LAMINATES
Authors: Shaari Norazean , Jumahat Aidah , Abdullah Shahrul Azam , Hadderi Ahmad Zariff
Published: October 2015

Hybrid laminates consisting of woven Kevlar/glass fiber composite plies were studied in terms of their residual tensile strength, stiffness and fracture surface.  Residual tensile strength and stiffness were determined from the open hole tension test according to ASTM D5766. The laminates of Kevlar fiber reinforced polymer (KFRP), glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) and hybrid of Kevlar-glass fiber reinforced polymer (KGFRP) were fabricated using a vacuum bagging process. Three different ratios of Kevlar to glass fiber plies were prepared in this study which were 20:80, 50:50, and 80:20. Results showed that hybrid laminate consisting of 80:20 Kevlar to glass fiber plies, produced higher residual tensile strength and stiffness when compared to the other hybrid system. Furthermore, strength and stiffness of hole specimens were reduced within 50-63% when compared to unhole specimens due to existence of the hole. In addition, the effect of adding nanosilica to the hybrid system was also studied. 5 wt% of nanosilica was added to the hybrid composite laminates and results showed that higher tensile strength and stiffness was observed in GFRP and 20:80 KGFRP specimens, while the tensile strength was decreased with an increased number of Kevlar fiber. This research was conducted as there are limited number of studies that have been done on the tensile strength of woven hybrid composite laminates so far, especially on hybridization of Kevlar and glass fiber with consideration on the effect of hole and addition of nanofillers.
FIRE RESISTANCE PERFORMANCE OF CELLULAR STEEL BEAM (CSB) AT ELEVATED TEMPERATURES
Authors: Ahmad Zakwan Fariz Aswan , Krishnamoorthy Renga Rao , Ibrahim Azmi , Ismail Abdul Manaff
Published: October 2015

Cellular steel beam (CSB) is getting more and more popular to be used as the main structural member for steel building structure in the United Kingdom (UK). Despite quite costly to erect and assemble a steel structure member compared to concrete, it has several advantages in terms of lightweight material, higher strength, easy to assemble and aesthetic value. Even though the use of CSB is quite significantly positive, the negative side also needs to be addressed. Any steel structures are prone to fire exposure scenario. The strength of CSB will be significantly decreased when exposed to elevated temperature due to fire. Large deformation from experimental procedure will be clearly seen after the time-temperature curve reach critical stage. Vierendeel bending mechanism and web-post buckling are some of the drawbacks of the CSB at elevated temperature. In this paper, general purpose ABAQUS Finite Element (Version 6.14) on large deformation of protected and unprotected CSB at elevated temperature is proposed. Performance based approach is introduced to validate the numerical analysis with the experimental results from the available Compendium of UK Standard Fire Test Data produced by British Steel Corporation Research Services, Swinden Laboratories, UK.